Planning your first trip to South Korea and torn between the bustling energy of Seoul and the tranquil coastal charm of Busan? You don’t have to choose. My personal experience has shown that a 7-day itinerary is the perfect amount of time to get a taste of both of these incredible cities. This guide is your key to unlocking a trip that combines iconic landmarks, authentic local experiences, and the best of Korean food and culture.
This itinerary is designed to be efficient, making full use of South Korea’s excellent transportation system, so you can spend less time traveling and more time exploring.
Day 1: Arriving in Seoul & Exploring the City’s Heart
Your journey begins the moment you land at Incheon International Airport (ICN). The most convenient way to get to central Seoul is by taking the AREX Express Train, which will get you to Seoul Station in under an hour.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel in Myeongdong or Hongdae. These areas are centrally located, lively, and packed with dining and shopping options. Once settled, head out to explore Myeongdong, a famous hub for shopping and street food. You’ll find a wide variety of K-beauty products and some of the best street eats in the country.
- Evening: Walk to the base of Namsan Mountain and take the cable car up to Namsan Seoul Tower. The panoramic view of the city at sunset is breathtaking. Don’t forget to check out the iconic Love Locks on the tower’s terrace.
Day 2: Journey into Historic Korea
Today is all about stepping back in time to explore the rich history of Korea’s royal past.
- Morning: Start at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. Arrive early to witness the magnificent Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony. To fully immerse yourself in the experience, consider renting a traditional Hanbok from a nearby shop. Wearing one grants you free entry to the palace grounds and makes for incredible photos.
- Afternoon: A short walk from the palace will take you to Bukchon Hanok Village, a charming neighborhood with hundreds of traditional Korean houses called Hanok. Next, explore the winding alleys of Insadong, known for its traditional tea houses, art galleries, and craft shops. You can even try your hand at Korean calligraphy or find a unique souvenir.
- Evening: Dive into the culinary heart of Seoul at Gwangjang Market. This market is a feast for the senses, famous for its authentic dishes like bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) and the addictive mayak gimbap (mini seaweed rice rolls).
Day 3: Modern Seoul & K-Pop Culture
Get a taste of modern South Korea, from the futuristic to the artistic.
- Morning: Head to the upscale Gangnam District, made famous by Psy’s hit song. You can visit the Starfield COEX Mall, home to the iconic Starfield Library, a stunning two-story library that is a paradise for book lovers and photographers alike.
- Afternoon: Travel to Hongdae, Seoul’s youthful and vibrant arts district. The streets are a canvas for street artists and a stage for buskers. This is the perfect place to shop for unique fashion and immerse yourself in the city’s youthful energy.
- Evening: No trip to Korea is complete without a nod to K-pop. Consider visiting the SM Town Museum or catching a live performance. For a broader cultural experience, check out the famous non-verbal show, Nanta Cookin’.
Day 4: Travel to Busan & Explore the Coastal City
It’s time to trade the city skyline for ocean views.
- Morning: Take the KTX (Korea Train eXpress) from Seoul Station to Busan Station. The high-speed journey is comfortable and takes just under three hours.
- Afternoon: After checking into your hotel, head straight to Gamcheon Culture Village. Known as the “Machu Picchu of Busan,” this colorful hillside village is a work of art. Walk through its winding alleys to discover vibrant murals, quirky art installations, and the famous Little Prince statue.
- Evening: Your first evening in Busan must be spent at the Jagalchi Fish Market. This is the largest seafood market in Korea, where you can choose fresh seafood from the first-floor tanks and have it cooked to your liking on the second floor.
Day 5: Busan’s Temples & Beaches
Today, you will see a different side of Busan, one of serene beauty and breathtaking landscapes.
- Morning: Travel to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a rare Buddhist temple located directly on the coastline. Its location on the cliffs overlooking the sea provides a tranquil and spiritual experience.
- Afternoon: Head to Haeundae Beach, one of Korea’s most famous beaches. You can relax on the sand, stroll along the scenic boardwalk, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
- Evening: Walk to Dongbaekseom Island for a fantastic view of Gwangandaegyo Bridge. As the sun sets, the bridge lights up, creating a spectacular display.
Day 6: Busan’s Hidden Gems & City Views
- Morning: Discover the natural beauty of Taejongdae Resort Park, a park on the southernmost tip of Busan with stunning coastal cliffs and a lighthouse. Take the Danubi Train to get around the park and enjoy the scenery.
- Afternoon: Visit BIFF Square, a lively area dedicated to the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). Here you can indulge in some of Busan’s most famous street foods, including the popular Ssiat Hotteok (sweet seed pancake).
- Evening: Treat yourself to a relaxing spa experience at SPA LAND Centum City, a huge traditional Korean Jjimjilbang (bathhouse) located inside the Shinsegae Department Store.
Day 7: Last-Minute Shopping & Departure
- Morning: Use your last few hours to grab some last-minute souvenirs or gifts at a local market or department store near your hotel.
- Departure: Depending on your flight, you can take a bus or train from Busan’s main station to Gimhae International Airport (PUS) or back to Incheon.
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Essential Travel Tips & FAQs
Getting Around
- T-Money Card: This rechargeable card is your best friend for public transport in both Seoul and Busan. Use it for the subway, buses, and even some taxis.
- Between Cities: The KTX is the fastest and most efficient way to travel between Seoul and Busan. Book your tickets in advance, especially during holidays.
Accommodation
- Seoul: Stay in Myeongdong for shopping and food, Hongdae for nightlife and youth culture, or Gangnam for luxury and entertainment.
- Busan: Stay near Haeundae for beach access and nightlife, or near Seomyeon for shopping and central location.
Budget
- A comfortable budget for a 7-day trip to Seoul and Busan, excluding flights, is approximately $70-$120 USD per person per day. This includes mid-range accommodation, food, transport, and entry fees.
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This itinerary offers a comprehensive and balanced journey through two of South Korea’s most iconic cities. It’s a journey that combines the past and present, offering an unforgettable experience for any traveler.
