How much does a trip to South Korea cost?

Factors determining the budget for a trip to South Korea

Your budget for a trip to South Korea depends on several key factors. This fascinating country blends tradition and modernity, offering unique destinations like Seoul , Busan , and Jeju Island . Understanding these factors will help you plan according to your preferences.

Summary table of budgets for a trip to South Korea

The travel period

The season you choose influences the prices of flights , accommodations , and activities . During peak season, such as spring (cherry blossoms) or autumn, prices increase. Conversely, traveling in winter or off-season can allow you to make significant savings .

The length of stay

The duration, whether it's 1 week , 2 weeks , or 3 weeks , directly impacts your total budget . An average 2-week stay generally costs between €50 and €100 per day per person .

Choosing accommodations

Accommodation options range from dormitories costing 20,000 KRW (Korean Won) to luxury hotels. Opting for local options can significantly reduce costs.

Mode of transport within the country

Travel by KTX high-speed train, bus, metro, or car also affects costs. For example, a domestic flight to Jeju costs around €120 round trip, while public transport remains very economical thanks to the T-money card.

Estimated transportation costs

Now that you know the key factors , let's move on to precise estimates to organize your trip to Korea without unpleasant surprises, based on current prices from France.

The round-trip international flight

Flights from Paris to Seoul (ICN) in economy class generally range from €450 to €900 for a round trip, depending on the season and booking lead time. For example, you can find deals starting at €516 with Lufthansa or €661 with Air France for the period of May-June 2026. Regarding checked baggage , the standard economy class allowance often includes one free 23 kg piece (particularly with Air France). However, additional fees of €50 to €100 may apply for extra baggage.

To reduce your expenses, opt for the month of November , where average prices start from €554 .

Internal transport: bus, train and car rental

In South Korea , domestic transportation is varied and affordable. For example, the KTX high-speed train connecting Seoul to Busan costs approximately €50 to €60 for a two-hour journey. Intercity buses are a more economical option, with fares ranging from €20 to €40 . If you wish to travel to Jeju Island, domestic flights, such as Seoul-Jeju, are available for between €50 and €120 for a round trip.

For greater freedom, you can opt for a rental car , which costs between €40 and €70 per day . However, public transport, such as the subway in Seoul (approximately €1 to €2 per trip), is extremely efficient and an excellent option for a budget-conscious traveler .

Accommodation budget

Accommodation in South Korea typically accounts for 20% to 30% of your total budget . Whether you're visiting vibrant cities like Seoul or Busan , you'll find options to suit every budget. Here's a detailed overview of the different categories, with prices listed in both euros and KRW for clarity.

Budget options: hostels and guesthouses

Hostels in Seoul are available from €9-24 per night (10,000-30,000 KRW ). Establishments like Seoul Cube Myeongdong (€8.98) or Jongno Stay (€20) offer attractive rates, particularly in January when average prices hover around €23. For two people, a night in a standard hostel in Korea costs approximately €54.

Mid-range options: 3 and 4 star hotels

Three- and four-star hotels in the city center offer rates between €60 and €120 per night (80,000-160,000 KRW ). These establishments offer modern comforts and proximity to must-see attractions such as Seoraksan National Park or the Jeonju Hanok Village , nicknamed the "Living Walls Museum ".

Luxury options: 5-star hotels and boutique residences

For a high- end stay, expect to budget between €200 and €500 (270,000+ KRW). These prestigious establishments combine modernity and tradition, while offering premium services . For example, hotels located on Jeju Island offer an exceptional experience blending comfort with unique activities.

Daily expenses

Daily expenses are central to your budget for a trip to Korea . They include food, sightseeing, and extras to ensure a pleasant and balanced trip , without excess.

Food options: street food, local and international restaurants

For your meals, several options are available to you:

• Affordable street food , with dishes like gimbap (between €2.5 and €4) or tteok-bokki (between €3 and €4.5).
• A reasonably priced fast-food menu , costing between €4.6 and €4.9 (approximately 8,000 KRW).
• A meal in a local restaurant , with an average of €5.8 (range between €4.6 and €8.7), is much cheaper than a similar meal in France (around €15).
• In a mid-range restaurant , expect to pay between €15 and €18 per person for a full three-course meal.
• A meal in a market , especially in Seoul, costs between €7 and €9.

For drinks, here are some suggestions:

• A mid-range bottle of wine costs between €12 and €35.
• Imported beer is available between €2.2 and €3.7, while local beer (pint of draft) ranges from €2.5 to €5.
• Bottled water (1L) is very affordable, between €0.6 and €1.
• A bowl of ramen costs approximately €0.80.

Activities and tourist visits

Prices for visiting palaces, temples or parks in Korea are very affordable:

• Entry fees vary between €1 and €10, and many urban sites are free.
• For a more complete experience, you can opt for a tourist pass such as the Discover Seoul, costing between €30 and €50. This pass includes transportation and several attractions over several days.

Shopping and souvenirs

If you enjoy shopping, Korea offers a variety of souvenirs and local products:

• Cosmetics, teas or K-pop related products are available in markets like Myeongdong, with prices ranging from €5 to €20 per item.
• The cost of living remains reasonable for everyday products: for example, milk costs around €1.7/L and eggs €2.4/dozen.

For gifts without extravagance, plan a daily budget of €20 to €50.

Tips for reducing costs

To optimize your budget during your stay in Korea , here are some practical tips inspired by travelers' experiences. These tips take into account current regulations , such as the planned suspension of the K-ETA in 2026. For official information, consult the South Korean government website , which is ideal for planning your trip.

Use the transport and tourist passes

For travel on the subway or bus in Seoul , consider using cards like the T-Money or Mpass (priced between 15,000 and 64,500 KRW for 1 to 7 days, allowing up to 20 trips per day). For train travel, the Korail Pass is an excellent option, with fares starting at 121,000 KRW for unlimited travel over 2 to 5 days. This is especially advantageous for routes like Seoul-Busan or Seoul-Jeonju.

The Discover Seoul Pass , meanwhile, provides free access to over 70 attractions and offers discounts at more than 100 sites. It can be activated directly via a mobile app, without requiring a physical purchase.

For short stays, the Climate Card Tourist Pass (between 5,000 and 20,000 KRW for unlimited travel on the metro and bus for 1 to 7 days) is also a very practical option.

Prioritize local restaurants and markets

For authentic and affordable meals , head to local markets and small, traditional restaurants. Avoid international tourist establishments to save even more. Apps like Naver Map can help you find the best spots frequented by locals.

Search for accommodations with additional benefits

Opt for guesthouses or hotels that include amenities such as breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and proximity to public transportation. Also, check for promotions on booking apps: they may offer package deals that include activities or airport transfers, maximizing the value of each night's stay .

The total estimated budget for different trip durations

Here is a summary of concrete estimates for a single person , including all expenses (round-trip flight from France and on-site expenses). These budgets are based on average-economic profiles for the year 2026. Of course, these amounts can vary depending on your choices, but they aim to guarantee a balanced trip to Korea .

A week in South Korea

For a 1-week stay, expect a total budget between €1,495 and €1,800 . This includes:

• Flight: between €800 and €1,200
• Internal transport: between €80 and €150
• Accommodation: between €250 and €400 for 6 to 7 nights
• Meals: between €150 and €350
• Activities: between €80 and €250
• Internet/miscellaneous: approximately €50

The estimated daily budget on site is between €66 and €100 .

Two weeks in South Korea

For a 14-day stay, the total budget is between €2,100 and €2,575 . Here are the details:

• Flight: same as for a one-week trip (€800 to €1,200)
• Accommodation: between €500 and €800
• Food: between €500 and €800
• Internal transport: between €150 and €300
• Activities: between €150 and €400

For two people on a small budget , this represents approximately €3,129 .

A month in South Korea

For a 30-day stay, budget between €2,500 and €3,500 . This includes:

• Flight: included in the overall budget
• On-site expenses: approximately €1,194 (i.e., €38 to €40 per day, based on 2025 estimates)

This budget is ideal for an extended stay , allowing you to explore iconic locations like Seoul , Busan , and Jeju Island . The average daily budget is estimated at €71 , covering the essentials.

Conclusion

A trip to South Korea can be arranged on a budget ranging from €1,500 to €3,500 , depending on the length and style of your stay. Expect to pay around €1,500 for one week, between €2,100 and €2,600 for two weeks, and up to €3,500 for a month. To save money, prioritize public transportation , street food , and budget accommodations.

South Korea is a unique destination that harmoniously blends tradition and modernity , all while remaining affordable. From Seoul to Busan , via Jeju Island , you'll discover a diverse range of enriching experiences. To keep costs down , consider using tourist passes and exploring local markets.

Don't delay any longer and book your flight and stay for 2026 now ! South Korea promises you a multitude of unforgettable experiences at attractive prices.

FAQ

How much does a return plane ticket to South Korea cost?

A round-trip plane ticket between France and South Korea typically costs between €419 and €714 . The price depends on factors such as departure cities (Paris, Marseille, etc.), travel dates, and airlines. On average, fares range from €500 to €700 , but prices can vary.

What is the daily budget for meals and transportation in South Korea?

In South Korea, the daily budget for meals varies from €5.80 to €18 per person, depending on the type of restaurant chosen. Precise information regarding transportation is not available, but it is recommended to plan an overall budget.

In total, the recommended daily budget ranges from €43 to €549 , depending on the desired level of comfort.

How much should I spend on accommodation during a one-week trip to South Korea?

For a week (7 nights) in South Korea, the accommodation budget ranges from €350 to €1,400 . 3-star hotels generally cost between €80 and €200 per night in cities like Seoul or Jeju.

For more economical accommodation, prices start from €51 per night . Rates may vary depending on the season and the city.

What total budget should I plan for a 10-day trip to South Korea per person?

For a 10-day trip to South Korea, the total budget per person is estimated between €1,485 and €3,844 , depending on the chosen level of comfort. This amount includes the flight (approximately €734 to €977 ), accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities.

Budget travelers spend around €430 per day , while those opting for a luxury stay can spend up to €549 per day .