Did you know there are ways to enjoy Seoul without breaking the bank?
So, you might want to travel to Seoul, but your budget is limited. You might feel discouraged to visit Seoul because it seems expensive – I know how that feels. Trust me, I’ve been there.
But don’t worry, there are ways to experience Seoul without breaking the bank!
In this blog article, I will introduce you to seven money-saving strategies that helped me travel on a budget in Seoul and Korea.
By the end of this post, you’ll be ready to confidently book that flight to Seoul, knowing you can explore this dynamic city to the fullest while keeping your budget in check.
So, let’s dive right in!
1. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
One of the best ways to save money on your Seoul trip is to plan your visit for the off-peak season.
By traveling to Seoul during months like January, February, October, or November, you can take advantage of cheaper airfare and lodging.
Not only will you save on these major expenses, but you’ll also avoid the peak summer season’s inflated prices and crowds.
So, consider scheduling your Seoul adventure during these more budget-friendly months to make the most of your money.
2. Enjoy Free Activities In Seoul
There are actually many completely free activities in Seoul. Taking advantage of these free activities is a fantastic way to explore the city on a budget.
For example, most museums don’t have an entry fee, and visiting traditional temples is also free.
Here are some fun free things to do in Seoul:
- Hike up Namsan for breathtaking panoramic views of the city
- Visit the National Museum of Korea to learn about the country’s rich history
- Explore the traditional architecture and charm of Bukchon Hanok Village
- Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Cheonggyecheon Stream
- Attend busking performances in lively neighborhoods like Hongdae or Sincheon
You can also check out this blog article for more information.
By filling your itinerary with these free activities, you can immerse yourself in Seoul’s culture, history, and beauty without spending a won.
3. Stay At Budget Accommodations
Choosing the right place to stay is crucial when you travel on a budget in Seoul, and the city offers a range of affordable accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs.
There are plenty of budget-friendly lodging alternatives, from Jjimjilbangs (Korean bathhouses), where you can sleep for a small fee, to Goshiwons (student housing), which offer basic rooms at low prices for long-term stays.
Other great options include:
- Hostels: Dorm rooms or private rooms at reasonable prices
- Guesthouses: Affordable rooms, often with shared facilities
- Budget-friendly hotels: No-frills hotels that provide all the essentials
Opting for budget accommodations can save a significant amount of money on your Seoul trip while still having a comfortable place to rest your head.
4. Get Your Tax Refund At The Airport
As a tourist in Seoul, you can take advantage of Korea’s tax refund system to save money on your purchases.
When shopping at participating stores, be sure to ask for a tax refund slip or form after presenting your passport.
Before departing from South Korea, bring your passport, refund slip, and purchased items (unused and unopened) to the customs desk at the airport.
For refunds under 75,000 KRW, you can use the self-service tax refund kiosk at the airport terminal. For larger refunds, head to the customs inspection area.
By following these simple steps, you can get a portion of your shopping expenses refunded, helping you stretch your budget further.
5. Shop Accessories In Wholesale Shops
For budget-conscious fashionistas, shopping at wholesale accessory shops like Nyu Nyu in Dongdaemun and Myeongdong is a must.
These stores offer various trendy accessories at incredibly low prices, allowing you to update your look without breaking the bank.
Other great areas for affordable shopping include:
- University neighborhoods like Hongdae or Sinchon: Known for their affordable fashion boutiques
- Underground metro stations: Home to budget-friendly independent clothing and accessory stores
By shopping at more affordable places and comparing prices, you can find unique, stylish pieces to commemorate your Seoul trip while keeping your spending in check.
6. Eat At Local Restaurants & Convenience Stores
Indulging in Seoul’s delicious cuisine doesn’t have to be expensive. Instead of only opting for the “Instagram-famous” restaurants, try eating at local restaurants and convenience stores. This is a great way to save money while satisfying your taste buds.
Korean street food dishes like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), odeng (fish cakes), and twigim (fried snacks) are not only affordable but also incredibly tasty. You can find them at traditional markets, such as Gwangjang Market and Mangwon Market in Seoul. You can read more about traditional Korean markets here.
Convenience stores, which can be found on nearly every corner in Seoul, offer a surprising variety of cheap and delicious meals, such as:
- Ramyeon (instant noodles) in various flavors
- Kimbap (Korean-style rice rolls)
- Microwaveable rice and other instant dishes
7. Get The Climate Card Tourist Pass
Investing in the Climate Card Tourist Pass is a smart move for budget travelers who want to explore Seoul using the city’s public transportation system.
Available in 1, 2, 3, and 5-day options, this pass allows unlimited use of Seoul’s public transportation during your selected period.
Prices range from 5,000 KRW for a 1-day pass to 15,000 KRW for a 5-day pass, making it an economical choice if you use public transport two to three times per day or more.
As a bonus, Climate Card Tourist Pass users can enjoy the same discounts for cultural and performance facilities that are applied to the regular Climate Card, such as a 50% discount on admission to the Seoul Science Center and Seoul Grand Park
You can learn more about the Climate Card Tourist Pass here.
In this blog post, you’ve learned seven essential money-saving strategies helping you travel on a budget in Seoul from traveling during off-peak seasons to eating at local restaurants and convenience stores.
By implementing these tips and embracing the spirit of budget travel, you can create unforgettable memories in this dynamic city without overspending.
Happy travels, and may your Seoul journey be filled with excitement, discovery, and budget-friendly fun!
