5 days itinerary in South Korea

09:00 - 11:30

Begin your journey through Seoul's history at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. Explore its beautiful architecture and the changing of the guard ceremony.

Tips: Arrive early to enjoy the palace with fewer crowds and don't miss the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at 10:00 AM.

12:00 - 14:00

Dive into modern Seoul with a visit to Starfield Coex Mall, known for its vast underground shopping area, the mesmerizing Starfield Library, and numerous entertainment options.

Tips: Check out the Starfield Library located in the center of the mall for a perfect photo opportunity and enjoy a variety of international cuisines available.

14:00 - 15:00

15:30 - 17:30

Stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, an enchanting neighborhood featuring hundreds of traditional Korean houses (hanoks) dating back to the Joseon Dynasty.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as you explore the hilly streets and take time to visit a traditional tea house for an authentic experience.

18:00 - 19:00

10:30 - 16:00

Experience the excitement of Lotte World, a major recreation complex in Seoul. Enjoy the indoor and outdoor amusement parks, with thrilling rides, parades, and a magical castle.

Tips: Purchase a Magic Pass to skip the long lines for popular rides. Check out the folk museum inside the park to learn about Korean history.

16:30 - 17:30

9:00 - 11:00

Begin your day with a visit to Tongdosa, a temple renowned for its beautiful architecture and significant historical value. Explore the tranquil temple grounds and discover the rich Buddhist culture.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there will be a bit of walking involved. Respect the serene environment by keeping noise levels low.

11:30 - 12:30

13:00 - 15:00

Spend your afternoon at Taehwagang National Garden, a splendid example of urban green space filled with native flora. Enjoy the peaceful walking paths and the scenic views by the river.

Tips: Bring a camera to capture the picturesque landscapes. Consider packing a small picnic to enjoy in one of the garden's many quiet spots.

15:30 - 16:30

9:00 - 10:30

Start your day by exploring the colorful alleys of Gamcheon Culture Village. Known as the 'Machu Picchu of Busan', this area is filled with art installations, quaint cafes, and murals that tell the story of its history.

Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for some steep streets. Early morning visits are less crowded.

11:00 - 12:00

12:30 - 14:00

Visit Jagalchi Market, Busan's largest seafood market. Experience the lively atmosphere and try fresh seafood, directly from the ocean to your plate.

Tips: Try local specialties like sashimi or grilled fish. The market is bustling, so keep an eye on your belongings.

14:30 - 15:30

Conclude your day at BIFF Square, a famous movie district in Busan. Enjoy the handprints of famous movie stars and explore the street food stalls.

Tips: Check out the street food vendors for some local treats like hotteok (sweet pancakes).

16:00 - 17:00

9:00 - 11:00

Begin your exploration at Bulguksa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple is a masterpiece of Buddhist art and architecture, featuring intricate stone pagodas and beautiful wooden structures.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking involved on uneven surfaces. Arrive early to enjoy the tranquility of the temple grounds before the crowds.

11:30 - 13:00

Visit Seokguram Grotto, another UNESCO World Heritage Site near Bulguksa. The grotto houses a magnificent statue of Buddha looking out to sea, symbolizing his compassion towards humanity.

Tips: The path to the grotto is steep and may be slippery; wear sturdy footwear. Photography inside the grotto is not allowed to protect the delicate artwork.

13:30 - 14:30

15:00 - 16:00

Explore Cheomseongdae, an ancient astronomical observatory. It's one of the oldest scientific installations in East Asia, used for observing stars and forecasting weather.

Tips: The area around Cheomseongdae is perfect for leisurely walks and offers great spots for photography with the observatory as a backdrop.

16:30 - 18:30

"End your day at Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond, once part of the palace complex of ancient Silla. The pond is especially beautiful at sunset when the reflections of the palace buildings shimmer in the water."

Tips: "Visit during the evening to experience the magical night view when the palace and pond are illuminated. It's a perfect spot for peaceful contemplation and taking stunning photographs."

19:00 - 20:00