Hey fellow wanderers! While Seoul is full of amazing sites and sips, sometimes you just need to step outside of the fast-paced rhythm of the city and breathe in something new—without losing half your day to travel. I’ve rounded up six of my favorite day trips from Seoul that you can reach in two hours or less. From historic fortresses to serene islands, quirky theme parks to coastal escapes, each one offers a perfect one-day adventure.
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Table of Contents
1. Suwon – Hwaseong Fortress & Foodie Finds
Only 45 minutes south of Seoul, Suwon is home to the UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress. A leisurely 5 km stroll atop the wall is perfect for a light hike, and has beautiful views. A great option for kids as well.
Don’t miss a chance to hit up the Starfield Mall and see the latest large scale Instagram worthy “library”. Malls in Korea are really a sight to behold, so many floors with so many stores. I like to go in with a few shops in mind, but then always wonder through the food courts and don’t forget the basements which almost always have the best stalls or shops. Starfield Suwon is no exception, with a large Sports Monster for the kids and even a dog park on the roof. Just know, there is almost always crowds, opt for weekdays if you can.
Before heading home, swing by Suwon’s Fried Chicken Street or the colorful mural village for a hearty dose of art and flavor.
Klook offers a great tour option with transportation from Seoul: Book tickets here!
2. Everland – A Visit to Korean Theme Parks
A little over an hour south of Seoul, you must check out the experience that is Korean theme parks. Everland won’t disappoint with cute characters, lots of charm and some thrilling rides. Included within the theme park is a zoo for smaller children or animal lovers. I wouldn’t get in the long lines for the safari rides, but the smaller exhibits are quick and quite enjoyable.
Our family had such a fun day with great weather (love Fall in Korea) and really enjoyed many of theme park features. If you are not a thrill ride seeker, don’t fret, there is plenty to enjoy just wondering the grounds, beautiful gardens, shows, snacks and more. Never mind that I had no business on the backwards rollercoaster, I still enjoyed myself!
To visit Everland with discounted tickets and transportation from Seoul: Book tickets here!
3. Incheon – Port City Charm & Chinatown
About an hour west, Incheon is a feast for the senses. Stroll through Incheon’s Chinatown for jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles) and mooncakes, visit Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village for playful photo ops, and walk along Wolmido Island’s seaside promenade. If you’re into history, check out the Incheon Landing Operation Memorial Hall. I have yet to have this experience, but it’s on my list of places to visit before we depart next year.
Klook offers a great day trip tour, Book Tickets Here!
4. Nami Island – Nature & K-Drama Magic
A little under 2 hours away, Nami Island is postcard-perfect year-round: cherry blossoms in spring, golden ginkgo in fall, and snow-dusted paths in winter. Take the ferry over to the island or try the zipline for a thrill. It’s a true storybook day out in nature with lots of activities, restaurants and some shopping. Wonder down the long lane of tree lined paths or out near the water’s edge for a sweet picnic. Nami Island is also pet friendly for those that don’t want to leave Fido behind! Read about our day date to Nami Island here.
While I believe a day trip is really all you need, many visitors combine it with other sights in the area. There are lots of pensions, small hotels, or Airbnb’s the vicinity for those who want to stay the night and extend their visit. Many visitors pair it with nearby Petite France or the Garden of Morning Calm for a full day of sight-seeing.
Klook offers a great tour of Nami Island, with lots of great add-on options: Book Tickets Here!
5. The DMZ – History & Perspective
Roughly 90 minutes north lies one of the most unique day trips in the world: the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Join an official guided tour to visit the Third Tunnel of Aggression, Dora Observatory, and the Imjingak Park. There really is nothing like sipping tea while you are gazing over the border into North Korea. It was the mix of tension, history, and hope that makes it unforgettable.
I found it to be the most impactful tour I have taken while here in Korea, not only learning about Korean history but gaining cultural awareness as well. Our tour guide had personal stories to share of grandparents who were split in the war and ultimate division of North and South Korea and it made the experience all the more real. Of all the day trips from Seoul, don’t skip this experience. I
We used this tour with several out of town visitors and loved it each time: Book Tickets Here!
6. Korean Ceramic Village (Icheon) – Clay, Craft & Culture
About 1.5 hours southeast, Icheon is South Korea’s pottery capital. Here, you can watch master artisans at work, try your hand at the wheel, and browse gorgeous celadon and porcelain. Pair your visit with the city’s famous Icheon rice meals—simple, wholesome, and deeply satisfying.
I loved our day trip visiting the Ceramic Art Village, meeting the creative artists and of course shopping all the beautiful galleries full of treasures. They make great gifts and souvenirs as well. It was such a fun and different way to experience Korean culture, you can check out my post about our day trip here.
To visit Icheon Ceramic Village with transportation from Seoul: Book Tickets Here!
Final Thoughts
Seoul is such a wonderful city to visit (and live) but if you have the time, it is worth it to venture outside the busy city streets and visit some of the gems that exist just beyond. I have truly enjoyed all of these day trips from Seoul and the different sides of Korean culture I have been able to experience during each of them. They show a different side of Korea, highlighting history, the arts, beautiful Korean scenery and of course, some pop culture fun! Travel time is under 2 hours for most with lots of options for public transportation, paid tours or driving yourself. Enjoy!
If you are looking for fun activities in Seoul, check out a Korean Baseball Game or an afternoon at the Korean Cinemas!
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