📍 South Korea

SOUTH KOREA ROAD TRIP: CULTURE, NATURE AND HERITAGE

Temple bells ringing across centuries, neon towers piercing night. South Korea, tradition and modernity.

≈ 11
Days
975
Km
5
Stops
📖 6 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Enter Seoul between markets and palaces, then head out to Sokcho at the foot of the mountains and facing the coast. In Gyeongju, follow the traces of dynasties among temples and tombs, before reaching Busan, a vibrant port where the city opens onto the sea. South Korea blends modernity, spirituality and landscapes.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Seoul

capital city pulses ancient and modern

🔍

Discover

1
Discovery of Gyeongbokgung palace and its gardens
2
Walk in the traditional district of Bukchon Hanok Village
🎯

Activities

Evening stroll in Insadong for artisan shops
2
Day

Seoul

capital city pulses ancient and modern

🔍

Discover

1
Panoramic view from N Seoul Tower on Mount Namsan
2
Discovery of Gwangjang market and tasting of local specialties
🎯

Activities

Night stroll along the Cheonggyecheon Stream
3
Day

Seoul

capital city pulses ancient and modern

🔍

Discover

1
Hike on the Jungnang Trail to Mount Yongmasan
2
Visit to the Starfield COEX library
🎯

Activities

Exploration of the modern Gangnam district
4
Day

Seoul

capital city pulses ancient and modern

🔍

Discover

1
Korean cooking class to learn traditional dishes
2
Stroll and shopping in Myeongdong
🎯

Activities

Discovery of Jogyesa Temple in the city center
5
Day

Seoul

capital city pulses ancient and modern

🔍

Discover

1
Trip to Everland amusement park
🎯

Activities

Relaxing evening in a jjimjilbang (Korean spa)
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 215 km
Travel time: 3h
6
Day

Sokcho

coastal mountains guard seorak beauty

🔍

Discover

1
Exploration of Seoraksan National Park
2
Climb to Gwongeunseong Fortress for a spectacular view
🎯

Activities

Walk on Sokcho Beach at sunset
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 260 km
Travel time: 3h30
7
Day

Busan

port city dazzles sea and energy

🔍

Discover

1
Discovery of Gamcheon Culture Village and its colorful murals
2
Visit to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple by the sea
🎯

Activities

Walk on Haeundae Beach and sunset watching
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 90 km
Travel time: 1h10
8
Day

Gyeongju

temple city preserves buddhist heritage

🔍

Discover

1
Visit to the royal tombs of Daereungwon
2
Exploration of Bulguksa Temple, UNESCO World Heritage site
3
Discovery of the pink grass of Gyeongju
🎯

Activities

Walk in the historic center of Gyeongju
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 170 km
Travel time: 2h30
9
Day

Jeonju

traditional town glows hanok charm

🔍

Discover

1
Discovery of the traditional village of Jeonju Hanok Village
2
Visit to Gyeonggijeon Shrine and its gardens
🎯

Activities

Trying on a traditional hanbok for cultural immersion
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 240 km
Travel time: 3h30
10
Day

Seoul

capital city pulses ancient and modern

🔍

Discover

1
Unusual activity of engraving a personal seal (dojang)
2
Walk along the Han River and relaxation in the surrounding parks
🎯

Activities

Last shopping in Namdaemun and Dongdaemun markets

🗺️ Itinerary map

🗺️ Nearby itineraries

🛡️ Travel advice - South Korea

Check official recommendations

UK Foreign Travel Advice →

❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Spring (April-May): Perfect weather, cherry blossoms, comfortable temperatures, clear skies, ideal touring, beautiful landscapes, peak season, advance booking recommended.

Fall (September-November): Excellent weather, autumn colors, comfortable temperatures, clear days, perfect hiking, beautiful foliage, ideal photography, outstanding conditions.

Summer (June-August): Hot humid weather, monsoon season, heavy rainfall, challenging conditions, festival season, vibrant atmosphere, air conditioning essential.

Winter (December-February): Cold weather, snow sports, winter festivals, clear skies, skiing opportunities, indoor attractions, cultural focus, dramatic beauty.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 9 and 13 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in South Korea?

Modern Asian tiger with ancient traditions, innovative technology, and vibrant pop culture. Experience Korean Wave entertainment, traditional palaces, and authentic Korean lifestyle. The country offers cultural innovation with historical depth and culinary excellence. South Korea provides dynamic cultural experiences with technological advancement and traditional preservation.