7-Day South Korea Itinerary Covering Top Locations

Planning a South Korea trip? From vibrant city life in Seoul to serene temples in Gyeongju, this 7-day South Korea itinerary covers the must-visit places for Indian travellers. Explore K-pop culture, street food, and scenic landscapes in one unforgettable week. Here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing Korea the right way!

Travel Tips Before You Fly to South Korea

A well-planned trip starts with smart packing and knowing the basics. Here’s what Indian travellers need to keep in mind before flying to South Korea.

Visa Information for Indian Passport Holders

Indian citizens must apply for a tourist visa in advance via the Korean Visa Application Center (KVAC). Keep your hotel bookings, return tickets, and financial documents ready. The process usually takes 5-10 working days.

Currency, SIM Cards, and Transport Cards

Currency: South Korean Won (KRW) is the official currency. Use a mix of cash and cards for flexibility.

• Connectivity: Local SIM cards and portable Wi-Fi devices are available at Incheon Airport or online.
• T-Money Card: Essential for subways, buses, and even taxis—grab one at any convenience store and reload as needed.

Packing List Essentials for South Korea

• Travel Crossbody Bag: Keep your essentials secure and accessible while exploring cities and markets.
• Duffel Bag: Lightweight and roomy-perfect for weekend travel or storing your shopping finds.
• Passport Cover & Travel Wallet: Keep your documents, boarding passes, and currency organized and protected during transit.
• Universal Adapter: South Korea uses 220V with plug types C & F.
• Weather-Appropriate Clothing: South Korea’s climate ranges from snowy winters to humid summers—pack accordingly.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: You’ll be on your feet a lot, especially in Seoul and Busan.
• Basic Medicines & Toiletries: While pharmacies are common, language can be a barrier—carry your essentials.
• Apps to Download: Google Translate, Naver Map (more accurate than Google Maps in Korea), and Kakao Metro.

Pack smart, stay organized, and you’ll be ready to explore South Korea stress-free and in style!

Your 7-Day South Korea Travel Itinerary - Quick Overview

This 7-day South Korea itinerary offers the perfect blend of modern cityscapes, cultural landmarks, scenic day trips, and local food adventures. It’s ideal for first-time visitors looking to experience the best of the country without rushing.

Here’s a city-wise breakdown to help you plan:

• Day 1-2: Seoul - Culture, Shopping & Street Food
• Day 3-4: Busan - Beaches, Art & Seafood
• Day 5: Gyeongju - Korea’s Historical Capital
• Day 6-7: Back to Seoul + Nami Island Day Trip

Pro Tip: Travel light with a duffel bag or carry-on during city transfers. It makes public transport and hotel check-ins a breeze!

7-Day South Korea Itinerary - Day by Day Plan

From the neon-lit streets of Seoul to the tranquil temples of Gyeongju, this day-by-day guide offers the ultimate South Korea itinerary—perfect for Indian travellers looking to explore culture, food, nature, and modern city life, all in one unforgettable week.

Day 1: Arrive in Seoul - Myeongdong, Street Food & Night Markets

Arrival at Incheon International Airport: Use the AREX express train or book a private airport transfer to reach your hotel.

Hotel Check-In: Stay in Myeongdong or Hongdae - well-connected, English-friendly, and packed with great food and shopping options.

Evening Exploration:

• Wander around Myeongdong Shopping Street for Korean skincare brands like Innisfree, Laneige, and The Face Shop.
• Try iconic Korean street food: hotteok (sweet pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and Korean fried chicken.
• Visit Gwangjang Market, one of Korea’s oldest traditional markets, for mung bean pancakes and kimchi mandu.

Must-have: Travel crossbody bag to keep your phone, card, and passport secure in crowded markets.

Day 2: Explore Seoul’s Historic & Cultural Icons

Morning:

• Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the grandest of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces. Arrive early to catch the changing of the guard ceremony.
• Rent a hanbok nearby for a royal experience (many places offer 1-2 hour rentals).
• Walk to Bukchon Hanok Village to explore preserved traditional houses and hidden cafes.

Afternoon:

• Head to Insadong for artsy souvenirs, traditional teahouses, and local crafts.
• Grab lunch at a Korean BBQ spot or an Indian restaurant like Jyoti or Namaste Korea if you’re craving comfort food.

Evening:

• Take the Namsan Cable Car or hike up to N Seoul Tower for panoramic city views.
• Leave a love lock or simply enjoy the sunset over Seoul.

Keep your travel wallet handy for entry tickets, T-money card, and local cash.

Day 3: High-Speed Train to Busan - Beaches & City Lights

Morning: Take the KTX high-speed train from Seoul Station to Busan (~2.5 hours). Book tickets in advance for reserved seating.

Check-in: Stay near Haeundae Beach or Seomyeon for easy access to nightlife and food joints.

Afternoon:

• Relax at Haeundae Beach, take a stroll along the coast, and enjoy soft-serve ice cream or corn dogs by the water.
• Visit Dongbaek Island for a peaceful coastal walk.

Evening:

• Head to Gwangalli Beach for a stunning night view of Gwangan Bridge, lit up against the sea.
• Explore local pubs or street food stalls along the beach promenade.

Tip: Use a duffel bag for easy travel between cities. It’s more flexible than a trolley and fits well in train storage.

Day 4: Art, Culture & Seafood in Busan

Morning:

• Explore Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its vibrant murals, art installations, and panoramic views.
• Don’t forget to stop by the quirky photo zones and cute cafes.

Afternoon:

• Head to Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea’s biggest seafood market. Try sashimi, grilled mackerel, or even live octopus if you're adventurous!
• Walk around BIFF Square, the heart of Busan’s film and entertainment district.

Evening:

• Take a local stroll in Nampo-dong for budget shopping and street snacks.

Vegetarian? Look for places with “Bibimbap” (rice with mixed veggies) or head to Indian spots like Shabana in Seomyeon.

Day 5: Day Trip to Gyeongju - Ancient Korea at its Best

Morning: Take a 1-hour KTX or express bus to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla dynasty.

Explore:

• Bulguksa Temple - a serene UNESCO site with traditional architecture.
• Seokguram Grotto - a peaceful Buddhist cave temple overlooking the sea.
• Tumuli Park - royal tombs that look like grassy mounds, perfect for walking and photos.

Return to Busan by evening and relax at your hotel or enjoy one last seafood dinner.

Gyeongju is known as “the museum without walls” - history buffs will love it!

Day 6: Return to Seoul + Nami Island Day Trip

Early Morning: Travel back to Seoul via KTX. Drop your luggage at your hotel or use lockers at Seoul Station.

Nami Island Trip:

• Take the ITX train from Yongsan Station to Gapyeong (~1.5 hours).
• Enjoy a ferry ride to Nami Island, known for its tree-lined paths and romantic K-drama vibes.
• Optional: Visit Petite France or Garden of Morning Calm nearby (ideal for spring or winter visits).

Return to Seoul by evening, grab dinner at a local spot or a cozy Korean café.

Pro Tip: Nami is beautiful year-round—cherry blossoms in spring, golden leaves in autumn, and snow in winter.

Day 7: Last-Minute Shopping & Fly Back Home

Morning:

• Shop for last-minute souvenirs at Dongdaemun, Namdaemun Market, or Lotte Duty Free.
• Pick up skincare, traditional teas, magnets, and local snacks.

Hotel Checkout & Airport Transfer:

• Use AREX Express or book a shuttle service to Incheon Airport (allow 3+ hours before departure).

Keep your passport cover and travel wallet accessible for a smooth airport experience.

This 7-day South Korea itinerary balances modern city life, coastal beauty, and historical depth—making it the perfect cultural getaway for Indian travellers. Whether you’re into street food, history, or shopping, Korea will leave you craving more.

How Much Does a Trip to South Korea Cost from India?

Planning your finances is just as important as planning your itinerary. Here's a practical breakdown of travel costs to help you budget your South Korea trip from India smartly.

Estimated South Korea Travel Budget (Per Person)

Total Estimated Budget: ₹75,000 - ₹1,10,000 for 7 days (mid-range trip)

Note: Prices may vary based on travel season, flight deals, and personal spending habits.

Money-Saving Tips for Indian Travellers

• Book Flights in Advance: Use fare alerts on Skyscanner or Google Flights to catch the best deals 2-3 months before your trip.
• Use a T-Money Card: Saves time and money on public transport in Seoul and Busan.
• Stay in Guesthouses or Budget Hotels: Look for places in Myeongdong (Seoul) and Seomyeon (Busan) that offer free breakfast and laundry.
• Group Day Tours: Use platforms like Klook or Trazy to find discounted tours to Nami Island, Gyeongju, or cultural experiences.
• Tax-Free Shopping: Tourists can claim VAT refunds on purchases over ₩30,000 at designated stores.

Currency Tips

• Exchange INR to KRW in India for better rates or carry USD to exchange at Korean banks and currency kiosks.
• Use international debit/credit cards with low forex fees for larger purchases.
• Keep small change handy for street food, metro, and local markets.