Seoul is known as one the best cities in the world with such an awesome transportation system. Thanks to the city’s excellent and extensive transportation system, making your way for some fun and easy sightseeing both in and outside the city is remarkably easy. You’ll be surprised to know that many captivating destinations lie within an hour’s reach of the Seoul metro, allowing you to maximize your time and immerse yourself in the beauty and history that surrounds the city.
Escape into the serene wilderness of Bukhansan National Park, where challenging hiking trails reward you with breathtaking panoramic views. Discover the enchanting Nami Island, a picturesque haven famed for its tree-lined avenues and romantic ambiance. Journey back in time in Suwon, a city boasting the magnificent Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Experience the tranquility of Muui Island, a hidden gem offering pristine beaches and a peaceful retreat. Or, for a dose of thrills and entertainment, head to Yongin, home to Everland, a world-class theme park that promises fun for all ages. These are just a few of the many incredible day trips that await you from Seoul, each offering a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of South Korea
AGODA EXTRA: It’s been called the scariest place on earth, but the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) still manages to attract more than a million visitors every year. The zone serves as a buffer between South Korea and North Korea and basically divides the Korean Peninsula in half. During a day trip from Seoul to the DMZ, tourist attractions include everything from infiltration tunnels, Freedom Bridge and the Odusan Unification Tower.
1. Trek through a world record-breaking forest at BUKHANSAN NATIONAL PARK
It’s no secret that Bukhansan National Park is one of the most gorgeous day trips from Seoul. More than five million people go there every year! The number of visitors is so astonishing that the Guinness Book of World Records recognizes the park as being the “Most Visited National Park per Unit Area.” Explore more than 10 hiking trails, which take you to scenic viewpoints like Baegundae (Bukhansan) peak and the five peaks of Dobongsan Mountain. The Bukhansanseong Fortress Course provides a historical journey as well as a scrumptious nature walk.
Check In to Hotel Yaja Suyu, Step Out to Gupabal Subway Station
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2. Zipline onto a man-made paradise and famous movie location at NAMI ISLAND (NAMISEON)
The most thrilling way to arrive on Nami Island is to ride the zipline at Namiseon Zip Wire! But if making a grand entrance isn’t on your day trip itinerary, just take the ferry. Located about one hour by train northeast of Seoul, Nami Island features a mix of serene landscapes and man-made adventure. Walking trails showcase native foliage during all four seasons of the year, and the Gongsaengwon Garden is where you can snap a selfie with The ‘Winter Sonata’ Statue, named after the Korean drama filmed on the island. Other endearing landmarks are the Tomb of General Nami and Yu Qing Cheng’s Happy Garden Sculpture Gallery. Families particularly love the hands-on workshops in Nami Island Handicraft Studio and paper-making classes at Greenshop Hands-on Learning Center. Children can spend a few hours in the Picture Book Library.
Check In to Whitebill Pension, Step Out to Nami Island
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3. Discover some of South Korea’s most fascinating history at SUWON
Suwon missed becoming the country’s capital in the 18th century, but as a result, the city of one million people still maintains some of South Korea’s most distinguished historical assets. The number-one tourist attraction in the area is Suwon Hwaseong Fortress. The UNESCO World Heritage Site features hikes around 18th-century fortress walls to Hwahongmun and the Paldalmun Gate. Explore the Hwaseong Fortress Museum, also on the grounds.
Check In to Hotel Dono, Step Out to Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
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4. Escape the airport during a long layover in Seoul at MUUI ISLAND (MUUIDO)
Why spend a long layover in Seoul inside Incheon International Airport when you could be awaiting your next flight from a beach on Muui Island? Take the airport rail link to Yongyu Station, and then board the ferry on Jamjindo Island. In less than 10 minutes you’ll be taking in seaside views from Hanagae Beach If you’re up for a little adventure, hike up Horyonggoksan mountain and Kuksa-bong Peak. The treks are short, and the views of the Yellow Sea can’t be beat. Another popular destination on the island is Silmi Beach. At low tide, travelers can walk to nearby Silmido Island. This uninhabited plot of land contains no people and few attractions, but stories of the bizarre war-time training that once took place there are intriguing enough to spawn a visit.
Check In to Hotel Sky Incheon Airport, Step Out to Muui Island in Incheon
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5. Make it a two-day trip for visiting Everland and the Korean Folk Village in YONGIN
One day is hardly enough time to see all there is to see in Yongin. In fact, many visitors like to visit Everland theme park one day and the Korean Folk Village the next. And that doesn’t leave much time left to explore Yongin Daejanggeum Park!
Everland is the country’s largest theme park, and tickets to Everland grant access to each of the park’s zones, including Zootopia, where visitors can see animals in their natural habitats, and Magic Land, home of the Thunder Falls roller coaster.
Korean Folk Village is an entire community focusing on the daily life of Koreans during the Joseon period. The village is comprised of authentic Korean houses, and tourists are invited to join in festivities that include farmer’s music (nongak), horseback riding and even traditional wedding ceremonies.
Yongin Daejanggeum Park is an outdoor film set that opened to tourists in 2011. Visitors can explore actual backdrops and settings used in some of South Korea’s most popular television series and dramas.
Check In to Doongji Hwangto Pension, Step Out to Yongin Daejanggeum Park
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Seoul’s exceptional transportation system makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the diverse attractions of South Korea. This is why you should spare one full day (or more if you want!) and leave the city’s bustle and hustle to a small town for something different. There are more unforgettable memories to be made when you plan it right!
