The Perfect 14 Day South Korea Itinerary (2026)
Seoul → Gyeongju → Busan → Jeju Island | Complete guide with daily plans, transport tips & accommodation
Updated January 2026: Tested during our month in South Korea • Includes prices, booking links & insider tips
📊 Trip Overview
14 days / 13 nights
Seoul (5) • Gyeongju (2) • Busan (2) • Jeju (4)
$1,500-3,000 AUD per person
First-time visitors to Korea
South Korea is a dynamic and captivating country, blending rich cultural heritage with a vibrant modern scene. Whether you’re exploring ancient palaces and traditional markets or diving into bustling cities and stunning natural landscapes, South Korea has it all. This comprehensive two-week itinerary will take you on an extraordinary journey through the country’s top highlights.
We’ll start in vibrant Seoul, where you’ll experience the true heartbeat of South Korea. Next, we’ll head to historic Gyeongju, home to fascinating treasures from the Silla Dynasty. Then we’ll explore coastal Busan with its beaches and seafood scene. Finally, we’ll cap off the adventure on stunning Jeju Island with its volcanic landscapes and natural beauty.
💡 Pro tip: This itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors and can be adjusted based on your interests. Want more time in Seoul? Skip a day in Jeju. Prefer beaches? Add extra Busan days.
📱 Essential Pre-Trip Information
Stay Connected with eSIM
Internet is essential in South Korea for navigation (Google Maps doesn’t work!), restaurant bookings, and staying in touch. Get Saily eSIM before you leave—install it at home, activate on arrival.
Why eSIM over Airport SIM Cards:
- No airport queues – Install before you fly
- Instant activation – Connected as soon as you land
- Keep your number – Your home SIM stays active
- Better value – Often cheaper than airport kiosks
- Multiple countries – Works if you’re visiting multiple destinations
🔒 Protect Your Data with VPN
You’ll be using public WiFi constantly in cafes, hotels, and restaurants. Secure your banking and personal data with NordVPN. Bonus: Access your home streaming services (Netflix, BBC iPlayer, etc.).
🛡️ Get Travel Insurance
Don’t skip this! We use SafetyWing for all our travels. Covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit South Korea
South Korea experiences all four seasons, each with unique charm. Choose based on what you want to see and do:
🌸 Spring (March-May)
Best for: Cherry blossoms (peak: early April)
- Mild weather, perfect for sightseeing
- Cherry blossom festivals everywhere
- Outdoor activities like hiking
- Crowds: High (especially blossom season)
☀️ Summer (June-August)
Best for: Beaches, festivals
- Hot & humid (bring light clothes)
- Perfect for Jeju beaches
- Many festivals and events
- Crowds: High (peak season)
🍂 Autumn (September-November)
Best for: Autumn foliage, hiking
- Stunning autumn colours (Oct-Nov)
- Perfect weather for outdoor activities
- Harvest festivals
- Crowds: Medium-High
❄️ Winter (December-February)
Best for: Winter sports, Christmas lights
- Cold but magical atmosphere
- Skiing and ice skating
- Christmas decorations in cities
- Crowds: Low (cheapest time)
💡 Our recommendation: Spring (April-May) or Autumn (October-November) for the best weather, beautiful scenery, and manageable crowds. Avoid monsoon season (July-August).
🚆 Getting Around South Korea
South Korea has one of the world’s best public transport systems. Here’s how to navigate it:
🚄 KTX High-Speed Trains (Between Cities)
Fastest way to travel between Seoul, Gyeongju, and Busan. Book in advance for better prices.
- Seoul → Gyeongju: 2.5 hours (~₩40,000 / $40 AUD)
- Gyeongju → Busan: 30-45 minutes (~₩8,000 / $8 AUD)
- Busan → Seoul: 2.5 hours (~₩60,000 / $60 AUD)
Pro tip: Get a Korea Rail Pass if making 3+ train journeys (unlimited rides for 3-5 days)
🚇 Seoul & Busan Metro (Within Cities)
Clean, safe, affordable, and easy to navigate. Get a T-Money Card at any convenience store (₩2,500 / $2.50 deposit + credit).
- Single journey: ~₩1,400 ($1.40 AUD)
- Works on buses, metros, and taxis
- Refundable at airport before leaving
✈️ Flights to Jeju Island
Flying is the most practical way to reach Jeju. Multiple airlines operate frequent flights.
- Seoul → Jeju: 1 hour (~₩40,000-80,000 / $40-80 AUD)
- Busan → Jeju: 50 mins (~₩30,000-60,000 / $30-60 AUD)
- Book in advance for cheapest fares
🚗 Car Rental in Jeju
Essential for Jeju! Public transport is limited. Attractions are spread out. International driving permit required.
Cost: ~₩40,000-60,000/day ($40-60 AUD) • Compare car rental prices
Download Naver Maps or Kakao Maps before you arrive. These are the only navigation apps that work properly in South Korea. Google Maps shows locations but won’t give you directions.
💰 Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
| Expense | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (13 nights) | $400 | $800 | $2,000+ |
| Food & Dining | $300 | $600 | $1,200 |
| Transport (trains, metro, flights) | $250 | $350 | $500 |
| Attractions & Activities | $150 | $250 | $400 |
| Jeju Car Rental (4 days) | $160 | $200 | $300 |
| Shopping & Extras | $200 | $400 | $800 |
| TOTAL (excl. flights) | $1,460 | $2,600 | $5,200+ |
Note: Prices in AUD. International flights to/from South Korea not included. Budget assumes hostels/guesthouses, mid-range assumes 3-star hotels, luxury assumes 4-5 star hotels.
📅 Your 14-Day South Korea Adventure
🏙️ DAYS 1-5: SEOUL
South Korea’s dynamic capital—palaces, markets, K-pop, and nightlife
Getting to Seoul
Most international flights arrive at Incheon International Airport (ICN), about 50km west of Seoul.
Airport → Seoul City Centre:
- AREX Airport Express Train: 43 mins to Seoul Station (₩9,500 / $9.50) — Fastest option
- Airport Limousine Bus: 60-90 mins (₩16,000 / $16) — Goes to specific hotels/areas
- Taxi: 60 mins (₩60,000-80,000 / $60-80) — Most convenient for groups
💡 Essential first task: Buy a T-Money Card at any convenience store at the airport (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven). Load it with ₩20,000 ($20). You’ll use this for all public transport.
Where to Stay in Seoul
Seoul has distinct neighbourhoods. Choose based on your vibe:
🎨 Hongdae (Recommended!)
Youthful, artsy, nightlife, street performances. Best for backpackers & young travellers.
🏛️ Insadong
Traditional, near palaces, cultural. Best for history buffs.
🛍️ Myeongdong
Shopping central, touristy, central. Best for shoppers & first-timers.
✨ Gangnam
Upscale, K-pop, modern. Best for luxury & K-pop fans.
Day 1: Hongdae, Ikseondong Hanok Village & Insadong
Modern Seoul meets traditional Korea
Morning: Start in trendy Hongdae, Seoul’s artistic youth hub. Wander the main street filled with boutique shops, indie cafes, and street art. Grab breakfast at a local cafe—try Korean-style toast or a patbingsu (shaved ice dessert) for something sweet.
Afternoon: Metro to Ikseondong Hanok Village, a hidden gem with traditional Korean houses (hanoks) now housing trendy cafes and galleries. Instagram heaven! Walk the narrow alleyways, pop into quirky cafes, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Evening: Head to Insadong for traditional Korean culture. Visit Tapgol Park (10-story stone pagoda), browse Insadong-gil for traditional crafts and souvenirs, then explore Ssamzie-gil, a spiral shopping complex with unique boutiques. Dinner at a traditional Korean restaurant.
💡 Pro tip: Many cafes in Ikseondong have long queues—go early (before 11am) or visit on weekdays. Free WiFi everywhere, perfect for planning your next days!
Day 2: Namdaemun Market, Myeongdong, N Seoul Tower & Itaewon
Shopping, city views, and international food
Morning: Explore Namdaemun Market, Korea’s oldest and largest traditional market (since 1414!). Over 10,000 stalls selling everything—souvenirs, clothes, electronics, street food. Perfect for bargain hunting. Haggle politely!
Afternoon: Walk to nearby Myeongdong, Seoul’s premier shopping district. K-beauty heaven—every cosmetic brand has a shop here. Grab lunch at a Korean BBQ restaurant. Then take Namsan Cable Car up to N Seoul Tower for 360° panoramic city views (236m high). Lock a love lock if you’re feeling romantic!
Evening: Metro to Itaewon, Seoul’s international district. Diverse restaurants (Mexican, Indian, Italian, Middle Eastern), lively bars, and unique shops. Great for meeting other travellers. Optional: Visit War Memorial of Korea or National Museum of Korea if you have time.
💰 Money-saving tip: N Seoul Tower entrance is ₩11,000 ($11). Skip the tower ticket and just enjoy the free observation area at the base for great views!
Day 3: Cheonggyecheon Stream, Gwangjang Market, Ihwa Mural Village & Dongdaemun
Street food, street art, and night markets
Morning: Start with a peaceful walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream, an 11km urban renewal project that transformed a highway into a beautiful waterway. Then head to Gwangjang Market for brunch—this is THE place for authentic Korean street food. Must-tries: bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), bibimbap, tteokbokki. Featured on Netflix’s “Street Food”!
Afternoon: Taxi/metro to Ihwa Mural Village, a hillside neighbourhood covered in colourful street art and murals. It’s a bit of a climb but worth it for the Instagram photos and unique atmosphere. Explore the winding alleys and artistic installations.
Evening: End at Dongdaemun, Seoul’s 24-hour shopping paradise. Huge malls (Doota, Migliore), wholesale markets, and night markets. Visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a futuristic landmark by Zaha Hadid. Shop till midnight!
Day 4: Gyeongbokgung Palace & Bukchon Hanok Village
Royal palaces and traditional Korean architecture
Morning: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most beautiful of Seoul’s five grand palaces. Built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty. Join the free guided tour (11am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm in English) to learn the fascinating history. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony (10am, 2pm daily).
Afternoon: Walk 10 minutes to Bukchon Hanok Village, a stunning neighbourhood of preserved traditional Korean houses (hanoks) dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Wander the narrow alleys, take photos, and experience a traditional tea ceremony at one of the charming tea houses. Many hanoks are still lived in—be respectful and quiet!
💡 Pro tip: Rent a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) near the palace (₩10,000-20,000 / $10-20) and get FREE palace entry! Plus amazing photos.
Day 5: Secret Garden, Seoul Forest & Gangnam
UNESCO gardens, nature, and K-pop glamour
Morning: Visit Changdeokgung Palace and its stunning Secret Garden (UNESCO World Heritage Site). The garden was the royal family’s private retreat—beautifully preserved with ponds, pavilions, and ancient trees. You MUST book the Secret Garden tour in advance (limited capacity). Tour runs 10am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, 3pm (1.5 hours).
Afternoon: Head to nearby Seoul Forest, a massive urban park perfect for picnics, cycling, or just relaxing. Then metro to Gangnam (yes, THAT Gangnam!) for upscale shopping and the famous COEX Mall Starfield Library—a stunning Instagram-worthy library with 50,000 books stacked to the ceiling.
Evening: Explore trendy Sinsadong (Garosu-gil) for boutique shopping, unique cafes, and great dinner options. This is where Seoul’s fashionable crowd hangs out!
🏛️ DAYS 6-7: GYEONGJU
The “Museum Without Walls”—Korea’s ancient capital
Getting to Gyeongju from Seoul
KTX Train: Seoul Station → Singyeongju Station (2.5 hours, ₩40,000 / $40)
Book in advance on Korail website or at the station
Where to Stay in Gyeongju
Stay near the city centre for easy access to major attractions. Most sights are within walking distance or a short bus ride.
Day 6: Historic Gyeongju City Centre
Ancient tombs, museums, and palace ruins
Morning: Arrive in Gyeongju and check into accommodation. Start with Hwangnidan-gil, a charming street with traditional hanoks converted into modern cafes and boutiques. Perfect for brunch!
Afternoon: Visit Daereungwon Tomb Complex, a park filled with massive grass-covered royal tombs from the Silla Dynasty (57 BC – 935 AD). You can actually enter one tomb! Then head to Gyeongju National Museum to see 100,000+ artifacts including the famous Emille Bell.
Evening: Visit Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond at sunset—absolutely stunning when lit up at night. The pond reflections create magical photos. Optional: Explore Seongdong Market for dinner.
Day 7: Bulguksa Temple & Ancient Observatory
UNESCO temples and astronomical wonders
Morning: Take bus 10 or 11 to Bulguksa Temple (30 mins), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and masterpiece of Buddhist art. Explore the temple complex, beautiful gardens, and stone bridges. Then hike or bus up to Seokguram Grotto (4km) to see the magnificent stone Buddha statue overlooking the East Sea.
Afternoon: Return to city and visit Cheomseongdae Observatory, Asia’s oldest surviving astronomical observatory (built 632-647 AD). Then walk to nearby Gyerim Forest and Cheongmu-ro area.
Evening: Walk across the beautifully lit Woljeonggyo Bridge at night—one of Gyeongju’s most photogenic spots. The colours and reflections are spectacular!
💡 Pro tip: Buy a combined ticket for Bulguksa + Seokguram (₩9,000 / $9) at Bulguksa entrance to save money.
🏖️ DAYS 8-9: BUSAN
Beaches, seafood, and Korea’s second city vibes
Getting to Busan from Gyeongju
KTX/SRT Train: Singyeongju Station → Busan Station (30-45 mins, ₩8,000 / $8)
Where to Stay in Busan
Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach are the top areas for tourists. Seomyeon is central for nightlife and shopping.
Day 8: Gamcheon Village & Markets
The “Santorini of Korea” and traditional markets
Morning: Visit Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan’s most colourful and Instagrammable neighbourhood. This hillside village features rainbow-coloured houses, street art, quirky cafes, and stunning sea views. Get the stamp tour map (₩2,000) and collect stamps at different locations for a souvenir postcard!
Afternoon: Head to Nampo area. Browse Bosu-dong Book Street, bargain hunt at massive Gukje Market, try street food at Gwangbokdong Food Street, and visit BIFF Square (Busan International Film Festival venue). Don’t miss the rooftop of Lotte Department Store for free 360° city views!
Evening: Walk to Yongdusan Park and Busan Tower for sunset views over the harbour. Then explore Seomyeon nightlife district for dinner and drinks.
Day 9: Seaside Temple & Beaches
Korea’s most beautiful coastal temple and beach time
Morning: Take the metro to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Korea’s most spectacular seaside temple. Built on rocky cliffs overlooking the ocean in 1376, it’s absolutely breathtaking. Arrive early (before 10am) to avoid crowds. The walk down 108 steps to the temple is beautiful.
Afternoon: Metro to Haeundae Beach, Korea’s most famous beach. Relax on the sand, swim (in summer), or walk the coastal path. Grab lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants. Then walk or metro to Gwangalli Beach to see the iconic Gwangan Bridge.
Evening: Stay at Gwangalli Beach for sunset and watch the bridge light up at night. The beach has tons of cafes, bars, and restaurants with bridge views. Perfect for your last night on the mainland!
🍜 Foodie tip: Try fresh raw fish (hoe) at Gwangalli’s seafood restaurants. Pick your fish from the tank—it doesn’t get fresher!
🌴 DAYS 10-13: JEJU ISLAND
Volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and beach paradise
Getting to Jeju from Busan
Flight: Busan (Gimhae) → Jeju (50 mins, ₩30,000-60,000 / $30-60)
Ferry: Busan Port → Jeju (4 hours, ₩40,000-80,000 / $40-80) — Scenic but slower
We recommend flying for time efficiency
Where to Stay in Jeju
Jeju City (convenient, central), Seogwipo (south coast, waterfalls), or Jungmun (beaches, resorts). We recommend staying in 2 locations to minimize driving.
🚗 You NEED a Car in Jeju!
Public transport is extremely limited. Attractions are far apart. Taxis are expensive. A rental car is ESSENTIAL.
- Cost: ~₩40,000-60,000/day ($40-60)
- International driving permit required
- Pick up at airport, return at airport
- Drive on the right side (like Australia)
Day 10: Northern Jeju Beaches & Lava Caves
Turquoise waters and underground wonders
Morning: Arrive at Jeju Airport, pick up your rental car, and drive to Hamdeok Beach (20 mins). This stunning white sand beach with turquoise water is perfect for swimming. Grab lunch at a beachside cafe. Then drive to nearby Gimnyeong Beach, another beautiful stretch with excellent swimming.
Afternoon: Visit Manjanggul Lava Cave (UNESCO World Heritage Site), one of the finest lava tunnel systems in the world. Walk through the 1km accessible section to see incredible lava formations, including the world’s largest lava column (7.6m tall). Cool temperature inside (year-round 11-21°C) so bring a light jacket!
Evening: Check into your accommodation and explore nearby restaurants. Try Jeju black pork BBQ—a local specialty!
Day 11: Sunrise Peak & Southern Waterfalls
Volcanic crater hike and cascading waterfalls
Morning: Wake up early and drive to Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) on the east coast. This 182m volcanic cone rising from the sea offers spectacular 360° views. The hike takes 20-30 minutes up. If you’re keen, arrive for sunrise (check sunrise time). UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterwards, watch the famous Haenyeo (female divers) show if scheduled.
Afternoon: Drive to Seogwipo on the south coast. Visit two of Jeju’s most beautiful waterfalls: Cheonjiyeon Falls (22m high, surrounded by subtropical plants) and Jeongbang Waterfall (23m high, Korea’s ONLY waterfall that falls directly into the ocean—very rare!).
Evening: Explore Olle Market in Seogwipo for dinner—try local specialties like abalone porridge, Jeju tangerines, and fresh seafood. Check out Jeju Beer Fountain outside the market for craft beer!
💡 Pro tip: Jeongbang Waterfall is best at high tide when waves crash against the rocks. Check tide times!
Day 12: Western Jeju & Sanbangsan Mountain
Dramatic cliffs, ocean views, and mountain temple
Morning: Drive to western Jeju and hike Sanbangsan Mountain (395m). This volcanic mountain has a cave temple halfway up with stunning ocean views. The hike is moderate (1-2 hours) with steep rocky sections near the top. Panoramic views of the southern coastline are absolutely worth it!
Afternoon: Optional activities based on interests: O’sulloc Tea Museum (free green tea museum + cafe with matcha everything), Hyeopjae Beach (one of Jeju’s prettiest beaches with white sand), or Hallim Park (botanical garden with more lava caves).
Evening: Return to accommodation, pack, and enjoy your last Jeju dinner. We recommend seafood at a coastal restaurant!
⚠️ Hiking tip: Wear proper hiking shoes with good grip. Bring water and snacks. Start early to avoid midday heat. Check weather—trail closes in strong winds.
Day 13: Return to Seoul
Last day in Seoul before departure
Morning: Return rental car at Jeju Airport. Fly to Gimpo Airport in Seoul (1 hour, ~₩40,000-80,000 / $40-80). Metro from Gimpo to central Seoul (30-45 mins).
Afternoon/Evening: Free time in Seoul! Revisit your favourite spots, do last-minute shopping, or visit anything you missed earlier:
- Shop for K-beauty and skincare in Myeongdong
- Visit Gangnam’s COEX Mall or K-pop stores
- Try a Korean spa (jjimjilbang) experience
- Explore areas you missed (Samcheong-dong, Seongsu-dong)
- Visit a cat cafe or themed cafe
Enjoy a final Korean BBQ or farewell dinner!
Day 14: Departure
안녕히 가세요 (Goodbye, Korea!)
Head to Incheon Airport for your departure flight. Allow 2-3 hours from central Seoul. Take the AREX Express Train (43 mins) or airport bus.
Before you leave: Return your T-Money card at convenience stores for refund, exchange remaining Korean won, and take one last look at incredible South Korea!
🎒 What to Pack for South Korea
📱 Tech Essentials
- Portable power bank (long days exploring)
- Universal travel adaptor (Type C & F plugs)
- Phone with eSIM capability
- Camera for all those Instagram shots
👕 Clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes (10,000+ steps daily!)
- Light layers (temples can be cool)
- Modest clothing for temple visits
- Swimwear for Jeju beaches
- Rain jacket (just in case)
📋 Documents
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- International driving permit (for Jeju)
- Travel insurance documents
- Booking confirmations saved offline
- Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard widely accepted)
💊 Health & Toiletries
- Sunscreen (especially for Jeju beaches)
- Hand sanitiser & tissues
- Basic medications (headache, stomach)
- Reusable water bottle
- Face masks (still common in Korea)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 14 days enough for South Korea?
Yes! 14 days is perfect for first-time visitors. You’ll see the major highlights (Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan, Jeju) without rushing. Want more time? Add extra days in Seoul or visit the DMZ. Less time? Skip Gyeongju or reduce Seoul days.
Do I need a visa for South Korea?
Australians don’t need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days. Just need a valid passport (6+ months validity). Check visa requirements for your nationality on the Korean Embassy website.
How much money do I need per day in South Korea?
Budget: $60-80/day (hostels, street food, public transport)
Mid-range: $120-180/day (3-star hotels, restaurants, some taxis)
Luxury: $250+/day (4-5 star hotels, fine dining, private transport)
Is South Korea safe for solo travellers?
Extremely safe! South Korea has very low crime rates. Solo female travellers frequently visit with no issues. Public transport is safe 24/7. Usual precautions apply (don’t leave valuables unattended, be aware of surroundings).
Can I use my phone/credit cards in South Korea?
Credit cards: Widely accepted in cities (Visa/Mastercard). Cash needed for small shops, markets, street food.
Phone: Get an eSIM before you travel. Your phone will work on 4G/5G networks. International roaming is expensive—avoid it!
Do I need to speak Korean?
Not essential but helpful. Seoul and Busan have English signs. Young people speak some English. Naver Translate app works well. Learn basic phrases: 안녕하세요 (hello), 감사합니다 (thank you), 얼마예요? (how much?). Older generations and rural areas have less English—translation apps are your friend!
Ready for Your South Korea Adventure?
Don’t forget these essentials before you go:
Have an amazing trip! 즐거운 여행 되세요! (Enjoy your trip!)
Last updated: January 2026. All information based on personal travel experience during our month in South Korea.
Important notes:
- Prices are approximate in AUD and subject to change.
- Opening hours and admission prices may vary—always check ahead.
- Weather can affect plans—always have a backup indoor option.
- This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
- Korea Rail Pass bookings: Book on Klook
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