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

Should you visit Seoul or Alesund?

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

Seoul

Seoul is a colorful, cultural, and bustling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Seoul travel costs.

Alesund

Alesund is a laid back, welcoming, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Alesund is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Alesund travel costs.

Seoul and Alesund: 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
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Seoul or Alesund?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seoul. Although Seoul and Alesund are popular destinations, Seoul has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seoul is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Alesund attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Seoul is famous for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also well known for Gyeongbokgung Palace. Alesund is famous for its nouveau architecture, beautiful views, and access to the fjords.

How is Seoul different from Alesund?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seoul
Alesund

Seoul is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Alesund offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Atlantic Sea-Park and the Sunnmøre Museum. Also visit the small but interesting Fisheries Museum & Ålesund Museum.


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

Seoul
Alesund

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

Alesund has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As Norway's largest fishing port, you'll find plenty of seafood offerings around town. A favorite is bacalao de noruega (dried and salted clipfish), but also make sure you try the lobster soup.

Is Seoul or Alesund Better for Nightlife?

Seoul
Alesund

Seoul is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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 Alesund. There are plenty of bars around town as well as nightclubs and live music venues.

Is Seoul or Alesund Better for Music?

Seoul
Alesund

Seoul is a world-class destination for live music. However, Alesund is not a live music destination.

Seoul is a world class music destination. 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.

Alesund is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Alesund?

Seoul
Alesund

Seoul is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Seoul is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Alesund. There are a number of shopping streets around town including the shopping areas in Aspøya, which are known for their homemade souvenirs.

Is Seoul or Alesund More Beautiful?

Seoul
Alesund

Alesund is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Alesund is a beautiful place to visit, too. The architecture, viewpoints, and nearby fjords make this a great stop off on any Norwegian adventure.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Seoul or Alesund Better for Families?

Seoul
Alesund

Seoul is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Seoul is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Alesund is a family-friendly city. There's an aquarium and several great parks including Tueneset Naturlekeplass, which is near the aquarium. There's also hiking in the area and other outdoor adventures.


Is Seoul or Alesund Better for Couples?

Seoul
Alesund

Seoul is a well-known place for romance. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Alesund makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful setting with spectacular views and fun restaurants. There are many great hikes in the area, and many visitors like to use this town as a base for exploring nearby places.

Is Seoul or Alesund Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Seoul
Alesund

Seoul is a popular place for backpackers. However, Alesund is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Alesund is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a limited number of hostels in town so apartments may be the best option for backpackers. It's also hard to get around the region without a car.

Is Seoul or Alesund Better for Students?

Seoul
Alesund

Seoul is a well-known place for students. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Alesund. There's a small student population, which means that the group stays close and everyone is very welcoming. The town also makes a great base for exploring this part of Norway.


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

Seoul
Alesund

Seoul is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Alesund has some public transit options. There is a public bus system around town.

Is Seoul or Alesund a more walkable city?

Seoul
Alesund

Seoul is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Seoul is very walkable. 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.

Alesund is a somewhat walkable place. The city center can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Alesund or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Alesund?

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

Families should spend more time in Seoul than Alesund. 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 Alesund. 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 Alesund 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 Alesund? Ideal Length of Stay
    Seoul 3-7 
    Alesund 2-3

One day in Seoul or Alesund?

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 Alesund, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this friendly destination offers. This 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 Alesund?

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 Alesund. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Alesund?

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.

Alesund is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Alesund. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Seoul or Alesund?

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 scenic destination of Alesund. 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 Tours for Seniors to Norway, and The Best Contiki Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Alesund or Seoul?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Seoul is $128, while the average daily cost in Alesund is $133. 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 Alesund in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Seoul $54
    Alesund $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Seoul $108
    Alesund $116
Compare Hotels in Seoul and Alesund

Looking for a hotel in Seoul or Alesund? 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 Alesund


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Seoul $15
    Alesund $28
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seoul

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


  • Subway Card
    $3.58
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $5.01
  • Metro Ride
    $0.97
  • Seoul City Pass Plus
    $7.16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seoul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seoul:

  • Private One-Way Transfers to/from Incheon Airport(ICN): $39
  • Night Views Tour with Guide and Transfers: $41
  • From Round-Trip Transfer to Dae Jang Geum Park: $50
  • Private Transfer Service from Seoul City Hotels to Gimpo Airport: $57
  • Transfer Service from Gimpo Airport to Hotel City: $57
  • Seoul to Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN) Departure Private Transfer: $65
  • Incheon Airport (ICN) Transfer to Seoul/Suwon/Seongnam/Yongin: $68
  • Private Gimpo Airport Transfer between Seoul City: $78
  • Private Airport Transfer: Gimpo Airport to Seoul City (1-5 pax): $80
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City - Gimpo Airport (1-5 pax): $80
  • Private Transfer from Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN) to Seoul hotels: $80
  • Seoul to Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN) - Departure Private Transfer: $80

Is it cheaper to fly into Seoul or Alesund?

Prices for flights to both Alesund 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 $51
    Alesund $57
Typical Food Prices in Seoul

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


  • Rice with Kimchi & Bacon
    $4.30
  • Waffle
    $0.72
  • Dippin' Dots
    $1.43
  • Chicken Fried Rice
    $3.94
  • Chicken Stick
    $1.43
  • Drinking Yoghurt & Mi Chew
    $1.36
  • Lunch Buffet
    $4.30
  • Donut
    $0.72
  • Mushroom Burger
    $3.72
  • Green Tea Ice Cream
    $2.36
  • Udon & Sushi
    $5.01
  • Fresh Burger
    $3.44
  • Soba Noodles Lunch
    $3.22
  • Bibimbap Lunch
    $3.58
  • Fried Rice
    $3.94
  • Vietnamese Dinner
    $6.80
  • Breakfast and Coffee for 2
    $6.80
  • Donut
    $1.79

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seoul

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

  • Guided Street Food Tour at Namdaemun Market: $45
  • Seoul Night Run for Local-Favorite Korean BBQ Dinner: $50
  • [Wine & K-BBQ] A Perfect Pairing Dinner in Sinchon: $51
  • Korean Grandma Cooking Class l Gimbap & Kimchi Pancake l Seoul: $52
  • Mangwon Market Food tour By Locals; Cheap Eats to Fancy Feast: $53
  • Wine & K-BBQ: A Perfect Pairing Dinner: $53
  • Mangwon Market Food tour By Locals;Cheap Eats to Fancy Feast: $57
  • Street Food Tour in Jongno, Heart of Seoul: $58
  • Kimchi Dishes Cooking Class with Wine Pairing: $61
  • Gwangjang Market Netflix Food Tour: $64
  • Seoul by Night: Palaces, Market & Street Food Tour (Vegan Option): $65
  • Dinner at a Local's Hanok & Seoul's Night Life: $66

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Seoul $26
    Alesund $18
Typical Entertainment Prices in Seoul

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


  • Palace Tickets
    $5.73
  • Movie Ticket
    $5.73
  • Kimchi Museum
    $2.15

Tours and Activities in Seoul

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

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace Hanbok Rental Experience Hanboknam (내국인불가): $7.00
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace Hanbok Rental Experience in Seoul: $7.00
  • Seoul Changdeokgung Palace Hanbok Experience Hanboknam (내국인불가): $7.10
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace Web Guide and Room Escape Tour Ticket: $7.30
  • Gwanghwamun Tour l 120 Minutes to Understand South Korea: $10
  • DMZ Peace Road History Tour 3rd Infiltration Tunnel : $10
  • [Seoul] Football Faentasium Admission Ticket (내국인 불가): $10
  • Gwanghwamun Tour l 120 Minutes to Understand South Korean: $11
  • Skip the Line: Figure Museum W Ticket (내국인 불가): $11
  • Dynamic Maze Discount Ticket Insa-dong(내국인불가): $12
  • Seoul Job Experience Theme Park Ticket for Kid (내국인 불가): $13
  • bukchon Hanbok Experience at hanboknam: $14

Tours and Activities in Alesund

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

  • The Essence of Ålesund Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Ålesund Two Hour Walking City Tour: $46
  • Hellesylt Sightseeing Boat Geirangerfjord: $61
  • Molde and Atlantic Ocean Road Audio Tour: $71
  • Alesund Walking Tour Art Nouveau and Postcard Views: $71
  • Ålesund Sightseeing and Viking Saga Islands: $112
  • Guided Adventure on Fjord Kayaking in Hellesylt, Norway: $124
  • 3 Hour Guided Food Walk Tour in Alesund, Norway: $133
  • Sightseeing Tour in Trollstigen - Land of Trolls: $134
  • Alesund Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour: $137
  • Kayak tour in Molde: $144
  • All About the Fjords in One Tour by Boat and Bus from Ålesund: $165

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Seoul

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

  • Seoul Pub Crawl by Absolute: $20
  • The Seoul Pub Crawl Official: $22
  • Pub Crawl: $25
  • The Seoul Pub Crawl [official]: $26
  • LGBTQ+ Pub Crawl and Drag Show with Local Drag Queen: $28
  • Soju Tasting at Distillery - story of 3 pigs: $41
  • Rice Wine Tasting with Sommelier - Finest Makgeolli (& Soju): $42
  • Rice Wine Tasting with Sommelier - Finest Makgeolli (& Soju): $46
  • Soju Tasting at Distillery: $51
  • Premium Pub Crawl with Open Bottles: $57
  • Craft Makgeolli Brewery Tour & Tasting Experience: $67
  • Learn and Craft Makgeolli in a Traditional Brewery: $78


When comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Alesund, we can see that Alesund 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 Alesund 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 Alesund Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Seoul or Alesund?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Alesund. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Alesund, 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 Alesund?

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 Alesund in the Summer?

Both Alesund and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Alesund because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Seoul is generally much warmer than Alesund. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 26°C (78°F), and Alesund fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite rainy in Seoul. In July, Seoul usually receives more rain than Alesund. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Seoul 26°C (78°F) 
    Alesund 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Seoul or Alesund in the Autumn?

Both Alesund and Seoul during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Alesund this time of year.

Seoul is much warmer than Alesund in the autumn. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Alesund fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Alesund gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Alesund. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Seoul 15°C (59°F) 
    Alesund 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Seoul or Alesund in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Alesund. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alesund for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.


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