“The Best Guesthouses in Korea for Budget Travelers”
South Korea is a vibrant and dynamic destination that offers a plethora of budget-friendly accommodations for travelers. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Seoul, the coastal beauty of Busan, or the scenic landscapes of Jeju Island, there’s a guesthouse to fit every budget. In this article, we will explore some of the best guesthouses in Korea that are perfect for budget travelers.
Key Takeaways
- Time Travelers Relax Guesthouse: A cozy and affordable option in Seoul.
- Zzzip Guesthouse: Known for its friendly atmosphere and prime location in Seoul.
- Time Travelers Party Hostel: Ideal for those looking to meet new people and enjoy nightlife in Seoul.
- INSIDE Busan: A welcoming guesthouse located in the heart of Busan.
- Jeju Hiking Inn: Perfect for nature lovers visiting Jeju Island.
1. Time Travelers Relax Guesthouse
A top hostel in Seoul for bookworms and introspective thinkers, Time Travelers Relax is a terrific place to take time out to refresh and rejuvenate. It’s not dull though; within easy reach of Hongdae there are plenty of nightlife options as well, giving you the best of both worlds. Grab your new mates and take cool pictures with the trick art, explore trendy Sinchon, and share a home-cooked meal. Fancy some alone time? Choose from the wide selection of books and get lost in the pages.
One of the standout features of this guesthouse is its exceptional value for money, with a remarkable rating of 9.1. Guests consistently praise the affordable rates and the cozy atmosphere.
- Location: Close to Hongdae and Sinchon
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, laundry facilities
- Ideal For: Digital nomads, book lovers, and those seeking a balance between relaxation and nightlife
Time Travelers Relax is a peaceful sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle, making it ideal for travelers who value their beauty sleep and downtime.
2. Zzzip Guesthouse
Zzzip Guesthouse in Hongdae, Seoul, is a fantastic choice for budget travelers. The staff are very helpful, and the rooms are clean. The location is good, making it easy to meet other guests. You can enjoy a reasonably priced stay with mixed and female-only dorms available.
Perks and Freebies
- Included breakfast
- Free city map
- Free tea and coffee
- Free Wi-Fi
- Discounts to attractions like Lotte World and Dragon Hill
Atmosphere
The guesthouse has a vibrant energy, especially with its indoor and outdoor seating areas. It’s a great place to soak up the lively atmosphere of nearby Hongdae.
Would happily return to this great hostel. The combination of helpful staff, clean rooms, and a good location makes it a top pick for budget travelers.
3. Time Travelers Party Hostel
If you’re looking for a place to let loose and have a great time, Time Travelers Party Hostel in Hongdae is the spot for you. This hostel is designed for party animals, with an onsite bar and café, a pool table, and a 24-hour reception to keep the good times rolling. The communal lounge and kitchen make it easy to meet new friends and share some unforgettable moments.
Highlights
- Located in the vibrant Hongdae area
- Onsite bar and café
- Pool table
- 24-hour reception
With an overall rating of 7.6, this hostel has received positive feedback from guests who have enjoyed their stay here. One of the standout aspects of this hostel is its lively atmosphere, making it a top choice for those looking to party in Seoul.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or with a group, Time Travelers Party Hostel offers a fun and social environment that’s hard to beat. So grab your new mates, explore trendy Sinchon, and make the most of your time in Seoul!
4. INSIDE Busan
INSIDE Busan is a fantastic choice for budget travelers looking to explore Korea’s second-largest city. Located just two hours from Seoul on the KTX high-speed bullet train, Busan offers a mix of vibrant city life and beautiful coastal scenery.
- Great beaches: Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach are must-visit spots for their stunning views and relaxing atmosphere.
- Cultural experiences: Don’t miss Gamcheon Culture Village, known as the “mural village of Korea,” where you can wander through streets filled with colorful murals and unique shops.
- Nightlife and food: Seomyeon is the best spot for new visitors, offering a convenient location with plenty of vibrant nightlife and restaurants to explore.
Busan often ends up being most people’s favorite spot in South Korea, and there’s plenty to do while you’re there. From beach-hopping to exploring amazing colorful villages, Busan is well worth visiting.
For those looking to stay connected, INSIDE Busan offers lightning-fast Wi-Fi, making it easy to plan your daily adventures and stay in touch with friends and family.
5. Jeju Hiking Inn
Jeju Hiking Inn is a fantastic choice for budget travelers looking to explore the natural beauty of Jeju Island. Located conveniently close to many of the island’s top attractions, this guesthouse offers a cozy and affordable stay. The rooms are clean and comfortable, providing a great base for your adventures.
Highlights
- Proximity to Mount Hallasan: Perfect for those looking to hike Korea’s tallest mountain.
- Affordable rates: Great for budget-conscious travelers.
- Friendly staff: Always ready to help with tips and recommendations.
If you’re planning to visit Jeju Island, staying at Jeju Hiking Inn will make your trip both enjoyable and economical. Don’t miss out on the beautiful beaches and countless hiking trails that the island has to offer.
6. Backpacker’s Home
Located in the heart of Seogwipo, Backpacker’s Home is a top choice for budget travelers exploring Jeju Island. This guesthouse offers a very social atmosphere and is known for its cleanliness and great breakfast. It’s an easy walk to nearby market and restaurants, making it a convenient spot for travelers.
Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi
- Complimentary breakfast
- Common room with games and books
- Laundry facilities
Room Options
| Room Type | Price per Night (KRW) |
|---|---|
| Dormitory | 20,000 |
| Private | 50,000 |
Location
Backpacker’s Home is situated in a prime location, just a short walk from Seogwipo Market and various restaurants. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the local area.
If you’re looking for a place that combines affordability with a vibrant social scene, Backpacker’s Home is definitely worth considering.
7. Duri Guest House
Duri Guest House is awesome for travellers that want to meet others but don’t particularly love spending the night with large mixed groups; dorms are single gender and sleep four. There’s a kitchen/dining room as well as a lounge and terrace. Free snacks and tea are available, and breakfast is included in the reasonable room rate. Bike parking, free Wi-Fi, and fun summer BBQs are other benefits of staying at this Seoul backpackers’ hostel.
Bold: Duri Guest House is awesome for travellers that want to meet others but don’t particularly love spending the night with large mixed groups; dorms are single gender and sleep four.
Highlights
- Kitchen/dining room
- Lounge and terrace
- Free snacks and tea
- Breakfast included
- Bike parking
- Free Wi-Fi
- Fun summer BBQs
8. Dolma Hongdae
Dolma Hongdae is a recently renovated guest house in the center of Seoul, just an 8-minute walk from Hongik University Station and 0.6 miles from Hongik University. With rooms starting at just $8 per night, it’s hard to argue against a stay at this clean and colorful guesthouse! Accommodations are shared, but there are private lockers available to keep your belongings safe. The guesthouse boasts a great game room and communal area, as well as free Wi-Fi and a beautiful garden just outside. As an added bonus, this hostel is only a short walk (about 5 minutes) from the Trick Eye Museum and Hongdae Free Market!
9. Seoul I Guesthouse
Seoul I Guesthouse is a fantastic choice for budget travelers looking to stay in the heart of Seoul. Just a short walk from Seoul’s most vibrant area, Hongdae, you only need to step out of the door to find cafes, bars, restaurants, and a pretty park. The guesthouse features traditional Korean décor, adding a unique touch to your stay.
The security is top-notch with a pincode-style entry pad keeping unwanted intruders out. Guests can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen and a basic breakfast each morning. There are two common areas where you can meet other travelers, and a roof terrace that offers stunning views of the city.
Highlights
- Traditional Korean Décor
- Free Breakfast
- Two Common Areas
- Roof Terrace
The location is both quiet and central, making it an ideal spot for exploring Seoul without the hustle and bustle right at your doorstep.
10. Travelholic Guesthouse
Close to Seoul’s centre, Travelholic Guesthouse is a peaceful sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle. Ideal for travellers who value their beauty sleep and downtime, it’s a recommended hostel in Seoul for people who would prefer to chill than party. Beautifully clean and tidy, there’s a female-only dorm as well as mixed dorms. Unwanted visitors are kept out by the key card access and all guests have a large locker. Freebies include a filling breakfast and Wi-Fi. Thanks to the free airport transfers, getting here is a breeze.
Clean, modern and super quiet, Travelholic Guesthouse is one of the best youth hostels in Seoul. It offers a free breakfast, games room, and café. The location is both quiet and central, not too far from the subway station, with plenty of options for eating out and grabbing coffee nearby.
This accommodation has a great location – it’s both quiet and central. It’s not too far from the subway station, and there are plenty of options for eating out and grabbing coffee nearby. The rooms are clean, well-equipped, and really comfortable.
Conclusion
Traveling on a budget in Korea doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or miss out on unique experiences. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the serene landscapes of Jeju, there are plenty of guesthouses that offer cozy accommodations without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for a social atmosphere or a quiet retreat, the options are endless. So pack your bags, book your stay, and get ready to explore Korea without emptying your wallet!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average price range for guesthouses in Korea?
The average price range for guesthouses in Korea typically falls between $20-$50 per night, depending on the location and amenities offered.
Do these guesthouses offer free breakfast?
Many of the guesthouses listed, such as Duri Guest House and Travelholic Guesthouse, offer free breakfast as part of their amenities.
Are there any single-sex dorms available?
Yes, some guesthouses like Duri Guest House offer single-sex dormitories for added comfort and privacy.
Which guesthouses are located in Seoul?
In Seoul, you can find Time Travelers Relax Guesthouse, Zzzip Guesthouse, Time Travelers Party Hostel, Duri Guest House, Dolma Hongdae, and Seoul I Guesthouse.
Is there a guesthouse suitable for hikers in Jeju?
Yes, Jeju Hiking Inn is a great option for hikers visiting Jeju.
Do these guesthouses provide laundry facilities?
Yes, some guesthouses, such as Duri Guest House, provide laundry facilities for their guests.
