This blog post is all about how to spend 10 days in South Korea.
South Korea is a country that completely blew me away.
From its bustling cities and historic sites to its stunning natural landscapes, every stop on my journey was packed with incredible experiences.
And let me tell you, Seoul? It was love at first sight.
There’s a buzz in the air that’s hard to describe—a mix of tradition and modernity, late-night street food, and the kind of energy that makes you want to wander the streets for hours.
Below is my guide of how you can spend 10 days in South Korea.
This blog post is all about how to spend 10 days in South Korea and the best travel route.
How We Got to South Korea from Japan
For our trip, we actually caught the ferry from Japan to Busan, and then made our way up to Seoul. A route I’d 100% recommend if you’re planning to visit Japan and South Korea in one trip.
The ferry ride itself was an experience, and starting in Busan gave us a unique introduction to South Korea’s laid-back coastal vibe before diving into the energy of the capital.
That said, most travellers will fly into Seoul, so for this 10 days in South Korea itinerary, we’ll begin in South Korea’s dynamic capital and work our way through the country.
From the bustling streets of Seoul to the historic treasures of Gyeongju and the vibrant beaches of Busan, this 10 days in South Korea itinerary will help you experience the very best of South Korea.
How to Spend 10 Days in South Korea: The Best Travel Route
If you’re looking for a trip that combines culture, history, delicious food, and stunning scenery, South Korea should be at the top of your list.
Below is my 10 days in South Korea travel route.
10 Days in South Korea | Day 1–4: Seoul
For this 10 days in South Korea itinerary, start your journey in Seoul, South Korea’s vibrant and dynamic capital.
I absolutely loved my time in Seoul. The vibe was incredible, a perfect mix of tradition and modernity, and there’s just so much to see and do.
The city is enormous, with countless neighbourhoods, each offering its own unique charm, from historic palaces to trendy cafes and bustling shopping districts.
If you have more than 10 days in South Korea, you might want to copy us! We actually ended up spending nine days in Seoul during our trip and still felt like we only scratched the surface.
There’s just something about the energy of the city that makes you want to explore endlessly.
Whether you’re wandering the neon-lit streets of Myeongdong, taking in the serenity of Bukchon Hanok Village, or diving into the food scene that ranges from street snacks to Michelin-starred restaurants.
No matter how long you spend in Seoul, you’ll leave wanting more. Instead of spending 10 days in South Korea, you could easily spend 10 days in Seoul!
RELATED blog post to read: The Best Coffee Shops in Seoul, South Korea
Things to See and Do in Seoul
Seoul is the kind of place that makes you fall in love with its balance of chaos and calm.
It’s a city where you can explore an ancient temple in the morning, shop in a futuristic mall in the afternoon, and end the day with late-night karaoke and street food.
You’ll be planning your return trip before you’ve even left! Below are some great things to see and do during your time in Seoul.
- Gyeongbokgung Palace: The grandest of Seoul’s five palaces, where you can catch the traditional guard-changing ceremony.
- Bukchon Hanok Village: Wander through this picturesque neighbourhood of traditional Korean houses and soak in the culture.
- Myeongdong: Shop till you drop and grab some iconic Korean street food like tteokbokki and hotteok.
- Hongdae: A hip area known for its youthful vibe, indie shops, and vibrant nightlife.
- N Seoul Tower: Head up to the tower for panoramic views of the city, especially stunning at sunset.
- Ihwa Mural Village: A quirky, artsy neighbourhood perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.
- Cheonggyecheon Stream: A tranquil stream that runs through the city, ideal for an evening stroll.
Must-Do During Your 10 Days in South Korea: A Day Trip to the DMZ
One of the most fascinating and unique experiences you can have in South Korea is a day trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).
This is an absolute must-do for anyone visiting the country. It’s not every day you get to stand at one of the most heavily guarded borders in the world, a place that holds so much historical and political significance.
The DMZ offers a glimpse into the division of North and South Korea, and it’s incredibly thought-provoking.
Tours typically include stops at the Third Infiltration Tunnel, a tunnel dug by North Korea with the intent of invading the South, and the Dora Observatory, where you can literally peer into North Korea. You might also visit the Joint Security Area (JSA), where South Korean and North Korean soldiers stand face-to-face in a tense but oddly quiet standoff.
Tips for Visiting the DMZ
Below are my top tips for visiting the DMZ:
- Book in Advance: DMZ tours are extremely popular and spots fill up quickly, so make sure you book your tour ahead of time.
- Go with an Organized Tour: Access to the DMZ is restricted, and you’ll need to join a licensed tour group. Many tours depart from Seoul and include transportation.
- Book with GetYourGuide: We booked our tour with GetYourGuide and had a great experience and tour guide. You can view the exact tour we did here.
- Bring Your Passport: You’ll need it for security checks, as the DMZ is a heavily controlled area.
- Be Prepared for Restrictions: Photography and movement are often limited in certain areas, so listen to your guide and follow the rules.
Visiting the DMZ is an eye-opening experience that gives you a deeper appreciation for South Korea’s history and resilience. It’s one of those day trips that you simply can’t miss.
Where to Stay in Seoul
Below are some examples of where to stay in Seoul, depending on your budget. I’ll have a full blog post coming soon of the best hotels, hostels and guest houses to stay in when visiting the city.
- Budget: Bunk Guesthouse Hongdae: A cozy, social hostel in the trendy Hongdae area.
- Mid-Range: Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong: Great location, comfortable rooms, and easy access to major sights.
- Luxury: The Shilla Seoul: A luxurious hotel with top-notch amenities and stunning views of the city.
10 Days in South Korea | Day 5–6: Gyeongju
Hop on a high-speed train from Seoul to Gyeongju, often referred to as “the museum without walls.”
The train ride itself is a comfortable and quick journey, but just note that the high-speed station, Singyeongju Station, is located outside the main town.
Don’t worry though, there are frequent buses and taxis to transport you into the heart of Gyeongju, so it’s an easy transition.
Why You Should Visit Gyeongju
Gyeongju is a treasure trove of history and culture, packed with ancient sites that date back to the Silla Kingdom, which ruled Korea for nearly a thousand years.
What makes Gyeongju truly magical is how the city transforms when the sun goes down. Many of the landmarks, like Anapji Pond and Cheomseongdae Observatory, are beautifully lit up at night, giving them an almost fairytale-like quality.
It’s the kind of place that feels like a completely different experience between day and night.
You don’t need to spend too long in Gyeongju to take it all in. I’d say two nights might feel like a bit much, but one day is probably too short.
To strike the right balance, either arrive early in the day so you can explore right away or plan to leave the following afternoon to ensure you get both the daytime and nighttime experience.
Things to See and Do in Gyeongju
Seeing Gyeongju’s historic landmarks glowing against the evening sky is something you don’t want to miss. Below are some top things to see and do in Gyeongju:
- Bulguksa Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of South Korea’s most iconic temples.
- Seokguram Grotto: A stunning Buddhist hermitage with a beautifully preserved stone Buddha statue.
- Cheomseongdae Observatory: The oldest astronomical observatory in Asia.
- Tumuli Park: Explore these grassy burial mounds, which are royal tombs from the Silla Dynasty.
- Gyeongju National Museum: Learn more about the city’s rich history through its impressive collection of artifacts.
- Anapji Pond: Visit at night to see the beautifully lit pavilion reflected in the water.
Where to Stay in Gyeongju
Below are some examples of where to stay in Gyeongju, depending on your budget. I’ll have a full blog post coming soon of the best hotels, hostels and guest houses to stay in when visiting the city.
- Budget: Gyeongju Guesthouse: A charming and affordable guesthouse with a central location.
- Mid-Range: Hilton Gyeongju: Comfortable rooms and a convenient location near Bulguksa Temple.
- Luxury: Gyeongju Hanok Sohwa: Offers great amenities and beautiful views of the surrounding area.
10 Days in South Korea | Day 7–9: Busan
Before visiting Busan, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I thought it might just be a typical pier town, something like Dover in the UK (no offence if you are from Dover reading this!).
But wow, was I wrong. Busan completely surprised me in the best way possible and was my favourite stop during our 10 days in South Korea.
It’s a city that has so much going on, from vibrant neighbourhoods to stunning beaches and incredible food.
Why You Should Visit Busan
One of the highlights of my trip was exploring Gamcheon Culture Village, which is hands down one of the coolest places I’ve ever visited.
This colourful hillside neighbourhood is an absolute feast for the eyes, filled with quirky art, winding alleyways, and breathtaking views.
It’s a must-see spot that feels like walking through a living art gallery.
What sets Busan apart is the way it blends city, nature, and beach so seamlessly. One moment, you’re wandering through bustling streets and modern skyscrapers, and the next, you’re relaxing on a pristine beach or hiking along a scenic coastal trail.
Things to See and Do in Busan
Busan is the kind of city where you can experience the best of all worlds, and I found myself loving every minute of my time there. Below are the top things to see and do when visiting Busan:
- Haeundae Beach: Relax on Busan’s most famous beach or take a walk along the scenic Haeundae Blueline Park.
- Gamcheon Culture Village: A colourful hillside village with quirky art installations and amazing views.
- Jagalchi Fish Market: Indulge in fresh seafood at South Korea’s largest seafood market.
- Haedong Yonggungsa Temple: A beautiful Buddhist temple perched on the coast.
- Gwangalli Beach: Famous for its views of the illuminated Gwangan Bridge at night.
- Busan Cinema Center: If you’re a film buff, check out this architectural marvel and home of the Busan International Film Festival.
Where to Stay in Busan
Below are some examples of where to stay in Busan, depending on your budget. I’ll have a full blog post coming soon of the best hotels, hostels and guest houses to stay in when visiting the city.
- Budget: Kimchee Guesthouse Haeundae: A relaxed and budget-friendly hostel near Haeundae Beach.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Laon: Stunning ocean views and a convenient location near Gwangalli Beach.
- Luxury: Park Hyatt Busan: A sleek, luxurious hotel with incredible amenities and views of the marina.
10 Days in South Korea | Day 10: Back to Seoul or Extend Your Trip
On the final day of your 10 days in South Korea route, it’s time to wrap up your South Korean adventure.
From Busan, you can easily hop on a high-speed train (KTX) back to Seoul, making the journey in just a couple of hours.
It’s a smooth and convenient ride, giving you plenty of time to reflect on all the amazing experiences from your trip.
Once in Seoul, you can spend your last day exploring any sights you may have missed, indulging in some last-minute shopping, or enjoying one final Korean BBQ feast before heading home.
Have More Than 10 Days in South Korea? Visit Jeju Island
If you’re lucky enough to have more than 10 days in South Korea, why not extend your trip with a visit to Jeju Island?
Often called the “Hawaii of Korea,” Jeju is a volcanic island filled with stunning natural landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation.
It’s an entirely different vibe from the mainland and also the perfect way to round out your 10 Days in South Korea adventure.
Highlights of Jeju Island
If you do plan to visit Jeju Island during your trip to South Korea, below are some of the top things to see and do:
- Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak): This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a volcanic tuff cone that offers breathtaking views, especially at sunrise.
- Hallasan Mountain: South Korea’s tallest peak, so perfect for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of the island.
- Manjanggul Cave: Explore one of the world’s longest lava tubes, a unique and fascinating geological wonder.
- Jeongbang Waterfall: One of the few waterfalls in Asia that falls directly into the ocean: so an absolute must-see.
- Beaches: Relax on the island’s stunning beaches like Hyeopjae Beach or Woljeongri Beach, also known for their turquoise waters and white sands.
- Olle Walking Trails: A series of scenic coastal trails that showcase Jeju’s natural beauty and charming villages.
Jeju is also famous for its unique local food. Like black pork BBQ, Jeju mandarin oranges, and seafood straight from the Haenyeo (female divers) who harvest it.
The island offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Making it well worth a visit if you can spare a few more than 10 days in South Korea.
How to Spend 10 Days in South Korea
South Korea is a destination that’s packed with diverse experiences. From the buzz of Seoul to the historical charm of Gyeongju and also the coastal beauty of Busan.
This 10 days in South Korea itinerary gives you a taste of it all while leaving room for flexibility and exploration.
I absolutely loved my 10 days in South Korea, especially in Seoul, where I felt like I could’ve stayed forever. The energy, the food, and both the mix of old and new make it a destination that truly stands out.
So if you’re planning your trip, let this guide be your starting point for 10 days in South Korea. And prepare to also fall in love with this incredible country.
Have you been to South Korea? If so, let me know your favourite spots or what’s on your bucket list in the comments!
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