Republished from Agoda Travel Guides
Start planning now for a trip to Korea! Through 2023 and 2024, tourist visas are free for visitors from 22 countries around the world. Thanks to the Korean Tourism Board, visitors can plan ahead for a well-rounded K-Culture adventure with this list of summer activities for Visit Korea Year 2023-2024.
Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm & Gangchon Railbike Tour
Embark on a family-friendly tour of South Korea that combines scenic wonders with outdoor fun. Make memories on enchanting Nami Island while strolling along tree-lined roads made famous in the K-drama “Winter Sonata.” Revel in the natural beauty of The Garden of Morning Calm, and pedal down some of the country’s most historic streets. This tour is perfect for travelers looking for photographable moments. Transportation is provided, and hotel pickup is available.
Itinerary
- The Garden of Morning Calm (two hours) – follow winding walkways through this tranquil arboretum that showcases local flora and fauna. In winter, more than 10,000 bulbs illuminate the grounds during the annual lighting festival. The garden is located about 45 minutes northeast of Seoul. Admission ticket is included.
- Nami Island (two hours) – appreciate art galleries, a museum and eco-friendly attractions on this island community in Gangwon Province. Admission ticket is included.
- Gangchon Rail Park (two hours) – embark on a sightseeing journey like never before! Pedal your way along mountain passes and over scenic bridges on this exciting adventure. You also will have time to browse the shops and souvenir stores in the quaint village of the rail park. Admission ticket is included.
BOOK THE NAMI ISLAND, GANGCHON RAILBIKE TOUR
Busan One-Day City Tour | Yacht, Haeundae Sky Capsule, Beach Train
Spend a full day exploring the natural splendor and rich history of Busan, where you will take in unforgettable seaside views, discover amazing architecture and take to the seas on an exciting yacht tour. This day-long tour incorporates history, culture and nature and is jam-packed with activities suited for all ages.
Tour stops
- Haedong Yonggungsa Temple – indulge your senses with breathtaking views of blue sky and crashing waves at this historic temple that is most noted for its three-story pagoda and lion statues that keep watch over the grounds. Locals believe that a visit at sunrise on New Year’s Day will make a wish come true.
- Gamcheon Culture Village – get lost in the vibrant hues of Busan’s “Machu Picchu,” where local art galleries and colorful murals meet you at every turn. Grab a coffee at a converted-house café, and climb to the top of the Sky Garden for a panoramic view of the village.
- Taejongdae National Park – feel the cool sea breeze from this 250-meter peak that reveals the lush forests and sea below. Visit the Yeongdo Lighthouse for views of the unique rock formations on the country’s east coast.
- Songdo Skywalk – Korea’s longest ocean sky walk runs along Songdo Beach and features a glass bridge. Watch the waves roll under your feet as the color of the ocean knocks your socks off!
- Yacht Tour – a highlight of the tour, this majestic ride on a luxurious yacht lets you marvel at skyscrapers and the Diamond Bridge near Gwanganli Beach. You also will make a stop at Gamcheon Culture Village and be treated to local delicacies for lunch.
- Blueline Park Beach Train and Sky Capsule – see the alluring coast of Busan from the seat of either the Blueline Park Beach Train or Sky Capsule. Tickets are included with tour price.
- Oryukdo – uncover the mysteries of Oryukdo islands from Oryukdo Skywalk, a scenic walkway that runs along a magical coastal cliff.
- Huinnyeoul Culture Village – fall in love with K-Culture at this sweet village built along the sea. Walk through charming allies brightened with local murals, and meet locals during a laidback stroll.
BOOK THE BUSAN ONE-DAY CITY TOUR
Everland Theme Park Admission Ticket
Summer vacation isn’t official until you visit a theme park! Korea’s largest fun zone features everything you need for summer thrills and chills. Meet up with zombies on the Horror T Express, and take in shows like the Happy Halloween Party Parade. Operating hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily with last admission at 7 p.m. Free shuttle buses to Everland Theme Park are available at Jeondae-Everland Station in Seoul.
BUY TICKETS TO EVERLAND THEME PARK
Korean Folk Village Afternoon Tour from Seoul
Spend an afternoon roaming through an authentic Korean folk village, just an hour from Seoul in Yongin. This half-day tour introduces guests to K-Culture with a visit that features historic homes and artifacts. A professional tour guide tells about the village background to help you learn about the history of the region and how it contributes to Korean culture today.
Itinerary
- Seoul – enjoy a stress-free pickup from your hotel in Seoul from a friendly driver.
- Yongin – drive one hour to Yongin, the city where Korean Folk Village is located.
- Korean Folk Village (about 1.5 hours) – take in traditional culture as you view authentic Korean traditional houses, watch performances and window shop along quaint streets. Admission ticket is included.
- Seoul – end up where your started after your half-day adventure in Yongin!
BOOK THE KOREAN FOLK VILLAGE AFTERNOON TOUR
Gangchon Gimnyujeong Rail Bike Ticket | Gangwon
Get out of Seoul to enjoy the peace and quiet of Gangwon Province. This unique experience lets you hop on a two- or four-seat bike and pedal your way along the scenic Bukhan River and Mugunghwa railway. You also will visit the set of “Running Man” and “We Got Married,” two of South Korea’s most popular variety shows.
BUY TICKETS FOR GANGCHON GIMNYUJEONG RAIL BIKE
Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky Ticket
Jaw-dropping views await in this thrilling climb to the top of one of the tallest buildings in the world! Soar to the top for panoramic views from the Seoul Sky observatory, and then skip across a suspended glass floor for a heart-racing adventure that will leave you wanting more! Bird’s-eye views are even better at sunset, and the night views from the observatory are out of this world!
BUY LOTTE WORLD TOWER SEOUL SKY TICKETS
Jeonju Hanok Rail Bike
A fun way to see the sights with the whole family, the Jeonju Hanok Rail Bike offers panoramic views of the Korean countryside. Pedal along an abandoned section of the Ajung rail track from Silli to Waemangsil while taking in the luscious scenery. The leisurely ride takes about 50 minutes and is ideal for small groups, couples and families. After the ride, guests can enjoy the many rail park facilities, including a photo zone and Ajung Dabang, a local café that serves must-try Ajung lattes and strawberry slushes.
