Suwon, South Korea-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Suwon

  • Morning: Arrive at Gimpo International Airport or Incheon International Airport and take a bus or train ( approx. 1 hour) to Suwon
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Korea’s most impressive historical sites. Take a leisurely stroll around the fortress walls, explore the various gates, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Lunch: Try some delicious Korean street food at the Gwanggye Market, a bustling marketplace with a wide variety of vendors selling everything from traditional snacks to modern fast food.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Suwon Museum to learn more about the city’s history and culture. The museum features exhibits on Suwon’s past, as well as rotating exhibitions showcasing local artists’ work.
  • Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Korean meal at Sujeongjip, a highly-recommended restaurant serving authentic dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

Accommodation: Stay at the Suwon Hilton Hotel, located near the city center and within walking distance to many attractions. Alternatively, consider staying at the Hostel Suwon, a budget-friendly option with dorms and private rooms available.

Day 2: Paju and Hwaseong Fortress

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Paju, a city located just outside of Seoul. Visit the Dora Observatory, which offers stunning views of North Korea (if the weather permits). Explore the nearby Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a buffer zone separating North and South Korea.
  • Lunch: Try some Korean BBQ at Paju’s Gwanggye Market.
  • Afternoon: Return to Suwon and visit the Hwaseong Fortress’s western gate, Paldal Gate, which features a beautiful garden and a statue of a legendary king.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Gyeonggijanggak, a highly-recommended restaurant serving traditional Korean cuisine.

Day 3: Suwon Craft Beer and Hwaseong Haenggung

  • Morning: Visit the Suwon Craft Beer Brewery, which offers tours and tastings of their delicious beers. Learn about the brewing process and sample some of their unique flavors.
  • Lunch: Try some Korean street food at the Gwanggye Market again, or opt for a meal at Bungeo-gui, a restaurant serving traditional Korean fish cakes.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, a beautiful royal palace built during the Joseon Dynasty. Explore the various buildings and gardens, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Gyeonggi-gil, a highly-recommended restaurant serving traditional Korean cuisine.

Day 4: Suwon’s Cultural Experiences

  • Morning: Visit the Suwon Folk Village Museum, which showcases traditional Korean culture and way of life. Explore the various exhibits, including a replica of an ancient village.
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Korean snacks at Gwanggye Market once more.
  • Afternoon: Attend a traditional Korean tea ceremony or experience at Suwon’s Tea Ceremony House, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Bungeo-gui, a restaurant serving traditional Korean fish cakes.

Day 5: Suwon’s Outdoor Adventures

  • Morning: Go hiking in the nearby Gwanggye Park, which features beautiful scenery and walking trails. Alternatively, visit the Suwon Sports Complex, which offers various sports facilities.
  • Lunch: Try some outdoor food at Gwanggye Market or enjoy a picnic in the park.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Suwon National Museum of Art, which showcases local artists’ work and features rotating exhibitions. Explore the nearby Suwon Craft Beer Brewery again for more beer tastings.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Gyeonggi-gil, a highly-recommended restaurant serving traditional Korean cuisine.

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Spend your last morning in Suwon exploring any remaining attractions or doing some last-minute shopping. Visit the Suwon Hwaseong Museum to learn more about the city’s history.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a farewell lunch at Bungeo-gui, a restaurant serving traditional Korean fish cakes.
  • Afternoon: Depart for your next destination, bringing back memories of Suwon’s rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food.

Things to Know:

  • Transportation: Take the subway (Line 1) or bus from Gimpo International Airport or Incheon International Airport to Suwon. Alternatively, take a taxi.
  • Weather: Be prepared for Korea’s climate, with temperatures ranging from -10°C in winter to 30°C in summer.
  • Respect local customs: Remove your shoes when visiting temples or homes, and dress modestly.

Tips:

  • Learn some basic Korean phrases, such as “hello” (annyeonghaseyo), “thank you” (gamsahamnida), and “excuse me” (joheunhamnida).
  • Try traditional Korean cuisine, including dishes like bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi.
  • Explore Suwon’s craft beer scene, with many breweries offering tours and tastings.

Other things of interest:

  • Suwon’s Hwaseong Haenggung Palace offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The Gwanggye Market features a wide variety of vendors selling everything from traditional snacks to modern fast food.
  • The Suwon Folk Village Museum showcases traditional Korean culture and way of life.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Suwon, South Korea!