20 Best Cities in South Korea to Visit

South Korea is a calm, peaceful, exotic, and gorgeous East Asian gem that always brims with positive energy and scenic landscapes. South Korea has risen from the ashes, from one of the broke nations to now the richest. Today, it is a budding tourist destination among the top holiday spots. There are so many beautiful cities in South Korea to explore.

South Korean cities offer a fusion of culture, traditions, art, museums, history, and culinary options. Filled with idyllic beaches and stunning islands, South Korea has numerous attractions and adventures for travelers.
 
If South Korea is your dream destination, here are the must-visit cities you should note down for your upcoming vacation. Be ready to devour Korean food and enjoy K-pop vibes.

1. Seoul

Seoul is the enchanting capital of South Korea, and it always fills tourists with unconditional joy. It is a bucket-list destination for many globetrotters. Being one of the best cities to visit in South Korea, Seoul is always buzzing with urban vibes, stylish boutiques, rich history, pop culture, and beautiful restaurants.

Strolling on its streets, you will feel like going back to cultural and traditional times in South Korea. Every corner of Seoul depicts an aesthetic cultural essence that dazzles you with the South Korean lifestyle. From colorful traditional Korean houses to gleaming night markets, hues of vibrant flower plants, and sparkling promenades, Seoul makes you see the authentic side of South Korea.
 
2. Jeju City

Jeju City is one of the most pleasant cities in South Korea to visit. It is a summer destination teeming with traditional Korean markets, casinos, bars, and restaurants. Settled on Jejudo Island, Jeju City is a lively place to enjoy a Korean holiday. With its proximity to Jeju Island, Jeju City offers panoramic landscapes worth capturing.

This bustling city is surrounded by sparkling beaches, volcanic craters, botanical gardens, and pine forests. Jeju offers a unique amalgamation of urban living and island life. The other thing that Jeju has for tourists is its diverse culinary. Jeju is a must-visit for its attractions, art scenes, and dreamy landscapes.

3. Busan

Busan is one of the most buzzing cities in South Korea. Home to beautiful beaches, historical sites, Beomeosa Temple, and busy city life, Busan is the most popular place to explore in South Korea. If you have never been to this city, you may remember it from the movie Train to Busan, which is famous among movie lovers.

One of the most gorgeous attractions in Busan is its Gamcheon Village. This village charms tourists filled with hues of bright color houses. Busan boasts a perfect blend of city and village life, offering a tranquil experience.

4. Incheon

Incheon is the third biggest city in the country, located just 40 kilometers from Seoul. It is a beautiful coastal city that brims with contemporary attractions, ancient charm, and sea-view restaurants. Incheon is among the best cities in South Korea to visit. It has a major international airport and an advanced seaport of South Korea.

Incheon has a vibrant Chinatown, stunning beaches, art & cultural scenes, amusement parks, and much more. There are countless things to see & do, popular streets to explore, Instagrammable places to capture, and many off-the-beaten tracks to go on. If you are visiting South Korea, Incheon is one of the places you should visit.

5. Gyeongju

Gyeongju is one of the historic cities in South Korea, having over 2000 years of history. It is fondly known as the museum city because of its historical and cultural heritage. The city is adorned with old tombs, pleasing pagodas, and traditional houses. There are old temples and ancient sites that depict the bygone era beautifully.
 
Gyeongju has the Gyeongju National Museum and National Park, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites worth visiting. The museum has a wide collection of artifacts, providing a glimpse into the cultural roots of South Korea. Another UNESCO site in Gyeongju is Bulguksa Temple, a place of spiritual peace.

6. Seogwipo

Seogwipo is one of the cities on Jeju Island. Bordered by magnificent coastlines, breathtaking waterfalls, pristine beaches, and unparalleled beauty, Seogwipo is one of the most-loved cities in South Korea to visit. Many tourists visit Seogwipo for its natural beauty, trails, and wonders. There are beautiful botanical gardens, 4D attractions, theme parks, and fun activities for travelers to indulge in.

With plenty of natural trails, pristine coastlines, and beautiful hikes, Seogwipo has so much to do, explore, and see. It is a family-friendly destination in South Korea that has so many things to do, places to shop, and history to grab.

7. Daegu

Daegu is the most youthful city in South Korea. It is a cultural and economic center in South Korea. Daegu is among the best cities in South Korea to visit, filled with art museums, beautiful temples, ancient churches, and tasty food stalls in every corner of the city.

Some places you can explore here are Seonbosa Temple, Gyesan Catholic Cathedral, Daegu National Museum, Palgonsan National Park, and Daegu Culture & Arts Center. Daegu also has some romantic places for couples to tour hand-in-hand, such as Suseong Lake, 83 Tower, Palgong Mountain, and Mabijeong Mural Village.

8. Suwon

Suwon is an enchanting city located just south of Seoul. This city is an ideal mix of history, culture, and modernity. Suwon is one of the awe-inspiring cities in South Korea to visit on your vacation. There is a UNESCO World Heritage Site- Hwaseong Fortress. It is a captivating attraction that offers majestic views and looks stunning in the late evening hours when the sun is about to set.

You can walk along the walls while capturing the portraits of the cityscape and visit Suwon Hwaseong Museum. Also, you can go back in time and immerse in Korean culture at Korean Folk Village. The night scenes in Suwon are extremely energetic and filled with cozy cafes, music venues, & buzzing bars.

9. Jeonju

Jeonju is one of the most captivating cities in South Korea, famous for its traditional Korean architecture and food scenes. Settled in western South Korea, Jeonju is brimming with historical sites, traditional houses, cultural landmarks, and artisanal shops. There are various spellbinding attractions for travelers to see and traverse.

Jeonju is filled with so much that you can even explore it on your foot. In every nook and corner, you will have something fascinating to admire and beautiful cafes to sit at & enjoy a good meal. Jeonju also offers high-quality traditional Korean food that is drooling to watch and delicious to eat.

10. Gunsan

Gunsan is a charming South Korean city nestled on the banks of the Geum River. This beautiful city is one of the major attractions in the country due to its serene atmosphere and dramatic landscapes. Gunsan is among the best cities to visit in South Korea for a day trip. It is an underrated city in South Korea, offering so much history, attractions, and quests to offer.

From exploring Hirotsu House to seeing Dongguksa Temple to visiting the Modern History Museum, Gunsan has something for everyone to grab.

11. Chuncheon

Chuncheon is one of the most beautiful places to visit in South Korea. Adorned with stunning lakes, spectacular mountains, and surreal landscapes, Chuncheon is a popular filming location for many famous Korean soap operas. Chuncheon is also home to many Korean delicacies.

The best time to visit Chuncheon is during the spring when the city blooms with cherry blossoms. Cheongpyeongsa Temple and Soyangho Lake are the best places to witness the cherry blossoms. During this time, tourists can attend the International Mine Festival.

12. Andong

Andong is one of the best places to visit in South Korea for history buffs. This 2000-year-old city has many historical attractions, cultural landmarks, and religious sites. If you love the culture and traditions of South Korea, visit Andong Hahoe Folk Village for a cultural experience. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that takes you back in time.

Positioned on the banks of the Nakdong River, Andong offers serene landscapes worth capturing. For a quaint holiday experience, Andong is an ideal destination.

13. Tongyeong

Tongyeong, the port city, is one of the must-visit destinations in South Korea. Settled on South Korea’s southern coast, Tongyeong is mostly celebrated for its maritime history. Tongyeong is listed as the best cities to visit in South Korea. There are iconic landmarks, thrill rides, public art, beaches, and cultural attractions for tourists to enjoy.

One of the draws of Tongyeong is its delectable South Korean cuisine. From street food stalls to luxury restaurants to pretty cafes, Tongyeong has many places where you can taste finger-licking Korean food. Some incredible places to visit in Tongyeong are the Jeseungdang Shrine, Tongyeong Cable Car, Mireuksan Mountain, Jangsado Sea Park, and many more.

14. Daejeon

Daejeon is one of the largest cities in South Korea and is a major science and research center. It is commonly known as the Scientific City. There is a mighty Daejeon Science Museum that makes science enjoyable and accessible to people of all ages. The Daejeon city is filled with many national science museums where you can explore interesting exhibits and artifacts.

Another main attraction in the city is Yuseong Spa. It is a hot spring that offers medicinal properties. After spending a day of exploration, this hot spring is the perfect place to stop by.

15. Geoje

Geoje, the blue city, is one of the best places to visit in South Korea. Enveloped by shimmering blue waters, rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, and beautiful mountains, Geoje is an island city. There are many tourist sites to explore and coastal landscapes to capture on your tour here.

Some of the must-see things in Geoje are Haegeumgang, Oedo Island, Great Victory Park, Windy Hill & Shinseondae, and Camellia Island. If you are looking for a coastal city to visit in South Korea, add Geoje to your list.

16. Gangneung

Gangneung is an off-the-beaten place to visit in South Korea. It is among the lesser-known cities in South Korea. Situated in the Province of Gangwon-do, Gangneung is an ideal summer destination. Gangeung has its own culture, delicious food, and cultural events. It is home to many museums, shrines, traditional houses, and beaches.

One of the things you will see here is lively coffee culture. Some major attractions in Gangneung are Gangmum Beach, Seongyojang, Haslla Art World, Anbandegi Village, and Daegwallyeong Natural Recreation Forest.

17. Juknokwon

Juknokwon is one of the best places to visit in South Korea. It is a famous bamboo forest in the country that you must visit. Nestled in Damyang-gun, Juknokwon Bamboo Forest is a perfect place to escape for a scenic holiday. If you seek a quiet vacation on your South Korean tour, you should visit Juknokwon.

One of the highlights of this bamboo forest is the Juknokwon Bamboo Garden. This garden has eight trails: the Good Luck Road, Memories Byway, Path of Contemplation, Unchanging Love Road, Close Friend’s Road, Philosopher’s Path, and Seonginsan Trail.

18. Halla Mountain

Halla Mountain is one of the best places to visit in South Korea. Perched on Jeju Island in South Korea, Halla Mountain is one of the highest peaks in the country. It is a famous destination among adventure-seekers. Hiking this mountain will make you feel close to the sky and offer spectacular views of the surrounding valleys.

Mount Halla used to be an active volcano 25,000 years ago. There are various species of plant that thrive in the Jeju’s climate. Halla Mountain is a place worth visiting in South Korea.

19. Sokcho

Sokcho is the most serene city in South Korea, where you can rejuvenate in the lapse of nature. It is the northernmost fishing town on the East Coast. Sokcho is a picturesque and quaint city that offers an escape from the busy routine life. There are countless attractions to witness in Sokcho, such as Sokcho Beach, Seoraksan National Park, Yeonggeumjeong Pavilion, Sokcho Lighthouse, Seoraksan, etc.

You can also indulge in a variety of Korean seafood. If you are looking for a tranquil break, you must visit Sokcho in South Korea.
 
20. Cheongju

Cheongju is one of the smallest cities in South Korea. It is one of the most favorite places to witness cherry blossom season. Uamsan Mountain is a place where you can enjoy sweeping views of the surroundings lashed with cherry blossoms in the spring. There is a Sangdang Sanseong Fortress on this mountain, which is worth a visit for its historical importance.

You can also explore the Cheongju National Museum and the National Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art. For authentic Korean street food, you should visit Yukgeori Market.
 
Go on a Beautiful Voyage to South Korea with Dook!

South Korea is teeming with countless places to visit and explore. Overflowing with elegant attractions, gorgeous beaches, exquisite landscapes, and charming Korean houses, South Korea is no less than a dream destination. If you want to visit South Korea, check out Dook International’s official website for incredible tour packages.

We have a range of South Korean tour packages that are affordable and easily customizable. We offer a personalized travel experience to every traveler, keeping their preferences in mind. All you need to do is pick the travel package you want and customize it as per your needs.

We ensure our tourists have the best time and make unforgettable memories. So, book your best deal with Dook today!

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