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

Should you visit Seoul or Katoomba?

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

Seoul

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

Katoomba

Katoomba is a relaxing, breathtaking , and stunning town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty in Katoomba as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Katoomba travel costs.

Seoul and Katoomba: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Katoomba?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seoul. Although Seoul and Katoomba 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 Katoomba attracts visitors for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Katoomba is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its natural scenery, beautiful hikes, and its location in the Blue Mountains. 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 Katoomba?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seoul is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Katoomba offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. For many, the town is used as a base for exploring the Blue Mountains. Scenic World is a great way to take in the highlights. It's also fun to check out the local street art.

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

Seoul is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Seoul, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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).

Katoomba has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many of the restaurants work hard to support local farmers and suppliers. You'll find local ingredients and homemade meals. The restaurant scene is growing, but many restaurants are still affiliated with hotels and tourist attractions.

Is Seoul or Katoomba Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town 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 Katoomba. It's not known for its nightlife scene, but there are some relaxed places where you can enjoy craft beer or see a show. Katoomba is the hub of nightlife in the Blue Mountains.

Is Seoul or Katoomba Better for Music?

Seoul is a world-class destination for live music. However, Katoomba 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.

Katoomba is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Katoomba Better for Hiking?

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

Many people visit Katoomba specifically for its hiking. Surrounded by the Blue Mountains, this town offers access to some of the area's best hikes. You'll see waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and lush landscapes.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Katoomba?

Seoul is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town 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 Katoomba. There are local markets and boutiques where you can pick up local items and handicrafts.

Is Seoul or Katoomba More Beautiful?

Katoomba is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Katoomba as well. It's a town surrounded by natural beauty. It offers easy access to breathtaking views and impressive hikes through the Blue Mountains.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Seoul or Katoomba Better for Families?

Katoomba is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Katoomba is one of the most popular family destinations. The surrounding Blue Mountains are filled with activities for the whole family. Scenic World is a highlight with its cable cars and skyway. There are also gardens, hiking trails, and cultural centers. Kids who love trains will enjoy Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum.

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.

Is Seoul or Katoomba Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Katoomba are high quality 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.

Katoomba makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are world class gardens like the Everglades Gardens, restaurants where you can enjoy high tea with a view, as well as hikes that will take your breath away. For the truly adventurous, there are also helicopter tours.

Is Seoul or Katoomba Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Katoomba 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.

Katoomba is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are hostels in the area, as well as camping opportunities. Backpackers will appreciate the scenic beauty and natural setting.

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 Katoomba Better for Students?

Seoul is a well-known place for students. However, Katoomba is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Katoomba is not popular with students.

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

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

Katoomba has some public transit options. There are public buses through the Blue Mountains but it's easier to explore in depth if you have your own car.

Is Seoul or Katoomba a more walkable city?

Seoul is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Katoomba is a somewhat walkable place. The town itself is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Katoomba or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Katoomba?

It's fun to spend time in either Seoul or Katoomba. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Seoul due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 2-4 days is enough time in Katoomba.

Families should spend more time in Katoomba than Seoul. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Katoomba, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Seoul than Katoomba. 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 Katoomba 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 Katoomba?

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.

Even though Katoomba is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Katoomba?

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 Katoomba. 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 Katoomba?

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.

Katoomba is a fun place to experience. Katoomba is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Seoul or Katoomba?

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.

Katoomba is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, and The Best Scuba Diving Tours in Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Katoomba?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 560 times larger than the population of Katoomba. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Katoomba, 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 Katoomba?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Katoomba 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 Katoomba in the Summer?

Both Katoomba and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Seoul in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Katoomba for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Seoul is generally around the same temperature as Katoombain January. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 26°C (78°F), and Katoomba fluctuates around 24°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Katoomba. Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Katoomba during summer. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Katoomba receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Katoomba. It's quite rainy in Seoul. In July, Seoul usually receives more rain than Katoombain January. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Katoomba in the Autumn?

Both Katoomba and Seoul during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Seoul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Katoomba because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Seoul is cooler than Katoomba in the autumn. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Katoomba fluctuates around 18°C (65°F)in April.

It's quite sunny in Seoul. In the autumn, Seoul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Katoombain April. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Katoomba receives 195 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Katoombain April. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Katoomba in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Katoomba. The winter months attract visitors to Seoul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Katoomba this time of year.

The weather in Seoul can be very cold. In the winter, Seoul is much colder than Katoomba. Typically, the winter temperatures in Seoul in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Katoomba averages at about 11°C (51°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Katoomba this time of the year. Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Katoomba during winter. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Katoomba receives 208 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Katoombain July. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Katoomba in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Katoomba. The activities around the city are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Katoomba for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Seoul is generally cooler than Katoombain October. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 13°C (55°F), and Katoomba fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Katoomba. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. In the spring, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Katoombain October. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Katoomba receives 240 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets more rain in April than Katoombain October. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Katoomba and Seoul