South Korea is a country rich in unique Asian culture that is often overlooked when tourists plan their trips to Asia. And along with the unique culture comes beautiful vistas, amazing foods, and a blend of old and new that you can’t find anywhere else like it.
From palaces to national parks, your trip to South Korea can be as varied as you’d like. You could spend the day shopping in incredible shopping districts or spend some time soaking up a captivating history and culture.
There are so many places to see and so many things to do in South Korea that your trip is going to need some thorough planning. This post is going to cover everything from the things you need to know when visiting South Korea to the best places to visit in this amazing country.
Things to know when you visit South Korea
So, you’ve booked your flight and now you’re making your plans for your trip, but you might be wondering if there is anything you need to know before heading out to South Korea. Well, we’ve rounded up a few things you’re going to need to know on your trip to South Korea.
- Visas – You’re probably wondering if you need a visa for South Korea from Australia, and the answer is yes. Unfortunately, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, South Korea has changed the rules of tourists coming from Australia meaning Australians can no longer travel visa-free to the country. Under normal circumstances, Australians are allowed to travel for up to 90 days visa-free in South Korea.
- Travelling the cities – Traveling in South Korea is relatively inexpensive and incredibly efficient. When you arrive, you should grab yourself a T-money card which can help you out when it comes to travelling the city.
- Expenses – Aside from transportation, the cities in South Korea can be expensive, particularly Seoul. Getting out of the cities can make your trip cheaper.
- Weather – The weather in South Korea varies from north to south but, in general, it is very cold in the winter and very hot in the summer so dress appropriately!
Best places to visit on a trip to South Korea
South Korea has tonnes of attractions and we’ve covered only a tiny handful here. Take a look to find some inspiration for your trip to the country.
Bukhansan National Park
This incredible national park is just 45 minutes from Seoul and offers visitors mountaintop views, exciting excursions, and remote temples to see. Boasting South Korea’s highest peak, rock climbing routes, and hikes, you can also get active on your trip to this national park.
Bukchen Hanok Village
Described as South Korea’s best-kept secret, this hillside village is full to the brim of Hanoks which are traditional South Korean houses. These Hanoks now operate as guesthouses, restaurants, and cultural centres and the village is incredibly popular with Instagrammers!
Myeondong, Seoul
Looking for some incredible shopping? Why not try Myeondong, Seoul’s busy and varied shopping district. You can stock up on some incredible Korean skincare products as well as clothes from all the best shops.
Lotte World, Seoul
Want to go to the largest indoor theme park in the world? Well, it’s in Lotte World! This entertainment area boasts a mall, outdoor amusement park, an ice skating rink and a museum, as well as a hotel. With free-fall rides and year-round ice skating, what more could you ask for?
What is the prettiest place in South Korea?
And now for the prettiest place you can visit in South Korea.
We’ve been taking a look at where tourists and visitors to South Korea flocked to and have found that the prettiest and most popular place for tourists to visit in South Korea is the Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Located just north of Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, this palace has a rich history. Construction was completed in 1395 in the early part of the Joseon Dynasty and is one of the country’s most iconic sights.
You can hop onto free guided tours at this incredible palace and explore all of the sights with the help of a guide who can tell you all of the histories that come with this interesting and captivating attraction. There is a lot to see at the palace from the gate to the pavilion, and even to the Amisan gardens.
This is a not-to-be-missed attraction in the heart of the country, there is a reason it is so popular! So, why not add it to your list of sights to see in South Korea.
Why you should visit South Korea
South Korea has so much to offer with attractions ranging from national parks to amusement parks to historical sights. There is such variety that this country really is a great place for everyone to visit, and you should, so that you can see the beauty and uniqueness there is to offer in this fantastic country.
