Ultimate 5-Day South Korea Adventure: Seoul to Busan Highlights

Day 1: Seoul Urban Exploration

Seoul, South Korea on April 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Isaac Toast

Start your day with a popular Korean-style toasted sandwich at Isaac Toast, known for its savory and sweet fillings. Open from 7:00am to 10:00pm.
KRW4000, 0h30m

9:00am

Gyeongbokgung Palace Tour

Explore the grandest palace in Seoul offering insight into Joseon Dynasty architecture and culture. The palace opens at 9:00am and closes at 5:00pm.
KRW3000, 2h0m

11:30am

Insadong Cultural Stroll & Shopping

Walk around Insadong’s vibrant street filled with antique shops, galleries, and tea houses. It's the perfect place for traditional souvenirs and local crafts.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang

Savor traditional Korean ginseng chicken soup, renowned for its rich flavor and health benefits. Open 10:00am to 9:00pm.
KRW15000, 1h

2:30pm

Bukchon Hanok Village

Visit this charming neighborhood to see traditional Korean houses (hanoks), offering beautiful architecture and photo opportunities.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Myeongdong Shopping & Street Food

Explore the bustling shopping district known for cosmetics, fashion, and delectable street snacks like tteokbokki and hotteok. Shops open late till 10:00pm.
Varies, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Myeongdong Kyoja

Enjoy warm bowls of handmade knife-cut noodle soup and dumplings at this iconic eatery in Myeongdong, open till 9:30pm.
KRW9000, 1h

Day 2: Seoul Historical & Modern

Seoul, South Korea on April 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Onion Anguk

Relish fresh pastries and coffee in a trendy café set inside a renovated hanok near Bukchon Hanok Village. Opens at 8:00am.
KRW7000, 0h45m

9:00am

Namsan Seoul Tower Visit

Take a cable car or hike up to Namsan Tower for panoramic views of Seoul; best visited early to avoid crowds. Open from 10:00am to 11:00pm.
KRW12000, 2h

11:30am

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Explore futuristic architecture and exhibitions in this famous design hub showcasing Korea’s modern creativity. Open 10:00am to 7:00pm.
Free entry; exhibition fees vary, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kkongdeul Chicken

Try flavorful Korean fried chicken with various sauces at this popular spot near Dongdaemun market. Open from 11:00am to 10:00pm.
KRW16000, 1h

2:30pm

Cheonggyecheon Stream Walk

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along this urban stream running through downtown Seoul, perfect for a peaceful break.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Hongdae Neighborhood Exploration

Discover youthful energy with street performances, unique cafes, and indie shops around Hongdae area. Open throughout the day with vibrant nightlife.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mapo Jeong Daepo

Savor authentic Korean BBQ with a lively atmosphere in Mapo district, well-known for beef and pork grills. Open till midnight.
KRW25000, 2h

Day 3: Heritage in Gyeongju

Gyeongju, South Korea on April 26, 2025

7:00am

Departure to Gyeongju by KTX

Take the KTX high-speed train from Seoul Station to Gyeongju for about 2 hours and 15 minutes, departing early to maximize sightseeing time.
KRW48000, 2h15m

10:00am

Breakfast at Gyeongju's local café

Refuel with coffee and light Korean pastries at a local café near the station before touring.
KRW7000, 0h30m

10:30am

Visit Bulguksa Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple complex with beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. Open 7:00am to 6:00pm.
KRW5000, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at a traditional Korean restaurant near Bulguksa

Try local specialties like bibimbap or makgeolli (rice wine) at a family-friendly restaurant.
KRW12000, 1h

2:00pm

Seokguram Grotto Visit

Hike to this beautiful stone grotto with a Buddha statue, a must-see heritage site next to Bulguksa. Open 7:00am to 6:00pm.
KRW3000, 1h30m

4:00pm

Anapji Pond Park

Walk around the peaceful pond with traditional architecture and serene gardens, best visited by late afternoon.
KRW3000, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Hwangnam Bread & local eateries

Enjoy Hwangnam bread, a famous local sweet pastry, and dinner at a nearby Korean restaurant specializing in regional dishes.
KRW15000, 1h

Day 4: Busan Coastal Experience

Busan, South Korea on April 27, 2025

8:00am

Travel to Busan via train from Gyeongju

Take a short train ride (approx 1h) from Gyeongju to Busan to start your coastal adventure.
KRW8500, 1h

9:30am

Breakfast at The Bay 101 café

Enjoy coffee and breakfast with stunning yacht marina views, open from 8:00am to 10:00pm.
KRW10000, 0h45m

10:30am

Visit Haeundae Beach

Relax or stroll along Busan’s most famous beach with vibrant atmosphere and ocean views. Accessible year-round.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Haeundae Market

Sample fresh seafood like grilled clams and sashimi at this bustling open-air market near the beach.
KRW15000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Gamcheon Culture Village

Explore colorful hillside houses and artistic murals with small galleries and cafés to discover. Open 9:00am to 6:00pm.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Jagalchi Fish Market Walk

Tour Korea’s largest seafood market to see and try fresh ocean delicacies. Open 5:00am to 10:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Jagalchi Market seafood restaurants

Dine on freshly cooked fish, octopus, or shellfish at restaurants inside the market.
KRW20000, 1h30m

Day 5: Busan City & Departure

Busan, South Korea on April 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café de One Piece

Enjoy breakfast with themed décor and ocean views near Gwangalli Beach; open 9:00am to 11:00pm.
KRW9000, 0h45m

9:30am

Gwangalli Beach & Bridge Views

Take a morning walk along the beach with views of the illuminated Gwangan Bridge, ideal for morning photo ops.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Busan Tower and Yongdusan Park

Visit the iconic Busan Tower for panoramic views from the city’s park known for cultural landmarks. Open 10:00am to 9:00pm.
KRW8000, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Milmyeon (Busan cold noodles)

Try Busan’s signature cold wheat noodles, a refreshing dish perfect for warm days.
KRW8000, 1h

2:00pm

Departure from Busan Station or Gimhae International Airport

Use this time to head to your departure point for the onward journey or flight.
Varies, Varies