7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Gyeongju

Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, is a city steeped in history and culture, making it an attractive base for digital nomads seeking a blend of work and exploration in South Korea. While the city itself offers a plethora of historical sites, sometimes a weekend getaway is just what you need to recharge. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven destinations perfect for a short trip from Gyeongju.

Busan

As South Korea's second-largest city, Busan offers a vibrant mix of modernity and tradition. Digital nomads can enjoy the bustling beaches, such as Haeundae and Gwangalli, or explore the cultural village of Gamcheon with its colorful houses and artistic vibe. The city's seafood markets, like Jagalchi Market, are a must-visit for fresh local delicacies.

How to Get There: The KTX train from Gyeongju to Busan takes about 1 hour, making it an easy and fast option for a weekend getaway.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the sunset from Hwangnyeongsan Mountain. It offers a panoramic view of the city and is a perfect spot for photographers.

Where to Stay: Park Hyatt Busan and Paradise Hotel Busan are known for their luxurious amenities and ocean views. For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying in one of the guesthouses in the Haeundae area.

Where to Eat: Visit the Millak Waterfront Park for its raw fish center where you can enjoy fresh sashimi with an ocean view. For a unique dining experience, try the local specialty, Dwaeji Gukbap (pork soup), at one of the restaurants in Seomyeon.

Andong Hahoe Folk Village

For a journey back in time, the Andong Hahoe Folk Village is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases traditional Korean culture and architecture. This living museum allows visitors to experience the lifestyle of the Joseon Dynasty. The village is also famous for its mask dance drama, which is an important part of Korea's intangible cultural heritage.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Andong Hahoe Folk Village is by bus from Gyeongju, which takes approximately 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Try to visit during the Andong Mask Dance Festival for a truly unforgettable cultural experience.

Where to Stay: Stay at the traditional guesthouses within the village for an immersive experience, or choose from modern hotels in Andong city.

Where to Eat: Sample Andong Jjimdak, a savory braised chicken dish, at one of the local restaurants in Andong city center.

Yeongdeok

Yeongdeok is a lesser-known coastal town famous for its snow crab and beautiful beaches. The Yeongdeok Blue Road is a scenic walking path that offers stunning views of the East Sea. It's a perfect spot for digital nomads looking for tranquility and inspiration.

How to Get There: The most convenient way to reach Yeongdeok is by intercity bus from Gyeongju, which takes around 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit during the Yeongdeok Snow Crab Festival to enjoy the freshest crabs at their peak season.

Where to Stay: There are several seaside pensions and guesthouses in Yeongdeok that offer comfortable accommodations with sea views.

Where to Eat: Head to the Yeongdeok Crab Market to indulge in the town's famous snow crabs, either steamed or as part of a hearty stew.

Daegu

Daegu, known for its fashion industry and modern art scene, is a bustling city with a youthful vibe. The city's Kim Gwangseok-gil Street, lined with murals and art dedicated to the famous Korean singer, is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Daegu is also home to numerous traditional markets and modern shopping areas.

How to Get There: A train ride from Gyeongju to Daegu takes about 1.5 hours, with frequent services available throughout the day.

Travel Tip: Explore the Daegu Arboretum, which offers a peaceful escape from the urban hustle and is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season.

Where to Stay: Novotel Ambassador Daegu and Eldis Regent Hotel are centrally located with easy access to shopping and dining options.

Where to Eat: Visit Anjirang Gopchang Alley to try the local delicacy of grilled beef intestines, a must-try for adventurous foodies.

Uljin

Uljin is an off-the-beaten-path destination known for its pristine natural beauty, including the stunning Bulyeongsa Temple nestled in the forest. The area is also famous for its hot springs and the Geumgang Pine Forest Road, which offers a refreshing and serene walking experience.

How to Get There: The journey to Uljin from Gyeongju typically involves a combination of train and bus travel, taking around 3 hours in total.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to relax in the therapeutic waters of Uljin's hot springs, believed to have healing properties.

Where to Stay: There are several resorts and spas in Uljin that offer accommodation with access to hot spring baths.

Where to Eat: Enjoy the local specialty, Uljin snow crab, at one of the seafood restaurants along the coast.

Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple

Located on the slopes of Mount Toham, the Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple are Gyeongju's own UNESCO World Heritage sites. The grotto houses a monumental statue of the Buddha looking out to sea, and Bulguksa Temple is a testament to the skill of Silla architects. Both sites provide a peaceful retreat and a chance to delve deeper into Korea's Buddhist heritage.

How to Get There: These sites are easily accessible by bus or taxi from Gyeongju city center, taking about 30 to 40 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the tranquil atmosphere of the temples at dawn.

Where to Stay: There are several hanok stays and guesthouses in Gyeongju that offer traditional Korean lodging experiences.

Where to Eat: Try the local Gyeongju bread, Hwangnam-ppang, at one of the bakeries in Gyeongju city.

Juwangsan National Park

Juwangsan National Park is a hidden gem known for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and lush forests. It's an ideal destination for digital nomads who enjoy hiking and nature. The park's trails lead to stunning viewpoints and serene temples tucked away in the mountains.

How to Get There: To get to Juwangsan National Park, take a bus from Gyeongju to Cheongsong and then transfer to a local bus to the park, with the total travel time being around 3 hours.

Travel Tip: Make sure to hike up to the Daejeonsa Temple, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the park's natural beauty.

Where to Stay: There are mountain lodges and minbaks (Korean B&Bs) near the park entrance that offer simple, comfortable accommodations.

Where to Eat: Sample the local mountain vegetable dishes and freshwater fish at the restaurants near the park entrance.

Whether you're looking for a bustling cityscape, serene nature, or a deep dive into Korean culture, these weekend getaways from Gyeongju offer a refreshing break for digital nomads living in Korea.