Places to discover in South Korea
Even if the area of South Korea is not very big, there are still thousands of places to discover in the country. Moreover, it is really easy to travel around in South Korea even alone. The public transportation system is diversified inside a city or betwen them. The offer of buses, trains and even planes is very large and you can either by all your tickets online or on site (and even at the last minute). To have more freedom on the hours and the itinerary, you can rent a car, it is very easy and convenient.
6 Places you should not miss
While in South Korea, you cannot miss Seoul. The biggest city of the country is full of discoveries, historic sites, modern places, natural escapes. You can never be bored in Seoul, there is always something to do and new things to explore.
You should also not miss its outskirts and mainly Suwon. This city is home to the Hwaseong forteress, a UNESCO site.
THE CAPITAL OF SOUTH KOREA
Seoul
Jeju island's landscapes are shaped by the volanic activity by the several volcanos of the island. Hallassan is the biggest and also the highest mountain in South Korea. You will also discover breathtaking waterfalls and have a rest at one of the numerous paradise beaches. And always keep an eye open to have the chance to see Haenyeos, UNESCO Korean divers.
THE VOLCANIC ISLAND
Jejudo
This small and rural Korean island is easily accessible by bus or car. Daraengi village is the only place in South Korea to have rice paddy terrace by a cliff. You may have the chance to see the mix of traditional agriculture with the cows digging the fields and drones giving fertilizer. You can also hike Geumsan mountain to visit Boriam temple, aka the temple among the clouds. From there you have an amazing view on the sea.
THE RURAL KOREA
Namhae
The small city of Buyeo was the capital of Baekje Kingdom. It is home to unique cultural site like Gungnamji pond and its lotus flowers.
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Gyeongju was the capital of Silla Dynasty. Thanks to all the remainings from the past, its nickname is "the open-air museum". Thats is why hundreds of sites are UNESCO cultural heritage such as temples, royal tombs, the astronomic observatory...
THE ANCIENT CAPITALS
Buyeo and Gyeongju
Busan, the second biggest city of South Korea has all the keys to seduce you. Relaxing coastal walk in Igidae, mountain hikes, cultural visits in Gamcheon and its houses full of colors, unique temple by a cliff, busy city centre, lively nightlife in Haendae and many beautiful beaches. Thus Busan is a city to everyone's taste.
THE COASTAL GIANT
Busan
Seoraksan National Park is the third highest mountain of South Korea. It offers really nice views on the mountains and the city of Sokcho. Fall is the best time to visit this mountain.
Sokcho is the small and peaceful city next to the park. In the past, it has been part of North Korea. Along the sea, you can find delicious fresh seafood.
KOREANS' FAVORITE MOUNTAIN
Sokcho and Seoraksan
For more information check out my travel guides
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If you stay for a long time in South Korea, there are many other places you should consider and add in your travel itinerary. Like Damyang and its bamboo forest, Suncheon and its bay wetland reserve, Geoje and its island garden Oedo Botania, Boseong and its tea plantation...
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South Korea is full of gems just waiting for you. Go out of your comfort zone and go explore this beautiful amazing country.