9 Best Cities in Korea & Best Time of Year to Visit

South Korea is a vibrant country with a rich history, cutting-edge technology, and a thriving cultural scene. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the serene temples of Gyeongju, Korea offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or just looking to explore, there's a Korean city that's perfect for you. Here are nine cities in Korea that travelers absolutely love, each offering its own unique attractions and charms. Seoul As the capital and largest city of South Korea, Seoul is a dynamic metropolis where ancient palaces coexist with modern skyscrapers. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the heart of the Joseon dynasty, and don't miss the chance to shop in Myeongdong, a bustling district known for its fashion boutiques and street food. For a panoramic view of the city, head to N Seoul Tower, located on Namsan Mountain. The city is also home to the National Museum of Korea, which showcases the country's rich heritage. For a unique experience, explore the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village, where you can see beautifully preserved traditional Korean houses.

When to Visit: The best times to visit Seoul are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the city is not as crowded. The Seoul Lantern Festival in November is a mesmerizing event to witness.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a futuristic cultural hub designed by Zaha Hadid. It's a great place to experience Korea's contemporary design scene.

Where to Stay & Eat: Consider staying at the Lotte Hotel Seoul for luxury accommodations or the Hotel Manu for a more budget-friendly option. For dining, try traditional Korean barbecue at Wangbijib or sample Michelin-starred cuisine at Mingles.

Busan Busan, Korea's second-largest city, is known for its beautiful beaches, hot springs, and the annual Busan International Film Festival. Haeundae Beach is a popular spot for relaxation and water sports, while Gamcheon Culture Village offers a colorful and artistic experience with its murals and sculptures. Seafood lovers should visit Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea's largest seafood market. For a dose of history, the UN Memorial Cemetery honors UN soldiers from the Korean War and is a place of reflection.

When to Visit: The ideal time to visit Busan is between May and June or September to November. The Busan Fireworks Festival in October is a spectacular event not to be missed.

Travel Tip: Take a trip to Taejongdae Resort Park for stunning cliffside ocean views and a chance to visit the iconic Yeongdo Lighthouse.

Where to Stay & Eat: Park Hyatt Busan offers luxurious stays with ocean views, while Haeundae Centum Hotel is a more affordable choice. For dining, try the fresh seafood at Taejongdae Halmae Gaya Milmyeon or indulge in local flavors at Gukje Market.

Incheon Incheon is a major port city adjacent to Seoul, known for its modern architecture, historical sites, and the Incheon International Airport. Visit the Incheon Chinatown for a taste of Chinese culture and cuisine. The Songdo International Business District showcases Korea's forward-thinking urban planning with its Central Park and futuristic buildings. For a touch of nature, explore the serene Incheon Grand Park or take a ferry to the nearby Incheon islands for a quick getaway.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Incheon is during the spring and fall for pleasant weather. The Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival in August is a great event for music lovers.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to walk along the Incheon Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the world, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.

Where to Stay & Eat: Stay at the Oakwood Premier Incheon for upscale accommodations or the Hotel Air Relax for a more economical option. Enjoy a meal at the historic Gonghwachun in Chinatown or try the local specialty, jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles).

Gyeongju Gyeongju, often referred to as the museum without walls, is a city brimming with ancient history and cultural heritage. It was the capital of the Silla Kingdom for over a thousand years. Explore the Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the nearby Seokguram Grotto. The Gyeongju National Museum offers insights into the city's rich past, while the Anapji Pond is perfect for a peaceful evening stroll. Don't forget to visit the Tumuli Park, which features royal tombs from the Silla period.

When to Visit: Visit Gyeongju in the spring or fall to enjoy the historical sites without the extreme temperatures. The Cherry Blossom Marathon in April is a picturesque event for runners and spectators alike.

Travel Tip: Experience the Gyeongju Bread, a local pastry filled with sweet red bean paste, which is a must-try when visiting the city.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Hilton Gyeongju offers a comfortable stay with scenic views, while Sugar Motel is a budget-friendly option. For dining, try traditional Korean dishes at Silla Millennium Park or enjoy a meal at the Gyeongju Hanwoo Town for quality Korean beef.

Jeonju Jeonju is the capital of North Jeolla Province and is famous for its well-preserved Jeonju Hanok Village, which features hundreds of traditional Korean houses called hanoks. The city is also known for its culinary traditions, including the famous Jeonju bibimbap. Visit the Jeonju National Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. For a spiritual retreat, head to the Gyeonggijeon Shrine, which houses the portrait of King Taejo, the founder of the Joseon dynasty.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Jeonju is during the spring and fall. The Jeonju International Film Festival in May is a cultural highlight for film enthusiasts.

Travel Tip: Make sure to try the local specialty, Jeonju bibimbap, at one of the many traditional restaurants in the Hanok Village.

Where to Stay & Eat: Stay at the traditional Jeonju Hanok Hotel for an authentic experience or the Ramada Jeonju for modern comforts. For dining, visit Hanok Village's street food vendors or enjoy a meal at Damun, which serves contemporary Korean cuisine.

Daegu Daegu is a city located in the southeastern part of the country, known for its textile industry and as a fashion hub. The city offers a mix of modern and traditional attractions, such as the Daegu Yangnyeongsi Museum of Oriental Medicine and the 83 Tower in Duryu Park. For a cultural experience, visit the Daegu Art Museum or take a stroll through the historic Dongseongno Street. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy a hike up to Apsan Park for panoramic city views.

When to Visit: The ideal time to visit Daegu is during the spring or fall when the weather is pleasant. The Daegu International Jazz Festival in June is a treat for music lovers.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to relax in one of Daegu's many herbal medicine baths, a unique local wellness tradition.

Where to Stay & Eat: Novotel Ambassador Daegu offers a central location and modern amenities, while February Hotel Dongseongro provides a more budget-friendly option. For dining, try the local delicacy, makchang (grilled intestines), at Daegu Makchang Alley or enjoy a traditional Korean meal at Sujebi Village.

Gwangju Gwangju is the sixth-largest city in South Korea and is known for its rich history, particularly the May 18th Democratic Uprising. The city is also a hub for arts and culture, with the Gwangju Biennale and the Gwangju National Museum being major attractions. For a taste of local life, visit the bustling Yangdong Market. Nature lovers can explore Mudeungsan National Park, which offers hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

When to Visit: The best times to visit Gwangju are during the spring and fall months. The Gwangju Biennale, held every two years, is a major international art event worth planning your trip around.

Travel Tip: Be sure to visit the 5.18 Memorial Park, a poignant reminder of the city's struggle for democracy, and a place for reflection and education.

Where to Stay & Eat: Holiday Inn Gwangju offers comfortable accommodations, while Pedro's House provides a cozy guesthouse experience. For dining, try the local Gwangju kimchi at Chunghontop and sample the city's famous duck dishes at Baekun Lake Duck Restaurant.

Daejeon Daejeon is a science and technology hub located in the center of South Korea. The city is home to the Expo Science Park, which commemorates the 1993 Daejeon Expo, and the National Science Museum. For a relaxing experience, visit Yuseong Hot Springs, known for its therapeutic properties. Daejeon is also a gateway to nearby national parks and mountains, making it a great base for outdoor enthusiasts.

When to Visit: Visit Daejeon in the spring or fall for comfortable weather and fewer tourists. The Daejeon Science Festival in October is an exciting event for science and technology enthusiasts.

Travel Tip: Explore the Hanbat Arboretum, the largest man-made arboretum in Korea, which offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Where to Stay & Eat: Lotte City Hotel Daejeon provides modern amenities with great views, while Toyoko Inn Daejeon Government Complex is a budget-friendly option. For dining, enjoy the local specialty, Daejeon kalguksu (knife-cut noodle soup), at one of the many restaurants near Daejeon Station.

Suwon Suwon is the capital of Gyeonggi Province and is famous for its well-preserved Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city offers a mix of historical and modern attractions, including the Suwon Hwaseong Museum and the Korean Folk Village, which provides a glimpse into Korea's traditional way of life. For shopping and entertainment, visit the bustling Suwon Station area.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Suwon is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant. The Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival in October celebrates the city's heritage with parades, performances, and fireworks.

Travel Tip: Take a walk along the Hwaseong Fortress walls for a unique perspective of the city and its history.

Where to Stay & Eat: Novotel Ambassador Suwon offers upscale accommodations, while Value Hotel Worldwide High End is a more affordable choice. For dining, try the famous Suwon galbi (marinated grilled ribs) at one of the many restaurants in Galbi Alley.

Each of these cities offers a unique slice of Korean life and culture, making them must-visit destinations on your trip to Korea. Whether you're exploring ancient palaces, enjoying local cuisine, or soaking in natural hot springs, Korea's cities have something special to offer every traveler.

Login

Or, Send Login Link

Login