8 Insider Seoul Travel Tips You Must Know in 2025

Having stayed in Seoul, Korea for over a month while on exchange, I’ve had my fair share of learning curves and delightful discoveries. I’m proud to say that I’ve picked up a few insider travel tips for Seoul that go beyond the typical tourist guide. Trust me, if you’re planning a trip to the land of K-dramas and kimchi, you’ll want to take notes.

Also read: South Korea Cherry Blossom Forecast 2025: A Guide to When & Where to See the Blooms

1. Climate Card vs T-Money Card: Which should you choose when travelling in Korea?

The T-Money Card is a rechargeable smart card widely used for public transport and convenience store purchases throughout Korea. It’s easy to top up at stations but note that it requires cash top-ups and only in fixed amounts so don’t expect to break your 50,000KRW (~S$50) notes here. 

The Climate Card on the other hand is a relatively new pass that offers unlimited access to Seoul-based subway lines and Seoul-licensed transit/town buses for a fixed fee. You can opt for short-term passes (1-day, 2-day, 3-day, 5-day, 7-day) or the 30-day pass if you’re staying in Seoul for an extended time. 

If your itinerary focuses on Seoul’s hotspots, I’ll recommend the Climate Card for convenience and cost savings. However, if you plan to explore areas outside of Seoul, the T-Money Card would be a more practical choice, as it offers broader coverage across the country.

2. How to unlock discounts for attractions around Seoul

Once you’ve sorted your transportation, it’s time to start exploring! For all students, that’s where the International Student Identification Card (ISIC) comes in handy. This card is your golden ticket in Korea as you can get discounts on everything from museum admissions to movie tickets and even some restaurants. 

But if you’re not a student, don’t worry, there are still ways to save. My favourite Korea travel tip is to make use of Korea Culture Day which happens on the last Wednesday of every month. It’s when museums, art galleries, and cultural heritage sites like the Gyeongbokgung Palace offer discounts or even free admission!

3. Tips for petite travellers in Seoul

If you’re planning to visit one of the palaces, you may have heard that entry is free if you wear a hanbok. However, here’s a heads-up: these traditional Korean costumes may not always be petite-friendly. 

I learned this the hard way when my friends settled on a hanbok rental shop with rows of beautiful pastel costumes. However, the owner directed me to a rack that was barely an arm’s length long, explaining that these child-sized hanboks were the only options for someone with my, ahem, petite frame. 

So, if you’re on the shorter side like me, you may want to enquire about the options available for you before settling on a shop!

4. Savour authentic Korean flavours at university cafeterias

A major Seoul travel tip is to skip the overpriced tourist spots and head to places like Seoul’s university cafeterias for budget-friendly, authentic Korean meals. These cafeterias offer delicious, well-balanced meals starting as low as 5,000KRW! I honestly miss my campus food — nothing beats a hearty, satisfying meal between classes.

5. Enjoy Korea’s cafes, but be mindful of the rules

Speaking of food, can you really say you’ve been to Seoul if you don’t go cafe hopping? It’s one of the city’s most iconic activities, but here’s a little travel tip: many cafes I visited require each person to order something, even if you’re sharing. So, if you’re with a friend, don’t expect to just share one drink or dessert.

Do keep this in mind! My friends and I were often too full to tick off all the cafes on our list in a single day because of the minimum purchase rule. 

6. Finding washrooms in busy areas around Seoul can be tricky

Along with cafe hopping, you’ll definitely be doing some shopping, probably along the bustling streets of Myeongdong or Hongdae, and you may find yourself in desperate need of a washroom. 

Also read: Top 11 Cult Korean Beauty Brands for Your Shopping Haul

Here’s the catch: finding one can be more of a scavenger hunt than you’d think. Some chain stores have password-protected restrooms, meaning you’ll need the code printed on your receipt to unlock the door — which, of course, could require you or your friends to buy something like overpriced water from the store (I may or may not be speaking from experience). 

So, here’s my Seoul travel tip, if you’re in a hurry and don’t want to play restroom roulette, your best bet is to head to a nearby hotel. They usually have accessible washrooms, no receipt required. Trust me, it’ll save you the stress of an impromptu water purchase and an urgent bathroom situation.

7. Skip the queue with Incheon Smartpass

For those departing from Incheon, be sure to download the Incheon Smartpass app. By registering your facial recognition and travel details, you can skip the long queues at security and immigration. 

This travel tip is especially helpful during peak travel times as it allows you to breeze through the process without the hassle of waiting in line.

8. Free showers at Incheon Airport

And with all the time you save, why not freshen up before your flight? Incheon Airport offers free shower facilities! It’s a hidden travel tip that many travellers overlook, but it’s a great way to leave Korea feeling refreshed and ready for whatever adventure comes next.

There you have it! With these insider Korea travel tips, you’ll be able to navigate Seoul like a local. Safe travels, and enjoy your adventure in the heart of Korea!