Things To Do
in Daegu

Daegu, located in southeastern South Korea, is the fourth largest city in the country and serves as a vibrant cultural and economic hub. Known for its rich history, diverse architecture, and bustling markets, Daegu offers visitors a unique blend of tradition and modernity. The city is surrounded by picturesque mountains, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

With its friendly locals and delicious cuisine, Daegu promises an unforgettable experience for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Daegu
morning
:

Start your day at Apsan Park, where you can hike to the summit for breathtaking views of the city. Enjoy breakfast at a local café nearby.

afternoon
:

Visit the Daegu National Museum to learn about the region's history and culture, followed by a stroll through the nearby Daegu Yangnyeongsi Museum of Oriental Medicine.

evening
:

Dine at the famous Seomun Market, sampling various street foods, and conclude your day with a visit to the vibrant Dongseongno shopping district.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day at the historic Donghwasa Temple, a serene place with stunning architecture and nature trails.

afternoon
:

Head to the Daegu Art Museum to explore contemporary art exhibitions, followed by lunch at a nearby restaurant serving traditional Korean dishes.

evening
:

Experience Daegu's nightlife at one of the local pubs or bars, enjoying live music and the lively atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a restaurant$7
Coffee$3
🚇Public transport ticket$1
🏨Budget hotel per night$40
🛍️Souvenir$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine and street food.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes nearby.
  • Limited English signage can be challenging for non-Korean speakers.
  • Public transportation can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some travelers.
  • "안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)" - Thank you
  • "얼마예요? (Eolmayeyo?)" - How much is this?
  • "도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo)" - Please help me
  • "화장실 어디예요? (Hwajangsil eodiyeyo?)" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Daegu

Visit one of these nice places.

Apsan Park

Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, perfect for capturing stunning landscape photos.

Donghwasa Temple

A tranquil temple with beautiful architecture, surrounded by lush nature, ideal for cultural photography.

Seomun Market

A vibrant market filled with colorful stalls and street food vendors, perfect for capturing the local culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Daegu

Daegu is renowned for its unique culinary offerings, featuring a variety of traditional dishes that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.

Daegu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Daegu Spicy Chicken Stew (Dakjjim)

A spicy braised chicken dish cooked with vegetables and a flavorful sauce, perfect for spice lovers.

Must-Try!

Seomun Market Tteokbokki

Spicy rice cakes served with fish cakes and a sweet, spicy sauce, a popular street food found in many stalls.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Seomun Market

One of the largest traditional markets in Korea, known for its street food and variety of local products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Daegu experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 30°C (86°F), while winters can drop below freezing, with occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn offer mild and pleasant temperatures, making them the best seasons for outdoor activities. Rain is most common in summer, particularly during the monsoon season in July and August.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals by using formal language and gestures, such as bowing slightly when greeting.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin your meal, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Remove Shoes Indoors

It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional accommodations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Daegu is generally considered a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is important to take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings. In case of emergencies, local police can be reached by dialing 112, and medical assistance is available through hospitals and clinics throughout the city.

Tipping in Daegu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not common in South Korea, but leaving small change in restaurants is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms make spring an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot and humid weather; visitors should stay hydrated and seek shade during the day. Summer festivals are common.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a picturesque setting for hiking and exploring parks.

Winter

Cold winters with occasional snowfall; perfect for enjoying hot soups and traditional Korean winter dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Daegu at Night

Daegu's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Dongseongno area is particularly popular, filled with establishments catering to different tastes, from casual pubs to upscale lounges. Visitors can enjoy karaoke, dance clubs, and traditional Korean drinking experiences, such as soju and makgeolli tasting. The atmosphere is lively, especially on weekends, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the city's energetic vibe.

Hiking in Daegu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Palgongsan National Park

A stunning national park offering various hiking trails, scenic views, and unique rock formations, great for all skill levels.

Biseulsan Mountain

Known for its beautiful wildflowers and panoramic views, this mountain features well-marked trails and is a favorite among hikers.

Airports

How to reach Daegu by plane.

Daegu International Airport (TAE)

Located about 10 km from the city center, this airport provides domestic and limited international flights, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Daegu is a relatively walkable city, especially in urban areas where attractions, restaurants, and shopping districts are closely located. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common. However, some areas, particularly on the outskirts, may have less pedestrian infrastructure, so it's advisable to plan your routes accordingly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

With several universities and colleges in the area, a large student population contributes to the vibrant culture and nightlife.

Elderly Residents

Daegu has a significant elderly population, reflecting the city’s respect for tradition and cultural values.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Daegu, with the local team, the Samsung Lions, drawing large crowds at their home games.

Taekwondo

As a traditional Korean martial art, Taekwondo is widely practiced in Daegu, with several schools and dojos offering classes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Daegu can be congested during peak hours, particularly in the downtown area. The city has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and a subway network, making it easy to navigate without a car. Buses are frequent and cover most areas, while the subway connects key districts, providing a convenient alternative for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Daegu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Korean cuisine includes meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as bibimbap without meat.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options can be limited, but rice and vegetable-based dishes are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Daegu is accessible and of high quality, with numerous hospitals and clinics available for both locals and visitors. Most facilities have English-speaking staff, especially in larger hospitals, making communication easier for tourists. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while visiting.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide