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

Should you visit Seoul or Nikko?

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

Seoul

Seoul is a modern, high energy, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Nikko

Nikko is a tranquil, relaxing, and peaceful town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Seoul and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Nikko?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seoul. Although Seoul and Nikko are popular destinations, Seoul has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seoul is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Nikko attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Nikko is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. Seoul is famous for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also well known for Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Seoul different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nikko 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 Nikko are among the most recognizable in the world. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Temple.

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.

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

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Seoul have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Nikko. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

Is Seoul or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is great for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Seoul for the nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Nikko for the nightlife. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Is Seoul or Nikko Better for Music?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Nikko is not a live music destination.

Seoul is known as a music capital around the world. 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.

Nikko is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is very popular for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Nikko has a world-famous historical area. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is Seoul or Nikko Better for Hiking?

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

Nikko is a popular spot for hiking. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Nikko?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Seoul. 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.

Nikko offers some nice shopping areas. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Seoul or Nikko Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Seoul or Nikko.

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 Nikko. The area offers a unique way for kids to experience Japanese culture. A highlight for the little ones is a ninja show at Grand Ninja Theatre and the Mizugei-za water magic show. Kids will also enjoy staying in a traditional ryokan and floating in the hot spring baths.

Is Seoul or Nikko Better for Couples?

Nikko 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, Nikko has plenty to offer. While many visitors come to see the shrines and temples, they often end up falling in love with the area's natural beauty, waterfalls, and "forest bathing" (surrounding yourself with nature). Couples will also enjoy dining on the local food and relaxing in a pool fed by a natural hot spring.

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 Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nikko is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Nikko is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

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 Nikko Better for Students?

Seoul is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Nikko 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.

Nikko is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

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.

The public transit in Nikko can get you around easily. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Is Seoul or Nikko a more walkable city?

Seoul and Nikko both are superb 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.

Nikko is a very walkable destination. While the town is relatively walkable and there are walking paths through the forest and to most of the temples and shrines, if you want to get further into the region, it's helpful to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Seoul or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Seoul due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

Families should spend more time in Nikko than Seoul. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Nikko, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nikko 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 Nikko.

One day in Seoul or Nikko?

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

Even though Nikko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This town 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 Nikko?

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

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

Seoul is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Nikko is a fun place to experience. Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Seoul or Nikko?

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Nikko is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Nikko?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 650 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Nikko, 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 Nikko?

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.

Should I visit Seoul or Nikko in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Nikko. Many travelers come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Nikko in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Seoul is generally around the same temperature as Nikko. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 26°C (78°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Nikko. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 136 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Seoul receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Nikko. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Nikko in the Autumn?

Both Nikko and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Nikko for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Nikko in the autumn. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Nikko fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. In October, Seoul usually receives less rain than Nikko. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seoul or Nikko in the Winter?

Both Nikko and Seoul during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Nikko because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nikko can be very cold. Seoul can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Seoul is much colder than Nikko. Typically, the winter temperatures in Seoul in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Nikko averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In Nikko, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Nikko. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 212 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Nikko. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Nikko in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Nikko. The spring months attract visitors to Seoul because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.

In April, Seoul is generally around the same temperature as Nikko. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 13°C (55°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nikko during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 191 hours of full sun in the spring.

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Seoul usually receives less rain than Nikko. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Seoul