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

Should you visit Seoul or Nagoya?

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

Seoul

Seoul is a colorful, cultural, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Seoul travel costs.

Nagoya

Nagoya is a under-rated, often overlooked, and under-the-radar city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Nagoya travel costs.

Seoul and Nagoya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Nagoya?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seoul than Nagoya, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Seoul is more touristy than Nagoya and is popular for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also home to Gyeongbokgung Palace. Nagoya is popular for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry.

How is Seoul different from Nagoya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Seoul and Nagoya.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Nagoya can be an interesting and educational experience. There are shrines, temples, and other interesting sights in the city. Atsuta Jingu is an important Shinto shrine. Nagoya Castle is another interesting place to visit. If you're willing to head out of the city center a bit, the Meiji-mura Village Museum is an open air museum that has interesting Japanese architecture. There are also interesting museums in town such as the Nagoya City Art Museums and the Toyota Techno and Toyota Automobile Museums.

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

Both Seoul and Nagoya offer world-class local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nagoya is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a strong food culture that's referred to as Nagoya meshi. It's a popular destination for foodies to Japan, even though the city itself is often overlooked by tourists. The city's food uses a lot of local vegetables and its influenced by several international flavors. Important ingredients in the dishes include unagi (freshwater eel), Nagoya cochin (chicken), tamari (soy sauce), and mame miso.

Is Seoul or Nagoya Better for Nightlife?

Both Seoul and Nagoya are great 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.

Nagoya has a large number of nightlife venues. There are many bars around town, many of which have an international theme. Later in the evening, many people head out to a nightclubs, most of which are concentrated in either Sakae and Shin-sakae.

Is Seoul or Nagoya Better for Music?

Seoul is very popular for its music scene. However, Nagoya is not a live music destination.

Seoul has become a mecca for musicians from 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.

Nagoya is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Nagoya?

Seoul is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Seoul specifically to go shopping. 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.

Nagoya is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find everything from large shopping malls to street markets and local vendors. Many people head to Nagoya Station for shopping, but Osu Shotengai is another interesting shopping area in the city's old town.

Is Seoul or Nagoya Better for Families?

Nagoya 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.

Nagoya is one of the most popular family destinations. There are a large number of attractions for families in the area. This city is where you'll find Legoland Japan, which is one of the most popular activities to do with kids. The city also has the Sea Life Aquarium, which is located in the Legoland Hotel. Next to Legoland you'll find the SCMaglev and Railway Park. Another great activity is a visit to the Nagoya Public Aquarium, which is one of the biggest aquariums in Japan. There are dolphins, orcas, and many different ecosystems to explore. Nearby is the Sea Train Land amusement park.

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 Nagoya Better for Couples?

Seoul is a very popular place for couples. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Nagoya is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy visiting the Nagoya Castle or checking out the dolphin and orca shows at the Nagoya Public Aquarium. Noritake Garden is a nice place to explore. There are also many coffee shops in town as well as museums and temples.

Is Seoul or Nagoya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Nagoya are good 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 Nagoya. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a limited number of hostels in town, so they fill up quickly. You should make reservations well in advance if budget is a priority.

Is Seoul or Nagoya Better for Students?

Seoul is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Seoul is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Nagoya is popular with students. Nagoya University has been working to grow its international population. This is a fun and dynamic city that makes a great place to study.

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

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

Seoul has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Public transit in Nagoya is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has both a subway and public buses. The main bus stations are at Nagoya Station and Sakae Station and there are six subway lines throughout the city.

Is Seoul or Nagoya a more walkable city?

Seoul and Nagoya both are great when exploring on foot.

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.

Nagoya is a very walkable destination. The downtown area, where you'll find many of the sights, is walkable. The distances vary, but many sights can be reached on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Nagoya or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Nagoya?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Seoul and Nagoya. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than in Nagoya. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nagoya.

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

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

Seoul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Nagoya, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this often overlooked big city offers. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Nagoya?

Seoul is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Seoul or Nagoya?

Seoul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the under-the-radar big city of Nagoya. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Luxury Tours to Japan, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Nagoya, we can see that Seoul 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. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Nagoya?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Nagoya. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Nagoya, 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 Nagoya?

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 Nagoya in the Summer?

Both Nagoya and Seoul during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nagoya because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Seoul is around the same temperature as Nagoya. Typically, the summer temperatures in Seoul in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Nagoya averages at about 27°C (80°F).

In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Nagoya. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagoya receives 170 hours of full sun.

Nagoya 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 Nagoya. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 213 mm (8.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Nagoya in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Nagoya. The autumn months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Nagoya this time of year.

In October, Seoul is generally cooler than Nagoya. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 15°C (59°F), and Nagoya fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Nagoya during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Nagoya receives 176 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nagoya receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Seoul usually receives less rain than Nagoya. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seoul or Nagoya in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Nagoya. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nagoya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nagoya. It's quite cold in Seoul in the winter. Seoul is much colder than Nagoya in the winter. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Nagoya fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Nagoya. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagoya receives 180 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Nagoya. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Nagoya in the Spring?

Both Nagoya and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Nagoya in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Seoul is cooler than Nagoya. Typically, the spring temperatures in Seoul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Nagoya averages at about 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Nagoya during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Nagoya receives 189 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagoya. In April, Seoul usually receives less rain than Nagoya. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nagoya and Seoul