Is 10 days in Korea enough and what to do in Korea for 10 days? With Living Nomads’ suggested 10 days in Korea itinerary (Korea travel itinerary 10 days, Korea trip itinerary 10 days), you can explore the stunning beauty of Seoul, Busan, and Jeju in a complete and memorable way.
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This 10-day Korea itinerary will take you on an exciting adventure, starting from the vibrant heart of Seoul. The next leg of your journey will take you to the beautiful coast of Busan, and finally, you’ll enjoy relaxation on the dreamy tropical island of Jeju.
So, whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned Korea visitor, check out our suggested 10-day self-guided Korea itinerary to help you plan your next trip.
10 days in Korea itinerary — Day 1: Landing in Seoul: Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Enjoying Seoul’s Cuisine
I landed at Incheon Airport with my friends in the morning, the check-in process was quick, and we took the AREX train straight to downtown Seoul. Just over an hour later, I was in the city, dropped off my luggage, and started my first day with some very “Seoul” sights.
Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village was my choice to get acquainted with Seoul at a leisurely pace. The narrow alleys, the layered tiled roofs of the hanok houses, and the tranquil atmosphere felt like stepping back in time. I walked around, stopping at a few high vantage points to look down on the neighborhood; it was beautiful enough for photos but not too crowded if you go early.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Hanbok Rental with Korean Hairstyling at Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung
From Bukchon, we walked to Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the must-see attractions on a first visit to Seoul. The palace grounds are spacious and airy, with ancient architecture standing out in the heart of the modern city. If you have time, you can rent a hanbok to explore, which is free and provides a truly authentic Korean experience.
Enjoying Seoul’s Cuisine
Seoul Gwangjang Market Half-Day Local Food Experience
The tour concluded with our group dedicating time to something equally important: eating. The area near the palace has many local eateries, from kimchi stew and bibimbap to small restaurants serving traditional dishes. Your first meal in Seoul doesn’t need to be elaborate; a hot, flavorful dish is enough to experience the city’s rhythm of life and cuisine.
Korea trip itinerary 10 days — Day 2: Continuing to Explore Seoul’s Notable Destinations
N Seoul Tower
N Seoul Tower Observatory Ticket
In the morning, we went up N Seoul Tower to admire the panoramic view of the city from above. The climb up the tower is quite easy; you can choose the cable car or walk if you want some light exercise. From the observation deck, Seoul unfolds vividly, with its skyscrapers interspersed with greenery and the winding Han River. If you’re with your significant other or a group of friends, the love lock area around the tower is also a fun spot to take photos.
Dongdaemun Arts and Culture Center
Leaving the tower, we visited Dongdaemun Design Plaza, one of Seoul’s most modern architectural landmarks. The space is very large, easy to walk around, and there’s always something to see, from art exhibitions and design displays to seasonal events. I especially enjoyed strolling around DDP in the afternoon, when the light softened and the area gradually became busier, creating a very authentic Seoul atmosphere.
Myeongdong Shopping District
Seoul City Tour Bus Downtown Palace Namsan Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
In the evening, we spent time exploring Myeongdong, Seoul’s busiest shopping district. Cosmetic and fashion stores were open side-by-side, interspersed with fragrant street food stalls. I strolled around, trying familiar dishes like tteokbokki, fish cakes, and egg tarts, while also buying some small souvenirs to take home. If you want to experience Seoul’s vibrant nightlife, Myeongdong is definitely worth spending time with.
If you have time, you can visit a rooftop cafe near Myeongdong to admire Seoul at night, or walk along the surrounding streets to feel the city’s rhythm when it’s less crowded. This is an ideal time to rest and reflect on a full day of exploration before returning to the hotel.
Day 3: A Full Day at Everland
Everland Day Tour with Early/Late Return from Seoul
From Seoul, we left quite early to go to Everland. There are many ways to get there, such as taking a direct bus from central Seoul or booking a shuttle bus that goes straight to the park entrance, which is very convenient and saves time. After about 1 to 1.5 hours, we arrived at Everland and spent almost the entire day there.
Everland is a huge amusement park with an extremely large space, divided into many different themed areas. In the morning, I prioritized the thrill rides because it wasn’t too crowded at that time. Areas like the adventure zone or the thrill rides zone are worth trying if you like adrenaline rushes and don’t mind queuing.
By noon and early afternoon, we moved to the more relaxed areas to rest, stroll around the seasonal gardens, and take photos. Everland does a great job with its landscaping, so even without playing many rides, just walking around was fun. There are many food courts in the park; the prices aren’t cheap, but they’re convenient and suitable for refueling before continuing to explore.
Late afternoon is when I found Everland to be at its most beautiful. The air was cooler, the lights started to come on, and the amusement park became lively. If you’re lucky, you can even watch a parade or seasonal performances before returning to Seoul. Spending a whole day at Everland is just enough time to play, relax, and enjoy yourself without getting too tired.
You can visit these attractions in Korea using the Seoul Discovery Pass. This pass also functions as a transportation card, making exploring the city more convenient!
From day 4, we left Seoul to continue our journey in Busan, the largest coastal city in Korea. The most convenient way to get there is by taking the KTX bullet train from Seoul Station to Busan Station, which takes only about 2.5 to 3 hours – very fast and comfortable. Alternatively, you can choose intercity buses or domestic flights, but the KTX is still the most popular option if you want to save time and keep your schedule tight.
Day 4: Visiting Busan – Strolling Through the City and Visiting Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
After checking into our hotel in Busan, we didn’t rest long but immediately went out to get acquainted with the atmosphere of the seaside city. The afternoon is the perfect time for a leisurely stroll, experiencing Busan at a slower pace than Seoul but still vibrant enough, especially in the coastal areas and local residential neighborhoods.
Our first stop was Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, one of the rare temples in Korea located right by the sea. The path leading down to the temple opens up a very different view, with the ocean waves on one side and ancient Buddhist architecture on the other. We arrived here in the late afternoon, when the sun began to soften, the sea breeze was cool, and the atmosphere was quite peaceful. If possible, you should go a little earlier to explore and take photos before dark. This is a beautiful starting point for your days of exploring Busan.
Gyeongju Full-Day Tour From Busan | 2025 Seokguram Edition
What to do in Korea for 10 days — Day 5: Spending the Whole Day Exploring Gamcheon Culture Village
On our fifth day in Busan, we chose Gamcheon Culture Village as our main sightseeing spot, and it was definitely a no-brainer. This is the kind of place where the slower you go, the more enjoyable it becomes. From downtown Busan, we took the subway via Klook and then a bus uphill. The road was a bit steep, but the views were amazing.
Gamcheon stands out with its colorful tiered houses on the hillside, looking quite unique from afar. But what I liked most wasn’t just the colors, but the feeling of a real residential area living amidst an artistic space. Wandering through the small alleys, you’ll find charming cafes, small galleries, murals, and unexpected views of the sea.
Busan Haedong Yonggungsa Temple & Gamcheon Village Tour
We spent almost the entire morning just walking, taking photos, and relaxing at a few cafes on higher ground. For lunch, we could have a light meal right in the village; the food was simple but convenient. In the afternoon, Gamcheon is quieter, with gentle sunlight and fewer crowds, perfect for sightseeing and experiencing the slow pace of life in Busan. If I had to choose a place that was both colorful and culturally rich on this trip, Gamcheon would definitely be worth spending a whole day there.
Day 6: Haeundae Beach and Shopping at Centum City
After a day of walking around Gamcheon, the sixth day in Busan was a more relaxed itinerary, combining beach activities and shopping in the same area. Haeundae and Centum City are close to each other, making travel very convenient.
Haeundae Beach
Busan Haeundae Blueline Park Sky Capsule & Beach Train Voucher
In the morning, we visited Haeundae Beach, Busan’s most famous beach. The atmosphere here is quite pleasant, with a wide sandy beach, blue sea, and a slower pace of life compared to the city center. I strolled along the beach, watched the locals exercising, drank coffee, and enjoyed a very “Busan” morning. If you go on a nice day, just a few hours in Haeundae is enough to recharge your energy.
Shopping at Centum City
Busan Skywalks & Gamcheon Village & Haedong Yonggungsa Temple Tour
In the afternoon, we went to Centum City, a modern shopping mall and also home to the world’s largest shopping center. The space here is very spacious, cool, and easy to navigate, perfect for resting after a morning outdoors. Besides shopping, Centum City also has a food court, a movie theater, and a spa, so you can flexibly spend the whole afternoon here without getting bored. This is a pretty relaxing way to end the day before continuing our exploration of Busan.
Gamcheon Culture Village, Haeundae Blueline park Day Tour
On day 7, the journey shifted completely to nature with our destination being Jeju Island. From Busan, we chose a domestic flight from Gimhae Airport, and the flight took less than an hour to reach the island. Compared to taking a train or ferry, a direct flight saves a lot of time, making it perfect for starting our Jeju exploration days in a more relaxed way.
Day 7: Exploring Manjanggul Cave and Jeju’s Natural Beauty
On my first day in Jeju, I chose to start my journey with Manjanggul Cave, one of the largest and most impressive lava cave systems on the island. Getting there from the center of Jeju is quite convenient; the road is easy and not too crowded if you visit in the morning.
Stepping inside, the cool air immediately made me forget the heat outside. The cave’s pathways were quite easy to navigate, and the lighting was just enough to clearly see the unique lava rock formations that had formed thousands of years ago. The deeper I went, the wider the space became, and it felt like I was exploring a completely different world, truly embodying the pristine natural spirit of Jeju.
I spent about 1 to 2 hours exploring Manjanggul, walking slowly and observing the fascinating rock formations and natural shapes. This is an ideal starting point for a Jeju trip; it’s not too strenuous in terms of travel but enough to clearly feel the difference between Jeju and the cities I’d visited before.
Day 8: Woljeongri Beach and Sunset on Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak
Day 8 in Jeju started very gently, with a destination at Woljeongri Beach. The turquoise water, bright sand, and gentle waves created a truly relaxing island getaway. I spent time walking along the coast, watching the waves, and stopping at a small seaside cafe. Just sitting still for a while was enough to see how different Jeju is from the city life.
As the sun began to set, the journey continued towards Seongsan Ilchulbong. The path to the summit was quite clear, not too difficult, but you needed to walk slowly to conserve energy. Once at the top, the view opened up, the blue sea surrounding the volcanic crater, the cool breeze blowing, and the sunset painting the entire landscape. Standing here, I understood why Seongsan is always mentioned as one of the most beautiful scenic spots in Jeju. This is the kind of moment that makes the trip very memorable, needing no words.
Day 9: Touching the Traditional Life at Seongeup Folk Village
After days of wandering between the sea and mountains, the ninth day in Jeju was a time for me to slow down and learn about the local life and culture. Our destination was Seongeup Folk Village, one of the ancient villages that still retains the traditional architecture and lifestyle of the Jeju people quite intact.
Walking around Seongeup, I encountered low thatched-roof houses, naturally stacked basalt stone walls, and quiet village roads. The atmosphere here is very different from crowded tourist spots; it feels like stepping into Jeju from many years ago. Occasionally, you’ll see locals introducing traditional crafts, telling village stories, or inviting you to sample local dishes.
I spent most of my time walking, listening to explanations, and observing the small details of daily life. While not offering many entertainment activities, Seongeup provided a very authentic glimpse into Jeju, enough to conclude my island trip with a gentle and profound experience.
Day 10: Closing the Journey at Seopjikoji and Bijarim Forest
Jeju Premium Small Group UNESCO Day Tour – South/East/West
On my last day in Jeju, I chose relaxing destinations to enjoy before leaving the island. Seopjikoji is the perfect place for a final morning, with its long stretch of beach, green grass, and lighthouse standing silently in the sea breeze. I walked along the coastal trail, listening to the waves and gazing at the ocean unfolding before me. Not too crowded, no need to rush, Seopjikoji has a relaxing feel that truly embodies the spirit of Jeju.
Aqua Planet Jeju Ticket [Foreigners Only]
Leaving the beach, the journey continues into Bijarim Forest, a completely different space. Tall, ancient trees, cool and quiet air naturally slow down the pace. The wooden path winding through the forest is easy to walk on; just stroll leisurely and breathe in the fresh air. Ending the trip in Bijarim is a beautiful way to conclude my 10-day trip to Korea, gentle, memorable, and enough to make me remember Jeju as a place to return to.
Estimated Cost of a 10-Day 9-Night Trip to Korea
Is traveling to Korea expensive? How much does a 10-day 9-night self-guided trip to Korea cost? Below is a table of estimated costs for a 10-day trip to South Korea for your reference.
| Category | Estimated cost (VND/person) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Airline tickets | 19.000.000 - 31.000.000 | - Round-trip airfare to Seoul: 7,000,000 - 15,000,000 VND - Domestic airfare Seoul - Busan: 1,000,000 - 2,000,000 VND - Domestic airfare Busan - Jeju: 1,000,000 - 2,000,000 VND |
| Visa | 1.000.000 - 2.000.000 | |
| Stay | 6.000.000 - 20.000.000 | - Budget hotels: 300,000 - 500,000 VND/night/person - 3-star hotels: 500,000 - 1,000,000 VND/night/person - 4-star hotels: 1,000,000 - 2,000,000 VND/night/person - 5-star hotels: 2,000,000 VND and above/night/person |
| Food | 3.000.000 - 10.000.000 | - Budget-friendly meals: 100,000 - 200,000 VND/meal - Restaurant meals: 200,000 - 500,000 VND/meal |
| Traveling | 2.000.000 - 5.000.000 | - Public transport: 1,000 - 3,000 VND/trip - Taxi: 15,000 - 20,000 VND/km - Car rental: 500,000 - 1,000,000 VND/day |
| Sightseeing | 2.000.000 - 5.000.000 | - Entrance fees to tourist attractions: 10,000 - 100,000 VND/person - Participation in recreational activities: 50,000 - 500,000 VND/person |
| Shopping | 2.000.000 - 10.000.000 | - Souvenir shopping: 100,000 - 1,000,000 VND/item - Clothing and cosmetics shopping: 500,000 - 5,000,000 VND/item |
| Other costs | 2.000.000 - 5.000.000 | - Mobile phone SIM card: 200,000 VND - Travel insurance: 500,000 VND - Other incidental expenses: 1,300,000 - 3,300,000 VND |
| Total | 42.000.000 - 89.000.000 |
Note:
+ The above costs only include basic expenses such as airfare, visa, accommodation, food, transportation, sightseeing, and shopping. Actual costs may be higher depending on the traveler’s needs and personal preferences.
+ Service prices may vary depending on the region and brand.
+ It is recommended to book flights, hotels, and other services in advance to avoid unavailability and high prices.
Frequently Asked Questions About a 10-Day South Korea Travel Itinerary
1. Is 10 days enough to explore South Korea?
Yes, 10 days is an ideal amount of time to combine highlights such as Seoul, Busan, and Jeju. The itinerary is long enough to experience diverse destinations without being rushed, especially if it’s your first time.
2. How should I divide my 10-day itinerary effectively?
The most common and easiest ways to get there are:
- Seoul: 3 to 4 days
- Busan: 2 to 3 days
- Jeju: 3 days
3. Is it difficult to travel between cities?
Not difficult. Seoul to Busan: KTX high-speed train is fast and convenient | Busan to Jeju: domestic flight takes about 1 hour. The Korean transportation system is very clear and easy to use, even for first-time tourists.
4. What is the best time of year to visit Korea for 10 days?
Spring and autumn are the two most popular times. Summer is suitable for visiting Jeju and Busan beaches, while winter is ideal if you want to experience snow and year-end festivals.
5. Do I need to rent a car when going to Jeju?
If you’re traveling to Jeju independently, renting a car is the most convenient way to have control over your itinerary. However, if you don’t drive, you can still choose day tours or combine bus and taxi travel, just plan your destinations accordingly.
6. Do I need to bring a lot of cash when traveling to South Korea for 10 days?
You don’t need to bring too much cash. In South Korea, you can pay with international cards at most hotels, restaurants, convenience stores, and shopping malls. Additionally, T-money transportation cards are very convenient for subway and bus travel, and domestic payment wallets or card swiping are also widely used. You should only bring a small amount of cash for spending at traditional markets or small shops.
7. Do I need to know Korean when traveling?
It’s not mandatory. In major cities, English is quite common, especially at airports, train stations, and tourist attractions. However, knowing a few basic conversational phrases will make your experience easier and more enjoyable.
8. Is a 10-day trip to South Korea tiring?
No, if the itinerary is well-planned. It’s best to alternate busy days with relaxing days, especially when moving between regions. Avoid cramming too many places into one day for a more comfortable trip.
9. Should I book tickets and transportation in advance?
Yes. For popular attractions like Everland, KTX, or domestic flights, booking in advance saves time and prevents disappointment, especially during peak season.
10. Who is a 10-day trip to South Korea suitable for?
It’s suitable for first-time travelers, couples, groups of friends, or young families. The itinerary is long enough for in-depth experiences but still flexible enough to adjust to personal preferences.
Are you ready for your 10-day South Korea trip?
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.
