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

Should you visit Seoul or Byron Bay?

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 Byron Bay 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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food. See Seoul travel costs.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a vegan-friendly, carefree, and Bohemian town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of Byron Bay is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Byron Bay travel costs.

Seoul and Byron Bay: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Byron Bay?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seoul than Byron Bay, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seoul is better known for its museums and attractions, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Byron Bay is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Byron Bay is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its community spirit, undeveloped beaches, and world renowned festivals. Seoul is well known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. Also, Seoul is famous for Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Seoul different from Byron Bay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seoul is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Byron Bay is not a good town for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Byron Bay specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's a small town that's all about the laid back beach scene so you won't find many museums or iconic buildings in town. Do check out the Cape Byron Lighthouse if you get the chance.

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

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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).

Byron Bay has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The restaurant scene is just starting to gain momentum. There are a growing number of trendy bistros and international flavors around town. You'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as smoothies and brunch cafes.

Is Seoul or Byron Bay Better for Nightlife?

Both Seoul and Byron Bay are superb when it comes to 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.

Byron Bay has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is all about relaxed luxury. There are high end cocktail bars, piano bars, live music venues, and DJ led parties. You can head to a bistro on the beach or dance the night away at one of the nightclubs.

Is Seoul or Byron Bay Better for Music?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Byron Bay 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.

Byron Bay is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Byron Bay Better for Resorts?

Byron Bay is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Seoul is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Byron Bay. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly villas, and contemporary apartments that offer great accommodation in a good environment.

Seoul is not a resort destination.

Is Seoul or Byron Bay Better for Beaches?

Byron Bay is very popular for the beach. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Byron Bay is a very popular vacation destination. The pristine beaches are at the heart of the appeal in this town. Main Beach is, as the name implies, right in the heart of town. Many beaches are lined with forest and there are waves that are great for surfing. At its heart, this town will always be a surfer's town.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Seoul or Byron Bay Better for Hiking?

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Byron Bay. There are many walking trails that make nature accessible. Whether you want to walk along the coastline or into the hills, there are many places to enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Byron Bay?

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Byron Bay. In the past, this was never a shopping town, but in recent years it has attracted fashion icons and free spirits. There are many boutique shops on the main streets in town and there are still quirky stores that offer the unexpected.

Is Seoul or Byron Bay More Beautiful?

Byron Bay is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Byron Bay is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's pristine beaches and laid back style make it a beautiful and relaxing place to visit.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Seoul or Byron Bay Better for Families?

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

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.

Byron Bay is a family-friendly city. It's laid back vibe and beautiful beaches offer a great place for families to vacation. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options and, while there aren't the theme parks and kid-centered activities of some places, there is still plenty to enjoy in the area.

Is Seoul or Byron Bay Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Byron Bay are superb 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.

Byron Bay makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known for its instagram-worthy settings and its popularity with influencers. Couples will appreciate the laid back vibe and chill beach scene. There are great restaurants and plenty of nice hotels and resorts to choose from.

Is Seoul or Byron Bay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Byron Bay 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.

Byron Bay is a great town to visit for backpackers. It's lost some of its original hippie surf town vibe, but there is still a great backpacker scene. Now it's more popular with the influencer crowd, but the party scene and beautiful beaches attract backpackers as well.

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 Byron Bay Better for Students?

Seoul is a well-known place for students. However, Byron Bay 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.

Byron Bay is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Byron Bay is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Seoul has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Byron Bay. There is a bus service that is provided by Blanch's Bus Company.

Is Seoul or Byron Bay a more walkable city?

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

Byron Bay is a somewhat walkable city. The town itself is compact and it's possible to explore on foot, but if you want to go further you'll need to have access to a vehicle.

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

Should I spend more time in Byron Bay or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Byron Bay?

Both Seoul and Byron Bay have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Seoul has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Seoul than Byron Bay. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Seoul than Byron Bay. 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 Byron Bay. 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 Byron Bay 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 Byron Bay?

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.

In Byron Bay, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this Bohemian destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This town 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 Byron Bay?

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 Byron Bay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Five days in Seoul or Byron Bay?

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.

Byron Bay is a fun place to experience. In Byron Bay, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Seoul or Byron Bay?

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.

In Byron Bay, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this vegan-friendly destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea, The Best Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Byron Bay?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 1530 times larger than the population of Byron Bay. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Byron Bay, 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 Byron Bay?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Byron Bay is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Seoul has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Seoul or Byron Bay in the Summer?

Both Byron Bay and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Byron Bay in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Byron Bay in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Byron Bay fluctuates around 23°C (74°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Byron Bay. It's quite rainy in Seoul. In July, Seoul usually receives more rain than Byron Bayin January. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Byron Bay in the Autumn?

Both Byron Bay and Seoul during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Byron Bay for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Seoul is cooler than Byron Bay. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Byron Bay averages at about 20°C (69°F)in April.

Byron Bay gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Byron Bayin April. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Byron Bay in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Byron Bay. Most visitors come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Byron Bay 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 Byron Bayin July. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Byron Bay fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Byron Bayin July. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Byron Bay in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Byron Bay. The spring months attract visitors to Seoul because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Byron Bay this time of year.

Seoul is cooler than Byron Bay in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Byron Bay fluctuates around 19°C (67°F)in October.

Seoul usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Byron Bayin October. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Byron Bay and Seoul