7 day itinerary for South Korea

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Seoul

Welcome to South Korea! Start your adventure in the vibrant capital city of Seoul. After checking into your hotel, head out to explore the city. Begin with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most iconic palace in Seoul. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Korea as you stroll through the beautiful gardens and admire the traditional architecture. In the afternoon, take a walk along the lively streets of Insadong, known for its traditional tea houses, art galleries, and souvenir shops. End the day with a delicious Korean barbecue dinner in one of the local restaurants.

Day 2: Exploring Seoul

Start your day with a visit to the N Seoul Tower, located on Namsan Mountain. Take the cable car up to the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Next, head to the bustling neighborhood of Myeongdong, famous for its shopping streets and street food stalls. Indulge in some retail therapy and try out local delicacies like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes). In the evening, catch a traditional Korean performance at the Korea House or enjoy a night out in the trendy neighborhood of Hongdae.

Day 3: Day Trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

Embark on a fascinating day trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which separates North and South Korea. Visit the Joint Security Area (JSA) and step into one of the few places where you can actually cross the border into North Korea. Explore the Third Tunnel of Aggression, a tunnel dug by North Korea for potential invasion, and learn about the history and ongoing tensions between the two countries. Return to Seoul in the evening and relax with a traditional Korean spa experience at a jjimjilbang.

Day 4: Busan

Take a high-speed train to Busan, South Korea's second-largest city. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its colorful houses and stunning views. Explore the vibrant streets and alleyways, and don't forget to snap some Instagram-worthy photos. Next, head to Haeundae Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Korea. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shore and indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the nearby restaurants. End the day with a visit to the bustling Gukje Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and try local street food.

Day 5: Jeju Island

Catch a flight to Jeju Island, a beautiful volcanic island known for its stunning landscapes and natural wonders. Start your day with a visit to Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak. Hike up to the top and witness a breathtaking sunrise over the crater. Next, explore the Manjanggul Cave, one of the longest lava tubes in the world. Marvel at the unique rock formations and learn about the island's volcanic history. In the afternoon, relax on one of Jeju's beautiful beaches or visit the Jeju Folk Village to experience traditional Korean culture.

Day 6: Jeju Island

Continue your exploration of Jeju Island with a visit to the Jeju Loveland, a quirky sculpture park dedicated to the theme of love and sexuality. Admire the unique and sometimes provocative artwork displayed throughout the park. Next, head to the Jeju Teddy Bear Museum, where you can learn about the history of teddy bears and see a vast collection of these adorable toys. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Jeju-style seafood dinner and soak in the island's peaceful atmosphere.

Day 7: Return to Seoul

Catch a flight back to Seoul and spend your last day exploring the city at your own pace. Visit the trendy neighborhood of Gangnam and indulge in some shopping at the luxurious department stores and boutiques. Alternatively, you can visit the Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village with beautifully preserved hanok houses. End your trip with a visit to the vibrant Dongdaemun Market, where you can shop for clothes, accessories, and souvenirs. Don't forget to try some delicious street food before bidding farewell to South Korea.