Places to Visit in Seoul During Autumn: A 5 Days Itinerary
As the summer heat bids farewell and the cool breeze of autumn in South Korea sweeps through Seoul, the city undergoes a visual transformation like a show stopper dressed to wow.
Imagine walking through streets where the trees are bursting with fiery red, orange, and yellow hues. It's like stepping into a painting, where nature wields the brush.
And we're here to guide you through this magical landscape! Join us on a journey through Seoul attractions in autumn, when every corner holds a new spectacle waiting for you to discover.
Day 1: Arrival in Seoul and Cultural Exploration
Morning: Hello Seoul
Good morning, Seoul! You've just landed in the heart of autumn paradise, where the crisp morning air sets the perfect tone for your adventure.
After settling into your accommodation, let's kickstart your day with breakfast at a local café. Think warm croissants and freshly brewed coffee.
Afternoon: Palaces of Seoul and Historical Lanes
It's time to dive headfirst into Seoul's rich history and culture. First stop: Gyeongbokgung Palace.
As you stroll through its expansive courtyards and grand halls, you'll be captivated by the autumnal colours adorning the ancient architecture.
Pro tip: wear a traditional hanbok attire to soak up those medieval Korean vibes!
After soaking in all that history, stroll through the charming lanes of Bukchon Hanok Village.
Traditional Hanok houses and cute cafés nestled amidst the fall foliage of Seoul? Yes, please!
And if you're feeling fancy, why check out Changdeokgung Palace's Secret Garden as well? It's a delightful place to visit in Korea during Autumn.
Evening: Insa-dong
Head to Insa-dong - renowned for its cultural atmosphere - for a traditional Korean dinner and a spot of souvenir shopping.
Meander through the streets to experience Korean arts and crafts, and who knows, you might even pick up a little piece of Seoul to take home with you!
Day 2: Nature and Parks in Seoul
Morning: Olympic Park
Day 2 is all about enjoying the natural beauty of Seoul.
Your first stop? Olympic Park. With its rich history from the 1988 Seoul Olympics, it’s now a lively spot where locals and tourists alike come to relax. In autumn, the park is bursting with flowers like yellow cosmos and pink muhly grasses—perfect for a scenic stroll and snapping photos for the 'Gram.
Next, be sure to check out One Tree Hill, where, as its name suggests, a lone tree stands tall, offering the perfect backdrop for your next profile picture.
When you're ready to switch things up, Lotte World Theme Park is just an 8-minute drive away, offering an adrenaline-pumping change of pace after all that nature.
Address: 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: Sun to Thu: 5am to 11:30pm, Fri: 5am to 12:30am, Sat: 4am to 11:30pm
Afternoon: Seoul Forest
It's time for an adventure across the Han River to Seoul Forest – a place fit for kings (literally, it used to be a hunting ground for them)!
Now, it's a lush urban oasis with winding paths and cosy nooks just waiting to be explored.
The ginkgo trees, here, are the show's stars, turning a brilliant shade of yellow in autumn, picture-perfect for those Insta-worthy walks and picnics. Keep your eyes peeled for some furry friends like rabbits and deer.
Come lunchtime, there are plenty of tasty treats at the nearby cafés and food stalls.
So dig in and savour those flavours amidst the colours of Seoul Forest in autumn.
Address: 273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
Evening: Seoul Forest Cafe Street
After your day of outdoor fun, treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a nearby cafe or restaurant.
Stroll through the Seoul Forest Cafe Streetadjacent to the park and take your pick from restaurants serving everything from Korean fusion cuisine to pasta to burgers and waffles.
Day 3: Day Trip to Nami Island
Morning:
Pack your bags the night before because today we are going on an island adventure! Rise and shine early for a day trip to Nami Island, a picturesque oasis renowned for its stunning autumn scenery.
Whether you munch on breakfast en route or upon arrival, the anticipation builds as you approach this leafy paradise and prepare for a day of whimsy and wonder.
Afternoon:
Spend the day wandering down Nami Island's tree-lined paths, with golden leaves fluttering above you like confetti. A stroll through Ginkgo Tree Lane and Metasequoia Lane feels like you have stepped straight into a fairytale.
And that's not all – wait until you see Dodamsambong Garden. It may be mini, but it's mighty enchanting, with its replica of Dodamsambong Peak.
And let's not forget about the Winter Sonata statue – it's like stepping onto the set of the iconic K-Drama, reliving those unforgettable moments from the 2002 series. Nami Island's autumn vibes are as romantic as it can get.
After all that exploring, you're sure to work up an appetite. Pause for lunch at one of the island's charming cafes or restaurants, where the food tastes even better surrounded by all that beauty.
Address: 1 Namiseom-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily, 8am to 9pm
Evening:
By late afternoon or early evening, bid farewell to Nami Island and return to Seoul, your heart full of memories and your camera brimming with snapshots of autumn's splendour.
Grab dinner at one of the best Korean restaurants in the city, like Mingles, Onjium, or Jungsik.
Day 4 (Option 1): Hiking Bukhansan National Park
Morning:
Wake up, adventurer! It's time to conquer Bukhansan, Seoul's iconic mountain range.
But first things first – grab breakfast on the go as you head towards the trailhead, eager to experience the breathtaking views that await.
Afternoon:
Now, when it comes to trails, we've got options galore! Take on the challenge of the Bukhansanseong Course, leading you up to Baegundae Peak – the mountain's highest peak! The -2.5 hours uphill trip is worth every drop of sweat.
Not quite ready to channel your inner mountain goat?
Then opt for the Daenammun Course, with its gentle slopes perfect for beginners and families. Each step on these mountain trails unveils a new panorama of autumnal vistas, painting the landscape in shades of gold and crimson.
Address: 262 Bogungmun-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily, 4am to 5pm
Evening:
Take your time to savour the serenity before descending to Seoul by the late afternoon. Round off your day with a hearty dinner at a restaurant in Seoul, where you can relive the day's highlights amidst the tantalising flavours of Korean cuisine.
Day 4 (Option 2): An Excursion to Naejangsan National Park
Morning:
If you want an off-the-beaten-path adventure, set off for Naejangsan National Park, the holy grail of vibrant autumn foliage.
The distance of Naejangsan National Park from Seoul is 282 km, and a 2.5-hour train ride to Jeong-up is the way to go. From there, hop on a bus to the park and enjoy breakfast en route or once you arrive.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, lace up your hiking boots and traverse the trails of Naejangsan National Park, where every turn is a riot of fall colours.
As you make your way through the tree-lined paths, keep your eyes peeled for some hidden gems.
We're talking about Naejangsa Temple, Baekyangsa Temple, and Uhwajeong Pavilion – each one a paradise surrounded by colourful autumn leaves. It's like walking through a postcard come to life.
Address: Naejang-dong, Jeongeup-si, Jeollabuk-do (map)
Opening Hour: Open daily, 7am to 6pm
Evening:
After a day of exploration, it's time to refuel with a satisfying dinner at one of the restaurants near the park.
You'll find several options near the Naejangsan National Park Naejang Visitor Center. Once you've filled your belly and your heart with all that deliciousness, it's time to hop back on the same route and head back to Seoul.
Day 5: Incheon Grand Park Escape and Farewell Seoul!
Morning:
Begin your final day with a dose of Incheon Grand Park in autumn, a sprawling urban oasis in Incheon, a city bordering Seoul. It may be slightly more than an hour's journey from Seoul city centre, but your trip will be worth it.
Think crisp air, colourful autumn leaves crunching underfoot, and a vast landscape waiting to be explored. Treat yourself to a delicious Korean breakfast at a charming park-side cafe – think fluffy pancakes with savoury toppings or a hearty bibimbap.
Afternoon:
With your bellies full, it's time to delve into the park's wonders. Wander through themed gardens bursting with vibrant blooms, follow scenic tree-lined trails that weave through its forests, and lose yourself in the tranquil beauty of the lakeshore.
For lunch, pack a picnic basket with all your favourites.
Find a picturesque spot beneath a fiery maple tree, spread out your blanket, and savour a meal surrounded by nature's masterpiece. Breathe in the fresh air, listen to the rustling leaves, and soak up the last bit of Korean charm.
Address: 236 Munemi-ro, Namdong-gu, Incheon (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily, 6am to 10pm
Evening:
As the afternoon light softens, you'll head back to Seoul. You might have time to squeeze in any last-minute shopping or revisit a hidden gem you missed earlier. Then, with a heart full of memories (and maybe a suitcase full of souvenirs!), it's time to say goodbye to Seoul.
Additional Tips for Seoul 5 Days Itinerary in Autumn
The Best Time to Visit Korea
One of the best times to visit Korea is autumn. When it is autumn in Seoul, typically from late October to early November, the landscapes change drastically, much like when cherry blossoms bloom in spring.
The Perfect Attire
We have your back if you are scratching your head over what to wear in Seoul in October or November! Here's the scoop: layer up like a pro and slip into that comfy footwear for outdoor escapades.
Think sweaters, jackets, scarves, and hats – the whole autumnal shebang to keep you cosy when the temperature drops. Feeling fancy and want to blend in with the locals? Why not buy a cute Korean autumn dress?
Another pro tip: why not notch up your style game by renting a hanbok to rock a traditional Korean look and score some seriously stunning photo ops?
Last But Not the Least
When it is autumn in Korea, we recommend checking the weather forecast before your trip and planning outdoor activities accordingly.
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KORAIL Pass - Adult Saver Pass
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AREX Incheon Airport Express Train
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Seoul Fall Foliage Feast Awaits
Seoul's fall foliage is a feast for the senses, with leaves dancing in the autumn breeze and the colours of the season painting the landscape in hues of gold and crimson.
Wander historic alleys, discover serene temples, or get lost in the kaleidoscope of colour. From fiery maples to golden ginkgo, the city awaits your exploration. So, ditch the script and join Pelago by Singapore to paint your Seoul adventure amidst nature's breathtaking display.
Commonly Asked Questions
When can I see autumn leaves in Seoul?
Autumn leaves in Seoul typically peak from late October to early November, offering the best opportunity to witness the vibrant seasonal colours.
Which park is best in autumn in Seoul?
While many parks in Seoul boast stunning autumn foliage, Olympic Park and Naejangsan National Park are particularly renowned for their vibrant colours during the fall season.
What is autumn like in Seoul?
Autumn in Seoul is a magical time when the city's landscape transforms into a breathtaking spread of colours, from fiery reds to golden yellows.