The 12 Best Places In South Korea To Visit
South Korea is an incredible country to discover. One of the things that I love most about this country is the diversity it offers. It’s not just that it has stunning views and coastlines that are protected, but it also has the most stunning spots within South Korea that are dotted all over the country.
This is the beauty of South Korea, it’s got many destinations that I’m pretty sure you’ll want to visit. It’s a country that you’ll only visit once and wonder which country and what route you’ll take traveling back to. This is my situation at the very least.
Have a look at the top places in South Korea to visit. Enjoy the most memorable trip you’ve ever had! Try our English to Korean name generator tool in order to generate Korean names.
1. Gyeongju
The coast is located in the southeast, Gyeongju is one of the most beautiful destinations to visit in South Korea to visit if you are a lover of the past.
If you’re a fan of Temples go straight for the Bulguksa Temple which dates to the 8th Century. However, you could also head to The Seokguram Grotto where you’ll find one huge Buddha. The best part is that this is an ideal place to catch the sunrise.
After you’ve explored these grottos and temples and grotto, make sure to visit the Gyeongju National Museum which has an incredible collection of historical treasures inside. If you’re not into museums visit (relatively close to) Gyeongju National Park. The views and the landscape are breathtaking.
If you are looking for a delicious meal, make sure to head towards Cheonnyeon Hanu Bomun, which is home to some of the most delicious Korean meat in the city.
2. Seoul
Seoul is definitely among the most desirable cities in South Korea to visit. Not only is it expansive, but it’s packed with localities, history, and influences that are a lot of exciting to explore.
In the last 600 years, Seoul has been Korea’s capital city, which is awash in the past. This is why a number of historical structures are situated here and are great to spend a relaxing weekend.
When you arrive, be sure you visit the top places to see within Seoul and spend time in the stunning neighborhoods scattered across the city. After a few hours of wandering through the city, visit Changdeokgung Palace, head to Myeongdong to discover a sprawling shopping center, and finally go to Bukchon Hanok Village.
If you’re in the mood for more historical temples, go right to the Jogyesa Temple, the Bongeunsa Temple as well as Gwanghwamun Gate. Gwanghwamun Gate.
And if you’re looking for a delicious food item, make your way toward Jungsik for some delicious gourmet dining. In all honesty, there are over 100,000 restaurants to choose from in Seoul which means you’ll be spoiled for choices. If you’re struggling to decide to eat, check out our article on the top food options in Seoul.
If you’re looking for top hotels in the city centers, make sure to check in to the L7 Myeongdong it’s an incredible place to unwind and rest up.
3. Jeju City
It is located at the top of Jejudo Island, Jeju City is among the most beautiful cities to visit in South Korea to partner with an excursion to Jejudo Island as well. Being South Korea’s southern city, it’s a favored destination for South Koreans, too.
If you’re in the area, make sure you go to Dongdaemun market which is a traditional Korean Market selling everything you can imagine. If you’re not interested in that then head in the other direction to Jejumok Ghana. It is comprised of seven historic buildings, the former central government building dates all the way to the 14th century.
After taking a break from the city be sure to go towards Seongsan Ilchulbong, too. It’s the gigantic volcanic tuff created through volcanic eruptions under the sea. It’s surreal to behold.
4. Suwon
The city is located in Suwon, which is located within the Gyeonggi Province. Suwon is among the top destinations to visit in South Korea to visit in the northwest region of the county.
Today, one of the most popular spots to visit is the Fortress as well as the enormous gates with the towering pagodas. Additionally, just a few minutes from the Palace of Hwaseong Haenggung which is easy to visit after the fortress. Make sure you don’t overlook the amazing banquet hall It’s amazing.
If you’re looking for something a bit more unusual visit Mr. Toilet House. It’s one of the only toilet museums and is easily one of the most bizarre and unique museums you’ll visit. Ha!
The museum is about 30 minutes from the city’s center and is generally open to the public for free. It’s packed with sculptures, models, and statues of toilets, poop, and everything associated with bathrooms.
5. Busan
To be truthful, Busan is one of the most desirable destinations to be in South Korea to visit due to its position. Situated on the southeast coast It’s the ideal spot to go if you’re looking for some urban life but also to enjoy the amazing beaches and mountains.
If you’re in the area, be sure to check out the vibrant (and bustling) Haeundae Beach and take an excursion towards The 14th Century coastal temple of Haedong Yonggungsa. If you’re not a fan of beaches then take a walk (or on the road) towards Taejongdae. It’s a vast beach park with breathtaking views of the area. Make sure you wear your hiking boots, as the trails aren’t easy.
If you are looking for a fantastic accommodation option in Busan look into Solaria Nishitetsu which has one of the most desirable spots in the city.
6. Hwaseong
A short distance from Seoul, Hwaseong is one of the most beautiful locations in South Korea to visit for an afternoon trip.
When you arrive, be sure to go to the UNESCO World Heritage sites like Hwaseong Fortress and head over to the Yongjusa Temple, too. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, go to Everland to ride the enormous wooden rollercoaster.
For a delicious Korean BBQ, go to Bonsuwon Galbi Their Kalbi is delicious.
7. Gunsan
It is situated on the bank’s Geum River. Geum River, Gunsan is an amazing South Korean city to visit for several days of exploration. After arriving, make your way toward Hirotsu House, see the Dongguksa Temple, and explore the Modern History Museum (which is perfect for a rainy day).
And don’t be a fool and visit Seonyudo Island too. It’s linked by a lengthy bridge and is worth a trip to view the stunning beach and mountains.
8. Gwangju
It is located in the southern part of the country Gwangju is among the top destinations within South Korea to visit which offers a unique mixture of modern and old.
If you are in the area, make sure you visit the Jeungsimsa Temple and its stone pagoda. Also, take a tour of and explore the Mudeungsan Mountain National Park, and take a gondola ride at Manji. The restaurant serves one of the most delicious Korean BBQs you can find in the city. It’s so filling, you’ll be able to go back to the mattress. Be sure to taste the pork chops… They’re delicious.
9. Chuncheon
In the northern areas of Korea Chuncheon is one of the cities worthwhile to visit when traveling across the Gangwon Province.
After arriving, be sure you’ve spent some time in the historical Cheongpyeongsa Temple and see the cherry blooms (around Soyangho Lake) in the spring.
If you’re looking to experience something different, you can visit the International Mime Festival too. The festival begins towards the end of May and runs through June 2nd. It’s definitely worth watching the fireworks and the music which make it so enjoyable!
10. Andong
It is located in the Nakdong River, Andong is one of the most beautiful spots in South Korea to visit if you enjoy museums and the past.
If you’re in Seoul, be sure to stop by at least the Folk Museum which showcases local traditions and folklore from the region. If you prefer, visit Hahoe Folk Village which serves traditional Korean food in historic buildings.
After that, make sure to visit then the Dosanseowon Confucian School, too. It’s a spot that appears to be a place where time is in a still place. If you’re using public transportation there, ensure you catch bus number sixty-seven in the city center itself. It’s about 30-minutes for the entire trip.
11. Daegu
With mountains surrounding it, Daegu is a tidy and pretty sparkly city worth a visit (if it makes sense?). One of the most well-known aspects of Daegu is its Oriental Medicine Cultural Center but there’s more to it than this.
After arriving, be sure you relax in Donghwasa. The gardens are beautiful and it’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy a beautiful morning. You can also go to the hill of Apsan Park and follow the trails and routes that traverse the area.
If you are looking for a quick foodie experience, go into Sangju Shikdang, which serves delicious Korean food items. Don’t expect fancy food and you may not receive a menu, however, the food is delicious!
12. Gangneung
Nestled inside the province located in the province of Gangwon-do, Gangneung is one of the top destinations in South Korea to visit if you are looking for a complete schedule. There is plenty to see and do! This is the kind of city you could go to for a week, and not be able to see or experience all of it.
When you arrive, make sure you explore Gyeongpo Beach, visit Gangneung Seongyojang, and take in the view from Gyeongpodae.
