Honest 10-Day South Korea Itinerary I’d Do Again (Seoul + Busan)

About the author Sarah Si

Solo traveller, flight attendant, and tourism grad. Sarah has visited 75+ countries. She writes for women who are ready to stop putting their lives on hold and start showing up for themselves. Real experiences, honest opinions, and the reminder that going alone is always worth it.

The first time I visited Seoul in 2020, I didn’t expect to love it as much as I did.

I went out of curiosity more than anything, but within days I was completely hooked. The food, the energy, the mix of traditional palaces and modern city life… it just felt different. And I remember thinking, I need to come back and experience this properly.

Since then, I’ve been back to Seoul multiple times for work as a flight attendant, so I got to know the city really well. But that only made me more curious about the rest of South Korea.

So in 2022, I booked a solo trip and planned out a full 10-day South Korea itinerary, giving myself the time to explore both Seoul and Busan at my own pace.

And honestly? This is one of those trips I’d repeat in a heartbeat.

If you’re planning your own 10 days in South Korea and don’t want an itinerary that completely exhausts you, this is exactly what I’d recommend. It’s realistic, balanced, and gives you a mix of culture, food, city life, and beach time.

If you’re still figuring out the details of your trip, I’ve put together a full South Korea travel hub where I’ve linked all my guides. It’s basically your go-to page if you want to plan your South Korea trip without jumping between 20 different tabs.

Quick overview of my 10-day South Korea itinerary

If you just want the short version before diving into the details, this is how I’d spend 10 days in South Korea:

• Day 1: Arrive in Seoul and take it slow in Hongdae
• Day 2: Bukchon Hanok Village, Gyeongbokgung, Myeongdong
• Day 3: Inwangsan hike, Itaewon
• Day 4: Day trip (DMZ, Nami Island or Lotte World)
• Day 5: N Seoul Tower, Gangnam, Han River
• Day 6: Travel to Busan + Gwangalli Beach
• Day 7: Gamcheon Village, Nampo-dong, Haeundae Beach
• Day 8: Gyeongju day trip
• Day 9: Back to Seoul + shopping / self-care
• Day 10: Departure

10-day South Korea itinerary (day-by-day breakdown)

Day 1: Arrival in Seoul + ease into the city

afternoon

Treat your first day in Seoul as an arrival day, not a sightseeing day.

After a long flight, the last thing you want is to jump straight into a packed itinerary. Check into your hotel, freshen up, maybe take a nap and take some time to explore the area around where you’re staying.

This is something I always do when I arrive somewhere new. I’ll go for a short walk, grab a coffee, and just get a feel for the neighbourhood. It makes settling in so much easier.

Evening

In the evening, head to Hongdae for a relaxed first night in Seoul. It’s one of the best areas to experience the city without needing a plan.

You’ll find street performers, loads of restaurants, and a really fun atmosphere. I always recommend coming here on your first night because it gives you that instant “this is Seoul” feeling without being overwhelming.

Grab dinner, maybe a drink, walk around a bit, and then head back early. You’ll enjoy the rest of your trip so much more if you don’t try to do too much on day one and get into the local timezone ASAP.

Day 2: Bukchon Hanok Village, Gyeongbokgung, Insadong, Myeongdong

morning

Start your day early at Bukchon Hanok Village. You’ve probably seen this area all over Instagram, and yes, it’s popular, but it’s fantastic.

The traditional Korean houses and narrow streets are beautiful, especially in the morning before it gets too crowded. I went early and that made a big difference. It feels a lot more peaceful and you can actually enjoy walking around without constantly dodging people.

From there, head to Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the main sights in Seoul.

If you want the full experience, rent a hanbok. You’ll get free entry to the palace and it just makes the whole visit feel a bit more special. The palace grounds are huge, so give yourself enough time to explore properly. Try to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony in the morning as well.

After that, head towards Insadong for lunch. Check out my favourite places, Insadong Maneul Bossam and Bukchon Son Mandu.

These areas have a completely different vibe. Think traditional tea houses, small alleys, and cosy cafés. I love just wandering here and picking a random place to eat instead of overplanning it.

afternoon

In the afternoon, make your way to Myeongdong.

This is where Seoul turns into full chaos, but in a fun way. Skincare shops, street food, stores, everything is happening here. If you’re into Korean skincare, you’ll probably spend more time here than you expect. Olive Young is a must.

evening

In the evening, the street food stalls start to come alive.

This is one of my favourite things to do in Seoul. Just walk around and try a bit of everything. From tteokbokki and gimbap to sweet snacks like hotteok (my favourite) or bungeoppang, it’s the easiest and most fun way to have dinner.

Day 3: Inwangsan hike and Itaewon

morning

Start your day with a hike up Inwangsan Mountain. It’s one of my favourite things to Inwangsan Mountain is a great way to start the day.

It’s one of my favourite things to do in Seoul, and the views over the city are completely worth it. Make sure to wear proper shoes, bring water, and go earlier in the day if you can, especially in warmer months.

afternoon

After the hike, head towards Seochon or Ikseon-dong for lunch. This is where I would spend my time instead of going to places like Gwangjang Market.

These areas have a much better mix of cafés and local restaurants, and the overall experience just feels more relaxed and enjoyable. It’s perfect for slowing down a bit after the hike.

evening

In the evening, head to Itaewon. It has a more international vibe, great restaurants, and a slightly older crowd compared to Hongdae. It’s a good place for dinner and drinks, and a nice change of pace from the previous nights.

Day 4: Day trip from Seoul (DMZ, Nami Island or Lotte World)

Today is the perfect day to get out of the city and see a different side of South Korea. You’ve got a few really good options here, depending on what you’re interested in.

If you want something more unique, head to the DMZ. It’s one of those experiences that’s hard to fully grasp until you’re there, and it gives you a deeper understanding of the country’s history.

If you’re more into nature, Nami Island is a great choice. It’s especially popular in autumn, and it’s an easy, relaxing day trip from Seoul. You can also combine it with places like Alpaca World if you want something a bit different.

And if you’re just in the mood for something fun and light, you can spend the day at Lotte World. It’s one of the most popular theme parks in Korea, and a lot of people rent a school uniform for the full experience.

Personally, I like having this as a flexible day in the itinerary.

After a few busy days in Seoul, it’s nice to choose something that fits your energy. Whether that’s a cultural experience, a nature escape, or just a fun day out, you really can’t go wrong here.

Day 5: N Seoul Tower, Gangnam, Han River

morning

Start your day with a visit to N Seoul Tower. You can take a bus most of the way and walk the final stretch. It’s a fun activity and the views over amazing. It’s one of those classic Seoul experiences that’s easy to include without taking up your entire day.

After that, head to Gangnam.

Instead of just ticking off the main tourist spots, I’d recommend exploring areas like Apgujeong and Cheongdam. These are some of my favourite neighbourhoods in Seoul. They’re perfect for just walking around, grabbing a coffee, and finding a nice place for lunch.

You can visit Starfield Library if you want, and it does look great in photos, but I wouldn’t go out of my way for it. It’s basically a bookstore inside a shopping mall that’s designed to look aesthetic. Nice if you’re already there, but not a must-see.

afternoon

From Gangnam, make your way to Seongsu-dong. This neighbourhood quickly rose to fame is the last years and is called the Brooklyn of Seoul.

Here you can shop in the trendy stores and grab a coffee at one of the many coffee bars. You can shop until you drop in this area and we all know that Korean fashion is trendy and sophisticated.

evening

In the early evening, head to the Han River, ideally near Banpo Bridge.

This was one of my favourite moments in Seoul. You can rent a bike, go for a walk, or just sit by the river and relax. I grabbed some food from a convenience store, ramyeon and a beer, and just sat there watching the sunset and people around me. It’s simple, but it’s such a good way to experience the city.

If you want something more filling, you’ll also see people ordering Korean fried chicken and having little picnics by the river.

Day 6: Travel to Busan + Gwangalli Beach

I recommend taking the KTX train from Seoul to Busan. It’s fast, comfortable, and honestly just a much more relaxed experience than flying. I took the train myself and it was super easy. No airport stress, just get on, sit back, and enjoy the ride. The journey takes around 2.5 hours.

Once you arrive in Busan, head to your hotel and check in.

Depending on your arrival time, it’ll likely be mid to late afternoon, which is perfect because you don’t need to plan too much for today.

Just head to Gwangalli Beach. This is a great spot for your first night in Busan. It’s easy to get to and has a really nice atmosphere, especially around sunset. You’ll have views of the Gwangan Bridge, and there are loads of restaurants, cafés, and bars along the beach.

I loved just walking along the beach here, grabbing a drink, and taking it slow after the travel day. Keep this evening relaxed. Dinner by the beach, maybe a drink, and an early night if you need it.

If you’re shorter on time and only have a couple of days in Busan, I’ve also put together a detailed 2-day Busan itinerary that covers the main highlights.

Day 7: Gamcheon Village, Nampo-dong, Haeundae Beach

morning

Gamcheon Culture Village is one of the most unique places to visit in Busan and my favouite place in Busan. The colourful houses, small alleyways, and street art make it feel completely different from anywhere else in the city.

It’s the kind of place where you can just wander without a plan, stop at a café, and take your time exploring.

That’s exactly what I did. The easiest way to get there is by local bus. It might seem confusing at first, but it’s very doable, and most people on the bus are heading there anyway.

After that, head to Nampo-dong for lunch.

This area is known for its seafood and local restaurants. If you like seafood, this is a great place to try it. I had a really good meal here with grilled fish, soup, and rice. Simple, but so good.

afternoon

In the afternoon, go to Haeundae Beach. It’s one of the best beaches in Busan and has a really lively but still relaxed atmosphere.

The beach is big, there are lots of cafés and restaurants, and it’s easy to spend a few hours here just walking around or sitting by the water.

While you’re here, you can also do the Haeundae Blue Line Park capsule train. Unfortunately, I found it too expensive to have a capsule carriere just to myself, and that would be the best experience right? So, I decided to skip it for now.

Not everything is worth splurging for just that cute Instagram photo.

evening

In the evening, I happily spend my time in Haeundae beach, this is the time to escape the hustle and just relax at the beach. There are many restaurants for dinner. I don’t remember exactly where I had my delicious vongole pasta and a glass of white wine.

Day 8: Day trip to Gyeongju

Take a day trip to Gyeongju, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its temples, traditional architecture, and historical landmarks. It used to be the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, so there’s a lot of history here.

I didn’t have time to visit Gyeongju on my trip, but looking back, this is something I would absolutely prioritise. After a few days of city and beach, it’s the perfect way to add something more cultural and slow-paced to your itinerary.

You can visit places like Bulguksa Temple, walk around traditional houses, and just take in a completely different atmosphere.

Day 9: Back to Seoul + your final solo day

morning

Head back to Seoul and keep this day intentionally slow. After a full trip of moving around, this is your time to enjoy the city without a plan. Travel back from Busan in the morning and stay somewhere central, ideally near Seoul Station or an area you already know.

Use this day for anything you didn’t get to do earlier or want to experience again.

This is the perfect moment for:

• last-minute shopping
• picking up souvenirs
• revisiting your favourite neighbourhoods

If you want to treat yourself a bit, Seoul is also great for beauty and self-care experiences.

You can book a hair spa and get a haircut, or even try a personal colour analysis. It’s something a lot of people come to Seoul for, and it’s actually a really fun solo activity.

And most importantly, eat everything you know you’re going to miss.

evening

For me that would be jjajangmyeon, bibimbap, or just amazing streetfood in Myeongdong again. I always use my last day like this, no pressure, just enjoying the city one more time before heading home.

Day 10: Departure day

Depending on your flight time, head to the airport from Seoul. If you’re staying near Seoul Station, getting to Incheon Airport is straightforward with the AREX train or an airport bus.

Give yourself enough time, especially if you’re flying long-haul, and double-check your route the night before so you’re not figuring it out last minute.

And that’s it, time to head home after an incredible 10 days in South Korea.

Is 10 days in South Korea enough?

Yes, 10 days in South Korea is the perfect amount of time for a first trip.

It gives you enough time to explore Seoul properly, spend a few days in Busan, and experience a different side of the country without feeling rushed.

If you’re short on time, you can also do this itinerary in around 8 days with a few adjustments.

I would skip the day trip to Gyeongju and one of the day trip options from Seoul. That way, you still get to experience both Seoul and Busan, just at a slightly faster pace.

With 10 days though, the pace is much more balanced.

If you prefer to focus on just one city, you can also adjust this itinerary.

• For a shorter city trip, check out my 5-day Seoul itinerary
• If you’re short on time in Busan, I’ve also shared a detailed 2-day Busan itinerary

How much does 10 days in South Korea cost?

South Korea is not a budget destination, but it’s also not as expensive as people think.

For 10 days in South Korea, your biggest expense will be accommodation.

Expect to pay around $150 or more per night for a simple mid-range hotel with a private bathroom. Prices can go higher depending on location and season, especially in central areas of Seoul.

Food, on the other hand, can be very affordable.

You can keep your daily costs low by eating at local restaurants, which are often much cheaper than Western-style places. Convenience stores are also a great option for quick and budget-friendly meals or snacks, especially for breakfast or lunch.

Overall, I found Seoul to be quite budget-friendly for a major city, but it’s not as cheap as destinations like Thailand.

Overall, you can expect to spend around $200 to $300 per day, including accommodation, transport, food, and the occasional tour.

How to get around in South Korea (what actually works)

Public transport is efficient, affordable, and easy to navigate in South Korea. All you really need is a transportation card like a T-money card. You can buy one in every convenience store.

You can use it on subways, buses, and even some taxis and convenience stores. It makes getting around much easier since you don’t have to buy individual tickets every time.

One important thing to know is that Google Maps doesn’t work very well in South Korea. I’d recommend downloading Naver Maps or Kakao Maps instead. They’re much more detailed and reliable for directions, especially when using public transport.

In Busan, getting around can take a bit longer. You’ll often need to transfer between lines or take buses to reach certain areas. I found myself taking the bus more often here, even though it can be slower.

Sometimes, I chose to take a taxi instead.

If you don’t feel like spending 40 minutes on public transport, a short taxi ride can be a much quicker and more comfortable option, especially after a long day.

For travelling between cities, the KTX bullet train is the best option.

I took the KTX from Seoul to Busan, and it couldn’t have been easier. The journey takes around 2.5 hours, and the whole experience is very smooth and stress-free.

It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s worth it.

I paid around $200 for a last minute return ticket, and honestly, it was much more relaxing than flying. No airport queues, no hassle, just a comfortable ride while watching the scenery.

Is South Korea safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, South Korea is one of the safest countries for solo female travellers.

From the moment I arrived, I felt completely at ease and never once uncomfortable. Even walking around alone, it felt safe and easy to navigate.

Seoul, in particular, is a great city for solo travel.

One of the things that stood out to me most was how safe it felt, even compared to other major cities. You can walk around, use public transport, and explore different neighbourhoods without constantly feeling on edge.

Busan felt slightly different, mainly because it’s less used to tourism, but I still felt safe during my time there.

Overall, South Korea is often compared to places like Japan and Singapore when it comes to safety, and I would agree with that.

If you want a more detailed breakdown, especially for Seoul, I’ve written a full guide on is Seoul safe for solo female travellers, where I go into more depth about safety, and what to expect.

Where to stay in Seoul (best area for first-time visitors)

If it’s your first time in Seoul, I recommend staying in Myeongdong. I’ve stayed here myself, and it’s still one of my favourite areas in the city. It’s right in the centre, which makes it a really convenient base for exploring Seoul.

What I love most about Myeongdong is that everything is right at your doorstep.

You’ve got shopping, restaurants, and street food all within walking distance. Especially in the evening, the whole area comes alive with street food stalls, and it’s just a fun place to be without needing to plan anything.

It’s also very well connected. You can easily get around the city using public transport, and it’s not far from Seoul Station, which makes things like airport transfers or travelling to Busan much easier.

Another thing I like is that it feels very safe and easy to navigate, especially if you’re travelling solo. If you want a base that’s central, lively, and convenient, Myeongdong is hard to beat.

Hotel Thomas

If you’re after a clean, comfy, and budget-friendly hotel in a great location, I highly recommend Hotel Thomas in Myeongdong. I stayed here in September 2022 and would happily book it again.

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L7 Myeongdong by Lotte

Another great option in Myeong-dong is L7 Myeong-dong by Lotte. This hotel is just a short walk from Myeong-dong Station. If you want to stay right in the middle of the shopping scene, this is the perfect spot.

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Where to stay in Busan (best area for a relaxed stay)

If I went back to Busan, I would stay near Haeundae Beach. I know it’s not the most central area, but for me, the overall experience matters more than convenience.

Waking up near the beach, seeing the ocean, and having that relaxed atmosphere around you just makes the trip feel completely different.

Haeundae is the most popular beach area in Busan, and it’s easy to see why.

You’ve got a long stretch of beach, plenty of cafés and restaurants, and a really lively but still laid-back vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can spend your mornings walking along the beach and your evenings having dinner with a sea view.

I’ve written a guide on the best boutique hotels in Busan for solo female travellers.

Mipo Oceanside Hotel

Just steps from Haeundae Beach and the Haeundae Cruise Terminal, Mipo Oceanside Hotel offers a comfortable, simple, affordable stay, right by the sea.

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What I’d do differently (after doing this trip)

Looking back at this trip, there are a few things I would change if I did this 10-day South Korea itinerary again.

I would not go out of my way to visit Gwangjang Market. It’s fun to see, especially if you’ve watched it on Netflix, but the food isn’t the best you’ll have in Seoul.

It’s very crowded and feels more like a quick stop than a place to actually enjoy a meal. I’d rather spend that time at a proper local restaurant where the food is better and the experience feels less rushed.

In Busan, I would choose to stay near Haeundae Beach instead of Busan Station.

I stayed more centrally before, which is convenient, but it didn’t have the same atmosphere. Haeundae has a much more relaxed, enjoyable vibe. Being close to the beach, having cafés and restaurants nearby, and just being able to slow down makes a big difference, especially on a solo trip.

I would also include a day trip to Gyeongju. At the time, I focused more on Busan itself, but looking back, the itinerary is quite city- and beach-heavy. Gyeongju would add a completely different, more cultural experience to the trip, which makes the overall itinerary feel more balanced.

And lastly, I would include the Haeundae Blue Line Park capsule train.

I skipped it because I thought it was a bit expensive to do alone, but now I see it differently. It’s one of those experiences that adds something unique and memorable to your trip, and sometimes that’s worth the extra cost.

Putting together this 10-day South Korea itinerary took me a lot of time. I wanted to give you a realistic and fun itinerary. One that made me fall in love with South Korea.

Although my solo trip to South Korea was in September 2022 (don’t worry, all facts have been checked and updated where necessary), writing this itinerary made me realise how much I loved this trip.

If you’re planning a bigger trip, I cover everything you need to know about solo female travel in South Korea here.

Ready to dig deeper? Check out my other posts:

• The Ultimate Solo Female Travel Guide To Seoul: My First-Timer Guide
• Where to Stay in Seoul for Solo Female Travellers (My Favourite Neighbourhoods + Hotels)
• 10 Things to Know Before Travelling to Seoul (Don’t Make These Mistakes)

Before your trip, always check out any events in Seoul that might be fun to visit.

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