Seoul & Gangwon Getaway
A perfect 5-day loop through Korea’s bustling capital and the refreshing mountain-to-sea vibes of Gangwon province.
Incheon → Seoul → Sokcho → Gangneung → Pyeongchang → Danyang → Seoul → Incheon
Seoul's Royal Roots
35km, 1.5h drive
Incheon International Airport
Grab your rental car at the terminal. It'll take about an hour to get into the city, but having your own wheels makes the later legs of this trip way easier.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung is a former royal palace in Seoul, South Korea. Established in 1395, it was the first royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, and is now one of the most significant tourist attractions in the country.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village (Korean: 북촌한옥마을) is a residential neighborhood in Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea. It has many restored traditional Korean houses, called hanok. This has made it a popular tourist destination.
N Seoul Tower
Namsan Seoul Tower, aka the YTN Seoul Tower, Namsan Tower, Seoul Tower or N Seoul Tower, is a communication and observation tower located on the summit of Namsan in central Seoul, South Korea. The 236-metre-tall (774 ft) structure was the nation’s first tower servicing multiple TV and radio broadcasters, and is considered a landmark and symbol of the city.
Into the Mountains
Beat the morning rush and head east toward the peaks.
Depart Seoul
Beat the morning rush and head east toward the peaks.
Seoraksan National Park
Seoraksan National Park (설악산국립공원), also spelled Soraksan, is a national park in Gangwon, South Korea.
Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market
Drive down to the coast. This market is famous for Dakgangjeong (sweet and spicy fried chicken) and fresh squid sundae. It’s loud, busy, and delicious.
Abai Village
Abai Village is a small village of North Korean refugees located in Cheong-Ho District, Sokcho City, Gangwon Province, South Korea. The residents of the village consist mainly of refugees originally hailing from Hamgyeong Province in North Korea who escaped south during the Korean War.
Coastal Breeze & Coffee
A rare temple that overlooks the ocean. Walking along the cliffs to the Haesugwaneumsang statue is incredibly meditative.
Naksansa Temple
A rare temple that overlooks the ocean. Walking along the cliffs to the Haesugwaneumsang statue is incredibly meditative.
Anmok Coffee Street
Gangneung is Korea’s coffee capital. This entire stretch of beach is lined with high-end roasteries. Grab a window seat, watch the waves, and enjoy a proper brew.
Haslla Art World
A quirky, colorful outdoor art park built into the side of a cliff. The giant bird's nest photo op is the star here.
Alpine Peaks & Farm Life
Located in Pyeongchang (the Olympic hub). It’s one of the longest cable cars in Asia and takes you to a stunning skywalk at the summit.
Balwangsan Cable Car
Located in Pyeongchang (the Olympic hub). It’s one of the longest cable cars in Asia and takes you to a stunning skywalk at the summit.
Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch
Known as the "Alps of Korea." The rolling green hills are beautiful, and you can buy a small bag of hay to feed the sheep. It feels worlds away from the neon lights of Seoul.
Woljeongsa Fir Tree Forest Path
A flat, easy walk through ancient trees that leads to a beautiful temple. It’s famous as a filming location for several K-dramas.
The Scenic Route Back
Located in Danyang. It’s a bit of a detour on the way back, but the views of the Namhangang River winding through the mountains are unbeatable.
Mancheonha Skywalk
Located in Danyang. It’s a bit of a detour on the way back, but the views of the Namhangang River winding through the mountains are unbeatable.
Dumulmeori
Where the two rivers meet. It’s a very romantic, scenic spot with ancient trees and lotus ponds. Try the famous lotus-flavored corn dogs.
Starfield Library (COEX)
Back in Seoul (Gangnam area). This massive, open-air library inside a mall is an architectural marvel. It’s the perfect spot to wind down before returning the car.
- Download "Naver Map" or "KakaoMap" because Google Maps isn't great for navigation in Korea.
- Make sure your rental has a Hi-Pass tag for easy highway tolls.