How to travel around Seoul

How to travel around Seoul


 
 
Using local public transportation and taxi services
 
Seoul has an extensive network of public transportation and taxis.
Fares can be paid with cash or an transportation card.



SUBWAY
Seoul subway system is one of the most efficient ways to travel around the city.
 
Basic Fare:
· Single use ticket: 1,500 KRW
· Transportation card: 1,400 KRW
· Note: standard fare differs by region, and an additional fee is added depending on the total distance traveled.


BUSES
Seoul buses can go to smaller areas that can’t be reached by subway.
 
Basic Fare:
· Within a city/area (Blue & Green buses): 1,500 KRW
· Night bus (from midnight to 5AM, available in Seoul major downtown area): 2,500 KRW



TAXIS
Widely available 24/7.
An addition late night fee is added from 11 pm to 4 am.
 
Basic Fare: 4,800 KRW for first 1.6km

Popular hailing apps: KakaoTaxi



 
Transportation cards are chargeable prepaid cards that do not require an account. Not only do they offer transfer discount benefits on public transportation, but also enable payments at both online and offline stores, making them extremely convenient.​
 


TMONEY CARD​
  • Can be purchased and charged at any convenience store nationwide​.
  • Can be used for all public transportation and at affiliated stores that display the logos of these cards​.
  • Details: Tmoney website


WOWPASS
  • Prepaid card that can be loaded using foreign currency and used like a regular debit card throughout South Korea​.
  • Can be used as a transportation card.
  • Details: Wowpass website



KOREA TOUR CARD
  • A travel + transportation card for international tourists.
  • Can be used for all public transportation, convenience and affiliated stores​.
  • Offer benefits & discounts at tourist sites, performances, F&B, shops, etc.
  • Details: Korea Tour Card website


NAMANE CARD
  • A transportation + prepaid card that can be own customized images and phrases​.
  • Can be used for all public transportation and at any shop like a debit card.
  • Can check the card balance in real time.
  • Details: Namane Card website
 
 
Useful apps for travelling around Seoul
To make your travels around Seoul more convenient, try these helpful apps! 

NAVER MAPS 
Google Maps doesn't work in South Korea but we have Kakao and Naver Maps as alternatives. Naver Maps is easier to use because it can recognize both English and Korean when you search for a place or destination.
 
KAKAO TAXI 
Kakao Taxi, the primary taxi-hailing app in Korea, is available in English, making it incredibly convenient for international visitors of Seoul. You can book a cab directly to your location, travel to your destination, and make payment either by cash or card.​
 
PAPAGO TRANSLATOR
Papago makes it easier to speak with the locals: type in what you need to say in English and the app will translate it into Korean. It is also useful when navigating Korean signs and menus; simply take a picture and the app will auto translate into English for you.
 
SHUTTLE DELIVERY 
If you are looking to order in instead of eating out, Shuttle Delivery is the app for you. One of the few food delivery services available in English, it allows to you to place your order and have it delivered to your doorstep.
 

Popular attractions in Seoul
 
Gwanghwamun
Gwanghwamun, located in Jongno-gu (Jongno District), stands as a significant and cultural landmark positioned in the core of Seoul. It is also a sought-after tourist attraction where guests can learn about Korean history and immerse themselves in the lively culture of the nation.​

Gyeongbokgung Palace​

Changdeokgung Palace (UNESCO)

Jongmyo Shrine​ (UNESCO)​

National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul​

Gwanghwamun Square​

Cheongwadae​ (Blue House)

Samcheongdong​

Bukchon Hanok Village​


 
Myeongdong
Myeongdong, located in Jung-gu (Jung District), is one of the primary shopping districts in Seoul known for its department stores, shopping malls,  fashion boutiques, and cosmetics shops. It is also a 1-stop shopping destination with delicious food stalls lining the main street.​ 

Myeongdong Street

Namsan Seoul Tower

Namdaemun Market

Deoksugung Palace​

Namsangol Hanok Village​

Myeongdong Kyoja​ (Michelin Bib Gourmand)​

Lotte Duty Free Shop​

Myeongdong Nanta


 
Dongdaemun
Located in the eastern part of central Seoul, Dongdaemun-gu (Dongdaemun District) is an area that has distinct features of both aspects, where  tradition and the future come in harmony.​

Cheonggyecheon Stream​

Gwangjang Market​

Dongdaemun Market​

Dongdaemun Design Plaza​

Dongdaemun Dak Hanmari Alley​

Insadong

Daehak-ro (Daehangno)​​

Heunginjimun Gate (Dongdaemun)​


 
Hongdae
Hongdae is located in the Mapo-gu (Mapo Dist.) in the west of central Seoul. It’s famous for its trendy impulses, arts, entertainment, and nightlife.​

Hongdae Street​

Gyeongui Line Forest Park​

Seoul Battleship Park​

World Cup Park​

Seodaemun Prison History Hall​

Oil Tank Culture Park​

Mangwon Market​

Hongdae NANTA Theatre​

 

Yeouido
Yeouido, located in the Yeongdeungpo-gu (Yeongdeungpo Dist.) is a large island in central Seoul easily accessible by metro and taxi. While there,  try out all this island’s entertainment options and enjoy the splendid views.​

63 Square​

National Assembly Building​

KBS ON (Exhibition Hall)​

The Hyundai Seoul​

SeMA Bunker​

Yeouido Hangang Park​​

Hangang Eland Cruise​

Seoul Marina Yacht & Club​


 
Itaewon
Itaewon, located in Yongsan-gu (Yongsan District) is a unique travel destination where you can feel trendy and retro vibes at the same time. This area offers a variety of restaurants and shopping centers, interspersed with historical elements from the Korean War.​

Leeum Museum of Art​

The National Museum of Korea​​

The War Memorial of Korea​

Haebangchon Alleyway​

Itaewon Street​




 
Gangnam
Gangnam-gu is situated in the southeastern region of Seoul, has long been a "cultural gateway” that embraces and connects various cultures.  This place offers a variety of attractions and entertainment throughout the year.​​

COEX Mall​

Hyundai Department Store​

Pro Soy Crab (Main Branch)​

Golden Blue Marina​

Cheongdamdong Fashion Street​

Garosu-gil Road​

Banpodaegyo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain​




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