Is It Expensive to Vacation in Korea?

By Robert Palmer

Are you planning a vacation in Korea and wondering if it’s going to be expensive? Well, the answer is, it depends.

Korea has a reputation for being an expensive travel destination, but it’s not always the case. It’s possible to have a budget-friendly trip to Korea if you plan your itinerary wisely and make smart choices.

Accommodation

One of the biggest expenses you’ll encounter during your trip is accommodation. However, there are plenty of affordable options available in Korea.

Hostels and guesthouses are popular choices among budget travelers. These types of accommodations typically cost around 10-30 USD per night, depending on the location and facilities.

If you’re looking for something more comfortable, hotels in Korea can range from budget to luxury. Budget hotels can cost around 50-80 USD per night while high-end hotels can go up to hundreds of dollars per night.

Food

Korean food is known all over the world for its unique flavors and delicious taste. The good news is that Korean cuisine is relatively affordable compared to other countries in Asia.

Street food is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. You can find street food vendors selling everything from Korean BBQ skewers to hotteok (sweet Korean pancakes) at very reasonable prices.

If you’re looking for sit-down restaurants, there are plenty of options available as well. Korean BBQ restaurants are popular and can cost around 10-20 USD per person for a meal.

Transportation

Getting around in Korea is quite easy thanks to its efficient public transportation system. The Subway system in major cities like Seoul and Busan is inexpensive with fares starting at just 1 USD per ride.

Buses are another affordable mode of transportation with fares starting at around 1-2 USD per ride depending on the distance.

Taxis are also available but can be more expensive, especially during rush hour or late at night.

Activities

There are plenty of activities to do in Korea that won’t break the bank. Visiting museums and historical sites is often free or requires a small entrance fee.

Outdoor activities like hiking and exploring national parks are also affordable options. Entrance fees for national parks can range from 3-10 USD per person.

If you’re looking for something more unique, trying a traditional Korean experience like a tea ceremony or hanbok (traditional Korean dress) rental can cost around 20-30 USD per person.

Conclusion

So, is it expensive to vacation in Korea? It really depends on your travel style and preferences.

If you’re willing to stay in budget-friendly accommodations, eat street food, and use public transportation, you can definitely have a budget-friendly trip to Korea. However, if you’re looking for luxury accommodations and high-end dining experiences, the cost can add up quickly. The key is to plan your itinerary wisely and make smart choices along the way.