South Korea is a country where ancient palaces sit beside futuristic skylines, volcanic islands rise from the sea, and mountain national parks offer some of the most dramatic scenery in Northeast Asia. This is Part 1 of our two-part guide to the best places in South Korea, covering three of the country's most iconic regions.
Seoul
South Korea's capital is one of Asia's most dynamic cities. Ancient royal palaces, cutting-edge architecture, world-class food, and a nightlife scene that never seems to sleep all exist side by side. Seoul rewards both first-time visitors and those who keep coming back.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
The grandest of Seoul's five royal palaces, Gyeongbokgung was built in 1395 and remains one of the most photographed sites in Korea. Visit at sunrise to beat the crowds, or time your trip for the changing of the royal guard ceremony. Wearing a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) grants free entry.
N Seoul Tower
Perched on Namsan Mountain, N Seoul Tower offers panoramic views over the entire city. The tower is surrounded by a forest park perfect for walking, and the observation deck is especially spectacular at night when Seoul's lights stretch to the horizon.
Bukchon Hanok Village
A living neighbourhood of traditional Korean hanok houses nestled between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces. The narrow alleyways and preserved architecture offer a glimpse of Seoul as it looked centuries ago, right in the heart of the modern city.
Myeongdong Shopping
Seoul's most famous shopping district, packed with cosmetics stores, street food stalls, and fashion boutiques. Myeongdong is the place to try Korean skincare brands, eat tteokbokki from a street cart, and experience the full energy of Seoul's consumer culture.
Hongdae Street
The creative heart of Seoul, centred around Hongik University. Hongdae is known for its indie music scene, street performances, quirky cafes, and vibrant nightlife. It has a younger, more alternative energy than other parts of the city and is best explored in the evening.
Han River Park
A beloved green space running through the centre of Seoul, the Han River parks are where locals come to cycle, picnic, and watch the sunset. Renting a bike and riding along the river is one of the best free activities in the city.
Lotte World Tower
At 555 metres, Lotte World Tower is the fifth tallest building in the world. The observation deck on the 117th to 123rd floors offers breathtaking views, and the complex includes a theme park, aquarium, shopping mall, and hotel all in one place.
Jeju Island
South Korea's largest island sits off the southern coast and feels like a world apart. Formed by volcanic activity, Jeju has a dramatic landscape of lava tubes, crater lakes, waterfalls, and a dormant volcano at its centre. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited destinations in Asia.
Hallasan Mountain
South Korea's highest peak at 1,950 metres, Hallasan is a dormant shield volcano at the centre of Jeju Island. Several hiking trails lead to the summit crater lake, and the mountain is stunning in every season, from spring wildflowers to winter snow.
Seongsan Ilchulbong
Known as Sunrise Peak, this UNESCO-listed tuff cone rises dramatically from the sea at the eastern tip of Jeju. The hike to the top takes about 30 minutes and rewards with a view of the volcanic crater and the surrounding ocean that is genuinely unforgettable at dawn.
Manjanggul Cave
One of the longest lava tube caves in the world, Manjanggul stretches for over 13 kilometres beneath Jeju's surface. The accessible section takes visitors past extraordinary lava formations, including a 7.6-metre lava column that is one of the largest in the world.
Cheonjiyeon Waterfall
A three-tiered waterfall surrounded by subtropical forest near Seogwipo city. The name means Pond of God, and the setting lives up to it. The waterfall is particularly beautiful at night when it is illuminated, and the surrounding park is a peaceful place to walk.
Hamdeok Beach
One of Jeju's most beautiful beaches, Hamdeok is known for its crystal clear shallow water and white sand. The beach is calm and family-friendly, with a small island connected by a bridge just offshore. Sunrise here is spectacular.
Osulloc Tea Museum
Set in the middle of Jeju's green tea fields in the Hallasan foothills, Osulloc is both a museum and a working tea plantation. The views over the rolling tea fields are beautiful, and the museum cafe serves some of the best green tea desserts in Korea.
Gangwon-do
South Korea's northeastern province is a land of mountains, forests, and coastline. Home to some of the country's best ski resorts and national parks, Gangwon-do offers a completely different side of Korea from the cities. It hosted the 2018 Winter Olympics and remains a year-round outdoor destination.
Nami Island
A small river island famous for its tree-lined paths that turn golden and red in autumn. Nami Island became internationally known after featuring in the Korean drama Winter Sonata and draws visitors year-round for its peaceful, fairy-tale atmosphere. The metasequoia and ginkgo tree avenues are especially beautiful in October and November.
Alpaca World
A unique animal farm in the mountains of Gangwon-do where visitors can hand-feed and walk with alpacas, as well as meet sheep, deer, and other animals. It is a charming and surprisingly popular stop, especially for families and those looking for something a little different.
Seoraksan National Park
One of South Korea's most celebrated national parks, Seoraksan is known for its dramatic granite peaks, deep valleys, and ancient Buddhist temples. The park is stunning in autumn when the foliage turns vivid red and orange, and the cable car to Gwongeumseong Fortress offers views that rank among the best in the country.
Daegwallyeong Sky Ranch
A high-altitude sheep farm and ranch set on rolling hills above the clouds. The scenery is unlike anything else in Korea, with wide open meadows, grazing sheep, and panoramic mountain views. It is particularly atmospheric in early morning when mist fills the valleys below.
Phoenix Pyeongchang
The resort that hosted the alpine skiing events at the 2018 Winter Olympics, Phoenix Pyeongchang is one of South Korea's premier ski destinations in winter and a scenic mountain retreat in summer. The facilities are world-class and the surrounding Pyeongchang countryside is beautiful in every season.
Stay Connected Across South Korea
From Seoul's subway system to Jeju's coastal roads and Gangwon-do's mountain trails, having reliable data makes every part of your South Korea trip easier. A Korea travel eSIM activates before you land, so you are connected from the moment you step off the plane.