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

Should you visit Seoul or Valencia?

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

Seoul

Seoul is a bustling, modern, and high energy 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

Valencia

Valencia is a architectural, friendly, and coastal coastal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Seoul and Valencia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Valencia?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Valencia than Seoul. While Seoul is larger than Valencia, Valencia has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Valencia is better known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Seoul is more popular for its music, shopping, and big city activities. Valencia is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). Also, Valencia is famous for La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Seoul is well known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy.

How is Seoul different from Valencia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Seoul and Valencia.

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 Valencia can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is famous for its architecture and culture. Most of the main attractions are concentrated in Ciutat Vella and can be easily accessed on foot. Notable landmarks include La Lonja de Seda, Catedral de València, and Plaza de la Virgen. There are also several world class museums including Oceanogràfic de València and La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències de València.

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

Both Seoul and Valencia offer terrific 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, Valencia is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city is famous as the birthplace of paella, which is one of Spain's most famous dishes. Beyond the paella, there are a number of other amazing traditional dishes. Fideuà is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. All i pebre is an eel and potato dish and clóchinas are tiny local mussels. For dessert make sure you try the flan de calabaza, which is pumpkin flavored. Many restaurants also have tapas that can be shared. Restaurants in the old town are charming and delicious, but out by the beaches the quality isn't as good.

Is Seoul or Valencia Better for Nightlife?

Valencia 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.

Valencia is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Dinner starts late, so you can expect the nightlife to pick up even later. During the summer there are all night terrace parties and year round you'll find nightclubs filled from evening to dawn. If all night raves aren't really your thing, you'll also find plenty of local bars where you can hang out with friends in a more relaxed setting. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something for everyone.

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 Valencia Better for Music?

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

Valencia is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Valencia Better for Resorts?

Valencia is very good for its resorts. However, Seoul is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Valencia makes a nice vacation spot. You can choose between staying near the old town (Ciutat Vella) or out by the beach. One of the best beach areas is El Cabanyal. It's still close enough in to be well connected by public transit but offers a great coastal vibe as well.

Seoul is not a resort destination.

Is Seoul or Valencia Better for Beaches?

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

Many people head to Valencia to enjoy the beach. There are several urban beaches in town that are accessible by public transit. Many offer surprisingly long stretches of sand with wide beaches and plenty of activity. The beaches can get crowded during the summer months, but they are generally large enough to accommodate the crowds. La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular because of its proximity to the city. El Saler Beach is further out and popular with the locals and Port Saplaya is a colorful area with shopping and beaches.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Seoul or Valencia Better for its Old Town?

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

Valencia has a world-famous historical area. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is Seoul or Valencia Better for Hiking?

Valencia is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Valencia. Most people miss out on the beautiful hikes through the nearby countryside, but if you venture out of town you can enjoy some beautiful walking trails. Many run along the coastline or pass through rolling hills. There is varied landscape in the area with pine forests, orange groves, and vineyards all common.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Valencia?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Valencia. As the third largest city in Spain, you'll find most designer brands around town. The main shopping street is Calle Colon where you'll find the well-known European brands mixed in with the lesser-known Spanish brands. For a more local experience head to Mercado Central where you'll find local produce, colorful seafood, and a unique foodie vibe.

Is Seoul or Valencia Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Seoul or Valencia.

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 Valencia. The city has some kid-friendly museums, an impressive zoo, and the largest aquarium in Europe (with its own dolphin show). Head to the Science Museum or simply wander around the museum complex. There are water activities and a beautiful futuristic style that attracts families and influencers with its photogenic atmosphere. There are also countless playgrounds of all sizes around town and a number of parks and outdoor spaces where kids can run around. There's a city park that runs through town and has playgrounds and bike trails. You can also spend a fun-filled day at the beach.

Is Seoul or Valencia Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Valencia are excellent 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.

Valencia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with interesting culture, beautiful weather, and delightful cuisine. There are sandy beaches and luxury hotels that will make for an amazing romantic getaway. There are also many beautiful gardens and charming neighborhoods that you can explore. Couples can split a paella and sip sangrias in one of the many charming restaurants around town.

Is Seoul or Valencia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia 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.

Valencia is a great coastal city to visit for backpackers. It's often overlooked for more popular destinations, but this city has plenty to offer in the form of affordable accommodation and food as well as interesting sights.

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 Valencia Better for Students?

Valencia is very popular for students. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Valencia. The city is young and vibrant with a lot of culture and beautiful neighborhoods. It's also well connected to the rest of Spain with a convenient central train station.

Seoul is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

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

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

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

While Valencia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit is available in the form of buses and a tram/metro system but the system isn't as comprehensive as it could be and much of the city is surprisingly dependent on cars.

Is Seoul or Valencia a more walkable city?

Seoul and Valencia both are excellent 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.

Valencia is a very walkable destination. Walking is the best way to explore many parts of the city and you can walk from one side of the Ciutat Vella to the other in about 20 minutes. This area is where you'll find most of the city's main attractions. There are other neighborhoods that are a bit less pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Valencia or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Valencia?

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

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

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

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

One day in Seoul or Valencia?

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 Valencia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This coastal 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.

A weekend in Seoul or Valencia?

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 Valencia. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Valencia?

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.

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

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 architectural big city of Valencia. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 G Adventures Tours to Spain, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Valencia?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Valencia. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Valencia, 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 Valencia?

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 Valencia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Valencia. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Valencia for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Valencia in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Valencia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Valencia during summer. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

Seoul gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Seoul usually receives more rain than Valencia. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Valencia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Valencia. Many travelers come to Seoul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Valencia in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Seoul is cooler than Valencia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Valencia averages at about 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. In the autumn, Seoul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valencia. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Valencia. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Valencia in the Winter?

Both Valencia and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Seoul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Valencia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Seoul can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Valencia. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Valencia fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Seoul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Valencia during winter. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Valencia receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Valencia. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Valencia in the Spring?

Both Valencia and Seoul during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Seoul for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Valencia because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Seoul is cooler than Valencia in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Valencia fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In Valencia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Seoul. In the spring, Seoul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valencia. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valencia receives 213 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets more rain in April than Valencia. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Valencia receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Valencia and Seoul