A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Seoul vs. Koh Phi Phi for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Seoul or Koh Phi Phi?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

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 Koh Phi Phi can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a colorful, cultural, and bustling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a remote, tropical, and dramatic island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Seoul and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seoul than Koh Phi Phi, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seoul is better known for its museums, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Phi Phi is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. Seoul is well known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. Also, Seoul is famous for Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Seoul different from Koh Phi Phi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koh Phi Phi and Seoul. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Seoul or Koh Phi Phi?

Seoul is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Seoul offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

Koh Phi Phi offers a few options for museum-goers. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

Is the Food Better in Seoul or Koh Phi Phi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Seoul is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Seoul is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Phi Phi area. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

Is Seoul or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

Both Seoul and Koh Phi Phi are great when it comes to partying.

Seoul offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Koh Phi Phi has a large number of nightlife venues. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

Is Seoul or Koh Phi Phi Better for Music?

Seoul is renowned for its live music scene. However, Koh Phi Phi 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.

Koh Phi Phi is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its resorts. However, Seoul is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Koh Phi Phi is a perfect choice. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

Seoul is not a resort destination.

Is Seoul or Koh Phi Phi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. However, Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Phi Phi is not to be missed. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Seoul or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for the beache. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Phi Phi is a very popular vacation destination. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Seoul or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Koh Phi Phi is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular spot for hiking. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Koh Phi Phi?

Seoul is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination 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.

Koh Phi Phi has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

Is Seoul or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Seoul is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination 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.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Seoul or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi 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, Koh Phi Phi has plenty to offer. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

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.

Is Seoul or Koh Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Phi Phi 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 Koh Phi Phi. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

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.

Is Seoul or Koh Phi Phi Better for Students?

Seoul is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not popular with students.

Seoul is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Koh Phi Phi is not popular with students.

Is Seoul or Koh Phi Phi Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Seoul is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

Seoul has a great public transit system. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Koh Phi Phi has a few public transit options. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Is Seoul or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Seoul is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Seoul is a very walkable city. 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.

Koh Phi Phi is a somewhat walkable city. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

For even more information, also check out Is Seoul Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Phi Phi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Seoul and Koh Phi Phi. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than in Koh Phi Phi. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Phi Phi.

Families should spend more time in Seoul than Koh Phi Phi. 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 Koh Phi Phi than Seoul. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Phi Phi that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Seoul or Koh Phi Phi?

Seoul is a bustling city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Koh Phi Phi, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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.

A weekend in Seoul or Koh Phi Phi?

Seoul is a high energy big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Phi Phi. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

Five days in Seoul or Koh Phi Phi?

Seoul is a bustling city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Koh Phi Phi is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Phi Phi. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Seoul or Koh Phi Phi?

Seoul is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find nightlife and food around the tropical destination of Koh Phi Phi. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Seoul and Koh Phi Phi, we can see that Seoul is more expensive. And not only is Koh Phi Phi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Phi Phi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Phi Phi 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 Seoul would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seoul than you might in Koh Phi Phi.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Seoul Expensive? and Is Koh Phi Phi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Koh Phi Phi?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 10350 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Koh Phi Phi, 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.

When is the best time to visit Seoul or Koh Phi Phi?

Seoul has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Phi Phi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Koh Phi Phi. Most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Phi Phi throughout the year.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Koh Phi Phi in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 206 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Seoul receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Koh Phi Phi. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Koh Phi Phi in the Autumn?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Phi Phi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the autumn, Seoul is much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. In October, Seoul usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Phi Phi is December to March. The rainy season in Koh Phi Phi is May to November.

Should I visit Seoul or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Seoul during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Phi Phi year-round.

It's quite cold in Seoul in the winter. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

In Koh Phi Phi, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Koh Phi Phi. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Phi Phi.

Should I visit Seoul or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Koh Phi Phi. Many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city. Koh Phi Phi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Seoul is much colder than Koh Phi Phi in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Phi Phi this time of the year. In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 249 hours of full sun in the spring.

Koh Phi Phi receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Seoul usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi.

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Seoul