Start your trip with a visit to one of the most iconic landmarks in Korea, the Gyeongbokgung Palace. This grand palace is an excellent example of traditional Korean architecture, and visitors can learn more about the country's history by visiting the National Palace Museum located on the palace grounds.
Located in the heart of Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village is a neighborhood filled with traditional Korean houses, known as hanoks. Visitors can rent a hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) and immerse themselves in the country's culture while strolling through the streets and neighborhoods.
Spend the day exploring another palace full of Korean history, Changdeokgung Palace. Be sure to visit the Huwon Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the palace grounds.
Take a flight to Jeju Island, a volcanic island with beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and other natural wonders. Don't forget to try the local cuisine, especially the Jeju black pork and fresh seafood.
Hike up the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak for stunning views of the sunrise and the surrounding countryside. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see when visiting Jeju Island.
Take a ferry to Udo Island and explore the island's natural beauty, including beaches, caves, and cliffs. Rent a bicycle and ride around the island to experience the local way of life.
Fly to Gwangju, a city known for its vibrant art scene, museums, and theaters. Don't miss the Gwangju Biennale, an international contemporary art exhibition held every other year.
Visit the Boseong Tea Fields, one of the largest tea plantations in Korea. Take a walk among the tea fields and taste fresh green tea at one of the many tea houses in the area.
Explore the Suncheonman Bay Wetland Reserve, a natural habitat for numerous plant and animal species. Take a stroll on the boardwalk and enjoy the scenic view of the bay and its surroundings.
Head to Busan, Korea's second-largest city, and explore its beaches, temples, and markets. Don't miss the Gamcheon Culture Village, a colorful hillside neighborhood with murals and sculptures.
Visit the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a rare Buddhist temple located by the sea. Enjoy the scenic view of the temple and the sea, and experience Korean spirituality.
Visit Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Dynasty, and explore its many historical and cultural landmarks, such as the Bulguksa Temple and the Seokguram Grotto.
Visit the Andong Hahoe Folk Village, a well-preserved traditional Korean village that gives visitors a deep insight into the country's past. See the traditional houses, masks, and other cultural artifacts.
Take a tour of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the heavily guarded border between North and South Korea. Visitors can see the Joint Security Area, the Dora Observatory, and other DMZ landmarks.
End your trip with a visit to the iconic Namsan Tower, a landmark of Seoul. Take the cable car to the top of the mountain to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding area.
Transportation in Korea is convenient and affordable. Visitors can travel by train, bus, or domestic flights depending on their destination. A one-way train ticket between major cities usually costs between KRW 30,000 to KRW 80,000, while a domestic flight ticket costs between KRW 50,000 to KRW 200,000. Taxis and the subway are also available in most cities. The estimated total travel time is around 50 hours, and the total transportation costs are around KRW 200,000 (~ USD 170).
If visitors have more time, they can consider adding a visit to the historic city of Andong or the picturesque island of Jeju. If they have less time, they can skip some places or reduce the number of days spent in certain destinations. It's also recommended to learn basic Korean phrases and customs before visiting to enhance the cultural immersion experience.
The main international airport in Korea is Incheon International Airport (ICN), located about 30 km west of Seoul. Another international airport is Gimpo International Airport (GMP), primarily for domestic flights and some international Asian routes. Jeju International Airport (CJU) serves the island of Jeju. All airports have various transportation options to reach their respective city centers.