Comprehensive 13-Day South Korea Itinerary: Exploring Seoul, Busan, Gwangyang, and Yeosu

Day 1: Seoul arrival and exploration

Seoul, South Korea on August 5, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Tosokchon Samgyetang

Start your day with traditional Korean ginseng chicken soup, a local favourite known to energize and refresh.
KRW15000, 1h

10:30am

Gyeongbokgung Palace Tour

Explore the largest of the Five Grand Palaces, including the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Open 9am-6pm.
KRW3000, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Bukchon Son Mandu

Enjoy delicious handmade Korean dumplings just a short walk from the palace.
KRW8000, 1h

2:30pm

Bukchon Hanok Village Walk

Stroll through traditional Korean houses offering picturesque views and cultural insight.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Dinner at Myeongdong Kyoja

Sample famous knife-cut noodle soup and dumplings in the bustling Myeongdong district.
KRW12000, 1h
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Day 2: Seoul cultural highlights

Seoul, South Korea on August 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Isaac Toast

Grab a popular Korean toasted sandwich, perfect for a quick and tasty start.
KRW4000, 30m

9:00am

Visit the National Museum of Korea

Experience Korea’s rich history with exhibits ranging from prehistoric times to the modern era. Open 10am-6pm.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang

Revisit this beloved spot for its famous chicken soup or sample seasonal dishes.
KRW15000, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Insadong Cultural Street

Browse traditional tea houses, craft shops, and antique stores in this cultural hub.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gogung Jeonju Bibimbap

Delight in authentic bibimbap, a classic Korean mixed rice dish served in Jeonju style.
KRW12000, 1h
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Day 3: Seoul modern and nature mix

Seoul, South Korea on August 7, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Onion Anguk

Sample excellent coffee and pastries in a traditional hanok setting.
KRW8000, 1h

10:00am

N Seoul Tower Visit

Ascend to the iconic tower for panoramic city views. Open 10am-11pm.
KRW11000, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang or local street food

Try rich, warm Samgyetang or enjoy street food at nearby stalls.
KRW15000, 1h

3:00pm

Hangang Park Cycling or Walk

Relax by the Han River with scenic cycling paths and parks, rental bikes available.
KRW4000, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Maple Tree House (Korean BBQ)

Enjoy premium Korean BBQ with a variety of meat and side dishes.
KRW35000, 2h
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Day 4: Travel to Busan and explore

Busan, South Korea on August 8, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby cafe

Have a light breakfast before your KTX train journey to Busan.
Varies, 1h

8:00am

KTX train from Seoul to Busan

Take the high-speed train for approximately 2.5 hours to Busan station.
KRW59000, 2h30m

11:00am

Check in and Lunch at Jagalchi Fish Market

Savour fresh seafood at Korea’s largest seafood market open throughout the day.
KRW15000, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Gamcheon Culture Village

Explore colourful murals and creative shops in this artistic hillside neighbourhood.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Haeundae Beach Relax

Enjoy the beach and an evening stroll at Busan’s famous Haeundae Beach.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Bay 101

Dine with stunning seaside views at this popular waterfront complex featuring varied cuisines.
KRW25000, 1.5h
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Day 5: Busan city and nature

Busan, South Korea on August 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café de One Piece

Enjoy unique themed café pastries and coffee near the city centre.
KRW8000, 45m

9:30am

Visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Visit this scenic seaside Buddhist temple open daily from morning to sunset.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Millak Raw Fish Center

Savour sashimi and fresh seafood by the coast at this lively market.
KRW20000, 1h

2:00pm

Walk in Taejongdae Resort Park

Explore rugged cliffs and forest paths with remarkable ocean views, park open 24 hours.
KRW5000, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Geumsubokguk (Blowfish Soup)

Try Busan’s famous pufferfish soup, a local delicacy with great flavour.
KRW25000, 1h
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Day 6: Busan cultural day

Busan, South Korea on August 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Angel-in-us Coffee

Start your day with coffee and pastries at a popular Korean chain.
KRW7000, 45m

9:30am

Busan Museum Visit

Learn about Busan's history and culture with engaging exhibits, open 9am-6pm.
KRW2000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Choryang Milmyeon

Enjoy Busan’s unique wheat noodle cold soup known as Milmyeon.
KRW8000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Yongdusan Park and Busan Tower

Relax in this downtown park and ascend Busan Tower for panoramic views, open 10am-10pm.
KRW8000, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hwa Hae Dang

Sample Korean cuisine with emphasis on fresh local ingredients in a traditional setting.
KRW30000, 2h
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Day 7: Busan shopping and leisure

Busan, South Korea on August 11, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Paris Baguette

Enjoy freshly baked goods and coffee at this well-known bakery chain.
KRW5000, 30m

9:30am

Shinsegae Centum City Shopping

Visit the world’s largest department store with shopping, spa, and entertainment facilities.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Food Court in Shinsegae

Choose from diverse Korean and international cuisine in the mall’s food court.
KRW10000, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at Spa Land

Indulge in a renowned Korean spa experience in Centum City, open 6am-midnight.
KRW16000, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Jeonpo Cafe Street

Discover hip cafes and restaurants with local specialities and relaxed vibes.
KRW20000, 2h
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Day 8: Travel to Gwangyang

Gwangyang, South Korea on August 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Prepare for travel with a hotel breakfast to start your day.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Train or bus from Busan to Gwangyang

Travel by train or express bus approximately 3.5-4 hours to Gwangyang.
KRW30000, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Gwangyang Bulgogi Street

Try renowned Gwangyang-style bulgogi, Korean marinated grilled beef specialty.
KRW15000, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Gwangyang Maehwa Village

Enjoy spectacular views of plum blossoms (seasonal) and traditional village scenery.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at the local restaurant specializing in seafood

Sample fresh seafood dishes typical of the coastal region in a well-rated local restaurant.
KRW20000, 1.5h
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Day 9: Nature and culture in Gwangyang

Gwangyang, South Korea on August 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at nearby cafe

Light breakfast with local coffee and bakery items to energise for the day.
KRW7000, 45m

9:00am

Explore Hwangmaesan Mountain Scenic Trails

Hike and enjoy superb natural alpine scenery with panoramic vistas, open all day.
Free, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch in town

Sample local vegetable side dishes and rice at a traditional Korean restaurant.
KRW10000, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Gwangyang Steelworks Museum

Learn about the industrial heritage of the city at the interactive museum.
KRW5000, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at a Korean BBQ restaurant

Enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner with local meats and freshly prepared side dishes.
KRW25000, 2h
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Day 10: Travel to Yeosu and local exploration

Yeosu, South Korea on August 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast preparing for your travel day.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Bus travel from Gwangyang to Yeosu

Short bus ride of approximately 1 hour to coastal Yeosu city.
KRW5000, 1h

10:30am

Check in and visit Odongdo Island

Explore the beautiful Odongdo Island with camellias and scenic coastal walks.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Yeosu Seafood Market

Taste freshly caught seafood dishes including grilled eel and raw fish.
KRW18000, 1h

3:00pm

Yeosu Cable Car Ride

Ride the cable car for stunning views of the coastline and Dolsan Bridge. Open 9am-10pm.
KRW15000, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Moonlit Waterfront Restaurant

Dine on local delicacies with beautiful night views over the bay.
KRW25000, 2h
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Day 11: Yeosu island and culture day

Yeosu, South Korea on August 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local bakery

Enjoy fresh bread and coffee before a day of exploration.
KRW6000, 45m

9:00am

Visit Hyangiram Hermitage

Visit this historic seaside temple offering quiet reflection and beautiful cliff views. Open early to dusk.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at local restaurant

Enjoy specialties like grilled shellfish and regional seafood stews.
KRW15000, 1h

2:30pm

Yeosu Maritime Cable Car Observation

Relax with more views or explore the nearby marine science attractions.
Included if repeating ride or free to stroll, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at a traditional Korean restaurant

Sample Jeolla-do province style cuisine known for rich flavours and diversity.
KRW20000, 2h
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Day 12: Return to Seoul

Seoul, South Korea on August 16, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Prepare for your return journey with a filling breakfast.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Bus and train travel from Yeosu to Seoul

Travel by bus or train taking approximately 4.5 to 5 hours to return to Seoul.
KRW50000, 5h

1:30pm

Check in and Lunch at near hotel

Choose from many local and international options near your accommodation.
KRW15000, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Explore modern architecture, design exhibitions, and shopping complex, open until 10pm.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Jinokhwa Halmae Wonjo Dakhanmari

Experience a unique Korean chicken hot pot in this popular traditional eatery.
KRW15000, 1.5h
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Day 13: Seoul final day

Seoul, South Korea on August 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Local Cafe

Start your day with artisan coffee and fresh baked goods near your accommodation.
KRW8000, 1h

9:30am

Explore Hongdae area

Visit this youthful, energetic district with street art, shops, and cafes. Open all day.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Yeonnam Bangagan

Enjoy Korean fusion dishes in a trendy local favourite restaurant.
KRW15000, 1h

2:30pm

Shopping and Strolling in Myeongdong

Last chance for souvenir shopping and street food sampling before your departure.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Kyochon Chicken

Indulge in one of Korea’s best-loved fried chicken chains before your trip ends.
KRW18000, 1h
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