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

Should you visit Tartu 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 Tartu 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.

Tartu

Tartu is a intellectual, student-oriented, and cultural university town. Tartu is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife. See Tartu travel costs.

Seoul

Seoul is a modern, high energy, and colorful 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 nightlife, live music, and food. See Seoul travel costs.

Tartu and Seoul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tartu or Seoul?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seoul than Tartu, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Seoul is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Tartu is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Seoul is more touristy than Tartu and is popular for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also home to Gyeongbokgung Palace. Tartu is popular for its vibrant student population and long running university.

How is Tartu different from Seoul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Seoul is a great city for its historical sights. However, Tartu 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.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Tartu or Seoul Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Tartu and Seoul.

The nightlife in Tartu has something for everybody. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

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.

Is Tartu or Seoul Better for Music?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Tartu 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.

Tartu is not a live music destination.

Is Tartu or Seoul Better for its Old Town?

Tartu is a well-known place for its old town. However, Seoul does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Tartu. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tartu or Seoul?

Seoul is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known 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.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Is Tartu or Seoul More Beautiful?

Tartu is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Tartu is a beautiful place to visit, too. It's a beautiful city with a long history and a number of unique historical buildings.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tartu or Seoul Better for Families?

Seoul is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Tartu is a family-friendly place to visit. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

Is Tartu or Seoul Better for Couples?

Seoul is a great city for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Seoul is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.

Is Tartu or Seoul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tartu 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.

Tartu is a great university town to visit for backpackers. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

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 Tartu or Seoul Better for Students?

Tartu 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 Tartu. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Seoul is a great university town 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 Tartu 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. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its public transit.

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

Tartu has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

Is Tartu or Seoul a more walkable city?

Tartu and Seoul are superb when it comes to walkability.

Tartu is a very walkable destination. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Seoul or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Seoul?

Both Tartu and Seoul have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than in Tartu. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Tartu, and 3-7 days is enough time in Seoul.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tartu 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 Tartu.

One day in Tartu or Seoul?

In Tartu, many people enjoy the nightlife that this lively destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Tartu or Seoul?

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

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

Five days in Tartu or Seoul?

Tartu is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Tartu. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Seoul is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tartu or Seoul?

You'll find nightlife around the lively destination of Tartu. 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.

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Estonia, 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 Tartu and Seoul, we can see that Tartu is more expensive. And not only is Seoul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Tartu is in Europe and Seoul is in Asia, 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 Tartu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tartu 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 Tartu Expensive? and Is Seoul Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tartu or Seoul?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Tartu. When comparing the sizes of Tartu and Seoul, 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 Tartu or Seoul?

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 Tartu or Seoul in the Summer?

Both Seoul and Tartu during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tartu in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Tartu is generally much colder than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 17°C (62°F), and Seoul fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It's quite sunny in Tartu. In the summer, Tartu often gets more sunshine than Seoul. Tartu gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 121 hours of full sun.

Seoul gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Tartu usually gets less rain in July than Seoul. Tartu gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tartu or Seoul in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tartu and Seoul. Most visitors come to Tartu for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Tartu is much colder than Seoul in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around 6°C (43°F) in October, and Seoul fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Seoul during autumn. Tartu gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tartu usually receives around the same amount of rain as Seoul. Tartu gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tartu or Seoul in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tartu as well as Seoul. The winter months attract visitors to Tartu because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, 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. The weather in Tartu can be very cold. In the winter, Tartu is much colder than Seoul. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tartu in January average around -7°C (19°F), and Seoul averages at about -3°C (27°F).

In the winter, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Seoul. Tartu gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seoul receives 163 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets more rain in January than Seoul. Tartu gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tartu or Seoul in the Spring?

Both Seoul and Tartu are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Tartu this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city.

It's quite cold in Tartu in the spring. In April, Tartu is generally much colder than Seoul. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 5°C (41°F), and Seoul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Seoul. Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Seoul during spring. Tartu gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Seoul receives 205 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tartu usually receives less rain than Seoul. Tartu gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Seoul receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seoul and Tartu