10-Day South Korea Adventure for Two Female Friends: Culture, Cuisine, and Scenic Beauty

Day 1: Arrival and Seoul Intro

Seoul, South Korea on July 6, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Tosokchon Samgyetang

Start your trip with a traditional Korean ginseng chicken soup to energize yourselves for the day. This restaurant is famous for its authentic Samgyetang.
KRW15000, 1h

10:30am

Gyeongbokgung Palace Tour

Explore the largest and most beautiful palace in Seoul, learning about Korea's royal history. Don't miss the changing of the guard ceremony that happens hourly.
KRW3000, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Bukchon Son Mandu

Enjoy freshly made Korean dumplings in the Bukchon Hanok Village area, perfect for a light yet delicious lunch close to cultural sites.
KRW10000, 1h

2:30pm

Bukchon Hanok Village Walk

Stroll through this traditional village with well-preserved Korean houses offering great photo opportunities and cultural immersion.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Insadong Shopping

Browse antique shops, art galleries, and traditional craft stores along Insadong Street, an ideal spot for souvenirs and gifts.
Varies, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Myeongdong Kyoja

Taste the famous kalguksu (handmade knife-cut noodle soup) in the lively Myeongdong district, offering a warm and comforting meal.
KRW9000, 1h
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Day 2: Seoul Modern & Nightlife

Seoul, South Korea on July 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Paris Baguette

Grab coffee and freshly baked pastries to start your day lightly before sightseeing.
KRW8000, 30m

9:00am

N Seoul Tower Visit

Take a cable car or hike up to Namsan Mountain and enjoy panoramic views of Seoul from the iconic tower.
KRW11000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang

Try the classic Korean chicken soup again or sample other traditional dishes, perfect for a nourishing midday meal.
KRW15000, 1h

1:30pm

War Memorial of Korea

Discover Korea’s military history with engaging exhibitions and outdoor displays. A respectful and educational experience.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Hongdae District Exploration

Experience youthful energy, trendy shops, street performances and unique cafes in a vibrant university neighborhood.
Varies, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at YG Republiq

Enjoy stylish dining and delicious Korean fusion dishes in one of Hongdae’s lively restaurants.
KRW20000, 1h30m

9:00pm

Evening at Hongdae Clubs

Check out popular clubs for dancing and experiencing Seoul’s energetic nightlife.
KRW20000+, 3h
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Seoul, South Korea on July 8, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Egg Drop

Enjoy gourmet Korean-style breakfast sandwiches, ideal for a quick and tasty start.
KRW7000, 30m

9:30am

Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden Tour

Visit one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites in Korea and explore the stunning secret garden with a guided tour.
KRW8000, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang

Focus on nutrition again with this traditional chicken soup or try bibimbap at nearby eateries.
KRW15000, 1h

2:30pm

Shopping at Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Shop and admire the futuristic design of this landmark, open until late for relaxed browsing.
Free entry, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Cheonggyecheon Stream

Take a leisurely walk by this beautifully restored urban stream for a peaceful break from the city hustle.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Korean BBQ restaurant Maple Tree House

Savor an authentic Korean BBQ experience with quality meats in a friendly atmosphere.
KRW30000, 1h30m
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Day 4: Travel to Gyeongju

Gyeongju, South Korea on July 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel in Seoul

Enjoy a hotel buffet featuring a mix of Korean and Western dishes before your journey.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Train to Gyeongju

Take a KTX train from Seoul Station to Singyeongju Station, approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
KRW40000, 2h15m

12:00pm

Lunch at Dosol Maeul

Sample traditional Korean temple food focusing on fresh, vegetarian ingredients in peaceful surroundings.
KRW15000, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Bulguksa Temple

Explore one of Korea’s most famous historic Buddhist temples, a World Heritage Site with beautiful architecture.
KRW5000, 2h

4:00pm

Cheomseongdae Observatory

See the oldest existing astronomical observatory in Asia, a small but fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Free, 30m

5:00pm

Check-in hotel in Gyeongju

Relax and freshen up before dinner.
1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gyeongju Ssambap

Enjoy a traditional ssambap meal featuring wrapped rice with various side dishes, offering big local flavors.
KRW15000, 1h
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Day 5: Explore Gyeongju

Gyeongju, South Korea on July 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast offered by the hotel.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Seokguram Grotto

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist cave temple perched on Mount Toham with stunning views and artistic significance.
KRW5000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tongyeong Sikdang

Enjoy classic Korean set meals featuring fresh ingredients and hearty options.
KRW12000, 1h

1:30pm

Gyeongju National Museum

Discover the impressive collection of relics and artifacts from Silla Kingdom history with informative displays.
KRW3000, 2h

4:00pm

Anapji Pond Sunset

Relax by this scenic artificial pond restored to its former glory with beautiful reflections, especially at sunset.
KRW2000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ssambap Jip

Another delicious opportunity to try ssambap dishes with a variety of side dishes and fresh greens.
KRW15000, 1h
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Day 6: Travel to Busan

Busan, South Korea on July 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a full hotel breakfast before checking out.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Bus to Busan

Take a direct bus from Gyeongju to Busan, approximately 1.5 hours.
KRW10000, 1h30m

11:30am

Check-in hotel in Busan

Drop off luggage and relax before sightseeing.
1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Jagalchi Market

Taste fresh seafood in Korea’s largest fish market with many restaurants serving grilled or raw dishes.
KRW20000, 1h

2:00pm

Gamcheon Culture Village

Walk through this colorful hillside village famous for its artistic murals, quirky shops, and panoramic city views.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Haeundae Beach Visit

Relax at Busan’s most famous beach, enjoy the seaside atmosphere and cafes nearby.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Party Haeundae

Buffet style dining with a wide range of Korean and international dishes right near the beach.
KRW25000, 1h30m
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Day 7: Busan Highlights

Busan, South Korea on July 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café de One Piece

Enjoy breakfast in a themed café with a creative twist, perfect for fans of anime and comics.
KRW8000, 30m

9:00am

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Visit the beautiful seaside temple for stunning ocean views and spiritual experiences.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Millak Raw Fish Center

Fresh sashimi and seafood dishes right by the sea, an authentic Busan dining experience.
KRW25000, 1h

1:30pm

Busan Tower and Yongdusan Park

Explore the park and enjoy panoramic views from Busan Tower, a landmark in the city’s center.
KRW8000, 1h30m

3:30pm

Shopping at Shinsegae Centum City

Visit the world’s largest department store for shopping, entertainment, and spa facilities.
Varies, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Geumsubokguk

Try Busan’s famous pufferfish soup for a unique and hearty meal experience.
KRW20000, 1h
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Day 8: Travel to Jeju Island

Jeju Island, South Korea on July 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast before heading to the airport.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Flight from Busan to Jeju

Quick 1-hour domestic flight to Jeju Island, known for natural beauty.
KRW50000, 1h

10:30am

Car rental & hotel check-in

Pick up rental car and check into accommodation, ready to explore the island.
Varies, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Black Pork Street

Try Jeju’s specialty black pork barbecue at one of the famous restaurants on this street.
KRW20000, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Manjanggul Lava Tube

Explore one of the world’s finest lava tubes and a UNESCO site, fascinating natural cave formation.
KRW2000, 2h

4:00pm

Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak

Climb this UNESCO Heritage volcanic crater for breathtaking views especially around sunset.
KRW2000, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Jeju Haemultang

Dine on spicy seafood stew, a comforting local favorite made with fresh catches.
KRW15000, 1h
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Day 9: Jeju Scenic Day

Jeju Island, South Korea on July 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before a day of sightseeing.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Hallasan National Park Hiking

Spend the morning hiking in South Korea’s tallest mountain area, choosing a trail suitable for your level for amazing views.
Free, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at local Jeju restaurant

Refuel with a hearty meal of Jeju's fresh seafood and vegetable dishes.
KRW15000, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Jeongbang Waterfall

One of the few waterfalls in Asia that falls directly into the ocean, a spectacular natural site.
KRW2000, 1h

4:30pm

O’sulloc Tea Museum

Learn about Korea’s tea culture and sample green teas in this serene museum and garden area.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Donsadon

Taste premium Jeju black pork BBQ in this popular restaurant known for quality cuts.
KRW30000, 1h30m
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Day 10: Jeju to Seoul Wrap-up

Jeju Island to Seoul, South Korea on July 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Final breakfast on Jeju Island to savor local flavors one last time.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Flight to Seoul

Return flight to Seoul for your departure preparation, about 1 hour flight time.
KRW50000, 1h

11:30am

Check-in at Seoul hotel or airport lounge

Store luggage and relax if time permits before the flight back home.
Varies, Variable

1:00pm

Lunch at Gwangjang Market

Enjoy iconic Korean street food such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak kimbap in this bustling market.
KRW10000, 1h

3:00pm

Last minute shopping at Dongdaemun or Myeongdong

Choose souvenirs, cosmetics, or fashion items before heading to the airport.
Varies, 2h

6:00pm

Departure from Incheon Airport

Head to the airport for your flight home, concluding a memorable 10-day journey.
Varies, Varies
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