10-Day Immersive South Korea Travel Itinerary: From Seoul to Busan and Beyond

Day 1: Explore Seoul

Seoul, South Korea on May 23, 2025

1:00PM

Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang

Enjoy a traditional Korean ginseng chicken soup, known for its nourishing qualities, at this popular restaurant near Gyeongbokgung Palace.
KRW15000, 1h

2:30PM

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Visit Seoul's largest royal palace, featuring beautiful architecture and the changing of the guard ceremony. The palace is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
KRW3000, 2h

5:00PM

Bukchon Hanok Village

Explore traditional Korean houses and experience the charm of historic Seoul neighborhoods, perfect for photography and cultural immersion.
Free, 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at Myeongdong Kyoja

Savour famous hand-made kalguksu (noodle soup) and mandu (dumplings) in the bustling Myeongdong area. Open until 9:30 PM.
KRW9000, 1h
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Day 2: Seoul Cultural Day

Seoul, South Korea on May 24, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Isaac Toast

Grab a delicious Korean-style toasted sandwich, perfect for a quick and tasty start. Many outlets open by 7:00 AM.
KRW4000, 30m

9:30AM

National Museum of Korea

Discover Korea’s rich history and heritage through extensive collections and exhibitions, open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Free, 2h

12:00PM

Lunch at Gwangjang Market

Experience authentic Korean street food like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap in one of Seoul’s oldest traditional markets.
KRW10000, 1h

2:00PM

Namsan Seoul Tower

Take a cable car or hike to the tower for panoramic views of Seoul. The tower is open from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
KRW10000, 2h

6:00PM

Dinner in Itaewon

Choose from a variety of international and Korean eateries in Itaewon, known for its diverse food culture. Try Korean BBQ at Maple Tree House from 5:00 PM onwards.
KRW30000, 1.5h
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Day 3: Architectural and Shopping

Seoul, South Korea on May 25, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Onion

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and specialty coffee at this trendy factory-style cafe in Anguk.
KRW8000, 1h

10:30AM

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Explore this futuristic landmark featuring design exhibitions, fashion shops, and unique architecture open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Free entry to the plaza; exhibition fees vary, 2h

1:00PM

Lunch at Jinokhwa Halmae Wonjo Dakhanmari

Enjoy a hearty chicken stew which is a local favorite near Dongdaemun Market. Open 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
KRW12000, 1h

3:00PM

Shopping at Myeongdong

Indulge in skincare, fashion, and souvenirs at one of Seoul’s busiest shopping districts. Most shops open until 10:00 PM.
Varies, 3h

7:30PM

Dinner at Yoogane

Try dakgalbi, a spicy stir-fried chicken dish, famous in Myeongdong. Open until 10:00 PM.
KRW12000, 1h
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Day 4: DMZ Tour

Seoul and DMZ, South Korea on May 26, 2025

7:00AM

Pickup for DMZ Tour

Join a guided DMZ tour from Seoul, visiting key sites like Dorasan Station, the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, and observation points. Tours run 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
KRW55000, 6h

2:30PM

Late Lunch at Tosokchon or Local Eatery

After the tour, relax with a late lunch at a nearby restaurant offering Korean traditional dishes.
KRW15000, 1h

5:00PM

Travel to Gangwon Province (Sokcho)

Take a bus or private transfer to Sokcho, a gateway city for nature lovers. Travel time approx. 3 hours.
KRW15000-30000, 3h

8:30PM

Dinner at Sokcho Seafood Market

Sample fresh seafood grilled on-site at this popular night market. Open until late night.
KRW15000, 1h
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Day 5: Seoraksan National Park

Sokcho, Gangwon Province, South Korea on May 27, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel or Local Cafe

Fuel up with a Korean style breakfast or western options at your accommodation or nearby cafe open from 7:00 AM.
KRW8000, 30m

8:30AM

Seoraksan National Park Hiking

Explore trails that range from easy walks to challenging climbs to Ulsanbawi Rock. The park is open year-round, and early entry avoids crowds.
KRW4000, 6h

3:00PM

Visit Sinheungsa Temple

See the largest bronze Buddha statue in Korea and beautiful temple grounds within Seoraksan National Park.
Free, 1h

6:30PM

Dinner at Daepo Port Restaurant

Enjoy fresh grilled fish and regional specialties by the harbor. Open until 9:00 PM.
KRW20000, 1h
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Day 6: From Sokcho to Gyeongju

Sokcho to Gyeongju, South Korea on May 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sokcho Cafe

Enjoy a light breakfast with coffee and pastries. Most cafes open by 8:00 AM.
KRW7000, 30m

9:00AM

Travel to Gyeongju

Take a bus or train to Gyeongju, estimated 5-6 hours by direct connection or transfers.
KRW30000, 6h

3:30PM

Check-in and Rest

Check into your hotel in Gyeongju and freshen up after the journey.
Varies, 1h

5:00PM

Visit Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond

Explore these illuminated royal palace ruins and the beautiful pond, a serene spot especially during sunset.
KRW3000, 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at Gyeongju Hwangnam Bread Store and Local BBQ

Try Hwangnam bread for dessert followed by Korean BBQ dinner at a local restaurant.
KRW15000, 1.5h
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Day 7: Gyeongju Historical Sites

Gyeongju, South Korea on May 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a day of sightseeing.
Included in hotel, 1h

9:00AM

Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites showcasing exquisite Buddhist architecture and art, open 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
KRW5000, 4h

1:30PM

Lunch at nearby restaurant

Enjoy traditional Korean dishes at a small restaurant near Bulguksa Temple.
KRW12000, 1h

3:00PM

Explore Tumuli Park

Walk among ancient royal tombs in this historic park highlighting Silla Dynasty culture.
Free, 1.5h

6:00PM

Dinner at Ssambap Restaurant

Taste ssambap, Korean dish with rice wrapped in leafy greens, offering healthy and delicious flavors.
KRW15000, 1h
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Day 8: Gyeongju to Busan

Gyeongju to Busan, South Korea on May 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a leisurely breakfast before departure to Busan.
Included in hotel, 1h

9:30AM

Travel to Busan

Take a direct train or bus to Busan, approximately 1.5-2 hours.
KRW15000, 2h

11:30AM

Check-in and Relax

Check into hotel and freshen up for afternoon tours.
Varies, 1h

12:30PM

Lunch at Jagalchi Fish Market

Savour fresh seafood from Korea’s largest fish market, with options to eat at nearby restaurants or market stalls open till evening.
KRW20000, 1h

2:00PM

Visit Gamcheon Culture Village

Explore this colorful hillside village known for art installations and charming streets. Open all day.
Free, 2h

4:30PM

Haeundae Beach

Relax or stroll on Busan’s most famous beach. Perfect spot for sunset views.
Free, 2h

7:30PM

Dinner at The Party Haeundae

Enjoy a variety buffet with international and Korean cuisines in the Haeundae area. Open until 9:30 PM.
KRW30000, 1.5h
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Day 9: Busan City Highlights

Busan, South Korea on May 31, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe de One Piece

Start your day with coffee and western style breakfast at this themed cafe in Busan. Opens at 8:00 AM.
KRW8000, 1h

9:30AM

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Visit this stunning sea-side Buddhist temple offering spectacular coastal views. Open 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Free, 2h

12:00PM

Lunch at Millak Raw Fish Town

Enjoy fresh sashimi and local delicacies by the beach at this popular Busan seafood street.
KRW20000, 1h

2:00PM

Busan Tower and Yongdusan Park

Take in panoramic views and stroll the scenic park in the heart of Busan. Tower open 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
KRW8000, 2h

5:00PM

Shopping at Gukje Market

Explore this large traditional market for souvenirs and local goods. Most stores open until 8:00 PM.
Varies, 2h

7:30PM

Dinner at Gukje Market Food Street

Sample various street foods such as hotteok, tteokbokki, and fried snacks to end your day.
KRW10000, 1h
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Day 10: Departure Day

Busan, South Korea on June 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a leisurely breakfast before preparing for departure.
Included in hotel, 1h

10:00AM

Travel to Busan Airport or Seoul (via KTX)

Head to Busan Gimhae Airport for your departure or take the KTX back to Seoul for international flights. Allocate ample time for transfers.
KRW40000, Varies based on choice
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