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12 Days in South Korea: Exploring Seoul, Incheon, Busan, and Jeju

12 Days in South Korea: Exploring Seoul, Incheon, Busan, and Jeju Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jul 01

Discovering Seoul's Historic Heart

Morning
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Gyeongbok Palace and Bukchon Hanok Walking Tour. This tour will take you through the majestic Gyeongbok Palace, where you can witness the changing of the guard ceremony. Then, stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village with beautifully preserved hanoks (traditional Korean houses). The tour provides a deep dive into Korea's royal history and traditional architecture.
Afternoon
After exploring the palace and village, head to Gwanghwamun Gate, one of the main gates of Gyeongbokgung Palace. This grand gate is an excellent spot for photos and offers a glimpse into Seoul's historical significance. Next, take a leisurely walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream, an urban renewal project that transformed an old highway into a beautiful stream with walking paths, waterfalls, and bridges. It's a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature in the heart of the city.
Evening
In the evening, immerse yourself in Korean culture at Myeongdong NANTA Theater. The NANTA show is a non-verbal performance that combines traditional Korean rhythms with comedy and drama. It's highly entertaining and suitable for all ages. For dinner, head to Myeongdong Kyoja, famous for its delicious kalguksu (hand-cut noodle soup) and mandu (dumplings). End your day with a visit to The Lounge & Bar at SIGNIEL Seoul for panoramic views of the city while sipping on exquisite cocktails.
Bedtime
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Cultural Immersion in Seoul

Morning
Begin your second day with Seoul: Full-Day Royal Palace and Shopping Tour. This comprehensive tour covers several royal palaces including Changdeokgung Palace and Deoksugung Palace. You'll also get to explore Insadong, known for its antique shops, art galleries, and traditional tea houses. The tour provides insights into Korea's royal heritage as well as its vibrant shopping culture.
Afternoon
After your morning tour, visit Jogyesa Temple, one of the most important Buddhist temples in Korea. The temple grounds are serene and offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Next, head to Gwangjang Market, one of Korea's oldest traditional markets. Here you can sample various street foods such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and mayak gimbap (mini seaweed rice rolls). Don't forget to try some freshly made hotteok (sweet pancakes) as well.
Evening
For your evening entertainment, join the Seoul: Nighttime Hidden Gems Walking Tour. This guided tour takes you through lesser-known parts of Seoul that come alive at night. You'll explore hidden alleys filled with street art, quaint cafes, and unique shops. For dinner, dine at Jungsik, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern Korean cuisine that blends traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. End your night at Charles H, an elegant speakeasy bar known for its creative cocktails.
Bedtime
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Modern Seoul Adventures

Morning
Kick off your third day with an exhilarating experience on the Seoul: City Highlights Morning eBike Tour. This eco-friendly tour allows you to cover more ground while enjoying fresh air as you cycle past major landmarks like Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Cheonggyecheon Stream again but from different perspectives this time around! You’ll also get glimpses into local life along hidden backstreets.
Afternoon
After working up an appetite from biking around town head over towards trendy district Hongdae which is renowned not only being home base many artists musicians but also vibrant youth culture scene overall! Spend some time exploring quirky boutiques cafes before grabbing bite eat nearby restaurant called Sinchon Toast where they serve up deliciously unique sandwiches packed full flavor combinations sure satisfy any craving might have midday hunger pangs too!
Evening
Conclude third day by taking part another immersive activity such joining popular culinary class called “Seoul: Taste Of Korea Authentic Home Style Cooking Class[637886]” where learn how prepare authentic home style dishes under guidance experienced chef right their very own kitchen studio setting itself adds extra layer intimacy overall experience making feel truly special memorable way wrap things up nicely indeed! Finally cap off evening visit rooftop bar named “Rooftop Kloud” located atop Lotte Hotel offering stunning panoramic views skyline perfect spot unwind relax after long yet fulfilling adventurous filled days spent discovering everything wonderful about dynamic metropolis known simply ‘Seoul’
Bedtime
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Incheon Insights and Coastal Charms

Morning
Start your day with a smooth arrival at Incheon International Airport. If you haven't already, pick up your Incheon Airport: Unlimited 4G Portable Pocket Wi-Fi Rental to stay connected throughout your trip. Then, head to the Incheon Airport: Traveler SIM & T-money Transportation Card booth to grab your transportation card for easy travel around the city. Begin exploring Incheon by visiting the vibrant Chinatown, known for its colorful murals and delicious street food. Don’t miss trying Jajangmyeon (black bean noodles) at one of the local eateries.
Afternoon
After lunch, make your way to Songdo Central Park, a beautiful urban park inspired by New York's Central Park. Here you can rent a bicycle or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic paths. For a unique experience, try riding in one of the park's water taxis on the man-made canal. Next, visit the Tri-Bowl, an architectural marvel that serves as a cultural complex with exhibitions and performances.
Evening
In the evening, head to Wolmido Island for some seaside fun. The island is famous for its amusement park rides and lively boardwalk atmosphere. Enjoy fresh seafood at Wolmido Seafood Market, where you can choose from an array of freshly caught fish and shellfish prepared right before your eyes. End your day with a relaxing walk along Wolmi Culture Street while enjoying views of the sunset over the Yellow Sea.
Bedtime
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Busan's Beaches and Temples

Morning
Seoul: Private Transfer To/From Incheon Airport will ensure you have a hassle-free journey from Incheon to Busan. Upon arrival in Busan, start your day with a visit to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, one of Korea's most picturesque temples located on a cliff overlooking the sea. The temple offers stunning ocean views and serene surroundings perfect for morning meditation.
Afternoon
Beomeosa Temple is another must-visit temple in Busan located on Geumjeongsan Mountain. This ancient temple is surrounded by lush forests and offers numerous hiking trails for those who enjoy nature walks. After exploring Beomeosa Temple, head down to Haeundae Beach – one of Korea’s most famous beaches known for its soft white sand and clear blue waters.
Evening
Gwangan Bridge (Gwangandaegyo) is beautifully illuminated at night making it perfect spot evening stroll along Gwangalli Beach where can also find plenty restaurants bars cafes lining shorefront area too! For dinner recommend dining at The Bay 101 which offers fantastic seafood dishes alongside panoramic views both bridge beach itself creating truly memorable dining experience overall! Cap off night visit trendy lounge bar called “Fuzzy Navel” situated nearby offering great cocktails lively atmosphere ideal way end exciting day spent exploring everything wonderful about dynamic coastal city known simply ‘Busan’
Bedtime
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Jeju Island Wonders

Morning
Fly from Busan to Jeju Island early in morning using convenient domestic flight options available multiple times throughout day ensuring arrive fresh ready explore beautiful island right away! Start off visiting Jeju Glass Castle, unique theme park dedicated showcasing various glass artworks sculptures set amidst lush gardens providing perfect blend art nature together making it truly enchanting place begin adventure around Jeju!
Afternoon
Next stop should be famous Teddy Bear Museum where can marvel extensive collection teddy bears dressed different costumes depicting various historical cultural scenes adding touch whimsy fun overall experience especially if traveling kids family members alike! Afterward take short drive towards Seogwipo area visit stunning waterfalls such Cheonjiyeon Falls Jeongbang Falls both offering breathtaking natural beauty serene surroundings ideal spots relax unwind midst nature’s splendor!
Evening
Conclude eventful day attending performance at “Jeju NANTA Theatre[28840]” renowned non-verbal comedy show combining traditional Korean rhythms music high-energy acrobatics slapstick humor guaranteed entertain audiences all ages alike! For dinner suggest heading towards popular restaurant called “Manna Restaurant” serving delicious local specialties including fresh seafood dishes prepared using ingredients sourced directly from surrounding waters ensuring authentic taste flavors every bite! Finally wrap up evening relaxing cozy café named “Café Delmoondo” located near coastline offering great coffee desserts alongside stunning ocean views creating perfect ambiance end memorable first day exploring everything wonderful about magical island known simply ‘Jeju’
Bedtime
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Jeju's Natural and Cultural Treasures

Morning
Begin your day with a visit to Seokguram Grotto, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Buddha statue and panoramic views of the East Sea. The grotto is an excellent example of Korea's ancient Buddhist art and architecture. Afterward, head to the nearby Bulguksa Temple, another UNESCO site that showcases beautiful pagodas, bridges, and stone lanterns.
Afternoon
After exploring these historical sites, make your way to Jeju Glass Castle. This unique theme park features various glass artworks and sculptures set amidst lush gardens. It's a perfect blend of art and nature, providing an enchanting experience for visitors of all ages. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park while admiring the intricate glass creations.
Evening
In the evening, attend a performance at Jeju NANTA Theatre. This renowned non-verbal comedy show combines traditional Korean rhythms with high-energy acrobatics and slapstick humor. It's guaranteed to entertain audiences of all ages. For dinner, head to Manna Restaurant, which serves delicious local specialties including fresh seafood dishes prepared using ingredients sourced directly from the surrounding waters. Finally, wrap up your evening at Café Delmoondo, located near the coastline offering great coffee and desserts alongside stunning ocean views.
Bedtime
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Exploring Busan's Hidden Gems

Morning
Fly back from Jeju Island to Busan early in the morning. Start your day with a visit to Gamcheon Culture Village, known as the 'Machu Picchu of Busan'. This colorful village is filled with vibrant murals, quirky sculptures, and narrow alleyways that are perfect for exploring on foot. Don't forget to take plenty of photos as you wander through this artistic neighborhood.
Afternoon
Next, head over to Gukje Market, one of Korea's largest traditional markets where you can find everything from clothing and accessories to local snacks and souvenirs. Take some time to browse through the stalls before grabbing lunch at one of many food vendors offering delicious street food options such as hotteok (sweet pancakes) or eomuk (fish cake).
Evening
In evening join guided tour called “Seoul: Nighttime Tour Of Palace Market Naksan Park More[440362]” which takes around various landmarks beautifully illuminated night including Gwangan Bridge Dongbaek Island among others providing unique perspective city after dark! For dinner recommend dining restaurant named “Millak Raw Fish Town” located near Millak Waterfront Park offering fantastic selection fresh raw fish sashimi dishes alongside stunning views both bridge beach itself creating truly memorable dining experience overall! Cap off night visit trendy lounge bar called “Fuzzy Navel” situated nearby offering great cocktails lively atmosphere ideal way end exciting day spent exploring everything wonderful about dynamic coastal city known simply ‘Busan’
Bedtime
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Seoul's Modern Marvels

Morning
Return back Seoul via convenient domestic flight early morning ensuring arrive fresh ready explore vibrant metropolis once again right away! Start off visiting iconic landmark known simply ‘Dongdaemun Design Plaza’ or DDP short designed renowned architect Zaha Hadid featuring futuristic design housing various exhibitions events throughout year making must-see attraction anyone interested modern architecture design overall!
Afternoon
Next stop should be popular shopping district called Myeongdong where can find plenty international brands alongside local boutiques selling everything from fashion accessories cosmetics skincare products more! Take some time browse through shops before grabbing bite eat nearby restaurant named “Myeongdong Kyoja” famous their delicious kalguksu hand-cut noodle soup mandu dumplings sure satisfy any craving might have midday hunger pangs too!
Evening
Conclude eventful day attending performance at “Seoul: The Painters Live Art K-Pop Dance Show[187914]” combining live painting music dance creating truly unique entertaining show guaranteed captivate audiences all ages alike! For dinner suggest heading towards popular restaurant called “Jungsik” Michelin-starred offering modern Korean cuisine blending traditional flavors contemporary techniques every dish served ensuring unforgettable dining experience overall! Finally wrap up evening relaxing cozy café named “Twosome Place Coffee & Dessert Café” located near Cheonggyecheon Stream offering great coffee desserts alongside serene views stream itself creating perfect ambiance end memorable first day exploring everything wonderful about dynamic metropolis known simply ‘Seoul’
Bedtime
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Seoul's Historical and Modern Blend

Morning
Start your day with a visit to Bukhansan National Park. This national park is known for its stunning granite peaks, lush forests, and ancient temples. It's a great place for hiking and enjoying nature right within the city. The park offers various trails suitable for different fitness levels, so you can choose one that fits your preference.
Afternoon
After a refreshing morning in nature, head back to the city to explore Gangnam, one of Seoul's most affluent districts. Gangnam is famous for its high-end shopping, trendy cafes, and vibrant nightlife. Take some time to stroll along the streets and visit some of the luxury boutiques. For lunch, stop by School Food, a popular restaurant chain known for its creative takes on Korean street food.
Evening
In the evening, join the Seoul: Nighttime Hidden Gems Walking Tour. This guided tour will take you through lesser-known parts of Seoul that come alive at night. You'll explore hidden alleys filled with street art, quaint cafes, and unique shops. For dinner, dine at Jungsik, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern Korean cuisine that blends traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. End your night at Charles H, an elegant speakeasy bar known for its creative cocktails.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Seoul.

Exploring Incheon's Cultural Heritage

Morning
Incheon Airport: Unlimited 4G Portable Pocket Wi-Fi Rental will ensure you stay connected throughout your trip. Begin exploring Incheon by visiting the vibrant Chinatown, known for its colorful murals and delicious street food. Don’t miss trying Jajangmyeon (black bean noodles) at one of the local eateries.
Afternoon
Songdo Central Park is a beautiful urban park inspired by New York's Central Park. Here you can rent a bicycle or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic paths. For a unique experience, try riding in one of the park's water taxis on the man-made canal.
Evening
Wolmido Island is famous for its amusement park rides and lively boardwalk atmosphere. Enjoy fresh seafood at Wolmido Seafood Market, where you can choose from an array of freshly caught fish and shellfish prepared right before your eyes.
Bedtime
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Final Day in Seoul: Shopping and Farewell

Morning
Paju Premium Outlets offers a wide range of international brands at discounted prices. Spend your morning shopping for souvenirs or gifts to take back home.
Afternoon
Hongdae is known for its youthful vibe and artistic scene. Explore quirky boutiques, art galleries, and enjoy street performances as you wander through this vibrant neighborhood.
Evening
Seoul: Pub Crawl is perfect way end trip experiencing nightlife like local! Join fellow travelers locals alike hopping between various bars clubs around city making new friends along way too! For dinner recommend dining restaurant named “Mingles” Michelin-starred offering fusion cuisine blending traditional Korean flavors modern techniques every dish served ensuring unforgettable dining experience overall! Finally wrap up evening relaxing cozy café named “Twosome Place Coffee & Dessert Café” located near Cheonggyecheon Stream offering great coffee desserts alongside serene views stream itself creating perfect ambiance end memorable trip South Korea!
Bedtime
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