Seoul Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Seoul

Renting a car in Seoul offers the freedom to explore the metropolis at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for tourists. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and maintain flexible travel plans, which is especially beneficial for families and those on business trips. Key attractions like Myeongdong Street, Lotte World, and Lotte World Tower are all conveniently accessible by car, allowing you to visit these sites without the hassle of public transport. You can also explore vibrant neighborhoods such as Gangnam-gu, known for Garosu-gil and Myeongdong Street, or Hongdae, which features Hongdae Street and KT&G Sangsangmadang. The ability to drive directly to these destinations enhances your sightseeing experience, as you can enjoy spontaneous stops along the way. Whether you are seeking family-oriented experiences, city exploration, or a business-themed trip, a rental car provides the convenience and flexibility needed to make the most of your time in and around Seoul.

Most popular car rentals in Seoul

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice for those travelling in Seoul, accommodating up to 5 passengers and allowing for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for an affordable and efficient way to explore the city. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through busy streets while providing ample space for your luggage.
• Compact: The Compact car is another highly booked option in Seoul, comfortably fitting 5 travellers with the capacity for up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it suitable for similar groups as the Economy option but provides a bit more space for luggage. It's perfect for those who want to enjoy the flexibility of driving while managing their belongings without hassle.
• Midsize SUV: If you require more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. It accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases. This option offers a balance of comfort and roominess, making it a great choice for those who need extra luggage capacity while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Seoul. Ideal for longer trips, it ensures everyone travels comfortably.

Top rated car suppliers in Seoul

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a popular choice among travellers in Seoul, boasting 3 rental locations throughout the city. Customers appreciate the flexibility that comes with their services, making it easy to explore at your own pace. The most booked vehicles with Enterprise are Midsize SUVs and Mini Vans, perfect for families or groups. Their commitment to customer service enhances the rental experience, ensuring a smooth process from pickup to return.
• Avis: Avis stands out with 5 rental locations in Seoul, offering great convenience for tourists. Known for their reliable service, Avis provides a variety of vehicles to suit different needs, with Economy and Fullsize cars being the most popular options. Travellers often highlight the efficient checkout process and the quality of their vehicles, making Avis a solid choice for those looking to navigate the city and its surroundings comfortably.
• Europcar: Europcar operates 3 rental locations in Seoul, catering to those who prefer options like Compact and Economy cars. Customers frequently commend Europcar for its competitive pricing and the cleanliness of its vehicles. The company is known for its efficient service, particularly during the drop-off process, allowing you to focus on your adventures without unnecessary delays. This makes Europcar an excellent choice for visitors seeking convenience and value.

Where to stay in Seoul

• Myeong-dong: This vibrant neighbourhood offers a unique blend of family, city, and business experiences. It's renowned for its bustling shopping area and public market, making it a popular destination. Notable attractions include Myeongdong Street, perfect for outdoor holidays, and N Seoul Tower, a modern icon of the city. Gyeongbokgung Palace, a historic site, is also nearby. Myeong-dong has numerous dining options, featuring restaurants and cafes that cater to various tastes.
• Hongdae: Known for its youthful energy, Hongdae is ideal for family, city, and business-themed experiences. Visitors can explore Hongdae Street, a lively area perfect for urban exploration, and KT&G Sangsangmadang Hongdae, an art gallery that showcases local culture. The proximity to Myeongdong Street allows for additional shopping and dining opportunities. With a range of restaurants and cafes, Hongdae is a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in Seoul's creative scene.
• Jongno-gu: This culturally rich district is perfect for families and culture enthusiasts. Jongno-gu is home to significant landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village, both steeped in history. The area also features Myeongdong Street, offering a vibrant tourist precinct. With numerous restaurants and dining options available, Jongno-gu provides a well-rounded experience for those looking to explore Seoul's heritage and modern lifestyle.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Seoul

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for sunny days, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize filters on Expedia to locate the ideal vehicle for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking early, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years of age may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most economical option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek rentals with unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is required to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Seoul

The best time to rent a car in and around Seoul is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February also offers good value with low demand, making it a quiet month for rentals. March sees low demand as well, but prices rise to average. As we move into summer, July becomes the most expensive month with slightly high prices and average demand. This trend continues into August, where demand peaks again, making it a busier time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	27.3°F (-2.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	32.5°F (0.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly High
March	43.2°F (6.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
April	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	77.4°F (25.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
August	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
September	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	59.2°F (15.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
November	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	30.7°F (-0.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average