korea seoul day trip

Home » Travel Guides » South Korea » 15 Best Day Trips from Seoul

15 Best Day Trips from Seoul

South Korea’s popularity as an intrepid traveller’s ideal destination has skyrocketed in recent years, with Seoul often topping the lists of places to go.

With its unique culture, modern skyscrapers and delicious cuisine, it’s easy to see why the capital is rapidly becoming a phenomenal Asian destination.

However, it’s not only all about Seoul when it comes to the intriguing sites in Korea that are piquing tourist’s interest.

Aside from the capital’s fascinating mix of culture, cuisine and tradition, there are countless hidden gems scattered around the surrounding areas, from gorgeous beaches to ancient temples and everything in between.

Check out this quick handy guide to find out where to start planning your day trips from Seoul.

1. Korean Folk Village

Intended to be an amalgamation of Korean culture presented to the public in astounding detail, the Korean Folk Village has been open since 1974 and is an authentic showcase of almost 300 replica houses from different regions and social classes.

This fascinating mixture of exhibits and performances is one of the most popular day trips for people visiting Korea for the first time, and is an eye-opening introduction to the national culture.

Available tour : Andong Day Trip: Hahoe Folk Village from Seoul

2. Hwaseong Fortress

Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its cultural significance and impressive architectural achievement, Hwaseong Fortress is by far the most popular attraction in Suwon, a city to the south of Seoul.

Constructed during the Joeson Dynasty in the 18th Century, Hwaseong Fortress is spread out over five kilometres and surrounded by high walls, backdropped by the stunning Paldal Mountain.

Visitors can hike the perimeter of the walls soaking in some of the gorgeous views, before making their way to the center, where there’s an enormous statue of King Jeongjo, the ruler at the time of construction.

Recommended tour : Suwon Hwaseong Fortress (UNESCO) Half-Day Tour from Seoul

3. Ansan Multicultural Food Street

Shattering the presumption that Korean food and culture may be a little “samey”, Ansan Multicultural Food Street is a melting pot of countless mouth-watering cuisines, from Thai and Vietnamese to Russian, to name a few.

Whether you’re in search of a mouth-watering meal or simply want to experience the electric atmosphere, Ansan is without question a journey for the senses.

Other than the vast assortment of street food available, there are various world class restaurants in the area.

The Kantipur restaurant is particularly accomplished in creating delicious Indian and Nepali meals, while the Samarkand Cafe is a go-to for meat lovers.

4. Paju Book City

A paradise for intellectuals, curious travellers and children, Paju is most well-known for being the home of the Paju Book City, a cultural complex featuring publishers, printing, and distribution enterprises.

Here you can wander the streets learning the various stories behind the businesses, or visit famous book cafes such as Darakwon and Moongongsa.

The Tan Tan Story House is a particularly beloved stop, well known for hosting various events to get children interested in books.

5. Jayu Park

Tucked away in the coastal Incheon Metropolitan City, Jayu Park is predominantly a historical site that houses a vast number of structures commemorating key events concerning American-Korean relations over the last century.

The highlight is most definitely the majestic statue of General MacArthur that stands at over 15 metres and signifies the treaty of amity between the United States and Korea.

Near the park, you’ll also find a thriving and wildly popular Chinatown, serving some truly mouthwatering Chinese dishes made by descendants of some of the first ever Chinese settlers in the area, as well a healthy dose of pioneering Chinese-Korean fusion food.

6. Gangchon Rail Park

You can expect a visit to Gangchon Rail Park to be novel, active, and beautifully scenic.

It involves riding rail bikes through one of two routes you can choose from, leading you through the charmingly picturesque Korean countryside.

You’ll arrive at either Gimyujeong Station or Gyeonggang Station, depending on which route you take.

Both paths are back dropped by gorgeous mountain scenery and split up by tunnels playing popular Korean music.

7. Muuido Island

Known for its beautiful beaches and gently rolling, forested hills, Muuido Island is the ideal beach getaway for locals and travellers who want to escape the hectic pace of life of the capital.

Instantly recognisable by the colourfully painted beach huts lining the shore, Hanagae Beach is without a doubt the most picturesque and popular destination on the island.

From enjoying seafood in the sun during the day, to attending lively barbecues at night, the atmosphere at Hangae is always laid back and enjoyable.

If you want to do something more active you can hike around other parts of the island – the ocean views are particularly beautiful from the top of the numerous hills.

8. Ganghwado Island

Filled with commemorative statues, Buddhist temples and paddy fields, Ganghwado is a rural island and a gorgeously scenic and interesting alternative to spending a day in the city.

It is popular with people looking for both nature and culture combined.

Discover Korean history dating to the Bronze Age at the Goindol Rocks, or wander the pine forests at Bomunsa Temple, which is also famed as a place from which you can catch beautiful sunsets.

Ganghwado actually consists of various islands, both inhabited and uninhabited, so be sure to research where you want to go before embarking on your trip.

9. Nami Island

Reachable in under 30 minutes by ferry, Nami Island is both beautifully picturesque and tranquil in equal measure, perfect for visitors who want to spend the day strolling around lantern adorned gardens and serene forests.

The Garden of Morning Calm is particularly breath-taking; not only is it attractive, but it is also Korea’s oldest garden.

Photographers tend to head to the famous tree-lined lanes that consist of paths flanked by trees decorated with colorful lanterns, such as the Maple Land of True Love.

If you happen to be visiting in winter, then don’t miss the biggest light festival in the whole of Korea, with thousands and thousands of lights illuminating the island.

It’s a truly magical experience.

Available tour : Nami Island with Petite France and Garden of Morning Calm

10. Yeongjong

Home to a gorgeous collection of temples, ecologically significant beaches and hot springs, Yeongjong Island is a refreshing respite from the bustling streets of Seoul.

The best of these temples is without a doubt the Yonggunsa Temple, famed for the gorgeous 1,300-year-old zelkova tree standing outside, adding a serene majesty to the already tranquil atmosphere.

After exploring the temples, head down to the Eurwangni Beach to explore the dramatic mudflats that have formed there.

These are considered to be extremely valuable, given that they are the most significant feeding grounds for the vast numbers of shore birds that migrate to Korea.

11. Mount Seorak

Situated in one of the most beautiful natural reserves in the country, Mount Seorak is the third highest mountain in Korea and it offers what are easily some of the best views too.

The Seoraksan National Park is comprised of the Baekdamcheon, Gayadong and Suryeomdong Valleys which are all hike-worthy to a fault, although the highlight is without question hiking to the peak of Mount Seorak to take in the breathtaking panoramas of the land below.

The hikes however are not the only attraction in the area, as it’s also home to the Baekdamsa Temple, renowned for its gorgeous mountain location and architectural beauty.

Suggested tour : Seoraksan National Park and Naksansa Temple 1 Day Tour

12. Mangwolsa Mountain Temple

Nestled within the Bukhansan National Park, you’ll find the beautiful Mangwolsa Mountain Temple, the oldest in the area, and skilfully rebuilt after being destroyed once in the Japanese invasion and again during the Korean War.

Its fascinating history traces its function as a refuge for everyone from monks and soldiers to volunteers, but it’s now used as a temple for Buddhist nuns.

The highlight of the temple is the 13-storey pagoda where Buddha is enshrined, which attracts visitors from far and wide to pay their respects.

Yongin is the colorful, ever-exciting city that is wildly popular with locals because of its many theme parks, which are the main reasons people visit.

Everland is one of these, and is in fact one of the most visited theme parks in the world.

It is made up of several zones, such as European Adventure and Zootopia.

Home to hologram theatres and one of the tallest wooden rollercoasters in the world, a day trip to Everland is sure to be adrenaline-filled and family friendly.

Book online : Everland Tickets and Transfer from Seoul

14. Hwaseong Haenggung

Located deep within Hwaeseong Fortress, far from the outer walls encircling it, you’ll find the enormous Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, the largest of its kind outside of Seoul.

On a guided tour, you can find out more about its former use as King Jeongjo’s residence as you wander the grounds of the traditionally designed buildings.

Once there, you can also enjoy a few lessons of traditional Korean archery, just as the King used to do, at the internal archery site.

15. Suwon Chicken Street

As a widely enjoyed and mouthwatering treat, fried chicken is hugely popular with locals, who will regularly get together to socialise with family and friends and share this tasty delicacy.

Suwon’s bustling Suwon Chicken Street is a thriving community street with up to 14 chicken restaurants all on the same road – some more than 40 years old.

One of the most highly recommended is Yongsung Chicken, where you can enjoy the crispy speciality and an ice cold Korean beer that’ll have you coming back for more.

15 Best Day Trips from Seoul:

• Korean Folk Village
• Hwaseong Fortress
• Ansan Multicultural Food Street
• Paju Book City
• Gangchon Rail Park
• Muuido Island
• Ganghwado Island
• Nami Island
• Mount Seorak
• Mangwolsa Mountain Temple
• Hwaseong Haenggung
• Suwon Chicken Street

In My Korea

25 Best Day Trips From Seoul: Tours From Seoul To Try In 2024

As the pulsating capital of Korea, Seoul offers a dizzying array of sights and experiences for visitors. This massive metropolis packs in enough attractions, entertainment, and diversity to keep travellers occupied for months. Yet just beyond the city limits lies a fascinating array of day trip destinations await you. Discover the best Seoul day trips and see more of Korea today.

Ranging from tranquil islands to preserved historic villages that transport you back in time, these easy excursions provide a compelling taste of Korean history, culture and natural beauty. This list of the 25 best day tours from Seoul will ignite your exploration outside the capital and show you many of the wonderful sights Korea has to offer. There’s definitely a day trip that will suit you here.

All of the day trips from Seoul covered in this article are accessible within a day, meaning you can travel out for an action packed day of exploration and return to your hotel in Seoul. Several of these locations can be combined into one day trip, such as Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, and Alpaca World. I’ll include tour links to combined tours when they are as they’re a convenient way to see more.

Table of Contents

Affiliate Disclaimer :  This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why Book A Day Tour From Seoul?

Embarking on a day tour from Seoul is a must when you visit Korea as it offers you a unique opportunity to explore the country’s rich heritage , stunning natural landscapes , and vibrant local culture beyond the bustling capital. I think these Seoul day trips will provide deeper insights into Korea than you’ll find in the capital and leave you with a better understanding of what Korea’s really like.

These day trips give you a way to discover historical sites like the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress , natural wonders such as Nami Island , and unique attractions like the DMZ , showcasing the poignant history and beauty of Korea. These destinations, which are all accessible in a day, give you the chance to contrast Seoul to other parts of Korea and I’m sure you’ll notice some big differences.

Whether it’s indulging in traditional Korean experiences at the Jeonju Hanok Village or exploring the enchanting Gwangmyeong Cave , these day tours from Seoul cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring memorable experiences from your journey. Moreover, they offer insights into Korea’s diverse regions, making them essential for those looking to experience the country’s cultural charms.

Quick links : Looking for a certain type of day tour from Seoul? Use the links below to jump straight to the section that interests you, or keep on reading to discover all of these tours.

Most Popular

Korean Culture

Family Friendly

Nature Lovers

Offbeat Korea

How To Book Day Tours From Seoul

The most convenient way to book a day trip from Seoul is through user-friendly online platforms like Klook , Viator , Trazy , and Get Your Guide . These sites make exploring beyond Seoul simple by aggregating reliable tours complete with reviews, easy online booking in your chosen currency, e-tickets, and even transportation coordination from central pick-up points. I use them to book tours myself.

I recommend booking day tours in advance when visiting Korea (especially if you’re travelling in spring or autumn) for these reasons:

• Guarantee your booking and avoid disappointment.
• Almost always cheaper than buying on the day.
• You can read reviews and see if the tour is right for you.
• You can pay with your home credit card.

Learn more : Paying in your home currency is often easier and cheaper than converting money into Korean won. Booking ahead is one of the tips included in my guide to paying in Korea , which covers ways to save on travel money in Korea and alternatives to relying on exchanging cash to travel.

Where To Stay For Seoul Day Trips

Tour companies offering day trips out from Seoul might collect you directly from your hotel, but more often they prefer to arrange pickups in these three popular districts:

If you’re planning to take some day trips while you’re staying in Seoul, then I recommend staying in one of these locations as you’ll find it easier to arrange tour pickups. There are some excellent hotels in Myeongdong , Hongdae , and Gangnam and these are the most popular areas to stay. To learn more about Seoul’s districts, check out my guide about where to stay in Seoul .

Using Public Transport In Korea

Public transport in Seoul and Korea in general is amazing and services run frequently, actually turn up on time, and cost little. You can travel between cities for less than $10 and tickets cost the same regardless of when you use them. Transportation in Seoul is provided in multiple languages and is easy to use. While it’s great in Seoul, relying on public transport beyond the city can prove challenging.

Destinations outside Seoul may not be well connected, especially in the Korean countryside. Infrequent services, complex transfers and language barriers leave DIY day trips prone to confusion and wasted time, even for experienced travellers. Booking a guided tour ensures stress-free travel to and from Seoul on comfortable buses or vans, direct to each location with expert commentary, too.

It’s certainly possible to use public transport for some destinations, such as Nami Island, but for a hassle-free day trip from Seoul, tours are much simpler than using public transport, which requires research and planning. If you want to use public transport for your day trips, I recommend Naver Map or Kakao Map for directions, along with Papago to help translate Korean to English as you travel.

Planning to visit Korea? These travel essentials will help you plan your trip, get the best deals, and save you time and money before and during your Korean adventure.

Visas & K-ETA: Some travellers to Korea need a Tourist Visa , but most can travel with a Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA). Currently 22 Countries don’t need either one.

How To Stay Connected : Pre-order a Korean Sim Card or a WiFi Router to collect on-arrival at Incheon Airport (desks open 24-hours). Alternatively, download a Korean eSIM for you travels.

Where To Stay : For Seoul, I recommend Myeongdong (convenient), Hongdae (cool culture) or Gangnam (shopping). For Busan, Haeundae (Beach) or Seomyeon (Downtown).

Incheon Airport To Seoul : Take the Airport Express (AREX) to Seoul Station or a Limo Bus across Seoul. Book an Incheon Airport Private Transfer and relax to or from the airport.

Korean Tour Operators : Tour companies that have a big presence in Korea include Klook , Trazy , Viator , and Get Your Guide . These sites offer discounted entry tickets for top attractions.

Seoul City Passes : Visit Seoul’s top attractions for free with a Discover Seoul Pass or Go City Seoul Pass . These passes are great for families and couples visiting Seoul – you can save lots.

How To Get Around : For public transport, grab a T-Money Card . Save money on Korea’s high speed trains with a Korea Rail Pass . To see more of Korea, there are many rental car options from Klook , EconomyBookings , and RentalCars .

Travel Money : Use money exchanges near Myeongdong and Hongdae subway stations for the best exchange rates. Order a Wise Card or WOWPASS to pay by card across Korea.

Flights To Korea : I use flight comparison sites such as Expedia and Skyscanner to find the best flights to Korea from any country. Air Asia is a good option for budget flights from Asia.

Travel Insurance : It is important to insure your trips to protect yourself against the unexpected. World Nomad is a specialized travel insurance provider with options for different coverage for travellers from around the world. You can also purchase cover when you are already travelling.

How To Learn Korean : The language course from 90 Day Korean or Korean Class 101 both have well-structured lessons and lots of useful resources to help you learn Korean.

Top 10 Seoul Day Trips For Sightseeing

With endless fascinating sights and experiences to discover beyond the capital, narrowing down the most celebrated Seoul day tours offers a great starting point to explore more of the country. These ten destinations repeatedly rate as top favourites amongst both Korean and international visitors seeking to unlock the cultural, historical and natural highlights waiting beyond Seoul’s borders.

1: Nami Island

Nami Island , located in Chuncheon, is a half-moon shaped isle known for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural attractions. Established as a tourist destination in 1965, the island covers an area of 430,000 square metres and is renowned for its tree-lined walking paths, making it a picturesque escape from the urban hustle of Seoul and one of Korea’s best day trips.

What to see and do : The island offers a variety of attractions, from its beautiful tree lanes, such as Ginkgo Tree Lane and Metasequoia Lane, to cultural sites like the UNICEF Charity Train. You can enjoy cycling, zip-lining to the island, traditional Korean foods, and seasonal events. The island also features art galleries, performance stages, and water sports during the summer.

Suitable for : families, couples, and nature enthusiasts.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

• Nami Island and Gapyeong Sights Day Tour by Klook
• Nami Island, Korean Garden & Rail Bike Day Trip by Get Your Guide

How to get there : If you want to make your own way to Nami Island, check out my guide about how to get to Nami Island from Seoul by car, tours, and public transportation.

2: Garden Of Morning Calm

The Garden of Morning Calm is a serene botanical garden located in Gapyeong County. Established in 1996, it spans 30,000 square meters and features Korean traditional garden concepts. The garden is a tranquil retreat showcasing Korea’s natural beauty through its diverse plant species and landscaped gardens. One of the most beautiful of these Seoul day trips, especially in spring and summer.

What to see & do : You can explore themed gardens, scenic walking paths, and seasonal festivals, including the Spring Garden Festival and the Winter Illumination Festival. Highlights include the Wild Flower Garden, Pine Garden, and the picturesque Pond Garden. The garden also offers cultural experiences and workshops, making it a place of learning and relaxation.

Suitable for : nature lovers, families, and photographers.

• Garden of Morning Calm and Gapyeong Sights Day Tour by Klook
• Garden of Morning Calm Tours by Get Your Guide

3: Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) Area

The DMZ, or Demilitarised Zone , separates North and South Korea, extending 250 kilometres across the peninsula. This buffer zone, established in 1953, is a significant symbol of the Korean War’s cessation (but not end). It offers a unique insight into the geopolitical tensions and history of the region, making it a compelling destination for Seoul day trips.

What to see and do : Tours from Seoul to the DMZ allow you to explore observation posts, tunnels dug by North Korea, and the Joint Security Area (currently unavailable). The area also hosts exhibitions and historical sites, providing educational insights into the Korean conflict. These tours often include visits to key landmarks, such as the Freedom Bridge and the Third Infiltration Tunnel.

Suitable for : history buffs, political enthusiasts, and modern history lovers.

Current DMZ tour issues : Due to the recently increased tensions with North Korea, as well as a swine flu outbreak in the area, the Joint Security Area is currently closed to tourists.

• Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour by Klook
• DMZ, 3rd Tunnel & Suspension Bridge Guided Tour by Get Your Guide

4: Suwon Hwaseong Fortress

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress , a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a late 18th-century fortification in Suwon, South Korea. It represents the pinnacle of 18th-century military architecture, combining Eastern and Western design principles. The fortress encompasses a wall stretching nearly 6 kilometres, featuring four gates and numerous defensive structures, making it a standout destination for Seoul day trips.

What to see & do : You can explore the fortress walls, offering panoramic views of Suwon city. The site includes impressive gates, watchtowers, and pavilions. The Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, within the fortress, showcases royal residences and administrative buildings. Cultural events, martial arts performances, and traditional archery experiences are also available, enriching tours from Seoul.

Suitable for : history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and families.

• Suwon Hwaseong Day Tour by Klook
• Suwon Hwaseong Fortress & Folk Village Day Tour by Get Your Guide

5: Yongin Korean Folk Village

The Yongin Korean Folk Village is a living museum located in Yongin that recreates traditional Korean life from the Joseon Dynasty. Spanning over 243 acres, it features over 260 traditional houses, offering a deep dive into Korea’s cultural heritage, making it a popular choice for day trips. This tour from Seoul is often combined with the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and other attractions nearby.

What to see & do : Witness traditional Korean crafts, such as pottery and weaving, watch folk music and dance performances, and explore a traditional marketplace. The village also offers hands-on experiences like traditional games and seasonal activities, including farming. Attractions include martial arts demonstrations and traditional wedding ceremonies, providing a look into historical Korean culture.

Suitable for : cultural enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in Korea’s traditional lifestyle.

• Yongin Korean Folk Village Tour by Klook
• Korean Folk Village and Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Tour by Get Your Guide

6: Jeonju Hanok Village

Jeonju Hanok Village , located in the heart of Jeonju, is a vibrant cultural district renowned for its 800 beautifully preserved traditional Korean hanok houses. This picturesque village serves as a living museum, encapsulating the essence of the Joseon Dynasty’s architectural and cultural heritage.

You are transported back in time, as you wander through narrow alleys lined with tile-roofed houses, artisanal workshops, and quaint tea houses. The village’s commitment to maintaining traditional Korean crafts, cuisine, and culture makes it perfect for those seeking an authentic tour from Seoul.

What to see & do : You can explore traditional tea houses, artisan workshops, and cultural museums. The Jeonju Hanji Museum, dedicated to traditional Korean paper, and the Jeonju Korean Traditional Wine Museum are highlights. Traditional Korean dress (hanbok) rental is popular, along with sampling authentic Jeonju bibimbap, making it a vibrant mix of cultural exploration and culinary delight.

Suitable for : cultural enthusiasts, photographers, and foodies.

• Jeonju Hanok Village Day Tour by Klook
• Jeonju Hanok Village Korean Food Tour by Trazy
• Jeonju Hanol Village Tours by Get Your Guide

7: Alpaca World

Alpaca World is a scenic area within easy reach from Seoul and one of the best places to see cuddly critters in leafy surroundings. This expansive park is not just about alpacas; it’s an animal haven set against the backdrop of Korea’s beautiful natural landscape. You have the chance to interact closely with alpacas, deer, and other animals in an environment that prioritises their wellbeing and freedom.

What to see & do : Beyond feeding and walking with alpacas, you can try activities such as horse riding, exploring the ecological forest, and crafting. The park also features thematic gardens, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it an ideal spot for leisure and learning about animal care and nature conservation. The hands-on interactions with the animals provide a memorable experience for all ages.

Suitable for : families, animal lovers, and nature enthusiasts.

• Alpaca World & Popular Sights Day Tour by Klook
• Gangwon-do Day Trip with Alpaca World & Nami Island by Get Your Guide

8: Gangchon Rail Park

Gangchon Rail Park offers you an outdoor adventure combining scenic beauty with physical activity. The repurposed old railway tracks allow you to pedal rail bikes through tunnels, over bridges, and along rivers. Covering a distance that showcases the stunning rural landscapes of Korea, it’s an innovative way to explore the countryside, making it a popular choice for day trips from Seoul.

What to see & do : The main attraction is the rail biking experience, where you can pedal along old railroad tracks while enjoying the surrounding nature. The course includes features like tunnels, adorned with lights and music, and panoramic views of the river and countryside. Additionally, the park offers rest areas with scenic photo spots to witness the beauty of the Korean landscape.

Suitable for : active travellers, families, and groups seeking a unique experience in nature.

• Gangchon Rail Park and Gapyeong Sights Day Tour by Klook
• Gangchon Rail Bike, Nami Island & Korean Garden Day Trip by Get Your Guide

9: Petite France

Petite France is a French-themed village that stands as a beacon of European charm within Korea. This cultural village is designed to emulate the atmosphere of a quaint French town, featuring brightly coloured buildings, cobblestone streets, and a collection of European dolls, antique musical instruments, and French literature. It’s a eccentric enclave that offers a uniquely European escape.

What to see & do : Within its boundaries, you can explore a variety of attractions including the Saint-Exupéry Memorial Hall dedicated to the author of “The Little Prince,” puppet shows, and street performances that capture the essence of French culture. The village also offers workshops on French crafts and cooking, making it a place of both entertainment and learning with lots of photo opportunities.

Suitable for : families, couples, and Francophiles.

• Petite France and Gapyeong Sights Day Tour by Klook
• Petite France, Nami Island, and Garden of Morning Calm Tour by Get Your Guide

10: Gwangmyeong Cave

Gwangmyeong Cave is a former gold mine transformed into a cultural and recreational space. This subterranean complex is a fusion of historical, cultural, and entertainment elements, offering a unique experience beneath the earth’s surface. It boasts illuminated caverns, underground lakes, and themed exhibitions, making it a great destination for those seeking an adventurous day trip from Seoul.

What to see & do : In Gwangmyeong Cave you can explore a variety of interesting attractions including the Wine Cave, where Korean wines are showcased and available for tasting, and the Golden Road, which tells the history of the mine’s gold extraction era. The cave also hosts art installations, a concert hall, and an aquarium, providing diverse entertainment options.

Suitable for : adventurers, families, and those interested in geologic phenomena.

• Gwangmyeong Cave & Hwadam Botanic Garden Day Tour by Klook

Korean Culture Lovers Day Trips From Seoul

These day trips from Seoul are for the K-culture lovers, both modern and traditional, who want to spend a day away from Seoul to see unmissable destinations from TV, movies, art, and nature. If you’re a fan of BTS or modern K-culture, then you’ll love the BTS tour and a visit to Dae Jang Geum Park. Families and couples will be pleasantly surprised with day tours in Pocheon and Gangneung, too.

BTS ARMY Fan Tours From Seoul

BTS-themed tours from Seoul offer fans of the global K-pop sensation a unique journey through the places associated with BTS’s rise to fame. These tours cover iconic sites outside Seoul that hold significance to the band’s history, such as music video locations, favourite hangouts, and significant locations in their career. It’s an immersive experience that brings fans closer to the footsteps of BTS.

What to see & do : Participants can visit sites inside and outside of Seoul, like the BTS bus stop at Hyangho Beach from the “Spring Day” music video, Yongin Daejanggeum Park where Suga recorded “Daechwita”, and Seoul sights such as Hakdong Park , Yoojung Sikdang , and the old Big Hit headquarters . Some tours offer exclusive merchandise and photo shoots at famous BTS-related spots.

Suitable for : ARMYs, K-pop enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the cultural phenomenon of BTS.

• BTS Fan ARMY Must Visit Day Tour from Seoul by Klook
• BTS Fan Tour with Gangneung Beach by Get Your Guide

Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park Tour

Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park , previously known as MBC Dramia, is an expansive outdoor film set. This site is famous for being the filming location of numerous popular Korean historical dramas, including “Dae Jang Geum.” Tours from Seoul offer fans of K-dramas and K-movies a behind-the-scenes look at the settings of their favourite productions, showcasing traditional Korean architecture and culture.

What to see & do : You can explore the meticulously constructed sets that replicate historical palaces, villages, and landscapes from various periods of Korean history. Tours provide insights into the filming processes and stories behind the scenes. There’s the opportunity to dress in traditional Korean costumes, and occasional reenactments and performances really bring the drama to life.

Suitable for : fans of Korean dramas, history buffs, and those interested in traditional Korean culture.

• Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park Tour by Klook
• Classic K-Drama Dae Jang Geum Park Tour by Get Your Guide

Pocheon Art Village And Herb Island

Day tours from Seoul to Pocheon Art Valley and Herb Island offer a blend of natural beauty, art, and aromatic experiences. Pocheon Art Valley, a transformed granite quarry, now serves as a cultural space featuring sculptures, an art museum, and a picturesque lake. Herb Island, focusing on Mediterranean herbs, lights up with fairy-tale illuminations at night, creating a magical atmosphere.

What to see & do : In Pocheon Art Valley, you can enjoy scenic landscapes, explore art installations, and take part in craft workshops. The monorail provides easy access to stunning views. Herb Island gives you a chance to wander through lavender fields, participate in soap-making classes, and explore themed gardens and greenhouses. Visit at night to see the entire island aglow with decorative lights.

Suitable for : art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and families looking for a creative day of delights.

• Pocheon Art Valley & Herb Island Day Tour by Klook
• Pocheon Art Valley, Herb Island, & Fruit Picking by Get Your Guide

Gangneung K-Culture Day Trip

Gangneung is a beautiful beach city on the east coast of Korea accessible from Seoul in under 2 hours by KTX high speed train. Known as a city of coffee, nature, and culture, the city boasts festivals dedicated to coffee (Gangneung Coffee Festival), cherry blossoms (Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival), and beach life (Gyeongpo Beach Beer Festival & Gangneung Gyeongpo Summer Festival).

What to see & do : Day trips will take you to some top cultural destinations in the area, including Jumunjin to see the filming location of the popular Korean drama “Goblin”. Nearby, K-pop fans can visit the bus stop featured in BTS’s “Spring Day” music video – a must-see for diehard A.R.M.Y fans! The area also offers new attractions like the immersive light and shadow art experience – ARTE Museum.

Suitable for : art lovers, culture vultures, and those interested in modern K-culture.

• Gangneung hotspot Tour! BTS Bus Stop, Goblin, Arte Museum by Klook
• Gyeongpo Lake, BTS Bus Stop, Jumunjin Beach Tour by Trazy

Family Friendly One Day Trips From Seoul

If you’re looking for a family-friendly break from Seoul, then these theme parks and attractions will provide a whole day of outdoor fun for all. While Seoul offers great theme parks like Lotte World Adventure , the destinations outside Seoul are bigger and have more to see and do – making them worth a visit. Here are some fun day trips from Seoul to enjoy during summer and other seasons.

Caribbean Bay Water Park

Caribbean Bay Water Park , part of the Everland Resort in Yongin, is one of the largest water parks in the world. Offering a tropical Caribbean theme, it features a wide range of water-based attractions, including wave pools, water slides, and a lazy river. Tours from Seoul to Caribbean Bay provide a refreshing escape from the city, allowing visitors to enjoy thrilling rides and relaxation in a picturesque setting.

What to see & do : You can experience exhilarating water slides of varying heights and speeds, the expansive wave pool capable of generating artificial waves, and the relaxing lazy river that meanders through the park. The Aqua Loop, a high-speed slide with a 360-degree loop, is a must-try for thrill-seekers. If you’re just looking to relax, the spa and sauna facilities offer a serene retreat.

Suitable for : families, groups of friends, and anyone seeking fun and adventure in a water park setting.

• Caribbean Bay Water Park in Yongin One Day Pass by Klook

Everland Theme Park

Everland theme park , also in Yongin, is Korea’s largest theme park and offers a diverse range of attractions across its zones – Global Fair, American Adventure, Magic Land, European Adventure, and Zootopia. Combining thrilling rides, themed areas, and a zoo, tours from Seoul to Everland provide a day of adventure and fun, making it a top choice for those seeking excitement outside the city.

What to see & do : Visitors can enjoy high-speed roller coasters, such as the T-Express, family-friendly rides, and seasonal festivals. Zootopia offers close encounters with animals, including a panda habitat and a safari ride. The park’s beautifully landscaped gardens and parades add to the festive atmosphere. For those looking to cool down, check out the aforementioned water park, Caribbean Bay.

Suitable for : families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking for a fun-filled day out.

• Everland Theme Park Day Tour by Klook
• Everland Admission Ticket with Transfer by Get Your Guide

Legoland Korea

Legoland Korea is a newly opened theme park that brings the iconic Lego brand to life. This family-oriented park features over 40 rides, shows, and attractions across various themed zones, each dedicated to the creativity and fun of Lego building blocks. Day tours from Seoul to Legoland Korea offer an immersive experience into a world of imagination and innovation for Lego fans of all ages.

What to see & do : The park is divided into themed areas, including Miniland, where iconic landmarks from around the world are recreated in Lego form. Visitors can enjoy interactive rides, build and test their own Lego creations, and watch 4D cinema presentations. For younger guests, Duplo playgrounds provide a safe and exciting environment. The park also hosts seasonal events.

Suitable for : families with children, Lego enthusiasts, and those looking for a creative day out.

• Legoland Round-trip Shuttle from Seoul by Klook
• Legoland Korea Trip with Rail Bike or Luge Racing Car by Get Your Guide

Day Trips From Seoul To See Nature

Some of the most-loved day trips from Seoul introduce you to the abundant green sights you’ll find outside Korea’s capital, including the aforementioned Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, and Pocheon Art Valley. There are plenty more natural wonders awaiting you in the Korean countryside, with massive mountains , serene rivers , picturesque forests and gardens , and more, to discover.

Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan National Park is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, including rugged mountains, narrow valleys, and dense forests. It’s a UNESCO Biosphere Protection site, offering an escape into nature’s tranquility. Day tours from Seoul to Seoraksan allow you to explore Korea’s natural beauty, with the park’s changing seasons offering many wonderful sights, especially during autumn.

What to see & do : The park features a range of hiking trails for all abilities, from easy walks to challenging climbs, leading to stunning vistas and natural landmarks like the Ulsanbawi Rock. Don’t want to hike? Take the cable car to Gwongeumseong and see panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You can explore Buddhist temples in the park, including picturesque Sinheungsa Temple.

Suitable for : nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat into natural beauty.

• Seoraksan & Nami Island One Day Tour by Klook
• Seoraksan Hike with Naksansa Temple or Nami Island by Get Your Guide

• Hwadam Botanical Gardens And Forest

Hwadam Botanical Garden is a meticulously designed ecological space that combines traditional Korean and modern landscaping techniques. This self-sustaining garden is known for its extensive collection of native and exotic plants, making it a haven for botany enthusiasts. Day tours from Seoul to Hwadam Botanical Garden offer a serene escape into nature and a literal breath of fresh air.

What to see & do : Meander through themed sections, including a conifer garden, medicinal herb garden, and a wetland ecosystem, each offering unique plants and educational insights. The garden’s walking paths and scenic bridges over ponds create a peaceful environment for your to relax and take photos. Visit for seasonal events, such as the spring cherry blossom festival and autumn foliage viewing.

Suitable for : nature enthusiasts, families, and photographers looking for a tranquil day out.

• Hwadam Botanical Gardens & Popular Sights Day Tour by Klook

Namhansanseong Fortress

Namhansanseong Fortress , a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to Korea’s historical military architecture and strategic significance. Located on a mountainous terrain south-east of Seoul, this fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Tours from Seoul provide insight into Korea’s rich history, with well-preserved fortifications that date back to the 17th century.

What to see & do : The fortress encompasses several walking trails leading to historical sites, including ancient gates, command posts, and Buddhist temples like the Sudoksa Temple. You can explore the Emergency Palace, which served as a refuge for kings during invasions. The combination of natural beauty and historical discovery waiting to be found here makes for a fulfilling experience.

Suitable for : history enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone interested in exploring Korea’s cultural heritage.

• Namhansanseong Fortress Walking Tour by Klook

Yangpyeong Dumulmeori

Yangpyeong Dumulmeori is famed for its picturesque natural landscapes that have inspired countless photographers and filmmakers. This tranquil spot, easily accessible via day tours from Seoul, is named ‘Dumulmeori’ for its water’s resemblance to a ‘head of two waters’. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat into nature, with its stunning vistas and serene atmosphere.

What to see & do : You can enjoy leisurely walks along the riverbank, take memorable photographs of the traditional Korean boats and the iconic willow trees lining the water’s edge, or explore the nearby Semiwon Garden. Seasonal changes bring a dynamic beauty to the area, with lush greens in summer, vibrant blooms in spring, and fiery colours showcasing gorgeous autumn foliage.

Suitable for : photographers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a day of scenic beauty.

• Yangpyeong Dumulmeori Yongmun Temple & Paragliding Tour by Klook

One-Day Tours From Seoul With A Difference

This final set of Seoul day trips offer a chance to see more offbeat sights, join in exciting outdoor activities, and visit other notable cities in Korea. There are lots of extreme sports and cities you could visit on a day trip, which will be covered in other articles. These four destinations will give you a chance to get away from the main tourist areas, see some unusual sights, and try fun activities.

Danyang Paragliding & Sightseeing Tours

Danyang paragliding tours offer an exhilarating escape into the skies, showcasing some of Korea’s most breathtaking landscapes from a bird’s-eye view. Danyang is renowned for its scenic beauty, including lush mountains and clear rivers. This tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of flight, making it a popular choice for adventure seekers looking to get away from the urban jungle.

What to see & do : You can soar above the picturesque landscapes of Danyang, taking in views of the winding rivers, rugged cliffs, and verdant forests. The experience is made safe and enjoyable under the guidance of experienced instructors, ensuring a memorable adventure. Besides paragliding, you can explore the local attractions, such as the Gosu Cave and Dodamsambong Peaks.

Suitable for : thrill-seekers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience an adrenaline rush.

• Danyang Paragliding & Popular Sights Day Tour by Klook

Jebu Island Marine Cable Car

Jebu Island (Seohaerang) Marine Cable Car offers a unique vantage point to explore the natural beauty and coastal landscapes of Jebu Island. This is a great opportunity to experience this island’s scenic views from above, including its famous tidal flats, surrounding waters, and the impressive Siwha Sea Barrier. The cable car ride presents panoramic vistas that will surely captivate you.

What to see & do : The cable car journey allows you to witness the dramatic changes of the tide at Jebu Island’s mudflats, a phenomenon that reveals the seabed at low tide and hides it beneath the waves at high tide. Additionally, you can explore the island’s attractions, such as the Jebu Island Lighthouse and various coastal trails, offering leisurely walks with stunning seaside views.

Suitable for : families, couples, and photography enthusiasts interested in Korea’s coastal landscapes.

• Jebu Island Marine Cable Car, Uiwang Railbike & Starlight Village Tour by Klook

Day Trip To Busan By KTX Train

As the country’s second-largest city, Busan offers a diverse array of attractions, from ancient Buddhist temples to modern skyscrapers that line the waterfront. Day tours from Seoul to Busan are an excellent way to experience the unique blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty that this city has to offer. However, as this is a large city, I would recommend staying at least 1 night to see the sights.

Although there aren’t really any guided tours to Busan from Seoul, it’s easy enough to get to Korea’s second biggest city and back in a day thanks to the KTX high speed train network that links the two cities. This is a good way to use the unlimited Korean rail pass . Once you’re in Busan, the main sights can be accessed by public transport or a city tour that starts once you arrive.

What to see & do : Highlights of a Busan tour include Haeundae Beach, renowned for its scenic beauty and festive atmosphere; Gamcheon Culture Village, with its brightly painted houses and artistic vibe; and Jagalchi Fish Market, where you can taste fresh seafood. The Haedong Yonggungsa Temple offers spiritual serenity by the sea, and Taejongdae Park presents panoramic ocean views,

Suitable for : beach lovers, cultural explorers, and food enthusiasts keen to try culinary delights.

• Busan One Day City Tour by Klook
• Busan Coastal Wonders & Cultural Gems Tour by Get Your Guide

Day Trip To Incheon City

Incheon City is Korea’s third-largest city and known for its historical significance, modern landmarks, and cultural diversity. Incheon blends history with modernity, featuring attractions from its time as a major port during the late 19th century to its current status as a global city. A day trip to Incheon offers an insightful journey into the city’s rich heritage, vibrant markets, and scenic coastal areas.

What to see & do : Explore Korea’s first Chinatown with its colourful streets, traditional architecture, and authentic cuisine. The Songdo district showcases futuristic urban planning and green spaces. Historical sites like the Incheon Landing Operation Memorial Hall offer a glimpse into Korea’s modern history. For a relaxing end to the day, Wolmido Island provides seaside attractions and amusement parks.

Suitable for : history enthusiasts, foodies, and urban explorers looking for a mix of cultural experiences.

• Incheon City Day Tour by Klook

Seasonal Day Tours From Seoul

There are various day tours from Seoul that only run during certain seasons and will whisk you away to gorgeous destinations that only dazzle for a short time. These day tour destinations shine bright and bold during their respective seasons, but often don’t offer much during the rest of the year, or at least not as much. Below are some of the best tours from Seoul that you can take in each season.

Spring Day Tours From Seoul

Spring is all about nature and beautiful blossoms , which you can see across the country with tours to cherry blossom festivals, flower festivals, and areas of natural beauty. Spring is a wonderful time to travel in Korea thanks to the warm weather and clear skies, as well as the many spring festivals that are on. April is one of the best times to visit Korea, and May is also really good.

Here are some of the best spring destinations with tours from Seoul:

• Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival
• Gyeongpodae Cherry Blossom Festival
• Garden Of Morning Calm Spring Festival
• Gurye Sansuyu Flower Festival
• Taean Tulip Festival

Summer Day Tours From Seoul

Summer in Korea is hot and wet, but there are loads of fun festivals and events happening across the country, including a giant mud festival that embraces the rainy weather. It’s also a time when nature is in full flow and there are many lush forests and parks to walk through, as well as rose gardens and tea plantations . Trips to the beach are popular and Seoulites will flock to the east coast for summer sun.

Here are some of the best summer destinations with tours from Seoul:

• Boseong Green Tea Plantation
• Boryeong Mud Festival
• Gangneung & Sokcho Beaches
• Caribbean Bay & Everland
• Daegu Chimac (Chicken & Beer) Festival

Autumn Day Tours From Seoul

Autumn in Korea starts from September and runs until early November and is arguably the best time to visit Korea, thanks to the many Korean autumn foliage spots that begin showing their colours from early October, and the weather is great. Besides autumn leaves , there are also harvest and culture festivals going on and tours to farms and countryside towns to try local produce are popular.

Here are some of the best autumn destinations with tours from Seoul:

• Seoraksan Autumn Foliage
• Daedunsan Autumn Foliage
• Gangneung Coffee Festival
• Jinju Lantern Festival

Winter Day Tours From Seoul

Winter in Korea is not the easiest time to visit, but it’s a season packed with fun winter activities and snowy sights . You will find dozens of winter festivals in Korea to enjoy on day trips from Seoul, including ice fishing festivals, snow and ice festivals, and winter illuminations. Winter sports lovers and families looking for snowy sights in Korea will love the many ski resorts accessible from Seoul.

Here are some of the best winter events with tours from Seoul:

• Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival
• Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival
• Garden Of Morning Calm Illuminations
• Vivaldi Park Ski Resort
• Wondaeri Birch Forest

Best Time To Take Seoul Day Trips

While remarkable sights encircle Seoul in every season, temperate spring and autumn offer ideal weather for day trips. Summer is hot, so being outside can be difficult for long periods of time, the same can be said of winter as it’s so cold. However, you shouldn’t let the weather put you off as the right clothes and frequent indoor breaks can solve most problems from the adverse weather conditions.

Not only are spring and autumn warm and sunny, they’re not too wet. It mostly rains in Korea from June to August . Winter in Korea is very dry, making it a good time to take day trips out to the aforementioned winter destinations, as long as you’re wrapped up warm. Summer rains aren’t that bad though as the weather is a bit cooler when it rains, although it’s not good for the beach.

I recommend booking day tours on weekdays as these are less busy and you’ll encounter fewer local tourists. Koreans make the most of their free time and weekends and public holidays are a time to get out and enjoy popular sights outside the city (and in). If there’s a festival on then definitely visit during the week as some of the big festivals can see over 100,000 people per day on weekends!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about day tours from Seoul. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

What are the best day trips from Seoul?

Some of the best day trips outside Seoul include Nami Island in Chuncheon, Korean Folk Village in Yongin, tours to the North Korea border DMZ area, and Suwon’s UNESCO site Hwaseong fortress. For nature lovers, the Garden of Morning Calm and Seoraksan National Park are also exceptional day trip destinations.

What are the best family-friendly day trips?

Everland Theme Park, with its wide range of rides and attractions, offers fun for the whole family. Nami Island is ideal for outdoor activities in a picturesque setting. Other family-friendly Seoul day trips include Legoland Korea, Alpaca World, and Gangchon Rail Park in Gangwon-do.

Can you see Busan on a day trip from Seoul?

Busan, on Korea’s southern coast, can be accessed by KTX high speed train in under 3 hours, so it’s certainly possible to visit as a day tour. However, it’s difficult to fully appreciate Busan’s attractions like Haedong Yonggungsa seaside temple or Gamcheon Culture Village in one quick day trip and staying overnight is recommended.

Can you visit gyeongju from Seoul in one day?

While challenging due to the distance, a one-day trip to Gyeongju is possible with early departure by KTX. This allows for a visit to key historical sites like Bulguksa Temple and the Gyeongju National Museum, offering a glimpse into the Silla Kingdom’s rich heritage. However, an overnight stay is recommended or a day trip from Busan instead of Seoul.

Is Jeonju worth visiting from Seoul?

Jeonju is definitely worth visiting for the Jeonju Hanok Village, which offers an immersive experience into traditional Korean culture, architecture, and cuisine, particularly the famous Jeonju Bibimbap. The city’s rich history and cultural festivals add to its appeal, making it a rewarding day trip.

Which beach is the best for a day Tour from Seoul?

Eurwangni Beach, near Incheon, is accessible and family-friendly, featuring fine sand, shallow waters, and amenities like restaurants and cafes. Its proximity to Seoul makes it an ideal seaside escape for a day trip, especially during the warmer months. The beaches in Gangneung and Sokcho are also worth visiting from Seoul for a day or two.

Which national park is best for a Seoul day trip?

Seoraksan National Park is arguably the best national park for a day trip from Seoul with its stunning mountainous landscapes, autumn colours, and accessible hiking trails. The park’s natural beauty, including the famous Ulsanbawi Rock and scenic cable car rides, offers a refreshing escape into nature.

Support In My Korea Thanks for reading. If you want to help me to create more great content in the future, why not buy me a coffee? A strong coffee helps me write more and is a simple way to show gratitude for this free content.

Liked This? Pin It For Others

If you enjoyed reading this article, then please share this with your friends on Pinterest.

Related Articles

When To Go Hiking In Korea: Seasonal Hiking Guide 2024

Korean Etiquette, Culture And Manners: 35 Useful Insights

Rainy Day In Busan: 40 Fun Indoor Activities In Busan 2024

Hi! My name is Joel, I'm the author of In My Korea and writer of this article. I've lived, worked and travelled in Korea since 2015 and want to share my insights, stories and tips to help you have the best experience during your trip to Korea.

I love learning more about Korean culture, hiking the many mountains, and visiting all the coolest places in Korea, both modern and traditional. If you want to know more about my story, check out the ' about me ' section to learn why I love living in Korea.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The 5 best day trips from Seoul

Feb 3, 2024 • 6 min read

Day trips from Seoul range from beaches to the ominous DMZ © Goldcastle7 / Getty Images

So, you're done with dynamic Seoul ?

You're finished with its top fashion. You're through with its cutting-edge technology. You can't listen to another K-pop beat .

Well, you're in luck. Less than two hours away from the capital's ancient palaces and timeless temples are some super day trips. From learning about Joseon history to visiting the DMZ, the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea , these are our favorites.

1. The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

Sitting between Seoul and North Korea, Paju is the closest city to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that divides the Korean peninsula. At  Panmunjom and the Joint Security Area (JSA), North and South Korean soldiers face each other across the military demarcation line. The atmosphere is noticeably tense at this historically significant spot, where important events such as the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement took place.

Since the end of the Korean War in 1953, authorities have uncovered four unfinished tunnels that North Korea built into South Korea. Three are now accessible to visitors on guided tours. The third tunnel is particularly popular and slightly unnerving because of its proximity to Seoul – it finishes just 52km (32 miles) away from the capital. Located 7km (4 miles) from the military demarcation line, Imjingak park acts as a gesture of hope for unification. Built in 1972, it has many relics from the war on display, including tanks and a destroyed train.

If you join a DMZ tour, you'll be able to visit the Dora Observatory , which offers clear views of North Korea, including the city of Kaesong and the settlement of Gijeong-dong. The nickname of the latter, "propaganda village," comes from claims that the pristine-appearing settlement is actually uninhabited, except for a handful of caretakers who occasionally flick lights on and off to simulate signs of life. Many believe it exists simply to encourage South Koreans to defect for a "better life" across the border.

Near the observatory is Dorasan Station, the northernmost station on South Korea's rail network. To visit the DMZ (including Panmunjom and infiltration tunnels), you must join an official guided tour with an accompanying military escort, but you can visit Imjingak independently.

How to get to the DMZ from Seoul: Paju is 33km (20 miles) northwest of Seoul, and it's easily accessible by train from Yongsan Station, with a journey time of one hour. Buses also run to Paju from Seoul's northwestern districts.

The capital and largest city of Seoul's surrounding Gyeonggi Province, Suwon is a popular day trip for its historic and cultural heritage sites. The vast Hwaseong Fortress has walls that stretch for over 5.5km (3.5 miles) with four main gates, including Janganmun, the largest gateway in Korea. With scenic views and a rich history, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit.

Hidden within the fortress walls are Haenggung Palace and the royal residential quarters. They were once used by royalty as a temporary home while traveling on royal business. Though the Japanese colonial occupation destroyed much of the site, restorers have largely rebuilt it, offering a fascinating window into past royal life.

Feeling hungry? Suwon is famous for its beef, and the local galbi (marinated ribs) are a must-try for carnivores. Kabojung  is one of the best spots to sample galbi – the government has recognized the owner as a Korean Food Grand Master. Close to Suwon City Hall station, Yuchi Hwoegwan serves up a celebrated haejangguk (hangover stew), chock full of beef, cabbage, scallions and more. This nutrient-rich soup is perfect after a big night out.

How to get to Suwon: Suwon is 31km (19 miles) south of Seoul. Trains run regularly between Seoul's Yongsan Station and Suwon Station, and the journey takes just under one hour.

3. Ganghwa-do  

About 50km (31 miles) northwest of Seoul, Ganghwa-do is technically a part of Incheon City, and as Korea's fourth-largest island, this scenic spot offers plenty to see. It has also served as the setting for many of Korea's most important historical events.

In the southern part of the island. Jeondeung-sa has the distinction of being Korea's oldest Buddhist temple, dating back to 381 CE. The temple grounds sit within the ancient Samnang Fortress, and the scenic surroundings present picture-perfect views in all seasons. Those interested in a more immersive experience can sign up for a Templestay program.

It's a moderate hike up some steep steps to reach the summit of 469m (1538ft) Mani-san , Ganghwa-do's highest peak, but the surrounding views are memorable. At the top is a sacred altar called Chamseongdan that Dangun, the legendary founder of Korea, is said to have used. Another sacred spot on the island is the pretty Jeokseok-sa Buddhist temple on the western side of Mt Goryeo-san.

If all that hilltop hiking wears you out, head to the Toga restaurant in the village of Heungwang-ri (close to the slopes of Mani-san) for a hearty bowl of tofu and salted shrimp stew, made with the island's famous tiny shrimp. The homemade tofu comes in a milky white broth that's only lightly seasoned by the shrimp but still deep in flavor. 

How to get to Ganghwa-do: Ganghwa-do is about 50km (31 miles) northwest of Seoul. Buses run from Seoul's Hapjeong Station in the west of the city to Ganghwa Terminal in just under two hours.

4. Chuncheon

The capital of Gangwon Province , Chuncheon – with its surrounding rivers and hills – is a top destination for nature lovers and outdoor activity enthusiasts.  Namiseom Island  in the Bukhan River has become famed for its majestic trees and scenic views. It also has cafes, tourist shops, a small museum and a gallery, and you can explore on foot or rent a bike. To reach the island, catch the ferry, or take the zip wire if you're feeling adventurous. 

In summer, Chuncheon and the surrounding regions are great places to try water sports such as waterskiing, kayaking and rafting. There are various water sports centers along the Bukhan River. Korea's largest artificial lake, Soyang Lake, is popular for its scenic trails and pretty roads; you can also travel to several towns across the lake by ferry.

When it comes to food, Chuncheon has an entire alley of restaurants dedicated to dakgalbi , a popular dish of chicken marinated in a gochujang -based (red pepper paste) sauce and cooked with vegetables in a big pan. You can eat the stir-fried chicken in lettuce wraps or on its own.

How to get to Chuncheon: Chuncheon is 75km (46 miles) northeast of Seoul and is accessible by direct bus from Seoul's Dong Seoul Terminal in a little over an hour, or by train from Cheongnyangni Station in just under two hours.

Despite its location on the opposite side of the country, travelers can reach the coastal town of Busan from Seoul in 2 hours and 15 minutes by train. It makes for a fantastic (though somewhat long) day trip or – better still, a more leisurely weekend break from the capital.

Mountains, a scenic coastline, great street food and a cosmopolitan vibe make Busan, the country's second-largest metropolis, one of South Korea's most enjoyable cities to hang out in. Its top attraction is the atmospheric, waterside Jagalchi Fish Market , where you can buy and eat some of Korea's freshest seafood. 

Other highlights include the glorious golden sands of Haeundae Beach and the Busan Cinema Center , an architecturally dazzling structure with the biggest outdoor screen in the country. We also recommend strolling the lanes of Gamcheon Culture Village , sampling the local bingsu (flavored shaved ice), and knocking back shots of potent soju (Korea's favorite spirit) in a tent bar.

How to get to Busan: Busan is on the southeastern coast of South Korea, 325km (202 miles) away from Seoul. Direct high-speed trains run from Seoul to Busan, connecting the two cities in as little as two and a half hours.

This article was first published Dec 16, 2020 and updated Feb 3, 2024.

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Sep 3, 2024 • 9 min read

November is the perfect time to give yourself a travel-fueled lift, with destinations primed for exploration during the penultimate month of the year.

Aug 7, 2024 • 10 min read

Jul 12, 2024 • 7 min read

Jun 18, 2024 • 13 min read

Mar 28, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 27, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 20, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 18, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 17, 2024 • 10 min read

Download my free iPhone Photography Guide

The Ultimate Guide to 19 Best Day Tours in Seoul for Every Kind of Traveler

I’ve lived in South Korea for over 3 years and I’m half-Korean I’ve been all over Korea and tested out some of the best tours in Seoul so you can figure out which is the best for you! Now, I don’t need to tell you that Seoul is a city that exudes energy, modernity, and centuries-old traditions, all wrapped in one. But what you might not know is how to see the city’s highlights in the most engaging way. So, grab a notepad (or just open your travel planning app), because I’ve got you covered!

This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Support my blog here

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Day Tours in Seoul for Every Kind of Traveler

Looking for the best way to maximize your time in Seoul ? The city offers a range of day tours designed to suit all kinds of interests. Nature lovers can find solace on trips like the Nami Island and Gangchon Rail Bike tour , which offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and physical activity. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Korean Folk Village and Everland Day Tour , combining a deep dive into Korean culture with modern-day thrills. There is so much to see in this beautiful country.

Planning a Trip to South Korea?

Connect with other travelers | Ask and get answers to all your travel questions | Learn about the best things to do in South Korea | Join our  Korea Travel Planning + Guide Facebook Group now .

Best Day Tours in Seoul

1. the traditional seoul: gyeongbokgung palace & bukchon hanok village.

Are you a history buff or just love dressing up? Then this day tour in Seoul is the dream! You get to visit the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace – a UNESCO world heritage site, where you can rent a Hanbok —the traditional Korean outfit—and feel like a royal from the Joseon Dynasty. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony; it’s like stepping into a time capsule! You’ll also get to experience Bukchon Hanok Village – one of Korean’s preserved traditional villages.

This is pretty much one of the most popular tours you can possibly grab. You can easily do this on your own as well, but it helps when you have a tour guide to give you some of the history of this palace and surrounding areas. 

2. Korean Culinary Experience: Street Food Tour

A visit to Seoul is incomplete without indulging in some lip-smacking Korean street food . This tour provides you with local guides and takes you through bustling markets like Myeongdong and Gwangjang , where you’ll get to try local cuisine classics like Tteokbokki, Hotteok, and Kimbap.

To be honest, this is one of my favorite day tours in Seoul. There aren’t a lot of food tours available in other parts of Korea, so this is a great stepping stone to knowing what foods to try and eat in South Korea. Korean food is more than just Korean BBQ! So go out there and try some of my favorite dishes that I grew up with. 

EMBARK ON A CAPTIVATING NORYANGJIN FISH MARKET TOUR | In Seoul, where you’ll witness a bustling hub of activity and immerse yourself in the vibrant seafood culture of Korea. Explore rows of stalls brimming with fresh seafood, observe the lively auctions, and indulge in delicious seafood delicacies straight from the market’s numerous restaurants. More details here.

3. Morning Hike to Bukhansan Mountain

If you’re anything like me and love to start your day with a burst of physical activity, then I suggest the Bukhansan Mountain morning hike. You’ll head to Bukhansan National Park and hike one of Korea’s most popular mountains. Get those boots on and enjoy the panoramic views of Seoul from the top. Just don’t forget your camera !

4. Uncover Hidden Gems: Gangnam Walking Tour

And finally, if you’re looking to explore the posh neighborhoods of Seoul, head over to Gangnam. Yes, as in ‘Gangnam Style’. It’s a shopper’s paradise and home to some of the best cafés and boutiques Seoul has to offer. Day tours in Seoul like this are perfect for people wanting to learn more about why Gangnam became so famous.

EXPERIENCE TRADITIONAL KOREAN CULTURE: RENT A HANBOK IN SEOUL | Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Korea by renting a hanbok , the traditional Korean attire, in Seoul. Read more details here .

5. Visit K-Drama Shooting Spots

Ready for the scoop? Seoul is not just a bustling metropolis; it’s also the backdrop for many of your beloved K-Dramas. Picture yourself at the Namsan Tower, where countless love confessions have been made. Or imagine strolling down the stylish streets of Garosu-gil. And let’s not forget the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace, which has graced the screen in historical dramas. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or a history geek, these K-Drama spots in Seoul add an extra layer of magic to your Korean adventure.

6. Seoul Night Tour

Experience the city that never sleeps! From the sparkling Han River to the bustling streets of Myeongdong, the Seoul Night Tour gives you a slice of Korean nightlife. It’s the city under the stars, and you won’t want to miss a moment. This tour is a great one to also experience delicious Korean street food as many Koreans love to stay out late with a good drink and good food. We have a tradition that when we drink, we also need to eat. 

7. Seoul Ghost Walking Tour

Ghosts in Seoul? You bet! On this eerie walking tour, you’ll hear legends and stories of Seoul’s haunted past. Wander through dark alleys and learn about the city’s mysteries, myths, and spirits that refuse to rest. This is a great way to get spooked especially during Halloween. 

8. Muslim Friendly Tour

Worried about finding Halal options while exploring day tours in Seoul? Worry no more! The Muslim Friendly Tour offers an itinerary that respects Islamic practices, including Halal dining options and prayer spaces. See the sights without the stress!

To be honest, trying to find food tours strictly for Muslims within Korea can be quite difficult, so to see this amazing guided tour being offered and available is amazing. I often get asked what are the options for Muslims in Korea and unfortunately, it’s quite difficult for me to navigate as someone who isn’t. So rely on the experts living in Seoul to provide that information and join this amazing Muslim Tour in Seoul! 

9. Cooking Experience + Mangwon Market Tour

This 5 star cooking experience is one that shouldn’t be missed! Unleash your inner chef in this interactive cooking experience! Learn how to make Korean dishes like Kimchi and Bibimbap under the guidance of local experts. It’s a deliciously fun way to immerse yourself in Korean culture. You’ll be able to experience a tour of Mangwon Market as well.

Korean food is no easy task, but this Korean cooking experience will help you learn how to make some of the best and easiest Korean dishes. You’ll be stuffed at the end of this experience and hopefully learn more about Korean food and culture. 

10. Seoul Biking Tour

Explore Seoul at your own pace with a biking tour that takes you along the Han River and through some of Seoul’s most scenic parks. You’ll cover more ground and see the city from a unique, up-close perspective. In this tour, you’ll be able to have lunch and experience Korean tea at a traditional tea house. You’ll get to experience iconic sights including Iwha Woman Street, Sinchon, Chungdong Church, Deoksu Palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and the famous Insadong markets. 

Best Day Tours from Seoul

These are some of the best day trips from Seoul that you can take. The best thing about traveling within Korea is that it’s quite easily accessible. 

→ Get the information on the latest pricing for safeguarding your trip or nomda life with Safety Wing travel insurance.

11. Nami Island, Petite France, Garden of the Morning Calm and Gangchon Rail Bike , Your Nature Escape from Seoul

This is one of the best Seoul day trips that offer you a breath of fresh air—literally! Imagine pedaling down old train tracks with the wind in your hair at Gangchon, surrounded by lush landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a painting. It’s probably one of the most booked tours you can get because of all the popular destinations. The garden of Morning Calm is a beautiful garden, especially during Christmas in Korea . Nami Island is an island where you can literally see all 4 seasons change. One of my favorite things to do in Korea is ride the Gangon Rail Bike, it’s a unique experience that you should try at least once. 

And let’s not forget the fairy-tale charm of Nami Island, with its towering tree lanes, romantic walkways, and even ostriches prancing around. It’s as if Mother Nature herself decided to bless this tiny island. Whether you’re traveling with family, your special someone, or just your adventurous self, this combo is a serene yet exciting way to experience the Korean countryside. Nami island is where many K-Drama movies were filmed and is a popular tourist location, especially during autumn in Korea . This should be added to your Seoul itinerary . 

12. Get Your Adrenaline Pumping: DMZ Tours

One of the most recommended tours on GetYourGuide is the DMZ (Korean Demilitarized Zone) tour. It’s an eye-opener that offers a glimpse into the tension between North and South Korea. The DMZ tour includes stops at the 3rd Tunnel, the Freedom Bridge, and the Dora Observatory. A must for anyone interested in geopolitics or history!

This is one of the best things to do in Paju as it has a lot of history. The DMZ has a lot of interesting information and can provide you with some insight into exactly what has happened. Due to the war, many Koreans had escaped from North Korea and a lot of family members in Korea still have family in North Korea that they haven’t been able to see for decades. You can choose between a full day tour or half-day tour. Some tours include the JSA (joint security area) while others do not – this is one thing to consider as it’s definitely an area that shouldn’t be missed. 

Suggested DMZ Tours

• JSA DMZ Tour
• Half Day DMZ Tour

Book cheap airline tickets and accommodations with Booking.com to save money when you’re moving abroad!

13. Pocheon Art Valley and Herb Island

Boulders and blooms, anyone? The Pocheon Art Valley and Herb Island tour is a feast for the eyes and soul. First, you’ll explore the stunning landscapes of Pocheon Art Valley—an abandoned quarry-turned art space. Then, bask in the aromatic bliss of Herb Island, filled with themed gardens and magical evening lights. Nature and art have never blended so beautifully.

Pocheon Art Valley is a beautiful place to check out and you can easily take the tram up to the location and see these beautiful rocky features. Herb Island not too far from Pocheon Art Valley is a great place to see some lights and take photos. Many K-Dramas were filmed here because of the beautifully designed backdrops. During summer, it’s a great place to see the lavender. 

14. Korean Folk Village and Everland Day Tour

From the past to the present, experience the full spectrum of Korean culture. Begin your day at the Korean Folk Village, where you can immerse yourself in the traditions and crafts of yesteryears. Then hop over to Everland, Korea’s largest theme park, for some high-adrenaline fun. 

Everland is great for older kids as there aren’t as many rides available for younger children, however, there are still a few available and an amazing zoo exclosure to see the different exotic animals. You can get some delicious Korean park food, ride some large wooden rollercoasters, drink beer, and take many photos as well. 

15. Suwon Hwaseong Folk Village Tour

Unlock the secrets of the Joseon Dynasty with a visit to Suwon Hwaseong Folk Village. As you walk along the well-preserved Suwon Hwaseong fortress walls, you’ll find artisans demonstrating traditional Korean crafts. It’s history brought to life, making you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. You’ll also get to experience Gwangmyong cave as well as a rail bike ride.

16. Incheon Day Tour

Now, don’t get me wrong, I love Seoul – I lived in Seoul for a year, but Incheon is where my heart and home is. I lived in Incheon for 2 years and it’s where most of my family are located and I just find it to be one of my favorite places to be. 

Incheon is more than just Incheon airport , there are a lot of things to do in Incheon despite what a lot of people say. You can discover the historical Chinatown, visit the fairytale-like Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village , and don’t miss out on the breathtaking views at Wolmido Island. There are a lot of areas to shop and see in Songdo as well. 

17. Legoland Korea Resort

Block off a day, adventurers, because Legoland Korea Resort is a colorful paradise and amusement park where every brick tells a story! Perfect for families, kids-at-heart, or anyone who ever dreamt of stepping into a life-sized Lego world. Located in Chuncheon City in Gangwon-do, a convenient distance from Seoul, this wonderland offers roller coasters, water attractions, and hands-on Lego building experiences. Dive into themed zones like Ninjago World and the magical Lego Castle. It’s more than just a theme park; it’s a creative playground that brings your favorite Lego sets to life.

You’ll want to select the Roundtrip Shuttle Bus option and departure times starts between 8-8:30 from either Hongik University Station or Myeongdong Station. 

18. Vivaldi Park SnowyLand

If you are traveling during Winter in Korea , you’ll definitely want to see the snow and visit this beautiful winter wonderland during this time of year. Grab your mittens and your sense of wonder, because Vivaldi Park SnowyLand and ski resort is a winter wonderland you won’t want to miss! Located just a snowball’s throw away from Seoul, this magical resort transforms into a snowy paradise during the winter months. 

Whether you’re a pro on the slopes or just there for the snow angels, there’s something for everyone. Think of sledding hills, snow tunnels, and even an ice climbing wall. Plus, the atmosphere is as warm as hot cocoa with bonfires and evening light shows. So if you’re yearning for that perfect blend of exhilaration and coziness, look no further. Get ready to make your winter fantasies a frosty reality!

19. Jeonju Hanok Village, Jangtaesan & Daedunsan Tour from Seoul

If you are traveling during autumn or winter, this is a great Seoul day tour to take especially for nature lovers. It’s also amazing to take outside of those time frames as well, but you’ll really get to see the beauty of Korea during those times of the year. 

Your journey starts with Jeonju Hanok Village – one of the best places to visit in Korea, where traditional Korean houses, known as Hanok, line the streets like a scene from a historical drama. But keep those cameras ready, because next up is Jangtaesan—home to luscious forests and eco-friendly attractions. And for the grand finale? Daedunsan, where suspension bridges and cable cars await, offers sweeping views of the mountainous landscape. From history to heights, this tour has it all. You’re not just sightseeing; you’re soul-searching in the heart of Korea.

Thoughts on Best Day Tours in Seoul

And there you have it, my adventure-seeking pals! From historical haunts to culinary quests, from natural wonders to the magic of television brought to life, the best day tours in Seoul offer a tapestry of experiences that are as diverse as they are thrilling. Whether you’ve got a single day or a whole week to explore, these tours are your passport to a deeper understanding of this vibrant city.

Liked this post on Tours in Seoul? Pin it!

Hey, I'm NieNie, also known as Stephanie – a California native of hapa heritage (an American with a mix of Korean and German) with an enduring love for travel. Transitioning from my expat life in South Korea to embracing the experience of living in Germany, while also frequenting visits to my family in the Philippines, I'm documenting my adventure as a plus-size woman immersing herself in diverse cultures. Join me on Adventures with NieNie for travel tips, cultural insights, and inspiring stories from South Korea, the Philippines, and Germany. Let's embark on this adventure together!

Similar Posts

What to do in Incheon Airport during a layover

Layovers can be the worst when traveling long distances which is why you should try and make the most of them. While traveling, it can be difficult when you are…

Exploring the Spectacular Baumwipfelpfad Schwarzwald 2024

The Black Forest in southwestern Germany is a mesmerizing destination known for its dense woodlands, charming villages, and picturesque landscapes. Nestled within this enchanting region lies the Baumwipfelpfad Schwarzwald, a…

A Guide to Winter in Korea: 31+ Amazing places to visit during Winter

Winter in Korea can be a magical time. The snow-capped mountains and icy cold air create a breathtaking landscape that is unlike anything else in the world. If you’re thinking…

Favorite Travel Accessories for 2017

When traveling, you often try to find new and different products to make your travel experience more comfortable and stress-free.  You think of new ideas or ways to make the…

Busan Itinerary | 2 Days in Busan

Busan is a popular city located in the southern part of South Korea. It’s the second-largest city in South Korea with Seoul obviously being number one. Busan is a coastal…

Gwangjang Market | What to eat in Seoul’s Traditional Market 2024

Gwangjang Market (광장시장) is a famous Korean street food market located fairly close to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza. This traditional food market offers a variety of traditional Korean street food…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Privacy Overview

Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy

Zen Moments in Korea

19 Day trips from Seoul: plan your perfect escape from the city

Last Updated on April 10, 2023 by Ingrid & Alex

Whether you are into nature, history, or photography, or you are a foodie, there are some amazing day trips from Seoul you could go on.

Most places are easily accessible by the comfortable train system, others you could visit by bus or by car. Here you can find some of our favorite destinations.

This post contains affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. Read more about it on our  disclosure page here .

Table of Contents

Useful information for when you travel to seoul and south korea, majang lake – paju, suwon and hwaseong fortress, the garden of the morning calm, dmz – korean demilitarized zone, ganghwa island, nami island and petite france, cheonan and the hobbit cafe, yu gi-bang’s house in seosan, bukhansan national park.

• Hwadam Forest, Botanical Garden, and its monorail

Jeonju Hanok Village

Everland theme park, boseong tea plantation, the best day trips from seoul.

If you are traveling to South Korea for the first time, here are a few things and links you might find useful.

• Book your AREX Airport Express Ticket ,
• Take the Airport Limousine Bus ,
• Book a private transfer ,
• or read everything about getting from Incheon to Hongdae , Myeongdong , Bukchon Hanok Village , or Gangnam .

Communication and transportation

• Book your SIM Card & T-Money Card with airport pickup
• See if you would rather buy a SIM card or pocket wifi for your trip
• Or get an eSIM card directly in your email and learn everything you must know about getting around Seoul

Getting around South Korea

• Rent a car in advance – choose an international website where you can use your credit card. Read everything about driving in South Korea
• Travel by fast train and book a multiple-day Korea Rail Pass

Other useful tips & links

• Lugg a ge delivery service – have your luggage delivered from the airport to your hotel and take the all-stop train. It might be cheaper than taking a taxi.
• Luggage storage service
• Don’t travel without insurance – we recommend SafetyWing
• Accommodation guides : where to stay in Seoul , Busan , and everywhere in between
• Should you get the Discover Seoul Pass ? See our analysis and alternatives for saving on your trip
• Take the Airport Limousine Bus,
• Or get an eSIM card directly in your email, and learn everything you must know about getting around Seoul

The Majang Lake, or Majangho in Korean, was one of the first places we visited outside Seoul. Since our first trip, we returned many times that we craved a bit of peace and quiet.

An hour-and-a-half journey from Seoul’s City Hall, Majang Lake is surrounded by picturesque forested mountains. The site is also a favored camping destination. Koreans love camping, by the way, although not the wild & rough camping I grew up enjoying in the Carpathian mountains. Admittedly, it is not quite as glamorous as the Hong Kong-style glamping, but apart from sleeping in a tent or camper van, Korean camping sites provide all the comforts of a hotel: hot showers, gas stoves, running water, bathroom, supermarkets, and so on.

One of the main attractions of Majang Lake is the suspension bridge linking its forested shores. Officially the Gloucester Heros Bridge, also called the Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, was named to honor the 1st Battalion Gloucester Regiment of the British Army who fought in the Korean War. At 220 meters long and 10 meters high, it is the longest suspension bridge in South Korea. The pleasure of walking over the lake while enjoying the amazing view it’s surpassed only by the joy of taking and sharing a memorable selfie.

On the lake’s southern shore, near the suspension bridge, you can find the Red Bridge Café and Italian Restaurant. The coffee is good, and the food tastes almost Italian . However, the lake view from the restaurant’s terrace is WOW! Our usual routine was to stop for lunch or coffee and then cross the bridge and walk around the lake.

The western part of Majang is reserved for those who’d prefer floating on the lake itself. You can rent a hydro bike at the pier; you should be aware, though, that you might need to line up for half an hour or so during the weekends since it is crowded.

If you are into hikes, there are a few nice trails in the nearby ASEAN Recreational Forest; you should stock up on water and some snacks since there are no places to shop along the route.

Lastly, if you enjoy traditional Korean barbecue as much as we do, you should stop by one of the restaurants on the lake’s eastern side. In some of the places, you can eat in a little hovel just for you instead of sitting at one of the restaurant’s tables. We enjoyed the privacy, especially during the covid pandemic; however, sitting and dining on the floor in the Korean style can be quite uncomfortable if you are not used to it.

How to get there from Seoul City Hall?

You can use different combinations depending on where you stay in Seoul . Just be careful not to confuse Majang Station with Majang Lake or Majang Reservoir (or Majangho in Korean) J

The easiest in our view is to use a subway + taxi combination:

• Take Subway Line 1 from City Hall to Nogyang Station in Uijeongbu – circa 50-minute’s ride.
• Take a Taxi-on-Demand to Majang Reservoir (18-20 USD) – circa 15 minutes ride.

You can always choose to rent a car while in South Korea and easily get to anywhere you want. As with everything, renting a car without a local credit card can be challenging but not impossible. Check out the available options for car rentals here .

About 30 km south of Seoul, it’s the city of Suwon. It is linked to the capital by train, so it is easy and convenient to get there.

Boasting a population of 1.3 million, Suwon is a vibrant city with a thriving economy. If you own a Samsung phone or TV, it was probably designed at the Samsung R&D center in Suwon. It also hosts the Samsung Electronics HQ, among other Samsung subsidiaries.

The main tourist attraction is Hwaseong Fortress or Suwon Hwaseong, a UNESCO World Heritage site . The fortress’ wall surrounds Suwon’s center, and once it encircled the entire city. Walking around its walls and the wooded areas around it can take your mind away from the hustle and bustle of the 21 st century. Today’s visitors can admire the impressive fortress’s several gates and sentry towers.

Just south of the Hwaseong Fortress, tourists can stroll the streets of the traditional part of town. In addition, one can find a wide array of coffee shops and restaurants , many boasting a rooftop terrace overlooking the fortress.

Circa 3km from Hwaseong, one can visit Hyowon Park and Wolhwawon , the Chinese Garden. Imagine a beautiful garden with a small lake, wooden pavilions, and many flowers and greenery; it is the place Chinese fairytale princesses would live in.

Suwon is famous for its special Korean BBQ called the Suwon Galbi – make sure you try it while you are there.

As a Westerner, you might be reluctant to use public facilities. Don’t be! Korean public toilets are usually very clean, but none are as clean as the ones in Suwon. The local authorities take pride in the cleanliness and quality of their public lavatories. Furthermore, if you have already spent a few days in South Korea, you might have noticed the care and high-tech gadgets they invest in their toilets. It is the only country I lived in where I had to read the user’s manual before going to the bathroom for the first time. To honor the South Korean toilet tradition, the city of Suwon hosts a Toilet museum!

Colloquially called the Mr. Toilet House, the Toilet Culture Museum is a must-visit place for those who want to know more about the history of sanitation or just take a selfie with a giant golden turd – there is probably no other place on Earth you could do that, right?

How to get to Suwon from Seoul City Hall?

The easiest way to get there is by train:

• Walk to Seoul Station – circa 15 minutes walk from City Hall.
• Take the train from Seoul Station to Suwon Station in Suwon – circa 35 minutes ride.
• Walk to Hwaseong Fortress – circa 20 minutes walk. Alternatively, you can take a taxi.

Given that it hosts South Korea’s largest international airport, you probably passed by the city of Incheon on your way in. However, Incheon has several interesting points of interest which you could visit during a day trip from Seoul.

As the first city to open up to foreigners during the final years of Korea’s Joseon dynasty, Incheon became a cosmopolitan port in the late 19th century. Unsurprisingly, its multicultural heritage is still visible today.

Incheon has close to 3 million inhabitants, and it is one of the main transportation hubs in terms of air transport and oceanic transport. In addition, the local administration’s ambition is to become a global city, similar to Singapore and Hong Kong. To this effect, Incheon created a Free Economic Zone and a so-called Free English Zone, reflecting its plans to increase its inhabitants’ English language knowledge.

The other strategic direction of Incheon’s development is focused on the bio industry. Incheon is competing with San Francisco for the top place in terms of production capacity.

Incheon hosts the only official china town in South Korea. Since we lived in Hong Kong before moving to Seoul, Incheon China Town was among our first destinations; we were not disappointed.

The main entrance is through a paifang, an 11-meters-high Chinese-style gateway, opening into a colorful array of unmistakenly Chinese-inspired architecture. But, interestingly, it also contains a Japanese-inspired area, including a specific Arched Gate.

You can find a wide variety of restaurants covering many of the different Chinese culinary traditions. Moreover, you can enjoy the taste of unique Korean-Chinese fusion cuisine.

If you’d like to relieve some of your childhood fantasies, you should consider visiting Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village , which is close to China Town. There you’ll find a few street blocks where buildings are covered in fairytale-inspired murals. It is a good spot for photo opportunities; however, it is rather crowded during the weekends.

Once you visit the China Town area, you should consider exploring the nearby Wolmido Island . You could go there on foot, or take the bus, but we recommend the suspended monorail . On your arrival, enjoy the island’s Korean Traditional Garden and walk up its hilltop; it offers a nice waterfront view. Then, descend towards the Ocean and stroll on the boardwalk; many nice coffee shops and restaurants are there. You’ll also notice a monument honoring the American and UN troops who took part in MacArthur’s famous Incheon landing, turning the tide of the Korean war. And, you could spend a few hours at the Play Hill Theme Park.

If you like shopping (and who doesn’t?), you should check out the area at Bupyeong Station. The Incheon Subway and the Seoul Subway lines meet here, so it is convenient to stop at Buypeong before heading back to Seoul. You should visit the large underground shopping mall that mostly sells women’s fashion items. According to the American World Record Academy, it has more than 1400 stores spread over 31.000 square meters, making it the place with the highest number of stores in the world. It is said that many items could be acquired at a bargain compared to the prices in Seoul’s department stores and shopping malls.

How to get to Incheon from Seoul City Hall?

• Take Subway Line 1 from City Hall Station to Incheon Station – circa 1 hour and 30 minutes ride.
• Walk to Chinatown – circa 5 minutes walk.

Korea is known to the locals as the ‘Land of the Morning Calm’ because of its natural beauty and picturesque mountain landscapes, evoking a harmonious balance and equilibrium. The similarly-named garden perfectly reflects the country’s self-image. The place reminded me of the elvish settlements from fantasy movies: wildly beautiful yet neatly pedicured and maintained.

The vast arboretum lies to the east of Seoul, nestled between several mountain peaks.

It houses over 5000 plant species, some of them rare or endangered.

The garden is divided into twenty sections, each a micro-ecosystem of its own. For example, one section is dedicated to a thousand flower species from all over Korea. Another one represents a Japanese garden. There is even a part evoking the gardens of Victorian England, with a nice cottage included. Moreover, visitors can admire tropical plants in a dedicated greenhouse section.

The arboretum is traversed by a fresh mountain stream, the gurgling of water adding to the relaxing atmosphere.

One of the mountain trails leads up to a rock garden dedicated to flowers native to Korea’s mountains. Furthermore, there are several belvedere points to rest and admire the view.

You can enjoy a good meal or a hot tea at one of the garden’s restaurants or coffee shops.

If you are a K-drama fan, you’ll surely recognize the beautiful pond made famous by the ‘Moonlight Drawn by the Clouds’ K-drama; several notable scenes were filmed at the Pond Garden. In addition, not less than twenty films feature scenes filmed in the Garden of the Morning Calm.

The easiest way to get there is by train ( book your train ticket in advance, or get your Korea Rail Pass for when you plan to travel more by train):

• Take Subway Line 1 to Yongsan Station – circa 8 minutes ride.
• Take the ITX Express train at Seoul’s Yongsan Station and get down at Cheongpyeong Station – circa 50 minutes ride.
• Take the Gapyeong City Tour Bus to the Garden of the Morning Calm – circa 20 minutes ride. Alternatively, you can walk 1 km from Cheongpyeong Station to the Cheongpyeong Bus Terminal and take an intra-city bus to the garden.

However, many tourists prefer to book a guided tour which usually includes Nami Island and The Garden of Morning Calm – if you choose this option, you don’t need to worry about transportation.

Unsurprisingly the area dubbed as ‘ the world’s most dangerous border’ is also the number 1 tourist attraction in South Korea ; over 1.2 million visitors flock every year to the infamous Korean Demilitarized Zone or DMZ .

To understand the DMZ, we should touch a bit upon Korea’s 20 th -century history.

In 1910 Japan annexed Korea and ran it as part of the Japanese Empire. There are mixed feelings and differing interpretations of that specific period of Korean history to this day.

After Japan lost World War II, the southern part of the Korean peninsula was occupied by the Americans while the northern side was under Soviet administration.

Long story short, the USSR-supported North Korean government decided to unify the peninsula by force and invaded the South in 1950. It prompted the UN to initiate a ‘police action’ eventually joined by 21 nations to defend the South. As a result, China sent millions of ‘volunteer’ troops to help the North Koreans. A full-blown war ensued in all but name.

By 1953 the two sides fought each other to a stand-still, occupying more or less the same lands they did before the war along the 38 th parallel; millions died for nothing, and the Korean peninsula was totally devastated. Finally, an Armistice was signed on 27th July 1953, requiring the opposing armies to retreat two kilometers each to avoid direct contact. Hence, the Korean Demilitarized Zone was born, a 4km wide and over 250km long no-mans-land separating the Northern and Southern armies. Since then, the DMZ has been in place for the war that never also never ended; to this day, the North and South are still at war since a peace treaty was never signed.

Just north of Seoul, parts of the DMZ can be visited, but only by guided tours. There are two kinds of tours, a full-day tour, and a half-day tour. The main difference is that the full-day tour includes the Joint Security Area (JSA).

The JSA is the only point of the DMZ where the two opposing militaries actually meet. It is also where politicians from opposing sides can meet and discuss; Trump met Kim Jong-Un here a few years ago. Given the sensitive nature of the JSA, there are strict security rules for visiting. One needs to book the tour minimum of 72 hours in advance for security checks, and no children below the age of 12 are allowed – keep this in mind if you plan to go for the full tour.

When visiting the JSA, another important thing to keep in mind is the dress code. Officially the visitors are expected to show their respect at such an important geopolitical sight, but the real reason is actually much quirkier: North Korean authorities used pics of casually dressed tourists to convince its citizens of how poor and decadent the Western and South Korea citizens are. So no ripped jeans, sleeveless shirts, or mini-skirts, please! Also, avoid clothing with military-like prints, national flags, or other national symbols. For some reason, workout clothes are not allowed either: no sweatpants or leotards! As for footwear, no sandals or similar open-top or open-back shoes; loafers, mocassins, and dressier sneakers are fine.

While you are in the JSA, there are restrictions on what you can photograph. For example, you are not allowed, under any circumstances, to take pics of North Korean soldiers. However, you can take pics with the cool, sunglass-wearing South Korean guards if not otherwise advised. By the way, did you know that sunglasses are part of the South Korean guards’ uniform? It is supposed to shield the soldier’s emotions or, I would guess, the annoyance of being photographed by all the passing tourists.

Apart from the JSA, both the full-day and half-day tours cover important historical landmarks such as Imjingak Park or The Bridge of Freedom.

Since 1974 South Korea has discovered four underground tunnels dug under the DMZ; specialists believe there could be as many as twenty tunnels in total.

The so-called 3 rd Infiltration Tunnel is usually part of the guided tours. Although North Korea denies this, the corridor seems designed to allow a surprise attack on Seoul. Given its dimensions, it has room for 30.000 North Korean soldiers armed with light weaponry to pass every hour. That is 720.000 soldiers in 24 hours; imagine the damage they could do by falling behind the South Korean defenses.

Many are curious to get a glimpse of the isolated hermit state of North Korea, but travel to the country is severely restricted. However, you could safely do this by visiting the Dorasan Observatory. By using its high-power binoculars, you can observe parts of Kaesong, the ninth-largest city in North Korea. On a clear day, you could even glimpse the bronze statue of Kim Il-Sung, the founder of North Korea and grandfather of its current Supreme Leader.

But DMZ is not only about military history and political propaganda. Since it is an almost 1000 square kilometers area with virtually no human population, nature reasserted itself over the decades. There were sightings of the endangered Siberian Tiger, in addition to Amur Leopards and numerous bird species.

The DMZ can be visited by booking a guided tour . For more details, please read our comprehensive guide .

Just north of Incheon, a trip to Ganghwa Island can offer a Korean experience different from what you might expect from other trips within the country.

The most striking feature of the island is the extent of the oceanic tides. Imagine sitting on a beach, an ocean of mud as far as you can see, people playing in it or looking for shells kilometers away from the coast. While in Europe, the sea retreats only a few meters during low tide, and on Africa’s eastern shores, it might retreat hundreds of meters, at Ganghwa, the ocean can withdraw as much as 5 kilometers. The result is breathtaking, the sea leaving room for endless mudflats.

One can enjoy other natural beauties while on Ganghwa; these can be explored by hiking on one of the island’s trails.

The island is known for its unique turnip production. The local turnip seeds have been used in traditional medicine for a thousand years, it is said to have an anti-cancer effect, but it is used for treating skin diseases, digestive ailments, and respiratory diseases as well.

Ganghwa takes pride in its ginseng crop. I strongly encourage you to enjoy the local Korean chicken ginseng soup; my mouth waters just writing about it. Most tours include a basic ginseng farming lesson, digging in the ground included.

If you didn’t have the chance to do it in Seoul, Ganghwa is a good place to rent a hanbok, the traditional Korean dress, and take lots of unforgettable pictures. In addition, you can engage in other cultural activities, such as designing your own traditional Korean handkerchief.

We recommend trying the Mega Luge at Ganghwa Sea Resort for the more adventurous visitors. Don’t feel bad if you don’t know what a “luge” is; since I am not a Winter Olympics fan, I also had to look it up. The one on Ganghwa is similar to the ice-sliding luge, but it has wheels instead. It is quite safe, and people of all ages enjoy it. While you are at Gangwha Sea Resort, you should go for a ride with the gondola; it allows some scenic views of the island.

How to get to Ganghwa Island from Seoul City Hall?

The easiest way to get there is by booking one of the guided tours from Seoul .

However, if you prefer to strike out on your own, you can take the Bus from Sinchon Station:

• Take the subway from City Hall Station to Sinchon Station – circa 8 minutes
• Leave Sinchon Station via Exit 7 and take the long-distance bus 3000 to Gangwha – circa 60 minutes

The capital city of Gangwon Province, Chuncheon is one of the best and closest mountain destinations to Seoul.

A great weekend destination but also a place where to go for a day only.

While in the region you can find other popular destinations such as the Garden of the Morning Calm, Petite France, Nami Island, or Edelweiss Swiss Theme Park, I would suggest giving Chuncheon a chance as well.

Rent a bike from one of the places outside of the train stop and bike around Chuncheon Lake, stop and walk on the Soyanggang Skywalk, and go all the way to the deserted amusement park. You can also go along the stream and explore some of the unique cafes in town.

Greenboard Cafe (그린보드) is unique, located in the countryside, with beautiful flowers and green plants interior.

A bit outside of town you’ll find Alpaca World , a destination perfect not only for children but also for adults. It is a popular Instagram destination set in a beautiful natural location.

The Organic Cafe ( 유기농카페 ) is another pretty place set in between the fields where you will find different kinds of flowers depending on the season you choose to visit.

How to get to Chuncheon from Seoul City Hall?

The easiest way to get from Seoul to Chuncheon is by subway and train. It will take roughly 2 hours one way and you have 2 options:

• Take Line 1 from the City Hall to Cheongnyangni Station; From there hop on the ITX train all the way to Chuncheon Station
• Take Line 1 to Hoegi Station and from there take the Gyeongchun Line to the end of the line.

Namiseom or Nami Island is loved by both tourists and Koreans when it comes to natural destinations outside of Seoul. Usually linked together with Petite France, you will find plenty of tour options to choose from.

We tried to visit the island on a Saturday during the fall, but it was impossible to find a parking space anywhere in the city around the island. On top of that, we waited for one hour in line before we could actually see the parking lot.

Needless to say, we would strongly suggest you choose to go during the week and choose a tour so you won’t have to worry about parking spaces or the bus schedule.

The so-called Hobbit cafe in Cheonan is actually a bit outside of the city and when traveling by subway you will have to take a bus as well.

While coffee is not the best out there, they have plenty of pastries and their specialty is the cake filled with red bean paste. Learn from my mistake and do be fooled into thinking that the filling is chocolate and nuts.

Apart from the delicious sweets, you must come here for the architecture of the laboratories. That’s right, the actual cafe is hosted in a normal building, while the hobbit-like buildings are the place where the magic happens.

Around the city, there aren’t many other important tourist attractions, but you will be able to walk around rice paddies and explore other cafes, such as the one with a pool.

How to get to Cheonan from Seoul City Hall

Getting there might be easier than in other places because Line number 1 will get you directly to the city.

From the train station, take the bus or a taxi to either one of the cafes.

I must admit that getting to this place without a car proved to be a bit challenging. If you don’t speak Korean or are not used to the bus system in South Korea, I strongly encourage you to go by car.

The place is a museum where you can step back in time. The house was built in the early 1900s, during the Japanese colonial era. During spring, the location attracts thousands of people because of its fields of daffodils.

For K-Drama lovers, this is a must-see destination since many famous movies have been filmed here, such as Mr. Sunshine.

A few kilometers away, you can explore the coastline and the city of Dangjin. With its cafes along the sea and plenty of seafood restaurants, this is a dream destination for any foodie out there.

How to get there from Seoul City Hall

The address for Yu Gi Bang’s house is 72-10 Imunan-gil, Unsan-myeon, Seosan-si, Chungcheongnam-do (충남 서산시 운산면 이문안길 72-10) and you must first get to Nambu Bus Terminal from where you will take a bus to Unsan Intercity Bus Stop. From there, take bus number 45-2 to Yoogibanggaok.

It is worth knowing that from the bus stop, you will need to walk a bit, and most part of the road doesn’t have a sidewalk and is basically in the middle of nowhere, in between fields.

However, as with the previous destination, getting there by car is far easier and less time-consuming.

The mountains behind Seoul, are easily reachable from different places in town, hiding plenty of trails , temples, and cafes.

No matter your level there will be something for you to explore, and you can even get closer to nature by car or bus.

If you are really passionate about hiking, a great way to start your day would be to go on a sunrise hike on Bukhansan Mountain . You will spend a night at a mountain camp, meet like-minded people, and make some memories that will last forever.

Hwadam Forest , Botanical Garden, and its monorail

A beautiful forest park with 17 sections that have been populated with many types of local trees and plants in an effort to revive the country’s forest ecosystem.

Many people flock to the forest during the fall season because of the picturesque setting and the beautiful foliage. However, since the place is a botanical garden, every season has its beauty and will charm you with different types of flowers.

The monorail inside Hwadam Forest (화담숲) will help you see the park from above and is one of the main attractions. Bear in mind that because of that you might find it hard to get a ticket. Plan your trip for the first part of the day and try to get there as early as possible after the park’s opening time.

As with most destinations in South Korea, Hwadam Forest has been throughout the years set for various K-Dramas – Little Forest, Be With You, only to name a few.

How to get to Hwadam Forest from Seoul City Hall

Driving there would take around 40 minutes but getting there by public transportation is also easy.

Address : 278-1, Docheokwit-ro, Docheok-myeon, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do (경기 광주시 도척면 도척윗로 278-1 )

By subway :

Make your way to Gangnam Station. From there, take the red line – Sinbundang Line to Pangyo Station. A short walk or a taxi ride away, you will find the forest.

It will take roughly one hour to get there by public transportation.

By organized tour

If you would don’t want to worry about timetables, trains, buses, and whatnot, you can always choose to go on an organized tour.

The tour will take you to Hwadam Forest, Gwangmyeong Cave, and will offer an ice cream-making experience. The itinerary departs from Honkig University Station early in the morning and takes you back in the afternoon at Myeong-dong station or Hongik Univ. station.

If the Hanok Villages in the city are not enough and you want to go for a day trip from Seoul, Jeonju can be reached in roughly one hour and a half by KTX.

I suggest you buy your train ticket ahead of time online so you don’t have to worry about availability and prices. Book it here!

In Jeonju Hanok Village (전북 전주 한옥마을) you will get to see over 700 traditional houses and you will feel like stepping back in time, back to the Joseon era.

The city was once the capital of Hubaekje – one of the 3 important Korean kingdoms, and at some point was surrounded by city walls.

For those who want to learn more about the city and its past, a visit to the Hanok Life Experience Hall should not be skipped. Go for a stroll on the streets and admire the houses, look for the Omokdae (오목대) because it offers the best view of the rooftops, rent a hanbok and take some beautiful pictures, and visit some of the local museums.

Another way of living in South Korea to the fullest is by choosing to stay overnight in a hanok. In Jeonju there are plenty of options, but Sarangroo or Starlight Rest Area not only has affordable prices but also beautiful traditional houses.

How to get to Jeonju Hanok Village from Seoul City Hall

From the City Hall, take Line 1 (blue line) to Yongsan Station, and from there take the KTX train all the way to Jeonju.

South Korea’s largest amusement park, a place that attracts millions of visitors every year, Everland Theme Park should be a great day trip from Seoul for anyone who enjoys this kind of activity.

In our family opinions are different when it comes to amusement parks, but I’m sure there are plenty of adrenaline lovers out there.

The park has 5 different themed zones. Magic Land is where you will want to go to when traveling with kids, American Adventure offers thrilling rides, European Adventure will have you walking through gardens, and Zootopia is a place where kids can meet with animals.

You can easily spend one whole day at Everland without getting bored.

How to get to Everland from Seoul Station

Get to Gangnam station (5002A or B) or Gangbyeon station (5002B or 1113 bus) and hop on the red bus heading to Everland Themed Park.

The ride will take between 1h30 min and up to 2 hours, depending on the traffic.

The easiest and fastest way is to book a transfer. The bus leaves from various places around town (Yeongdeungpo Station, Sindorim Station, Sinnonhyeon Station, or  Gangnam Station ), making it easy for you to take it, no matter where you choose to stay.

I must admit that we discussed a little before adding Busan as a day trip from the Seoul destination. Because of its location all the way to the southern shores of South Korea, but also because of its size and myriad of things to do, one could spend weeks in Busan without getting bored or seeing it all.

However, because KTX can get you there in roughly 2hours and a half, we cannot leave the city off this list.

Book your train ticket here!

While with 5 hours on the road, you won’t have too much time to explore, you can still spend some time at the fish market, lay on the beach at Haeundae (해운대해수욕장) or Gwangalli (광안리해수욕장), or go shopping at the largest departments store in South Korea.

Colorful and vibrant, with delicious food, Busan is one of our favorite cities in South Korea, and we strongly encourage you not to skip it, and hopefully spend at least a weekend there.

How to get to Busan from Seoul City Hall

As mentioned before, the fastest way to get from Seoul to Busan is by high-speed train.

Of course, there is always to flight option, but you will have to think about the time it takes to get to Gimpo airport, and also that you must come at least one hour before the flight.

Boseong tea plantations are one of the most iconic sights in South Korea.

Located near the southern coast, these vast green fields stretch out over rolling hills and valleys, creating a stunning landscape that’s unlike anything else in the world.

The region is home to some of the best tea-producing regions in all of Asia, producing teas that are highly prized for their flavor and aroma. Here, we tasted various traditional food with a green tea twist – for example, cold noodle soup with green tea, at the restaurant by the tea plantation’s entrance.

Visitors can take tours through these lush plantations or enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea while taking in views from nearby peaks. If you are visiting during summer, come prepared with a hat and something to cover your shoulders because the sun is hot and there is some hiking involved.

Whether you’re looking for an immersive cultural experience or simply want to relax and enjoy beautiful scenery, Boseong Tea Plantations offer something for everyone.

You can book a day tour from Busan or Seoul , and enjoy round-trip transportation with a local guide.

Daegu is one of the largest cities in South Korea and serves as an important transportation hub for both domestic and international travelers.

The city has a population of over 2.5 million people, making it one of the most populous cities in all of Asia.

Daegu is known for its vibrant culture, delicious food, historical sites, and beautiful landscape that make it an ideal destination for tourists from around the world.

From traditional markets such as the Seomun Market to modern malls and from ancient temples like Dongwhasa to bustling nightlife spots, Daegu has something for everyone to enjoy!

Don’t miss a visit to the Daegu Art Museum, a walk on Kim-Kwang-seok Street, take a picture with the 83 Tower, especially during spring, take the cable car in Apsan Park, or enjoy a boat ride on Suseong Lake.

How to get to Daegu: take KTX directly from Seoul, and ride for around 1.5 hours.

Gyeongju is known for its rich history and cultural heritage.

It was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Silla, one of the Three Kingdoms that ruled much of the Korean Peninsula from 57 BC to 935 AD.

As such, Gyeongju has many archaeological sites and relics that are now designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, Cheomseongdae Observatory and numerous tombs from the Silla Kingdom period.

Today visitors can explore these ruins as well as other attractions such as Anapji Pond, Bomun Lake Resort Complex and several museums dedicated to preserving Gyeongju’s past. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities in this vibrant city along with traditional restaurants offering local cuisine.

How to get to Gyeongju: Take KTX to train to Singyeongju Station

Read our comprehensive guide for a day trip to Gyeongju

Best cafes in Seoul : most Instagram-worthy places, and the best coffee in town

4 Days in Seoul itinerary

5 days in Seoul itinerary

7 days in Seoul itinerary

PIN FOR LATER!

By Ingrid & Alex

Ingrid A former financial professional, I have been passionate about photography since an early age. My fascination with Korean culture was one of the reasons Alex accepted a business role in Seoul. Alex A former corporate business executive, I am a historical fiction writer. My business career allowed us to live in Seoul and explore South Korea for one year. We fell in love with the country, its culture, food, and people, and we strongly believe you will love it too! Because we know how difficult planning a trip can be, especially to South Korea, we are here to help you out and ensure you have an awesome time there.

19 comments

• Pingback: Day trip to DMZ: how to choose the best tour - Zen Moments in Korea
• Pingback: Visiting Seoul in Spring: what to do, where to go, and cherry blossom
• Pingback: 4 days in Seoul: Your ultimate Seoul itinerary - Zen Moments in Korea
• Pingback: 3 days in Seoul: the only itinerary you'll need to see the best of the city!
• Pingback: South Korea 5 day itinerary: an easy to follow guide - Zen Moments in Korea
• Pingback: 17 FUN Things to do in Gangnam - Zen Moments in Korea
• Pingback: Getting around Seoul: bus, subway, bike, taxi - Zen Moments in Korea
• Pingback: South Korea 10 day itinerary - 4 great options - Zen Moments in Korea
• Pingback: 7 days in Seoul - what to do in Seoul for a week
• Pingback: Winter in Korea - the best things to do - Zen Moments in Korea
• Pingback: Top 8 Best areas to stay in Seoul for your first visit in 2022 - Zen Moments in Korea
• Pingback: 5 days in Seoul: the easy-to-follow itinerary
• Pingback: Where to stay in Hongdae: best hotels in Hongdae - Zen Moments in Korea
• Pingback: Where to stay in Myeongdong - Best hotels in Myeongdong
• Pingback: Seoul off the beaten path: 10 places to skip the crowds - Zen Moments in Korea
• Pingback: Choose where to stay in Gangnam: the best hotels in Gangnam
• Pingback: The best time to visit South Korea: by season , including activities
• Pingback: 30+ Things to do in Seoul at night - Zen Moments in Korea
• Pingback: 7 days South Korea itinerary: what to do and where to go in 2024 - Zen Moments in Korea

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

SEOUL - north  |  SEOUL - south

Day Trips from Seoul  | Busan  |  Best Collections

🍁  Festivals ( Seoul • Busan )

30+ BEST Recommended Day Tours from Seoul & WHY

Do you know which are the best hidden attractions & activities taken on a day trip in korea that are hugely popular with the locals, walk on korea's newly-open longest suspension bridge, get on the world's highest zipline at 100km/hr, walk 583m high in the sky, tandem paragliding with the clouds, clams digging, feed the lovely alpacas at a nature farm and many more, koreatodo recommends you the local's hot day trip places and why they are  best visited by joining the day tours from seoul  instead of self-explored trips. .

RECOMMENDED PLACES & ACTIVITIES ON TOUR

Wonju Sogeumsan Mountain Suspension Bridge

For the Adventurous

A Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spot in Korea for 2019-2020 by Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Korea

Wonju Suspension Bridge is the longest suspension bridge (200m) in Korea, newly opened on 11 Jan 2018. It spans across two peaks of Mt. Segeum, 100m above sea level.

➽  By public transport, it will probably take at least 3 hours total travel time including an intercity bus (1.5hrs) and local bus transfer (53mins) to Wonju Suspension Bridge. To make journey worthwhile, you may consider to incorporate the day trip with other nearby attractions not easily accessible by public transport by joining a local tour from Seoul.

Recommended Tour(s) by KoreaToDo:

Wonju Suspension Bridge & OOOZOOO Starlight Garden Day Tour

Pocheon Art Valley

A Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spot in Korea for 2019-2020 by Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Korea

Head out to the countryside of Pocheon and experience the beauty of nature.

Visit Pocheon Art Valley, the beautiful and famous filming location of many hugely popular Korean Dramas:

A Korean Odyssey by Lee Seung-gi & Oh Yeon-seo (2017-18)

The Legend of the Blue Sea by Lee Min-ho & Jun Ji-hyun (2016-17)

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)

➽ 1hr 5mins intercity bus from Seoul, followed by 30mins local bus to Poncheon Art Valley . Visits to other nearby attractions are not conveniently available by public transport to/from Poncheon Art Valley. For example, bus to Pocheon Herb Island  takes about 1hr (+1 transfer). Joining a local tour from Seoul allows you to visit more attractions and seasonal activities/festivals (e.g. mini-apples picking) easily within 1 day.​

Pocheon Art Valley, Apple Farm Experience & Herb Island Day Tour

Jeongseon Rail Bike & Sky Walk

At Arii Hills Byeongbangchi Skywalk , get the feel of walking in the 'sky' @ 583m high and admire the picturesque U-shaped stream of this mountainous landscape. Located just next to the Jeongseon Skywalk is the Arii Hills Zipwire , the world's highest zipline at 325.5m high. Experience the thrills and fun of travelling at 100km/hr! Next, enjoy  Jeongseon Rail Bike with the most breathtaking valley views and the cultural Arari Folk Village .

➽ The journey to Arii Hills Skywalk and Zipwire will take about 4 hours that includes an intercity bus (₩18,400, 3hrs 50mins), followed by the shuttle bus (10mins) or taxi (7mins). The private van tour not only allows you and your group to travel in ease but also to enjoy more attractions that Jeongseon has to offer in one day, worthy of the long journey. (Note: Zipwire is not included in the tour but discuss with the driver on the schedule since it is just near to the skywalk.)

DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) and JSA (Joint Security Area)

JSA (also known as Panmunjom or the blue buildings) is the only portion of DMZ where North & South Korean forces stand face-to-face. This is also the location of the historic hand-shake between North Korea’s leader Kim Jong-un and South Korea’s President Moon Jae-in on 27 April 2018.

➽ If you wish to visit JSA, the one and only way is to join a bus tour from authorised travel operators. The JSA (Panmunjom) and 3rd Tunnel are the two must-visits to DMZ. So, make sure you are booked on the right tour and book early ! Besides being sold out fast, the JSA is closed to tours on Sundays, Mondays and National Holidays (& periods of high tensions). Also, if you can't book beyond certain dates or if the tour is not available, it means the tour is not opened (/announced) or closed to the public currently. 

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour

DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel & Majang Lake Suspension Bridge Day Tour

DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel & Gamaksan Suspension Bridge Day Tour

DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel & Korea Traditional Boat Voyage Day Tour

This is the place! Yeongjin Beach, located on the east coast city of Gangneung - The filming site of the hugely popular Korean drama, "Goblin"! Also, for coffee lovers, do not miss out this Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Korea, Gangneung Coffee Street at Anmok Beach.

➽  To travel all the way from Seoul to the east coast by public transport just to take a photo and recreate the famous scene from "Goblin" or just for coffee? Also, there is no subway system in Gangneung, making travelling from places to places not as convenient as compared to Seoul. With a day tour from Seoul, you can visit the most popular places, filming locations and enjoy various activities in Gangneung easily within a single day!

Paragliding

A must-do once in a lifetime?! Enjoy the thrill of paragliding in Yangpyeong, one of the most famous paragliding sites in Korea with spectacular views.

➽ You will get the same thing even if you book direct with the tandem paragliding operator on their Korean only website using either the online form or email them, then transfer the required deposit to their bank accounts. So, save yourself from all these trouble by booking and making your payment easily on  KLOOK .

Nami Island

All-Time Favourites

Nami Island , an all-time favourite and popular destination for many travellers. The island is the filming location for the famous Korean drama 'Winter Sonata'. It is  distinctly different and beautiful in all four seasons.

➽  With so many wonderful places to visit near Nami Island, it will be challenging to visit multiple attractions in 1 day due to limited and infrequent public transport that often required several transfers. To Nami Island alone takes more than 2 hours on subway (+ line transfers) from Seoul/Gangnam Station OR more than 1 hour on subway+ITX-Cheongchun train, followed by the hourly city tour bus and ferry. Also, if you are travelling in big group especially with kids and seniors, joining a day tour from Seoul may work out better for everyone.

Seoraksan National Park, Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

Nami Island, Petite France & Italian Village Day Tour

Nami Island, Petite France, Italian Village & The Morning Calm Day Tour

Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

Alpaca World, Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

Legoland Korea & Nami Island Day Tour

PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Nami Island & Rail Bike (& more)

PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Alpaca World, Nami Island & Rail Bike

Nami Island Admission Ticket (incl. return ferry)

Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

Alpaca World, Nami Island & The Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

Nami Island, Petite France, Italian Village & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

Nami, Petite France, Italian V., Morning Calm & Gangchon Rail Bike Tour

PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Alpaca World & Nami Island

PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Alpaca World, Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm

Alpaca World

The Alpaca World certainly caught our attention. This is a hot attraction with the locals as well! Meet the lovely Alpacas and other farm animals in this large, clean and natural environment!

➽   By public transport (about 3hrs) with multiple and different mode of transfers: 

Subway to Yongsan Station → ITX-Cheongchun to Namchuncheon/Chuncheon Station (1hr 15mins) → 3x Daily Shuttle Bus Service to Alpaca World Parking Lot (1hr) *service suspended in June 2019* → Alpaca free Shuttle Bus to Alpaca World (5mins).

With the daily shuttle bus service between ITX stations and Alpaca World no longer operating, getting to Alpaca World by public transport is not so feasible and direct now with the limited local transport network.

Nonetheless, the day tour will not only allow family travelling with children or seniors getting to Alpaca World (/Pasture) in comfort, you can also visit other fabulous attractions around the area, all within a day as well.

Nami Island, Alpaca World & Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car Day Tour

Legoland Korea & Alpaca World Day Tour

Strawberry Picking (Nov/Dec - May)

Strawberries picking is one of the favourite activities to do for many city travellers to Korea. Try the freshly-picked strawberries at the local Korean farm. Strawberry season generally run from November to May yearly.

➽   If you would like to visit several places of attractions by public transport in one day, it is recommended to book yourself on a day tour.

Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm & Strawberry Picking Day Trip

Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, Petite France & Strawberry Picking Tour

Gangchon & Gapyeong Rail Bike

Go on a Gangchon rail bike ride on an abandon rail track taking you through Korea's beautiful countryside and theme tunnels.

➽ There are two popular rail parks, Gapyeong Rail Park and  Gangchon Rail Bike .  Gapyeong Rail Park is located nearer to Nami Island/Gapyeong Station and Gapyeong City Tour Bus stops here too. The rail ride is a 8km round trip (i.e. same scenery on the ride back) whereas  Gangchon Rail Bike is a 1-way 8.6km scenic ride passing through different theme tunnels and generally offers by local tours. Again, to cover the more scenic and theme tunnels of  Gangchon Rail Bike and its nearby attractions (Nami Island, The Garden of Morning Calm and Petite France), it is best to go on a day tour due to limited public transport and connections. Likewise, if you are not joining the tour, it is recommended to purchase your rail bike ticket in advance as this activity is very popular.

Gangchon Rail Bike

Everland Theme Park

A great amusement park for all ages! Enjoy the interesting and thrilling rides (e.g. T-Express wooden roller coaster), Zootopia and various themed festivals (e.g. Tulip Festival, Halloween).

➽ If you do not mind the fixed departure times (@18:30 / 21:30) from Everland and any possible sudden weather changes especially during winter, you may like to consider taking these top selling tour packages inclusive of shuttle bus departing conveniently from several popular subway stations like Myeongdong or Gangnam. For family travelling with children and seniors, you will skip the possibility of standing on public bus too. On top, you get great discounted ticket to Everland! The Everland one-day ticket is already ₩54,000!

Everland 1 Day Pass (instant QR Code for entry incl. on voucher upon booking)

Shuttle Bus Transfers between Seoul & Everland

Everland Day Tour (Admission, Tour Guide & Round Trip Transfer)

Round Trip Everland Shuttle Bus Transfers

🥁 SEASONAL HOT PICKS 🥁 Handpicked Experiences from Seoul

Mt. Naejangsan from Seoul

optional drop off in Busan

25 Oct - 11 Nov 2024

Nari Park (Pink Muhly Grass & Kochia) & Dumulmeori Half Day Tour

incl. Dumulmeori special hotdog

23 Sep - 18 Oct 2024

Seoraksan National Park with Cable Car Maple Day Tour

incl. scenic cable car rides!

15 Oct - 8 Nov 2024

Sanjeong Lake, Apple Farm, Waterfall & Pocheon Herb Island Day Tour

pink mullies bloom only in fall

2 Sep - 28 Nov 2024

Jangtaesan & Jeonju Hanok Village Autumn Day Tour

Jangtaesan, a hidden gem

19 Sep - 30 Nov 2024

Wondaeri Birch Forest, Garden of Nature Valley & Flower Festival Day Tour

tranquil white bark birch trees forest

20 Sep - 15 Nov 2024

♔  KoreaToDo recommends  Klook.com , Asia leading in-destination service provider.

Other KoreaToDo 'Best of Collections' that you may like:

Top Self-Explored Popular & Unique  Day Trips from Seoul under 3 hours

Top Hidden Places to Visit in Seoul

Top Favourite Shopping Heaven in Seoul

Still looking? Explore KoreaToDo handpicked collection of:

Seoul - North of Han River

Seoul - South of Han River

17 EPIC Seoul day trips, day tours, and weekend trips (2023 guide)

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: February 2, 2023

You can easily spend a week in Seoul without getting bored but by staying in Seoul you would miss some of the other highlights that South Korea has to offer.

You can use Seoul as your base to discover several other outstanding parts of Korea. 

That’s why we created this Seoul day trips guide full of fun and interesting day trips from Seoul.  Besides day trips we also share the best day tours from Seoul.

There’re also some beautiful places that require a 3-5 hour drive from Seoul. 

Although a day trip is still a possibility it would only allow a superficial visit. 

It would be much more convenient, and pleasant, to stay overnight. That’s why we included those as a weekend trip from Seoul.  

For this post, we partnered up with other travel bloggers.

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Read on to discover the best trips from Seoul.

Table of Contents

Seoul essentials

• The best time to visit Seoul  is during the months of April,  May, September, and October. 
• Since foreign credit and debit cards don’t always work, we recommend that you bring some extra cash.
• Consider getting the  Discover Seoul Pass  which covers 50 of Seoul’s best tourist attractions. At the same time, it also functions as a T-money rechargeable card that can be used on public transport. Here you can find more information about this and other Seoul Discount Passes.
• If you are short on time, you might prefer to go on a  city tour of Seoul  instead of exploring the city on your own.
• Visiting the DMZ is on the bucket list of many travelers. Check out the  best DMZ tours here.
• If you plan on making a day trip to Nami Island, check out this guided tour.
• For those looking for a fun night out, check out the Nanta Show. It was one of the best activities we did in Seoul.
• The best place to stay in Seoul is Myeongdong or Insadong.
• Check out our guide about where to stay in Seoul. If you want to spoil yourself by staying in a  cool hotel in Seoul, click here. 
• For an overview of Boutique hotels, click here.
• If you prefer Airbnbs, check out our overview of the best Airbnbs in Seoul.
• If you prefer a Hanok stay in Seoul, click here.
• Don’t lose time upon arrival at the airport and order your  Korea travel SIM  or  portable WIFI device  in advance so that it’s ready and waiting for you at the airport when you arrive.
• Will you also be visiting the rest of South Korea? Learn why renting a car might be a good idea and read everything you need to know about  driving in South Korea.  
• Don’t forget travel insurance. If you don’t yet have travel insurance, have a look at HeyMondo Travel Insurance.
• Here you can find  all our posts about Korea.  Everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip. Use our step-by-step guide to plan your Korea trip.
• Looking for more travel tips for South Korea, check out this post.
• Tip: Be sure to become a member of our   Korea Travel Planning and Tips Facebook group.  The purpose of this group is to help you plan an amazing vacation to Korea.  You can ask questions and exchange tips with fellow travelers.

Seoul day tours  

One of the most comfortable and easiest ways to make a day trip from Seoul is by joining an organized day tour from Seoul. 

With organized tours, you usually save some time because you reach the sights faster. 

You don’t need to stress about finding the right train, subway, or bus and buying the right ticket. (Which shouldn’t be too much of a problem in Seoul)

We think the biggest advantage is that your guide will give a thorough explanation of the sights you visit during your tour.

Here we share the best day tours from Seoul.

Nami Island, Petite France, and the Garden of Morning Calm

As suggested by Jackie from Life Of Doing

Gapyeong, one of the most beautiful places in Korea makes a great day trip from Seoul.

Located 40 minutes away, it’s a great getaway to a serene area with beautiful mountains and landscapes.

Gapyeong has four main attractions – Nami Island, Petite France, Garden of Morning Calm , and Rail Park. Since we visited Gapyeong on our own versus a preorganized tour from Seoul, the day was packed seeing the first three attractions.

Nami Island (also known as Naminara Republic) is a dreamy place with colorful trees such as gingko and maple. It’s the perfect place to embrace nature during your walk or bike riding.

If you follow Korean dramas, Winter Sonata was filmed here, so you’ll see the snowmen theme throughout the island.

Look out for wild bunnies that roam around the grass and you may even spot some huge ostriches.

Petite France is a small and adorable cultural French theme park. Inspired by The Little Prince book, this park has pastel-colored houses with French architecture, foods, and performances.

Check out the scheduled marionette performances and the mini Eiffel Tower while you’re here.

The Garden of Morning Calm is one of our favorite gardens that we’ve been to. At 30,000㎡, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to witness the spectacular plants and flowers.

The highlights include walking along the suspension bridge, seeing the Millennium Juniper tree that is over 1000 years old, and enjoying the tranquility of the Japanese garden.

While we didn’t get the chance to visit the Rail Park it is something that we’re looking forward doing on a next visit.  During a visit to the park, you will pedal along an abandoned railroad track through a nice scenery consisting of rice fields, several tunnels, and bridges. There’re two types of rail carts, 2-seaters, and 4-seaters.

We highly recommend that you visit Gapyeong on a future visit.

How to get there: 

Take the metro to Yongsan station on line 1. From here take the ITX-Cheongchun line to Gapyeong station.

We recommend visiting Nami Island first.  To get there take the Gapyeong City Tour bus, Intra-City bus or a taxi to Nami Island station. From the station, you can walk to the Gapyeong Wharf where you can buy a ferry ticket to Nami Island. When you are finished visiting Nami island you can take the ferry back to the mainland and board the Gapyeong City Tour Bus to visit the Garden of Morning Calm and Petite France.

Make sure you arrive at Gapyeong station 30 minutes before the scheduled departure of the ITX train. We recommend  buying your tickets for the ITX online  to ensure that you have seats in your desired train. If you have made your booking online you will need your booking number, your passport and the credit card you used for the payment to collect your actual boarding pass. This is to prevent that there are no seats anymore available when you arrive at the station.

Another option is to take a shuttle bus from Seoul. You can find more information about the shuttle bus to Nami island here. 

You could also rent a car . You can use the following address to start the guidance in Naver maps.  

Address Search: 1024, Bukhangangbyeon-ro, Gapyeong-eup, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do, Korea Name Search: Nami Island Ticket Office/Nami Island Dock

There is a parking fee of ₩4,000 to park your car at the Nami Island Ticket Office.

Here you can find more info about driving in Korea and renting a car. 

The most popular way to get to Nami Island is by joining an organized day tour. It is the quickest way to visit Nami Island, Petite France, and the Garden of Morning Calm as you can skip the queues for buying ferry and entrance tickets. 

A day tour is probably the most comfortable and relaxed way to visit Gapyeong.

More information and booking: Tickets

The DMZ 

As suggested by Jaemye from Time zone travelers

When visiting Seoul, South Korea, make visiting the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone that separates North and South Korea) a priority. 

You can opt for a half-day option so you can see all the sites in minimal time, and they do all the planning for you. This leaves you with more time to spend in Seoul or other surrounding areas.

The DMZ tour starts often with a pick-up at your hotel in Seoul. You’ll take a large comfortable bus to visit four different sites: Imjingak Park, Dora Observatory, the 3 rd Infiltration Tunnel, and finally the Dorasan Station.

At Imjingak Park, you’ll be able to see the Freedom Bridge and a derailed and battered steam train from the Korean War.

This park is dedicated to the millions of South Koreans who were separated from their families.

The Dora Observatory is where you can actually look through binoculars over to North Korea’s propaganda village. On a clear or semi-clear day, you can even see North Korea’s flag. You might even get a glimpse at some North Korean soldiers.

Probably the most exciting portion of the tour is the Third Infiltration Tunnel. You are issued a hard hat, and you can walk along 265 meters of the 1,635-meter long tunnel which is located 73 meters below ground.

Visiting the DMZ is a must-do while you are in Korea and an unforgettable experience.

Thinking about visiting the DMZ, this article explains the various sights in-depth and helps you choose the best tour.

Read our guide about the DMZ to understand the differences between the different tours and to get detailed instructions on how to get there

More information and booking: DMZ Tour

or read our  full guide about the best DMZ tours.

Alpaca world

Spread across 110,000 square feet, Alpaca world is the largest forest experience farm in Korea. Besides enjoying the beautiful surroundings, they also offer different Alpaca experiences.

Go walking with Alpacas, have fun in the Alpaca playground or enjoy an Alpaca train safari. Besides Alpacas you will also find many other animals such as rabbits, deer, eagles, and owls.

This is definitely a fun experience for the whole family.

How to get there

Public transport options to Alpaca world are limited.

If you have a rental car you can drive to Alpaca world.

Otherwise, we recommend taking a guided tour. They will include a pick-up in Seoul and the visit to Alpaca world is often combined with another attraction such as Nami island or Legoland.

Check out the different tours on Klook.

• Alpaca World, Nami island & rail bike tour
• Alpaca World, Nami island & garden of the morning calm
• Legoland & Alpaca world or Nami Island Day tour

The Boseong Tea Festival

Another interesting day tour brings us to the green Boseong tea fields listed by CNN on the 31 beautiful sights on our planet .

Every year, at the beginning of May, a Tea Festival is organized where you will learn more about the tea-making process and the history and varieties of tea.

Not everything is tea-related, the festival also consists of a Hanbok show and various music concerts.

Klook offers an organized excursion to this annual event. It’s a long day trip where you leave at 7 o’clock in the morning and get back to Seoul around 10 pm. 

The organized tour is a perfect solution if you are short on time and want to visit the rolling Boseong Tea fields to get a quick impression of this area.

More information and booking: Boseong Tea Festival Tickets

If you have more time we would recommend you to have a look at our suggested weekend trip to Boseong further in this post.  This will give you more time to visit this scenic region with seemingly endless tea fields.

It takes about 5 hours to reach Boseong from Seoul. 

At the Seoul Express Bus Terminal, you can take an intercity bus to Boseong or Gwangju .

Day trips from Seoul 

Visit a theme park .

Korea is home to some amazing Theme Parks.

After a few days of visiting Seoul and its various cultural highlights, a day of fun in a theme park can be a nice change. 

Here are 3 of Korea’s most famous Theme Parks that are guaranteed to give you a day of endless fun.

Everland 

Everland, South Korea’s largest theme park is the perfect place to spend a day if you are looking for some fun thrills. 

The theme park has 5 themes: Global Fair, Zoo-Topia, European Adventure, Magic land, and American adventure.  The park’s attractions appeal to both adults and children.

The park has several roller coasters for thrill-seekers including the T-Express, South Korea’s first wooden roller coaster, and several high-tech VR rides. 

Don’t worry if that’s not your kind of thing.  The park has much more to offer. It also has water rides, a 4-d movie theater, and a Live Hologram theater.

There is even a zoo and a safari theme park with tigers, lions, bears, sea lions, pandas, etc.

During the winter months, the park creates a special themed snow village. The village contains many temporary snow-related attractions, the most striking of which is the snow buster where you can sled down a big slope. 

We would recommend visiting Everland on a weekday since the park is sometimes super crowded during the weekends. The same applies to Public Holidays in South Korea .

The park is located 46 kilometers from Seoul.  There are different ways to go there.

If you want to reach Everland on your own, you could go by taking the subway and the bus.

The first option is to take a combination of subway and bus, this will take about 1 hour and 45 minutes:

By subway from Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, and Hongdae. Take the subway to Gangnam station on line 2 (Green). Continue on bus 5002 for 9 stops where the bus will stop at a bus terminal. At this bus terminal, you can change buses for the Free Everland Shuttle Bus.

Alternatively, you can also take a combination of several subway lines so you don’t have to take the bus. This alternative is slightly longer and will take around 2 hours.

Make your way to Wangsimni station. Take the Bundang Line to Giheung station.  Switch to the Yongin Everline to Jeondae Everland Station and take Exit 3.  Here you can take the Free Everland Shuttle Bus which will take you to the park.

A more hassle-free, quicker, and comfortable way to get to Everland is with the park’s shuttle bus service. The shuttle bus has several pick-up locations in Seoul and then heads directly to the park entrance.  Depending on where you board the bus the journey takes between 40 and 70 minutes.

More information and tickets:

Everland Ticket + Shuttle

Everland 1 Day Ticket

Lotte World

Another fun destination is Lotte World. Lotte World consists of 3 parks: Lotte World Adventure,  Lotte Magical Land, and the Lotte World Aquarium. 

Lotte World Adventure is the world’s largest indoor amusement park.  It’s a Korean version of Disneyland and a great place to go if you’re traveling with kids or on rainy days. 

Next door is Lotte World Magic Island where you find many outside attractions.  Centrally located on the island is the magic castle, a castle that has a striking resemblance to Disney’s castle. 

The entrance to Lotte World Magic Island is included in your ticket for Lotte World Adventure

On the opposite side of the road is the Lotte World Mall which houses the Lotte World Aquarium.

We recommend visiting Lotte World during weekdays and avoiding public holidays and weekends if you can.  It can get very busy on weekends and public holidays and there can be long waiting times for popular attractions.

You can buy a combi-ticket to visit all three parks on the same day but in Lotte World Adventure and Magic Island you can easily spend a day. Lotte World Adventure and the Aquarium are great destinations for rainy days.

How to get there:

Lotte World Adventure lies in Jamsil, just outside Gangnam.

Jamsil (Green Line 2, Pink Line 8) Exit 4

More information and tickets: Lotte 1 Day Ticket

Seoul Land is one of the oldest theme parks in Korea. It has a good mix of rides, there is something for the whole family. You will find the classic roller coaster rides but there are also many attractions catered to younger children making it the perfect park to visit with them. 

Although the attractions are a bit outdated it’s still a good place to go since it’s less crowded compared to Everland and Lotte World. It is also an inexpensive park compared to the other two theme parks.

There is a science museum opposite the park.   If that is something that interests you, you can easily combine it during your visit.

Some of the attractions might be closed during the offseason.

In wintertime, the park creates a snow slope for children and adults. 

The hill is decorated with igloos and firepots.  It is the most fun ride and it makes it worth visiting the park in the winter months.

Take subway Line 4 (blue) to Seoul grand park station.  Exit the station at exit number 2. From here you can walk to the park’s entrance or you can take the elephant train which stops at the Park’s entrance, Grand Park and the Art Museum. The fee for the Elephant train is ₩ 1000 for adults,  ₩ 800 for adolescents, and ₩ 700 for children.

More information and tickets: Seoul Land and Seoul Zoo Tickets

Here is an overview of the best Korean theme parks.

Stroll around the Korean Folk Village

As suggested by James from Travel Collecting

The Korean Folk Village in Minsok Village is the perfect day trip to Seoul. 

If you are looking for a Seoul itinerary, click here.  If you have 4 days in Seoul, this is a great itinerary.

For those that have a layover in Seoul, check out this Seoul one day itinerary.

Buildings, including a mix of mansions and regular houses from all over the country, have been moved here and fully restored to recreate a village from the Joseon period (1392 to 1897). 

I have been to many other historic villages around the world, and this is not uncommon. 

However, although it is great to see these historic homes, of course, the Korean Folk Village is much more experiential than that. 

What makes it especially interesting is that throughout the village, artisans use traditional techniques to make handicrafts. 

There are workshops in making bamboo products such as baskets and furniture; wood products like tables and rollers; pottery using traditional glazing methods; bronzeware; blacksmithing; and natural tie-dyed cloth.   

Other handicrafts include making masks, straw shoes, pipes, and drawing on wood or paper with hot tools (pyrography).  In addition to the workshops, there are other experiences you can have such as riding a traditional boat and horses. 

There are also performances throughout the day, including a reenactment of a wedding, horseback martial arts, tightrope walk-in, and dancing. 

I was totally entranced by male dancers spinning and leaping and twirling ribbons on their hats.  It was incredible. 

This is a great day trip from Seoul for everyone.

We would recommend you to avoid buying tickets at the door since they are more expensive.

More information and tickets: Korean Folk Village Tickets

There are several ways to get to the Korean Folk Village

By subway and bus:

Take the Seoul S-subway Line 2 to Gangnam Station. Take exit 10 and take bus 5001-1 or 1560 to the Korean Folk Village.

Take Seoul Subway Line 1 to Jonggak Station. Take exit 3-1. and take bus 5500-1 to the Korean Folk Village.

Take the DX Subway Line to Sinnonhyeon Station. Take exit 6. and take bus 5001-1 or 1560 to the Korean Folk Village. 

Take the Bundang Subway Line to Sanggal Station. Take exit 3 and take bus 37, 10-5 or 5001-1 to Korean Folk Village or Nagok Village. 

Take the Seoul Subway Line 1 to Suwon Station. Take exit 5 and take bus 10-5 or 37 to the Korean Folk Village.

By subway and free shuttle bus:

Another option is to take the Seoul Subway Line 1 to Suwin station. Take exit 4 and take the free shuttle bus.

Suwon Station → Korean Folk Village: 10:30, 12:30, 14:30 Korean Folk Village → Suwon Station: 14:00, 15:30, 16:30

You can find more information about the different possibilities to go to the Korean Folk Village here.

Go back in time in Suwon Hwaesong Fortress

Suggested by Elaine & David from Show Them The Globe

Surrounding the center of the city of Suwon, the impressive Suwon Hwaesong Fortress is a great option for a one-day trip from Seoul.

The fortress walls stretch for over 5km and the wall and its four majestic gates have been well preserved and beautifully restored.

The fortress is fascinating to explore and, once inside, it feels like a step back in time. 

The Suwon Hwaesong Fortress was built in the late 18 th Century in the Joseon Dynasty and has a dramatic history: it was commissioned by King Jeongjo in honor of his father, Prince Sado.

After rumors emerged that the Prince was planning to kill his father, King Jeongjo, the King ordered him to be locked inside a rice chest in which he later died.

The Suwon Hwaesong Fortress is one of South Korea’s 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and definitely worth a visit.

Located 34 kilometers south of Seoul, the Suwon Hwasesong Fortress is a short trip from Seoul and is accessible by public transport.

The fastest way to travel between Seoul and Suwon is via the KTX trains which take around 30 minutes to reach Suwon.

The Seoul subway also services Suwon and the journey time is around 50 minutes from Insadong.

Another option is to hire a rental car. We traveled by rental car and the drive took just over 30 minutes.

Here you can find more info on driving in Korea.

Explore Incheon

Incheon is often overlooked by travelers.

Most travelers arrive at Incheon airport and travel directly to Seoul.

But did you know that Incheon has a lot to offer and makes a great day trip from Seoul?

Feel like a prince or princess at Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village, stroll around Incheon Central Park, chill at Yeongjongdo Island, visit Jeondeungsa Temple or learn more about the Korean War by visiting the Incheon Landing Operation Memorial.

End your day in Incheon by visiting Spasis, an authentic Korean bathhouse.

How to get there :

Take the metro to Incheon station.

Go hiking in Bukhansan National Park

If you are like us and you like nature you should definitely spend a day at  Bukhansan National Park . Bukhansan National Park borders Seoul in the North. It’s the perfect place to unwind after some busy days in the city. 

Here you can find a list of fun things to do in Seoul. 

Depending on the time you want to spend, there are several trails.

We hiked up Munsubong peak to  the Bogungmun gate.  The climb is strenuous and demanding but the view from the top is awesome.

I dare to say this might have been the best view of Seoul we had.

Once at the top you can either follow the old city enclosures further to the North or to the South. 

We continued our way south following the ramparts to get one beautiful vista after another of the skyline of Seoul below us.

Once we got to the Daeseongmun gate we descended back towards the entrance of the park. 

the best things to do in Seoul at night. 

This loop took us approximately 2.5 hours with the occasional stop to take pictures and enjoy the magnificent views.

This is just  one of the many hikes that you can do.  On the  National Park’s website , you will find many more hikes along with their start locations and their difficulty grade.

You can get a map that shows all trails at the visitor centers.

The park is quite large and has 10 different entrances.  We started our hike at the Jeongneung Visitor Center as we came by car and this is one of few entrances with a parking lot. 

It may not be the best entrance if you use public transportation. 

In that case, you might opt for the Weondobong entrance further north at the Bukhansan National Park Dobong office . 

The Dobongson metro station (Line 1 or 7, exit 1) is just 10 minutes walking from this entrance.

You should be able to follow the colorfully clothed Koreans to the entrance, hiking is very popular in Korea.

Directions to all entrances are very well explained on the  National Park’s website .

Go hiking in Namhansanseong 

As suggested by Jim from Tripologist

Without a doubt, one of my favorite day trips from Seoul is to Namhansanseong in Seongnam.

Namhansanseong translates to South Han Mountain Fortress, and while it gets overshadowed by several other nearby fortresses, it is actually one of the oldest in all of the country, dating back to the 16 th  century.

In 1636, Korean King Injo fled to this fortress when his kingdom was being attacked by the Chinese. While it held out for 45 days, the fortress eventually fell to the attackers.

Today, Namhansanseong is mostly restored and features a fantastic 12-kilometer hike that encircles the mountaintops.

In 2014, it was added as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Inside the fortress walls, there are many old buildings and shrines, some that date back to the 17 th century.

There is also a village with several restaurants to quell your appetite after a long hike.

However, without a doubt, the highlight of Namhansanseong is the large gates that have been beautifully restored.

Not only does a visit to Namhansanseong allows you to go for a fantastic hike through the mountains of South Korea, but it also provides a chance to learn more about some of the little-known history of this beautiful country. Therefore it’s the perfect day trip from Seoul if you are looking for a combination of culture and hiking. 

How to get here:

Take subway line 8 to Sanseong Station, go out exit 2, and take bus number 9 for approximately 20 minutes until you reach the town inside the fortress walls.

If you are a trained hiker and you prefer a more challenging walk. 

Take subway line 8 to Namhansanseong Station and take exit 2.  Walk for 20-25 minutes uphill the road. At a certain moment, you will see a series of hiking trails. Follow the signs uphill for the south gate. They will bring you in around 45 minutes to the fortress walls and south gate.

Because it is a pretty tough walk that mainly goes up, we recommend that you wear good walking shoes.

Wander through Jeonju Hanok Village 

Suggested by Linda from Linda Goes east

Jeonju is one of the most beautiful places in all of South Korea. With more than 800 Korean traditional hanok houses, some of the best food in the country, and a slow travel atmosphere – what’s not to love?

Jeonju is the perfect day trip from Seoul because of the stark contrast between the two cities.

Seoul is an exciting place to live in but sometimes you just want to escape the hustle and bustle for a little while – Jeonju does exactly that!

Besides the pretty hanok houses, Jeonju also has a number of notable attractions.

These include Pungnam Gate, Nambu Market, and Gyeonggijeon, a historic shrine from 1410 that now acts as a royal portrait museum.

However, what Jeonju is truly famous for is its food. It’s exactly because of Jeonju’s distinctive food culture, that the city was designated a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2012.

The most important dishes to try in Jeonju include makgeolli, choco pie, and bibimbap. While it’s true that you can get Bibimbap everywhere in South Korea, Jeonju is actually the birthplace of the simple but scrumptious rice bowl with veggies.

The city even holds an annual Bibimbap festival around the end of October to prove this fact.

Needless to say, the bibimbap I have had in Jeonju truly was the best in all of Korea.

Getting to Jeonju from Seoul is incredibly easy!

Just take the KTX straight into Jeonju. This only takes about 1.5 hours.

Another slower, alternative would be to take the express bus down to Jeonju.

Since this takes longer, I recommend staying overnight in Jeonju. This gives you the opportunity to also sleep in a traditional hanok house, something to experience when in South Korea!

Where to stay in Jeonju

Here we share the best Jeonju accommodation. 

Gaeunchae Hanok 

This traditional hanok is located in the middle of the Hanok village.  It is close to cafés and restaurants. You will stay in a simple traditional room and sleep on a traditional futon.  The host speaks English fluently and is very helpful.

More information and booking:

Booking.com

Ramada Jeonju Hotel

The Ramada Jeonju lies within walking distance ( about 1 km) of the Hanok Village and nearby a modern shopping center. The rooms aren’t too big but very well appointed and have comfy beds. The staff speaks good English. 

This is a good alternative if you don’t want to stay in a traditional hanok house.

Visit the Gwangmyeong Cave

Visiting Seoul during the warm summer months and looking for a “cool” day trip? The Gwangmyeong Cave may be what you are looking for.

This abandoned gold, silver, and copper mine opened in 2011 for tourism. With several great attractions, it makes a great day trip from Seoul.

Explore the different themed areas such as wormhole square, the space of light, the cave arts center, cave aqua world, etc.

Back outside, grab something from the stalls while enjoying the amazing scenery.

Here you can find all information.

Ticket price

Note that the cave is closed on Mondays.

Make a Day trip to Busan from Seoul

Busan is South Korea’s second-largest city. It’s well-connected with Seoul and can be reached in under one hour by plane. The train takes 3 hours to reach Busan, with your car or by bus you would be between 4 to 6 hours on the road.  

Although it’s possible to get an impression of the town in one day, we wouldn’t recommend doing so. We spend 2 full days in Busan and that wasn’t even enough time to see everything. 

We would recommend staying at least 2 to 3 days to explore this city.

Busan is a perfect destination for a weekend trip from Seoul.

Weekend trips from Seoul

Here we share the best Seoul weekend trips. 

Discover Busan

Busan is the perfect city for a relaxing weekend trip. If you have 2 days, you could book a city tour for the first day to get an impression of this beautiful town.

The next day, you can spend on your own depending on your personal interests.

GetYourGuide offers several interesting tours depending on your personal interest. 

Busan Full day city tour

This full-day city tour brings you along a lot of the city’s highlights. You will be visiting Taejongdae, the Songdo skywalk, Gamcheong village, and Haedong Yonggungsa temple. You will get lots of insightful information about the history of the places you will visit.

Recommended for first-time visitors or if you are short on time in Busan.

Check reviews and book: Busan City Tour

Busan Private Tour with a Local

If you are like us and you don’t like group tours, this private tour might be something for you. With this tour, you will have the chance to explore Busan with a local guide who will customize your tour in accordance with your personal interests.

Perfect if you want to learn more about Busan but you don’t like group tours.

Check reviews and book: Busan Private Tour

Busan Night City Tour 

Busan is well known for its amazing night views. This tour is for you if you want to discover the city at night and take some awesome night pictures.

More information and bookings: Busan Night Tour

Take a look at this Busan blog post to get some more ideas about what you could do in Busan. If you are looking for the best place to stay in Busan for your weekend trip, take a look here. 

Go hiking in Seoraksan national park 

Seoraksan National Park lies in the Northeast of Korea. It offers some of the most beautiful sceneries of Korea, especially during fall. 

You can choose from a whole selection of hikes, the shortest take just a few hours the longest treks take 3 days. 

It’s possible to visit the park in one (long) day. 

A day trip is sufficient to get an impression of the park but does not offer enough time to do one of the many impressive hikes. 

All of these hikes lead uphill to the top of rocks or mountains and will require at least 4 hours. 

That’s why we recommend spending the night in Sokcho so that you don’t need to rush and instead enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the park.

You can find more information about a day trip from Seoul to Seoraksan here: Seoraksan

If you’re spending the night in Sokcho and want to combine your visit to the park with some other nearby activities you may find some inspiration and reviews on Tripadvisor .

Where to stay in Seoraksan

Ramada gangwon sokcho hotel.

We stayed in the Ramada Sokcho hotel. It was a 30 minutes drive to the park.  We had a big comfortable room with a balcony where we could see how the boats sailed in and out of the harbor. We liked the extensive breakfast buffet although the restaurant isn’t really cozy.

A great place to stay if you like seafood.  It’s right next to the harbor. Boats arriving at the port drop their catch at one of the many seafood restaurants along the pier.

Check prices and availability on Booking.com or Agoda:

Visit the Boseong Tea Plantation & Festival

Suggested by Marie from Be Marie Korea

The tea of South Korea is famous all over the world, especially all the green tea-related products like ice cream, skin care products, and chocolate.

South Korea has two famous tea plantations, one on the beautiful Jeju Island and another in Boseong. Boseong is a small town in the south of the country, close to the south coast.

It is a beautiful place that can be visited all year round, but once a year it draws exceptionally many tourists during the Boseong Tea Festival. 

The rolling tea fields in Boseong are very picturesque and remind us of the ones we saw in Munar in India. 

The 4-day Boseong Tea festival is held annually in early May. During these 4 days, the place is the mecca for everybody who loves tea.

The festival takes place on the grounds of the Boseong tea plantation and during the festival, visitors can enjoy tasting various types of green tea.

Apart from tasting tea, other events take place, like green tea leave picking, an after-dark tea party, a treasure hunt, and everybody can learn how to roast their own tea leaves.

Although it’s also possible to visit Boseong on your own as a day trip from Busan or Seoul we would recommend to stay overnight.  It’s a long journey, certainly, if you’re coming from Seoul, and you lose quite some time because you have to change trains or buses along the way.

Here we share the best hotels in and around Boseong. 

Where to stay in Boseong

Yong wook lee’s traditional house .

This is a 200-year-old Hanok house. You stay in a traditional room and sleep on a futon. The bathroom is shared. It’s also quite remote, so you’ll need a car to get there, and dining options in the area are limited.

The very helpful host speaks a little bit of English. 

Payment is only in cash. 

A genuine Korean countryside experience far off the beaten track.

If you don’t have a car you are better off staying at the  Boseung Nokcha Resort

Nokcha Resort

This wooden pension lies within walking distance from the tea plantations and the bus stop. The room is basic but comfortable and includes a small kitchen. There is an outdoor BBQ available. Unfortunately, the staff speaks little English but you can use google translate to understand each other. 

Perfect for a night if you don’t have a car and you want to be nearby Bonseong’s attractions.

How to get to Bonseong from Seoul:

By train or train + bus:

The fastest way to reach Bonseong is by taking the train or a combination of the train and bus.

You start by taking the KTX train from Yongsan Station to Gwangju-Songjeong station. At Gwangju-Songjeong station you can continue your way by either the bus or the train. 

If you opt for the bus : Take the local bus #30 outside the KTX station to U square Bus Terminal. At the U square Bus terminal, you will need to switch to another bus for the Boseong Bus Terminal. 

If you opt for the train :  There is a direct train from Gwangju-Songjeong to Boseong station.

The total travel time will be around 3h20 minutes with the train and slightly longer with the train+bus combination. 

The train is an easier and faster option than the combined train and bus option but you will need to plan your trip in advance. (and maybe also book tickets in advance)   There are only three daily trains from Gwangju-Songjeong to Boseong per day.

There are several buses that connect Seoul with Bonseong.  Some of them offer a direct connection,  making this option perhaps the most convenient.

These are the various options:

Hourly there’re multiple buses leaving for Gwangju from the Dong Seoul Bus Terminal and the Seoul Central City Bus Terminal (Express Bus terminal).  In Gwangju you can change for a bus that heads to Boseong.

There is 1 direct bus daily.  It leaves at 3 pm from the Seoul Central City Bus Terminal (Express Bus Terminal). The timing is unfortunate as you will arrive in Boseong in the evening but it is a good option if you will be spending multiple days in Bonseong. 

If you are traveling during the weekend, you could also opt for a direct bus that leaves from Seoul’s Express Bus Terminal in Seoul at 8.10 am and arrives around 1 pm.

As you can see there’s not only much to see and do in Seoul. 

There’s also a wide range of excursions that you can do from the country’s capital. 

Some of the listed trips are classics, like the one to the DMZ, and others are more off the beaten path like the one to the Boseong tea plantations.

Whatever you choose, we hope that these Seoul day trips, day tours, and weekend trips will inspire you to discover more about this beautiful country. 

If you like this article pin it. 

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

• Fall in Korea

17+ Fun Day Trips From Seoul (Within 3 Hours)

Last Updated: Feb 28, 2024 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Plenty of images come to mind when we think of daytrips from Seoul. This is because the options when traveling within Korea are at an all-time high, with plenty of historical, cultural, and modern sites within an hour or two of the city.

Adrenaline junkies, creatives, cultural fans, and foodies alike are bound to fall for one of the Seoul daytrips listed below. Even the places I've not expected to like have changed my perspective.

It’s been the more specific, unusual experiences outside of Seoul which I've remembered the most, like drinking with elderly strangers and learning about toilets near an ancient fortress.

So to help you have similarly memorable experiences, here are some Seoul day trips carefully curated to make sure that they are worth your time & money— not just another obvious pick.

• ✈️ Basics of Travel in South Korea

Incheon Beaches (Gyeonggi)

Hani lavender field (gangwon), toilet museum (gyeonggi), dmz (korean peninsula), nami island (chuncheon), petite france (gyeonggi), alpaca world (gangwon), daegwallyeong sheep farm & sky ranch (gangwon), hwaseong fortress (suwon), namhansanseong fortress (gyeonggi), heyri art valley (paju), korean folk village (yongin), jeonju hanok village (jeonju), bukhansan national park (gyeonggi), gwangmyeong cave (gyeonggi), everland (yongin), legoland korea (gangwon), ✈️ basics of travel in south korea.

Visa: Most travelers will need a K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization ), applied for at least 72 hours before departure. If you needed a visa before, you'll need a K-ETA now. Note that from April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and several EU nations, can visit visa-free – no K-ETA required!

Currency: South Korean won ( KRW or ₩ )

Arrival in Korea: all international flights arrive at Incheon Airport (ICN), one of the best-rated airports in the world. It usually takes about 1 hour to get through security & pick up checked bags.

Getting Around: Korea has an extensive & reliable public transport system. A refillable T-Money card is your ticket to buses and trains across the country; you can buy and refill yout TMoney card at any subways station or convenience store in Korea.

Internet & SIM Cards: Rent a Wi-Fi egg or purchase a prepaid Korean SIM card at the airport, available for up to one month of connection.

Travel Insurance: always recommended, though some credit card companies offers limited coverage when booking.

Season : Summer

Travel Time : ~1.5-2 hours from Seoul

Estimated Cost : ₩55,000 for transportation, accommodation & food

Even though Incheon is best known for its massive airport, the locals more often come to its beaches. While all of them are known for their tranquil views and beautiful sunsets, each beach has its own charm. Dongmak is always full of people, no matter what the season is.

Eulwangni’s the opposite, because it is quieter and slightly further-out. Masian’s charm comes out most at night, when it’s popular with campers, while Hanagae has a long bridge that showcases the waves crashing against the cliffs. 

Travel Time : ~3 hours from Seoul

Those visiting Korea from May to July have the unique opportunity to visit the country’s vast & only lavender fields, in the northern province of Gangwon. Just 3 hours from the capital, this charming flower farm is one of the most popular destinations outside Seoul in the summer because of its Instagram-worthy backdrops.

It’s also famous for its house-made lavender gelato, which is delicately sweet and reminiscent of a mild honey. Plus, the owner of this place is considered to be Korea’s ‘lavender missionary,’ because he’s made it his goal to spread his love for the plant far and wide.

This is evident enough when you see the farm itself. During the official Hani Lavender Festival every June 1-23rd, he even comes out a few times a week to do essential oil demonstrations and hand out free samples.

Season : Autumn 

Travel Time : ~ 1 hour from Seoul

Estimated Cost : Free

Although leaving Seoul just to see a bunch of toilets is an unusual idea, trust me – you’ll change your mind the moment you step into the Toilet Museum. Filled with all kinds of toilets imaginable, this spot is the place to be if you’re looking for something unorthodox and original.

The reason the museum was created is also just as strange as the history behind it: the mayor of this city back in the early 2000s, he was actually born in a toilet, which he felt was a good enough reason to make his dream house into one. 

He even called his home ‘ Haewoojae,’ which translates to a “house that relieves anxiety,” which is quite frankly how toilets make us feel. After his death, his humble commode was turned into a museum full of chachkis & oddities that would make interesting souvenirs for your friends. Think statues of people taking a dump, or a poop paperweight.

Season : All seasons, come anytime

Estimated Cost : ₩60,000-₩70,000 for transportation, accommodation & food

Even though it’s free to just swing by the War Memorial of Korea, history buffs may still want to travel to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone between South Korea and North Korea). You can choose to visit on your own to see some parts of the zone, or join a tour bus that takes you to parts otherwise inaccessible to tourists. 

Touring the DMZ is also the perfect opportunity to thoroughly learn the history of the Korean War. Your first stops on the official tours are to Imjingak Park, the Freedom Bridge, and the Third Infiltration Tunnel, all important areas in the War.

There’s also a segue to the Dora Observatory, which has a gift shop with North Korean items as well as a powerful telescope that lets you view North Korean towns from the Demilitarized Zone. One thing’s for sure: even though there are plenty of reasons to be afraid of the DMZ, this isn’t actually a scary tour.

Estimated Cost : ₩60,000 for transportation, accommodation & food

Nami Island remains one of the most breathtakingly beautiful, especially in the fall. It’s a remarkable moon-shaped isle just a couple hours from Seoul, full of pine & gingko trees and free-roaming animals. It’s the perfect place to appreciate nature to its fullest and get out of the city.

To get there you can either take a seated zipline or ride a ferry from Chuncheon. The zipline costs ₩44,000 while the ferry ranges from ₩10,000 to ₩16,000, but whichever route you choose lets you admire Nami’s foliage from afar.

This island is also where the famous K-Drama “Winter Sonata” was filmed, and you’ll see plenty of signs indicating where the most well-known scenes were shot. There’s even an area that commemorates the show with a statue of the main couple, and near there is a train station that takes you to the Gangchon rail bike.

This is a course that lets you see more of the Bukhan River and the whimsical themed tunnels placed along the discontinued Gyeongchun Line train tracks.

Season : Autumn

Travel Time : 2 hours & 40 minutes from Seoul

Estimated Cost : Adults: ₩10,000; Youth: ₩8,000; Child: ₩6,000

After exhausting everything there is to see & do in Nami Island, we recommended you visit Petite France, a pleasant village in Gapyeong that has a lot of “Little Prince” references . The ‘houses’ around the brick rotunda even look like famous illustrations from the book itself.

Other than this beloved book, there are murals featuring other characters from famous fairy tales, so if you visit Petite France with children, it’s a common challenge to get them to name all the ones they know.

Travel Time : 2.5 hours from Seoul

Estimated Cost : Admission Ticket: ₩15,000 (additional ₩10,000 for the healing walk with the alpacas)

Are you a big fan of alpacas but find yourself in the city? If so, then you don’t want to miss this day trip from Seoul . This special zoo is home to alpacas of all shapes and sizes which freely run around the large course, and you’re free to photograph & pet.

For those who stay for a whole afternoon, later on in the day you can have a refreshing ‘healing walk’ with an alpaca friend. But if you wish to see animals other than the alpaca, there’s a friendly red parrot by the entrance and a fierce eagle that circles the park from time to time. 

Estimated Cost : Adults: ₩6,000; Child: ₩5,000 with ₩288,000 to experience the flock, the carriage, & the horseback riding or trekking

If you haven’t been to the Alps, this dude ranch could be a good substitute. The weather up here is quite chilly (even in the summer), and as long as you’re wearing a nice coat, you can walk for hours without really noticing the flow of time. There are sheep everywhere, and they’re obviously used to people; it's to the point that they’ll come close to the fences just to ask for pets and snacks. 

Travel Time : ~1 hour from Seoul

Suwon is known for its unique locally-owned cafés, but to get there, one must be willing to traverse a 6-meter-long wall meant for war defense. That’s why in Suwon you’ll see cannons, bastions, and holes meant for guns to shoot through.

Like the word “Hwaseong” - which translates to “brilliant castle,” this UNESCO heritage site is an astounding fortress that merges traditional Korean architecture with Western influences. Plus, there’s a sunflower field nearby, making it a memorable spot to take photos with your friends and family.

Estimated Cost : Adults: ₩2,000; Youth: ₩2,000; Child: ₩1,000

This fortress is more of a traditional defense capital compared to Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. The government later improved some parts to accommodate weapons’ technological advances once gunpowder came along, so it’s slightly more modernized. Buddhist monk-soldiers were trained in this area, and this huge fortress has played an important role in key administrative and military functions over the centuries.

It was even once considered to be the temporary capital in case of emergencies. Still, even though this fortress is probably of more interest to history buffs, the public park at the center is now surrounded by restaurants with all kinds of food.

Travel Time : ~1.5 hours from Seoul

Estimated Cost : Free, but some spaces may charge admission fees

Artists will definitely appreciate this daytrip from Seoul. Here you’ll find yourself surrounded by bookstores, museums, workshops, and stunning works from local artists, writers, and other creatives. Sometimes there are performances from students that come from the prestigious art schools nearby.

Another fascinating reason to come is for the unique buildings designed by local architects, and it doesn’t stop there. Even the natural landscape is specifically carved to their liking, to emphasize Heyri Valley’s attractiveness while you roam the displays.

Season : Summer & Spring

Travel Time : ~2 hours from Seoul

Estimated Cost : ₩25,000

This can be an exciting day trip in Korea if you want to see legitimate hanok houses in a modern-day setting. Centered in the quieter areas in Seoul, prepare to experience the traditional way of life in Korea . Locals are more than happy to let you observe them work as they carry on tasks to keep the village running.

From time to time, there are even tours that let you see the local temples and gardens , which usually end with a performance of the farmer’s dance ritual.

Estimated Cost : ₩320,000 for transportation, accommodation & food

With 700+ traditional hanok houses, Jeonju Hanok Village is undoubtedly the biggest hanok village in Korea. Due to the sheer number of hanoks, it’s hard to remember that everything outside the village is now modern & advanced. If you’re curious about what it’s like to live inside one, book a reservation at the Hanok Life Experience Center.

Known as the ideal spot for hikers of every skill level, Bukhansan National Park is a mountainous region full of fascinating views and rich flora. Even those with no hiking experience can try an easy trail and emerge at the top with a nice view to show for it.

Plus, the panoramic views of Seoul take away most of the stress of the struggle, especially if it’s not crowded (but it usually is, due to its popularity amongst the locals). Come to think of it, most of the best hiking trails in Seoul are actually found in Bukhansan National Park.

Estimated Cost : Adults: ₩6,000; Youth: ₩3,500; Child: ₩2,000

An amusement park set in a cave , each of its numerous tunnels differs from one another. From gold to wine and even underwater, this cave has various regions which each provide different kinds of entertainment. There’s actually a horror experience in one of the tunnels.

A lot of people say it’s hard to get through it without following the buddy system, mostly due to the creepy bones and the random jump-scares. Still, many parts of this cave can prove to be healing, and you can even don a mining hat and go 'gold digging' for ₩6,000 won. 

Estimated Cost : Day Pass: ₩33,000; Caribbean Bay: ₩48,000

For one of the most fun day trips from Seoul, be sure to allow at least one day for a visit to Everland . With 5 unique zones, there are plenty of rides to choose from. The scariest ride in Asia is actually here, too. It’s called “T-Express,” and it’s the first of its kind to utilize three trains! It’s made mostly out of wood, and is considered to be the fourth-tallest roller coaster in the entire world.

If scary rides are not your thing, there’s also Panda World, an enclosure that houses an adorable panda couple gifted by the Chinese president as a sign of friendship. Next to it is Friendly Monkey Valley, where you can see monkeys fling themselves from one bamboo pipe to another.

Twice a day, Everland also has a lively parade that with recreations of festivals from other parts of the world. There are even floats filled with LED and neon lights, accompanied by lots of fireworks.

Season : daily before 11 AM or after 3 PM

Travel Time : 90-minutes away from Seoul

Estimated Cost : Day Pass: Adult: ₩50,000; Child: ₩40,000; (Weekend Only) Afternoon Ticket: ₩30,000; Annual Pass: ₩119,000 

The newest theme park built in Korea, Legoland looks like a huge castle village made out of multicolored LEGO blocks . There are 7 zones of fun that you can choose to visit, with more than 40 rides to enjoy in all. In MINILAND, visitors get to see Lego versions of famous Korean landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and the National Assembly.

There’s also a large observation tower ride that lets you see the whole park, which is a fantastic sight because LEGOLAND is the first of its kind to be built on a separate island. There’s even an underwater tunnel that passes by the “Lost City of Atlantis”, which contains a multitude of different sharks, manta rays, and fish. As you can see, there are plenty of options when it comes to going on a memorable daytrip from Seoul. Whether you’re a huge fan of history or you love hiking & nature – trust me, these Seoul daytrips are ones worth including in your itinerary .

More All Things South Korea

Sharing is caring!

Reader Interactions

No Comments

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

25 Best Day Trips From Seoul, Korea

Seoul – the city that never sleeps! There’s always something happening in the sprawling metropolis, and it’s the most exciting place to visit in Korea.

After a few days exploring the vibrant city, you may want an escape from the flashing lights and K-Pop craze.

Luckily, there are so many awesome day trips from Seoul, making it easy for you to hop on a train or bus and explore more of Korea.

Here are 25 of the best Seoul day trips that you cannot miss, as well as a few extra destinations that you should include in your Korea itinerary.

Torn Tackies contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Quick Navigation

25 best Seoul day trips

Below are my top picks of the best day trips from Seoul, many of which can be included in a 7 day Seoul itinerary.

They take you from the thrilling roller coasters of Everland to the eerie corners of the DMZ and will suit adventure travelers, couples, families, and backpackers who are looking for epic getaways from Seoul.

Summary of the best day trips from Seoul

• Easiest trip using the metro: Bukhansan National Park
• Adventure day trips: Skiing in winter
• Best Seoul day trip for couples: Nami Island
• Day trips from Seoul for families: Everland Theme Park
• Most popular attraction near Seoul: DMZ

Day trips to do all year-round

Below you’ll find the best places to visit no matter the time of year.

Nami Island: The best day trip from Seoul

Nami Island is one of the most iconic sights in Korea and is easily accessible on a Seoul day trip.

Serene lakes, dreamy canopies, and quirky sculptures. That’s Nami Island for you – a quick breather from the urban chaos.

But Nami Island is a cultural haven too. Remember the film “Winter Sonata”? That swoon-worthy K-drama? Yep, this island was its backdrop!

You’ll need to pass through “immigration” before taking a ferry (or a zip line) to the half-moon-shaped island

There are a few other attractions near Nami Island that you should visit while you’re there, which I’ve listed below. All of these can be combined into the perfect day trip from Seoul.

Garden of Morning Calm

The Garden of Morning Calm is a massive botanical garden boasting over 20 themed sections. It’s incredibly picturesque, with stunning photo opportunities no matter where you look!

The gardens are a great place for a picnic lunch, so come prepared with a blanket and some snacks and enjoy some downtime under the trees.

Petite France

For this Seoul day trip, you can also add Petite France to your itinerary. But this depends if you’re going independently or with a tour group.

It’s possible to explore Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm in one day without a tour. But it will be a rush, and you’ll have to give Petite France a miss.

But, an awesome tour like this takes you to the top attractions and all your tickets will be purchased in advance so you won’t have to waste time waiting in queues

How to do a Nami Island day trip from Seoul

If you only have one day, I recommend booking a day tour from Seoul that will include transport and stops at 3 locations, including Nami Island.

Check Nami Island tour prices here.

DMZ Day trip from Seoul

The DMZ is no man’s land and acts as a buffer between North and South Korea.

It’s one of the most heavily militarized borders in the world and spans the entire breadth of the two countries.

This is one of the best places to visit outside Seoul as it’s located just an hour’s drive away.

Of all the day trips from Seoul, the DMZ is the one that you cannot access independently and has to be organized through a tour operator.

Check the latest DMZ tour prices.

DMZ day Tours From Seoul

During your DMZ tour , you’ll visit the Third Tunnel of Aggression, which was built by the North Koreans as a way to invade the South many years ago.

From there, you’ll head to the Dora Observatory, which overlooks the Korean Demilitarized Zone and onto North Korea.

The tours then stop at either Dorasan Station or The Bridge of Freedom.

Dorasan Station is an abandoned train station that will potentially connect Pyongyang and Seoul in the future. And Freedom Bridge is the bridge that Korean war prisoners walk across to return home.

But arguably, the most moving of all is visiting the Joint Security Area (JSA).

Joint Security Area (JSA)

The JSA is downright eerie! This is where the two Koreas meet, and negotiations are made.

But not all tours include the JSA due to security restrictions. Those that do include them, like this one , are significantly more expensive.

You can feel the tension in the air as soldiers line the road, and there are strict protocols in place.

By entering the conference room, which is recognized by its iconic blue color, you’re able to step foot into North Korea! You’ll have soldiers staring you down whilst doing so, so it’s best you don’t make any quick movements.

This is one of the few DMZ tours that includes the JSA. But due to a recent unauthorized crossing by a US soldier into North Korea, the JSA tours have been indefinitely canceled.

Bukhansan Mountain Hike: My top day trip

You don’t have to venture too far when looking for the best Seoul day trips!

Just a short drive north of the city lies Bukhansan National Park, an outdoor playground for those looking to go hiking near Seoul.

The highest point is Baegundae Peak which offers panoramic views of Seoul in the distance. But the climb to get there is tough!

If you’re an adventure traveler, hiking Bukhansan Mountain is one of the most exhilarating day trips from Seoul.

I mistakenly took the expert route – you can read about my Bukhansan hiking adventure here! This saw me climbing on all fours, scaling massive boulders whilst pulling myself up with rope and hanging on to dear life as I tried to maneuver my way to the top of the mountain!

The bonus of taking this route was that there were no tourists in sight, and I could enjoy the awe-inspiring views all to myself.

But fear not; the Bukhansanseong Course to Baegundae Peak is a far more relaxed hike and suitable for all fitness levels. On the downside, it is a popular trail, so you’ll come across lots of people.

How to get there

There are 3 popular entry points to Bukhansan National Park. I chose the Bukhansanseong Park Information Center entrance.

To get here, take the Seoul Subway to Gupabal Station on line 3. Once you arrive at Gupabal Station, take exit 1.

There are 3 buses that go to Bukhansan.   Bus 34, 704, and 8772. You can hop on any of these to the Bukhansan Fortress Stop.

Gangchon Rail Park

Start your morning off by pedaling through the Korean countryside at the Gangchon Rail Bike, the best rail park in Korea!

Situated in Gapyeong, just 77km from Seoul, the 8.6 km rail bike course passes through wide-open fields, where you’ll enter themed tunnels and ride alongside rivers before hopping onto a train for a scenic ride to the final point.

It’s one of the best day trips from Seoul that allows you to explore a different side of Korea, away from the crowds, as only a limited number of people are allowed on the rail bike at a time.

In total, you’ll need 2 hours to enjoy the Gangchon Rail Bike , but don’t end your trip here!

After your rail bike experience, head over to Chuncheon, the Dakgalbi capital of Korea, which is just 2km away. If you don’t know what Dakgalbi is, you’re in for a treat. The delicious cheesy meal supposedly originated in the city of Chuncheon and there’s even a street named after it!

After eating your heart out, hop back on the KTX and head home to Seoul.

Take the KTZ fast train from Seoul to Namchuncheon Station near Chuncheon.

Top tip: Gangchon Rail Bike Park is in the same region as Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm. If you have some extra time and you’re looking for the best weekend trips from Seoul, spend the night in Chuncheon and check out Nami Island the next day.

Everland: the best seoul day trip for families

Everland is the Disney World of Korea! It’s the largest theme park and an institution in the country.

Situated in the colorful city of Yongin, it takes an hour to reach from the center of Seoul. You’ll need a full day to explore all the attractions.

With parades, fireworks, and a magic fair, Everland is a sensory explosion for all visitors and is one of the top activities to do on a Seoul day trip.

Buy your tickets in advance here , where you’ll pay a discounted rate and won’t need to stand in long queues.

You could also book the shuttle bus that includes your transport from Seoul to Everland. This is a great option if you’re traveling with kids.

hwaseong fortress in Suwon

Suwon is a small city situated on the outskirts of the capital, and a worthy day trip from Seoul as it’s easily accessible using the Seoul Metro.

The biggest attraction is the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress .

Built in the 18th century during the Joseon Dynasty, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive destinations near Seoul.

Stretching over 5km, you’re able to walk the perimeter walls taking in the picturesque mountain views that surround the fortress.

Suwon also has an exciting nightlife scene, so after exploring the fortress, head out and treat yourself to some delicious Korean food, and soju (of course)!

Or better yet, coordinate this Seoul day trip with a baseball game at the local Suwon stadium.

How to get to Hwaseong Fortress

To get to Hwaseong Fortress, take the Seoul metro to Suwon Station. After getting off the train, take the exit that directs you to Suwon Tourist Info Center.

You’ll then need to get on one of the many buses that go to the fortress. The easiest is Bus 5 or 7. Get off at the Jangan Park stop (which is about 15 minutes ride away).

Korean Folk Village in Yongin

The Korean Folk Village in Yongin is a captivating window into traditional Korean life.

It features traditional houses and crafts from the Joseon dynasty and has a vibe that’s straight out of the past.

It’s like a history class, but way more interesting.

If you’re a history buff and someone who loves soaking up the culture, the Korean Folk Village makes for a great Seoul day trip.

How to get to the Korean Folk Village

Take the train to Gangnam Station, exit 10. From here, the Korean Folk Village is an hour’s drive on bus 5001-1.

Gwangmyeong Cave

Gwangmyeong Cave is a unique underground attraction converted from an abandoned mine.

It offers a blend of history and entertainment, featuring illuminated tunnels covered with various art installations.

The cave provides visitors with an intriguing journey through its subterranean passages, showcasing the transformation of a former mine into a vibrant cultural and recreational space.

Gwangmyeong Cave lies south of Seoul. To get here, take either the KTX train or the metro to Gwangmyeong Station.

Exit the station from exit 8 and take Bus 17 or 77 to Gwangmyeong Cave which is 15 minutes away.

Best Seoul day trips in winter

Winters in Korea a freezing cold, so you need to come prepared for icy days.

The winter snow season runs from December until March and attracts thousands of eager Koreans and foreigners looking to escape the city and head to the mountains.

If you’re spending winter in Korea, check out these awesome ski resorts, which are easily accessible on a day trip from Seoul.

Unlike other ski destinations in the world, you don’t need to plan week-long getaways to go skiing in Korea.

The ski parks are much smaller, and the courses lack variety, making it the perfect day trip from Seoul.

Most ski resorts lie within a 2-hour drive from the capital city, the closest being Bears Town Ski Park which is awesome for beginner snowboarders and skiers. Vivaldi Ski Park is a hit with families as it has Snowy Land, a fun snow park for kids.

There are numerous ski tours to choose from where all your gear is provided and ski passes are organized.

All that’s left for you to do is meet the bus in Myeongdong, Seoul, at 7 am, and you’ll return by 8 pm the same night.

Best Seoul day trips in summer

Caribbean bay.

Right next door to Everland lies Caribbean Bay, a water park with fun slides, wave pools, and river tubing activities.

This makes for an exciting day trip on its own, especially during the warm summer months.

Both Everland and Caribbean Bay get extremely crowded over the weekend and public holidays, so if you’re planning this day trip from Seoul, try to visit during the week when it’s less busy.

Daecheon Beach

Planning your vacation to Seoul for summer and looking to hit the beaches? Unfortunately, those on the east coast, like Busan and Sokcho, are a bit too far to include on a day trip from Seoul.

But Daecheon Beach on the west coast is a 2-hour drive from the capital and makes for the perfect day or weekend trip.

Situated in the town of Boryeong, Daecheon Beach is famously known for being the home of the Boryeong Mud Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors to its shores in July each year.

The 3.5km stretch of beach is the perfect place to soak up the sun and spend a day in the water.

To get to Daecheon Beach, take the bus from Seoul Express Bus Terminal to Boryeong Bus Terminal. From the bus terminal, you can hop on the local bus to Daecheon Beach, which leaves every 10 minutes.

White water rafting

If you’re looking for fun day trips from Seoul during summer, why not go rafting down the Naerincheon River near Inje. Whilst it’s a popular weekend activity for Korens, I was surprised to see no other tourists on the river!

The 6 km course offers class II rapids which aren’t overly exciting so it’s best to manage your expectations before you arrive thinking you’re in for some fun, wild waters.

But what it lacks in rapids, it makes up for in scenery. It’s incredibly beautiful and the stream is lined with lush trees.

The highlight of this rafting tour comes halfway through the course when you can hop in the water. After spending an hour paddling in the scorching heat, this refreshing swim is well-deserved.

Naerincheon River is a 90-minute drive from Seoul. To get here, you first need to take a bus from the Dong Bus Terminal in Seoul to the town of Inje, followed by a 15-minute taxi to X-Game Resort which is where you’ll start your rafting tour.

READ MORE: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT RAFTING IN KOREA

Wolmido Island in Incheon

Incheon is just a hop away from Seoul and stands out as one of the best day trips you can make.

“ But that’s where the airport is, right? “

But this bustling city effortlessly combines tradition with modernity, offering a delightful blend of experiences. If you’re a foodie, you’ll love Incheon’s Chinatown!

Incheon’s oceanfront is also a major drawcard. Wolmido Island boasts an amusement park with captivating waterfront views and a chance to unwind by the sea.

For a glimpse into Korea’s artistic side, the Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village’s murals and fairy-tale-inspired decor offer a picturesque stroll.

It’s super easy to do a day trip from Seoul to Incheon. Simply take the metro to Incheon Station.

Day trips from Seoul (that are better for a weekend)

Thanks to the KTX fast train, most places are accessible on day trips from Seoul.

But just because you can do it as a one-day getaway, doesn’t mean you should!

The below places are often listed as some of the best day trips from Seoul, but from my experience after visiting all of them, they’re better suited for a weekend trip.

This is because they’re further from Seoul as and you’ll need more time to check out all the attractions nearby.

Jeonju: The best weekend getaway from Seoul

• Distance from Seoul: 3 hours by bus

Jeonju is a foodie’s delight and a charming city south of Seoul.

Just like Chuncheon is famous for Dakgalbi, Jeonju’s signature dish is Bibimbap, yet another one of my favorite Korean dishes!

Another major attraction in Jeonju is the well-preserved Jeonju Hanok Village which is arguably one of the most spectacular traditional villages in Korea.

Walk the streets, explore the traditional houses made from wood and slate, dress up in a traditional Hanbok, and observe the selfie-obsessed visitors.

After exploring the village, take a short walk to Jaman Mural Village, where you’ll find vibrant street art.

Finally, and my highlight of Jeonju, enough a night of Makgeolli which is a traditional Korean milky rice wine!

After all the Makgeolli, you’ll most likely wake up with a nice headache the next day, so feast on a big breakfast (which should be bibimbap – yes, it’s a favorite for breakfast, lunch, and dinner) before heading back to Seoul, or continue on to Busan which is 3 hours away.

READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE KOREA PACKING LIST

Why you shouldn’t visit Jeonju as a day trip from Seoul

To get to Jeonju, you can hop on the KTX bullet train, which takes less than two hours from Seoul. But at $35 for the one-way trip, it’s rather pricey!

If you include Jeonju as one of your day trips from Seoul, you would have to take the fast train. But it’s a lot of money to spend for a few hours in the city.

Alternatively, if you’re traveling Korea on a budget , the bus is your best bet. However, this is just over 3 hours’ drive from Seoul. Thus the reason I suggest spending the night in Jeonju.

Seoraksan National Park in Sokcho

On the east coast of Korea lies Sokcho. It’s home to Seoraksan National Park and the third-highest mountain in the country.

Mount Seorak is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Korea and a hit amongst nature lovers. You’ll need 5 hours to explore the national park, and there are various hiking trails suited to all levels.

You don’t want to rush this, as it’s a truly stunning park with so much to do and see.

Many people include Seoraksan National Park as one of their day trips from Seoul. If you’re pressed for time, it is possible on a day tour like this .

But if you have a few days, I recommend spending some time exploring Sokcho and Seoraksan National Park.

This will give you time to explore the fishing town of Sokcho and indulge in a delicious fresh seafood dinner. You can also visit the beaches in Sokcho or head to nearby Naksan Beach and visit Naksansa Temple .

The bus ride from Seoul to Sokcho is 3 hours, and you can easily find a bus from the Seoul Express Bus Terminal.

High1 Ski Resort: Adventure Weekend Getaways near Seoul

I’ve already mentioned that visiting a ski resort is the perfect Seoul day trip. But, there’s an exception!

High1 Ski Resort is the biggest (and arguably the best) ski resort in Korea, but it’s a 3-hour drive from the capital, so it’s best visited as a weekend trip from Seoul.

High1 offers the highest elevation in the country with long courses and more exciting slope variety than you’ll find elsewhere.

Because of the driving distance, it’s best to extend your stay so that you can ski the afternoon you arrive, and the following day before heading back to Seoul.

Longer Seoul vacations

There is just so much to do and see in Korea! If you have the time, head over to the destinations below.

You can’t, or rather, shouldn’t , visit them on a day trip from Seoul. I also wouldn’t recommend a weekend trip (but it is possible if you have no other option.)

Jeju Island: The Hawaii of Korea

Jeju Island, the Hawaii of Korea – so they say!

It’s one of the 7 New Wonders of the World and home to Korea’s highest Mountain, Mount Hallasan.

There’s so much to do in Jeju , from climbing Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak to exploring Manjanggul Cave and even chasing towering waterfalls. During the summer, hit the beaches or pop into one of the numerous themed museums.

The highlight for me was the famous Jeju Black Pork BBQ – it’s the best I had in all of Korea.

I spent 5 days on the island and traveled independently using public transport. But, if you’re pressed for time and only have 2 or 3 days in Jeju, it’s best to join a day tour like this as the distance between destinations is far, and the public transport can be slow.

How to get to Jeju Island

To get to Jeju, you need to take a flight from Gimpo Airport in Seoul. It’s a short, cheap flight. Before you know it, you’ll be exploring the most popular attractions in the country.

READ MORE: WHERE TO STAY IN JEJU ISLAND

Busan: Home to the best beaches

Busan is the second-largest city in Korea and another must-visit on any Korea travel itinerary.

This vibrant city has so much to offer, including some of the best beaches in Korea.

I had my first Jimjilbang experience in Busan – if you don’t know what a jimjilbang is, it’s one of the best things to do in Korea!

The city is also famous for the colorful Gamcheon Culture Village and the picturesque Haedong Yonggung Temple (Temple by the Sea).

How to get to Busan

Using the KTX, you can reach Busan from Seoul in as little as 3 hours, but the ticket is expensive

If you’re spending $80 to get there (which is more than the cost to fly), you might as well make the most of your time and explore Busan for more than just a day trip from Seoul.

Other day trips from seoul

Below are other Seoul day trips. If you’re short on time, I’d give them a skip in favor of those day trips I’ve listed above.

But if you have extra time in Seoul, these are fantastic options to consider.

• Dumulmeori: A scenic place to visit alongside the river. It’s a popular spot amongst locals.
• Heyri Art Valley in Paju: Perfect for art and crafts lovers and easily accessible from Seoul.
• Legoland Korea Resort: This is the biggest Legoland theme park in Asia!
• Namhansanseong Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage Site within 2 hours from Seoul.
• Alpaca World: The name speaks for itself! Alpaca World can be combined with a Nami Island day trip from Seoul like this one here.
• Anyang Art Park: This park boasts art installations as well as short hiking trails into the forest.
• Muuido: A small island south of Incheon. Great for a summer day trip from Seoul.
• Lotte World: Another theme park near Seoul with thrilling rides.

How to plan your day trips from Seoul

South Korea has one of the best public transportation networks in the world.

This makes it easy to plan the perfect Korea itinerary where you can visit the many bucket list destinations the country has to offer.

The KTX fast train takes a fraction of the time than a normal train would, and buses depart from the Seoul Express Bus Terminal to various destinations at 30-minute intervals.

But, if you cannot speak Korean or read hangul, you may struggle to navigate around the country, especially if you’re rushing around and your time is limited.

You don’t want to risk getting lost or mistakenly catch the wrong train – both of which happened to me. This resulted in many of my day trips from Seoul being extended to weekend getaways!

It’s best to plan your trip using a tourist-friendly operator such as Klook , Trazy , or Viator .

I’ve used all three operators in Korea, and they offer extremely affordable tours. This includes discounts for international tourists.

These tour operators take care of all the nitty-gritty for you, so you can just sit back, relax and enjoy your day trip from Seoul.

However, there are still a few day trips that you can do independently without a guide, and I’ve included them all, above!

Which beach is the best day trip from Seoul

Daecheon Beach is the best beach accessible on a day trip from Seoul in Summer.

Is it possible to do a day trip from Seoul to Busan

Technically…. yes, you can do a Seoul day trip to Busan. But I don’t recommend it. You need at least 2 days to see the best of Busan so rather spend the night in the city.

Thoughts on the best day trips from Seoul

Each of these Seoul day trips offers something different and suited for everyone from adventure travelers to backpackers.

My highlights include the skiing day trips from Seoul but each is worthy to be on your Korea bucket list!

Have you done any of these Seoul day trips? Would you prefer to travel independently or with a tour group? Let me know in the comments section below!

Psst… Looking for more Korea travel information? Check out my other posts!

• The Best Places to Stay in Seoul
• 24 Strange Things About life in Korea
• Teaching English in Korea: The Only Guide You Need
• The Ultimate 2 Week South Korea Itinerary
• 19 Things You Need to Know Before Moving to Korea
• Where to Stay in Busan: The Ultimate Guide

Hi, I'm Carryn. I’m an adventure travel blogger trying to figure out my way through life by traveling and exploring. Join me as I share my travel guides and tips for life abroad. Find out more about me here .

All You Need To Know About River Rafting in Korea

The best kandy itinerary: 10+ places to visit in kandy, sri lanka, 6 thoughts on “25 best day trips from seoul, korea”.

Great post! Had no clue there were so many great day trips from Seoul. Thanks! Definitely saving for later 🙂

Pleasure! I’m glad you found the post helpful.

Wow! It’s so cool you were able to take the DMZ tour. Is that one you typically need to book in advance?

Hi Linnea. Yep, it’s a popular tour and so bookings need to be made about a week prior to the date.

Love your post! I visited South Korea for my honeymoon, and we spent about 5 days in Seoul. Looks like now I should go back to explore more outside of Seoul, too! (Especially Bukhansan mountain!) You’re absolutely right: using public transit is very easy in South Korea. I especially appreciate that you can use the same T-money card across different cities. (Sooo different than in the US.) We also visited the DMZ, and it was definitely a bit bizarre. A center of intense geopolitical importance mixed with photo ops. I agree it is an important and memorable day trip! Thanks for sharing. This post brought back so many fun memories!

Hey Courtney! Wring this post made me want to hop on a plane and go straight back to Korea! It’s an amazing country and I’m so glad that you have such fond memories of your time there.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Living and traveling in Korea

Best Daytrips From Seoul: 25 Places To Go Near Seoul

Daytrips daytrips are so fun, daytrips daytrips, there’s something for everyone! Seoul is a fantastic city to visit or live in, but sometimes, it’s nice to get out too. There are a TON of places to go near Seoul and I have traveled extensively here, there, and everywhere so let me fill you in. You’d be surprised how far across the country you can get in just one day.

Ready for a day trip from Seoul? This is the guide for you with some of the easiest places to get to with public transportation, and some spots nearby that you need a car for. Get ready to travel in Korea.

You will NOT believe how many awesome daytrips there are from Seoul.. let’s dig in:

How To Plan For A Daytrip From Seoul

• Nami Island (남이섬)
• Imjingak DMZ (임진각 DMZ)
• Everland (에버랜드)
• Heyri Art Village (헤이리 예술마을)
• Incheon’s Chinatown (인천 차이나타운)
• Korean Folk Village (한국민속촌)
• Museum San (뮤지엄산)
• Namhansanseong Fortress (남한산성)
• Oido Island & Daebudo Island (오이도 & 대부도)
• Gwangmyeong Cave (광명동굴)
• Modo, Sindo, Sido Islands (모도, 신도, 시도)
• Gangneung Beaches (강릉해수욕장)
• Ganghwado Island (강화도)
• Chuam Beachside (추암해수욕장)
• Muuido Island (무의도)
• Gangneung Art Stops (강릉)
• Cheorwon DMZ (철원 DMZ)
• Alpaca World (알파카월드)
• Anyang Art Park (안얀예술공원)
• Petite France (쁘띠프랑스)
• Hamchang Art Road
• Icheon Sansuyu Village (이천백사)
• Suwon Hwaseong Fortress (수원 화성)
• Pocheon’s Peace Land Korea (PyungGang Land) (평강랜드)
• Songwol-dong Fairytale Village (송월동 동화마을)

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.)

Get Your T-Money Card: You might be surprised to find out how far you can get on the subway. The Seoul subway system is extensive and you can travel to other cities and even the coast… just on the subway. So, get your T-Money card ready and topped up and you’ll have plenty of places to go!

Rent A Car:  I’ve added public transportation and tour options where available below but one of the easiest ways to get in and out of the city on a quick daytrip is with a rental car and it’s easy enough to get one with Klook. Rent a car in Seoul on Klook.

If you’re a resident of Korea, aka have an ARC, then you’ll need a local driver’s license. Short term visitors and tourists can drive with an international driver’s license and their license from home. Check here to learn more about exchanging your license or getting a license in Korea .

Download Navigation Apps:  A lot of tourists head to Korea and try to navigate with Google Maps, but it really doesn’t work well here… like at all. Make sure you download KakaoMaps or NaverMaps apps instead which will have much more accurate directions. You can switch to English on the apps, so just look for the settings if you can’t read the Hangul.

Know Where To Find the Public Transportation Hubs:  You can get to a ton of places quickly on the KTX which you can hop on at Seoul Station. Sometimes the national buses are the best option though. For those, you’ll want to head to the Seoul Gyeongbu Express Bus Terminal, Seoul Nambu Bus Terminal, or the Dong Seoul Bus Terminal.

If you need or want help booking intercity bus tickets, check out Trazy’s great service to some must-see cities. The massive subway system also gets you out to the suburbs of Seoul. You’d be surprised how far you can get on the subway.

Daytrips From Seoul

1 Nami Island (남이섬)

One of the most if not the most popular place for a daytrip from Seoul is Nami Island and not only is it popular, but it’s popular year round and worth it year round. The island is a fun place to explore and it’s so easy to get to with daily buses and a train and plenty of tours, there’s no reason not to go to Nami Island at least once… though you really should go once in every season.

• More Info: Nami Island Guide
• Admission: W13,000
• Address:  198 Bangha-ri Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do (강원도 춘천시 남산면 방하리 198)
• How To Get There: Take the subway out to Gapyeong Station on the Gyeongchung and ITX- Cheongchun Line. From Gapyeong Station, you can choose to walk the 1.9 kilometers about 20 minutes or get a taxi which will take about 5 minutes. BUT, there are numerous other options, check the guide above for other options.

2 Imjingak DMZ (임진각 DMZ)

Most tourists with a week itinerary for Seoul make time for at least a couple daytrips and one of them is often the DMZ. The Demilitarized Zone is less than a couple hours from Seoul and there are a lot of tours that can take you there. But you can also visit the Civilian Control Zone on your own as well. Check out the complete guide to the DMZ I’ve made for all of the major points you can see when there are restrictions and when there aren’t.

• More Info: A Complete Guide: How To Get To The DMZ & What To See
• Address:  1400-6 Majeong-ri, Munsan-eub, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do (경기 파주시 문산읍 마정리 1400-6)
• How To Get There: You can get there via a combination of subway and then a bus from Munsan Station.

3 Everland (에버랜드)

Everland is one of the most popular amusement parks in Korea. Located about an hour outside of Seoul, it’s actually the biggest theme park in the country and has around 6 million visitors annually. They know you want to go and they make it easy to get there with various ways to get there and package deals quite often.

• More Info:  https://www.everland.com/
• Admission: W40,000 ~ W60,000; You can usually find discounted tickets on Coupang too.
• Address:  199 Everland-ro, Pogog-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do ( 경기 용인시 처인구 포곡읍 에버랜드로 199)
• How To Get There: You can technically take the subway out to Everland. Literally, go to Everland Station and you’ll find your way. It’s a bit of a trek though really depending where you are starting from. There are numerous shuttle bus options that are really great and much more comfortable options instead. Find the nearest shuttle stop here on Trazy. Klook also has a great shuttle bus option.

4 Heyri Art Village (헤이리 예술마을)

Heyri Art Village is one of our favorite places to take a sudden and spur of the moment daytrips from Seoul. Heyri Art Village is home to photographers, painters, artists of all kinds, musicians, architects and writers which means it is quirky, artsy and very fun as well as home to galleries, museums and more. There are numerous experiences for adults and kids as well as fun things to see.

• More Info:   Heyri Art Village Guide
• Admission: FREE, but there are fees for various experiences
• Address:  1652-239 Beopheung-ri, Tanhyeon-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do (경기 파주시 탄현면 법흥리 1652-239)
• How To Get There: Outside of Hapjeong Subway Station, exit 8. Walk south toward the Han River to find bus stop #14218. Take bus #2200 for 13 stops, about 45 minutes. Get off at Heyri 1 Gate Bus Stop and you’ll be right in front of the village.

5 Incheon’s Chinatown (인천차이나타운)

Once leased territory to Qing China in 1884, the area is now known as the birthplace of the Korean-Chinese delicacy ‘ jjajangmyeon ‘, most popular on the unofficial holiday known as Black Day in Korea . Colorful gates welcome visitors to the small but bustling neighborhood. The streets and alleys are filled door to door with eats and treats. All of it together makes for a great day trip out of Seoul.

• More Info: Incheon’s Chinatown Guide
• Admission: FREE
• Address:  269 Jemullyang-ro, Jung-gu, Incheon (인천광역시 중구 제물량로 269 (북성동1가))
• How To Get There:  The subway in Seoul goes all the way out to Incheon Chinatown. Hop on and get off at Incheon Subway Station. Exit 1, 2, and 3 drop off right in front of the area.

6 Korean Folk Village (한국민속촌)

Folk villages around the country are beautiful places to spend a day and learn about Korean history and tradition. The Korean Folk Village in Yongin represents a village from the Joseon Dynasty and there are various cultural classes and experiences to have throughout the year. There are performances throughout the year, and on holidays there are special events too.

• More Info: www.koreanfolk.co.kr
• Admission: Adults: W25,000; Teenagers: W22,000; Children: W20,000
• Tour Option:  If you don’t want to worry about the transportation, hop on the half day tour with Klook .
• Address:  90 Minsokchon-ro, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do (경기도 용인시 기흥구 민속촌로 90 (보라동))
• Hours:  Every day 10:00am ~ 6:00pm
• How To Get There:  Near Sungnyemun Gate, catch bus 4101 which goes directly to the Korean Folk Village.

7 Museum San (뮤지엄산)

Designed by Tadao Ando, Museum San is a beautiful museum that focuses on disconnecting to connect. The museum was named one of the 100 Must Visit Tourist Spots in korea by the Korea Tourism Organization. It’s a beautiful place to spend a few hours.

• More Info: Museum San Guide
• Admission:  W18,000 (Coupang often has great package options for Museum San. Check out what’s available. )
• Address: 260 Oak valley 2-gil, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do (강원도 원주시 지정면 오크밸리2길 260)
• How To Get There: This is a doable daytrip if you have a car, otherwise you should join a tour because the public transportation options to this spot are a bit difficult… or non-existant.

8 Namhansanseong Fortress (남한산성)

Namhansanseong Fortress Wall is really pretty easy to get around and isn’t nearly as long as Seoul Fortress Wall. It’s a great spot to hike in winter near Seoul and great in the summer too.

The wall is worth a visit in any season and even in winter the paths are relatively easy to walk along as there aren’t too many steep inclines. The restaurants inside the fortress also make it a good day trip with friends or family; take a walk, see some historical sights and then enjoy some supper together before catching the subway home.

• More Info: Namhansanseong Fortress Guide
• Admission:  FREE
• Address:  Sanseong-ri Joongbu-myeon Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do (경기도 광주시 중부면 산성리)
• How To Get There:  Hop on the subway and get off at Sanseong Station (Seoul Subway Line 8) and go out exit 2. Take City Bus No. 9, and get off at Namhansanseong bus stop. (Travel Time : 20 Min., Interval of Buses: 20 Min.). OR you could take 13-2 bus at Dongseoul bus terminal Gangbyeon station and transfer to 15-1 bus at the entrance of Namhansanseong, get off at the last stop

9 Oido Island & Daebudo Island (오이도 & 대부도)

Oido has really been incorporated into mainland Korea for all intents and purposes but walking along the boardwalk will still give you some of those island vibes. Daebudo is just a bit further and the shores of Daebudo are full of clams, sea snails, goby, flounder, black rockfish and more which make for fun adventures along the coastline.

• More Info:  Oido & Daebudo Guide
• How To Get There:  Take the subway out to Oido Station. From exit 1 or 2, take bus 30-2 to the Oido Boardwalk. It takes about 25 minutes on the bus and get off at the Oido Ocean Complex. For Daebudo, Take the subway to Choji Subway Station. Go out exit 1 and cross the street to the bus stop and take bus 123 out to the island.

10 Gwangmyeong Cave (광명동굴)

A super fun trip to take is just south of Seoul to Gwangmyeong. This is great no matter the weather really, BUT in the summer, it’s a lovely respite from the heat and humidity in Korea. Go deep into what used to be the Siheung Mine. There are learning opportunities for kids, light exhibits for the Instagrammers, and lots of other cool things to see. Make sure to take a jacket… even in the summer!

• More Info: Gwangmyeong Cave Guide
• Admission:  Adults: W6,000; Children: W2,000 (Get on Coupang to get discounted tickets .)
• Address:  142 Gahak-ro 85beon-gil, Gwangmyeong-si, Gyeonggi-do (경기도 광명시 가학로85번길 142 (가학동))
• How To Get There:  Go to Gwangmyeong Station and outside of exit 8, take bus 17 or 77 which will take you directly to the Gwangmyeong Cave site in about 15 minutes. Get off when you see the signs.

11 Modo, Sindo, Sido Islands (모도, 신도, 시도)

Modo (모도), Sindo (신도), and Sido (시도) islands, always grouped because they sit right next to each other and are connected via bridges so when you take the ferry from Incheon to one, you’ll always visit all three, are also called the “Three Brother Islands”. They are so close and yet they seem so far from Seoul, Korea. It’s the quick island getaway you probably need… no, you definitely need.

• More Info: Modo, Sindo, Sido Islands Guide
• Admission: W2,000 ferry ticket
• Address:  63 Yeongjong haeanbuk-ro, 847 beon-gil, Jung-gu, Incheon (인천 중구 영종해안북로847번길 63 삼목여객터미널) The Sammok Ferry Terminal which will get you there.
• How To Get There: Check the guide above for ferry specifics.

12 Gangneung Beaches (강릉해수욕장)

The white sand beaches of the east coast are easier to get to than you might realize. Need a quick beach trip? Catch a train and you’ll be there in just a couple of hours. Spend the day and then hop on back. It’s an awesome spot to check out and is one of the most popular spots for Seoulites to get to in the summer. Join the crowds for just a day. The beaches here are so so worth it.

• More Info: Gangneung Guide
• Address:  1-san Anhyeon-dong Gangneung-si Gangwon-do (강원도 강릉시 안현동 산1)
• How To Get There:  Trains leave every hour from 5:00am until 10:00pm and take around two hours. The tickets cost between W26,000 and W44,000 depending on the seats chosen. You can also take an intercity express bus. You can even pre-book your intercity bus with Trazy .

13 Ganghwado Island (강화도)

Ganghwado Island (강화도) is the fifth largest island in Korea and is one of numerous islands that can be found out in Incheon in northwest Korea. From historical spots, cafes, restaurants, and seaside views, there is plenty to see and do on the island near Seoul.

• More Info: Ganghwado Island Guide
• How To Get There:  From Hapjeong Subway Station, go to the bus stop in the middle of the road between exits 10 and 5. Take bus #3000. It goes by 34 stops and takes about an hour and twenty minutes.

14 Chuam Beachside (추암해수욕장)

The KTX line was extended along the northeastern coast of Korea and with that came some beachside stops that are even easier to get to. The Chuam beachside quickly became one of my favorite places in Korea with a beautiful beach, a nearby suspensions bridges, and restaurants and cafes. It’s a super easy daytrip with a beautiful beach in the middle.

• More Info: Chuam Beachside Guide
• Address:  Chuam Beach, Bukpyeong-dong, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do (강원 동해시 북평동 추암해수욕장)
• How To Get There:  Catch a KTX train from Seoul Station and get off at Donghae Station. From there, it’s just a 10 minute taxi to Chuam Beach.

15 Muuido Island (무의도)

Muuido Island (무의도) in Incheon is one of the most popular beach getaways from Seoul and it has become a bit more popular since there was a road that was built from the mainland to the island. Since it doesn’t require a ferry trip anymore, it is just a bit busier than before but still oh so fun.

There are two beaches on the island but the one you definitely can’t miss is Hanagae Beach (하나개해수욕장). There is lots of sand, lots of fun, and plenty of sun.

• More Info: Muuido Island Guide
• Address:  151-8 Hanagae-ro, Jung-gu, Incheon (인천 중구 하나개로 151-8)
• How To Get There:  Go to Unseo Subway Station and go out of exit 2. Walk around to the main road and go left to the bigger road and cross the street to find the bus stop and catch bus 6-1. The bus will take about 50 minutes but will take you all the way to the beach.

16 Gangneung Art Stops (강릉)

If it’s not so warm and the beaches aren’t calling, Gangneung is still a great place to head. The Haslla Art World and Arte Museum are out there. Enjoy some beach breezes in between art stops for a day. The Haslla Art World (하슬라아트월드) is very cool and there is a lot to check out and see.

• Admission:  Adults: W12,000; Children: W11,000; Babies 36 months and under are free ( Pre-purchase your tickets for a discount. )
• Address: 1441 Yulgok-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do (강원도 강릉시 강동면 율곡로 1441)
• How To Get There:  Take a train from Seoul Station to Jeongdongjin Station which takes just over 2 hours and costs between W23,000 and W36,000. From there, you can get a quick taxi to Haslla which is just 5 minutes up the road. 

17 Cheorwon DMZ (철원 DMZ)

A bit more of a trek than the Imjingak DMZ trip that I mentioned above, Cheorwon is special in the winter in that not only can you visit the DMZ but you can see a large number of migrating birds. In fact, 30% of the wild crane population of the world stops in Korea in the winter.

• More Info: Cheorwon DMZ Guide
• Admission: W8,000
• Address:  1825 Taebong-ro, Cheorwon-gun, Gangwon-do (강원도 철원군 동송읍 태봉로 1825)
• How To Get There:  Bus from Express Bus Terminal to Sincheorwon Bus Terminal (신철원터미널). After arrival, outside you can catch a bus to Goseokjung (고석정).

18 Alpaca World (알파카월드)

Alpaca World is a fun spot to check out if you want something different to do in Korea and of course if you love alpacas. Be aware that the park is on the side of a mountain so the paths are NOT flat. It is a lot of walking up and then down and then up and down again. This can be nice in the spring and the autumn, but I’m not so sure about in the heat of the summer or the frigid winter.

• More Info:   Alpaca World Guide
• Admission:  W15,000; Children under 3: FREE (You can get discounted tickets on Coupang .)
• Address: 310 Pungcheon-ri, Hwachon-myeon Hongcheon-gun Gangwon-do (강원도 홍천군 화촌면 풍천리 310)
• How To Get There: This is a daytrip that’s easier if you have a car. Otherwise, it’s better to join a tour. Head to Alpaca World, Jade Garden, and then stop at the Gubongsan Mountain Observatory Cafe Street for some awesome views also seen in my hit K-dramas. Join this tour here.

19 Anyang Art Park (안얀예술공원)

There are a few art installations that are the most popular… and yet some of these still seem to be off the radar of the locals that live and work there. The installations are a bit spread out so go up into the mountainside to see what you can see and then head down for a cafe break before heading back out again. The stream is lined with cherry blossom trees so visit in the spring to see them or in the fall when the foliage is beautiful on the mountainside.

• More Info: Anyang Art Park Guide
• Address:  131 Yesulgongwon-ro, Manan-gu, Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do (경기도 안양시 만안구 예술공원로 131 (석수동))
• How To Get There:  head from Seoul down the blue line to Gwanak Subway Station. Go out exit 2 and walk toward the main road where you can see a bus stop outside near Paris Baguette. Take bus 900 just two stops. Get off and cross the street to find another bus stop. Take bus 2-1 which will go just three stops and drop you off right at Anyang Art Park’s parking lot and starting point. The buses take a total of 12 minutes but if you don’t want to switch twice and wait, getting a taxi from Gwanak Subway Station is easiest and it takes just 5 minutes and costs about W4,000.

20 Petite France (쁘띠프랑스)

Petite France is one of those Instagrammable hot spots to the east of Seoul in Korea that makes for a great day trip from the city. Popular with K-drama fans as it has been a set for numerous shows and Petite Prince fans because the little prince is everywhere you look, the village is a colorful find in the green and blue mountainside.

• More Info: Petite France Guide
• Admission: W10,000; You can often find discounted tickets and packages on Coupang too.
• Address:  1063 Hoban‐ro, Cheongpyeong‐myeon, Gapyeong‐gun, Gyeonggi-do (경기도 가평군 청평면 호반로 1063)
• How To Get There:  Take the subway/ITX out to Cheongpyeong Station (this would take about an hour and a half from Seoul) and take exit 2 and find the nearby bus stop. You can find the local Gapyeong Circle Bus which will take you out to Petite France. The bus will take about 30-40 minutes. The Gapyeong Circle Bus costs W6,000 for adults and W3,000 for children. You can get on and off as many times as you want during the day. The bus also stops by Jaraseom Island, Gapyeong Rail Bike, Nami Island, and Garden Of the Morning Calm.

21 Hamchang Art Road

A very very hidden gem, even the locals didn’t know what I was looking for when I arrived. Small towns are charming and the people, too. Hamchang in Sangju lived up to my small town expectations with friendly people and the bonus was the scavenger hunt for art. This is definitely off the beaten track, but if you have a car, this is a doable day trip. We also managed to stop at one of the coolest rest stops in Korea .

• More Info: Hamchang Art Road Guide
• Address:  경상북도 상주시 함창읍 가야로 2 (Gyeongsangbuk-do Sangju-si Hamchang-eub Gaya-ro 2)
• How To Get There:  From Seoul, take a bus from Express Bus Terminal or Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Hamchang Bus Terminal or Jeomchon Terminal and then go to Hamchang Station.

22 Icheon Sansuyu Village (이천백사)

The Baeksa Village in Icheon has “thousands of Japanese cornel trees that are 100 to 500 years old”. Icheon is a perfect destination for a day trip from Seoul in the spring, early spring at that. The cornel trees are the first to bloom and you’ll want to see the vibrant yellow against the blue sky to get you into the spring spirit.

• More Info: Icheon Sansuyu Village Guide
• Address:  17 Wonjeok-ro 775 Beon-gil, Icheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea (경기도 이천시 백사면 원적로775번길 17 (백사면))
• How To Get There:  Starting from the bus station outside of Seoul Station, take bus 9300, 9401, 9000, or 1150 to Pangyo Station Bus Stop (07492). From the bus stop, walk up the road to Pangyo Subway Station and take the subway to Icheon Subway Station. Outside of exit 1, the only exit there, fine the bus stop just in front and take the bus 35 minutes, 14 stations, to stop 32416, Provincial Hall Bus Stop. You’ll want to walk back the way the bus came just a bit to find the Sansuyu Village.

23 Suwon Hwaseong Fortress (수원 화성)

An UNESCO World Heritage site, Suwon’s Hwaseong Fortress is the most popular attraction in Suwon to see. The 5.7 km long wall was constructed during the Joseon Dynasty and most visitors walk along the high walls for fun and visit restaurants and cafes along the way. Make sure to head inside the fortress too and find the statue of King Jeongjo and Haenggung Palace.

• More Info:  Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Info
• Admission:  Adults: W1,000
• Address:  320 Suseong-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do (경기도 수원시 장안구 수성로 320)

24 Pocheon’s Peace Land Korea (PyungGang Land) (평강랜드)

Pocheon is just northeast of Seoul and has some really beautiful places to visit that tend to be fairly quiet. Pocheon Art Valley (포천아트밸리) is a popular spot for people to visit, but my personal favorite is Peace Land Korea, a botanical garden with wooden giants hidden among the trees. It’s great for families, friends, well just anyone.

• More Info: Pocheon Guide
• Admission:  Adults: W7,000, Children: W5,000
• Hours:  every day: 9:00am ~ 6:00pm
• Address:  171-18 Umulmok-gil Yeongbok-myeon, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do (경기도 포천시 영북면 우물목길 171-18)
• How To Get There: This is a great daytrip option if you have a car or plan to rent one. Pocheon’s public transport isn’t as easy to get to the parks and stops.

25 Songwol-dong Fairytale Village (송월동 동화마을)

Just next to Incheon’s Chinatown, the Songwol-dong Fairytale Village is a whimsical village to walk through as you try to spot some of your favorite characters from both Korean and western fairytales. It’s a colorful place to visit and since it’s right next to Chinatown, there’s plenty of good food nearby too.

• More Info:  Check out the Incheon Itinerary for how everything fits together out there.
• Address:  38 Donghwamaeul-gil, Jung-gu, Incheon (인천광역시 중구 동화마을길 38 (송월동3가) 일대)
• How To Get There:  Take Seoul subway line 1 out to Incheon Station and take Exit 1 (the only exit available). Across the street, you’ll see the entrance to China Town. Head through the China Town gate and walk up until it dead ends and turn left. On this road you’ll see the Fairy Tale Village welcome archway and clearly see where all of the vibrant colorful buildings and paintings begin.

Are you ready to travel around Korea? There are so many places that you can easily fit into a weeklong itinerary to Seoul. Or if you’re here longer, then you have plenty of time to get all of these awesome daytrips from Seoul in!

Did you like this post? PIN IT!

You May Also Like

Lavender Fields In Korea: Where To Find Them

Train From Seoul To Busan: Why You Should Get The KORAIL Pass

Ski In Korea: A Guide For Where To Go & How To Get There

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Sign me up for the weekly updates newsletter!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

11 Best Seoul Day Trips You Won’t Forget

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 01/03/2024

Looking for the best Seoul Day Trips? Seoul, Korea is a fantastic city for any traveler to visit. This bustling metropolis is modern and ahead of the times in so many ways, while still remaining deeply traditional. 

You can expect to find all kinds of attractions, beauty, and adventures across South Korea’s capital.

While Seoul is a critical part of any  Korea Itinerary , it can also serve as an ideal base to explore more of the country from. This city is very close to many major things to do and see in South Korea, and it is the easiest way to make day trips as part of your  Seoul Itinerary .

BEST SEOUL DAY TRIP Short on time? The DMZ day trip from Seoul is one of the best day trips I have ever done, let alone the best day trip from Seoul. Don’t miss it!

Using Seoul as a base in South Korea can be an excellent idea. Here are some of my recommendations on the best Seoul day trips, as well as some absolute gems in the city that I loved visiting.

Things to Book Before You Leave Home Few things are more frustrating on vacation than missing out on that amazing hotel or tour because it is sold out. Here are our top things to book before your vacation. 🏯 Book these popular Seoul Tours before you leave home to avoid disappointment.  1.  Half Day Guided DMZ tour from Seoul 2.  Introduction to Seoul Tour 3.  Korean Cooking Class 🛏️ Where to Stay in Seoul: 1. JW Marriott – my personal favourite – great location and great bar 2. Hotel28 Myeongdong – great location and value, first Korean member of Small Luxury Hotels

11 Best Seoul Day Trips

Whether you love nature, are after adventure, or want to soak up the local culture and traditions, you can do it all from a Seoul day trip. Here are some of the best day trips from Seoul South Korea.

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Unforgettable DMZ Tour ✔️Travel to the North Korea Border ✔️ Put one foot in North Korea in the huts ✔️ See the Bridge of No Return

Best for Culture Andong ✔️ Open-air Heritage Museums ✔️ Hahoe Folk Village ✔️ Scenic Stop at Buyongdae Cliff

Best for Nature Lovers Mount Seorak ✔️ Dune Bashing ✔️ Unique sandboarding experience ✔️ Amazing Sand Dunes

1. DMZ Tour

Korea has a fascinating  war history , and any visitor to the country should look into it. Full or half day tours are offered from Seoul to explore the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on the border between North and South Korea. 

Visiting this area outside a tour is not allowed. Visiting the DMZ is one of the most popular day trips in Korea.

Through this unique experience, you will get to learn all about Korean war history. You will also get to see some sites of major interest, such as the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, the Dora Observatory, and the Korean War Memorial. These day trips out of Seoul are completely safe and include transport.

It is essential to book your DMZ Korea tour ahead of your visit as they sell out. This one day trip from Seoul is normally an early start with quite a bit of paperwork.

For me, the highlight of the tour was being able to go to the actual border between North and South Korea. The tension in the air is almost visible at the border of the Demilitarized Zone Korea. Soldiers from each side guard the border and are only steps away from each other.

I thought the South Korean border guard was a statue as he was so still! Until I saw the sweat coming down the side of his face.

There are small huts along the border between North and South Korea. These huts were assembled so that meetings could be held with both sides without either side leaving their country. 

Inside the huts are standard meeting tables – and this is your one opportunity to stand in North Korea and have your photo taken!

There are some terrific names in Demilitarized Zone of Korea! The Bridge of No Return was named as such because once you chose which side of the bridge you were going to there was no option to return.

There are so many interesting things to see on this Seoul day trip. The stunning and modern Dorasan train station was created for a border opening and is now virtually never used. 

The Freedom House was built for reunions of families from each side – which never took place. The Fake North Korean village with the doors and windows painted on.

Will I see North Korea on the DMZ tour?

Yes – but from a distance. The observatory offers the best views of North Korea. However, when I went the view that we saw of North Korea showed roads with no cars and countryside with no people.

There are also lots of opportunities to purchase various DMZ souvenirs which all have excellent novelty value.

This was the best thing that I did in Korea – Don’t miss it!

➡️ Book Your DMZ Tour Before You Leave Home

2. Nami Island and Petite France

This full day tour takes the difficulty out of figuring out foreign public transport systems with a return trip to  Nami Island . You will take an air-conditioned coach to this tranquil island and experience all of the interesting beauty it has to offer.

This Seoul day tour includes visits to the popular nearby attractions of Petite France and the Garden of Morning Calm. These are must-visit destinations if you are in the area. 

Nami Island has been made popular through Korean dramas, and exploring this stunning place will make you realize why. Enjoy an easy and comfortable day trip from Seoul.

➡️ Book Your Day Trip to Nami Island

You might enjoy reading some of my other articles on Seoul: – Seoul Itinerary 5 Days – Things to do in Gangnam – Things to do in Myeongdong – Things to do in Incheon – Best Seoul Boutique Hotels

3. Mount Seorak and Naksana Temple

South Korea is covered in breathtaking mountains, and it can be an absolute hiker’s paradise! If nature and hiking are your thing, then be sure to take this hiking day trip from Seoul to reach the summit of Mount Seorak.

Mount Seorak   is an impressive peak near the country’s eastern shore located in Seoraksan National Park. This tour takes you to the mountain on an air-conditioned van or shuttle bus, where you can then follow the hiking trails up to the top. The walk up Mount Seorak is completely scenic, and the top is one of the best places to get awesome views in Korea.

You also get to visit the famous Naksana Temple included in this tour. This is a great place for nature lovers and those wanting to experience just how majestic South Korea is.

➡️ Book Your Mount Seorak Day Trip

4. Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and Korean Folk Village

This Seoul day trip lets you experience the UNESCO World Heritage site  Hwaseong Fortress  in Suwon. This is a guided tour that guarantees you will learn all about the rich culture and history of this area.

While you explore the different fortifications and ramparts, you will get to learn about the Joseon Dynasty rule over Korea at Hwaseong Fortress. The Fortress includes King Jeongjo’s palace Haenggung This will be further enjoyed while you get to the Korean Folk Village, which replicates the houses of this era. You will get to witness the traditional arts and crafts demonstrated by tradespeople.

Travel time on this tour is 8 hours and is highly recommended for history and culture fans.

➡️ Book Your Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Day Trip

This has got to be one of the best day trips from Seoul for those wanting to learn more about the country’s traditional culture and history. This trip will take you on a fully guided tour to  Andong , a beautiful destination that is well known for its open-air heritage museums.

On the trip, you will visit the Hahoe Folk Village for a real insight into South Korean tradition. This place has some incredible local art and architecture to learn about, which you will absorb between the mask culture and dance displays.

The tour will also include a scenic stop at Buyongdae Cliff, as well as a visit to the largest Confucian school and temple in Andong. A delicious local restaurant lunch is included in your tour.

➡️ Book Your Day Trip to Andong

6. Snow or Ski Day Trip

Seoul really does have so much going on around it, including snow and ski resorts! Take a ski trip from the city to spend a day of fun in the snow. 

This 9-hour tour takes you to a ski resort just outside the city. The tour gives you access to the ski resort, a guide, ski rental and lessons, as well as hotel pickup. And of course, this one is one of the most popular day trips from Seoul during winter.

This trip is perfectly suited to any level of experience or skill and is an ideal trip for families of all ages. Witnessing the snow like this is such a special experience to have while in Korea, and can be incredibly fun for anyone.

➡️ Book Your Skiing Day Trip from Seoul

7. Gyeongju Day Trip

The Gyeongju day trip from Seoul allows you to experience multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites in one day. The whole experience of visiting  Gyeongju  is very interesting and informative, and it gives you a wonderful break from the busy city.

Your ticket includes a trip on the KTX bullet train with a skip the line pass at Seoul Station. Once you arrive at Gyeongju station, you will get comfortable private transportation to the sites. 

The Gyeongju tour from Seoul includes a visit to the stunning Buddhist temple, ancient tombs, and much more – all with a private guide.

➡️ Book Your Day Trip to Gyeongju

You might enjoy reading some of my other articles on Korea: – Korea Itinerary – Jeju Island Itinerary – Busan Itinerary – Things to do in Daegu – Things to do on Jeju Island – Beautiful Places in South Korea – Where to stay in Busan – Cherry Blossoms in Korea

South Korea has so much natural beauty. If you want to experience just how amazing the natural beauty of South Korea is but are staying in Seoul, then this is the day trip for you. This private day tour of  Pocheon  will make you feel as though the busy city is far, far away.

You will experience the crystal clear rivers and shimmering lakes of the Korea National Arboretum Pocheon. The forests here are magnificent, as are the  waterfalls , the cliffs, and the general sense of peace. The Pocheon day tour from Seoul includes a delicious lunch, as well as transport to and from your hotel.

If you like the sound of these types of nature activities, you may want to add Jeju Island to your travel plans. Some of the top  things to do in Jeju  Island are nature-based such as climbing Korea’s highest mountain Hallasan.

➡️ Book Your Day Trip to Pocheon

9. Everland or Lotte World Theme Park Day Trip

Everland and Lotte World  are two massive and popular theme parks outside Seoul. Take the trouble of reaching these Korean theme parks through this convenient Seoul day tour with round-trip transport from your hotel in Seoul.

The Lotte World and Everland theme parks are perfect for families, and people of all ages. These Korean theme parks offer many thrills and amusements, and a visit to them will definitely be a real adventure and a fun day trip.

This theme park tour from Seoul makes your theme park experience easy and completely stress-free.

➡️ Book Your Day Trip to Lotte World

10. Jeonju Hanok Village and Gyeonggijeon

Immerse yourself in the old Korean ways with this 10-hour day trip to  Jeonju Hanok Village and Gyeonggijeon . The tour allows you to experience authentic local culture, giving you so much insight into the traditions and history of the country.

Highlights of a day trip to Jeonju and Gyeonggjieon from Seoul include the incredible architecture, delicious street food, and witnessing many young people in traditional Korean dress. 

If you are running short of time while in Seoul but are heading south as part of your itinerary in Korea, a day trip to Jeonju is one of the top things to do in Daegu.

➡️ Book Your Day Trip to Jeonju and Gyeonggijeon

11. Day Trip to Jeonju

Take a trip to the centuries-old city of   Jeonju   for a truly cultural day out. There really is so much to experience in Jeonju – one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country.

You can learn all about local cuisine through the many different food and wine stalls – this city is gastronomical heaven. The Jeonju Traditional Wine Museum can teach you all about the areas of rice wine production and history.

Jeonju is also the home of the classic Korean dish bibimbab. There are a lot of Bibimbab restaurants in Jeonju. We chose to visit Hankook Jib – serving bibimbab in Jeonju since 1952 and still run by the same family.

It is best to have the complete traditional experience, which means sitting on the floor and having your bibimbap served in an extremely hot stone bowl. Bibimbap in Korea also comes with an insane number of side dishes.

There is a 15th-century Gyeonggijeon shrine with portraits of former kings worth visiting. Omokdae and Imokdae are ancient hilltop pavilions that provide some of the best views of the surrounding area.

Without question, though, one of the best things to do in Jeonju is to join the locals and hire some classic Korean fancy dress. A key thing to do in Jeonju is to hire classic Korean costumes and then wander the streets being instagrammed in front of the classic buildings.

We were the only Westerners dressed up in Korean costumes and it was great fun. We also gave much amusement to the locals. The fabrics of the Korean costumes aren’t the most breathable, so about 20 odd minutes of this is more than enough.

The Jeonju old town itself is filled with many cute shops and cafes and many Hanok houses offering home stays.

Jeonju also has an art village outside of the old town. It is necessary to cross the main road and walk up a very steep hill to access the art village. The area is covered in murals and has several cute cafes and is very photogenic.

The tour includes round-trip transport from downtown Seoul locations and is highly recommended for those wanting to dive into Korea’s rich culture.

➡️ Book your day trip from Seoul to Jeonju

Where to Stay in Seoul

Seoul is full of fantastic boutique hotels. No matter what kind of traveler you are, there is a hotel in this city that will suit your needs. Here are some of my top places to stay in Seoul.

Metro Hotel

Well located in Jung-Gu, this modern hotel offers all the comforts you want during your travels. The rooms at the  Metro Hotel  are clean, the wifi is strong, and the breakfast is great. 

The location is really handy for getting around the city, and there are lots of great amenities at the Metro Hotel Seoul.

➡️ Check Prices and Availability for Metro Hotel

JW Marriot Dongdaemun Square

This has got to be the finest luxury boutique hotel in Seoul. The J W Marriott  Dongdaemun Square is located in a popular shopping destination and is the perfect base for an opulent stay in Seoul. 

Enjoy the spa, the pool, fitness, private verandahs, and incredible restaurant. The JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul is a truly special place to stay.

➡️ Check Prices and Availability for JW Marriot Dongdaemun Square

Enjoy a luxurious stay at  The Plaza  for the ultimate Seoul experience. This Autograph Collection hotel is newly renovated and offers guests an unforgettable experience. 

Centrally located to many major attractions, this hotel is the perfect home base while in Seoul. Clean, comfortable, and serviced by really helpful staff, The Plaza Seoul is a smart choice.

➡️ Check Prices and Availability for The Plaza

Floral Hotel Shin Shin

This fun hotel focuses on modern contemporary design and amazing hospitality. You will have a really great time at the well decorated and comfortable  Floral Hotel . 

This place offers good value for money, especially considering how well maintained it is. The Jung-Gu Flora Hotel Shin Shin Seoul location is also very convenient.

➡️ Check Prices and Availability for Floral Hotel Shin Shin

Sheraton Seoul Palace Gangnam Hotel

You can expect world-class service and style at this modern hotel. The  Sheraton Seoul Palace Gangnam Hotel  is centrally located near the convention centres, Seoul Arts Center, Central City, and other attractions.

 The accommodation at the Sheraton Seoul Palace Gangnam hotel is luxurious, clean, and well equipped with all your hotel needs.

➡️ Check Prices for the Sheraton Seoul Palace Gangnam Hotel

Where to Eat in Seoul

When visiting Korea, eating amazing food is always a highlight! Here are some of my favourite places to eat in Seoul.

Tosokchon Samgyetang

Located near Gyeongbokgung Palace, this gem of a restaurant serves up top-notch local food. The soups at Tosokchon Samgyetang Seoul are amazing, as is the ginseng chicken stuffed with rice. 

You can expect hearty, traditional fare at  Tosokchon Samgyetang  in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Haunch Seoul is absolutely perfect for winding down after a busy day with a cold beer and some Korean fried chicken – a must eat when in Seoul. The food at  Hanchu  is simple and delicious, while the restaurant is always busy. The soju, stuffed fried peppers, and spicy  soondubu  are all major highlights here.

Omiga Sinsa

This hidden gem located in Gangnam-Gu has so much to offer. The interesting menu is well varied, with meals for all kinds of palates. The food at  Omiga Sinsa  is made with love by the friendly, warm staff. 

The restaurant is modern, comfortable and homely. You will love every bite here and will definitely want to return to Omiga Sinsa Seoul.

If you are looking for some of the best, authentic Koren food in Seoul, then  Gaehwaok  is the place to go! This restaurant also serves amazing bibimbap and Korean BBQ, with some delicious kimchi on offer. 

Located on Sinsa-Dong, Gaehwaok Seoul is the perfect place to end your busy day in the city.

Little Taiwan

Located in Yeonnam-dong,  Little Taiwan  is an absolute favourite. This restaurant serves up some stellar Taiwanese fried chicken, soups, and noodle dishes. The bubble tea is great too. Little Taiwan is a fun and trendy spot for the great taste of Seoul.

How to get to Seoul and how to get around

Seoul is the capital of Korea and   Incheon International Airport  has many options for international flights both in and out of the country. Seoul also has a second international airport Gimpo which is smaller than  Incheon  International and mostly offers flights to and from japan, China and Taiwan as well as domestic flights.

⇒  Flights to Seou l

Incheon International Airport is 49km from Seoul. Traffic in Seoul can be bad, so depending on the time of day, a  taxi   can be an expensive, lengthy journey (expect it to take at least one hour).

The other options to get from Incheon Airport to Seoul are the Limousine City Bus which takes 70 minutes or the  Express Train  (45 mins) or  All Stop Train  (60 mins). Personally, I took the Express train from the airport to Seoul, and this was an excellent option. 

Gimpo Airport is only 16kms from Seoul and a   taxi  will generally take about 25 minutes. The  All Stop Train  also goes to Gimpo Airport from Seoul Station and only takes 22 minutes. The final option is to take a  bus  to Gimpo airport, which takes about 45 minutes. 

Getting around Seoul

 Seoul is one of the biggest cities in the world and can be quite intimidating.  The Seoul subway station system is great, but it is not the easiest to understand as I have never seen so many stops on the underground! And the Seoul subway stations are huge!

It is critical to check which is the best station exit for you to use for where you are going, or you could get very confused. And very sore feet! But this subway is one of the best ways to discover Seoul.

There are two excellent ticket options for tourists wishing to get around Seoul via subway. The first is to purchase an  MPass card . The MPass card Seoul is exclusively for tourists and offers 20 rides a day for whichever pass duration you choose (passes cover 1, 2, 3, 5 or 7 days).

The second option is the  Discover Seoul Pass . The Discover Seoul Pass offers transport coverage for 24, 48 or 72 hours. This pass also includes free admission to many major tourist sites as well as discounts.

The MPass card and Discover Seoul Pass can be purchased at subway stations or convenience stores.

Of course, it is possible to take taxis around Seoul. However, if you are planning to do this, do make sure you have the name of your destination in Korean and/or an image if possible. Or even better have your hotel or a Korean person who speaks English let your driver know where you would like to go.

Do note some taxi drivers in Korea don’t read the Korean language and this can make communication in taxis very tricky. 

When to Visit Seoul

Summers are long, hot and muggy in Seoul and dry and freezing in the winter. Annoyingly summers tend to be cloudy and winters clear so it can be frustrating for photographers.

The ideal times to visit Seoul for comfortable  weather  are late May to early July and from late August to early October.

Do you need a Visa for your Korea Trip?

It can be a real pain trying to figure out if you need a visa for a country and then all the hassle of figuring out how to apply, how long you can go without your passport, when the embassy is open etc.  

i Visa  has completely revolutionised this process and put it all online and make it super simple and paper and hassle-free! Using iVisa is one of my top travel tips!

NB: Citizens of the United States, Great Britain,  Australia  and Canada do not need a Visa for Korea if they are staying less than 90 days. Do double check that this still holds when you book your airfares.

⇒  Check if you need a Visa for Korea

Final Thoughts

Seoul is a vibrant city has so much to offer anyone who visits it. There is so much to do and see in the city itself, while there is also so much happening just outside. Seoul trips are varied and exciting, with something out there for everyone.

History, culture, adventure, nature, amazing food and a unique buzz, Seoul is a place with loads on offer. My list of favorite places and trips around Seoul Korea will help you to enjoy this place to its full potential, as this truly is a destination like no other.

Who Paid for What in this Post

I covered all of the costs associated with this Seoul day trips post. However, this Seoul blog post does contain affiliate links. That means if you click through on some of the links in the post and end up making a purchase I may well make a small commission. I wanted to make sure that you were aware of this.

Like this Seoul day trips post? Why Not Pin It?

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Tuesday 26th of May 2020

Love your post! It is so detailed and you have beautiful pictures. I so would like to visit these places some day <3

Mikaela Ferguson

Sunday 24th of May 2020

I would so love to visit Korea! I just finished a book about the country so this post came at the perfect time!

Saturday 23rd of May 2020

Thanks for sharing all the tips and activities in Korea. Did you get to go to the DMZ? Wasn’t it an memory that one can’t erase?

The Boutique Adventurer

I did get to the DMZ - it was the highlight of my trip to Korea. absolutely fascinating!

So many awesome places to see in Korea! Thanks for sharing I will keep them in mind for my next visit!

Yvette @ Yvettheworld

Seoul has so many cool places, I especially like the architecture. Would love to visit some day :)

Like this post? Why Not Share It?

Thanks for Sharing!

Cookies help us gathering information to keep this Blog running. We do not collect personally identifiable information or build user profiles ( learn more ). We'll still love you if you opt-out, though 😘

7 Day Seoul and Busan Itinerary

Share this post with others

You have 1 week to visit Seoul and Busan, we have the perfect itinerary for you!

If you only have 7 days (or less) to explore South Korea, Seoul and Busan are the perfect city combination. Seoul is the capital and Busan adds some beach vibes to your trip. Plus travel between these two cities is super quick and convenient.

For our 7-day Seoul and Busan itinerary, we suggest spending

• 4 days in Seoul
• 3 days in Busan

Day 1: Seoul – History and Culture

Day 2: seoul – gangnam, hongdae, and itaewon, day 3: seoul – day trip to dmz, day 4: seoul – modern seoul, day 5: busan – downtown, gamcheon, and songdo, day 6: busan – day trip to gyeongju, day 6: busan – haeundae, busan vs seoul, how many days in seoul and busan do you need, how to get from seoul to busan, 1 week seoul and busan itinerary.

• This is where we stayed in Seoul .
• This is where we stayed in Busan .
• This is our complete South Korea itinerary .

Start with the historical highlights of the city:

• Palaces like Gyeongbokgung , Changdeokgung , and Changgyeonggung Palace.
• Historical Hanok villages like Bukchon Hanok Village or Ikseon-dong Hanok Village .
• Seoul’s shrines and temples like Jongmyo and Jogyesa .
• Museums like the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History and the National Folk Museum of Korea .

We have written a complete 4 day Seoul itinerary (including a map) if you want more details!

4 Day Seoul Itinerary With Map

You have 4 days in Seoul Korea, we have the perfect itinerary for you!

1 Day in Seoul Itinerary + Map (Perfect for Stopovers)

You have 1 day in Seoul, Korea, we have the perfect 1 day Seoul itinerary!

Today, it’s time to explore some of the vibrant neighbourhoods of Seoul.

First, make your way to Gangnam . Check out Bongeunsa Temple , COEX Mall with Starfield Library as well as the Statue of Gangnam Style.

Next, hop on the train to Hongdae . While it’s not full of sights, it’s a very young neighbourhood full of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Stroll down Hongdae Street and try some of the street food.

Last but not least, head to Itaewon , Seoul’s international district. Check out Little Vietnam , Little Arabia or World Food Street . This is also the prime pub crawl destination in Seoul.

Personally, we think a tour of the DMZ, the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea , belongs on every Korea bucketlist.

• 3rd Invasion tunnel
• Dora Observatory
• Unification Village
• Mt. Gamaksan Suspension Bridge

with DMZ Adventure and can fully recommend it.

We have written a complete review of our DMZ Tour from Seoul .

Honest Review of Our DMZ Tour from Seoul, South Korea

We went on a DMZ Adventure and can fully recommend it!

Head to Gwangjang Market to indulge in some delicious Korean street food.

Next, explore more of modern Seoul. Stroll down the Cheonggyecheon Stream , visit art and history at the DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza), and check out Myeongdong , one of Seoul's main shopping and tourism districts.

Admire the 360° views from Namsan Seoul Tower before you hop on the train to Busan!

Start your day by exploring the markets and shopping streets of downtown Busan and enjoying the 360° views from Busan Tower .

Make your way up the hill to Gamcheon Culture Village where you can enjoy colourful houses, alleys, street art, and views.

Next, head to Songdo Beach . Maybe take the Busan Air Cruise cable car to Amman Park.

We have written a full 2 day Busan itinerary (including a map) for more details!

2 Day Busan Itinerary + Map

You have 2 Days in Busan, we have the perfect itinerary for Busan!

Gyeongju was the old capital of the ancient kingdom of Silla which covered almost all of recent Korea and is also known as “museum without walls”.

You can hop on the quick 30-minute train from Busan to Gyeongju or take a guided tour .

The highlights of central Gyeongju are within walking distance:

• Daereunwong Tomb Complex
• Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village & Woljeong Bridge
• Gyeongju National Museum
• Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond

If you want to visit Bulguksa Temple which is considered a masterpiece of the golden age of Buddhist art in the Silla kingdom, you need a second day or opt for a guided tour.

We have written a complete Gyeongju travel guide for more information.

2 Day Gyeongju Itinerary & Backpacking Guide (+ Map)

You have two days in Gyeongju, we have the perfect Gyeongju itinerary for you!

Haeundae Beach is one of the most famous beaches in South Korea. It’s also where Busan X the Sky , Korea’s second tallest building, is located.

From Blueline Park , you can take a scenic ride up the coast via the Haeundae Beach Train or Haeundae Sky Capsule .

Seoul and Busan Itinerary FAQ

If you only have time to visit one city in South Korea, it makes sense to visit Seoul as it’s A) the capital and B) the transportation hub of the country.

If you have more time, Seoul and Busan are the perfect combination. It’s easy to travel between the two largest cities in Korea and Busan.

Busan treats you with some great beach vibes and is the perfect base for a day trip to the old capital Gyeongju.

We absolutely fell in love with Seoul, hence we would recommend spending

• 4 days in Seoul (including a day trip to the DMZ)
• 3 days in Busan (including a day trip to Gyeongju)

We think taking the train is the better option to go from Seoul to Busan:

Seoul to Busan Train

Express trains from Seoul to Busan leave at least every 30 minutes throughout the day. The train takes 2.5 to 3 hours and the tickets cost around 40$.

You can check the train schedule here .

Seoul to Busan Bus

Buses from Seoul to Busan leave roughly once per hour throughout the day. The ride takes roughly 5 hours and the tickets cost around 30$.

You can check the bus schedule here .

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission. You would help us a lot if you do so. Thanks.

Interested in personal updates and honest travel guides? Sign up for our biweekly bucketlist2life newsletter for exclusive behind the scenes looks into our travel planning!

Want to support us buy us a coffe, a tea – or a whisky., leave a comment.

Do you have any thoughts on this article? – We would love to hear from you!

Do you want to follow us on our jouney? Check this box to also signup for our Newsletter and never miss an update!

You have a link you want to share with others? This is a good place for it!

Do you want to receive a Push-Notification when someone replies to your comment? – Check this box!

• Foreign Affairs
• Multicultural Community
• Environment & Animals
• Law & Crime
• Health & Science
• Cryptocurrency
• Thoughts of the Times
• Today in History
• Tribune Service
• Blondie & Garfield
• Letter to the Editor
• Travel & Food
• People & Events
• Around Town
• Fortune Telling
• Shows & Dramas
• Theater & Others
• Korean Storytellers

President Yoon Suk Yeol, left, and first lady Kim Keon Hee arrive at the Seoul Airport in Seongnam, south of Seoul, on Sept. 22, returning from their trip to the Czech Republic. Yonhap

President Yoon Suk Yeol returned home Sunday from his trip to the Czech Republic that sought to boost Korea's bid to win a nuclear deal and economic ties with the European nation.

Yoon held summit talks with Czech President Petr Pavel and Prime Minister Petr Fiala on Thursday and Friday to make a sales pitch for Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) to build two nuclear power plants in Dukovany after it was chosen as a preferred bidder in July.

His visit came at a time when the project faces a legal challenge as U.S.-based Westinghouse Electric filed an appeal with Czech authorities last month, claiming that KHNP's reactor designs are based on its technology.

Yoon assured Czech leaders that the legal issue will be resolved amicably through consultations between Seoul and Washington and pledged support for a mutually beneficial partnership in the nuclear energy project.

During his trip, the two countries signed several agreements covering the entire nuclear energy cycle, including construction, operation, maintenance, nuclear fuel management and waste disposal.

If finalized, the deal — estimated at around 24 trillion won ($17.3 billion) — will mark Korea's second nuclear power plant export, following a deal with the United Arab Emirates. (Yonhap)

Bayern Munich beat Tottenham Hotspur in Seoul

Tottenham 4-3 K-League All-Stars

World Water Day 2024

Busan World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals

Super Bowl 2024

STARS AND STRIPES

• Middle East
• Asia-Pacific
• Map Of Memorials
• Entertainment
• - Video Games
• Europe Travel
• - Quick Trips
• - After Hours
• Pacific Travel
• The Meat and Potatoes of Life
• U.S. Travel
• Storm Tracker
• Rewards for readers
• Get Stripes
• Stripes Lite
• Archives/Library
• Special Publications
• Mobile Apps
• Email Newsletters
• Digital Access
• Home Delivery
• Marine Corps
• Coast Guard
• Space Force
• Archive Photo Of The Day
• - Military Matters
• - Force For Hire
• Out of Uniform
• Communities
• Stripes Europe
• Stripes Guam
• Stripes Japan
• Stripes Korea
• Stripes Okinawa
• Our Other Websites
• In Memoriam
• Month of the Military Child
• Best of Germany
• Best of the Pacific
• Letters to Santa

Food & Drink

Taste of korea: snack away day in seoul's trendy hongdae.

32cm Ice Cream (Photo by Hyemin Lee)

Going on a snacking tour in Hongdae is a fun way to discover a variety of enticing Korean foods and treats. Enjoy the snacks while strolling around the lively streets brimming with a youthful atmosphere, street performances and trendy shops. Sampling the neighborhood’s street-food options has become a popular social media trend, so don’t be surprised to see locals and tourists taking videos and photos of Hongdae’s delicious offerings.

Unlike street food in some tourist areas, Hongdae keeps most goodies at reasonable prices as local culture is cherished in this area. Each snack usually costs around 3,000 to 4,000 won so make sure to sample several different options to fully experience the diverse delights!

Street Food Alley

Head to Hongdae’s Street Food Alley where you’ll find candied fruit skewers, waffles, cakes, donuts, ice cream and more. FYI, some famous shops may have long lines, but don’t hesitate to line up as your turn will come quickly and is worth the wait.

Street Food Alley (Photo by Hyemin Lee)

Address: Hongik-ro 3-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Naver Map

Popular snacks on social media!

32cm Ice Cream

Enjoy the challenge of finishing this long soft ice cream for 3,000 won. It’s served with one or two flavors in a single ice cream cone and the options include chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, mango, yogurt, and green tea. Be mindful of holding it carefully to prevent it from falling to the ground!

32cm Ice Cream  (Photo by Hyemin Lee)

Candied Fruit (Tanghulu)

Candied fruit is a stick of fresh strawberries or grapes, coated with hardened sugar syrup. Every bite offers a great balance of sweetness and tartness.

Candied Fruit (Tanghulu) (Photo by Hyemin Lee)

Marshmallow Ice Cream

Inspired by roasting marshmallows over an open fire, this sweet treat doesn’t require a campfire. Choose from the available ice cream flavors and watch as the vendor uses a blow torch to roast the outer marshmallow right before your eyes. The toasted marshmallow exterior pairs well with the creamy, ice-cold ice cream inside.

Marshmallow Ice Cream (Photo by Hyemin Lee)

10-won Cheese Bread

Originally a regional specialty of Gyengju, a historical city, this pastry has made its way to the streets of Hongdae. Resembling the 10 won coin in appearance, it features an image of a stone pagoda from the ancient Silla Kingdom in Gyoengju. This bread is filled with rich, thick mozzarella cheese, giving a great combination of sweetness, softness, and chewiness all together.

10-won Cheese Bread (Photo by Hyemin Lee)

SPEAKIN’ KOREAN: SNACKING TOUR

Hello: Annyeong-haseyo (안녕하세요)

Thanks: Gamsa-hamnida (감사합니다)

Snack: Gansik ( 간식 )

Let’s try this: Igeo meogeo-boja (이거 먹어보자)  *Informal

What’s inside?: Ane mwo-ga deureo-isseoyo? (안에 뭐가 들어있어요?)

Can I have this one?: Igeo hana juseyo (이거 하나 주세요)

How much is it?: Igeo eolmayeyo? (이거 얼마예요?)

What is the other flavor?: Dareun maseun mwo-yeyo? (다른 맛은 뭐예요?)

It’s delicious!: Masisseoyo! (맛있어요!)

related stories

• Hongdae: A hotspot in Korea!
• Hang out with furry friends at animal cafés in Seoul's Hongdae
• Exploring Korea: Top 5 things to do in Hongdae

The best stories from the Pacific, in your inbox

Sign up for our weekly newsletter of articles from Japan, Korea, Guam, and Okinawa with travel tips, restaurant reviews, recipes, community and event news, and more.

Sign Up Now

MLB's travel plans for '24: Seoul, Mexico City, London, D.R.

David Adler

The MLB World Tour is coming to four international destinations in 2024: London, Mexico City, Seoul and Santo Domingo. 

The Seoul Series will be the opener of the 2024 MLB regular season -- and will mark the first MLB regular-season games ever played in Korea. 

Major League Baseball and the MLB Players Association announced the full plans for the four series on Wednesday.

• Seoul Series: Dodgers vs. Padres, March 20-21 (MLB season opener) • Mexico City Series: Astros vs. Rockies, April 27-28 • London Series: Mets vs. Phillies, June 8-9 • Dominican Republic Series: Red Sox vs. Rays, March 9-10 (Spring Training)

• MLB international

"Major League Baseball is incredibly excited for this extensive slate of international games in 2024," Commissioner Rob Manfred said. "Our recent efforts have produced strong enthusiasm around the globe, and we look forward to building on that foundation with returns to Mexico City and London, while also opening the season in Korea for the first time. In addition, we can’t wait to celebrate the tradition of the sport in the Dominican Republic with our visit to Santo Domingo next March. We are thrilled that our fans across four different countries outside the United States and Canada will have the opportunity to see the game’s stars."

The MLB World Tour schedule for next year includes the return of games to the United Kingdom and Mexico for a second consecutive season, after the 2023 London Series between the Cubs and Cardinals and Mexico City Series between the Giants and Padres, in addition to new stops in Korea and the Dominican Republic.

“Players have a deep interest in growing baseball around the world. No matter where they come from, players are linked by a passion for our game that transcends different languages, cultures, and nationalities,” said Tony Clark, the executive director of the MLB Players Association. “The series announced today will allow fans around the globe to gain a first-hand appreciation for the unmatched skill and infectious enthusiasm players display every time they go to work. We are excited to expand our international presence in new communities and celebrate the game we all love.”

Here's a look at each of the four international series in 2024.

Seoul Series

The Dodgers and Padres will open up the 2024 season with two games in Korea from March 20-21.  

The Seoul Series will mark the ninth time that the MLB season has opened outside the 50 U.S. states and Canada, and the first time in five years. Previous international openers include:

• 1999 -- Monterrey, Mexico (Rockies vs. Padres) • 2000 -- Tokyo, Japan (Mets vs. Cubs) • 2001 -- San Juan, Puerto Rico (Rangers vs. Blue Jays) • 2004 -- Tokyo, Japan (Rays vs. Yankees) • 2008 -- Tokyo, Japan (Red Sox vs. A's) • 2012 -- Tokyo, Japan (A's vs. Mariners) • 2014 -- Sydney, Australia (Dodgers vs. D-backs) • 2019 -- Tokyo, Japan (A's vs. Mariners)

It will be the Dodgers' first international games since they played the Padres in Mexico in 2018, and their second Opening Day abroad after the 2014 season opener in Australia.

"The Dodgers have a long and proud history of helping to grow the game abroad, highlighted by our trips to Mexico, China and Australia. It's very exciting to add Korea to the list," Dodgers president Stan Kasten said. "I know our players are thrilled to put their talents on display in a country so rich with baseball tradition and talent, including former Dodgers Chan Ho Park, Hee-Seop Choi and Hyun Jin Ryu."

The Padres will be playing internationally for a second straight season, but in a new country, going from the 2023 Mexico City Series to the 2024 Seoul Series. Like the Dodgers, they've also played abroad on Opening Day before, in the inaugural international season opener back in 1999. 

"Korea is a great baseball country with a rich tradition, passionate fans, and talented players, including current Padre and San Diego fan favorite Ha-Seong Kim," Padres CEO Erik Greupner said. "The Padres are proud to serve alongside the Dodgers as global ambassadors for the game of baseball with our historic 2024 Korea Series."

Mexico City Series

The second Mexico City Series will feature the Astros and Rockies for a pair of games on April 27 and 28, almost exactly a year after this season's inaugural Mexico City Series.

Both Houston and Colorado last played internationally in Mexico, but in Monterrey, not Mexico City. The Astros played two regular-season games against the Angels there in 2019, and the Rockies played an exhibition series against the D-backs that same year.  

The Astros have played exhibition games in Mexico City before, in 2016 against the Padres and 2004 against the Marlins.

• 2023 Mexico City Series

Sign up to receive our daily Morning Lineup to stay in the know about the latest trending topics around Major League Baseball.

London Series

The London Series returns for its third edition overall, with the Mets and Phillies facing off at London Stadium on June 8 and 9.

The Mets will be playing abroad for the first time since 2010, when they faced the Marlins in Puerto Rico. But they're no stranger to international games, having participated in both MLB's first-ever international regular season games in 1996 in Mexico and MLB's first-ever regular-season games in Japan in 2000.

• 2024 London Series will feature NL East rivalry in Mets-Phils

"Interest in baseball is growing all over the world, and to bring the Mets' 'never-say-die' attitude to sports fans in London is a tremendous honor," Mets owner Steve Cohen said. "Our Queens family is ready to show London a great time with exciting baseball and amazing experiences that create new fans and build the Mets community throughout the United Kingdom." 

The Phillies have never played regular-season games internationally, and have left the U.S. and Canada only once, over 50 years ago, for a pair of exhibition games against the Pirates in San Juan in 1977.

"Major League Baseball has done an excellent job of expanding its footprint internationally, and we are honored to play a role in that effort as part of the 2024 London Series," Phillies managing partner John Middleton said. "This will be a wonderful opportunity to showcase our players' talents and highlight the excitement that comes with a Phillies-Mets matchup for our fans in the UK and for those who have never attended a baseball game."

Dominican Republic Series

In addition to the three international regular-season series planned for in 2024, the Red Sox and Rays will play a Spring Training series in Santo Domingo at Estadio Quisqueya from March 9-10.

"This unique opportunity builds on our long-standing connection to the Dominican Republic and allows us to celebrate the remarkable talents and rich cultural heritage of a country whose passion for the game has distinctly shaped our organization," Red Sox president Sam Kennedy said. "From the players who have passed through our Dominican Republic Academy to those who have helped us win championships, we have been fortunate to witness the profound impact of Dominican players within our game, and we are thrilled to be able to bring Red Sox baseball to such a vibrant baseball community next year."

Exhibition games are also a key part of the MLB World Tour, which includes up to 16 exhibition games being played internationally between 2023 and ‘26, as well as up to 24 regular-season games spanning Asia, Europe and Latin America.