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

Should you visit Seoul or Valletta?

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 Valletta 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.

Valletta

Valletta is a historic, charming, and cultural town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seoul and Valletta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Valletta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seoul. Although Seoul and Valletta are both popular with visitors, Seoul has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Seoul is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Valletta is known for its museums, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Seoul is popular for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also home to Gyeongbokgung Palace. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Seoul different from Valletta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valletta 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 Valletta are among the most recognizable in the world. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

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 Valletta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Seoul and Valletta offer amazing 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, Valletta is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

Is Seoul or Valletta Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Seoul or Valletta Better for Music?

Seoul is terrific for its music scene. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Valletta Better for Beaches?

Valletta is a moderate town for the beache. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Valletta. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Seoul or Valletta Better for its Old Town?

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

Valletta has a world-famous historical area. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Valletta?

Seoul is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Valletta 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.

Valletta is an extremely popular place for shoppers. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

Is Seoul or Valletta Better for Families?

Seoul is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Valletta. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Seoul or Valletta Better for Couples?

Valletta 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, Valletta has plenty to offer. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

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 Valletta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valletta 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.

Valletta is a great town to visit for backpackers. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

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 Valletta Better for Students?

Seoul is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Seoul can take you anywhere. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Valletta, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Seoul or Valletta a more walkable city?

Valletta is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Valletta on foot. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Valletta or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Valletta?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Seoul and Valletta. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than in Valletta. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 1-3 days is enough time in Valletta.

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

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

One day in Seoul or Valletta?

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 Valletta, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Valletta?

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 Valletta. 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 Valletta?

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.

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

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 cultural destination of Valletta. 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 Historical Tours in Malta, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta.

When comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Valletta, we can see that Valletta 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 Valletta is in Europe, 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 Valletta Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Valletta?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 1520 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Valletta, 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 Valletta?

Seoul has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Valletta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Valletta in the Summer?

Both Valletta 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round.

In the summer, Seoul is around the same temperature as Valletta. Typically, the summer temperatures in Seoul in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Valletta averages at about 26°C (79°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Valletta. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 365 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Valletta. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Valletta in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Valletta. Many visitors come to Seoul in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In October, Seoul is generally cooler than Valletta. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 15°C (59°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Seoul usually receives less rain than Valletta. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seoul or Valletta in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Valletta. Most visitors come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year.

Seoul can be very cold during winter. Seoul is much colder than Valletta in the winter. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Valletta fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Seoul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valletta. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 159 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Valletta. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Valletta in the Spring?

Both Valletta 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. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the spring, Seoul is cooler than Valletta. Typically, the spring temperatures in Seoul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Valletta averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Seoul usually receives more rain than Valletta. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Valletta and Seoul