Situated in South East Asia, South Korea is warm and welcoming with rich heritage and culture. The capital city offers many other cultural and artistic attractions, such as the Museum of Art, Seoul Fortress, and other old tombs. South Korea is not only rich in lakes, mountains, forests, and sanctuaries but also is the largest market for innovative cosmetics. Our South Korea Travel Guide shows you where to go, what to see, and when to travel. Start your journey with itinerary ideas and pre-travel tips, the best day trips, and lots more essential Korean travel advice. Let’s go!

The best time to visit South Korea is between March and May if you want to see the vibrant pink of the cherry blossoms in bloom. If you want to see the landscapes come alive as the leaves change in the cooler weathers, then we’d recommend visiting between September and November. Temperatures during these times are generally pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

June, July and August offer the best conditions for hiking, but the weather is hot and humid away from the mountains.

Winters in South Korea are bitterly cold, so we wouldn’t recommend visiting in December, January or February.

Korean food consists of two main parts rice and hot peppery flavours. A wide variety of fresh vegetables is consumed by the Koreans along with meat, fish or eggs and flavoured with a variety of herbs and spices. The most common ones are ginger, garlic, soybean sauce, and onions. Meals traditionally consist of soup, rice and side dishes of meats (or fish or poultry), along with vegetables, including kimchi (the national dish). Koreans usually eat their rice with a spoon, and they never raise the rice bowl off of the table towards their mouths. Korea is a drinking culture, and their national booze is soju, a clear, vodka-like drink.

South Korea is known for its cosmetics, and there are many places in the city to buy them at great prices. Myeongdong is considered as the center for shopping in Korea. You will find all the international brands such as Zara, H&M, UNIQLO, etc. with retail outlets also all the Korean brands are present here making everything available under one roof. Many stores in Myeongdong offer discounts for travellers to Korea. It is the place to shop for cosmetics and skincare. If you want to check out the wholesale market, then Dongdaemun is the place to be. Dongdaemun is cheap and dedicated to Korean fashion. Itaewon is famous for their custom tailored suits. Street shopping is excellent too, and there is a whole underground market for super high-quality fake bags. For Traditional craft and souvenirs, you can check out the market pace in Samcheongdong.

South Korea has one official language: Korean, although Japanese, English and Mandarin are widely spoken and understood. The Korean language has about 77 million native speakers.

1. SEOUL

Seoul has a rich and vibrant past and has become the economic, cultural and political heart of South Korea. Seoul is an energetic bustling city and the capital of South Korea. It is fast becoming a hugely popular destination in the region, along with Hong Kong. The city has a rich history which can be see through its several monuments, palaces and landmark gates that were built by the dynasties that have ruled Seoul over the centuries. It has so many neighbourhoods which are absolutely buzzing with energy, where you can head to a bar, let loose at a club, or shop till you drop. The Myeongdong is especially famous for its huge collection of fashion brands and most shoppers end up spending the most time here! Seoul’s history is also enriched by the fact that it has always been an important site for Jogye Buddhists in Korea, evident by the Buddhist temples and especially the Jogyesa Temple, the centre of all Buddhist learning in the country. And even more so, the city’s turbulent relationship with wars is permanently enshrined in the Korean War Memorial, taking you through the military history of Seoul and South Korea. Seoul is also home to many museums and areas of recreation, such as the Namsan Park which is also home to the N Seoul Tower, or the Cheonggyecheon, a stream that runs through the city and is a huge attraction for locals and tourists.

Places to visit in Seoul: Gyeonbokgung, War Memorial of Korea, National Museum of Korea, Myeong-dong, N Seoul Tower, Changdeokgung

2. BUSAN

Busan, Korea’s second city is a thriving port city far away from Seoul both physically and culturally. This popular summer destination features some of Korea’s most popular beaches and bars. Explore Busan and you’ll find sprawling markets, fresh seafood, film festivals, the world’s largest shopping mall, coastal temples, and lots more.

Busan is a city with some very photogenic sights. See the sunrise on the beach, hike around leafy coastal streets on the side of cliffs, and marvel at the wide range of (living!) seafood in the markets.

Places to visit in Busan: Beomeosa Temple, Jagalchi Fish Market, Gwangalli Beach, Taejongdae Resort Park, Haeundae Beach, Yonggungsa Temple

3. JEJU

Jeju, a volcanic island off the coast of South Korea, is known for its beaches, waterfalls, and green landscapes. It is the country’s largest and most popular tourist destination. With its picturesque scenery, mild climate, and abundance of activities and attractions, Jeju is an ideal place for a memorable vacation.

Location: Jeju is located off the southern coast of South Korea, about 60 km from the mainland. Highlights: Jeju is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in South Korea, including the popular Hyeopjae Beach. There are also numerous waterfalls, such as Cheonjiyeon Waterfall and Jeongbang Waterfall. The island is also home to the iconic Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Activities: There are a variety of activities to enjoy in Jeju, such as hiking, cycling, water sports, and fishing.

4. GYEONGJU

Gyeongju is the former capital of the Silla Kingdom, part of the Three Kingdoms part of Korean history. These days, Gyeongju is an open air museum housing Korea’s finest history and monument. This UNESCO World Heritage City is a must-see for those who want to learn more about Korea’s deep cultural past.

Gyeongju is packed with temples, palaces, historical sights, and monuments. But it’s not just the history that draws the crowds, the city is an area of natural beauty, lined with cherry blossoms and shadowed by misty mountains.

Places to visit in Gyeongju: Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Gyeongju National Museum, Anapji Pond, the Cheomseongdae Observatory, the Namsan Mountain Fortress

5. JEONJU

Jeonju is a culturally rich city in South Korea known for its traditional Korean cuisine, ancient palaces, and beautiful temples. It is home to the renowned Jeonju Hanok Village, which is a traditional Korean village with over 800 hanok (traditional Korean homes) and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Jeonju Film Festival is also held here every year. It is located in the North Jeolla Province, and is easily accessible by both bus and train. It is a great place to experience the traditional culture of South Korea without the hustle and bustle of a large city.

Places to visit in Jeonju: Hanok Village (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Jeonju Zoo, Jeonju Hanji Museum, Namwon City

6. INCHEON

Incheon is an ideal destination for travellers looking for an interesting mix of history, culture, and modernity. It is home to the world-famous Incheon International Airport, offering easy access to other destinations in Korea and abroad. It is also famous for its beaches, shopping malls, and cultural attractions like the Incheon Grand Park and Chinatown.

The city’s main tourist attractions include the Incheon Bridge, the longest bridge in South Korea, which connects the mainland to Yeongjong and Yongyu Islands. Visitors can also explore the Incheon Landing Operation Memorial Hall, a museum dedicated to the victory of the Korean War, and the Incheon Tower, offering spectacular views of the surrounding area. Families and adventure lovers can enjoy activities like zip-lining, bungee jumping, and windsurfing at the Incheon International Water Park. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife and shopping options, with many traditional markets and shopping centers.

Places to visit in Incheon: Incheon Bridge, Incheon Landing Operation Memorial Hall, International Water Park, Museum

7. DAEGU

Daegu, located in the southeastern part of South Korea, is a vibrant city with a lot of attractions for travelers. From its natural beauty, to its cultural richness, and modern architecture, Daegu has something for everyone. It is known for its beautiful parks, gardens, and Buddhist temples, as well as its historical sites and traditional markets.

The city is a great place to explore the local culture, with its many museums and art galleries. Tourists can also enjoy the nightlife, with its many clubs, bars, and restaurants. The city also has plenty of shopping options, with its bustling markets, and modern malls. Location wise, Daegu is located close to the Korean Demilitarized Zone, and the Gyeongju Historic Areas. It is also near to the popular beaches of Busan. Highlights of Daegu include the Dongseongno, a vibrant street lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, and the Ansim Plaza, a popular shopping mall. Activities in Daegu include sightseeing, shopping, and sampling the local cuisine. Tourists can also take part in the many festivals that are held throughout the year. Popular attractions include the Donghwasa Temple, which dates back to the 7th century, and the Daegu National Museum.

Places to visit in Daegu: Donghwasa Temple, Daegu National Museum, Dongseongno, Ansim Plaza

8. SEOGWIPO

Seogwipo is a vibrant city that is becoming increasingly popular among tourists. It is the second-largest city in Jeju Island and is home to some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country. It is home to many tourist attractions, such as the Manjanggul Cave, Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, and the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak. Here, travelers can experience the unique culture of the Jeju people, with its traditional festivals, local cuisine, and vibrant art scene.

For those who love nature, Seogwipo is the perfect destination. It has several national parks, including the Hallim Park, the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, and the Oedolgae Rock. Here, visitors can go on hikes, explore the caves, and take in the breathtaking views of the area. They can also enjoy activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating. For those looking for a unique cultural experience, Seogwipo has plenty to offer. It is home to some of the oldest and most beautiful temples in Korea, such as the Yongduam Rock, the Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, and the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak.

Places to visit in Seogwipo: Manjanggul Cave, Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, Hallim Park, Oedolgae Rock

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