Step into an exhilarating adventure as you arrive in South Korea. With its bursting cultures, wonderful landscapes, and impressive cuisines, South Korea will spoil your senses. It is a perfect destination for everyone, whether you are a K-Pop fan or a full-time traveler. Thus, get ready to have crazy parties in Itaewon, unwind on the tranquil Jeju Island, or sip the world’s best green tea in Boseong. Check out these best places to visit in South Korea to get the best out of the charming country!
Best Places to Visit in South Korea – Summary
- Seoul
- Gyeongju
- Busan
- Suwon
- Incheon
- Boseong
- Gangneung
- Jinhae
- Suncheon Bay
- Jeju Island
- Namiseom
- Andong Hahoe Village
1. Seoul
This glamorous capital of South Korea will make you fall in love at the first sight. With the perfect blend between futuristic architecture and traditional structures, Seoul is simply striking. Moreover, the city is bursting with busy everyday life, dazzling shopping spots, sleepless districts, and vibrant culture. Whether you want to go shopping spree or go on historical tours, Seoul has everything for you. Therefore, it is indeed one of the best places to visit in South Korea.
There are so many things to do in Seoul and it might be overwhelming to choose just a few. As a tip, we suggest you visit the best landmarks. Namsan Tower and Gyeongbokgung Palace are some of the attractions that you can’t miss. Besides that, stroll around Itaewon to find the best street food, have the nicest party, and see the hype lifestyle of both locals and tourists.
Places to Visit in Seoul: Namsan Tower, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Hongdae Street, Itaewon, Lotte World, and Cheonggyeon
2. Gyeongju
As the former home to South Korea’s prominent kingdoms, Gyeongju is shrouded in history. Gyeongju was formerly the capital of the Silla Kingdom and is now called ‘the Golden City’. The city boasts impressive historical buildings, like traditional Korean castles and temples. Thus, Gyeongju looks similar to Kyoto in Japan, which is also rich in culture and history.
Visiting Gyeongju may feel like time-traveling. The antique, historical setting complemented by its tranquil and laidback atmosphere makes Gyeongju so special. Moreover, the city is perfect for photography. You can snap a lot of pictures of temples, pagodas, bridges, castles, and many more. Therefore, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in South Korea.
Places to Visit in Gyeongju: Gyeongju National Museum, Tumuli Park, Cheomsongdae, Seokguram, and Bulguksa
3. Busan
If you are a sea lover and seafood fan, Busan is for you to visit! Nestled on the southern coast of South Korea, the city offers a gorgeous sea view and interesting marine attractions. Thus, Busan is home to beautiful beaches, a top-notch aquarium, and amazing seafood restaurants. It is a great place to visit if you are looking for a different side of Korea.
Busan also displays a nice collaboration between the old and the new. You can see skyscrapers standing beside magnificent Buddhist temples. Furthermore, it is the best place to visit in Korea if you love seafood. You can find the freshest seafood in Busan’s fish markets, like the Jagalchi fish market.
Places to Visit in Busan: Haeundae Beach, Sea Life Aquarium and Folk Square, Beomeosa Temple, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, and Gwangalli Beach
4. Suwon
Another historical place in South Korea that you must visit is Suwon. The city is dotted with majestic fortresses, stunning palaces, and beautiful museums. Thus, Suwon was once the settlement of Korea’s prominent dynasties, making it an important historical city. Interestingly, the ancient quarter of Suwon collaborates nicely with its bustling metropolitan. For that reason, Suwon is one of the best places to visit in South Korea.
Visiting Suwon gives you a deeper insight into Korean culture and history. You can visit the Hwaseong Museum, which features the history of the famous Hwaseong Fortress and the Korean military. Moreover, you can marvel at Suwon’s magnificent gates that hold long history.
Places to Visit in Suwon: Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, Paldalmun Gate, Hwanghongmun Gate, and Yeonmundae
5. Incheon
Interestingly, Incheon is often overlooked by tourists even though it is the transportation hub of South Korea. The city is home to South Korea’s main airport, which is the Incheon International Airport. However, people are often heading directly to Seoul after landing in the country. On the other hand, Incheon has some interesting things to see.
As a port city, Incheon offers a mesmerizing sea view. You can walk through the harbors and enjoy a lovely view of the sea during sunset. Moreover, you can also hop on a ferry and sail along the blue sea. Other than that, Incheon also has a vibrant Chinatown. You can stroll around the colorful streets and grab some flavorful Chinese food. For that reason, Incheon is one of the most interesting places to visit in South Korea.
Places to Visit in Incheon: Songdo Central Park, Chinatown, Incheon Bridge, Jongdeungsa Temple, and Incheon Grand Park
6. Boseong
Are you a fan of green tea? If the answer is yes, you must visit Boseong! It is one of the best places to visit in Korea for those who love culinary or calming nature trips. Boseong is dotted with tea plantations, serving a refreshing green scenery.
Moreover, the main deal about Boseong is its tea sampling experience. You can sip some high-quality green tea and relax in the tranquil nature. Alternatively, you can enjoy relaxing strolls around the green tea fields. Sounds like a great way to unwind, right?
7. Gangneung
There is no shortage of relaxing vacation spots in South Korea. Head to Gangneung, a coastal town in the eastern side of South Korea. The city boasts a marvelous scenery of lush mountains, verdant hills, a sandy coastline, and a glimmering blue sea. Moreover, Gangneung is relatively serene. You can take a break from the busy everyday life by relaxing on Gangneung’s pristine beaches or trekking around the pine forests. Therefore, it is one of the best places to visit in South Korea for a tranquil escape.
Places to Visit in Gangneung: Gyeongpo Beach, Gangmun Beach, Jeongdongjin Sculpture Park, Daegwallyeong Forest, Amok Beach, and Haslla Art World
8. Jinhae
Although it sounds off-the-radar, Jinhae is one of the most wonderful places to visit in South Korea. The small coastal town is home to the biggest cherry blossom festival in South Korea. During springtime, the town is bursting with soft pink flowers. There are hundreds of cherry blossom trees spreading throughout the town. Thus, during the Gunghanje (Cherry Blossom) Festival, the town looks twice as beautiful with colorful lanterns and cultural performances. Therefore, it is one of the best places in South Korea to spend your spring vacation.
Places to Visit in Jinhae: Jehwangsan Park, Yeojwacheon Bridge, Gyeonghwa Station Road, Jinhae Dream Park, and Jinhae Sculpture Park
10. Jeju Island
Visit this dazzling tourist attraction in South Korea to add a refreshing touch to your vacation. Jeju Island is one of the hottest places to visit in South Korea, nestled off the southern coast of the country. It boasts wonderful scenery, comprising of brilliant blue sea, meadowed hills, and dramatic beaches. Moreover, Jeju Island also offers impressive cultural scenes, awesome theme parks, and interesting local life that are worthy to check out.
The best way to enjoy Jeju Island is by going outdoors. You will be impressed by its outstanding natural beauty, from white-sand beaches to unbelievable viewpoints. Alternatively, if you are not feeling adventurous, you can head to Jeju’s beautiful parks and enjoy the verdant scenery.
Places to Visit on Jeju Island: Hallasan Volcano, Seongsan Ilchubong Peak, Manjanggul Cave, Loveland, Seonggup Folk Village, and Cheonjeyeon Waterfall
11. Namiseom
Dreamy and beautiful – those are the two words that describe Namiseom well. The small island is dotted with neat avenues, shady forests, and gorgeous promenades. At a glance, Namiseom looks like a place where romantic films take place. In fact, the island becomes very popular due to a top-rated Korean drama, Winter Sonata, which was filmed on the island. For that reason, Namiseom becomes one of the most romantic places to visit in South Korea.
Namiseom attracts travelers with its charming, evergreen beauty. It offers a picturesque scene in every season. From the white-coated hills in winter to the red-tinted boulevards in fall, Namiseom’s landscapes will make your jaw drop.
Places to Visit on Namiseom: Metasequoia Lane, Central Korea Pine Tree Lane, Sequoia Bridge, Dodamsambong Garden, and Garden of Morning Calm
12. Andong Hahoe Folk Village
Take a peek at the South Korean traditional culture in Andong Hahoe Folk Village. Located in the serene region of Andong, the village features both fascinating tradition and breathtaking nature. Andong Hahoe Folk Village is surrounded by a river and shrouded by lush hills. Moreover, it is one of the best places to visit in South Korea if you want to look for a tranquil and laid-back place.
Stroll around the village to see beautiful wooden houses and humble pagodas. While doing so, you can also discover the history of this 9th-century village. Moreover, indulge yourself in some local experiences. You can see cultural festivals, shop for local handcrafted items, and sample some must-try traditional dishes.
South Korea is simply exciting and sophisticated! It is a country that should be in your bucket list. Moreover, exploring South Korea will lead you to a forever lasting memory! Then, are you planning to travel to South Korea?
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