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Seoul → Busan → Seoul: 12-Day South Korea Trip (15–26 Nov 2025) — Culture, Coast & Day Trips

Viewed by 118 travelers

Day 1: Arrival night

Seoul, South Korea on November 15, 2025

9:45pm

Arrive Incheon Airport & Immigration

Arrival at Incheon; expect 45–90 minutes for immigration and luggage depending on queues — have passport and arrival card ready.
KRW0, 1h30m.

11:15pm

Transfer to Seoul hotel (AREX or airport taxi)

Take AREX Express or an airport limousine/taxi to central Seoul; AREX runs ~6:10am–11:30pm, taxis available 24/7 (late fee may apply).
KRW5000, 1h15m.

12:30am

Late-night Myeongdong snack

Grab late bites (street food stalls in Myeongdong often open until late) — ideal for first-night quick meal and light exploration.
KRW10000, 45m.

1:15am

Check-in & rest

Check in to hotel in central Seoul (Myeongdong/Insadong/Hongdae recommended for easy access).
KRW0, 8h0m.
Find Hotels in Seoul

Day 2: Historic Seoul

Seoul, South Korea on November 16, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at hotel or local cafe (Hangang bakery)

Simple Korean breakfast or bakery sandwich with coffee to fuel a palace morning; many cafes open 7:30–8:00am.
KRW8000, 45m.

9:30am

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Main Joseon-era palace with changing of the guard; typically open 9:00am–5:00pm (closed Tuesdays) — visit the throne hall and National Folk Museum on site.
KRW3000, 1h30m.

11:15am

Bukchon Hanok Village

Wander narrow lanes lined with traditional hanok houses and photo viewpoints; mostly open streets but some cultural houses have entrance fees.
KRW0, 1h0m.

12:30pm

Lunch in Insadong (traditional bibimbap or banchan set)

Enjoy a traditional Korean set meal in Insadong where many restaurants operate 11:00am–9:00pm, great for trying banchan and bibimbap.
KRW14000, 1h0m.

2:00pm

Jogyesa Temple & Insadong antiques

Short stroll to the temple and nearby antique shops and tea houses; peaceful and culturally rich area open daytime hours.
KRW0, 1h0m.

3:30pm

Myeongdong shopping & skincare

Explore Myeongdong’s bustling shopping streets for cosmetics and street food; most stores open until 10pm–11pm.
KRW0, 2h30m.

6:30pm

Dinner: Korean BBQ (Myeongdong or Hongdae)

Classic Korean BBQ experience — book ahead for popular restaurants; typical hours until 11pm.
KRW30000, 1h30m.

8:30pm

N Seoul Tower (Namsan) night view

Night skyline viewing from N Tower; open late (generally until 10:00–11:00pm) — great night photos and panoramic views.
KRW12000, 1h0m.
Find Hotels in Seoul

Day 3: Seoul → Busan

Seoul to Busan, South Korea on November 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast near hotel (Korean/Western)

Grab a hearty breakfast before travel day; many cafes open from 7:00–9:00am.
KRW8000, 45m.

9:30am

Hongdae stroll (street art & cafes)

Morning coffee in Hongdae and enjoy street art and small boutiques while crowds are smaller; cafes open 9:00am onward.
KRW0, 1h30m.

11:15am

Lunch: Korean fried chicken or kimbap

Early lunch in Hongdae before heading to Seoul Station — popular late-morning choices and quick service.
KRW12000, 45m.

1:00pm

Head to Seoul Station for KTX

Arrive 30–45 minutes before departure to collect reserved KTX tickets; trains to Busan run frequently (2h15m–2h40m).
KRW0, 30m.

1:30pm

KTX Seoul → Busan

High-speed rail to Busan — comfortable and fast (roughly 2h30m). Book seats in advance for best fares and times.
KRW59800, 2h30m.

4:15pm

Check-in hotel in Haeundae or Seomyeon

Settle into hotel and rest; Haeundae is seaside, Seomyeon is central for nightlife and transport.
KRW0, 45m.

6:00pm

Haeundae Beach & Dongbaek Island dusk walk

Walk the famous Haeundae shoreline and the small Dongbaek Island park for seaside views — open year-round.
KRW0, 1h0m.

7:30pm

Dinner: Fresh seafood in Haeundae

Try grilled fish or seafood stews at local restaurants open until late — Busan is known for fresh seafood.
KRW25000, 1h15m.
Find Hotels in Seoul to Busan

Day 4: Busan highlights

Busan, South Korea on November 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at cafe near hotel

Light breakfast to prepare for a day of exploring coastal sites; many cafes open from 7:00–8:00am.
KRW7000, 45m.

9:30am

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Dramatic seaside Buddhist temple set on cliffs — open early (often from sunrise) and best visited in morning for photos.
KRW0, 1h0m.

11:00am

Oryukdo Skywalk

Glass skywalk with ocean views; open daytime (check weather/maintenance closures).
KRW0, 45m.

12:30pm

Lunch: Jagalchi Market seafood market

Fresh seafood in Busan’s largest fish market — many stalls cook your selection on the spot; market typically open until evening.
KRW22000, 1h0m.

2:30pm

Gamcheon Culture Village

Colorful hillside village with murals, galleries and photo spots — the village lanes are open all day, climb slowly (lots of steps).
KRW0, 1h30m.

4:15pm

BIFF Square & Gukje Market

Stroll the film festival area and adjacent traditional market for snacks, souvenirs, and local atmosphere; open afternoons–evenings.
KRW0, 1h15m.

6:30pm

Dinner: Street food or local pork belly (samgyeopsal)

Enjoy casual dining in Nampodong/BIFF area with many options open late into the evening.
KRW20000, 1h0m.

8:30pm

Busan Tower (Yongdusan Park) night view

Optional evening panorama of Busan from the tower; check seasonal hours (often until 10pm).
KRW8000, 45m.
Find Hotels in Busan

Day 5: Gyeongju day trip

Busan → Gyeongju, South Korea on November 19, 2025

7:30am

Early breakfast & depart for Gyeongju

Take Korail or express bus to Gyeongju (~40–60 minutes from Busan) to maximize sightseeing time.
KRW8000, 1h0m.

9:00am

Bulguksa Temple

UNESCO World Heritage temple complex known for architecture and tranquil landscapes; open typically 7:00am–6:00pm.
KRW5000, 1h30m.

11:00am

Seokguram Grotto viewpoint

Near Bulguksa; mountain trail and grotto housing a seated Buddha — check walking conditions and timed access.
KRW2000, 1h0m.

12:30pm

Lunch in Gyeongju (local specialties)

Try Gyeongju-style dishes such as ssambap or local noodle specialties in town center restaurants.
KRW14000, 1h0m.

2:00pm

Anapji Pond & Cheomseongdae Observatory

Scenic historic pond and ancient astronomical observatory; the site is open all day with lovely afternoon lighting.
KRW0, 1h0m.

4:00pm

Return to Busan

Catch an afternoon train or bus back to Busan and rest before evening plans.
KRW8000, 1h0m.

7:00pm

Dinner in Busan: Korean seafood hotpot

Relax with a warm seafood hotpot after a long day of walking; many restaurants open late.
KRW24000, 1h15m.
Find Hotels in Busan → Gyeongju

Day 6: Busan: shopping & spa

Busan, South Korea on November 20, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast & check-out (if moving hotels)

Pack and prepare for final Busan day and evening return to Seoul; breakfast near hotel.
KRW7000, 45m.

10:00am

Shinsegae Centum City (Centum City Mall & Spa Land)

World’s largest department store housing extensive shopping and Spa Land (public spa) — mall open ~10:30am, Spa Land typically mid-morning to late evening (check times and age rules).
KRW15000, 3h0m.

1:30pm

Lunch at Centum City food court

Wide variety of options including Korean and international dishes — convenient before afternoon sightseeing.
KRW12000, 1h0m.

3:00pm

Relaxed cafe time or last-minute Busan shopping

Visit local boutiques or a seaside cafe near Haeundae to enjoy the coast one more time.
KRW6000, 1h0m.

5:30pm

Dinner near station & head to Busan Station

Early dinner near Busan Station, then check-in for evening KTX back to Seoul.
KRW20000, 1h0m.

7:30pm

KTX Busan → Seoul

Evening high-speed return to Seoul (about 2h30m) — arrive back in central Seoul for the next leg of the trip.
KRW59800, 2h30m.

10:15pm

Check-in & rest in Seoul

Arrive and check in to your Seoul hotel (consider staying central for upcoming day trips).
KRW0, 8h0m.
Find Hotels in Busan

Day 7: DMZ day trip

Seoul, South Korea on November 21, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast & depart for DMZ tour

Most DMZ tours depart early (7:00–8:00am). Book a guided DMZ/Joint Security Area tour in advance; bring passport.
KRW65000, 30m.

8:00am

DMZ / JSA guided tour

Full guided tour visiting Imjingak, the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Dora Observatory and, on selected tours, JSA — tours are 6–7 hours and subject to military restrictions and closures.
KRW65000, 7h0m.

3:30pm

Return to Seoul & rest

Head back to central Seoul after the DMZ tour; arrive mid to late afternoon — rest and process photos.
KRW0, 1h0m.

5:30pm

Dinner in Itaewon (international dining)

Itaewon offers a wide range of international cuisines and nightlife; many restaurants open until late.
KRW20000, 1h30m.

8:00pm

Itaewon nightlife or relaxed bar

Explore the nightlife or have a quiet drink — many venues open late into the night.
KRW10000, 2h0m.
Find Hotels in Seoul

Day 8: Nami Island day trip

Seoul → Gapyeong → Seoul, South Korea on November 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast & depart for Gapyeong (Nami Island)

Take ITX or a tour to Gapyeong (around 1–1.5 hours) to reach Nami Island early to avoid crowds.
KRW8000, 1h0m.

9:30am

Nami Island (Namiseom)

Iconic tree-lined island famous for scenic walks — open daily with ferry service; ideal in autumn for foliage.
KRW13000, 2h0m.

12:00pm

Lunch at Gapyeong (local restaurants)

Local Korean restaurants near the ferry terminal offer set meals and comfort food.
KRW12000, 1h0m.

2:00pm

Garden of Morning Calm (optional)

Beautiful themed gardens about 30 minutes from Nami; open daylight hours — great for autumn displays (check closing times).
KRW10000, 2h0m.

5:00pm

Return to Seoul

Travel back to Seoul and rest at hotel; trains/buses run into the evening.
KRW8000, 1h30m.

7:30pm

Dinner in Hongdae: trendy cafes and Korean fusion

Evening in Hongdae with many fun dining options and live music venues open until late.
KRW18000, 1h15m.
Find Hotels in Seoul → Gapyeong → Seoul

Day 9: Theme park day

Seoul (Yongin/Everland) & Seoul, South Korea on November 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast & depart for Everland (Yongin)

Everland is one of Korea’s largest theme parks; take shuttle, bus, or subway+bus — parks typically open 10:00am–9:00pm, check special seasonal hours.
KRW55000, 1h30m.

10:00am

Everland full-day

Rides, parades and seasonal shows — plan priority rides early and use any fast pass options; full-day activity.
KRW55000, 8h0m.

6:30pm

Return to Seoul

Head back to Seoul after park closing or evening show; take shuttle/bus to nearest station and subway into the city.
KRW2000, 1h30m.

8:30pm

Dinner: comfort Korean food near hotel

Relaxed dinner after long day at the park; consider jjigae (stew) or noodle restaurant open late.
KRW15000, 1h0m.
Find Hotels in Seoul (Yongin/Everland) & Seoul

Day 10: Gangnam & COEX

Seoul, South Korea on November 24, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast in Gangnam

Start the day in Gangnam with morning coffee and pastries; many cafes open from 8:00am.
KRW8000, 45m.

9:30am

Bongeunsa Temple

Historic temple across COEX that offers a peaceful contrast to skyscrapers; open daytime hours for visitors.
KRW0, 45m.

10:30am

COEX Mall & Starfield Library

Large underground mall with aquarium (optional) and the photogenic Starfield Library — mall open from ~10:30am, aquarium has separate hours/fee.
KRW12000, 2h0m.

1:00pm

Lunch at COEX food court or Korean noodle house

Wide selection of foods for a convenient lunch; many options remain open through the afternoon.
KRW12000, 1h0m.

2:30pm

Apgujeong & Garosu-gil boutique shopping

Explore upscale shopping streets and independent boutiques in the area for fashion and design stores.
KRW0, 2h0m.

6:30pm

Dinner: Gangnam-style Korean fusion

Dine at a trendy Gangnam restaurant; many places stay open until late for dinner and drinks.
KRW25000, 1h30m.
Find Hotels in Seoul

Day 11: Leisure & river cruise

Seoul, South Korea on November 25, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast & relaxed morning (pack for departure)

Casual morning to pack and do last-minute shopping in Myeongdong or Namdaemun markets.
KRW8000, 1h0m.

10:00am

Hongdae or Insadong revisits (street art/tea houses)

Return to favorite neighborhoods for any missed shops, cafes or souvenirs; many shops open by 10:00am.
KRW0, 2h0m.

12:30pm

Lunch: traditional Korean set meal

Enjoy one last sit-down Korean meal — try samgyetang or a hearty stew depending on weather.
KRW16000, 1h0m.

3:00pm

Han River Cruise (afternoon to evening)

Scenic cruise along the Han River (typically 60–90 minutes); check departure times and book in advance for evenings with music/light shows.
KRW15000, 1h30m.

6:00pm

Farewell dinner: upscale Korean or international restaurant

Celebrate the trip’s end with a memorable meal in Seoul; reserve a table for a smoother experience.
KRW35000, 1h30m.
Find Hotels in Seoul

Day 12: Departure day

Seoul, South Korea on November 26, 2025

7:30am

Early breakfast & final packing

Light breakfast and last-minute checks before check-out — confirm airport transfer or AREX schedule.
KRW7000, 45m.

9:00am

Quick Myeongdong / Namdaemun last-minute shopping

Grab any final souvenirs or skincare products; many shops open from 9:00am and close in late evening.
KRW0, 1h0m.

11:30am

Check out & depart for Incheon Airport

Leave hotel around 11:30am to 12:00pm to allow 3–4 hours before international flight at 4:10pm; AREX or airport limousine/taxi options available.
KRW15000, 1h30m.

1:30pm

Arrive Incheon Airport — check-in & immigration

Arrive at airport, check in baggage, pass security and immigration; recommended to be at airport at least 3 hours before departure.
KRW0, 2h40m.

4:10pm

Flight departs to Brunei

Depart Incheon for Brunei, concluding the trip — ensure passports and boarding passes are ready.
KRW0, —
Find Hotels in Seoul
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