There is a travel warning issued for this country. Please check the website of your country's foreign office for the latest information.
Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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North Korea Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
North Korea – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
North Korean Won (KPW) £1 ≈ KPW 1,198 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 2/5
Cashless payments are not widely accepted in North Korea. Cash is primarily used, and credit cards are not commonly accepted.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: | We cannot recommend an eSIM provider for this country. We advise getting a local SIM card. |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not common in North Korea, but it may be appreciated in certain circumstances, particularly by guides. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is restricted in North Korea. Alcohol consumption is allowed in certain locations, but not widely in public spaces. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is allowed in designated areas, but indoor smoking in public spaces is usually prohibited. |
| Day of the Sun (15 April) |
Celebrating the birthday of Kim Il-sung |
|---|
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police), 119 (Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | None |
| Other: | North Korea is a highly controlled country with strict regulations for travellers. It is important to follow the guidelines provided by approved tour operators. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for North Korea, North Korea
Tourist entry is tightly controlled and only possible on organised group tours; borders are often closed to tourists at short notice, check current entry rules and official travel advisories before planning
Pyongyang Marathon, early April: the main event for foreign visitors, tours book out months ahead
Mass Games and major national holidays (15 April, 9 September, 10 October) bring special events and tour programmes, dates and availability vary
Don't miss
- 🗿 Visit the Grand Monument on Mansu Hill in Pyongyang
- 🚧 Take a guided tour of the Demilitarized Zone at Panmunjom
- 🚇 Ride the Pyongyang Metro and marvel at its ornate stations
- ⛰️ Hike Mount Myohyang and visit the International Friendship Exhibition
- 🏖️ Explore the coastal city of Wonsan and its beaches
- 💃 See synchronized mass dances during a national celebration
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to North Korea?
North Korea's appeal lies in its remarkable preservation of a distinct culture and way of life largely untouched by global tourism. The country offers a glimpse into a society that functions differently from most of the world, with impressive monuments, grand architecture and carefully choreographed cultural experiences. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the pristine mountains, particularly in the northern regions and around Mount Kumgang, while history buffs can explore ancient sites and modern monuments that tell the country's official narrative. However, travelers must understand that visiting North Korea comes with significant restrictions. Tourism is strictly controlled, with mandatory government guides accompanying visitors at all times. Photography is limited, itineraries are fixed and interaction with locals outside approved settings is generally not permitted. Political sensitivity is essential and visitors should be prepared to show respect at sites related to the country's leadership. Despite these considerations, for those seeking a truly unique travel experience, North Korea offers a fascinating window into one of the world's most secluded societies.
🏯Places worth seeing
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
Day of the Sun (April 15)
-
Victory Day (July 27)
-
National Day (September 9)
-
Party Foundation Day (October 10)
-
Arirang Mass Games (irregular schedule)
-
Pyongyang Film Festival
-
Pyongyang Marathon (April)
-
Kimjongilia Flower Festival (February)
-
Kimilsungia Flower Festival (April)
-
International Friendship Spring Festival
Knowledge before you go
- Independent travel impossible. Must join approved guided tours only.
- US, South Korean passports prohibited; visas arranged through tour operators only.
- No photography of military sites, people without permission or anything without guide approval.
- Expect constant government minders; never discuss politics or express criticism of leadership.
How to travel to North Korea
Most international visitors enter North Korea through Beijing, China, typically flying on Air Koryo (the national airline) to Pyongyang's Sunan International Airport. Some tours also arrange train entry via the Dandong-Sinuiju border crossing from China. All visits must be arranged through authorized tour operators who handle visa applications and travel permits. Independent travel is not possible and visitors must book a pre-arranged tour package. Entry requirements include a valid passport, North Korean visa and typically exclude South Korean nationals and journalists without special permission.
Access summary
- Pyongyang: Fly to Sunan (FNJ) mainly from Beijing, Shenyang, Vladivostok.
- From China: Group tours using Air Koryo or Air China flights or train.
- Air Koryo is the national airline; not part of any global alliance.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in North Korea
Accommodation in North Korea is limited to government-approved hotels that are assigned as part of your tour package. In Pyongyang, international-standard hotels like the Yanggakdo and Koryo Hotels offer comfortable but somewhat dated facilities. Outside the capital, accommodations are more basic but generally clean. All hotels are staffed by government employees and visitors are typically not permitted to leave the hotel grounds unaccompanied. Prices are moderate to high relative to the facilities provided, with limited amenities compared to international standards.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
We couldn't find any nearby hotels for now.
How to get around North Korea
Getting around North Korea is strictly controlled, with all tourist movements supervised by government guides. Independent travel is not permitted. Visitors typically travel in pre-arranged groups using dedicated tourist buses or vans between approved destinations. In Pyongyang, tourists may experience the metro system (limited to certain stations) or organized walks in designated areas. Domestic flights connect some major cities, but schedules are limited and subject to change. All transportation arrangements must be made through authorized tour operators before arrival.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in North Korea are around 23% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend considerably less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to KPW) is 4% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
North Korea is generally safe from conventional crime, with virtually no street crime affecting tourists. The main safety concerns relate to political sensitivities and strict adherence to local rules. Follow your guide's instructions precisely to avoid serious consequences for rule violations.
Health & Medical
Medical facilities in North Korea are basic and below international standards. Bring all necessary medications and consider medical evacuation insurance. Hospitals lack modern equipment and may have shortages of supplies. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential.
Accessibility
North Korea has very limited accessibility infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges. Most sites involve stairs, uneven surfaces and significant walking. Historic sites and public buildings rarely have ramps or elevators. Discuss any mobility needs with your tour operator well in advance.
Tap water
Tap water is not safe for drinking in North Korea. Bottled water is provided in hotels and during meals. Never drink from taps or local water sources. Bottled water supplies are reliable in tourist areas but may be limited in more remote regions.
Packing recommendations for North Korea
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🧼
Hand sanitiser
👛
Cash in small denominations
🧕
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
👔
Formal wear
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
🤧
Tissues
🧥
Fleece mid-layer
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
Related articles & guides for North Korea
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