Asia · 26 Places · Best April-June, September-October
The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) is one of the world's most isolated and controlled destinations. All tourism is tightly regulated through guided tours, offering a unique glimpse into this enigmatic nation with its grand monuments, orchestrated events, and carefully curated experiences.
The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) is one of the world's most isolated and controlled destinations. All tourism is tightly regulated through guided tours, offering a unique glimpse into this enigmatic nation with its grand monuments, orchestrated events, and carefully curated experiences.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 26 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Two massive 22-meter bronze statues of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il dominate this important pilgrimage site. Visitors are required to bow and lay flowers at the feet of the statues. The monument is flanked by revolutionary murals depicting the country's struggle and triumph.
This 170-meter tower symbolizes the Juche ideology of self-reliance promoted by Kim Il-sung. Completed in 1982, it features 25,550 granite blocks representing each day of Kim Il-sung's life. An elevator takes visitors to an observation deck with panoramic views of Pyongyang.
The central square of Pyongyang hosts military parades, mass rallies, and public celebrations. Covering 75,000 square meters, it's surrounded by imposing government buildings and the Korean Central History Museum. This is where iconic images of choreographed performances are captured.
The embalmed bodies of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il lie in state at this massive mausoleum, formerly Kim Il-sung's residence. Visitors must dress formally and pass through extensive security. The solemn experience includes moving walkways and viewing the leaders' preserved bodies in glass sarcophagi.
This massive museum presents North Korea's version of the Korean War (1950-1953), which they claim to have won. Exhibits include captured US equipment, dioramas of battles, and the USS Pueblo spy ship. The museum reopened in 2013 after extensive renovations.
The Korean DMZ is the most heavily fortified border in the world. Tours from the North Korean side visit Panmunjom, where the armistice was signed, and the Joint Security Area. You'll see the famous blue buildings straddling the border and hear the DPRK perspective on the division.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
North Korea's second-largest hotel features twin 43-story towers with revolving restaurants at the top. Opened in 1985 as the first five-star hotel in the DPRK, it offers international standards with restaurants, bars, swimming pool, billiards, karaoke, and a basement gym.
Check rates on Booking.comA reliable mid-range option near Kim Il-sung University. Clean, functional rooms with basic amenities. The restaurant serves acceptable Korean and Chinese food. Popular with budget-conscious tour groups.
Check rates on Booking.comBasic guesthouse accommodation for budget travelers. Shared facilities, simple rooms, and local dining. An economical option for those on tight budgets, though comfort is minimal.
Check rates on Booking.comThe largest hotel in North Korea, located on Yanggak Island in the Taedong River. This 47-story tower is the most common accommodation for tourists, featuring restaurants, casino, pool, bowling alley, and shops. Isolation on an island means restricted movement.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
The most famous restaurant in North Korea, renowned for Pyongyang-style naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles). Founded in 1960 beside the Taedong River, it can seat 2,000 guests in a multi-story building. A must-visit culinary landmark.
North Korea's fast-food chain started in 2009 as a joint venture with Singaporean businessmen. Serves hamburgers, fried chicken, and soft drinks. A surreal experience of Western fast food in the DPRK.
Most major hotels serve breakfast buffets with Korean and basic Western items. Toast, eggs, kimchi, rice, and instant coffee are standard. Quality varies by hotel.
Vendors selling grilled corn and sweet potatoes on street corners. A common sight in Pyongyang. Hot, cheap, and popular with locals.
Hotel cafe serving espresso drinks, tea, and pastries. One of the few places in Pyongyang with decent coffee. Popular meeting spot for tourists.
Revolving restaurant atop one of the Koryo Hotel towers offering panoramic Pyongyang views. Serves international cuisine with Korean specialties. The rotation takes about one hour for a complete 360-degree view.
Transportation options in North Korea include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Check local conditions before planning your travel.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $30-50 (budget guesthouses, basic hotels) | $80-120 (standard tourist hotels like Yanggakdo) | $150-250 (Koryo Hotel, best available rooms) |
| Food (per day) | $20-30 (hotel breakfasts, simple restaurants, minimal variety) | $50-80 (hotel restaurants, group meals at mid-range restaurants) | $100-200 (fine dining, revolving restaurants, imported beverages) |
| Transportation | $30-50 (included in tour, shared basis) | $50-80 (comfortable tour buses, domestic flights if applicable) | $100-200 (private vehicles, domestic flights, VIP treatment) |
| Activities | $20-40 (entrance fees, basic tours) | $50-100 (standard tours, monuments, shows) | $150-300 (Mass Games premium seats, exclusive access, Mount Paektu flights) |
| Daily total | $100-150 | $200-350 | $400-800+ |
Only travel with authorized tour groups — independent travel is illegal and physically impossible in North Korea
Never photograph military installations, construction sites, soldiers, or poverty-stricken areas without explicit guide permission
Do not criticize the regime, its leaders, or the political system under any circumstances — even in private conversations
Avoid all religious activities including possessing Bibles, religious pamphlets, or related materials
Follow guide instructions at all times — unauthorized contact with locals is illegal and can result in arrest of both parties
Talking to North Koreans without guide authorization is treated as espionage — always wait for formal introductions
Register with your home country embassy before travel — the US Embassy in Seoul handles US citizen emergencies related to North Korea
Carry a printed copy of your hotel address and tour itinerary in case of separation from the group
Mobile phones may be confiscated on entry — check current regulations before travel; SIM cards for foreigners are available at Pyongyang airport
Alcohol is available but excessive drunkenness can cause serious diplomatic incidents — drink responsibly
Dress conservatively and avoid clothing with Western logos or political slogans that could be deemed disrespectful to DPRK values
Any books or magazines you bring may be inspected on entry — leave anything with potentially sensitive political content at home
North Korea is an extraordinarily controlled destination where conventional travel safety concerns are replaced by political and legal risks. Street crime against tourists is virtually nonexistent, but violations of DPRK regulations — however inadvertent — can result in detention, arrest, or expulsion with severe international consequences. Emergency services: police at 119, medical at 112.
The best time to visit North Korea is April-June, September-October. North Korea has a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and dry with temperatures dropping well below freezing in Pyongyang, while summers are hot and humid with a monsoon r
US passport holders cannot obtain tourist visas. US passports are not valid for travel to North Korea without special validation from the Secretary of State. Travel is strictly prohibited. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in North Korea is the North Korean Won (KPW) (KPW). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in North Korea: Korean. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in North Korea include Mansudae Grand Monument, Juche Tower, Kim Il-sung Square, Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, and Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
