First Time Visitors Guide to Korea: Places to Visit, Things to Do, Visa Requirements, Travel Tips

Updated on Sep 24, 2026 | South Korea visa

Planning your first trip to Korea can be exciting, but it’s even better if you know where you’re going and what to expect. This first time visitors guide to Korea has everything you need to know for a memorable trip.

The easiest combo for a first time trip to Korea is combining Seoul + Busan. If you have more time, you can add Gyeongju or Jeju Island.

Explore great destinations like Seoul’s buzzing neighborhoods and ancient palaces, Busan’s beautiful beaches and Gyeongju’s cultural heritage. Learn about local food, Korea visa requirements, best time to visit and practical travel tips and unique Korean experiences.

Whether you're interested in history, culture, shopping, nature or Korean pop culture, this guide will assist you to plan your trip with confidence and make the most of your Korean adventure.

What are the Best Places to Visit in South Korea?

If you have decided to visit South Korea for the holidays, find out where to go in South Korea and why visit those places.

Seoul: 4-5 days

Make Seoul, the capital city of Korea, the center of your first visit to Korea. The city is huge, so plan by neighborhood and don’t try to exhaust yourself by visiting everything in a day.

Best places to see in Seoul

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace: The most famous royal palace in Korea. To make your experience even more memorable, wear a hanbok, rent the hanbok from nearby.
  • National Museum of Korea: Must visit to know about history and Korean art.
  • Insadong: Traditional shops, galleries, tea houses, and souvenirs from Korea.
  • Bukchon Hanok Village: A historic destination, featuring traditional Korean houses.
  • N Seoul Tower: Offers magnificent views of the capital city.
  • Myeongdong: One of the best shopping areas, known for its Korean cosmetics and street foods.
  • Seongsu-dong: High-end cafes, luxury boutiques, and converted industrial spaces.
  • Hongdae: The best neighborhood for exotic cafes, street performances, shopping, nightlife and youthful energy
  • Han River: End your evening with a stroll near the Han River, or enjoy a picnic, or have a meal at a riverside convenience-store.

Seoul’s major attractions are also included in the Korea Tourism Organization’s list of Korea’s 100 Must-See Tourist Spots for 2025-2026. Taking a tour of these places will surely give you an immersive experience.

Busan: 2-3 days

Busan is Korea’s seaside destination, breathtaking as Seoul, with its beaches, seafood markets, temples and spectacular coastal scenery. Be sure to catch:

  • Beach of Haeundae
  • Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
  • Gamcheon Culture Village
  • Gwangalli Beach is especially pretty at night with the Gwangan Bridge lit up.
  • Jagalchi Fish Market BIFF Square, Nampo-dong
  • Blueline Park, Haeundae

According to the Korea Tourism Organization, Busan’s attractions include its beaches, mountain scenery, temples and Haeundae Blueline Park.

Gyeongju: 1-2 days

If you want to see Korea beyond its modern cities, you need to include Gyeongju in your itinerary. Gyeongju, known as the nation’s ancient capital, is full of tombs, temples, palaces and archeological sites from the Silla period. It's especially convenient as a stopover between Seoul and Busan.

Jeju Island: 3-4 days

Jeju is the ideal destination for travelers who want to be close to nature instead of exploring another big city. This island is famous for:

  • Volcanic landscapes
  • Beaches
  • Waterfalls
  • Seongsan Ilchulbong
  • Coastal drives
  • Hallasan hiking
  • Popular food and cafes in Jeju

Other destinations worth considering

If you have want to include other destinations in your itinerary, consider:

  • Incheon: Easily reachable from Seoul and is famous for its historic port area and Chinatown.
  • Andong: A historical village, known for its history and traditional Korean culture.
  • Jeonju: Popular for hanok village and its local food.
  • Sokcho & Seoraksan: Best for striking mountains and hiking.
  • Daegu: A less crowded tourist destination, known for food, and cafés.

What are the Best Things to Do in Korea?

There are many things to do in Korea, giving you an immersive tour experience, and getting to know the culture and tradition better. Some of the must have experience include:

Try the Food in Korea

Try:

  • Korean BBQ
  • Tteokbokki
  • Samgyeopsal
  • Bibimbap
  • Kimchi jjigae
  • Korean fried chicken
  • Japchae
  • Mandu
  • Naengmyeon
  • Bingsu
  • Hotteok

The best way to try these dishes is to visit the local markets, you are sure to get an authentic taste of the dishes.

Wear the traditional Hanbok

Rent a traditional Korean dress and wear it, explore the Grand Gyeongbokgung Palace. It's a fun way to see some of Seoul’s historic areas and is great for taking photos, feeling like you have traveled back to the ancient era.

3. Check out the Korean cafes: The Korean cafe culture is fascinating, Seoul, Busan and Jeju have everything from minimalist specialty-coffee shops to elaborate themed cafés.

Enjoy shopping

For first-time visitors shopping is a must have experience:

  • Myeongdong: Has Shopping Malls and Cosmetics stores
  • Hongdae: Known for its youth culture, fashion and accessories
  • Seongsu: Has concept stores and hipster brands
  • Gangnam: Best for luxury shopping
  • Insadong: If you want to buy souvenirs and check out traditional crafts

Get immersed in Korean pop culture

Depending on your interests, explore K-pop attractions, entertainment districts, music stores, Korean drama filming locations, themed cafes, and more.

Enjoy the nightlife: See Seoul after dark

Don’t return to your hotel too early, the nighttime atmosphere of Seoul is one of the best experiences, visit the:

  • Night markets
  • N Seoul Tower
  • Hongdae
  • Rooftop cafés
  • Han River
  • Myeongdong
  • Korean BBQ or fried chicken

Suggested First-Time Itineraries

Here are some suggested sample itineraries, you can plan according to the number of days you have plans to stay in Korea.  

5 days: Seoul only

  • Days 1-2: Visit Palaces, Insadong, Bukchon, and Myeongdong
  • Day 3: Hangout in Hongdae, Yeonnam-dong and cafés
  • Day 4: Explore Gangnam, Seongsu and enjoy shopping
  • Day 5: Walk near Han River, head to N Seoul Tower and other sightseeing places

7 days: Seoul + Busan (Recommended)

  • Days 1-4: Explore Seoul
  • Day 5: Take KTX to Busan
  • Days 5-7: Explore Busan
  • Day 8: From Busan, return to Seoul/Incheon for your flight to back home

10 days: Seoul + Gyeongju + Busan

Days 1-4: Seoul

  • Day 5: After exploring Seoul, travel to Gyeongju
  • Day 6: Explore Gyeongju
  • Days 7-9: Explore Busan
  • Day 10: From Busan, return to Seoul/Incheon for your flight to back home

14 days: Classic Korea

  • Days 1-5: Explore Seoul
  • Days 6-7: Take time to visit Gyeongju
  • Days 8-10: Head to Busan and explore this place
  • Days 11-14: Spend some time in Jeju Island

Visa Requirements for South Korea

Visa requirements are based not only on where you live but also on your passport nationality. In general, some citizens need a Korean visa for normal tourism. According to the Korea Tourism Organization office, some international travelers are normally issued a single-entry tourist visa for 90 days, subject to the applicable visa conditions. Applications are processed through designated channels as per the region of the applicant.

Documentations and procedures may change, you should check with the relevant Korean embassy/ Visa Application Center in your home country for current requirements before applying. You can also use our K-ETA website or Korean Visa Portal, the official site, to check visa application information and status.

Travelers of some countries are also eligible to enter South Korea using an online travel authorization, also known as K-ETA.

So, What is the K-ETA?

K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is primarily for travelers from countries whose nationals are allowed to enter Korea without a visa. It is not a replacement for a tourist visa for travelers requiring a visa. Always check requirements for your particular passport before booking non-refundable travel!

How to Get Around Korea?

The transportation system in Korea is one of the best in the world, people can explore easily without renting a car.

In Seoul, you can use:

  • Local buses
  • Subway
  • Taxis

T-money: To make transportation and payment easy while traveling via public transport, there is a rechargeable transportation card such as T-money, use this card while traveling around Seoul.

Between cities

  • For traveling between Seoul and Busan: People use the KTX high-speed train, which is usually the most convenient option to commute between these two cities.

Apps to Download Before Your Trip

To have a smooth experience exploring Korea, you can install the following apps before leaving for Korea:

  • Naver Map: Useful for navigation.
  • KakaoMap: Another best Korean mapping service.
  • Papago:  This app is specially used by foreign travelers for Korean translation.
  • Kakao T: Is used for taxi service.

Note: Google Maps can be less useful for foreign travelers in Korea, so ensure that you install these important apps like Naver Map or KakaoMap for navigation around the country.

What about Money & Payments?

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the cities in Korea, however keep some cash, as Korean won (KRW) will be required in:

  • Small restaurants
  • Markets
  • Small shops
  • Street-food stalls
  • Transportation top-ups

Language Tips: Words that will be useful for communication

To be able to communicate easily in South Korea, foreign travelers can learn some of the Korean words. Learning some of the following expressions will be of great help:

  • Kamsahamnida: Thank you
  • Annyeonghaseyo: Hello
  • Joesonghamnida: Sorry / excuse me
  • Ne: Yes
  • Aniyo: No
  • Eolmayeyo?:  How much is it?

What is the Best Time to Visit Korea?

Spring (April to May): During this season, the weather is nice and you can see the spring flowers. The cherry blossom season is a particularly popular time, but the actual dates of the bloom vary from location to location and year to year.

Summer (June to August): During this season, the weather is hot, humid, and rainy. Great for beach and summer fun, but outdoor sightseeing can be exhausting.

Autumn (September to November): This is one of the best seasons to visit Korea, with pleasant temperatures and autumn foliage.

Winter (December to February): This season is cold with possible snow, the winter scenery is breathtaking, and you can enjoy skiing. Pack accordingly if coming from a warmer climate.

First-Time Travel Tips

  1. Don't overpack your itinerary: Seoul alone can easily take up a week to be explored fully. If you are trying to see Seoul, Busan and Jeju in five days you will spend most of your time traveling and not enjoying Korea.
  2. Group attractions geographically: Take your time in Seoul, don’t rush from one sight to another. You should visit Gyeongbokgung → Bukchon → Insadong → Ikseon-dong.

  3. Wear comfortable shoes: You will likely do more walking than you expect, so wear comfortable shoes.

  4. Bring a portable battery: You’ll be on your phone all the time for maps, translation, tickets and transportation, so having a portable battery is a must.

  5. Respect local etiquette:

    • Don’t make noise on the bus or any public transport.
    • Obey the subway and pedestrian laws.
    • Avoid standing in the way on crowded sidewalks when taking photographs.
    • Respect the temples and historical sites.
    • Follow the rules of the restaurant.

  6. Don't be afraid to eat locally: The best Korean food is not in the most famous tourist restaurants. Local neighborhood restaurants and traditional markets are great sometimes.

  7. Carry your passport carefully: Keep your passport safe and handy whenever you travel, visit hotels, claim tax refunds or carry out any other official business.

  8. Check the entry requirements before you leave: Immigration, visa, K-ETA and arrival declaration rules are subject to change, check the rules before you book your tickets to Korea.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Korea?

Since, there are so many places to visit in Korea, you should plan as:

  • For 7 days: Seoul + Busan
  • For 10 days: Seoul + Gyeongju + Busan
  • For 14 days: Seoul + Gyeongju + Busan + Jeju

If you are visiting Korea for five days, you should plan your stay in Seoul, and visit its buzzing neighborhoods and ancient palaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seoul is a great place to start, with major tourist spots like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Myeongdong, Bukchon Hanok Village, Hongdae and N Seoul Tower. If you have the time, add destinations like Busan (known for its beaches and ocean views), Gyeongju (famous for its history and heritage) and Jeju Island (for its nature) to your itinerary.

Apply for Korea ETA

You can try the delicious Korean BBQ and street food. Explore the Traditional markets, royal palaces, wear a hanbok. Visit the Korean cafés and nightlife, K-pop and other Korean cultural attraction sites. Hiking and beaches and visiting temples and UNESCO heritage sites are fun too.

For first time travelers it will take 5-7 days to visit Seoul without feeling rushed. You can easily combine Seoul and Busan, Gyeongju, Jeju or others if you have 10-14 days with you in Korea. Don’t overstuff a short trip with too many cities, since travel time between destinations can be tiring

Whether you need a visa or travel authorization, depends upon your nationality, passport, purpose of travel and duration of stay. Travelers from countries with Korea’s visa-waiver arrangements may enter without a visa provided they meet applicable conditions. Other travelers usually need a visa for Korea.

Certain visa-exempt travelers must apply for K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) prior to departure or boarding their ship. Korea has temporarily exempted designated countries from the K-ETA until December 31, 2026. Check K-ETA official information before travel; requirements may vary based on the passport.

Apply for a South Korea ETA application 3 days before your flight to South Korea.

Korea Tourist ETA Application