Published on
September 16, 2025
In a significant move to enhance the travel experience for tourists, South Korea has now joined the ranks of countries like Canada, US, Mexico, Brazil, France, and the UK by introducing its own tourist pass, aimed at boosting tourism and offering travelers a convenient, cost-effective way to explore the country’s top attractions. This new initiative, the Discover Seoul Pass, follows the footsteps of similar passes introduced in global tourism hotspots, each designed to streamline travel, offer great savings, and allow visitors to experience a destination’s best offerings in a short amount of time. With features like free entry to over 70 iconic attractions, unlimited transportation, and exclusive discounts, South Korea’s initiative is set to add another layer of convenience and value for travelers visiting the vibrant capital, Seoul.
Much like the Toronto City Pass in Canada, the New York Pass in the US, and the Paris Pass in France, the new Seoul Pass offers a wide range of benefits, including skip-the-line access, which is particularly useful for first-time visitors looking to make the most of their trip. Similarly, Mexico, Brazil, and the UK have already embraced these passes as tools for promoting tourism by making it easier for tourists to access cultural landmarks, historical sites, and unique local experiences all with the convenience of a single pass.
The introduction of these passes in such major global destinations represents a strategic effort by tourism boards and governments worldwide to attract and engage more visitors. Each pass offers tailored packages that provide travelers with everything they need to experience a city or country at its finest, while also saving money and time. South Korea’s latest addition to this list marks an exciting development, offering both international and domestic tourists an easy gateway to explore Seoul’s rich culture, history, and modern attractions, just like other global tourism giants have done with their own passes.
Tourist Passes
A tourist pass is a convenient, cost-effective way for travelers to access multiple attractions in a city or region with a single ticket. Typically, these passes provide skip-the-line access, unlimited public transportation, and discounts at various sites, museums, and tours. They are available in different durations, such as 1, 3, or 7 days, and can save visitors both time and money. Having a tourist pass is especially important for first-time visitors who want to experience the top attractions without the hassle of purchasing individual tickets for each site. It also allows flexibility, as most passes cover a wide variety of activities, making it easier to explore more in less time. Additionally, they often include special perks like guided tours or exclusive access to certain events, enhancing the overall travel experience.
South Korea: Seoul Pass
The Discover Seoul Pass is a versatile and convenient city pass that offers tourists free entry to over 70 major attractions in Seoul, making it an ideal choice for visitors looking to explore the city’s top sights in an efficient and cost-effective way. Notable attractions included in the pass are iconic landmarks like the N Seoul Tower, Lotte World, COEX Aquarium, and Gyeongbokgung Palace, as well as cultural spots such as the National Museum of Korea and Bukchon Hanok Village. The pass also includes discounts of up to 110 offers on various shopping, performances, and experiences across the city, making it a great option for those who want to experience Seoul’s vibrant culture and lifestyle.
In addition to free entry, the Discover Seoul Pass also offers unlimited transportation on the AREX express train, Seoul Bike (Ttareungi), airport buses, and the Seoul City Tour Bus, providing hassle-free and easy travel around the city. This flexibility allows tourists to visit multiple attractions without worrying about additional travel costs. The pass is available in 48-hour, 72-hour, or 120-hour options, catering to different trip durations and travel preferences.
The mobile pass feature eliminates the need for a physical card, allowing tourists to use their smartphones for seamless entry. As an added bonus, the pass includes a one-day free USIM/eSIM for easy and reliable mobile connectivity during your trip. Visitors can purchase the Discover Seoul Pass online through the official website or app, or offline at major locations like the Myeongdong Tourist Information Center and Incheon Airport Bookstore. Perfect for first-time visitors, the pass provides both convenience and value, offering access to the best of Seoul in a single package.
Canada: Toronto City Pass
The Toronto City Pass is an excellent option for tourists wishing to experience the best attractions the city has to offer. Priced at CAD 89 for a 9-day duration, the pass grants access to five of the most popular attractions in Toronto. This includes entry to the CN Tower, which offers stunning views of the city and Lake Ontario, and the Royal Ontario Museum, one of the largest museums in North America. The pass also includes access to Ripley’s Aquarium, Casa Loma, and the Toronto Zoo, making it an ideal choice for visitors looking to explore both cultural and natural attractions.
With the Toronto City Pass, visitors can enjoy skip-the-line access at many attractions, saving valuable time and allowing them to experience more in a short time. The pass also offers discounts on additional tours, activities, and attractions in the city, making it a great option for tourists who want flexibility and variety during their stay. The pass is valid for 9 consecutive days, giving tourists ample time to explore Toronto at their own pace.
Available for purchase online or at key tourist locations like Toronto Pearson International Airport, the Toronto City Pass is perfect for those wanting to experience the very best of Toronto in a short visit. Whether you’re visiting museums, enjoying panoramic views, or exploring the city’s rich history, this pass provides convenience and value for travelers of all types.
Where to Get
Purchased through the official Toronto City Pass website.
Available at popular tourist locations in Toronto, including airports and hotels.
Also available on third-party websites like Viator and Klook.
Digital and physical versions are often available for convenience.
Mexico: Mexico City Pass
The Mexico City Pass is a flexible and customizable pass that allows tourists to explore the rich culture, history, and architecture of Mexico’s capital. Priced between MXN 900 and MXN 1,200 depending on the duration (1 to 3 days), the pass offers access to several top attractions in the city. Visitors can choose from a wide variety of sites such as the Frida Kahlo Museum, Teotihuacan Pyramids, Chapultepec Castle, and Palacio de Bellas Artes.
The pass also includes a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, which is ideal for those looking to explore the city’s most iconic sights at their own pace. This feature allows tourists to hop on and off the bus at various points of interest, making it easy to explore different neighborhoods and landmarks in the city. Additionally, the Mexico City Pass provides skip-the-line access at major museums and attractions, saving valuable time that would otherwise be spent waiting in long queues.
Beyond just sightseeing, the pass also offers discounts at restaurants and shops throughout the city, making it a versatile option for travelers looking to experience Mexico City’s vibrant culture. The Mexico City Pass can be purchased online or at various tourist centers around the city, making it easy to pick up upon arrival. This pass is perfect for tourists who want to experience the very best of Mexico City in a short time, offering both convenience and savings.
Mexico City Pass
Where to Get
Available for purchase online through official tourism websites.
Can be bought at major tourist spots and visitor centers around the city.
Also available on third-party platforms like Klook or Viator.
Some attractions offer physical passes at designated locations.
Brazil: Rio Card (Rio de Janeiro)
The Rio Card is a must-have pass for tourists visiting Rio de Janeiro, providing access to both public transportation and some of the city’s top tourist attractions. Available for 1 to 5 days and priced between BRL 200 and BRL 400, the card offers unlimited access to public transport such as buses, metro, and trams, making it easier to navigate the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. It’s especially useful for tourists planning to visit attractions spread across the city, from the beaches of Copacabana to the Christ the Redeemer statue.
In addition to public transport, the Rio Card grants access to many of Rio’s iconic landmarks, including Christ the Redeemer, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Tijuca National Park. The pass also offers discounts and free entry to various museums, galleries, and cultural sites around the city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Rio’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
The hop-on-hop-off bus tour included in the Rio Card allows tourists to explore the city comfortably while learning about its history and culture. This feature makes it easy to visit popular sites without worrying about navigating the city’s busy streets or finding transportation. The Rio Card can be purchased at tourist centers, airports, and online, making it easily accessible for all visitors.
This pass is perfect for tourists who want to experience Rio de Janeiro’s famous landmarks, enjoy the convenience of public transport, and explore the city’s natural beauty all in one go.
Where to Get
Available online via the official Rio Card website.
Can be purchased at tourist offices in Rio de Janeiro and other major Brazilian cities.
Available at airports and popular tourist spots.
Can also be bought on third-party platforms like Viator.
United Kingdom: London Pass
The London Pass is an all-in-one ticket that gives visitors access to over 100 attractions in the heart of London. Some of the most iconic sites included are the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and a Thames River Cruise. It also grants entry to popular museums and galleries like the British Museum and Natural History Museum, as well as experiences like the London Eye and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Starting at £89 for a 1-day pass, the London Pass is available for durations ranging from 1 to 10 consecutive days, making it ideal for short stays or longer visits.
One of the major benefits of the London Pass is the skip-the-line entry to many attractions, which allows tourists to bypass the often lengthy queues, saving valuable time. Visitors also have unlimited access to the hop-on-hop-off bus tour, offering a convenient and flexible way to explore the city’s most famous landmarks at your own pace. The pass also provides discounts on dining and additional experiences such as river cruises and guided tours.
For those looking to maximize their London experience in a short time, the London Pass is an excellent value. It ensures a smooth travel experience, allowing visitors to visit a variety of attractions without the need for separate tickets, while also offering great savings on the full experience.
France: Paris Pass
The Paris Pass is a comprehensive city pass that grants tourists flexible access to over 60 top attractions in the French capital. Iconic landmarks included are the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and a Seine River Cruise, among others. The pass is priced starting from €149 for 2 days, with options to extend to 6 days for those wanting more time to explore the city. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a week, the pass offers excellent flexibility and is perfect for tourists who want to see as much of Paris as possible in a limited timeframe.
Along with entry to the major museums and landmarks, the Paris Pass includes skip-the-line entry, allowing you to bypass long queues at popular sites, maximizing your sightseeing time. The pass also comes with a hop-on-hop-off bus service, making it easier to travel between various attractions while enjoying the scenic views of the city. In addition, the Paris Museum Pass is bundled with the Paris Pass, giving you access to over 50 museums across the city, including the Musée d’Orsay and Centre Pompidou.
For those looking for an easy and comprehensive way to experience the best of Paris, the Paris Pass provides both value and convenience. It can be purchased online or at authorized vendors throughout the city, ensuring quick access to all the major sights with the added benefit of saving time and money.
Comprehensive Guide to US City Tourist Passes: Savings, Attractions and Flexibility
If you’re planning to explore some of the most iconic cities in the U.S., tourist passes are a great way to save money and time. These passes offer access to top attractions, skip-the-line privileges, and convenient transportation options, all bundled into one. This guide provides a detailed comparison of the best tourist passes in major cities, highlighting their prices, main attractions, and savings, helping you choose the best pass for your trip.
New York City – The New York Pass
The New York Pass offers access to over 100 attractions like the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Top of the Rock, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Starting at $169 for a 1-day pass, this pass allows you to skip the lines at busy sites, saving time and effort. The pass includes a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, making it easy to navigate the city. It’s available in 1-7 day durations, offering flexibility for first-time visitors who want to explore the best of New York City quickly. The total value of the attractions covered is $281.96, with 40% savings compared to individual ticket purchases. A digital guidebook is also included to help plan your adventure.
The New York Pass
Pass Price: $169 for 1 day
Main Attractions:
Empire State Building: $96
Top of the Rock: $55.46
One World Observatory: $43.50
Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour: $87
Total Value: $281.96
Savings: Approximately 40% compared to individual tickets.
Chicago – Go Chicago Pass
The Go Chicago Pass grants access to over 25 attractions, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Skydeck Chicago, and the Field Museum. Starting at $84, the pass allows you to visit 3, 4, or 5 attractions over 1-3 days, offering flexibility. With up to 57% savings compared to individual tickets, it also includes a hop-on-hop-off bus tour and an architecture river cruise, making it perfect for tourists interested in art, history, and architecture. Visitors can enjoy skip-the-line access for popular spots like the Skydeck, saving time during peak seasons.
Go Chicago Pass
Pass Price: From $84
Main Attractions:
Skydeck Chicago: $54
Field Museum: $43
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck: $38
Hop-On-Hop-Off Big Bus Chicago: $58
Total Value: $193
Savings: Up to 57% compared to individual tickets.
Los Angeles – Go Los Angeles Pass
The Go Los Angeles Pass provides access to over 40 attractions, including Universal Studios Hollywood, LEGOLAND® California, and the Hollywood Sign Tour. Starting at $109 for a 2-day pass, it allows visitors to explore the city’s top theme parks, museums, and landmarks. Visitors can choose from 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, or 10 days, making it ideal for various trip durations. With up to 70% savings compared to individual tickets, the pass also includes hop-on-hop-off bus tours and discounts on shopping and dining. This pass is great for families and first-time visitors who want to experience the best of LA.
Go Los Angeles Pass
Pass Price: From $109
Main Attractions:
Universal Studios Hollywood: $154
LEGOLAND® California: $109
Hollywood Sign Tour: $30
Warner Brothers Studio Tour: $76
Total Value: $369
Savings: Approximately 70% compared to individual tickets.
San Francisco – San Francisco CityPASS
The San Francisco CityPASS grants access to the California Academy of Sciences, Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruise, and Aquarium of the Bay. For $89, it offers free transportation on Muni buses and cable cars, making it easy to explore the city. Valid for 9 consecutive days, it’s perfect for those looking to see top attractions at their own pace. The total value of the attractions is $161.95, with 45% savings compared to individual tickets. With additional options like Alcatraz Island or the Exploratorium, it’s ideal for first-time visitors.
San Francisco CityPASS
Pass Price: $89
Main Attractions:
California Academy of Sciences: $55
Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruise: $39
Aquarium of the Bay: $28
Exploratorium: $39.95
Total Value: $161.95
Savings: Approximately 45% compared to individual tickets.
Washington, D.C. – Washington D.C. Pass
The Washington D.C. Pass gives access to over 15 top attractions, including the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Lincoln Memorial, and the National Gallery of Art. Starting at $69, this pass allows you to visit free attractions like the Smithsonian Museums, making it an economical option. Visitors can also enjoy a hop-on-hop-off bus tour for easy transportation around the city. The total value is $69, offering 100% savings when visiting free attractions. With additional discounts on tours and restaurants, it’s a great option for history and culture enthusiasts.
Washington D.C. Pass
Pass Price: From $69
Main Attractions:
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: Free
Lincoln Memorial: Free
National Gallery of Art: Free
Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour: $69
Total Value: $69
Savings: 100% value if visiting free attractions; additional savings with included tours.
Miami – Go Miami Pass
The Go Miami Pass offers access to over 35 attractions, including the Miami Seaquarium, Jungle Island, and the Everglades Airboat Tour. Starting at $119 for a 3-day pass, it provides visitors with the flexibility to pick and choose what interests them most. The pass also includes skip-the-line access at certain locations, making it easier to visit popular attractions. With 50% savings compared to individual tickets, the total value is $235.62. It’s perfect for tourists looking to explore Miami’s natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and outdoor adventures.
Go Miami Pass
Pass Price: From $119
Main Attractions:
Lion Country Safari: $58.84
Superblue Miami Immersive Art Experience: $41.98
Salsa Night! Lessons, Mojitos & Dancing: $94.34
WonderWorks All-Access Pass: $40.46
Total Value: $235.62
Savings: Approximately 50% compared to individual tickets.
Las Vegas – Las Vegas Pass
The Las Vegas Pass provides access to over 35 attractions, including the High Roller Observation Wheel, Madame Tussauds, and the Neon Museum. Starting at $79 for a 2-day pass, this pass offers visitors the chance to explore the city’s entertainment and cultural sites. With 45% savings compared to individual tickets, the total value is $144.23. The pass also includes discounts on dining, shopping, and shows, making it a great option for visitors who want to make the most of their time in Las Vegas.
Las Vegas Pass
Pass Price: From $79
Main Attractions:
Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: $24.99
Fly LINQ Zipline: $24.45
High Roller Observation Wheel: $35.80
Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour: $59.99
Total Value: $144.23
Savings: Approximately 45% compared to individual tickets.
Orlando – Orlando CityPASS
The Orlando CityPASS provides access to major theme parks like Walt Disney World® Resort, SeaWorld® Orlando, and Universal Studios Florida. For $109, it includes entry to four top attractions. Visitors can explore Orlando’s best theme parks at their own pace, with 75% savings compared to individual tickets. The total value is $436. With flexible options for 3, 4, or 5 days, it’s ideal for families looking to experience the magic of Orlando’s theme parks, from Disney to Universal, at a great price.
Orlando CityPASS
Pass Price: $109
Main Attractions:
Walt Disney World® Resort: $109
SeaWorld® Orlando: $109
Universal Studios Florida: $109
LEGOLAND® Florida Resort: $109
Total Value: $436
Savings: Approximately 75% compared to individual tickets.
Boston – Go Boston Pass
The Go Boston Pass offers access to over 40 attractions, including the New England Aquarium, Fenway Park Tour, and Boston Duck Tour. Starting at $79 for a 2-day pass, the pass offers visitors the flexibility to choose from various museums, historical sites, and outdoor experiences. The total value is $116, with 32% savings compared to individual tickets. It also includes discounts on dining and shopping, making it a great option for first-time visitors who want to experience Boston’s rich culture and history.
Go Boston Pass
Pass Price: From $79
Main Attractions:
New England Aquarium: $32.00
Fenway Park Tour: $25.00
Boston Duck Tour: $44.00
Harvard Museum of Natural History: $15.00
Total Value: $116.00
Savings: Approximately 32% compared to individual tickets.
Hawaii – Go Oahu Card
The Go Oahu Card gives access to over 40 attractions, including Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Diamond Head, and Honolulu Museum of Art. Starting at $74, it offers visitors the chance to explore Oahu’s historical landmarks and natural beauty. The total value of the attractions is $71, with 4% savings compared to individual tickets. The card also includes various water sports adventures, like snorkeling and surf lessons, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to explore Hawaii’s unique culture and natural wonders.
Go Oahu Card
Pass Price: From $74
Main Attractions:
Pearl Harbor National Memorial: $1.00
Diamond Head: $5.00
Honolulu Museum of Art: $20.00
Water Sports Adventures: $45.00
Total Value: $71.00
Savings: Approximately 4% compared to individual tickets.
Cost Comparison
CityPass PriceTotal Attraction ValueSavings (%)New York City$169$281.9640%Chicago$84$193.0057%Los Angeles$109$369.0070%San Francisco$89$161.9545%Washington, D.C.$69$69.00100%Miami$119$235.6250%Las Vegas$79$144.2345%Orlando$109$436.0075%Boston$79$116.0032%Hawaii$74$71.004%
Where to Get
Purchased directly from the official tourism websites of each city (e.g., New York Pass, Go Chicago Pass, San Francisco CityPass).
Available on third-party websites like Klook, Viator, and GetYourGuide.
Can be bought at designated kiosks or tourist centers within the cities.
Digital versions available for ease of use during your trip.
Maximize Your Travel Experience with Tourist Passes
Tourist passes are the ultimate solution for travelers looking to make the most of their trips to some of the world’s top destinations. From New York City and Los Angeles to Mexico City and Rio de Janeiro, these passes offer access to the must-see attractions, exclusive discounts, and skip-the-line privileges, all in one convenient package. They provide great flexibility, with options tailored to different travel schedules, allowing you to choose from 1-day to multi-day durations. Whether you’re exploring the cultural wonders of Canada or the natural beauty of Brazil, these passes save both time and money, helping you enjoy more of what each city has to offer. From theme parks to historical landmarks, each pass is designed to enhance your travel experience, offering significant savings while ensuring ease and convenience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tourist passes are a smart and practical way to enhance your travel experience. They provide visitors with easy access to top attractions, cost savings, and the convenience of skipping lines and navigating cities with ease. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of New York, the cultural gems of Mexico City, or the iconic sights of Toronto and Rio de Janeiro, these passes ensure that you can make the most of your time and budget. With flexible options tailored to different durations and preferences, a tourist pass offers exceptional value, allowing travelers to explore more, stress less, and experience the best each destination has to offer.
