Top 6 Places to Travel in South Korea for the First Time

When you travel to South Korea for the first time, you may not know where the best places are. South Korea has beautiful seascapes and abundant marine resources, making it a haven for nature lovers and seafood enthusiasts alike. In addition, it's also famous for its unique national culture and historical heritage. We recommend the 6 best places for your firs South Korea trip. Check them out now and enjoy a memorable journey through this fascinating land!

South Korea Travel Map for First-Timer

Myeong Dong, Seoul - Paradise for Shopping

Myeong Dong, located in the heart of Seoul, is a famous shopping streets. This place is lovely for first-time travelers. It offers various goods, including food, cosmetics, clothing, and luxury goods. You can find unique beauty products at affordable prices here.

Visit the Lotte Department Store

The famous Lotte Department Store is also in Myeong Dong, where authentic South Korean cuisine and many other delicacies worldwide are served.

Taste Famous K-Drama Fried Chicken

You can try fried chicken from famous South Korean TV dramas. It is different from the fried chicken that you may usually eat, just try it! In addition, there are also many food shops endorsed by South Korean stars. If you are lucky, you may run into your favorite stars.

Tips for Myeong Dong

It's recommended that you prepare enough won because the cost of living in Myeongdong is higher than in other parts of Seoul.

Conveniently, the subway can go directly here, and numerous hotels are around, making it easy to get there and explore all the attractions without complicated transportation.

Myeong Dong

Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul - Oasis of Tradition

Bukchon Hanok Village is located in Seoul and is famous for its well-preserved traditional South Korean house architecture and numerous historical sites and cultural heritages.

Explore Culture at Museums and Costumes

You can explore museums like the Gahoe Museum and the Embroidery Museum to learn about conventional South Korean culture. If you want to immerse yourself fully in this authentic culture, consider renting traditional costumes and taking beautiful photos.

Strolling in the Night Market

In the evening, you can visit the Southern Night Market next to Bukchon Hanok Village, where you'll find many interesting shops and authentic South Korean food. It's a great place to relax and experience the vibrant atmosphere of a night market after a day of sightseeing.

Gyeongju - Historical Relics Treasury

Gyeongju is one of the major tourist cities in South Korea. It has historical and cultural significance, and the city still retains many temples and Buddha statues worth visiting.

Discovering Buddhist Marvels

Bulguksa Temple is one of the country's most exquisite Buddhist temples. Within the temple grounds, you can visit the Dabotap and Seokgatap pagodas. Another famous site is the Seokguram Grotto, an important pilgrimage site with stunning views that will impress you.

Cycling and Savoring Delicacies

A great way to explore Gyeongju is by cycling around the historic sites. Discovering the treasures in South Korean history and cultural corridors along the scenic trail is an unforgettable experience. While there, try Gyeongju's famous Hwangnam bread, a delicious sweet pastry filled with red bean paste.

Buddhist Temple in Gyeongju

Jeju Island - Natural Haven

Jeju Island is situated in the southwest sea of South Korea and is famous for its abundant resources and diverse attractions. As South Korea's largest island, it's an ideal destination for outdoor adventurers and seafood enthusiasts alike.

Enjoy the Beach and Hiking

You'll have the chance to witness sparkling white and black sand and enjoy a cocktail and a leisurely read on the beach. Hiking to Halla Mountain is also a good choice. The park is rich in natural resources and has beautiful natural scenery. When you reach the top, you can see all the stunning scenery of Jeju Island.

Explore Culture and Savor Cuisine

Many folk villages, museums, theme parks and traditional markets offer the freshest seafood and most authentic cuisine. You can indulge in delicious dishes while experiencing the rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions.

Experience Affordable Prices and Hospitality

The consumption level of the whole island is low, so you can rest assured that you can buy the items you like. The warm hospitality of the locals and the stunning natural beauty make this an excellent place for family trips and honeymoon vacation.

Jeju Island

Haeundae, Busan - Adventures on Seaside

Located in the city of Busan, Haeundae is one of South Korea's most popular tourist attractions. It has a large number of bathing beaches, the most famous of which is Haeundae Bathing Beach, which is also one of the most representative beaches in South Korea.

Indulge in Summer Beach Delights

Summer is a fantastic time to visit the beach, so we recommend planning your trip during this season when you travel to South Korea for the first time. The sunny beach and colorful parasols along the coast will create a unique landscape every summer. You can enjoy the fun of seaside activities and go to the local snack street to taste authentic seafood in South Korea. After dinner, walk along the beach to Winter Cypress Island, planted with many cypress and pine trees. It is ideal for families to take a stroll, relax and enjoy the natural scenery by the sea.

Tips for Beach Vacation

It's worth noting that the sun is intense in summer, and advised to wear sunscreen to avoid sunburn. In addition, you should pay more attention to safety at the beach, preventing accidental drowning and attacks by marine creatures such as jellyfish.

Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan - Feast of Art

Nestled on a picturesque hillside overlooking the sea, Gamcheon Cultural Village is a charming seaside village in Busan, South Korea.

Admiring Colorful Houses

A must-see during your visit is the view of the colorful houses that are arranged in a cascade from top to bottom. Each house boasts a unique hue, and the walls have different painted patterns, earning it the nickname "Santorini of South Korea" for its beautiful scenery of houses with other colors.

Visiting the Village With a Map

To fully explore this fascinating place, it's recommended that you acquire a map of the village. With its maze-like alleys, walking the narrow pathways can be a challenge without proper guidance. The map will show different tour routes, marking the village's scenic spots, rest stops and restaurants so you can choose where to go according to your needs.

Appreciating Art and Selecting Gifts

The village and the creators' ideas are fascinating, so you'll see many animated figures and artistic statues along the way. There are also many art galleries, cafes and art shops. During the tour, you can choose your favorite products as gifts for your relatives and friends.

Respecting Local Life in Gamcheon

It should be noted that residents truly inhabit Gamcheon Cultural Village. Therefore, please respect the local living habits by avoiding loud noises and not discarding food waste in the residential area to prevent disturbing their daily life.

Ganzhou Cultural Village

Plan Your First Travel to South Korea With Odynovo

9-Day Classic South Korea with Jeju Island. When you travel to South Korea for the first time, this tour will show you the perfect blend of ancient traditions with modernity. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the tranquil temples of Gyeongju and the breathtaking landscapes of Jeju Island, it offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Whether you're a foodie or an outdoor enthusiast, there is something for everyone. Start planning with Odynovo and get ready to create exciting memories in this captivating country.