7 days in Seogwipo, South Korea: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Seogwipo, South Korea is a coastal gem full of natural wonders and cultural treasures. This charming city, located on Jeju Island’s southern coast, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. From the jaw-dropping Jeju Waterfall that cascades into the sea, to the lush Hallasan National Park, and the striking Oedolgae Rock, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring sights in Seogwipo. Visitors can also delve into the city’s rich heritage at the Jeju Folk Village Museum, or explore local art at the Lee Jung Seop Art Gallery.
Things to consider before arriving in Seogwipo
Abundance of natural beauty and outdoor activities
Rich cultural heritage and art scene
Limited public transport options
✨ Perfect for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and art aficionados
What to bring with you
1. Comfortable hiking shoes for exploring the natural wonders
2. Layers for the unpredictable weather
3. A camera to capture the stunning views
4. Umbrella or rain jacket for unexpected showers
Best time of the year to visit
The most pleasant time to visit Seogwipo is from April to June, when the weather is mild and the island is blooming with flowers. Autumn (September to November) also offers comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
How to get into the city
1. By air: Fly into Jeju International Airport on Jeju Island, and then take a bus or taxi to Seogwipo.
2. By ferry: Catch a ferry from the mainland cities of Busan, Mokpo, or Wando to Jeju City, and then continue by bus or taxi to Seogwipo.
3. By car: If you’re already on Jeju Island, rent a car and drive to Seogwipo for a more flexible and convenient experience.
7 day city guide trip in Seogwipo, South Korea
Day 1: Arrival and exploring the city center
Welcome to Seogwipo! Start your day by checking into your hotel and heading to the city center to explore. Begin at Lee Jung Seop Street, where you’ll find a variety of locally-owned shops, cafes, and galleries. Take a break from your exploration and grab lunch at Seogwipo Traditional Market, where you can try fresh seafood and local dishes. In the afternoon, visit the Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market to shop for souvenirs.
Day 2: Hike Mount Hallasan
Rise and shine early for a hike up Mount Hallasan, the highest peak in South Korea. Bring snacks and plenty of water for the 8-hour hike. The trail is steep and challenging, but the views of the island and ocean from the peak are worth it. After the hike, relax at the nearby hot springs.
Day 3: Waterfalls and Beaches
Seogwipo is home to many beautiful waterfalls and beaches. Start your day by visiting the Jeongbang Waterfall, the only waterfall in Asia that falls directly into the ocean. Then head to the Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, one of the most famous waterfalls on the island. In the afternoon, unwind at Jungmun Beach, where you can soak up the sun and swim in the crystal-clear water.
Day 4: Day Trip to Jeju City
Take a day trip to Jeju City, the capital of Jeju Island. Visit the Jeju Folk Village Museum to learn about traditional Jeju culture and architecture. Then, see the Jeju Stone Statue Park, featuring over 100 sculptures. End your day at Yongduam, also known as Dragon Head Rock, a unique rock formation offering stunning views of the coastline.
Day 5: Seogwipo Subtropical Forest
Spend your day exploring the Seogwipo Subtropical Forest, home to over 1,200 species of plants and animals. The forest contains several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, so choose the one that suits you best. You can also visit the Jeju World Cup Stadium, a famous landmark built for the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Day 6: Seogwipo Art and Culture Street
Spend your day exploring the Seogwipo Art and Culture Street, where you’ll find a variety of art galleries, museums, and cultural centers. Visit the Jeju Museum of Art to see modern Korean art, then head to the Seogwipo Maeil Art Market to shop for unique handmade items. Don’t miss the Jeju Jungang Underground Shopping Center, where you can find everything from clothing to electronics.
Day 7: Local Cuisine and Farewell
On your final day in Seogwipo, try some local cuisine. Visit the Seogwipo Traditional Street Food Alley to sample traditional Korean street food, or head to Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market to try fresh seafood. In the afternoon, unwind by the ocean at Seogwipo Marine Park. There, you can watch the sunset and reflect on your time in Seogwipo before heading back to your hotel.
How to continue your travel after Seogwipo
If you have extra time, consider visiting the cities of Jeju City or Seongsan-eup, both of which are easily accessible by bus or taxi. Jeju City offers a variety of cultural attractions, including the Jeju National Museum and the Jeju Love Land, an adult-only park featuring erotic sculptures. Seongsan-eup, on the other hand, is home to the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for nature lovers. Don’t forget to try the local specialty, ‘black pork’, while you’re there.
