QUICK TRAVEL PLANNING
Planning a trip? Our comprehensive South Korea Travel Guide covers visas, the best time to visit, top attractions, and travel tips to make your journey easier.
»BEST TIME TO VISIT
If you’re planning a trip to Seoul, autumn is a perfect choice with its stunning fall foliage. Spring is another popular season, thanks to the cherry blossoms that transform the city into a vibrant pink paradise.
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Spring: Seoul comes alive with cherry blossoms and colorful blooms. While demand is high and prices may rise, the pleasant weather makes it worth visiting.
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Summer: This is peak tourist season, filled with crowds and higher costs. The weather is hot, humid, and often rainy, so it’s less ideal for a relaxed trip.
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Autumn: Widely regarded as the best time to visit, with mild weather, thinner crowds, and affordable prices. The autumn foliage is breathtaking. Avoid traveling during Chuseok, a major Korean holiday, when attractions are packed.
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Winter: Cold but budget-friendly, with festive vibes and opportunities for skiing and snow activities. Perfect for travelers who enjoy winter sports.
» GETTING INTO SOUTH KOREA
International visitors typically arrive at Incheon International Airport (ICN). To find the best flight deals, I recommend using Skyscanner, which compares prices from various airlines. If you’re travelling from the Philippines, Skyscanner also includes budget airlines like AirAsia and Cebu Pacific, helping you find the cheapest rates for your chosen dates.
From Incheon International Airport (ICN), you have several transportation options to reach Seoul:
By Train:
The AREX (Airport Railroad Express) connects ICN to Seoul Station and Gimpo Airport. It operates from 5:20 AM to midnight and offers two types of services: ‘express’ and ‘all-stop.’ The ‘express’ service takes 43 minutes to reach Seoul Station directly, while the ‘all-stop’ service takes 53 minutes, stopping at 12 stations along the way. ‘Express’ tickets typically cost ₩8,000, but if you purchase online, you can get them for around ₩6,500. Use the code AILEENKLOOK for an additional 5% discount. Additionally, if you hold a Discover Seoul Pass, you can enjoy one free one-way ride.
By Private Transfers:
For the utmost convenience, especially if you have a lot of luggage, consider booking a private transfer to your hotel for approximately $63 (₩67,000 or Php 3,300). This option is cost-effective if you’re travelling with others, as you can share the cost. Alternatively, taxis at the airport charge between ₩60,000 and ₩90,000, depending on your destination. Note that you’ll need to cover any road tolls during the trip.
By Airport Limousine/Bus or Shared Transfers:
Limousine buses provide direct service to major areas and hotels in Seoul, making them a great option if you’re carrying a lot of luggage. To get a discounted rate of about ₩14,000, book with KAL or opt for a shared transfer service.
» VISA FOR SOUTH KOREA
If you are not a citizen of one of South Korea’s exempt countries, you will need to obtain a visa in advance. (For those from the Philippines, you can refer to my guide on how to get a South Korea visa in Manila here.)
Check the full visa requirements specific to your nationality here.
» WHERE TO STAY (SOUTH KOREA ACCOMMODATIONS)
To find the best hotel accommodation in South Korea at the best prices, I recommend comparing rates on Agoda and Booking.com. If you prefer renting a comfortable house or apartment, try searching on Airbnb.
For top hotel picks by district in Seoul, click here.
» SOUTH KOREA CURRENCY
South Korean Won (KRW / ₩): As of May 2021, KRW 1,000 is approximately equal to USD $0.9, €0.7, or Php 49.00. When exchanging money for KRW, avoid doing so at the airport due to uncompetitive rates.
To get the best exchange rates, either exchange your money at a bank or money exchanger in your home country or in Seoul’s city centre. Alternatively, withdraw cash from an ABM using your debit or credit card—make one large withdrawal to minimize bank fees. While many establishments in Seoul accept credit cards, it’s always advisable to carry some cash.
» HOW TO GET AROUND SEOUL
I recommend using Naver Map (iOS / Android) to plan your daily routes in Seoul. It provides detailed directions for walking, driving, bus, and subway routes. To use this app effectively, obtain a pocket WiFi device or a SIM card.
You might wonder why I’m not suggesting Google Maps, which I usually use for travel. Unfortunately, Google Maps’ driving and walking directions don’t work in South Korea due to old security laws enacted after the Korean War to protect detailed topography from North Korea.
By Subway
Seoul’s metro system is impressive, well-connected, and affordable. To maximize convenience and savings, buy a T-Money card. This rechargeable smart card can be used on buses, trains, and subways, saving you ₩100 on each trip. You can buy it online at a cheaper rate or at most subway stations, newspaper kiosks, and convenience stores in Seoul.
The T-Money card is also valid in other locations across South Korea, including Gyeonggi-do, Incheon, Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju, for both buses and metropolitan subway networks.
Tip: You can avoid the ₩3,000 cost of the T-Money card if you have a Discover Seoul Pass (details below).
Note: Single-ride cards cost about ₩1,200 and can be purchased from vending machines that accept coins and bills. T-Money Card reloading is also cash-only. The last train usually departs by midnight, as the subway doesn’t operate 24 hours.
By Bus
Seoul also has an extensive and well-connected bus service that accepts the T-Money card. Remember to tap your card before exiting the bus to avoid being charged the maximum fare. For an unlimited hop-on-hop-off bus tour to major city spots, check this out.
By Foot
Seoul isn’t too large, and many city highlights are within walking distance.
By Taxi
Seoul offers various types of taxis. For more information on types and fares, read here. You can also book an Uber car.
» STAYING CONNECTED IN SOUTH KOREA
South Korea boasts the fastest internet in the world, ensuring a great connection wherever you go. Many places even offer free WiFi. However, to stay consistently connected during your trip to Seoul, I recommend getting a pocket WiFi or SIM card. Alternatively, consider an eSIM for a hassle-free experience.
