South Korea Highlights Road Trip Itinerary
This South Korea Highlights Road Trip is a great way to explore the country and its stunning landscapes. It starts in Seoul, South Korea and ends in the same city. The route takes you through Daejeon, Busan and Gyeongju, covering around 903km in 6 days. The best time to take this road trip is during spring or autumn, when the temperatures are mild and the landscapes are at their best. Along the way, you'll be able to admire a number of UNESCO Heritage Monuments, including the Haeinsa Temple, located in Gyeongju. The roads are in excellent conditions, although some parts can be a bit curvy. This road trip is suitable for all drivers, but it is important to note that it requires a high budget. However, the high level of experience and memories you will take away will be well worth the cost.
6
number of days
901 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Seoul
Distance 901 km
Driving time 12.4 h
Pace: fast
270.2 kWh
Airports
GMP
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ICN
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Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is the perfect starting point for the “South Korea Highlights Road Trip”. With its vibrant energy and historic sites, Seoul offers a unique cultural experience. The city is rich in culture, history and tradition, and a great way to experience it is to take a leisurely stroll through the city’s palaces and temples. A must-see is the Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, which is surrounded by a picturesque garden. Another great attraction is the Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s known for its traditional architecture.
In addition to its historic sights, Seoul also offers plenty of modern attractions, such as the bustling Myeongdong shopping district and the Lotte World amusement park. There are also many cultural performances to enjoy, such as traditional Korean folk dance and music.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Incheon International Airport (IATA: ICN). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to explore Seoul and the rest of South Korea. Start your “South Korea Highlights Road Trip” in Seoul and discover all the city has to offer.
1
Seoul
- Daejeon
Distance 159 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: fast
47.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Let the adventure begin! A road trip from Seoul to Daejeon is a great way to explore South Korea. At just 159 km and taking less than 3 hours, you can easily cover the distance in a day. Highlights along the route include the Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO Heritage site in Seoul, and the Bomun Lake Resort in Daejeon. Make sure to visit the majestic Geumosan Mountain and the historic Gongju National Museum, both of which can be seen while passing through the region. Don’t forget to check out the breathtakingly beautiful Mungyeong Saejae Provincial Park, a natural wonder in the area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Let the journey begin!
Daejeon - South Korea - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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2
Daejeon
- Busan
Distance 321 km
Driving time 4.6 h
Pace: fast
96.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Daejeon to Busan! This 321 km route, which can be covered in less than 5 hours, passes through Gayasan National Park, a paradise for hikers and climbers. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, and don’t forget to visit the UNESCO Heritage Sites in the area. Keep in mind that some sections of the road are winding, so drive carefully. On your way, you will find plenty of historical sites, scenic roads, and attractions to explore. Don’t forget to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Experience this memorable journey from start to finish and make amazing memories along the way!
Busan - South Korea - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Busan - South Korea - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Busan
- Gyeongju
Distance 90 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: fast
27.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Busan to Gyeongju! This 92 km journey will take you less than two hours, but the sights you will see along the way will be unforgettable. This stage of your road trip is particularly special because it takes you through some of South Korea's UNESCO World Heritage sites. As you drive, make sure to look out for the Haeundae Beach, the Taejongdae Resort Park, and the Dongbaekseom Island, all of which are famous for their beauty and rich history. Throughout the journey, you will also be surrounded by the picturesque natural landscape of the Nakdong River Estuary. End your journey in Gyeongju, the city of history and culture. Here, you can explore the ancient tombs, the Bulguksa Temple, and the Cheomseongdae Observatory. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage of your road trip.
Gyeongju - South Korea - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Gyeongju
- Seoul
Distance 330 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: fast
99.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you looking for a great road trip experience? Then join us on the 330km journey that starts in Gyeongju and ends in Seoul! With a drive time of fewer than 4 hours, you will have plenty of time to take in the sights along the way. Make sure to check out the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the area, including Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and Gyeongju Historic Areas. Enjoy the views of the scenic highway as you drive through the countryside. Be sure to stop at the many lookout points to take in the stunning views. And don't forget to check out the Itinerary for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So come join us and experience this amazing road trip for yourself!
Seoul - South Korea - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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Seoul
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Your South Korea Highlights Road Trip ends in Seoul - the capital of South Korea. This vibrant city offers a lot of attractions for all kinds of travelers. The ancient temples, palaces, parks and markets of the city are sure to capture your heart.
For a taste of history, visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, or Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other places of interest are N Seoul Tower, located on Namsan Mountain, and the War Memorial of Korea.
For a more modern experience, explore the bustling streets of Myeongdong, a major shopping district in the city. Here, you can find everything from modern Korean fashion to global luxury brands. You can also visit Dongdaemun Market, a popular night market that sells clothing, accessories, and more.
The city also has plenty of parks and gardens, such as Namsan Park and Seoul Forest Park. There are also plenty of museums and galleries to explore, such as the National Museum of Korea and the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art.
For those flying into Seoul, the closest international airport is Incheon International Airport (ICN). From there, you can take a bus, taxi, or train to get to the city center. Car travel is also an option, with highways leading directly into Seoul.
No matter how you choose to spend your time in Seoul, you're sure to have a memorable experience. Make sure to include this vibrant city on your South Korea Highlights Road Trip!
Seoul - South Korea - Asia - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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South Korea Highlights Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Seoul
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End:
Seoul
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Distance:
901 km
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Stay:
6 days
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Getting there:
Gimpo International Airport (GMP),
Incheon International Airport (ICN)
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When to drive:
March, April, May, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the South Korea Highlights Road Trip for an unforgettable exploration of the nation's stunning natural vistas and rich cultural heritage. This 903km adventure, ideally spanning over 6 days, begins and ends in the electrifying city of Seoul. Along the way, you'll uncover the hidden gems of Daejeon, experience the coastal allure of Busan, and delve into the ancient wonders of Gyeongju.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Seoul: The capital city is a pulsating metropolis where ancient palaces like Gyeongbokgung stand alongside cutting-edge architecture. Don't miss the panoramic city views from N Seoul Tower and the historic charm of Insadong.
- Daejeon: Known as Korea's Silicon Valley, it's not only a nexus for innovation but also offers natural retreats like the scenic Yuseong Hot Springs.
- Busan: This dynamic coastal city boasts the majestic Beomeosa Temple, the serene Haeundae Beach, and the cultural village of Gamcheon, often referred to as the `Machu Picchu of Busan.`
- Gyeongju: Referred to as `the museum without walls,` this ancient capital is dotted with impressive sites such as Bulguksa Temple and the Seokguram Grotto, revealing the spiritual depth and past glories of the Silla Dynasty.
Best Time to Go:
The splendor of cherry blossoms in spring or the fiery colors of autumn foliage make these seasons the most magical times for a South Korean Road Trip. Mild temperatures during these periods complement the journey with perfect travel conditions.
Potential Risks:
Navigating South Korea's Roads is a breeze thanks to their excellent maintenance, but be mindful of the occasional winding routes, particularly in mountainous regions. Be prepared for a relatively high budget to fully enjoy this culturally enriching expedition.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- South Korea adheres to right-hand traffic.
- Foreign motorists should secure an International Driving Permit (IDP) before arrival.
- 'Hyugeso' rest areas are cultural experiences in themselves, offering gourmet Korean snacks, souvenirs, and pristine facilities.
- Traffic signs cater to international drivers with bilingual directions in Korean and English.
A good choice for:
This South Korean Road Trip is an extraordinary blend of contemporary thrills and historical awe. The investment required for this high-end escapade is a fair trade for the wealth of experiences and lifelong memories to be collected across the country's mesmerizing landscapes and through its profound cultural tapestry.