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

Should you visit Seoul or Tauranga?

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 Tauranga 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. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See Seoul travel costs.

Tauranga

Tauranga is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-filled town. The beauty of Tauranga is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Tauranga travel costs.

Seoul and Tauranga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Tauranga?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seoul than Tauranga, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Seoul is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Tauranga is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Tauranga is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its sandy beaches and beautiful walking trails. 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 Tauranga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seoul is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Seoul offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

Tauranga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic buildings in town like the Elms Mission Station which dates back to 1847.

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

Seoul is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town 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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Tauranga. You'll find a great mix of restaurants in the town's downtown area. There are international flavors as well as seafood and other local favorites.

Is Seoul or Tauranga Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Tauranga. The city is known for its laid back bar scene. There are venues with casual live music as well as pubs where locals and tourists intermingle.

Is Seoul or Tauranga Better for Music?

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

In Seoul you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Tauranga is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Tauranga Better for Beaches?

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

Tauranga is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Families and travelers head here for the sandy beaches and water activities. Surfing, kayaking, and fishing are all popular in the area. Some of the most popular beaches include Mount Maunganui Beach, Waihī Beach, and Anzac Bay.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Seoul or Tauranga Better for Hiking?

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

Tauranga is a popular spot for hiking. The Bay of Plenty is filled with hiking trails that run along the coast or head inland through the mountains. There are forest and bush walks that range in length and skill level and there really is something for everyone.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Tauranga?

Seoul is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Seoul is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Tauranga. You'll find all of the standard shopping malls, retail outlets, and clothing boutiques around town.

Is Seoul or Tauranga More Beautiful?

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

The beauty of Tauranga is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. A mix of beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and other natural environments make this a beautiful destination for travelers.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Seoul or Tauranga Better for Families?

Tauranga 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.

Tauranga is one of the most popular family destinations. Check out the ropes courses at Adrenalin Forest or play in the water at Waimarino Adventure Park. There are also many different walking areas like McLaren Falls Park and Kaiate Falls. Kids will love hanging out at the beach around Mount Maunganui or Papamoa Beach. This is an affordable and kid-family destination for locals and international tourists alike.

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 Tauranga Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Tauranga 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.

Tauranga makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a romantic destination with great beaches and beautiful waterfalls. You can enjoy a picnic in the park or dine at one of the local restaurants. Kayaking is also a popular activity in the area.

Is Seoul or Tauranga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tauranga 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 Tauranga. This is one of the more affordable destinations in New Zealand. There are also a number of backpacker-friendly jobs that make it a great place to base yourself.

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 Tauranga Better for Students?

Seoul is a well-known place for students. However, Tauranga 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.

Tauranga is not popular with students.

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

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

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.

Tauranga has some public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries in the area.

Is Seoul or Tauranga a more walkable city?

Seoul is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Tauranga is somewhat walkable. There are many walking and cycling paths in the area, but you really need a car to explore the area in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Tauranga or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Tauranga?

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

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

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

Seoul is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Tauranga, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this laid back destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Tauranga?

Seoul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Seoul is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seoul, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Tauranga is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Tauranga. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Seoul or Tauranga?

Seoul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seoul has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the nature-filled destination of Tauranga. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Tauranga, 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 Tauranga 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 Tauranga Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Tauranga?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Tauranga. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Tauranga, 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.