South Korea Travel Insights

South Korea Autumn Highlights: Seoul, Jeonju, Damyang & Sokcho - 8 Days

Nature lovers will relish this eight-day tour of South Korea's autumnal wonders. You'll ride cable cars up mountains crowned in fall foliage, visit temples within vibrant gardens, and wander pathways ablaze with color. Begin in the capital's peaceful Seoul Forest Park, then explore Jeonju's ancient districts and museums. Walk beneath a bamboo forest canopy in Damyang, then swap for avenues of autumnal ginkgo trees on Nami Island and the fall colors of Naejangsan and Seoraksan National Parks.

South Korea Winter Adventure: Seoul, Jeju Island, Sokcho & Pyeongchang - 8 Days

Grab your ski gear and thermal woolies for an eight-day winter getaway to South Korea. Discover Seoul's iconic sights covered in snow and ice, then fly to scenic Jeju Island to explore a volcanic crater, frozen peaks, and green tea fields before heading to the enchanting, snow-covered pagodas and ginkgo trees of Nami Island. Hike through the stark winter beauty of Seoraksan National Park, visit a mountain-top temple, and then hit the slopes at South Korea's largest ski resort, Yongpyong.

1 Week in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

One week in South Korea offers enough time to immerse yourself in the country's culture, cuisine, and pristine landscapes. On a highlights tour, you can tick off all three while staying in Seoul, Andong, and Gyeongju or focus on the street food scene of Busan and Jeju Island on a culinary trip. Those looking to discover the rich art of South Korea will find Seoul the place to be, while nature enthusiasts shouldn't miss the opportunity to explore the Western Coast of the Korean Peninsula.

How Many Days to Spend in South Korea

A 10-day visit is recommended for South Korea. The small size of the country, combined with good roads, multiple domestic airports, and excellent public transportation, makes it possible to travel efficiently. Ten days give you enough time for outdoor adventures on Jeju Island, coastal views and traditional markets in Busan, and historical sites and cultural activities in Andong—in addition to urban exploration and street food in Seoul.

2 Weeks in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks is enough time to tour South Korea's highlights, including natural and historical attractions in Seoul, Busan, and Sokcho. Travelers seeking outdoor adventures and cultural exploration will enjoy a traditional market, hiking, and beach time at Jeju Island as well as temples and river rafting in Pyeongchang. A wellness escape brings you to Yeongju to visit a healing center and Suncheon for its national garden and bamboo forest, while a highlights tour allows you to see the best of South Korea and Japan.

10 Days in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in South Korea, you can enjoy a well-rounded introduction to the country's bustling cities and historical sites on a highlights tour or take a deeper dive into Seoul, Andong, Gyeongju, and Busan's intriguing past on a history and culture-focused trip. Adventure seekers can enjoy the endless activities in Odaesan and Seoraksan National Parks, while K-drama fans should take advantage of an itinerary packed with iconic filming locations.

Outdoor Adventure & Cultural Exploration in South Korea - 14 Days

Offering an appealing mix of outdoor thrills and cultural experiences, this 14-day itinerary around South Korea begins on the beautiful Jeju Island. After hiking and visiting local markets, you'll travel to Busan for horseback riding and kayaking. Enjoy the rare experience of staying at a Buddhist temple overnight in Gyeongju before continuing to Pyeongchang for river rafting. Wrap up the trip with a city tour of Seoul.

Best of South Korea & Japan: Seoul, Busan, Tokyo & Kyoto - 14 Days

See the best of South Korea and Japan as you cross the two nations by car, plane, and train. Learn about culinary traditions at busy markets in Seoul and Busan, then explore volcanic Jeju Island's gardens and mountains. Jet off to Tokyo for Mount Fuji views and pop culture, and ride a bullet train to Kyoto for a tea ceremony and hike before indulging in street food in Osaka.

Discover South Korea's Western Coast Natural Wonders - 7 Days

From bamboo forests to mountain summits, discover some of South Korea's natural wonders along the peninsula's western coast. Touchdown in Seoul and admire the extensive grounds of Gyeongbokgung palace before heading south to explore Taeanhaean National Park and soaring over Daecheon Beach by sky bike. After checking out the traditional houses of Jeonju Hanok Village and wandering Damyan's lush bamboo forests, you'll take in the extraordinary views of Jirisan National Park.

South Korea Highlights: Nature & History From Seoul to Busan to Sokcho - 14 Days

Discover South Korea's past and present on this two-week loop from Seoul. Bookending your trip, you'll have five nights in the capital, exploring palaces like Gyeongbokgung, savoring street food, and discovering the North and South Korean conflict at the DMZ. You'll travel south to reach coastal Busan and nearby islands, then north to Seoraksan to see Sinheungsa Temple. Step back in time in Suwon, admire the natural wonders at Suncheon Bay, and walk across the waves at Songdo Beach.

South Korea Wellness Escape - 14 Days

Find inner peace and balance on this outdoorsy yet relaxing two-week adventure through South Korea, a country known for its health and wellness opportunities. Start in Seoul with spa treatments and temple hikes before you head to a remote forest for a range of natural therapies. Next is Busan, where you'll combine sightseeing with visits to a Korean bathhouse. Finish the trip by flying to Jeju Island to sip green tea at the source, explore ancient caves, and take long walks on the beach.

South Korea Ski & Snow Adventure: Seoul & Pyeongchang - 5 Days

Discover the beauty of South Korea on this five-day ski and snow adventure. Touch down in Seoul to tour the historic Gyeongbokgung palace and discover traditional hanok architecture before escaping to the Pyeongchang countryside. Here, you'll explore Nami Island's enchanting snow-covered parks and pedal along a disused railway line before strapping on your skis at Yong Pyong, South Korea's largest ski resort, where you'll spend two days whizzing down alpine slopes.

Active Adventure in South Korea: Hike, Bike & River Rafting - 10 Days

Get your adrenaline pumping on this 10-day adventure tour of South Korea. Highlights include horse riding and kayaking through geothermal landscapes on Jeju Island and hiking to South Korea's highest peak, Hallasan. Ride river rapids on a rafting trip in Odaesan National Park and cycle across Geoje Island. Along the way, you'll visit palaces, cultural villages, traditional markets, and isolated islets.

Best of South Korea: Seoul, Andong, Busan & Jeju Island - 10 Days

Explore South Korea's cultural highlights and natural wonders on this 10-day itinerary. The adventure begins in Seoul, where you'll explore the urban culture and street food scene. Visit the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) next before continuing to historic temples in Andong. Discover the beautiful coastline of Busan, then fly to Jeju Island to marvel at the spectacular scenery and take in views from the country's highest peak.

South Korea K-Drama Tour: Seoul, Jeonju, Gyeongju & Busan - 10 Days

Immerse yourself in Korean drama on this 10-day tour of South Korea. You'll visit the country's most famous locations, featured on film, from Seoul to Jeonju, Gyeongju, and Busan. Marvel at the capital's Gyeongbokgung palace and N Seoul Tower, then discover European-themed villages and the UNESCO-listed Seokguram Grotto. More movie-worthy highlights include Jeonju's ancient hanok houses, Daerengwon Tomb Complex, and Busan's Gamcheon Cultural Village.

History & Culture in South Korea: Seoul, Andong, Gyeongju & Busan - 10 Days

From temples and traditions to street food and high-speed trains, you'll learn about South Korea's history and culture on this 10-day tour. Start by exploring Seoul and South Korea's Demilitarized Zone before heading to Andong to step back in time at a folk village. Then it's on to Gyeongju to learn about Buddhist culture while staying in a temple, and Busan to discover more about the Silla Kingdom. You'll end your tour in Seoul, enjoying traditional performances and a hands-on pottery workshop.

South Korea Cultural Discovery: Seoul, Andong & Gyeongju - 7 Days

Discover South Korea's cultural wonders and history as you cover the peninsula from Seoul to Gyeongju on this weeklong trip. In Seoul, you'll visit the colorful Gyeongbokgung palace and wander bustling markets among locals for street food. In Yeoju, see royal tombs, and learn about the founding of Confucianism at an academy in Andong. Marvel at the sites that give Gyeongju its UNESCO World Heritage designation and then get a glimpse of 13th-century woodblocks in Hapcheon before returning to Seoul.

South Korea Culinary Adventure: Seoul, Busan & Jeju - 7 Days

Explore South Korea's diverse culinary traditions from cities to islands on this seven-day tour by train, car, and air, from Seoul to Busan to Udo. Learn Korean flavors and ingredients in a cooking class, and explore the vast Gyeongbokgung palace in Seoul. Board a train south to Busan and then join locals at Jagalchi Fish Market, buying seafood cooked to order. Then fly to tranquil Udo for beach time and village life to end your adventure.

Art & Culture of South Korea: Seoul, Andong & Gyeongju - 7 Days

Immerse yourself in South Korean art and culture on this weeklong highlights tour, during which you'll dip in and out of museums and galleries and learn about local traditions. Start in the capital Seoul to explore palaces, arty neighborhoods, and museums before heading to Andong to discover traditional art and culture. Next, step back in time in Gyeongju, where you'll find out more about the Silla Dynasty and see royal tombs. You'll return to Seoul to admire more modern art as well as traditional Korean hanok houses.

5 Days in South Korea - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With five days in South Korea, you can split your time between Seoul and Gyeongju and get to know the country's traditions and temples on a cultural tour, or head to Sokcho and explore Seoraksan National Park on a nature-focused itinerary. If you're curious to see South Korea's highlights in a unique way, consider a foodie tour filled with markets and street food or a K-drama itinerary of famous film sights while snow enthusiasts shouldn't miss time in Yong Pyong Ski Resort on a winter adventure.

South Korea Nature: Seoul & Sokcho - 5 Days

From palatial grounds, buzzing cities, and striking mountain peaks, see some of South Korea's most picturesque sites during this five-day itinerary. Take a cable car to Namsan Park, eat the country's best-known dishes (bibimbap!), and learn about the Joseon Dynasty in Seoul. Breathe the mountain air and return to nature at Seoraksan National Park to see the country from a range of perspectives.

South Korea Cultural Discovery: Seoul, Andong & Gyeongju - 5 Days

Uncover the history of South Korea's former rulers, folk arts, and religious roots on this five-day tour beginning in vibrant Seoul and traveling south to the heart of the country's cultural heritage. Walk with your guide at Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul so you don't get lost among its more than 7,000 rooms. See how masks punctuate traditional performances in Andong and time travel to the tomb hills of Silla Kings in Tumuli Park.

Eat Like a Local in South Korea: Seoul & Busan Food Tour - 5 Days

Discover how to eat like a local in South Korea on this five-day food tour of Seoul and Busan. Touch down in the pulsing capital, Seoul, where you'll visit royal palaces and learn to make classic Korean dishes during a cooking class with a local chef. Continue to Busan for more food adventures, including a trip to Jagalchi, the country's largest fish market, where you'll shop for fresh seafood, followed by a street food tour of the famous BIFF Square.

South Korea K-Drama Tour of Seoul - 5 Days

Experience a taste of South Korea's "Hallyuwood" as you hit the sights of Korean drama scenes on this five-day trip. You'll tour some of Seoul's most famous locations, which feature heavily in popular South Korean movies and TV shows. Visit ancient Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Mountain, and the iconic N Seoul Tower—you'll even have the chance to ride rollercoasters at Lotte World. Head out of the city for more K-drama hotspots, from European-themed villages to the tree-lined parks of Nami Island.

South Korea in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Experience South Korea at a seasonal crossroads in November, as fall gradually gives way to winter. Days are shortening, and temperatures falling, just as crowds and prices begin to decline. Spend the first two weeks of the month chasing the year's final fall leaves, seen to best advantage in the south at Naejangsan National Park. Southern cities, including Jeonju and Gwangju, offer slightly warmer temperatures and the opportunity to dive into South Korea's diverse history, culture, and gastronomy.

South Korea in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Travel to South Korea in October for stunning autumn views. This month's pleasant weather and fall foliage attract visitors from across the globe. Take in the changing leaves along a hiking trail at a national park, or enjoy the scenery while sightseeing in Seoul. For a day trip, visit Nami Island, a popular tourist destination year-round that is exceptionally breathtaking in the fall. While crowds can be high this month, October's popularity is well-deserved: it's one of the best months to visit South Korea.

South Korea in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

The fall season kicks off in South Korea in September. Cooler temperatures and an end to summer crowds make September ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Tour top attractions in Seoul, Busan, and Jeonju, explore the country's national parks and hiking destinations, or combine both for insight into South Korea's culture, history, and natural beauty.

South Korea in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

August marks the end of summer in South Korea, though temperatures and humidity remain high throughout the month. Take a tropical getaway to Jeju Island, where you can spot bottlenose dolphins. On the mainland, travel to the country's popular east coast beaches, but don't forget about the lesser-known (and often less crowded) western shores. The end of the month is the best time to visit, as temperatures and humidity levels drop and children return to school, alleviating crowds.

South Korea in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Temperatures and humidity levels reach an annual high in July, leading tourists to flock to South Korea's coastal cities, where the east coast offers world-class beaches and summer festivals. Soak up the sun on one of Busan's seven public beaches, or travel to Gangneung in the northeast to take in a legendary sunrise over the water. With children out of school, July can see significant crowds at beaches and tourist attractions, so be sure to arrive early to popular destinations.

South Korea in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Summer begins in South Korea in June as temperatures and humidity levels climb. June also brings the start of the country's monsoon season, with rainfall especially heavy along the southern coast. With crowds and prices low compared to the rest of the season, June offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy iconic summer activities like island hopping and beachgoing. Meanwhile, on rainy days, travelers can opt for indoor sightseeing or sample coffee and pastries at South Korea's famous cafés.

South Korea in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Explore South Korea at the tail end of spring in May. With cherry blossom crowds dissipated and the summer holidays yet to arrive, May offers the perfect opportunity to experience warm days and picturesque landscapes in a quieter atmosphere. Hit the major highlights on a cross-country tour of South Korea's top cities, or appreciate its natural beauty by visiting tea plantations and bamboo forests.

South Korea in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

South Korea is in full bloom in April, one of the most popular months to visit. In early April, travel to Jinhae for the country's most famous cherry blossom festival, which brings in more than two million visitors annually. Later in the month, take in flowery landscapes while hiking or camping in South Korea's national parks. Cherry blossom season brings higher crowds and flight prices, but travelers will find the season's popularity is well deserved for its mild weather and unforgettable views.

South Korea in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Signs of spring begin to peek through in March as frozen temperatures thaw and the first of South Korea's flower festivals kick off. Crowds are low compared to other spring months, making March an ideal time to experience the season in South Korea without paying premium airfare prices. Travel to the southern provinces for the warmest spring weather, where you can visit historical sites in Gyeongju, sample traditional dishes in Jeonju, and admire the bamboo forests of Damyang.

South Korea in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Explore South Korea at the height of winter in February, when crowds are low and snowy landscapes beckon. From winter sports and hiking to warming up in the waters of a traditional Korean bathhouse, there's something for every traveler this month. Visitors willing to endure the chilly temperatures can snag great deals on flights, hotels, and attractions while experiencing South Korea's major cities at a slower pace.

South Korea in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

As the coldest month of the year, January is South Korea's low season. Travelers kicking off the new year in Seoul will benefit from low crowds and prices, presenting the perfect opportunity to visit the country's most popular tourist destinations without the lines. Tour major cities like Incheon and Daegu or hit the slopes at one of South Korea's ski resorts in the northwest district of Pyeongchang. Cap off your trip by celebrating the beauty of winter at a seasonal festival.

South Korea in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December is a festive time in South Korea, with light displays and holiday festivals. Embrace the frosty temperatures and take advantage of reduced crowds as you visit top destinations, with evenings spent beneath the warm glow of colorful Christmas lights and lanterns. Hit the slopes for opening weekend at one of the country's best ski resorts, or take in picturesque winter landscapes on a hike through a national park.

Best Time of Year to Visit South Korea

The shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall are the ideal time to visit South Korea. Springtime visitors will see the country in full bloom during the cherry blossom season, while fall brings cool weather and vibrant autumn foliage. During summer, travelers can expect high temperatures and heavy rainfall, but the summer heat is ideal for beachgoing and island hopping. In the winter, adventure travelers will enjoy a variety of winter sports at South Korea's famous ski resorts.