Day Trip Ideas From South Korea: Going Beyond Seoul

The city of Seoul is vibrant, buzzing, frantic and sometimes overwhelming. When you need to opt-out of the metropolis, take day trips from Seoul to see some of South Korea’s lovely lush spots. Ahhhhh – peace and quiet!

Nami Island is South Korea’s #1 attraction outside of the capital, and one of the best day trips from Seoul. Stroll the iconic tree-lined avenues and explore this serene isle as you snap Insta-worthy photos. In autumn, crimson and gold leaves adorn the island, while winter brings pristine snow. Petite France is a French-themed village that’s been used in various dramas and variety shows. Think pretty pastel-coloured French buildings where you can experience some French ambience in the Korean countryside. Head over to Nami Island using the Nami Island tour from Seoul. 

How Far From Seoul: 1.5 hours

How to Get There: Depart from Hongik Univ. Station exit 4, Myeongdong Station exit 3 or Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Station exit 10

 Grab your sunnies and sunscreen and hit this doable 2.8km trail. Do it on foot and enjoy the gorgeous coastal backdrop. Whether you’re walking with friends or family, or you’re going solo, this is a lovely scenic stroll. When you book your Jeongdong-Simgok Badabuchae-gil Trail and Jeongdongjin Rail Bike Day Tour from Seoul, you can take on this trail then live like locals by shopping for Korean goods at the traditional Gangneung  Jungang Market. Top off your day with a  ride of the famous rail bikes with the fresh salty air in your face. 

 How Far From Seoul: 4.5 hours

How to Get There: Depart from Hongik Univ. Station, Exit 4, Myeongdong Station, Exit 2 or Dongdaemun History Culture Park Station, Exit 10

A world of Alpacas? Who could want more? On this farm in Gangwon-do province, a few hours from Seoul, you can al-patta and feed these furry creatures and even take them on a walk. There are horses, deer, rabbits, goats, chameleons and peacocks too. Book your Alpaca World, Jade Garden, and Gubongsan Mountain Observatory Café Street Day Tour from Seoul voucher, and enjoy 3,000 plant species, extensive gardens and views of the Korean countryside at the nearby Jade Garden and Gubongsan Mountain Observatory.

This fuss-free day trip is kid-utopia and includes admissions, a free drink, round-trip transport and a guide. 

How Far From Seoul: 1.5 hours

How to Get There: Depart from Hongik Univ. Station, Exit 4, Myeongdong Station, Exit 2 or Dongdaemun History Culture Park Station, Exit 10

Bust out of the bustling city to the Naejangsan National Park. Boasting almost 82 sq. kilometres of jaw-dropping scenery, this nature reserve sports immense woodlands and peaceful ponds. In autumn, you're in for a treat as the leaves turn and the rustic hues make for a whimsical feel. On a Naejangsan National Park Autumn Day Tour, restore your sense of calm. 

 How Far From Seoul: 3 hours

How to Get There: Self drive

Get your hike on in the beautiful Korean countryside. If you don't do up – travel to the top on the cable car, then enjoy the hike down. Daedunsan is drop-dead-gorgeous when dressed in autumn colours and as one of your day trips from Seoul in winter, you're sure to see pristine snow. And with all levels of paths and trails, there's something for everyone, from seniors to uber-hikers.

The Scenic Daedunsan Provincial Park day trip gets you to the area in comfort to make some memories. 

How Far From Seoul: 3.5 hours

How to Get There: Depart from Hongik Univ. Station, Exit 4, Myeongdong Station, Exit 2 or Dongdaemun History Culture Park Station, Exit 10

This is the place to put down your devices and unwind. With plenty of scenery and modern facilities, you get the best of both worlds. Do a little or a lot: paraglide down a mountain, cruise around Chungju Lake or stroll through the Suyanggae Light Tunnel. On the Danyang One Day Tour, see the Cheongpung Cultural Heritage Complex, Danyang Market and the Mancheonha Skywalk.

How Far From Seoul: 2.5 hours

How to Get There: Depart from Hongik Univ. Station, Exit 4, Myeongdong Station, Exit 2 or Dongdaemun History Culture Park Station, Exit 10

Step into a different century in Gyeonggi-do just outside Seoul. For history buffs and curious minds, this village has recreated the Joseon area and hosts cultural festivals that celebrate the shifting seasons. Check out the authentic cultural homes, which have been collected, relocated and lovingly restored. Book the Minsok Korean Folk Village, Gwangmyeong Cave, and Uiwang Rail Bike Day Trip from Seoul, and you can also explore the Gwangmyeong Cave theme park, built inside a mine.

Then take a ride on the famous Uiwang Rail Bike around Wangsong Lake and through a flower tunnel.

How Far From Seoul: 30mins

How to Get There: Depart from Hongik Univ. Station, Exit 4, Myeongdong Station, Exit 2 or Dongdaemun History Culture Park Station, Exit 10

If you’re a hiker looking for a challenge, head to this national park within the Sobaek mountain range. It starts out as an easy forest trail, but soon becomes a case of you against the high rock stairs! If all that walking makes you weary, there’s restaurants on the trail, as well as freshwater streams and support centres if you need help. Experience the best of this place on the Spectacular Songnisan National Park Day Tour From Seoul.

How Far From Seoul: 2 hours

How to Get There: Self drive

Close to Seoul, you’ll find Ansan where you can visit Farm Land and Starlight Village. Interact with cute critters, pat and feed sheep and have parrots perch on you. For some nighttime fun, Starlight Village will brighten your next Insta post with its colourful twinkling terrain. To amp-up your itinerary, book a Gwangmyeong Cave, Anseong Farm Land, and Ansan Starlight Village Day Tour from Seoul.

 How Far From Seoul: 50 mins

How to Get There: Take the metro to Gojan Station

This Demilitarized Zone is the border between North and South territories. Here you’ll find meeting houses and a museum dedicated to the memory and history of the Korean War. If you want to get around the strict entrance requirements of North Korea, this is your chance to gain some insight into the elusive country. A popular spot, if you’re curious about how North meets South, book the DMZ Day Tour from Seoul with Klook.

 How Far From Seoul: 1 hour

How to Get There: Depart from Hongik Univ. Station, Exit 4, Myeongdong Station, Exit 2 or Dongdaemun History Culture Park Station, Exit 10

For some seasonal splendour, see the autumn foliage at Seoraksan Mountain. Located in Gangwon-do, hike-and-view some of the top spots like the Cheonbuldong Valley, Osaek Mineral Spring, Osaek Jujeongol and Baekdam Valley. If you want the views without the exercise, take the cable car instead. The Seoraksan Autumn Day Tour from Seoul has it all. 

How Far From Seoul: 2 hours

How to Get There: Self drive

Peruse the pink grass that’s taken Instagram by storm! Only in autumn, Haneul Park is pretty in pink – make sure you get your timing right and sink your teeth into a Lotus Leaf Hot Dog while you soak in this technicoloured turf. Book the Haneul Park, Pink Muhly Grass, and Dumulmeori Day Tour by S.A Tour for a fuss-free arvo out. 

How Far From Seoul: 45mins

How to Get There: Take the metro and get off at World Cup Stadium Station

This is the biggest theme park in Korea; we’re not going to hold back – it’s enormous. Separated into five themed zones, you’ll easily spend the day here. Home to the world’s steepest ride: the T Express Everland, this park is daredevil-friendly and still offers plenty for the kids, like the animal safari – Zootopia. Here’s how you can skip the queues and pre-book your Everland 1 Day Ticket and Round Trip Shuttle Bus from Seoul.

How Far From Seoul: 30mins

How to Get There: Depart grom Hongik Univ. Station, Exit 4, Sinchon Station, Exit 5, Seoul Station, Exit 10, City Hall Station, Exit 5, Jongno 3 (sam)-ga Station, Exit 12, Myeongdong Station, Exit 2, Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Station, Exit 11

If you’re visiting in winter, make the most of the outdoor snow-scape. Go snow tubing, skiing and ice skating or rent some skis and clothes and take on the slopes. There are also 5 unique sledding courses and rides the kids can enjoy. Get your Vivaldi Park SnowyLand and Ski Official tickets and check out some other winter-friendly fun. 

How Far From Seoul: 2.5 hours

How to Get There: Meet at Hongik Univ. Station Exit 8 Starbucks or Myeongdong Shinsegae Duty Free Store

Another winter must is the Pyeongchang Trout Festival and Ice Fishing Winter Day Tour from Seoul by S.A Tour. Catch your next meal as you learn the art of ice fishing from the experts. Have it grilled or cut into sashimi slices and enjoy the spoils of the sport. If fishing isn’t your thing, try ice sledding instead. This tour includes round trip transfers, fishing equipment rental and an exclusive fishing chair!

How Far From Seoul: 2.5 hours

How to Get There: Self drive

The Jeonju Hanok Village and Baegyangsa Day Tour from Seoul will transport you back in time. And thanks to the autumn leaf display, this village gets covered in fallen Gingko leaves, making a charming golden-yellow ground contrasting the crimson red maples. See Baegyangsa, one of the most beautiful temples in Korea.

How Far From Seoul: 2.5 hours

How to Get There: Self drive

On this day trip to Jeju Island from Seoul, see the island’s gems on the Jeju Island UNESCO Day Tour. Natural wonders like the Jusangjeolli Cliff, Cheonjiyeon Falls and emerald-coloured, Woljeongri Beach. Trek through Manjang Cave and visit the village of Seongeup for some insight into Jeju folk culture. See the spring canola flowers in Seopjikoji, go to Gwangchigi Beach and take in the crown-shaped peak of Seongsan Sunrise Peak.

If heritage sites and antiquities are your things, this Gyeongju day trip allows you to dip into some ancient culture. Reflect on Buddhist temples and sacred stone carvings. Then continue to Cheomseongdae, the world’s oldest astronomical observatory. Next, explore the traditional Kyocho Hanok Village, where you can don a real Hanbok! The historic tomb at Daeneungwon is your next destination, then Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond.

These Seoul day trips and beyond, are the pick of the crop and guaranteed to give you an insight into South Korea. Go further afield for a richer and more extensive trip.