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Planning a 5-day trip to South Korea? This ultimate guide has you covered! Explore Seoul, Busan, and Incheon with a detailed itinerary, must-visit attractions, and budget tips for solo travelers and families. Learn how to book KTX tickets hassle-free, enjoy Korean BBQ, and stroll through cultural villages. From historic palaces to scenic beaches, this travel guide ensures a smooth, exciting, and unforgettable adventure in South Korea! Let’s dive into your perfect 5-day itinerary in South Korea!
Land at Incheon International Airport – Once you clear immigration, grab a T-money card from convenience stores like CU or GS25 for smooth travel on buses and subways.
Hop on the AREX Express Train – The fastest way to reach Seoul Station in 43 minutes. Budget travelers can opt for the all-stop train, which takes around an hour.
Currency Exchange & SIM card – Get Korean Won at airport counters or ATMs. For seamless internet access, buy a 4G SIM card or rent a pocket Wi-Fi.
Check in to the chosen hotel based on your budget
Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace: Watch the royal changing of the guard ceremony and rent a hanbok for free entry and stunning photos.
Lunch: Try Korea’s Best: Try bibimbap, samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), or kimchi jjigae (around PHP 500 per meal).
Visit Bukchon Hanok Village: Stroll through charming alleyways lined with traditional hanok houses for picture-perfect moments.
Shop & Explore Insadong: This vibrant district is filled with art galleries, street performances, and teahouses.
Dinner at a Korean BBQ Restaurant: Grill your own samgyeopsal (pork belly) or galbi (beef short ribs) (approx. PHP 800 per meal). Check out Baetjang in Myeongdong or Maple Tree House in Insadong.
Visit Cheonggyecheon Stream: A beautiful, lit-up urban stream perfect for an evening stroll.
Ride the Cable Car to Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower): Ride the scenic cable car up to Seoul’s iconic Namsan Tower for breathtaking city views. Don’t forget to leave a love lock on the famous wall if you're feeling sentimental.
Walk Through Namsan Park: Before heading down, take a short walk through Namsan Park, a lush green space with peaceful trails and traditional pavilions.
Shopping and Skincare at Myeongdong: After descending, head to Myeongdong, Seoul’s shopping mecca. Whether you’re looking for top-tier skincare, trendy fashion, or cute accessories, this bustling district has it all. Don’t forget to check out stores like Nature Republic, Innisfree, and Etude House for high-quality Korean beauty products.
Lunch in Myeongdong: Try tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and gyeran-bbang (egg bread) (budget-friendly at PHP 400).
Visit Bukchon Hanok Village: After lunch, step back in time at Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional neighborhood known for its beautifully preserved hanok (Korean houses). Wander through narrow alleyways, visit cultural centers, and snap stunning photos of the city’s heritage homes against a modern skyline. If you have extra time, stop by a local tea house to enjoy traditional Korean tea.
Explore Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): As the sun sets, make your way to Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a futuristic architectural masterpiece designed by Zaha Hadid. The complex features unique exhibitions, pop-up stores, and LED rose gardens that light up at night.
Visit the Dongdaemun Night Market: If you’re in the mood for shopping, the surrounding Dongdaemun Market area has plenty of 24-hour fashion malls like Doota and Migliore, where you can find stylish clothes at affordable prices.
Dinner Near DDP: Wrap up your day with a hearty Korean meal at a nearby restaurant. Consider trying dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) or budae jjigae (Korean army stew) for a rich and satisfying dining experience (approx. PHP 800).
Hop on the train to Busan: Kickstart your adventure with an early morning ride on the KTX bullet train from Seoul Station to Busan, South Korea’s vibrant coastal gem. The high-speed journey takes just 2.5 hours, making it the quickest and most scenic way to reach the city. Round-trip tickets cost around ₱3,000, so be sure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons!
Soak up the sun at Haeundae Beach: Step off the train and head straight to Haeundae Beach, one of South Korea’s most famous beaches. Stroll along the soft, white sand, breathe in the fresh sea air, and snap Insta-worthy shots of the stunning coastline. If you’re visiting in summer, rent a beach chair or dive into water sports like paddleboarding!
Seafood Feast at Haeundae Market: Hungry? Walk over to Haeundae Market, a street food paradise known for fresh seafood and authentic Korean flavors. Try sannakji (live octopus), grilled eel, or Busan’s famous dwaeji gukbap (pork soup with rice)—a must-try local favorite! A delicious meal will cost around ₱600.
Wander throughGamcheon Culture Village: Next, take a short taxi or bus ride to Gamcheon Culture Village, one of Busan’s top attractions. Once a humble hillside neighborhood, it’s now a colorful, mural-filled village brimming with art, quirky sculptures, and picture-perfect viewpoints. Wander the maze-like alleys, check out local galleries, and strike a pose with the iconic Little Prince statue.
Sunset views from Busan Tower: For a breathtaking panoramic view of Busan’s skyline and harbor, head to Busan Tower in Yongdusan Park. Arrive just before sunset for a golden-hour spectacle—a stunning way to wrap up your day! Entry is budget-friendly and totally worth it.
End the day with Busan’s Spicy Fish Stew: Before catching your train back, savor a hearty bowl of daegu maeuntang (spicy fish stew)—a Busan specialty packed with fresh seafood and bold flavors. Expect to spend around ₱800 for a rich and satisfying dinner.
Return to Seoul via KTX Train: After an action-packed day, hop back on the KTX train for a smooth return to Seoul. The last train leaves around 9:00-10:00 PM, so you’ll be back at your hotel in time for some well-earned rest!
Step back in time at Changdeokgung Palace: Start your day with a visit to Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Seoul’s five grand palaces. Unlike Gyeongbokgung, this palace is known for its harmonious blend with nature, making it a must-visit for history buffs and architecture lovers.
Wander through the Secret Garden: If time allows, book a tour of Huwon (the Secret Garden)—a tranquil retreat once reserved for Joseon Dynasty royalty. Stroll through serene lotus ponds, ancient pavilions, and lush landscapes, making this one of the most scenic spots in Seoul.
Savor a traditional Korean lunch: After soaking up centuries of history, enjoy a meal at a local Korean restaurant near the palace. Warm up with samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) for a nourishing boost, or go for jeon (savory Korean pancakes) with makgeolli (rice wine) for an authentic culinary experience. A hearty meal will cost around ₱600.
Step in to the past at the Korean Folk Village: Travel to the Korean Folk Village, a living history museum that brings Joseon-era Korea to life. Wander through traditional hanok homes, watch folk performances, and try your hand at old-school Korean crafts. The village also hosts reenactments of cultural ceremonies, tightrope walking shows, and historical demonstrations. Entrance is approximately ₱1,000—totally worth it for the interactive experience!
Dress in Hanbok for a Full Cultural Experience: For an extra dose of Korean culture, rent a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) and explore the village in style! Many rental shops offer stunning, period-accurate designs, perfect for beautiful, Insta-worthy photos.
Return to Seoul and unwind: After a day of immersive cultural experiences, head back to Seoul for a well-deserved break before dinner.
Feast on Korean comfort food: End the day with a delicious spread of Korea’s most beloved dishes. Try bossam (boiled pork wraps), galbi jjim (braised short ribs), or the soul-warming doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew). Expect to spend around ₱800 for a flavor-packed dinner.
Unwind at Incheon Grand Park: Start your last day in South Korea with a breath of fresh air at Incheon Grand Park—a peaceful green escape perfect for a morning walk or bike ride. Stroll through scenic trails, vibrant gardens, and a picturesque lake, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Seasonal Beauty All Year Round
Spring: A magical display of cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Autumn: A breathtaking mix of red, orange, and gold foliage.
Anytime: If you're traveling with kids, check out the Children’s Zoo or the botanical garden for a fun nature-filled experience!
Savor Incheon’s Signature Dishes: Before leaving, indulge in some of Incheon’s most famous dishes at a local restaurant. One must-try dish is jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles), a savory and hearty meal that originated in Incheon’s Chinatown. Another local favorite is dakgangjeong (sweet and spicy crispy chicken), a crunchy, flavorful snack that’s perfect for sharing. Expect to spend around ₱500 for a satisfying and authentic meal.
Explore Songdo – Korea’s Futuristic Smart City: After lunch, take a short trip to Songdo International Business District, a cutting-edge urban development known for its futuristic architecture and smart city innovations. This modern metropolis seamlessly blends nature with high-tech infrastructure, making it a must-visit for travelers who appreciate urban design. Here you can visit:
Songdo Central Park: One of Songdo’s highlights is Songdo Central Park, a beautifully designed space featuring a man-made seawater canal. Here, you can ride water taxis, rent a kayak, or simply enjoy a relaxing walk while taking in the stunning views of the modern skyline.
Tri-Bowl: Another must-see attraction is Tri-Bowl, an architectural masterpiece that looks like three floating bowls. This cultural complex hosts various exhibitions and interactive art installations, making it a fascinating stop for art lovers and photographers alike.
NC Cube Canal Walk: For some last-minute shopping, head to NC Cube Canal Walk, a stylish open-air shopping and entertainment complex. Here, you'll find boutique shops, trendy cafes, and a relaxing ambiance perfect for winding down before your flight.
Return to Incheon International Airport: As your South Korea adventure comes to an end, make your way to Incheon International Airport, often ranked as one of the best airports in the world. If you have extra time before your flight, take advantage of its world-class amenities.
Indoor gardens provide a peaceful retreat where you can relax before boarding.
Duty-free shopping offers the perfect opportunity to pick up last-minute souvenirs, luxury items, and Korean skincare products.
Korean cultural experience zones allow you to enjoy traditional music performances, try on hanbok (Korean traditional attire), and learn more about the country’s rich heritage.
Final Korean feast – If you didn’t get a chance to try all the dishes on your list, grab a final meal at one of the airport’s top-rated Korean restaurants. Whether it’s a comforting bowl of ramyeon, a sizzling plate of bulgogi, or a quick bite of gimbap, end your trip with a delicious memory.
Wondering how much to set aside for your epic South Korea getaway? Your budget will depend on your travel style—whether you're a budget explorer, a comfort seeker, or a luxury traveler. Here’s a quick breakdown of estimated costs to help you plan like a pro!
Shopping: Planning to stock up on K-beauty must-haves, trendy fashion, and unique souvenirs? Set aside an extra ₱5,000 - ₱10,000 for your shopping haul at hotspots like Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, and Insadong.
Luxury Dining & Experiences: Treat yourself to Michelin-starred restaurants, traditional Korean spa treatments, or private tours for a truly indulgent experience. Budget an extra ₱5,000 - ₱15,000 for these premium activities.
Transportation Passes: To save money on getting around, consider:
T-Money Card – Perfect for unlimited bus and subway rides in cities like Seoul and Busan.?
Korea Rail Pass (KR Pass) – Ideal for multiple KTX train rides, giving you unlimited travel on high-speed and regional trains.
The KTX (Korea Train Express) is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu. Follow these simple steps to book your tickets hassle-free:
Head to www.letskorail.com to book directly from the official site.
Click on the “English” option at the top-right corner of the website for easier navigation.
Enter your departure and arrival stations (e.g., Seoul to Busan).
Select your travel date and preferred time of departure.
Click "Search" to view available trains.
A list of available KTX trains will appear with departure times and ticket prices.
Select the train that fits your schedule.
Choose between First Class (more spacious seating) or Economy Class (standard comfortable seating).
Fill in necessary details such as name, passport number, and contact information.
If applicable, select discounts (e.g., for students or senior citizens).
Pay securely using a credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, and major international cards are accepted).
Double-check your booking details before confirming the payment.
Once payment is complete, a confirmation email with your e-ticket will be sent to you.
You can either print your ticket or show the digital ticket on your mobile device when boarding.
Tips for Booking KTX Tickets
Book Tickets in Advance: Tickets sell out fast, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom season (April) and autumn foliage season (October-November).
Consider a KR Pass for Tourists: If you’re taking multiple train rides, the Korea Rail Pass (KR Pass) offers unlimited travel on KTX and select regional trains for a fixed price.
Beware of Third-Party Booking Sites: To avoid scams, always book through official platforms like KORAIL or trusted travel agencies.
Arrive Early at the Station: KTX stations are huge—get there 20-30 minutes before departure to find your platform with ease.
A 5-day trip to South Korea is packed with stunning attractions, rich history, delicious food, and seamless high-speed train travel. With the right budget and planning, you’re all set for an unforgettable adventure! Ensure a worry-free trip by getting Oona Travel Insurance and start planning your journey today!
