A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Seoul vs. Nara for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Seoul or Nara?

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 Nara 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. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Nara

Nara is a tranquil, natural, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Seoul and Nara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Nara?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Nara. Seoul is bigger than Nara, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seoul is better known for its food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Nara is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Seoul is well known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. Also, Seoul is famous for Gyeongbokgung Palace. Nara is well known for its many temples and shrines, its beautiful natural areas, and its free roaming deer.

How is Seoul different from Nara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nara 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 Nara?

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Seoul and Nara.

Many visitors head to Seoul specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Nara can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history. There are many ancient temples such as Tōdai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Yakushi-ji Temple, and Tōshōdai-ji Temple. You can also visit the Nara National Museum as well as the many parks and gardens.

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

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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).

Nara is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The cuisine is simple and traditional with its roots in the history of the area. Many residents start their morning with a simple rice porridge. The area is also known for its persimmon leaf sushi and miwa somen (a thin, chewy noodle).

Is Seoul or Nara Better for Nightlife?

Both Seoul and Nara 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.

Nara has a large number of nightlife venues. The town offers a serene and relaxed atmosphere at night. There are plenty of bars around town that are known for their friendly bartenders and you'll find many of the bars in Naramachi, which is the old town area.

Is Seoul or Nara Better for Music?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Nara is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone 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.

Nara is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Nara Better for its Old Town?

Nara is very good for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Nara to see the old town. Naramachi is the old town of Nara. This is the old merchant district and today you'll find several traditional residential buildings and warehouses that are open to the public.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is Seoul or Nara Better for Hiking?

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

Nara is a popular spot for hiking. The city is all about its surrounding nature. There are historic pilgrim routes that pass through the hills and mountains, taking you by sacred sights and ancient forests. In the area you'll find some of Japan's most ancient byways.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Nara?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Seoul make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nara. Sanjo-dori is the main street through town. This is where you'll find many souvenir shops that sell local items and traditional food. Mochiido Center Town is the oldest shopping arcade in town and it is filled with history.

Is Seoul or Nara Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Seoul or Nara.

Seoul is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nara. Head to Nara Park for a bit of nature in the city. Deer roam freely in the park, which is filled with pine trees and beautiful lawns. Kids will also appreciate a visit to Ikomasanjo Amusement Park or the NARAMACHI-KARAKURI Toy Museum. You can also take a ride on the Ikoma Cable Line or spend some time at the Tennenyamato Hot Spring Nara Kenko Land.

Is Seoul or Nara Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Nara are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Seoul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

Nara makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is smaller than you might expect, and it's filled with green space and parks. You can wander through Nara Park, see the deer, and soak up the romantic atmosphere. You can also visit one of the beautiful temples such as Todaiji Temple. Many couples also enjoy exploring Yoshikien Garden.

Is Seoul or Nara Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Nara are notable destinations for backpackers.

Seoul is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Nara. There are a couple of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers and the budget travel crowd.

Is Seoul or Nara Better for Students?

Seoul is notable for students. However, Nara 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.

Nara is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Seoul has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Nara offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are city buses that will take you through town and to the many tourist spots.

Is Seoul or Nara a more walkable city?

Seoul and Nara both are great when exploring on foot.

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.

Nara is a very walkable destination. Many of the sights are within walking distance of each other, so many visitors enjoy exploring on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Nara or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Nara?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Seoul or Nara to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Seoul than Nara because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Nara.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seoul than Nara 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 Seoul.

One day in Seoul or Nara?

Seoul is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Nara, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this traditional destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Seoul or Nara?

Seoul is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nara. 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 Nara?

Seoul is a bustling big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Nara is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Nara. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Seoul or Nara?

Seoul is a colorful city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find food and shopping around the tranquil destination of Nara. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, and The Best Cultural Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Seoul and Nara, we can see that Seoul is more expensive. And not only is Nara much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nara would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nara 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 Nara.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Nara?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Nara. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Nara, 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 Nara?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Seoul or Nara in the Summer?

Both Nara and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nara because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Nara in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Nara fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Nara during summer. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nara. It's quite rainy in Seoul. In July, Seoul usually receives more rain than Nara. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Nara receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Nara in the Autumn?

Both Nara and Seoul during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nara this time of year.

In the autumn, Seoul is cooler than Nara. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Nara averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Seoul. In the autumn, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Nara. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 159 hours of full sun.

Nara gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Nara. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Nara receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Nara in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Nara. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nara for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nara. It's quite cold in Seoul in the winter. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Nara. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Nara fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Nara during winter. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Nara. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Nara receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Nara in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Nara. Many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Nara in the spring for the natural beauty.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Nara in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Nara fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. In the spring, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Nara. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nara. Seoul usually gets less rain in April than Nara. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Nara receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nara and Seoul