Seoul
South Korea
Overview
A high-tech metropolis where Joseon-era palaces, K-pop culture, sizzling barbecue joints, and futuristic design converge in relentless, infectious energy.
Cost of Travel
Daily budget guide for Seoul — what you can expect to spend per person including accommodation, meals, transport, and activities.
per person per day
per person per day
per person per day
Approximate costs in USD based on today's exchange rates.
Explore Seoul
Namsan Mountain Park
Seoul’s largest park, a tranquil, hilly forest with trails, an observatory tower & a cable car.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Free guided tours are offered of this large 14th-century royal palace with a museum & gardens.
War Memorial of Korea
Museum charting Korea's conflicts, with exhibition rooms, monuments & an outdoor vehicle display.
Changdeokgung
Tours are offered of this large Joseon dynasty palace & its surrounding gardens.
N Seoul Tower
Opened in 1980, this iconic tower offers panoramic views of the city & a revolving restaurant.
Where to Stay
Signiel Seoul
An ultra-luxury hotel occupying floors 76-101 of the Lotte World Tower, offering vertiginous views and impeccable Korean hospitality.
Hotel28 Myeongdong
A well-located boutique hotel in Myeongdong's shopping district with modern rooms and a rooftop terrace with city views.
Where to Eat
Jungsik
New Korean
A two-Michelin-star restaurant that pioneered modern Korean fine dining, reimagining bibimbap, gimbap, and more in stunning presentations.
Maple Tree House
Korean BBQ
A beloved local chain serving premium Korean BBQ with exceptionally marbled beef and all the banchan (side dishes) you can eat.
Travel Tips
- Get a T-money card at any convenience store for transport and small purchases
- Korean BBQ etiquette: the youngest at the table usually grills
- Download Naver Map or KakaoMap — Google Maps is limited in South Korea
- Free Wi-Fi is everywhere, including the metro
- Visit a jjimjilbang (Korean spa/bathhouse) for the full local experience
- K-pop fans should visit HYBE Insight museum and the SM/JYP/YG entertainment districts
Getting There & Around
Seoul's metro is one of the world's best — extensive, clean, and cheap with elevators at nearly all stations. T-money card works on metro, buses, and taxis. KTX high-speed trains connect to Busan (2.5 hours). Taxis are affordable. Walking is great in flat areas but hills are common.
Book & Reserve
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