5 Days in South Korea - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: South Korea Cultural Discovery: Seoul, Andong & Gyeongju

Soak up Seoul and Andong's arts, traditions, and religious roots on this five-day discovery tour, perfect for those looking for a well-rounded taste of South Korea's vibrant culture. With a private guide by your side, you'll explore the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace and sip tea in Bukchon Hanok Village. Then, in Gyeongju, visit eighth-century temples and time travel to the tomb hills of Silla Kings in Tumuli Park.

Welcome to Seoul! After settling into your hotel for two nights, you'll immediately hit the streets for an exciting three-hour tour. Immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere of the Insadong neighborhood, delight your taste buds with delectable street food at Gwangjang Market, and end your first evening admiring skyline views at Seoul Sky. Rest up, as the following day, a customized tour allows you to choose between a visit to the colorful Gyeongbokgung Palace, a leisurely walk through the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village, an exhilarating cable car ride to Namsan Park, or perhaps a mix of them all.

With your short but exciting adventure already half over, it's time to hit the road to Gyeongju in the former Silla kingdom. On the way, stop by Andong Hahoe Folk Village and the Hahoe Mask Museum in Andong to learn about traditional dancing and costumes. Then pack in a trip to Bulguksa Temple, one of South Korea's most significant religious art complexes, and walk among royal tombstones in Tumuli Park before ending the day at the picturesque Donggung Palace. Savor your last morning in Gyeongju until it's time to transfer back to Seoul to catch your flight home. Learn more

Itinerary #2: South Korea Nature: Seoul & Sokcho

Nature lovers will delight in this South Korea adventure, packed with mountain vistas, winding rivers, and picturesque parks. Split your days between the enchanting palaces and traditional villages near Seoul, then head east to Sokcho—the gateway to Seoraksan National Park. Throughout the trip, experience the country's landscapes from all angles as you hike up to Mount Seoraksan, bike along the Bukhan River, and take a cable car up Gweongeumseong Fortress Peak.

Your five-day trip begins in Seoul, where you'll dust off any jet lag during a peaceful afternoon hike in Namsan Park and a cable car ride to the top of the mountain above Hangang River. After a good night's rest, you'll be ready to discover more of Seoul's highlights, starting with visits to the Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum, and the National Palace Museum. The day doesn't end there, though. You'll also wander the narrow streets of Bukchon Hanok Village, enjoy a traditional lunch, and spend more time in Namsan Park before calling it a day.

Next, trade in the busy capital city streets for Sokcho, the gateway to Seoraksan National Park. On the way, the choice is yours to stop by Petite France, a recreated French village theme park, or the charming Nami Island; then, hop on a two or four-seat bike for a gentle ride along the Bukhan River at the Gangchon Rail Park. On your last full day, head into Seoraksan National Park and climb up the 2,322-foot (708 m) Mount Seoraksan before returning to Seoul. After a final night out, it'll be time to transfer to the airport and catch your onward flight. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Eat Like a Local in South Korea: Seoul & Busan Food Tour

Eat like a South Korean local on this Seoul and Busan foodie tour. Touch down in the pulsing capital, Seoul, where you'll visit royal palaces and learn to make classic Korean dishes during a local chef-led cooking class. Continue to Busan for more food adventures, including a trip to Jagalchi, the country's largest fish market, and join a street food tour of the famous BIFF Square before waving your goodbyes back in Seoul.

Begin your foodie trip in sprawling Seoul, where you'll spend your first day getting your bearings and touring at your leisure. If time allows, wander Insadong's galleries and restaurants, see the city from above at Seoul Sky, and join a food tour in Gwangjang Market. Then, it's back to the adventure the following day, starting with a private tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village, followed by an afternoon cooking class. Try your hand at making kimchi, pancakes, and other Korean classics before enjoying an evening on your own.

Hop aboard a train on Day 3 of your adventure for a transfer to the coastal city of Busan. More food-focused activities are on the agenda for the afternoon, beginning with a tour of Jagalichi Fish Market. Purchase your favorite seafood and have it cooked to perfection, then continue the taste testing in BIFF Square. With one more day left, visit the Buddhist temple of Haedong Yonggungsa, relax on the idyllic Haeundae Beach, and celebrate your final evening on a Gwangalli night food tour before returning to Seoul to catch your flight home. Learn more

Itinerary #4: South Korea K-Drama Tour of Seoul

It's all about filming locations and fun facts on this South Korea K-drama tour, crafted especially for "Hallyuwood" fanatics. While using Seoul as your base, you'll have plenty of time to tour the capital city's most famous locations, which feature heavily in popular South Korean movies and TV shows. Each stop promises a unique take on Seoul's notable highlights, from bustling markets and thrilling rollercoasters to European-themed villages.

After transferring from the airport to your hotel in Seoul, your trip begins with a free afternoon to explore on your own. The choice is yours to roam the city and take in the towering skyscrapers and decorative Buddhist temples, wander Mural Village, or board a sunset Hangang River cruise. But rest up, as the following day, it's time to take a deep dive into Korean drama (K-drama) on a private tour. Discover the many scenes filmed at Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Gwanghwamun area, soak up Korean culture at Bukchon Hanok Village, and celebrate the end of an epic day dining at Gwangjang Market.

Continue the exploration of K-drama film locations the following day, starting with a trip to the N Seoul Tower in Namsan. Next on the agenda is a stop by KyungHee University, a picturesque campus used in romantic films, followed by a visit to Lotte World, the K-drama equivalent of Disney World. On your last full day, venture outside the city for an exhilarating day trip to the Garden of Morning Calm, Petite France, Italia Village, and Nami Island while discovering their K-drama significance. As time dwindles, get in any last-minute shopping until it's time to catch your flight home. Learn more

Itinerary #5: South Korea Ski & Snow Adventure: Seoul & Pyeongchang

Ski and snowboard enthusiasts looking to spend uninterrupted time in the snow shouldn't miss this five-day South Korea winter adventure. Test your skills on the challenging slopes of Yong Pyong Ski Resort, immerse yourself in the natural and cultural beauty of Nami Island, and experience the thrill of pedaling through icy scenery at Gangchon Rail Bike Park. 

After touching down in Seoul and transferring to your hotel, your winter vacation begins with a guided city tour. Admire Gyeongbokgung palace, ponder the ornate halls of the Gwanghwamun area and relax in a traditional teahouse in Bukchon Hanok Village. Next, travel to Pyeongchang County and enjoy a day exploring the landscapes of Odaesan National Park. A highlight is sure to be a visit to Nami Island, but you'll also have time to peddle through the picturesque countryside at Gangchon Rail Bike Park and take a ride on the Romance Train along the Bukhan River.

Eager to strap on your skis, your journey continues with two days at Yong Pyong—South Korea's largest ski resort. Whether you're a first-time skier or an avid snow chaser, the options are seemingly endless, with 14 cable lifts and 28 different slopes to choose from. Opt for expert-led lessons or go at your own pace, and in between runs, treat yourself to world-class food at one of the resort's chic eateries or warm up in the resort's water park. Yet all too soon, it'll be time to bid a snowy farewell and transfer back to Seoul to catch your flight home. Learn more

More Great South Korea Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your South Korea trip? Check out these other South Korea itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.