How Much Does a 5-Day Seoul Trip Really Cost? A Foreigner's Honest Breakdown

How Much Does a 5-Day Seoul Trip Really Cost? A Foreigner's Honest Breakdown

Okay, so you're thinking about visiting Seoul for 5 days? I get asked this question constantly, and honestly, the answer depends *a lot* on your style. But after living here for three years, I can give you real numbers—not the "backpacker minimum" nonsense or inflated tourist pricing.

Accommodation: ₩80,000–₩250,000/night

This is where your budget either thrives or dies. A decent mid-range hotel in areas like Myeongdong or Gangnam runs ₩120,000–₩180,000 per night. Airbnb rooms are similar, maybe slightly cheaper if you find a deal. Hostels? Budget ₩40,000–₩70,000 in places like Hongdae or Itaewon.

My honest take: Spend a bit more and stay in Gangnam or near Seoul Station (서울역). The subway connections are incredible, and you'll save money on transportation costs.

For 5 nights, budget ₩500,000–₩900,000 (roughly $380–$690 USD).

Food: ₩30,000–₩80,000/day

This is where Seoul is *beautiful*. You can eat genuinely well without breaking the bank.

• Cheap eats: Kimbap (김밥) ₩4,000–₩6,000, ramyeon (라면) ₩5,000–₩8,000, bibimbap ₩8,000–₩12,000
• Mid-range: Korean BBQ (₩25,000–₩40,000 per person), decent restaurants ₩12,000–₩18,000
• Splurge meals: Michelin-rated spots ₩60,000–₩100,000+

Convenience stores (편의점) like GS25 or CU have insanely cheap meals—₩3,000–₩7,000 for lunch. Seriously, I still eat kimbap from these places.

Real 5-day food budget: ₩200,000–₩400,000 ($150–$305 USD)

Transportation: ₩50,000–₩70,000 total

Get a T-money card (티머니카드) at any convenience store (₩2,500 deposit). Subway rides cost ₩1,250–₩2,450 depending on distance. A 5-day trip? You'll probably spend around ₩50,000 if you're using subway mostly.

Apps like Kakao Map (카카오맵) or Naver Map (네이버맵) are free and show real-time subway/bus options. Download them immediately.

Activities & Attractions: ₩100,000–₩200,000

Here's what actually costs money:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁): ₩3,000
• Namsan Tower (남산타워): ₩13,000
• Lotte World: ₩70,000–₩95,000
• Everland: ₩65,000–₩85,000
• Hongdae street performances: Free
• Han River (한강) parks: Free

Pro tip: Many palaces are free on certain days or offer discounts. Check beforehand.

Budget: ₩100,000–₩150,000 if you skip theme parks, or ₩200,000+ if you do Everland/Lotte World.

Shopping & Miscellaneous: ₩100,000–₩300,000

Myeongdong (명동동) is expensive but fun. Dongdaemun (동대