South Korea itinerary 5 days. How to spend 5 days in Korea to explore Seoul & Jeju on a budget

Korea is definitely a worth place to visiting. So, what to do in korea for 5 days? Let’s check out our suggested south korea itinerary 5 days on how to spend 5 days in korea perfectly to explore the two of the best places to visit in South Korea through the Seoul Jeju itinerary 5 days 4 nights below will give you more ideas for an interesting journey in the Land of Kimchi. Save it in your notebook!

A trip to Korea is considered perfect if you can experience from bustling cities to natural landscapes with sea, sky and mountains to blend in with Mother Nature. To experience such a trip, there is nothing better than the Seoul – Jeju travel itinerary that we will reveal below. This tour will take you to explore all the most prominent places in Korea, lasting for 5 days – 4 nights at a reasonable cost.

Day 1: Myeongdong area – Coex Aquarium – Yeo Yong Guk Spa (#South Korea itinerary 5 days)

You should choose a flight that lands in Seoul early in the morning because then you can spend the whole first day resting and visiting this city. Since the first day is quite tiring due to having to spend a lot of time checking in at the hotel and moving around, Klook recommends that you visit some places that do not require too much energy such as walking streets, indoor aquariums, etc.

Myeongdong Shopping Area – Seoul

If you are a shopping enthusiast, Myeongdong will definitely be a paradise that you do not want to miss when coming to Korea. Famous as the top fashion market in Asia, it is not surprising that this area owns countless famous brands such as &M, Zara, Forever 21, Nike, Adidas, The Face Shop, and Nature Republic, etc.

These stores are located next to each other, creating diversity for consumers. In addition, this area also has many Korean specialty stores, shops selling handicrafts, jewelry, fashion accessories, and especially shops selling high-quality Korean cosmetics at reasonable prices.

In addition, Myeongdong is also home to famous restaurants, cafes and snack bars. Visitors can enjoy local dishes such as fried chicken, Korean grilled chicken, fried noodles, tteokbokki, kimchi and other traditional dishes. Besides, you can also take time to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee at Korean-style cafes.

Myeong-dong is also an entertainment venue with many activities such as watching movies, playing games, participating in karaoke, and challenging shopping at discounted prices at discount stores. When you come here, don’t forget to rent a hanbok to take your first “virtual life” photos in the land of ginseng!

Visit Coex Aquarium – Seoul

Coex Aquarium is one of the great tourist destinations in Korea for you to learn more about the vast ocean world. Located in the Gangnam area, this aquarium covers an area of ​​about 14,000 square meters, containing thousands of marine animals and plants with more than 600 fish tanks.

Visitors to the COEX Aquarium will be able to visit and explore a series of colorful, unique and impressive fish tanks such as giant fish tanks, shallow fish tanks, coral reef fish tanks and many other types of fish. The special thing here is that visitors can interact with fish such as sharks, dolphins and nurse sharks in the common fish tank, or walk on the seabed and enjoy the beautiful underwater scenery.

In addition, the COEX Aquarium also has an area displaying marine animals living in the deep ocean and other animals such as turtles, lobsters, jellyfish, octopuses and even rare fish such as Japanese Koi fish. Visitors can come here to learn about the life and ecology of the ocean and explore the magical world of marine life.

• Address: 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Opening hours: 10am – 8pm

Experience Yeo Yong Guk Traditional Medicine Spa

The first day of traveling a lot will definitely be extremely tiring, right? Therefore, we suggest that you should reward yourself with a traditional medicine massage at Yeo Yong Guk spa. Not only will you enjoy a comfortable, pleasant feeling with highly skilled masseuses, you will also be advised on diet and rest for the best health.

Day 2: Explore Korean Palaces – Namsan Tower (#seoul jeju itinerary)

Gyeongbokgung Palace – Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace was built in the early 14th century and was the residence of the first king of the Joseon Dynasty. This palace has many unique architectures, including sliding doors and large stone pillars. In addition, there is Gyeonghoeru Lake, a famous structure where Joseon kings held banquets and cultural activities.

Changdeokgung Palace – Seoul

Changdeokgung Palace is one of the important historical and cultural relics of Korea. It was built in the late 14th century and was the residence of Joseon kings. The palace was built in the traditional Korean architectural style, with many motifs and large gardens, creating a quiet and peaceful space.

Changgyeonggung Palace

Changgyeonggung Palace is one of the remaining historical palaces in Seoul. It was built in the early 15th century and was once used as the residence of the Joseon Dynasty kings. This palace has many beautiful architectures and large gardens, creating a peaceful, pleasant space for visitors.

Deoksugung Palace

Deoksugung Palace is one of the important historical palaces in Seoul. It was built in the early 15th century and was also used as the living and governing place for the kings of the Joseon Dynasty. This palace has many beautiful, ancient architectures and large gardens, creating a unique virtual living space, while taking you back to the past to imagine the lives of Korean people in many centuries ago.

Gyeonghuigung Palace

This palace was built in the early 17th century as an important defense point of the Joseon Dynasty and served as the residence of King Gwanghaegun and King Injo during the Joseon Dynasty.

Gyeonghuigung Palace consists of several different areas, but most of them were destroyed or rebuilt in the 1800s. Today, visitors can see some of the palace’s ancient architecture such as the walls, main gates, entrances, main buildings, monuments, and ponds when they visit.

One of the special features of Gyeonghuigung Palace is the combination of traditional Korean and Western architecture. In this area, visitors can find European architecture such as the Gyeonggi Royal Palace, the working area of ​​​​court officials, the cultural house, and the living quarters of officials.

If you want to visit all 5 palaces at once but don’t know how to get there, Klook suggests you buy a Hop-On Hop-Off bus ticket to be picked up and dropped off at all the famous palaces.

Namsan Hanok Village

Namsan Hanok Village includes a number of traditional Hanok houses built from the 14th to the 20th century. These are traditional Korean wooden houses, with unique architecture, thatched roofs and frosted glass windows, creating a lively and unique space. Visitors coming here will learn and explore the history and culture of the Korean people through sightseeing activities such as watching traditional cultural performances, experiencing traditional costumes and learning about the history of Korean house construction.

In addition to the Hanok houses, Namsan Hanok Village also has some small garden areas, fountains and fish ponds, creating a peaceful and serene space, helping visitors have a relaxing experience and enjoy the fresh air of Korea.

In addition, Namsan Hanok Village also has some traditional Korean bakeries, cafes and souvenir shops. Visitors can stop here to enjoy traditional Korean cakes such as hotteok, moon cakes, or buy souvenirs with typical Korean characteristics such as jewelry, handicrafts, and feng shui items.

Namsan Tower – Seoul Symbol

Namsan Tower – the symbol of Seoul tourism will be the final destination in your Seoul discovery journey on the second day. This tower at night gives visitors a brilliant, romantic and impressive space with a panoramic view of the sparkling city when the lights are on. The tower is also decorated with thousands of LED lights in many different colors, creating a unique light show.

Not only impressing with its romantic atmosphere, Namsan Tower at night also brings visitors many other interesting experiences. There are many restaurants, souvenir shops and entertainment activities such as watching movies and music performances.

Day 3: Explore Everland Theme Park

With its “super large” area, you will definitely need a whole day to explore all the corners of this park. Even if you are a fun-loving person, you can spend up to 2 days here. However, because the paradise of Jeju Island is waiting for you in the remaining days, limit yourself to 1 day of fun here with the games you love the most!

Everland Park is divided into different areas, each area has unique entertainment games and experiences. Here are the main areas of Everland Park Korea and the most attractive things in each area:

• Global Fair: This area has the most diverse and rich entertainment games in Everland Park, including adventure games, racing games, children’s games and a variety of snacks. The highlight of this area is Tornado, a popular sports game with many powerful engines.
• Zoo-Topia: This area is where you can experience different animals in a space that simulates their habitat. You can participate in activities such as feeding animals, watching animal performances and learning more about animals.
• European Adventure: This area is designed based on European architecture and has many amusement games suitable for all ages, including a children’s area and exciting games such as Skyline Swing, T-Express, Peter Pan and more.
• Magic Land: This area is suitable for children and has many amusement games suitable for them such as a Snow White Palace, Mermaid Club, Fairy Theater and other games.
• American Adventure: This area is designed based on American architecture and has many exciting amusement games such as Angry Birds, Amazon Express, Raptor, Eagle Fortress and more.
• Aesop’s Village: This area is designed based on Aesop’s stories and has many amusement games for children such as a story garden, Aesop’s maze, Aesop’s pond and more.

Day 4: Jeju Discovery Journey from Seoul

It only takes about 1 hour by plane from Seoul to Jeju, so you won’t spend too much time traveling like when traveling from Vietnam to Seoul. After checking in at the hotel and resting, Cheonjiyeon Waterfall and Spirited Garden are the first destinations in Jeju that you should refer to.

Cheonjiyeon Waterfall – Jeju

Cheonjiyeon Waterfall is one of the most beautiful and majestic waterfalls in Jeju with 3 different levels, the highest level of which is about 22 meters high and 12 meters wide. Not only are there columns of white foam from above, visitors can also enjoy the peaceful space with a clear lake and colorful fish swimming around. If you are looking for a place to heal, enjoy the fresh air from the palm forests, pine trees and ancient oak trees here!

Spirited Garden – Jeju

Spirited Garden is a flower and fruit garden located on Jeju Island, South Korea. It is known as one of the most beautiful destinations in Jeju, with the wild and quiet beauty of nature.

Spirited Garden is planted with rare and beautiful plants, including roses, primroses and many types of fruit trees such as longan, plum, apple, orange, lemon, … In particular, the Spirited Tea Tree – the symbol of this garden is planted and cared for very carefully to ensure health and productivity.

In addition, Spirited Garden also has a small garden where tourists can sunbathe, relax and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.

Day 5: Visit Jeju Folk Village – Shopping in Seogwipo – Return to Seoul

Jeju Folk Village

At Jeju Folk Village, you can admire and explore unique and colorful architecture, including traditional Jeju houses built with stones, bricks and tiled roofs, creating an unforgettable picture of the culture and history of Jeju Island. In addition, you can also visit shops selling handicrafts, shop for specialties and traditional costumes of this island.

In addition to the unique architecture, Jeju Folk Village also offers a number of entertainment activities and cultural experiences, including traditional Jeju games, baking classes and horseback riding for those who love unique activities. Besides, you can also visit the Jeju Museum of History and Culture to learn more about the history, culture and traditions of the people here.

Seogwipo City – Jeju

Seogwipo Old Town is an interesting destination for those who love culture and history. This neighborhood preserves and maintains traditional houses of Jeju Islanders, with shops selling handicrafts and specialties. Seogwipo is also a place to enjoy the typical local cuisine of Jeju Island, with seafood dishes, such as salmon, shrimp and scallops. After visiting Jeju, get ready to return to Seoul to return to Vietnam!

Seoul – Jeju Travel Tips

• Choose the right travel season: The best travel seasons in Seoul and Jeju are spring and autumn, when the weather gradually warms up but is still cool, not too hot. If you still want to visit Jeju in the summer, prepare for hot and humid weather.
• Book tickets in advance: Tickets to popular destinations such as N Seoul Tower and Everland Park often sell out quickly, so book in advance to avoid long queues and save more money.
• Use a tour service: If you are unfamiliar with the location and language of Korea, use a tour service to help you learn about the best destinations and get around easily.
• Learn about local culture: Learning about local culture, customs and cuisine will help you get the best experience when traveling and avoid offending the locals.
• Use public transportation: Although Korea’s transportation infrastructure is quite developed, however, public transportation such as buses, subways, trains, bicycles, and self-driving car rentals are very convenient and reasonably priced, helping you move easily around the city.
• Prepare administrative documents: Prepare administrative documents such as passport, ID card and visa (if necessary) before traveling.
• Bring necessary personal items: Do not forget to bring necessary personal items such as drinking water, sunscreen, shampoo, tissues, aloe vera and medicine to prevent diseases and help you have a better trip.

Seoul – Jeju 5 Days 4 Nights Travel Cost Reference

The total cost of Seoul – Jeju travel for 5 days 4 nights can range from 11,500,000 VND ($449.48) – 20,500,000 VND ($801.25) or more depending on the type and style of your travel. If you want to save money, you can choose hotels, restaurants and means of transportation with reasonable prices, and visit destinations freely and independently.

Category	Cost (KRW)	Cost (VND) (estimated)
Round trip airfare (Vietnam - Seoul)	500,000 - 800,000	9,000,000 - 14,400,000
Domestic flight ticket (Seoul - Jeju round trip)	80,000 - 200,000	1,440,000 - 3,600,000
Hotel (4 nights, 3-4 stars)	400,000 - 800,000/night	7,200,000 - 14,400,000
Transportation (train, taxi, bus)	100,000 - 200,000	1,800,000 - 3,600,000
Eating	300,000 - 600,000	5,400,000 - 10,800,000
Tickets & Activities	200,000 - 500,000	3,600,000 - 9,000,000
Shopping and personal expenses	300,000 - 1,000,000	5,400,000 - 18,000,000
Total estimated cost	~6,380,000 - 11,300,000	~11,500,000 - 20,400,000

However, if you want to experience high-class destinations and enjoy luxury services, the cost will be higher. You can refer to tour packages to save costs and enjoy your trip. In addition, remember to research and plan before going to avoid wasting time and money.

Above is a 5-day, 4-night itinerary to explore Seoul and Jeju that you can refer to if you are planning to travel to Korea this year. However, the itinerary may change depending on your preferences and budget. Hopefully you will have a memorable trip with attractive tourist destinations, delicious local dishes and many beautiful photos with romantic landscapes in Korea.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Seoul you can refer to

• Private Incheon International Airport Transfers (ICN) for Seoul
• Incheon International Airport (ICN) Limousine Bus Transfers for Seoul (Gangnam District)
• Discover Seoul Pass (BTS Edition Available)
• Klook Pass Seoul
• Seoul Yeouido Eland Han River Cruise
• Alpaca/ Nami/ RailBike/ Morning Calm/ LEGOLAND/ Painters/ Wild Show
• [SALE] Instant Ticket! Korea Rail Pass (KR PASS) 2/3/4/5 Days to travel around the cities in Korea
• KAL Limousine Bus Ticket for Seoul
• [Limited Offer] AREX Incheon Airport Express Train One Way Ticket in Seoul
• Bukchon Oneday Hanbok Rental Experience (4/24 Hrs)
• Nami Island, Petite France, Garden of Morning Calm, and Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour from Seoul
• Seoul City Sightseeing Bus (Downtown Palace Namsan Course/Seoul Panorama Course)
• [Limited Offer] Incheon International Airport (ICN) Luggage Services (Between Airport and Hotel) by Safex
• Everland 1 Day Pass
• Lotte World Ticket in Seoul
• AREX Incheon Airport Express Train Ticket
• KORAIL PASS – KTX Train Ticket
• Discover Seoul Pass
• N Seoul Tower Ticket
• Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Ticket
• Coex Aquarium Admission Ticket in Seoul
• DMZ(Demilitarized Zone) Tour
• 4G Prepaid SIM Card (SK Airports Pick Up) for South Korea
• [Sale] Hanbok Experience (Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store) with Korean Hairstyling
• [SALE] South Korea 4G Pocket WiFi (KR Airports Pick Up) from KT Olleh

Are you finding more top things to do in Seoul: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here.