Thinking about backpacking through Asia? Don’t skip South Korea. It’s home to some of the best places to visit in South Korea for travelers on a budget — and one of Asia’s most dynamic destinations in 2025.
Here, ancient palaces sit beside high-speed trains. Street food markets stay open all night. And hiking trails wind through misty mountains just a train ride from buzzing cities. With excellent public transport, affordable eats, and rich local culture, South Korea makes exploring easy — and unforgettable.
I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.
Susan Sontag
In this guide, we’ll explore:
- 🎯 The top destinations for backpackers in South Korea
- 💡 Local tips + must-know travel hacks
- 💸 How to explore smart, cheap, and deeply
Let’s dive into everything that makes South Korea a top pick for backpackers in 2025. 🎒🌍
Why South Korea Is One of the Best Places to Visit for Backpackers in 2025
Before jumping into destinations, here’s why South Korea deserves a spot on your 2025 backpacking route — especially if you’re traveling on a budget.
Image: Incheon
From Temples to Tech: The Unforgettable Contrasts of South Korea
South Korea is full of contrasts that keep things exciting. One moment you’re wandering through ancient palaces like Changdeokgung. A few subway stops later? You’re exploring interactive tech zones like Samsung D’light.
That mix — history and hyper-modern life — is what makes the best places to visit in South Korea feel so unique. And with great public transport and cheap eats everywhere, it’s perfect for backpackers who want to do more, spend less.
Image: Changdeokgung Palace
South Korea’s Nature is Seriously Slept On: Hikes, Seasons & Hidden Trails
Yes — South Korea has K-pop, neon signs, and nonstop city buzz.
But step outside the metro map, and you’ll find mountains, coastlines, and forests that backpackers rarely talk about — but never forget.
Trails Worth Traveling For
South Korea’s natural beauty is no joke. In spring, cherry blossoms blanket parks and palace walls. In autumn, the forests go full fire-orange. And in between? Endless trails and views you don’t need a drone to enjoy.
If you’re into hiking, you’re in luck. National parks in South Korea like Seoraksan and Bukhansan are super accessible from major cities — with trails for every level, from beginner-friendly strolls to steep summit climbs.
The best part? No entry fees, easy transport, and fresh air you didn’t know you needed.
Image: Seoul, South Korea
How to Travel South Korea on a Budget: Transit, Stays & Cheap Eats
Backpacking in South Korea doesn’t mean cutting corners — it just means knowing where to look.
Move Around Like a Local (for Less)
Getting around is easy and cheap. The KTX high-speed trains connect cities in a flash, and local subway networks are fast, clean, and ridiculously efficient. Grab a T-money card, and you’re basically set.
Stay Smart Without Splurging
Guesthouses, capsule hotels, and hostels are everywhere — and many come with free breakfast, laundry, and super fast Wi-Fi. For countryside trips, Hanok stays offer charm without the luxury price tag.
Eat Big on a Small Budget
Forget overpriced cafes. The best cheap eats in South Korea come from night markets, convenience stores, and hole-in-the-wall joints.
Tteokbokki for $2? Kimbap rolls under $1?
Yes please. And don’t even get us started on 24/7 ramyeon bars.
The Best Places to Visit in South Korea for Backpackers: City Life to Island Vibes
Now, let’s explore the must-visit locations that should be on every backpacker’s South Korea itinerary for 2025.
Seoul: Where Palaces, Street Food, and K-Pop Collide
If it’s your first time in Korea, Seoul is the place to start. The capital packs in royal history, futuristic skylines, and some of the best street eats in Asia — all within a subway ride.
What to Do in Seoul
- Gyeongbokgung Palace – Step back into royal history, complete with the changing of the guard ceremony.
- Bukchon Hanok Village – Wander through a hillside neighborhood of traditional Korean houses.
Image: Bukchon Hanok Village
- Myeongdong – Shop skincare, snack tteokbokki, and try every street food you can carry.
- Hongdae – Home to Korea’s indie scene, live music, and late-night culture.
I once rented a hanbok to explore Bukchon — felt majestic… until a power-walking ahjumma in gym clothes zoomed into my photo. That’s Seoul for you: tradition and hustle, side by side.
- N Seoul Tower: Offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
- Hongdae: A vibrant district known for its youthful energy, street performances, and trendy shops.
- Myeongdong: A shopping mecca where you can find everything from street food to high-end cosmetics.
Backpacker Tip: Purchase a T-money card for easy and discounted access to Seoul’s extensive public transportation system.
Image: Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Nodeul Island: The island is incredibly peaceful, nestled right in the heart of the Han River. Although it’s beautiful, it gets pretty chilly during winter—posing quite a challenge for those who love romantic strolls and dreamy sunsets along the Han River.
Image: Nodeul Island
Busan: Beaches, Culture Villages & Markets You’ll Love
As South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan offers a perfect blend of metropolitan energy and coastal relaxation. It’s one of the best places to visit in South Korea for those seeking a mix of city life and beach vibes.
Must-See Spots in Busan:
- Haeundae Beach: One of Korea’s most famous beaches, perfect for sunbathing and people-watching.
- Gamcheon Culture Village: Often called the “Machu Picchu of Busan,” this colorful hillside community is a photographer’s dream.
I got completely lost trying to find Gamcheon and ended up in someone’s backyard. A kind elderly man pointed me the way—with his cat on a leash. I still don’t know if the cat was the real tour guide, but hey, I made it.
- Jagalchi Fish Market: Korea’s largest seafood market, where you can sample fresh catches.
- Beomeosa Temple: A serene Buddhist temple offering a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.
Image: Beomeosa Temple
- Haedong Yonggungsa Temple: A stunning oceanside temple that’s particularly beautiful at sunrise.
Cultural Insight: Try Busan’s famous dwaeji gukbap (pork soup with rice) for an authentic local culinary experience.
Image: Colorful houses of Gamcheon Culture Village
Jeju Island: Volcano Views, Lava Tubes & Coastal Scootering
Often called the “Hawaii of South Korea,” Jeju Island is a dream for outdoor lovers. With waterfalls, lava fields, and dramatic cliffs, it’s one of the best places to visit in South Korea when you want nature, peace, and a bit of adventure.
Jeju’s Natural Highlights:
- Hallasan National Park: Home to South Korea’s highest mountain, offering various hiking trails.
- Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak): A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning sunrise views.
I watched the sunrise at Seongsan Ilchulbong with a group of strangers who’d also woken up at 4:30am, fueled only by kimbap and excitement. By 7am, we were eating tangerines from a roadside stall and trading Instagram handles like old friends.
- Manjanggul Cave: One of the world’s largest lava tubes, showcasing unique geological formations.
- Jeju Folk Village: An open-air museum where you can learn about traditional Jeju culture.
- Udo Island: A small island off Jeju’s coast, perfect for cycling and enjoying scenic beaches.
Adventure Tip: Rent a scooter for full freedom. It’s the best way to discover Jeju’s quiet beaches, backroads, and seaside cafés at your own pace.
Image: Seongsan Ilchulbong crater at sunrise
Doing a regional hop? Taiwan is just a short flight away — here’s where to go for bubble tea, mountain trails, and night markets.
Gyeongju: Korea’s Ancient Capital & a Dream for History Buffs
Once the capital of the Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju is like an open-air museum. History isn’t locked behind glass here — it’s in the tombs, the temples, and the quiet backstreets. For backpackers into culture and ancient vibes, it’s one of the best places to visit in South Korea.
Historical Sites in Gyeongju:
- Bulguksa Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Korea’s most famous Buddhist temples.
- Seokguram Grotto: Another UNESCO site, home to a remarkable Buddha statue overlooking the East Sea.
- Tumuli Park: A collection of large royal tombs from the Silla period.
- Cheomseongdae Observatory: One of the oldest existing astronomical observatories in Asia.
- Gyeongju National Museum: Houses an extensive collection of Silla Dynasty artifacts.
Backpacker Insight: Rent a bike. Gyeongju is flat, peaceful, and full of scattered sites. Pedaling past royal tombs at golden hour? Kind of magical.
Image: Tourists using binoculars to overlook colorful seaside villages
Seoraksan National Park: Korea’s Best Hikes (and Hot Springs!)
Tucked into Korea’s northeast, Seoraksan National Park is a backpacker’s dream — all soaring peaks, sacred temples, and steamy hot springs. If you’re into hiking, it’s one of the best places to visit in South Korea for mountain magic.
Highlights of Seoraksan:
- Ulsanbawi Rock: A challenging hike rewarded with spectacular views.
- Sinheungsa Temple: The oldest Zen temple in Korea, featuring a giant Buddha statue.
- Biryong Falls: A beautiful waterfall accessible via a scenic hiking trail.
- Seoraksan Cable Car: Offers panoramic views for those who prefer a less strenuous ascent.
- Osaek Mineral Springs: Natural hot springs perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking.
My legs gave up at step 500, but strangers handed me chocolate at the summit. That’s trail karma.
Seasonal Tip: Come in late October — the autumn foliage turns the whole park gold and crimson. It’s peak beauty, literally.
Image: Dramatic mountain peaks of Seoraksan National Park
Gangwon-do: Korea’s K-Drama Escape Into Nature
If you’re craving misty mountains, windswept beaches, and that soft, cinematic feeling you get from Korean dramas — Gangwon-do is your spot. Just a few hours from Seoul, this underrated province is packed with natural beauty, quiet towns, and iconic filming locations.
What to Explore in Gangwon
- Nami Island – Famous for its tree-lined paths and Winter Sonata romance. Rent a bike and glide through the scenery.
- Gangneung – Where coast meets chill. Grab coffee at BTS’s favorite cafés or catch sunrise at Gyeongpo Beach.
- Pyeongchang – Known for the 2018 Winter Olympics, this mountain town is all about snowy slopes and forest retreats.
- Jeongdongjin – Ever seen a cruise ship on a mountain? This surreal spot offers epic sunrises and quiet vibes along the East Sea.
Image: Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Backpacker Tip: Travel between these spots by intercity bus. Accommodation is cheaper than Seoul, and many guesthouses cater to hikers and indie travelers. Autumn here? Unbeatable.
Hidden Gems in South Korea: Go Where the Crowds Don’t
If you’ve ticked off Seoul and Busan, it’s time to wander a little deeper. These lesser-known spots offer a more local, peaceful, and often cheaper side of South Korea — perfect for backpackers craving real discovery.
Tongyeong – The “Naples of Korea,” this coastal city has pastel harbor views, seafood markets, and cable cars over the sea. Fewer tourists, more charm.
Jeonju Hanok Village – While still gaining popularity, Jeonju’s traditional hanok houses, bibimbap origins, and indie art scene make it a must for cultural travelers.
Danyang – A quiet riverside town surrounded by limestone cliffs, caves, and waterfalls. Perfect for hiking and hot springs — and much less crowded than the big parks.
Sokcho (Outside Seoraksan Gate) – Stay a night here before or after hiking Seoraksan. It’s a fishing town with cheap motels, cozy cafés, and raw coastal vibes.
Ulleungdo Island – Far off the east coast, Ulleungdo is remote, dramatic, and wild. You’ll need a ferry to get there, but the volcanic cliffs and clear water are worth every bump.
Image: Danyang
Backpacker Tip: These hidden gems often have fewer English signs, so download offline maps and translation apps (and yes — Gohub’s eSIM will keep you online in the middle of nowhere).
Your South Korea Backpacking Plan: When to Go, Where to Stay, and How to Get Around
Now that we’ve explored the top destinations, let’s focus on practical information to help you plan your South Korea adventure effectively.
Best Time to Visit South Korea’s Top Attractions
South Korea is a four-season destination, and each season brings its own vibe. Here’s when to go (and what to expect):
Spring (March–May) One of the best times to visit South Korea — warm weather, cherry blossoms, and festivals everywhere.
- Top Picks: Gyeongju’s royal tombs framed in pink, or catching the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival.
Summer (June–August) Hot, humid, and sometimes rainy — but great for beaches and water adventures.
- Top Picks: Chill on Haeundae Beach, scooter around Jeju, or hike Seoraksan’s misty trails before monsoon hits.
Autumn (September–November) Korea’s show-off season — crisp weather and unreal foliage.
- Top Picks: Seoraksan in peak color, or Seoul Lantern Festival glowing up the Han River.
Winter (December–February) Cold, but magical — especially up north.
Top Picks: Snowy temples in Gyeongju, skiing in Gangwon, or fishing at the quirky Hwacheon Ice Festival.
Getting Around South Korea’s Attractions
One of the biggest perks of backpacking in Korea? You can visit all the best places to visit in South Korea without needing a car. The country’s public transportation is next-level — fast, clean, and crazy efficient.
Here’s how to get around like a pro:
- KTX (Korea Train Express): Zip from Seoul to Busan in under 2.5 hours on Korea’s high-speed rail. Super comfy, and worth it for longer routes.
- Subway Systems: Seoul, Busan, and even smaller cities have intuitive subways. Just grab a T-money card and download a subway app like KakaoMetro — English-friendly and lifesaving.
- Buses: Buses are budget-friendly and often the best way to reach national parks like Seoraksan or cultural towns like Andong. Terminals usually have English signage too.
- Ferries: Headed to Jeju or Udo Island? Book your ferry in advance, especially during cherry blossom or summer season — they fill up fast.
Money-Saving Transportation Tips:
- Consider a Korea Rail Pass if you plan to use the train extensively
- Use T-money cards for discounted fares on public transportation in multiple cities
- For budget flights to Jeju, check low-cost carriers like Jeju Air or Jin Air
How to Stay Connected in South Korea: Wi-Fi, SIMs & the Best eSIM for Backpackers
Reliable connectivity is essential for modern backpackers:
- Free public Wi-Fi is available in many areas, including subway stations and public spaces
- For hassle-free connectivity, consider an eSIM solution from Gohub–best eSIM for South Korea travel before your trip
- Local SIM cards are available at the airport and convenience stores if you prefer that option
- Major cities have excellent 4G and 5G coverage, but remote areas may have limited connectivity
Image: How to choose a destination and travel days to view South Korea data plans
I activated my Gohub eSIM the second I landed in Incheon—no kiosk lines, no roaming drama, just instant maps and café hunting. That first connection made me feel like, “Yep. I’ve arrived.”
Budget Backpacking in South Korea: Eat, Sleep & Explore Without Overspending
While South Korea can be more expensive than some Southeast Asian destinations, backpackers can still enjoy the best places to visit in South Korea without breaking the bank:
Affordable Dining Options in South Korea
- Street Food: Tteokbokki, odeng, hotteok… the streets are your buffet. Look for night markets in Seoul, Busan, and Jeonju.
- Kimbap Restaurants: These humble diners serve up rice rolls, ramyeon, and donkatsu for $2–$5.
- University Areas: Areas like Hongdae (Seoul) or Nampo-dong (Busan) are goldmines for cheap, tasty eats made for students.
- Convenience Stores: Don’t sleep on GS25 or CU. Kimbap, triangle rice, and microwave bibimbap will save your life (and wallet).
Image: Street food in Korea
Must-Try Budget Dishes:
- Bibimbap (mixed rice bowl with vegetables and meat)
- Samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly, often enjoyed in group settings)
- Kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew)
- Korean fried chicken
Budget Accommodation Near South Korea’s Top Attractions
Finding a comfy place to sleep on a budget in Korea is easier than you’d think — even near the best places to visit in South Korea. Here’s how backpackers are sleeping smart in 2025:
Where to Stay Without Spending a Fortune
- Guesthouses & Hostels
Found in every major city. Dorms or budget privates, often with free breakfast and lockers. Great way to meet fellow travelers. - Jjimjilbang (찜질방)
Korean bathhouses that double as overnight stays. For under $10, you get saunas, floor space, showers, and a uniquely local experience. - Temple Stays
Sleep at a Buddhist temple, eat vegetarian meals, learn meditation. Peaceful, cultural, and surprisingly affordable. - University Dorms (Seasonal)
During breaks, some universities open up dorm rooms for travelers — cheap, secure, and often close to metro lines.
Booking Tips
- Book early during cherry blossom season, autumn, or festival weekends.
- Stay near subway stations — trust us, this saves time and won’t drain your daily budget.
- Consider outer districts in Seoul like Hongdae or Mangwon — still lively, but with better rates than central Myeongdong.
Conclusion: Embracing South Korea’s Diverse Attractions
From the neon-lit streets of Seoul to the ancient palaces of Gyeongju, from Jeju Island’s volcanic coastlines to the peaceful temples tucked in Gangwon’s mountains, the best places to visit in South Korea offer something unforgettable for every kind of traveler.
Whether you’re chasing K-drama sunsets, tackling rocky trails in Seoraksan, or trading stories over street food in Busan, South Korea blends deep tradition with bold modern energy in a way that’s both captivating and accessible — especially for backpackers.
And with smart budgeting, local tips, and a little curiosity, you’ll be able to explore it all without missing a beat (or blowing your budget).
📶 Before you jet off, don’t forget to pack your Gohub eSIM — your key to instant, reliable connectivity across Korea. From navigating subway stations to sharing sunrise selfies from Seongsan Ilchulbong, you’ll stay online without roaming headaches.
Image: Traditional Hanbok-wearing visitors at Gyeongbokgung Palace
📶 Whether you’re shopping in Seoul or hiking in Jeju, Gohub’s Asia eSIM gives you fast, reliable data in South Korea — instant activation, no roaming stress, total freedom.
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