Plan Your Trip

This checklist follows the order in which questions usually come up: what to sort out at home, what to do in the first hours after landing, and how to get around once you are in the city. Each item links to the guide on this site that answers it.

A few things are worth doing before you fly. Check whether you need a K-ETA or only the e-Arrival card, decide how you will get mobile data, and bring a card that works abroad as well as some cash. Transit cards, the airport train and tax refunds can all be handled once you arrive.

1 · Before you go
2 · Arriving
3 · On the ground
4 · Can foreigners…?

1. Before you go

Entry rules, mobile data, money and when to travel.

2. Arriving

Getting from the airport into the city and setting yourself up for the first day.

More guides

3. On the ground

Getting around Seoul, the apps visitors can actually use, and what to do if you need a doctor.

More guides

4. Can foreigners…?

Short answers on what visitors can book, buy or use with a foreign passport, phone number or card.

Where to stay, by area

Pick the area first, then the hotel. These guides compare hotels near the stations in each area:

Exploring by neighborhood? Start with Jongno & Gwanghwamun, and see Where to Eat in Seoul for food.