Gyeongju, known as the “museum without walls,” is a city in South Korea with a rich history that dates back to the Silla dynasty. With its numerous cultural and historical sites, Gyeongju is an ideal destination if you’re traveling to South Korea with kids. If your family wants to be immersed in Korean culture and learn about its fascinating history, consider this three-day Gyeongju itinerary for families, highlighting the best things to do and see, where to stay, where to eat, and how to get around.
Day 1: Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites
What to Do:
Begin your Gyeongju itinerary by visiting its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple. The Seokguram Grotto is a small temple that houses a beautiful Buddha statue, while the Bulguksa Temple is one of the most famous and beautiful temples in South Korea. Both sites offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Gyeongju and are a great place to start your trip.
What to See:
After visiting the Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple, take a stroll around the surrounding area. The temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a great place to take in the natural beauty of Gyeongju. In addition, be sure to explore the nearby Dabotap and Seokgatap stone pagodas, which are iconic symbols of the Silla dynasty.
Where to Stay:
For a luxurious stay in Gyeongju, consider booking a room at the Hilton Gyeongju. This hotel offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a range of family-friendly amenities, including a kids’ club and playground.
Where to Eat:
For lunch, stop by Jangteomok Gimbap, a famous restaurant in Gyeongju that specializes in traditional Korean gimbap. This restaurant offers a wide range of gimbap flavors, including kimchi, tuna, and bulgogi.
How to Get Around:
The best way to get around Gyeongju is by taxi or bus. Taxis are readily available throughout the city, and buses run frequently between major tourist attractions.
Day 2: Discovering Gyeongju’s Traditional Villages
What to Do:
On day two of your Gyeongju itinerary, head to its traditional villages to learn more about Korean culture and history. The Yangdong Village and Hahoe Village are two of the most famous traditional villages in Gyeongju and are great places to explore with kids.
What to See:
In Yangdong Village, visit the Seonunsa Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple that dates back to the Silla dynasty. The temple is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, making it a great place for a family hike. In Hahoe Village, visit the Mask Museum to learn more about traditional Korean masks and their cultural significance.
Where to Stay:
For a unique and authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional Korean house, known as a hanok. The Gyeongju Hanok Guesthouse is a great option, offering comfortable rooms and a traditional Korean breakfast.
Where to Eat:
For dinner, try the local delicacy, Gyeongju Ssambap, at Jijimgamjatang. This dish consists of rice wrapped in lettuce leaves, topped with a variety of meats, vegetables, and sauces.
How to Get Around:
The best way to get around Gyeongju’s traditional villages is by foot. Both Yangdong Village and Hahoe Village are pedestrian-friendly and easy to explore on foot.
Day 3: Fun at Gyeongju
What to Do:
On the last day of your Gyeongju itinerary, spend some time having fun with your kids at one of the city’s many family-friendly attractions. The Gyeongju World amusement park is a great option, offering a variety of rides and attractions suitable for all ages. Alternatively, visit the Bomun Lake resort area, which offers a range of activities, including water sports, horse riding, and golf.
What to See:
In addition to the amusement park and resort area, be sure to visit the Gyeongju National Museum, which houses a wide range of artifacts and exhibits related to Korean history and culture. The museum is a great place for kids to learn about Korea’s past and present.
Where to Stay:
For a budget-friendly option, consider staying at the Guesthouse Santa, which offers comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. This guesthouse is located near many of Gyeongju’s major attractions, making it a convenient base for your last day in the city.
Where to Eat:
For lunch, try the local specialty, Gyeongju Bread, at Taegeukdang. This bakery has been operating in Gyeongju for over 70 years and is famous for its delicious bread made with sweet red bean paste.
How to Get Around:
The best way to get around Gyeongju’s amusement park and resort area is by taxi. Alternatively, you can rent a car or take a shuttle bus to get to and from the attractions.
Final Thoughts:
Gyeongju is a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. With its many historical sites, traditional villages, and family-friendly attractions, it is an ideal destination for families visiting South Korea. By following this three-day itinerary, you can explore the best that Gyeongju has to offer and create unforgettable memories with your kids.
