For Families

Although traveling with children can be a challenge, South Korea has some truly rewarding fun for the whole family. Koreans take their children everywhere and at most attractions those under 6 get in for free. You'll only scratch the surface in such a short time, but the little ones will have something to look forward to upon their return.

Day 1: Arrive in Seoul

Arrive at Seoul's Incheon Airport and take a limousine bus to your hotel. Depending on what time your flight gets in, head on down to Namdaemun Market and browse the live seafood stalls or the alley for stationery and toys.

Day 2: Exploring Seoul

Hop on the city's efficient subway system (kids under 6 ride free) and head over to the Gyeongbokgung Palace. If you time it right, you can see the changing of the royal guards, which is entertaining for both kids and adults. Nearby is the National Museum of Korea, which has a children's museum inside, with hands-on exhibits.

Day 3: A Taste of Korea's Past

Take the subway to Suwon and visit the Korean Folk Village, where the kids can participate in one of the many folk games from the past that are played here. Lunch in the village and then take a bus to the Suwon Hwaseong, where you can ride the dragon train around the fortress wall. Have dinner at one of Suwon's galbi restaurants, where you can cook meat on your own tabletop grill.

Day 4: A Day of Play

Head over to one of the Seoul-area amusement parks: Lotte World, Everland, or the Seoul Grand Park. Spend the day riding the rides and enjoying the other amusements.

Day 5: Fun away from the Big City

Take a morning train or bus to Gangneung and spend the afternoon on one of its many beaches or exploring the seaside town. Take a break for a hands-on art adventure at Hasalla Art World, where you can create your own masterpieces and explore the gardens.

Day 6: A Day of Water Fun

After your first 5 days, you're probably exhausted and, if you're visiting in the summer, pretty hot. So take a bus up to Seorak Waterpia (Seorak Waterpark) at the Hanhwa Resort and spend the day soaking your aches away while the kids enjoy the water slides and other splashy fun.

Day 7: A Last Bit of Nature Before Heading Home

Spend the morning hiking one of the easier trails in Seoraksan and catch a bus back to Seoul. If you have a long wait at the airport, check out the Incheon Airport's Traditional Culture Experience (on the third floor, next to gate 40), where kids can make traditional fans and other Korean handicrafts. The staff speak English and entry is free daily from 7am to 10pm.