Autumn in South Korea brings a unique charm to popular tourist destinations like the DMZ and Gyeongbokgung Palace. Let’s explore the best fall activities for the 2023-2024 Visit Korea Year and experience the country’s most beautiful spots and landscapes.

Seoraksan + Nami Island + Garden of Morning Calm

Seoraksan + Nami Island + Garden of Morning Calm | Day Trip from Seoul: This tour from Seoul encompasses three popular destinations, offering breathtaking views of nature. You’ll quickly ascend Seoraksan, one of Korea’s most beautiful mountains, and visit the Garden of Morning Calm and Nami Island, with a local guide explaining each site’s unique features.

Tour Highlights:

Seoraksan National Park (2.5 hours): A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Natural Monument, the park boasts stunning autumn landscapes, diverse rock formations, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful foliage. Enjoy a walk through the forest, discovering historic Sinheungsa Temple and Jujeongol Valley.
Nami Island (2.5 hours): Wander the charming paths lined with ginkgo and cherry trees on Nami Island, a haven of art, cafes, K-culture landmarks, and drama filming sites.
Garden of Morning Calm (1.5 hours): This serene garden offers a spectacular display of autumn colors. Meander along winding paths and discover unique spaces within this exquisite natural setting.

Day Trips from Seoul: Autumn Edition

Nami Island / Petite France & Italian Village / Garden of Morning Calm: Depart from Seoul to explore various popular destinations in a day. Experience K-culture firsthand, stroll along Nami Island, explore the ‘Little Europe’ of Petite France and the Italian Village, and relax in the landscaped beauty of the Garden of Morning Calm. Optional Skyline Zipwire at Nami Island is available (reservation required, additional fee). This tour includes round-trip transportation from Seoul. *Lunch is not included; options are available on Nami Island.

Gyeongbokgung Palace with Traditional Hanbok Rental

Gyeongbokgung – Seohwa Hanbok Rental | Seoul: Choose from hundreds of traditional Hanboks at Seohwa Hanbok near Gyeongbokgung Palace. Enjoy free accessories and hairstyling services to enhance your Hanbok experience. Explore the grandest of Seoul’s palaces in your chosen Hanbok, capturing memorable photos against the backdrop of stunning autumn foliage. Additional fees apply for more than two Hanbok rentals.

Ultimate DMZ Third Tunnel Tour (Departing from Seoul)

Best DMZ Third Tunnel Tour (Seoul Departure, No Shopping): Explore the Third Tunnel, a relic of the Cold War era, located between North and South Korea. This 7.5-hour tour offers a unique glimpse into one of the world’s most fortified areas. Listen to stories of conflict from the guide and feel like a soldier on a mission while visiting numerous historical landmarks.

Tour Highlights:

Imjingak Peace Nuri Park (1 hour): A comforting site for North Korean refugees, offering a peaceful one-hour stroll.
Bridge of Freedom (30 minutes): Built in 1953 to repatriate 12,773 prisoners, it offers a scenic backdrop for a walk in the footsteps of returning soldiers.
DMZ Theater (30 minutes): Watch videos on the Korean War from a South Korean perspective and explore the origins and significance of the DMZ. The theater and exhibition showcase relics and photographs from the conflict.
Third Tunnel (1 hour): Discover this intriguing tunnel, capable of moving an entire division within an hour. Experience a unique journey back in time along this 1,635-meter tunnel.
Dorasan Observatory (1 hour): The highlight of the tour, offering views of North Korean villages and the city of Kaesong. On clear days, even the Kim Il-sung statue is visible. The newly built observatory is a favorite among tourists.

Korean Palaces and Temples Tour (Seoul)

Korean Palaces and Temples Tour (Seoul): Gyeongbokgung and Jogyesa: Discover Seoul’s historical landmarks with a professional guide. Wander through Gyeongbokgung Palace, learn about Korean history at the National Folk Museum, and explore the traditions of Buddhism at Jogyesa Temple. The guide will share insights into the residence of Korea’s President.

Tour Highlights:

Seoul Pickup: Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle pick-up service from Seoul hotels.
Cheong Wa Dae: Pass by the former residence and office of South Korea’s President.
Gyeongbokgung Palace: Explore the largest and most majestic of the Five Grand Palaces of the Joseon Dynasty.
National Folk Museum: Learn about traditional customs and ancient farming techniques.
Jogyesa Temple: Visit this serene and popular Seon Buddhism temple.
Seoul Ginseng Center: Shop for unique ginseng-related souvenirs.
Seoul City Hall: The final stop and drop-off point, offering easy access to explore nearby areas.

Anseong Full-Day Culture and Shopping Tour

Anseong Full-Day Culture and Shopping Tour: Spend a special day with animals at Anseong Farm Land in autumn. The 3-hour tour includes feeding various animals and learning about Korean agriculture and livestock. Then, enjoy 2 hours of sky viewing and shopping at the 63m-high observation deck in Starfield Mall.

These activities offer a wonderful way to experience the beauty and cultural richness of Korea during the autumn season. Whether it’s hiking in national parks, exploring historic sites, or enjoying the serene beauty of a garden, there’s something for every traveler in Korea this fall! 🍂🗺️🇰🇷