South Korea in 5 Days: 3 Recommended 5-Day Itineraries to South Korea

Check out our South Korea 5-day itinerary recommendations and fully explore Seoul and other top destinations in the country. See how you can spend 5 days in South Korea.

This South Korea 5-day itinerary plan includes visits to heritage sites, port cities, fortresses and much more, starting from the UNESCO-listed Tomb of King Muryeong. You’ll also explore Jeonju, a city known for its architecture and cuisine, and see traditional Korean houses at Jeonju Hanok village. After trying some amazing Korean food, check out Gwangju, the city where the modern democratic movement of South Korea was born. Jinjuseong Fortress, where key battles were fought during the 16th-century Japanese invasion, is part of the itinerary. In Gyeongju City, see top sights such as the Seokguram Grotto and the beautiful Bulguksa Temple. Enjoy enchanting mountain views from Mount Seorak National Park and take a cable car to the 13th-century Gwongeumseong fortress before your 5-day South Korea tour concludes in Seoul. See all tours to South Korea.

Spending 5 days in Seoul will allow you to take a deep dive into the South Korean capital and discover what makes it a unique blend of futuristic chic and timeless traditions. After arriving in Seoul, visit the city’s major sights like the gorgeous Gyeongbokgung Palace and Insadong, a neighborhood known for its art galleries, antique shops, and handicraft stores. The next day, you’re free to explore more city landmarks, such as the National Museum of Korea, which takes you on a journey from the prehistoric era to the Korean Empire period. On the third day, you’ll visit the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the fascinating buffer area between North and South Korea. A visit to the so-called Third Tunnel of Aggression and the Dorasan Observatory is part of the DMZ trip. Your thrilling 5-day South Korea itinerary ends in the capital city. Describe your ideal 5-day holiday for a customized trip to South Korea.

These five days in Seoul and other popular destinations are an excellent discovery of the national capital and an introduction to South Korea’s millennia-old culture. The itinerary begins with a ride up the majestic Namsan Mountain on a cable car, giving you magnificent views of Seoul. You’ll also discover the local flavors and culinary traditions of Gwangjang Market, a food lover’s paradise. The next day, see the changing of the guards' ceremony at the Gyeongbokgung Royal Palace and shop for souvenirs at Seoul’s Namdaemun Market. An expert guide will explain why the Demilitarized Zone is one of the world’s major geopolitical hotspots during a fascinating tour of the DMZ on the third day. The following day, get an immersive experience of South Korean culture. Check out Yongin Korea Folk Village and admire the architectural brilliance of the Joseon dynasty during a visit to the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, ending your 5 days in South Korea on a culturally high note.

From strolling through the buzzing markets of Seoul and getting an instant lesson in geopolitics at the DMZ to exploring historic fortresses and visiting elegant medieval temples, a trip of just 5 days in South Korea can be packed with delights. See our guide for more information on how many days to spend in South Korea. Or reach out to our travel experts, who will help you choose a tailored trip to South Korea that meets your interests.

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