15 Best Cities to Visit in South Korea (with Guide!)

Planning a trip to South Korea but overwhelmed by the choices? With so many incredible cities, it's hard to know where to start. Do you crave the vibrant energy of Seoul, the historical charm of Gyeongju, or the coastal beauty of Busan? Maybe you're yearning for the tranquility of mountain landscapes or the thrill of exploring hidden gems.

Don't worry; we've got you covered! This guide from TravelThru will give you the best cities to visit in South Korea, catering to every interest and travel style. Get ready to discover your perfect Korean adventure.

Places to Visit in South Korea for First-Timers

1. Seoul

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a vibrant mix of old and new. You'll find sleek modern buildings alongside ancient temples and bustling streets filled with both high-end shops and traditional markets. Foodies should head to Gwangjang Market to sample delicious Korean street food like mung bean pancakes and spicy rice cakes.

History buffs will love exploring Seoul's grand palaces, like Gyeongbokgung and Deoksugung, while those seeking amazing views can visit the iconic N Seoul Tower. For a more spiritual experience, the Jogyesa Buddhist Temple is a must-see. And if you're looking for entertainment, Lotte World offers a huge theme park, shopping, and much more.

Fashionistas will be in paradise in Myeong-dong, a district packed with trendy shops and international brands. The area also boasts a diverse food scene, with everything from Korean BBQ to Thai noodles. K-pop fans can also delve into the history of their favorite music at the K-Pop Museum.

>>> More destinations for your South Korea itinerary!

2. Busan

Busan, a bustling coastal city in South Korea, is deeply rooted in its maritime heritage. Its port, a vital hub for the country's trade and the sixth busiest worldwide reflects this strong connection to the sea. To delve into the city's fascinating history, visit the Busan Modern History Museum near the port.

Beyond the bustling harbor, Busan offers a diverse range of attractions along its picturesque coastline. Discover stunning beaches, scenic parks, and observation points with breathtaking views. You can even find Haedong Yonggungsa, a rare Buddhist temple perched on the cliffs overlooking the ocean.

For a taste of Busan's fresh seafood, head to Jagalchi, South Korea's largest fish market. Here, you can choose your own seafood and have it cooked to your liking in the restaurants above. Another must-try is jogae gui, grilled shellfish served with delicious dipping sauces, which you can find at restaurants along the beach.

3. Jeonju

Jeonju stands as a key cultural and spiritual center in South Korea, featuring numerous historic and cultural sites. The highlight for many visitors is the famous Hanok Village, where you can experience traditional Korean architecture, customs, and regional crafts all in one place.

Wandering through Jeonju's enchanting streets, you'll encounter picturesque temples and hidden alleyways lined with inviting cafes and restaurants. Don't miss the chance to savor bibimbap, a flavorful mixed rice dish that originated in the region.

To further immerse yourself in Jeonju's captivating past, be sure to visit the Jeonju National Museum. Its impressive collection showcases the region's fascinating history and cultural treasures.

4. Daegu

Daegu, located in North Gyeongsang Province, offers a diverse mix of urban and natural attractions. The city features several notable sites, including the expansive Daegu Arboretum, with its 21 distinct gardens containing thousands of plant species. Visitors can enjoy city views from the towering Daegu 83 Tower, complete with dining options, or spend time at E-world, a European-inspired amusement park featuring various entertainment options, from rides to art exhibits.

The city's commercial heart beats at Seomun Market, a massive traditional marketplace housing over 4,000 vendors. While primarily known for textiles, the market offers everything from clothing to handicrafts.

Nature enthusiasts can explore Biseulsan Natural Recreation Forest, which transforms with the seasons - offering winter sledding and spring wildflower displays. The forest includes camping facilities and cabin accommodations alongside hiking trails and a scenic pond. For a peaceful retreat, the Pagye Buddhist Temple in Palgongsan Park provides a serene atmosphere, particularly stunning during autumn when the surrounding foliage turns to vibrant colors.

5. Incheon

​​Incheon is more than just the home of Incheon International Airport. It boasts a variety of attractions, from serene parks to vibrant cultural sites. Incheon Grand Park, nestled between the Gwanmosan and Sangasan Mountains, offers a tranquil escape with its walking trails, bike paths, zoos, and botanical gardens.

For cultural immersion, explore the beautifully adorned Heungryunsa and Jeondeungsa Temples, showcasing traditional Korean Buddhist architecture.

Looking for excitement? Head to Wolmi Theme Park for classic amusement park rides, or wander through the whimsical Songwol-dong Fairytale Village, where buildings are painted in a kaleidoscope of colors and depict scenes from beloved fairy tales. For those seeking retail therapy, the Hyundai Premium Outlets Songdo provides a chance to snag designer labels at discounted prices.

6. Daejeon

Daejeon, situated along the Geum River, offers a mix of cultural and entertainment venues. The city caters to those seeking knowledge through its National Science Museum and Museum of Art, while the Daejeon Skyroad provides a vibrant commercial strip with various shops and eateries. The area becomes particularly picturesque in spring when cherry blossoms bloom along the nearby creek.

Families will love Daejeon O-World, a comprehensive theme park featuring Zoo Land, with its impressive collection of 600 animals; Flower Land, boasting beautiful flower fields and themed gardens; and Joy Land, offering amusement rides, waterslides, and even sledding.

For a taste of local life, head to Daejeon Jungang Market. This bustling market offers a variety of specialized streets selling everything from fresh seafood and traditional hanbok clothing to local delicacies, jewelry, and household goods. Conveniently located next to Daejeon Railway Station, it's the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and experience the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Best Cities to Visit in South Korea for History Buffs

7. Andong

Andong, the capital of Gyeongsangbuk-do, is known as "the capital of Korean spirit" because it's a hub of Confucian culture. Here, you can discover traditional treasures like wooden masks and soju, Korea's national drink.

The crown jewel of the city is the UNESCO-recognized Hahoe Folk Village, where you can experience an authentic Joseon-era lifestyle, complete with traditional workshops and distinctive straw-roofed choga houses. You can even stay overnight in a guesthouse within the village.

Delve into the world of Korean masks at the Hahoe Mask Museum, where you'll find a collection of expressive masks representing various characters like aristocrats and monks. If you visit in autumn, don't miss the Andong Maskdance Festival to see these masks come alive in theatrical performances. Andong also offers Confucian academies to explore, the Soju Museum to sample local vodka, and restaurants serving the city's signature dish, "jjimdak" (soy-braised chicken).

8. Gyeongju

Gyeongju, often called 'the museum without walls,' boasts a remarkable 2000-year legacy filled with archaeological treasures, particularly from its era as the Silla Kingdom's capital. The city's landscape is dotted with ancient sites, making it a living monument to Korean history.

The city center serves as an open-air museum featuring ancient burial mounds, elegant pagodas, and traditional architecture. For those seeking a more formal collection of historical artifacts, the Gyeongju National Museum offers an extensive display of local treasures.

Among the city's most notable attractions are the eighth-century Bulguksa Temple and the nearby Seokguram Grotto. These UNESCO sites showcase exquisite Buddhist artistry and stand as testaments to Buddhism's profound influence on the region's cultural development.

9. Suwon

Although often overshadowed by Seoul, Suwon is a convenient and rewarding day trip from the capital.

This bustling city, now a major industrial hub and home to Samsung Electronics, offers a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants, and shops. For those seeking lively nightlife, Ingyedong is the place to be.

However, Suwon's main attraction is Hwaseong, a magnificent 18th-century fortress located in the heart of the city. With its winding walls and imposing towers, it's a captivating place to explore.

Best Places to Visit in South Korea for Nature Lovers

10. Changwon

Unlike the bustling atmosphere of Seoul or Busan, this coastal city in South Gyeongsang Province provides visitors with a more relaxed pace and abundant green spaces, making it one of the best cities to visit in South Korea for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Nature lovers will particularly appreciate the annual Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, one of the largest and most spectacular cherry blossom celebrations in South Korea. Each spring, roughly 360,000 cherry trees burst into bloom, transforming the city into a pink paradise. The festival, which typically runs from late March to early April, draws millions of visitors who come to witness this breathtaking natural display.

For those interested in maritime heritage, the Changwon National Maritime Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Korea's seafaring history. Located along the coast, this modern facility features interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and educational programs that showcase the region's rich maritime culture.

11. Boseong

Located in South Jeolla Province, this picturesque region offers nature lovers an unforgettable landscape that seems to have been painted with countless shades of green.

The iconic Boseong Green Tea Fields, particularly the Daehan Dawon Tea Plantation, ranks as one of the most photographed natural attractions. These meticulously maintained terraces create a mesmerizing pattern across the hillsides, where neat rows of tea plants stretch as far as the eye can see.

Beyond its famous tea plantations, Boseong enchants visitors with its serene bamboo forests and coastal views along the South Sea. You can explore peaceful walking trails that wind through the tea fields and surrounding woods.

12. Sokcho

For nature enthusiasts exploring the best cities to visit in South Korea, Sokcho emerges as a stunning coastal gem nestled between the East Sea and the majestic Seoraksan National Park.

The city's proximity to Seoraksan National Park, one of Korea's most spectacular natural treasures, makes it an ideal base for outdoor adventures. You can explore numerous hiking trails that wind through dramatic peaks, crystal-clear streams, and ancient temples hidden within the mountains. During autumn, the park transforms into a canvas of vibrant reds and gold, making it a photogenic spot for your Instagram posts.

Sokcho's beautiful beaches and fishing ports offer another dimension to its natural appeal. The famous Sokcho Beach provides a perfect setting for both relaxation and water activities. You can start your day watching fishing boats return with their fresh catch at the bustling Sokcho Port, then spend your evening strolling along the romantic Gaetbae Bridge, where the sunset paints the sky in spectacular colors over Cheongcho Lake.

13. Jeju City

Jeju City is the perfect destination for a tropical beach getaway. With its scenic beauty, the city boasts numerous beaches and parks, including Hamdeok, Hyeopjae, and Woljeongri, all offering breathtaking views of the island's azure waters.

Beyond the beaches, Jeju City also features several captivating forests. Hike the trails, enjoy a picnic, or climb a volcanic hill at Jeolmul Natural Recreation Forest. Explore the ancient Bijarim Forest, home to centuries-old nutmeg trees. And don't miss Jeju Stone Park, where volcanic stone sculptures depict figures from the island's history.

For more attractions, visit Hallim Park's botanical gardens or challenge yourself at Maze Land, a theme park featuring the world's largest stone maze, stretching over 5 kilometers. This unique maze, crafted from stone and wood, provides a fun and immersive experience for the whole family.

>>> More fun things to do on Jeju Island for your next trip!

14. Pohang

Among the best cities to visit in South Korea, Pohang stands out as a captivating coastal destination where the mountains meet the sea. This vibrant city in North Gyeongsang Province offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

One of Pohang's most spectacular events is the Pohang International Fire and Light Festival. This annual festival features stunning fireworks displays reflecting off the East Sea, elaborate light installations, and cultural performances.

15. Gangwon-do

Gangwon-do, the host of the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, boasts South Korea's premier ski resorts. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a snowboarding enthusiast, you'll find excellent slopes at Yongpyong, the country's largest and oldest resort, or High1, which also offers a casino and a revolving restaurant. Other popular choices include Phoenix Park, Vivaldi Park, and Alpensia.

But the winter fun doesn't end with skiing! Gangwon-do also hosts exciting winter festivals. Experience ice fishing, curling, and sledding at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, or marvel at the impressive ice sculptures and fountains at the Taebaeksan Snow Festival.

>>> Read more:

Best Time to Visit South Korea: A Comprehensive Guide

Where to Stay in Seoul: Top 9 Neighborhoods for Every Budget

How to Get Around in South Korea: A Comprehensive Guide

As you plan your journey through South Korea, remember that each city offers its own distinct character and charm. From the serene tea fields of Boseong to the coastal beauty of Sokcho, the best cities to visit in South Korea promise experiences that will stay with you long after your return home. So pack your sense of adventure, bring your appetite for discovery, and prepare to explore these remarkable destinations that make South Korea one of Asia's most fascinating countries to visit.