Korea (South)-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in South Korea

Day 1: Arrival in Seoul

  • Arrive at Incheon International Airport (ICN)
  • Take the Express Train to Seoul Station (~45 minutes, ₩8,000)
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (), the largest palace in Korea (free admission, but dress modestly)
  • Explore Bukchon Hanok Village (), a traditional Korean village with many hanok (traditional houses)

Day 2: Seoul

  • Start the day at Myeong-dong Shopping District (), one of Seoul’s busiest shopping areas
  • Visit Namsan Tower (Seoul Tower, ₩11,000) for panoramic views of the city
  • Explore the National Museum of Korea () to learn about Korean history and culture (free admission)
  • Enjoy a traditional Korean dinner at a local restaurant

Day 3: Seoul

  • Take a day trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ, ₩40,000), the border between North and South Korea
  • Visit the Joint Security Area, the Third Tunnel, and the Dora Observatory
  • Return to Seoul and explore Hongdae (), a trendy neighborhood known for its street art, indie music scene, and nightlife

Day 4: Busan

  • Take the KTX train to Busan Station (~3 hours, ₩59,800)
  • Visit the Haeundae Beach (), one of Korea’s most popular beaches
  • Explore the Busan Tower () and take in the views of the city (₩8,000)
  • Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of Busan’s many seafood restaurants

Day 5: Gyeongju

  • Take a day trip to Gyeongju (), a historic city and former capital of Korea
  • Visit Bulguksa Temple (), a UNESCO World Heritage Site (₩5,000)
  • Explore the Gyeongju Historic Area (), which includes many ancient ruins and artifacts
  • Return to Busan in the evening

Day 6: Jeju Island

  • Take a flight from Busan to Jeju International Airport (~1 hour, ₩100,000)
  • Visit Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak (), a stunning natural wonder (₩2,000)
  • Explore the Manjanggul Lava Tube (), one of the world’s longest lava tubes (₩2,000)
  • Enjoy black pork BBQ and fresh seafood for dinner

Day 7: Departure

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or visiting any last sights
  • Take a flight from Jeju International Airport back to Incheon International Airport (~1 hour, ₩100,000)
  • Depart from Incheon International Airport

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of 117 countries can enter Korea visa-free for up to 90 days, including the US, Canada, and most European countries
  • Check the Korean government’s website for the most up-to-date visa requirements

Transportation

  • The KTX train is a convenient way to travel between cities (₩59,800 - ₩100,000)
  • Taxis are widely available, but not all drivers speak English
  • Subway systems in Seoul and Busan are efficient and easy to navigate
  • Flights can be booked through Korean airlines such as Korean Air or Asiana Airlines

Things to Know

  • Korea is a cash-based society, so have some local currency (KRW) on hand
  • Tipping is not expected, but it’s becoming more common in tourist areas
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and palaces
  • Learn some basic Korean phrases, such as "" (hello) and "" (thank you)

Other Tips

  • Korea has a vibrant nightlife, so be prepared to stay out late
  • Try some of the local street food, such as tteokbokki () or hotteok ()
  • Be respectful of Korean culture and customs
  • Learn about Korea’s complex history and politics to better appreciate your trip