South Korea Destinations: Top Places To Visit

Daebak (Awesome)! South Korea is the ultimate travel spot for any seasoned traveler. South Korea has it all: passionate people, exquisite food, sleek design, and a deep culture. While the vibrant city of Seoul offers a plethora of activities to complete your Korean travel bucket list, there’s so much more to explore beyond the capital. We have listed out some of the most amazing places in South Korea here that you can visit and explore.

South Korea offers travelers beautiful landscapes and 5000 years of culture and history

Seoul – The Dazzling Capital City

Seoul, the best city in South Korea, is a perfect land of a blend of modern architecture, party vibes, pop culture, beautiful parks & glittering promenade. Seoul is not just a bustling urban center but boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture. With splendid palaces, trendy restaurants, and chic boutiques, Seoul is an enchanting place to visit in South Korea during autumn. Delve into the nation’s history at the National Museum and War Memorial. At the same time, the cool shopping district of Gangnam gives you a taste of the city’s luxurious side on your reasons to visit South Korea.

Truly a mega-city, Seoul offers something distinctly different to other Asian metropolises

Ideal for: Nightlife, Shopping, Culture, Architecture

Key attractions: Gyeongbokgung Palace (Deoksu Palace on Tue), Korean Folk Village, Lotte World amusement park, Bukhansan National Park, N Seoul Tower for panoramic views.

Jeju Island: A Breathtaking Island

Nestled just 85 kilometers off the coast, this enchanting island is one of South Korea’s most breathtaking destinations. Recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, Jeju-do’s pristine beauty will leave you spellbound. Immerse yourself in surreal white sand beaches surrounded by pine forests, explore volcanic craters and lava caves, wander through beautiful botanical gardens, and embrace the richness of its culture. Jeju-do is a natural paradise near Seoul that is an absolute must-visit, offering an ideal retreat for nature enthusiasts and avid photographers.

Discover our 10 DAY SOUTH KOREA WITH JEJU ISLAND to immerse yourself in this beach paradise.

Ideal for: Nature, Photography

Key attractions: Hyeopjae Beach, Hallim Park, O’sulloc Tea Museum, Sanbang Mountain Cruise, Cheonjeyeon Falls (The Pond of God), Seopjikoji Promontory

Gyeongju: A Treasure Trove Of Cultural Sites

One of the places to visit in South Korea in May, the coastal city of Gyeongju. Known as an open-air museum, Gyeongju is one of the best cities to discover its traditional roots and rich heritage. Once the capital of the ancient Silla kingdom, Gyeongju is a remarkable journey through a thousand years of cultural and historical richness. Uncover the UNESCO World Heritage site, Bulguksa Temple, and delve into the National Museum’s unparalleled collection of artifacts. From the serene Wolji Pond to the giant burial mounds of Tumuli Park, and the majestic Seokguram Grotto, Gyeongju is a treasure trove that offers insights into South Korea’s cultural roots.

Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju is the most famous Korean Buddhist temple in Korea 

Ideal for: Culture, History, Nature

Key attractions: Donggung Palace, Wolji Pond, Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto and Tumuli Park

Haeinsa Temple: Home to the World’s Oldest Intact Buddhist Canon

Did you know that the world’s oldest intact Buddhist canon is restored inside Haeinsa Temple which itself is 1200 years old? This curiosity alone is reason enough to visit, especially for avid Buddhist practitioners seeking a glimpse into the rich history of Korea. Immerse yourself in the serenity of Haeinsa Temple and explore other popular castles in Korea as you embark on a journey through the fascinating history of the region.

Haeinsa Temple consists of over 80,000 carved wooden blocks

Ideal for: Sightseeing, Religious

Key attractions: Janggyeong Panjeon, the oldest wooden Buddha Statue in Korea.

Chuncheon: Where Spectacular Lakes Meet Mighty Mountains

With its spectacular lakes and mighty mountains, Chuncheon stands as one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in South Korea. Serving as the capital city of Gangwon Province, Chuncheon has gained fame as the backdrop for numerous popular Korean soap operas, attracting visitors intrigued by this cultural connection. Beyond its screen-worthy landscapes, the city is celebrated as a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a paradise of Korean delicacies to savor.

Gongjicheon river and bridge in Chuncheon, Korea

Ideal for: Sightseeing

Key attractions: Namiseom Island and Cheongpyeong Lake

Busan: A Symphony of Skyscrapers and Beaches

If you’re exploring South Korea, overlooking Busan would be unjust. As the country’s second-largest city, Busan boasts global recognition for hosting Asia’s largest International film festival. It’s a captivating blend of towering skyscrapers, majestic mountains, pristine beaches, and awe-inspiring Buddhist temples, making it a must-visit destination in South Korea. Among the gems, are the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple along the coast and the vibrant Jagalchi fish market stands out. Food enthusiasts can indulge in a seafood feast at numerous restaurants or savor local delicacies at ubiquitous street food stalls.

Haeundae Beach attracts over 10 million visitors every season in Busan

Ideal for: Beaches, Culture, Food

Key attractions: Haeundae Beach (with the Sea Life Aquarium and Folk Square), Dalmaji-gil Road, Gwangalli Beach with stunning views of the Diamond Bridge, Hurshimchung Hot Springs

Pyeongchang County: Paradise For Hikers

Embrace tranquility amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of Pyeongchang, a must-visit destination in South Korea. Nestled in the Taebaek Mountains, this picturesque county, located 180 km away from Seoul, gained global recognition as the host of the prestigious Winter Olympics in February 2018. Pyeongchang offers a haven for hikers with trails winding up snow-peaked mountains, while ski resorts like Alpensia and Yongpyong attract enthusiasts of winter sports. The mountains also house beautiful Buddhist shrines, making Pyeongchang an ideal destination for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking spiritual serenity.

The Alpensia Sports Park in Pyeongchang was the focus of the 2018 Winter Olympics

Ideal for: Nature, Photography, Spirituality

Key Attractions: Seoraksan National Park, Sinheungsa-temple 

Seoraksan National Park: A Potential World Heritage Site

Nestled in the northeastern part of South Korea, Seoraksan National Park stands as a breathtaking natural wonder with its rugged peaks, lush valleys, and diverse ecosystems. Home to diverse flora and fauna, the park boasts stunning landscapes, including the iconic Ulsanbawi Rock and the scenic Seorak-san Mountain. Renowned for its vibrant autumn foliage, Seoraksan National Park is a haven for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking the tranquility of untouched wilderness. As you stroll through the 400000 sq km biosphere protection site, prepare to be awestruck by the giant Buddha statue on your path.

Ulsanbawi Rock Peak on Sunset. Seoraksan National Park, South Korea

Ideal for: Nature, Hiking, Photography

Key Attractions: Ulsanbawi Rock, Seorak-san Mountain, Biseondae Rock, Shinheungsa Temple

Seongsan Sunrise Peak: Where Sunset Unveils its Majesty

Situated on Jeju Island, Seongsan Sunrise Peak is a natural marvel that draws travelers for its stunning views, especially during sunset. Formed by volcanic activity, this peak offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape and the sparkling sea. Hiking to the summit rewards visitors with breathtaking sights as the sun gracefully dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the volcanic terrain. A visit to Seongsan Sunrise Peak promises an awe-inspiring experience, capturing the serenity of nature’s beauty.

Ideal for: Nature, Hiking, Photography

Key Attractions: Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, Aerial views of Jeju Island, Crater landscapes

Kyeong-Wha Station: Capturing the Essence of Cherry Blossoms

Known as one of the best spots to witness the beauty of cherry blossoms in South Korea, Kyeong-Wha Station transforms into a floral paradise during the blooming season. Situated on the Gyeongchun Line, this charming railway station is surrounded by cherry blossom trees, creating a picturesque scene that captures the essence of spring. Visitors can stroll through the station’s pathways, adorned with delicate pink petals, and experience the enchanting beauty of cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Kyeong-Wha Station is one of the most beautiful cherry blossom viewing sites in Korea 

Ideal for: Nature, Photography, Romantic Strolls

Key Attractions: Cherry Blossom-lined Pathways, Gyeongchun Line Railway Station

At Asia Vacation Group, you can explore all these famous destinations with our various South Korean tours. We customize each place to ensure you are thoroughly immersed in the beauty and culture of South Korea. If you need any information about South Korea tours, please contact us at 1800 229 339 for details.
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