2 Weeks in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: South Korea Highlights: Nature & History From Seoul to Busan to Sokcho

Discover the best of South Korea on this highlights itinerary from Seoul to Busan, with stops in Jeonju, Gwangju, Yeosu, and Sokcho. This itinerary is perfect for history and nature enthusiasts, as you'll explore ancient palaces, temples, and tombs while also visiting the sobering Korean Demilitarized Zone, Seoraksan National Park, and the Boseong Tea Plantation.

Begin your journey in Seoul, where you'll explore the impressive Gyeongbokgung palace complex and visit the Korean Demilitarized Zone. Next, travel to Jeonju to discover the historic Hwaseong Fortress and Hanok Village before heading to Gwangju to experience the Juknokwon (Bamboo Forest) and Mudeungsan National Park. Continue to Yeosu and visit the Boseong Tea Plantation and Suncheon Bay Nature Reserve. In Busan, take in the colorful sights of Gamcheon Culture Village and the sprawling coastal Haedong Yonggungsa Temple before checking out Gyeongju's ancient Silla Dynasty architecture.

The adventure continues to Gangneung, where you'll explore Hwaseongul cave and sample eats like dakgangjeong (sweet-and-spicy fried chicken) at Jungang Market. You'll reach Sokcho on Day 11 to ride a cable car for Dolsan mountain views in Seoraksan National Park and the historical Sinheungsa Temple. Returning to Seoul, you'll stop at Cheongpyeongsa temple for Buddhist architecture and landscaped gardens and Nami Island along the way. Finally, thrill to amusement rides and bright lights at Lotte World Theme Park before readying for your departure from Seoul the next day. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Outdoor Adventure & Cultural Exploration in South Korea

This itinerary through South Korea combines outdoor adventures and cultural exploration, which is ideal for active travelers. You'll hike Hallasan, spend a night in a Buddhist temple, bike and kayak in coastal Busan, and whitewater raft on the Donggang River. Along the way, visit Seoraksan National Park, explore the vibrant city of Seoul, and immerse yourself in South Korea's rich history and traditions.

Begin your adventure on Jeju Island, where you'll explore the ancient lava tube of Manjanggul Cave and Seongsan Ilchulbong, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Hike the scenic Hallasan mountain and visit the Seogwang Tea Plantation before discovering the beautiful Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls. Fly to Busan in the south for a horseback ride and kayak adventure along the shoreline, followed by a visit to Haedong Yonggungsa temple and Haeundae Beach. Explore Gamcheon Culture Village, Songdo Skywalk, and Jagalchi Market before heading to Hallyeo Marine National Park and cycling through nearby Geoje Island.

Transfer to Gyeongju to visit the historic Bulguksa temple and Seokguram Grotto, then enjoy a temple stay experience at Golgulsa. Explore the Donggang River by raft and take in the sights from the Byeongbangchi Skywalk. Continue north to Sokcho, visiting Samyang Ranch, Sokcho Beach, and Jungang Market. Discover the beauty of Seoraksan National Park and Sinheungsa Temple before ziplining on Nami Island en route to Seoul. Conclude your trip with a guided city tour of Seoul, visiting Gyeongbokgung palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Namsan Park before departure. Learn more

Itinerary #3: South Korea Wellness Escape

Travelers wanting relaxation will enjoy this wellness escape, featuring luxury spa treatments, meditative temple visits, and rejuvenating forest experiences. Start in Seoul with a guided city tour and a ginseng oil spa before taking to the trails in Mount Bukhansan National Park and spending two days at the National Healing Center in Yeongju. Complete your journey with coastal adventures in Busan, a wellness tour in Suncheon, and a full-day tour of Jeju Island.

Begin your South Korean wellness getaway in Seoul, where you'll explore the city at your own pace, enjoy a luxury spa treatment with red ginseng oil, and embark on a full-day city tour. Next, hike to the Jingwansa temple in Mount Bukhansan National Park, participate in a tea and meditation ceremony, and savor a traditional vegetarian meal. Transfer to Yeongju and experience an overnight forest therapy program at the National Healing Center. After rejuvenating in Yeongju, head to Busan to visit the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and Haeundae Beach.

In the second half of your trip, take a guided tour of Busan, followed by a Songdo Cloud Walk and cable car experience as you transfer to Suncheon. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Suncheon Bay National Garden and its Wetland Zone, then explore the Juknokwon (Bamboo Forest) on a day trip. Fly to Jeju Island, where you'll participate in tea and meditation at Chuidasun Resort and take a full-day tour of the island, visiting Hyeopjae Beach, O'Sulloc Green Tea Plantation, and Seogwipo Healing Forest. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Best of South Korea & Japan: Seoul, Busan, Tokyo & Kyoto

Discover the best of South Korea and Japan on this itinerary featuring visits to Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island, Tokyo, and Kyoto. Suited to those who appreciate history, culture, and cuisine, you'll experience highlights such as the Korean Demilitarized Zone, Gamcheon Culture Village, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, and guided tours of iconic temples and castles.

Your journey through South Korea and Japan begins in Seoul, where you'll explore Gyeongbokgung palace, learn to cook traditional Korean dishes, including classics like bibimbap and kimchi, and take a day trip to the Korean Demilitarized Zone, a 2.5-mile (4 km) wide buffer zone between North and South Korea. Next, fly southeast to Busan and visit the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and Gamcheon Culture Village, and lie out on Songdo Beach if the weather is favorable. Fly to Jeju Island to wander Seongeup Folk Village's 3,000 thatch roof and lava rock homes and sample green tea at Seogwang Tea Plantation.

Upon arrival in Tokyo on Day 8, immerse yourself in Japanese culture with a food tour in the Ueno district and visit the iconic Senso-ji temple. Venture on a day trip to Arakurayama Sengen, cruise Lake Kawaguchi, and enjoy a whiskey tasting. Continue to Kyoto to visit the Kinkaku-ji temple, Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, and participate in a traditional tea ceremony. Finally, explore Osaka's rich history with a tour of the Osaka Castle and the Umeda Sky Building before departing from Osaka. Learn more

More Great South Korea Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to South Korea? Check out these other South Korea itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.