Best Weekend Getaways for Expats in Korea 2026

Life in Korea, especially in its vibrant megacities like Seoul or Busan, is an exhilarating experience. The constant buzz of activity, endless cultural events, and convenient amenities create a dynamic environment that many expats adore. However, even the most captivating city can lead to "city burnout"—a unique kind of exhaustion brought on by the relentless pace, crowded spaces, and concrete landscapes. For expats seeking respite, a well-planned weekend getaway can be the perfect antidote.

This comprehensive guide is designed specifically for international residents in Korea looking to recharge, reconnect with nature, immerse themselves in different facets of Korean culture, or simply escape the urban grind. We’ll explore the best weekend getaways for expats in Korea 2026, offering detailed insights into various destinations, practical tips, and actionable advice to help you plan your next rejuvenating escape. From tranquil mountain retreats to bustling coastal towns and ancient historical sites, Korea offers an incredible array of options to beat city burnout.

Coastal Serenity and Island Escapes

Korea’s peninsula status means it boasts an extensive coastline, offering a plethora of stunning beaches and islands perfect for a refreshing weekend escape.

Jeju Island: The "Hawaii of Korea"

Often dubbed the "Hawaii of Korea," Jeju Island (Jeju-do) is a volcanic island renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, unique geological features, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a favored destination for both domestic and international travelers.

What to Do: Explore Hallasan National Park, home to South Korea's highest peak, Mount Hallasan, an extinct volcano. Hike along the scenic Olle Trails that skirt the coastline, offering diverse views. Visit the unique lava tubes of Manjanggul Cave, a UNESCO site. Relax on pristine beaches like Hyeopjae Beach or Jungmun Beach. Discover charming cafes, art galleries, and the island's famous black pork barbeque.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) for blooming flowers, and autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather and clear skies. Summer (June-August) is popular for beaches but can be very crowded.
Logistics: Fly from Gimpo International Airport (Seoul) to Jeju International Airport (CJU). Flights are frequent and typically take about an hour. Book tickets well in advance, especially for peak seasons. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the island independently, though public buses are available.
Estimated Cost: Moderate to high. Flights can range from 50,000-150,000 Korean Won (KRW) round trip. Accommodation varies widely from budget guesthouses (30,000 KRW/night) to luxury resorts (200,000+ KRW/night). Car rental costs around 50,000-80,000 KRW per day.

Busan: Beach City Vibes and Culture

Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, offers a vibrant blend of metropolitan energy, stunning beaches, and unique cultural experiences. It's an excellent choice for expats seeking a dynamic coastal getaway.

What to Do: Stroll along Haeundae Beach or Gwangalli Beach, famous for their urban skylines and lively atmosphere. Visit Gamcheon Culture Village, a colorful hillside village known for its vibrant murals and quirky art installations. Explore Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea's largest seafood market, for fresh catches and local eateries. Discover the spiritual tranquility of Beomeosa Temple, nestled in the mountains. Take a ride on the Busan Air Cruise for panoramic city and ocean views.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather for exploring. Summer is ideal for beach activities but expect crowds.
Logistics: High-speed KTX trains from Seoul Station to Busan Station take approximately 2.5-3 hours. Express buses are a more budget-friendly option (4-5 hours). Busan has an excellent subway system, making it easy to navigate without a car.
Estimated Cost: Moderate. KTX tickets are around 60,000 KRW one-way. Accommodation ranges from 40,000 KRW for guesthouses to 150,000+ KRW for hotels. Food is generally affordable, especially at local markets.

Gangneung & Sokcho: East Coast Charm

For a taste of Korea's rugged east coast, Gangneung and Sokcho offer picturesque beaches, stunning mountain backdrops, and fresh seafood. These cities provide a more laid-back alternative to Busan.

What to Do: In Gangneung, visit Jeongdongjin Beach, famous for its sunrise views and the "Sun Cruise Resort" shaped like a cruise ship. Explore Anmok Beach Coffee Street, lined with charming cafes. Wander through Ojukheon House, a historical site. In Sokcho, enjoy the fresh seafood at Sokcho Jungang Market, visit Abai Village for a glimpse into North Korean refugee culture, and explore Seoraksan National Park (see below).
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal. Summer is great for beaches.
Logistics: KTX trains from Seoul to Gangneung take around 1.5-2 hours. Buses are also available to both cities. Local buses connect attractions, but renting a car offers more flexibility, especially for visiting Seoraksan.
Estimated Cost: Moderate. KTX to Gangneung around 25,000-30,000 KRW one-way. Accommodation typically ranges from 50,000-120,000 KRW per night.

Mountain Retreats and National Parks

Korea is a mountainous country, and its national parks offer unparalleled opportunities for hiking, nature photography, and peaceful contemplation. Escaping to the mountains is one of the best ways for expats to beat city burnout.

Seoraksan National Park: Hiking and Autumn Foliage

Seoraksan National Park, located in Gangwon Province, is one of Korea's most iconic and beautiful national parks. Its dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and pristine forests make it a hiker's paradise.

What to Do: Hike various trails ranging from easy walks to challenging ascents. Popular routes include the Ulsanbawi Rock trail for stunning panoramic views and the Biryong Falls trail. Visit Sinheungsa Temple, located at the park's entrance, and take the cable car up to Gwongeumseong Fortress for incredible vistas without a strenuous climb.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn (late September to early November) for spectacular fall foliage. Spring (April-May) for fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers. Winter offers snow-covered landscapes for experienced hikers.
Logistics: Take an express bus from Seoul to Sokcho (approx. 2.5-3 hours). From Sokcho Bus Terminal, local buses can take you directly to the park entrance.
Estimated Cost: Park entrance fee is minimal (around 3,500 KRW). Cable car ride is extra (15,000 KRW round trip). Accommodation in Sokcho or near the park varies from 50,000-150,000 KRW.

Jirisan National Park: Deep Nature Immersion

Jirisan National Park, spanning three provinces, is Korea's largest and first national park. It's a vast wilderness area offering deep immersion in nature, traditional temples, and challenging multi-day treks.

What to Do: Embark on serious hiking trails, including the famous Cheonwangbong Peak ascent. Explore serene Buddhist temples like Hwaeomsa and Ssanggyesa. Enjoy camping, bird watching, and simply breathing in the fresh mountain air. This is a place for true nature lovers looking for an extended escape.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are best for hiking. Summer can be humid but lush; winter offers snow but requires proper gear.
Logistics: Reaching Jirisan requires a bit more planning. Take a KTX to Gurye Station or an express bus to major towns bordering the park (e.g., Gurye, Hamyang, Sancheong), then local buses or taxis to specific park entrances. A car rental provides maximum flexibility.
Estimated Cost: Moderate. Park entrance is usually free, but some temple areas may have small fees. Accommodation options are simpler, ranging from guesthouses to "minbak" (private homestays) around 40,000-80,000 KRW, or campsites.

Historic Villages and Cultural Immersion

For expats looking to delve deeper into Korean history and tradition, several well-preserved villages offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Gyeongju: Ancient Silla Capital

Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom (57 BC – AD 935), is often called "the museum without walls." It's a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with royal tombs, temples, and historical relics.

What to Do: Visit Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, two iconic UNESCO sites representing the zenith of Silla Buddhist art. Explore Daereungwon Tomb Complex, home to Cheonmachong Tomb (Heavenly Horse Tomb), which you can enter. Cycle around Anapji Pond (Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond) for beautiful night views. Discover Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest existing astronomical observatory in East Asia.
Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms and autumn for fall foliage.
Logistics: KTX trains go to Singyeongju Station (approx. 2 hours from Seoul), then a short bus or taxi ride to the city center. Intercity buses are also available. The city center is walkable, and local buses connect major sites. Renting a bike is popular.
Estimated Cost: Moderate. KTX tickets around 40,000-50,000 KRW one-way. Accommodation ranges from 40,000 KRW for guesthouses to 150,000 KRW for modern hotels. Entrance fees for major sites are typically 3,000-5,000 KRW per person.

Jeonju Hanok Village: Traditional Korean Living

Jeonju, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, is famous for its well-preserved Hanok Village (Jeonju Hanok Maeul) and its delectable food culture, particularly Bibimbap.

What to Do: Wander through the narrow alleys of the Hanok Village, admiring the traditional Korean houses (Hanok). Rent a Hanbok (traditional Korean dress) for a photoshoot. Visit the Jeonju National Museum. Most importantly, indulge in Jeonju's renowned cuisine: try original Bibimbap, Kongnamul Gukbap (bean sprout soup), and savor makgeolli (rice wine) at a traditional brewery.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather. Festivals throughout the year add to the charm.
Logistics: Express buses from Seoul Central City Terminal to Jeonju take about 2.5-3 hours. The Hanok Village is easily walkable once you arrive.
Estimated Cost: Budget-friendly to moderate. Bus tickets around 15,000-20,000 KRW one-way. Hanok stays (traditional guesthouses) can range from 50,000-150,000 KRW, offering a unique experience. Food costs are generally low.

Spa, Wellness, and Relaxation Getaways

Sometimes, beating burnout simply means taking time for yourself to relax and be pampered. Korea offers excellent options for wellness retreats, from traditional spas to temple stays.

Icheon Spa and Hot Springs

Icheon, located just south of Seoul in Gyeonggi Province, is famous for its ceramics and, more importantly, its natural hot springs (Oncheon). It's a perfect destination for a therapeutic and relaxing weekend.

What to Do: Visit Termeden, a large hot spring resort featuring various themed pools, indoor and outdoor spas, and even a "Bade Pool" for hydrotherapy. Many other smaller hot spring resorts and public bathhouses (Jjimjilbang) are available. Afterwards, explore Icheon's ceramics village.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round. Especially enjoyable during colder months.
Logistics: Express buses from Seoul's Gangnam Express Bus Terminal to Icheon Bus Terminal take about 1 hour. From there, local buses or taxis to the spa resorts.
Estimated Cost: Moderate. Hot spring resort entrance fees are around 30,000-50,000 KRW per person for a day pass. Accommodation options are diverse.

Templestay Programs: Spiritual Recharge

For a truly unique and deeply immersive cultural and spiritual experience, a Templestay program offers a chance to live a monk's life for a day or two in a serene mountain temple. This is an excellent way to disconnect and find inner peace.

What to Do: Participate in daily temple rituals like morning chanting, meditation (Seon), tea ceremonies, and "Barugongyang" (communal temple meals). Learn about Buddhism, engage in conversations with monks, and enjoy quiet walks around the temple grounds. Programs vary from experiential (more tourist-friendly) to retreat-focused (more rigorous).
Best Time to Visit: Year-round. Each season offers a different ambiance.
Logistics: Many temples across Korea offer Templestay programs (e.g., Magoksa Temple, Haeinsa Temple, Golgulsa Temple for Sunmudo martial arts). Visit the official Templestay website for a list of participating temples and booking information. Transportation details will depend on the chosen temple.
Estimated Cost: Moderate. Templestay programs typically cost around 50,000-80,000 KRW per person for one night, including meals and activities.

Adventure and Outdoor Thrills

If relaxation means adrenaline and excitement for you, Korea has plenty of options for an active weekend getaway.

Nami Island & Gapyeong: Lakeside Fun

Nami Island (Naminara Republic), a picturesque half-moon shaped island, is a popular destination for its natural beauty and connection to famous K-dramas. Nearby Gapyeong offers further outdoor activities.

What to Do: On Nami Island, rent a bike, walk among the iconic tree-lined paths, enjoy the scenic riverside, and find numerous photo opportunities. In Gapyeong, try ziplining across the lake, visit Petite France (a French cultural village), or explore the Garden of Morning Calm, especially beautiful at night during its light festival.
Best Time to Visit: All seasons offer unique beauty. Autumn for foliage, winter for snow, spring for flowers.
Logistics: Take the ITX Cheongchun train from Yongsan or Cheongnyangni Station (Seoul) to Gapyeong Station (approx. 1 hour). From Gapyeong, take the Gapyeong City Tour Bus or a taxi to the ferry terminal for Nami Island, or to other attractions.
Estimated Cost: Budget-friendly to moderate. ITX ticket around 6,000 KRW one-way. Nami Island entrance (including ferry) is 16,000 KRW. Other attractions have separate fees.

DMZ Tours & Imjingak Peace Park: Unique History

While not a typical "relaxation" getaway, a trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) offers a profoundly unique and reflective experience, providing a stark contrast to city life and a deep dive into modern Korean history.

What to Do: Visit Imjingak Peace Park, the Third Infiltration Tunnel (dug by North Korea), Dora Observatory (with views into North Korea), and the Unification Bridge. Some tours may include the Joint Security Area (JSA) - Check for availability and restrictions, as these can change.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
Logistics: DMZ tours are almost exclusively conducted by registered tour operators from Seoul. These are day trips but can be combined with an overnight stay in nearby cities like Paju for a full weekend experience. Book well in advance, and carry your passport.
Estimated Cost: Moderate to high. DMZ tours typically range from 50,000-150,000 KRW depending on the inclusions (JSA is usually more expensive).

Comparison Tables for Weekend Getaways

To help you decide, here are a couple of comparison tables highlighting key aspects of popular weekend getaways for expats.

Destination Comparison

Destination	Vibe	Best For	Estimated Cost (1 Night)	Main Activities
Jeju Island	Relaxed, Scenic, Natural	Nature lovers, couples, road trips	High	Hiking, beaches, Olle Trails, unique geology
Busan	Lively, Urban, Coastal	City explorers, beachgoers, foodies	Moderate	Beaches, markets, cultural villages, seafood
Gyeongju	Historic, Peaceful, Cultural	History buffs, culture enthusiasts, families	Moderate	Ancient temples, royal tombs, cycling, traditional sites
Jeonju Hanok Village	Traditional, Gastronomic	Foodies, culture seekers, relaxed pace	Moderate	Hanok stays, local cuisine, traditional crafts, cultural experiences
Seoraksan NP	Rugged, Adventurous, Scenic	Hikers, photographers, nature enthusiasts	Moderate	Mountain hiking, temple visits, fall foliage
Templestay	Serene, Spiritual, Reflective	Stress relief, introspection, cultural immersion	Budget-Moderate	Meditation, chanting, tea ceremonies, mindful living

Transportation Options Comparison

Mode of Transport	Advantages	Disadvantages	Cost (Seoul to Gyeongju/Busan est.)	Flexibility	Best Use Case
KTX (High-speed Rail)	Fastest, comfortable, reliable	Can be expensive, station transfers needed	40,000 - 60,000 KRW (one-way)	Low	Quick travel to major cities, no driving required
Express Bus	Affordable, extensive network, often direct	Slower, less comfortable for long trips	15,000 - 30,000 KRW (one-way)	Low	Budget travel, destinations not served by KTX
Car Rental	Ultimate flexibility, door-to-door	Navigation challenges, parking, tolls, traffic	50,000 - 80,000 KRW/day (car)	High	Exploring rural areas, multiple destinations, groups
Flights (Domestic)	Fastest for distant islands (Jeju)	Airport transfers, security checks	50,000 - 150,000 KRW (round trip)	Low	Jeju Island, very distant locations

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I book accommodation for weekend getaways in Korea?

A1: Most expats use international booking platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, or Expedia. For local guesthouses and traditional Hanok stays, you might also find options on Naver Booking (Naver Yeoyeo) or directly through the accommodation's website. It's advisable to book well in advance, especially for popular destinations and peak seasons.

Q2: What is the best time of year for weekend getaways in Korea?

A2: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are generally considered the best times due to pleasant weather, stunning cherry blossoms in spring, and vibrant fall foliage in autumn. Summer (June-August) is popular for beaches but can be hot and humid. Winter (December-February) is ideal for ski resorts and hot springs.

Q3: Is renting a car necessary for most weekend getaways?

A3: Not always, but it significantly enhances flexibility, especially for exploring national parks, islands like Jeju, or rural areas. Major cities like Busan, Gyeongju, and Jeonju are well-served by public transportation (trains, buses, subways). For car rentals, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required, along with your passport and home country driving license.

Q4: What should I pack for a weekend trip in Korea?

A4: Pack light and practical. Essential items include comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (layers are key for spring/autumn), a portable charger, and basic toiletries. If visiting temples, modest attire is respectful. For hiking, appropriate gear is crucial. Always carry your Alien Registration Card (ARC) or passport.

Q5: How can I budget effectively for a weekend trip?

A5: Plan your transportation (KTX vs. bus), accommodation (hotel vs. guesthouse/Hanok), and food choices in advance. Eating at local markets (e.g., Jagalchi Market in Busan) or street food stalls can be very affordable and delicious. Look for early bird deals on KTX tickets or package deals for attractions. Templestays offer excellent value, including accommodation and meals.

Conclusion: Recharge and Explore Beyond the City Limits

Living as an expat in Korea is an enriching experience, but it’s crucial to take breaks from the city's relentless energy. The best weekend getaways for expats in Korea 2026 offer a diverse palette of experiences – from the volcanic beauty of Jeju and the historical depths of Gyeongju to the serene mountains of Seoraksan and the culinary delights of Jeonju. Each destination promises a unique opportunity to recharge, explore, and create lasting memories.

Embrace the chance to step out of your urban comfort zone and discover the incredible natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture that lies just beyond the city limits. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Korea has an ideal escape waiting for you. Don't let city burnout diminish your expat experience; instead, use these recommendations to plan your next rejuvenating adventure. For more tips on navigating life in Korea, including detailed guides on Korean public transportation or understanding local customs, be sure to explore our other articles. Happy travels!