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

Should you visit Seoul or Nice?

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 Nice can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a modern, high energy, and colorful 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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Nice

Nice is a opulent, trendy, and chic seaside destination. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Seoul and Nice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Nice?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Nice. Seoul is bigger than Nice, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seoul is better known for its museums, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Nice is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. 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 Nice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seoul is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seoul. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Seoul and Nice offer amazing 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, Nice is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

Is Seoul or Nice Better for Nightlife?

Nice is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Nice is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

Seoul has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Is Seoul or Nice Better for Music?

Seoul is renowned for its live music scene. However, Nice 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.

Nice is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Nice Better for Resorts?

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

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Nice is a perfect choice. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Seoul is not a resort destination.

Is Seoul or Nice Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Seoul or Nice Better for Beaches?

Nice is a well-known place for the beache. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

Nice is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Seoul or Nice Better for its Old Town?

Nice is a well-known place for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Nice. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Nice?

Seoul is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination 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 Nice. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

Is Seoul or Nice Better for Families?

Seoul is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Nice is a family-friendly city. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Is Seoul or Nice Better for Couples?

Nice 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, Nice has plenty to offer. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

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 Nice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Nice 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 Nice. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

Is Seoul or Nice Better for Students?

Seoul is a well-known place for students. However, Nice is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Seoul. 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.

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is renowned for its public transit. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Nice offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are both buses and trams.

Is Seoul or Nice a more walkable city?

Nice 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 Nice on foot. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nice or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Nice?

In either Seoul or Nice, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than Nice because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 3-5 days is enough time in Nice.

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

One day in Seoul or Nice?

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 Nice, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this opulent destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This seaside destination 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 Nice?

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 Nice. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Seoul or Nice?

Seoul is a modern 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.

Nice is a fun place to experience. In Nice, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quaint destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Seoul or Nice?

Seoul is a high energy 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 scuba diving and snorkeling around the glamourous destination of Nice. 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, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Seoul and Nice, we can see that Nice 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 Nice 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 Nice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nice 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 Nice Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Nice?

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

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 Nice in the Summer?

Both Nice and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Nice in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Seoul is a little warmer than Nice in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Nice fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite rainy in Seoul. In July, Seoul usually receives more rain than Nice. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Nice receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Nice in the Autumn?

Both Nice and Seoul during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Seoul in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Nice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

Nice gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Nice. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Nice receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Nice in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Nice. Most visitors come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Nice because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Seoul can be very cold during winter. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Nice. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Nice fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Nice. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Nice receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Nice in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Nice. The spring months attract visitors to Seoul because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nice this time of year.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Nice in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Nice fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Seoul usually gets more rain in April than Nice. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Nice receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nice and Seoul