The default South Korea city that most people would travel to is Seoul, and for good reason! The shopping and food in Seoul can be irresistible, and there never seems to be a lack of things to do.

However, chances are that you’d want to explore outside of the capital to get a feel of the other cities. If you want to do so without having to always pack your luggage and move hotels, the best solution is to go on 1-day trips out from Seoul!

In this guide, I’ll share some of the best 1-day trips from Seoul, including those I have tried & loved. This includes how to get there, what to see, and tips to make the most of your day trip!

Nami Island (Namiseom)

Nami Island is a scenic half-moon-shaped island famous for its tree-lined paths, beautiful landscapes, and K-drama filming spots (Winter Sonata, anyone?)

Personally, I find the scenery here very beautiful and definitely worth checking out during the autumn season. If I’m not wrong, you might even be able to see cherry blossoms here during the spring!

Some highlights to check out on Nami Island:

• Metasequoia Tree Lane
• Bike rentals and riverside strolls
• Art installations and gardens
• Zip-lining into the island (yes, this is actually a thing)

How to get to Nami Island from Seoul: Take ITX-Cheongchun train to Gapyeong Station (1.5 hrs), then a ferry or zip line to the island.

NOTE: Many tour packages would bundle this together with other attractions in Chuncheon, such as Petite France and Alpaca World. Highly recommend visiting them especially if it’s your first time!

DMZ (Demilitarised Zone)

Personally, I feel that going on a tour to the DMZ (demilitarised zone) is one of the top experiences you can have in Korea. Both the North and the South. Which is why it definitely makes the list here on the best day trips to take outside of Seoul!

Do note that you can only go on a guided tour to the DMZ and require advance booking & ID, so be sure to do this prepared before your trip.

Some highlights to check out at DMZ:

• Third Infiltration Tunnel
• Dora Observatory (view into North Korea)
• Dorasan Station
• Freedom Bridge

How to get to DMZ: Join a guided DMZ tour from Seoul (foreigners need advance booking & ID)

Incheon

Outside of Seoul, Incheon ranks among one of my most visited cities. More than just an airport hub, Incheon offers a very interesting experience, especially that of the Korean-Chinese culture.

The best part? You just have to take the subway all the way to Incheon! That’s right: no KTX, no plane, no long bus rides.

Some highlights to check out in Incheon:

• Incheon Chinatown (try jjajangmyeon AND learn about jjajangmyeon!)
• Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village
• Wolmido Island & Amusement Park
• Incheon Open Port Area museums

How to get to Incheon from Seoul: Subway Line 1 to Incheon Station (1.5 hrs)

Jeonju

I’ve frequented Jeonju quite a few times, probably even more so than any other Korean cities.

I sometimes make a day trip via KTX and hence my friends wonder: is this city REALLY worth your time and money? The short answer is yes. The long answer is yes, if you know the right things to do!

Some highlights to check out in Jeonju:

• Jeonju Hanok Village
• Jaman Mural Village
• Eating bibimbap!
• Having afternoon tea at a teahouse
• Jeonjuhyanggyo Local Confucian School

Read more about top things to do in Jeonju here.

How to get to Jeonju from Seoul: Take the KTX (1.5 – 2 hrs)

Gyeongju

Technically I didn’t go to Gyeongju from Seoul, but I did spend only 1 day here and found that it is pretty manageable!

This was Korea’s capital during the Silla dynasty, which would explain why many historical landmarks and monuments are found in this city.

Some highlights to check out in Gyeongju:

• Bulguksa Temple
• Seokguram Grotto
• Cheomseongdae Observatory
• Try Gyeongju Gukbap

How to get to Gyeongju from Seoul: Take the KTX (2 hrs)

Daegu

Again, technically I went from Daegu to Seoul – but the trip in Daegu did take only 1 day so it’s entirely possible to do it the other way round!

Some highlights to check out in Daegu:

• Have fun at Daegu E-World
• Get some shopping done at Dongseongno Shopping District
• Visit historical sites like Donghwasa Temple & Bullo-dong Ancient Tomb Park

How to get to Daegu from Seoul: Take the KTX (1.5 – 2 hrs)

Suwon

Suwon is known for its UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress, blending traditional architecture with historical charm. I did plan to visit Suwon but didn’t manage to do so (for now) – but it’s definitely on my bucket list!

Some highlights to check out in Suwon:

• Hwaseong Fortress & Haenggung Palace
• Traditional Korean archery experience
• Suwon Gwanggyo Aqua Planet (huge aquarium)
• Korean Folk Village (just outside Suwon)

How to get to Suwon from Seoul: Subway Line 1 or ITX to Suwon Station (1 hr)

Best time to visit Suwon: Spring and autumn for gorgeous foliage

Pocheon

If you watch K-dramas often you may be familiar with Pocheon. This lesser-known gem offers natural beauty, art installations, and scenic spots that are perfect for a tranquil getaway.

Similar to Suwon, I’ve been looking at visiting Pocheon on a day trip but haven’t done it yet. I’ve checked out some of the things to do and trust me, it’s definitely worth travelling out from Seoul for this.

Some highlights to check out in Pocheon:

• Pocheon Art Valley (former quarry turned art space)
• Herb Island (fairytale-like gardens)
• Sanjeong Lake

How to get to Pocheon from Seoul: About 2 hours from Seoul via bus or car. Most people recommend visiting on a guided tour to save yourself the trouble.

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