The Best Day Trips From Daegu South Korea

Situated in southeastern South Korea, Daegu is conveniently located near some of the best sightseeing spots in the country. Its excellent public transportation system makes it easy to explore the surrounding beaches, mountains and islands – something that becomes even more welcome in the stifling summer months. Here are our picks for the best day trip destinations.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Gyeongju

Often referred to as “the museum without walls,” the city of Gyeongju is home to more tombs, temples, rock carvings, pagodas, Buddhist iconography and palace ruins than any other destination in South Korea. It’s also conveniently located less than an hour from Daegu by bus.

Bulkguk Temple is another must-see in Gyeongju. Flawlessly restored, the complex is a splendid example of Silla-era architecture and is undoubtedly Korea’s most famous temple.

Busan

Architectural Landmark
Boasting a gorgeous landscape of mountains and beaches, and brimming with hot springs and seafood, South Korea’s second-largest city is a boisterous metropolis and is only about an hour away from Daegu by bus.

Spend the morning exploring the murals and sculptures in the colorful hillside of Gamcheon Culture Village or take in the tranquil beauty of Haedong Yonggung Temple, one of Korea’s only oceanside Buddhist temples.

From casual tent bars and fish markets teeming with every sea creature imaginable, to trendy cafes and fine dining establishments, Busan has something for all tastes, so don’t hold back at lunch.

Catch the sunset at Haeundae Beach, a beautiful stretch of white sand that offers great views of Busan’s unique urban landscape.

Andong

Famous for its regional specialties and wooden masks, Andong is a wonderful place to explore Korea’s historical and cultural sights. Just an hour’s drive from Daegu, Andong has a very laid-back vibe and is strikingly friendly, with a good selection of places to eat and stay.
Don’t miss Hahoe Folk Village, an area shrouded in natural beauty and known for its traditional houses, many of which are still lived in by locals. Here, you can try jjimdak (spicy braised chicken over glass noodles), salted mackerel and regional soju, a much stronger brew than its Seoul counterpart.

If possible, plan your trip to Andong in September to experience the city’s Mask Dance Festival, which features numerous performances of Korea’s traditional mask dances.

Tongyeng

Often referred to as the “Naples of Korea,” this seaside town situated two and a half hours from Daegu is an oasis of natural beauty. Evergreen trees surrounded by emerald seas are complemented by clear blue skies – the perfect setting for those seeking a relaxing getaway.
A major draw of Tongyeong is the collection of enchanting islands that dot its shores, many of which can be reached by ferry services from the central terminal. Opt to take a ride out to Somaemul Island during low tide, and be treated to amazing views of Tongyeong.

Gayasan National Park

Park

Consisting of a series of towering peaks and well-established hiking paths, Gayasan National Park, an hour’s drive from Daegu, is a great spot to get out and explore the great outdoors.
It takes two days to climb the entirety of Gaya Mountain but most travelers opt to visit the park for just one day. The most popular route passes through the Hongnyu-dongcheon stream to the peak, Sangwangbong.

Along this route, hikers can visit Haein Temple, one of Korea’s most important Buddhist temples. Founded in the 9th century and rebuilt in the 19th century, it is best known for its complete copy of the Buddhist scriptures, the Tripitaka Koreana.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.