South Korea
South Korea's islands and alleyways that most travellers overlook
South Korea is a land of contrasts: ancient temples stand shoulder to shoulder with gleaming skyscrapers. October brings clear skies and is a good time to look beyond Seoul and Busan. The best places often lie just off the beaten path.
12 October 2026 · Wayloha editorial · 4 sources
Islands near Incheon
A short ferry ride from Incheon takes you to islands few travellers know. The city's noise falls away as soon as you leave the dock. October is a quiet time to sit still, do nothing, and look out over the sea.
Old temples and modern skyscrapers sit side by side here.South Korea
Hidden alleyways in the market
Skip the main shopping streets and slip into the market's side lanes instead. Small stalls here sell food you won't find in any guidebook. It's the way to taste what people here eat every day.
Seoraksan National Park
This park is known for its mountain trails. In October the forests turn colour, and it's a good time to plan a route. Take your time: the paths wind past rock, water and views across the valley.
Stalls selling jeon
Look out for the small stalls where crispy jeon pancakes are fried. You'll usually find them in the quieter streets, just off the market's main route. Simple food, but that's exactly why it's so good.
A game of baduk
If you want to see something that has nothing to do with K-pop, watch for places where people play baduk. This is an ancient board game still widely played in neighbourhoods. You don't need to know how to play to sit and watch.
Old historical sites
Among the high-rises of the cities sit places with a long history, often quiet and almost empty. October's fresh air makes it pleasant to walk among these old buildings. They show how old and new exist side by side here.
Walking trails outside the city
Outside the major cities lie trails that are far quieter than the famous mountains. They take you past forest, rivers and viewpoints without the crowds. A good way to get to know South Korea at a slower pace.
