Imagine standing amid the buzzing energy of Seoul's Myeongdong district, basking in the sun on a pristine beach in Busan, or hiking up the verdant trails of Jeju's Hallasan Mountain. Welcome to South Korea—a captivating blend of age-old traditions, dynamic modernity, and nature's grandeur. There are plenty of places to visit in Korea that offer many adventures. So whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, check out our 10-day itinerary to help you plan your next visit!
Days 1-3: Seoul, The Heart of Korea
There are so many things to do in Seoul. On your first day, go through the renowned Gyeongbokgung Palace, the centerpiece of the Joseon dynasty. Here, you can marvel at the intricate architecture as you wander the vast grounds!
The next day, head up to N Seoul Tower, one of the city's modern icons. This landmark offers more than just panoramic views—it's a cultural hotspot where you can visit the love lock area or enjoy a meal at its revolving restaurant.
The third day in Seoul beckons you to the shopping heaven of Myeongdong! From fashion labels to local beauty products, it's all available here. Don't leave without indulging in the local street food at the Myeongdong Night Market, where you can feast on Tteokbokki (spicy rice cake) and Hotteok (sweet pancakes).
These places to visit in Korea can be visited using the Discover Seoul Pass. The pass also functions as a transportation card, making it convenient to explore the city!
Tips for Seoul
Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace in spring (April-June) is a visual treat, thanks to the blooming cherry blossoms. Don't forget to rent a Hanbok for an authentic experience and free palace entry. Allocate around 2 hours to explore the palace grounds thoroughly and capture memorable photos in your Hanbok.
When visiting the N Seoul Tower, try to plan your visit in the evening. The cityscape of Seoul, lit up in the darkness, provides a breathtaking spectacle from this vantage point. Remember to avoid planning your visit on a cloudy day as it may obscure the view!
Days 4-6: Busan, The Coastal City
Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, is renowned for its stunning coastal scenes, sacred temples, and bustling urban life. With the many things to do in Busan, begin your exploration on day four with a trip to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Nestled on the waterfront, the temple boasts stunning ocean views, making it one of the most scenic spots in the country.
On day five, take a journey through the kaleidoscopic Gamcheon Culture Village! With its vibrantly colored houses and mesmerizing maze of alleyways, it’s easy to see why it's known as the "Machu Picchu of Busan!"
Finally, day six brings you to Haeundae Beach, one of the most famous beaches in South Korea. It's not just the sandy shores that make Haeundae so appealing, but also the cosmopolitan ambiance with the surrounding cityscape.
Conveniently go around these places to visit in Korea by availing the Busan Must-visit 1 Day Tour or the East & West Busan Exploration Day Tour.
Tips for Busan
A visit to Busan is incomplete without exploring Jagalchi Market, Korea's largest seafood market! Dishes like dwaeji-gukbap (pork soup rice) are also a must-try in Busan. This Korean food is available in many local eateries around the city.
Remember, Busan is also famous for its vibrant nightlife. Gwangalli Beach is an excellent place for an evening stroll with numerous bars and restaurants overlooking the beautiful Gwangandaegyo Bridge!
Days 7-10: Jeju, Korea's Natural Gem
Jeju, known for its volcanic landscape, pristine beaches, and lush vegetation, offers an enchanting escape from city life. With the many things to do in Jeju, your exploration starts on day seven—beginning with the ethereal Manjanggul Cave, one of the world's most impressive lava tunnels!
Next, visit the beautiful Woljeongri Beach. Known for its white sand and turquoise waters, it's an idyllic place to soak up Jeju's serene ambiance. Also, take time to marvel at the breathtaking Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
On the last day, you can further explore Jeju's eastern region. In Seongeup Folk Village, you can gain a fascinating insight into Jeju's traditional life. Next stop is Seopjikoji, a stunning coastal area known for its scenic walking paths and the impressive Seopjikoji Lighthouse. Last stop is the Bijarim Forest, home to hundreds of nutmeg trees that have stood for centuries.
Tips for Jeju
When visiting Jeju, get ready for a seafood feast! The island is famous for its Haemul Ramyeon, a spicy seafood noodle soup that features a generous amount of fresh marine ingredients. Another must-try food is the island's black pork a specialty of the region. The meat is succulent, tender, and has a distinctive flavor!
If you're a fan of natural beauty, explore Jeju's diverse range of flora at the Hallim Park and enjoy the enchanting Cheonjeyeon Waterfall.
Staying Connected in Korea
Staying connected while traveling is more than just a convenience—it's a necessity in today's digital world. Consider purchasing a 4G SIM card from KT Olleh, one of South Korea's leading telecom providers. This provides unlimited data, ensuring you can navigate, communicate, and share your travel experiences seamlessly.
Navigating Through Korea
With many places to visit in Korea, there are numerous transport options.
For city travels, use a T-money card, a rechargeable smart card for public transport, convenience stores, and vending machines.
Between Seoul and Busan, consider the economical Korea Rail Pass or a domestic flight for a faster journey.
From Busan to Jeju, fly for speed, or take a ferry for a unique experience.
For airport travels, the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) is the quickest way to travel from Incheon International Airport to Seoul city center.
These places to visit in Korea offer a captivating blend of ancient traditions, vibrant modernity, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you're exploring the historic sites of Seoul, basking in the coastal beauty of Busan, or immersing yourself in the volcanic wonders of Jeju Island, this Asian gem promises an unforgettable adventure for every traveler.