Visiting Cities In South Korea In 10 Day Itinerary On A Budget

So you’re planning to visit the four major tourist cities in South Korea? That’s awesome because I’ll tell you exactly how to visit these most traveled places in this South Korea 10 day itinerary!

I’m gonna walk you through a budget-friendly 10-day vacation that’ll take you to four of the cities in South Korea: Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan, and Jeonju. Each of these places has its own unique charm, and I’ll tell you all about the must-see spots, mouthwatering foods to try, and how to get around without breaking the bank.

What You Need to Know Before Your South Korea Trip

First, let’s talk about some important things you gotta know before you hop on that plane. South Korea is one of the best travel destinations that changes a lot with the seasons, so when you go can make a big difference in what you’ll see and do.

Documents and Entry Rules for South Korea

Of course, you’ll need a passport that’s valid for at least six months after your planned return date. For most visitors from places like the US, Canada, and many European countries, you don’t need a visa if you’re staying less than 90 days.

But here’s the thing: rules can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the official Korean Visa Portal website before you go. They’ve got all the up-to-date info you need.

When you arrive in Korea, you’ll need to fill out an arrival card. As usual, you’ll need to write down your name, passport number, flight number, and where you’re staying in Korea.

If you’re not sure about your address, just write down the name of your first hotel. They’ll give you this card on the plane or you can grab one at the airport.

When’s the Best Time to Visit South Korea?

South Korea’s got four seasons. Spring, which runs from March to May, is a popular month to visit South Korea because of the cherry blossoms. These pretty pink flowers bloom all over the country, turning cities and countryside alike into a sea of pink.

Fall, from September to November, is also awesome because of all the colorful leaves. The mountains look like they’re on fire with all the red and gold trees!

Here’s a quick rundown of what each season’s like:

Season	Months	Average Temp (°C)	Pros	Cons	Special Events
Spring	Mar-May	7-19	Cherry blossoms, nice weather	Lots of tourists, pollen allergies	Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival (April)
Summer	Jun-Aug	22-28	Fun festivals, beach time	Hot and humid, rainy season	Boryeong Mud Festival (July)
Fall	Sep-Nov	7-21	Pretty fall colors, comfy weather	Can get busy with tourists	Jinju Lantern Festival (October)
Winter	Dec-Feb	-7-3	Snow activities, fewer tourists	Cold, some places might be closed	Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival (January)
All Year	–	–	K-pop concerts, Korean food	–	Various K-pop events throughout the year

From my experience, and from what experienced travelers said, the best times to visit South Korea are spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). The weather’s nice, and you get to see either the cherry blossoms or the autumn leaves.

But if you don’t mind the heat and want to hit the beaches, summer can be fun too. And winter? Well, if you love skiing or want to see Korea all covered in snow, December to February is your time!

What to Pack for 10 Days in South Korea

What you pack depends on when you’re going, but here are some things you definitely want to bring:

• Comfy shoes: You’re gonna do a ton of walking, so bring shoes that won’t hurt your feet. Think sneakers or comfortable walking shoes.
• Clothes for temples: When you visit temples, you need to cover your shoulders and knees. It’s a respect thing. Pack a light scarf or shawl to cover up if needed.
• Money: Bring some cash and cards. While many places in big cities in South Korea take cards, smaller shops, traditional markets, and street food places often prefer cash. You can easily exchange money at banks or use ATMs once you’re there.
• Powerbank: With all the photos you’ll be taking and maps you’ll be using, a portable charger can be a lifesaver.

Don’t worry too much if you forget something. You can buy most stuff in South Korea, so it’s not the end of the world if you leave something at home. Plus, shopping in Korea can be super fun!

Now that we’ve got the essentials covered, let’s dive into our South Korea 10 day itinerary and visit four major cities in South Korea on a budget!

Day 1: Your First Day in Seoul – From Airport to City Center

Woohoo! You’ve made it to Incheon International Airport. Welcome to South Korea! This huge, modern airport is like a mini-city itself, with shops, restaurants, and even a cultural center where you can experience Korean traditional culture while waiting for your bags. But let’s get you into Seoul and settle in.

Getting from Incheon Airport to Seoul

The easiest way to get to Seoul is by taking the AREX train. That stands for Airport Railroad Express. It’s fast, cheap, and leaves every 30 minutes from early morning till late at night.

Here’s the deal:

• It costs 9,500 won (that’s about $7.50)
• It takes 43 minutes to get to Seoul Station
• The first train leaves at 5:20 AM and the last one’s at 11:50 PM

You can buy your ticket at the AREX counter in the airport or use your T-money card (we’ll talk more about that later). The train is on the basement level of the airport – just follow the signs that say ‘Airport Railroad.’

When you get to Seoul Station, you can take a taxi or the subway to your hotel. If you’re staying in Myeongdong (which I recommend), you can take Subway Line 4 (light blue line) from Seoul Station to Myeongdong Station. It’s just two stops and takes about 5 minutes.

Where to Stay in Seoul on a Budget

Myeongdong’s a great area to stay in Seoul. It’s right in the middle of everything, there are tons of shops and restaurants, and it’s easy to get around from there. Here are some places that won’t break the bank:

• Guesthouse Myeongdong: This place has cozy rooms with shared bathrooms. It’s about 40,000 won (that’s $31) per night. The best part? It’s just a 3-minute walk from Myeongdong Station.
• Ibis Ambassador Seoul Myeongdong: This one’s a bit pricier at 100,000 won ($78) per night, but you get your own bathroom and more stuff like a TV and air conditioning. It’s a 5-minute walk from Euljiro 1-ga Station.
• Myeongdong Rooftop Hostel: If you’re really on a tight budget, this place offers dorm beds for about 20,000 won ($15) per night. It’s got a cool rooftop area where you can hang out and meet other travelers.

When you’re choosing where to stay, look for places near a subway station. Seoul’s subway system is awesome, and being close to a station will make your life so much easier.

Must-try Korean Foods on Your First Night

I bet you’re tired from your flight, but don’t go to bed without trying some Korean food! Here are some easy-to-find dishes that’ll give you a taste of Korea:

• Bibimbap: This is a bowl of rice topped with veggies, meat, and a fried egg. You mix it all up before you eat it. Try it at Gogung Myeongdong (29 Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul).
• Korean BBQ: At Korean BBQ places, you grill your own meat right at your table. It’s super fun and tasty! Check out Wangbijib (2-1 Namchang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul) for some great samgyeopsal (pork belly).
• Tteokbokki: These are chewy rice cakes in a spicy sauce. You’ll see people eating these at street food stalls all over Myeongdong. Look for the red sauce and the long, cylinder-shaped rice cakes.

These places cost about 12,000-20,000 won ($9-15) per person. That’s not too bad for your first taste of Korea!

After dinner, take a stroll around Myeongdong. The streets are usually bustling until late at night, with shops open and street food vendors everywhere. It’s a great way to get your first glimpse of nightlife in Seoul!

Day 2: See Seoul’s Old and New Sides in One Day

In this second day of our South Korea 10 day itinerary, we’re gonna see both the old-school and super modern parts of Seoul. Get ready for palaces, cool neighborhoods, and awesome city views!

Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village

Gyeongbokgung Palace is huge – it’s the biggest of Seoul’s five main palaces. It opens at 9 AM and costs 3,000 won ($2.50) to get in.

Try to catch the changing of the guard ceremony at 10 AM. It’s like a really cool show with guys in colorful traditional costumes doing a ceremonial guard change.

Gyeongbokgung was built in 1395 and was the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty. It’s got beautiful architecture and gardens, and you can easily spend a couple of hours exploring. Don’t miss the throne hall (Geunjeongjeon) and the king’s quarters (Gangnyeongjeon).

After you’re done at the palace, walk for about 10 minutes to Bukchon Hanok Village. This neighborhood is full of traditional Korean houses called hanoks.

A lot of them are now cafes, little museums, or places where people can stay. You can just wander around and take photos for free. It’s like stepping back in time!

In Bukchon, make sure to visit the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center. They often have free workshops where you can try traditional Korean crafts like making hand mirrors or painting fans.

Climb N Seoul Tower for City Views

In the afternoon, head to N Seoul Tower. You can take a cable car up Namsan mountain – it costs 9,500 won for a round trip. Then it’s another 10,000 won to go up the tower itself. The view of Seoul from up there is amazing, especially when the sun’s going down.

N Seoul Tower is 236 meters tall and sits on top of Namsan Mountain, which is already 243 meters high. So you’re getting a view from nearly 480 meters up! On a clear day, you can see all the way to the edges of Seoul and beyond.

While you’re up there, check out the locks of love on the fence around the tower. Couples put padlocks there and throw away the key as a symbol of their love. It’s pretty cute!

Hey, while you’re hanging out in Seoul, why not check out some day trips from Seoul South Korea to see what’s around? It’s a cool way to explore more of the country without going too far.

Shop and eat in Myeongdong

End your day in Myeongdong. This place is crazy busy but in a fun way. It’s great for buying clothes, makeup, and trying street food.

You gotta try some odeng (fish cake skewers) or hotteok (sweet pancakes) from the street vendors. Set aside about 8,000 won ($6) for snacks. You’ll probably end up buying more than you planned – the food’s that good!

Myeongdong is also a great place to buy Korean beauty products. Brands like Innisfree, Etude House, and Nature Republic have big stores here. Even if you’re not into makeup, the face masks make great souvenirs!

By the end of today, you’ll have seen Seoul’s royal past at Gyeongbokgung, its traditional side in Bukchon, its modern skyline from N Seoul Tower, and its bustling presence in Myeongdong. It’s a perfect Seoul sampler platter!

Day 3: Take a Day Trip to the DMZ from Seoul

We’re visiting the DMZ, which stands for Demilitarized Zone. It’s the border between North and South Korea, and it’s one of the most heavily guarded places in the world. It might sound scary, but it’s actually a popular tourist spot and totally safe to visit.

Join a DMZ Tour from Seoul

You can’t just go to the DMZ on your own – you have to join a tour. A good company to go with is Koridoor Tours. They’ll pick you up from Seoul City Hall at 8 AM.

Here’s what you need to know:

• It costs 85,000 won ($65)
• The tour takes about 6 hours
• They’ll take you to see the Third Tunnel (it’s one of several tunnels that North Korea dug to try to invade South Korea)
• You’ll also go to Dora Observatory where you can actually see into North Korea
• The last stop is usually Dorasan Station, which is the northernmost train station in South Korea

Make sure to bring your passport – you’ll need it to enter the DMZ. Also, there’s a dress code. No ripped jeans, sleeveless shirts, or flip-flops. You want to look respectful.

Learn About Korean History at the DMZ

This isn’t just a sightseeing trip – your third day in this South Korea itinerary 10 days is a chance to learn about the complicated history between North and South Korea.

Your guide will tell you all about the Korean War, which started in 1950 and led to the division of Korea into two countries.

At the Third Tunnel, you can actually go down into the tunnel that North Korea dug. It’s about 73 meters deep and 1.6 kilometers long. Don’t worry, it’s perfectly safe now, but it’s pretty mind-blowing to think about its original purpose.

At Dora Observatory, you’ll get to look into North Korea through binoculars. On a clear day, you can see the North Korean propaganda village of Kijong-dong. It’s a surreal experience to be so close to such a secretive country.

Try Local Food in Itaewon After Your Tour

You’ll get back to Seoul around 2 PM. For dinner, check out Itaewon. Itaewon is known for having all kinds of international restaurants. But don’t worry, you can still get Korean food here!

Try Vatos Urban Tacos for some Korean-Mexican fusion food. Their Kimchi Carnitas Fries are famous! It’ll cost you about 18,000 won ($14) per person, but it’s a fun way to end your day.

Itaewon is also a great place to experience Seoul’s nightlife. If you’re not too tired, stick around after dinner and check out some of the bars and clubs. Just remember, you’ve got another busy day tomorrow!

Day 4: Travel from Seoul to Gyeongju by Train

Time to say bye to Seoul and hello to Gyeongju! Gyeongju used to be the capital of Korea way back in ancient times, and it’s got tons of cool historical stuff to see. Today’s mostly a travel day, but we’ll still pack in some awesome sights!

Ride the KTX Train to Gyeongju

We’re gonna take the KTX train to get to Gyeongju. KTX stands for Korea Train Express, and it’s Korea’s super fast train. It’s comfy, and you get to see some nice countryside views on the way.

Here’s the lowdown:

• It costs 50,000 won ($39)
• The trip takes 2 hours
• The train leaves Seoul Station at 9 AM
• You’ll get to Singyeongju Station at 11 AM

Make sure you book your ticket ahead of time on the Korail website. That way, you’re sure to get a seat.

When you’re booking to Gyeongju, look for trains to “Singyeongju” station, not just “Gyeongju” – Singyeongju is the KTX station, while Gyeongju station is for slower trains.

When you’re on the KTX, keep an eye out the window. You’ll see South Korea’s beautiful countryside, with mountains, rice paddies, and small towns flashing by. It’s a great chance to see a different side of Korea outside the big cities.

Getting from Singyeongju Station to Your Hotel

When you get to Singyeongju Station, take a taxi to your hotel. It’ll cost about 10,000 won ($8) and take about 20 minutes. Tell the driver you’re going to “Gyeongju downtown” or show them the address of your hotel.

For accommodations, I recommend staying near Dongung Road or Hwangnidan-gil. These areas are close to many historical sites and have lots of cute cafes and restaurants. Here are a few options:

• Gyeongju GG Tourist Hotel: Mid-range option, about 80,000 won ($63) per night
• Hwangnamguan Hanok Stay: Traditional Korean house experience, around 60,000 won ($47) per night
• Apple Tree Guesthouse: Budget-friendly, about 30,000 won ($24) for a dorm bed

Visit Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto

After you drop off your luggage and other stuff, hop on Bus No. 10 or 11 to Bulguksa Temple. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes and costs 1,500 won ($1.20).

Bulguksa is this really beautiful Buddhist temple that’s been around since 751 AD. It’s so special that UNESCO made it a World Heritage site. It costs 5,000 won ($4) to get in.

When you’re at Bulguksa, don’t miss:

• Dabotap and Seokgatap: These two stone pagodas are national treasures of Korea
• Cheongungyo and Baegungyo: The “Blue Cloud Bridge” and “White Cloud Bridge” leading to the main temple
• Gwaneumjeon Hall: Dedicated to the Bodhisattva of compassion

From Bulguksa, you can take a shuttle bus to Seokguram Grotto. This is a man-made cave with an awesome Buddha statue inside.

Seokguram Grotto is another UNESCO site and costs another 5,000 won to see. The Buddha here is considered one of the finest Buddhist sculptures in the world.

Pro tip: The last shuttle from Seokguram back to Bulguksa is usually around 5:30 PM, so make sure you don’t miss it!

See Anapji Pond at Night

For dinner, try Ssambap Town near Anapji Pond. Ssambap is rice wrapped in lettuce leaves with all sorts of yummy side dishes. It’ll cost about 15,000 won ($12) per person. The restaurant is at 14 Cheomseong-ro, Gyeongju-si, and it’s open until 10 PM.

After you eat, take a walk around Anapji Pond (also known as Wolji Pond). It looks super pretty at night because it’s all lit up.

The Anapji Pond used to be part of a palace a long time ago, like back in the 7th century! When you see the buildings reflected in the water, it looks like something out of a fairy tale!

Anapji is open until 10 PM in the summer (March to October) and 9 PM in the winter. The entrance fee is 3,000 won ($2.50).

As you walk around, imagine the Silla royal family having parties here over 1,300 years ago. Pretty cool, right?

Day 5: Walk Through Gyeongju’s Ancient Sites

On the fifth day of our 10 day South Korea itinerary, we’re going to explore why people often call Gyeongju “the museum without walls”. This city was the capital of the Silla Kingdom for almost 1,000 years, from 57 BC to 935 AD. That’s a lot of history! Let’s dive in.

Tour Gyeongju National Museum

Start your day at the Gyeongju National Museum. It’s free to get in and opens at 10 AM. This place has a ton of cool stuff from the Silla Dynasty. Here’s what you absolutely can’t miss:

• Emille Bell: This massive bronze bell from 771 AD is one of the largest and most beautiful bells in Korea. It’s 3.75 meters tall and weighs 18.9 tons!
• Gold Crown of Silla: This stunning 5th-century golden crown shows just how skilled Silla craftsmen were.
• Bangasayusang (Pensive Bodhisattva): This beautiful statue from the 7th century is considered one of the finest Buddhist sculptures in Korea.

The Gyeongju National Museum is huge, so give yourself at least 2 hours to explore. There are English explanations for most exhibits, but if you want more info, you can rent an audio guide for 3,000 won.

Explore Tumuli Park and Cheomseongdae Observatory

After lunch (try the local specialty, Gyeongju bread, from a nearby bakery – it’s a pastry filled with red bean paste), head over to Tumuli Park.

The Tumuli Park is full of big grassy hills, but they’re not just hills – they’re actually ancient royal tombs! The largest one, Hwangnam Daechong, is 80 meters wide and 23 meters high.

Here’s a cool fact: when archaeologists opened some of these tombs in Tumuli Park, they found amazing treasures inside, like gold crowns and jade jewelry. Most of that stuff is now in the Gyeongju National Museum you just visited.

It costs 3,000 won ($2.50) to get into the Tumuli park. While you’re there, you can go inside Cheonmachong tomb. It’s the only one that’s open to the public, and inside you can see how the tomb was structured and some replicas of the treasures found there.

Near the park, you’ll find Cheomseongdae Observatory. This little tower is the oldest star-gazing place in Asia. It was built way back in 634 AD under Queen Seondeok of Silla. It’s only 9 meters tall but it’s got 362 stones – some people think that’s one for each day of the lunar year.

You can’t go inside Cheomseongdae, but it’s still pretty cool to see. It’s amazing to think that people were studying the stars from this tower nearly 1,400 years ago!

Taste Gyeongju’s Special Bread and Local Dishes

For a snack, try some Gyeongju bread from Hwangnam Bakery. It’s a local special treat filled with red bean paste. A box costs about 5,000 won ($4). The original shop is at 380 Jungbu-daero, and it’s been making this bread since 1939!

For dinner, go to Dosol Maeul for some Korean temple food. It’s all vegetarian and uses whatever veggies are in season. The address is 674-9 Bomun-ro, and you’ll pay about 15,000 won ($12) per person.

Yeah, temple food might sound plain, but it’s actually super flavorful and healthy. Plus, it’s a great way to experience a different side of Korean cuisine.

After dinner, if you’re not too tired, take a stroll around Bomun Lake. It’s a peaceful area with nice walking paths, and it’s pretty at night when it’s all lit up.

Day 6: Head to Busan for Beach and City Views

Rise and shine! Today we’re off to Busan, Korea’s second-largest city and a popular beach destination. Busan’s got a totally different vibe from Gyeongju – it’s modern, bustling, and right on the sea. Let’s go!

Take the bus from Gyeongju to Busan

The easiest way to get from Gyeongju to Busan is by bus. Here’s what you need to know:

• It costs 7,000 won ($5.50)
• The trip takes about 1.5 hours
• Catch the bus at Gyeongju Bus Terminal at 9 AM
• You’ll get to Busan Central Bus Terminal around 10:30 AM

The bus is comfortable and you’ll get to see some nice scenery on the way. Keep an eye out for the coastline as you get closer to Busan!

From the bus terminal in Busan, take a taxi to your hotel in Haeundae. It’ll cost about 10,000 won ($8) and take about 20 minutes. Tell the driver “Haeundae Beach” (해운대 해수욕장) in Korean if you can!

For your stay in Busan, I recommend:

• Aria Hotel: Mid-range option near the beach, about 100,000 won ($78) per night
• Bombom Boutique Hotel: Budget-friendly choice, around 60,000 won ($47) per night
• Haeundae Guesthouse: Super cheap option with dorm beds from 20,000 won ($15) per night

Relax at Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach is Busan’s most famous beach. It’s a 1.5-kilometer stretch of soft sand and clear water. It’s a great place to chill out, go for a swim, or just watch people.

You can rent beach umbrellas and chairs at Haeundae Beach if you want some shade. Spend a couple of hours here just soaking up the sun and sea air.

Fun fact: Haeundae Beach holds a Guinness World Record for the most parasols on a beach, with over 40,000 parasols set up during peak season!

For lunch, try some seafood at Haeundae Pojangmacha (포장마차) near the beach. These are little tented food stalls that serve fresh seafood.

Try the grilled scallops or spicy seafood soup. Set aside about 15,000 won ($12) per person for your meal.

Walk around Dongbaekseom Island

In the afternoon, take a walk to Dongbaekseom Island. It’s not really an island – it’s connected to Haeundae Beach. There’s a nice walking trail with great views of the ocean and the Busan skyline. The trail is about 1.5 kilometers long and takes about 30-40 minutes to walk.

Make sure you check out the Nurimaru APEC House – it’s this modern building where they held a big international meeting in 2005. It’s free to visit and open until 5 PM. From here, you get an awesome view of Gwangan Bridge and Oryukdo Islands.

Also on Dongbaekseom, look for the statue of the mermaid princess. It’s based on a local legend about a princess who fell in love with a sea god. It’s a popular spot for photos!

Evening in Gwangalli

For dinner and a beautiful night view, head to Gwangalli Beach. Take a taxi from Haeundae – it’ll cost about 10,000 won ($8) and take 15 minutes.

Try Millak Raw Fish Town for dinner. It’s a whole street of restaurants specializing in hoe (raw fish).

Pick a restaurant that looks busy (always a good sign!) and enjoy super fresh seafood with a view of Gwangan Bridge all lit up at night. Expect to pay about 20,000 won ($15) per person.

After dinner, take a stroll along Gwangalli Beach. The view of Gwangan Bridge all lit up is spectacular.

Gwangan Bridge is known as the “Diamond Bridge” because of how it sparkles at night. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a fireworks show – they sometimes have them on Saturday nights in the summer.

Day 7: See Busan’s Colorful Sights and Fresh Fish Market

Good morning! Today we’re going to explore more of Busan’s unique sights and flavors. Get ready for a day full of colors, smells, and tastes!

Visit Gamcheon Culture Village

Start your seventh day on this 10 day itinerary South Korea at Gamcheon Culture Village. This neighborhood is on a hillside and it’s known for its colorful houses and narrow alleys full of art. It used to be a poor area but now it’s this really creative community.

Take Bus No. 2 or a taxi from Haeundae. It’ll take about 40 minutes. There’s no entry fee, but they ask for a 2,000 won ($1.50) donation. Here’s what to look out for:

• Little Prince and Fox statues: These are based on the book “The Little Prince” and are great for photos.
• Fish-shaped wooden boards: Write a wish on these and hang them up.
• Wall murals: There are tons of cool paintings all over the village.

Spend a couple of hours exploring the murals and little shops. Don’t forget to climb up to one of the observation decks for a great view of all the colorful houses!

Pro tip: Buy a Gamcheon village map for 2,000 won at the information center. It has a stamp tour course that’s fun to follow!

Buy Fresh Seafood at Jagalchi Fish Market

Next, head to Jagalchi Fish Market. This is the biggest seafood market in all of Korea. It might smell a bit fishy, but it’s super lively!

To get to Jagalchi Fish Market, take the subway from Toseong Station (near Gamcheon) to Jagalchi Station. It’s about a 20-minute ride.

At Jagalchi, you can buy fresh seafood and have it cooked for you at a restaurant right there. Here’s how it works:

• Choose your seafood from the vendors on the first floor. They’ll keep it alive in tanks.
• Take your seafood upstairs to one of the restaurants.
• Tell them how you want it prepared (raw, grilled, in a stew, etc.).
• Enjoy your super fresh meal!

For lunch, try some raw fish (they call it hoe) or a spicy fish stew. Set aside about 15,000 won ($12) per person for your meal.

Fun fact: Jagalchi Market is famous for its ajummas (middle-aged women) who sell fish. They’re known for being tough and no-nonsense, but also kind-hearted.

Get a Bird’s Eye View from Busan Tower

End your seventh day with a visit to Busan Tower which is a 15-minute walk from Jagalchi Market. The Busan Tower is 120 meters tall and gives you an awesome view of the city and the harbor.

• It costs 8,000 won ($6.50) to go up
• It’s open from 10 AM to 11 PM
• The elevator ride to the top takes just 100 seconds!

From the top of Busan Tower, you can see Nampo-dong (the shopping area below), Jagalchi Market, and even Gamcheon Culture Village in the distance. There’s a cafe at the top if you want to enjoy the view with a coffee.

For dinner, explore the food stalls at nearby BIFF Square. BIFF stands for Busan International Film Festival, which happens here every year. You can try all sorts of South Korean street food here. Budget about 15,000 won ($12) for a variety of snacks.

Day 8: Go to Jeonju, the Food Capital of Korea

Time to head to Jeonju, a city that’s famous for its food and traditional culture. Jeonju is where bibimbap was born, and it’s also known for its beautiful hanok (traditional Korean house) village.

Ride the KTX to Jeonju

We’re taking the KTX train again, this time from Busan to Jeonju. Here’s what you need to know:

• It cost 45,000 won (that’s about $35)
• The trip takes about 2.5 hours
• The train leaves Busan Station at 9 AM
• You’ll get to Jeonju Station around 11:30 AM

When you get to Jeonju Station, grab a taxi to Jeonju Hanok Village. That’s where you’ll be staying. The ride takes about 10 minutes and costs around 5,000 won ($4). Just tell the driver “Hanok Maeul” (한옥마을) and they’ll know where to go.

Stay in a Traditional Hanok House

In Jeonju, you can stay in a traditional Korean house called a hanok. These houses are super cool – they have ondol, which is floor heating, and you sleep on a mattress on the floor.

A night in a hanok usually costs about 50,000 won ($39). Here are a couple good options:

• Hakindang House: This place is over 100 years old and has a beautiful garden. It’s at 99-1 Gyo-dong, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si.
• Yangsajae Hanok Guesthouse: They offer traditional tea ceremonies here. You can find it at 70-3 Eunhaeng-ro, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si.

When you check in, your host will usually show you how to use the ondol heating and where to find extra blankets. Don’t be shy about asking questions – most hosts are happy to share about Hanok culture!

Try Jeonju’s Famous Bibimbap

Jeonju is where bibimbap was born. For lunch, go to Gogung restaurant. They’re famous for their Jeonju-style bibimbap.

• It costs about 12,000 won ($9) per person
• You can find it at 226-10, Jeonjugaeksa 5-gil, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si
• They’re open from 9 AM to 9 PM

What makes Jeonju bibimbap special? It’s all about the quality of ingredients. They use locally grown vegetables, tender beef, and a special red pepper paste called gochujang. The dish is served in a brass bowl, which keeps it nice and warm.

When your bibimbap arrives, mix it all together before eating. The egg yolk and gochujang will coat all the ingredients, making every bite delicious!

Explore Jeonju Hanok Village

After lunch, spend some time exploring Jeonju Hanok Village. There are over 800 traditional Korean houses here! Here are some spots you shouldn’t miss:

• Gyeonggijeon Shrine: This shrine houses a portrait of King Taejo, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty. Entry fee is 3,000 won ($2.50).
• Omokdae: This pavilion offers great views of the hanok village. It’s free to visit.
• Jeonju Traditional Wine Museum: Learn about Korean traditional alcoholic beverages. Entry is just 1,000 won ($0.80).
• Jeonju Hanok Living Experience Center: Here you can try on hanbok (traditional Korean clothes) and learn about hanok architecture. Entry is 3,000 won ($2.50).

As you walk around, you’ll see lots of people wearing hanbok. Many tourists rent these colorful traditional outfits for photos. If you want to join in, there are many rental shops in the village. Prices start from about 10,000 won ($8) for two hours.

Evening in Jeonju Hanok Village

For dinner, try Hankookjib restaurant for a full Korean meal called hanjeongsik. It’s like a Korean feast with lots of little dishes. It’ll cost about 15,000 won ($12) per person. You can find it at 7-1 Omokdae-gil, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si.

After dinner, take an evening stroll through the hanok village. It’s beautifully lit up at night, creating a romantic atmosphere. Stop by one of the many traditional teahouses for a cup of Korean tea. Try Yetchon Makgeolli if you want to taste Jeonju’s famous rice wine.

Day 9: Learn About Korean Culture in Jeonju

Hope you slept well in your hanok. Your ninth day in this itinerary South Korea 10 days is all about diving deep into Korean culture right here in Jeonju. We’re going to learn how to make kimchi, try some traditional Korean games, and end the day with a special dinner.

Visit Jeonju Hanok Village (Again!)

Start your day with another walk around Jeonju Hanok Village. In the morning light, you might notice details you missed yesterday. This time, let’s focus on some specific cultural experiences:

• Hanji (Korean paper) Workshop: Visit the Jeonju Korean Traditional Paper Center. You can make your own hanji products like fans or small boxes. It costs about 5,000 won ($4) and takes about an hour.
• Traditional Archery: Head to the Jeonju Traditional Archery Center. For 3,000 won ($2.50), you can try your hand at Korean traditional archery. It’s harder than it looks!
• Gyeonggijeon Shrine: If you didn’t go yesterday, make sure to visit today. Besides the portrait of King Taejo, there’s a beautiful garden that’s perfect for a morning stroll.

Make Kimchi in a Cooking Class

In the afternoon, join a cooking class to learn how to make kimchi. Kimchi is this famous Korean side dish made of fermented veggies. It’s spicy, tangy, and super healthy.

A good place for this is the Jeonju Cooking Studio. Here’s what you need to know:

• Address: 55 Taejo-ro, Jeonju-si (near Gyeonggijeon Shrine)
• Cost: 30,000 won ($24) per person
• Duration: About 2 hours
• They provide all ingredients and tools

During the kimchi-making class, you’ll learn about the history of kimchi, the science behind fermentation, and of course, how to mix up the perfect kimchi seasoning. You’ll make enough to take some back with you – it makes a great souvenir!

Try Traditional Korean Games

After your cooking class, head to the Traditional Korean Game Center in the hanok village. Here, you can try some fun old-school Korean games:

• Tuho: A game where you throw arrows into a long-necked jar from a set distance.
• Yut Nori: A board game played with four wooden sticks instead of dice.
• Jegichagi: Kind of like hacky sack, but with a small object wrapped in paper.

It’s free to try these games, and the staff can explain the rules to you in English. It’s a fun way to experience Korean culture and maybe even play with some local kids!

Drink Makgeolli at a Local Bar

For dinner and drinks, try some makgeolli. It’s a kind of Korean rice wine that’s a bit fizzy and milky-looking. Jeonju is famous for its makgeolli, and there are lots of cool bars where you can try it.

Check out Yetchon Makgeolli. They serve makgeolli with lots of yummy side dishes. Here’s the info:

• Address: 30 Eunhaeng-ro, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si
• Cost: About 12,000 won ($9) per person
• Open from 11 AM to 10 PM

Insider tip: Koreans usually share their food and drinks, so don’t be shy about digging in! The more side dishes you try, the more authentic your makgeolli experience will be.

If you’re still hungry after, wander through the streets of the hanok village. There are lots of street food vendors selling late-night snacks like hotteok (sweet pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).

Day 10: Return to Seoul for Your Last Day in Korea

It’s your last day in Korea – let’s make it count! We’re heading back to Seoul for some last-minute fun before you fly home. There’s still so much to see and do in this South Korea 10 day itinerary, so let’s get started!

Take the Train Back to Seoul

Time to hop on the KTX one last time. Here’s the deal:

• The train from Jeonju to Seoul costs about 35,000 won ($27.50)
• It takes about 1.5 hours
• Try to catch the 9 AM train so you have plenty of time in Seoul

When you get to Seoul Station, you can store your luggage in a locker if you need to. It costs about 3,000 won ($2.50) for a small locker and 4,000 won ($3) for a large one. They’re usually located near the main concourse.

Do Last-Minute Shopping at Gwangjang Market

For your last bit of Korean culture, head to Gwangjang Market. This is one of the oldest markets in Seoul and it’s packed with food stalls, fabric shops, and all sorts of cool stuff. It’s about a 15-minute subway ride from Seoul Station to Jongno 5-ga Station.

Here are some things you absolutely must try here:

• Bindaetteok: These are mung bean pancakes and they’re super crispy and delicious. Look for the stalls with big iron griddles.
• Mayak Gimbap: The name means “addictive seaweed rice rolls” and trust me, they live up to the name! They’re tiny rolls of rice and vegetables wrapped in seaweed.
• Yukhoe: If you’re feeling adventurous, try this Korean-style beef tartare. It’s raw beef mixed with pear, egg yolk, and sesame oil.

Budget about 10,000 won ($8) for food here. It’s a great place to buy some last-minute souvenirs too! Look for things like traditional Korean snacks, tea, or small handicrafts.

Visit Namsan Seoul Tower One Last Time

For your final activity in Seoul, head back to Namsan Seoul Tower. Yeah, we went there on Day 2, but trust me, it’s worth a second visit! This time, we’re going for the sunset view.

Take the cable car up around 5 PM (sunset is usually around 6-7 PM, depending on the time of year). Spend some time walking around the top of Namsan Mountain before heading up the tower.

As the sun sets, watch as the city lights start to twinkle on. It’s a magical way to say goodbye to Seoul. Don’t forget to make a wish at the “Locks of Love” fence!

After all that sightseeing, you’ve gotta try a Korean sauna or jjimjilbang. Trust me, it’s the best way to chill out and do as the locals do. You’ll love it!

Get to Incheon Airport for Your Flight Home

To get back to Incheon Airport, take the AREX train from Seoul Station. Remember:

• It costs 9,500 won ($7.50)
• The trip takes 43 minutes
• Trains run from 5:20 AM to 11:50 PM

Make sure you get to the airport at least 3 hours before your international flight. That gives you plenty of time to check in, go through security, and maybe do a bit of duty-free shopping.

Helpful Tips for Hassle-Free Travel in South Korea and Save Money

Using T-Money Cards on Public Transport

T-money cards are super handy cards you can use on buses, subways, and even in some taxis all over Korea. Here’s what you need to know:

• The card itself costs 2,500 won ($2), and you can load it with as much money as you want.
• You can buy and reload T-money cards at convenience stores like 7-Eleven or CU and at subway stations.
• Using a T-money card is a bit cheaper than buying single-journey tickets each time. You save about 100 won per trip.
• You just tap the card when you get on and off buses or enter and exit subway stations.
• If you have any money left on your card at the end of your trip, you can get a refund at the airport or at subway stations.

Pro tip: You can also use T-money cards to pay at some convenience stores and even vending machines!

Finding Good Deals on Hotels and Food

Here are some ways to save money on accommodation and food:

• Stay in guesthouses or hostels instead of hotels in South Korea. They’re often cheaper and you get to meet other travelers.
• Look for “lunch set” deals at restaurants. Many places offer cheaper prices for the same food at lunch compared to dinner.
• Try street food! It’s delicious, cheap, and a big part of Korean culture. A full meal of street food can cost as little as 5,000 won ($4).
• Use apps like MangoPlate or Dining Code to find good, affordable restaurants near you. These apps have English versions and user reviews.
• If you’re staying in one city for a few days, consider renting an Airbnb with a kitchen. You can save money by cooking some of your meals.

Tipping Rules in South Korea

Tipping isn’t really a thing in Korea. In fact, some people might even feel offended if you try to tip them. Here’s the deal:

• At restaurants: No need to tip. The service charge is usually included in your bill.
• Taxis: Just pay the fare shown on the meter. Round up to the nearest 100 won if you want.
• Hotels: If someone helps with your bags, a small tip (1,000-2,000 won) is okay, but not expected.
• Tour guides: If you’re on a private tour and the guide does an exceptional job, a tip of about 10% is appreciated but not required.

Apps and Gadgets to Make Your Korea Trip Easier

Having the right apps and gadgets can make your South Korea 10 day itinerary so much smoother. Here are some must-haves:

• Naver Maps: This is better than Google Maps in Korea. It has more accurate info about public transport and even shows you which subway car to get on for easy transfers.
• Papago: This translation app works really well for Korean language. You can type, speak, or even take pictures of text to translate.
• KakaoTalk: This is the messaging app everyone in Korea uses. It’s good to have if you need to contact local friends or businesses.
• Subway Korea: This app gives real-time info on subway schedules and can help you plan your routes.

Where to Get a SIM Card or Wi-Fi Device in South Korea

You can get a SIM card or rent a portable Wi-Fi device right at Incheon Airport when you arrive. Here’s what you need to know:

• SIM Card: A 10-day unlimited data SIM card costs about 30,000 won ($24). You can buy these at the KT Olleh, SK Telecom, or LG U+ counters at the airport.
• Portable Wi-Fi: These cost about 5,000 won ($4) per day to rent. You can get them from places like WifiDosirak or Trazy in the airport.

Both options usually offer unlimited data, which is great for using maps and translation apps on the go.

Power Adapters You’ll Need in South Korea

Korea uses 220V power with Type C or Type F sockets. If you’re coming from a country that uses different plugs, you’ll need an adapter. You can buy these at the airport or at electronics stores in Korea for about 5,000 won ($4).

Pro tip: Many newer electronics (like phone chargers and laptop adapters) are dual voltage, meaning they can handle both 110V and 220V. Check your devices before you go – you might only need a plug adapter, not a voltage converter.

Plan Your South Korea 10 Day Itinerary Now!

Remember, Korea isn’t just a place to visit – it’s a place to experience. The friends you’ve made, the food you’ve tasted, the sights you’ve seen… all of these will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. And who knows? Maybe you’re already planning your next trip back!

Safe travels, and 안녕히 가세요 (annyeonghi gaseyo) – that means “go in peace” in Korean. It’s a common farewell that perfectly captures the warmth and hospitality you’ve experienced throughout your South Korea 10 day itinerary.