budget your trip korea

South Korea Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 6, 2024

Though South Korea is small (about the size of the US state of Indiana), it punches well above its weight in terms of things to see and do. Boasting a vibrant culture, incredible history, natural beauty, delicious food, and a wild nightlife, it’s home to both major cities and untouched nature, offering something for every traveler.

Seoul, the capital city and fourth-largest metropolitan area in the world (over half the country’s population of 50 million is concentrated here), is a lively hub for food lovers and partying. But while it gets all the attention, there is much more to explore, including 22 national parks, lush Jeju Island, and the infamous Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) bordering North Korea.

Best of all, since South Korea is a manageable size, you can see a good portion of it in a limited amount of time. The transportation here is modern, clean, and efficient, so it’s easy to get around quickly.

The country is also a foodie’s paradise, with cheap street food and delicious dishes like bibimbap, kimchi, and the famed Korean barbecue.

It’s one of my favorite countries in the world and one that I think is super under the radar and often overlooked by travelers. You never see the tourist crowds found in other Asian countries.

This travel guide to South Korea can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on South Korea

Top 5 Things to See and Do in South Korea

1. Explore Seoul

Korea’s capital has a little bit of everything. It’s a bustling metropolis and global technology hub, with sleek and modern neighborhoods like Gangnam and iconic sights like the Lotte World Tower, the sixth-tallest building in the world. Yet there is a lot of history here too, including many museums, palaces, and temples, among them five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. When you’re done exploring for the day, Seoul has a robust street food scene, countless trendy restaurants, and fast-paced, soju-driven nightlife. You could easily spend weeks here and never get bored.

2. Tour the DMZ

The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separates North and South Korea and, despite the name, is the most militarized border in the world. You can only visit the Joint Security Area (JSA), which has military personnel from both sides, on a guided tour, but it’s a unique experience and an important way to learn about this ongoing conflict (the war started in 1950 and has not officially ended). On the tour, you’ll be able to actually stand in North Korea, visit the Third Tunnel of Aggression (which North Korea dug to sneak soldiers across the border), see the Freedom Bridge, and catch glimpses of North Korea from the Unification Observatory. Guided tours of the DMZ start from 80,000 KRW.

3. Visit Jeju Island

This volcanic, semitropical island is a popular domestic vacation spot. It’s accessible via cheap daily flights from Seoul that take just one hour. Known as “the Hawaii of Korea,” it’s a natural paradise, home to the tallest mountain in Korea (Mount Hallasan), lava tubes, beautiful beaches, and countless hiking and walking trails. Other attractions include visiting mythic Jeju Stone Park, wandering the Yeomiji Botanical Gardens, and watching the haenyeo divers — women who dive without any protective equipment to gather underwater treasures like shellfish and seaweed, which they then sell on the beaches. You can visit the Jeju Haenyeo Museum as well to learn more about this cultural practice that dates back centuries.

4. Sing karaoke

Known as noraebang , this is a cultural phenomenon and something worth experiencing at least once while visiting Korea. While the karaoke machine was originally invented in Japan, Koreans have adopted the pastime and made it their own. Here, you rent out a private room with a group of friends (instead of singing in a public bar, as is often the case in Western countries). Pricing is determined by the hour, with rates varying wildly depending on the number of people, time of day, day of the week, and whether snacks and drinks are included. Average group karaoke rates range from 5,000 to 15,000 KRW.

5. Step back in time at a hanok village

Other things to see and do in south korea, 1. visit changdeokgung palace.

One of the Joseon dynasty’s Five Grand Palaces, this 15th-century complex in Seoul was built in harmony with the natural environment at the foot of Bugaksan Mountain. Changdeokgung, or “Palace of Prospering Virtue,” was the main royal residence for 13 kings over the course of three centuries. The complex sprawls over 110 acres, 60% of which is taken up by the beautiful Huwon Secret Garden, home to over a hundred species of trees, flowers, and other plants (some of the trees here are over 300 years old!). The main draw is wandering around the exterior, with its restored buildings and gates, though you can also go inside Injeongjeon Hall, the palace’s throne room. Admission to the complex is 3,000 KRW; the Secret Garden is an additional 5,000 KRW. There are guided tours in English as well.

2. Explore Busan

Korea’s second-largest city is located just two hours from Seoul on the KTX high-speed bullet train. A coastal city, Busan boasts great beaches, such as Haeundae Beach, with its miles of sand, and Gwangalli Beach, known for its sunsets. Gamcheon Culture Village, the “mural village of Korea,” is a hillside neighborhood rich in street art and covered in murals, and nearly all the houses are painted bright colors. It’s a great place to wander around for a few hours, popping into the unique shops, cafés, and restaurants.

3. See the National Museum of Korea

If you visit only one museum in Korea, make it this one. Located in Seoul, it covers all aspects of Korean culture, art, and history, from prehistory to the early modern era. It also contains many national treasures and artifacts that have been designated as having special importance and value in Korean culture and history. Some of the most important ones include the sixth-century inscribed Bukhansan Monument, detailing military expansions; sixth-century gilt-bronze Buddhist statues; and the 10-story Gyeongcheonsa Pagoda, which dates to the 14th century. Don’t miss the exterior gardens, which feature indigenous plants, reflecting pools, and traditional Korean sculptures and lanterns. Admission to the main exhibitions and children’s museum is free.

4. Take a food tour

As a foodie, learning about a culture through its food is one of my favorite things to do while traveling. Korea has an incredible variety of amazing dishes to try, as well as a bustling (and delicious) street food scene. Taking a food tour with an experienced guide is one of the best ways to gain a deeper understanding of Korean cuisine. O’ngo Food offers a variety of tours in Seoul, Busan, Jeonju, and Jeju, with prices starting from 70,000 KRW per person.

5. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

Originally built in the 14th century by the kings of the Joseon dynasty, this palace in Seoul served as the seat of the government for two hundred years until it was destroyed by a fire and abandoned for centuries. Since the 19th century (and still today), it has been undergoing renovations to restore the complex to its former glory. It is considered the most stunning of all five royal palaces in Seoul, featuring grand gates, open courtyards, and terracotta-topped buildings set against the backdrop of Mount Bugak. In addition to wandering through the complex, you can also go into the many administrative halls and residential chambers set up to resemble the palace’s heyday. You can watch the changing-of-the-guard ceremony as well, every day except Monday. The National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum are also located in the complex. Admission is 3,000 KRW.

6. See the cherry blossoms

While cherry blossoms are often associated with Japan, festivities surrounding the blooms are incredibly popular in Korea as well. Here, the season runs from late March to late April, with many festivals throughout the country. Just be prepared for crowds at the more popular ones, like the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival in Seoul.

7. Try taekwondo

Korean’s native martial art, taekwondo, is characterized by high kicks and punches and, like all such disciplines, emphasizes mental training. An Olympic event since 2000, taekwondo has only grown in popularity in recent years and is a point of pride in Korean culture. Kang’s Global Taekwondo in Seoul offers classes to adults and foreigners that cost around 43,000 KRW for one hour.

8. Learn to cook classic Korean foods

If you’d like to take your knowledge of Korean food one step further, take a cooking class, where you’ll learn to prepare classics like bibimbap, kimchi, bulgogi, and Korean pancakes. Hello K Cooking in Seoul offers a class where you’ll learn how to cook three main dishes and one stew — recipes and skills that you can bring home with you. Classes are 107,000 KRW.

9. Go hiking

Korea is an incredibly mountainous country, so hiking is a favorite pastime for locals. Be sure to immerse yourself in nature while visiting this lush land. There are even hiking spots near the bigger cities if you don’t have enough time or don’t want to venture too far afield. Bukhansan National Park, just outside Seoul, is a popular place to go hiking, offering panoramic views over the capital (expect crowds due to its proximity to the city, though). Yet with 22 national parks spread across the country, there are plenty of opportunities to escape the crowds (including lots of guided hikes if you don’t want to organize one yourself). For a multiday hike, the Jirisan Ridge Trek in Jirisan National Park is one of the most famous — a four-day walk from mountain shelter to mountain shelter.

10. Wander around Seoul Olympic Park

In 1988, Seoul hosted the Summer Olympics, which was only the second time the summer games had been held in Asia (the first was in Tokyo in 1964). Today, you can visit the massive park where the games were staged, and while Olympic Park does have many sports facilities, there’s much more to explore here as well. The park is divided into four sections, focusing on the arts, history, nature, and sports. In the arts section, you’ll find the SOMA Museum of Art and a park with over 200 sculptures, while in the history section, you can see the third-century defensive Mongchontoseong Earthen Fortifications, excavated dugout huts and storage pits left in the state in which they were uncovered. You can easily spend an entire afternoon here. Admission to the park is free.

11. Discover Jirisan National Park

Located in the southern part of the country (Namwon is the nearest city), this park is named after Jirisan (Mt. Jiri for short), the tallest mountain on mainland Korea. As it’s South Korea’s first national park (as well as its largest), hiking trails and cultural sites abound. You can visit seven major Buddhist temples and see several of Korea’s national treasures of ancient carved stonework from the seventh to the tenth centuries. One of the most important sites here is Samseonggung, or Three Sages Palace, a mountainside shrine dedicated to the legendary founders of Korea. Admission to the park is 1,600 KRW.

South Korea Travel Costs

Cheap hotel rooms start at 28,000 KRW for a room that sleeps one, while a double room generally costs at least 40,000 KRW. Expect basic amenities like Wi-Fi, a TV, air conditioning, and an electric teapot. Breakfast is usually not included at budget hotels.

Airbnb is available around the country, with private rooms starting at 25,000-30,000 KRW. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 50,000-70,000 KRW per night.

While wild camping is illegal in Korea, there are plenty of campgrounds should you want to pitch a tent. Expect to pay 7,000-20,000 KRW for a plot with access to bathroom and shower facilities, and usually even Wi-Fi.

Food – Korean cuisine has developed its own traditions and flavors over the centuries, with a unique emphasis on using uncooked, fermented, and pickled vegetables. Traditional Korean meals are often composed of a variety of side dishes, eaten with short-grain rice. A meal isn’t considered complete unless there’s kimchi on the table.

Common dishes include bulgogi (marinated, grilled beef), samgye-tang (chicken and ginseng soup), bibimbap (a mixed rice bowl), chap chae (a glass noodle dish), and many other noodle and rice dishes. Popular street foods include hotteok (a sweet, filled pancake), tteokbokki (spicy cylindrical rice cakes), and bungeo-ppang (a fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste).

Dining out in South Korea is relatively inexpensive. A meal at a casual restaurant serving traditional Korean food is around 9,000-15,000 KRW, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant is around 25,000-30,000 KRW. Expect higher prices in larger cities.

Western food is more expensive. Expect to pay at least 20,000 KRW for a pasta dish at an Italian restaurant.

In terms of fast food, a combo meal (think McDonald’s) is around 7,000 KRW, while a burger is around 4,500 KRW. A typical Korean street food dish is 1,500-3,000 KRW.

A pint of beer is 4,000-5,000 KRW, a glass of wine is 6,000 KRW and up, and a cocktail is 7,000 KRW and up. A latte or cappuccino is 5,000 KRW.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay 50,000-70,000 KRW per week for basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat. Shopping at local markets is the best way to get great fresh produce for cheap.

Backpacking South Korea: Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 75,000 KRW per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, use public transportation and intercity buses to get around, skip the alcohol, and do mostly free activities like walking tours and hiking.

On a mid-range budget of 135,000 KRW per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or cheap hotel, eat out for most meals at casual restaurants, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi as well as trains between cities, and do more paid activities like museum visits and food tours.

On a “luxury” budget of 255,000 KRW or more per day, you can stay in a nicer hotel or entire Airbnb apartment, eat out pretty much anywhere you want, drink at the bar, get a high-speed rail pass, and do as many guided tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in KRW.

South Korea Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

I find South Korea to be one of the best value countries out there. It’s a really affordable place to visit. Accommodation can add up but food and drinks are generally cheap. Here are some ways to save money when you travel around South Korea:

• Visit the free attractions – With countless museums, shrines, temples, historic neighborhoods, and parks, Korea is filled with opportunities to become immersed in its culture. Many of the nation’s museums and cultural attractions are free, so don’t pass them up!
• Purchase a KORAIL Pass – If you want to travel by train, getting a rail pass is the most economical way to do so. You’ll get unlimited train travel for the time period you choose (2-5-day increments). Prices start at 121,000 KRW.
• Get a transit pass – Most major cities in Korea offer a day pass for public transit, which means great savings if you plan to hop around using buses and subways. Seoul’s day pass costs 15,000 KRW, though the longer you stay, the more you’ll save (a seven-day pass is 64,500 KRW).
• Buy a city pass – If you plan on visiting a lot of attractions, buy a city pass. Seoul and Busan both offer ones that include admission to popular sights, a transit pass, and discounts to restaurants and other attractions.
• Eat from the convenience stores – Convenience stores in Korea offer not only snacks and drinks but prepared boxed meals and cheap alcohol. If you’re on a tight budget, shop in those.
• Take the bus – While the trains are fun, the cheapest way to get around Korea is by bus. They take longer but are much cheaper, so if you have the time, opt for long-distance buses. Just show up at the bus station to reserve your tickets in advance, as most websites and apps are in Korean.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing lets you stay with a local for free, cutting your accommodation costs drastically. You’ll get to spend time with someone who can share their tips and advice in exchange for your own travel stories and culture. You can also use the app to meet people for activities (coffee, museum visits, etc.) if you don’t feel comfortable staying with a stranger.
• Drink like the locals – Soju, the national alcohol of Korea, is incredibly cheap, as is domestic beer. Just be careful to not let it sneak up on you — both monetarily and physically. Korea’s drinking culture is infamous!
• Stay in capsule hotels – If you don’t want to Couchsurf or stay in hostels but still want to save money, capsule or pod hotels are great options. These offer just what you need to sleep (a small, basic pod) yet can be surprisingly comfy and much more affordable than a traditional hotel. Prices start as low as 45,000 KRW per night.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand, as its bottles have built-in filters to ensure that your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in South Korea

South Korea has plenty of budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of my recommended places to stay when you visit:

• Time Travelers Relax Guesthouse (Seoul)
• Zzzip Guesthouse (Seoul)
• Time Travelers party Hostel (Seoul)
• INSIDE Busan (Busan)
• Jeju Hiking Inn (Jeju)
• Backpacker’s Home (Jeju)

How to Get Around South Korea

Bus – Taking a long-distance bus is the cheapest and most popular way to get around the country. There are two types: express (which makes few to no stops) and intercity (which travels between smaller destinations and makes more stops).

Your best bet for reserving tickets in advance is to go directly to the bus terminal, as most bus websites and booking apps are in Korean and only accept Korean credit or debit cards.

Pricing depends on what class ticket you choose: standard, luxury, or premium. The four-hour bus ride from Seoul to Busan costs around 36,000 KRW for a standard ticket, Incheon to Busan takes just over four hours and costs 38,000 KRW, and Seoul to Daegu is 29,000 KRW and takes just under four hours.

Train – South Korea has a robust train system that can take you all over the country. Korean Train Express (KTX) is the country’s bullet train, regularly running at speeds up to 305 kilometers (190 miles) per hour. However, these only go between major cities, have limited schedules, and are more expensive, so KTX may not always be the most convenient choice.

KORAIL (the national railway service) operates slower-speed, intercity trains that offer a wider range of schedules and destination choices. You can also get the unlimited KORAIL Pass, which is offered exclusively to international tourists. A two-day adult pass is 121,000 KRW; a five-day adult pass is 210,000 KRW.

As a comparison of the two train types: the journey from Seoul to Busan on a KRX train costs around 90,000 KRW and takes 2.5 hours, while on a regular intercity train, it takes 5.5 hours and costs 47,500 KRW.

The further out you book, the cheaper KTX train prices get, while intercity prices stay about the same. You can book up to a year in advance.

Flying – South Korea is so small that flying around the country doesn’t really make sense. Trains can get you anywhere pretty quickly. However, if you’re very pressed for time and have cash to burn, there are a few budget airlines offering domestic flights between major cities. Most are around one hour long.

The flight from Seoul to Busan is around 30,500 KRW, Seoul to Jeju is 55,000 KRW, and Busan to Jeju is 22,000 KRW. However, you can find flights even cheaper when you book further in advance.

Low-cost airlines in South Korea include the following:

Car rental – Renting a car isn’t incredibly cheap in South Korea. However, it is one of the best ways to explore all the natural wonders that the country has to offer, many of which are inaccessible by public transportation. Expect to pay around 50,000-55,000 KRW per day on a multiday rental. Drivers need to be at least 21 years old.

When to Go to South Korea

Generally, the best times to visit South Korea are March-May and September-November. During these periods, the weather is mild, with temperatures of 10-24°C (50-75°F); prices for accommodation and transportation are lower; and there are fewer crowds.

In the spring, the cherry blossoms are in bloom all over the country, while the fall brings the beautiful colors of the changing leaves. Also, if you plan on doing a lot of hiking, the fall is the best time to visit.

The summer starts with monsoon season, from June through mid-July, and the rest of the summer is hot and humid in the cities (though it cools down in the mountains and along the coasts). Prices for accommodation are also very high during this time.

Winters in South Korea get very cold, with temperatures dipping as low as -6°C (21°F), so unless you plan on skiing, visiting from December through February might not be the best option (though the temples and landscapes look beautiful covered in snow).

How to Stay Safe in South Korea

South Korea is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel around. Petty crime is rare here, though it never hurts to be cautious on public transportation and around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your wallet and valuables secure and out of reach, just in case. Violent crime is even more rare.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here. However, the standard safety precautions apply as always. For specific tips, consult one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web.

While scams are super rare in South Korea, to avoid getting ripped off, you can check out this list of common travel scams to avoid .

When hiking, always bring water and sunscreen. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

Earthquakes occur regularly in the region, so it’s best to be prepared and download the Emergency Ready app, which the Korean government developed to provide information in English to foreign residents and tourists. It has all kinds of advice and tips for natural disasters, shows you where nearby emergency shelters are, and sends out warnings and notifications should a disaster occur.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, and forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

South Korea Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

South Korea Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

Traveling with Friends: How to Avoid Disaster

The 5 Best Hotels in Singapore

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

Where to Stay in Singapore: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 13 Best Things to See and Do in Taipei

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
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• Related Blogs

10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024)

Are you wondering how much a trip to South Korea will cost? Here’s our in-depth travel guide on the 10 best South Korea budget tips you should know before your trip. We’ll show you how to plan your South Korea travel costs and many ways to make your trip more budget-friendly. We also share all of our costs for a 2 week trip to Korea from accommodation and snacks to transport and activities.

South Korea is ultimately one of the best countries we’ve travelled to. The country blew us away with its beautiful culture, rich history and delicious food.

Have you been wondering if South Korea is expensive to visit? Depending on the prices of your home country, it’s really not too bad. Compared to the UK it is much more affordable and it’s even slightly less expensive than beloved Japan!

We’ve created this budget guide to share our South Korea travel costs of travelling the country for 2 weeks. We visited Seoul, Gyeongju, Golgulsa Templestay, Busan and Jeonju!

Honestly, we had a great time and can’t wait to go back in the future and we’ll probably still stick to a budget. For now, we’ll show you that South Korea can be done on a budget and what travel costs you can expect.

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

10 Best South Korea Budget Tips

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

Here are our top 10 South Korea Budget tips to help you plan the best trip! After these tips, you’ll find our full South Korea travel cost breakdown split into separate categories.

1. Swap Restaurants for Markets & Street Food

One of the best ways to travel to South Korea on a budget is to choose your food carefully. The price to eat somewhere in South Korea is very reasonable, but some places will be expensive too.

Throughout our 2 weeks in South Korea we ate our food at restaurants, markets, street stalls, convenience stores and grocery stores ! It definitely helps the bank to cook your own food and you can try the endless supply of ramyeon!

Places to eat in South Korea on a budget

• Myeongdong Street Food (Seoul)
• Maru – Budget-friendly Korean street food in the heart of Insadong (Seoul)
• Gwangjang Market – Our favourite! (Seoul)
• Haeundae Market (Busan)
• Gwangbokdong Food Street (Busan)
• Fast-food chains – Places like Lotteria, No Brand Burger and Subway

We highly recommend visiting Gwangjang Market whilst visiting Seoul. Grab a mung bean pancake, bibimbap and dumplings and you’ll be very full ( this food will feed two people )!

A few Korean dishes to try to keep your South Korea travel costs low:

• Ramyeon (The easiest food to grab at a convenience store)  1,500 ₩
• Bibimbap (Very popular with a variety of toppings)  6,000 ₩
• Gimbap (Korean Sushi, you can find these everywhere)! around 2,000 ₩
• Mandu (Korean Dumplings) 5,000 ₩
• Tteok-bokki (Spicy & saucy Rice Cakes) 3,000 ₩

You’ll be surprised by how good the food is in the convenience stores in South Korea. Locals grab food from here all the time and it’s perfect for those in South Korea on a budget.

If there are some restaurants you’d like to try, just add that to your budget and eat at convenience stores the next day. International and Western food will also usually cost more than Korean, but Korean food is very good!

Osegye Hyang is our favourite traditional Korean restaurant with affordable prices. We’ve even created a Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024) !

Note – There is no tipping culture in South Korea. It’s likely the staff will kindly decline your tip! This is common throughout East Asia.

2. Stay in Budget Accommodation in South Korea

Accommodation can take up a big part of your South Korea travel budget. Especially if you choose amazing hotels! Although it’s nice to feel comfortable, maybe take the time to look at some other options before spending more than your budget.

Hostels and small private rooms are going to be the most affordable places to stay in South Korea. Most hostels offer private rooms that are still cheaper than hotels.

It’s really down to preference, but we didn’t stay in one bad accommodation on our South Korea trip and we stayed in private rooms!

Hostels usually cost around 25,000₩ per person with male, female or mixed dorms available. A private room in a hoste l is around 40,000₩ per room and hotels are usually 70,000₩ or more!

Where to stay in South Korea on a budget

• Seoul  –  Hostel Tommy  – A lovely hostel with dorms & private rooms! –  Find here on Booking.com !
• Seoul – Kimstay 9 – Basic private rooms! – Find here on Booking.com !
• Busan  –  Dynamic Guesthouse  – A shared penthouse with great views –  Find here on Booking.com !
• Gyeongju  –  Doobaki Guesthouse – The best hostel in South Korea! –  Find here on Booking.com !

There are also a few ways to get free accommodation in South Korea :

• Couchsurfing – Stay in a local house, for free! Find out more here !
• Workaway – Exchange work/volunteering for free accommodation and food!
• Worldpackers – Volunteer for free accommodation and food!
• Trusted Housesitters – Look after a locals pet whilst they’re out of town

It’s also important to note that accommodation will be more expensive in the peak time of year such as the Cherry Blossom season, spring and fall. Winter is usually the cheapest time to visit South Korea on a budget.

3. Do you need a Sim Card in South Korea?

When you start to Google about sim cards or wifi in South Korea, there’s a lot of information telling you to get one! We agree, but it’s definitely possible to travel the country without one.

We have a solution to help your South Korea budget. Pick up an E-Sim for 15,000₩ ! (€10.99 for 12 days)

E-sims are the perfect option if you only need internet or mobile data. You don’t even need to buy them in advance like other sims or wifis.

As we visited South Korea for 2 weeks, we purchased our sim on Day 3 of our trip. This made us realise how much easier it is to have the internet on the go, but luckily Seoul is a very easy place to get around and we downloaded offline Maps.

If there’s more than one of you, it’s also possible to hotspot the E-sim data from one phone, although you’ll have to check your data allowance! The instructions come with the E-sim, but you simply install it into your phone settings. The customer service team answer quickly if you have any problems!

There’s also some great deals if you do need a Korean phone number. Here’s a few other options ranging in price:

E-Sim  – Here’s a  12 Day E-Sim (15,000₩, €10.99 for 12 days and 6gb of data)

Prepaid Sim  – Purchase ahead of time and pick up at the airport. This sim has a Korean number! The price changes depending on how long you need it. Find  a sim card on Klook here ! (£15 for 10 days)

Portable Wifi  – The most expensive option is portable Wifi and this is usually what travellers get if they’re not worried about their South Korea travel costs. Find a  portable Wifi on Klook here ! (£20 for 10 days) Also, pick it up at the airport.

It’s also a good idea to carry around a  portable charger  for your phone so you always have enough battery to last the day. We recommend  Anker Power Bank and just charge it up every few days if you’ve been using it a lot.

4. Use Buses to get around South Korea on a Budget

The transport in South Korea is some of the best in the world! It’s reliable, well connected and quite affordable considering how good it is.

If you want to stick to your travel budget in South Korea, we recommend catching Intercity and Express Buses around South Korea. They are so comfy and you can book your seats in advance.

Here’s the prices we paid for transport around South Korea on a budget

• KTX (Fast Train) Seoul to Gyeongju – 2 hours – 49,000₩ (£32)
• Express Bus – Gyeongju to Busan – 45 minutes – 5,000₩ (£3.30)
• Express Bus – Busan to Jeonju – 3 hours – 25,000₩ (£16.40)
• Express bus – Jeonju to Seoul – 2.5 hours – 14,000₩ (£9.20)

The buses from Seoul to Gyeongju will take around 4-5 hours and usually cost around 22,000₩ £46.40 . We took a train as we wanted to arrive in Gyeongju early and also wanted to experience a train in South Korea as we only used buses in Japan.

If you want to add Jeju Island to your South Korea travel costs, then it’s best to book a flight from Seoul or Busan. The ferries are often more expensive and they will take longer.

It’s possible to book trains in advance, but you can only book buses in advance if you have a Korean number. We booked our bus tickets as soon as we arrived at a new destination, usually booking them 2-3 days in advance.

Express & Intercity Buses  – Have a look at bus times on the official Korean website – Kobus tickets

Trains  – Book your train tickets in advance here – Korail tickets here (or a Korea Rail Pass )

Flights  – Flights to Jeju Island from Seoul or Busan –  Check Skyscanner  for flight times and prices !

5. Get a T-Money card

This is another great way to stick to your South Korea budget. A T-Money card is a discounted transport card that works all over South Korea in cities and towns. It’s for local transport to each destination, not for long bus journeys.

Using a T-Money card is not just about saving money, but saving time too! You won’t need to purchase a local ticket every time you use the bus or subway. Simply tap your card when you get on and off transport and you’ll be good to travel around South Korea!

A T-Money Card costs 2,500 ₩ . There’s also tourist cards and designed cards that cost 4,000₩

How to get a T-Money Card?

T-Money cards are available to purchase at the airport, at major stations and convenience stores (such as CU, GS25, 7-Eleven and Ministop).

How to top up my T-Money Card?

You can only top up a T-Money card with cash and not by debit or credit card. Make sure you grab money out of an ATM if you arrive in South Korea without Korean Won! Here’s how you can top up using cash:

• At Convenience Stores! Hand your card over, give the employee the cash and it’s all done!
• Some other local newsstands or shops offer top-ups. Look out for the T-Money logo!
• At major stations, find a ticket machine and choose how much you want to add to your card. The machines can be changed to English!

6. Use Local Buses and Subway instead of Taxis

Local buses are always the most affordable way to travel around any city and it’s the same with South Korea. However, the subway is also very budget-friendly too!

As the transport is well connected, you won’t need to use taxis anyway! The best way to feel comfortable about using public transport in South Korea is to download the app – Naver Maps . Google Maps doesn’t work in South Korea, so it’s best to use the local navigation app!

It costs 1,250₩ to use the Subway in South Korea which is £0.82p ! For reference, in London, it costs £2.60 to take one journey. We used subways and buses all around Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan and Jeonju without any issues! Naver Maps is perfect with timing and where to go.

7. Shop at Convenience Stores

One of the best South Korea budget tips is to eat and shop at the convenience store! Food and meals are well priced and you can usually heat the food inside the shop too! It makes travelling around South Korea on a budget so much easier!

The tax in South Korea is included in the price, so you don’t have to worry about extra prices at the checkout (like in Canada or the US).

Our favourite convenience store snacks are Ramyeon, Lotus Biscuits, Chocolate Soy Milk (it’s okay to laugh), Japanese Onigiri and Frozen dumplings (to add to your Ramyeon back in a hostel kitchen).

There are plenty of lunches to find in convenience stores based around rice or noodles. The best part is convenience stores are everywhere!

8. Make use of the Free Things To Do

This South Korea budget tip may be obvious – activities don’t always have to cost money. There are so many free things to do around the country and some of them are highlights of our trip! Here’s a list of great things to do for free if you’re in South Korea on a budget.

Seoul – A city filled with unique neighbourhoods, hikes and parks. There are so many free things to do in Seoul to help your South Korea budget. Check out our 5 Day Seoul Itinerary !

• Explore neighbourhoods such as Insa-dong, Ikseon-dong, Myeongdong, Hongdae, Itaewon & Gangnam
• Walk around the beautiful Bukchon Village & Ihwa Mural Village
• Feel the nature at Namsan Park

Gyeongju – Some of the best things to do in Gyeongju are free! Browse our 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju: Itinerary (2024) ! Here’s a few suggestions:

• Admire Woljeonggyo Bridge, Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond
• Visit Cheomseongdae & Gyerim Forest 
• Window shop in Hwangnidan-Gil & explore the Hanok Village

Busan – Another great city for finding budget-friendly activities! We also have a 3 day Busan Itinerary !

• Gamcheon Culture Village (yes it’s free!) & watch the sunset at Lotte Department Building
• Walk along the Igidae Coastal Walk & relax at Haeundae Beach
• Discover Nampo-dong & Haedong Yonggung Temple

Jeonju – Walk through the famous Hanok village and check out the murals, markets and shrines!

• Explore Jeonju Hanok Village & Jaman Mural Village
• Walk through Nambu Market & visit Gyeonggijeon Shrine
• See the views from Omokdae

Jeju Island – Filled with natural wonders, Jeju is filled with free things to do. You’ll just need transport to get around!

9. Use Klook to Save Money on Activities

Klook is one of the best companies to book activities, tours and things to do in South Korea. It’s similar to GetYourGuide, but Klook is used more in Asia. We’ve used this website in South Korea and Japan to buy discounted tickets such as Disneyland, Seoul Tower and Hanbok rentals .

It’s also a great place to find sim card or portable wifi deals! When using Klook, you can easily book your activity in advance and sometimes there’s an option to pick up the ticket at the airport on arrival.

Activities to buy on Klook in South Korea:

• Seoul Tower – Go to the top of Seoul Tower in Namsan Park – Buy your ticket in advance!  
• Hanbok Rental – ( Gyeongbokgung Palace  as it’s the perfect size to explore and there’s a great rental shop nearby!  Find the link on Klook here –  Hanbok Rental Klook
• DMZ Tour – Visit part of North Korea – Book tickets with Klook here !
• Korea Rail Pass – If you decide to use the train, consider a rail pass – Here’s more info !
• Everland 1 Day Pass – One of South Korea’s theme parks – Buy your tickets here !
• Nami Island – Take a trip to Nami Island from Seoul – Find out more info here !

Staying in a temple is another fantastic activity that can’t be missed on your South Korea trip! It can be booked on Korea’s temple stay website ! Also, check out our Golgulsa Templestay Review !

10. Travel Off Peak

If you’re planning your travel budget for South Korea, one of the first steps is to figure out which time of year you want to visit.

The most popular time to visit South Korea is between April and May due to the beautiful cherry blossom season. Prices for accommodation and flights will most likely be more expensive and it will also book up fast. There will be more tourists and locals around, especially in the parks.

If you’re travelling to South Korea on a budget, it may be best to avoid these months and visit off-peak.

The off-peak months to travel to South Korea are January, February, late October , November and early March. If you can find good deals on flights and good accommodation prices outside of these months, then go for it! January is usually the cheapest month to travel as it’s cold, but it’s perfect if you want to ski!

Summer isn’t the best time to visit South Korea due to the hot and humid weather, but it’s still a popular time to visit due to worldwide holidays.

How to Budget in South Korea

So that’s our 10 South Korea budget tips! There are many ways to travel on a budget, it all depends on how comfortable you are. We love hostels, but some people we know would never stay in them. For us, they’re budget-friendly, comfortable and just a place to sleep or meet new people!

Ultimately it comes down to food, accommodation, transport and activities. Check accommodation in advance before you book your flights just to get an idea of prices for that month. Here’s a few more tips on how to budget in South Korea:

• If you want to shop, Namdaemun and Dongdaemun are filled with discounts in Seoul
• Tours will cost money, so make sure you add must-do activities to your budget
• Eat more street food and at markets
• Check prices for your visa ( every country is different )
• Use Skyscanner to browse flight prices for different times of the year

Accommodation in South Korea – We use Hostelworld and  Booking.com  to find accommodation in South Korea. You can filter to the lowest price and check reviews from previous guests.

Travel Insurance  – Don’t forget travel insurance whilst planning your South Korea budget.   SafetyWing  is a flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip. You can add more months to your trip too! –  Find out more here!

E-Sim  – Here’s the E-sim we used on our South Kore trip – 12 Day E-Sim (15,000₩, €10.99 for 12 days and 6GB of data)

Costs compared to other countries in Asia

We have only visited countries in Southeast Asia, South Asia and Japan.

After visiting both Japan and South Korea, we have to admit that South Korea is slightly cheaper! The country is more affordable meals out and transport (especially the train!)

Comparing South Korea to countries such as Thailand, Sri Lanka or the Philippines, we have to say that South Korea is more expensive on every level. Accommodation is almost three times the price compared to countries in Southeast/South Asia. Food and activities are more too.

A full breakdown of our South Korea Travel Costs

Here’s the full breakdown of our South Korea travel costs. We both shared the same card and cash, but for this breakdown, we’ll show you roughly how much the same trip would cost for one person too.

Our full South Korea travel costs for 2 people (2 weeks)

• Korean E-Visa – 20,600₩ (£14)
• Intercity Transport -186,800₩ (£123)
• Local Subway & Buses – 88,000₩ (£58)
• Activities – 225,800₩ (£148)
• Restaurants & Markets – 345,600₩ (£227)
• Groceries – 109,110₩ (£72)
• Snacks – 120,300₩ (£79)
• Accommodation – 586,200₩ (£385)
• Miscellaneous – 20,500₩ (£13.50)

Total Cost – 1702,910₩ (£1,120)

Our Transport Costs – 274,800₩ (£181) – prices for two people

T-Money Cards – We accidentally bought the Korea Tour Cards at the airport so spent 4000₩ instead of 2500₩. We topped up our cards with 80,000₩ (£52.60) to get around the cities in towns during our 2 week trip. There’s a chance we may have a bit of money leftover on our cards too!

Accommodation – 586,200₩ (£385) – prices for two people

• 5 nights in Seoul (private room in a hostel) – 260,000₩ / £171
• 2 nights in Gyeongju (private room in a hostel, Korean style beds) 72,000₩ / £47
• 3 nights in Busan (private room in a shared apartment, shared bathroom) 117,000₩ / £77
• 1 night in Jeonju (private room in a Hanok with free breakfast) 52,200₩ / £34
• 2 nights in Seoul – different place – (private room in a guesthouse) 85,000₩ / £56
• Seoul – 52,000₩ (£34.20) per night / 26,000₩ (£17.10) per person
• Gyeongju – 36,000₩ (£23.50) per night / 18,000₩ (£11.75) per person
• Busan – 39,000₩ (£25.60 per night / 19,500₩ (£12.80) per person
• Jeonju – 52,200₩ (£34 per night / 26,100₩ (£17) per person
• Seoul – 42,500₩ (£28) per night / 21,250₩ (£14) per person

Our accommodation costs came to 586,200₩ (£385) which is 293,100₩ (£192.50) per person for 2 weeks! One of our nights we spent at Golgulsa Templestay which we’ve included as an activity.

Activities – 225,800₩ (£148) – prices for two people

• Golgulsa Templstay – 120,000₩ (£79)
• Archery at Golgulsa Temple – 20,000₩ (£13.20)
• Palaces – 26,000₩ (£13.20)
• Hanbok Rental – 24,000₩ (£15.80)
• Seoul Tower – 8,300₩ (£5.50)
• Photo Booth – 4,000₩ (£2.60)
• Bukchon Observatory with free drinks – 6,000₩ (£4)
• Gamcheon Map – 2,000₩ (£1.30)
• Arcade games – 15,500₩ (£10.20)

Shopping & Miscellaneous – 20,500₩ (£13.50) – prices for two people

• Laundry / Laundry Detergent ( 2 washes ) – 4,000₩ (£2.60)
• Socks & Lip Balm – 12,500₩ (£15.15)
• Plasters – 4,000₩ (£2.60)

Restaurants & Markets – 345,600₩ (£227.40)

We ate at multiple restaurants and markets during our 2 weeks in South Korea, we also revisited a few if we loved the food. Osegye Hyang is our favourite restaurant (traditional Korean)! Here’s a few examples of our meals:

• Lunch at a Traditional Korean Restaurant – 27,000₩ (£17.80)
• Lunch at a Hot Pot Restaurant – 26,000₩ (£17.15)
• Lunch at 7-Eleven – 83,00₩ (£5.50)
• Lunch at Lotteria – 14,200₩ (£9.40)
• Lunch at a Bibimbap Restaurant- 16,000₩ (£10.55)
• Lunch at a Korean Street Food Restaurant 19,000₩ (£12.50)
• Dinner at a Japanese Restaurant – 18,000₩ (£18.90)
• Dinner at Gwangjang Market – 12,000₩ (£7.90)
• Dinner at a Korean Restaurant – 16,000₩ (£10.55)

Snacks – 120,300₩ (£79.15)

In the snack category, we’ve included random snacks at convenience stores or street food. Here are a few examples of snack prices in South Korea.

• Lotus Biscuits – 3,800₩ (£2.51)
• Sweet Potato Street Food – 1,000₩ (£0.65)
• Chocolate Soy Milk – 1,200₩ (£0.79)
• Onigiri – 1,200₩ (£0.79)
• Mochi – 2,500₩ (£1.65)
• Red Bean Bun – 3,000₩ (£2)
• Bakery (4 Doughnuts) – 13,100₩ (£8.65)
• Korean Rice Cakes – 4,000₩ (£2.65)

Groceries (which include meals) 109,110₩ (£71.80)

Our grocery section is very close to snack selection but we tried to split it up into food that we took home or cooked for meals. We bought a lot of instant noodles, frozen dumplings, inari sushi and soy milk.

• Bread – 2,250₩ (£1.49)
• Inari Sushi Pack – 4,500₩ (£3)
• Bananas – 4,900₩ (£3.20)
• Ramyeon – 2,400₩ (£1.60)
• Frozen Dumplings – 6,400₩ (£4.20)

Total Food Costs – 575,010₩ (£378.40)- prices for two people

Food Costs per day in South Korea – 41,072₩ (£27) – prices for two people

Total Cost of a 2 week trip in South Korea for 2 people – 1702,910₩ (£1,120) & 141,909₩ (£93) per day

Our total cost doesn’t include flights in and out of the country, but for reference, we flew from Manila to Seoul for £135 each with Jeju Air and Seoul to Bangkok for £105 each with Air Asia. Our flights worked out well as we were already travelling in Asia at the time, we booked them 2 months in advance.

We hope this helps you plan your South Korea budget! We think that £46 per person, per day, is a pretty good price to travel around South Kore. We also had the best time and didn’t feel like we lost out on anything.

Korean food is amazing and we ate at restaurants and markets a lot more than cooking our own food. If we cooked more, our South Korea travel costs would be even less!

Is South Korea expensive to visit?

After looking at all of our South Korea travel costs, we’ve concluded that South Korea isn’t expensive to visit compared to the UK. Depending on your home country, the prices may be more, but we were pleasantly surprised with the prices of food.

The accommodation we booked was also really great! If you’re visiting South Korea on a budget, you’ll need to watch your spending when shopping or eating at fancier restaurants.

How much money to bring to South Korea for 2 weeks?

If you’re planning a travel budget for South Korea, we always recommend budgeting more than you think you need. We spent 1702,910₩ (£1,120) for two people during our 2 weeks in South Korea and although we ate a lot of instant noodles, we did everything we wanted to do!

We recommend budgeting at least 1215,715₩ (£800) if you’re a solo traveller with the addition of flights.

Travel Essentials for a South Korea Trip

Here are a few travel essentials we always bring with us:

• Amazon Basics Packing Cubes  – The best way to pack your bag!
• Anker Power Bank  – Keep your phone charged on the go!
• Stainless Steel Water Bottle  – The water in Korea is drinkable, bring a reusable bottle and fill it up!
• Rain Mac in a Bag  – Carry a lightweight raincoat or umbrella around Korea!
• Worldwide Travel Adaptor  – The ultimate travel plug when travelling to different countries!
• Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  – The best  lightweight  tripod to take anywhere in South Korea! We have a  Joby GorillaPod  and use it for our  Sony A600 . There’s also a  Joby Phone Tripod  if you take photos on your phone.

Let us know if you have any more South Korea budget tips and we’ll have to keep adding to this guide! We highly recommend visiting South Korea even on a budget. Make sure you have extra money just in case anything goes wrong and always have travel insurance! Now you know how to create a travel budget for South Korea!

Don’t forget about Travel Insurance! –  SafetyWing  Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing  is a flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip anywhere in the world.  Find out more here!

More  South Korea  guides:

• Ultimate 2 week South Korea Itinerary: Best Places (2024)
• 5 Day Seoul Itinerary – Best Things To Do (2024)
• Staying in Golgulsa Temple: The Best Templestay in Korea (2024)
• 25+ Best South Korea Travel Tips: What to Know
• 3 day Busan Itinerary: What to do in Busan (2024)
• 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju: Itinerary (2024)
• Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 20 Best Things To Do
• Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024)
• All our  South Korea  posts!

That’s the end of our  10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024)!  Have the best time in South Korea on a budget and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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Thank you so much for such awesome tips. Planning a trip for early next year so these tips will definitely be useful.

Amazing! You’ll have a great time! 🙂

Thank you this has really helped with my planning a budget travel trip to South Korea. I was just wonder if you, or any other readers used a WOW pass, it seems to get a lot of good reviews?

Hi Ashley! Thank you so much 🙂 Personally, we haven’t used a WOW Pass but know it’s an all-in-one prepaid card for foreign travellers! As we’re from the UK, we just use a debit card that has no foreign charges. (example, Starling or Revolut) Sorry I can’t share more info about it! Safe travels.

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In My Korea

Complete South Korea Travel Guide 2024: Korean Travel Tips

Planning a trip to Korea but not sure where to start? First-time traveller who isn’t sure if Korea is the right country for your next trip? Worried about travelling to Korea and facing problems with the Korean language, culture, money, Internet, transportation, hotels, food, or etiquette? Then this complete South Korea travel guide is packed full of tips that you’ll certainly need.

You’ll find all the best Korean travel tips and advice in this article. Whether you’re a first-time traveller to Korea, or you’ve visited before, this South Korea travel guide will show what to see, when to travel, and which places to visit, as well as help you avoid any difficult situations or surprising culture shocks.

This guide is designed to walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for your trip to Korea. You can use it to plan your itinerary, to pre-book travel essentials, to learn about what festivals and seasonal events are on, and to find more reasons to want to travel to Korea right now.

Table of Contents

Affiliate Disclaimer :  This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What’s In This South Korea Travel Guide

This South Korea travel guide covers all the essential information you need to plan a trip to Korea. This is useful for first-time travellers to Korea who might not be aware of uniquely Korean cultural and travel issues. Even if you’ve visited Korea before, I’m sure you can learn a lot from this travel guide.

This article contains lots of insights and knowledge about travelling to Korea and is quite long. I’ve added links in each section to articles that provide more information about each topic. Therefore, I suggest viewing this South Korea travel guide on a desktop computer as it will be easier to read.

What Are You Looking For?

To help make it easier for you to find what you’re looking for, I’ve broken this article into the following sections. Click the quick links below to jump straight there or keep reading through all parts.

Latest Travel News

Entry Requirements

Why Visit Korea

When To Visit

Flights To Korea

Where To Stay

Korea Travel Costs

Travel Money

Phones & Internet

Public Transport

Where To Visit

Seoul Day Tours

Sightseeing Spots

Korean Activities

Korean Festivals

1-Week Itinerary

Culture Issues

Language Issues

Health & Safety

Korean Travel Tips

Korean Travel News And Travel Restrictions 2024

This section of the South Korea travel guide will show you the latest travel news and restriction updates, including any temporary or permanent changes to the entry process, visa changes, and other things that might affect travel to Korea. COVID-related updates will also be posted here.

Latest Korean Travel News In 2024

This section will detail any interesting or important travel news that could affect travellers to Korea, such as price increases in public transport, travel changes, new services, or closures.

The Korean government is aiming to boost tourism to Korea by doubling the amount travellers can claim back in tax when shopping in Korea. From 2024, travellers will be able to claim up to 5,000,000 KRW on eligible purchases with a limit of 1,000,000 KRW tax back per transaction. Source : Korea Herald

From August 2023, the price to travel on buses in Seoul is set to rise. Bus fares will rise to 1,500 KRW per journey. From October 7th, 2023, Seoul’s subway fares will rise to 1,400 KRW per journey. Other cities in Korea will enact similar rises throughout 2023 to cover higher costs of public transportation. Source : Korea Herald

From July 15th, 2023, the requirement to register your health condition through the Q-Code portal will be scrapped. Source : Korea Times

From July 3rd, 2023, children aged 17 years and younger, as well as adults aged 65 and older, will no longer need to apply for a K-ETA to travel to Korea. Furthermore, the validity period has been increased from 2 years to 3 years to make travelling to Korea easier. Source: K-ETA website .

From June 2023, Korea will end almost all pandemic-related restrictions for tourists and locals. Masks will no longer be necessary except in hospitals and infected people no longer face mandatory self-isolation (although the government still recommends 5 days self-isolation). Q-Code requirements haven’t been mentioned, however. Source : Korea Herald .

From April 2023 until December 2024, travellers from 22 countries won’t have to complete a K-ETA when visiting Korea, saving time and money for citizens of those countries. People from other countries still need a K-ETA. Source : K-ETA

The 22 countries temporarily excluded from the K-ETA requirement are Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam).

From April 2023, all foreigners under 19 years old (18 and under) can now enter major royal palaces and tombs, including Seoul’s Gyeongbokgung Palace, for free. Previously, all foreigners were made to pay a fee to enter. Source : Korea Herald

From March 2023, a quarter of all buses in Seoul will refuse cash payments and allow only card payments using transportation cards, such as the T-Money card. Seoul’s night buses won’t be included for now, and 262 of Seoul’s 370 bus routes will still accept cash. Expect further increases in cash-free buses in the future. Source : Korea Herald

From February 2023, the base fare for a taxi journey in Korea has increased by 1,000 won to a minimum of 4,800 won. The distance that the base fare applies has also been shortened from 2km to 1.6km, which will make fares more expensive. Source : Korea Times

What Are the Current COVID Restrictions In Korea In 2024?

Korea has been removing COVID-related restrictions in the country throughout 2022 and 2023. It is no longer necessary to show a QR code to enter a building and restrictions involving masks and health checks have mostly gone. The latest COVID-related rules for Korea are as follows .

Masks : From Monday, March 20th, Korea has removed the mandatory mask rule for public transport, one of the final places that masks were required for the general public. The only places that require a face mask (from June 1st) are in medical facilities (hospitals). Masks are not mandatory elsewhere, including in schools, shops, restaurants or anywhere outside. Source : Korea Herald

Self-Quarantine : From June 1st, Korea will no longer impose a mandatory self-isolation period on infected people. The government instead ‘recommends’ a period of self-isolation for 5 days to reduce the chance of transmission to other people. Source : Korea Herald

For further details about the latest COVID requirements for entering or travelling in Korea, check out the second section of this South Korea travel guide, which has a list of all the updated entry requirements, including visas, tests, and other considerations.

Planning to visit Korea? These travel essentials will help you plan your trip, get the best deals, and save you time and money before and during your Korean adventure.

Visas & K-ETA: Some travellers to Korea need a Tourist Visa , but most can travel with a Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA). Currently 22 Countries don’t need either one.

How To Stay Connected : Pre-order a Korean Sim Card or a WiFi Router to collect on-arrival at Incheon Airport (desks open 24-hours). Alternatively, download a Korean eSIM for you travels.

Where To Stay : For Seoul, I recommend Myeongdong (convenient), Hongdae (cool culture) or Gangnam (shopping). For Busan, Haeundae (Beach) or Seomyeon (Downtown).

Incheon Airport To Seoul : Take the Airport Express (AREX) to Seoul Station or a Limo Bus across Seoul. Book an Incheon Airport Private Transfer and relax to or from the airport.

Korean Tour Operators : Tour companies that have a big presence in Korea include Klook , Trazy , Viator , and Get Your Guide . These sites offer discounted entry tickets for top attractions.

Seoul City Passes : Visit Seoul’s top attractions for free with a Discover Seoul Pass or Go City Seoul Pass . These passes are great for families and couples visiting Seoul – you can save lots.

How To Get Around : For public transport, grab a T-Money Card . Save money on Korea’s high speed trains with a Korea Rail Pass . To see more of Korea, there are many rental car options from Klook , EconomyBookings , and RentalCars .

Travel Money : Use money exchanges near Myeongdong and Hongdae subway stations for the best exchange rates. Order a Wise Card or WOWPASS to pay by card across Korea.

Flights To Korea : I use flight comparison sites such as Expedia and Skyscanner to find the best flights to Korea from any country. Air Asia is a good option for budget flights from Asia.

Travel Insurance : It is important to insure your trips to protect yourself against the unexpected. World Nomad is a specialized travel insurance provider with options for different coverage for travellers from around the world. You can also purchase cover when you are already travelling.

How To Learn Korean : The language course from 90 Day Korean or Korean Class 101 both have well-structured lessons and lots of useful resources to help you learn Korean.

Current Requirements To Travel To Korea In 2024

This part of the South Korea travel guide is for tourists . If you plan to travel for business, employment, or other reasons, check your nearest Korean embassy for the latest travel requirements.

Most of the restrictions and requirements for travelling to Korea have now been scrapped. You can see what entry and travel rules are in place for Korea in the table below:

The following section provides more information and exceptions about these requirements:

COVID-positive travellers should avoid travelling to Korea : To avoid infecting others on the way to Korea, as well as in Korea, the Korean government recommends that you shouldn’t travel to Korea if you exhibit COVID-symptoms or have tested positive. Self-quarantine is mandatory in Korea.

There are no PCR or other testing requirements : It is not necessary to take a PCR or other test before travelling to Korea. However, you will be asked to take a test if you show symptoms of COVID or similar illnesses when travelling to or arriving in Korea.

There is no quarantine on arrival : Travellers to Korea no longer need to quarantine when entering Korea. From June 1st, there is only a ‘recommended’ 5 day self-isolation period for infected travellers, but this is not enforced.

Complete the self-health check before or on arrival : From July 15th, 2023, travellers to Korea no longer need to complete a Q-Code self-health check or declare their health status on arrival.

Apply for a K-ETA or tourist visa before travelling : You need to apply for either a K-ETA or tourist visa for South Korea before flying to the country. Entry will be prohibited without the correct one. From April 1st, 2023 until December 31st, 2024, 22 countries are excluded from the K-ETA.

If you’re not sure which of these you need to apply for, more information is provided in the next section of this South Korea travel guide about the K-ETA and tourist visa for Korea.

K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation)

The K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation) is an online travel authorisation that visa-free foreign visitors aged 18 to 65 must obtain before entering the Korea for tourism, visiting relatives, participating in events or meetings, and for business purposes other than profitable activities.

Tourists from 112 eligible countries need to apply for a K-ETA before travelling to Korea and won’t be allowed to board a flight to Korea without it. The approval process isn’t difficult, but requires accommodation details, travel dates, and personal details such as passport number, etc.

From April 1st, 2023 until December 31st, 2024, the Korean government has decided to suspend the K-ETA requirement for travellers from the following 22 countries:

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam).

The aim is to reduce the burden of travellers coming to Korea and to encourage more people to visit Korea during the ‘Visit Korea Year’, which runs during 2023 and 2024.

Source : K-ETA website news .

From July 3rd, 2023, the Korean government will no longer ask for travellers who are 17 years and younger, or 65 years and older, to apply for a K-ETA when visiting Korea. These are ages based on the time you travel to Korea, not the age when you apply to travel.

Furthermore, the validity period of the K-ETA is now 3 years, not 2 years. The Korean government has decided to extend the validity period to make it easier for people to travel to Korea.

The K-ETA is based on your nationality , not the country you’re travelling from. That means, if you require a tourist visa from your home country (e.g. the Philippines), but are travelling from a country that requires a K-ETA (e.g. the USA), you can’t use the K-ETA to travel to Korea.

Tourists should apply as far in advance as possible at the official K-ETA website. If you would like to know more about the K-ETA, check out my article explaining what is the K-ETA . The K-ETA costs 10,000 KRW (about $9.00 USD). If you are charged more than this, you’re on the wrong site.

Official K-ETA website

Not sure if you need a K-ETA? Check out this infographic to find out.

Will The K-ETA End In The Future?

The K-ETA will continue for the indefinite future. It is not a pandemic-related travel restriction but a permanent feature that just happened to start in 2021. The Korean government have stated that the K-ETA will be ongoing and other countries and areas, such as the EU, are planning similar ETAs.

Update : In July 2023, the Korean government stopped requiring children 17 years and younger and adults 65 years and older to apply for a K-ETA. The validity period was also increased to 3 years.

Update : In April 2023, the Korean government suspended the K-ETA for travellers from 22 countries (listed previously). This is in an effort to reduce the burden on travellers visiting Korea during the ‘Visit Korea Years’ of 2023 and 2024. This lasts until December 2024, but could possibly go on longer.

Tourist Visas For South Korea

Tourists that aren’t from one of the 112 countries that require a K-ETA to travel to Korea will need to apply for a tourist visa. This includes nationals from countries such India, Indonesia, Pakistan, and the Philippines. Tourist visas are based on nationality (passport), not country of residence.

The process to apply for a tourist visa differs depending on the country and may be as simple as submitting an application at the Korean embassy in the country you live in. For other countries, it may be necessary to submit extra information like bank statements and a full itinerary.

If you need a tourist visa for South Korea, contact your nearest Korean embassy as soon as you can to start the process. Tourist visas may be rejected, delayed, or take longer than expected. For some countries, such as the Philippines, it is necessary to apply through a specialist visa agency.

Transit Tour Visas For South Korea

Visa-free entry for foreign transit passengers at Incheon Airport will resume from May 2023 after being suspended for 3 years during the pandemic. There are two types of visa-free transit entry methods for travellers to Korea, they differ in length, requirements, and eligibility.

The first type of visa-free entry for transit passengers is open to all travellers to Korea and allows entry for 3 days, as long as they take a transit tour from Incheon Airport. The second type of visa-free entry for transit passengers is available for 30 days, but only from travellers from 36 select countries.

Visa-Free Entry For Transit Passengers (3 Days)

From May 15, 2023, travellers from any country can travel from Incheon Airport to the Seoul Metropolitan area for up to 3 days, as long as they book at least 1 transit tour from Incheon Airport. If Korea is not their final destination, they’re free to explore more of Seoul after the tour.

There are a wide range of transit tours available from Incheon Airport, including cultural, historic, food, shopping, and entertainment tours. See the sights of Seoul’s most popular places in a few hours, or stay for longer and see more. You can find out more about transit tours from the Visit Korea website .

Requirements : To be eligible for a transit tour visa, travellers must:

• Have an onward flight to their home country or a 3rd country after Korea.
• Participate in a transit tour program by a designated travel agency.
• Stay within the Seoul Metropolitan area only.
• Have more than 2 hours between connecting flights.

Eligible countries : Visa-free entry with a transit tour is open to passengers of all countries, as long as they meet the above requirements.

Tip : If you have a transit tour in Korea, I recommend staying in Hongdae , as there is a direct train from Incheon Airport to Hongdae called the All-Stop Airport Line. Hongdae is also a really fun place where you can see lots of culture, try Korean dishes, and pack your suitcase with Korean souvenirs.

Visa-Free Entry For Transit Passengers (30 Days)

This will allow travellers from 36 countries to enter and stay in Korea for up to 30 days without a Korean visa. Travellers must be travelling to or from one of these 36 countries to be eligible to stay in Korea without a visa. This includes passengers who are not citizens of those countries.

Requirements : To be eligible for a visa-free entry as a transit passenger, travellers must:

• Hold an onward flight to any of the 36 countries mentioned below.
• Have no illegal stay records of any kind, nor have been denied entry to Korea.
• Not have exceeded a maximum of 3 days stay in any other transit airport.

Eligible countries : Travellers from the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and 32 EU countries (see picture below) can stay for up to 30 days, as long as the above-mentioned requirements are met.

Why You Should Travel To Korea In 2024

There’s not enough space in this South Korea travel guide to write down all of the reasons why you should travel to South Korea. Korea is an under-appreciated gem that has so much to discover and experience that’s completely different from what you’ll find in other countries.

Much the way that Japan has a very distinct culture and history, Korea has lots of unique, appealing places to see, people to meet, history to learn about, and natural sights to appreciate. Many people only see a small slice of Korean culture and beauty through modern media, but there’s a lot more.

Here are some of the reasons you should travel to Korea:

• Delicious foods and tasty seasonal dishes.
• Four distinct seasons that offer a variety of views.
• Fascinating history to learn about and explore.
• Stunning mountains and beaches for outdoor lovers.
• Unique and unusual festivals throughout the year.
• Friendly locals and a safe country to travel around.
• Modern, high-tech cities that are clean and efficient.
• Welcoming Buddhist temples and temple stays.
• Cheaper than most other developed countries.
• A shopper’s paradise with many markets and malls .
• Korea really wants you to come and visit.

Korea wants you to visit so much that they declared 2023-2024 the Visit Korea Year . This two-year period, confusingly referred to as a single year, is set to feature loads of events and activities to draw tourists to Korea, and includes promotions for discounted flights, accommodation, and food.

Some of the events you can expect to see during the Visit Korea Year(s) include K-Pop concerts, e-sports competitions, food festivals, and cultural celebrations. There’ll be K-Cultural stars involved, too, including your favourite K-Pop and K-Drama stars. Get ready to travel to Korea soon!

Want to know what you can do in Korea that you can’t do in other countries? Check out these amazing unique Korean experiences that should definitely be on your Korean bucket list.

The Best Time To Visit Korea

The best time to visit Korea is in spring (late-March to May) or autumn (mid-September until mid-November). These seasons have the most comfortable weather, ranging from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius, an average amount of rain, and also have the most festivals and events.

My favourite months to travel in Korea are April and October . Early-April is when cherry blossoms come out and the weather warms up enough to stop wearing a jacket. October in Korea is a beautiful month when autumn foliage sweeps across the country and the weather is warm and calm.

When you travel to Korea, the season you travel in can have a big impact on what you can see, eat, and do. This section of the South Korea travel guide is one of the most important and if you want to travel to Korea in the future, I recommend learning about Korea’s seasons before making plans.

What Can You See In Korea Each Season?

Although spring and autumn are undoubtedly the best time to visit Korea, there are plenty of reasons to visit in other seasons, too. Visitors to Korea who are restricted to travelling during certain times, such as during school or work holidays, needn’t be put off by travelling in summer or winter.

Here’s a summary of what you can see and do in each season in Korea:

Spring: Cherry Blossoms, Blooming Nature, Culture Festivals

Spring is an amazing season to travel in Korea as you can see colourful plum blossoms (Mar), cherry blossoms (Mar-Apr), and many other bright sights. The warm weather allows people go out more to enjoy cultural activities and spring festivals , such as the Lotus Lantern Festival and Jindo Sea-Parting Festival, and also trekking, hiking, and cycling. Spring is one of the most popular times to travel in Korea for locals, so expect places to be busy, especially around cherry blossom season.

Check out my cherry blossom guide for the best places to see cherry blossoms in Korea.

Summer: Beaches, Korean Desserts, Water Sports, Camping

Summer is a difficult season for travellers due to the high humidity and heat. June and July are rainy season in Korea and it may rain for days on end, causing people to change travel plans to indoor activities. In late July and August it gets very hot, which is good for going to the beach and enjoying water sports or water parks, which Korea has many of. Evening activities like hiking, drinking in rooftop bars, and visiting night markets are great ways to get out in summer when it’s not as hot.

Check out my guide to Korean summer activities for the best places to have fun during summer and rainy day activities in Busan in case the weather isn’t so good.

Autumn: Foliage, Festivals, Fresh Foods, Harvest Festivals

Autumn is another incredibly popular time to travel in Korea, especially in October when the autumn foliage is at its best. The foliage really brings everything to life, adding shades of colour to plain palace walls, mountains, and parks. The calm weather is warm with clear skies, making it perfect for going into nature to see the fresh fruits and other harvest goods, as well as join in harvest and cultural festivals. Enjoy local Korean dishes, fresh from the farm to your table.

Check out my guide to autumn foliage in Korea for the best places to see the leaves.

Winter: Snow, Winter Sports, Ice Fishing, Light Festivals

Winter in Korea is often neglected due to the cold weather, but is actually a very nice time to travel with delicious winter foods to try. It’s the driest time of year with blue skies making everything bright and beautiful. When it snows, sights look even more incredible. Jeju Island is a great place to visit during winter as it has fresh citrus and colourful camellia flowers to see. You can enjoy winter sports, festivals and activities, such as ice fishing, ice skating, sledding, and more.

Check out my guide to Korean winter activities for the best places to have fun during winter.

What Is The Weather Like In Korea?

The weather in Korea follows a similar pattern each year, spread over five distinct seasons. As well as spring, summer, autumn, and winter, Korea also has a rainy season, which starts around mid-June and finishes mid-July. It doesn’t constantly rain during rainy season, but may do for several days.

There’s always something to do in Korea, no matter what the season. Even rainy season in Korea is fine for travelling, as long as you plan lots of indoor activities and can be flexible with your schedule. Don’t let the weather in Korea put you off visiting, you’ll find plenty to do in each season.

Here’s a summary of the weather in Korea each season:

The graph below shows you the average temperature each month in Seoul. This is an average temperature, so some days will be much hotter and others much colder. I’ve experienced summer temperatures of over 35 degrees and winter nights of -20, so be prepared for both.

The table below shows the average rainfall for each month in Korea, based on records from climate-data.org . The summer months have the most, while winter in Korea is very dry. The rainfall in the winter months can turn to snow when it’s cold enough, too.

There will be more information about the sights, festivals, and events you can enjoy in Korea in later parts of this South Korea travel guide. Check them out for travel ideas for your trip to Korea.

How To Book Flights To Korea

Flying to Korea in 2024 is getting easier with more airlines offering direct or connecting flights to Korea and budget airlines adding more routes to Korea from other parts of Asia and as far away as the USA. There aren’t as many routes as there were in 2019, but they are returning month by month.

Booking a flight to Korea is one of the first things most people do and finding the right flight can really affect your travels. Choosing the right flight not only affects how much money you need to spend, but also when you’ll arrive, how you’ll get to your hotel, and where you’ll arrive in Korea.

Check out my guide to booking flights to Korea to discover the best ways to book a flight to Korea, including the best time to book (21 to 127 days before travel), where to get cheap flights, the various airlines that offer flights to Korea, and lots more.

Arriving At Incheon Airport

Most flights to Korea arrive at Incheon Airport, which is near Seoul. It takes about an hour to get to the centre of Seoul from Incheon Airport and there are various transportation options including a high-speed train, subway, limo buses, taxis, and private transfers.

The best option for transferring from Incheon Airport to your hotel is usually a limo bus as these run to popular areas of Seoul, such as Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, and Insadong. There’s also a direct train to Seoul Station and a subway that goes to Seoul Station via Hongdae.

Arriving during the daytime gives you the best options for getting from Incheon Airport into Seoul, while nighttime flights will leave you fewer options. There are a few night buses that run, but late arrivals will either need to stay at the airport or book a private transfer or taxi instead. More details about taking a taxi from Incheon Airport can be found in my guide to taxis in Korea .

If you want to book a private transfer direct to your hotel from Incheon Airport, contact Jerry Heng , a freelance driver. I want to recommend Jerry as he has years of experience organising airport pick-ups and drop-offs, as well as personalised tours around Korea. He’s also a friendly guy.

Recommended Flight Comparison Sites

I suggest checking at least one flight comparison website before booking any flights. You can alter the arrival and departure times, flight duration, choose direct or indirect flights, and sort by price to find the perfect flight for you. Skyscanner is my preferred comparison site, but they’re all useful.

Take time to change the dates and flight times to find the most suitable flights for you. Cheaper flights often have inconvenient arrival times, so you should decide whether it’s worth the hassle to save a bit of money. Sometimes spending more for the right flight is worth it, especially when time is limited.

I try to go for a balance of convenience and savings and avoid flights that arrive late at night or leave too early in the morning. These flights require you to book an extra night at the airport or make you lose time when you could be travelling and doing more interesting things.

Here are 4 of the best flight comparison sites for booking flights to Korea:

Skyscanner is one of the most popular flight aggregators and offers flights, hotels, and other travel bookings for all major destinations. Skyscanner shows airline environmental ratings and which flights are practical or difficult.

Expedia is a large US travel company that offers tours, flights, hotels, and other services around the world. You can book hotel and flights together, to save you time and effort when travelling. A good place to start your flight search.

Kayak is great for people looking for cheap flights to Korea. You can see price trends for your flight to Korea to see when the best prices are available. There are also lots of budget travel options on the site that can save you more.

WayAway is a flight comparison site for the modern generation, with Instagram tips & travel advice as well as a good selection of cheap flights. You can get cashback on bookings with their premium service.

Where To Stay In Seoul

Incheon Airport is the main arrival destination for most travellers visiting Korea, with more than 71 million travellers passing through the airport in 2019, making it the world’s 14th busiest airport . It’s close to Seoul and has lots of transportation options to get into Korea’s capital.

Seoul is the first place people visit, not only because it’s close to Incheon Airport, but because it’s undeniably the heart and soul of Korea. The greater Seoul area includes about 50% of Korea’s population (25 million people) and is by far the biggest, most vibrant, and fun city in Korea.

To travel to Korea you need either a K-ETA or tourist visa . One of the requirements to apply for these is the address of the first place you’ll be staying in Korea. Therefore, you should book at least your first hotel in Korea so you can begin those applications. Seoul is an ideal first place to stay.

Best Neighbourhoods To Stay In Seoul

Deciding where to stay in Seoul can be difficult because there are so many unique neighbourhoods, each offering something interesting for travellers to experience. Knowing which has the best sights, entertainment, culture, shopping, transport, markets, restaurants, cafes, etc., is useful.

Seoul’s neighbourhoods typically contain a mixture of several of these elements and will appeal to different types of travellers. Below is a very rough guide for which neighbourhood each type of traveller might enjoy. Of course, there are plenty of other things to do in each area.

As you can see from the list above, both Hongdae and Myeongdong have a lot to offer and I would definitely recommend either of these neighbourhoods for first time travellers to Seoul. Even people who have travelled to Korea before will find lots of reasons to stay there. They’re where I usually stay.

I have detailed guides to hotels in the two best districts for staying in Seoul – Hongdae and Myeongdong. My guide to hotels in Hongdae includes a range of hotels for all types of travellers, while my guide to hotels in Myeongdong highlights Myeongdong’s best budget to mid-range hotels.

Each neighbourhood feels unique and offers something to discover, from traditional markets and eateries, modern Insta-worthy cafe districts, peaceful parks and lakes, world-class skyscrapers, and many fun activities. Wherever you choose to stay, you’re sure to find something you enjoy.

I’ve included the 8 best neighbourhoods in Seoul in this South Korea travel guide, along with a small summary about what you can expect in each area. These are the most popular areas for tourists to stay in, but certainly not the only places to stay. There are also links to hotels in these areas.

Here are the 8 best neighbourhoods in Seoul:

Myeongdong is arguably one of the best places to stay in Seoul for any traveller. It has the best range of budget and mid-range hotels in Seoul and is conveniently located for sights, activities, and public transport. It’s close to popular tourist sites, such as the N Seoul Tower and royal palaces. There are traditional markets and Myeongdong’s famous street food alley to check out. As Myeongdong is popular with tourists, you’ll find more people that can speak English and places to exchange money.

Hongdae is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Seoul and a must-see for any traveller to the city. This area has emerged as a creative hotbed for the latest Korean fashion, art, food, and culture, thanks to innovations from students of nearby universities. Youth culture is on display in Hongdae’s main and side streets, with boutique shops, trendy bars and cafes, inventive restaurants, street art, and live performances. If you want to see a vibrant, colourful side of Seoul, then Hongdae is the place for you.

Gangnam is an upscale area of Seoul that’s home to some of Korea’s biggest stars. This area was where K-Pop was invented, as can be seen by the golden Gangnam Style statue outside COEX Mall. Gangnam is a lot more than that, and is a powerful business area with Seoul’s best shopping and dining experiences, as well as some of the city’s finest cafes and bars. Gangnam has a host of upmarket hotels that provide outstanding luxury, but also has a selection of budget and mid-range hotels making it accessible for all travellers.

Jongno is the area north of Myeongdong that includes Insadong, Bukchon Hanok Village, Ikseongdong Hanok Village, Jogyesa Temple, 4 of Seoul’s royal palaces, the presidential Blue House, and lots more. This area is packed full of interesting sights and traditional restaurants and tea houses to explore. You can find a good range of hotels in Insadong, Seoul’s artistic area that is home to artists and tourist-friendly attractions. There are also guesthouses and apartments to rent in the residential areas of Jongno that offer a more homely stay.

Jamsil is an upmarket residential neigbourhood close to Gangnam that’s home to one of Korea’s largest companies, Lotte. You’ll find the Lotte World Tower, Lotte World Theme Park, and Lotte Aquarium in this area, as well as the beautiful Seokchon Lake and leafy Olympic Park. Jamsil is a great base for people visiting for cherry blossoms in spring as the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is one of Seoul’s best. There are lots of trendy cafes and bars near the lake and it’s a relaxed part of the city to stay in.

Dongdaemun is known for both its traditional markets, where you can buy a range of goods, as well as the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). The area is an unusual mix of traditional Seoul, with Gwangjang Market offering some of Seoul’s best Korean street food, and modern culture, displayed by the night markets and art installations at the DDP. There are lots of cheap eats and bargain markets and malls in this area, making it a great place to stay if you plan to do a lot of bargain shopping in Seoul.

Yongsan is the area encompassing the N Seoul Tower, the popular international area of Itaewon, the trendy hilltop area of Haebangchon (HBC), Seoul Station, the National Museum of Seoul, and many riverside parks. Yongsan has a busy train station with towering skyscrapers and hotels around it catering to business and luxury travellers, as well as shoppers. This quiet business and residential area has good transport links and fewer crowds than other parts of Seoul, as well as interesting cultural attractions.

Yeouido is a large island that rests in the Han River, overlooking Hongdae and Yongsan. It has some of the best parks in Seoul and is a popular place for locals to walk along the river on weekends and at night. These parks are home to Seoul’s biggest cherry blossom festivals, as well as summer night markets, fireworks performances, live music, and people enjoying life outside of work. Yeouido is the upmarket financial centre of Seoul, making it an ideal base for business, luxury, and family travellers.

Seoul’s neighbourhoods are informal designations, not necessarily the official district name. For example, Hongdae is a neighbourhood in the Mapo-gu district and Myeongdong a neighbourhood in the Jung-gu district. Whereas Jongno is both the neighbourhood and district name (Jongno-gu).

You might see some areas referred to differently. However, the terms I’ve used in this section are the names most commonly used to describe these areas by tourists and expats. Koreans will certainly know which area of Seoul you’re talking about when you use these names.

Learn more : If you want to know more about Seoul’s best districts and figure out where the best place to stay for your trip to Korea, then check out my detailed guide about where to stay in Seoul . It’s packed with useful info about each neighbourhood, hotel recommendations for different budgets, and tips about booking accommodation in Seoul. Also learn more about the Han River Boat Service launching in 2024 to connect Yeoudio, Jamsil and other riverside destinations.

Hotel Recommendations For Seoul

There are hundreds (maybe thousands) of hotels in Seoul to choose from ranging from multi-person dorm rooms to the height of luxury looking down over Seoul from a 5-star hotel room in the Lotte World Tower . Whatever your budget or requirements, there’ll be somewhere to stay in Seoul for you.

To save you time searching for the best places to stay in Seoul, I’ve created a list of the 9 best luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels in Seoul, as well as 6 long-stay serviced apartments. This list has been created based on customer reviews, location, facilities, amenities, reputation, and quality.

I live outside of Seoul, so often book hotels when I’m visiting Seoul for the weekend . I’ve stayed at quite a few of these, so can personally recommend them based on my own experience. I’ve had both good and bad hotel experiences in Seoul and only want to recommend the best to you.

Recommended Luxury Hotels

Seoul has some incredible luxury hotels to enjoy, each with a true 5-star service, excellent amenities, and delectable restaurants. Many of Seoul’s best luxury hotels are located in Gangnam, Seoul’s wealthiest district, where you can find top restaurants and designer brand shopping.

Recommended Mid-Range Hotels

If you want to experience a luxurious stay in Seoul without breaking the bank, then these mid-range hotels will be perfect for you. These unique, 4-star hotels are reasonably priced and provide stylish, comfortable rooms that you’ll sleep easily in after a busy day exploring Seoul.

Recommended Budget Hotels

Seoul has a wide range of excellent budget hotels with prices that might surprise you for a large city. These are some of my favourite places to stay in Seoul when I visit for the weekend and are popular with travellers due to their convenient location, facilities, and comfortable beds.

Recommended Serviced Apartments

If you plan to stay in Seoul for a month or more, these serviced apartments will provide you all the comforts of home with the benefits of staying at a hotel. These excellent serviced apartments come with cleaning services, health facilities, cooking facilities, and are value for money.

Cost To Travel In South Korea In 2024

This part of the South Korea travel guide will help you understand some of your expected costs to travel to Korea. The costs to travel to Korea include flights, accommodation, food, drinks, transportation, activities, sim cards, visas, souvenirs, travel insurance, and lots more.

The costs you will pay when you travel vary massively depending on what type of traveller you are and what style of travel you can afford. If you want 5-star luxury and fine-dining, your budget will be very different from someone eating ramyeon from 7-11 and staying in a budget guesthouse.

Therefore, I will try to provide expected costs for 3 different types of traveller – budget , mid-range , and luxury . These aren’t exact figures, but should give you a rough idea of how much you’ll spend.

Daily Costs To Travel In Korea

There are costs that you will pay each day when travelling in Korea that can be averaged out to give you a daily cost. Knowing these figures will help you plan your budget for Korea and to see where you can afford to spend more for the one-off costs to travel, which will be covered next.

The daily costs are accommodation, food & drinks, transportation, attractions & tours, and miscellaneous expenses that can pop up unexpectedly. These miscellaneous costs might include getting a street food snack, an unexpected entrance fee, or a few extra drinks in the evening.

Transportation will be covered later in this South Korea travel guide and there are some useful tips to reduce your transportation costs. You will also be able to see some of the best attractions, tours, and activities in Korea and you’ll be able to work out how much you’ll spend on those.

Here are the daily costs per person to travel in Korea:

Please note : These are costs per day, per person . Couples and families sharing a room will have lower costs as double rooms aren’t much more expensive than single rooms. Some days will be cheaper, some much more expensive, especially if you take day trips or visit premium attractions.

There are also one-off costs not included in these daily costs. These can be pre-travel costs, such as flights and a K-ETA or tourist visa (already covered), travel insurance, vaccinations, and such like. Pre-travel costs are different for each traveller and depend on your country of residence.

Other one-off costs during travel in Korea may include day tours, souvenirs, shopping, celebrations, medical costs, and expenses that you don’t normally pay each day. Again, these vary for each traveller and are difficult to calculate as people’s budgets are so different.

Is Korea A Cheap Country To Travel In?

Korea is relatively cheap country to visit, but certainly isn’t always a budget destination. The cost to travel to Korea has risen over the last few years and might be more expensive than you think, even if you’ve previously visited Korea. Flying to Korea is certainly more expensive now.

Food costs rose by 7.5% in 2022 alone and these costs have been passed on to restaurants, which now charge higher prices for meals. Transportation costs rose by about 20% in 2023 for buses and subways, although these are still relatively cheap compared to some countries.

Despite these price increases, travelling in Korea is still cheaper than travelling in most other high-income industrialised countries such as Japan, the USA, and Western Europe. If you’re from countries such as the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, or Malaysia, Korea may seem expensive.

City Passes That Save You Money In Seoul

There are a number of city passes that can save you money when visiting Seoul by offering free or discounted entry to some of the best attractions in the city for a single price. The original city pass for Seoul is the Discover Seoul Pass, but now there is also the Go City Pass and Klook Pass Seoul.

Here’s a summary of each of these Seoul city passes:

Discover Seoul Pass : Available in 24 | 48 | 72 hour periods, allows entry to top attractions in Seoul such as Lotte World Adventure, N Seoul Tower, COEX Aquarium, Alive Museum, Zoolung Zoolung, Sealala Sauna, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and more. Prices start at 50,000 KRW .

Go City Seoul Pass : Available as 1 – 5 day passes or a flexible pass for up to 7 attractions. Covers a wider amount of attractions than the DSP, including a DMZ Tour, Nanta Cookin’ Musical, Seoul Land, Seoul Pub Crawl, Seoul Ghost Tour, and more. Prices start at 68,000 KRW .

Klook Pass Seoul : Available for use 2 – 5 attractions, including Everland or Lotte World Adventure theme parks. The Klook Pass Seoul allows free entry to selected attractions within a 30 day period. Attractions include the N Seoul Tower and Lotte World Aquarium. Prices start at 44,000 KRW .

If you’d like to know more about these passes, be sure to check out my article about the Klook Pass Seoul , as well as my suggested Discover Seoul Pass itineraries . I’ll have a review article of the Go City Seoul Pass soon, too.

How To Save Money In Korea

There are always ways to save money and spend less in Korea. Budget options exist for travellers and you can travel in Korea for less than 150,000 KRW per day, even as little as 50,000 KRW per day. Here are some of the ways you can save money in Korea and travel more for less:

Eat like a local : Visit the traditional markets, food stalls, and traditional Korean restaurants. These are much cheaper than eating foreign foods in Korea. University areas are usually cheap, too.

Spend less on coffee : Coffee in Korea can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. A latte could cost you 5,000 KRW in a chain store, but there are cheap hole-in-the-wall cafes where it’s half that.

Shop in the markets : From designer goods (possibly fake) to souvenirs, the markets of Seoul and other cities usually have the best prices. Don’t be afraid to haggle.

Use public transport : Korea has a fantastic public transport network both in cities and between cities. Don’t waste money on taxis and private transfers when you can use a bus or subway.

Book everything online : You can find discounted entry and tour tickets online that are much cheaper than the regular price. Use Klook , Get Your Guide , and Viator for the best prices.

Stay in guesthouses and hostels : You can find rooms for as little as 10,000 KRW per night in shared dorms and 20,000 KRW in guesthouses. Book ahead to find the best prices.

Take advantage of free things : There are lots of places you can visit for free in Seoul and free services, such as walking tours in Seoul, 30-minute hanbok rentals, and even free entry to the palaces.

Get your tax back : Korea makes it really easy to recover tax you’ve paid when shopping. Stores in Seoul will process tax returns for you or you can claim a refund at the airport when you leave.

You will see tips and links in this South Korea travel guide that are designed to help you save money when you visit Korea. Booking tours, attractions, and sim cards in advance can save you a lot of money, as can using a T-Money card and Wise travel card. Keep reading for more money-saving tips.

Travel Money And Money Exchanges In Korea

If you follow the tips in this section of this South Korea travel guide, you can certainly save yourself a lot of money and avoid unnecessary fees when spending in Korea. Learn where and how to exchange money, how to avoid ATM and card fees, and how to get tax back before you leave.

Because this section covers a lot of the common questions people ask about travel money in Korea, it will be broken down into a question and answer format. This should make it easier for you to find the information you’re looking for and discover answers you didn’t know you were looking for.

Can You Use A Foreign Card In Korea?

Almost all foreign credit cards with Visa or Mastercard will be accepted in Korea and it is possible to use these cards to pay across the country. American Express is also accepted in popular tourist areas, but not as widely as Visa or Mastercard and may have problems outside of big cities.

Foreign debit cards should work if they use Visa or Mastercard, but there may be restrictions in place with your bank when using them abroad. It is recommended that you call your bank to check before travelling. For both credit and debit cards, check your bank for any fees you’ll pay overseas.

Can You Withdraw Cash From An ATM In Korea?

You can withdraw cash from ATMs in Korea using a debit card, but not all ATMs will accept international cards. Look for a sign saying ‘Global ATM’ or ‘Foreign Currency ATM’ to withdraw cash in Korea with a debit card. You can also withdraw cash using a credit card, but it’s more expensive.

Whether you use a debit or credit card, an ATM is likely to charge a fee to withdraw money using a foreign card. Your bank or credit card company may also charge a fee or give a bad exchange rate. These costs can add up a lot if you withdraw regularly, so try to make fewer withdrawals.

Learn more : Should you use cash or card when you visit Korea? This article about the how to pay in Korea has lots of useful information about payment methods in Korea, including alternatives to the usual mix of cash and a credit card.

How Can You Save Money When Paying By Card In Korea?

Instead of using a foreign debit or credit card in Korea, which might have expensive fees or not work in places, here are two better options. The first is the WOWPASS travel card , which offers tourist-friendly card services in Korea. The other is to apply for a travel card that can be used globally.

Both the WOWPASS and the two other travel cards offer the ability to pay by card in Korea and to withdraw cash in Korean won. They also offer better exchange rates than you’ll find in airport or local money exchanges in Korea. They each have some unique features, which will be illustrated below.

Pay Like A Local With WOWPASS

The WOWPASS is a new way to pay in Korea that combines the essential functions of a T-Money transportation card with the benefits of a local debit card. This is a prepaid card you can top up at more than 90 locations in KRW or your own currency. Just look for the bright orange WOW machines.

The T-Money function in the WOWPASS means it’s more useful than other travel cards as you don’t need to carry two separate cards when you travel. Please note, you still need to charge the T-Money balance of WOWPASS with cash, just like a regular T-Money card.

The WOWPASS travel card allows you to add up to 1,000,000 KRW to your card and can be used to pay for almost anything in Korea without any fees. The card is issued by a Korean company, so you can use it to withdraw cash at any WOWPASS machine located in Seoul & other cities in Korea.

Thanks to the user-friendly WOWPASS app, users can freeze or replace their card, check their spending, add funds, and check exchange rates. Because the WOWPASS isn’t tied to your home bank account, it also reduces the damage by card fraud, in case the worst was to happen.

As well as a regular WOWPASS, you can also reserve the All-In-One Airport Package , which includes the WOWPASS, 10,000 KRW T-Money balance, and a discounted Korean sim card. This is really useful for those who want to get connected and travelling as soon as they arrive in Korea. Get the WOWPASS app for Android or Apple .

Tip : Use the invitation code INMYKOR1 to get cashback on WOWPASS top-ups in foreign currency.

Overseas Travel Cards You Can Use In Korea

Overseas travel cards are another option for spending in Korea and I use them myself to spend money from my UK bank account in Korea, as well as when travelling in other countries. They’re really simple to use and are much cheaper than paying with my foreign card or exchanging money.

Two of the leading travel card companies are Wise and Revolut . I use both of these to pay for things in Korea and have written an article about how to use the Wise card in Korea . You can use them to pay for hotels, food, drinks, transportation, taxis, attractions, and lots more. They’re really useful.

Here’s a summary of the main features of these travel cards:

The Wise travel card allows you to easily transfer and convert money from your home bank account into dozens of other currencies and use this money to pay when you’re travelling. You only need to transfer as much as you plan to spend and can easily transfer back anything you haven’t. The exchange rate will be better than your bank or a money exchange offers, too.

A versatile, easy to use app breaks down what you’ve spent by category so you can track your travel spending. You can withdraw cash from ATMs, pay by QR code, use it for Google Pay, and pay by contactless. Even if you lose your card, you can still spend money. It’s also really safe as you can freeze your card, set spending limits, and limit how much money you transfer.

The Revolut travel card can be used in Korea to pay for a wide range of goods and services without expensive fees for spending your home currency overseas. Unlike the Wise travel card, which lets you transfer money into different currencies and then spend in a local currency, such as Korean won, the Revolut travel card lets you pay fee-free with your home currency.

The Revolut travel card comes with an easy to use app that can be used to manage your money both at home and when travelling in Korea. You can check your spending with categories and reports and set budgets for your spending. The Revolut travel card also offers cashback in the US, stock and crypto investments, and the same security features as the Wise travel card.

Can You Use Apple Pay In Korea?

Apple Pay wasn’t previously available in Korea due to a lack of approval by Korea’s financial regulator. However, in February 2023, Apple Pay received approval to begin operating in Korea through the Hyundai Card Co., allowing payments with Apple devices from March 2023 onwards.

The Apple Pay payment system has been available in Korea since March 21st , 2023 and allows Apple Pay members to pay for goods and services at NFC-enabled payment terminals. However, on the launch date of Apple Pay, there were only 70,000 NFC-enabled payment terminals in Korea.

The lack of NFC-enabled payment terminals will be a big issue for Apple Pay users in Korea as there are around 2,900,000 shops in Korea and most won’t accept Apple Pay. Franchises like Starbucks can’t accept Apple Pay and it can’t be used to pay for public transport. You’ll need a T-Money card.

Samsung Pay, which uses MST technology, not NFC, currently dominates the Korean market. NFC-enabled terminals should grow, especially in tourist areas and city-centres from 2023 onwards. This will be good news for Google Pay, which also uses NFC technology and also isn’t in use in Korea yet.

Should You Exchange Money Before Travelling To Korea?

It is not necessary to exchange money into Korean won before travelling to Korea, but it can certainly be useful to have a small amount of money. Exchange rates for Korean won outside Korea may not be as good as within Korea and changing large amounts of cash before you travel isn’t essential.

It might be hard to get Korean won from your local bank or money exchange as it’s not one of the most commonly exchanged currencies. Therefore, you might find exchange rates less favourable and extra fees applied to exchange money. Using travel cards like Wise or Revolut is a better option.

Should You Change Money At Incheon Airport?

I’ve travelled around the world and always avoid exchanging money at the airport if I can help it. Airports often have the worst rates for money exchange as they know people need to get local cash, there aren’t many other options, and you need at least a bit of money to travel to your hotel.

Incheon Airport is an exception to this rule and I’ve compared travel exchange rates at several times when flying into and out of the airport. The foreign currency exchange rates at Incheon Airport aren’t that bad and are just slightly higher than what you’d find in Seoul. Not the best, but not bad.

There are also Global ATMs at Incheon Airport, so you can withdraw cash here. If you have a Wise or Revolut travel card, you can withdraw up to $200 fee-free from an ATM in Korea. However, Korean banks will charge a withdrawal fee (about 3,000 KRW), which applies to any foreign card used.

Where Can You Exchange Money In Seoul?

Seoul is the first destination for most travellers to Korea and if you want to save money on exchange rate fees, I recommend exchanging money in the capital. There are two main options for exchanging money easily and quickly in Seoul – WOW money exchange machines and money exchanges.

Here’s a summary about the two main ways to exchange money in Seoul:

The cheapest and most convenient option for exchanging money in Seoul is through a WOW money exchange machine. This automated machine gives the best exchange rates and can quickly and easily exchange foreign cash for Korean won. It doesn’t accept card payments, only cash. All you need to do is scan your passport and deposit your cash and it will convert it into Korean won immediately. There are dozens of these machines in Seoul, as well as in other cities like Busan and Daejeon.

The traditional way to exchange foreign currency in Seoul was through a money exchange. You can find these in Myeongdong, where many tourists stay and visit in Seoul. There are also money exchanges inside banks and in other tourist hotspots. These used to be the best place to exchange money, until the WOW money exchanges were introduced and travel cards like Wise and Revolut made it easier to use a card. If you want to use a money exchange in Seoul, Myeongdong is the best place to do it.

Can You Get Tax Back When Shopping In Korea?

Travellers to Korea can claim tax back on eligible purchases during their trip. This can be done immediately after you purchase an item (if the shop offers the service) or at Incheon Airport or other airports in Korea before you depart.

Instant tax refunds are available at certain locations in Seoul and other big cities. These are usually department stores and large chain stores. You are able to claim tax refunds for goods up to a total value of 2,500,000 KRW (incl. tax). There is a tax refund limit of 500,000 KRW per transaction.

2024 Tax Refund Changes : From 2024, the tax refund limits will be doubled, so you will be able to claim up to 5,000,000 KRW of tax back and claim up to 1,000,000 KRW back per transaction. Source: Korea Herald .

To claim a tax refund you need:

• To show your passport
• To be a tourist in Korea
• To spend between 30,000 to 300,000 KRW in one place
• To be leaving Korea within 3 months

Tax isn’t refundable on all purchases, so be sure to check when shopping. Tax refunds can also be claimed at the airport as long as you have the receipt and the goods you’ve purchased.

Mobile Phones And Internet In Korea

Staying connected to the Internet when visiting Korea is becoming more and more essential these days. Keeping your mobile phone, tablet, or computer connected to the web is useful not only to stay in touch with people back home, but also to help you save money and travel Korea more easily.

There are several options to stay connected in Korea when you travel. The main options for travellers are tourist SIM cards, either physical or eSIMs, portable WiFi routers, and relying on free WiFi provided in public places and hotels. All of these are good options, but there are other considerations, too.

This South Korea travel guide will cover the main differences between Korean SIM cards and portable WiFi routers and which will be most suitable for you. There are also details about why you might want a Korean phone number and which apps to use to help you travel in Korea.

Don’t forget, if you bring your phone or other mobile devices to Korea, you’ll need a travel adapter .

Should You Get A Korean SIM Card Or WiFi Router?

Both a Korean SIM card or portable WiFi router will provide access to Korea’s high-speed mobile networks and keep you connected to the Internet. They provide a secure internet connection, but do so in a different way and with different available features. Find out about the best Korean SIM card for tourists in this SK SIM card review .

Here are the main features of Korean SIM cards and WiFi routers:

Costs : SIM cards and WiFi routers are similarly priced when using them for a two week period, but they are charged in different ways. SIM cards are fixed-price and can be bought for set time periods, whereas WiFi routers are charged daily. WiFi routers are cheaper in the short-term.

Ease of use : If you purchase or pre-order a SIM card or portable WiFi router at Incheon Airport, which I highly recommend, the staff will install or setup everything for you. Once they’re activated, it’s very simple to use either one. Cancelling and returning them at the airport is also easy for both.

Here are the reasons you should get a Korean SIM card or portable WiFi router in Korea:

You should get a Korean SIM card when visiting Korea to get a Korean phone number. The benefits of having a Korean phone number are mainly to make calls and use Korean apps. SIM cards are also useful if you want a secure connection everywhere you go and plan to make calls or send texts. When you have a SIM card, you can tether your network connection to connect other devices you own. Korean phone coverage is amazing and you’ll get service everywhere. SIM cards don’t require you to carry any extra devices and are cheaper over the long-run than WiFi routers.

You should get a portable WiFi router if you’re travelling in a group or as a family as you can connect multiple devices to one router. This is much cheaper than getting separate SIM cards for all travellers, but also requires people stay close together. WiFi routers are charged per day and if you need additional days, they’ll be automatically added and charged when you return the router. This means you’ll never have to worry about your service suddenly ending. The main downside to using a WiFi router is the lack of Korean phone number, but that might not be an issue if you don’t need one.

Where Can You Get Korean SIM Cards Or WiFi Routers?

You can get a Korean SIM card or portable WiFi router in several ways. The easiest way, and one that I definitely recommend, is to purchase online through a tour company such as Klook , Viator , or Get Your Guide , and get a SIM card at Incheon Airport or other entry point into Korea when you arrive..

The main reason I recommend this method is that you can guarantee you will get a SIM card or router and it will be waiting for you when you arrive. The collection desks at Incheon Airport are open 24-hours a day and they will help you install everything you need to get started immediately.

You can also get SIM cards and WiFi routers when you arrive at the airport and you should find similar rates. However, you won’t be guaranteed a device and you will need to pay in person. When you book online, you can pay in your home currency and avoid those issues.

I don’t recommend getting a SIM card or WiFi router in Seoul or other cities. It is possible, but you may run into language issues and find less tourist-friendly options. Phone shops outside the airport usually cater to Koreans, not tourists. Airport rentals are the easiest options for visitors to Korea.

What’s The Benefit Of A Korean Phone Number For Tourists?

There are two main benefits of having a Korean phone number for tourists. The first benefit is the ability to call people when you’re in Korea. This can be useful for making reservations, keeping in touch with people, and in case of emergencies.

The second benefit of having a Korean phone number is the ability to use Korean apps . It isn’t mandatory to have a Korean phone number to use Korean apps, but most won’t let you use their services unless you sign up with a phone number. Using Korean apps makes travelling easier.

A phone number is like a form of identity in Korea, which is why you need your passport to register a SIM card. Once you have a phone number, many more services are available, including food delivery, ordering taxis, making reservations (such as for the Busan Sky Capsule ), and online messaging.

What Apps Do I Need For Travelling In Korea?

If you have a Korean phone number, you can use Korean apps. Even without a Korean number, you can still download these apps and use some of their services. Full features typically require a phone number though. There are other, non-Korean apps that will help you when travelling, too.

Here are the most useful apps to use when travelling in Korea:

Papago : This is the essential translation tool for visiting Korea. Papago’s translation services are the best and you can use the app to take pictures and translate Korean signs, menus, and other pictures.

Naver Maps : To find your way around Korea, use Naver Maps or Kakao Maps. Their systems are much more accurate in Korea than Google Maps. Use them to plan travel routes and transport times.

Kakao Taxi : Uber and Grab don’t really exist in Korea, so if you plan to take a taxi, you’ll need to use Kakao Taxi. Simple to use and takes the hassle out of trying to use Korean to give directions.

Kakao Talk : This is Korea’s most popular messaging app and is useful for keeping in touch with Korean friends, contacting businesses in Korea, and even calling abroad.

Seoul Subway : Use this app to travel around Seoul’s underground more easily. Plan your route, see when the next train is due to arrive, check connections, and see how late the trains run.

Korail Talk : This app allows you to book trains on Korea’s high-speed train network and regular train routes. This app has an English setting, so you can check train times and prices easily.

Coupang Eats : This is a food-delivery app that allows you to order almost anything edible and get it sent directly to you. You can even order convenience store goods. Useful for rainy days.

Mango Plate : Find restaurants in Korea with this app and discover the best places to go out and eat. You can also see restaurant details and get directions in Naver Maps and Kakao Maps.

WOWPASS : To use the WOWPASS to pay like a local in Korea and for T-Money functions, you’ll need the WOWPASS app. This will let you check your balances and spending and control your card.

Wise & Revolut : As mentioned in this South Korea travel guide, using a travel card to pay for items in Korea will save you money when you travel. If you use Wise or Revolut, make sure you have the app.

Klook : This company provides some of the best tours in Korea and if you make bookings through their website, you can easily manage them with the Klook app.

Intercity Bus by T-Money : This app is great for booking buses between cities in Korea. There is an English version that allows you to book tickets, check times, and see available seats.

These apps should be available on both Android and Apple. Some of these apps might default to Korean, but you should be able to change them to English in the side menu.

Is There Free WiFi In Korea?

Travellers in Korea have the option to not get a sim card or portable WiFi but still stay connected. This is thanks to the excellent Free Wifi in Korea that is provided in public transport, government buildings, restaurants, cafes, and many other places. This is mostly in the cities, however.

Hotels also provide free WiFi in most cities in Korea. If you plan to rely on free WiFi, I recommend using the hotel’s WiFi to plan routes, check opening times, and research places you want to visit. Take screenshots of these details so you can see them later, even if you don’t have Internet access.

The only warning I would give about relying on free WiFi when travelling in Korea is the increased use of mobile-dependent apps and passes in Korea. Physical tickets and passes are being phased out in favour of digital versions, which often need an active Internet connection to use.

I’ve noticed in recent years that services that impact travellers have moved to digital versions. This includes the T-Money card, Discover Seoul Pass, train and coach tickets, attraction tickets and event tickets. I believe that having a reliable net connection will be a must for most travellers soon.

Using Public Transport In Korea In 2024

This section of the South Korea travel guide looks at Korea’s public transport system and how to navigate it as a traveller. Korea has arguably one of the best public transport systems in the world. It’s cheap, well-connected, frequent, and runs on time. Other countries could learn a lot from Korea.

The great news for tourists is that Korea’s public transport is very foreigner friendly and information is provided in English in almost all places, as well as Chinese and Japanese in popular areas such as Seoul and Busan. Travelling by public transport in Korea is cheap, easy, and convenient.

How Much Does Public Transport Cost In Korea?

The cost of public transportation in Korea is fixed, no matter what day you purchase tickets on. If you buy one month in advance, or last minute, you will pay the same price for the journey. Journeys within a city are a single price and not dependent on how far you travel, unless you leave the city limits.

All journeys are single fares and you can’t buy return tickets. You will need to buy two singles when you want to travel somewhere and back again. The cost of a single fare depends on how you pay for the ticket – by cash or with a transportation card.

Here are the costs for public transport in Korea by payment method, type and user:

Please note : The cost of subway rides is set to rise to 1,400 / 1,500 KRW in October 2023. These prices will be adjusted when this occurs.

How Do You Pay For Public Transport In Korea?

The cost of public transport in Korea depends on whether you pay with a transportation card, such as T-Money, a Korea Tour Card , or Cashbee, or in cash. This applies to both subways and buses. If you use a transportation card, you should add credit to it, then touch it to the card reader at the subway or bus to pay.

To use cash to buy a subway ticket, you will need to buy a ticket at the station. For buses, you should pay the correct fare to the driver when boarding the bus. However, since 2022, buses across Korea have started to end the use of cash and some will insist on payment by transportation card only.

In the future, bus payments are expected to become simpler with fares deducted via bluetooth-enabled phones that have the relevant app downloaded. This system has already been in place in Gyeonggi Province since March 2022 and is likely to spread to more bus routes in the future.

I highly recommend getting a T-Money card when you travel to Korea. You can use it to pay for public transportation (at a discounted rate), and it will work almost everywhere in Korea. It can also be used to buy goods from shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s really convenient and a must-have for Korea.

Using T-Money To Pay For Public Transport In Korea

A T-Money card is the essential transportation card for using public transport in Korea. You can purchase one at Incheon Airport, subway and train stations, and convenience stores across Korea. The card can be used in many places. It never expires, so you can use it on different trips, too.

Here is how to use a T-Money card in Korea:

• Purchase a T-Money card (2,500 KRW)
• Add money to the card (cash top-up only)
• Enter the bus or subway station
• Tap the T-Money card against the card reader (see pic above)
• Tap the T-Money card again when you get off (for transfer discount)
• Recharge when necessary

I recommend adding about 10,000 KRW for each day you plan to travel in Korea. That means about 70,000 KRW for a week. You can add more money later if necessary. You can top up at convenience stores and transport stations. There is also an app version of T-Money, but the card version is better.

How Do You Use Trains In Korea?

The train network in Korea is divided into high-speed trains (KTX) and regular trains (ITX and Mugunghwa). The KTX network connects major cities in Korea and is convenient for travelling around Korea quickly and cheaply. The carriages are comfortable and come with modern facilities.

Unlike other forms of public transport in Korea, transportation cards like T-Money aren’t accepted for trains. You will need to buy a train ticket to travel and all tickets are single tickets. The price to buy a ticket doesn’t change and you can refund a ticket up to the last minute for only a small fee.

You can book tickets within 30 days of travel through the official Korail website or app, or at a train station in Korea. Unfortunately, buying a train ticket online in Korea can be difficult as Korean payment systems often reject cards issued outside of Korea. Buying in person is recommended.

How To Book Korean Rail Tickets Outside Of Korea

If you want to book Korean train tickets outside of Korea, you can do it online with Trip.com , which is Korail’s exclusive overseas distributor. The price is slightly higher (about 5%) than the price you’ll pay in Korea, but it will allow you to book tickets online and secure your seat in advance.

If you plan to travel on the main KTX route between Seoul and Busan, I highly recommend booking tickets in advance. There are three types of tickets available – first class, regular, and standing. The journey takes 2:34 and you don’t want to be standing for all that time. Book ahead for comfort.

Is The Korea Rail Pass Worth The Price?

The Korea Rail Pass is a good option for tourists who plan to travel long distances by train in Korea, such as between Seoul and Busan or Seoul and Jeonju. The pass has two main options – flexible and consecutive. These mean you can use it any time (flexible) or within consecutive days.

The flexible pass is more expensive, but offers more freedom to travel around Korea over a longer period. You can use the pass to only cover big journeys and won’t feel pressured to use it again until you’re ready. The extra cost is more than worth the inconvenience of having to rush travel plans.

Will you save money with the Korea Rail Pass? That depends on your travel plans, how often you’ll be travelling by train, and how many people are travelling. If there are 2 people or more, purchase the group saver pass and save 10,000 KRW each on the pass. Group tours make it better value.

The Korea Rail Pass does not allow you to ride on the subway for free, which would make it better value. It can also be complicated to reserve tickets online using the pass and buying tickets in the regular way is more convenient. Overall, the pass isn’t essential, but might save you money.

How Do You Use Taxis In Korea?

Taxis in Korea can be hailed from the street or called directly to you using apps such as Kakao Taxi . Companies like Uber and Grab don’t have a large presence in Korea and operate the same way as Kakao Taxi, by helping you find an official taxi driver. Private taxi services aren’t common.

The big issue facing the Korean taxi industry in 2024 is the lack of taxi drivers. This can make it hard to get a taxi, even when using an app like Kakao Taxi. Late night taxis are particularly difficult to find. Read this guide about how to use Kakao Taxi to help you learn how to call a taxi in Korea.

Taxi prices in Korea are reasonable, especially compared to countries like Japan and the UK. Although base taxi fares rose in 2023 to 4,800 KRW, the price is still low and relatively affordable to travel by taxi if you need to. It’s a good option if there are no direct public transport routes.

Taking a taxi to and from Incheon Airport is a convenient option if you have a lot of bags or you are travelling in a group. For solo travellers or couples, I would recommend using public transport or a limo bus, as it’s significantly cheaper and won’t take much longer than a taxi.

How Do You Use Intercity Buses In Korea?

Intercity buses in Korea operate in a similar way to trains. You can only book tickets within 30 days of travel and can only buy single tickets. Book tickets online through websites such as T-Money Bus or Bustago , through app versions of these sites, or at the bus terminal you will depart from.

You can’t walk onto intercity buses without a ticket, nor can you use transportation cards like T-Money to pay on entry. You will need to pay for and receive your ticket (physical or digital) before you can enter the bus. Ticket machines usually (but not always) have English options for buying tickets.

There are no return bus tickets in Korea and you can only buy tickets from your point of departure, unless you book online or via an app. If you’re travelling from Seoul to Gangneung, for example, you will need to buy a ticket in Seoul and then a ticket in Gangneung. You can’t buy both in Seoul.

How Can You Hire A Car In Korea?

Renting a car is a great way to see parts of Korea that aren’t covered by the train network and gives you the freedom to explore at your leisure. If you plan to travel to Jeju Island, which doesn’t have any trains, hiring a car will be a lot more convenient and is almost a must if you plan to travel inland.

Car rental in Korea isn’t that expensive and you can rent a modern car for as little as 75,000 KRW per day. I recommend booking car rentals through Klook , they will deal with the Korean car rental companies and reserve a car for you. This is easier than trying to do it in Korean.

To hire a car in Korea, you will need:

• Driver’s license (must have had it for at least 1 or 2 years)
• International Driving Permit (in some cases)
• Credit card (in the name of the main driver)
• Valid photo ID (passport)
• Printed voucher for rental (if booked online)

Here’s some more information about the International Driving Permit and rules you should follow when driving in Korea, such as the legal requirement to wear seatbelts, booster seats for under 6s, and not using your phone while driving. Be sure to read up on local rules before driving in Korea.

Best Places To Visit In Korea In 2024

The next few sections of this South Korea travel guide will help you figure out what you want to do and see on your travels. This first section will give you a brief introduction to the best places to visit in Korea, including the major cities, tourist hotspots, and unique areas that you’re sure to love.

Here are the best places to visit in Korea:

Seoul: Korea’s Capital

Seoul is Korea’s vibrant, bustling capital and truly a must-see for any first-time visitor to Korea. There is so much to see and do in Seoul that you could easily spend a week or more exploring the city and not get bored. You will find yourself falling in love with the city for different reasons. Maybe it’s the friendly people, the deliciously cheap street eats, the way things just work, the hidden murals on old buildings down side streets, the feeling of safety even in a big city, or the historic sights creeping out from modern buildings. Seoul includes everything Korea has to offer, plus a lot more you won’t find elsewhere.

What To See In Seoul

Here are 10 great places to visit in Seoul:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Bukchon Hanok Village
• Myeongdong Street Markets
• Lotte World Tower & Seokchon Lake
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza & Markets
• Yeouido Han River Park & Cruise
• Secret Garden (Changdeokgung Palace)
• N Seoul Tower & Namsan Mountain
• COEX Mall & Bongeunsa Temple
• Bukhansan National Park

Busan: Big Coastal City

While Seoul is a showcase of all things Korean, Busan is unashamedly its own city and a celebration of coastal life and local culture. Busan is famous for fresh seafood, traditional markets, great beaches, big festivals, movies, temples, and places to explore the coast. Beaches are popular places to visit in Busan, along with cliff-side walkways with views over the ocean. Central Busan is a lively spot with lots of entertainment and markets to enjoy, including a famous fish market where you can choose your own lunch and then eat it. Busan is spread out and deserves several days to explore it properly.

What To See In Busan

Here are 10 great places to visit in Busan:

• Haeundae Beach & Beach Train
• Jagalchi Fish Market
• Gamcheon Culture Village
• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
• Songdo Beach & Cable Car
• Huinnyeoul Culture Village
• BIFF Square & Centum City Mall
• Oryukdo Skywalk & Coastal Paths
• Lotte World Busan
• Busan X The Sky Observatory

Jeju Island: Natural Wonder

Jeju Island is a gorgeous island created from a volcano rising out of the ocean 2 million years ago. Today it’s one of the New 7 Natural Wonders of Nature and deservedly so. The lush island is packed with pine trees, tangerines, rolling hills and fields, cacti, and jet black volcanic rock tumbled all around. You can relax on a beach, go horse riding, explore ancient lava tubes, scuba dive, climb to the volcano’s peak, chill in a beach-side cafe, explore traditional markets, learn about local culture, and lots more. The island has two main cities, but the attractions are spread out along the coast.

What to See On Jeju Island

Here are 10 great places to visit on Jeju Island:

• Hallasan Mountain (Volcano)
• Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak
• Hyeopjae & Hamdeok Beaches
• Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market
• Jeju Folk Village
• Yakcheonsa Coastal Buddhist Temple
• Jungmun Beach & Jusangjeolli Cliff
• O’Sulloc Green Tea Museum
• Cheonjiyeon & Jeongbang Waterfalls

Gyeongju: Historic Capital

Gyeongju , the former capital of the Shilla Kingdom in ancient Korea, is a true treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage sites, as well as local culture, history, and natural beauty. Described as an outdoor museum, you can see many of the big attractions in the Gyeongju Historic Area, including the 1,400 year Cheomseongdae Observatory . There’s so much to see in Gyeongju outside this area though, including the impressive Bulguksa Temple, one of the best Buddhist temples in Korea. There’s also the Bomun Lake Tourist District, a dreamy sight during cherry blossom season.

What To See In Gyeongju

Here are 10 great places to visit in Gyeongju:

• Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Shrine
• Cheomseongdae Observatory
• Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond
• Yangdong Folk Village
• Hwangnidangil Hanok Street
• Daereungwon Tomb Complex
• Bomun Lake Tourist Complex
• Woljeonggyo Bridge
• Gyeongju National Museum
• Gyochon Traditional Hanok Village

Jeonju: Traditional Views & Food

Jeonju is the perfect destination for a day trip from Seoul and has most of its main attractions in one area of the city. What can you see in Jeonju? The main attraction is the gigantic Jeonju Hanok Village , featuring more than 700 traditional hanok houses. You can dress up in Korean hanbok, dine on Jeonju’s famous bibimbap in an old restaurant, and see how life in Korea used to be. There are plenty of other sights nearby, including a traditional market, pretty river, and the rather unusual Jaman Mural Village.

What To See In Jeonju

Here are 5 great places to visit in Jeonju:

• Jeonju Hanok Village
• Jeongdong Catholic Church
• Gyeonggijeon Shrine
• Nambu Traditional Market
• Jaman Mural Village

Suwon: Fortress City

Suwon is another city close to Seoul that you can visit in a day and see many interesting and unique sights. The main draw of Suwon is the Hwaseong Fortress and the fortress walls, which are still intact and run for 6km around the city. Inside this fortress you’ll find lots of museums, historic buildings, parks, and activities, such as archery. There are often cultural festivals in this area, too. Surprisingly, Suwon is the best place to get KFC (Korean Fried Chicken). There’s a whole street dedicated to making it.

What to See In Suwon

Here are 5 great places to visit in Suwon:

• Hwaseong Fortress & Fortress Walls
• Hwaseong Haenggung & Haengridan Gil
• Fried Chicken Street
• Korean Folk Village
• Gwanggyo Lake Park

Incheon: Modern City With Islands

Incheon is one of Korea’s largest cities, but is sadly ignored as it’s right next to Seoul and most people think it’s just there for the airport. That’s not true at all and there’s plenty to see and do in Incheon. Described as a futuristic city, Incheon is at the front of Korea’s push to become an ultra-modern country and nowhere shows that more than Songdo Central Park . The traditional side of Incheon is also worth exploring, including the Chinatown, which is home to Korea’s most popular student food – jajangmyeon . If you want to explore a lesser-seen side of Korea, check out the islands near Incheon to see ancient fortresses, temples, and charming sights.

What to See In Incheon

Here are 5 great places to visit in Incheon:

• Songdo Central Park
• Incheon Chinatown
• Wolmido Island
• Incheon Grand Park
• Ganghwa Jeondeungsa Temple

Gapyeong County: Tourists Treats

Gapyeong County is a rural part of Korea just outside Seoul that is one of the most popular day trip destinations for visitors and locals alike. Inside Gapyeong County is the lovely Garden of Morning Calm , a beautiful sculpted garden that showcases traditional Korean buildings set amongst thousands of different plants and trees. There’s also Nami Island , an ever-popular attraction that has long tree-lined streets to explore, woodland animals, bike paths, and even a zip line to the island. You can also visit Petite France, a recreation of a French village, Gapyeong Rail Bike Park, and Cheongpyeong Lake, and many other attractions in Gapyeong.

What To See In Gapyeong

Here are 5 great places to visit in Gapyeong:

• Nami Island
• Garden of Morning Calm
• Petite France
• Gapyeong Rail Bike Park
• Cheongpyeong Lake

North-East Coast: Amazing Beaches

The north-east coastal region of Korea, spreading between Sokcho and Gangneung , features some of Korea’s most popular summer seaside resorts and beaches. The wide, sandy beaches are perfect for water sports, working on your tan, and sitting at night listening to local musicians perform BTS covers and their own tunes. Sokcho deserves at least two days to explore, more if you plan to visit nearby Seoraksan National Park , one of Korea’s best places to see autumn foliage. Gangneung is where to see cherry blossoms in spring, sit and relax at a seaside cafe at Gangneung Coffee Street , and enjoy beach life.

What To See On The North-East

Here are 5 great places in north-east Korea:

• Sokcho Beach
• Gangneung Beach
• Seoraksan National Park
• Yangyang Surfyy Beach
• Gangneung Coffee Street

East Coast: Harbour Cities

Ulsan and Pohang are two industrial cities that don’t get enough attention, but are ideal for a weekend visit once you’ve explored other top sights. These coastal cities both have good beaches, coastal walks, and green spots, including a pretty bamboo forest in Ulsan. In Pohang, you can see the dizzying Space Walk , which looks out over the city and ocean. There’s also a former Japanese district with old buildings, and the famous Homigot Sunrise Square where you can watch the first sunrise of the year. Ulsan is famous for whaling and visitors should check out the charming Jangsaengpo Whale Museum and Daewangam Park.

What To See On The East Coast

Here are 5 great places on Korea’s East Coast:

• Yeongildae Beach & Space Walk
• Ilsan Beach & Daewangam Park
• Jangsaengpo Whale Museum
• Homigot Sunrise Square
• Taehwagang National Garden

South-West: Iconic Rural Destinations

South-west Korea is a long way from most travellers’ typical route, but this area is worth visiting if you have time. Gwangju , one of Korea’s largest cities, is hidden away down here and surrounded by natural beauty, including the Juknokwon Bamboo Forest , Boseong Green Tea Fields, and Suncheon Bay Nature Reserve. If you plan to hire a car , these spots will show you a completely different side to Korea. Gwangju, too, which is a fun city and the birthplace of Korean democracy. Hidden in the far corner of Korea is Mokpo, a lovely coastal city that has a new cable car carrying you over the ocean.

What to See In The South-West

Here are 5 great places in south-west Korea:

• Damyang Juknokwon Bamboo Forest
• Boseong Green Tea Fields
• Gwangju Culture Park & Penguin Village
• Suncheon Bay Nature Reserve
• Mokpo Marine Cable Car

South Coast Islands: Summer Getaways

Best explored during the hot summer months and early autumn, the south coast islands in Korea, which span from Busan to Mokpo, are where Koreans spend their summer holidays. The most popular destinations here are Geoje, Tongyeong, Yeosu, Namhae, and Goheung and each offers winding coastal paths, beaches, natural beauty, and fun summer activities. The best way to see these islands is with a rented car or by bike, riding around the coast visiting a few different beaches and attractions. Don’t expect too many cultural sights, instead you’ll find luges, gardens, water sports, and lots of fun.

What to See On The South Coast

Here are 5 great places on Korea’s South Coast:

• Dolsan Park & Cable Car
• Namhae Geumsan Boriam Hermitage
• Hallyeohaesang National Park
• Oedo-Botania Botanical Garden
• Skyline Luge Tongyeong

As you can see, there are many great places to visit in Korea. Korea is truly a country of undiscovered wonders that people aren’t aware of. Seoul is an incredible place to visit, but there’s so much more to see. That’s why I try to include lesser-known places in this South Korea travel guide.

The list above covers a lot of the most popular or tour-worthy destinations in Korea, but there are still more places I could recommend, such as Andong (home to the mask dance festival), Gunsan (port town with a retro vibe), Daegu (big city with historic sights), Daejeon , and many more.

Besides cities and towns in Korea, there are also 18 national parks to explore, thousands of mountains, Buddhist temples, beaches, bike routes, campsites, and so much more. I’ll include a few of each of these in the next few sections of this South Korea travel guide.

Best Day Tours From Seoul In 2024

Taking a day tour while you’re staying in Seoul is a great way to see more of Korea’s top attractions without the hassle of moving hotels to somewhere new. The 10 day tours from Seoul below can all be done in a day or less and can even be combined with other activities in the same day.

I don’t want to include every day tour available in this South Korea travel guide as there isn’t enough room to talk about them all. If you want to find more day tours, I recommend looking at the options available through tour providers such as Klook , Viator , and Get Your Guide .

Please note : There are many day tours from Seoul and they come with various prices. I recommend avoiding the very cheapest as these will often waste your time by taking you to some overpriced gift shop area and pressuring you to buy souvenirs or rushing you through too many attractions.

Here are 10 great day tours from Seoul:

Why Visit The DMZ

The DMZ, the demilitarised zone between North & South Korea is a truly unique place to visit when you’re in Korea. There are several different locations to see in this area, each reflecting the bitter struggle between the two Korea’s in the ongoing Korean War. Some of the highlights are the 3rd Tunnel, Dora Observatory, Dorasan Station, Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, and the Imjingak Park. There’s also the Panmunjom Truce Village where you can walk into North Korea, but this is currently closed. Tours are required to travel to certain parts of the DMZ.

Why Visit Gapyeong County

Gapyeong County is home to Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, Petite France, Gapyeong Rail Bike Park, and several other fun attractions. Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm are the most popular and can both be visited in a day. You can witness beautiful scenes at these destinations, especially during cherry blossom season (April) and autumn foliage season (October). Tours from Seoul to Gapyeong County are convenient and can take you to multiple places in one day without the hassle of buses and finding your own way.

Why Visit Hwaseong Fortress

Hwaseong Fortress and its fortress walls offer a unique chance to see what life was like in Korea 200 years ago. Not only can you walk the full length of the walls around the city, you can also try archery and other traditional activities in the fortress grounds. There are many museums, fortress buildings, and exhibitions showing how people lived in this period. You can also enjoy the beautiful ponds and streams that run through the palace with traditional Korean restaurants and cafes looking out over these areas.

Why Visit Korean Folk Village

Discover traditional Korean life at the Korean Folk Village in Yongin during a day trip from Seoul. Walk through dozens of recreated farm buildings, government offices, academies, shops, smiths, schools, and other traditional buildings from Korea’s past to get a feel for how people lived at this time. Actors dressed in traditional Joseon-era costumes bring the scenes to life. You can try fun activities, such as mask carving, horse riding, and archery. Witness exciting festivals and cultural performances, too.

Why Visit Jeonju Hanok Village

A day trip to the Jeonju Hanok Village in Jeonju is a great way to experience various traditional Korean cultural activities in a beautiful setting. This sprawling hanok village has over 700 traditional buildings for you to explore, dine in, or even stay in. Make sure you rent hanbok in Jeonju so you look like Korean royalty and make memorable photos during your trip. Whilst you’re in Jeonju Hanok Village, you can try local delights such as Jeonju bibimbap and PNB chocopies. Also check out the traditional Nambu Market and Jeongdong Catholic Church.

Why Visit Alpaca World

When you travel to Korea, you may not think about seeing alpacas, which are from an entirely different continent. But Korea’s love of all things cute means that these furry friends have become very popular in Korea and have their own theme park a few hours from Seoul. There are dozens of cuddly alpacas to see, feed, and play with at Alpaca World , as well as hundreds of other cute critters such as ponies, rabbits, deer, goats, fennec foxes, and more. There are 17 separate areas to explore in Alpaca World and it’ll provide hours of fun for the whole family.

Why Visit Seoraksan

Seoraksan National Park on Korea’s east coast is a great day trip from Seoul for those who want to see mountain peaks, leafy valleys, stony rivers, and a gigantic Buddha. Even if you’re not a keen hiker, you can explore lots of the park’s valley pathways easily, or reach the top thanks to the convenient cable car. See the sights from the observatory and check out the small temple in the clouds. Make sure you try haemul pajeon (seafood pancake) and makgeolli (rice wine). It’s the traditional meal Koreans enjoy after hiking.

Why Visit Everland

Everland is Korea’s biggest theme park and is packed with attractions for everyone to enjoy. Thrill seekers will love the rollercoasters, such as T Express (the world’s 4th steepest rollercoaster) and many more exciting rides. Check out the Zootopia section to see wild animals and wild rides, or the Plantopia section for floral beauty, romantic walkways, and seasonal delights. There are plenty of attractions, cultural performances, entertainments, and seasonal events to keep you amused all day long.

Why Visit Danyang

A great way to see Korea’s countryside is with a day trip to Danyang to enjoy the rush of sailing over valleys and beside mountains while tandem paragliding. Feel the wind in your face and the sensation of riding the air currents as you pass over the many delightful views of Danyang. You can enjoy other activities in this area, such as the Mancheonha Skywalk , a clifftop lookout with incredible views, riding an alpine coaster, and zooming along a zip line. The perfect day tour from Seoul for thrill seekers.

Why Visit Dae Jang Geum Park

Fans of Korean period dramas and movies will love a day trip to Dae Jang Geum Park in Yongin. This is the largest historical drama filming set in Korea and was used to film MBC productions such as ‘Wind in the Palace’ and ‘The Great Queen Seondeok’, as well as K-Pop videos including Daechwita by Suga from BTS. If you’re lucky, you may see filming going on here. But even if you don’t, it’s a fun place for those who want to learn more about Korea’s history and take some cool pictures in a real movie set.

I’ve linked to tours provided by reliable tour companies in Korea. If you would rather book a tour through a local guide, contact Jerry Heng or Andrew Chung Hanbyul . They’re freelance guides with years of experience offering tours in Korea and both offer amazing service.

These places are accessible by public transport, but may take much longer than a tour would do, wasting your precious time. Check out my guide for getting to Nami Island to help you navigate Gapyeong County. For other destinations, I would recommend a tour – it’s more practical.

Best Sights To See In Korea In 2024

South Korea truly has something for everyone. There’s so much I want to include in this South Korea travel guide, which is why this section is full of different sights to see and explore. However, to keep things short and simple, I’ll just list them, not give full details about each one.

Whether you’re travelling to Korea to learn about Korean culture or history, to see Korea’s impressive landmarks, to enjoy family fun attractions, to hop from cafe to cafe, to immerse yourself in nature, or simply to eat and shop, then you’ll definitely find something for you in this section.

Famous Landmarks In Korea

Landmarks and iconic buildings are often top of a traveller’s bucket list for Korea as they provide great photo opportunities, showcase the best of the country, and offer fantastic views. Seoul has many top landmarks, but you can see plenty of other sights outside of the capital, too.

Here are 10 famous landmarks in Korea:

• Lotte World Tower (Seoul)
• N Seoul Tower (Seoul)
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza (Seoul)
• Cheonggyecheon Stream (Seoul)
• DMZ Area (near Seoul)
• Nami Island (Gapyeong County)
• Gamcheon Culture Village (Busan)
• Seongsan Ilchulbong (Jeju)
• Homigot Sunrise Square (Pohang)
• Banwol Purple Island (West Coast)

Historic Sights In Korea

Discover life in the Joseon period and before in Korea’s many captivating historic sights, including royal palaces, Buddhist temples, fortresses, and hanok villages. There are so many amazing historic sights to see in Korea, with each city having something to see.

Here are 10 historic sights in Korea:

• Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul)
• Gyeongbokgung Palace (Seoul)
• The Secret Garden (Seoul)
• Seoul Fortress Walls (Seoul)
• Hwaseong Fortress (Suwon)
• Bulguksa Temple (Gyeongju)
• Gyeongju Historic Area (Gyeongju)
• Jeonju Hanok Village (Jeonju)
• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (Busan)
• Andong Hahoe Village (Andong)

Korean Modern Cultural Sights

Fans of BTS, K-Dramas, Korean movies, and modern Korean culture in general have a lot to see and do in Korea. As well as famous filming locations across the country, these modern cultural sights will entertain, inform, and provide great destinations to visit.

Here are 10 modern cultural sights in Korea:

• Hallyu K Star Road (Seoul)
• K-Style Hub (Seoul)
• Hongik Uni. Station Area (Seoul)
• COEX Artium (Seoul)
• Asia Culture Centre (Gwangju)
• BIFF Square (Busan)
• Dae Jang Geum Park (Yongin)
• Sunshine Studio (Nonsan)
• Kim Gwang-Seok Street (Daegu)

Family Fun Attractions In Korea

Families travelling to Korea have plenty of things to see and do and ways to enjoy spending time together. There’s no Disneyworld or Universal Studios in Korea, but there are plenty of great alternatives, as well as places for children to explore, learn, and discover.

Here are 10 family fun attractions in Korea:

• Lotte World Adventure (Seoul)
• Everland Theme Park (Yongin)
• Seoul Grand Park & Zoo (Seoul)
• Alive Museum & Dynamic Maze (Seoul)
• Seoul Children’s Museum (Seoul)
• Zoolung Zoolung (Seoul)
• Sea Life Busan Aquarium (Busan)
• Jeju Dinosaur Island (Jeju Island)
• Alpaca World (Gangwon Province)
• Skyline Luge & Lotte World (Busan)

Korean Museums & Galleries

Travellers to Korea who want to learn about Korea’s history, culture, and art will love Korea’s impressive museums and galleries. These are great places to visit when the weather is bad and you might be surprised at how much there is to learn about Korea’s past.

Here are 10 museums & galleries in Korea:

• National Museum of Korea (Seoul)
• War Memorial of Korea (Seoul)
• Seoul Museum of Art (Seoul)
• Seoul Museum of History (Seoul)
• Seodaemun Prison Museum (Seoul)
• Museum Kimchikan (Seoul)
• National Folk Museum of Korea (Seoul)
• Gyeongju National Museum (Gyeongju)
• National Maritime Museum (Busan)
• Daegu Art Museum (Daegu)

Cafe Areas In Korea

When you need a break from travelling in Korea, visit one of these cosy cafe areas and take time to relax and recharge. Although Korea was traditionally a tea drinking country, cafes are now everywhere and you’ll find photogenic cafes everywhere these days.

Here are 10 cafe areas to visit in Korea:

• Ikseondong Hanok Village (Seoul)
• Gyeongui Line Parks (Seoul)
• Samcheondong Cafe Street (Seoul)
• Sinsa-dong / Garosugil Road (Seoul)
• Jukjeon Cafe Street (Seoul)
• Jeonpo Cafe Street (Busan)
• Haeridangil (Busan)
• Hwangnidangil (Gyeongju)
• Hwaseong Haenggung Area (Suwon)
• Gangneung Coffee Street (Gangneung)

Korean Markets & Malls

If you want the best selection of street food, souvenirs, and bargain shopping options, be sure to visit Korea’s many traditional markets. It’s a cultural experience itself. Korea also has some of the world’s largest malls with a wide variety of Korean and international goods.

Here are 10 markets & malls in Korea:

• Gwangjang Market (Seoul)
• Dongaemun Market (Seoul)
• Hongdae Shopping Street (Seoul)
• Starfield COEX Mall (Seoul)
• Jagalchi Fish Market (Busan)
• Seomyeon Underground Mall (Busan)
• Centum City Mall (Busan)
• Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market (Jeju)
• Nambu Market (Jeonju)
• Paju Premium Outlets (Paju)

Korean Natural Wonders

Korea is a country covered in mountains, waterfalls, valleys, rice terraces, and beautiful natural sights. Make time to visit some of these natural wonders when you visit Korea and you’ll be amazed at the incredible views you can find. The national parks are truly breathtaking.

Here are 10 natural wonders to see in Korea:

• Hallasan Mountain (Jeju)
• Jirisan National Park (Southern Korea)
• Seoraksan National Park (Gyeonggi)
• Garden of Morning Calm (Gapyeong)
• Juknokwon Bamboo Forest (Damyang)
• Boseong Green Tea Fields (Boseong)
• Udo Island (Jeju Island)
• Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak (Jeju)
• Hyeopjae Beach (Jeju)
• Suncheon Bay National Park (Suncheon)

These 100 ideas are just the tip of the iceberg for what you can enjoy when travelling to Korea. There’s so much more to discover and I recommend you add some time to your travel plans to explore without a plan. Sometimes the best travel memories come from unexpected discoveries.

Best Activities To Try In Korea In 2024

Often the most memorable moments when travelling come from the experiences we have, not just the places we visit. Visiting a palace is interesting, but visiting a palace while dressed in traditional Korean hanbok , pretending you’re Joseon-era royalty with your friends or family is much more fun.

This section of the South Korea travel guide offers 10 fun activities you can try when you visit Korea. These will give you a good introduction to Korean culture, food, history, and nature. If you want more ideas, check out my list of 50 unique Korean experiences you can only do in Korea.

One of the top experiences to try in Korea has to be wearing Korean hanbok. It is available for all members of the family (even pets) and you can rent hanbok near most palaces or hanok villages. The hanbok easily fit over your regular clothes and come in a variety of colourful or traditional designs. You can get hair styling, accessories, and even have a hanbok photoshoot . Rentals can be as short as one hour or up to a full day.

Travellers to Korea can’t say they’ve truly tried Korean cuisine until they’ve eaten Korean street food from a market stall or street vendor. There are many types of Korean street food to sample in Korea, such as savoury snacks like tteokbokki and eomuk , to sweet treats like hotteok and bungeo-ppang . Korean street food is cheap and delicious. It’s usually not that healthy, but always leaves you feeling great. Give it a try.

Experience life as a Korean would have in the Joseon-era with a night in a traditional hanok house. A hanok stay is very different from sleeping in a hotel and allows you to try a night on a futon (with underground heating keeping you warm in winter). Slide the doors aside in the morning and walk out onto the wooden decking to enjoy traditional Korean tea at a low table and the sight of the ornately decorated garden. Don’t forget to take your shoes off before you enter.

Seoul and other cities in Korea still have fortress walls you can walk or hike along that will offer incredible views of cities and mountains. As you walk along the fortress walls, you begin to imagine what life would have been like as a soldier keeping the city safe from invaders. Nowadays, you can enjoy exercise and sightseeing at the same time. Seoul’s fortress walls are a good place to start, but you can find fortress walls in many other places.

Visiting a Korean sauna might be a bit shocking for first-time travellers to Korea, but it’s a great way to relax and is especially good in winter. When you enter a Korean sauna, you should take off all your clothes, have a shower, and then enter one of the hot baths. Being naked in front of others can be scary for some, but you soon overcome that fear. Korean saunas sometimes have a communal resting area called a jjimjjilbang . These areas require pyjamas and offer snacks, drinks, and places to rest.

The Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism have set up a templestay program at dozens of temples across Korea where you spend a day or two at the temple and join in various activities. This is truly a unique experience that you should try in Korea as you get to see customs performed by the monks that aren’t normally shown to the public. You also get to stay overnight at the temple and experience a hanok stay at the same time. Guests can also eat healthy vegan temple food, learn a lot, and chat with the monks.

A noraebang is the Korean version of a karaoke room, but is more popular in Korea and is commonly visited by locals and tourists alike. This is a great place to visit in the evening after a big Korean bbq meal and a few drinks. Everyone can relax and belt out their favourite Korean or international tunes together (or alone), shake some tambourines in support, or just watch and enjoy the atmosphere with some drinks. You can find these in every town and city in Korea and they provide a cheap night of fun and drinks.

Open since 2020, the Sky Bridge at Lotte World Tower offers unbeatable views of Seoul and a nerve-racking trip above the city. Walk between the two towers at the top of the Lotte World Tower and peer down the 541 metre drop to the city streets below. It’s actually very safe and you’re strapped into a harness as you walk from one side to the other, but this definitely isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you’re not sure you can handle the height, check out the Seoul Sky Observatory on the 117th floor instead.

Koreans love to drink coffee and also love cute, unusual things, which is probably why theme cafes have become so popular in Korea. Besides the many cat cafes, there are theme cafes where you can stroke sheep, pet dogs, and see other animals. There’s more to Korea’s theme cafes than just drinking coffee with animals, you can also try drinking from a toilet at the Poop Cafe , paint pictures, build lego, go camping, practice being a wizard, and more. Hongdae in Seoul is the best place to find theme cafes.

Although cafes are replacing Korean tea houses, Korea still grows and drinks lots of tea, especially green tea. You can visit these tea fields in areas such as Boseong and on Jeju Island, both of which have visitor centres and attractions to teach you about the wonderful world of Korean tea. The Daehan Dawon Tea Plantation in Boseong has lush green fields all year round and has been used as a filming location for several Korean shows. The O’sulloc Tea Museum on Jeju Island also has lovely views.

I recommend trying at least a few of these unique activities, they’ll really make your trip to Korea more memorable and offer insights into Korean culture and life. My advice is to be brave when visiting Korea and try new things, even if they seem a bit unusual at first. The same applies to Korean foods.

Best Korean Festivals To Join In 2024

There are dozens of festivals held in Korea each year celebrating the seasons, local products, traditions, culture, and often just for the sake of having fun. Visiting a festival in Korea will offer you a glimpse of how locals celebrate life, culture, and nature and let you join in the fun.

Whenever you visit Korea, there’ll be festivals going on. However, the biggest festivals occur in spring or autumn. As mentioned previously in this South Korea travel guide, these are the best seasons to visit Korea as the weather is pleasant and people are celebrating the end of summer or winter.

Cherry Blossom Festivals

The cherry blossom festivals in Korea occur in late March and early April and are some of the biggest festivals in Korea. People flock to forests, lakes, and rivers to see the pretty blossoms. The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival has over 2 million visitors each year, and even more people visit Seokchon Lake and Yeouido Hangang Park in Seoul. There are many festivals and tours to see cherry blossoms in Korea so you should be able to find a quiet place to enjoy the view.

Winter Light Festivals

During the cold, dark days of winter, attractions such as Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, and Herb Island transform into sparkling winter wonderlands with millions of bright lights illuminating them. There are also winter illumination festivals in Korean cities, such as the Haeundae Lighting Festival in Busan, Cheonggyecheon Stream Winter Lights in Seoul, and the Busan Christmas Tree Cultural Festival. When it snows in Korea, these festivals look even more magical.

Summer Music Festivals

Summer in Korea is hot, but that doesn’t stop people enjoying day-long music festivals across the country. From chilled jazz festivals like the Seoul Jazz Festival , to action-packed concerts like Psy’s Summer Swag , there are music festivals to suit everyone. This is a popular summer activity in Korea , so be sure to book in advance for ticketed events. If you can’t get tickets, just go to a popular beach in the evening and you’ll usually find musicians performing.

New Year Festivals

There are various festivals in Korea to celebrate the solar new year. New Year’s Eve festivals involve a bell-ringing ceremony where a giant bell is rung at midnight to welcome in the new year. Fireworks festivals are common events in cities across Korea, starting at midnight, too. Koreans celebrate the start of the new year by visiting the East Coast to see the first sunrise of the year at places like Homigot Sunrise Square or Seongsan Ilchulbong on Jeju Island.

Buddha’s Birthday Festivals

Buddha’s Birthday is like Christmas for the Buddhist world, but celebrated very differently. It also falls on changing dates each year as it follows the lunar calendar, just like Korean New Year. Korean Buddhist temples across Korea will celebrate by putting up colourful lanterns and decorations for at least a month before the actual date. The biggest festival celebrating Buddha’s Birthday is the Yeon Deung Hoe Lantern Festival , which features thousands of lanterns and a lantern parade through central Seoul.

Boryeong Mud Festival

The Boryeong Mud Festival is one of Korea’s largest festivals and attracts visitors from around the world. Running for 2 weeks during rainy season, this is the best way to see a Korean festival even when the weather is bad. There’s a lot to see and do at this festival, including getting dirty in the mud with mud sports, mud wrestling, mud tug-of-war, and other mud-filled events. Boryeong is famous for the high-quality mud found in nearby waters and, by joining this festival, you’re getting a free mud facial.

Jinju Lantern Festival

The visually stunning Jinju Lantern Festival is held in October each year in Jinju City and runs for several weeks. During the day, watch cultural performances and enjoy exploring the central fortress grounds of Jinju. Once it gets dark, see the city transform as thousands of lanterns, some as big as trees, come to life. There are so many weird and wonderful lanterns to discover at this festival. You can also set your own lanterns to float down the river with your wish inside.

Andong Mask Dance Festival

The Andong Mask Dance Festival in Andong, home of the Andong Hahoe Village, is a great opportunity to witness traditional Korean dance and music performances. Not only can you see traditional Korean performances during this 4 day festival, there are also international performers displaying their own culture’s dancing. Get hands-on with traditional Korean culture at this festival. Explore Andong and learn about its contributions to Korea’s cultural development.

Goyang Flower Festival

The Goyang International Flower Festival runs twice per year, once in spring and once in autumn. It’s a beautiful celebration of floral beauty mixed with Korean cuteness and creativity. At this flower festival you can stroll through a maze of different displays, with each section focusing on certain flowers and plants. There are indoor displays with vividly coloured roses, nature-based outdoor photo zones, and the lovely Ilsan Lake Park in the background.

Baekje Culture Festival

The Baekje Culture Festival probably isn’t one that first-time travellers to Korea would know about. Held in Gongju and Buyeo, the two former capitals of the ancient Baekje Kingdom, this 10-day long festival held around Chuseok (Korean mid-autumn harvest festival), is packed with unique events and sights and is set in historic locations in each city. There’s local food to try, musical & cultural performances, fun photo zones, lantern displays, and much more.

Knowing when you plan to visit Korea will help you research what festivals are on and what the weather will be like. There are certainly a lot more than just the ones mentioned above, including some others mentioned previously in the seasons part of this South Korea travel guide.

I recommend using a tour company to see out of the way festivals like the Jinju Lantern Festival and the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival. These are often far from typical tourist destinations and can take hours to get to by public transport. Tours are worth the cost to save you time and avoid hassle.

Recommended Itinerary For Korea In 2024

In this section of this South Korea travel guide is my recommended first-timer itinerary for South Korea. This introduces you to two of Korea’s biggest cities, as well as a couple of day trips to highly rated destinations in Korea. There’s a mix of history, culture, nature, sights, and experiences.

This itinerary starts in Seoul as that’s where most people arrive to Korea after flying into Incheon Airport. If you arrive in Busan, you can change the route to start and end there instead. For travellers to Korea with only 2 or 3 days, I recommend using the first few days of this itinerary instead.

The itinerary lasts for one week, which isn’t enough time to see all of Korea, but enough time to get a feel for the country. If you have more time, use this itinerary and add in or replace extra destinations as you like. Jeju Island is certainly worth visiting if you have an extra 2 or 3 days.

Classic Sights Of Korea Itinerary

This itinerary covers a few must-see sights in Korea, including the two largest cities, the history city of Gyeongju, and some popular day trip destinations from Seoul.

Day 1 : Arrive in Seoul and explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong Art Street, Jogyesa Temple, and Cheonggyecheon Stream. Get dinner at the Jonggak Avenue of Youth for authentic Korean food that’s better than the touristy places in Myeongdong.

Day 2 : Learn about Korean history at the War Memorial of Korea or National Museum of Korea, explore Seoul’s traditional Gwangjang market in Dongdaemun, take the cable car to the N Seoul Tower for sunset & night views, then head down to Itaewon or Myeongdong for dinner & drinks.

Day 3 : Take a day trip to Gapyeong and visit Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, and the Gapyeong Rail Bike Park. Return to Seoul for dinner and rooftop drinks in Myeongdong and then walk along the fortress walls from Dongdaemun Station if the weather is good.

Day 4 : Take the KTX to Busan, drop your bags, and take the subway to Nampo-dong for Jagalchi Fish Market, Bosu-dong Book Alley, and traditional sights. Take a taxi to Huinnyeoul Culture Village. End the day in Haeundae for evening dinner & drinks and a walk along the beach at night.

Day 5 : Take the bus to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, then a taxi to Songjeong Beach. Relax in a beachside cafe, then take the Haeundae Beach Train to Cheongsapo, change to the Sky Capsule, and end up in Haeundae. Take a bus to Gamcheon Culture Village and get dinner at Songdo Beach.

Day 6 : Take a day trip from Busan to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Gyeongju. Visit the Gyeongju Historic Area, then Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village for traditional food and sights of Woljeonggyo Bridge. See tranquil night views of Wolji Pond before getting dinner at Hwangnidangil.

Day 7 : Head back to Seoul on the KTX for a final day of shopping and sightseeing in Hongdae. Walk along the Gyeongui Line Forest Park or Book Street or visit a theme cafe. Take the subway directly to Incheon Airport from Hongdae or spend a night here and check out the lively night scene.

Please note : I recommend trying not to cram too much into your itinerary. You may want to see as much as possible, but people often end up rushing past sights and not appreciating them. Plan for less and see more if you have time. It gives you a chance to be spontaneous.

To plan a realistic itinerary for South Korea, it is important to factor in transportation, meal breaks, and rest times. Use Naver Maps to plan your route and work out travel times. A short journey on the map might take much longer if there’s no direct route. Also consider breaks if you plan to walk a lot.

Cultural Issues When Visiting Korea

The next few sections of this South Korea travel guide will provide answers to some of the most common questions first-time travellers to Korea have in regards to cultural, language, and safety issues. Korea is a culturally unique country with customs and traditions you might not be aware of.

Korea is a society that places a strong emphasis on social image, respect for others, and social harmony. This means Koreans will often try to avoid conflict, especially in public. To show respect for Korean culture and to avoid being rude, try to respect social harmony and always avoid conflict.

If you follow these tips, you’ll find it easier to avoid accidentally upsetting someone in Korea. There’s far too much to cover in this South Korea travel guide, so if you’d like to know more, check out my detailed guide to Korean etiquette and culture , it’s packed with tips and insights to understand Korea.

What is considered rude in Korea? It is considered rude to point with one finger or with chopsticks, give and receive with one hand, cross your legs when sitting, and to walk inside with your shoes on. Things considered rude in other countries such as swearing and spitting are also rude in Korea.

What is considered unlucky in Korea? It is considered unlucky to write someone’s name in red ink and to stand chopsticks upright in rice. Both are used in rituals for deceased people. The number 4 is also unlucky as the word is the same as the word for ‘death’.

Do you need to tip in Korea? It’s not necessary to tip in Korea and most restaurants and cafes won’t expect or allow you to tip. There is no service charge added to bills in Korea, with the exception of some upmarket restaurants, bars, and hotels in touristy areas of Seoul. Tipping guides is okay.

Do you need to take off shoes when going inside? If you enter someone’s house in Korea, you should take off your shoes. This rule also applies to temples, traditional restaurants, and other places in traditional buildings. Most cafes, shops, and restaurants won’t ask you to take off your shoes.

When should you use two hands in Korea? You should use two hands when giving and receiving things in Korea, such as money, a gift, a business card, or food. When you shake hands, use both hands, not just one. The same applies to pouring drinks, both pouring and holding a glass.

Do I have to act like a Korean in Korea? You don’t have to follow Korean customs and traditions when you visit Korea. You are a guest in the country and Koreans won’t expect you to know every rule. However, showing cultural awareness in Korea will help you make friends and impress locals.

The best tip for being culturally sensitive in Korea is to first consider all the things that you’d consider rude in your own country – spitting, swearing, shouting, physical violence, etc. Show the same acts of kindness you’d show at home – help others, give up your seat for those in need, be polite, etc.

Furthermore, remember that social harmony is really important in Korea and try not to cause a scene. Keep your voice down in public, don’t talk or act aggressively, be polite, and don’t force things when people are reluctant. Koreans may feel obliged to do things, even when they don’t want to.

Language Issues When Travelling Korea

Language issues can be a big concern for first-time travellers to Korea as Korean is a very different language from English and has a unique alphabet. Korean is also one of the most difficult languages to learn for English speakers, ranked alongside Japanese, Chinese, and Arabic.

However, as a tourist to Korea, you don’t need to worry about mastering the language. English is used for signs and announcements in most places that you’ll need it, such as on public transport, at the airport, at attractions & tourist sites, on menus, and most other places. It’s common across Korea.

If there is a sign or notice that isn’t in Korean, I recommend using the Papago app to take translate it. Use the image translation function in the app to scan the sign and Papago will translate it into English for you. It’s really convenient and the way I translate things I can’t read in Korean.

Do Korean People Speak English?

Speaking in English to Korean people is different from being able to read and translate signs. English is taught from elementary school until the end of high school. That doesn’t mean everyone will remember it, but there’s a good chance some people will know English, especially younger Koreans.

It is best to ask if someone speaks English before trying to have a conversation. You can do this in Korean by asking “영어 할 수 있어요?” (Yong-oh hal su iss-o-yo?) or just ask it in English. Tour guides and people in the tourism industry will probably be able to speak English, but it’s not guaranteed.

Shyness is an issue in Korea and locals may be reluctant to speak English at first for fear of making a mistake. As an English teacher in Korea, I know that Korean students are usually quite competent in English, but lack confidence to use it. Be patient and encouraging when talking in English.

Although some Koreans may be too shy to use English, other people may be enthusiastic about speaking English to you and want to practice it. I’ve been asked random questions in English by strangers in the street in Korea who want to practice English and find out about my life.

Should You Learn Korean Before Visiting Korea?

If you do want to learn some Korean before you travel, I recommend you start by learning the Korean alphabet , or at least learning some basic Korean travel phrases . Knowing how to introduce yourself, discuss prices, ask for directions, and ask for help will make your trip to Korea a lot easier.

You can learn Korean online through courses such as 90 Day Korean and Korean Class 101 , or with self-study textbooks like the excellent Talk To Me In Korean series. There are lots of resources on YouTube, too. I particularly like Learn Korean with GO! Korean Billy as he explains things clearly.

Another way to prepare to move to Korea is to read some Korean novels in English . Although these books won’t teach you any Korean, they’ll offer up valuable insights into Korean culture, both traditional and hidden under the surface. Literature is a good way to gain an understanding of a culture.

A warning about Konglish : Although Korea uses English in many useful ways, there’s also a lot of Konglish. The sign above is a good example of random English words being used to look cool, but ending up being confusing. There’s a lot of this in Korea and it’s mostly harmless, so don’t worry.

Health And Safety Issues In Korea

First-time travellers to Korea may be worried about health and hygiene issues, such as if certain foods are available and if they’re safe to eat. Other issues include vaccinations, personal safety, and how easy it is to contact emergency services. These issues are addressed below.

Is Korean Street Food Safe To Eat?

Korean street food is generally safe to eat and won’t give you any health issues unless you have an intolerance to the food. Korean street food can be spicy or contain a lot of salt, be aware of your own personal tolerances and dietary requirements before trying it.

Also be careful when ordering food with meat or seafood and check that it is cooked thoroughly. Korean street food that has been left out for a long time is more likely to cause food poisoning problems, so ask for freshly cooked food if you’re concerned.

Is It Easy To Find Vegan-Friendly Food In Korea?

There are many vegan-friendly Korean dishes , such as gimbap , japchae , pajeon , bibimbap , ramyeon , and tteokbokki . However, some restaurants may use non vegan-friendly ingredients when preparing these foods, so be careful. Kimchi isn’t vegan-friendly due to its seafood ingredients & sauces.

Vegetarianism and veganism aren’t common in Korea with fewer people following these diets than in countries such as the USA or UK. Vegetarians in Korea account for 3% of the population, while vegans in Korea are only 0.2% of the population as of 2022. The UK is 10% and 2% respectively.

However, the number of vegan-friendly restaurants and bakeries is increasing each year in Korea, especially in areas such as Hongdae and Itaewon. Korean Buddhist temple food is vegan-friendly and a good option for vegans who want to enjoy vegan food while learning about local Korean culture.

If you’re concerned about accidentally ordering non vegan-friendly food, or want to know how to tell someone about food allergies or requirements, check out my guide to Korean phrases for ordering food . This has a whole section about special requests when ordering food in Korean.

Is It Safe To Drink Tap Water In Korea?

Korean tap water is potable and safe to drink. Korea ranks 23rd for water hygiene, which is above the USA, Canada, and Australia. However, many Koreans don’t drink tap water , preferring to use water purifiers and bottled water instead, claiming that tap water smells strange or water pipes are bad.

Personally, I don’t like drinking tap water in Korea as it tastes a bit stale, but it’s perfectly fine to drink and doesn’t cause any problems. Bottled water is very cheap in Korea and costs 600 KRW for a 500ml bottle from a convenience store. Buying water from a supermarket is a cheaper option though.

Do You Need Any Vaccinations To Travel To South Korea?

There are no mandatory vaccinations required to travel to Korea , but it is suggested you should have at least routine vaccinations such as tetanus, MMR, and polio. Hepatitis A & B, typhoid, and Japanese encephalitis vaccinations are also recommended.

Is Korea Friendly To Tourists?

Korea is generally friendly and welcoming to tourists. The Korean government spends a lot of money and effort to promote Korean tourism to the world and there are many incentives to bring people to the country. Korean people are also mostly polite and welcoming, especially in the tourism sector.

Is Korea A Dangerous Country To Travel In?

South Korea is a safe country to travel in and the crime rate in Korea is low, comparable to Norway or the Netherlands. Public crimes, such as theft and assault, are rare. Pickpocketing and purse snatching aren’t common and unattended goods are generally left alone or reported to the police.

How safe is Korea? I regularly see people leave their phone or handbag on a cafe table to reserve it before going up to order a drink. People even leave their laptops open while they pop out for lunch or go to the toilet. Stealing disturbs social harmony and is one of the reasons it’s rare in Korea.

Physical violence is also rare, but still occurs in Korea, as it does in all countries. This is most often found in areas with lots of bars and when people are drunk. However, visiting bars in Korea is a lot safer than I’ve experienced in other countries and trouble is not common, even in busy places.

How Do You Contact Tourist Information Services In Korea?

Call 1330 in Korea to contact the Travel Helpline . The Korean Travel Helpline provides the following services free of charge to tourists in Korea.

• Tourist Information : Find out about attractions, opening hours, prices, and other information.
• Tourist Interpretation : Access travel information in several languages.
• Tourist Complaints : Report rip-offs and problems you encounter when travelling in Korea.
• Tourist Police : Report minor crimes in English and other languanges.

There are tourist police patrolling the streets of Seoul, dressed in purple uniforms as shown in the picture above. In popular tourist locations like Myeongdong and Bukchon Hanok Village, you’ll also find friendly tourist information staff dressed in red shirts with matching red cowboy hats.

What Should You Do If You Have An Emergency In Korea?

If you need to report a fire or medical emergency in Korea, you should call 119 from any phone. To contact the police in Korea, call 112. You will need to select an option to report an emergency in English or another language. It may take some time to be redirected to an English speaker.

• 119 – Medical Emergency & Fire Rescue
• 112 – Police

When you use medical services in Korea, you have to pay the cost of treatment, but there is no fee for the ambulance ride as this is covered by the Korean government. Travel insurance should cover the cost of medical bills, so if you’re worried about a large medical bill, insurance is recommended.

Fortunately, the cost of treatment in Korea is quite reasonable and Korea has advanced medical facilities, which is why it’s a popular medical tourism destination . Many people travel to Korea for minor and major surgery, including laser eye surgery, cosmetic surgery, and internal medicine.

Is Air Pollution A Problem In Korea?

Air pollution is an issue in Korea, especially in spring & summer. Winds blow yellow dust from Central Asia, field burning spreads fumes across Asia, and fossil-fuel burning contributes to higher levels of air pollution. Some days there’ll be very low visibility and health risks for people with lung problems.

My Personal Travel Tips For Korea

This South Korea travel guide is a collection of information I’ve researched and learned since moving to Korea in 2015 and blogging about Korean travel since 2019. I hope the provided information and insights are useful and assist you plan your dream first-time, or even tenth-time, trip to Korea.

This section includes my personal tips that didn’t really fit anywhere else and reflections built from travelling all over Korea in all seasons. These are tips I would offer to first-time travellers to Korea and people who might have some worries about visiting the Land of Morning Calm. I hope they help.

The Real Korea Isn’t What You See On TV

Korea is a developed country that went from being a 3rd world country in the mid 20th Century to a high-tech country in a short time. Despite the many high-rises and modern K-Pop stars, there are still shadows of the former Korea seen in both run-down slums and people with ‘traditional’ values.

The image created by selective K-Culture can distort people’s reality when dreaming of a trip to Korea in the same way Korean people can suffer from Paris Syndrome when visiting France. There are many wonderful things about Korea, but don’t travel thinking that everything is as shown on TV.

Be Prepared For Culture Shock

One of the best things about travelling is seeing a country and people that act and behave differently to how you do in your own country. This is known as culture shock and can be both a blessing and a challenge for first-time travellers to Korea. Things you might be used to can be different in Korea.

Some examples of culture shock in Korea include the way age determines hierarchy in Korea and how older people can be rather pushy, especially on the subway. Younger people also typically don’t question the decisions of older people in Korea as it is considered rude and disrespectful.

Less extreme cultural differences that might confuse some first-time visitors to Korea include having to shout to call someone to take your order in a Korean restaurant or not giving a tip. Koreans might similarly look at you strangely if you do something culturally different, such as walking while drinking.

Don’t Overpack When You Travel To Korea

First-time travellers to Korea may be worried about visiting a country like Korea without taking everything they need from home, even the kitchen sink. My advice is to pack as light as possible and leave yourself some space in your suitcase. There are two reasons for this.

• You can buy most things you need in Korea . This includes sun cream, heat packs, clothes, shoes, cosmetics, travel accessories, etc. They’re also probably cheaper in Korea, too.
• You will want to take home lots of things . From weird Korean snacks to beautiful hand-crafted pottery and woodwork, there are so many things to buy in Korea.

(1) The only exception is if you might have a problem finding correct-fitting items. Korean shoes and clothes are slightly smaller than what you’d find in Western countries and the sizes are also differently labelled. I’m a medium in the UK but a large (sometimes XL!) in Korea. Be careful when shopping.

(2) It’s hard to fit everything you buy in Korea into an already full suitcase. Fortunately, you can buy extra suitcases at low prices. Check out Namdaemun Market for cheap luggage options, as well as shops like the one pictured below (this is in Busan) in places like Hongdae and Dongdaemun.

Electricity In South Korea

Be careful with electric items when travelling to Korea. Korea uses type C and F plugs , which are used in Europe, Russia, and other parts of Asia. The standard voltage is 220V with 60Hz frequency. Anything designed for a standard voltage between 220V and 240V should be fine in Korea.

Laptops, mobile phones, and other portable devices will be fine when you travel in Korea as long as you use a travel adapter with a USB or socket connection. Hairdryers, shavers, curlers, and similar devices might have problems charging in Korea and run out of power very soon. My shaver did.

Go With The Flow And Go Quickly

Korea is a very busy country and you might hear people mutter ‘빨리빨리’ ( ppalli ppalli ) if you walk slowly, especially in the subway. Koreans work long hours and are eager to get home or go out for dinner. Don’t take it personally if people push past you and don’t feel like you have to rush.

Know Where To Throw Away Rubbish

It can be difficult to find a bin to throw away rubbish in Korea, even in urban areas. The best place to dispose of rubbish in Korea is at a convenience store. You can find recycling and trash bins in these shops. If you go hiking or explore the countryside, expect to carry your rubbish home with you.

South Korea Travel Guide FAQs

Finally, here’s a few FAQs about this South Korea travel guide, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you.

What is the best month to visit South Korea?

The best months to visit South Korea are April and October. April is warm and you can see cherry blossoms in Seoul at the start of the month. October is warm with clear skies. During October you can see autumn foliage across Korea.

How much money is enough for South Korea?

The amount of money you need to travel in South Korea depends on your travel style and desired level of comfort. A rough budget for South Korea is 50-100,000 KRW per day for budget travellers, 100-200,000 KRW per day for mid-range travellers, and 200,000+ KRW per day for luxury travellers.

Is South Korea friendly to tourists?

South Korea is a welcoming country and friendly to tourists. There are many services to welcome tourists to South Korea, including free transit tours from Incheon Airport, cultural performances in tourist destinations, low entry fees to traditional attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, and tourist information and signs in multiple languages.

What do I need to know before travelling to South Korea?

It’s important to know about the weather before travelling to South Korea as this can impact your day to day travel and affect what clothes you’ll need. You should also research what festivals are on before you travel, what seasonal events are happening, such as cherry blossom viewing, and also how to use public transport and get connected to the net.

What is the cheapest month to visit South Korea?

January and February are two of the cheapest months to visit South Korea and are considered low season as the weather is cold. Hotel prices and flights to Korea will be lower in these months. Winter is a good time to travel to Korea to see snow and enjoy winter sports and festivals, however, some attractions will be closed during this time of year.

Do I need a South Korea travel guide?

It is good to check a South Korea travel guide to research your trip, especially for first-time travellers to Korea. Korea has a unique culture, language, and customs that might be confusing for new travellers. A South Korea travel guide will help you prepare for these factors and give you ideas to create your perfect trip to Korea.

Can you drink tap water in Korea?

Korean tap water is potable and safe to drink. You can drink water from hotels and apartments in Korea. Restaurants and cafes will provide you with free drinking water, which usually comes from a water cooler. Bottled water is available from convenience stores and is reasonably priced.

Is South Korea safe for first-time travellers?

South Korea is a safe country for first-time travellers to visit. Personal crimes, such as theft, mugging, and physical violence are rare in Korea and it is safe to walk the streets of Seoul, even at night. First-time travellers can prepare for a trip to South Korea by being aware of potential scams, such as taxi drivers over charging them or being ripped off in the traditional markets.

What are the best apps for travelling in South Korea?

The best apps for travelling to South Korea are Papago, Kakao Taxi, Naver Maps, and Seoul Subway. These apps will allow you to translate between Korean and English, hail taxis, and navigate as you travel. All of these apps have English language options and are free to use.

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Hi! My name is Joel, I'm the author of In My Korea and writer of this article. I've lived, worked and travelled in Korea since 2015 and want to share my insights, stories and tips to help you have the best experience during your trip to Korea.

I love learning more about Korean culture, hiking the many mountains, and visiting all the coolest places in Korea, both modern and traditional. If you want to know more about my story, check out the ' about me ' section to learn why I love living in Korea.

4 thoughts on “Complete South Korea Travel Guide 2024: Korean Travel Tips”

This South Korea travel guide is a comprehensive resource for anyone planning a trip to Korea. It covers everything from entry requirements and travel tips to accommodation options and places to visit. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or have been to Korea before, this guide has something for everyone. The inclusion of the latest travel news and COVID-related updates adds to its relevance and usefulness. I appreciate the detailed breakdown of sections and the inclusion of quick links for easy navigation. Overall, this guide is a valuable tool for anyone looking to explore the wonders of South Korea.

Moderator – Nice Article! In My Korea

Thank for the great info! Could you please recommend any tours agency for a few day trips around Korea? I found a few , but they are pretty pricey!

Hi, thanks for reading. Klook and Viator have a good selection of tours in Korea with some of the best prices on the market. I’m not sure which tours you’re looking for, but they usually do day trips for less than $100 per day that cover popular tourist sights.

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The Best 10-Day South Korea Itinerary: Budget and how to plan

If you’re looking for a travel destination that offers a rich cultural experience and a glimpse into history, South Korea is the perfect choice. Despite its small size, this country is packed with diverse attractions and a unique charm that will captivate any traveler.

Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient palaces, indulging in delicious street food, or immersing yourself in the vibrant K-pop culture, South Korea has something for everyone. With this ultimate 10-day South Korea itinerary , you’ll be able to make the most of your time in this fascinating country.

South Korea will give you the perfect opportunity to create a storming itinerary to explore the bustling cities quiet mountains and countryside. South Korea has a synchronized harmony of traditional culture and modern history.

Tourists can enjoy the cultural heritage through the UNESCO sites and can enjoy the variety of food, local culture, and lifestyles. Along with Korea’s Buddhist temples, and UNESCO sites you will find beautiful mountains, hiking trails, and port cities will let you experience the full range of diversity in the country.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Planning a Trip to Korea Preparations

Planning a trip to Korea involves a lot of steps, especially when you have a 10-day itinerary in mind. Here are some details to make your preparation easier:

Visa or ETA: First, check if you need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Korea. If you require a visa, you can refer to my visa application guidelines for assistance.

Weather Considerations: Understand the weather conditions during your visit to Korea. Pack your clothes, accordingly, considering the weather or season prevalent during your travel dates.

Flight Booking: Start looking for flights as early as possible. Flight tickets tend to be more expensive if purchased just before your travel dates. Aim to purchase tickets a few months in advance to get the best prices. You can use flight search engines like trip.com or set up alerts on Google Flights for deals.

Travel Insurance: Consider getting travel insurance. It can be immensely helpful in case of flight delays or baggage losses, providing you with financial protection and peace of mind during your trip.

To have a hassle-free trip to South Korea there are few more things you can do to prepare. Few of them are using a language translator app, using specialized local maps, downloading cab app, and getting cashless money transfer systems. Here are the top apps for planning South Korea itinerary 10-days you can use to make your journey easy.

By following these steps and tips, you can streamline your trip planning process and ensure a smoother travel experience to Korea.

10-Day South Korea Itinerary:

Starting your 10-day adventure in Korea by arriving at Incheon, Seoul is a fantastic choice. Incheon Airport is well-connected globally, making it convenient for travelers. Once you’re in Seoul, you’ll dive into the captivating royal history and indulge in the delicious world of Korean cuisine. With so much to see and do, Seoul can easily fill your entire itinerary. However, if you’re landing in Busan or another city first, feel free to customize your schedule accordingly. Flexibility is key to ensuring you make the most of your Korean journey!

Day 1 to 2 in Seoul: 2 Days

Seoul offering a modern yet traditional lifestyle should be the first place in your south Korea itinerary for 10-days.  The Seoul trip for two days will be your first step in familiarizing yourself with the city’s cultural, historical, and traditional sides. Take the first day slow and visit the royal palaces and UNESCO sites. You can start your trip with Gyeongbokgung Palace, and then continue to visit Cheonggyecheon Stream, Gwangju Traditional Market, and Insadong Shopping Street.

Gyeongbokgung is one of the most popular and oldest palaces in Seoul . This served as the main official palace during the Joseon dynasty. The entrance fee to the palace is $2.50 and you can also rent hanboks if you want great pictures in the traditional dresses. After the tour head over to the Cheonggyecheon Stream where you can enjoy a nice walk and enjoy the art murals, greenery, and scenic beauty.

Make your way to Gwangju Market, where you will be enjoying a whole array of foods. Some of the famous foods there as one of the oldest markets in Seoul are bindaetteok, mandu-guk, and bibimbap. From there you can go to visit the traditional Bunchon Hanok village.

For Day 2 in Seoul , start your day with a delicious breakfast in Hongdae. Hongdae is a vibrant area where young people hang out and Hongdae shopping street is also a great area to hang out. From there you can go to museums of the city and during the sunset hike up the N Seoul tower where you will enjoy the beautiful city’s nighttime landscape view. You can also have an amazing dinner on the restaurants of N Seoul tower.

Other places that you can visit in Seoul

Changdeokgung palace:.

One of the most popular UNESCO sites in Seoul is the Changdeokgung Palace. Changdeokng Palace is an official residential building built in the Joseon dynasty. This complex was built as a secondary palace from Gyeongbokgung Palace to have the administrative work done.

Gyeongbokgung Palace:

The Gyeongbokgung palace is a South Korean first palaces for administrative work. It was built in 1935 in Hanyang, currently the heart of Seoul. This is quite famous for taking pictures in hanbok, traditional korean dress and visiting the historical settings, and artefacts. At the entrance, you will also find the historical Gwanghwamun gate located at the three-way intersection.

Namsan Tower:

Namsan tower located in Seoul is an observatory tower on the highest hill in Yongsan-gu district of Seoul. It gives undeniably the best view in the city and is worth a visit. The lovelocks there for couples are also quite famous. You can also enjoy the views from the cafe or the restaurant on the N Seoul tower.

Lotte World:

Lotte World is a major theme park in Seoul with indoor and outdoor rides, shows and parades, and an aquarium. If you have come here with children, taking a day to go to Lotte world will really make the trip a lot of fun. The aquariums, ice rink and parades are a true treat to kids.

Nami Island:

Nami Island has gained popularity as a scenic and romantic spot, and you can go there to enjoy cherry blossoms and the tree-lined pathways are quite romantic during Autumn and Spring. You can also enjoy different types of activities like cycling, zip lining and boating in Han River.

Day 3: Trip to DMZ

The DMZ tour from Seoul takes a whole day. You must keep aside a one-full day for this historic area. You can only have guided tours of the DMZ area. The Demilitarized Zone portrays the rich history of the Korean Wars. The DMZ tour packages are available from $25. Visit the freedom bridge, DMZ exhibition hall, and other monuments. You will get a brief recap of the historical moments throughout the trip to DMZ.

Day 4 & Day 5: 2 Days in Andong

By Korean standards, it’s a long journey between Seoul and Gyeongju . For this itinerary, there’s no better place to break up the trip than Andong. Long known for its traditionalism, Andong is a center of culture and folklore. It’s one of the best places to visit in South Korea for a glimpse of its ancient past.

For Day 1: Explore the impressive grounds of the historic Neo-Confucian Academy with a trip to the historic Dosan Seowon and for Day 2: Admire a stunning view of the surrounding natural landscapes from the top of the Buyongdae Observatory.

Also, the Woryeonggyo Bridge, a wooden footbridge crossing the Nakdong River, provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Day 6: 1 Day in Gyeongju

No place during your 10 days in South Korea will live up to expectation better than Gyeongju. This fascinating city is nothing short of the cultural and spiritual heart of Korea. Gyeongju checks off all the boxes that drove you to visit South Korea in the first place.

Compared to the hubbub of Seoul and brash Busan, Gyeongju is a relaxing respite. And it’s as fulfilling as either. The top attractions in Gyeongju are spread far & wide. They encompass some of Korea’s finest cultural moments. Tumuli Park is one of the few Gyeongju tourist attractions smack dabs in the middle of town. The park is an ancient burial site. About two dozen Korean royal tombs sprout from the earth here.

Day 7 & Day 8: 2 Days in Jeju Do

Jeju is South Korea’s one of the most vibrant islands to experience beautiful braces, local markets, and more. On the first day arriving in Jeju, you can visit the Jeju Folklore and Natural Music and Halla Arboretum. And you can then visit the Jeju five-day folk market and Dongmun Traditional Market.

The next day you can catch the sunrise at Hallasan or at Sarabong Peak early in the morning. Then you can go visit the Hamdeok beach and Manjangul cave. There are a lot of places to explore in the south of Jeju-do and you will have a refreshing experience while travelling here.

Day 9: Busan

Busan is one of those take-it-or-leave-it places. Apparently, suggests that anyone should fall in love with, or even like, this brash Korean port city. And that’s usually where the story ends. When you are in Busan, don’t leave out the bustling J agalchi Fish Market.

It’s one of the city’s top cultural attractions, and an absolute must-see and must-do. This is not just the port city’s most significant market; it’s the biggest fish market in South Korea. All types of seafood caught around the Korean peninsula find their way to the market stalls of Jagalchi Fish Market .

With your trip coming to close soon, make time to fit one more temple into your Korea itinerary : Beomeosa Temple. This ancient temple is Busan’s top tourist attraction. The original temple was founded in AD 678 by Ui Sang, a monk in the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. It has since been rebuilt multiple times. Most of the current buildings hail from the 16th and 17th centuries.

From stone pagodas to ornate wooden gates, the beauty of the city entrances you. The temple also benefits from a spectacular location. It sits at the foot of Mount Geumjeongsan. Visiting Beomeosa Temple, it’s easy to forget you’re in Korea’s second-biggest city.

Day 10: Departure

On Day 10, you can either return to Seoul or fly back home from Busan. Make sure to pack your things. The last day is perfect for some last-minute shopping or enjoying a final meal with friends or family. If you have extra time, you can also visit a few more places of your choice.

Most Popular Tourist Attractions in South Korea

There are a lot of beautiful places across South Korea where you can experience a diversity of landscapes, culture and food. Taking a trip to South Korea is a phenomenal way to experience the joys of life. Here are the top few tourist attractions and landmarks of South Korea that any first-time traveler must cover. Also, you may read Places to visit in Korea here.

DMZ is a zone between South Korea and North Korea near the 38th parallel north. And the demilitarized zone is a walk through the history for tourists where you can understand the value of the war history of the country. This area works as a buffer zone between two countries and is a place for maintaining political peace.

Hwaseong Fortress:

Hwaseong fortress is a one-of-a-kind brick and pilestone fortress made in Joseon dynasty. It’s located in the centre of Suwon, a few kms away from Seoul. It was built by King Jeongjo to honour his father, Prince Sado.

Jeju Island:

Jeju Island is one of the most peaceful and pleasant natural spaces that you can visit. It is one of the most beautiful volcanic islands on the planet Earth. Top attractions in Jeju-do are the lava tunnels, Hallasan, Cheonjiyon waterfall, and the hiking trails.

Traditional Villages:

There are a beautiful Korean village like Bukchon Hanok, Yongin-si in Seoul where you can get roam around the beautiful streets, visit artisans and traditional arts.If you travel to Andong during your trip, you must visit Andong folk village to visit the Andong folk museum, thatched house. You can also visit the Jeonju-si for old shrines, Boseon-gun in South Jeolla province for the entrancing beauty.

Dodohaehaesang National Park:

Dodohaehaesang National Park is the largest natural park in South Korea and if you are a nature lover you will have a great time as there are 1500+ plant species and 1200+ animal species. The scenic beauty of the island the park is located on is all the is also an attraction.

  National Museum of Korea:

National Museum of Korea has collections of Korean traditional products, and you will find a lot of art exhibitions going on every day worth visiting. You will see the collection of art, artifacts, and crafts from Korean and international artists at the National Museum.

  South Korea Food Markets

South Korea has a lot of vibrant food markets which are worth visiting for tasting local foods and get immersed in the local lifestyle. A few of the top South Korean food markets are Gwangjang Market, Namdaemun, and Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul for tasting the most famous traditional foods. You may also visit the jagalchi fish market in Busan for fresh fish and seafood and tasty foods.

Budget for South Korea 10-Day Itinerary

Your travel tastes, style, and the time of year you intend to travel all affect how much money you allocate for a 10-day itinerary in South Korea. I can give you a general idea of the expenditures related to a traveler on a medium budget, though. Please be aware that these projections were created using pricing as of my January 2024 update and may have altered since then.

Flight: Cost: $700 – $1,200 (depending on origin and time of booking)

• Best Deals: Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines often have the best cheaper tickets.
• Example: I got a round-trip ticket from Kuala Lumpur to Seoul for around $150.

Accommodation: The price of lodging can change based on the area and the type of lodging you select (hotels, hostels, guesthouses, etc.). Budget travelers should budget $70 to $100 per night for a mid-range hotel or guesthouse, on average.

Food: South Korea offers a wide variety of food options to fit any budget. For about $10 to $15 per meal, budget-conscious travelers can enjoy delicious street food and local dishes. If you prefer dining at mid-range restaurants, expect to spend between $15 and $30 per meal.

Transportation: South Korea has a great public transit system, including buses and subways. For ten days, plan to spend around $100 to $150 on transportation within cities and for traveling to different locations. The KTX train from Seoul to Busan costs $60 to $80 one way, or $120 to $160 for a round trip.

Activities and Sightseeing: Different attractions and activities have different entrance prices. Budget, on average, $5 to $20 per attraction. You can budget between $100 and $150 for this category if you’re going to numerous paid attractions.

Shopping and souvenirs: Depending on your shopping tastes, this expenditure can vary greatly. Budget travelers should set up $100 to $200 for shopping and souvenirs.

Miscellaneous: It’s smart to keep some extra cash for unexpected expenses like tips, extra snacks or drinks, or emergencies. Set aside $100 to $200 for these additional costs. Also, plan to spend $50 to $100 on travel insurance.

Without including international flights to and from South Korea, a rough estimate for a 10-day moderately priced vacation in South Korea is between $800 and $1,000. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and the actual cost may vary based on your choices. It’s a good idea to research prices and expenses for your specific route and travel dates to get a more accurate budget. Happy planning and enjoy your trip to South Korea!

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Planning a Trip to South Korea: a Step By Step Guide

By: Author Kris

Posted on Last updated: March 28, 2023

Planning a trip to South Korea can be a difficult and overwhelming process but with our extensive guide, you will be able to breeze through all the steps required.

Keep reading for our tips, advice, and information on the best way to plan a trip to South Korea.  

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Why Visit South Korea?  

If you are just starting out the planning process you may still be deliberating on whether South Korea is even the best place for you to visit.

We can help you finalize that decision with some of the best reasons to visit South Korea and why it is such a wonderful travel destination.

South Korea has an amazingly rich culture and long history.

There are many cultural sites to visit and incredible experiences, such as temples and palaces. This includes a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Bulguska Temple and the lava tubes in Jeju.

The cities are full of unique modern designs and high-tech displays and shopping malls while beautiful nature and scenery are also easily accessible.

Whether you like beach activities, hiking, shopping, cultural experiences, or a mix of everything, there is something for everyone to enjoy in South Korea.  

Here is a list of amazing things to do in Korea.

Best Time Of The Year to Visit South Korea  

South Korea is very seasonal and the climate is the only thing that changes.

There can be large differences in available activities, recommended places to visit, and things to do depending on the season. 

Spring  

Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Korea and for good reason. The weather is clear, the temperature is moderate and flowers are blooming.

If you enjoy outdoor pursuits, this is one of the best times to be in Korea.

It is also the time of cherry blossoms, and if you time your visit right you could be treated to a magnificent display of pink and white blossoms.

However, the flowers aren’t limited to cherry blossoms, with flower fields across the country of plum blossoms, azaleas, and roses.

Spring can be cool at night and might be difficult for those who have bad hay fever or pollen allergies. 

Summer  

Summer in Korea can be very changeable with the monsoon season hitting in August.

It is also very humid in summer, so while the temperature isn’t too hot, the humidity can be difficult to deal with.

However, it can be a great time to visit if you plan on visiting some of the coastal areas or islands.

It can also be good for enjoying balmy evenings with casual outdoor eating and a relaxed holiday atmosphere as schools and universities are on summer vacation.  

Autumn  

Autumn is a beautiful time in South Korea with vibrant autumn foliage to be seen in many places. This time of year is ideal for hiking and climbing mountains.

It is also a good time to visit the many palaces populated by autumnal maple and ginkgo trees.

Autumn is also the time of Chuseok, the Korean harvest festival celebration.

Many Chuseok events are held during this time and can be a great way to have a unique cultural experience while in South Korea. 

Winter  

Winter in Korea can be very cold, with temperatures reaching negative and snowstorms.

However, it is also a beautiful time of year if you enjoy the winter scenery. The snow-topped mountains can be very picturesque and it is great for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Winter is also the time of the Lunar New Year celebrations, which can be easily enjoyed as a cultural experience.

It is also the time of Christmas and western New Year, which can be interesting to experience in a different country and culture than your own.  

How Many Days In South Korea?  

An essential part of planning a trip to South Korea is deciding how long to spend there.

Finding the balance between too short and too long can seem difficult, especially without already having experience in Korea.

Luckily, a visit to Korea can be quite versatile, depending on where you plan to visit.  

Longer is generally better, as it will give you more time to visit different cities, take various day trips and see more of the country.

However, it is easily possible to have a short trip and just stick to one city.

An example of this is covered in our 4-day and 3-7-day Seoul itineraries.

If you have a bit longer in the country, you can visit cities such as Busan, and utilize our Busan itinerary .

A longer itinerary can also allow for taking more time in each location and having more downtime.

The range of places to visit and things to do means it is unlikely that you could run out of things to do, and the variation from traditional temples to modern shopping malls, palaces to theme parks, means it is unlikely to become repetitive.  

In summary, the longer you can make your itinerary, the better, but if you only have a short amount of time available, it is still possible to have a great time on a shorter trip.  

• 7 Days in South Korea
• 14 Days South Korea Itinerary

Dos And Don’ts In South Korea  

When visiting another country and culture, it is always important to be aware of cultural etiquette and common dos and don’ts of the country.

This can be related to social manners or simply making your trip easier.  

Learn Basic Korean Words  

While traveling in Korea, it can be beneficial to learn a few basic Korean words and phrases.

Important phrases like “Excuse me,” “I’m sorry,” and “thank you” can come in very helpful and will be appreciated by those around you.

Some simple words like ‘this’ and ‘that’ as well as question words, including what, where, and how much, can be very useful in getting around and working things out on the go.

Using translation apps or tools like Google Translate is another useful option.  Here is a list of more handy Korean apps.

Tipping In South Korea  

Tipping at a bar or restaurant in South Korea is not necessary or expected.

Some high-end restaurants may have the opportunity to tip if you want to, but it’s never an expectation.

In some cases, tipping can be seen as rude as it can imply that the employee or the business doesn’t have enough money and needs pity.

Overall, it is safer to just not tip in South Korea unless there is an explicit prompt. In these cases, it is still completely your choice and you are free to not tip.  

Bring Cash  

When traveling in Korea, having cash on hand is extremely useful.

While credit cards have become more common in recent years and many businesses do accept credit cards, not all credit cards will be available to be used and there is always the possibility of a restaurant or shop not accepting cards at all.

For this reason, having a good amount of cash with you is essential.

ATMs can also be hit-or-miss as some will work with foreign cards while others won’t.

It is a good idea to remove a decent amount at a time in case you can’t find another ATM to withdraw from easily.  

Photography  

It is common to want to take photos and document all the amazing sights, foods, and places you’re experiencing while on vacation.

However, it is important to be careful when taking photos in public.

In some countries, including South Korea, the right to privacy extends into the public sphere, meaning photos, where someone is easily identifiable, can be illegal.

Of course, a photo taken in a crowded place will likely have people in it and it is unlikely that you will be challenged over this but taking a photo of a specific person or group of people may bring issues.  

Priority Seating  

Most buses and trains in Korea have a designated area for priority seating.

This seating is reserved for elderly, pregnant, or disabled people.

These seats should be left empty unless someone from one of those categories is using them.

While it may seem ok to sit down and just move if someone who needs them enters the train or bus, this can still be seen as rude and it is best to just stand if no other seats are available.  

Korea Trip Budget  

A trip to Korea can be quite reasonably priced as the number of expenses is fairly low.

Categories like food are often cheap day-to-day.

The more expensive categories include accommodation, which can range from cheaper hostel-style accommodation to more expensive hotels.

Accommodation in the main cities tends to be more expensive than in smaller cities or the countryside.  

Transport costs can vary a lot depending on how much traveling around the country you wish to do and what transport methods you use.

For long-distance travel, there are some train passes that can offset the costs somewhat, or you can use a rental car.

While in the city, buses and trains are fairly easy to use and budget-friendly. Taking a taxi is more expensive but may be easier when visiting certain places.  

Overall, Korea is a very accessible country on a range of budgets.

There are a number of areas where you can cut costs for a more budget-friendly trip or spend a bit more to suit your preferences.  

Here is more information on the budget you should foresee.

Your Korea Trip Planning  

Planning a trip can be done in stages with different steps being done at different times.

Here is our breakdown of what should be done when in order to best plan your trip to South Korea. 

The Timeline For Your Korea Trip Planning

6 months in advance

Book international flights

Join our Facebook group

Get travel insurance Plan your itinerary Check if you need a Visa

About 3 months in advance

Do you need an International Driving Permit? Book domestic flights

1 month in advance

Internet in South Korea Book Tours and other Fun Experiences

1 week in advance

What to pack

6 Months In Advance  

Join our korea facebook group.

Become a member of our Korea Travel Planning and Tips Facebook group. 

The purpose of this group is to help you plan an amazing vacation to Korea.  You can ask questions and exchange tips with fellow travelers.

Book Flights To South Korea  

If you have decided on South Korea and narrowed down your travel dates, it’s best to start checking flight prices as soon as possible.

Prices will change over time usually in a U-curve shape, starting high, slowly becoming cheaper, and then moving back towards expensive as it gets closer to the travel date.

The absolute lowest point is unpredictable but usually falls around 4-6 months before the travel dates.

The earlier you start checking the prices, the easier it will be to have a good idea of when you’re seeing ‘good’ prices and whether it is likely to fall further or not.

This can easily be done through price tracking or price alerts on various flight comparison websites.  

Tips To Find Cheap Flights  

If you are looking to save on flights, there are a number of things you can do.

The first is to make the best use of flight comparison websites.

This can be Skyscanner, Momondo, or even Google Flights. You can set up price tracking or alerts as mentioned previously and see various options at different prices.

You can also use a number of different limitations, such as flight duration, departure time, arrival time, and stopovers to get the best flights for your situation.

Using low-cost carriers (LCC) airlines can also be an opportunity to save some money on flights.  

Here is more information on finding cheap flights to South Korea.

Travel Insurance  

As soon as you have flights booked, the next step should be travel insurance.

An international trip is a big expense and can become even more expensive if something should go wrong while you’re out of the country.

It is easy for accidents to happen and a travel insurance policy can be very helpful when dealing with a medical or personal issue while in a foreign country.

Korea is generally a safe country with a modern and trustworthy healthcare system. Many doctors are able to speak English and will be ok dealing with foreigners.

This may be more difficult to find in more rural areas.

However, while the quality of medical care is high, costs as a tourist can also be quite high. Having a travel insurance policy in place to cover these costs can help relieve stress in a high-pressure situation.

It is important to make sure you know what your policy covers and not always go for the cheapest option, as sometimes this can lead to expensive surprises when an accident does occur.

It is also best to get a policy that can cover costs as they happen, rather than paying upfront and receiving reimbursement later.  

If you are looking for travel insurance, we recommend you to look at Safetywing . They offer very competitive prices for very decent coverage. 

Passports And Visa  

Many countries have a visa-waiver agreement with South Korea, meaning you do not need a visa to enter for tourism purposes.

This includes many parts of Europe, North America, much of South America, Oceania, and a number of Asian countries.

If you are unsure about your home country’s status, you can find more info here.

If you are from a country that is part of the visa-waiver agreement you will still need to apply for a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization or K-ETA.

This will require some personal details, your passport details, and a payment of 10,000KRW (approx. $10 USD).

This should be approved in a short period of time.

This application can be done on the official Korean website.

For more details, see our guide to travel in South Korea .  

Covid Testing And Q Code  

Korea has had constantly changing and often strict rules regarding entry during the last few years.

Covid-19 has led to pre-departure tests, on-arrival tests, and varying quarantines.

However, as of 1 October 2022, travelers no longer need to have testing either pre-departure or on-arrival and quarantine is no longer necessary. 

You will need to apply for Q-code to enter South Korea.

This is a QR code that will be issued to you after applying and will contain your relevant health and contact information.

This application must be done no more than 3 days prior to entry.  

Plan Your Travel Itinerary  

Korea highlights  , seoul  .

With Seoul as the capital of South Korea, it makes sense to be one of the highlights of any Korea trip.

With its unique blend of old and new, Seoul is an amazing city to visit. Over the last few decades, Seoul has grown to be at the forefront of design, urban planning, technology, and more.

There is also a great celebration of traditional culture and historic sites.

Also setting Seoul apart from many modern cities is Bukhansan Park in the north of the city.

This national park borders the capital city and offers a welcome respite into beautiful nature and hiking trails.  

Here is our comprehensive list of Seoul posts that will help you plan your trip:

Things To Do And Itineraries:

• Best things to do in Seoul
• Best things to do in Seoul at night
• What is Seoul known for
• Best day trips from Seoul
• Best Seoul itinerary
• Best 4-day Seoul itinerary

Accommodation:

• Where to stay in Seoul
• 15 cool hotels in Seoul
• Best Boutique hotels in Seoul
• Best Hanok Stays in Seoul
• Best vacation rentals in Seoul

Seoul Guide

For the price of a single cup of coffee, you can get this Seoul itinerary as a nicely formatted PDF document.

It contains all the information in this post.

You can print it or store it on your phone so you can access it anytime during your visit to Seoul.

Have a look here for more information and a preview.

Busan   

Busan is a coastal city in the southeast of the country.

In recent years it has grown from a small and quaint fishing village to a bustling city with its own unique personality.

As a coastal city, Busan has a great predilection for seafood and is a great place to try out various Korean seafood dishes.

There are also some beautiful beaches to visit and waterfront activities to enjoy.  

Here is our comprehensive list of Busan posts that will help you plan your trip:

Things to do and itineraries :

• What to do in Busan
• The perfect 2-day Busan itinerary
• Best Busan day trips
• Best Busan day tours
• Best things to do in Busan at night

Accommodation posts:

• Where to stay in Busan
• Best Airbnbs in Busan

The DMZ  

Many people consider the DMZ a must-see while visiting South Korea.

The DMZ, or demilitarized zone, is the zone surrounding the border of South Korea and North Korea.

This is one of the few remainders of the Cold War that is still active, as the Korean War never officially ended and the two Koreas remain in an official state of conflict.

This border can only be visited on an organized tour due to the sensitivity of the area. Some tours also include the JSA or Joint Security Area, the actual borderline passing through the barracks on site.

Visiting this area is a unique look at how history and the present can intertwine.  

Note that the JSA is currently closed. We don’t know if and when it will reopen.

However, a visit to the DMZ stills gives you a unique understanding of North and South Korea’s history.

Book your DMZ tickets here, or read our full guide on how to choose the best DMZ tour.

Check prices and availability: Half or Full Day DMZ Tour

Jeonju  

Jeonju has a unique place in Korean history as the birthplace of the Joseon Dynasty, the rulers of Korea from 1392 until the early 20 th Century.

For this reason, the city is steeped in history and tradition, with many cultural sites.

This long historical period gave rise to many rich cultural pursuits and uniquely Korean innovations. These include traditional Korean wine, paper, and dolls.  

Jeonju is well-known for its Hanok Village, an area of the city with predominantly Hanok buildings.

This is a style of building based on traditional Korean ways of thinking and architectural design.

It involves the ideal placement of a home, how to keep the building comfortable and temperate throughout the changing seasons, and catering to the social needs of the time.

Many of these traditional houses are still in existence and can be seen in the Jeonju Hanok Village.   You can even spend the night in one of them.

There are also a number of historic sites in Jeonju as well as museums commemorating Korean history and tradition.

Jeonju is an ideal place to visit to truly soak in the long traditions and history of Korean culture.  Here is a list of the best things to do in Jeonju.

Gyeongju  

Gyeongju, one of the most beautiful places in South Korea, is another historic city in South Korea.

It was the main capital of the Silla Kingdom which ruled the Korean Peninsula from 57BC – 935AD.

This long history has led to a number of historic and culturally significant sites in Gyeongju, including a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

In fact, the sheer number of historic sites is the reason behind the city’s nickname of “the museum without walls” or “the museum without a roof”.  

There are many historical temples and palaces in Gyeongju, documenting the history of religion and the kingdom during this time.

It is also home to Cheomseongdae, one of the oldest astronomical observatories in Asia.

It dates to the 7 th Century and is amazing to visit for both historical reasons and the astronomical illuminations that are regularly displayed.  

Gyeongju is also home to the UNESCO Gyeongju Historic Area, an entire area of historic ruins and relics. This area has museums, ruins to explore, serene temples, and more.

The city of Gyeongju is a must-see for anyone interested in history, Korean culture, or both.  

From hotels, highlights, transportation, and other booking needs, this section of our Korea itinerary has got you covered.

Hotels In South Korea  

There is a wide range of hotel accommodations available in South Korea.

The major cities, such as Seoul, are often more expensive, especially in the central areas.

Smaller cities can be cheaper, although it can depend on the time of year and location.

Accommodation prices in Korea can be quite seasonal generally, with spring being one of the most popular times of year to travel and prices reflecting this trend.  

However, regardless of when you travel, with some research and careful booking, you will always be able to find something to suit your budget.  

Choose a hotel from this list of well-rated hotels.

Check out our where to stay section in our Korea travel guide for all our hotel posts.

Best Booking sites For South Korea  

There are a number of booking sites that can be used to look for hotel accommodations in South Korea. Some of the top booking sites include: 

Booking.com  

The behemoth of accommodation Booking, Booking.com is just as active in South Korea as in other countries.

The majority of hotels can be found on Booking.com and the popularity of the site means there are often plenty of reviews which can be helpful in deciding on accommodation. 

Check prices and availability: Booking.com

Agoda  

Agoda is another big name in the accommodation booking business, although slightly less well-known than booking.com.

It is also part of the Booking.com group and so contains many of the same hotels.

However, as it was started in Asia, there are sometimes hotels listed which haven’t made it to Booking.com and sometimes deals are listed on Agoda but not booking.com. 

Check prices and availability: Agoda

VRBO  

If you are traveling with a family or just want a bit more space, staying in a VRBO or accommodation rental may be the answer.

Many hotel rooms in Korea can be small or feel cramped, and a full apartment to yourself may be a better alternative.

This also gives you the freedom to cook for yourself and more space if you need some relaxing time.  

Check prices and availability: VRBO

Special Accommodations In South Korea  

If you’re looking for a more unique accommodation experience while in South Korea, a hanok stay may be ideal for you.

These traditional houses can be found in many places throughout the country and are a step back in time to traditional Korea and the architecture and design of the period.

Most hanok accommodations have futon-style bedding and traditional rooms, so they may not be your accommodation for the entire trip, but staying for a night or two is a great option and a unique way to experience Korean tradition.

If you’re looking for hanok accommodation in Seoul, check out our previous post here.

If you plan to stay in a hanok while visiting the historic city of Jeonju, you can see our top picks here .   

Getting Around In South Korea  

Once you have decided on your general travel plans and which cities you will be visiting, it’s time to look into how you will get around in South Korea.

This includes both between cities and inside the city.

We have three main means of transport. 

Driving is a great way to travel between cities and visit the regions that aren’t serviced by the railway.

It also provides the opportunity to plan your own journey, meaning you can make stops that wouldn’t be possible when traveling by train or public transport.

There are many rental car companies operating in South Korea and it is easy to rent a car from the airport.

However, driving isn’t really necessary or even very convenient while inside the big cities so if you are staying in Seoul before moving on, you may want to wait before renting a car.

If you plan on renting a car in South Korea, click here.

To see more about our experience of driving in South Korea, see our post here. 

Train  

Korea has a rail network connecting many of the major metropolitan cities.

There are a number of trains available, including a high-speed bullet train, known as the KTX lines. The trains are reliable and easy to use.

This can be a great way to get between major cities quickly.

The six largest cities in Korea also have a subway or metropolitan system, which is useful for moving around the city or visiting different areas within the same city.

Korail also offers a number of tourism rail passes to foreign visitors, including 3- and 5-day passes.

However, it is important to check the prices of individual tickets before buying a pass, as sometimes the pass doesn’t work out cheaper.  

Express Bus  

Buses offer another alternative mode of transport.

If you don’t like driving or just want to avoid driving in a foreign country, buses can be another road option.

They are slower than the train but cover more area and so might end up more interesting.

They also serve more cities along the way. An express bus tends to go straight from one city to another while an intercity bus will make stops at different cities along the way.

There are also many local buses for getting around the cities after you have arrived.

For more information on public transport in South Korea, see our guide here.   

Organized Tours  

Planning a trip itinerary can be difficult and organized tours can simplify the process.

There are many different types of tours available and there is most likely one to suit you. Some tours are more guided while others plan the itinerary and provide minimal guidance to allow you more independence and options while on your trip.

Tours can have varying group sizes and be fast-paced or slow-moving.

There are also tours that are more focused on a certain type of traveler or interest, such as tours for young adults who want to experience a lot of nightlife, or tours more centered around the history and culture of an area.

There are many different tour options available in South Korea and we have curated some of the best options into our list here.  

3 months In Advance  

International drivers license  .

If you are planning on driving while in Korea you will need an IDP or International Drivers Permit.

This will give you permission to drive in Korea while holding an international driver’s license. Without an IDP or Korean driver’s license, there is no way for you to drive in Korea.

An IDP provides an official translation of your original driver’s license and can be provided by the official authority in your home country. You will need to show this when renting a car.  

Getting an IDP is a reasonably easy process and can help to provide a lot of freedom and flexibility in your travel planning and itinerary.  

Domestic Flights

Domestic flights aren’t necessary if you only visit the beautiful mainland of South Korea. However, if you also wish to go to the subtropical Jeju island you will need to fly. There’re multiple daily flights from Seoul and you should find reasonably priced flights if you book them 3 months out. Don’t wait too long if you’re traveling during the peak season.

If flights have become too expensive you can also take a ferry from Busan or some other places in the south of the country.

Check for flights on Momondo: Flights to Jeju

1 Month In Advance  

Staying online in south korea  .

Staying online can be a key aspect of travel in general, especially so when traveling in South Korea.

Having a reliable internet connection will allow you to use helpful tools like Google translate and navigation and map apps.

It will also help you find on-the-go recommendations, last-minute additions, up-to-date currency conversions, and more.

On top of that, many of us like to stay connected to friends and family while traveling, and reliable internet can be very helpful.  

Many places in Korea have free wi-fi available but it is always useful to have your own internet connection for the times when public wi-fi isn’t working or if you are in an area without public wi-fi.

There are a few main options available. One of the most convenient options is a pocket wi-fi or wi-fi egg as they are sometimes called.

This small device will provide a constant wi-fi connection Pocket wi-fi devices can be easily rented either in advance or at the airport.

These can then be returned by mail or to the same kiosk at the airport where it was rented.

There is a range of different plans available.

Pocket wi-fi is a convenient and easy-to-use option for the internet while in South Korea. To see more about pocket wi-fi in Korea, check out our post here.  

Another option is a travel sim. Many companies offer travel sims that can simply be swapped with your phone’s current sim.

You may also need to change some settings, but many travel sims will also provide you with a local phone number which may come in handy when making reservations that require contact details.

Another advantage of a travel sim is that you don’t have to return it at the end of your stay. For our experience and recommendations when using a travel sim in Korea, see our previous post .  

Transportation From The Airport 

There are a number of airports in South Korea that you may end up using and so it is necessary to be aware of the available transport to get to and from the airport.  

Seoul has two main airports – Gimpo and Incheon.

Gimpo is predominantly used for domestic flights and is located about 50 minutes from the city center.

Gimpo is connected via the subway and airport express.

Incheon is the much larger and more commonly-used airport and is where most international visitors will first land.

It is about 47km from Seoul station, in the center of Seoul, and is easily reached.

A’REX Airport Express

The A’REX airport express is the fastest and cheapest way to move from Incheon to Seoul station.

Limousine Bus

You can also take the limousine bus which will make various stops at different points in Seoul.

There are 4 lines that stop at various places in Seoul.

• 6701 Airport: Seoul City Hall
• 6702 Airport: Dongdaemun/Namsan
• 6703 Airport: Gangnam/COEX
• 6705 Airport: Jamsil/East Seoul Bus Terminal

The buses run from early in the morning until the evening.

Note that the schedule for all buses is different, so definitely check the bus hours before booking a ticket.

Private Transfer

However, it is also possible that you could be tired and overwhelmed and not keen on navigating public transport after a long international flight.

In this case, paying a bit more for a direct private transfer going straight from the airport to your hotel might be the answer.  

Busan  

If you are planning on flying to Busan, you will likely end up using Gimhae, Busan’s airport.

This airport is only about 11km from Busan station in the city center. If you take a taxi from the airport, it will only be about 15 minutes. However, the cheaper options are to take the subway or bus.

Unfortunately, these take a more roundabout route and take 53 minutes for the subway and 1hr for the bus.

The option you choose will really depend on your budget and how much time you are willing to spare.  

Jeju  

While in Korea you may be planning on visiting the beautiful island of Jeju.

This island is easily reached by plane with flights from Seoul and Busan only taking around 55 minutes.

A number of other regional airports also have flights available. In fact, Jeju airport is actually the second-largest airport in South Korea due to its popularity.

It is located around 3km from the city center and is very easy to reach by bus or taxi.

Both options take around 5 minutes, however, the taxi is more expensive.  

Tours And Other Fun Activities In South Korea

Best booking sites  .

If you are planning on booking activities, day tours, or other fun things to do in South Korea, there are a number of booking sites you can use to find the best activities and get the best deals.

Here are our top picks: 

GetYourGuide  

GetYourGuide is a great website with a wide range of activities and tours available.

They can be easily booked through the website and customer service is handled by GetYourGuide rather than directly with the operator.

The customer service is very professional and quick to respond to any issues.

Many of the activities on GetYourGuide can be canceled for free with 24 hours’ notice which leaves you with more flexibility while you’re actually on your trip.  

Check prices and availability: GetYourGuide

Viator  

Viator is another company that works to connect travelers with tour and activity operators in the country.

It is owned by TripAdvisor and is considered reliable and consistent.

It often has more tours than Getyourguide listed, so if you can’t find the right activity for you on GetYourGuide, Viator might be the better option for you.  

Check prices and availability: Viator

Klook  

Klook is a large Asian-based booking site with many activities and tours able to be booked in South Korea.

There are a number of activities that can’t be found on other sites and many of them come with great deals.

This makes Klook a great option when looking for a variety of activities, including some that aren’t obvious or as well-documented.

It can also be great for your budget.

It’s important to note that not all activities can be canceled for free on Klook so your itinerary needs to be fairly certain when booking through this site.  

Check prices and availability: Klook

Fun Activities In South Korea  

There are a number of fun activities available in Korea that you may consider booking in advance.

This is especially relevant for the more limited or very popular activities which can book out weeks in advance.

To avoid disappointment, consider booking these in advance of your travel dates.  

The DMZ : Visit the border of South Korea and North Korea and see how the hangovers of the Cold War continue to affect Korea to this day.

Look across North Korea while learning about its history and current situation in Korea.  

Nami Island : A river island located near Seoul that is considered beautiful in every season. This island is a popular romantic destination and is well-known for its beautiful tree-lined paths and scenery.  

N Seoul Tower : Wander through the beautiful Namsan Park before climbing the hill to N Seoul Tower where you can quickly rise to 500m to see stunning panoramic views over Seoul.

This offers some of the best views in Seoul and is often considered a must-see when visiting Seoul.  

Nanta Show : Nanta is a unique, long-running form of musical comedy blending culinary skills, martial arts, acrobatics, and comedy.

It is also completely non-verbal. Spectators are encouraged to participate and the show provides a captivating 90 minutes of fun and entertainment.  

Huwon Secret Garden : The Secret Garden is a beautiful rear garden at Changdeokgung Palace. Extensive yet intimate, beautifully designed yet natural, the garden is picturesque and relaxing.

Visitors must join a tour and tour tickets book out fast so it is necessary to be fast when booking tickets to the Secret Garden (click on tour reservation at the top of the page).

Best Theme Parks In South Korea  

There are many amazing theme parks in South Korea and visiting one or more of them may be a fun activity while you are traveling.

Theme parks in Korea are often very extensive with many different things to do and enjoy.

They are designed and built with the aim of being the best theme park possible and often achieve this aim. Some of the top theme parks in South Korea include:  

Lotte World   

Lotte World Adventure is the world’s largest indoor amusement park with amazing rides and beautiful seasonal parades and performances.

The Garden Stage has regular performances changing with the season or relevant celebration (such as Christmas) and is well-loved by domestic and international tourists alike.

The Magic Island is the outdoor component of Lotte World and rivals Disney with its fairytale atmosphere.  

Since March 31, 2022, Lotte World also opened in Busan.

Everland  

Everland is one of Korea’s largest amusement parks and consists of five unique zones. These include Global Fair, Magic Land, American Adventure, Zootopia, and European Adventure.

Each zone is beautifully decorated and themed and can be very fun to visit. There are many rides at Everland, including the famous T-Express, Korea’s first wooden rollercoaster.

This is also one of the fastest rollercoasters in the world. There are also many themed exhibits and festivals depending on the season.  

Check prices and availability:

Everland 1 day ticket

Everland shuttle bus and ticket

Here is an overview of more great amusement parks in South Korea.

1 Week In Advance  

What to pack for your korea trip  .

Packing can be a difficult task, especially when there is always a niggling fear in the back of your mind that you’ve forgotten something.

Some of the most important categories to cover are your important documents and electronics.

Important Documents

This includes items like your passport, travel insurance policy, and various other travel documents.

It can also include hotel reservations, although these are likely electronic and you probably don’t need printouts of these.

Electronics

Electronics will include your phone, plans for how to stay online in Korea, and possibly a camera and chargers for everything.

Items like medication and a refillable water bottle are also necessary and should be at the top of your list.

Some medications are banned in South Korea so it may be necessary to check if any medication that you need is permitted.

The season in Korea will largely determine how you pack with winter requiring much warmer clothing and thick jackets while summer requires cool and breathable clothes.

It is important to remember that seasons like spring can get very cool at night so you will still need some warm clothing.  

More South Korean Travel Tips  

Money saving tips  .

Taking an international trip can be an expensive venture and there are likely many places where you are willing to spend a bit more money for comfort and convenience.

There are also a number of ways you can save money and reduce your budget.

This can include things like transport.

While traveling within the city sticking to public transport such as subways and buses will help save a lot of money that might otherwise have been spent on taxis.

Free Entry To Attractions And Museums

Another good idea is to research which attractions, museums, and locations have free entry.

While you probably won’t want to limit yourself to these, including some can be a good way to save money.

You can also save money by eating and shopping where the locals do, rather than at more touristy places.

Sometimes places catered directly to tourists can have inflated prices while local restaurants and shops will have much cheaper options.  

Discover Seoul Pass

One of the best ways to save money while traveling in Seoul is with the Discover Seoul Pass.

This 1-3 day pass provides a range of benefits for a very reasonable price. The pass provides free entry to 35 different attractions and discounted entry at another 30.

This can add a lot to your list of places to visit for free or for a lower price. It also provides a free one-way Airport Express (A’REX) ride.

This can be very useful when coming from or returning to the airport after arrival or before departure.

Another useful function is the T-Money function. This will keep working after your pass expires and means you don’t have to spend extra money to buy a separate T-Money card.

This will work as a rechargeable public transport card and allow you to utilize the public transport system easily.

The Discover Seoul Pass can be bought online and picked up at the airport or at the Myeongdong Tourist Information Center.  

Note that the Discover Seoul Pass is not always available. If it isn’t, you can see if they have the BTS edition. It’s a 24hr edition of the Discover Seoul Pass without the T-money option. Instead, you get a Korea Tour T-money Card as a bonus. The BTS edition covers the same attractions as the regular Discover Seoul Pass.

Discover Seoul Pass BTS (24hour+Korea Tour Card)

For more tips on how to get around Seoul, click here.

Google Maps  

One unusual and sometimes confusing aspect of travel in South Korea is the lack of Google Maps information.

Many of us rely on Google Maps as our go-to when navigating an unfamiliar area, but in South Korea, Google Maps is rarely used.

It does exist and has some information but is rarely updated and can be very spotty, especially at a close-up level. It also isn’t very useful for driving or walking directions.

However, Korea has a number of local navigation apps that you can easily make use of.

These include Naver Maps, Korea Seoul Metro Navi, and Kakao Taxi.

Available on:  Google Play  –  Apple (This app is not getting much love for its Apple version.  We used the Android version which worked like a charm)

Korea Seoul Metro Navi

Korea Seoul Metro Navi will guide you quickly and efficiently through Seoul’s extended subway system.  The app calculates the fastest route to your destination.

Available on:  Google Play  –  Apple

If you plan on taking taxis, we recommend that you use the Kakao Taxi app.

Available on:  Google Play , – Apple

Travel Adapter  

Another important aspect to consider is travel adapters and plug types.

South Korea uses plug type F. This is used in a number of other countries, including Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and some European countries.

If you live in a country that uses a different plug type, you will need a plug adapter for travel in South Korea.

However, even if you live in a country that does use plug type F, it is important to also check the voltage to make sure it won’t affect your devices. South Korea has 220V and 60hz.

If your country operates on a different voltage, you may need a travel adapter that can also convert the voltage.

These are easily available from travel goods stores, as well as many electronics stores and department stores.  

H ere is a list of more Korea travel tips that will help you plan an unforgettable holiday.

Conclusion  

South Korea can be an amazing travel destination with a rich culture, delicious cuisine, and an array of fun activities and tours to participate in.

This guide has curated some of the most important information needed to plan an ideal trip to South Korea.

By using this information, your next trip to South Korea should be well-organized without being strict, fun without being chaotic, and enjoyable without any problems along the way.  

• Budget Travel
• South Korea

South Korea On A Budget: Tips For First Time Travellers

South Korea is a wonderful destination, but many think it’s too expensive. However, that’s not always the case; here’s how you can visit South Korea on a budget.

Located on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula, South Korea is often overlooked as a tourist destination in favour of Japan or Southeast Asia. However, this fascinating country has lots to offer, especially for those planning a budget trip to South Korea . While there are plenty of luxury options, South Korea, and even its capital Seoul, are surprisingly affordable destinations. So, here’s how you can visit South Korea on a budget . 

What Will This Article Cover?

This is a quick budget guide to South Korea where we’ll take a look at how to save money on your trip to South Korea. It will cover cost-effective transportation, food and accommodation hacks, free things to do in South Korea, and some budgeting tips.

When Should You Visit To Avoid Peak Season?

Another way to both see South Korea on a budget and experience a whole other side of the country, would be to get out of the big cities and into the countryside to visit some of South Korea’s smaller towns, islands, mountains and national parks. 

How Can You Make Transportation More Cost-Effective?

An exciting South Korea travel hack: A foreign non-resident visiting the country can get a KR Pass that offers unlimited travel for a set period of time, or the T-Card that you can use on Seoul’s bus and metro system to save money on each ride. 

How Can You Get The Best Out Of Your Accommodation?

In South Korea, you can also get a place to sleep for as little as 10,000 KRW (8 USD) at jjimjilbangs (Korean saunas). At these co-ed sleeping areas, you’ll probably not find more than a mat and pillow. Don’t expect luxurious comfort when sleeping overnight in a Korean spa; however, it makes for a unique experience and fits perfectly within your South Korea budget trip.  

How Can You Save Money On Food In South Korea?

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to eat well in South Korea. Korean comfort food (such as hearty soups, noodles, stews, and rice dishes) can be found at 24-hour kimbap shops for just 1,800 to 7,000 KRW (or 1.50 to 6 USD).

If you’re on a really tight budget, we can suggest a great South Korea food hack : Skip restaurants altogether and eat your fill at Gwangjang Market or opt for some of South Korea’s delicious and varied street food, especially on Sinchon Street in Seoul. Some things you could try are marinated meat barbecued at tableside grills ( bulgogi ), rice and cooked veggies served together in a big bowl ( bibimbap ), rice and vegetables rolled in seaweed ( kimbap ), and spicy rice cakes ( tteokbokki ). 

Also Read: Mouth-watering Korean food you HAVE to try

What You Should Spend Your Money On, On A Budget Trip To South Korea

In South Korea, ATMs that accept foreign cards aren’t all that common. Keep a lookout for one that has a ‘Global’ sign or the logo of your credit card company. Do remember that they might close at 11 pm and that you might be charged a transaction fee. It’s best to exchange or withdraw your money at the airport. However, most major credit cards are widely accepted, except in the countryside.

South Korea has one of the fastest internet connections in the world, and most restaurants and cafes offer FREE Wifi. But, if you want to be connected all the time, you can buy a 4G SIM Card or rent a Pocket Wifi. SIM Cards have various prepaid plans available depending on how long you stay and can be bought at the airport. Pocket Wifi is chargeable by the day, but will give you unlimited access, and can connect up to 3 devices at once. Both usually work out much cheaper than an international plan on your regular SIM card, which is an important South Korea budget hack . 

There are many amazing things you can buy in South Korea, such as skincare products and cosmetics, or traditional Korean tea (made from herbs and fruit infusions, rather than tea leaves!) and ginseng. They are also known for their green tea or nokcha . Shopping at underground subway stations, or on the street in university areas, and flea markets will get you better prices and bargains.

In general, tipping is not expected in South Korea, although Western-style tipping practices are on the rise at upscale restaurants and hotels, where it’s advisable to tip porters around KRW 100 to 500 (USD 0.10 to 0.50) per bag.

Things To Do In South Korea That Are (Almost) ALL FREE

If you’re visiting South Korea on a budget , you can find tons of things to do for free, like the following:

• The Seoul Global Cultural Centre has a variety of activities and workshops for visitors including K-POP dance lessons, traditional Korean cooking classes and much more.
• Seoul is also home to several excellent public parks, such as Namsan Park, where you can get amazing views of the city, or Seonyudo Park, an island in the middle of the Han River.
• You can also explore Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village in the heart of Seoul, on your own, along with its many open-air museums, hip cafes, and cultural spaces.
• Most Buddhist temples, such as the Jogyesa Temple are also free to enter, and the best time of the year to visit is during Buddha’s birthday (April–May), when the entire temple is covered in colourful paper lanterns.
• There are lots of amazing museums in South Korea, like the National Museum of Korea and the Gyeongju National Museum. Most are either free on certain days or very cheap to visit, though access to special exhibitions within their grounds might come at an additional cost.
• You can go hiking in the lush green South Korean mountains for free, and those around Busan are some of the best.

So, What Kind Of A Traveller Would Enjoy South Korea On A Budget?

On average, you can spend less than 100,000 KRW (80 USD), per day if you stay at a hostel or at a jjimjilbang , and enjoy street food and adventure activities like hiking. However, you will end up spending around 200,000–300,000 KRW (160–240 USD) per day if you stay at a traditional guesthouse (or an Airbnb), frequent higher-end eateries, and spend more time at cultural sights like palaces and museums that have an entrance fee. 

Remember, such a trip appeals best to budget travellers and those who want to avoid high-end hotels and expensive restaurants. Additionally, keep in mind that the DMZ tour costs 100,000 KRW (80 USD) if that is something you want to see.  

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2024 seoul, south korea travel guide blog with diy itinerary, things to do, tourist spots, budget, tips and more for first-timers.

Traveling to South Korea for the first-time this 2024? Sharing to you my detailed South Korea Travel Guide Blog with DIY itinerary, top things to do in Korea, Seoul tourist spots, budget, breakdown of expenses and many more to help you plan your trip to "the Land of the Morning Calm."

Seoul, south korea travel guide blog 2024 for first-timers - things to do, tourist spots, itinerary, budget and more, okay, let's get started..., korea visa requirements.

VISA-FREE ENTRY TO SOUTH KOREA

Pre-flight travel essentials, book your travel essential and activities.

• Korea 4G SIM Card
• Incheon Airport Private Car Transfers
• Discover Seoul Pass
• Everland Full Day Trip
• Nami Island & Petite France Day Trip
• Bukchon Oneday Hanbok Rental Experience or Hanbok Photoshoot by Hanboknam
• AREX Incheon Airport Express Train One Way Ticket in Seoul or AREX Incheon Airport Express, Lotte World Pass and Running Man Thematic Experience Center Combo Package

HOW TO GET TO SEOUL SOUTH KOREA?

Cheap flights to seoul.

HOW TO GET TO SEOUL FROM INCHEON AIRPORT

Arex incheon airport express train, all-stop train, kal shuttle bus:, metered taxi or private car transfer:.

WHERE TO EXCHANGE CURRENCY?

HOW TO STAY CONNECTED IN KOREA?

• Buy a Korea 4G SIM Card
• 4G WiFi Rental

DISCOVER SEOUL PASS + T-MONEY CARD

HOW TO GET AROUND SEOUL?

• Popular route to your destination
• Estimated travel time
• Number of stations and changes
• And a map of the train stations with instructions on how to get there

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KOREA?

How many days to stay in korea.

USEFUL KOREAN WORDS AND PHRASES FOR TOURISTS

• Hello/Goodbye – 안녕하세요 – An-nyeong-ha-se-yo
• Thank you – 감사합니다 – Kam-sa-ham-ni-da
• Please – 주세요 – Ju-se-yo
• It’s delicious! - 맛있어요! - Mas-shis-su-hyo!
• Yes - 네 - Ne
• No - 아니요 - Aniyo
• How much is it? – 얼마예요 – ol-ma-ye-yo
• Give me a discount – 깎아주세요 – Kka-kka-ju-se-yo
• Nice to meet you – 반갑습니다 – Bahn-gap-sum-ni-da
• How are you? - 어떻게 지내세요? - Uh-dduh-keh ji-neh-seh-yo?
• I can’t speak Korean well – 한국말 잘 못해요 – Han-guk-mal jal mot-hae-yo
• I don’t understand - 잘 모르겠네요 Jal mo-reu-geht-neh-yo
• Do you speak English? - 영어 할 수 있어요? - Yon-guh-ha-se-yo?

WHERE TO STAY IN SEOUL?

• It's near a subway station (Anguk Station)
• It's location is walking distance to the shrines and palaces
• Breakfast for 2 persons are included
• It's near convenience stores
• Impressive online reviews with a rating of 9.2 (Superb) on the Traveloka App

K GUESTHOUSE MYEONGDONG 2

• It's near a subway station (Myeong-dong Station)
• It's location is within the shopping district of Myeong-dong
• It's near convenience stores and restaurants

CHEAP HOTELS IN SEOUL BELOW ₱3,000 PESOS

Hotel stay inn seoul station.

• Address: 35, Huam-ro 57-gil, Yongsan-gu, Myeong-dong, Seoul, South Korea
• Guest Rating: 8.1 (Excellent)
• BOOK HERE: Check room rates and room availability

Dream Guest House Myeongdong

• Address: 190-14, Nam-Chang-Dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

INSADONG hostel

• Address: 48, Insadong 14 Gil, jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Guest Rating: 4.5 (Superb)

MUST STAY HOTEL Myeongdong

• Address: 205-125, Namchang-dong, Jung-gu, Myeong-dong, Seoul, South Korea
• Guest Rating: 7.2 (Very Good)

YEHADOYE Guest House

• Address: 10, Insadong 12-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Guest Rating: 4.1 (Great)

K-Grand Hotel Myeongdong

• Address: 4F, 36 Myeongdong 8-gil, Jung-gu, Myeong-dong, Seoul, South Korea
• Guest Rating: 7.9 (Very Good)

TOP BUDGET HOTELS IN SEOUL BELOW ₱2,000 PESOS

Seoul n hotel dongdaemun, seoul, south korea.

• Address: 21 Jong-ro 66ga-gil, Jongno-gu, Dongdaemun, Seoul, South Korea, 03115

YH GuestHouse

• Address: 87, Yeonhui-ro, Seodaemun-gu(2F), Seoul, South Korea, 3112
• Guest Rating: 4.4 (Great)

Korstay Guest House

• Address: 247, Gomdallae-ro, Gangseo-gu, Gangseo, Seoul, South Korea

Seoul Tower Family Guesthouse

• Address: 21-9, Hangang-daero 84-gil, Yongsan-gu, Yongsan, Seoul, South Korea, 04352

Hause Itaewon

• Address: 11, hangang-daero 62na-gil, Itaewon, Seoul, South Korea, 04382

Hostel Korea Original

• Address: 20-12, Jong-ro 65-gil, Jongno-gu, Gangbuk, Seoul, South Korea, 3112
• Guest Rating: 7.5 (Very Good)

Open Guest House

• Address: 8 Changgyeonggung-ro 35da-gil, Seongbuk-gu, Jongno, Seoul, South Korea, 136-023

Saerim Hotel

• Address: 192-17 Gwanhun-dong (37-11 Insadong-gil), Insadong, Seoul, South Korea

TOP HOSTELS IN SEOUL BELOW ₱1,500 PESOS

Hostel seoul.

• Address: 9 Bomun-ro 9-gil, Jongno-gu, Gangbuk, Seoul, South Korea

Itaewon Guesthouse Yacht

• Address: 23 Itaewon-ro 23-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Itaewon, Seoul, South Korea, 140-201

Naru Hostel

• Address: 242-45 Gongdeok-dong,, Mapo, Seoul, South Korea

Hwanghae Jang

• Address: 11-2, Dangsan-ro 32-gil, Yeong-deungpo, Seoul, South Korea

Cocoon Stay Hapjeong

• Address: 36-4, Yanghwa-ro 7an-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea (380-18 Seogyo-dong), Hongdae, Seoul, South Korea

Backpackers INSIDE Hostel

• Address: 2nd Floor 5 Sunggyungwan-ro 4-gil, Jongno-gu, Jongno, Seoul, South Korea, 110-522

Hostel Stay Now Jongno

• Address: 38 Samil-daero 32ga-gil (89 Ikseon-dong), Jongno-gu, Jongro, Seoul, South Korea

THINGS TO DO, TOURIST SPOTS AND ATTRACTIONS IN SEOUL

EXPERIENCE WEARING A HANBOK

Visit gyeongbokgung palace.

BE AMAZED AT CHANGDEOKGUNG PALACE

• Adults (ages 25-64): 3,000 KRW / Group (over 10 people): 2,400 KRW
• Students (ages 24 and under): Free (* Except for foreign visitors)

VISIT CHANGGYEONGGUNG PALACE

• Children and Teenagers (ages 7-18): 500 KRW
• Children under age 6: Free

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME AT UNHYEONGUNG ROYAL RESIDENCE

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY ART, SEOUL

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday : 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
• Wednesday, Saturday : 10:00 am - 9:00 pm (18:00 - 21:00 : free)

EXPLORE BUCKHON HANOK VILLAGE

VISIT JONGMYO SHRINE

SEE THE CITY FROM N SEOUL TOWER

EVERLAND DAY TOUR

EXPERIENCE THE YOUTH CULTURE AT HONGDAE

SHOPPING AT MYEONGDONG

HAVE A TASTE OF THE STREET FOOD AT MYEONGDONG

SOUVENIR SHOPPING AT INSADONG

LOTTE WORLD

Day tours from seoul.

NAMI ISLAND + PETIT FRANCE TOUR

Other options:.

• Nami Island, Petite France, Garden of Morning Calm, or Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour from Seoul
• Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm & More
• Seoul Nami Island, Rail Bike + Petit France Day Tour
• Nami Island, Petite France, Gapyeong Rail Bike & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

DMZ DAY TOUR

Other option:.

• Best DMZ Half Day from Seoul Guided Tour - No Shopping

Other Popular South Korea Experiences

Garden of Morning Calm, Nami Island & More

Nanta Show Seoul

Gyeongju Historical and Cultural Tour

Lotte World Kids Park Undersea Kingdom

Boryeong Mud Festival

Seoul Joseon Palaces & Folk History Day Tour

SBS MTV "The Show" Tour

Trickeye 3D Museum in Seoul

Hanbok Portrait Experience by Z-and in Seoul

SAMPLE SEOUL KOREA DIY ITINERARIES

Sample 6 days / 5 nights seoul south korea diy itinerary, day 1 - arrival.

• 05:10 PM - Departure from Manila via Cebu Pacific
• 10:40 PM - Arrival at Incheon International Airport, redeem Discover Seoul Pass and SIM card
• 11:00 PM - Travel to Seoul via Private Car Transfer
• 12:00 MN - Check-in at Hotel Icon in Jongno

DAY 2 - CITY TOUR USING THE DISCOVER SEOUL PASS

• 07:00 AM - Breakfast at the hotel
• 09:30 AM - HANBOKNAM (You can wear your hanbok of choice outdoors for 90 minutes)
• 10:00 AM - Gyeongbokgung Palace
• 11:30 AM - Walk to Changdeokgung Palace
• 12:00 AM - Changdeokgung Palace
• 12:45 AM - Changgyeonggung Palace
• 01:30 PM - Lunch
• 02:00 NN - Jongmyo (Royal Shrine)
• 03:00 PM - Travel to N Seoul Tower
• 04:00 PM - N Seoul Tower
• 06:30 PM - Namsan Seoul Tower Hanbok Experience Center
• 07:00 PM - Dinner
• 08:00 PM - Back to the hotel and sleep

DAY 3 - NAMI ISLAND + PETIT FRANCE

• 06:00 AM - Breakfast at the hotel
• 07:00 AM - Travel to Myeong-dong for Nami Island Day Tour via Klook
• 08:00 AM - Depart from Myeongdong Station exit 2
• 09:30 AM - Arrive at Petite France
• 12:00 NN - Depart for Nami Island
• 12:30 PM - Arrive at Nami Island, Explore
• 03:00 PM - Depart for Seoul
• 04:30 PM - Arrive at Myeongdong Station
• 05:00 PM - Street Food / Early dinner at Myeong-dong
• 08:00 PM - Travel back to hotel and sleep

DAY 4 - DMZ TOUR + INSADONG + HONGDAE

• 06:30 AM - Breakfast at the hotel
• 8:00 AM - Hotel pick up for DMZ Tour
• DMZ Day Tour via Klook.com
• Imjingak Park
• Freedom Bridge
• 3rd Infiltration Tunnel
• DMZ Theater & Exhibition Hall
• Dora Observatory
• Dorasan Station
• Pass by Unification Village
• Amethyst factory or Ginseng Center visit
• 02:30 PM - Drop off at City Hall / Lunch in a local Korean Restaurant
• 03:30 PM - Explore Insadong and shop for souvenirs
• 05:00 PM - Travel to Hongdae
• 06:00 PM - Enjoy The youth culture and shopping at Hongdae
• 10:00 PM - Travel back to your hotel
• 11:00 PM - Back at the hotel and sleep

DAY 5 - EVERLAND

• 09:00 AM - Depart from Myeongdong Station Exit 2
• 10:10 AM - Arrive at Everland
• 10:30 AM - 04:00 PM - Enjoy Everland
• 04:30 PM - Depart for Seoul
• 06:00 PM - Arrive in Myeong-dong
• 06:30 PM - 10:30 PM - Shopping and Dinner at Myeong-dong

DAY 6 - DEPARTURE

• 07:00 AM - Check-out
• 07:30 AM - Travel to Seoul Statio via Subway
• 08:00 AM - Arrive at Seoul Station
• 08:30 AM - Take the AREX Airport Express Train to Incheon Airport
• 09:30 AM - Arrive at Incheon Airport, check-in
• 12:55 PM - Depart for Manila via Air Asia

For other sample Korea DIY Itineraries, visit my post: RECOMMENDED KOREA ITINERARY: DIY SEOUL - 3, 4, 5, 6 Days Tour 2020 .

Seoul Trip Budget and Expenses

Sample seoul korea budget for 6 days and 5 nights for 19,986 pesos budget.

• You will be staying for the first 3 nights in a private room that is good for 2 persons at Hotel Icon for PHP 1,500 per night with breakfast.
• For the last 2 nights, you'll be staying at K Guesthouse Myeong-dong 2 for 2,000 pesos per night good for 2 persons, breakfast included.
• You are a group of two.
• Your maximum expense for food is 250 PHP or 5,000 KRW per meal per person.
• You'll be using a Discover Seoul Pass for 24 hours.
• You'll be using a T-Money Card

PRE-TRAVEL EXPENSES

• Hotel Icon for 3 nights - 4,500 / 2 = 2,250 per person
• K Guesthouse Myeongdong 2 for 2 nights - 4,000 / 2 = 2,000 per person
• Korea 4G SIM Card - 1,200 per person
• Incheon Airport Private Car Transfers - 3,842 / 2 = 1,921 per person
• Discover Seoul Pass (24 hours) - 1,707 per person
• Everland Full Day Trip - 2,536 per person
• Nami Island & Petite France Day Trip - 1,880 per person
• DMZ Tour - 2,682 per person
• Hanbok Rental - 732 per person
• AREX Incheon Airport Express Train One Way Ticket in Seoul - 323 per person

TOTAL - 17,231 per person

Day 1 expenses.

• Private Car Transfer - pre-booked
• Hotel Icon (1st night) - pre-booked

DAY 2 EXPENSES

• Breakfast - complimentary at the hotel
• Hotel Icon (2nd night) - pre-booked
• HANBOKNAM - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Gyeongbokgung Palace - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Changdeokgung Palace - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Changgyeonggung Palace - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Lunch - 5,000 KRW
• Jongmyo (Royal Shrine) - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Travel to N Seoul Tower
• Subway: Jongno-3-ga Station to Myeongdong - 1,250 KRW
• Bus: Myeongdong to N Seoul Tower - 1,200 KRW
• N Seoul Tower - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Namsan Seoul Tower Hanbok Experience Center - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Bus: N Seoul Tower to Myeongdong - 1,200 KRW
• Subway: Myeongdong to Anguk Station - 1,250 KRW
• Dinner - 5,000 KRW
• Back to the hotel and sleep
• TOTAL - 14,900

DAY 3 EXPENSES

• Breakfast at the hotel - complimentary
• Hotel Icon (3rd night) - pre-booked
• Travel from Anguk to Myeong-dong - 1,250 KRW
• Nami Island + Petit France Day Tour - pre-booked
• TOTAL - 11,250 KRW

DAY 4 EXPENSES

• K Guesthouse Myeongdong 2 (1st night) - pre-booked
• Hotel pick up for DMZ Tour - included in the package
• DMZ Day Tour via Klook.com - pre-booked
• Lunch in a local Korean Restaurant - included in the DMZ Tour package
• Travel to Hongdae from Insa-dong
• Subway: Jonggak Station to Seoul Station - 1,250 KRW
• Subway: Seoul Station to Hongik Station - 1,250 KRW
• Travel back to your hotel in Myeong-dong
• Subway: Hongik Station to Seoul Station - 1,250 KRW
• Subway: Seoul Station to Myeongdong - 1,250 KRW
• TOTAL -15,000 KRW

DAY 5 EXPENSES

• K Guesthouse Myeongdong 2 (2nd night) - pre-booked
• Everland Day Tour - pre-booked
• TOTAL - 10,000

DAY 6 EXPENSES

• Travel to Incheon Airport
• Subway: Myeongdong to Seoul Station - 1,250 KRW
• Subway: AREX Airport Express Train to Incheon Airport - pre-booked
• TOTAL - 6,250

SUMMARY OF EXPENSES

• DAY 1 - 0 KRW
• DAY 2 - 14,900 KRW
• DAY 3 - 11,250 KRW
• DAY 4 - 15,000 KRW
• DAY 5 - 10,000 KRW
• DAY 6 - 6,250 KRW

TOTAL - 57,400 KRW or 2,755 PHP per person

Pre-travel bookings - 17,231 php per person, grand total - 19,986 php per person.

Sample 3 Days / 2 Nights Seoul South Korea DIY Itinerary for 8,000 pesos

• 07:10 AM - Departure from Manila via Air Asia
• 12:10 PM - Arrival in Incheon International Airport, redeem Discover Seoul Pass and SIM card
• 01:00 PM - Travel to Seoul via AREX Airport Express Train to Seoul Station
• 01:45 PM - Travel from Seoul Station to Anguk Station
• 02:00 PM - Check-in at Hotel Icon in Jongno
• 03:00 PM - Explore Insadong, have lunch
• 04:30 PM - Travel to Hongdae
• 05:15 PM - Explore, eat, and enjoy in Hongdae
• 09:00 PM - Go back to the hotel
• 10:00 PM - Arrive at the hotel and sleep

DAY 2 - NAMI ISLAND + PETIT FRANCE

• 06:00 AM Breakfast at the hotel
• 07:20 AM Travel to Myeong-dong
• 08:00 AM Depart from Myeongdong Station exit 2
• 09:30 AM Arrive at Petite France
• 12:00 NN Depart for Nami Island
• 12:30 PM Arrive at Petite France
• 03:00 PM Depart for Seoul
• 04:30 PM Arrive at Myeongdong Station
• 05:00 PM Street Food / Early dinner at Myeong-dong
• 07:00 PM Travel back to hotel and sleep

DAY 3 - CITY TOUR USING THE DISCOVER SEOUL PASS

• 06:00 AM - Brekfast at the hotel
• 07:00 AA - Check-out, leave bags at the reception
• 07:30 AM - Start City Tour using the Discover Seoul Pass
• 07:00 PM - End City Tour, have dinner
• 08:00 PM - Shopping at Myeongdong
• 09:30 PM - Go back to the hotel and get your bags
• 10:00 PM - Travel to Seoul Station
• 10:50 PM - Travel to Incheon Airport via AREX Express Train
• 11:40 PM - Arrive at Incheon Airport, check-in and wait for your flight
• 03:05 AM (the following day) - Depart for Manila via Cebu Pacific Air

For other sample Korea DIY Itineraries, visit my post: RECOMMENDED KOREA ITINERARY: DIY SEOUL - 3, 4, 5, 6 Days Tour 2019 .

Sample Seoul Korea Budget for 3 days and 2 nights for 8,000 pesos budget

• You will be staying for 2 nights in a private room that is good for 2 persons at Hotel Icon for PHP 1,500 per night with breakfast.
• Your maximum expense for food is 5,000 KRW per meal per person.
• Hotel Icon for 2 nights - 3,000 / 2 = 1,500 per person
• 4G WiFi Rental (3 days) - 149 x 3 days = 447 PHP / 3 = 223 PHP per person
• AREX Incheon Airport Express Train One Way Ticket - PHP 323 x 2 = 643 PHP per person

TOTAL - 5,953 per person

• AREX Airport Express Train - pre-booked
• Subway: Seoul Station to Anguk - 1,250 KRW
• Subway: Anguk Station to Jonggak (Insa-dong) - 1,250 KRW
• Travel back to your hotel in Jongno (Hotel Icon)
• TOTAL - 17,500 KRW
• Subway: Anguk Station to Seoul - 1,250 KRW
• TOTAL - 16,150 KRW
• DAY 1 - 17,500 KRW
• DAY 2 - 11,250 KRW
• DAY 3 - 16,150 KRW

TOTAL - 44,900 KRW or 2,155 PHP per person

Pre-travel bookings - 5,953 php per person, grand total - 8,108 php per person.

• Round trip airfare Manila-Seoul-Manila
• NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
• Food expense for snacks
• Budget for pasalubong, souvenirs and shopping expenses

South Korea Travel Blogs

• NAMI ISLAND AND PETIT FRANCE: Awesome Day Tours from Seoul, South Korea
• DISCOVER SEOUL PASS: Enjoy 35 Attractions, Discounts and Freebies in Seoul, South Korea!
• A Peek into North Korea from the Demiliratized Zone (A Memorable Day Tour from Seoul, South Korea)
• RECOMMENDED KOREA ITINERARY: DIY SEOUL - 3, 4, 5, 6 Days Tour 2019
• SOUTH KOREA VISA REQUIREMENTS and How to Apply for a Visa in the Philippines in 3 Easy Steps!

I hope this First-timer's Seoul Korea Budget Travel Guide will help you in planning an unforgettable and exciting South Korea Adventure! Enjoy and have fun in South Korea!

Follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 22 comments :.

Hi Mervz.. Thank you for this post.. question lang, anong day kayo nag travel? may nabasa kase ako na different blog, parang advise nya around tues or wednesday ang better day of travelling kase most of the attraction are close on Mondays / Tuesdays? Ano pong ma-advise nyo? thanks a lot

mas ok if two way ticket nyo kc baka d maapprove ang visa if one way lang, mejo mahigpit na kc sila sa visa lately kc madami na ata nag TNT sa kanila

Sir, yung 19,986 for 6 days and 5 night di p kasama airfare dun right?

Thanks you the detailed information's, very useful :)

Hello sir about sa airfare ticket pwede ba na dun nlng bumili ng ticket going back to Manila or need to have the 2 way ticket before leaving Manila... thanks sir 👍🏻☺️💜

Hi yung food expenses niyo and kung kayo kumakain, di mo masyado na-blog.

Thank you for your blog its so helpful Kamsahamnida!!!!!💕

Hi.. Malayo po buh yung Nami island sa Petite France? If mg DIY paano pumunta sa Petite france from nami island? Thanks

Thank you for your helpful blog. I enjoy reading it :)

hi po kua..need po ba talaga ng bank account or credit card pag nagtravel sa korea?salamat po😊

uh, kasali ba po ba yung plane ticket sa almost 20k nyong gasto or hindi pa po?

hi po good afternoon po..pwd po mag ask kung magkano po magagastos sa trip to korea po stay ng 1 week po 2 adult po at 3 bata? ung cheapest po if meron po slamat po

Hi sir. Would like to ask if your familiar with the kdrama goblin locations, yun po sana ang gusto ko ivisig bukod sa famous places in korea.

Wow, this is very helpful! Thank you! I love reading your Blogs :)

Whaa galing sobra ng blog na toh! Niisip ko palang tanong ko may sagot na sya.Thank you. Share ko to....

Ang galing !!! thanks for your writing !! eto na ang susundan namin itinerary . Very detailed ang information and sobrang helptful ng tips.

wow! very detailed. Thanks soo much. I will follow this - I hope i can survive travelling with my 7yr old son (just the 2 of us in December) :-)

pa update nman po if what package worked for u. Planning to travel with my 2 kids.. thank you!

Sobrang detailed and helpful! Really great for people like me whose never been to SK before. TYSM!

Thank you for this detailed travel guide. Ask ko lang po if how much you spend for the visa and may show many ba?

Thanks for the info...ask ko lang po, pagbumili ng Discover Seoul Pass na 48 hours kahit ano pede piliin dun sa mga attractions? Than yung City Tour po ba may enough time naman each sites na mkapagpapicture at mavisit ng maayos?

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

South Korea Real Food Adventure

8 days | slurp, crunch and spoon your way into the belly of south korea.

Immerse yourself in the choose-your-own-adventure atmosphere of South Korean food on this eight-day adventure from bibimbap to bustling street markets, where your local leader will guide you to the best stalls. The food scene here is relaxed and welcoming, encouraging you to explore and discover your own favourite flavours. Enjoy dishes loaded with toppings, crispy Korean fried chicken paired with craft beer, silky glass noodles with fresh salads and some delicious variations of kimchi. As you move around the country, you'll also uncover the rich heritage that makes South Korea's culinary scene so special.

Trip overview

• Learn how to make everybody’s favourite pickled dish – kimchi, of course – at a cooking demonstration in Jeonju, then try the city’s iconic bibimbap (declared an intangible cultural asset, it’s just that good).
• Meet the local stall holders in the Gwangang market of Netflix fame and try the best street food that Seoul has to offer. Then, wander the Jagalchi market – a huge seafood wonderland by the Busan port.
• Experience Busan’s vibrant food scene with a hands-on cooking class, where you'll prepare your own lunch. In the evening, indulge in a Korean-style lamb skewer dinner, featuring a self-rotating grill that ensures perfectly cooked meat.
• Rub shoulders with the locals in a hanok (traditional home) in Jeonju, then learn about the everyday life of monks during a unique temple experience in Gyeongju.
• Feast on all the iconic foods of South Korea, including Korean fried chicken, bibimbap, japchae, kimbap, a seafood barbeque and of course, Korean BBQ.
• The cuisine of South Korea includes a lot of meat and seafood. For vegetarians and vegans, we recommend reviewing the itinerary to ensure you can fully enjoy and participate in the trip.
• South Korea is best explored on foot, and many travelers are surprised by how much walking they do! Be sure your shoes are comfortable and you're ready to spend most of the day on your feet.
• Pack smart! You’ll need to carry your luggage between train stations and hotels, which can involve multiple flights of stairs. Elevators are available, but lighter luggage will make your journey easier.
• One night of this trip includes Korean-style floor bedding in a traditional hanok in Jeonju. The futon-like mattress may feel firm compared to Western beds, but heated floors ensure comfort. Extra mattresses are available upon request.
• During the monastery visit, you'll experience monastic cuisine and rituals. Respecting local culture is key, so you'll be provided with pants and a tunic to wear, and socks must be worn in the temple.
• The Jeonju Bibimbap Festival (third week of October) and the Seoul Kimchi Festival (first or second week of November) offer unique experiences. If you're interested in attending, please check our departure dates to align with your preferred festival.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Annyeonghaseyo! Welcome to Seoul, South Korea's capital known for its high-tech gadgetry, towering skyscrapers and great food. Your adventure officially kicks off with a welcome meeting at 4 pm today, where you'll meet your leader and fellow travellers. With the formalities out of the way, it’s time to dive into South Korea’s food scene! Get your bearings with a leader-led orientation walk, where you’ll stop at a local supermarket to get a broader view of the food habits of modern Koreans. Here, you’ll get an insight into the everyday life culture, and your leader will pick up some popular local snacks for the group to enjoy. Then, hop on the subway and make your way to dinner – Korean Fried Chicken and beer, a popular pairing known as ‘chimaek’. Then head to the Gwangjang Market for an introduction to the sights, smells and, of course, tastes of South Korean street food. Go deep into the market – which you might recognise from the Netflix series ‘Street Food’ – and follow your leader to the best vendors. If you’re still hungry, you can grab round two at Ikseodong. The streets are lined with cafes, so you’ll have no trouble finding something to satisfy your cravings.

• Hotel (1 night)
• Seoul - Korean Fried Chicken & beer Welcome Dinner
• Seoul - Supermarket stop
• Seoul - Gwangjang market and Ikseongdong village visit

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Take the metro to Seoul Station this morning and set off for Jeonju – a city that’s all about doing things slowly and doing them well, both in food and in life. You'll arrive just in time for lunch at a renowned noodle restaurant that began as a humble food stall but has since become a city icon, thanks to its noodles. In the afternoon, spend some time exploring the historical Hanok Village, wandering cobblestone streets between hundreds of traditional homes and embracing the relaxed pace of the city. Later, learn the art of making kimchi – a signature dish of Korean slow food – during a cooking demonstration. You’ll also learn how to make a kimchi pancake. If you're keen for more authentic food experiences, join your leader for locally brewed, cloudy rice beer called 'makgeolli'. Accompanied by a variety of inventive side dishes, this unique drink is traditionally enjoyed in a ritual manner, served in special brass bowls from the cherished makgeoli kettle.

• Hanok (1 night)
• Jeonju - Kimchi Cooking demonstration
• Jeonju - Hanok Village Visit

Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

The Jeonju Bibimbap Festival takes place in early October every year. Departures that coincide with this event will have the cooking class replaced by a visit to the festival.

Tonight's accommodation will be in a hanok guesthouse. The bedding in a hanok is a futon mattress on the floor with a light covering. The floor of your room is heated and provides a comfortable and cosy night’s sleep.

This morning, move from the hanok to a hotel for your second night in Jeonju. You'll have free time to wander the village or visit the historical shrines and palaces – just chat to your leader if you’re unsure where to explore first. From here, travel by bus to Sunchang Gochujang – a village famous for producing gochujang (a traditional red chilli paste). You’ll get to discover how the paste gets made and sample some. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant and try the banchan – side dishes are a staple on the Korean table. Later, stroll around the base of Mt Gangcheon and maybe work up your appetite by walking a little further to a nearby waterfall. For dinner tonight, you’ll visit the most famous bibimbap restaurant in Jeonju – so famous, in fact, that the bibimbap has been declared an intangible cultural asset!

• Sunchang - Gochujang (traditional chilli paste) Cooking Demonstration
• Sunchang - Mount Gangcheon Hike

This morning you'll have the opportunity to start your day with kongnamul gukbap (a hot soup of soybean and sprouts) before heading to Gyeongju. When you arrive, tuck into soondubu for lunch (a famous spicy stew with soft tofu) before watching a martial arts demonstration. Life is all about the journey, not the destination, so on the way to the demonstration, stop off at a statue that’s been standing for over 1500 years among ancient temples. After the ground fighting display, learn about Buddhism and meditation routines as you sip tea with a monk at Gyeongju temple. Tucked away among the trees outside Gyeongju city, the temple is the perfect spot to recharge. Feeling at peace, you’ll be ready to drive to your new location for the next two days – bustling and beachy Busan.

• Gyeongju - Temple Day Visit program including meditation / & tea or martial arts

Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

For your stay at the temple, you’ll be given trousers and a tunic to wear. Please bring socks as bare feet are not allowed in the temple.

Since Busan is famous for its beaches, start your day by visiting the most famous one – Haeundae Beach. Admire the contrast of the white sand with the distant skyscrapers before travelling on to Haedong Temple, built into the rocks by the sea. You’ll get a bit more hands on with your food today at a cooking class, where you’ll prepare dishes to enjoy for lunch. The afternoon is yours to explore – maybe go sightseeing from a yacht, unwind at a Jjimjilbang (South Korean sauna) or catch a baseball game at Sajik Baseball Stadium. Regroup at dinner for a feast of Korean-style lamb stewers. As well as the tasty marinade with a mix of Korean spices, these skewers have a self-rotation mechanism. A specialised grill allows the skewers to rotate automatically, ensuring the meat is perfectly cooked – yum!

• Busan - Haeundae Beach
• Busan - Haedong Temple
• Busan - Jjimjilbang (traditional Korean sauna) in Spa land Centum City - from 20,000 to 25,000 KRW - KRW20000

Soak up some free time in Busan this morning, then later, visit Jagalchi Market – an enormous seafood market by the port. Head to a restaurant overlooking the ocean for a clam bake with a view. Did you know that Busan has more than 100 lighthouses? See one up close on an optional walk after dinner. Or you can walk around the colourful Gamcheon village, where you can pick up a postcard or a handmade souvenir. Maybe wrap up your day with noraebang – also known as karaoke. Luckily for those who lean more towards shy than showstopping, karaoke in Korea is often in private rooms with just your friends and family – so sing like no-one's listening!

• Busan - Lighthouse Visit
• Busan - Jagalchi Seafood Market Tour
• Busan - Seafood BBQ by the sea
• Busan - Home-cooked meal with a local family
• Busan - Visit to Gamcheon Village - free ( bus to get there 1,300 to 1,500 KRW for a single trip) - KRW1300

After breakfast at the hotel, travel by Korea Train Express back to Seoul where you'll have a free afternoon to see new parts of the city. Perhaps wander around Gyeongbok Palace, see the views from Namsan Tower or check out Seoul’s most eclectic neighbourhoods – Sinsadong and Gangnam. For your final meal, make your way to the youthful district of Hongdae for an authentic Korean BBQ experience and celebrate your time together as a group.

• Seoul - Celebratory Korean BBQ Dinner
• Seoul - Nanta Live cooking show - KRW50000

Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Your South Korea food adventure comes to an end this morning. If you wish to extend your stay and explore more of Seoul, contact your booking agent ahead of time.

There are no meals included on this day.

If you would like to arrange a visit to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a tour can be pre-booked (depending on the political atmosphere) at http://www.tourdmz.com . Alternatively, you can speak with your tour leader who will be able to assist with making a reservation. We are unable to pre-book this service for you.

5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners

Private Vehicle, Train, Public Bus, Metro, Taxi

Hotel (6 nights), Hanok (1 night)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. While we endeavour to cater for specific dietary requirements, some meals and food activities are set in advance and may be difficult to adjust. Please advise us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking so that we can ensure you’ll enjoy this trip. 3. Please advise bedding configuration requests to your booking agent at time of booking.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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My Hero Academia: You're Next

Izuku Midoriya, a U.A. High School student who aspires to be the best hero he can be, confronts the villain who imitates the hero he once admired. Izuku Midoriya, a U.A. High School student who aspires to be the best hero he can be, confronts the villain who imitates the hero he once admired. Izuku Midoriya, a U.A. High School student who aspires to be the best hero he can be, confronts the villain who imitates the hero he once admired.

• Tensai Okamura
• Yôsuke Kuroda
• Kôhei Horikoshi
• Kaito Ishikawa
• Kenta Miyake
• 1 User review

• Shoto Todoroki

• Giulio Gandini
• Anna Scervino
• Katsuki Bakugo

• Ochaco Uraraka
• Izuku Midoriya
• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

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Did you know

• Trivia This is the final My Hero Academia movie, as the manga ended a few days after the film's release.
• Connections Spin-off from My Hero Academia (2016)

User reviews 1

• October 11, 2024 (United States)
• Official website
• 我的英雄學院劇場版：You're Next
• See more company credits at IMDbPro
• $19,003,869

Technical specs

• Runtime 1 hour 50 minutes

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Moving overseas can be an opportunity to reinvent yourself—leave behind the stresses and worries of where you’re currently living and launch a new life in an exciting location with new scenery, new faces, maybe a new language, and more.

It’s understandable why this idea is taking off in the United States, with more people than ever considering settling in another country . Moving abroad can be an opportunity to add more fun and adventure to your life.

But moving to a new country involves a major life change, and as such, it also requires a great deal of introspection, planning, and work to pull off. Here are six questions to ask yourself in the early stages of planning a move abroad.

1. What Do You Want Your New Life Abroad To Look Like?

Before jumping on a plane, define your priorities, agendas, and preferences. Determine what you’re willing to give up from your current lifestyle and what you’re not. If you’re moving with your significant other, you need to have a mutual understanding of the journey you’re embarking on.

Do you care what people think about your decision to move overseas? If so, you’re susceptible to being dissuaded by your friends and family. If moving abroad is your goal, you must learn to continue with your plans despite this.

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What’s your ideal lifestyle overseas: an expat enclave where all your neighbors are from the U.S. and Canada, speak English, and talk about the same things people talked about back home? Or a setting that’s more authentic to the country you’re living in, where your neighbors are locals, and where you’ll likely grapple with a language barrier?

Both options exist, as well as half-measures between them. There is no right or wrong choice when it comes to lifestyle; there’s only the choice that works best for you.

Do you want to live abroad part-time or full-time? This doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You take a cue from snowbirds, who “fly south” for winter, spending a handful of months in a warmer climate before returning home for the spring and summer. You can try living overseas on for size and live in a new country for a month or two per year until you feel comfortable enough to extend your stay. Or you can take the plunge and relocate, settling into your new home full-time.

2. What’s Your Move-Abroad Budget?

Instead of asking how much money you need to move overseas, ask yourself how much you currently have.

The minimum you’ll need to secure a comfortable life in select low-cost havens is $1,000 per month. With that budget, your selection of international havens to move to is more limited, although there are still some good options out there. With a budget of $2,000 to $4,000 per month, your selection expands exponentially.

The best way to determine how much you have is to prepare a spreadsheet. Document your assets and liabilities to determine your net worth. After figuring out your nest egg, you can turn that into your budget for your new life abroad.

The good news is that many goods and services start out at a lower price overseas, which can allow you to reduce how much you spend on basic necessities (creating more budget for discretionary spending). You may be able to cut out expensive items like a car, depending on where you’re moving.

3. What Will You Do About Health Care?

Health is one of life’s most important considerations, and it only becomes more important as we get older.

If you have a serious health condition that requires regular medical attention or special medication, this can limit your range of options abroad. But this is not always a deal-breaker. Researching what’s available locally is crucial, but rest assured that many excellent options for affordable, quality medical care exist internationally.

Even if you’re perfectly healthy, you’ll have to decide what type of health insurance to use in your new life abroad. You have a couple of options: local health insurance, international health insurance, travel health insurance, or no insurance at all.

Going without health coverage might be unfathomable to you, but in certain destinations, it can be a reasonable approach. In some countries, medical care is so affordable that it makes more sense to pay out of pocket for regular health needs, putting what you would’ve paid for health insurance into an interest-yielding savings account.

An international or travel health insurance plan makes the most sense if you plan on traveling a lot once you move. If you’re staying put in one country, a local insurance policy is likely the best option.

You should start thinking about health early in the relocation process. Many policies only accept new clients up to certain ages. If you enter into a policy before the cut-off, you can usually stay in it past that age, but if you wait too long, you could age yourself out of some good health insurance options.

4. Will You Need Residency?

How long will you stay in your chosen haven? Are you moving overseas part-time or full-time? If you want to stay in a country for longer than a tourist visa allows (which is usually 30 to 90 days), you will need to apply for residency there.

With a residency permit, you’re a legal resident of the country but not a citizen. Residency is your ability to live in that country for a set period of time—as long as your residency permit allows, which is usually one or two years at a time. After living in a country for an extended period (usually five years), you can convert temporary residency into permanent residency, which is usually valid indefinitely.

To apply for residency, you’ll have to meet certain requirements (such as providing a background check, proof that you have health insurance, evidence of funds that you can use to sustain yourself in your new country, etc.). Working with a residency lawyer who speaks both the local language and English is usually the easiest way to obtain residency.

5. Will You Rent Or Buy Your New Home?

Renting first is always a recommended strategy. Even if you’re sure you like the country that you’re planning on moving to and you’ve scoped out which city you’ll choose, you may yet know which neighborhood in that city suits you best.

Renting allows you to try out several different neighborhoods before committing to a property purchase, if that’s on your agenda. While property is a solid investment class, you may decide that renting indefinitely is better for you.

Renting allows for a more mobile and flexible lifestyle, and overseas, it can be affordable—as inexpensive as a couple hundred dollars per month. You avoid the carrying costs of property ownership, as well as the administrative processes of making a purchase and estate planning. Plus, renting overseas can be very affordable—as little as a couple hundred dollars per month.

Plus, if you don’t have the cash, you might have no choice but to rent. In many countries, cash purchases of homes are the norm, and financing for foreigners (even resident ones) is not an option. In countries where you can get financing, you’ll find high interest rates and strict requirements.

In countries like Belize and rural Italy, the best way to find a rental is through word of mouth. Many countries lack central databases of available listings, so it’s best to put boots on the ground and deal with local agents directly. By searching on the internet (in English), you’ll find only the most expensive rentals that are aimed at tourists.

6. Are You Up For Learning A New Language?

If you are up for learning a new language, you’ll enjoy the widest selection of havens to move to.

If not, you can relocate to a country where English is an official language (Belize, Malta, the Philippines, etc.) or where the locals speak English to a standard that’s high enough that you can get by. Lisbon, Portugal, Panama City, Panama, and Phuket, Thailand, are a few examples of places where you don’t necessarily need to speak the local language to live well.

That said, you will be doing yourself a disservice by not picking up at least the basics (“Thank you,” “Goodbye,” “Please,” and so on). It will be more difficult to form connections with locals, which can be one of the best aspects of moving abroad.

Learning the basics is almost always appreciated. The more effort you make, the easier it will be to become a part of your new community. Watching and listening to media (TV shows, movies, podcasts, etc.) in the language you’re trying to learn and striking up conversations are good ways to practice. Taking language classes can also be a fun way to meet new people.

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Confused over EU cabin baggage rules? Here’s what they actually mean for your allowance

Exclusive: airlines including ryanair are hoping to unify baggage dimensions – but don’t expect to take your roll-along for free on a budget carrier, article bookmarked.

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Cabin baggage limits on flights are maddeningly complicated. Airlines come up with their own rules on the exact dimensions and weights of hand luggage. Some charge for anything more than a small backpack, laptop case or handbag – others don’t.

If you normally fly on airline X, don’t assume your bag will also be compliant on airline Y.

Many “legacy” carriers such as British Airways and North American airlines have a generous two-item allowance for cabin baggage. But budget airlines in Europe do not.

The only sure way to comply with all the leading carriers with no extra charge is to have one small bag no bigger than 33 x 25 x 15 cm.

Yet according to one of the many reports circulating on mainstream news sites online: “The European Union is poised to roll out a new set of rules aimed at making air travel more straightforward and less unpredictable. From 1 September, changes to hand luggage regulations will be implemented as part of an initiative to standardise the dimensions of carry-on bags”.

Travellers are told, incorrectly, that starting in September , passengers on EU airlines will be entitled to “one piece of hand luggage and one small personal item, such as a handbag, backpack, or laptop bag”.

The story is nonsense. It is not clear why there should be widespread reporting about something that is not happening. But these are the key questions and answers about what is happening, with sources for the information provided.

Is the EU is making it mandatory for airlines to give a generous cabin baggage allowance?

No. The European Commission told me: “There is no upcoming EU regulation which foresees changes to hand luggage rules.”

The European Parliament passed a resolution last October saying: “EU-wide harmonisation of the requirements on the size, weight and type of carry-on and check-in luggage for all airlines operating in the European Union would enhance transparency and consumer protection for all air travellers.”

Given the current confusion, airports, airlines and passengers would surely agree with that.

What is the EU actually doing, then?

According to the European Commission Department for Mobility and Transport , a workshop took place in July “with all interested stakeholders to discuss possible common industry standards on the weight and dimensions of hand luggage”.

A spokesperson told me: “The Commission expects to hear further details from industry on the progress towards common standards soon and plans to organise a follow-up workshop in autumn.”

So the airlines are signed up to this?

Yes. The trade association Airlines for Europe (A4E), representing British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair and the leading airlines from Continental Europe, is on the case.

Michael O’Leary, chief executive of Europe’s biggest budget carrier, Ryanair , told me: “We do think there should be a standardised agreement on what can be brought on board.

“We’re working with the other airlines in A4E to try to agree standardised sizes, but we haven’t reached an agreement with them yet.”

But doesn’t the EU want to abolish charges for cabin baggage?

Ideally, but then you get into the tangle of European institutions with their own views, and overlapping and conflicting spheres of influence.

The European Court of Justice decided a decade ago that hand baggage constitutes a “necessary aspect” of air travel and that passengers should be able to take a reasonable amount without paying extra.

The European Parliament wants a rule that people should be able to take a couple of pieces of hand luggage on board without being “subject to a price supplement”.

The European Commission says: “Member States are urged, therefore, to ensure that this ruling is respected, and, in the meantime, to strive for transparency with regard to the disclosure of any fees charged for carry-on luggage.”

Surely that means a generous free limit for everyone?

The budget airlines believe it can’t and won’t happen. Michael O’Leary of Ryanair says officials in Brussels “accept that there will have to be restrictions”.

He told The Independent daily travel podcast : “If you take our Boeing 737s [the only plane type Ryanair flies], we can only allow about half the passengers to bring a wheelie bag on board. There isn’t space on board the aircraft for any more bags.

“So we don’t think there’s going to be any legislation that will impose a right – or impose on all airlines, ‘You must take all these wheelie bags’ – because the aircraft won’t fit the bags.”

He would say that, wouldn’t he?

Yes, because budget airlines make a large slab of their revenue from charging for larger items of hand luggage. Low-cost carriers saying they make pricing entirely transparent. I have some sympathy with them. Yet one reason the European authorities are taking a closer look at the subject is because the airlines have brought extra attention to their policies by upping the cost of baggage to an absurd degree.

In September, for example, I can fly with Ryanair to Croatia from London Stansted for £15. But taking a larger piece of cabin baggage will cost an extra £23 – over 50 per cent higher than the basic air fare. That bears little relation to the marginal cost of someone taking their own hand luggage on board.

When will things change?

Who knows, but I do not expect any action before summer 2025. Uniformity will be particularly tricky for regional carriers with small aircraft.

For example, Loganair has maximum cabin baggage dimensions of 40cm x 35cm x 18cm because of the size contraints of its fleet. A case with those exact dimensions would have a volume of 25 litres, which is 60 per cent less than the limit for a large piece of hand luggage on British Airways.

Meanwhile, just ensure you comply with the rules for your airline.

Any idea why those online articles about free baggage started appearing?

My best guess is that perhaps editors conflated the return of the uniform 100ml rule on liquids in cabin baggage across Europe – which is definitely happening on 1 September 2024 – with the proposed changes to hand-luggage allowances outlined by the European Parliament.

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Family vacation: Kanye West and Bianca Censori's ‘take your kids to work’ trip for South Korea Vultures 2 event

Kanye west and bianca censori ditched their usual risque fashion as they arrived in south korea with his kids for the vultures 2 listening party..

Days after Kanye West and Bianca Censori unexpectedly rolled up to a Trump rally in Beverly Hills, the rapper is all suited up for his Vultures 2 listening event in South Korea. With this latest business trip, the controversial hip-hop mogul's professional and personal lives will intersect again as he and his wife make it a family affair, with Ye's three kids, North, Saint and Chicago West, coming along with them.

Brand-new paparazzi clicks revealed 27-year-old Censori to be on stepmom duty. This time, she was seen all smiles in the kiddos' company as opposed to her appearance in Beverly Hills this week when she kept her gaze locked ahead while Trump supporters went wild, realising Ye was among them.

Kanye West and Bianca Censori land in South Korea with his kids (minus one lad)

As first reported by TMZ, Ye and Bianca's happiness knew no bounds as they'd made a family vacation out of the professional tour. Their flight touched down at Incheon International Airport in the Hallyu homeland early Friday morning, August 23.

The “Stronger” hitmaker was spotted donning his usual hoodie look. He wore matching white sweats and a hoodie, and his wife was also seen swearing by her familiar fashion code in a skin-coloured bodysuit. The Vultures hitmaker also flaunted his $850,000 grills at the airport.

Also read | Beyonce not at DNC: It ‘was never’ meant to Bey; rep and publicist respond, Internet on fire after heavy rumours

While 11-year-old North and 8-year-old Saint stayed in close proximity to their stepmom, who carried the youngest Chicago, 6, in her arms, their dad stayed ahead of the group. His other son, Psalm, 5, was seemingly absent for the trip.

Ye's upcoming listening party for his latest album iteration with Ty Dolla $ign will be held at Goyang Stadium in Seoul , marking his first concert in Korea in 14 years. According to Korea JoongAng Daily, he last performed in the country at the Summer Week&T music festival in 2010.

Kanye West's conditions for the trip

As also reported by DailyMail.com, the rapper made some shocking demands ahead of his show. Sources revealed that he clearly specified that the hotel he and his family would be staying at must be a Ritz, Four Seasons, or Aman Group. He even insisted on securing 24 rooms in a five-star hotel for his personal use.

Moreover, his crew should also be in a five-star hotel, even if it's a different hotel. They're required to wear black and strictly must not use their phones or consume alcohol, tobacco, or drugs.

Also read | Jennifer Garner-Ben Affleck not getting back together: She's still very much dating John Miller | Report

What happened at the Vultures 2 listening event in South Korea?

Once the Friday concert kicked off in Seoul, Ye made an unconventional entry on a white horse, and his over 70-song set spanning his entire career also featured a surprise appearance by rapper Juno Miles.

West performed the song “Bomb” with Miles and his daughter North, who had previously participated in one of his collaborative songs with Ty Dolla $ign on Vultures 1 – “Talking.”

Other highlights at the event included Kanye inciting the crowd to chant “F*ck Adidas” and dedicating his “I Wonder” performance to Drake and Ian Connor.

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South Korea Average Hotel Costs: Nightly Room Prices by Accommodation Type

How much do the hotels cost in South Korea? Here we have analyzed the prices of 1,094 terrific hotels in South Korea to help you understand how much money you will most likely need for your next amazing trip. Whether you're on a shoestring budget, visting with your family, traveling in luxury, or visiting solo, we have categorized the costs of these fantastic hotels in South Korea by star-rating, guest rating, amenities, and more. So, let's find out if the best hotels in South Korea are expensive, and where the best and cheapest hotels can be found.

• Average Nightly Hotel Room Cost in South Korea
• Average Cost for the Best Hotels by Guest Rating
• Average Luxury Hotel Cost in South Korea
• Average Mid-Range Hotel Cost in South Korea
• Average Budget Hotel Cost in South Korea

Hotels Under $25 in South Korea

Hotels under $40 in south korea, hotels under $50 in south korea, hotels under $100 in south korea.

• Average Cost of a 5-Star Hotel in South Korea
• Average Cost of a 4-Star Hotel in South Korea
• Average Cost of a 3-Star Hotel in South Korea
• Average Cost of a 2-Star Hotel in South Korea
• Average Cost of a 1-Star Hotel in South Korea
• Average Cost for Hotels with Pools in South Korea
• Average Cost for Ski Resorts and Hotels in South Korea
• Average Cost for Hotels with Room Service in South Korea
• Average Cost for Water Park Hotels in South Korea
• Average Cost for Hotels with Restaurants in South Korea
• Average Cost for Hotels with Bars in South Korea
• Average Cost for Hotels with Parking in South Korea
• Average Cost for Hotels with Kitchens in South Korea
• Average Cost for Hotels with a Free Breakfast in South Korea
• Average Cost for Hotels with Golf in South Korea
• BJ Hotel $26, Rated 10.0 of 10
• SUANBO SANGNOK Tourist Hotel $61, Rated 10.0 of 10
• With Motel $30, Rated 10.0 of 10

How much do hotels cost in South Korea?

Visitors will find a large range of terrific hotel choices when planning a visit to South Korea. The price of a hotel can vary according to location, type, and amenities. The average hotel price in South Korea based on data from 1,094 hotels is an affordable $47, and the median price is $41.

The average price of a hotel for 3 days in South Korea is $141.

The average hotel cost for one week in South Korea is a surprisingly affordable $330, and the average hotel cost for two weeks in South Korea is a surprisingly affordable $659 (not including taxes and fees).

• 3 Days $ 141
• One Week $ 330
• Two Weeks $ 659
• See More See Hotels in South Korea

Recommended

Palm valley resort, how much should i pay to stay in a hotel in south korea.

You'll find the budget, mid-range, and luxury South Korea hotel cost per night displayed below. This chart shows the range of hotel prices for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for a reservation, this graph breaks down the costs by price range.

(All hotel prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by Kayak. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

Are Hotels in South Korea Expensive?

From the chart above, and from our statistical calculations, we can see that the average price for all hotels in South Korea is $47. Also, the average price for budget hotels in South Korea is $29. Furthermore, the average price for luxury hotels in South Korea is $86. So, is a South Korea expensive? Given the overall cost of living and travel in the area, these prices are not unreasonable. And if you think it's expensive to spend the night in South Korea, don't worry, as it's quite possible to find hotel rooms with great values for your next trip. We have recommended hotels at various price ranges below.

Also, see our article Best Hotels for One Night in South Korea for more places to stay.

Prices for the Best Hotels in South Korea (South Korea's Top Rated Hotels by Guests)

Are you looking for the best hotel in South Korea? After we analyzed the 279 best and highest rated hotels (the top 25%), we found a variety of amazing options at different price ranges. The average price of the highest rated hotels is a great value at $49, and the median price is $45. So, here are the price ranges of the best places to stay in South Korea for your next fantastic trip to this amazing destination.

How much are the best hotels in South Korea?

Chelsea guesthouse gyeongju, fullhouse pension, human valley pension.

If it's your first time here, check out Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in South Korea for more great places to stay.

Prices for the Best Luxury Hotels in South Korea

Looking for South Korea's best hotels? We'll show you just how expensive hotels are in South Korea. The average price of the 164 top luxury hotels in South Korea is $86, and the median price is $82. The price ranges below will help you understand how much these fantastic hotels will cost for your next amazing trip.

How much should I pay to stay in a luxury hotel in South Korea?

The chart below shows the range of the fantastic luxury hotel prices for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for a luxury reservation, this graph tabulates the costs of these terrific hotels by price range. These luxury hotels often include some of South Korea's best boutique hotels and resorts.

What are the highest rated luxury hotels in South Korea?

Whale's dream.

For more details, see Best Luxury Hotels in South Korea for beautiful hotels.

Prices for Mid-Range Hotels in South Korea

Hotel costs per night in South Korea are displayed below for mid-range hotels. For the 522 mid-range hotels in South Korea, the average price is $49, and the median price is $47. These typical South Korea hotel rooms are a good representation of what is available, because they are in the middle of the total price range while still providing quality amenities.

How much should I pay to stay in a typical mid-range hotel in South Korea?

The chart below shows the range of very nice moderately priced hotels for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for a booking, this graph tabulates the costs of these great accommodation options by price range. These hotels also include some of South Korea's best bed & breakfasts and vacation rentals.

What are the highest rated mid-range hotels in South Korea?

Win hotel andong, wiz hotel paju.

Also, see Best Family-Friendly Hotels in South Korea which has even more great hotels for families with kids.

Prices for Budget Hotels in South Korea

To find the best cheap hotels in South Korea, we analyzed the prices of this destination's 408 budget hotels. The average price of these budget hotels is $29, and the median price is $30. The highest rated hotels which are below the average cost are presented below, along with the price ranges of all budget hotels. Now we'll show you just how affordable hotels can be in South Korea, as the chart below shows the cheapest places to stay in South Korea .

How much should I pay to stay in a budget hotel in South Korea?

The chart below shows the range of the terrific budget-friendly hotel prices for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for a cheap hotel, this graph tabulates the prices of the great hotels here by range. These surprisingly affordable hotels often include some of South Korea's best hostels and budget guesthouses, too.

What are the best budget hotels in South Korea?

Below are some of the top rated cheap hotels in South Korea. Affordable hotel rooms sometimes have basic furnishings or smaller sizes, but come at some of the best prices and offer the best deals. If you're looking for a cheap hotel room in South Korea, these hotels are among the best.

Rex Hotel Cheonan

For even more affordable places to stay, see Best Cheap Hotels in South Korea .

The following hotel rooms are the top rated by guests for a price under $25. If you're looking for a cheap hotel on a budget below $25, these places to stay might make a good option.

Where can I sleep in South Korea under $25?

White house motel, jeju olleh hotel, monaco motel jeju, green guesthouse jeju.

The following hotel rooms are the top rated by guests for a price under $40. If you're looking for a cheap hotel on a budget below $40, these places to stay might make a good option.

Where can I sleep in South Korea under $40?

3s boutique hotel ansan, mirabell motel, springdale golf & resort.

The following hotel rooms are the top rated by guests for a price under $50. If you're looking for affordable luxury hotels less than $50, these rooms would be a good choice.

Where can I sleep in South Korea under $50?

Evergreen pension, hotel cube songdo, motel laguna uijeongbu.

The following hotel rooms are the top rated by guests for a price under $100. If you're looking for affordable luxury hotels less than $100, these rooms would be a good choice.

Where can I sleep in South Korea under $100?

Melon guesthouse - hostel, suanbo sangnok tourist hotel, hotel prices by star rating for south korea.

The star ratings of hotels are based on the best amenities and the quality of service instead of guest ratings. Some countries and cities have strict criteria for how hotels are rated based on specific amenities.

Average 5-Star Hotel Price in South Korea

$88 is the average price of the 20 5-star hotels in South Korea. The median price for these great hotels is $91.

How much does a 5-star hotel in South Korea cost?

The chart below shows the range of terrific 5-star hotel prices for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for a great 5-star hotel, this graph tabulates the surprisingly affordable prices by category. Many people consider a 4 or 5-star hotel to be a luxury hotel, but that does not mean that you can't find a great deal on these high-end rooms.

Average 4-Star Hotel Price in South Korea

The average price of the 113 terrific 4-star hotels in South Korea is $70, and the median price is $68.

How much does a 4-star hotel in South Korea cost?

The chart below shows the range of terrific 4-star hotel prices for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for a great 4-star hotel, this graph tabulates the surprisingly affordable prices by category. Many people consider a 4 or 5-star hotel to be a luxury hotel, but that does not mean that you can't find a great deal on these high-end rooms.

Average 3-Star Hotel Price in South Korea

After an analysis of 460 excellent hotels, $47 is the average price for the great 3-star hotels in South Korea, and the median price is $42.

How much does a 3-star hotel in South Korea cost?

The chart below shows the range of terrific 3-star hotel prices for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for a great 3-star hotel, this graph tabulates the surprisingly affordable prices by category.

Average 2-Star Hotel Price in South Korea

With data for 413 fantastic hotels, $40 is the average price for 2-star hotels in South Korea, and the median price is $35.

How much does a 2-star hotel in South Korea cost?

The chart below shows the range of terrific 2-star hotel prices for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for a great 2-star hotel, this graph tabulates the surprisingly affordable prices by category.

Average 1-Star Hotel Price in South Korea

With data for 48 great hotels, the average price for 1-star hotels in South Korea is $40, and the median price is $38.

How much does a 1-star hotel in South Korea cost?

The chart below shows the range of terrific 1-star hotel prices for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for a great 1-star hotel, this graph tabulates the surprisingly affordable prices by category.

Are Hotels Nice in South Korea?

• 5-Star Hotels: $88
• 4-Star Hotels: $70
• 3-Star Hotels: $47
• 2-Star Hotels: $40
• 1-Star Hotels: $40
• 5-Star Hotels: 8.2 out of 10
• 4-Star Hotels: 7.9 out of 10
• 3-Star Hotels: 6.7 out of 10
• 2-Star Hotels: 6.2 out of 10
• 1-Star Hotels: 6.2 out of 10

Should I Stay in a 4 or 5-Star Hotel in South Korea?

Let's examine 4-star hotels versus 5-star hotels in South Korea. Hotels with a 4-star rating generally cost less ($70) than those with a 5-star rating ($88). Also, hotels with a 4-star rating generally have a lower guest rating (7.9) than those with a 5-star rating (8.2).

Should I Stay in a 3 or 4-Star Hotel in South Korea?

If we compare 3-star versus 4-star hotels in South Korea, we see some helpful trends. Hotels with a 3-star rating generally cost less ($47) than those with a 4-star rating ($70). Also, hotels with a 3-star rating generally have a lower guest rating (6.7) than those with a 4-star rating (7.9).

Should I Stay in a 2 or 3-Star Hotel in South Korea?

Looking at the comparison between 2-star hotels versus 3-star hotels in South Korea, we can see the differences between the prices and guest ratings. Hotels with a 2-star rating generally cost less ($40) than those with a 3-star rating ($47). Also, hotels with a 2-star rating generally have a lower guest rating (6.2) than those with a 3-star rating (6.7).

The chart below shows the range of the cost of hotels with pools for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for hotels with pools, this graph tabulates the costs by price range.

The average price of the 138 hotels with pools in South Korea is $68, and the median price is $67.

What are the best Hotels with Pools in South Korea?

Busan youth hostel arpina.

The chart below shows the range of the cost of ski resorts and hotels for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for ski resorts and hotels, this graph tabulates the costs by price range.

$59 is the average price of the 11 ski resorts and hotels in South Korea. The median price for these hotels is $54.

What are the best Ski Resorts and Hotels in South Korea?

Intercontinental alpensia pyeongchang resort, hanwharesort pyeongchang.

Also, see Best Hotels for Skiing in South Korea for more ideas.

The chart below shows the range of the cost of hotels with room service for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for hotels with room service, this graph tabulates the costs by price range.

After an analysis of 294 hotels, $54 is the average price for the hotels with room service in South Korea, and the median price is $48.

What are the best Hotels with Room Service in South Korea?

The chart below shows the range of the cost of water park hotels for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for water park hotels, this graph tabulates the costs by price range.

The average price of the 19 water park hotels in South Korea is $71, and the median price is $70.

What are the best Water Park Hotels in South Korea?

Sono calm geoje.

The chart below shows the range of the cost of hotels with restaurants for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for hotels with restaurants, this graph tabulates the costs by price range.

$55 is the average price of the 439 hotels with restaurants in South Korea. The median price for these hotels is $51.

What are the best Hotels with Restaurants in South Korea?

The chart below shows the range of the cost of hotels with bars for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for hotels with bars, this graph tabulates the costs by price range.

After an analysis of 187 hotels, $61 is the average price for the hotels with bars in South Korea, and the median price is $58.

What are the best Hotels with Bars in South Korea?

The chart below shows the range of the cost of hotels with parking for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for hotels with parking, this graph tabulates the costs by price range.

$48 is the average price of the 892 hotels with parking in South Korea. The median price for these hotels is $43.

What are the best Hotels with Parking in South Korea?

The chart below shows the range of the cost of hotels with kitchens for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for hotels with kitchens, this graph tabulates the costs by price range.

After an analysis of 244 hotels, $55 is the average price for the hotels with kitchens in South Korea, and the median price is $52.

What are the best Hotels with Kitchens in South Korea?

The chart below shows the range of the cost of hotels with a free breakfast for a one night stay in South Korea. If you're trying to figure out how much you should pay for hotels with a free breakfast, this graph tabulates the costs by price range.

The average price of the 107 hotels with a free breakfast in South Korea is $43, and the median price is $37.

What are the best Hotels with a Free Breakfast in South Korea?

Hotel soseol smith.

See also Best Beach Hotels in South Korea , Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in South Korea , Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in South Korea , Best Hotels for One Week in South Korea , Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in South Korea , or Best Business Hotels in South Korea for more room ideas. With so many options, there's a good place to stay for every type of traveler.

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10 Disney World Family Vacation Ideas Are Perfect For Families On A Budget

• Purchase Disney World tickets in advance to save money and avoid long ticket lines. Take advantage of special promotions or bundled packages.
• Pack your own food and drinks to avoid high costs of purchasing meals inside the park. Utilize picnic areas and free water stations.
• Resist the allure of Disney souvenirs to save money. Set a spending limit and consider purchasing Disney-themed items outside the park for more affordable options.

While Disney World is one of the most visited destinations in the United States, many people are still unsure whether a family vacation to this resort is worth their time and money. In most cases, especially for budget-conscious families, the question of how to budget travel to Disney World becomes paramount. The good news is that there are numerous ways to enjoy the magic of Disney without breaking the bank. In fact, some of the best places for budget family travel can be found within the enchanting realm of Disney World itself.

One of the key considerations for families on a budget-conscious trip is finding cost-effective yet enjoyable experiences. Visitors will discover that Disney World offers several options that cater to various budget levels. From affordable dining choices to clever strategies for maximizing park time, these Disney family vacation ideas can make the dream trip a reality without emptying your wallet.

Related: These Disney World Rides Still Have The Longest Wait Times In The Park

Buy Tickets In Advance

For budget-conscious travel enthusiasts planning a magical Disney World family vacation, purchasing tickets in advance is a savvy move. Visitors can often take advantage of special promotions or bundled packages to discover why Disney World is really magical .

Travelers can find these deals on Disney's official website or through authorized ticket resellers. Not only does this strategy save money, but it also allows families to skip the long ticket lines at the park entrance, ensuring a smoother start to their Disney adventure.

Research ticket options thoroughly and be aware of blackout dates or restrictions that might apply to certain ticket types. Always buy from reputable sources to avoid scams or counterfeit tickets.

Pack Own Food And Drinks

Although there are several best pizza places at Disney World , this vacation resort allows visitors to bring snacks, sandwiches, and non-alcoholic beverages into the park. This budget-friendly approach helps families avoid the high costs associated with purchasing meals inside the park.

Picnic areas within the parks provide a convenient and scenic spot for a family meal. Additionally, carrying refillable water bottles and utilizing free water stations can help guests stay hydrated without the expense of buying bottled water throughout the day.

The food and non-alcoholic beverages items brought to the park must only be for self-consumption . They should not be in glass containers or require reheating, refrigerating, or processing.

Related: 10 Things You Might Not Know About Walt Disney World Resort

Avoid Souvenirs

Resisting the allure of Disney souvenirs can lead to significant savings. While it's tempting to purchase character-themed merchandise, clothing, and collectibles, these expenses can quickly add up.

For instance, travelers can get Minnie Ears for $29.99 online, but these headbands cost about $34.99 in the parks .

To maintain budget discipline, families should set a spending limit for souvenirs before arriving at Disney World and encourage their family members to make thoughtful choices about what they truly want.

Alternatively, consider purchasing Disney-themed items outside the park, such as at nearby outlet stores, for more affordable options.

Use The My Disney Experience App

One of the most valuable tools for families on a budget at Disney World is the My Disney Experience app . This app offers a range of features to enhance a visitor's experience, including mobile food ordering, ride wait times, and interactive park maps.

The app is personalized based on travelers' specific interests and preferences, making it an essential companion for planning and enjoying your Disney World vacation.

Therefore, strategically using the app saves both visitors time and money. With this, visitors can plan their itinerary efficiently, make the most of their time in the parks, and minimize unnecessary waiting.

Related: Budget Guide For Booking An Affordable Disney World Vacation

Take Advantage Of Free Activities

Disney World offers a variety of free activities and entertainment options that can be enjoyed without spending extra money. These include character meet and greets, parades, fireworks shows, and street performances.

Families on a budget should plan their visit around these scheduled events, as they provide entertainment and magical moments without additional expenditures. Moreover, exploring the themed areas and enjoying the intricate details of the parks' design can be a free and enchanting experience.

To take advantage of free activities, check Disney World's daily schedule for free entertainment options and plan their day around these activities to make the most of their visit.

Use The Disney Dining Plan

To manage dining expenses effectively at Disney World, travelers can consider opting for the Disney Dining Plan. This pre-paid meal plan allows families to budget their food expenses in advance and can provide significant savings, especially if they plan to dine at sit-down restaurants within the park.

The Disney Dining Plan offers different tiers, including options for quick service, table-service meals, and snacks. With this, visitors can budget their dining expenses and potentially save money more compared to paying for each meal individually.

Take Advantage Of The Extra Magic Hours

Disney World visitors looking to make the most of their Disney World vacation should take advantage of Extra Magic Hours. These exclusive hours are available to guests at Disney Resort and select partner hotels. These hours allow them to enter the parks early or stay late.

During Extra Magic Hours, certain attractions and areas within the Disney parks are open exclusively for eligible guests. This provides a fantastic opportunity to experience popular rides with shorter wait times and enjoy a more relaxed park atmosphere.

Related: Vacation Ideas For Families (That Aren’t Disney World)

Visit During The Off-season

During peak times, such as school holidays and major holidays, accommodations, tickets, and dining prices tend to be higher. In contrast, off-peak periods offer lower prices and smaller crowds, making it easier to find budget-friendly deals on lodging and enjoy shorter wait times for attractions.

As such, families visiting this vacation resort may need to find the best days of the year to visit Disney World . For instance, January and September often offer lower crowd levels and better deals on Disney Resort accommodations.

Travel enthusiasts can take advantage of these less crowded periods to experience attractions with shorter wait times and reduced expenses.

Keep in mind that the weather during the off-season may vary, so pack accordingly and be prepared for possible rain or cooler temperatures.

Take Advantage Of Discounts

Disney World often offers various discounts and promotions, so budget-conscious families should keep a lookout for these money-saving opportunities. These discounts can apply to accommodations, dining, tickets, and even merchandise.

For example, Disney frequently runs promotions like " Free Dining Plans " for guests staying at Disney Resort hotels. Travel enthusiasts can also explore discounts available through AAA, military discounts, or special offers for Florida residents.

Visit Disney's official website regularly to stay informed about the latest discounts and promotions. Be prepared to act quickly, as these deals often have limited availability and booking windows.

Related: True Facts About Disney World's Animal Kingdom

Stay Off-Site

While staying at a Disney Resort hotel has perks, families on a budget can often find more affordable accommodations off-site. Many nearby hotels and vacation rentals offer competitive rates and shuttle services to the Disney parks. This makes it convenient to access the magic of Disney without the premium price tag.

Moreover, off-site accommodations may provide more budget-friendly dining options in the surrounding area, allowing families to save on meals.

Read reviews and research off-site hotels thoroughly to ensure they meet your family's needs in terms of comfort, convenience, and value for money. Don't forget to factor in any additional transportation costs to and from the parks.

• Best overall
• Best for trip cancellation
• Best for medical-only coverage
• Best for families
• Best for value
• Best for multiple trips
• Why you should trust us

Best Cheap Travel Insurance of September 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate travel insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

In an ever-evolving world, emergency medical and evacuation travel insurance coverage is essential, especially if you're traveling internationally. However, sports equipment coverage, pet protection, and cancel for any reason coverage are among the increasingly popular coverage options that are changing the way we travel. We've gathered the best cheap travel insurance plans to help you protect your trip while on a budget.

Best Cheap Travel Insurance Plans of 2024 Summary

• Best overall: HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance
• Best for trip cancellation:  Aegis General Travel Insurance
• Best for medical-only coverage:  GeoBlue Travel Insurance
• Best for families:  C&F Travel Insured
• Best value: Nationwide Travel Insurance
• Best for reputation: Trawick International Travel Insurance

Top Cheap Travel Insurance Company Comparison

The best travel insurance companies should be able to meet your needs at a price you're willing to pay. Sometimes, you're just not willing to pay that much. The following companies offer decent coverage for low prices. To determine which companies made this list, we compared quotes across the travel insurance industry for the same trip, making a note of which companies offered particularly good coverage in certain areas and which companies were well reviewed.

Here are the best affordable travel insurance companies picked by Business Insider editors in 2024.

Best Cheap Travel Insurance Overall

Hth worldwide travel insurance.

The HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance Economy plan offers the most comprehensive coverage across major categories of all the providers in this guide.

You'll have some peace of mind with up to $75,000 of financial protection for eligible medical emergencies, and up to $500,000 per person for medical evacuation costs. For more everyday expenses, you can also relax with baggage loss and delay, trip interruption, cancellation and delay coverage that will help you recoup many, if not all, of your costs.

However, this plan falls short on missed connection benefits and accidental death coverage, both of which are not available under most circumstances (missed connection coverage only applies to cruises, and will only cover up to $500 per person after a three-hour delay).

Read our HTH Worldwide travel insurance review .

Best Cheap Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation

Aegis general travel insurance.

The Aegis Trip Cancellation Plan is exactly that: a cost-effective plan that offers protection in the event that your trip is canceled for a covered reason. The plan we priced out for our hypothetical trip cost just 1.16% of our total travel expenses — a very small amount of money to pay for the guarantee of our money back in the right circumstances.

The benefit is that this plan can supplement other coverage you already have, or give you a little bit of protection for a trip where you might not otherwise have opted for insurance altogether. On the downside, you won't get any protection for medical emergencies, trip interruption or delays or lost bags from this plan.

Read our Aegis travel insurance review .

Best Affordable Travel Insurance for Medical Coverage

Geoblue travel insurance.

GeoBlue is a travel insurance provider that specializes in travel medical insurance. Because it doesn't offer much trip protection or travel inconvenience coverage, it can charge cheaper premiums. A 30-year-old from California would pay as low as $20.55 for a policy that covers a two-week trip.

GeoBlue plans can cover medical expenses up to $1 million with several multi-trip annual plans available. It offers coinsurance plans for trips within the U.S. and 100% coverage for international trips. It also has a network of clinics in 180 countries, streamlining the claims process. It's worth noting that coverage for pre-existing conditions comes with additional costs.

Read our GeoBlue travel insurance review .

Best Cheap Travel Insurance for Families

C&f travel insured.

There's a lot to like about C&F Travel Insured. For one, it is one of the only travel insurance companies that offers CFAR coverage for annual travel insurance plans . Additionally, C&F is widely praised for its customer service, offering quick reimbursements for claims. Claims that don't reimburse within 30 days begin to accrue interest at 9% APY.

When it comes to affordability, C&F remains on the lower end of travel insurance costs. Policies for younger solo travelers are generally around 4% of total trip costs, which isn't bad considering average costs for travel insurance is around 4-8% of total trip costs. However, C&F excels at insuring families as children are heavily discounted with the Edge plan and completely free with the Protector plan. 

Read our C&F Travel Insured review .

Best Cheap Travel Insurance for Value

Nationwide travel insurance.

Nationwide is a well-rounded alternative to HTH Worldwide Trip Protector Economy. This plan offers solid protection for both travel-related snafus as well as situations that might call for emergency medical and evacuation, making it a good choice for trips where you have cause to worry about potential interruptions or delays. However, it does not offer protection for missed connections or accidental death.

Read our Nationwide travel insurance review .

Best Cheap Annual Travel Insurance

Trawick international travel insurance.

Trawick offers three ties of coverage for annual multi-trip travel insurance: Basic, Deluxe, and Executive. Its Basic plan offers coverage for multiple trips under 30 days with $2,500 of travel cancellation coverage over the policy term and $10,000 in emergency medical coverage. It costs a flat $163 per person.

Read our Trawick travel insurance review .

Types of Affordable Travel Insurance

Comprehensive coverage.

This type of insurance offers extensive protection, covering everything from medical issues to trip cancellations. While it's more expensive up front, it can save you a lot in the long run.

Medical-Only Coverage

As the name suggests, this policy focuses solely on travel medical emergencies , dropping trip cancellation coverage and travel inconvenience coverage. It's a cost-effective option for travelers who are primarily concerned about health-related expenses.

Evacuation and Repatriation

In extreme cases where you need to be evacuated due to a medical emergency or a natural disaster, this coverage ensures that you can return home safely without incurring huge costs.

Benefits of Opting for Cheap Travel Insurance

Cost savings.

Just because a travel insurance policy is cheap doesn't mean it's lacking. Many affordable policies offer substantial coverage, giving you peace of mind without breaking the bank. It'll also leave you with more money to spend during your trip

Cheap travel insurance can significantly reduce your travel expenses, ensuring that you're not overpaying for coverage you might not need. 

Adequate Coverage for Less

Not every trip needs the most comprehensive insurance policy. If you're taking a short, cheaper trip, you simply might not need that much coverage. That's where a cheaper travel insurance company may be able to offer you the coverage you need. 

How to Pick The Best Cheap Travel Insurance Plan for You

No single travel insurance plan will meet the needs of every single traveler. By nature, we are diverse and evolving meaning travel insurance should be equally so. Travel insurance for a week-long trip to a big city shouldn't be the same as the coverage for a backpacking expedition in the mountains. A splurge to purchase comprehensive insurance coverage may also be worth it for international ventures or other large expenditures.

In most cases, the cost difference between a basic and comprehensive travel insurance plan isn't as significant as you might think. Regardless, it's generally a good idea to choose a trusted travel insurance provider known for exceptional customer service and coverage. (For this roundup, we looked at traveler reviews shared through the travel insurance aggregator SquareMouth .)

• Assessing Your Travel Needs: Consider the nature of your trip, the destination, and your own personal needs when choosing a policy. This ensures that you're not over-insured or underinsured.
• Comparing Different Policies: Don't settle for the first policy you find. Compare different options, looking at their coverage and prices, to find the best fit for your budget and needs.
• Reading the Fine Print: Always read the terms and conditions carefully to understand what's covered, what's not, and the process for making a claim.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed Cheap Travel Insurance

To determine the best insurance plan for travelers on a budget, we evaluated dozens of products using a hypothetical trip to Australia for a single traveler, age 26, with a total cost of $2,500 for flight, hotel and other incidentals. We then compiled the plans that covered the essentials at the lowest costs.

Of note: All of these plans include COVID-related medical coverage and 24-hour assistance, and pay at least 100% of your trip cost for eligible trip cancellations. None include rental car coverage.

The four winning plans cost between $29 to $74 — significantly below the average cost of comprehensive travel insurance , which can range between 4-8% of total travel expenses, according to the US Travel Insurance Association. But these affordable plans also come with comparably low ceilings for various aspects of coverage such as emergency medical, trip cancellation, or delay — and do not include rental car or " cancel for any reason" (CFAR) protection . So if you think you might need these benefits, it may well be worth upgrading to a comprehensive travel insurance plan for a few more dollars, just for the peace of mind.

Convenience and Flexibility

Each of the plans in this list include 24-hour assistance worldwide from reputable insurance providers. And despite being on the lower end of insurance plans, each of these options includes refunds for up to 100% of your total trip cost for eligible reasons. Each of these plans also includes medical coverage for COVID-related issues that may arise during your travels, which may come in handy as the pandemic continues to evolve worldwide.

Sufficient Coverage in Essential Categories

The cheapest travel insurance plan will rarely cover every scenario that could go awry on your trip. However, each of these plans can at least help you get your money back in the event that your travel is canceled for an eligible reason, and most of them include travel medical insurance if you incur emergency medical bills while traveling. We also factor in what travelers are most concerned about now. 

You can read more about how Business Insider rates travel insurance .

Best Cheap Travel Insurance FAQs

You can reduce the cost of travel insurance by opting for simpler coverage with lower coverage limits. You may also consider companies that offer medical-only travel insurance policies. You can also consider annual travel insurance, which will save you money in the long run if you take multiple trips over one year.

Yes, many affordable policies offer comprehensive coverage suitable for international travel. It's crucial to compare policies and understand your needs. You can find our guide on the best international travel insurance here.

When shopping for travel insurance, consider the type of trip you're planning. If you're planning leisurely excursions in a big city, you may not need as much emergency medical coverage as you would if you're planning a serious hiking expedition in the mountains. A good plan should include trip cancellation, some emergency medical protection, and 24-hour assistance at a minimum.

The average cost of travel insurance is 4%-8% of your trip's cost. This usually translates into a premium between $89 to $399. That said, many companies offer premiums far below average costs.

Unfortunately, many travel insurance companies that cover pre-existing conditions reserve coverage for its more expensive plans. That said, you'll find some providers that cover pre-existing conditions with their value plan, such as C&F Travel Insured and Berkshire Hathaway .

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