Getting Around Seoul: A First-Timer’s Friendly Guide

Simple tips to help you travel smarter and experience more.

Traveling to Seoul for the first time can feel both exciting and a little overwhelming and I completely understand! The city is full of life, color, and rhythm: from high-speed subways to charming alley cafés, every corner has something new to discover.

To make the most of your trip, it helps to plan ahead for the little things that make a big difference when getting around. When I visited Seoul, I learned a few simple yet essential tips that made my journey smoother, less stressful, and so much more fun. I’m sharing them here so your first Seoul adventure can be just as wonderful (or even better!).

1. Stay Connected (Data, eSIM, Korean Phone Numbers)

Just like in any new country, staying connected is a must. Having internet access makes everything easier from navigating unfamiliar streets to translating menus and keeping in touch with loved ones.

You can choose between getting a local SIM card, an eSIM, or renting a Wi-Fi device at the airport. I personally opted for an eSIM because it was the most practical and affordable choice. It saved me the trouble of changing physical SIM cards, and I could activate it right before my flight.

Just make sure your phone is eSIM-compatible before purchasing one because some older models might not support it. Once that’s sorted, you’ll have instant access to maps, messaging, and all the apps you need as soon as you land.

2. Download the Essential Apps

Before you even land in Seoul, make sure to download a few key apps that will make your trip so much smoother: (These are the apps that were useful during my trip).

• NAVER Map or Kakao Map
  Google Maps works in South Korea, but not as accurately as in other countries. Most locals use Naver Map or Kakao Map. I personally used Naver Map because Kakao Map requires a registered Korean phone number.

• UBER or K.ride (Kakao T)
  One thing I learned quickly is that it’s very hard to hail a taxi on the street without an app. Using UBER was a lifesaver for us, and K.ride also offered comfortable rides.

• Papago
  An absolute must! English isn’t widely spoken in many areas, so having Papago for real-time translation is incredibly helpful. Even locals use it often.

• Klook
  Great for booking guided tours and attraction tickets in advance. It saves time and often gives you good discounts.

3. Get a T-Money Card

This is one of the first things you should grab once you arrive. You can buy T-Money cards at the airport or any convenience store. They’re used for subways, buses, and even convenience stores. Basically your all-in-one travel pass!

You’ll also find cute T-Money cards featuring K-pop idols or popular characters in central Seoul. I was lucky enough to be gifted a limited-edition mini T-card, small, adorable, and super convenient to carry around.

4. Book Ahead for Popular Spots

If you plan to visit popular restaurants or cafés (especially Michelin-starred ones), I strongly recommend making a reservation in advance. Walk-ins can be difficult, and waiting times can be long.

If you want to try your luck, go early or avoid peak hours. Some smaller shops and local cafés welcome walk-ins, and those unexpected finds often end up being the most memorable!

5. Bring some cash.

It's always good to bring some cash with you wherever you go. You can use your credit and debit cards in big and major establishments but cash is needed in some areas and shops. This is also true when you want to enjoy street food.

6.Don’t Forget About Tax Refunds

If you love shopping (who doesn’t?), keep this in mind: many major malls and stores offer tax refunds for tourists. Just ask the cashier if they provide it or if you can claim it later at the airport.

During my trip, I took advantage of this and the process was surprisingly smooth and yes, getting that little refund at the end felt so satisfying!

              

Final Thoughts 💡

Seoul is a city that’s best enjoyed when you’re prepared but still open to surprise. Once you have these essentials covered, you’ll be ready to explore freely and confidently. Whether it’s wandering through the busy streets, getting lost in the subway, or sipping coffee in a cozy café.

These are just a few basics to guide you as you plan your trip. In my next post, I’ll be sharing some of my foodie adventure in just a short time that I was there. I'll be covering must-try food spots around the city—so stay tuned!