From UNESCO volcanic sites to seaside villages, Jeju Island in South Korea spreads its highlights across every corner of the map. But while buses connect to the island’s main hubs, many of Jeju’s best (and hidden) spots sit outside town centres.
If you want to see more than one side of Jeju in a single day, you’ll need wheels. Luckily, there are plenty of cheap car rentals in Jeju Island. With Economybookings, you can compare prices, vehicle types, and pick-up locations in one place.
Book ahead, reserve a car that fits your plans, and start exploring Jeju at your own pace.
Tips for renting a car in Jeju Island
It’s fairly simple to secure a rental car in Jeju Island, but being aware of a few local requirements and practical tips can help avoid surprises:
- Book early as rental cars often sell out, especially during Korean holidays.
- Most rental companies require you to have a valid driver’s licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP), along with your passport and credit card.
- A compact or mid-size car is ideal for getting around. Roads are well-paved, but some lanes and parking spaces can be tight.
- Consider getting full insurance coverage as the windy coastal roads and rural lanes increase the risk of minor scratches.
Driving tips in Jeju Island
The roads of Jeju Island may feel unfamiliar at first, but most visitors adjust quickly. Here’s what to remember:
- In Jeju (and all of South Korea), you drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are required for everyone in the car.
- Using a handheld phone while driving is illegal, so use a hands-free system if you need to take calls.
- The island has lots of roundabouts and speed bumps. Approach the roads cautiously and use your signals.
- Rain and fog significantly reduce visibility, especially near Hallasan National Park, so slow down during poor weather.
- Use a local navigation app (like Naver Map or Kakao Map) that accepts phone numbers, since many Jeju destinations can be found more reliably that way than typing in an address.
Speed limits
Speed limits on Jeju Island follow South Korea’s national traffic laws. In urban areas like Jeju City and Seogwipo-si, as well as the island’s towns, the typical limit is 50-60 km/h, with slower, stricter zones (around 30 km/h) near schools and residential areas. On main roads outside town, the limit usually increases to 80 km/h. Speed cameras are common, so it’s important to stick to posted signs.
Road signs
In Jeju Island, you’re guided by South Korea’s official road signs. Most of them are symbols you’ll already recognize from other countries. Text is primarily in Korean, though English is added on major routes and near tourist areas. Familiarizing yourself with common traffic shapes and colours will help you stay confident while driving around the island.
Tolls and restricted zones
Jeju Island doesn’t have any toll roads, so a Hi-Pass device used to pay tolls on the country’s mainland expressways isn’t needed. All roads on the island are free to use, and have no low-emission zones or congestion charges. Follow the parking rules, traffic signs, and local restrictions at all times, especially in busy areas.
Discover Jeju Island by car
Jeju is a volcanic island packed with natural wonders, beaches, and scenic views. With a rental car, you can drive to Hallasan National Park, visit Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak, stop at Cheonjiyeon and Jeongbang Waterfalls, follow the coastal routes, or explore hidden beaches and quiet villages at your leisure.
When to visit
The best time to visit Jeju Island is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). Jeju’s cherry blossoms are in full swing during spring, while autumn brings crisp air and colourful foliage. Both seasons provide comfortable weather that’s ideal for driving and outdoor activities.
Languages & communication
Standard Korean is the main language of Jeju Island, but travellers usually don’t face any major communication issues. English is still widely understood in hotels, restaurants, car rental offices, and tourist areas. Learning a few basic Korean phrases can be helpful when visiting local markets and small villages.
Currency & payments
The local currency on Jeju Island is the South Korean Won (KRW). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, though smaller vendors may prefer cash. ATMs are accessible across the island, and most of them accept international cards, so you can conveniently withdraw cash when needed.
Top driving routes in Jeju Island
Jeju Island offers some of South Korea’s most scenic drives, so there’s always something new to see at every turn:
- Hallasan National Park Loop – Circle the base of Hallasan Mountain, then stop at various viewpoints, crater lakes, and hiking trailheads.
- Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Drive – Head east to the UNESCO-listed Sunrise Peak. Enjoy coastal views and local villages along the way.
- Jeju West Coast Route – Follow the coast from Aewol to Hyeopjae Beach, and you’ll pass by lava cliffs, black-sand beaches, and charming seaside cafés.
- Waterfall and coast combo – Visit Cheonjiyeon, Jeongbang, and Cheonjeyeon waterfalls, then continue along southern coastal roads to find lesser-known coves and fishing villages.
- Olle Trail access routes – Use the island’s roads to reach popular sections of the Olle walking trails, so you can combine short hikes with rural drives.
