Cheju City, South Korea
Welcome to Jeju Island, often called the 'Hawaii of Korea'! This volcanic paradise is a favorite stop for major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, and Costa Cruises. Passengers are drawn to its stunning natural landscapes, from pristine beaches and waterfalls to dramatic volcanic craters. Jeju offers a unique blend of natural wonders and vibrant Korean culture, making it an unforgettable port of call on any Asian itinerary.
Discover the island's rich history and geology at the Jeju Folklore & Natural History Museum, conveniently located within Cheju City. For a unique cultural experience, catch a high-energy performance at the Jeju NANTA Theatre, which blends traditional Korean rhythm with modern comedy.
Venture further afield to explore the island's volcanic origins at the magnificent Sangumburi Crater, a sprawling crater filled with lush vegetation, located about a 45-minute drive from the port. Another popular option is the enchanting Jeju Glass Castle, a theme park showcasing incredible glass art, also about a 40-minute drive away.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
One of Jeju's most iconic landmarks is Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, also known as 'Sunrise Peak'. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a tuff cone crater with breathtaking views, located on the eastern side of the island, about a 70-90 minute drive from the port.
Nearby, you can explore the Manjanggul Cave, one of the finest lava tunnels in the world. This natural wonder offers a glimpse into the island's volcanic past and is also about a 60-minute drive from Cheju City. A combined tour of both sites is a popular full-day shore excursion.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
The Jeju International Cruise Terminal is located about 7 kilometers (4 miles) west of downtown Cheju City. Due to the distance, it is not considered within walking distance of the main shopping areas or attractions.
Cruise lines typically provide shuttle buses to the city center, and taxis are readily available at the terminal. The port facility itself is modern but has limited amenities, so most passengers head into the city for dining and shopping.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
The official currency is the South Korean Won (KRW). US Dollars are generally not accepted in shops or restaurants, so it's essential to have local currency.
ATMs are widely available at the port terminal and throughout Cheju City for withdrawing Won. Major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most hotels, larger restaurants, and department stores, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller vendors or markets.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
Cheju City is considered a very safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate. It is generally safe to explore independently, even after dark in well-populated areas.
As with any travel destination, it's wise to practice standard safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping your valuables secure. There are no specific areas that tourists need to avoid. Guided tours are a convenient option but not necessary for safety reasons.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
Jeju has a temperate, humid climate with four distinct seasons. The main cruise season in spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) offers pleasant weather with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (60°F to 77°F).
Summers (July-August) are hot and humid, with a higher chance of rain and the possibility of typhoons. Winters are cool and can be windy. It's recommended to pack layers, a light jacket, and an umbrella, especially during the summer rainy season.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
Taxis are the most convenient way for cruise passengers to get around Cheju City and are readily available at the cruise terminal. Fares are metered and relatively affordable for short distances.
For a structured way to see the main sights, the Jeju City Bus Tour offers a hop-on, hop-off service that covers many popular attractions. While there is an extensive public bus network, it can be challenging to navigate without knowledge of Korean. Ride-sharing apps like Kakao T are popular locally but may require a Korean phone number or payment method.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
For an authentic local shopping experience, head to the bustling Dongmun Traditional Market. Here you can find fresh produce, local street food, and unique souvenirs like hallabong (Jeju mandarin) chocolates and handicrafts.
For more modern shopping, explore the Jeju Jungang Underground Shopping Center or visit major duty-free shops like Shilla and Lotte Duty Free for international brands. Haggling is not common in stores but may be acceptable with street or market vendors.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
Design your own 9-hour private tour of Jeju Island with a certified, fluent English-speaking guide. If you are unsure where to go, your professional local guide will help you customize the perfect itinerary on the morning of your tour. This relaxed, high-quality experience is ideal for families and friends, and as a private tour, it guarantees no unwanted shopping stops.
Experience local culture in a premium hanbok designed by famous designers, conveniently located near the Jeju airport. This tour includes a walk around the famous Yongduam and Yongyeon Valley with a local guide who speaks English and Chinese. You will also receive a complimentary hairstyle fitting and 50-70 free professional photographs to capture the memory.
Explore Jeju's volcanic origins at the UNESCO-designated Seongsan Ilchulbong and the fascinating Stone Culture Park. In the winter, this tour includes the unique experience of picking tangerines and learning about the local Haenyeo culture. For flexibility during bad weather, an aquarium visit is an option, and your driver-guide can provide a 10-15% discount on select attraction admission fees.
Book a private, flexible tour with a top-rated English-speaking specialist who knows Jeju's history and culture. Accommodating groups from one to thirteen, your guide can take you to authentic local restaurants with economic prices. You will also receive an additional 20% discount for most private attractions, excluding government-operated sites.
Join a premium, all-inclusive 8-hour tour of Jeju Island in an intimate small group of no more than 15 people. Led by a professional, local English-speaking guide, you will visit top attractions like Seongsan Sunrise Peak, the Woman Diver Museum, and Woljeongri Beach. This tour is a premium English-only experience with convenient hotel pick-up and no hidden costs or mandatory shopping stops.
Discover Jeju's eastern coast with a professional local driver, visiting UNESCO-listed Seongsan Ilchulbong and the scenic Seopjikoji coastal course. At Seongeup Folk Village, you can get a glimpse of how Jeju people lived and even try on a traditional Hanbok. At Seongsan Ilchulbong, you can watch the daily 2 PM performance by Jeju's famous female divers. The tour itinerary varies for those departing from Seogwipo to also cover southern sights.
Understand Jeju's unique culture by visiting the eastern part of the island, including the UNESCO-listed Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak and Jeju Stone Park. This tour also takes you to the coastal Seopjikoji, a traditional folk village, and the Haenyeo Museum to learn about Jeju's female divers. Please note that some attractions are closed on Mondays, and an alternate itinerary will be provided on those days.
Explore the beautiful sea and waterfalls of southwest Jeju on this customizable private tour perfect for families and groups. Alongside a private guide, select the attractions you wish to visit, from stunning waterfalls and coastal roads to a lush green tea field. This tour is designed to fit many locations into one day, and a basic itinerary is available for those departing from the Seogwipo cruise terminal.
This tour is specially designed for cruise passengers, with guides waiting at your port of arrival to begin your adventure. Your pickup and tour schedule are customized based on your ship's docking times, and an on-time return to port is 100% guaranteed. Itineraries are tailored to your port, visiting Seongsan Ilchulbong from Jeju Port, or Hallasan Mountain from Seogwipo Port, with durations adjusted to your ship's schedule.
Ideal for those with limited time, this customized tour offers a flexible schedule that can be adjusted based on your departure point. Your driver will advise on the best itinerary for the day, taking into account weather, timing, and your personal preferences. Visit stunning natural sites like Jeongbang Waterfall, the legendary Oedolgae rock, and the dragon-shaped Yongmeori coast, finishing with a relaxing visit to a green tea field.
Enjoy a comfortable private tour of Jeju's UNESCO sites, with convenient, free pick-up available from all cruise terminals. Your itinerary is customizable and includes visits to top landmarks like the Yongmeori Coast, Cheonjeyeon Waterfall, and the O'sulloc Green Tea Museum. The highlight is a 1-hour shared UNESCO yacht cruise, which includes a complimentary fishing experience in Jeju's crystal-clear waters.
Create your perfect day on Jeju Island with this fully customizable tour. You simply decide which region you'd like to explore for the day—east, west, south, or north. Your personalized itinerary will then be built around your chosen area, ensuring you visit only the sights that interest you and your group most.
Discover the best of Jeju's east, west, and south in a single day on this private tour for up to 12 people. Capture stunning photos at famous attractions like Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, a wide green tea field, and the unique columnar joints. This trip features visits to remarkable natural wonders, including Yongmeori Beach and Jeongbang, the only waterfall in Jeju that flows directly into the sea.
Enjoy a flexible day tour that includes picturesque Woljeong-ri Beach and the famed Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, where you may see a haenyeo performance. Explore Seongeup Folk Village with an English-speaking guide and have an opportunity to shop for local Jeju specialties. The itinerary also includes a peaceful walk in Sharyani Forest and can be changed at any time to add places you wish to visit.
Experience the best of Jeju's UNESCO-listed southern coast on this all-inclusive, full-day tour. In a small group limited to 15 people, you'll hike Mt. Halla and visit stunning sites like Jusangjeolli cliff and Cheonjiyeon falls. This premium, English-only tour includes all entrance fees, lunch, and round-trip transport with no hidden costs or unwanted shopping stops.
Discover Jeju's natural wonders, from Jeongbang, the island's best waterfall that flows into the sea, to the unique Sangumburi crater. Take a relaxing walk through the tree-lined trails of Sharyeoni Forest and stroll along the scenic beach at Seopjikoji. The tour also includes a visit to the Jeju Stone Culture Park and a 1-hour round-trip hike at the World Heritage site, Seongsan Ilchulbong.
This tour is designed exclusively for cruise ship passengers, with guides waiting for you right at the port. Your tour is timed precisely to your ship's schedule with a 100% guaranteed on-time return to port. Choose from two different itineraries based on your port of arrival, visiting top spots like Seongsan Ilchulbong or Hallasan Mountain. As a private, customizable tour package, please note that entrance fees are not included.
Discover Jeju's top attractions with a kind and safe driver, visiting UNESCO-designated Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak and beautiful beaches. The tour itinerary is different depending on your starting point to account for travel distances across the island. Departures from Jeju City visit sites like Hamdeok Beach and the Jeju Stone Culture Park, while departures from Seogwipo visit Oedolgae Cliff and Jeongbang Waterfall.
Experience the real Jeju Island on this high-quality private tour, perfect for a relaxed day with family or friends. Your passionate guide will show you beautiful places, help capture your memories in photos, and ensure there are no unwanted shopping stops. For passengers arriving at the Seogwipo cruise terminal, a popular itinerary covers the east and south, including Seongsan Ilchulbong and Jeongbang Waterfall.
Enjoy a flexible day tour that includes taking photos at picturesque Woljeong-ri Beach and visiting the famous Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak. You will also explore Seongeup Folk Village with an English explanation and take a peaceful walk in Sharyani Forest. Your itinerary can be changed at any time to accommodate your interests, and please be aware that some attractions are closed on Mondays.
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Last updated on June 13, 2025
Taxis are readily available at the cruise terminal and are the most convenient way to reach attractions; the Jeju City Tour Bus also serves key tourist spots. Some areas like Dongmun Market may be walkable for those who enjoy a stroll.
Yongduam Rock (Dragon Head Rock) and the bustling Dongmun Traditional Market are popular attractions easily accessible by a short taxi ride from the port. The Jeju Folklore & Natural History Museum is also relatively close for insights into local culture.
Near the port, try Jeju's famous black pork BBQ or fresh seafood stews at restaurants in the Tapdong area or around Dongmun Market. Don't miss out on trying local hallabong (citrus) products.
The local currency is South Korean Won (1 USD = 1354.93 KRW). ATMs are widely available at the cruise terminal, in shopping areas like Jungang Underground Mall, and at local banks in Jeju City. Banks offer currency exchange, but ATMs dispensing South Korean Won are often more convenient.
Cruises typically visit Jeju in spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when temperatures are mild (15-25°C or 59-77°F). Pack layers, including a light jacket and possibly a compact umbrella for occasional showers.
Iho Tewoo Beach, known for its horse-shaped lighthouses, is the closest to Jeju City and accessible by a short taxi ride. For more expansive beaches like Hamdeok or Hyeopjae, a longer taxi or bus journey is required.
Cruise lines offer excursions to major sites like Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) or Manjanggul Cave. For independent exploration, hiring a taxi for a day can provide flexibility to visit specific attractions at your own pace.
Dongmun Market is excellent for local foods, crafts, and souvenirs, while the Jungang Underground Shopping Mall offers fashion and cosmetics. Popular souvenirs include Jeju chocolates, hallabong-flavored treats, and volcanic stone crafts.
Consider visiting Seogwipo on the south coast for its scenic waterfalls and coastline, or explore natural wonders like Hallasan National Park (hiking requires pre-booking and time). These are best reached by pre-arranged tour or taxi for a day trip.
Jeju Island is famous for its unique 'Haenyeo,' female divers who free-dive to harvest seafood, a tradition inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
On average cruises to Cheju City are rather expensive compared to other destinations. Prices are roughly equal throughout the year. The chart below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises to Cheju City.
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