A 10-day visit is recommended for South Korea. The small size of the country, combined with good roads, multiple domestic airports, and excellent public transportation, makes it possible to travel efficiently. Ten days give you enough time for outdoor adventures on Jeju Island, coastal views and traditional markets in Busan, and historical sites and cultural activities in Andong—in addition to urban exploration and street food in Seoul.

South Korea in 10 Days

Visit Seoraksan National Park and Sinheungsa Temple on a 10-day trip to South Korea

With 10 days in South Korea, you can experience Seoul's culture and cuisine and venture outside the city to visit historic sites and embark on outdoor excursions in nature. This best-of itinerary is an excellent option for first-time visitors interested in seeing the highlights of Seoul, Andong, Busan, and Jeju Island. You'll sample street food in Seoul, visit the infamous Demilitarized Zone, and learn about Korean arts and architecture in historic Andong. You'll have time left over to head farther south to enjoy street art and street food in Busan and fly to Jeju Island, where you can hike Hallasan mountain and visit Cheonjiyeon Waterfall. 

Or, if you prefer a more active trip, you can experience South Korea in 10 days through a variety of outdoor adventures. On this active tour, you'll explore Manjanggul Cave and join a horseback and kayaking excursion on Jeju Island, then sail to Oedo Island and see Geoje Island by bike. After transferring to Pyeongchang, you'll raft the Donggang River and continue to Sokcho for a tour of UNESCO-listed Seoraksan National Park. Cap off your journey with a thrilling zipline ride across the North Han River before experiencing the cafés, teahouses, and themed museums and galleries of Bukchon Hanok Village.

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Other Durations

Thanks to the small size of the country and efficient transportation, if you have fewer than 10 days to spend in South Korea, you can still experience Seoul and at least one other destination or region, such as Busan, Sokcho, or Gyeongju. On the other hand, if you have two weeks, you'll have the option to either move at a slower pace, include additional regions like Yeosu, or consider pairing your South Korea trip with a visit to Japan. 

South Korea in 5-6 Days

For a shorter stay, it's best to plan for just one or two regions, such as Seoul and Busan. If you have a specific interest, a short trip is also a great opportunity to focus on a theme, such as a ski and snow adventure in Pyeongchang, a culinary tour of Seoul and Busan, or a Korean drama tour of Seoul. Learn more

South Korea in 7-8 Days

With 7-8 days in South Korea, you can visit three to four regions. Enjoy urban adventures in Seoul and then dive into South Korean history and culture in Andong and Gyeongju. Or pair a stay in Seoul with immersion in the country's natural wonders along the western coast or on Jeju Island.

South Korea in 2 Weeks

If you've got two weeks to spend in South Korea, you can take your time and experience a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural activities, including hiking on Jeju Island, meditation with monks at Golgulsa Temple, and tasting local specialties at Sokcho Jungang Traditional Market. Or, if your priority is relaxation and wellness, opt for a slower pace wellness escape that includes forest therapy at the National Healing Center in Sobaeksan National Park and a two-night stay at Chuidasun Tea and Meditation Resort on Jeju Island.

On the other end of the spectrum, if you prefer a faster pace, you can hit the highlights of South Korea on this classic tour or catch a two-hour flight from Seoul to Tokyo and experience the best of South Korea and Japan. Learn more

More Helpful Information

On volcanic Jeju Island, experience natural wonders and rural life 

With 10 days in South Korea, you can see and do (and eat!) a lot. Start in the vibrant capital city of Seoul, where you can conveniently reach a variety of experiences via subway and bus, from interactive exhibits at the museums and art galleries of Insadong Street to street food in Gwangjang Market and a tour of Gyeongbokgung palace.

Renting a car for your journey beyond Seoul will give you the most flexibility to go at your own pace and choose additional destinations according to your interests, such as history and culture in Andong, architecture in Gyeongju, or culinary experiences at BIFF Square and Jagalchi Fishery Market in Busan. Or, if you prefer to leave the driving to someone else, you can hire a private driver or opt for a combination of trains, buses, and taxis. 

Nature lovers and photographers should save a few days for hiking and outdoor activities on Jeju Island—a quick 1.5-hour flight from Seoul—and consider including a stop in Gangwon-do for some river rafting and a cycling excursion on Geoje Island. Unlike Jeju Island, no flight is required to reach Geoje Island; it's a 1.5-hour drive from Busan (by car or bus) via a bridge.