Things To Do
in Gyeongsan

Gyeongsan is a vibrant city located in North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. Known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes, Gyeongsan offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Korean life blended with modern amenities. The city is home to several historical sites, parks, and universities, making it a hub of education and culture.

Its proximity to Daegu allows for easy day trips, enhancing Gyeongsan's appeal as a travel destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cultural Heritage
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the historic Gyeongsan City Museum to learn about the city's rich history and culture.

afternoon
:

Head to the serene Gyeongsan National Cemetery, where you can pay respects to fallen soldiers and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional dishes like bulgogi, followed by a stroll through the city's vibrant streets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Leisure
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the beautiful Daegu Arboretum, where you can explore diverse plant species and scenic walking paths.

afternoon
:

Spend some time at the picturesque Gyeongsan Lake Park, enjoying a picnic or renting a paddleboat.

evening
:

Experience Gyeongsan's nightlife by visiting local bars or cafes, where you can unwind and socialize with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍚Meal at a local restaurant$6-10
Coffee$3-5
🚍Public transportation ticket$1
🛍️Souvenir$5-20
🏨Hotel per night$40-80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and parks.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited English signage and language barriers.
  • Less touristy compared to other South Korean cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent on weekends.
  • "안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)" - Thank you
  • "물 좀 주세요 (Mul jom juseyo)" - Please give me some water
  • "얼마예요? (Eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?
  • "도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo)" - Please help me

Places to Visit in Gyeongsan

Visit one of these nice places.

Gyeongsan National Cemetery

A serene location that beautifully captures the essence of remembrance and tranquility.

Daegu Arboretum

A lush garden filled with diverse flora, perfect for nature photography.

Gyeongsan Lake Park

A picturesque setting with stunning sunsets reflecting on the water.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gyeongsan

Gyeongsan boasts a diverse culinary scene, offering visitors a range of flavors and experiences that reflect traditional Korean cuisine.

Gyeongsan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bulgogi

Marinated beef grilled to perfection, often served with rice and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Kimchi Jjigae

A hearty stew made with kimchi, tofu, and pork, perfect for a comforting meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gyeongsan Traditional Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food delicacies.

Gyeongsan Night Market

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

Climate Guide

Weather

Gyeongsan experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F), while winters (December to February) can be cold and snowy, with temperatures dropping to around -5°C (23°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) bring mild weather and are considered the best times to visit due to their pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals; bowing is common when greeting.

Removing Shoes

It's customary to remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional restaurants.

Table Manners

Wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin your meal.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gyeongsan is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take common safety precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night, keeping your valuables secure, and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

Tipping in Gyeongsan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not a common practice in South Korea; however, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash and credit cards, but it's advisable to carry cash for street food and small shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid, with occasional rain. Stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage create beautiful landscapes ideal for photography.

Winter

Cold and sometimes snowy, perfect for experiencing traditional winter festivals and enjoying warm Korean cuisine.

Nightlife Guide

Gyeongsan at Night

Gyeongsan's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, featuring a mix of traditional pubs (pojangmacha), karaoke rooms, and modern bars. The atmosphere is friendly, with many places offering live music and opportunities to socialize. Popular areas include the city center, where you can find various entertainment options catering to different tastes.

Hiking in Gyeongsan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Palgong Mountain Trail

A popular hiking route with stunning views and various trails suited for different skill levels.

Biseul Mountain Trail

Known for its scenic beauty and diverse flora, this trail offers a more challenging hike with rewarding vistas.

Airports

How to reach Gyeongsan by plane.

Daegu International Airport (TAE)

Located about 20 km from Gyeongsan, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it the most accessible air travel option for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gyeongsan is moderately walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, though some areas may require navigating hilly terrain. Using public transportation or bicycles is also a viable option for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Gyeongsan is home to several universities, resulting in a large student population that influences the city's culture and economy.

Elderly Residents

A significant demographic group, the elderly population is respected and plays an important role in the community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a highly popular sport in Gyeongsan, with the city having its own teams and local leagues.

Taekwondo

As the birthplace of taekwondo, Gyeongsan embraces this martial art, with many schools and dojos available for practice.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gyeongsan can be moderate, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, with buses being the most common method of travel within the city. The bus system is reliable and covers most areas, making it easy to get around without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gyeongsan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Korean cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian options upon request.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; travelers should inquire about ingredients, especially in sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Gyeongsan is of a high standard, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and travelers. Emergency services can be reached via 119, and many facilities have English-speaking staff. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover South Korea

Read more in our South Korea 2025 Travel Guide.

South Korea Travel Guide