South Korea
Korea hits different: scenic trains and traditional towns beyond Seoul
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🇰🇷 Korea hits different. Most trips start and end in Seoul, but some of the best moments are out of the capital: scenic train rides, temples in the hills and towns full of traditional hanok houses.
A simple route beyond Seoul
- Seoul: palaces, markets and neighbourhoods like Bukchon and Seongsu
- Jeonju: the hanok village and some of Korea's best food (try the bibimbap here)
- Gyeongju: ancient royal tombs, temples and a slower pace
- Busan: beaches, seafood markets and the colourful Gamcheon village
The fast KTX trains link most of these in a couple of hours, and the views between cities are part of the fun.
Getting there
Most international flights land at Incheon (ICN), with an express train into Seoul. Busan (PUS) is handy if you want to fly in and out of different cities.
Practical tips
- Check whether you need a K-ETA (electronic travel authorisation) for your passport before you fly.
- Google Maps is limited in Korea, so download Naver Map or KakaoMap.
- A T-money card works on subways and buses nationwide.
Where to stay
In Seoul, Myeongdong and Hongdae are convenient first-timer bases. Spend at least one night in a hanok guesthouse in Jeonju or Seoul's Bukchon.
