Seoul on a Budget: Experience the City Without Breaking the Bank.

Published on 04 September 2024, by Shin Min-Hae | Seoul, South Korea.

Seoul, the dynamic capital of South Korea, is known for its blend of modern skyscrapers, high-tech subways, pop culture, and traditional temples. Despite its reputation as a bustling metropolis, it's entirely possible to explore Seoul without spending a fortune. Here’s how to experience the best of the city on a budget. Accommodation

Seoul offers various budget-friendly accommodation options, including hostels and guesthouses in popular areas like Hongdae, Myeongdong, and Itaewon, which provide comfortable stays and opportunities to meet fellow travelers. Renting a room or an entire apartment through Airbnb can be a cost-effective alternative, especially for group travel, with options that often include a kitchen to save on meals. For an authentic Korean experience, consider staying in a goshiwon, a small, budget-friendly room typically used by students, which, while compact, is clean, affordable, and widely available throughout the city. Transportation

Purchase a T-Money card for easy and discounted access to Seoul’s extensive public transportation network, and refill it as needed to enjoy seamless travel, or explore the city’s attractions within walking distance or by renting a bike through Seoul Bike (Ddareungi) for a fun and affordable alternative. Food

Explore Seoul’s legendary street food scene at markets like Gwangjang and Namdaemun for affordable options such as tteokbokki, hotteok, and mandu, visit convenience stores like CU, GS25, and 7-Eleven for inexpensive meals including kimbap, ramen, and pre-packaged foods, and seek out budget-friendly restaurants that offer Korean staples like bibimbap, kimchi jjigae, and samgak kimbap for hearty meals at reasonable prices. Attractions

Explore free and low-cost attractions in Seoul by visiting Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces, where you can catch the changing of the guard ceremony, enjoying panoramic views from Namsan Seoul Tower by hiking up instead of taking the cable car, and relaxing by the Han River with picnics and bike rides. Many museums and galleries, including the National Museum of Korea, Seoul Museum of Art, and Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art, offer affordable or free admission for cultural enrichment, while traditional markets like Dongdaemun, Namdaemun, and Insadong provide opportunities to soak up the local atmosphere, browse unique souvenirs, and sample local snacks. Tips for Saving Money

Stay connected by using free Wi-Fi available in cafes, restaurants, and public spaces to avoid roaming charges, shop for the best deals at local markets rather than touristy areas and consider bargaining, and plan ahead by researching free and discounted attractions to make the most of your budget. Activities

Immerse yourself in Seoul's cultural experiences by renting a hanbok to explore historical sites with discounts available for nearby palaces, visiting temples such as Jogyesa and Bongeunsa for a peaceful retreat and insight into Korean Buddhism, and attending local festivals like the Seoul Lantern Festival and the Lotus Lantern Festival, which often have free entry and showcase Korean culture, music, and food. Additionally, enjoy hiking on trails like Bukhansan, Namsan, and Inwangsan, which offer stunning views and a chance to escape the urban hustle at no cost.