Looking for a unique destination for your holiday? Why not visit the cities of South Korea, a vibrant and spectacular country, which is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination? With ancient temples, trendy neighborhoods, tea plantations, and more than 3,000 offshore islands to explore, South Korea is the country you should visit at least once in your lifetime. Still not convinced? Here are the top 10 cities in South Korea that are worth visiting if you are looking for a vacation full of culture, magic, and friendly people.
List of all the Best Cities in South Korea to Visit
1. Seoul
Seoul is the best city in South Korea to start your journey in this country. This metropolis shelters 25.6 million residents officially known as “Seoul Special City” which is half of South Korea’s population. Seoul is a round-the-clock city renowned for its state-of-the-art architectures and high-speed internet. Likewise, it’s a perfect place for nightlife lovers and shopaholics; party the night away at some of the exclusive clubs in Gangnam or haul your favorite K-products at Myeongdong. With a mixture of old with modern architecture, Seoul offers a pristine environment with beautifully-built modern buildings. Seoul has its own unique beauty even for the hidden alleyways. Though many tourists are troubled by many questions before traveling to Seoul and one of them is, “Where is Seoul?” To clarify, Seoul is located on the Han River in the northwestern part of the country, surrounded by Goyang and Incheon cities. Seoul is a wallet-friendly city. This means you can have a decent meal for as low as $5! Ain’t that wonderful?
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2. Busan
Looking for a more laid-back atmosphere? You might want to consider Busan, South Korea. This famous city in South Korea is a one-of-a-kind paradise no one can resist with gleaming beaches, magnificent mountains to savory seafood. Busan is located on the southeastern corner of the mainland. This city is now the second-largest city in South Korea with over 11.6 million population. You wouldn’t get enough with just a day trip to Busan because it is packed with rich heritage with vast offerings of outdoor activities. To make the best of your trip here, try scuba diving by the beach, go kayak, hiking, rock climbing and don’t forget about cruising on a yacht. You’ll thank us later. If you want to have a taste of similar vibes offered at Santorini, Greece, head over to Gamcheon Cultural Village. Located in the Korean coastal city of Busan, this village is known for its brightly-painted houses. Busan also boasts its time-honored temples, particularly the Haedong Yonggungsa also known as “The Water Temple,” which is situated on the coast side, overlooking the East Sea. This is the most visited temple in all cities of South Korea for it provides an unparalleled view of the coastal area.
3. Incheon
A famous tourist city in South Korea, Incheon is one of the cities that led the country’s historical and economic development by opening its harbors to the outside world. Incheon is a buzzing metropolis similar to Seoul, mainly noted for Incheon International Airport – an award-winning airport with an incredible quality of service. That includes a variety of recreational facilities such as casinos, spas, and even golf courses. You can shop ‘til you drop at Bupyeong Station Underground Shopping Mall or meander around the city’s vibrant Chinatown and have a bowl of Jjajangmyeon (black soybean noodles). Here in this city you can enter a magical place and find your inner zen at Jeondeungsa—the country’s oldest temple. All these are your great options if you’re looking for well-heeled experiences from Seoul
4. Andong
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of central Korean cities, Andong is your place of retreat. This popular city in South Korea is inhabited by more than 120,000 residents named as “The Capital City of Korean Spiritual Culture,” and has a profound background of natural circumstances and Confucianist culture. With its steadfast passion to preserve ancient traditions, Andong is the best place for you to experience folk culture. Head over to Hahoe Folk Village and participate in the traditional Korean Mask Dance Festival held from May to October. Don’t forget to try Andong’s well-known Soju, a local drink made from fermented and distilled rice and grains. Sipping from this drink is strongly intoxicating so make sure not to take too much.
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5. Chuncheon
Located in Gangwon province, Chuncheon is widely regarded for its fuller and richer scenery and idyllic temples. Also, let’s not forget about the delicious spicy chicken dish — “Dakgalbi.” Contrary to the meaning of its name, “Spring River,” the beautiful city in South Korea is ideal to visit in fall. During this season, fall foliage is at its peak; creating picturesque hues of gold, orange, and red, excellent for photos. Likewise, you can enjoy unique leisure activities such as rail-biking at Gangchon Rail Bike. Nami Island, a half-moon shaped island, is also a must-visit place in the city. Flooded by lovers and families, this island provides a serene environment good for unwinding, bicycling, and riding swan boats. Let’s not forget, the place was also featured in a popular Korean drama “Winter Sonata.” The Garden of the Morning Calm, Le Petite France, and Cheongpyeongsa temple are also major highlights of the city! Be sure to check them out!
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6. Geoje
True to its nickname, “The Blue City,” Geoje is more likely an island because of the surrounding blue water, stony seaboard, and long stretches of beaches. Hence, tourists here in this best city to visit in South Korea are advised to take a boat trip to experience the full richness of the place. Discover the city’s floral grandeur at Oedo Botanical Island, where you can see thousands of flower and plant varieties loved for their outstanding colors and foliage, or strike an Instagram-worthy pose along its yellow beaches. To make your trip more extra, visit Okpo Great Victory Commemorative Park—a museum and shrine that exhibits remains from the Invasion of Korea while honoring Admiral Yi Sun-sin, Korea’s national hero. Before you leave, don’t forget to feast on the freshest seafood in Geoje, not to mention it’s often reasonably priced
7. Ulsan
Housing one of the world’s largest automotive manufacturers, Ulsan is a wonderland for proud gearheads and tinkers. The place that is also known as a versatile city will definitely pin you down with its eye-catching natural and man-made marvels. Ulsan is a semi-tropical city acclaimed for its jaw-dropping ridges, and sprawling beaches, found in the south-eastern tip of Korean Peninsula. Bury your toes in the wide sandy bay of Ilsan Beach or take a quiet walk along Taehwa River Grand Park if you prefer a more unruffled path. Jangsaengpo Whale Museum is also a good side trip if you’re into whaling since it exhibits photos and videos of different species of whales. It also has a dolphin pool if you want to watch dolphins perform amazing tricks.
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8. Daegu
You don’t have to travel to Paris to experience the magical beauty of city night lights; you’ll have a slice of it here in Daegu. Daegu is one of the enchanting and best cities in South Korea to visit for couples and families alike and also this is a city laced with bright lights and lively music. Through its numerous festivals and attractions relish the city’s kooky side such as the annual Daegu International Bodypainting Festival – where nearly nude models are body painted exquisitely, and the CW Restaurant, a diner embellished with collectibles from Star Wars, Terminator, Marvel, and more! Drop by Yangnyeong Market and learn about Korea’s oriental medicines, famous for treating different forms of illnesses.
9. Gyeongju
We have plenty of reasons to visit Gyeongju. From its ancient tombs, pagodas, traditional houses, and palace ruins, there’s always something edifying in store for everyone. Considered as “Museum Without Walls,” Gyeongju holds a UNESCO World Heritage Site frequented by history buffs and culture vultures. Enveloped with more than 2000 years of history, the beautiful city is evidence of the country’s cultural achievements during the Silla dynasty. The major features of this most visited cities in South Korea include: Gyeongju National Museum secures a giant collection of local relics; Tumuli Park – burial mounds similar to Egypt’s Pyramids but shaped like small hills and Seokguram Grotto – highlighted for its Buddhist influence in the area
10. Jeonju
Calling all foodies, a piquant experience awaits you in Jeonju. Declared as South Korea’s food capital, Jeonju has plenty of food alleys that offer tons of delicious Korean dishes to enjoy, including the world-famous Bibimbap which originated in the city. Satisfy your sweet tooth by trying on the country’s most popular packaged snack, Choco pie. If you’re a wine connoisseur, sipping Makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine, will delight your taste buds. After feasting, you can also wander around this most beautiful city in South Korea and witness its cultural landmarks. Jeonju is famous for its Hanok Village, an array of wooden and clay-made Korean traditional houses. Try booking a Hanok accommodation to enrich your Korean experience even further.
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11. Suwon
Just 30 kilometers south of Seoul, Suwon is an incredible day trip from the capital unbeknownst to many. Revered as a living embodiment of traditional culture and contemporary charm, the city caters magnificent views of skyscrapers, grand stadiums, and secular temples. Suwon is the hearthstone of Samsung Electronics, making it one of South Korea’s industrial hubs. Likewise, it has streets filled with restaurants, shops, and bars so you won’t have any problems during your stay in the city. Amidst this, the most famous city in South Korea is the only place known to retain its historic walls — Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site stands still ever since the 18th century to guard the city’s perimeters against invaders during the time.
12. Gwacheon
Gwacheon is a city located not too far from Seoul. A variety of attractions surround the city similar to Seoul that includes the Seoul Grand Park, which is an excellent place for the kids. The park has the Seoul Zoo, Seoul Land Amusement Park, and the Seoul Museum of Modern Art. Speaking of art, you may also want to visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art. This one of the top cities in South Korea is the home of modern art in Seoul. Also, don’t miss visiting the true pride of the city, a famous Gwacheon National Science Museum
13. Tongyeong
Tongyeong is the “Napoli of Asia” due to its dynamic harbors and is usually a gateway for exploring the more than 100 neighboring islands. Widely famous for its lovely harbor, Tongyeong also has other blissful sceneries accessible for everyone. Catch the wonderful bird’s-eye view of this most popular city in South Korea by riding Tongyeong Cable Car, or wander around Dongpirang and Seopirang mural villages and pick a picture-perfect spot among the vivid wall-paintings created by amateur artists. Break life’s monotony by going on a secluded picnic at Café Positives Tongyeong. Here, hearty travelers have the opportunity to relax in the forest while chewing on healthy and delicious meals. Take a trip to Hallyeohaesang National Park for the marine ecosystem or visit one of the nearby islands if time allows.
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Here we have mentioned the list of some best cities to visit in South Korea, which contains the proper information about the best cities in South Korea to visit and the best towns to visit in South Korea. If you need information about any travel tips then kindly visit our other articles which could be beneficial as per the visitors’ perception. I must tell you that please don’t forget to share your views in the comment section.
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