If you’re travelling to Korea, you’re probably already thinking of many amazing places you want to visit, but if it’s your first time or you’re looking for a little bit more of extra guidance, this list has you covered. Here are 10 full-day trips you can take in Korea!
1 – The DMZ
As one of the most historical and political places within the whole of the Peninsula, the demilitarised zone lies at the border between North and South Korea. Although this is somewhere far too dangerous to visit alone, there are many guided tours which are available to be booked at a range of different prices, ranging from a $38 half day tour to a $126 full day DMZ and JSA (Joint security area) tour, there’s something for everyone’s budget! On these tours you can visit famous areas such as the freedom house, the bridge of no return and Dora observatory, as well as many more!
2 – Lotte World And Everland
Theme parks are fun for everyone, no matter your age, and South Korea boasts two very famous, very fun theme parks. Lotte world can be found in Seoul, and Everland is located just outside of the capital, in Gyeonggi-do, but is definitely worth the venture. Everland is also easily accessible by the Seoul subway and free shuttle bus. Although not a solely culture based day out, it’s perfect for anyone visiting Korea for a longer period in need of a thrilling and fun day out.
3 – Gyeongbokgung Palace
Known for being one of the most famous historical landmarks in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, and is still easily accessible by the public for viewings and tours. Although you can pay to get in, there are many hanbok rental stores nearby, where you can try on and rent a hanbok, and then even get into the palace for free if you’re wearing one! This makes for a super-authentic cultural experience where you can feel like you have completely stepped back in time to become Joseon royalty!
4 – Gamcheon Culture Village
If you have plans to visit Busan, one place you certainly must visit is Gamcheon cultural village. This colourful and breathtaking village, built at the foot of a coastal mountain, is inhabited mostly by the elderly, but is a tourist hot spot for people of all ages. There are many small and adorable stalls, shops, eateries and cafes in and amongst the quirky little houses, and allows you to step into a true representation of coastal Korean culture frozen in time.
5 – Bulguksa Temple
Located in Gyeongju, this temple is a must-see UNESCO world Heritage site for all those travelling to the lower regions of the peninsula. Personally, I would recommend taking an organised day trip or tour to this temple, as it can be quite difficult to reach in terms of public transport, and once you get there, it’s even more astounding when you have someone talking you through each aspect of the temple and being able to answer all of your pressing questions. The views both of and from this temple’s location are absolutely astounding, and are sure to have even your Instagram followers in awe.
6 – Myeongdong and N.Seoul Tower
Dubbed the ‘street food capital of Korea’ Myeongdong is an area of Seoul which prides itself on delicious street snacks and shopping. Fashion and Makeup shop-a-holics should put aside at least a day to explore all of the beautiful stores and boutiques on the main shopping street, and foodies should aim to feast on all many delicious Korean street snacks available, cooked fresh by the vendors and served for very reasonable prices. Within walking distance is the famous N.Seoul tower (formerly known as Namsan tower) which has been seen in many Korean TV dramas and reality shows. It’s the perfect place to look over the whole of Seoul and is beautifully illuminated at night. If a day of shopping and eating topped off with a with a breathtakingly beautiful experience sounds like a good day out to you, then this is certainly the area you should head to for a day out in the heart of Seoul.
7 – Nami Island
Although not as famous among tourists as many of the other Islands, this tiny island, located in the middle of the river in Chuncheon boasts beautiful scenery, gardens and galleries, and is known for being the home of ‘Petit France’ a tiny and adorable French themed park. This tiny Island was the filming location for many famous TV shows and K-Dramas, such as ‘We got married’ and ‘Secret Garden’, making it the perfect place to visit for Korean drama fans, those looking to explore nature and those wanting to visit somewhere cute and quirky alike!
8 – Haeundae
Another one in the lower regions of the country, this area of Busan is the perfect day out if you’re travelling in warmer weather – Just be warned – It can get pretty busy in the heart of the summer months! Spend the day at the beach, where you can rent inflatable rings for fun in the sea, parasols to keep you cool, buy and eat bingsu (a shaved ice dessert), prepared by hand right in front of you and even order a delivery of fried chicken for lunch, all without stepping foot off of the beach! After that head to dinner at a nearby restaurant or feast on street food (keep an eye out for foods sold here that are not available to buy in Seoul!) and then, if you’re up for it, head to a bar, where you can drink, meet new friends and socialise before heading off to spend the remainder of the night in a club or Noraebang (Karaoke room). Alternatively, for those who are less of the party type, or want to get in out of the sun for a while, check out a PC bang (similar to an internet cafe) where you can play games and browse the internet to your heart’s content, all for a very low price! Haeundae is also home to Sea Life Busan, which is a great place to stop off if you’re looking for indoor activities.
9 – Jeju Island
One of Korea’s most famous islands, Jeju island is a beautiful escape from the busy city life found in Seoul and Busan. If you get chance, this is a perfect place to visit for a short vacation or weekend during longer trips, however if you’re feeling up for it, you can still spend a day here and thoroughly enjoy the beautiful beaches and scenic parks the astounding island has to offer.
10 – A Night Out In Hongdae
Although this is a list of ‘day trips’ for this one, you might want to spend the day sleeping in preparation instead. Hongdae is an area of Seoul, famous for being a place where many students live and study, as well as party after the day’s classes are over. If nightlife is your thing, head down to Hongdae in the early evening for dinner at a restaurant or binge on street food, before heading to one of the many cool nightclubs in the area, where you can dance and party until as late as 10am! Crazy, right?! However, if nightlife isn’t as much your thing, you can still indulge in the 24 hour culture of this area by going shopping at the local mall or hanging out in a Noraebang (Karaoke room) or PC bang (internet cafe).
So there you have it! I hope this sparked some inspiration for how to spend your days in Korea! Thank you very much for reading, and if you’ve been to any of these places I’d love to hear all about it!
– Welcome To Our Wanderland
Welcome to our Wanderland 