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

Should you visit Seoul or Rotorua?

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

Seoul

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

Rotorua

Rotorua is a diverse, cultural, and natural town. The beauty of Rotorua is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Rotorua travel costs.

Seoul and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Rotorua?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seoul than Rotorua, 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 Rotorua is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Rotorua is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies. 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 Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Seoul and Rotorua.

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 Rotorua can be an interesting and educational experience. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

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

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Rotorua makes for a great culinary experience. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

Is Seoul or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Rotorua 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.

Rotorua has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Seoul or Rotorua Better for Music?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Rotorua 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.

Rotorua is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

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

Rotorua is a popular spot for hiking. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Rotorua?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotorua 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.

Rotorua is a great destination for shopping. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Seoul or Rotorua More Beautiful?

Rotorua is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Rotorua is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's surrounded by striking volcanoes, beautiful lakes, and surreal geothermal springs, giving it an exotic and beautiful atmosphere.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Seoul or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Rotorua is one of the most popular family destinations. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Seoul. 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.

Is Seoul or Rotorua Better for Couples?

Rotorua 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, Rotorua has plenty to offer. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

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 Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotorua 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 Rotorua. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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 Rotorua Better for Students?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Rotorua 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.

Rotorua is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Seoul is top-notch. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Rotorua, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Seoul or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua 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.

Rotorua is somewhat walkable. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

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

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Rotorua?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Seoul than Rotorua. 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 Rotorua 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 Rotorua?

Because Seoul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Rotorua, 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 Rotorua?

Because Seoul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 Rotorua. 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 Rotorua?

Seoul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seoul has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. Because Seoul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Rotorua. 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 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Rotorua, we can see that Seoul is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Seoul is in Asia and Rotorua is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Rotorua?

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

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rotorua 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 Rotorua in the Summer?

Both Rotorua and Seoul during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rotorua in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Seoul is much warmer than Rotorua. Typically, the summer temperatures in Seoul in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Rotorua averages at about 12°C (54°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Rotoruain January. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Rotorua in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Rotorua. Many visitors come to Seoul in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rotorua for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Seoul is generally around the same temperature as Rotoruain April. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 15°C (59°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In October, Seoul usually receives more rain than Rotoruain April. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seoul or Rotorua in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Rotorua. Most visitors come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Seoul can be very cold during winter. Seoul is much colder than Rotorua in the winter. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Rotorua fluctuates around 26°C (79°F)in July.

Seoul usually gets more rain in January than Rotoruain July. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Rotorua in the Spring?

Both Rotorua and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Seoul because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

In the spring, Seoul is cooler than Rotorua. Typically, the spring temperatures in Seoul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Rotorua averages at about 19°C (66°F)in October.

In April, Seoul usually receives more rain than Rotoruain October. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Seoul