Shoestring Budget 7-Day Itinerary for Seoul and Busan, South Korea in August 2024

  1. Day 1: Gyeongbokgung Palace
    10 minutes (3.3km) from Incheon International Airport

    Discover one of the most famous landmarks of Seoul - Gyeongbokgung Palace. This palace was built in 1395 and served as the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. It is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and traditional music performances.

  2. Day 2: Namsan Tower
    20 minutes (5.6km) from Gyeongbokgung Palace

    Explore Namsan Tower, the highest point in Seoul with incredible panoramic views of the city. Take a cable car or hike up to the tower, and enjoy the various attractions like the Teddy Bear Museum, the observatory deck, and the revolving restaurant.

  3. Day 3: Insadong Market
    30 minutes (7.8km) from Namsan Tower

    Shop for traditional Korean crafts, souvenirs, and antiques at Insadong Market, a charming district known for its old-world charm and vibrant atmosphere. Satisfy your hunger at a local street food stall offering Korean delicacies like tteokbokki and hotteok.

  4. Day 4: Jagalchi Market
    4.7 km (15 minutes) from Busan Station

    Visit Jagalchi Market, the largest seafood market in South Korea, where you can see and taste a wide variety of fresh seafood. Don't miss the chance to try hoe-deopbap, a delicious raw fish and rice bowl, and explore the nearby BIFF Square for snacks and souvenirs.

  5. Day 5: Haeundae Beach
    8.2 km (30 minutes) from Jagalchi Market

    Relax at Haeundae Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Busan, with soft white sand and crystal-clear water. Walk along the beach promenade and enjoy a sunset view by the famous statue of a mermaid. Try the fresh seafood dishes from nearby restaurants.

  6. Day 6: Gamcheon Culture Village
    10 km (30 minutes) from Haeundae Beach

    Discover the colorful Gamcheon Culture Village, a picturesque hillside neighborhood with winding alleyways and vibrant houses painted in all colors of the rainbow. Explore the various cafes, galleries, and street art installations while enjoying a panoramic view of the city.

  7. Day 7: Beomeosa Temple
    11 km (35 minutes) from Gamcheon Culture Village

    Visit Beomeosa Temple, one of the most important Buddhist temples in South Korea, located at the base of Geumjeongsan Mountain. Admire the stunning architecture and the peaceful atmosphere while taking a stroll around the temple grounds. Don't miss the chance to try the temple's vegetarian cuisine.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace (3 hours, free admission)
  • Namsan Tower (2-3 hours, 11,000 KRW for cable car ride, 10,000 KRW for observatory admission)
  • Insadong Market (2-3 hours, variable costs for shopping and food)
  • Jagalchi Market (2-3 hours, variable costs for seafood and souvenirs)
  • Haeundae Beach (2-3 hours, free admission)
  • Gamcheon Culture Village (2-3 hours, free admission)
  • Beomeosa Temple (2-3 hours, free admission)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 21,000-22,000 KRW (excluding food and transportation)
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