South Korea: 7 must-visit towns in this fascinating country

Discover the most beautiful cities in South Korea, the country nicknamed the Land of the Morning Calm. From the bustling capital Seoul to the charming island of Jeju, via historic cities and scientific centres, let yourself be surprised by the cultural richness and dynamism of these must-see places.

1. Seoul, the vibrant capital

Seoul, South Korea’s gigantic metropolis, is an impressive blend of ancient traditions and modernity. A visit to this city would not be complete without a visit to the Gyeongbokgung Palace, an architectural gem dating from the Joseon dynasty. Then stroll through the traditional Bukchon Hanok district, where you can admire the typical Korean houses and enjoy a cup of tea made with local herbs.

And don’t miss the Gangnam district, famous for its luxury boutiques and lively nightlife, as well as the Namsan Tower, offering a breathtaking view of the city. To immerse yourself in Korean history, head for the National Museum of Korea and the Korean War Memorial.

2. Busan, the pearl of the coast

The second largest city in South Korea, Busan is a destination of choice for beach and culture lovers. Start your visit at the Jagalchi fish market, an authentic place where you can buy fresh seafood and savour local specialities. Then head to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a majestic seaside shrine with breathtaking ocean views.

The beaches of Haeundae and Gwangalli are also not to be missed, as is the cultural village of Gamcheon, a colourful district of narrow streets and houses with painted facades.

3. Gyeongju, the historic city

Once the capital of the Silla kingdom, Gyeongju is a veritable open-air museum city. Here you’ll find architectural and historical treasures such as Gyeongju Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to several remarkable sites, including the Seokguram cave, the Bulguksa temple and the Silla royal tombs.

Don’t forget to visit the Gyeongju National Museum, which traces the history of the region and displays precious artefacts from the Silla dynasty. For a unique experience, stroll through the Yangdong Folk Village, a perfect example of traditional Korean architecture.

4. Jeju, the island paradise

Jeju, also known as the Island of the Gods, is an idyllic destination for nature lovers and travellers in search of tranquillity. The scenery on this volcanic island is breathtaking, including Mount Hallasan, South Korea’s highest peak, and the Cheonjiyeon and Jeongbang waterfalls.

Jeju’s sandy beaches and turquoise waters invite you to relax, while the fishing villages and local markets offer a glimpse of everyday life on the island. Don’t miss a visit to the Jeju Tea Museum and Hallim Botanical Park to discover the local flora.

5. Incheon, the port city

Incheon is a booming metropolis to the west of Seoul and home to the country’s main international airport. The port of Incheon is a must-see, offering breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding skyscrapers. The city is also famous for its parks and green spaces, such as Songdo Central Park and Wolmido Park.

For history buffs, Incheon’s Chinatown is a must, with its lively streets and restaurants offering culinary specialities. Finally, don’t miss a visit to the Incheon Art Museum and the Incheon Memorial to learn more about local history.

6. Daegu, the city of textiles

Daegu is a dynamic city, known for its textile industry and lively nightlife. Start your visit at the Seomun market, South Korea’s largest textile market, where you can buy quality clothing and accessories. Continue on to Duryu Park, a huge green space offering panoramic views over the city.

History and culture buffs will enjoy a visit to the Daegu Museum of Modern Art and the traditional village of Otgeori, while shopping enthusiasts will find what they’re looking for in the Dongseongno and Suseongmot shopping districts.

7. Daejeon, the city of science

Daejeon is a fast-developing city, often referred to as South Korea’s Silicon Valley due to its large number of technology companies and research centres. The Daedeok Innopolis science park is one of the city’s main attractions, home to institutions such as the Korea Advanced Research Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) and the Korea Nuclear Research Centre.

As well as its scientific character, Daejeon also has a number of natural and cultural sites to discover. Don’t miss Gyeryongsan National Park, Yuseong Mountain and the Daejeon Art Museum for a complete experience of this fascinating city.

In conclusion, South Korea is full of exciting and diverse cities that will delight all types of travellers. Whether you’re a lover of culture, nature, shopping or gastronomy, the Land of the Morning Calm has plenty of surprises and unforgettable memories in store for you.