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

Should you visit Seoul or Arrowtown?

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

Seoul

Seoul is a cultural, bustling, and modern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Seoul travel costs.

Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a historic, charming, and quaint town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing. See Arrowtown travel costs.

Seoul and Arrowtown: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Arrowtown?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seoul. Although Seoul and Arrowtown 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 Arrowtown attracts visitors for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Arrowtown is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its gold rush history, impressive ski slopes, and famous hikes. Seoul is famous for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also well known for Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Seoul different from Arrowtown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Arrowtown and Seoul. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Seoul or Arrowtown Better for Skiing?

Arrowtown is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Seoul is not a skiing destination.

People head to Arrowtown specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. In the area you'll find amazing skiing that ranges from professional level to family-friendly.

Seoul is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Seoul or Arrowtown?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Arrowtown offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town feels likes a living museum with its historic sights. There's also the Lakes District Museum in town that you can visit.

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

Seoul is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Arrowtown. For such a small town, there's a surprising number of great restaurants with award winning chefs. You'll find quaint cafes, traditional eateries, and casual restaurants where you can sample the local dishes.

Is Seoul or Arrowtown Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Arrowtown has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. For such a small town, there's a surprisingly bustling nightlife scene with casual pubs and waterfront bars.

Is Seoul or Arrowtown Better for Music?

Seoul is terrific for live music. However, Arrowtown is not a live music destination.

Seoul is known as a music capital 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.

Arrowtown is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Arrowtown Better for its Old Town?

Arrowtown is a well-known place for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Arrowtown. This is a quirky and charming historic mining town that has many cottages and historic buildings. Many places have been restored to maintain their original character.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is Seoul or Arrowtown Better for Hiking?

Arrowtown is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Arrowtown specifically for its hiking. Many people use this town as a jumping off point for some of the world's most iconic hikes. You can explore Lord of the Rings country or do one of fifteen different listed walks in the area.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Arrowtown?

Seoul is terrific for shopping. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Seoul. 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.

Arrowtown is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is an experience in town. Head to Buckingham Street, which is the main street in town. You can wander through a wild west setting with local vendors and quirky galleries.

Is Seoul or Arrowtown Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Seoul or Arrowtown.

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 Arrowtown. Kids will enjoy the old world charm as much as adults. There's gold panning, bike trails, and even a historic Chinese village. During the winter there are snow sports and during the summer there are outdoor activities that take advantage of the nice weather.

Is Seoul or Arrowtown Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Arrowtown are very good 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.

Arrowtown makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charming atmosphere and beautiful walks make this a great weekend destination for couples. You can take a stroll on the Arrow River Walkway or grab a meal at a quaint cafe followed by ice cream at a classic ice cream parlor.

Is Seoul or Arrowtown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arrowtown 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.

Arrowtown is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town and backpackers love the frequent festivals and activities that the town hosts.

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 Arrowtown Better for Students?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Arrowtown is not popular with students.

Seoul is very popular with students. 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.

Arrowtown is not popular with students.

Is Seoul or Arrowtown 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, Arrowtown 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 Arrowtown, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses throughout the region.

Is Seoul or Arrowtown a more walkable city?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Arrowtown is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the town are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Arrowtown or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Arrowtown?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Seoul or Arrowtown to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Seoul than Arrowtown because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arrowtown.

Families should spend more time in Seoul than Arrowtown. 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 Arrowtown. 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 Arrowtown 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 Arrowtown?

People visit Seoul because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Even though Arrowtown is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Arrowtown?

People visit Seoul because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

People visit Seoul because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Arrowtown is a fun place to experience. Arrowtown is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Arrowtown?

Seoul is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seoul, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Arrowtown is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Contiki Tours to New Zealand, and The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Arrowtown?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 4810 times larger than the population of Arrowtown. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Arrowtown, 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.