Which place is cheaper, Florence or Seoul?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Florence can help you decide which place is right for you.
Seoul is a bustling, modern, and high energy city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.
Florence is a alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.
You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Florence. Seoul is bigger than Florence, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seoul is better known for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Florence is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Florence is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Seoul is well known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. Also, Seoul is famous for Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence and Seoul. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Florence is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.
The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.
With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Seoul can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.
Both Seoul and Florence offer terrific local cuisine and restaurants.
Seoul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).
Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Florence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.
Seoul is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.
The nightlife in Seoul has something for everybody. This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.
There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.
Seoul is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Florence is not a live music destination.
With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Seoul. K-pop has put the city on the map for music, but you'll actually find a wide range of genres here including rock music and electronic dance music.
Florence is not a live music destination.
Florence is very popular for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.
Florence has a world-famous historical area. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.
Seoul does not have a historic old town.
Seoul is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.
Known for shopping, Seoul draws large crowds to its stores. This bustling city offers traditional local items as well as Korean cosmetics and trendy fashion. Although shopping malls are spread throughout the city, some of the most popular shopping areas are found around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun.
Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.
Seoul is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.
Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Seoul is very family-friendly. The city has a wide range of kid-friendly activities, ranging from the easy choices like amusement parks and children's museums, to the less obvious like kid-friendly cafes and markets. There are many entertainment options packed into a small space, so kids and adults alike will stay entertained.
Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.
Florence is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.
For those traveling as a couple, Florence has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.
Seoul makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.
Florence is very popular for backpackers. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.
Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Florence. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.
It's common for backpackers to visit Seoul. The city isn't the most popular among backpackers, but those who visit will enjoy exploring a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Because it's a large city, you'll find a diversity of accommodation options including some budget-friendly hostels and hotels.
Florence is very popular for students. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.
Students come from all over the world to visit Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.
Seoul is a great city to visit as a student. Many international students head to Seoul National University, which has an excellent academic reputation. The city is also fun and energetic, so everyone will be entertained.
Seoul is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.
Visitors in Seoul can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.
Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.
Florence is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.
It is easy to get around Florence on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.
Seoul is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are fun to explore on foot but do take note that parts of the city are very hilly and the weather can be bitter cold during the winter months.
For even more information, also check out Is Seoul Worth Visiting? and Is Florence Worth Visiting?.
Both Seoul and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Florence has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Florence than Seoul. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.
Families should spend more time in Seoul than Florence. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Seoul, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Florence than Seoul. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Florence that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Seoul if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Florence.
Seoul is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
In Florence, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this artistic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.
Seoul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.
Seoul is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seoul, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.
Florence is a fun place to experience. In Florence, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.
Seoul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seoul has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.
In Florence, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this artistic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Seoul is $107, while the average daily cost in Florence is $167. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Seoul and Florence in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Seoul or Florence? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Seoul:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seoul:
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Florence:
Also for Florence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Florence and Seoul change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Some typical examples of dining costs in Seoul are as follows:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seoul.
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Florence:
For Florence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Seoul are as follows:
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seoul are as follows:
For Florence, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Florence.
Also in Seoul, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florence from other travelers:
Also in Florence, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Seoul and Florence, we can see that Florence is more expensive. And not only is Seoul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Seoul is in Asia and Florence is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Seoul would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Seoul and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Florence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Florence than you might in Seoul.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Seoul Expensive? and Is Florence Expensive?.
Seoul has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Florence, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.
Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.
The summer brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Florence. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences.
Seoul is around the same temperature as Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Florence. In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Florence. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.
Seoul receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Florence. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.
Both Florence and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Seoul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.
In the autumn, Seoul is around the same temperature as Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Florence during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.
In October, Seoul usually receives less rain than Florence. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.
Both Florence and Seoul during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Seoul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.
Seoul can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).
In the winter, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Florence. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.
Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Florence. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.
The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Florence. Most visitors come to Seoul for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty.
Seoul is around the same temperature as Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).
In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.
In April, Seoul usually receives more rain than Florence. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.
Seoul | Florence | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | -3°C (27°F) | 23 mm (0.9 in) | 7°C (45°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) |
Feb | -0°C (32°F) | 25 mm (1 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
Mar | 6°C (42°F) | 47 mm (1.9 in) | 10°C (50°F) | 69 mm (2.7 in) |
Apr | 13°C (55°F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 78 mm (3.1 in) |
May | 18°C (65°F) | 92 mm (3.6 in) | 18°C (64°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) |
Jun | 23°C (73°F) | 134 mm (5.3 in) | 22°C (72°F) | 50 mm (2 in) |
Jul | 26°C (78°F) | 369 mm (14.5 in) | 25°C (77°F) | 31 mm (1.2 in) |
Aug | 26°C (80°F) | 294 mm (11.6 in) | 24°C (75°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
Sep | 22°C (71°F) | 169 mm (6.7 in) | 21°C (70°F) | 76 mm (3 in) |
Oct | 15°C (59°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) | 16°C (61°F) | 96 mm (3.8 in) |
Nov | 8°C (46°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 102 mm (4 in) |
Dec | 0°C (33°F) | 22 mm (0.9 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) |