South Korea Adventure 17 days Itinerary

Begin your day at Bukchon Hanok Village. This charming village is home to hundreds of traditional Korean houses called hanoks. Wander through the narrow alleyways and experience what life was like during the Joseon Dynasty.

Visit Jogyesa Temple, one of the most important Buddhist temples in Korea. The temple grounds are peaceful and offer a serene escape from the bustling city. Don't miss the giant ancient trees that are said to be over 500 years old.

Dine at Jungsik, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers modern Korean cuisine with a creative twist. The elegant setting and innovative dishes make for an unforgettable dining experience.

Kick off your day with some shopping at Paju Premium Outlets. With numerous high-end brands offering discounts, it's a shopper's paradise. Take your time browsing through the stores and maybe pick up some souvenirs.

Explore Hongdae, known for its vibrant youth culture, street performances, unique cafes, and indie music scene. It's an energetic area that's perfect for soaking up contemporary Korean culture.

Enjoy dinner at Maple Tree House Itaewon, famous for its high-quality Korean BBQ. The restaurant offers various cuts of meat grilled to perfection right at your table.

Spend your morning hiking in Bukhansan National Park. The park offers stunning views of Seoul from its peaks, along with numerous trails suitable for all levels of hikers. It's an excellent way to experience Korea's natural beauty.

After your hike, visit Namsangol Hanok Village. This village showcases traditional Korean houses restored to their original state. You can also participate in cultural activities such as tea ceremonies or traditional games.

End your day with dinner at Mingles, another Michelin-starred restaurant that blends traditional Korean flavors with modern techniques. The tasting menu here is highly recommended.

Begin your day with a visit to Myeongdong NANTA Theater. This non-verbal performance combines traditional Korean rhythms with modern comedy and is a fantastic way to start your day with some laughter and entertainment.

Head over to Gwangjang Market for lunch. This bustling market is one of the oldest in Seoul and offers a wide variety of street food. Try some local favorites like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) or tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).

For dinner, enjoy a meal at Gaon, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers exquisite Korean cuisine. The elegant setting and beautifully presented dishes make for an unforgettable dining experience.

War Memorial of Korea is the perfect place to start your day. This extensive museum offers detailed exhibits on Korea's military history, from ancient times to the present day. It's both educational and deeply moving.

Cheongwadae Sarangchae is next on your list. This exhibition hall provides insights into Korea's presidential history and culture. The beautiful architecture and informative displays make it a worthwhile visit.

Kyochon Chicken Hongdae is the perfect spot for dinner. Known for its crispy fried chicken, this restaurant is beloved by locals and tourists alike. Pair it with some local beer for an authentic Korean dining experience.

Gangnam is where you'll start your day. This trendy district is known for its upscale shopping, stylish cafes, and vibrant nightlife. Spend some time exploring the area and maybe do some shopping.

Namsangol Hanok Village offers a glimpse into traditional Korean life in the heart of the city. Wander through the restored hanoks (traditional houses) and participate in cultural activities like tea ceremonies or traditional games.

For dinner, head to Maple Tree House Itaewon, famous for its high-quality Korean BBQ. The restaurant offers various cuts of meat grilled to perfection right at your table.

Start your final day in South Korea with a visit to Dora Observatory. This observatory offers a unique view into North Korea, providing a fascinating and sobering perspective on the Korean Peninsula's history and current affairs.

Spend your afternoon at Gangnam, exploring the vibrant district known for its upscale shopping, stylish cafes, and modern architecture. It's a great place to pick up any last-minute souvenirs or simply enjoy the energetic atmosphere.

For your farewell dinner, dine at Jungsik, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers modern Korean cuisine with a creative twist. The elegant setting and innovative dishes make for an unforgettable dining experience to conclude your trip.

Start your day with a visit to Gyeongju National Museum. This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Silla Dynasty, offering a deep dive into Korea's ancient history. Spend some time exploring the exhibits and learning about the rich cultural heritage of Gyeongju.

Head over to Seokguram Grotto, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This stunning grotto features a beautiful stone Buddha statue and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It's a serene and spiritual place that's perfect for reflection.

For dinner, enjoy traditional Korean cuisine at Jinjujip. Known for its delicious dishes and warm atmosphere, this restaurant is a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Begin your day with a visit to Bulguksa Temple. This ancient temple is another UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of Korea's most important cultural properties. The intricate architecture and serene surroundings make it a must-visit.

Explore Andong Hahoe Folk Village, where you can experience traditional Korean village life. The village is well-preserved and offers various cultural performances and activities that provide insight into Korea's past.

Dine at Korea House, which offers traditional Korean meals in an elegant setting. The restaurant also features cultural performances, making it an immersive dining experience.

Kick off your day with a visit to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. This unique temple is located on the coast, offering stunning ocean views along with its beautiful architecture. It's one of the few temples in Korea built by the sea.

Spend your afternoon at Haeundae Beach, one of Busan's most famous beaches. Relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the ocean, or explore the nearby cafes and shops. It's a perfect spot for some leisure time.

Enjoy dinner at Kyochon Chicken Hongdae, known for its crispy fried chicken that's beloved by locals and tourists alike. Pair it with some local beer for an authentic Korean dining experience.

Start your day with a visit to Beomeosa Temple. Nestled in the mountains, this temple offers peaceful surroundings and beautiful architecture. Take some time to explore the temple grounds and enjoy the tranquility.

Head over to Gamcheon Culture Village, often referred to as the 'Machu Picchu of Busan.' This colorful village is filled with vibrant murals, art installations, and narrow alleyways that are perfect for wandering around.

For dinner, head to Jagalchi Fish Market, where you can enjoy fresh seafood straight from the market stalls. It's an iconic spot in Busan that offers an authentic taste of local cuisine.

Begin your day with a visit to Nampodong Street (Theater District). This bustling area is known for its theaters, shops, and street food stalls. Spend some time exploring the vibrant streets and maybe catch a movie or performance.

Head over to Gukje Market, one of Busan's largest traditional markets. Here you can find everything from clothing to electronics to local snacks. It's a great place to shop and experience the local culture.

Enjoy dinner at Balwoo Gongyang, which offers temple cuisine inspired by Buddhist traditions. The dishes are healthy, flavorful, and beautifully presented.

Start your day with a visit to Dongbaek Island (Dongbaekseom). This scenic spot offers beautiful walking trails along the coast and stunning views of the ocean. It's a peaceful place to start your morning.

Explore Taejongdae Resort Park, known for its dramatic cliffs and panoramic ocean views. You can take a scenic train ride around the park or hike up to the lighthouse for even better views.

For dinner, head to La Yeon, which offers fine dining with traditional Korean flavors. The restaurant has received multiple accolades for its exquisite dishes and elegant setting.

Begin your day with a visit to Jeju Glass Castle. This unique museum features stunning glass sculptures and installations, offering a magical experience for visitors. The outdoor garden is particularly beautiful and perfect for a morning stroll.

Head over to Teddy Bear Museum, where you can explore various exhibits showcasing teddy bears from around the world. It's a fun and quirky attraction that's great for all ages.

For dinner, enjoy fresh seafood at one of Jeju's local restaurants. Jeju is known for its seafood, so make sure to try some local specialties like abalone or grilled mackerel.

Start your day with a hike in Hallasan National Park. The park is home to Hallasan Mountain, the highest peak in South Korea. The trails offer stunning views of the island and are suitable for hikers of all levels.

Visit Jeju NANTA Theatre for an afternoon performance. This non-verbal comedy show combines traditional Korean rhythms with modern music and dance, making it an entertaining experience for everyone.

Dine at one of Jeju's famous black pork BBQ restaurants. The island's black pork is renowned for its flavor and tenderness, making it a must-try dish during your visit.

Start your day with a visit to Seoraksan National Park. Known for its stunning landscapes, this park offers numerous hiking trails that lead you through lush forests, past serene streams, and up to breathtaking viewpoints.

Head over to Jeju Glass Castle, where you can explore various glass sculptures and installations set within beautiful gardens. It's a unique attraction that's both artistic and relaxing.

For dinner, enjoy fresh seafood at one of Jeju's local restaurants along the coast. Jeju is renowned for its seafood dishes, so make sure to try specialties like abalone or grilled mackerel.