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

Should you visit Seoul or Lillehammer?

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

Seoul

Seoul is a bustling, modern, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music. See Seoul travel costs.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a natural, adventure-filled, and sporty city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing. See Lillehammer travel costs.

Seoul and Lillehammer: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Lillehammer?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seoul. Although Seoul and Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Seoul is famous for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also well known for Gyeongbokgung Palace. Lillehammer is famous for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

How is Seoul different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Seoul or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

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

People head to Lillehammer specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

Seoul is not a skiing destination.

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

Seoul is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Seoul can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

Lillehammer offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

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

Seoul is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Seoul is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

Lillehammer has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

Is Seoul or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is well known for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Seoul is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Lillehammer has a few options to choose from. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.

Is Seoul or Lillehammer Better for Music?

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

Lillehammer is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

Lillehammer is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Lillehammer is a popular spot for hiking. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Lillehammer?

Seoul is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Lillehammer. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Is Seoul or Lillehammer Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Seoul or Lillehammer.

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 Lillehammer. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

Is Seoul or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Lillehammer are excellent 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.

Lillehammer makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

Is Seoul or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Lillehammer are nice 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 Lillehammer. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Is Seoul or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Seoul is well known for students. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Seoul is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

It's common for students to visit Lillehammer. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

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

Seoul is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Lillehammer offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Seoul or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Seoul is well known for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either Seoul or Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer.

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

Seoul is a colorful city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Lillehammer, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this natural destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Lillehammer?

Seoul is a high energy big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer?

Seoul is a bustling city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Lillehammer is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer?

Seoul is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find museums and skiing around the sporty destination of Lillehammer. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Seoul and Lillehammer, we can see that Seoul is more expensive. And not only is Lillehammer much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Seoul is in Asia and Lillehammer is in Europe, 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 Lillehammer would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Lillehammer?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 540 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Lillehammer, 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.