18 Days of Korean Culture and Scenic Beauty Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to Bukchon Hanok Village. This charming neighborhood is home to hundreds of traditional Korean houses (hanoks) that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. Wander through the narrow alleys and admire the well-preserved architecture.

Have lunch at Gwangjang Market, one of Korea's oldest and largest traditional markets. Sample a variety of street foods such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and mayak gimbap (mini seaweed rice rolls). Afterward, visit Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden for a serene afternoon.

Dine at Kyochon Chicken Hongdae, known for its crispy fried chicken that's marinated in special sauces. After dinner, explore the lively Hongdae area, famous for its youthful atmosphere, street performances, and indie music scene.

Start your day with a light hike along Namsan Mountain Trail leading up to N Seoul Tower. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck at the top of the tower.

For lunch, head to Balwoo Gongyang, which offers temple food that's both healthy and delicious. Afterward, visit Jogyesa Temple, an important Buddhist temple in Seoul where you can learn about Korean Buddhism and enjoy some peaceful moments in its beautiful gardens.

Have dinner at Maple Tree House Itaewon, known for its premium Korean BBQ experience. Enjoy grilling various cuts of meat right at your table while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Itaewon.

Begin your day with some retail therapy at Myeongdong Shopping Street. This bustling area is packed with shops selling cosmetics, fashion items, accessories, and more.

Take a break for lunch at Tuk Tuk Noodle Thai, which offers authentic Thai cuisine in a cozy setting. Afterward, continue shopping or head over to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) to explore innovative designs and exhibitions.

End your day with dinner at Mingles, another Michelin-starred restaurant that combines traditional Korean ingredients with modern culinary techniques for an unforgettable dining experience.

Start your day with a visit to the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace. This grand palace, built in 1395, is a stunning example of traditional Korean architecture and offers a glimpse into the country's royal past. Don't miss the changing of the guard ceremony.

For lunch, head to Bicena, which offers an elegant dining experience with a focus on contemporary Korean cuisine. Afterward, visit Insadong, a vibrant neighborhood known for its antique shops, art galleries, and traditional tea houses. Spend some time exploring the charming streets and picking up unique souvenirs.

Dine at Gaon, another Michelin-starred restaurant that showcases the finest in Korean haute cuisine. Enjoy beautifully crafted dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients and traditional flavors.

Begin your day with Busan + Gyeongju One Day Tour from Busan. This tour will take you to some of Busan's most iconic sites including Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a stunning seaside temple that offers breathtaking views of the ocean.

For lunch, visit Haeundae Somunnan Amso Galbijip, famous for its delicious beef ribs. Afterward, explore Haeundae Beach, one of Korea's most popular beaches. Take a leisurely walk along the shore or relax on the sandy beach.

End your day with dinner at Merciel, which offers French cuisine with a beautiful view of Gwangan Bridge. After dinner, take a stroll along Gwangalli Beach and enjoy the night view of the illuminated bridge.

Start your day with Busan Gamcheon Culture & Jagalchi Market Walking Tour. Explore Gamcheon Culture Village with its colorful houses and street art before heading to Jagalchi Fish Market to see an array of fresh seafood.

Have lunch at Geumsubokguk, known for its pufferfish soup. Afterward, visit BIFF Square where you can find handprints of famous actors and enjoy some street food snacks.

Dine at Mugunghwa, located in Lotte Hotel Busan. This restaurant offers fine dining Korean cuisine with stunning views over Busan.

Begin your exploration of Jeju Island with a visit to Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak), a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its spectacular sunrise views and unique volcanic crater formation.

For lunch, try some local Jeju black pork at one of the island's many BBQ restaurants. Afterward, head to Manjanggul Cave, one of the longest lava tubes in the world. Explore this fascinating underground world formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago.

End your day with dinner at a seafood restaurant near Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market where you can enjoy fresh catches from Jeju’s waters while soaking in local market vibes.

Start your day with a visit to Hallgrim's Church (Hallgrímskirkja). This iconic church offers panoramic views of Jeju Island from its tower. Although the name might sound Icelandic, it’s a perfect place to appreciate the island’s beauty.

For lunch, head to a local restaurant specializing in Jeju's famous seafood dishes. Afterward, visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where you can take a boat tour among the floating icebergs and enjoy the serene beauty of this natural wonder.

Dine at a traditional Korean restaurant near Jeju City that offers dishes made with fresh local ingredients. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the beach and enjoy the sunset.

Begin your day with Busan Gyeongju Guided Day Trip to Three Kingdoms Capital. This tour will take you to some of Gyeongju's most important historical sites, including Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

For lunch, try some traditional Korean cuisine at a local restaurant in Gyeongju. Afterward, visit Anapji Pond and Gyeongju National Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the Silla Dynasty.

Dine at a restaurant offering traditional Korean dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll around Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, beautifully illuminated at night.

Start your day with a visit to Cheomseongdae Observatory, one of the oldest surviving astronomical observatories in Asia. Then head over to Tumuli Park where you can see ancient royal tombs from the Silla Dynasty.

Have lunch at a local eatery known for its delicious bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables). Afterward, explore Yangdong Folk Village, another UNESCO World Heritage site that offers insight into traditional Korean life.

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that specializes in hanjeongsik (Korean full-course meal). After dinner, relax and unwind at your accommodation or take an evening walk through one of Gyeongju’s many scenic parks.

Begin your day with a visit to Songdo Central Park. This modern park features beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and even water taxis that offer scenic rides through the park's waterways.

For lunch, try some international cuisine at one of Songdo’s many trendy restaurants. Afterward, visit Incheon’s Chinatown for an afternoon of exploring unique shops and sampling delicious street food snacks.

Dine at an upscale restaurant in Incheon offering fusion cuisine that blends Korean flavors with international influences. End your day with a leisurely stroll along Wolmido Island’s waterfront promenade.

Start your day with a visit to the Incheon Landing Operation Memorial Hall. This museum commemorates the successful Incheon Landing Operation during the Korean War and offers insightful exhibits about this pivotal event.

For lunch, explore one of Incheon's local eateries that offer traditional Korean dishes. Afterward, head to Jayu Park, which offers beautiful views of Incheon Port and is a great place for a relaxing afternoon stroll.

Dine at a seafood restaurant in Wolmido Island, known for its fresh catches and vibrant atmosphere. After dinner, enjoy some evening entertainment at one of the island's many cafes or bars.

Start your day with a visit to the Songdo Central Park. This modern park features beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and even water taxis that offer scenic rides through the park's waterways. The park is a perfect blend of nature and urban design, providing a peaceful retreat within the bustling city.

For lunch, try some international cuisine at one of Songdo’s many trendy restaurants. Afterward, visit the Tri-Bowl, an iconic architectural marvel in Songdo. This multi-functional cultural space hosts various exhibitions and performances and is known for its unique bowl-shaped structure that appears to float on water.

Dine at an upscale restaurant in Incheon offering fusion cuisine that blends Korean flavors with international influences. End your day with a leisurely stroll along Wolmido Island’s waterfront promenade, where you can enjoy street performances and vibrant nightlife.

Begin your final day with a visit to Incheon’s Chinatown. Explore the unique shops and sample delicious street food snacks like hotteok (sweet pancakes) and mandu (dumplings). The area is rich in history and offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural fusion between Korea and China.

For lunch, explore one of Incheon's local eateries that offer traditional Korean dishes. Afterward, head to Jayu Park, which offers beautiful views of Incheon Port and is a great place for a relaxing afternoon stroll.

Dine at , known for its fresh catches and vibrant atmosphere. After dinner, enjoy some evening entertainment at one of the island's many cafes or bars.