6D5N Seoul-Jeju Under RM2500: The Muslim-Friendly Itinerary You Need For Your Korea Vacay

So, you've set your heart on visiting South Korea but you're just not sure which Korea itinerary is perfect for you? From the bustling city life in Seoul to Jeju's laidback charm and gorgeous scenery, these 2 popular Korean destinations make an ideal combination for your vacay!

P.S. Thinking of visiting Seoul, Busan and Jeju? This 10D9N itinerary is just what you need. 

Credit: Giphy

But before you step into the land of K-pop, delicious halal Korean food and affordable shopping, you realise the only thing that stands between you and your trip is budget? Don't worry, we're here to help you out! We've curated this 6D5N Muslim-friendly itinerary to Seoul and Jeju (under RM2500!) so you can plan ahead and not hurt your wallet while doing so ? (P.S. This includes flights, accommodation, meals, transportation and attraction fees but not shopping!)

Getting there: the cheapest month to travel and planning your route 

If you're a seasoned budget traveller, you would know that the travel period matters a lot when planning a trip. It's no doubt that the best time to visit Korea would be during spring (Mar-May) or autumn (Oct-Nov) but unfortunately, these are peak travel seasons and won't be the cheapest months to get your flight tickets.

Well, we've done some research and found out that the cheapest month to travel to both Seoul and Jeju is in July 2020, with the best deals for one-way flight tickets from KL to both destinations ranging from around RM389-437. For a multi-city route between KL, Seoul and Jeju, we found the best prices to be in the first 2 weeks of July on AirAsia. It also doesn't make much of a difference which route you choose to take on your trip. Weather-wise, you might expect some rain in Seoul but it's still not the peak monsoon season yet and it's also not too hot or humid as compared to August. For Jeju, summer is in full swing but it's a great time to hit the beaches ? Just remember to bring an umbrella or poncho along. Plus, with 5 months lead time from now till July, it'll be enough time for you to save up!

#HHWT Tip: We used Skyscanner's cheapest month feature to get this info (click on dates > whole month > cheapest month). Alternatively, you also check out Google Flights' price graph too.

Flight options between KL-Seoul-Jeju

Here are the 2 best flight options which we got from AirAsia! (we'll look at flights between Seoul and Jeju later on)

Option 1:

Price: RM920

Date: 6-11 Jul 2020 (Mon-Sat)

Flight route: KL-Seoul, Jeju-KL

Option 2:

Price: RM938

Date: 4-9 Jul 2020 (Sat-Thu)

Flight route: KL-Jeju, Seoul-KL

Flight options between Seoul-Jeju

With over 200 flights between Seoul and Jeju every day, finding the right time and price won't be much of a problem. However, it's best to avoid travelling between both cities from Fridays to Mondays (and sometimes, Thursdays) as it's also a peak travel time for locals. One-way flight prices on non-peak days range from RM52-84 while on peak days, flight prices can start from RM130 to over RM200. Look out for cheap flights from T'Way Air and Jeju Air!

For this itinerary, we've decided to choose Option 2 as the travel day from Jeju to Seoul falls on a Tuesday and it will make the total cost of flights cheaper.

#HHWT Tip: Do note that AirAsia's flights between KL and Jeju only operate on Tue, Thur and Sat so you'd want to plan your itinerary accordingly.

Total cost of flights: RM938 + RM84 = RM1022 

Day 1

Pick up your rental car (30 min)

• As Jeju is a pretty huge island and you'll only have a limited time, the best way to travel around is by renting a car.
• Renting a car might sound expensive but it doesn't have to be, especially if you're travelling with a significant other or in a group of 3, 4 or more. This way, the car rental fees can be split among your travel group.

• Several companies which allow you to book your car online in English are Lotte Rent-A-Car and Avis. Car rental rates vary according to the company and car you choose but daily rates can start from as cheap as USD30-40 (RM123-164).
• #HHWT Tip: Lotte lets you sign up for a membership for an even better discount ?
• We recommend booking your car rental online in advance as it might be cheaper than doing it on the day itself. Plus, you won't need to worry about the availability of cars.
• Make sure you have an international driving permit and don’t forget to get full cover insurance for your car!

Estimated cost per person (with insurance and fuel costs in a group of 2 for 3 days): RM368.50 (cost of petrol = KRW1700 per litre/RM6) [Do note that the price will be cheaper if you're travelling in a group of 3 or 4!]

• If no one in your travel group is able to drive, we recommend booking a day tour through travel sites like Klook or hire a private driver to bring you around (this would be more expensive than car rental). Alternatively, you can also take a taxi to get from place to place.
• If you want to save even more during your trip, travelling around by bus is very affordable in Jeju. Check out our guide on budget tips in Jeju to find out how to navigate using the bus system.

Have lunch at Bada Punggyeong (바다풍경) (1h)

• Since your flight arrives just in time for a late lunch, fuel up with your first seafood meal in Jeju at Bada Punggyeong.

• The Braised Mackerel Stew (KRW29000) is a specialty here and you can share it with your travel group but a more affordable option is their grilled mackerel which is half the price (KRW14000).
• #HHWT Tip: If you need to do your prayers, inform the staff and they’ll bring you up to the third floor where you’ll be praying in a room with a lovely view of the sea.
• Halal status: Only seafood dishes sold, no alcohol/meat used in the preparation of dishes. Alcohol is served in the establishment, so do dine at your own discretion. Prayer room in establishment.
• Opening Hours: Open daily; 9.30AM - 11PM
• Address: 654, Seohaean-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea

Cost per person:KRW14000 (RM49)

Admire lovely hydrangeas at Camellia Hill (1h)

• One amazing thing about Jeju is that the flowers change with every season and Camellia Hill is the go-to spot on the island to spot different flowers!
• Though this arboretum has 6000 camellias trees with over 500 species on-site, it’s also home to many other plants which makes it a colourful display any time of the year.

• Since you're visiting in summer, you can expect gorgeous hydrangeas to fill up the whole place and make sure you plan matching outfits so that you can strike the perfect pose with these baby blue, pink and purple petals ?
• Opening hours: Open daily; 8.30AM-6PM
• Address: 166 Byeongang-ro, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea

Cost: KRW8000 (RM28)

Walk around O'Sulloc Tea Plantation (1h)

• Take in the sights of Jeju's largest tea plantation - O'Sulloc. Be one with nature as you walk along the neatly-lined rows of tea plants and capture as many photos as you can!
• Don't forget to check out O'Sulloc Tea Museum to find out more about Korean teas and the traditional tea culture of Korea.

• If you're a fan of green tea, you’ll love the Green Tea ice-cream at the cafe!
• Green tea fans rejoice as you can get almost anything green tea-flavoured at O’Sulloc’s souvenir store, from green tea milk spread to cookies and chocolates!
• Disclaimer: Do check the ingredients of the products with the staff before you purchase them. As none of the products at the store are halal-certified, we recommend that you buy them at your own discretion.
• Opening hours: Open daily; 9AM-6PM
• Address: 15 Sinhwayeoksa-ro, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea

Cost: Free (not including purchases at O'Sulloc souvenir store)

Unwind at Yeongmori Coast (30min-1h)

End your first day in Jeju by taking a leisurely walk along the Yeongmori Coast nearby.

• Named "dragon's head" because of the way it's shaped, Yeongmori Coast is a formation of cliffs from different volcanic ash layers and eruptions which created arches and patterns.
• This stunning natural phenomenon makes it one of the most scenic spots along Jeju's southern coastline ?
• Address: South Korea, Jeju-do, Seogwipo-si, 안덕면 Andeok-myeon, 사계리

Cost: Free

Check in to your accommodation

• It's time to check into your accommodation and rest for the night after a long day of travelling!
• Skip the hotels and stay in hostels for your Korea vacay. We recommend Yeha Guesthouse in Jeju City for its affordability and convenience. Check out other affordable hostels in our budget guide to Jeju!

• What's more, Yeha Guesthouse is also Muslim-friendly. Some halal condiments are provided as well as cooking utensils for Muslim guests, and you are free to contribute food to other guests too!
• That way, you can conveniently whip up your own meals there. How convenient! Otherwise, you can also check out these Muslim-friendly convenience store snacks for your dinner.
• #HHWT Tip: Yeha also provides toast, eggs and cereal for breakfast so you can fill your tummy for the morning and can save more.
• Address: 9 Samo-gil, Samdo 1(il)-dong, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea

Cost: KRW60000/RM209 per night for Twin Room with private bathroom (RM104 per person)

Total cost (3 nights): RM313

Total cost for Day 1 (inc. car rental and accommodation): RM758.50

Day 2

Spend a beautiful morning at Woljeong-ri Beach (1-2h)

• It's summer! So what better way to spend it than by hanging out at the beach? Join the locals at Woljeong-ri Beach which is known for its white sand and emerald waters.

• Remember to get your cameras out and strike a pose as you wouldn't want to miss the sight of this lovely beach!
• While you're chilling out, pop into one of the hipster cafes around the beach area. Do note that as none of them is halal-certified, we recommend that you do your necessary checks and visit at your own discretion.

Cost: Free

Hike up Seongsan Sunrise Peak (1h)

• You can't say you've been to Jeju without heading to Seongsan Ilchulbong - one of Jeju's must-see destinations. The crater at the peak of Seongsan was formed after an undersea volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, making the place a scientific gem.

• It's also been called Seongsan Sunrise Peak but if you can't wake up for sunrise, fret not as the view from up there is still magnificent any time of the day!

• It takes around 20-30 minutes to hike up to the top. The hike seems daunting at first as there are a lot of steps but just keep going and you'll realise it's not that bad! Do remember to wear comfortable shoes though.
• Opening hours: 7am-8pm (Apr-Oct), 7.30am-7pm (Nov-Mar)
• Address: 284-12, Ilchul-ro, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

Cost: KRW5000 (RM17)

Watch a haenyeo divers' performance (1h)

• The haenyeos are a community of women divers who catch exquisite shellfish like abalone or sea urchins for a living and they don't use oxygen masks.
• Most of the haenyeos are in their 70s with the oldest in this particular community, being 85. They work everyday for 4-5 hours if the weather permits and dive 10 to 25 metres to catch more than 80kg of seafood.

• During the performance, the haenyeos will sing about their livelihoods and how they long to be someplace far away where they’re not working. Most of them had no choice but to work as haenyeos as the livelihood was passed down to them by their mothers.
• While the performance is free to watch, you can support them by buying the fresh seafood they catch!
• Address: 284-12 Ilchul-ro, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
• Performance times: 1.30pm-2.30pm, 3pm-4pm daily

Have late lunch at Uribong Sikdang (우리봉 식당) (1h)

• After that morning climb, it's time to refuel with some seafood at Uribong Sikdang, located near Seongsan Sunrise Peak!
• One thing you can't miss at this eatery is their Abalone Soup. At just KRW15,000, you'll get generous portions of abalone, crab, mussels and tofu.

• The seafood broth is flavourful yet light on the palate and sipping it is very comforting, especially on a hot summer's day.
• #HHWT Tip: The eatery has a dedicated prayer room complete with prayer mats, garments and even a Quran.
• Halal status: Only seafood dishes sold, no alcohol/meat is used in preparation of dishes. Alcohol is served in the establishment, so do dine at your own discretion. Prayer facilities available.
• Opening hours: Open daily; 8.30AM - 9PM
• Address: 273, Ilchul-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

Cost: KRW15000 (RM52)

Bask in the beauty of Seopjikoji (1-2h)

• You’ve probably seen a lighthouse near the beach in a Korean drama or movie. Chances are it was filmed at Seopjikoji!
• This picturesque cliff and beach area became a popular tourist spot after the hit Korean drama All In in 2003.

• Take in the stunning views at Seopjikoji and hear the sound of waves crashing – this is probably the best way to chill out and have a relaxing evening.
• It’s also a romantic place if you’re here with your significant other ?

• #HHWT Tip: Climb all the way up to the lighthouse to get the best view of the cliff.
• Opening hours: 24 hours
• Address: 107, Seopjikoji-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

Cost: Free

Take Insta-worthy pictures at Jeju Swiss Village (1h)

• Stepping into the Swiss village in Wasan-ri, you’d definitely feel as though you’ve been transported to a village in Europe.

• The village’s brightly painted houses mainly in red, yellow and orange, lined on a hilly street are perfect for a leisurely evening stroll.
• You’ll find a cluster of cafes and small artisanal shops here too. So, why not head into one of the many cafes here and just watch the world go by?

• Besides the vibrant houses, the village also has some wall art. Go wild with your travel buddies as you think of different poses to do for the perfect shot!
• Opening hours: Open 24h
• Address: 1345 Wasan-ri, Jochon-eup, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea

Cost: Free

Dinner at Jeju Assalam Restaurant (formerly known as Jeju Wardah Restaurant) (1h)

• End day 2 with a Middle Eastern meal at Assalam Restaurant! Owned by a Yemeni Muslim Chef and his Korean wife, it's a taste of home for the Yemenis who live on Jeju (or mainland South Korea).

• The menu includes both Arab classics such as hummus, as well as Yemeni specialities like lamb and chicken kabsa, and lamb soup.
• The prices are also quite affordable for the portion and taste of the food. They have shawarma kebab for just KRW6000 (RM21) - it's definitely worth a visit if you're on the north side of Jeju Island!

• Halal Status: Only halal ingredients used. Alcohol is served in the establishment so do dine at your own discretion.
• Opening Hours: Open daily; 12PM - 10PM (Closed on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month)
• Address: 24 Gwandeong-ro 8(pal)-gil, Samdo 2(i)-dong (63169)

Cost: KRW10000 (RM35)

Total cost for Day 2: RM104

Day 3

Visit Hallasan National Park, Korea's highest peak (7-10h)

• This one’s for the adventurous souls! If you love a little bit of a challenge, why not hike up Hallasan? At 1950 metres above sea level, it’s South Korea’s tallest mountain!
• Since it's summer, it's the most favourable time to climb Hallasan and you can even enjoy the cool breeze at the peak.
• The best part? Climbing the mountain is free - perfect for budget travellers like you ?

Credit: 산드라 Sandra on Facebook

• There are 5 hiking trails at Mt Halla but only 2 will take you to the summit - Seongpanak (9.7km) and Gwaneumsa (8.7km).
• While Seongpanak is longer, it’s also less steep and easier to climb. Gwaneumsa is a shorter route but it’s steeper and the view is more scenic. The total time to climb up and down Hallasan is around 7-10 hours.
• #HHWT Tip: To replenish your energy along the hike, do prepare enough food and drinks. Since Yeha Guesthouse provides bread and eggs for breakfast, you can pack those for your lunch. Otherwise, stock up on Muslim-friendly snacks from the convenience store the night before.

• If you don't have enough time to spare, we recommend taking the Eorimok and Yeongsil trail instead to have a feel of the hiking the mountain - both should take you around 2-2.5 hours.
• #HHWT Tip: Do note that the park administration has a cut-off time for when you can start your climb as well as when you need to leave the summit. This is so that you won’t head back to base when night falls. Check out the Hallasan official website for more information and the opening times for the trails.
• Address: Seongpanak Trail starting point - 1865 516-ro, Jochon-eup, 조천읍 Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea, Gwaneumsa Trail starting point - Sallokbuk-ro, Odeung-dong, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea
• Opening hours: 5.30AM (Spring - Mar/Apr & Autumn - Sep/Oct), 5AM (Summer - May to Aug), 6AM (Winter - Nov to Feb)
• Cut-off time to start: 12.30PM (Spring/Autumn), 1PM (Summer), 12PM (Winter)
• Cut-off time to leave summit: 2PM (Spring/Autumn), 2.30PM (Summer), 1.30PM (Winter)

Cost: Free

Treat yourself to a halal shabu-shabu buffet at Cheonhaecheon (천해천) (2h)

• Yay, you've conquered the highest peak in Korea! Time for a feast at Cheonhaecheon ☺️
• Priced at KRW34000 (RM118), this all-you-can-eat buffet serves halal meat, with different cuts of beef and it's certified by the Jeju Islamic Cultural Center. There's an extensive range of seafood too!

• Cheonhaecheon also has a cooked food section with Korean fried chicken, tteokbokki and even takoyaki among other food items. For the variety of spread that they have, it’s definitely worth your money ?
• Halal Status: Only halal meat and ingredients used, no alcohol/meat used in preparation of food/drinks. Alcoholic drinks served in establishment, so do dine at your own discretion Prayer facilities are available in establishment - do remember to bring your own prayer garments.
• Opening Hours: Open daily; 11AM - 10PM
• Address: 25 Halladaehak-ro, Nohyeong-dong, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea

Total cost for Day 3: RM118

Day 4

Fly to Seoul (1h)

• Your time in Jeju has come to an end, but it's time to continue your vacay in Seoul!

• We recommend taking an early morning flight from Jeju to Seoul as prices are cheaper than a later flight. T'Way Air's first flight at 7.55AM reaches Seoul's Gimpo Airport at 9.05AM, which is just nice for you to start exploring Seoul!

Getting around in Seoul

• Going around Seoul is not a hard task, especially after you’ve gotten a grip of the public transport system (which is extremely affordable!).

• Whether you are taking the bus, subway or taxi, getting a T-money card would make your journey much easier and fares are discounted too.
• All you need to do is purchase them from any convenience store and reload as necessary, and you’ll be good to go! A trip on the Seoul subway starts from KRW1250 (RM4.35). Read more here.
• #HHWT Tip: Towards the end of your stay, avoid reloading more than KRW50000 (RM174) so that you can make your refund easily. 

Cost: KRW2500 (RM8.70, top up as needed)

Visit a lesser-known palace, Deoksugung (2h)

• While most travellers always make a visit to Seoul's most famous palace, Gyeongbokgung, why not make a trip to Deoksugung instead? It’s conveniently located right outside of City Hall station.
• Although it's smaller than the other palaces, having fewer visitors means that it's the perfect chance for you to take a break from the bustling city. The admission fee is just KRW1000 (RM3.50), which is cheaper than other palaces.

• Don't miss out on the changing of royal guards ceremony at the entrance of the palace where you'll be treated to superb drills and colourful display of uniforms. Timings are at 11am, 2pm and 3.30pm.

• The highlight of the palace would have to be the mix of traditional and Western-style architecture. Plus, this is the only palace which has a mix of both architecture styles!

• Fans of the popular K-drama, Goblin would also recognise this picturesque stonewall walkway which was featured in the drama!
• Opening hours: 9AM-9PM (last admission: 8PM) (closed on Mon)
• Address: 99, Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul

Cost: KRW1000 (RM3.50)

Take a stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream (1h)

• Once covered by an elevated highway, Cheonggyecheon was revived into a beautiful stream running through downtown Seoul.

• The stream is a hip tourist spot and a popular hangout area for youngsters. Whether it’s during the day or late evening, you’ll see people strolling around! Cool down by dipping your feet in the water ?
• From Deoksugung, it's just a short walk to Cheonggyecheon.
• #HHWT Tip: Need to do your prayers? Head over to the second floor K-Style Hub along Cheonggyecheon (complete with prayer mats and wudhu area). Find out more prayer spaces in Seoul here.
• Opening hours: 24h
• Address: 20-2 Myeong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Cost: Free

Try vegetarian cuisine at Osegyehyang (1h)

• If you think that vegetarian food is bland and boring, this restaurant will prove otherwise.
• One of the dishes to try here is their Fried Dumpling (KRW9,000) where meat is substituted with starch noodles. We tried it on our previous trip to Seoul and to our surprise, it actually tasted really yummy!

• If you're in need of something, their Grilled Soy Protein Stew (KRW10,000) is perfect. Traditionally, this Korean stew would consist of beef but they use soy instead.
• Halal status: Vegetarian and vegan-friendly options only. No meat or alcohol are used in the dishes. We recommend you dine at your own discretion.
• Opening hours: Open daily; 11.30AM - 3.30PM, 5PM - 9PM (Daily break between 3.30PM - 5PM)
• Address: 14-5 Insadong 12-gil, Gwanhun-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Cost (on average per person): KRW10000 (RM35)

Soak in the atmosphere of Insa-dong (1-2h)

• Since you're already in the vicinity of Insa-dong, take this opportunity to soak in its traditional vibe!
• Take your time to explore the galleries, teahouses, cafes and traditional architecture of this cultural neighbourhood.

• There are many shops selling Korean crafts and handmade souvenirs. Don't miss a visit to Ssamzie-gil Market for some retail therapy or window-shopping ?
• #HHWT Tip: If you have more time to spare, head over to the nearby Ikseon-dong Hanok Alley, an up-and-coming area with plenty of cafes and IG-worthy spots! Check out our guide to Ikseon-dong here.

Cost: Free

Pose for the 'gram at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (1h)

• With its sleek curves and unique architecture, the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is the star of popular shopping district Dongdaemun.
• Designed by famous architect Zaha Hadid, every corner here pretty much makes for an Insta-worthy spot ?

• It’s not just the exterior of the building that’s stunning, it’s interiors and the spiral staircase, in particular, are worthy spots to spice up your Instagram feed.
• Opening hours: Tue-Thur, Sun; 10AM-7PM, Fri-Sat; 10AM-9PM (closed on Mon)
• Address: 281 Eulji-ro, Euljiro 7(chil)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Cost: Free

Savour fried chicken and more at Kampungku (1h)

• For dinner, head over to Kampungku in Myeongdong!
• Specialising in both Korean and Malaysian cuisine, including fusion dishes, Kampungku is a favourite among many Muslim travellers.

• One of the restaurant’s best-selling dishes here is the Sweet Crispy chicken (KRW11000). Having received rave reviews from Muslim travellers, it’s coated with tantalising yangnyeom (sticky spicy red sauce) that perfectly complements the crunchiness of the succulent chicken.
• The eatery also serves other dishes like Buddae Jjigae (army stew), bibimbap (mixed rice), bulgogi, nasi lemak and roti canai!
• #HHWT Tip:Pop over next door to Kampungku Mart to stock up on halal Korean snacks and souvenirs to bring home.
• Halal status: Halal ingredients used (cooked by a Muslim chef), prayer room in establishment
• Opening Hours: Open daily; 11AM-10PM
• Address: Jong-ro 20-gil, Namsandong 2(i)-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Cost (on average per person): KRW8000 (RM28)

Go shopping in Myeongdong (1-2h)

• End the night with some shopping in Myeongdong! With a variety of skincare and cosmetic brands, fashion accessories, K-pop merchandise and more, there’s something for everyone here!

• Looking for skincare bargains on beauty staples such as face masks? You’ll be glad to know there are amazing 1-for-1 deals and discounts on offer. Check out these essential tips for shopping in Myeongdong!

Cost: varies on your shopping spree ?

Rest for the night at your accommodation

• With a variety of accommodation that cater to every traveller's need, it's not hard to find go budget in Seoul.
• We'd recommend staying at ’24 Guesthouse’ or the ‘Ekonomy’ hotel chain. For an affordable price, their guesthouses offer both comfort and great location.

Credit: 24guesthouse Myeongdong Town on Facebook

• 24 Guesthouse has chains in Hongdae, Myeongdong and Dongdaemun while Ekonomy has a chain in Myeongdong. Find more budget accommodations in Seoul here.
• For this itinerary, we'll be basing it on the price of 24 Guesthouse Myeongdong Town which is located near Hoehyeon Station.

Cost: From RM131 per night on Agoda for Bunk Twin with shared bathroom (from RM65.50 per person)

Total cost (2 nights): RM131

Total cost for Day 4 (inc. accommodation): RM206.20

Day 5

Visit the National Museum of Korea (2-3h)

• If you love history and want to know more about Korea, head to their national museum and spend a good few hours there!
• The 6-storey museum has over 140,000 national relics and artifacts and you can experience both tradition and modernity here.

• Besides looking at the exhibits, you can also wander around the sculpture garden and open plaza.
• What's great about visiting the museum is that it won't even cost you a single cent ?
• Opening hours: Mon-Tue, Thu-Fri; 10AM-6PM, Wed, Sat; 10AM-9PM, Sun; 10AM-7PM
• Address: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Seobinggo-dong, Yongsan-gu, 서울특별시 South Korea

Cost: Free

Have lunch at a halal Korean restaurant at Itaewon (1h)

• Savouring authentic halal Korean food is a must when you're in Itaewon and there are 2 eateries we'd recommend - Makan Halal and Eid.
• The prices at Makan Halal range from around KRW8000-12000. You can get a yummy bowl of bulgogi bibimbap for KRW8000 (RM28) while their mouthwatering Korean-style braised chicken stew is KRW10000 (RM35).

• Alternatively, you can head over to Eid Halal Korean Food where prices are around KRW8000-12000 too.
• Try their delicious bulgogi (KRW10000), samgyetang (Korean ginseng chicken, KRW12000) or jjim dak (braised chicken).
• Check out other halal Korean eateries in our article.

Cost (on average, per person): KRW10000 (RM35)

Do your prayers at Seoul Central Mosque (30min - 1h)

• Opened in 1976, this mosque is one of 8 mosques in Korea but it’s the only one serving the Seoul area.

• There’s nothing like setting foot in a mosque in a new place to make you feel a sense of relief and belonging to meet the local Muslim community. We highly recommend performing your prayers here ☺️

Cost: Free

Stroll along the Han River (1-2h)

• The Han River runs through the city itself and is the locals' favourite hangout spot no matter what time of day.

• No matter where you are along the river, you're bound to find stunning new views you'll want to capture in a photo.
• The Banpo Hangang Park is a picturesque spot to catch the skyline of Seoul from its south side. From here, you'll be able to catch famous landmarks like the N Seoul Tower! Don't miss out on a stunning sunset view here too.

Cost: Free

Catch the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show (30 min)

• After sundown, the atmosphere at the Han River changes completely thanks to the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show.

• Don’t miss out because here's where you’ll be able to watch in awe as 380 rainbow-coloured jets spew out water!
• Address: 40 Sinbanpo-ro 11-gil, Banpo 2(i)-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Show's timetable:
• April-June and September-October: Mon-Fri; 12PM, 9PM, 9.30PM, 10PM, Sat-Sun; 12PM, 8.30PM, 9PM, 9.30PM, 10PM
• July-August: Mon-Fri; 12PM, 8.30PM, 9PM, 9.30PM, 10PM, Sat-Sun; 12PM, 8.30PM, 9PM, 9.30PM, 10PM, 10.30PM

Cost: Free

Hang out at Gangnam Shopping Street (1h)

• After catching that stunning show, it's time to hang out at Gangnam Shopping Street!

• Here's where you can get your K-pop fix and some good quality shopping. Check out a mix of local and international brands like SPAO, 8 Seconds, Nike, UNIQLO and more.
• Don't forget to drop by the Kakao Friends and LINE Friends flagship stores too!

Cost: varies on your shopping spree

Treat yourself to Korean BBQ (1.5h)

• Celebrate your last night in Seoul with an authentic halal Korean BBQ at Yang Good!
• Be greeted by the appetising aroma of grilled meat as you take your pick from various meat platters of halal-certified lamb and chicken.

• Halal status: Halal meat and ingredients used. As alcohol is served in the establishment, we advise you to dine at your own discretion.
• Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 4PM-11PM (closed on Sat-Sun)
• Address: 15 Nonhyeon-ro 95-gil, Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Cost (on average, per person): KRW20000 (RM70)

Total cost for Day 5: RM105

Day 6

Take a morning walk at Ewha Womans University (1-2h)

• It's already your last day in Korea ? Start your day by taking a nice morning stroll at Ewha Womans University.

• With beautifully curated gardens, sprawling green spaces and neoclassical buildings, the gorgeous campus is an attraction on its own.

• There are many spots for photo opportunities too! Make sure you head to the famous steps and walkway to snap a photo ?

Cost: Free

Get great bargains at Ewha Womans University Fashion Street (1-2h)

• Known to the locals as Edae (short for ‘Ewha Womans University’ in Korean), this fashion street caters to university students and you’ll definitely find cheaper prices here compared to the rest of Myeongdong.

• From quality shoes to bags, accessories, clothes, socks, skincare and more, the smaller shopping crowds aren’t the only thing you’ll love about Edae.

Cost: varies on your shopping spree

Fill your tummy with the yummiest kebabs (1h)

• For your last meal in Korea, don't miss out on a visit to The Halal Guys store at the nearby Hongdae district!
• Who knew that this chain which started out from a pushcart along the streets of New York would make its way to Seoul?

• Their gyro over rice platter is the most iconic dish! Choose between chicken or meat gyro over rice, and top it with delicious red and white sauces.
• There are 3 different platter sizes to choose from starting from KRW9900.
• Halal status: Halal ingredients used
• Opening hours: Open daily; 11AM-10.30PM
• Address: 159-5 Donggyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea (there are outlets in Gangnam and Itaewon too)
• P.S. If you have enough time to spare before heading home, head over to Hongdae to catch the lively student crowd and shop for the trendiest clothes!

Cost: KRW9900 (RM34.50)

Make your way to Incheon Airport via the all-stop train (1h)

• The fastest and most convenient way to get from Incheon Airport to Seoul might be via the Airport Express (AREX) which takes about 43 minutes and cost around KRW9000 (RM32).
• But if you take the all-stop train, it'll be more than 50% cheaper at only KRW4150 (RM14.50 with transit card) and it takes only a little longer about 62 minutes.

• Plus, it's also more convenient as you won't need to head to Seoul station to take the train as it stops at various stations. If you're travelling from Hongdae which is nearer to the airport, you'll even pay lesser for your fare.

Cost: KRW4150 (RM14.50) or less

Total cost for Day 6: RM49

Estimated cost breakdown for the whole trip (per person in a group of 2, excluding shopping):

• Flight = RM1022
• Transportation (in Seoul) = RM50 (Estimated 10 trips in total)
• Day 1 (inc. Jeju car rental & accom) = RM758.50
• Day 2 = RM104
• Day 3 = RM118
• Day 4 (inc. Seoul accom) = RM206.20
• Day 5 = RM105
• Day 6 = RM49

ESTIMATED TOTAL COST = RM2412.70 

Do note that we haven't included the price for essentials like pocket WiFi, shopping, day trips or theme parks so if you're thinking of including any of these, do prepare a few hundreds more ? Also, as the budget we've calculated is for one person in a travel group of 2 people, you can actually save more if you have 3, 4 or even 5 people in your travel group!

So, seems like Jeju and Seoul on a budget sounds really doable, right? With plenty of free things to do, transport hacks and affordable halal food, your Korea experience doesn't have to be expensive. Time to start saving up, plan your trip and of course, SHARE this with your travel buddies ?