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Kyoto vs Seoul: which is cheaper?

For a mid-range week for two, Seoul is about 17% cheaper (excluding flights).

7-day tripKyotoSeoul
Backpacker (1 person)$455$392
Mid-range (2 people)$2,058$1,708
Comfort (2 people)$6,090$4,970

Prices side by side

Typical price (USD)KyotoSeoul
Accommodation (mid-range room)$120$90
Hostel dorm bed$28$22
Food per day (mid-range)$45$40
Transport per day (mid-range)$12$12
Activities per day (mid-range)$30$25

Best time to visit

Kyoto: Late March to early April and November are beautiful but very busy and expensive. Late May and early December are quieter.

Seoul: April to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). Summers are hot and humid; winters are very cold.

Kyoto cost guide Seoul cost guide

Estimates for planning, checked 2026-10-11. Flights are not included because they depend on where you fly from.