4 Easy Ways to Get Around Seoul (When Walking Won’t Do)

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I didn’t go to Seoul often—I preferred the rhythm and charm of Daegu. But when I did visit, I took full advantage of the city’s transportation. Driving worked well in Daegu, but in Seoul, it wasn’t worth the stress. The city is huge, crowded, and so well-connected you’d only slow yourself down in a car. Walking is a great way to explore—if you stick to one neighborhood at a time. But to see more of Seoul without the hassle, you’ll want a few other options. Here are four simple and reliable ways to get around that made my trips to the city smoother and more enjoyable.

Table of Contents

• Use the Subway and Bus System
• Book a Taxi or Use Ride-Hailing Apps
• Ride the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
• Book a Private Car Charter
• Final Thoughts

Use the Subway and Bus System

Seoul’s public transportation is efficient, clean, and affordable. The subway system stretches across the city and beyond, while the bus network fills in the gaps.

• T-money Card: Purchase a rechargeable card for about ₩2,500. Use it on subways, buses, and even some taxis.
• Subway Fare: ₩1,550 base fare for the first 10 km using a T-money card.
• Bus Fare: Also ₩1,550 for city buses. Transfers are free within a 30-minute window when using T-money.

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers and those exploring major tourist areas.

Tip: Download Naver Map and/or KakaoMap. You may find different things on each one. However, Google Maps won’t guide you well in Korea.

Book a Taxi or Use Ride-Hailing Apps to Explore Seoul

Taxis in Seoul are clean, reliable, and reasonably priced. They’re metered, so there’s no haggling. Uber is available, though most rides are fulfilled by local taxis. My favorite service is KakaoTaxi.

• Base Fare: ₩4,800 for the first 1.6 km.
• Extra Distance: Around ₩760 per additional kilometer.
• Late Night: Fares increase slightly from 10 PM to 4 AM.

Best for: Travelers with luggage, those returning late, or anyone needing a break from transfers.

Tip: Have your destination written in Korean. Some drivers don’t speak English.

Ride the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus to Explore Seoul

This double-decker sightseeing bus circles the city’s top attractions. It’s a good way to get an overview of Seoul without worrying about train connections or transfers.

• Ticket Price: ₩24,000 for adults, ₩15,000 for children (Downtown Palace Course).
• Route Frequency: Buses run every 30 to 40 minutes.
• Highlights: Stops include Myeongdong, Namsan Park, palaces, and shopping areas.

Best for: First-time visitors and families who prefer a slower pace.

Tip: Sit on the upper deck for great views—just bring water and sunscreen.

Explore Seoul by Chartering a Private Car

If you’re traveling with others, booking a private car with a driver might be more affordable than you think—and much easier.

• Cost: A 10-hour charter with a basic English-speaking driver starts at around ₩380,000 ($285 USD) for up to 4 people.
• What’s Included: Fuel, tolls, and driver’s meals are usually covered.
• Optional: English-speaking guides are available for an extra fee.

Best for: Small groups, families, or those who want to build their own itinerary.

Tip: Book ahead, especially during peak travel seasons.

Final Thoughts

Seoul has a transportation option for every kind of traveler. Some days, you’ll ride the subway like a local. Other days, you’ll be grateful for a taxi or driver who can drop you off at the door. Mix and match your transportation based on the weather, your energy level, and how much you want to explore that day. With the right approach, getting around Seoul becomes part of the adventure.

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