South Korea - 10-Day Travel Guide

berfinozelsel
54 minutes ago
14 min read

I've condensed this 10-day itinerary, adding most of the places I recommend you see in the area you'll be visiting during the day. You can modify and spread it out according to your vacation days, adding the places you want to eliminate, and you'll have your own Korea guide.

A fun and full 10-day travel guide for South Korea :

📅 Day by Day Plan:

Day 1 – Arrival in Seoul, first encounter with the city

Day 2 – Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village

Day 3 – Gangnam, Bongeunsa Temple, Starfield COEX

Day 4 – Hongdae, shopping

Day 5 – DMZ Tour (North Korea border tour)

Day 6 – Namsan Tower, Myeongdong, street food

Day 7 – Itaewon and Surroundings

Day 8 – Seoul to Busan, Haeundae Beach

Day 9 – Gamcheon Cultural Village, Jagalchi Fish Market

Day 10 – Return flight to Seoul

Direct flights from Turkey to South Korea generally depart from Istanbul and arrive at Incheon International Airport (ICN) . This airport is approximately one hour from Seoul's city center and is quite easy to reach. Connecting flights can take you via Doha, Dubai, or Abu Dhabi.

Korea is 6 hours ahead of Turkey (during summer time). You might experience some jet lag on the way, so I recommend not planning a heavy schedule on the first day, especially if you arrive early in the morning.

🛬 Day 1 – Arrival & Adjusting to Seoul

From Airport to City: The First Step

After landing at Incheon Airport, you can grab your T-money card and take the AREX train to Seoul Station, which takes about 45 minutes. Using the subway with luggage can be a hassle, so AREX is a real lifesaver. Passport control is incredibly quick. After collecting your SIM card at the airport, loading your T-money transportation card with money, you can head straight to the city center.

Accommodation and Initial Settlement

If you're staying near Myeong-dong or Hongdae, both areas are very lively and within walking distance. After checking in, you can relax a bit and make plans for the evening.

Myeong-dong First Exploration

Unless it's evening when you get off the plane, I recommend spending your first day in Myeong-dong. It's a perfect area for shopping, dining, and getting acquainted with the city. Cosmetics shops, street food stalls, and a constant flow of people line the streets.

You will feel the real Seoul atmosphere.

For your first dinner, try a Korean barbecue. Start with bulgogi (marinated beef). Having a grill at your table and cooking the meat yourself might seem strange at first, but it's a truly enjoyable experience.

First Day Tips

Get your T-money card on the first day and you will use it all week long.
You may be very tired due to jet lag, do not overexert yourself.
Start learning basic Korean words: hello, thank you, please, etc.
Carry the hotel's business card with you; if you get lost, you can show it to the taxi driver.

🏯 Day 2: Seoul - Culture and History Day

Morning: Gyeongbokgung Palace and Hanbok Experience

I recommend starting early on day two. Gyeongbokgung Palace opens at 9:00 AM, and arriving early has a few advantages: fewer crowds, better photos, and more options for hanbok rentals.

The hanbok rental experience is truly unforgettable. Dressing in traditional Korean attire and wandering through the palace feels like stepping back in time. Rentals typically cost between 15,000 and 25,000 won and last for 2-4 hours. There are also places that do traditional hairstyling, perfect for a complete experience. And if you rent a hanbok, you don't have to pay the palace entrance fee.

Be sure to watch the changing of the guard ceremony! It's held several times a day and is a truly impressive spectacle, complete with colorful costumes and traditional music.

Afternoon: Bukchon Hanok Village and Jogyesa Temple

Just a short walk from Gyeongbokgung is Bukchon Hanok Village. This area, where traditional Korean houses are preserved, offers a glimpse of old Seoul as you wander through its narrow streets.

Warning: this is a residential neighborhood. Walk quietly and avoid approaching house doors. Hanbok photos are popular here, but be respectful to avoid disturbing the locals.

Jogyesa Temple is just a 5-minute walk from Insadong. This temple is one of the most important Buddhist shrines in central Seoul. Its courtyard, decorated with colorful lanterns and a massive bodhi tree, creates a peaceful atmosphere. You can also visit this temple.

Evening: Insadong Cultural Street

Explore Insadong in the evening. Traditional artworks, teahouses, souvenir shops... This area reflects Korean culture at its most authentic.

You can relax in one of the traditional teahouses. Don't forget to try Korean teas (ginseng tea, omija tea). For dinner, there are also restaurants in Insadong serving traditional Korean cuisine.

You can finish the day with a stroll along the Cheonggyecheon River. This man-made river, which runs through the city center, creates a very romantic atmosphere in the evening. The lighting is beautiful and it's a favorite spot for local couples.

Day Two Tips

Wear comfortable shoes when renting a hanbok.
You can buy your palace ticket online in advance and avoid waiting in line.
Walk around Bukchon very quietly so as not to disturb the locals.

🛍️ Day 3: Seoul - Modern City Tour

Morning: Gangnam District Exploration

Day three is time to explore modern Seoul! Gangnam District, known worldwide for its iconic song by Psy, is Seoul's wealthiest and most modern district. The skyscrapers and luxury stores that greet you when you take the subway to Gangnam Station are truly impressive.

The Gangnam Style statue is a must-see photo opportunity. Locals are constantly taking photos here. Stroll around the area in the morning and observe the modern Korean architecture and business life.

Bongeunsa Temple

Bongeunsa Temple , seemingly hidden among skyscrapers, is just across from a busy street. The massive Buddha statue inside the temple offers a captivating view. As you wander around the temple grounds, you'll see monks praying and prayer lanterns. Entry is free, and it's quieter in the morning.

Starfield COEX Mall

Just across from the temple is COEX Mall , Asia's largest underground shopping mall . It's not just a shopping mall; it also houses art galleries, restaurants, movie theaters, and more.

But its most famous spot, of course, is Starfield COEX Library . With its massive bookshelves at its entrance, this aesthetically pleasing library seems designed for Instagram. Just sitting down, having a coffee, browsing through the books, or simply admiring the architecture is enough. It's truly impressive.

If you love shopping, you can find everything from Korean cosmetics to clothes here.

COEX also houses an aquarium, a cinema, and numerous restaurants. For dining, you can try Korean fast food chains or find various options in the food court. Right next to COEX is Hyundai Mall, which you can also enter from inside. I recommend visiting this mall; it resembles Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, with luxury stores arranged in rows and rows by clothing category. If you have time after this, you can also visit DDP. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is perfect for modern architecture, exhibitions, and nighttime shopping.

Day 4 – Hongdae & Ewha: Seoul's Youthful Spirit

Today, let's head to the areas where you can feel Seoul's youthful energy most intensely: Hongdae and Ewha . With their colorful street art, independent boutique shops, street performances, and coffee-scented side streets, these two districts offer a festive atmosphere for anyone looking to experience the modern side of Seoul.

Hongdae – The Heart of Art and Street Culture

You can start in the morning in Hongdae (near Hongik University) . This is an area with a large young population, lively street performances, and music on every corner.

Street dancers take the stage, especially in the afternoons. You can also see K-pop cover dances, live music performances, and improvisational theater.

If you're looking to shop, you'll find clothing, accessories, and cosmetics at very affordable prices at the boutique shops in Hongdae. There are also a few vintage shops and art bookstores worth exploring.

Korea's famous themed cafes are quite common in this area.

Alternatively:– 943 King's Cross (Harry Potter themed)– Greem Cafe (“2D cafe” that looks like it was painted with a drawing effect)

In the afternoon, you can stroll through the Ewha Womans University area and explore the campus. The Ewha Campus Complex, with its famous glass facade, is an Instagram-worthy spot. Ewha Shopping Street , just around the campus, is a place where you can find both affordable and trendy items. Designed specifically for students, this area offers a wide variety of items, from shoes and bags to cosmetics and jewelry.

In the evening, return to Hongdae and get lost in the backstreets. For a meal, head to one of the local restaurants. Hongdae's streets are lively until 2:00 AM. Street food stalls, late-night shops, and a constant stream of young people make it a perfect opportunity to experience the lifestyle of modern Korean youth.

🪖 Day 5 – DMZ Tour: A Day Trip to the North Korean Border

One of the most interesting and unique experiences in Seoul is definitely a tour of the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) . Bearing traces of the Korean War, this area, known as the buffer zone between North and South Korea , offers a highly engaging tourist experience.

Today will not only be a touristic trip, but also a day where you will witness Korean history and the separation between the two countries.

How to Tour the DMZ?

You need to make a reservation in advance to join the DMZ tour. Many tour companies pick you up from Seoul by bus between 7:00 and 8:00 AM.

💡 Don't forget to have your passport with you, it will be checked throughout the tour!

Places Visited on the DMZ Tour

Imjingak Park: This park is filled with symbolic structures and war memorials. The "fence of longing," where people whose families were separated during the Korean War hung their wishes, creates a truly emotional atmosphere.
Dora Observatory: The clearest vantage point for a clear view of North Korea. Through binoculars, you can see North Korean villages and military towers. It's a strange feeling; it's both so close and yet a completely different world.
The 3rd Infiltration Tunnel: This tunnel, thought to have been opened by North Korea as a covert attack on the South, is 70 meters underground. You'll need to wear a helmet and bend over in some places, but it's definitely worth seeing!
Dora Train Station: Built with the dream of a train running from South to North, this symbolic station stands as a symbol of hope for unification. It's currently unused, but signs read "Train to Pyeongyang." It's truly impressive.

Half-day and full-day tours are available, with the full day lasting 6-7 hours. Today will be tiring, so you can round out day 5 with a historical tour.

Day 6: Itaewon and Surrounding Areas – History, Culture, and an Evening by the River

Today, we're taking a multifaceted route that will take you through Seoul's cosmopolitan spirit, brimming with historical and natural beauty. We'll start in the morning on the streets of Itaewon and end in the evening on the banks of the Han River, accompanied by a musical light show.

We start the day with a breakfast that reflects Itaewon's open-mindedness. Western-style breakfasts are available at cafes like The Flying Pan Blue. After breakfast, you can browse the vintage shops in the backstreets.

The War Memorial of Korea, about a 20-minute walk from Itaewon, sheds light on Korea's wartime history. Admission is free. The war vehicles displayed in the gardens are as worth seeing as the museum's interior.

We take the subway to Namdaemun Market. It's at its peak around noon. You can grab a snack lunch of Korean street food like tteokbokki, mandu, or hotteok, and finish your souvenir shopping. Getting lost in the market is a fun experience!

Without straying too far from the center, you can visit Hannam-dong, famous for its chic cafes. Here, you can browse designer shops and relax in a quiet cafe. It's one of Seoul's most Instagram-worthy neighborhoods.

Towards sunset, we head to Banpo Hangang Park , one of the most beautiful parks along the Han River. You can buy Korean takeout or drinks at the market and relax on the grass, ride a bike, or simply enjoy the river breeze.

8:00 PM – Banpo Rainbow Fountain Show : The illuminated fountain show flows from the bridge and is accompanied by music. The show is very popular, especially during the summer months, so it's a good idea to grab a seat early.

Since you'll be having your picnic lunch in the park, there's no need to return to Itaewon. You can end the night with a leisurely stroll here, then return to your accommodation by taxi or subway.

📌 Daily Recommendations:

For your picnic, you can buy Korean sandwiches, ramyeon, or ready-made gimbap from convenience stores like GS25.
Banpo shows usually take place at times like 8:00 PM, 8:30 PM, or 9:00 PM. It's a good idea to check the hours before going.
There are toilets and markets in the park, so you can spend time comfortably.

Day 7 – Namsan Tower, Myeongdong and Street Food

Today, we'll visit Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower), one of Seoul's most iconic landmarks, followed by a full day in Myeongdong , a shopping and street food paradise.

Namsan Tower

You can also hike or take a cable car to the top of Namsan Mountain early in the morning, enjoying the fresh air. The tower at the top offers a 360-degree view of the city. The city, its skyscrapers, and the surrounding greenery are a true painting.

The fences, especially those covered in love locks , are very colorful and photogenic. The tower houses both a cafe and small souvenir shops.

Then, head up to N Seoul Tower. This iconic tower offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. The evening lights bring the city to life, creating a very romantic atmosphere. If you prefer, you can move this to the evening.

Myeongdong Shopping

After getting off Namsan, you can go back to Myeongdong and try the street food.

Snacks like tteokbokki and hotteok (sweet pancakes) sold at street stalls will help you unwind. Afterward, you can explore the Myeongdong shopping scene.

I recommend you to have your dinner at the "ssada" restaurant here with kimbab and noodles, it is very delicious.

🚄 Day 8 – Seoul to Busan and Haeundae Beach

Early Morning: KTX Journey to Busan

You need to get up early because we're going to Busan! The journey from Seoul Station to Busan is approximately 2.5 hours. Be sure to buy your train tickets in advance; reservations are essential, especially on weekends. The KTX experience is truly wonderful—fast, comfortable, and scenic. You can take in the beautiful Korean countryside during the journey. You can have breakfast on the train, catch a nap, or plan your next stop. Wi-Fi is also available, so you can post train photos on social media.😊

Noon: Arrival in Busan and Haeundae Beach

When you arrive in Busan, make Haeundae Beach your first stop. It's Korea's most famous beach and gets very crowded in the summer. It's also beautiful in spring and autumn, and walking along the beach is wonderful. Try fresh seafood at the beachside restaurants. Busan's fish and seafood are much fresher and more delicious than those in Seoul. If you enjoy raw fish (sashimi), be sure to try it.

Afternoon: Haeundae Sky Capsule

The Sky Capsule experience, which stretches from the beach to Songjeong Beach, is a Busan must-see! This colorful mini-train ride along the coast is perfect for Instagram photos. Book online or ask for assistance at your hotel.

Evening: Jagalchi Fish Market

In the evening, head to the Jagalchi Fish Market. It's Korea's largest fish market and a vibrant experience. Live fish, seafood, the shouts of fisherwomen...

The market has restaurants on the upper floor, where you can buy fresh fish from downstairs and have it cooked upstairs. There are also ready-made options. Fish soup, fried fish, scallops... These are must-try dishes in Busan.

Night: Gwangalli Beach and Bridge View

End the day at Gwangalli Beach. The lighting and reflections of the Gwangalli Bridge create a very romantic atmosphere. Sitting by the beach and watching the city lights relaxes after a long day. Try Busan's famous coffee or sweets at the beachside cafes. Locals also come here in the evenings to relax; it's a very peaceful setting.

In Busan, choose to stay near Haeundae beach or in central Seomyeon.

Day 9 – Gamcheon Cultural Village, Songdo Ropeway

Morning: Songdo Ropeway Experience

This experience, Busan's oldest cable car system, offers panoramic views of the city. I recommend going early in the morning as it gets crowded in the afternoon.

The cable car takes you from Songdo Beach to the top of the hill. The ride takes about 3-4 minutes, but the views are truly breathtaking. On one side, you'll see the azure ocean and on the other, the modern cityscape of Busan.

Once you're at the top, you'll find the Songdo Skywalk—a glass platform extending over the sea. It's a great adrenaline rush if you're not afraid of heights. For breakfast, enjoy a view of Busan at the cafe on top.

Noon: Beomeosa Temple

Around noon, head to Beomeosa Temple. This 1,300-year-old Buddhist temple is considered the spiritual center of Busan. It offers a peaceful atmosphere at the foot of the mountain, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The temple complex is quite large, and you can wander around slowly, taking in the Buddhist architecture. Colorful pagodas, ancient trees, and the constant scent of incense... It's a truly mystical experience.

It's important to walk quietly here and respect the locals' worship. Be careful when taking photos, as some areas are prohibited.

Afternoon: Gamcheon Cultural Village

Around noon, head to Gamcheon Cultural Village. Known as the "Santorini of Korea," this vibrant village is a must-see in Busan. A charming spot lined up on a mountainside, it's filled with pastel-colored houses, narrow streets, and art.

Gamcheon was originally a neighborhood settled by refugees during the Korean War in the 1950s. Over time, artists discovered the area and adorned the walls with colorful murals, sculptures, and art installations. Today, every corner is perfect for an Instagram photo.

Pick up a map at the village entrance; key landmarks are marked. The "Little Prince" statue, colorful staircases, panoramic viewing terraces... Each offers a different photo opportunity. The village tour takes about 2-3 hours, so don't rush.

Evening: Spa Experience (Jjimjilbang)

In the evening, be sure to experience a jjimjilbang (spa). Busan has many high-quality jjimjilbangs, and this experience is a very important part of Korean culture.

Jjimjilbang offers hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, and massage services. Some even offer overnight stays. It's the perfect relaxation for your body after two tiring days. You'll find Korean families flocking here as a weekend activity. Children, the elderly, and young people...

Night: Seomyeon Nightlife

End the day in the Seomyeon district. This area, the hub of Busan's nightlife, is packed with street food, bars, and karaoke lounges.

Be sure to try Busan's famous seafood tteokbokki. Unlike regular tteokbokki, it contains seafood like squid and shrimp. It's a Busan specialty.

✈️ Day 10 – Return from Busan to Seoul and Final Shopping

Morning: Last Minute Shopping

The last day, unfortunately, is the day to say goodbye! After getting up and packing your bags in the morning, take some time for some last-minute shopping. Forgotten souvenirs, missing cosmetics, or a keepsake for yourself.

In Myeong-dong, the shops are quieter early in the morning. You can pick up forgotten sheet masks, small gifts for friends, or Korean teas. Korean products like ginseng tea and misugaru (a grain mixture) make great souvenirs.

If your luggage weight isn't a problem, you can also buy Korean food products. Instant ramen varieties, authentic ingredients like gochujang (hot sauce), and kim (seaweed).

Noon: Airport Transfer and Final Preparations

Plan your airport transfer based on your flight time. The AREX train takes approximately 45 minutes, and a taxi ride takes 1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. For international flights, you must be at the airport at least three hours in advance.

Before leaving the hotel, check your belongings. Phone charger, passport, tickets, T-money card (you can keep them as souvenirs). Especially check whether you've packed your cosmetics in your handbag or suitcase.

Afternoon: Incheon Airport Duty Free

Incheon Airport's duty-free section is vast and diverse. You can find great deals on last-minute Korean cosmetics. There are airport specials, travel-sized items, and sometimes even better deals than in the city.

Last chance for easy-to-carry gifts like Korean chocolate brands, soju miniature bottles, and traditional teas.

Korean food is also available at the airport. Enjoy a final bite of Korean fried chicken, bibimbap, or bulgogi. A final farewell to Korean cuisine.

Evening: Flight and Memories

As you sit on the plane, you'll reflect on your 7-day Korean adventure. The photos you took, the souvenirs you bought, the food you tasted, the experiences you had...

Organize the photos on your phone and prepare your social media posts. It's a great opportunity to share your Korean experience with friends and family. As you edit the photos, you'll realize you already miss it. You can watch a Korean movie or listen to K-pop on the plane. 😊

10-Day Korea Experience Summary

What did you experience in these 10 days:

You discovered historical and modern Seoul ✔️
You have experienced traditional hanbok ✔️
You took a high-speed train ride with KTX ✔️
You've tasted Busan's beaches and culture ✔️
You've tried a variety of flavors, from Korean BBQ to street food ✔️
You shopped K-beauty ✔️
You had a spa experience in Korea ✔️
You met the local culture and people ✔️

After Returning: After returning home, your interest in Korean culture will likely increase. Watching K-dramas, learning Korean, listening to K-pop... You might even start making plans to go back to Korea! 😁

This 10-day adventure is just the beginning – Korea is a fascinating country with so much more to explore and experience. 😊

안녕히 가세요! (Annyeonghi gaseyo - Goodbye!)

South Korea Travel Guide Appendix;

🏝️ Busan ➡️ Jeju Island (Optional)

If you have time, take a short flight to Jeju Island.
Hike Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak).
Relax on the beaches of Jeju and eat tangerine ice cream!