If you’re looking to explore beyond Seoul, consider adding Jeju and Jeonju to your itinerary. These two cities are among the most popular destinations for international travellers outside the capital. Jeju boasts breathtaking coastal scenery, and its seaside driving routes are perfect for a relaxing road trip. Jeonju, on the other hand, is one of the best cities to experience traditional Korean food and culture. Take a look below and see why these two destinations are worth adding to your travel plans.
🏝️ 3-Day Jeju Island Itinerary: Nature, Cafes & Road Trips
Jeju Island is South Korea’s top domestic travel destination, popular for its scenic drives, clean air, and peaceful beaches. Here’s a 3-day plan for first-time visitors.
🧭 Day 1: Jeju City & Local Markets
- Arrive at Jeju Airport and take a taxi or car rental into the city.
- Visit the Jeju Five-Day Folk Market (if your timing is right) to explore fresh produce, tangerine snacks, and handmade souvenirs.
- Try Jeju Black Pork noodles (heuk-dwaeji guksu) at a local restaurant.
- Walk around Tapdong Promenade at sunset and enjoy a quiet sea breeze.
📸 Pro Tip: Jeju’s public buses are limited—renting a car offers much better flexibility.
🌋 Day 2: East Coast Exploration
- Hike Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) early in the morning for spectacular ocean views.
- Visit Seopjikoji, known for its cinematic landscapes and glassy cliffs.
- Grab coffee at one of the famous sea-view cafes (like Aewol Monsant or Bomnal Cafe).
- Optional stop: Aqua Planet Jeju (large aquarium), or Haenyeo Museum to learn about Korea’s female divers.
🌊 Day 3: Southern Jeju & Waterfalls
- Head to Seogwipo on the southern side.
- Visit Cheonjiyeon or Jeongbang Waterfall, both known for photo-worthy views.
- Walk along the dramatic Jusangjeolli Cliff, a natural basalt rock formation by the sea.
- End your trip at O’sulloc Tea Museum, where you can sample green tea desserts and shop for gifts.
✅ Bonus: If you enjoy hiking, plan an extra day to tackle Hallasan Mountain—the highest peak in Korea.
🏮 Jeonju Hanok Village: A Cultural Day Trip
If you’re into traditional architecture, street food, and Korean history, Jeonju is a must-visit—and it’s only a 2-hour train ride from Seoul.
🏠 What to See in Jeonju
- Explore Jeonju Hanok Village, home to over 800 traditional hanok homes.
- Walk around Omokdae Pavilion, a scenic hillside overlook.
- Visit Gyeonggijeon Shrine, where portraits of King Taejo are enshrined.
- Try on a hanbok (traditional Korean outfit) and snap photos in the alleys.
🍲 What to Eat in Jeonju
- Jeonju is the birthplace of bibimbap—don’t miss trying it at a Michelin-recognized spot like Hanguk Jib.
- Snack on choco pies, hotteok, and makgeolli-based fusion dishes from food trucks or local bars.
- Join the Jeonju Bibimbap Festival in October if your visit aligns—filled with food, performances, and local crafts.
🚅 How to Get There
- KTX from Seoul: ~1 hour 50 min / ~₩35,000
- Express Bus: ~2 hours 30 min / ~₩15,000
- Tip: Make it a day trip or spend one night to enjoy the village lit up at night.
📌 Final Tips for Regional Travel in Korea
- Use Naver Map or KakaoMap for navigation—Google Maps won’t work properly.
- Book your transportation in advance via apps like KTX Korail, Bus T-Money, or Klook.
- Consider a SIM card or portable Wi-Fi to stay connected outside Seoul.