A Travel Price Comparison for South Korea Busan (Pusan) vs. Cheju (Jeju) for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Busan (Pusan) or Cheju (Jeju)?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Busan (Pusan) or Cheju (Jeju), this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Where Should I go: Busan (Pusan) or Cheju (Jeju)?

Busan (Pusan)

An important port city in South Korea, Busan is known for its beaches, mountains, and temples. With a thriving harbor, the city's main revenue comes from international shipping, although the area is quite popular with tourists from all over the globe, too. The place is bustling with sailors from around the world as well as tourists who come to enjoy the culture of this modern and dynamic city.

Cheju (Jeju)

Cheju is an island located just off the southern coast of South Korea in the Korean Strait. It is known for its volcanic landscape full of craters and cave-like lava tubes, which many visitors venture to hike and explore. With the main industry invested in tourism, it is a popular vacation spot for Koreans and foreigners alike, and remains the top honeymoon destination for Korean newlyweds.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to South Korea, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Seoul, The Best 10-Day Tours from Seoul, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Seoul.


Which place is cheaper, Cheju (Jeju) or Busan (Pusan)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Busan (Pusan) is $88, while the average daily cost in Cheju (Jeju) is $74. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Busan (Pusan) and Cheju (Jeju) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Busan (Pusan) $40
    Cheju (Jeju) $47
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Busan (Pusan) $80
    Cheju (Jeju) $94
Compare Hotels in Busan (Pusan) and Cheju (Jeju)

Looking for a hotel in Busan (Pusan) or Cheju (Jeju)? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Busan (Pusan)


Hotels in Cheju (Jeju)


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Busan (Pusan) Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Busan (Pusan) $21
    Cheju (Jeju) $11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Busan (Pusan)

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Busan (Pusan):

  • Busan Gimhae Int Airport(PUS) to Busan - Arrival Private Transfer: $120
  • Busan to Busan Gimhae Airport (PUS) - Departure Private Transfer: $120
  • Private Transfer from Busan Port to Busan Gimhae Int Airport(PUS): $79

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cheju (Jeju)

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cheju (Jeju):

  • Jeju Airport Transfer: $20
  • Private Transfer From Seogwipo to Jeju Airport in jeju island: $25
  • Private Transfer From Jeju Airport to in Seogwipo Jeju Island : $30
  • Private Taxi One Way Jeju Airport Transfer (Airport Pick-up): $35
  • jeju island Private Taxi Hallasan Hiking Trail Transfer - One way: $57
  • Hallasan Seongpanak transfer,One way, Round trip: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Busan (Pusan) or Cheju (Jeju)?

Prices for flights to both Cheju (Jeju) and Busan (Pusan) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Busan (Pusan) $26
    Cheju (Jeju) $18
Typical Food Prices in Busan (Pusan)

Some typical examples of dining costs in Busan (Pusan) are as follows:


  • McDonald's
    $4.60
  • Carp Bread
    $0.74

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Busan (Pusan)

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Busan (Pusan).

  • Busan history and market food tour with local chef: $50
  • Vegan Friendly Korean Food Cooking Class: $70
  • Korean cooking class in Haeundae, Busan : $95
  • Enjoy tailored Korean cooking class with Ocean view at Busan: $100
  • Busan Seafood Tour & Dinner with Busan Oppa: $110
  • Busan Local Food Cooking Class with Market Tour: $117
  • Busan big Barbecue dinner at the garden : $150

Typical Food Prices in Cheju (Jeju)

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Cheju (Jeju):


  • Burger
    $4.61
  • Donkatsu (Charles Restaurant)
    $7.44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cheju (Jeju)

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cheju (Jeju).

  • Cooking Korean Cuisine and Dinner at Jeju Seaside Sunset Terrace: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Busan (Pusan) $20
    Cheju (Jeju) $5.64

Tours and Activities in Busan (Pusan)

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Busan (Pusan) are as follows:

  • Busan Trick Eye Museum Discount Ticket: $6.00
  • Busan Running Man Themed Activity Experience Center Discount Ticket: $8.00
  • Fun & Informative Busan in Korea Virtual Tour : $12
  • Museum 1 Exhibition Ticket in Busan (내국인 불가): $13
  • The Way of Tea - Experience: $40
  • Jinhae Pink Cherry Blossom One Day Tour From Busan: $42
  • Full-Day Tour Unmissable things to do in Busan: $42
  • Full-Day Busan City Tour: $51
  • Busan Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $55
  • Jinhae Cherry blossom Festival tour: $59
  • Busan: Jinhae Cherry Blossom-Yeojwacheon & Gyeonghwa Station Tour: $60
  • Jinhae Gunhangje Night Tour : $62

Tours and Activities in Cheju (Jeju)

Here are a few actual costs in Cheju (Jeju) for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Visitors to Jeju Glass Museum and Experience: $25
  • [Jeju] Hanbok Rental Experience/Korean Traditional Clothes Rental Shop: $30
  • jeju island private jumbo taxi tour - West & South of Jeju: $55
  • Jeju island Japanese Customer Tour with Japanese Speaking Driver: $55
  • Seogwipo(the southern city of Jeju) Art Museum Walking Tour: $55
  • Seogwipo (The Southern City of Jeju) Jungmun Area Walking Tour: $55
  • Full-Day Private Jumbo taxi Tour - East of Jeju Island (UNESCO): $55
  • Private Tour Sangumburi Crater & Jeju stone park in jeju island : $60
  • Half Day Private Oreum(Small Mountain ) Tour in Jeju Island: $60
  • Jeju island Private Tour - UNESCO Day Tour & Haenyeo Performance: $60
  • Seogwipo(The southern city of Jeju)City Walking Tours with Sunset: $60
  • Jeju island South UNESCO Group Tour: $64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Busan (Pusan) $12
    Cheju (Jeju) $7.32


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Busan (Pusan) and Cheju (Jeju), we can see that Busan (Pusan) is more expensive. And not only is Cheju (Jeju) much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cheju (Jeju) would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cheju (Jeju) and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Busan (Pusan) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Busan (Pusan) than you might in Cheju (Jeju).

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Busan (Pusan) Expensive? and Is Cheju (Jeju) Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Busan (Pusan) or Cheju (Jeju)?

Busan (Pusan) has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Cheju (Jeju). When comparing the sizes of Busan (Pusan) and Cheju (Jeju), keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Busan (Pusan) or Cheju (Jeju)?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Busan (Pusan) or Cheju (Jeju) in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Busan (Pusan) and Cheju (Jeju).

In July, Busan (Pusan) is generally around the same temperature as Cheju (Jeju). Daily temperatures in Busan (Pusan) average around 25°C (77°F), and Cheju (Jeju) fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cheju (Jeju) this time of the year. Busan (Pusan) usually receives less sunshine than Cheju (Jeju) during summer. Busan (Pusan) gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Cheju (Jeju) receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

Cheju (Jeju) receives a lot of rain in the summer. Busan (Pusan) gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Busan (Pusan) usually receives more rain than Cheju (Jeju). Busan (Pusan) gets 257 mm (10.1 in) of rain, while Cheju (Jeju) receives 230 mm (9.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Busan (Pusan) 25°C (77°F) 
    Cheju (Jeju) 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Busan (Pusan) or Cheju (Jeju) in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Busan (Pusan) as well as Cheju (Jeju).

Busan (Pusan) is around the same temperature as Cheju (Jeju) in the autumn. The daily temperature in Busan (Pusan) averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Cheju (Jeju) fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Busan (Pusan) this time of the year. In the autumn, Busan (Pusan) often gets more sunshine than Cheju (Jeju). Busan (Pusan) gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cheju (Jeju) receives 179 hours of full sun.

Busan (Pusan) usually gets less rain in October than Cheju (Jeju). Busan (Pusan) gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cheju (Jeju) receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Busan (Pusan) 18°C (65°F) 
    Cheju (Jeju) 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Busan (Pusan) or Cheju (Jeju) in the Winter?

Both Cheju (Jeju) and Busan (Pusan) are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities.

Busan (Pusan) can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Busan (Pusan) is much colder than Cheju (Jeju). Typically, the winter temperatures in Busan (Pusan) in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Cheju (Jeju) averages at about 5°C (41°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Busan (Pusan). Busan (Pusan) usually receives more sunshine than Cheju (Jeju) during winter. Busan (Pusan) gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Cheju (Jeju) receives 75 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Busan (Pusan) usually receives less rain than Cheju (Jeju). Busan (Pusan) gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Cheju (Jeju) receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Busan (Pusan) 3°C (38°F) 
    Cheju (Jeju) 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Busan (Pusan) or Cheju (Jeju) in the Spring?

Both Cheju (Jeju) and Busan (Pusan) during the spring are popular places to visit.

In April, Busan (Pusan) is generally around the same temperature as Cheju (Jeju). Daily temperatures in Busan (Pusan) average around 14°C (57°F), and Cheju (Jeju) fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Busan (Pusan) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cheju (Jeju). Busan (Pusan) gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cheju (Jeju) receives 190 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Busan (Pusan). Busan (Pusan) usually gets more rain in April than Cheju (Jeju). Busan (Pusan) gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Cheju (Jeju) receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Busan (Pusan) 14°C (57°F) 
    Cheju (Jeju) 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Cheju (Jeju) and Busan (Pusan)

Busan (Pusan) Cheju (Jeju)
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (47°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 224 mm (8.8 in) 21°C (70°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 257 mm (10.1 in) 26°C (79°F) 230 mm (9.1 in)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 204 mm (8 in) 27°C (80°F) 241 mm (9.5 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 187 mm (7.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 179 mm (7 in)
Oct 18°C (65°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 6°C (43°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in)