17 day itinerary for South Korea

Itinerary

South Korea is a vibrant country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. Here’s a fun and engaging 17-day itinerary that will let you experience the best of South Korea. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Seoul

• Morning: Arrive at Incheon International Airport. Take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul Station.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and freshen up. Head to Myeongdong for lunch and explore the bustling shopping streets.
• Evening: Visit N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy dinner at a local Korean BBQ restaurant.

## Day 2: Explore Seoul

• Morning: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony!
• Afternoon: Explore Bukchon Hanok Village and take a stroll through the traditional Korean houses.
• Evening: Head to Insadong for dinner and shop for unique souvenirs.

## Day 3: More of Seoul

• Morning: Visit the National Museum of Korea to learn about the country’s history.
• Afternoon: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Hongdae, known for its youthful vibe and street performances.
• Evening: Enjoy a night out in Hongdae, with live music and street food.

## Day 4: DMZ Tour

• All ## Day: Take a guided tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Visit key sites like the Third Infiltration Tunnel and the Dora Observatory.
• Evening: Return to Seoul and relax at a traditional jjimjilbang (Korean spa).

## Day 5: Travel to Busan

• Morning: Take a KTX train to Busan (about 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and head to Haeundae Beach for some sun and sand.
• Evening: Explore the vibrant nightlife at Haeundae and enjoy fresh seafood.

## Day 6: Discover Busan

• Morning: Visit the Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its colorful houses and artistic vibe.
• Afternoon: Head to Jagalchi Fish Market for lunch and try some local seafood delicacies.
• Evening: Visit the Busan Tower for stunning views of the city at sunset.

## Day 7: More Busan

• Morning: Explore Beomeosa Temple, a serene spot in the mountains.
• Afternoon: Visit the Busan Museum of Art and the nearby Shinsegae Centum City, the world’s largest department store.
• Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at Gwangalli Beach, with views of the Gwangan Bridge.

## Day 8: Gyeongju Day Trip

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom. Visit Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Evening: Return to Busan for dinner.

## Day 9: Travel to Jeonju

• Morning: Take a bus or train to Jeonju (about 3 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and explore Jeonju Hanok Village, famous for its traditional houses and street food.
• Evening: Try Jeonju bibimbap for dinner, a local specialty.

## Day 10: Jeonju to Incheon

• Morning: Visit the Jeonju National Museum and the beautiful Omokdae Pavilion.
• Afternoon: Travel to Incheon (about 3 hours).
• Evening: Explore Chinatown and enjoy some delicious Chinese-Korean fusion dishes.

## Day 11: Incheon to Suwon

• Morning: Visit the Incheon Songdo International Business District and take a walk along the Songdo Central Park.
• Afternoon: Head to Suwon (about 1 hour) and visit the UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in Suwon, known for its galbi (grilled ribs).

## Day 12: Travel to Jeju Island

• Morning: Fly from Gimpo Airport to Jeju Island (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Rent a car and explore the scenic coastline. Visit Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak).
• Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

## Day 13: Jeju Island Adventures

• Morning: Hike Hallasan Mountain, the highest peak in South Korea.
• Afternoon: Visit the Manjanggul Lava Tube, one of the longest lava tubes in the world.
• Evening: Relax at a beachside café and enjoy the sunset.

## Day 14: More Jeju Island

• Morning: Visit the beautiful beaches of Hyeopjae and Geumneung.
• Afternoon: Explore the Jeju Folk Village Museum to learn about traditional Jeju culture.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Korean meal at a local restaurant.

## Day 15: Return to Seoul

• Morning: Fly back to Seoul.
• Afternoon: Visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza and explore the nearby shopping areas.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Korean performance at the National Theater of Korea.

## Day 16: Last Day in Seoul

• Morning: Visit the trendy area of Gangnam and check out the COEX Mall.
• Afternoon: Explore the serene Bongeunsa Temple nearby.
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city.

## Day 17: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Perhaps visit the Lotte World Tower for one last view of Seoul.
• Afternoon: Head to Incheon International Airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A delightful 17-day adventure through South Korea, filled with culture, history, and mouthwatering food. Enjoy your trip! 🌏✈️