South Korea 7-Day Trip: Seoul & Busan
One week across Korea: four Seoul days of palaces and markets, the KTX down to Busan, and the seaside second city before flying home.
Trip overview
- Seoul's four faces, paced properly
- The KTX as a two-hour scenic transfer
- Busan's fish-market lunch
Best time to visit
April (blossoms along both cities' rivers) and October (foliage) are the sweet spots. Summer is humid; winter is crisp and photogenic.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 · Seoul — Palaces
- 🏯09:00Gyeongbokgung & Bukchon
- 🍵15:00Ikseon-dong & Insadong
- 🏯
Day 2 · Seoul — Markets & Views
- 🥞10:00Gwangjang & Mangwon markets
- 🗼17:00N Seoul Tower at dusk
- 🥞
Day 3 · Seoul — Hongdae / Itaewon
- 🛍️11:00Hongdae shopping & cafés
- 🥓18:00BBQ dinner & busking
- 🛍️
Day 4 · Seoul — DMZ or Deep Seoul
- 🕊️08:00DMZ tour (booked) or National Museum
- 🌊17:00Han River evening
- 🕊️
Day 5 · KTX to Busan
- 🚄09:00Fast train south (2h40)
- 🎨13:00Gamcheon Culture Village
- 🦀19:00Haeundae seafood dinner
- 🚄
Day 6 · Busan — Coast & Temples
- 🛕09:00Haedong Yonggungsa seaside temple
- 🐟13:00Jagalchi Fish Market lunch
- 🌉17:00Gwangalli Bridge night view
- 🛕
Day 7 · Departure
- ☕10:00Huinyeoul village & coffee
- ✈️14:00Gimhae or KTX to ICN
- ☕
Budget
Estimated total cost: 700 USD for 7 days.
Includes accommodation, local transport, food, and activities. International flights not included.
Travel tips
- April (blossoms along both cities' rivers) and October (foliage) are the sweet spots. Summer is humid; winter is crisp and photogenic.
- Carry local currency for small eateries and street food; cards are widely accepted in cities.
- Book popular restaurants in advance during peak season.
- Use public transit where possible — most stops in Seoul are tourist-friendly.
Recommended restaurants
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