ElaineIf you’re heading to Seoul and looking for ways to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank, I’ve got you covered. From using the Discover Seoul Pass to hopping on the subway instead of calling an Uber, and even finding affordable eats that taste just as good as the fancy spots, there are plenty of ways to experience the city on a budget. Here’s how I managed to save money while still enjoying everything that makes Seoul so vibrant and exciting.
Also read: Visit Busan Pass Guide: How I Explored the Best of Busan in 2 Days!
1. Finding affordable eats
As a foodie, I love discovering hidden gems, and especially ones that don’t break the bank! Seoul is full of affordable yet delicious options. Skip the fancy high-end restaurants and focus on local eateries, street food stalls, and small cafes. A glance at the menu to check prices before ordering can save you from any surprises.
2. Taking the subway instead of a taxi
Seoul’s subway system is surprisingly easy to navigate, even for first-timers. With apps like Naver Maps, all you need to do is select your start and end points on the subway map, and it’ll show you the fastest route. It’s much cheaper than taxis, and you’ll get to see the city like a local.
3. Staying at an Airbnb instead of a hotel
Hotels in Seoul can be pricey, so an Airbnb is often a better choice for budget-conscious travellers. We stayed at a cosy Airbnb in Sagajeong. The room was small, and we had to carry our luggage up a flight of stairs, but it was comfortable and saved us a significant amount compared to a hotel. It’s a practical way to stretch your travel budget without compromising on comfort.
4. Using the Discover Seoul Pass
Think of the Discover Seoul Pass as your all-in-one key to the city. It gives you free admission to over 70 attractions and discounts at more than 100 shops, performances, and unique experiences.
But that’s not all, it also makes getting around easier. The pass includes rides on key transportation options, such as the Airport Railroad Express (AREX), Seoul Bike (Ttareungi), and city or airport tour buses.
Everything is managed through an easy-to-use app, which lets you check your remaining pass time, browse attraction lists, and view event details. The pass is available as a physical card or a mobile version, with an optional eSIM to help you stay connected throughout your trip.
The Discover Seoul Pass is available in several durations. 24, 48, or 72 hours, depending on the amount of sightseeing you plan to do.
Note: The Discover Seoul Pass is valid only for non–South Korean passport holders. Your time begins counting down the moment you scan the code at your first attraction.
How we maximised our pass and saved money
We opted for the 24-hour Discover Seoul Pass, which covers a great selection of major attractions, including Lotte World, N Seoul Tower, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and the E-Land Han River Cruise. It costs around S$44.59, and we found it ideal for covering a few major attractions comfortably within two days.
Tip: Don’t activate your pass too early on the first day. Plan it so you can make the most of your 24 hours and stretch it into the following day.
Our chill 2-day Seoul itinerary
Day 1
2.00 p.m. – Hanbok rental
Our first stop was Hanboknam, a popular hanbok rental shop near Gyeongbokgung Palace. To redeem our pass, we scanned the QR code at the machine located at the back of the store and queued at the counter to collect a receipt.
After picking out our hanboks upstairs and getting our hair styled in the basement, we were all set for our palace photoshoot. The best part? Entry to Gyeongbokgung Palace is free when you’re wearing a hanbok.
We were told to return the hanboks by 6.00 p.m., though we ended up returning them early at 5.00 p.m.
Original price without pass: ₩20,000 (around S$18.22)
6.30 p.m. – Han River picnic
No trip to Seoul feels complete without a peaceful evening by the Han River. We grabbed some food (not included in the pass) and simply relaxed by the riverside, a local favourite way to unwind.
8.30 p.m. – E-Land Han River Cruise
Next, we walked over to the E-Land Cruise Terminal to board the Moonlight Cruise. We filled in a short form, scanned our passes, and exchanged them for tickets.
The 70-minute cruise was a highlight. It offered stunning night views of the Han River, the glittering Seoul skyline, and even the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show from afar. Towards the end of the ride, a live band played soft tunes, adding a charming touch to the night.
Original price without pass: around S$27.20
Day 2
12.00 p.m. – Lotte World
The next day, we kicked things off with a visit to Lotte World, one of Seoul’s most famous theme parks. Entry was simple; we just scanned our QR codes at the counter to redeem our tickets.
Having visited before, I knew what to expect, but it never fails to impress. From thrilling rides like Atlantis Adventure and GYRO Swing to chill indoor attractions perfect for families, there’s something for everyone here.
Do note that queues can get long even on weekdays, so plan ahead and decide which rides you want to prioritise.
Original price without pass: S$31.50
Also read: 9 Things That Are Cheaper in South Korea Compared to Singapore
Final thoughts
For first-time visitors to Seoul, the Discover Seoul Pass is a game-changer. Not only does it help you save money and skip long ticket queues, but it also makes exploring the city’s top attractions effortless. On our trip, we saved around S$32 using the 24-hour pass, and beyond the savings, what I loved most was the flexibility it offered. From historical sites and theme parks to scenic Han River cruises, everything felt easy and stress-free. Combined with cheap eats, the subway, and smart accommodation choices, it’s a simple way to enjoy Seoul to the fullest without overspending.
