Spring
Spring brings cherry blossoms and mild weather, making it a popular time for outdoor activities.
Travel guide
South Korea
South Korea, a vibrant country known for its rich history, modern cities, and stunning landscapes, offers a diverse range of experiences beyond its capital, Seoul. From ancient palaces to bustling markets and serene countryside, South Korea invites travelers to explore its unique culture and traditions.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/traveloriented/ · CC BY-SA 2.0- Best MonthsApril to June, September to November
- AirportsIncheon International Airport, Gimpo Internation
- TransitExtensive subway and bus systems
- Power220V, 60Hz
- TippingNot customary
- LanguageKorean
01
When to go
The best time to visit South Korea is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is breathtaking.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Summer
Summer is hot and humid, ideal for beach trips but can be crowded.
Autumn
Autumn showcases vibrant foliage and comfortable temperatures, perfect for sightseeing.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Vibrant
Gangnam
A trendy district in Seoul known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Expect higher prices due to its popularity.
Cultural
Insadong
A cultural district in Seoul famous for traditional tea houses and art galleries.
Great for art lovers and souvenir shopping.
Beach
Busan Haeundae
A popular beach destination in Busan with a lively atmosphere.
Best visited during summer for beach activities.
Historical
Gyeongju
Known as the 'museum without walls,' Gyeongju is rich in historical sites.
Ideal for history enthusiasts.
Nature
Jeju Island
A beautiful island famous for its natural wonders and volcanic landscapes.
Considered a honeymoon destination.
Urban
Incheon
Home to the international airport and a growing cultural scene.
Convenient for travelers arriving by air.
Historical
Suwon
Famous for its well-preserved Hwaseong Fortress.
A day trip from Seoul is easy.
Adventure
Sokcho
Gateway to Seoraksan National Park, known for its stunning mountains.
Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Kimchi
Fermented vegetables, usually napa cabbage or radishes, found everywhere.
→ A staple in Korean cuisine.
Bibimbap
A mixed rice dish topped with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg, popular in restaurants.
→ Try it with gochujang sauce.
Bulgogi
Marinated beef grilled to perfection, often served with lettuce wraps.
→ Look for it in BBQ restaurants.
Tteokbokki
Spicy rice cakes, a popular street food found in markets.
→ Best enjoyed hot and fresh.
Sundubu-jjigae
A spicy soft tofu stew, commonly found in casual dining spots.
→ Perfect for cold days.
Samgyeopsal
Grilled pork belly, typically cooked at the table.
→ Pair it with soju for a true experience.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
The largest of the Five Grand Palaces in Seoul, showcasing traditional architecture.
N Seoul Tower
An iconic tower offering panoramic views of the city.
Bukchon Hanok Village
A preserved area of traditional Korean houses, offering a glimpse into the past.
Jeju Volcanic Island
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique geological features.
Seoraksan National Park
Famous for its stunning mountain scenery and hiking trails.
Changdeokgung Palace
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful gardens.
Busan's Jagalchi Fish Market
The largest seafood market in Korea, offering fresh catches.
DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)
A buffer zone between North and South Korea, offering guided tours.
Nami Island
A picturesque island famous for its tree-lined paths.
Hwaseong Fortress
A UNESCO World Heritage site in Suwon, showcasing impressive architecture.
Lotte World Tower
One of the tallest buildings in the world, featuring shopping and entertainment.
Gwangjang Market
A traditional market known for its street food and textiles.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP) are the main gateways to South Korea.
ICNIncheon International Airport
GMPGimpo International Airport
Public Transport
The subway and bus systems are efficient and affordable, making it easy to get around cities.
Car Rentals
Renting a car is an option for exploring rural areas and national parks.
Taxis
Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked via apps.
Bicycles
Many cities have bike-sharing programs for eco-friendly transportation.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Type C and F plugs are used in South Korea.
Cash
Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for small purchases.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.
Language
Korean is the official language; learning a few phrases can enhance your experience.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A stay of at least one week is recommended to explore the main attractions.