In the morning, visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. Watch the changing of the guard ceremony and explore the palace grounds and museums. In the afternoon, head to Insadong, a neighborhood known for its traditional Korean crafts and souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Korean meal at a nearby restaurant.
Take a flight from Seoul to Jeju Island and spend the day exploring this beautiful island. Visit the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and hike to the top for stunning views of the sunrise. In the afternoon, relax on the beach or visit the nearby Jeju Folk Village. In the evening, try some local seafood or black pork BBQ.
Take a flight from Jeju Island to Busan and spend the day exploring this bustling port city. Visit the Gamcheon Culture Village, a hillside neighborhood known for its colorful houses and street art. In the afternoon, head to Haeundae Beach and enjoy the sun and surf. In the evening, visit the Gukje Market for some traditional Korean street food.
Take a train from Busan to Gyeongju and spend the day exploring this ancient capital of the Silla dynasty. Visit the Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the intricate stone carvings and pagodas. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Seokguram Grotto, a Buddhist shrine carved into the mountainside. In the evening, try some local rice wine at a nearby bar.
Take a bus from Gyeongju to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and experience one of the most heavily guarded borders in the world. Visit the Joint Security Area and see the North Korean soldiers on the other side of the border. In the afternoon, visit the Third Tunnel and learn about the history of the Korean War. In the evening, return to Seoul for your flight home.
Other local attractions to consider include Namsan Tower in Seoul, the Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan, and the Jeonju Hanok Village in Jeonju. For side trips, consider visiting the Boseong Tea Fields or the Seoraksan National Park. To maximize your fun, try some Korean street food, take a traditional Korean cooking class, or attend a K-Pop concert. Don't forget to book your accommodations and flights through Trip.com for the best deals and discounts.