Ultimate Guide For First-Timers Exploring Korea

Nearly everyone is swept with the K-wave, some love South Korea for its music, dramas, cosmetics or simply its four seasons. Whatever the reason is, considering Korea as your travel destination is definitely worth it. Aside from its picturesque views, it’s also safe for first-time travelers like you. 

There are a lot of places to add to your Korea itinerary – from national parks to shopping destinations, you’ll find it here. Make your first time memorable by adding these places to visit your Korea itinerary.

Seoul is usually the first stop for every traveler and there are tons of places to visit in Seoul. You might’ve heard about the DMZ or the demilitarized zone. This famous tourist spot will walk you through the history of the Korean War and the Cold War. You can also have a bird’s eye view of North Korea’s border. To save more time and money, you can easily book ahead of time through Klook.

You’ll have tons of famous tourist spots to add to your Korean itinerary list with this one. The country’s capital is known for its delicious food and history. It’s also a hotspot to fully immerse in the K-spirit. To avoid draining your budget, you can book Klook’s exclusive Seoul City Tour and witness more than 15 spots including Myeong-dong, Insa-dong, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Cheong Wa Dae - or the Blue House, N Seoul Tower, and the Hanok village to name a few. 

If you’re into thrilling rides and theme parks, you can visit Korea’s well-known theme parks Everland or Lotte World. Everland, the largest theme park in the country, has five themed zones for every child and kids at heart. They’ve got several adrenaline-pumping rides such as e Thunder Falls, Amazon Express, Rolling X-Train, Raptor Ranger, and T-Express. T-Express is a must-try for every thrill-seeker. If you’re into animals, stop by the animal safari and watch the animals in their habitat.

On the other hand, another theme park worth adding to your Korea itinerary is Lotte World. Lotte World has breathtaking rides such as Conquistador (or what we Filipinos know as the Vikings ride); World Monorail which is a sky train that will go around the theme park; speedy ride called the French Revolution, Bungee, Gyro Spin, and more. After a full day of exploring, you can munch on delicious food and try traditional Korean food too. Like Everland, you can also book a Lotte World ticket in advance through Klook!

Han River is probably one of the famous spots in Seoul and there’s so much to see and experience here whatever the season may be. There are open spaces for picnics, food stalls, independent artists performing under a bridge, and activities around the Han River Park. cycling around Han River Park. At night, you can marvel at the beautiful night view while on a luxury yacht. Through Klook, you can enjoy a lavish and romantic Han River atmosphere at a reasonable price.

Nami Island is a beautiful and must-visit tourist spot in Korea. Whether you’re visiting during winter, fall, spring, or summer, you’ll have a fun time taking photos for your feed as you stroll through Nami Island’s famous tree-lined landscape. For a first-timer, it’s advisable to go on a guided tour. If you check out Klook, you’ll have a convenient tour experience and see Petite France and the Garden of Morning Calm with a Gangchon Rail biking experience. Having this on your Korea itinerary will let you witness another side of the country.

If you’re planning to visit during the autumn season, consider having Seoraksan National Park on your Korea itinerary. This is one of South Korea’s beloved and protected parks and is known to be the home of Mount Seorak, the third-highest mountain in the country. It’s also a popular hiking destination, so if you’re into an adventure that has jaw-dropping views, this is the place to be. 

Located in Gangwon province in Eastern Korea, you can get a peaceful time away from the city by booking through Klook. This is a convenient option especially for first-timers since it would take at least three hours to reach the province. 

If you have extra time to visit other places in South Korea aside from Seoul, Busan is another option for you. Busan is known for its beaches, mountains, and temples. For a first-timer, adding this to your Korea itinerary might feel overwhelming since it’s far from the city. Going on a guided tour can save you money and time for planning. Through Klook, you can check out this tour that will bring you to famous places in Busan and meet the locals. This tour will bring you around Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Cheongsapo Railway, Huinnyeoul Coastal Village, and Gamcheon Culture Village which is known for its colorful houses and filming location for the Korean hit show “Running Man.”

While you’re at it, you should stop by the East coast of Busan and feel the Korean culture. Meet the locals when purchasing goods at Busan’s traditional market and hear the lesser-known stories of this beautiful port city from your experienced tour guide from Klook.