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

Should you visit Seoul or Atami?

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

Seoul

Seoul is a modern, high energy, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food. See Seoul travel costs.

Atami

Atami is a nostalgic, authentic, and overlooked town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Atami travel costs.

Seoul and Atami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Atami?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seoul than Atami, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seoul is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Atami is more popular for its beaches. Seoul is more touristy than Atami and is popular for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. Also, Seoul is famous for Gyeongbokgung Palace. Atami is well known for its onsen (hot springs) and sandy beaches.

How is Seoul different from Atami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seoul is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seoul. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Atami. The onsen, or hot springs, have historically been a big draw to this town. Places to experience them include Oedo Onsen Monogatari Atami, Otsuki Hotel Wafukan, and Myoraku-Yu. Other sights around town include Kaminiya Shrine and the MOA Museum of Art.

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

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

Many restaurants in Seoul have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 many up and coming restaurants in the Atami area. You'll find an authentic Japanese dining experience here, with a lot of seafood due to the city's coastal location. Popular dishes include sushi, dried fish, and fish boiled in broth.

Is Seoul or Atami Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Atami has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town was once a place to escape the city and enjoy a fun night out, but these days it's a bit quieter and has more of a nostalgic vibe. Head to Yushima Yugijo Yushima Amusement Center for some of the best nightlife in town.

Is Seoul or Atami Better for Music?

Seoul is renowned for its live music scene. However, Atami is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week 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.

Atami is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Atami Better for Beaches?

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

Many people head to Atami to enjoy the beach. The most popular beach in the city is Atami Sun Beach, which is right in town. It's a place to relax in the sun, and there are sometimes fireworks throughout the year.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Atami?

Seoul is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Seoul draws large crowds to its 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.

Many visitors go to Atami to go shopping. You'll find a couple of retro shopping streets in town such as Atami Ekimae Shopping Street, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Heiwadori Shopping Street. There are arcades and food stalls where you can sample local dishes.

Is Seoul or Atami Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Seoul is very family-friendly. 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 Atami. The city is a hot springs area, but you can also head to the nearby beaches and other family-friendly activities.

Is Seoul or Atami Better for Couples?

Seoul is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Atami is a good city for couples to visit. This is a beach and hot springs resort area, and in historic times it was a honeymoon destination. Today you'll find beaches, hot springs, shopping, and museums to explore, but most visitors use it as a base to explore the nearby areas, as the town itself doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Seoul or Atami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Atami are notable destinations for backpackers.

Seoul is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Atami. While there aren't a huge number of hostels in the area, and backpackers often skip over this town, prices aren't particularly high so you should be able to find something affordable.

Is Seoul or Atami Better for Students?

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

Atami is not popular with students.

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

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

Seoul has a great public transit system. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Atami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses, such as the YuYu Bus, which has two routes and passes by many of the town's attractions.

Is Seoul or Atami a more walkable city?

Seoul is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Atami is a somewhat walkable city. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Atami or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Atami?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Seoul or Atami to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Seoul than Atami 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 Atami.

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

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

In Atami, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. 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 Atami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Seoul is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in Seoul or Atami?

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Atami. 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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Seoul and Atami, we can see that Seoul is more expensive. And not only is Atami much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Atami would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Atami 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 Seoul would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seoul than you might in Atami.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Seoul Expensive? and Is Atami Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Atami?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 250 times larger than the population of Atami. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Atami, 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 Atami?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Seoul or Atami in the Summer?

Both Atami 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. Also, many visitors come to Atami in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Atami. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atami receives 140 hours of full sun.

Atami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Atami. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Atami receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Atami in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Atami. Many visitors come to Seoul in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Atami for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Seoul is cooler than Atami. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Atami averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Atami during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Atami receives 130 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Atami receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Seoul usually receives less rain than Atami. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Atami receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seoul or Atami in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Atami. Most visitors come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Atami because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Seoul can be very cold during winter. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Atami. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Atami fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In the winter, Seoul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Atami. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atami receives 162 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Atami. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Atami receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Atami in the Spring?

Both Atami 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. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Atami this time of year.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Atami in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Atami fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Atami during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Atami receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atami. In April, Seoul usually receives less rain than Atami. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Atami receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Atami and Seoul