South Korea itinerary for up to 3 weeks

Planning a South Korea itinerary can be an exciting yet daunting task, since there’s so much to see in this surprising destination. With its wealth of historical sites, vibrant culture, delectable cuisine and stunning landscapes, South Korea is a country that begs to be explored. Though often overlooked by travelers, it offers an intriguing blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity.

Your South Korea itinerary could include everything from exploring the bustling streets of Seoul to experiencing the tranquility of Jeju Island, tasting mouthwatering food, or stepping into history at the DMZ bordering North Korea.

No matter what your travel preferences are, this guide will help you uncover hidden gems and must-visit spots in South Korea for an unforgettable journey.

South Korea itinerary: overview

If you're planning a trip to the Land of Morning Calm, check out these suggested itineraries that gather some of its highlights and lesser-known places.

We’ll first talk you through some ideas of places you can see depending on the duration of your trip, and then we’ll go into further detail about a few of South Korea’s attractions and tips on how to immerse yourself in Korean culture.

South Korea itinerary for one week

Your one-week journey begins in Seoul, the bustling capital city where tradition meets modernity. Visit hip neighborhoods like Hongdae or Gangnam, and savor mouthwatering Korean BBQ at local eateries.

The second half of your week could include a day trip to Gyeongju - often referred as "the museum without walls", where you might also spend the night. Delve into history with UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto.

From Seoul, you can also take a day tour to South Korea's Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).

South Korea for two or three weeks

In addition to exploring Seoul and Gyeongju during your first week, extend your stay by heading south towards Busan on the second week.

Enjoy fresh seafood markets and hikes through scenic trails around Beomeosa temple. You can also take a ferry ride across Yeosu's archipelago which consists over 300 beautiful islands.

If you only have two weeks in South Korea, you can spend a couple of them in Busan and then head to  the lovely Jeju Island, often dubbed 'Korean Hawaii'. 

If you have more time, we suggest staying in each destination for a bit longer, and maybe heading westward from Busan toward Jeollanam-do province - a haven for nature lovers featuring lush mountains, pristine coastlines, and tranquil tea plantations.

Best places to visit in South Korea

The above itineraries are just starting points, of course. Keep an eye open to discover hidden gems. And now we'll talk about some of the best attractions on your South Korea itinerary.

Seoul: the heartbeat of South Korea

Seoul, the capital city, is usually where most travelers start their South Korea itinerary. This vibrant metropolis is home to over half of the country’s population, presenting an exciting fusion between towering skyscrapers and grand palaces from ancient times.

The city offers everything from historical sites such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace to modern attractions like N Seoul Tower and Lotte World Theme Park.

Not to mention its vibrant shopping districts, like Myeongdong and Dongdaemun Market, along with delicious food spots throughout Hongdae Street Food Zone or Namdaemun Market.

If you're keen on stepping back into time, Bukchon Hanok Village should be your next stop. This village boasts hundreds of traditional Korean houses called hanoks that date back to the Joseon Dynasty.

It’s also worth experiencing traditional culture in Insadong, a cultural hub teeming with traditional allure. Wander through its narrow alleys lined with artisanal boutiques selling authentic crafts - perfect souvenirs encapsulating your visit to South Korea. 

Moreover, take time out at one of their local tea houses where you can sip on traditional teas while soaking up Korean culture.

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

An eye-opening experience awaits at South Korea's Demilitarized Zone, located on the border with North Korea - an unparalleled experience. It gives insights into the ongoing conflict between North and South Korea. 

Visiting the DMZ is only possible with a tour group and it’s accessible on a day trip from Seoul. You get to see observatories with views across the border, infiltration tunnels dug by North Koreans, and Dorasan Station.

Gyeongju: ancient city of Silla Kingdom

About 3h30 away from Seoul, Gyeongju should be your next stop for its rich history dating back thousands of years, when it was the capital of Silla Dynasty (57 BC - 935 AD).

You can explore Bulguksa Temple, which is a UNESCO world heritage site; Seokguram grotto, known for its stone Buddha statue; Cheomseoungdae Observatory, that dates back more than thousand years ago, among other ancient relics scattered around this historic town.

Busan: coastal delight with urban charm

Your South Korea itinerary will be much more interesting if you can include Busan, a city famous for Haeundae Beach, offering stunning sunrise views.

Apart from enjoying sun-soaked afternoons at beaches or exploring seafood markets near Jagalchi Fish market area, Busan's urban charm lies within Gamcheon Culture Village, known as Korean Santorini due its colorful houses built upon hilly terrain overlooking the sea.

This artistic haven started as a refuge during the Korean War but has since transformed into one exciting canvas featuring murals and sculptures created by residents.

Jeju Island: the Hawaii of Korea

The Hawaii of Korea, as it’s often called, Jeju is known for its beaches, hikes, fresh air and seafood. You can fly there from Seoul or Busan, and if you’re short on time it might be good to rent a car or motorbike, because public transport there tends to be slow.

Jeju boasts volcanic landscapes, sandy beaches and hiking trails along Hallasan Mountain, a dormant volcano standing tall at the center of the island. You might even spot some Haenyo - the famous female divers collecting shellfish deep under the sea.

While you’re there, make sure you watch the sunrise at the top of Seongsan Ilchulbong, hike around Seopjikoji, walk the Jusangjeolli Lava Cliffs and see the famous Jeongbang Waterfall, hat falls directly into the ocean.

Other ideas for your South Korea itinerary

Traveling isn't just about the places we visit, but the experiences we have and how much we learn from them. We'll now suggest a few activities you could include in your South Korea itinerary if you're looking for a deeper immersion in local culture.

Savoring Korean Cuisine

South Korea is a foodie's paradise, offering an impressive range of culinary delights, from bustling street markets serving up spicy rice cakes and savory pancakes to upscale restaurants offering sumptuous meals. 

Korean cuisine provides another window into their culture and it’s probably going to be one of the highlights of your trip.

In the bigger cities like Seoul or Busan, you'll find streets lined with vendors selling cheap yet delicious local delicacies. For instance, Myeongdong is a haven for adventurous eaters.

You can try Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), Pajeon (Korean pancake), or even Sannakji (live octopus). And of course, Korean cuisine isn't complete without mentioning Korean BBQ.

This unique dining experience involves grilling your own meat at the table - it's not just about eating, but also socializing.

For those who want to delve deeper into this vibrant world of flavors, consider joining a Korean cooking class during your South Korea itinerary. This will provide you with insider knowledge on popular dishes and local culture.

Learning some Taekwondo

To fully experience South Korean culture, you can also learn some Taekwondo, the country's native martial art form. Taekwondo isn't just about physical prowess. It also centers around the philosophy of respect for yourself and others. This discipline fosters not only strength but character development as well.

You can learn more about it by visiting local dojangs or Kukkiwon, the World Taekwondo Headquarters located in Seoul. In major cities like Seoul or Busan, numerous places offer live demonstrations where seasoned practitioners exhibit their skills with precision and grace.

Several schools across South Korea also welcome beginners interested in experiencing taekwondo firsthand.

Volunteering in South Korea

If you're looking for doing more than basic tourism in South Korea, consider signing up for a volunteering or work exchange program through Worldpackers, a platform that fosters collaborative travel experiences.

With these programs you get free accommodation at hostels, guesthouses, NGOs, farms and other types of hosts by offering them a few hours of voluntary help every week. This could involve tasks like helping with reception duties, gardening, maintenance, teaching English, or bartending, for instance. That allows you to either put your talents to use or develop new skills.

In return, not only do you save a lot of money, since accommodation is one of the biggest expenses in most trips, but also immerse yourself more deeply into local life. It's a truly transformative experience! For more information, read our articles about how Worldpackers works.

Check out some of the awesome work exchange opportunities in South Korea:

• Help with housekeeping at a guesthouse and explore Busan
• Collaborate with farming and teaching at a strawberry farm
• Share your language, culture, and make friends in Gangnam, Seoul
• Help out at a glamping in Geochang, South Korea

Planning your trip to South Korea

Besides deciding on the places you’ll visit, while planning your South Korea itinerary you might have some practical questions about the country. To help you prepare, we've compiled essential information that will make your visit smooth and enjoyable.

How can I get around South Korea?

Getting between the cities on your South Korea itinerary is best done by bus, and you can also take trains for the most popular routes. Some people prefer to fly between Seoul, Busan, and Jeju, though. Within the main cities, you can get around by bus, metro, and taxis. In smaller areas, you’ll find buses and sometimes taxis too.

When is the best time to visit South Korea?

For the most pleasant weather, consider visiting South Korea in May, September, or October. These months offer sunshine, beautiful foliage, and comfortable temperatures. If you prefer less crowded shoulder seasons, April or June are good options, with slightly cooler or warmer weather respectively.

Fall (September-November) offers mild weather along with stunning fall foliage whereas Spring (April-June) brings beautiful cherry blossoms blooming across country. Beware that summers are very hot in Korea, whilst winters are extremely cold.

Do people speak English in South Korea?

The primary language spoken in South Korea is Korean. In major cities like Seoul or Busan, many locals understand basic English, especially among younger generations. However, it's still beneficial to learn some basic Korean phrases.

The written language in Korea is called hangeul, which looks different from the Roman alphabet and requires prior study to read it. Our advice is to have Google Translate on hand and use its speaking function.

How is internet connectivity in South Korea?

South Korea generally has excellent internet connectivity. Free public Wi-Fi is widely available in major transit points and tourist attractions, but if you prefer constant connectivity, you can purchase a pre-paid sim card.

Is South Korea safe?

While South Korea and North Korea are technically still in a state of war, the country is very safe for travelers.  In fact, South Korea ranks very high when it comes to safety index globally, making this destination particularly appealing for solo travelers too.

However, like in any destination, it's essential to exercise caution. For more information, you can check latest advisories from reputable sources such as U.S Department Of State's Country Information Page For South Korea.

What’s the currency in South Korea?

The official currency of South Korea is the Korean won (KRW), represented by the symbol ₩ or 원 in Korean. Note that the South Korean won is distinct from the currency used in North Korea.

Most places in South Korea accept credit cards, but not all of them take international cards, so it’s good to keep some cash on you just in case.

What’s the cost of traveling in Korea?

Your travel budget will depend on several factors such as accommodation choices, dining preferences, transportation methods etc. To give you a rough idea, backpackers might spend around $30-$50 per day while mid-range travelers could expect about $60-$100 daily expenses.

If you want to save a lot of money on your trip to South Korea, a great idea is to do one or more Worldpackers' work exchange programs. A significant chunk of travel expenses usually goes towards accommodations, but if you sign up for the platform, you’ll find it’s possible to avoid that while also enjoying a life-changing trip.

Ready to start your South Korea itinerary?

The options for discovering South Korea's vibrant culture and heritage are boundless. If this sounds like your kind of adventure, then why wait? Start planning today!

With Worldpackers, not only can you explore South Korea at your own pace but also contribute positively towards local communities through volunteer travel. It's time to get your belongings ready and embark on an unforgettable experience!