- Combine Seoul with Busan and Gyeongju by KTX high-speed train
- Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons
- British visitors can stay visa-free for up to 90 days
- Download Naver Map or KakaoMap, as Google Maps directions are limited
- Airports
- Seoul Incheon International (ICN); Gimhae International, Busan (PUS); Jeju International (CJU)
- Flight time
- about 14h from London to Seoul direct
- Best time to go
- April-May for blossom and September-November for autumn colour
- Currency
- South Korean won (KRW)
South Korea has become one of the most talked-about destinations in Asia, helped along by K-pop, K-dramas and Korean food. Seoul is a high-energy city where royal palaces sit among skyscrapers and night markets run late, but the country has quieter sides too: temple stays in the mountains, the ancient tombs of Gyeongju and volcanic beaches on Jeju Island. Excellent trains make it simple to see a lot in two weeks, and it combines well with Japan.
South Korea is 9 hours ahead of the UK in winter and 8 hours ahead during British Summer Time. Plugs are the two-pin European types C and F, traffic drives on the right and costs are similar to or slightly below the UK. This Asia guide covers where to go, when, and how to get around.
Where to go in South Korea
Seoul
Start with Gyeongbokgung Palace, the hanok houses of Bukchon and the lanes of Insadong. Changdeokgung's Secret Garden is a calmer palace. Myeongdong and Hongdae are the shopping and nightlife hubs, Gwangjang Market is the place for street food and N Seoul Tower gives the best views. A tour to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) is a sobering half-day trip from the city.
Busan
Korea's second city has beaches at Haeundae and Gwangalli, the colourful hillside Gamcheon Culture Village, the seaside Haedong Yonggungsa temple and Jagalchi fish market. It is about two and a half hours from Seoul by KTX.
Gyeongju
The former capital of the Silla kingdom is often called a museum without walls. Its grassy royal tombs, Bulguksa Temple and the Seokguram Grotto are UNESCO-listed, and the town is best explored by bike.
Jeju Island
A volcanic island off the south coast, Jeju has Hallasan, South Korea's highest mountain, the sunrise crater at Seongsan Ilchulbong, lava tubes, waterfalls and the Olle coastal walking trails. It is a short, cheap flight from Seoul or Busan.
Jeonju and the mountains
Jeonju's hanok village is famous for bibimbap and traditional houses. For hiking, Seoraksan National Park in the northeast is spectacular in autumn, and many Buddhist temples offer overnight temple stays.
Best time to visit South Korea
| Season | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Spring (April-May) | Cherry blossom in early April, mild and sunny; very popular |
| Summer (June-August) | Hot and humid, monsoon rain in July; busy beaches |
| Autumn (September-November) | Clear skies and vivid foliage, especially in late October; ideal for hiking |
| Winter (December-February) | Cold and dry, often below freezing in Seoul; skiing in Gangwon |
Getting to South Korea from the UK
Korean Air and Asiana fly direct from Heathrow to Seoul Incheon in about 14 hours. One-stop options via the Gulf, Istanbul, Helsinki or China can be cheaper. The AREX express train reaches central Seoul in about 45 minutes.
Entry requirements
British passport holders can usually visit South Korea visa-free for up to 90 days. The UK has been on a list of countries temporarily exempt from the K-ETA electronic travel authorisation, but check whether the exemption still applies for your dates; if not, apply on the official K-ETA website only. An electronic arrival card can be completed online before travel. Rules change, so check GOV.UK foreign travel advice before booking.
Getting around
KTX high-speed trains link Seoul with Busan, Gyeongju and other cities, and buses are comfortable and cheap. Seoul and Busan have superb metro systems; a T-money card works on public transport across the country and in convenience stores. Taxis are reasonably priced, and the Kakao T app is widely used. Car hire is possible on Jeju, where public transport is thinner.
Use Naver Map or KakaoMap instead of Google Maps. Walking and driving directions on Google are limited in South Korea.
Money and costs
South Korea is good value compared with Japan. A mid-range trip costs about KRW 150,000-250,000 (roughly £80-140) per person per day, including a decent hotel, meals and transport. Korean barbecue, street food and convenience-store meals keep costs down. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but carry some cash for markets. Tipping isn't customary.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in South Korea?
Ten days to two weeks covers Seoul, Busan and Gyeongju, with time for Jeju. Five days is enough for Seoul alone.
Is South Korea expensive?
Hotels in Seoul can be pricey, but food and transport are good value, so overall costs are a little below the UK.
Is it safe to visit the DMZ?
Yes, on an organised tour. Tours follow strict rules and can be cancelled at short notice for security reasons.
Do people speak English in South Korea?
English is common on signs and transport, and many younger people speak some, but it is less widely spoken than you might expect. Translation apps help.
Written by
Anna Beach, family & practical travel editor
Anna knows which beach has shade at 3pm and which car hire excess is a rip-off. She covers sun, islands, family trips and practical travel tips.
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