Discovering Korea’s Jeju Island has never been this affordable!
With travel restrictions easing up, it is time to fulfill your dream of an overseas vacation. Contrary to popular belief, traveling abroad doesn’t need to be costly. If you are searching for a must-visit place within Asia that you can explore with your loved ones on a limited budget, look no further than Jeju Island in South Korea!
With its calm and scenic views, this lovely coastal town is home to picture-perfect UNESCO World Heritage Sites, beautiful volcanic landmarks, white sand beaches, green tea plantations, and many other interesting attractions. Still not convinced to discover this hidden gem? We’ve heard that Jeju Island is accessible to Philippine passport holders, visa-free!
With only P30,000 on hand, you’ll get to feast your eyes on Jeju’s majestic landscape, immerse yourself in its rich history, and fill your belly with its delicious local cuisine. Here’s a wallet-friendly itinerary that will allow you to make the most of your trip to Jeju Island.
Before your flight
There are no direct flights from Manila to Jeju Island as of this writing. You can opt to book a flight instead to other visa-free countries like Singapore, Malaysia, or Thailand where you can look for direct flights to Jeju from there. Typically, the range of indirect flights would cost P10,000 to P15,000 but these prices usually go down during the month of October.
Perhaps you are aware of this already but in case you’ll forget, watch out for flights that are on sale to save you some money. Be sure to check Skyscanner to get updates on the best flight deals.
Make sure to book or reserve activities and accommodations online to enjoy discounts and skip the line at your destinations. Typically ranging no more than P2,000 per night, there are lots of budget hotels you can check out on Klook. Here are some of the affordable places where you can stay in Jeju Island:
- Captain Jeju Guesthouse - Hostel. Check rates and availability.
- Ganderak Guesthouse - Hostel. Check rates and availability.
- Jeju Capital. Check rates and availability.
- Jeju Hayan Byeol Pension. Check rates and availability.
Travel essentials
Stay connected throughout your stay at Jeju Island with the 4G SIM Card for South Korea! Get around the island much easier with this travel essential that you can easily pick up at the airport upon landing.
Worry not about your commute from the airport to your accommodation and back! Enjoy direct transfers anywhere in Jeju with this travel essential you can book through Klook! Access various hotspots in the city via shared or private airport transfers.
Admire the natural wonders of Jeju Island while comfortably seated in a premium vehicle. Rent out this private car charter that will bring you happily and safely to anywhere you like on the charming little island.
What to explore
Enough of daydreaming and instead, jump for joy when you finally arrive at Jeju Island! There is a long list of must-try activities and must-visit attractions in this rural town. If you don’t want to put a big dent in your budget, we highly suggest that you prioritize these top Jeju Island tourist spots that don’t require entrance fees. This includes Yongduam, Jeju National Museum, Dokkaebi Road, Saryeoni Forest Path, and Seopjikoji to name a few.
To make the most of your Jeju Island tour, don’t miss the chance to pay a visit to the following attractions too!
1. Camellia Hill
Kickstart the day by making your way to Cammellia Hill! With a ticket worth Php293 for adults, you can already visit this 20-hectare haven of marvelous flora and fauna. Bring
Kickstart the day by making your way to Cammellia Hill! With a ticket worth Php293 for adults, you can already visit this 20-hectare haven of marvelous flora and fauna. Bring elation to your plant-loving heart in the park's colorful field of flowers. If you are fond of animals, you’ll be glad to know that it’s also home to a small zoo! Shoot your Instagram snaps at this aesthetically pleasing spot with your OOTD.
2. Yakcheonsa Temple
Jeju Island may be small but believe it or not, it actually hosts one of the biggest Buddhist temples in Asia – Yakcheonsa Temple. Drop by at this magical destination and enjoy witnessing its stunning design and beachfront views. If you’re looking for the best spot to take photos with your family, partner, or friends, we suggest heading to the temple’s large courtyard. Need more convincing? The admission in this Jeju Island tourist spot is actually free!
Address: 293-28 Ieodo-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do
3. Cheonjiyeon Falls
This UNESCO-listed site is undeniably a gift of nature. For just Php104, marvel at the majestic Cheonjiyeon Falls and you’ll be quick to understand why it is one of the top Jeju Island tourist spots. Pose for a photo or two with the beautiful waterfall as your backdrop to relive your memory of your Jeju adventure.
Address: 3381-1 Saekdal-dong, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do
4. Oedolgae Rock
If you’re skipping out Oedolgae Rock on your visit to Jeju Island, then you are doing it wrong. Along the shores of Sammaebong in Seogwipo lies this standalone rock where you get to see amazing sunset! Known by locals as the Changgun rock, the view allows you to take a breath from the hustle and bustle of the city with its Insta-worthy aesthetics. Another good thing is that you don't need to spend a penny just to see this island's icon.
Address: 791, Seohong-dong, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do
5. Jejuhallasung in Seogwipo
What is the sense of your Jeju trip if you won’t try their iconic black pork barbecue? It’s like the wagyu of pork grilled to juicy proportions that is crunchy outside while tender inside. Apart from this classic Korean dish, there is no other better way to recharge after you’re tiring journey than feasting in fresh local seafood served at Jejuhallasung in Seogwipo. This restaurant also offers a bonus of awesome views of the Halla mountains!
Address: 1457-2 Sanghyo-dong, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do (제주도 서귀포시 상효동 1457-2) Opening hours: 10:00am-10:00pm, daily
For more things to do, check out ourJeju Island, South Korea 3D2N Itinerary.
So, the next time someone tells you that you can’t have a Jeju Island tour with just Php30,000 or less, just ask them to read this guide article to prove them wrong. What are you still waiting for? Pack your things up and be ready to know why Jeju earns the moniker “Island of the Gods” by yourself!
IMPORTANT NOTE: Be a responsible traveler! All information on this post are accurate from the time of writing. Rules, regulations and guidelines are updated frequently and may change without Klook’s prior notice. For your safety, check with the respective LGU’s and establishments directly before your travels.