A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Similan Islands vs. Seoul for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Similan Islands or Seoul?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Similan Islands and Seoul can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Similan Islands

Similan Islands is a spectacular, idyllic, and remote island chain. You'll find world class beauty in Similan Islands as well. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Similan Islands travel costs.

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. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food. See Seoul travel costs.

Similan Islands and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Seoul?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seoul than Similan Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seoul is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Similan Islands is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Seoul is more touristy than Similan Islands and is popular for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. Also, Seoul is famous for Gyeongbokgung Palace. Similan Islands is well known for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Similan Islands or Seoul?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Similan Islands area. Most people visit the islands as part of an organized tour, which usually provides meals as part of the package.

Is Similan Islands or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Seoul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Similan Islands. Peace and tranquility is what makes these islands special, and you'll find very limited amenities and no nightlife on the islands.

Is Similan Islands or Seoul Better for Music?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Similan Islands is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week 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.

Similan Islands is not a live music destination.

Is Similan Islands or Seoul Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. However, Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Similan Islands is not to be missed. These islands offer one of the world's most famous and impressive diving spots. World class divers travel great distances to experience the undersea world here. There are liveaboard boat trips that range in length from 4 to 6 nights and leave from either Khao Lak or Phuket. These trips will take you to the many great dive spots in the area. Do take note that the islands close every year from May until October.

Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Seoul Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is very popular for the beach. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Similan Islands is a very popular vacation destination. The world class beaches have white sand and stunningly blue waters. The setting is challenging enough to reach that you'll likely have few people to share the beaches with. The undersea world is also among the best and most vibrant around.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Similan Islands or Seoul Better for Hiking?

Similan Islands is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Similan Islands. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Seoul?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Known for shopping, Seoul draws large crowds to its 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.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Seoul More Beautiful?

Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands as well. The remote setting makes this one of the few truly pristine places left to explore. In addition to the white sand and blue water, the undersea world here is spectacular.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Similan Islands or Seoul Better for Families?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Is Similan Islands or Seoul Better for Couples?

Similan Islands 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, Similan Islands has plenty to offer. Couples who want to escape the tourist crowds will appreciate this remote and beautiful beach setting. The blue water and sandy beaches make for a true paradise.

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 Similan Islands or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Seoul is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

Seoul is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Similan Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's remote setting makes it challenging to reach on a budget, but if you're willing to devote a day or more to travel, then you'll be well rewarded.

Is Similan Islands or Seoul Better for Students?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Similan Islands 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.

Similan Islands is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Seoul is top-notch. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Similan Islands. The national park operates boats between the islands. You can also charter private longtail boats, however these must be secured in advance and availability is not guaranteed.

Is Similan Islands or Seoul a more walkable city?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Similan Islands is a somewhat walkable island chain. There are footpaths that connect the points of interest on some of the islands.

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

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Seoul?

Both Similan Islands and Seoul have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Seoul has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Seoul than Similan Islands. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 3-7 days is enough time in Seoul.

Families should spend more time in Seoul than Similan Islands. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seoul than Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands or Seoul?

In Similan Islands, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this spectacular destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island chain 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.

Seoul is a big city with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Similan Islands or Seoul?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Similan Islands. 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.

Seoul is a big city with plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Similan Islands or Seoul?

Similan Islands is a fun place to experience. In Similan Islands, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Seoul is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Similan Islands or Seoul?

In Similan Islands, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food that this remote destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Seoul is a big city with plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, and The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Similan Islands and Seoul, we can see that Similan Islands is more expensive. And not only is Seoul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Similan Islands would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands Expensive? and Is Seoul Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Similan Islands or Seoul?

Seoul has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Similan Islands experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Seoul in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Seoul. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Seoul in the summer. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Seoul fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Similan Islands this time of the year. In the summer, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seoul. Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Similan Islands usually gets less rain in July than Seoul. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Similan Islands is the rainy season.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Seoul in the Autumn?

Both Seoul and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Similan Islands is much warmer than Seoul. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Similan Islands in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Seoul averages at about 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Seoul. Similan Islands usually receives less sunshine than Seoul during autumn. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In October, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Seoul. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Similan Islands is October to May.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Seoul in the Winter?

Both Seoul and Similan Islands during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Similan Islands because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seoul this time of year.

It's quite cold in Seoul in the winter. In January, Similan Islands is generally much warmer than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 27°C (80°F), and Seoul fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the winter, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 163 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Similan Islands or Seoul in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Seoul. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Seoul in the spring. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Seoul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. In Similan Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Seoul during spring. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 205 hours of full sun in the spring.

Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Seoul. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Typical Weather for Seoul and Similan Islands