5 Days in Korea: Seoul + Busan Itinerary

Five days is enough for Korea's two biggest cities. Spend two days in Seoul, then take the KTX high-speed train (~2h40) to Busan for beaches, a hillside art village and Korea's best seafood, before heading back.

1. Day 1Seoul — palaces & Bukchon
   Morning

   Gyeongbokgung Palace + the changing of the guard (hanbok = free entry). · 🗺️ map

   Afternoon

   Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong. · 🗺️ map

   Evening

   Myeongdong street food and shopping. · 🗺️ map

2. Day 2Seoul — modern & views
   Morning

   Hongdae cafes and shops. · 🗺️ map

   Afternoon

   N Seoul Tower for the skyline. · 🗺️ map

   Evening

   Gwangjang Market or a Han River park. · 🗺️ map

3. Day 3KTX to Busan — the coast
   Morning

   KTX from Seoul Station to Busan (~2h40). Book a seat ahead on weekends. · 🗺️ map

   Afternoon

   Haeundae Beach and the Blueline Park sky capsule. · 🗺️ map

   Evening

   Gwangalli Beach for the Gwangan Bridge light show. · 🗺️ map

4. Day 4Busan — village, market, temple
   Morning

   Gamcheon Culture Village — the pastel hillside neighbourhood. · 🗺️ map

   Afternoon

   Jagalchi Fish Market and BIFF Square street food in Nampo-dong. · 🗺️ map

   Evening

   Haedong Yonggungsa, a rare seaside temple, at golden hour. · 🗺️ map

5. Day 5Back to Seoul / departure
   Morning

   Last-minute Busan beach or cafe, then KTX back to Seoul (or fly home from Gimhae). · 🗺️ map

   Afternoon

   If flying from Incheon, allow time for the AREX/airport transfer. · 🗺️ map