If you are planning a trip to Korea, one of the most common questions is: how much does it cost to travel in Korea?
The good news is that Korea can be both affordable and flexible depending on your travel style. You can travel on a budget or enjoy a more comfortable trip with higher expenses.
In this guide, I will break down the average travel cost in Korea, including food, transportation, accommodation, and daily expenses.
Daily average cost
Average daily travel cost in Korea depends on your travel style.
- Budget traveler: 50,000 ~ 80,000 KRW per day
- Mid-range traveler: 80,000 ~ 150,000 KRW per day
- Comfortable travel: 150,000 KRW or more
Food cost in Korea
Food in Korea can be very affordable.
- Convenience store meal: 3,000 ~ 6,000 KRW
- Local restaurant: 7,000 ~ 12,000 KRW
- Cafe: 4,000 ~ 7,000 KRW
Tip:
Local restaurants are usually cheaper than tourist areas.
Transportation cost
Transportation in Korea is cheap and efficient.
- Subway: starting from around 1,250 KRW
- Bus: similar to subway fares
- Taxi: starting around 3,800 KRW
Cost:
Using a T-money card can save time and make transportation easier.
Accommodation cost
Accommodation prices vary depending on location and comfort level.
- Hostel: 20,000 ~ 50,000 KRW
- Budget hotel: 50,000 ~ 100,000 KRW
- Mid-range hotel: 100,000 ~ 200,000 KRW
3-day travel budget example
Here is a simple example of a 3-day trip in Korea:
- Food: 60,000 ~ 90,000 KRW
- Transportation: 10,000 ~ 20,000 KRW
- Accommodation: 150,000 ~ 300,000 KRW
Total: around 220,000 ~ 400,000 KRW
5-day travel budget example
For a 5-day trip:
- Food: 100,000 ~ 150,000 KRW
- Transportation: 20,000 ~ 40,000 KRW
- Accommodation: 250,000 ~ 500,000 KRW
Total: around 400,000 ~ 700,000 KRW
Tips for saving money
Tip:
Use public transportation instead of taxis.
Tip:
Eat at local restaurants instead of tourist spots.
Warning:
Prices in popular areas like Myeongdong can be higher.
Final thoughts
Traveling in Korea can fit many budgets.
If you plan well, you can enjoy Korea without spending too much money. Understanding the average costs will help you manage your budget better and enjoy your trip.