Things To Do
in Yeosu

Yeosu is a picturesque coastal city located in South Jeolla Province, South Korea, famous for its stunning ocean views and numerous islands. It is known for its rich maritime heritage, vibrant culture, and delicious seafood. The city features beautiful beaches, scenic walking paths, and a modern waterfront area that attracts both locals and tourists.

Yeosu is also home to several historical sites and is a gateway to exploring the beautiful surrounding islands.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Yeosu's Coastal Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Yi Sun-sin Plaza, where you can see the statue of the famous admiral. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront, taking in the stunning views of the sea.

afternoon
:

Visit the Yeosu Maritime Cable Car for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding islands. Afterward, explore the bustling Yeosu Fish Market to experience local seafood.

evening
:

Take a sunset cruise around the islands and enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant in the waterfront area.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Historical Insights
morning
:

Begin at the Hyangiram Hermitage, located on a coastal cliff, where you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Seongdeokjeong Pavilion for a taste of traditional Korean architecture, then explore the nearby Jinnamgwan Hall, a historic military headquarters.

evening
:

Conclude your day by experiencing Yeosu's vibrant nightlife at the local bars and cafes, soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍚Meal at a local restaurant$8
Coffee at a cafe$3
🚍Public transportation fare$1
🏨Budget hotel room per night$40
🍺Beer at a bar$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal scenery and beautiful islands.
  • Delicious seafood and vibrant food culture.
  • Rich history and cultural sites.
  • Limited English-speaking locals may make communication challenging.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent in rural areas.
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "물 좀 주세요" - Please give me some water
  • "도와 주세요" - Please help me
  • "화장실 어디에요?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Yeosu

Visit one of these nice places.

Hyangiram Hermitage

A stunning temple perched on a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.

Yeosu Maritime Cable Car

Provides panoramic views of the city and its islands, perfect for capturing stunning sunset shots.

Dolsan Bridge

An iconic bridge that looks beautiful at night when illuminated, making it a popular spot for nighttime photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yeosu

Yeosu's culinary scene is a delicious mix of fresh seafood and traditional Korean dishes, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Yeosu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grilled Fish

Freshly caught fish grilled to perfection, often served with spicy dipping sauces.

Must-Try!

Odeng (Fish Cake)

A popular street food made from fish paste, served skewered and often with a warm broth.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yeosu Fish Market

A bustling market where you can buy fresh seafood and sample various dishes prepared on-site.

Yeosu Night Market

A vibrant night market offering a variety of street food, from tteokbokki to hotteok.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yeosu experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F), but snowfall is rare. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, making these seasons the most pleasant for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders by using polite language and gestures, such as bowing.

Dining Etiquette

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

Personal Space

Koreans may stand closer than in some cultures; however, it’s polite to maintain personal space in public.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yeosu is generally considered a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's important to remain vigilant in crowded areas and be aware of your surroundings. Emergency services can be contacted via 119 for fire and medical emergencies and 112 for police assistance.

Tipping in Yeosu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Korea, and service charges are typically included; however, rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry cash for small purchases or local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time to visit, with many festivals celebrating nature.

Summer

Summer brings warm weather and beach activities, but it can also be humid and crowded, especially during holidays.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, perfect for hiking and outdoor sightseeing.

Winter

Winters are chilly, but the city is less crowded, and you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, especially around the coast.

Nightlife Guide

Yeosu at Night

Yeosu's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs primarily located along the waterfront. Visitors can enjoy live music, dance clubs, and traditional Korean bars (hof) where you can taste local drinks like soju and makgeolli. The night views of the illuminated coastline create a magical atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for evening strolls or socializing with friends.

Hiking in Yeosu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Dolsan Park Trail

A scenic trail offering panoramic views of the Dolsan Bridge and the surrounding sea, perfect for a morning hike.

Baekya Mountain Trail

A slightly more challenging hike that rewards adventurers with stunning views of Yeosu and the nearby islands.

Airports

How to reach Yeosu by plane.

Yeosu Airport (RSU)

Located about 15 kilometers from the city center, Yeosu Airport offers domestic flights to major cities like Seoul and international flights to select destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yeosu is quite walkable, especially in the waterfront area where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located. The city has well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian paths, making it easy to navigate on foot. However, some hilly areas may require more effort for walking, so it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Yeosu's population consists of locals who are engaged in fishing, tourism, and agriculture.

Tourists

The city attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly during the summer months, contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a hugely popular sport in Yeosu, with local teams drawing enthusiastic crowds during the season.

Soccer

Soccer is widely followed, and local parks often feature public fields where casual games take place.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yeosu can be moderate, with peak hours during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Biking is also a popular option, especially along the waterfront paths.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yeosu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is a staple, many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, including bibimbap and vegetable pancakes.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Yeosu is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and travelers. The main hospital, Yeosu National Hospital, provides comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are also widely available for over-the-counter medications, and many staff members can communicate in basic English.

Discover Korea

Read more in our Korea 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea Travel Guide