On my first trip to Gyeongju, I remember being surprised to see such large mounds of earth protruding from the fields. Later, I learned that these mounds were more than just man-made hills but, in fact, the ancient burial chambers for Korea’s elite and royal. While such views have become more commonplace since living in Gyeongju, I’m still in awe. Living here can feel like a fairytale, as I imagine what life was like in ancient Korea.
Nestled amidst the valleys and mountains of Gyeongsang-bukdo Province, Gyeongju, Korea’s Golden City, is a gem of rich history, culture, and natural beauty. With UNESCO heritage sites scattered throughout, Gyeongju truly is an “open-air museum.” Almost everywhere you go, you can see such a rich sampling of monuments, palaces, and Buddhist temples in what was once the Silla Dynasty’s capital city. At night, many of these historical places come alive with twinkling lights, making it fun to pretend you are an invited guest to royal palace parties and events.
However, beyond exploring Gyeongju’s history, some of the best memories I have are the strolls down Gyeongju’s infamous Hwanglidan-gil (황리단길). This area’s modern take on a hanok village is filled to the brim with cute cafes, stores, and delicious treats. It’s a great retreat from all the flowery garden photoshoots and historical monuments.
Gyeongju’s perfect blend of old and new is one of the many reasons I love living here. It allows you to be whisked back into time while appreciating the richness, depth, and beauty of Korea’s history from the present.
Best Times to Visit
The Season
Gyeongju is beautiful all year round, but the best time to go is during the spring and fall. In early spring, the beauty of cherry blossom season mixed with traditional Korean hanoks make the perfect backdrop for photos. While in the fall, another pink sensation, pink muhly grass, blankets the area in an ethereal and feathery display of color.
The Weather and Temperature
In terms of weather and temperature, Gyeongju offers four distinct seasons, and weather conditions can swing a big range. In winter, you can generally expect milder temperatures, compared to those in northern cities like Seoul, and very little to no snow. Summer and monsoon season remains hot and humid, while fall and spring are more temperate and mild with often colder mornings and evenings.
The Day of the Week
Once you have your season and month locked down, another important thing to consider is when during the week you will visit. Many people visit Gyeongju over a long weekend, so expect lots of crowds during this time. To avoid the crowds, I recommend going on a weekday, but avoid Tuesday since many restaurants and cafes are often closed after the long weekend tourist rush.
Getting to and Around Gyeongju
From Larger Cities and Towns
From larger cities and towns, taking the KTX to Gyeongjiu is your best bet. Depending on where you’re departing from, it will be a relatively quick trip. The train stop in Gyeongju is located in a very rural part of the area, so we recommend a taxi or bus to get to Gyeongju’s downtown.
It’s important to keep in mind that while traveling In Korea, most train lines run north and south. So if you’re traveling from a more western, central, or north eastern location, you might need to take the bus.
From Smaller Cities and Towns
If you are traveling from a smaller city or town, or don’t have a train station near you, taking the intercity buses is the easiest way to go. You can book tickets in-person at the train station or through Korean apps. Keep in mind that for some of these apps, it’s best to have a Korean bank account, so do some additional research before downloading.
- KoBus – You can only use Korean Cards.
- TMoney – Accepts non-Korean cards, but it’s more expensive.
- Bustago – You can only use Korean Cards.
Renting a car is another great option if you’re able to! There are many places in Gyeongju where having a car already on hand will make travel easier. If you have an international license, you will be able to rent a car throughout Korea.
Book a Tour
Many tour companies in Korea are foreigner-friendly, and they develop itineraries that will cover all the places on your list. Check out tour companies like Klook or Trazy throughout the year for special deals and new tours.
Navigating In and Around Gyeongju
Once you’re in Gyeongju and if you choose to remain closer to downtown, taking local buses is the cheapest and easiest way to get around. For getting to further out historical sites and places, we recommend renting a car or taking a taxi. The whole of Gyeongju covers surprisingly a large area, so the further you go from the center city, the less frequently the buses will come.
If you are hopping around downtown, renting a bike, motor scooter, or golf cart is also another fun option. Since many of Gyeongju’s most popular areas are often tightly cramped, it also takes the woes out of finding a parking spot, which can be a nightmare at peak times. As you walk around Gyeongju downtown and around Hwanglidan-gil (황리단길), a tourist spot, you’ll find many shops that offer these various travel options.
Where to Stay in Gyeongju
Whether or not you’re visiting Gyeongju for the first time, staying in a hanok, pension, or local guest house is a must. There are many amazing and beautiful traditional hanoks (and even hanok-style guest houses) on Airbnb.
If you’re looking for a bit of a retreat outside of the major tourist spots, booking a pension is also a great alternative. At a pension, you can often grill your own food, splish splash in a pool, or enjoy your own private sauna. While most pensions can only be booked on non-Western websites, you can also use apps like Booking.com.
Here are some apps and sites we recommend checking out:
- Airbnb
- Booking.com
- Yeogieottae (여기어때)
- Yanolja (야놀자)
Recommended Gyeongju Travel Itinerary
Depending on your length of stay, traveling in Gyeongju makes for a great day trip or long weekend getaway. Because of its popular and cultural significance in Korea, I often reuse the same itinerary when friends or family come to visit. For this itinerary, I tried to group places by practicality. However, just take it as a suggested route, and mix and match as you see fit for your trip.
Pro Tip: While you’re at it, pick up a Gyeongju Stamp Sheet from any of the city’s information centers or historical sites. It’s a fun activity and a great souvenir to mark all the amazing places the area has to offer and explore.
Day One – A Jam Packed Day Full of All Things Gyeongju
Whether you’re taking the train or the bus, starting in the heart of downtown Gyeongju is a great way to get a fast and full taste of Gyeongju. The schedule laid out is relatively walkable, but renting a golf cart or motor scooter is a great way to zip around fast. While it might seem like a daunting list, with everything so close together, you can see a lot in a day!
Hwanglidan-gil (황리단길)
This is the area to be in for all things shopping, eating, and cafe-related. With many of the businesses set in traditional hanok buildings, it’s a nice blend of old meets new. Spend hours here, or stop in for a quick bite and coffee while you shop and look around.
Pro Tip: This area can get insanely busy on weekends and peak travel times like cherry blossom season. Lines for restaurants can be hours long, so booking ahead or traveling on a weekday is a great alternative. Just remember! Some restaurants and cafes are closed on Tuesday, so keep that in mind!
There really isn’t one address for Hwanglidan-gil (황리단길), but here’s the general neighborhood link if you’re new to the area;
- Address: 1080 Poseok-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 포석로 1080
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xrcMX5cf
Play in the Box Gyeongju (플레이인더박스 경주황리단길점)
While there are a TON of photo booths in Gyeongju’s Hwanglidan-gil (황리단길), the one I recommend for first timers is Play in the Box. Here you will find Gyeongju-only printing options that make for a great keepsake and souvenir.
- Address: 1073 Poseok-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 포석로 1073
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xOI1Ew3R
Daereungwon Tomb Complex and Tumuli Park (대릉원경주시)
Throughout Gyeongju, you will notice large mounds of earth and stone protruding from the ground. For those unfamiliar, these are burial mounds or “tumulus” that are raised over the tombs or graves of the deceased. Gyeongju is home to many tumulus that bury royals and nobles alike.
There are many places to see these tombs, but Daereungwon Tomb Complex (대릉원경주시) and Tumuli Park is probably one of the best areas for a shaded and relaxing stroll. While you’re in the area, you can visit and tour inside, Cheonmachong (천마총), which holds some of the most spectacular artifacts of Korea’s history.
Daereungwon Tomb Complex and Tumuli Park (대릉원경주시)
- Address: 31-1 Hwangnam-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경상북도 경주시 황남동 31-1
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/Fd7twfiD
Cheonmachong (천마총)
- Address: 262 Hwangnam-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 황남동 262
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/56IRWr7Y
Cheomseongdae Observatory (첨성대)
Constructed during the reign of Queen Seondeok (r. 632-647), the observatory consists of 365 stones, each one symbolizing the number of days in a year. During peak seasons, when spring, summer, and fall flowers blanket the land, the observatory offers a perfect destination for a stroll in the park.
Pro Tips: Since there’s relatively no shade around the observatory, walking to the observatory can be uncomfortable during the summer months. Unless you are coming for the surrounding flowers and daytime selfies, I also recommend going at night to see the observatory lit up in various arrays of color.
- Address: 839-1 Inwang-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경상북도 경주시 인왕동 839-1
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/Go2XWPwS
Pink Muhly Site
If you’re coming in the fall (September to early November), this is the best spot to take your pink muhly photos. With Cheomseongdae Observatory in the background and the royal tombs in the distance, it makes for an ethereal photoshoot.
- Address: Inwang-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경상북도 경주시 인왕동
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/GietIGM5
Woljeonggyo Bridge (월정교)
Built during the Silla Dynasty, this bridge is the longest wooden bridge in Korea. It’s massive in scale and has been restored to its former glory. Near where it stands, there are large slabs of stone where you can walk across the river, as well. While not on the main strip of shopping and street food, there are also some great cafes and a small hanok folk village nearby that make the walk here worth your while.
Pro Tip: Hands down, the best time to go is at night when this bridge comes alive in light. Literally glowing from afar, it simply feels more majestic and regal this way – a great place to end your first day in Gyeongju!
- Address: 274 Gyodong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경상북도 경주시 교동 274
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5VltLVIv
Day Two – Slower Paced, But More Spread Out
Having a car or taxi will come in handy, but for convenience, I’ve grouped the morning and afternoon and evening activities closer together.
Bulguksa Temple (불국사)
Designated a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO, Bulguksa Temple is a cherished reflection of Buddhism from the Silla Dynasty. The temple holds seven national treasures and has been carefully restored. If you come in the month of May, you will also see lots of colorful paper lanterns in honor of Buddha’s birthday.
Pro Tips: To beat the heavy crowds during peak times, it’s best to visit here in the morning. This is especially the case if you’re traveling in the summer months. While the site is mostly accessible, there are a few hills and stairs to climb. If you park closer to the entrance, you’ll pay a parking fee. However, you’ll can cut out some of the additional walking time.
- Address: 385 Bulguksa-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 불국로 385 불국사
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/G6fwElyB
Seokguram Grotto (석굴암 석굴)
Very close to the Bulguksa Temple, the Seokguram Grotto makes a great next stop. To get here, we recommend taking a taxi or renting a car. Just be careful because there are some winding roads and steep drop offs. Once you arrive at the parking area, you can reach the Seokguram Grotto by foot and then through the woods a bit.
While it might take a bit more physical effort and time to get to the Seokguram Grotto, the actual experience is quite breathtaking. After climbing some stairs, at the top of a large hill, you will find a large Buddha inside a beautiful stone chamber. While you are escorted in and out rather quickly (given the small interior,) the scenic views after the hike and the breathtaking sculptures round out the journey nicely.
- Address: 238 Seokgul-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 석굴로 238
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5LuGRYag
Gyeongju National Museum (국립경주박물관)
The Gyeongju National Museum holds many of the Silla Dynasty’s lasting contributions to Korean culture and history. With five large permanent exhibits and circulating special exhibits, this museum is huge. It consists of indoor and outdoor areas, and a handful of buildings to explore and wander.
- Address: 186 Gyeongju National Museum, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 일정로 186 국립경주박물관
- Museum Website Link (English)
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5qRAK9AB
Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond (동궁과 월지)
Donggung Palace was a secondary palace used by the crown prince during the Silla Dynasty. Beautifully built with the addition of a manmade pond, this palace was also used as a banquet site for important national events and visitors.
While lost for centuries, the original name of the pond was later discovered on a pottery fragment found in the area. Wolji means “a pond that reflects the moon,” an accurate name for the stunning landscape and surrounding buildings.
Pro Tip: The best time to go is right at sunset or when completely dark. This is when the palace truly comes alive. You can walk along the well-lit path, pondering what a royal guest at a party here might have felt and experienced.
- Address: 102 Anapji, Won-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 원화로 102 안압지
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5VltChwU
Day Three – Great All-Day or Half-Day Adventures
If you’re staying past a one or two-day trip, any of the following places will make a great all-day or half-day activity. For the best and easiest experience getting to any of the following places, I recommend taking a car or taxi. Booking a tour is also an option!
Gyeongju Expo Grand Park
Once part of a venue for the International Cultural Fair, the facilities have been turned into a large park. Open to the public year-round, it consists of Gyeongju Tower, 3D Animation World, Silla Culture History Exhibition, and World Fossil Museum. There are also beautiful gardens to rest and walk around in. With lots to see and do, it makes for a fun day experience.
- Address: 614, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 경감로 614
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5DjIy0IC
Gyeongju World
A popular theme park in the area, Gyeongju world is home to an amusement park, as well as a waterpark. While not super large in comparison to Everland or Lotte World amusement parks, Gyeongju still comes packed with fun rides and a few roller coasters. It makes for a great day trip or full-day activity!
Pro Tip: Like all amusement parks, expect long waiting lines during peak season. If you come during the summer months, bring a hat and wear sunscreen!
- Address: 544 Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 보문로 544
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/FcuW9NJq
Gyeongju National Park
Compared to Korea’s other national parks, Gyeongju National Park is centered around cultural heritages, rather than natural resources. The park holds many national treasures and cultural sites, as well as additional museums that preserve Korea’s historical artifacts and art.
- Address: Biji-ri, Naenam-myeon, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경상북도 경주시 내남면 비지리
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/Go2Xn4om
Yangdong Folk Village
The largest folk village in Korea, Yangdong is globally recognized by UNESCO. The village was home to two prominent clans of the Joseon Dynasty and boasts over 150 traditional buildings, shrines, etc. The locals in the area help preserve the village by performing traditional rituals and customs of the ruling class.
- Address: 92-16 Yangdong Village-gil, Gangdong-myeon, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 강동면 양동마을길 92-16
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/FPBrAHDY
Gyeongju Treats to Try
Gyeongju is known for its famous bread and speciality street food. Here are a few recommendations to try.
Hwangnam Bread (황남빵)
Gyeongju is famous for a few tasty treats. The most famous is Hwangnam Bbang (황남빵), or Hwangnam bread. It’s a small pastry filled with red bean paste filling. You will find shops selling it all over Gyeongju, and can even find them near the bus or train stations.
Gyeongju Ten Won Bread (십원빵)
Some other snacks you’ll want to try include Gyeongju Ten Won Bread, which is a yummy cheese-filled bread that looks like a ten won coin. The easiest place to find them is throughout Hwanglidan-gil (황리단길), you won’t have to go to far before you see one shop after the other featuring these gems.
Sweet Potato Fries (오렌지 구운 고구마)
Another street food seen everywhere in Gyeongju’s Hwanglidan-gil (황리단길) is sweet potato fries – bright orange fries that seem to be around, everywhere you go.
Corn Ice Cream (옥수수 아이스크림)
If you’re unfamiliar with Asian ice cream flavors, or have never tried corn ice cream Gyeongjy’s popular shop Oksusu (옥수수) is the place to get it. It’s all the rave on social media, and a trending snack to be spotted with as you stroll through Hwanglidan-gil (황리단길).
Restaurants
When looking for local cafes and restaurants in Korea, a tip I tell anyone who asks is to use social media. If you have Instagram, look at accounts like @hotgyeongju or search the hashtags #경주카페 (Gyeongju cafe) or #경주식당. You will never be short of places to choose from! Here are some insider places that are top on my favorites list!
Iron Pot Pigs’ Feet (가마솥족발)
If you weren’t looking for this place, you could easily overlook it. While nothing fancy, this place often has over an hour wait at peak times. It might not seem like a lot, but for the taste, it’s truly worth it!
- Address: 39-1, Bonghwang-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 봉황로 39-1 가마솥족발
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5gdLuW7q
Gyeongju Parujeong Restaurant (팔우정식당)
My nickname for this restaurant is the “fire grill restaurant” because you can often see the huge burst of fire from the kitchen. The place is tiny and not super close to touristy areas. You’ll see a quick turnaround of people coming, going, and waiting. That’s how you know the food is good!
- Address: 25-9 Yongdam-ro 104beon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 용담로104번길 25-9 1층 팔우정식당
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xOI1EYEw
Nai Pad Thai (나이팟타이)
Don’t get me wrong, I love Korean food. However, when I need a change in pace, I love eating South East Asian cuisine. Again, this place is rather unassuming as you walk by, but the long menu offers so many wonderful delicious dishes to explore.
- Address: 734-1 Taejong-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 태종로 734-1
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xPIpYM3U
Nerd (너드)
If you’re looking for an amazing Aussie brunch in Korea and a beautiful interior, look no further. This place is truly a gem, and the staff is super friendly. I love coming back here time and time again, especially when I’m craving a fresh and healthy brunch menu.
- Address: 101-1 Wonhyo-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 원효로 101-1
- Address: https://naver.me/5ITz0BWi
Cafes
Gyeongju is full of cute cafes everywhere you look! There is certainly no shortage. Here are a few of my favorites off the beaten path.
Commencement (커먼스먼트)
While admittedly this place does not have the most comfortable seating, I’m obsessed with the in-season drinks here. They are delicious, refreshing, and unique.
- Address: 966 Poseok-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 포석로 966
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xPvT2VYg
Woljeong Bakery (월정제과)
My friend showed me this place, and ever since I tried the black sesame latte, I’ve been itching to go back. Very cute and quaint with a nice vintage aesthetic.
- Address: 47-6 Bonghwang-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 봉황로 47-6 1층
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5TiCKc0W
White Flower Diary (야생화일기)
Hands down one of my favorite cafes in all of Korea, but full disclosure, you will need a car or a taxi to get there. However, once you do, it’s worth it. My favorite room to sit in feels like a greenhouse (minus the heat or cold), and my favorite drink to order is their Special Affogato.
- Address: 332-6 Ogeumgeun-gil, Gangdong-myeon, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 강동면 오금큰길 332-6 야생화일기
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/GqNSpwuu
Wine Bars and Pubs
For those who enjoy a bit of nightlife, sadly, there isn’t a club hopping scene in Gyeongju. However, if you’re looking for a nice wine bar or a cold beer next to some Silla tombs, I’ve got you covered.
Heu Heu Heu (흐흐흐)
This is a great place for some tasty and unique craft beers on tap. Enjoy some pub fare, have a few beers, all while watching the sun set over the Silla tombs.
- Address: 23-1, Taejong-ro 727beon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 태종로727번길 23-1 1층
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/GedOnJZB
Oasis (오아시스 경주 황리단길)
I have not been here yet, but it’s high on my list of places to visit next. A Gyeongju native in the area recommended it, and after checking out the online vibes, it looks like a fun and classy night out.
- Address: 1-1 Sajeong-ro 50beon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 경주시 사정로50번길 1-1
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5BkR34pN
With too many places on my saved and favorites list, my next recommendation is to go check out Gyeongju for yourself. Have a great trip!
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