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

Should you visit Seoul or Rockhampton?

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

Seoul

Seoul is a colorful, cultural, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a cultural, natural, and rural town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Seoul and Rockhampton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Seoul or Rockhampton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seoul than Rockhampton, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Seoul is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Rockhampton is known for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Rockhampton is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its cultural centers and surrounding national parks. Seoul is popular for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also home to Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Seoul different from Rockhampton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seoul
Rockhampton

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

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 Rockhampton can be an interesting and educational experience. While many people come for the area's natural beauty, there are also educational centers where you can learn about the indigenous culture. Make sure you visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre as well as the Rockhampton Museum of Art. Also of interest are the Rockhampton Heritage Village and the Mount Morgan Historical Railway Museum.


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

Seoul
Rockhampton

Seoul is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Rockhampton makes for a great culinary experience. Despite its small size, the food scene is surprisingly diverse. There are local cafes that offer local produce, waterfront restaurants that have great views, and casual international eateries, as well as low key pubs.

Is Seoul or Rockhampton Better for Nightlife?

Seoul
Rockhampton

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Seoul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Rockhampton has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a small place, but there are still a number of pubs and bars around town. Many visitors enjoy going to a coastal beach bar for the evening.

Is Seoul or Rockhampton Better for Music?

Seoul
Rockhampton

Seoul is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Rockhampton is not a live music destination.

Seoul has become a mecca for musicians from 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.

Rockhampton is not a live music destination.


Is Seoul or Rockhampton Better for Beaches?

Seoul
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is very good for the beache. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Rockhampton to enjoy the beach. The town is about 40 kilometers inland from the Capricorn Coast beaches.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Seoul or Rockhampton Better for Hiking?

Seoul
Rockhampton

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

Rockhampton is a popular spot for hiking. The area has several national parks that are perfect for an avid bush walker or anyone looking for an afternoon in nature. Whether you're interested in a day trip or overnight camping trip, there are many natural scenic areas nearby.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Rockhampton?

Seoul
Rockhampton

Seoul is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Seoul specifically to go shopping. 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.

Rockhampton is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping centers in town where you can pick up anything you might need.


Is Seoul or Rockhampton Better for Families?

Seoul
Rockhampton

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

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 Rockhampton. Kids will enjoy a visit to the Rockhampton Heritage Village. You can also picnic and walk around the nearby Mount Etna Caves National Park or explore the Capricorn Caves which is about half an hour outside of town. Other kid-friendly places include Kershaw Gardens and Rockhampton Botanic Gardens.

Is Seoul or Rockhampton Better for Couples?

Seoul
Rockhampton

Both Seoul and Rockhampton 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.

Rockhampton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Near several great national parks and interesting outdoor settings, this is a wonderful couple's destination. There are sunset cruises and beautiful gardens as well as wellness spas and great food and wine.

Is Seoul or Rockhampton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Seoul
Rockhampton

Both Seoul and Rockhampton are good 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 Rockhampton. There are a couple of hostels in the area as well as a low key backpacker scene.


Is Seoul or Rockhampton Better for Students?

Seoul
Rockhampton

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Rockhampton is popular with students. The city has universities that attract an international crowd. It's a friendly setting that welcomes cultural diversity.

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

Seoul
Rockhampton

Seoul is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Rockhampton is lacking in options for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Seoul can get you around easily. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Rockhampton. There are regional buses operated by Sunbus.

Is Seoul or Rockhampton a more walkable city?

Seoul
Rockhampton

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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.

Rockhampton is somewhat walkable. It's fun to explore the Riverside Precinct on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Rockhampton or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Rockhampton?

It's fun to spend time in either Seoul or Rockhampton. 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 2-4 days is enough time in Rockhampton.

Families should spend more time in Seoul than Rockhampton. 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 Seoul than Rockhampton. 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 Rockhampton 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.


  • How many days in Seoul or Rockhampton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Seoul 3-7 
    Rockhampton 2-4

One day in Seoul or Rockhampton?

Seoul is a colorful 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 Rockhampton, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town 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 Rockhampton?

Seoul is a modern 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 Rockhampton. 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 Rockhampton?

Seoul is a modern 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.

Rockhampton is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Rockhampton. 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 Rockhampton?

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 food and shopping around the traditional destination of Rockhampton. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Rockhampton or Seoul?

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 Rockhampton is $170. 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 Rockhampton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Seoul $54
    Rockhampton $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Seoul $108
    Rockhampton $202
Compare Hotels in Seoul and Rockhampton

Looking for a hotel in Seoul or Rockhampton? 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.

Hotels in Seoul


Hotels in Rockhampton


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Seoul Hotel Prices and Rockhampton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Seoul $15
    Rockhampton $19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seoul

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Seoul:


  • Subway Card
    $3.62
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $5.07
  • Metro Ride
    $0.98
  • Seoul City Pass Plus
    $7.24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seoul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seoul:

  • Transfer Service from Gimpo Airport to Hotel City: $57
  • Private Transfer l Airport to/from Seoul: $100
  • Private Transfer To/From Incheon Airport: $99
  • Seoul Incheon International Airport to from Incheon Private Transfer: $85
  • Seoul Airport: Private Departure Transfer from Seoul City Center: $87
  • Private Gimpo Airport Transfer to Seoul and Vice Versa: $95
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Incheon Airport 1-12 pax: $204
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Incheon Airport (1-5 pax): $98
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Gimpo Airport (1-12 pax): $167
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City - Gimpo Airport (1-5 pax): $80
  • Private Airport Transfer: Gimpo Airport to Seoul City (1-5 pax): $80
  • Private Airport Transfer: Gimpo Airport to Seoul City (1-12 pax): $167

Is it cheaper to fly into Seoul or Rockhampton?

Prices for flights to both Rockhampton 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.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Seoul $30
    Rockhampton $49
Typical Food Prices in Seoul

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seoul are as follows:


  • Rice with Kimchi & Bacon
    $4.34
  • Waffle
    $0.72
  • Dippin' Dots
    $1.45
  • Chicken Fried Rice
    $3.98
  • Chicken Stick
    $1.45
  • Drinking Yoghurt & Mi Chew
    $1.38
  • Lunch Buffet
    $4.34
  • Donut
    $0.72
  • Mushroom Burger
    $3.76
  • Green Tea Ice Cream
    $2.39
  • Udon & Sushi
    $5.07
  • Fresh Burger
    $3.48
  • Soba Noodles Lunch
    $3.26
  • Bibimbap Lunch
    $3.62
  • Fried Rice
    $3.98
  • Vietnamese Dinner
    $6.88
  • Breakfast and Coffee for 2
    $6.88
  • Donut
    $1.81

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seoul

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seoul.

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace : Tour, dinner and coffee: $36
  • Seoul Mangwon Market Social Night Food Tour: $44
  • Namdaemun Market: the Largest Traditional Market Food Tour: $46
  • Namdaemun Market Street Food Tour: $47
  • Mangwon Market Food tour By Locals;Cheap Eats to Fancy Feast: $53
  • Gwangjang Market Netflix Food Tour: $54
  • Guided City Wall Sunset Hike with Korean Dinner: $57
  • Sunset Walking Tour in Naksan Park with Dinner: $58
  • Half Day Seoul Afternoon Food Tour and visit 3 landMarks of Seoul: $67
  • Night Market Food Tour: $70
  • Energizing Korean Cooking Class in a Local Home in Seoul: $71
  • Night Market Food Tour: $72

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Seoul $26
    Rockhampton $40
Typical Entertainment Prices in Seoul

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Seoul are as follows:


  • Palace Tickets
    $5.79
  • Movie Ticket
    $5.79
  • Kimchi Museum
    $2.17

Tours and Activities in Seoul

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seoul are as follows:

  • Full Day Tour Jeonju Hanok Village, Wansan Park and Gakwonsa: $72
  • Private Tour Nami Island with Petite France 'and/or' The Garden of Morning Calm: $98
  • 1 Day Private Full DMZ Tour in Seoul with Crystal Gondola: $220
  • 2-Hour Makgeolli Tasting Experience in Seoul: $37
  • 2-Hour Private Kayaking and Paddleboarding Experience in Hanriver: $30
  • 2D 1N Phoenix Pyeongchang Reseot Stay + Trout Ice-Fishing Festival Tour: $144
  • 3 Hour Walking Tour in Songpa Seoul: $48
  • 3-Hour Self-guided Sokcho Tour with Private Transportation: $33
  • 63 Aqua Planet and 63 Building Seoul Observatory Tickets: $14
  • ARMY must visit BTS tour in Seoul: $55
  • Activity - Mt. Bukhan Hiking Guided Tour: $150
  • Afternoon Half Day Seoul City Tour, visit Queen's dorm: $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Seoul $12
    Rockhampton $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Seoul

Also in Seoul, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Chunpoong Makgeolli Brewery Tour: $10
  • The Seoul Pub Crawl [official]: $21
  • Pub Crawl: $25
  • The Seoul Pub Crawl [official]: $25
  • Soju Tasting at Distillery - Story of Three Pigs: $42


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


Which is Bigger, Seoul or Rockhampton?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Rockhampton. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Rockhampton, 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 Rockhampton?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rockhampton is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Seoul has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Seoul or Rockhampton in the Summer?

Both Rockhampton and Seoul during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Rockhampton because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Seoul is around the same temperature as Rockhampton. Typically, the summer temperatures in Seoul in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Rockhampton averages at about 27°C (81°F)in January.

Rockhampton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Rockhamptonin January. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Seoul 26°C (78°F) 
    Rockhampton 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Seoul or Rockhampton in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Rockhampton. 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 small town atmosphere are the main draw to Rockhampton this time of year.

In October, Seoul is generally much colder than Rockhamptonin April. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 15°C (59°F), and Rockhampton fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In October, Seoul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rockhamptonin April. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Seoul 15°C (59°F) 
    Rockhampton 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Seoul or Rockhampton in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Rockhampton. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Rockhampton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Seoul in the winter. Seoul is much colder than Rockhampton in the winter. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Rockhampton fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in July.

Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Rockhamptonin July. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Seoul -3°C (27°F) 
    Rockhampton 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Seoul or Rockhampton in the Spring?

Both Rockhampton and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Rockhampton in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Seoul is much colder than Rockhampton. Typically, the spring temperatures in Seoul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Rockhampton averages at about 23°C (74°F)in October.

In April, Seoul usually receives more rain than Rockhamptonin October. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Seoul 13°C (55°F) 
    Rockhampton 23°C (74°F)

Typical Weather for Rockhampton and Seoul

Seoul Rockhampton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 27°C (81°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Feb -0°C (32°F) 25 mm (1 in) 27°C (80°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 26°C (78°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 20°C (69°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 369 mm (14.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 26°C (80°F) 294 mm (11.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 169 mm (6.7 in) 20°C (69°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 23°C (74°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 26°C (78°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 0°C (33°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 27°C (80°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)