Planning a weekend trip from Seoul? South Korea’s compact size makes it easy to explore stunning nature, historic sites, and charming towns just hours away. Here are 4 handpicked destinations perfect for a short escape—all accessible without a car!
1. Nami Island & Gapyeong: A Fairytale Adventure
Why Visit: Famous for its tree-lined lanes (featured in K-dramas like Winter Sonata), this serene island offers cycling, art installations, and seasonal festivals.
Getting There:
- Take the ITX train from Yongsan Station to Gapyeong Station (1 hour).
- From Gapyeong Station, use the Gapyeong City Tour Bus (₩8,000/day) to reach Nami Island (5-min ferry ride).
Must-Do: - Rent a bike or stroll through metasequoia forests.
- Combine with nearby Garden of Morning Calm (Korea’s oldest private garden) or Gapyeong Rail Bike.
Tip: Visit weekdays to avoid crowds. Try dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) at local restaurants.
2. Suwon: Step Back into the Joseon Dynasty
Why Visit: Home to Hwaseong Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage), Suwon blends history with vibrant street food culture.
Getting There:
- Subway Line 1 from Seoul Station to Suwon Station (50 mins).
Must-Do: - Walk the 5.7-km fortress walls for panoramic views.
- Watch martial arts performances at Haenggung Palace.
- Explore Suwon Hwaseong Museum and snack at Jidong Market (try galbi ribs).
Tip: Rent a traditional hanbok near the fortress for photos.
3. Chuncheon: Lakes, Legends, and Legendary Chicken
Why Visit: A picturesque lakeside city famed for dakgalbi and nature.
Getting There:
- ITX train from Cheongnyangni Station to Chuncheon Station (1 hr).
Must-Do: - Kayak or bike around Uiamho Lake.
- Visit Nami Island (30 mins by taxi from Chuncheon).
- Explore Soyanggang Skywalk (glass walkway over the river).
Food Spotlight: Myeongdong Dakgalbi Street—watch your spicy chicken stir-fried tableside!
4. Incheon: Beyond the Airport
Why Visit: Coastal charm, colorful murals, and multicultural eats.
Getting There:
- Subway Line 1 to Incheon Station (1 hr from Seoul).
Must-Do: - Wander Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village (Instagram-ready alleys).
- Try Chinese-Korean fusion in Incheon Chinatown.
- Relax at Eurwangni Beach or explore Muui Island via ferry.
Tip: Visit Sinpo International Market for jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles) and seafood pancakes.
Essential Tips for Your Trip
- Transport: Use T-money cards for trains/buses. Download apps like KakaoMap or Naver Maps for real-time transit.
- Booking: Trains (Korail) fill fast—reserve ITX tickets online via LetsKorail.
- Budget: Day trips cost ₩30,000–70,000 (transport + food). Overnight? Add ₩50,000–100,000 for guesthouses.
- Etiquette: Bow when greeting locals, and carry cash for markets.
Korea’s magic lies beyond Seoul—pack light, embrace spontaneity, and savor every kimchi bite! 🌿🚂 Safe travels!