If you’re staying in Seoul and craving a quick escape without the hassle of long-distance travel, day trips are your best friend. The areas just beyond Seoul are filled with charming nature, immersive culture, and exciting attractions—all reachable within two hours by public transport. Among the most popular and satisfying day trips for foreign travelers are Everland Theme Park, Nami Island, and the Korean Folk Village. Each offers a different slice of Korea: thrilling rides, peaceful landscapes, and timeless tradition.
Here’s everything you need to know about what to expect and how to plan each trip efficiently.
Everland Theme Park
Everland is South Korea’s biggest and most iconic theme park, often compared to Disneyland for its size and festive atmosphere. Located in Yongin, Everland is a full-scale amusement park offering attractions for all ages—from adrenaline-packed rides to gentle attractions for kids and families.
What to do at Everland:
- T-Express: Korea’s most famous wooden roller coaster, known for its steep drop and intense speed.
- Lost Valley Safari Ride: Board an amphibious vehicle and explore a mini African safari where giraffes, elephants, and hippos roam freely.
- Zootopia: A compact but well-kept zoo that houses a variety of animals—highlighted by Panda World.
- Panda World: Originally made famous by Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in Korea, this area now houses her twin siblings Rui Bao and Hui Bao, born in 2023. Watch them play, nap, and munch on bamboo under expert care.
- Four Seasons Garden: Famous for its seasonal floral displays—tulips in spring, sunflowers in summer, chrysanthemums in fall, and LED light shows in winter.
- Seasonal parades and shows: Themed parades and nighttime shows bring extra magic to your visit.
Admission: Around 68,000 KRW (~$50 USD); prices vary by season. Discounts available via Klook, Trazy, or hotel concierge services.
How to get there: Subway to Giheung Station (Bundang Line) → Transfer to EverLine → Get off at Jeondae-Everland Station → Free shuttle to entrance (5 minutes).
Travel tips: Visit on weekdays for shorter lines, use the Everland app for live wait times, and head to Panda World early. Lockers, stroller rentals, and multilingual services are available.
Korean Folk Village
The Korean Folk Village (Minsokchon), located in Yongin, is an open-air museum with restored Joseon-era buildings, workshops, and markets depicting life from Korea’s traditional past.
Why it’s worth visiting:
- Traditional architecture: Over 260 restored homes, pavilions, and shops from various regions of Korea.
- Daily cultural performances: See tightrope walking (jultagi), horseback martial arts, and traditional wedding parades.
- Hands-on experiences: Try rice cake making, hanji crafting, calligraphy, and traditional folk games like yut-nori.
- Filming location for historical dramas: K-dramas like Moon Embracing the Sun, Sungkyunkwan Scandal, and many others were filmed here.
Admission: Adults: 32,000 KRW (~$24 USD); Youth: 26,000 KRW; Children: 22,000 KRW. Combo tickets available.
How to get there: Subway to Suwon Station (Line 1) → Bus 37 or 10-5 → Korean Folk Village stop. (~1hr 20min total)
Recommended for: Families, cultural explorers, photographers, and fans of Korean historical dramas. Hanbok rentals available on-site.
Nami Island
Located in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, Nami Island is one of Korea’s most iconic nature escapes—famous for its scenic tree-lined paths, romantic atmosphere, and changing seasons. The island became famous through the K-drama Winter Sonata, and now attracts travelers year-round for its natural beauty and relaxing environment.
Things to enjoy:
- Metasequoia Lane, cherry blossom and ginkgo roads
- Bike rentals (tandem, single, electric)
- Cultural exhibits: sculpture gardens, art installations, museums
- Family-friendly areas: picnic zones, playgrounds, cafés
Admission: 19,000 KRW (~$14 USD) incl. round-trip ferry. Discounts for youth and children. Zipline option: 44,000 KRW
How to get there: ITX-Cheongchun from Yongsan or Cheongnyangni → Gapyeong Station (~60 mins) → Taxi or shuttle (~5–10 mins) → Ferry (~5 mins)
Nearby: Petite France (20 mins by car), Garden of Morning Calm (40 mins). Gapyeong City Tour Bus Pass (~8,000 KRW) connects them all.
Tips for the Perfect Day Trip
- Start early (before 9 AM)
- Bring a T-money card for easy transit
- Use NAVER Map or KakaoMap for navigation
- Pack comfy shoes, water, sunscreen, power bank
- Check the weather and dress accordingly
Discover Korea Beyond the City Limits
Seoul offers endless energy and entertainment, but stepping just outside the city gives you a glimpse into Korea’s soul. Whether you're watching adorable pandas at Everland, strolling through a recreated Joseon village, or cycling along tree-lined paths on Nami Island, these day trips deliver memorable experiences with minimal planning.
Thanks to Korea’s efficient public transportation and tourist-friendly infrastructure, it's easier than ever to go beyond the capital—without even booking a hotel.
So go ahead—step outside Seoul, and let your next day trip become one of your most unforgettable moments in Korea.
댓글