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

When planning for a trip to South Korea, Seoul might be the first city you want to put on your list. The capital city of South Korea is a fantastic mix of the old and the new. You'll find sleek modern buildings alongside ancient temples and bustling streets filled with both high-end shops and traditional markets. 

If you're into history, you're in for a treat. Seoul is home to incredible grand palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Deoksugung that are just waiting to be explored. They've got so many stories to tell. 

For breathtaking views, make sure to head up the iconic N Seoul Tower. You'll get a killer panorama of the city sprawl. And if you're looking for a moment of peace and quiet, the Jogyesa Buddhist Temple offers a really serene escape.

Need some excitement? Lotte World is a massive entertainment hub with rides, shopping, and loads more fun.

Fashionistas will be in paradise in Myeong-dong, a district packed with trendy shops and international brands. And don't worry about getting hungry, Myeong-dong has a wide range of delicious food for you, from mouthwatering Korean BBQ to tasty Thai dishes. 

And K-pop stans, you can totally get your fix in Seoul. You can learn all about the history of K-pop at the K-Pop Museum. Plus, you can hit up Olive Young to find the trendiest beauty products K-pop idols are loving.

>>> Looking for the best places to stay in Seoul? Let's find the neighborhood that matches your travel style!

2. Busan

If you're thinking about your next destination after Seoul, you absolutely have to put Busan on your list. This city is right on the coast and totally embraces its sea-loving roots. Its port is a vital hub for the country's trade and the sixth busiest worldwide. To get a real feel for Busan's cool story, swing by the Busan Modern History Museum. It's a great way to connect with the past.

But Busan isn't just about the harbor hustle. Step away from the docks and you'll find a stunning coastline that's basically an invitation to explore. Miles of beautiful beaches are waiting for you, along with lovely parks and viewpoints that offer postcard-perfect 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 is a real cultural heartland and a fantastic place to experience traditional Korea. 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.

Hanok Village is the absolute star of the show here. You get to see these traditional Korean houses (Hanok), peek into old customs, and even check out local crafts all in one amazing spot.

But there's more to Jeonju than just the Hanok Village. As you wander around Jeonju's lovely streets, you'll stumble upon beautiful old temples and little hidden alleyways. And guess what? These alleys are often lined with adorable cafes and restaurants. 

Speaking of food, Jeonju is the birthplace of bibimbap, that incredibly delicious mixed rice dish. You absolutely cannot leave without trying the original here.

To further immerse yourself in Jeonju's captivating past, be sure to visit the Jeonju National Museum. They have a fantastic collection that really highlights the area's rich history and cultural treasures.

4. Daegu

Located in North Gyeongsang Province, Daegu is a beautiful city in South Korea that offers a diverse mix of urban and natural attractions. 

If you're into plants and just strolling through beautiful green spaces, the Daegu Arboretum is going to be right up your alley. It's absolutely huge and features 21 different themed gardens with a crazy amount of plant types. 

For a bird's-eye view of Daegu, head to the top of Daegu 83 Tower. The views are pretty spectacular, and they even have dining options so you can grab a bite while you take it all in.

When traveling with family, E-world is a must-visit. This amusement park has a European feel and offers everything from thrilling rides to interesting art exhibits. So both grown-ups and little ones can have a fun time here.

Now, if you're ready for some serious local flavor and shopping, Seomun Market is calling your name. With over 4,000 vendors, this is one of the biggest traditional markets in South Korea. While they're known for textiles, you can seriously find anything here, like clothes, handicrafts, and tons of delicious market food.

Nature enthusiasts can explore Biseulsan Natural Recreation Forest, which transforms with the seasons. In the winter, you might get to go sledding, and in the spring, it bursts with beautiful wildflowers. You can hike the trails, enjoy the scenic pond, and they even have camping and cabin options if you want to stay awhile.

For a peaceful escape, we highly recommend visiting Pagye Buddhist Temple. It's located in Palgongsan Park and offers a really serene atmosphere. It's extra special in the autumn when the leaves around the temple turn vibrant shades of red and gold.

5. Incheon

​​Incheon is a beautiful city in South Korea that is more than just the home of Incheon International Airport. It's got a cool mix of chilled-out green spaces and exciting cultural spots.

Many of us at TravelThru love Incheon Grand Park when we need a break from traveling. Nestled between the Gwanmosan and Sangasan Mountains, it's a peaceful retreat with walking trails, bike paths, zoos, and botanical gardens. Perfect for a relaxing day out.

For a dose of traditional Korean culture, you can visit some beautiful temples like Heungryunsa and Jeondeungsa. They showcase classic
Korean Buddhist architecture with a really serene vibe.

Looking for some fun and thrills? Wolmi Theme Park is ready for you with all the classic amusement park rides. Or, for something a little more whimsical, wander through Songwol-dong Fairytale Village. The buildings are painted in all sorts of bright colors with scenes from your favorite fairy tales. It's super charming and great for photos.

For those seeking retail therapy, the Hyundai Premium Outlets Songdo is a great place to snag designer labels at discounted prices.

6. Daejeon

Looking for a cool city in South Korea that blends fun and traditional charm? If so, you might want to visit Daejeon. This city sits along the Geum River and has a great mix of things to see and do.

The city caters to those seeking knowledge through its National Science Museum and Museum of Art, while the Daejeon Skyroad provides a 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. This big theme park is actually three parks in one:

• Zoo Land lets you see a collection of 600 animals
• Flower Land is bursting with beautiful blooms and themed gardens
• Joy Land has all sorts of fun rides, waterslides for cooling off, and even sledding in the winter.

For a taste of local life, head to Daejeon Jungang Market. This 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 lively 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." It's a really important place for Confucian culture, and you can feel that traditional heart everywhere. It's where you can find cool traditional stuff like wooden masks and, of course, give the local soju a try.

The absolute highlight of visiting Andong is the UNESCO-recognized Hahoe Folk Village. Walking through it is like stepping right back into the Joseon dynasty. You can see how people used to live, check out traditional workshops, and admire the straw-roofed choga houses. You can even spend the night in a traditional guesthouse right there in the village.

If you find yourself fascinated by the masks you see around, definitely check out the Hahoe Mask Museum. They have a collection showcasing all sorts of characters, from fancy aristocrats to monks. And if you happen to visit in the autumn, you might be lucky enough to catch the Andong Maskdance Festival, where these masks are used in lively theatrical performances.

Andong also offers Confucian academies to explore, the Soju Museum to sample local soju, and restaurants serving the city's signature dish,
"jjimdak" (soy-braised chicken).

8. Gyeongju

South Koreans often call Gyeongju "the museum without walls" for a reason. It's got an incredible 2000-year history, especially from when it was the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom. Honestly, the whole place is like a living, breathing history book.

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 city is a major industrial center and is where you'll find Samsung Electronics headquarters. Because of that, you'll see a lively urban scene with plenty of cool bars, tasty restaurants, and all sorts of shops to check out. If you're keen on experiencing some local nightlife, Ingyedong is definitely the area to explore.

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 great place to walk around and explore all the nooks and crannies.

Best Places to Visit in South Korea for Nature Lovers

10. Changwon

Instead of the constant hustle and bustle you might find in Seoul or Busan, how about a trip to Changwon? This lovely coastal city in South Gyeongsang Province is all about taking things easy. With a relaxed pace and so many green spaces, Changwon is the best city to visit in South Korea for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Nature lovers will particularly appreciate the annual Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival. This is 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 typically runs from late March to early April, so plan soon if you want to capture photos with beautiful cherry blossoms.

Beyond the amazing flowers, if you're curious about Korea's connection to the sea, the Changwon National Maritime Museum is a place to visit. It's right there on the coast and is a modern spot with cool interactive exhibits and historical treasures that show off the region's rich seafaring past.

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, rank 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 will amaze you 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

If you love spending time outdoors, Sokcho is definitely one of the best cities to visit in South Korea. 

Think of Sokcho as your gateway to adventure. Being so close to Seoraksan National Park, which is one of Korea's most spectacular natural playgrounds, means you're perfectly positioned for all sorts of outdoor fun.

You can hit the hiking trails that wind through dramatic mountain peaks, discover crystal-clear streams, and find ancient temples hidden away in the mountains. During autumn, the park turns into an incredible display of vibrant red and gold leaves, making it a photogenic spot for your Instagram posts.

But Sokcho isn't just about the mountains. It's got beautiful beaches where you can just chill out or jump in for some water activities. You can also get a taste of local life down at the fishing ports. Think about starting your day by watching the boats come in with their fresh catch at Sokcho Port. And as the day winds down, take a romantic stroll along the Gaetbae Bridge, the sunset painting the sky over Cheongcho Lake is absolutely stunning.

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

Hitting South Korea in the winter? You absolutely have to check out Gangwon-do. This is the province that hosted the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, so they've got some seriously world-class winter sports going on.

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. Ever wanted to try ice fishing? You can do that, plus curling and sledding, at the awesome Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival. Or prepare to be amazed by incredible ice sculptures and cool ice fountains at the Taebaeksan Snow Festival.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Cities to Visit in South Korea

16. Tongyeong

Nestled on the southern coast, Tongyeong is a port city often referred to as the "Naples of Korea" due to its stunning harbor views and numerous islands. It's much more relaxed than Busan, but still packed with cool stuff to see.

Tongyeong is the gateway to hundreds of islands scattered across the Hallyeo Maritime National Park. You can take ferries to explore islands like Somaemuldo, known for its dramatic cliffs.

Plus, being a port city, the seafood is incredible. Tongyeong is especially famous for oysters, you can savor a variety of oyster dishes unique to the region.

17. Gongju

Located in the central part of South Korea, Gongju was the capital of the ancient Baekje Kingdom (18 BCE – 660 CE). While Gyeongju is more widely known for its Silla history, Gongju has a quieter, yet equally fascinating, glimpse into a different era of Korean history.

Gongju is home to amazing UNESCO sites, including Gongsanseong Fortress with its river views and the Royal Tombs in Songsan-ri, where you can see the fascinating Tomb of King Muryeong.

You can also dive deeper into history at the Gongju National Museum or find peace at Magoksa Temple. Plus, it's a great base for exploring the natural beauty of Gyeryongsan National Park.

18. Mokpo

Right at the southwest tip of the Korean peninsula is Mokpo, a port city with cool maritime history and a kind of charming, old-school feel. You can even see hints of its past as a key port during the Japanese colonial era in some of the buildings. Mokpo offers a nice mix of pretty coastlines, interesting culture, and seriously good seafood.

Keep an eye out for Gatbawi Rock, those unique formations by the sea that look like guys in traditional hats. You also have Yudalsan Mountain right there, with great trails and amazing views of the city, harbor, and islands.

For spectacular views and a unique ride, you might want to jump on the Mokpo Marine Cable Car. It's the longest in Korea and gives you incredible perspectives over the sea and the mountain.

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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.