Things To Do
in Daegu
Daegu sits in a basin surrounded by mountains in the southeastern part of South Korea, giving it a distinct four-season climate. The city blends modern shopping districts and high-tech industry with centuries-old temples, markets, and nature trails just a short ride from the urban core. It’s renowned for bold, comforting foods, textile heritage, and easy access to scenic escapes like Palgong and Apsan.
Whether you wander traditional markets, hike to panoramic viewpoints, or stroll along tranquil lakes, Daegu offers a compact, welcoming slice of Korean life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Daegu International Airport and check into your hotel. After settling in, head to Dongseongno, the bustling center of the city. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling delicious Korean pastries and coffee.
Explore the lively streets of Dongseongno, filled with shops, boutiques, and street vendors. Visit the Daegu Art Museum to appreciate local artwork, followed by a relaxing stroll at Duryu Park. Take in the scenic views and possibly enjoy a picnic lunch among the blooming flowers.
As night falls, venture to the vibrant nightlife of Dongseongno. Indulge in a traditional Korean barbecue dinner at a popular restaurant, where you can grill your own meats. End your evening with a visit to a nearby pub or karaoke room for some fun and entertainment.
Take a guided tour to Haeinsa Temple, around an hour's drive from Daegu. Begin your day with a serene walk around the temple grounds and appreciate the idyllic mountain scenery. Don't forget to enjoy a traditional Korean breakfast at a local eatery near the temple.
Spend the afternoon exploring Haeinsa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in its rich history. Attend a short meditation session with the monks, gaining insight into Buddhist practices. Visit the temple's renowned library housing ancient texts and beautiful artifacts.
Return to Daegu and enjoy a quiet dinner at a nearby restaurant. Savor local specialties such as Daegu's famous seasoned raw fish, sashimi, or spicy seafood soup. Reflect on the day’s experiences at a cozy café while enjoying a warm cup of tea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚇One-way local transit ticket | $1-2 |
| 🍜Street food snack | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent market culture and hearty regional cuisine
- Compact city center with good public transport
- Easy access to nature and temples within a short drive
- Friendly locals and a relatively safe, walkable urban core
- Hot summers can be uncomfortable for outdoor plans
- Some areas can be hilly or crowded, making navigation tiring
- Air quality can be variable, especially in hot months
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "실례합니다" - Excuse me
- "제발" - Please
- "화장실이 어디예요?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "이거 얼마에요?" - How much is this?
- "영어 할 줄 아세요?" - Do you speak English?
- "도와주세요" - Help!
Places to Visit in Daegu
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic stone Buddha and sweeping valley views; ideal for sunrise or sunset photography with a tranquil temple atmosphere nearby.
City skyline and mountain backdrop from elevated viewpoints; great for night photos of Daegu’s lights.
Gothic-style architecture and stained glass set against an urban backdrop; best in the soft morning light.
Bustling market lanes and colorful stalls glow under neon signs; perfect for candid street photography and food shots.
Reflections on the water, boats, and promenades during golden hour provide peaceful lakeside composition.
Food in Daegu
Daegu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled beef or pork large intestines, renowned as a Daegu specialty. Look for crispy edges and a savory dipping sauce in central districts.
Must-Try!
Loach soup, a warming, rustic stew often served with side dishes and rice—great for cooler days.
Steamed or braised silkworm pupae sold at street stalls; a distinctive, traditional snack to try while roaming markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic market famous for textiles, produce, and a wide array of street snacks like hotteok and ttteokbokki.
A vibrant market focused on herbal medicine and health foods, with many stalls offering infused teas and dried herbs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite bow or nod is common; address elders with formal language and use both hands when offering or receiving items.
Remove shoes when entering many homes and certain traditional spaces; dress modestly and behave quietly in temples.
Speak softly in public transport and queues; avoid pointing with one finger and use a open hand when gesturing.
Safety
Tipping in Daegu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Korea. In Western-style restaurants or upscale hotels, service charges may be included; otherwise, a small tip is not expected or required.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Mobile payments (Kakao Pay, Naver Pay, Samsung Pay) are increasingly common, and ATMs with English options are plentiful in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent monsoon rain. Stay hydrated, wear breathable clothing, and seek shade during peak afternoon hours. Indoor attractions and markets are ideal escapes during the hottest days.
Pleasant and mild with beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time for hikes in Palgong and Apsan and comfortable city strolls.
Cold and dry with occasional snowfall. Layer up for outdoor activities, and enjoy warm cafés and hearty stews in the evenings.
Moderate temperatures with blooming trees and gardens. A popular time for outdoor photography and temple visits, with light jacket days.
Daegu at Night
Hiking in Daegu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular alpine-style hike featuring wooded paths, temples, and the Gatbawi Buddha rock formation.
Accessible city hikes with forested routes and panoramic overlooks; convenient for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Daegu by plane.
Small but functional airport serving domestic flights and a limited number of international routes; easy ground transfers to the city.
Major international gateway for southeast Korea; about a 1.5–2 hour journey from Daegu by high-speed rail or road connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily ethnic Koreans with a growing student and young professional presence; aging population in some outer districts.
Several universities and tech companies bring a steady stream of students and skilled workers to the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Top-tier professional team competing in K League 1; matchdays create a vibrant, festive atmosphere.
Local and regional baseball culture with community leagues and occasional larger events; fans are passionate and family-friendly.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Daegu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many traditional dishes feature meat, but you can find vegetarian options around major markets and temple-area eateries. Look for tofu stews, vegetable jjigae, bibimbap without meat, and seasonal greens; ask for no anchovy broth and request separate vegetarian dishes when possible.