7-Day South Korea Itinerary: Exploring Seoul, Gyeongju, and Busan

Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Seoul

Seoul, South Korea on March 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tosokchon Samgyetang

Start your day with a traditional Korean ginseng chicken soup at Tosokchon Samgyetang, renowned for its rich flavors and historic ambiance.
KRW 15,000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

Explore the largest of Seoul's Five Grand Palaces, offering a glimpse into Korea's royal history and architecture.
KRW 3,000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Bukchon Son Mandu

Enjoy authentic Korean dumplings at Bukchon Son Mandu, located near the palace.
KRW 10,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village

Wander the charming streets lined with traditional Korean houses, offering picturesque views and cultural insights.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Insadong Art Street

Explore this vibrant area known for its art galleries, antique shops, and traditional tea houses.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gogung

Savor authentic bibimbap at Gogung, a restaurant famous for this traditional Korean mixed rice dish.
KRW 12,000, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural and Modern Seoul

Seoul, South Korea on March 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Original Pancake House

Enjoy a Western-style breakfast at The Original Pancake House, known for its fluffy pancakes and hearty meals.
KRW 15,000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its beautiful secret garden and well-preserved architecture.
KRW 8,000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Gwangjang Market

Experience a variety of Korean street foods at Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul's oldest traditional markets.
KRW 10,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Visit this iconic landmark known for its futuristic architecture and design exhibitions.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shop at Myeongdong Shopping Street

Browse through a plethora of shops offering cosmetics, fashion, and street food in this bustling shopping district.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Myeongdong Kyoja

Try the famous handmade kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) at Myeongdong Kyoja, a local favorite.
KRW 10,000, 1 hour
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Day 3: Nature and Nightlife in Seoul

Seoul, South Korea on March 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Onion

Enjoy freshly baked pastries and coffee in a renovated hanok at Cafe Onion.
KRW 12,000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hike Namsan Mountain to N Seoul Tower

Take a scenic hike up Namsan Mountain to reach N Seoul Tower, offering panoramic views of the city.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at N.Grill

Dine at N.Grill, a revolving restaurant atop N Seoul Tower, providing a unique dining experience with stunning views.
KRW 50,000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the War Memorial of Korea

Learn about Korea's military history through extensive exhibits and outdoor displays.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Hongdae District

Experience the youthful energy of Hongdae, known for its indie music scene, street performances, and vibrant nightlife.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Samgyeopsal Restaurant

Enjoy Korean BBQ at a local samgyeopsal (pork belly) restaurant in Hongdae.
KRW 20,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Travel to Gyeongju and Historical Exploration

Gyeongju, South Korea on March 16, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
Included in hotel stay, 0.5 hours

8:00AM

Train to Gyeongju

Take the KTX train from Seoul Station to Singyeongju Station, approximately a 2-hour journey.
KRW 50,000, 2 hours

10:30AM

Check-in at Hotel in Gyeongju

Settle into your accommodation in Gyeongju.
Varies, 0.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Bulguksa Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, a masterpiece of Buddhist art and architecture.
KRW 5,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dosol Maeul

Enjoy traditional Korean cuisine at Dosol Maeul, known for its authentic flavors.
KRW 15,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Seokguram Grotto

Visit the Seokguram Grotto, housing a monumental Buddha statue and offering serene mountain views.
KRW 5,000, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Stroll through Tumuli Park

Walk among the ancient royal tombs in Tumuli Park, also known as Daereungwon.
KRW 2,000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hwangnam Gimbap

Try the local specialty, Hwangnam Gimbap, at this renowned eatery.
KRW 8,000, 1 hour
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Day 5: Cultural Sites and Museums in Gyeongju

Gyeongju, South Korea on March 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 737

Start your day with coffee and pastries at Cafe 737, offering a cozy atmosphere.
KRW 10,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Gyeongju National Museum

Discover artifacts and exhibits showcasing the rich history of the Silla Dynasty.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gyodong Ssambap

Enjoy ssambap (rice wrapped in leafy vegetables) at Gyodong Ssambap, a local favorite.
KRW 12,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Anapji Pond

Visit the picturesque Anapji Pond, a historic site with beautiful landscapes.
KRW 2,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Cheomseongdae Observatory

See the oldest existing astronomical observatory in East Asia, dating back to the 7th century.
KRW 2,000, 0.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Hwangnidan-gil

Stroll through Hwangnidan-gil, a trendy street with cafes, shops, and traditional houses.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Byeolchaeban Gyodong Ssambap

Experience a variety of side dishes and ssambap at this popular restaurant.
KRW 15,000, 1 hour
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Day 6: Travel to Busan and Beach Exploration

Busan, South Korea on March 18, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
Included in hotel stay, 0.5 hours

8:00AM

Train to Busan

Take the KTX train from Singyeongju Station to Busan Station, approximately a 30-minute journey.
KRW 12,000, 0.5 hours

9:00AM

Check-in at Hotel in Busan

Settle into your accommodation in Busan.
Varies, 0.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Haeundae Beach

Relax at Haeundae Beach, one of Busan's most famous beaches, known for its white sand and clear waters.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Geumsubokguk

Try the local specialty, pufferfish soup, at Geumsubokguk, a renowned restaurant in Haeundae.
KRW 15,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Dongbaekseom Island

Walk along the scenic trails of Dongbaekseom Island, offering beautiful coastal views and the iconic Nurimaru APEC House.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Busan Aquarium

Discover marine life at SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium, featuring a variety of exhibits and interactive experiences.
KRW 29,000, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Jagalchi Market

Experience fresh seafood at Jagalchi Market, Korea's largest seafood market, where you can choose your meal and have it prepared on-site.
Varies, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Cultural Sites and Departure from Busan

Busan, South Korea on March 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at OPS Bakery

Enjoy freshly baked goods and coffee at OPS Bakery, a local favorite.
KRW 10,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Gamcheon Culture Village

Explore the colorful houses and art installations in Gamcheon Culture Village, often referred to as the 'Machu Picchu of Busan.'
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bokcheon Dwaeji Gukbap

Try the traditional pork soup with rice at Bokcheon Dwaeji Gukbap, a Busan specialty.
KRW 8,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Visit this unique seaside Buddhist temple, offering stunning ocean views and serene surroundings.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore BIFF Square

Walk through BIFF Square, known for its handprints of famous actors and vibrant street food scene.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Hotel and Prepare for Departure

Return to your hotel to collect your luggage and prepare for departure.
Varies, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Gukje Market

Enjoy a variety of local dishes at Gukje Market, one of Busan's largest traditional markets.
KRW 10,000, 1 hour

7:30PM

Depart for Busan Station or Gimhae International Airport

Depending on your next destination, head to Busan Station for a train back to Seoul or to Gimhae International Airport for your flight.
Varies, 1 hour
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