Things To Do
in Yeosu

Yeosu, South Korea is a picturesque coastal city known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The city boasts breathtaking views of the ocean, numerous islands, and a vibrant marine ecosystem. It is famous for its seafood, historical sites, and the annual Yeosu Expo that showcases innovative maritime technologies.

Yeosu is also a gateway to several beautiful hiking trails and outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Yeosu
morning
:

Start the day with a visit to the Yeosu Maritime Cable Car for stunning views of the coastline and islands. Enjoy breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Hyangiram Hermitage, a serene temple perched on a cliff with beautiful ocean views. Explore the nearby Dolsan Park for a leisurely walk.

evening
:

Have dinner at a seafood restaurant along the waterfront, followed by a stroll along the Yeosu Ocean Park to enjoy the night views.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

Take a boat tour to Odongdo Island, famous for its camellia flowers and scenic walking paths. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the island.

afternoon
:

Return and visit the Yeosu National Museum to learn about the region's history and culture. Explore the local shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Experience the lively atmosphere at the Yeosu Fish Market, and indulge in fresh seafood dishes before enjoying a night out at a local bar or pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍚Meal at a restaurant$8
Coffee$3
🚇Public transport ticket$1
🍣Sushi platter$20
🛍️Souvenir$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal views and natural beauty.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Delicious and fresh seafood.
  • Limited English-speaking locals may pose communication challenges.
  • Some areas can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Public transportation may have limited options late at night.
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "얼마예요?" - How much is this?
  • "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 with a backdrop of the ocean, perfect for capturing serene landscapes.

Dolsan Bridge

An iconic bridge that lights up at night, providing a beautiful view for nighttime photography.

Odongdo Island

This island offers picturesque walking paths lined with camellia trees, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yeosu

Yeosu is a culinary delight, especially for seafood lovers, offering a rich array of local dishes that reflect its coastal heritage.

Yeosu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sannakji

Live octopus served cut into small pieces, often seasoned with sesame oil.

Must-Try!

Grilled Mackerel

Freshly caught mackerel grilled to perfection, a local favorite.

Seafood Bibimbap

A colorful dish of rice topped with various seafood, vegetables, and spicy gochujang.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yeosu Fish Market

A bustling market where visitors can find fresh seafood and enjoy various dishes.

Street Food Stalls

Stalls offering popular snacks like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).

Climate Guide

Weather

Yeosu experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, averaging around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters are cold, with temperatures ranging from -5 to 5°C (23-41°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect towards elders; greet them first and use formal language.

Dining Etiquette

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

Shoes Off Indoors

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

Safety Guide

Safety

Yeosu is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it’s advisable to take standard precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Yeosu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract tourists to the beaches and water activities, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage create a picturesque setting, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold and sometimes snowy, winter is quieter, but still offers beautiful coastal views and local winter festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Yeosu at Night

Yeosu offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. The waterfront area is particularly lively, featuring establishments that serve local drinks and seafood. Live music and karaoke are popular, providing entertainment late into the night.

Hiking in Yeosu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mt. Dolsan Trail

This popular trail offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding islands, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Baekya Mountain Trail

A more challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking landscapes and a chance to see local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Yeosu by plane.

Yeosu Airport (RSU)

Located approximately 15 km from downtown Yeosu, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections. It is easily accessible by taxi and public transport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yeosu is a walkable city, particularly in the downtown and waterfront areas, where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly paths are abundant, making it easy to explore at leisure.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority are South Korean citizens, many with deep ties to the fishing and tourism industries.

Tourists

A diverse group, including both domestic and international travelers drawn to Yeosu's natural beauty and cultural attractions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in South Korea, with local teams attracting passionate fans.

Soccer

Soccer enjoys immense popularity, with local clubs and youth leagues active in the area.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yeosu can be congested during peak hours, especially near major tourist attractions. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient. The city also offers bike rentals, allowing for easy navigation through scenic routes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yeosu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood dominates the cuisine, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including vegetable bibimbap.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but dishes like grilled fish and vegetable sides can be suitable.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Yeosu has several hospitals and clinics, providing access to healthcare services. The most prominent facility is Yeosu National Hospital, which offers a range of medical services. Most staff members speak basic English, but it’s advisable to have a translation app for better communication in case of emergencies.

Discover South Korea

Read more in our South Korea 2025 Travel Guide.

South Korea Travel Guide