Begin your trip by exploring the Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most famous palace in Seoul. Built in the 14th century, this palace features beautiful gardens, ancient architecture, and a glimpse into Korean history. You can witness the changing of the guard ceremony at noon, and don't forget to rent a hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) to fully immerse yourself in the experience!
Take a day trip to Everland Theme Park, South Korea's biggest theme park located in Yongin. With a zoo, water park, and various rides and attractions, the whole family is guaranteed to have fun. Don't miss the T-Express, one of the world's steepest wooden roller coasters.
Take a flight to Jeju Island, a beautiful volcanic island and a popular vacation spot for locals and tourists alike. Rent a car and explore the Jeju Olle Trail, a network of hiking paths that takes you through beautiful scenery and cultural landmarks. End your day at Jeongbang Waterfall, the only waterfall in Asia that falls directly into the ocean.
Rise early to hike up to Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, also known as "Sunrise Peak". This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an extinct volcanic crater that offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Travel by ferry to Busan, South Korea's second-largest city. Spend the day exploring the Busan Aquarium, an impressive exhibit featuring over 35,000 marine creatures. Don't miss the underwater tunnel and the dolphin and sea lion show.
Take a break from sightseeing and spend some time relaxing at Haeundae Beach, one of the most popular beaches in South Korea. With over 1.5 kilometers of white sand beach, this is the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy some family time. Don't forget to try the famous ssiat hotteok, a sweet pancake stuffed with seeds and nuts.
Visit Seoraksan National Park, one of South Korea's most beautiful natural wonders. With various hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, temples, and scenic views, this park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Don't miss the towering granite peaks and the Buddhist temples that dot the landscape.
Travel to Gyeongju, a city known as the "museum without walls" due to its many historical sites and artifacts. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bulguksa Temple, one of the most beautiful examples of ancient Korean architecture. Stroll through the Gyeongju National Museum, which features artifacts from the Silla Dynasty, and don't forget to take a picture at the Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest existing astronomical observatory in East Asia.
Explore the Korean Folk Village, an open-air museum that showcases the traditional lifestyle and culture of Korea's past. See traditional houses, costumes, and performances that represent historic Korean life. Don't miss the traditional Korean games and crafts that are available for visitors to try out.
End your trip by visiting COEX Mall, one of the largest underground malls in Asia. Spend your last day shopping, eating, and enjoying various entertainment activities like the aquarium or the movie theater. Don't forget to try the popular Korean street food that's available in the mall's food court.
For this itinerary, traveling by air, bus, and train are the most convenient modes of transportation. Getting a T-money card can also make travel around cities easier, as you can use it for public transportation and taxi fares.
Estimated costs for travel will vary depending on the season, but plan to spend around ₩300,000-₩400,000 on transportation overall.
If you have more time, consider visiting other locations like the DMZ, Namsan Tower, or the Gwangjang Market. If you have less time, adjust the itinerary by spending fewer days at certain locations or cutting out some activities altogether. It's also important to check the weather and plan accordingly, especially if you're visiting Seoraksan National Park or Jeju Island.
Incheon International Airport (ICN) is the main airport in South Korea and is located 52 kilometers west of Seoul's city center. Other airports include Gimpo International Airport (GMP), which primarily services domestic flights, and Jeju International Airport (CJU), which is located on Jeju Island.