10 Best Weekend Trips in South Korea

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Looking for the best places to spend a weekend in Korea? This list shares beautiful destinations that shouldn’t be missed.

If you’re spending some significant time in South Korea, whether to teach English, study abroad or just travel around, it’s in your best interest to get out of Seoul (or wherever you are in the land of the morning calm).

Exploring Korea really couldn’t be any easier with the fabulous public transportation and affordable car rentals. So check out these awesome weekend trips in South Korea that you won’t wanna miss!

Read more: Travel Tips for South Korea

10 Best Weekend Getaways in South Korea

Whether you live in Korea or are planning a short-term visit, these destinations in Korea make for lovely weekend trips from Seoul and most places around the country.

1. Daegu

Deagu doesn’t always top lists for more exciting places in Korea, but this bustling city has a lot to offer! As Korea’s 4th largest (and hottest) city, you’ll find plenty to do in the way of cute cafes, delicious restaurants and more. Not to mention, Daegu is surrounded by beautiful mountains, which means there’s some excellent hiking in Daegu to enjoy. While in Daegu, I recommend visiting ‘foreigner street’ for late-night drinks and maybe a bit of dancing.

Read more: The Best Things to Do in Daegu, South Korea

2. Busan

Korea’s second-largest city is a must-visit destination. This coastal city is regarded as one of Korea’s more liberal areas, and you can feel it in the vibrant atmosphere.

With so much to see and do, a single weekend in Busan is almost not enough time. A few of the best things to do include checking out Haeundae Beach, the colorful Gamcheon Culture Village, and wandering the busy Seomyeon ‘downtown’ area. Don’t forget the great hiking in Busan too!

Read more: Best Things to Do in Busan, South Korea

3. Namhae

Namhae is a small island county in the southern part of the country. The entire island is quaint and beautiful, with sweeping ocean views and coastlines dotted with many mini islands. Plan a road trip to drive around the coast and experience the natural beauty and cultural sites of the area!

Read more: A Weekend Guide to Scenic Namhae Island, South Korea

4. Gyeongju

The ancient capital of South Korea, Gyeongju is fondly known as the museum without walls. Home to countless cultural gems, visitors enjoy learning about the history of South Korea as well as the escape to a smaller more rural Korean city.

Read more: 2 Days in Gyeongju: Best Things to Do in Gyeongju, South Korea

5. Boseong

A bit of a hike to get to as there aren’t any direct transportation options, Boseong is a beautiful and lush area of Korea boasting wonderful rolling green tea fields. People flock to enjoy strolls through the leaves and all of the tasty green tea treats!

You cannot leave this place without having one (or two or three) cups of the green tea ice cream. Seriously so delish.I recommend coming armed with an international drivers permit so you can rent a car. Car rentals are actually decently priced in Korea and it’ll make your journey much quicker and direct. Visit Lotte Car Rentals for prices.

Read more: A Complete Guide to Korea’s Boseong Green Tea Fields

6. Jeju Island

Jeju is actually best enjoyed on a long weekend, but is worth the time and effort to get there! A large island south of the mainland, there are many direct flights you can take to get to the island, or even a four hour ferry that departs from the city of Mokpo.

Touted as the Hawaii of Korea, the nature on the island is beautiful and unique compared to the mainland. While I must admit the island does not quite rival the dramatic landscapes of Hawaii, don’t let this disclaimer dissuade you! If you visit during the right time of year, Jeju is a pretty place to relax surrounded by nature. Jeju is definitely a local favorite weekend trip in South Korea.

Read more: 20 Best Things to Do in Jeju, South Korea You Shouldn’t Miss

7. Andong

Another historical and cultural destination in South Korea, Andong is a very small village home to famous soju and traditional Korean masks. While there isn’t an immense list of things to do here, if you’re looking for a quiet and chilled getaway to learn a bit about Korea’s culture, Andong is a great place to do it. Come to check out the popular folk village and mask performance. If you’re lucky, you might even get pulled into the show like I did!

8. Seoraksan National Park / Sokcho

Seoraksan is one of my absolute favorite destinations in Korea. This stunning national park has countless hiking trails for all levels and different landscapes to explore. You must hike to see Ulsanbawi (the iconic view), Geumganggul Cave located high on the steep cliff face, and Biseondae Valley for clear green and blue waters flowing between dramatic cliffs.

If you’re really motivated, make the long trek across the ridge all the way to the highest point. My favorite way to enjoy Seoraksan National Park, is by coming up for the weekend and setting up camp. You can camp on the nearby beaches in Sokcho or opt to stay in the nearby guesthouses specifically for hikers.

Read more: Ultimate Guide to the Best Hiking in South Korea

9. Geoje Island

Geoje Island is a travel destination on the south coast of the country. A trip to Geoje Island also means trips to many other smaller must-visit islands like Oedo, an island that’s entirely a botanical garden, Bijindo, and Saryang-Do for the famous jagged ridge hike.

Come to enjoy the pretty natural landscapes and the insanely fresh seafood. I recommend renting a car for ultimate freedom on the island. Prepare to take ferries, island hop and hike some stunning coastal mountain trails.

10 Mag writes a great recommendation for how to spend 3 days seeing the best of Geoje Island and its surrounding attractions.

10. Jeonju

Jeonju is a beloved Korean city in the south. Its claim to fame is the stunning hanok (traditional Korean homes) village as well as a great Korean foodie scene. A trip to Jeonju means a weekend spent eating delicious foods and exploring historical Korean sites.

Read more: 20 Best Day Trips From Seoul

What are your favorite places to explore in a weekend in South Korea? Share below!