Naitri Planning a trip to Seoul, South Korea, and wondering how much it might cost? In this post, I’m sharing a detailed budget from my Seoul trip, breaking down exactly how much I spent during my time in this vibrant city. While Seoul can feel relatively affordable, especially if you’re traveling from the US, costs can add up quickly depending on your activities and preferences. Whether you’re planning your own trip to Seoul or just looking for travel inspiration, this guide will give you an idea of what to expect when budgeting for your trip to Seoul.
Summary
- Dates Traveled: 11/14/24 – 11/17/24
- Exchange Rate: 1405 South Korean Won (KRW) to 1 US Dollar (USD).
- Main Expenses: Accommodation, transportation, meals, activities, and shopping.
- Note: Flight tickets are not included in this breakdown, as prices can vary significantly depending on factors such as your departure location, the time of booking, seasonality, and any deals or promotions you may find. To get the best rates, it’s always a good idea to book well in advance and compare prices across multiple airlines and travel platforms.
How to Stick to Your Total Budget for Seoul Trip: General Tips
- Use Public Transportation: Public transportation is a must! It’s much cheaper than taxis. Get a T-money card at the airport or convenience store for easy access to subways and buses.
- Stay in Central Areas: I stayed in Myeong-dong, which was perfect for a first-timer. Staying centrally will save on transportation costs since many attractions are walkable.
- Eat Local: Street food and night markets are a great way to taste local dishes affordably. You can try various options and immerse yourself in the culture without breaking the bank.
- Book in Advance: Booking hotels and activities like the DMZ Tour early can often help you secure better prices. I used Klook for the DMZ tour, and they offer promo codes for first-time users, which can save you a bit more on your bookings.
- Carry Your Passport: When shopping, having your passport can help you avoid paying taxes. You can also save on taxes for skincare or hair treatments if you show your passport at the time of purchase.
How Much I Spent in Seoul
Here’s a detailed breakdown of my expenses during my trip, including accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and shopping. For accommodation costs, I’ve included both the total amount for the entire stay and the cost per person, as I traveled with a companion. Splitting the accommodation made it more affordable and allowed us to stay in a comfortable, centrally located hotel without stretching the budget. If you’re traveling solo, you may want to consider options like hostels or guest houses if you are looking to save on costs.
1. Accommodation
I stayed at the Crown Park Hotel Myeongdong, which was both comfortable and centrally located.
- Price per Night: $147.9
- Total for 4 Nights: $591.71
- Total per Person: $295.86
- Booking Tip: Booking in advance often gives you better rates. I booked through Agoda, which offered lower rates than other platforms and included free cancellation until four days before the trip.
2. Transportation
Seoul’s public transportation is highly efficient and affordable. I used Ubers a few times during the entire trip, but mostly used subways and buses. The T-money card is a must-have for easy and cashless access to public transportation. If you have leftover balance, you can use it at convenience stores or get cash back at the airport if you return the card.
- T-money Card: $20 (initial top-up and recharges)
- Uber: $30
- Total Transportation Costs: $50
3. Meals and Drinks
I enjoyed a mix of street food, sit-down meals at restaurants, and a few visits to bars. Food is relatively inexpensive compared to the US, so it’s easy to stick to a budget. If you’re looking to save, you could comfortably spend less than $40 per day by opting for more street food or even grabbing a quick meal at a gas station.
- Street Food: $20
- Coffee Shops: $35
- Restaurants/Bars: $110
- Total Food & Drinks for 4 Days: $165
Average daily cost for food and drinks: $41.25
4. Activities and Attractions
Many of the activities listed below are optional, and there are definitely more affordable alternatives—especially for skincare treatments. For example, you can get a facial at some clinics for under $100. This section is very personal and depends on your interests. You could skip these expenses entirely, but I highly recommend trying a skincare treatment to experience the renowned skincare culture Seoul is known for.
- DMZ Tour: $52 (half-day tour)
- Skincare Treatment: $369 (facial at Lamine Clinic)
- Hair Treatment: $108
- Total for Activities & Attractions: $529
5. Shopping and Souvenirs
Seoul is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from luxury brands to quirky local items. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets, trendy boutiques, or department stores, there’s something for everyone. For K-beauty enthusiasts, the city is a dream come true, with endless skincare and cosmetic options that are both high-quality and affordable. I personally didn’t spend as much as I thought I would.
- Skin care Products:$60
- Souvenirs: $40
- Total for Shopping: $100
Tip: Carry your passport everywhere to save on taxes. Some stores offer instant discounts when you present your passport, while others provide the option to claim your tax refund at the airport.
6. Miscellaneous Costs
Having reliable internet access can make your trip much smoother, whether it’s for navigation, translation, or staying in touch. You’ll need to choose between an eSIM, pocket Wi-Fi, or international roaming through your provider. Costs will vary depending on the option you choose. I found the eSIM to be the best option for me, but keep in mind that your phone must be unlocked for it to work.
- SIM Card (eSIM): $14
Total Budget for Seoul Trip
- Accommodation: $295.86
- Transportation: $50
- Food & Drinks: $165
- Activities & Attractions: $52 (DMZ Tour) – Note: The cost of skincare and hair treatments is excluded as these are optional and can vary significantly depending on your choice.
- Shopping & Souvenirs: $100
- Miscellaneous Costs: $14
- Grand Total: $676.86
