Jeju Island is famous for its stunning coastal roads, UNESCO sites, and volcanic landscapes. While many visitors rent cars, you can absolutely explore Jeju without driving — using buses, shuttles, taxis, and organized tours. Here’s your ultimate guide to getting around Jeju car-free.
🚌 1) Public Buses
Jeju’s public bus network is extensive and affordable, though it requires some planning.
- Types of buses:
- Blue buses — Long-distance, connect Jeju City ↔ Seogwipo & major towns.
- Green buses — Local routes within smaller areas.
- Airport Limousine buses — Connect Jeju Airport to hotels and tourist zones.
- Fares: ₩1,200–₩3,000 depending on distance (pay with Tmoney card or cash).
- Frequency: Every 15–30 minutes on main routes; 40–60 minutes in rural areas.
- Apps: Kakao Map or Jeju Bus App for real-time arrival times and routes.
Tip: Many bus stops have English signs, but routes can be winding — check the direction before boarding.
🚐 2) Airport Shuttles
If your hotel offers a free or paid airport shuttle, this is the most hassle-free option for arrival/departure. Larger resorts in Jungmun or Hamdeok often have scheduled pick-ups — check with your hotel in advance.
🚖 3) Taxis & Ride-Hailing
- Available but less frequent in rural spots — arrange pickup in advance if possible.
- Kakao T app works on the island; choose “Call taxi” and set your location.
- Expect higher fares for long distances (e.g., Jeju City → Seongsan ~₩40,000).
- Consider sharing with other travelers to cut costs.
🗺️ 4) Day Tours & Shuttle Buses
Joining a day tour is one of the most efficient ways to see Jeju without driving. Options include:
- East/West/South coast bus tours — cover major attractions in one day.
- Theme-based tours — hiking Hallasan, visiting waterfalls, or food tours.
- Booking: Agencies in Jeju City, online via Klook or Trazy.
Bonus: Guides often share local stories, saving you navigation stress.
🚶 5) Walking & Cycling
- Many beaches and villages are walkable once you get there.
- Jeju Olle Trails — 27 scenic walking courses along coasts, fields, and forests.
- Rent a bicycle or e-bike in towns like Seogwipo or near popular beaches.
🧭 6) Planning Tips
- Base yourself in Jeju City for northern/eastern attractions, Seogwipo for southern ones.
- Check weather — some coastal roads flood in heavy rain; buses may be delayed.
- First/last buses often run around 6:00–22:00, so plan accordingly.
- In rural areas, confirm your return bus time before exploring.
🛑 Common Mistakes
- Underestimating travel time — Jeju looks small but routes can take 1–2 hours.
- Assuming buses run late at night — most stop before 10pm.
- Not carrying a Tmoney card — saves you from searching for exact change.
✅ In Summary
- Public buses cover most areas; use apps for schedules.
- Airport shuttles & day tours are great time-savers.
- Taxis are useful for remote spots — book ahead if outside city centers.
- Walking & cycling are perfect for exploring specific neighborhoods or Olle Trails.
📌 Next Topic
Coming up next in our Korea travel series: “Jeju’s Top 10 Attractions You Can Visit Without a Car” 🌊 A curated list of beaches, volcanic sites, and cultural spots accessible by bus or tour.