A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Seoul vs. Vienna for Food, Music, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Seoul or Vienna?

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

Seoul

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

Vienna

Vienna is a artistic, musical, and ritzy city. You'll find world class beauty in Vienna as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Vienna travel costs.

Seoul and Vienna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Vienna?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seoul than Vienna. Seoul is bigger than Vienna, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seoul is better known for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Vienna is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Vienna is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. 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 Vienna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Seoul and Vienna.

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 Vienna can be an interesting and educational experience. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

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

Seoul is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

Dining out in Vienna is an experience not to be missed. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

Is Seoul or Vienna Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Vienna 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.

Vienna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Is Seoul or Vienna Better for Music?

Both Seoul and Vienna offer terrific live music venues.

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.

Vienna has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Is Seoul or Vienna Better for its Old Town?

Vienna is very popular for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Vienna has a world-famous historical area. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Vienna?

Both Seoul and Vienna are terrific shopping destinations.

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 people travel to Vienna specifically to go shopping. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

Is Seoul or Vienna More Beautiful?

Vienna 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 Vienna as well. The city has beautiful Baroque architecture and a livable atmosphere.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Seoul or Vienna Better for Families?

Seoul is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vienna 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 Vienna. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Seoul or Vienna Better for Couples?

Vienna is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Vienna has plenty to offer. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

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.

Is Seoul or Vienna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Vienna 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 Vienna. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Is Seoul or Vienna Better for Students?

Vienna is very popular for students. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Vienna. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

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.

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

Both Seoul and Vienna offer terrific public transit options.

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.

With a huge network, the transit system in Vienna can get you around easily. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

Is Seoul or Vienna a more walkable city?

Vienna is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Vienna on foot. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

Seoul is a very walkable destination. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Vienna or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Vienna?

In either Seoul or Vienna, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than Vienna because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 2-5 days is enough time in Vienna.

Families should spend more time in Seoul than Vienna. 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 Vienna than Seoul. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Vienna that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vienna than Seoul 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 Vienna.

One day in Seoul or Vienna?

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 Vienna, many people enjoy the live music and food that this musical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Vienna?

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 Vienna. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Vienna?

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.

Vienna is a fun place to experience. In Vienna, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Seoul or Vienna?

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 museums and nightlife around the ritzy destination of Vienna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Tours for Seniors to Austria, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Vienna?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Vienna. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Vienna, 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 Vienna?

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 Vienna in the Summer?

Both Vienna and Seoul during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vienna for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Seoul is a little warmer than Vienna in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Vienna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Vienna, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Vienna. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 255 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Vienna. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Vienna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Vienna. Many travelers come to Seoul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Vienna in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Seoul is a little warmer than Vienna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Vienna averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Vienna during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 140 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Seoul usually receives more rain than Vienna. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seoul or Vienna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Vienna. Many visitors come to Seoul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Vienna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Vienna can be very cold during winter. Seoul can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Vienna. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Vienna. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 65 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Vienna. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Vienna in the Spring?

Both Vienna and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Seoul for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Vienna because of the natural beauty.

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

It's quite sunny in Vienna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Vienna during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 202 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Seoul usually receives more rain than Vienna. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Vienna and Seoul