21 days in South Korea Itinerary

Though it boasts a history spanning thousands of years, South Korea ranks among the world's most urbanized and modernized countries, with nearly half of its population living in high-rises concentrated in the national capital. In this land of pristine mountain scenery, many South Korea vacations involve some form of winter sports--not surprising for the country that won the bid to host the 2018 Winter Olympics. Curious travelers wishing to get to know South Korea's heart and soul spend only a small part of their holiday in big cities like Busan and Seoul, devoting much of their attention to the tranquil countryside that seems largely untouched by the 21st century.

A popular vacation island for Koreans and foreigners with a mild coastal climate, Jeju-do offers hiking, caving, horseback riding, and plenty of beaches on which to relax and observe the sunset. A holiday in Jeju-do usually involves a visit to a UNESCO-protected lava tube, where you can see the world’s largest known lava column. Other lava and limestone caves set in botanical gardens, as well as a number of folk villages, combine to offer a diverse range of attractions during treks through the densely forested island, with the well-marked hiking trails also leading past giant basalt statues. Inland theme parks--ranging from a teddy bear museum to an erotic sculpture park--and golf courses provide a diverse range of entertainment options. The matriarchal island is known for its fisherwomen and female divers.

With nearly 2,000 islands off its long coastline--most of them uninhabited--Jeollanam-do makes an attractive spot for nature lovers. Tourism in Jeollanam-do focuses on boat exploration of the coast and islands, and inland trips to the fertile alluvial plains famous for their agricultural products. Visit picturesque tea plantations, an eco-wetland park full of birds and crabs, or global-themed gardens in a scenic bay. Traditional folk villages preserve age-old local culture, including Arirang folk songs and traditional Pansori music. Foodies on holiday in Jeollanam-do will do well to try the province's renowned seafood, particularly the oysters.