By Fathima Rukaiya,

South Korea is a vibrant blend of skylines, centuries-old palaces, mountain landscapes, and unforgettable food.

This 10-day itinerary combines Seoul’s cultural treasures, scenic day trips, coastal escapes, and thrilling theme parks.

Day 1 – Arrival & First Taste of Seoul

Take the AREX Express or a limousine bus into the heart of Seoul after landing at Incheon International Airport (about $8 – 9).

After settling into your hotel room, explore Myeongdong, which is well-known for its street cuisine, which includes fried chicken skewers, hotteok pancakes, and spicy rice cakes (tteokbokki).

This is your opportunity to get used to the new time zone and see the neon-lit vibrancy of the city.

$30 to $40 per day (not including hotel).

Day 2 – Seoul’s Royal Heart

Begin with the largest of Seoul’s “Five Grand Palaces,” Gyeongbokgung Palace. Walk through Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional wooden houses line narrow alleyways, after witnessing the changing of the Royal Guard.

Finish your day at Insadong, a district brimming with tea shops, antique stores, and regional art galleries.

Budget every day: $25 to $35.

Day 3 – Trendy Seoul

Dive into Hongdae, known for its youth culture, street performances, and unique cafés.

Explore Gangnam after lunch, which is home to upscale stores, fashionable residents, and the enormous COEX Mall with its Instagram-famous Starfield Library.

For panoramic city views, visit N Seoul Tower (approximately $10) at sunset.

Budget every day: $30 to $40.

Day 4 – The DMZ Experience

Take advantage of a unique opportunity to see North Korea from observation points and explore the Third Infiltration Tunnel by going on a guided tour of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).

While full-day options with extras can cost up to $120, half day tours typically cost about $40.

It’s one of the most unique day trips in the world, both sobering and fascinating.

Budget per day: $60 – 140.

Day 5 – Nami Island & Petite France

Spend a day on Nami Island, which is well known for its lovely tree-lined walkways and locations used for K-dramas.

Ferry costs roughly $14. The Garden of Morning Calm and nearby Petite France (a French-themed village) provide vibrant photo for an additional $8 each.

Pack snacks and enjoy a full day of nature and culture just outside Seoul.

Budget every day: $30 to $40.

Day 6 – Adrenaline at Everland

Enjoy a day at Everland, the biggest theme park in South Korea, which has one of the most exquisite flower gardens in the world in addition to roller coasters and themed areas.

Discounts for foreign visitors in 2025 keep ticket prices between $28 and $35.

Lotte World is a great substitute if you would rather have your experience indoors.

Budget per day: $45 to $55.

Day 7 – To the Coast: Seoul → Busan

Take the high-speed KTX train to Busan (around $43, a little more than two hours).

Explore Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli Bridge, and the vibrant Jagalchi Fish Market for delicious seafood after checking into your hotel.

After the hustle of Seoul, the city offers a gentler pace and a salty seaside wind.

Budget every day: $60 to $70.

Day 8 – Colorful Busan

Explore Gamcheon Culture Village, a tangle of artwork, little cafés, and brilliantly painted homes on a hillside.

In the afternoon, stroll along the Igidae Coastal Trail or shop at Centum City Mall.

Enjoy some spicy seafood stew or grilled shellfish to end the day.

Spend $35 to $45 a day.

Day 9 – Return to Seoul or Fly to Jeju

For last-minute shopping, take the KTX back to Seoul ($43), or take a domestic trip to Jeju Island ($25 – 60) for a quick beach vacation.

Get souvenirs in Myeongdong or visit Namdaemun Market in Seoul.

Budget every day: $50 to $70.

Day 10 – Goodbye South Korea

Pack your things, have a leisurely breakfast, and then take the airport transfer (around $8 – 9) to Incheon.

Come home with a heart full of K-dramatic moments and a camera full of memories.

Travel Tips

T-money card: around $3 – 4, makes metro and bus travel easy.

Wi-Fi/data: Get a SIM or eSIM at the airport.

Book ahead: Popular tours and KTX tickets sell out in peak seasons.

Shoes: Wear comfortable walking shoes; you’ll thank yourself after 10 miles of sightseeing.

Cash vs card: Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but cash is useful in markets.

That’s a wrap on our 10-day journey through South Korea, from palaces steeped in history and bustling shopping districts to remote islands, vibrant coastal towns, and thrilling theme parks.
With this guide, you now have a day-by-day plan, updated 2025 prices, and insider tips to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

We hope this guide helps you plan with confidence and avoid the stress of last-minute decisions. Until our next travel adventure, safe travels, and may your South Korea trip be as unforgettable as the K-drama moments you’ve dreamed of!