South Korea is exotic, elusive and inviting to every type of traveler and backpacker. Unlike her brother in the north, it is extremely modern, engaging, and with lots of enticing destinations with a plethora of things to see and do. From swanky cities to traditional folk villages, breathtaking natural vistas to gorgeous islands, South Korea has a humongous range of unexplored urban delights and natural sites that shortlisting the places to visit and the things to do is always a challenge to most travelers. That is why we have compiled this list of the best places to visit in South Korea for you to use as a baseline for shortlisting your preferred attraction. Read below to discover some of the gems that South Korea has in store for you.
1. Jeju Island
For amazing personal insights about Jeju Island, tune into our video with Kuheli, who has lots to say about her fun adventure in Jeju Island!
Jeju Island is one of the most beautiful places you will find in this country. Its pristine beauty made it to be voted as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and what you find here are dreamlike white-sands beaches with lots of volcanic craters, pine forests and lava caves. It is also not in short of beautiful botanic gardens and rich cultures.
If you are a photo enthusiast, then this will be more like heaven to you, and some of the places you must not miss visiting include Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls, Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Seopjikoji Promontory and Halasang National Park just to mention but a few of them.
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Here are five reasons why Jeju should be on your travel list - especially in winter!
1. Off-peak travel to Jeju can be very cheap! Flights are less than 400 SGD (296.74 USD) and cute seaside hotels are at 100 SGD (74.18 USD)/night.
2. No need to queue for a long time for popular cafes and restaurants.
3. Opportunity to go hiking on snowy Mount Hallasan.
4. Ramen and hot drinks are more enjoyable in cold weather.
5. Fewer people means it’s easy to get unblocked views and photos (no photobombs).
Taking a road trip in Jeju? Check out Janice's suggested itinerary here: https://wheresjanice.com/jeju-itinerary-nature-roadtrip/
Book Tours : Jeju Island: Customized Private Full-Day Van Tour
2. Incheon
Incheon is in the northwest of South Korea, and it is the third-largest city in the country. It borders both Seoul and Gyeonggi. It is not just a vibrant metropolitan but it’s also packed with a horde of attractions that travelers of all ages will find appealing. Visiting this city will expose you to lots of exciting things to do by the beach, with the major highlights being taking relaxing strolls along the seashores, enjoying the scenic ferry rides while you mesmerize at the sea views, getting rejuvenated at the city waterfronts, and indulging in plenty of lip-smacking Korean delicacies. While here, also don’t fail to visit Spasis Sauna Center, Jeondeungsa Temple, Sorai Pogu Traditional Fish Market, Incheon Grand Park, and Jayu Park among others.
3. Cheongju-si
The capital and the largest city of North Chungcheon Province has plenty of places to visit and lots of things to do that you would wish that time would stop for you to sample all of them. Learn about the history of early printing at the Early Printing Museum where you will find the oldest book in the world printed with a movable metal type, check out the beauty and grandeur of the Sangdang San-Seon – a fortress built in the 1590s, marvel at the beauty of the Golden Pavilion, learn more about the culture by attending the Jijki Festival, and try out the culinary diversity that exists in this part of the country. These are just but a few of the attractions that await you upon visiting Cheongju-si.
4. Andong Hahoe Folk Village
Andong Hahoe Folk Village has been around for the last 2000 years, and this should be a subtle indication of the richness and depth of attraction it has. Also known as the Capital City of Korean Spiritual Culture, this is where the local cultural heritage of the Andong has been preserved to be shared and experienced by the rest of the world. In addition to the culture, the village is a foodie’s paradise, with all manner of local specialties you can ever think of. It is home to the famous jjimdak – a famed chicken and noodle dish which is a must-try for every visitor that comes to this region. Then there are also lots of special alcoholic drinks known as suju, which you must also try before you leave the city.
5. Iksan
Iksan is a city in North Jeolla Province, and a vital transportation hub given that it is a major railway junction in the north. The city may be famed as a transportation hub, but also it has her own gems waiting to be discovered. To begin with, the major railway junction is worth a visit just to appreciate the organization and the advancement in rail transport in the country. Then there is Mireuksaji Yumeul Jeonshingwan – a museum where Baekje’s relics are kept, and a must-visit for every history buff. A visit to The Gyeonggjeon Shrine is also a must – an ancient palace complex believed to have been the home of King Taejo and in this place, you will get a glimpse of the day to day life a king back in the days from the exhibits and the artifacts present in the museum. Other noticeable attractions include Euna Lake Park, Iksan Junggang Cheyuk Park, Dongguksa Temple, Miruksa Temple Site and Jeonju Hanok Village among others.
6. Darangee Village
Darangee Village is on Namhae Island, towards the southern parts of South Korea. It is one village that might as well be described as the epitome of Korean beauty, owing to the fact that it boasts endless coastlines, with breathtaking views of coastal mountains and terraced rice paddies. If you happen to visit during harvest time, in addition to the views melting your heart, you will be in time for the harvesting festive ceremonies that will entertain you and educate you about the regions customs, cultures and beliefs. This would also be a good time to dive headfirst into some of the least known seasonal culinary delights of the people of the south.
Darangee Village
Address: 21 Nammyeon-ro 679beon-gil, Nam-myeon, Namhae, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea
Website: Darangee Village
7. Suwon-Si
Suwon-Si is about 30km (19miles) south of Seoul, and it is the capital and the largest metropolis of Gyeonggi-do. Also known as “the City of Filial Piety,” Suwon-si is rich in history, culture, infrastructure, innovation, and culinary diversity. It is the home to the Hwaseong Fortress – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and most importantly, the only remaining walled fortress in the entire country. It is also the home to Samsung Innovation Museum where you will find and learn more about the history of Samsung, including both past and present innovations, as well some of the future innovations that are likely to change the electronic industry. Other attractions worth checking out in Suwon-si include the popular Hwahongmun Gate, Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, Janganmun Gate, Suwon World Cup Stadium, Paldalmun Gate and Mr. Toilet House among others.
8. Seongnam-si
This is the second-largest city in Gyeonggi Province and it is considered a satellite city of the capital, Seoul. It is largely a residential city but has a blend of attractions that will appeal primarily to families. The Yuldong Park, Book Theme Park, and Seongnam Jungang Park are great attractions for family day outs. The Seongnam Art Center and the Statue of Peace will appeal to art and history enthusiasts. A stroll down Jeongja-Dong Café Street, on the other hand, will expose you to the rich culinary experience that the city has in store for you. In addition to this, there is a superfluity of parks and botanical gardens, making Seongnam-si one of the top destinations for families visiting South Korea.
9. Daegu
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Daegu is the fourth largest city in South Korea. It is famously known for the Daegu Yangnyeongsi Oriental Medicine Cultural Center, where you will find exhibitions tracing the history of the local traditional medicines in the region. Its blend of attractions ranges from historical sites to parks, to palaces, and museums with incredible collections of Buddhist relics.
10. Goyang-si
Goyang-si is one of the largest cities in the Seoul Capital Area. It is a popular destination for weekend getaways, as well as for a long vacation, given that it has a blend of attractions that will suit the needs of families, groups as well as romantic couples. The attractions include both paid and free places and things to do, with the most popular ones being the Seoul Metro, Ilsan Lake Park, The War Memorial of Korea, Grevin Museum, and Yeouido Hangang Park. The city’s culinary diversity is also worth checking out.
11. Yongin-si
Everland Resort , Korea, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Posted by Amazing World on Wednesday, 3 October 2012
With the presence of the Korean Folk Village, the Caribbean Bay, Hoam Art Museum, and Everland, Yongin-si has just the kind of attractions you will need for a fulfilling holiday. It is one of the major cities in the Seoul Capital Area, and possess a rich diversity in historic and cultural attractions that have proven to delight the souls of travelers from all over the world. Whether you are looking for indoor attractions or you desire to have fun in the parks, Yongin-si will not fail to present you with a plethora of attractions.
12. Buncheon-si
Buncheon-si is only 25km away from Seoul (16miles), and it is another hotbed of attractions for visitors coming to South Korea. Its main attractions mainly feature parks and museums which you will find loaded with lots of nature and history. Some of the must-visit places in Buncheon-si include Sandong Lake Park, Buncheon Jungang Park, Natura Ecological Park, AIINS World, Korea Manhwa Museum, Buncheon Sikmulwon, Buchon Robo Park, and Buncheon Bow Museum among others. Also, don’t forget to check out the culinary diversity in this city by visiting the many restaurants serving a variety of Korean cuisines.
13. Gimhae
Gimahae sits along the Nakdong River, and it is an incredible destination for history, art, and food lovers. The city was once the seat of the ancient royal house of Geumgwan Gaya, and it is currently the home to the Royal Tomb of King Suro. It is also the birthplace of President Roh Moo-Hyun, adding further to its historic gems that all history buffs will love. Other than the history, Gimhae has interesting theme parks, a vibrant food culture, a wine cave and several romantic fountains frequented by couples to enjoy the views and the peace.
14. Chuncheon-si
Chuncheon-si might as well be referred to as the Venice of South Korea. It is a romantic lakeside city located just about one hour’s drive from Seoul. This is where you find the famous Nami Island where couples troop to when it bursts into full colors of love in spring. Gangoni Rail Park will treat you to beautiful scenic views of the countryside, while the Cheongpyeongsa Temple will treat you to an unexplainable charm, with lots of spiritual significance. When in this city, you must also not fail to visit Chuncheon Myeongdong Dakgalbi Street for an assortment of delicious Korean cuisines. Also, be sure to check out Soyang Lake, Kim You-Jeong House of Literature, Jade Garden Natural Arboretum and the Chuncheon Makguksu Museum.
15. Pohang-si
Pohang-si is in the province of North Gyeongsang and it is a major seaport in the Daegu-Gyeongbuk region. The city sits right at the mouth of the Hyeongsan River. Some of the notable attractions worth checking out include Jukdo Market, Bogyungsa Temple, Homigot Sunrise Plaza, Oeosa Temple, The National Lighthouse Museum, Naeyeonsan County Park, The Posco Museum, The Pohang Warship, and the Pohang Steel Yard among other attractions.
16. Jeonju-si
Jeonju 전주시 | South Korea . . . Jeonju is a city in western South Korea. It’s known for the Jeonju Hanok Heritage...
Posted by Lifeonmove.Photography on Monday, 15 January 2018
The western city of Jeonju-si is home to one of the country’s most treasured historic charms – Jeonju Hanok Heritage Village. The village comprises an area of food stalls, craft shops, and traditional houses. This village is believed to have already existed by the 15th century, given that it is where you will find Gyeonggijeon Shrine with several portraits of the 15th-century kings. The city is also home to the Korean Traditional Wine Museum – the origin of rice winemaking. Finally, you will also find Imokdae and Omokdae hilltop pavilions that have been sitting there for centuries, and where you get incredible sweeping views of the entire region.
17. Cheonan-si
Cheonan-si is a city of many charms and attractions. It is one of the oldest settlements found in the northeast corner of South Korea, about 83.6km (52miles) from the capital, Seoul. Its attractions feature a blend of history, culture, religion, outdoors and architecture. The hottest tourist magnets here include- The Independence Hall of Korea, Gakwonsa Temple, Tedin Waterpark, Arario Gallery, Gwangdeoksa Temple, Seongbulsa Temple, the Postal Museum, and Sangnok Aquapia among others.
18. Ulsan
From natural sceneries to theme parks, whales museums to temples, the seventh-largest South Korean City of Ulsan has every delight an avid traveler might want to do and see. The city is quite laid back, always exuding an aura to make you relax so that you can get the most out of your visit. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a lover of nature, a history buff or an admirer of cityscapes, Ulsan will not disappoint you with its wide array of attractions, including the famous Daewangam Park, Ulsan Grand Park, Taehwa River Seepri Bamboo Groove, Seonam Lake Park, the Riverside Path and the Jangsaengpo Whale Museum among others.
19. Anyang
Whether your idea of a trip is to relax in an art park or sit down in a coffee roasting house for a hot drink, or perhaps you prefer visiting museums and nature parks, Anyang has pleasant attractions and activities that will make you enjoy your stay. It is a relatively small city, a satellite city of Seoul, located about 21km (13 miles) south of the capital. Due to its proximity to the capital and the fact that it is quite laid back, with lots of quiet attractions, it is a popular weekend getaway for those who don’t feel like sharing their spaces with millions in Seoul.
20. Daejeon
Daejeon - South Korea post: Navid Fatehpour
Posted by South Korea Art & Architecture on Wednesday, 4 June 2014
Daejeon may, perhaps, be known as a city of Science and Technology, but you don’t have to be a geek to make a trip here, though you will find it very interesting if you are passionate about science, innovations, and technology. For years, it is one of the few South Korean cities that have held a tight grip on fine culture and traditions, thus making the prospects of visiting very interesting for those who appreciate diversity in culture, art, and history. The presence of large, green spaces, hot springs, and beautiful arboretums also makes it exceedingly attractive for anyone who wants to enjoy nothing but peace, quietness, and tranquility.
21. Yangju-si
Yangju-si is in Gyeonggi Province, a relatively small city, but laden with attractions that will treat you to busy days during your stay. The town boasts a quiet countryside that’s ideal for hiking and camping, by a weary soul looking to find themselves. The Jangheun Art Gallery has nice exhibitions halls, with lots of interesting exhibits that tell not only the story of the region, but the entire country. Depending on when you visit, you may also find entertaining performances taking place at the gallery. For space enthusiasts, there is an astronomical observatory and planetarium for you to learn more about space. And outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy spending time at the Dae Jang Geum Theme Park – enjoy the green spaces while you relax and appreciate nature.
22. Nonsan-si
Nonsan-si is also known as Nolmoi, which loosely translates to Yellow Mountain or dusk. It is a city in Chungcheong Province, and though it doesn’t hit the headlines as a popular tourist destination in South Korea, it has its ensemble of attractions that you are likely to fall in love with. They include Eunjin Mireuk, Gwanchok Temple, Tapjeong Reservoir, the historic site of General Gyebaek, and the Nonseong Sanseong.
23. Mungyeong-si
Scenic forested mountains, modern museums, and breathtaking countryside are some of the things that come to mind when you think about Mungyeong-si – a city located in North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. It is a real paradise for every traveler looking for the perfect blend of history and nature. Its land formations, museums, parks, and the breathtaking countryside landscapes will bring you a lot of delight, and a great break from the hustle and bustle of busy metropolitans like Seoul.
24. Paju-si
Paju-si is in the west end of the DMZ, and the DMZ happens to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in this city. Tourists who are obsessed to see how the world’s most militarized border looks like all come to Paju-si. However, it is a lovely city with lots of other attractions to offer, including, Heyri Art Village, Provence Village, and Skin Anniversary Beauty Town among others.
25. Jinju-si
Jinju-si has a rich history that dates back to the 14th century when it became the battleground for the first and the second Sieges of Jinju during the Imjin War. The war gave it a lot of military relevance, and currently, amongst other military installations, it also hosts The Republic of Korea Airforce and Training Command. Additional attractions that make the city worth visiting include Soundgarden, Nam-gang Lantern Festival that happens every year in October, Jinju Jungang Market, Cheonwhang Sikdang for tasty bibimbap, Jinju Fortress and Jinju National Museum for the culture and history.
26. Gwangyang-si
Gwangyang-si may be very popular owing to the presence of the Gwangyang-si Steel Works – the largest facility of this kind in the entire world, but it has a myriad of attractions that will appeal to most travelers. A visit will expose you to the incredible steel culture orchestrated by the presence of POPCO’s steel plant, the parks are more than refreshing in spring, the museums are loaded with history for the hungry history buffs, and the cuisines are worth cherishing with now and then.
27. Gunsan-si
Gunsan-si is in North Jeolla Province of North Korea, located on the south banks of Geum River. It is a high-tech manufacturing city and also a renowned international trade seaport, hence, a major business hub in the region. As far as tourism goes, the city has a myriad of attractions, ranging from parks to museums, historical sites, and temples that will appeal to travelers interested in both indoor and outdoor attractions. Some of the worthy mentions include the Dongguksa Temple, Eunpa Lake Park, Hirotsu-house, Old Gunsan Custom House, Gunsan Modern Architecture Exhibition Hall, and the Gunsan Modern History Museum among others.
28. Andong
Gosanjeong in Andong, Korea 안동 고산정
Posted by Korean beauty on Monday, 9 May 2016
Andong is in the Nakdong River, and it is famed for its open-air museums, including Andong Folk Museum where exhibits and re-enactments are used to explain ceremonies such as weddings. Andong is also the birthplace of wooden masks, soju, and Confucianism in the country. It has an illustrious past that presents a plethora of unique opportunities for visitors interested in knowing more about life during the Joseon-era. A visit to this place will also come with lots of opportunities for sampling the region’s culinary delights, joining in folk dances, participating in traditional activities, and touring a myriad of spiritual temples.
29. Busan
Busan is the second-largest city in South Korea and it is well known for its interesting blend of attractions featuring majestic mountains, an amalgamation of skyscrapers, beautiful Buddhist temples, and lovely beaches. It is a relaxed coastal town with so much to offer travelers looking for chilled out holiday vibes as well as those in dire need of thrilling outdoor adventure. Some of the key attractions worth checking out in Busan include Sea Life Aquarium and Folk Square on Haeundae Beach, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple next to the Jagalchi Fish Market, the Hurshimchung Hot Spring and so much more. Also, remember that Busan is one of the country’s seafood hotpots, so it would be a crime if you don’t sample some of the seafood delicacies in this city.
30. Seoul
Seoul is the dazzling capital of South Korea and it is guaranteed to impress you with its blend of modern architecture, pop culture, beautiful parks, party vibes, and malls. It is not just your ordinary modern urban hub, but also it is rich in culture and history, with lots of palaces, stylish boutiques, and chic restaurants. The War Memorial and the National Museum will expose you to the rich history of the country, while the shopping district of Gangnam will avail to you all that your money can buy. Some of the other attractions worth checking out include Bukchon Hanok Village, Lotte World Amusement Park, the Changdeokgung Palace and Bukhansan National Park.
Book Tours : Full-Day Essential Seoul Tour
South Korea has something for everyone
It may not have the attractions of Eastern Europe or the Americas, but her gems are unique and worth exploring by every avid traveler. Though they have had political challenges that marred their development as a top tourist destination, the country is now very stable and has opened her doors for tourists to come and admire and share in her beauty. With this list of the best places to visit in South Korea, you should have an incredible variety for an exciting trip to the country.
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