Things To Do
in Daegu
Daegu is a vibrant city in southeastern South Korea known for its surrounding mountains, historic temples, and bustling markets. It blends traditional culture with modern energy, from ancient gateways to contemporary shopping districts. The city hosts lively festivals and a renowned spicy-food scene that draws visitors year-round.
With mountains at its doorstep, Daegu offers accessible nature escapes alongside a rich urban tapestry.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the bustling Seomun Market, one of Korea's largest traditional markets. Enjoy a hearty breakfast of local delicacies like kalguksu (handmade knife-cut noodles) while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby historic district, admiring the traditional hanoks and local art galleries.
Visit the stunning Donghwasa Temple, nestled in the surrounding mountains. Here, you can explore the serene temple grounds and marvel at the impressive statue of the Buddha. After your visit, return to the city and indulge in a traditional Korean barbecue lunch at one of the local restaurants.
As the sun sets, head to Apsan Park for a scenic cable car ride to the summit. The panoramic views of Daegu are breathtaking, especially as the city lights begin to twinkle below. Wrap up your evening at a cozy café in the downtown area, sipping on a warm cup of Korean tea.
Start your day at the Daegu National Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Take your time exploring the various exhibits, including artifacts from the Silla Dynasty. Afterward, enjoy a light snack at the museum café, sampling some traditional Korean pastries.
Next, visit the Daegu Art Museum, which showcases contemporary and traditional Korean art. Participate in an interactive workshop if available, allowing you to create your own art piece inspired by local culture. Following your creative session, enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro featuring local fusion cuisine.
In the evening, wander through the vibrant Dongseongno Street, lined with trendy shops and eateries. Experience the youthful energy of the area, stopping for street food snacks like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes). Conclude your day with a visit to a local pub to experience Korea's vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $1-2 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🛍️Daily local shopping & snacks | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to mountains, markets, and temples
- Rich street food culture and a sense of regional identity
- Hot summers can be very humid
- Less English signage outside central districts compared to Seoul
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "실례합니다" - Excuse me
- "영어 하실 줄 아세요?" - Do you speak English?
- "이거 얼마에요?" - How much is this?
- "화장실이 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "도와주실 수 있나요?" - Can you help me?
- "메뉴 추천해주실래요?" - Can you recommend a dish?
Places to Visit in Daegu
Visit one of these nice places.
A mural-filled avenue honoring the folk singer, ideal for colorful urban photography and candid street scenes.
A skyline viewpoint that offers sweeping city vistas and dramatic night shots when the tower is illuminated.
Iconic rock Buddha with forested trails and mountain scenery—great for landscape and nature photography.
Gothic-style cathedral with striking architecture and tranquil surroundings suitable for architectural photography.
Food in Daegu
Daegu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Daegu-style grilled large intestines with savory dipping sauces and crisp accompaniments.
Must-Try!
Hearty pork soup with rice and a flavorful broth, a quintessential Daegu comfort dish.
Braised chicken with vegetables in a sweet-spicy sauce; widely available in Daegu and the surrounding region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An iconic traditional market offering everything from snacks to textiles, ideal for trying local bites.
Historic herb and spice market with medicinal herbs, fresh produce, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite and queue in order; speak softly on public transport; remove shoes when entering most homes or traditional spaces; use formal language when addressing elders.
Dress modestly, speak gently, and obtain permission before taking photos in restricted areas.
Safety
Tipping in Daegu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Korea; service charges are usually included. You may round up or leave a small tip for exceptional service at high-end places.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments (KakaoPay, Naver Pay) are common; cash is handy in markets and smaller eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with occasional rain; stay hydrated, plan outdoor plans for early mornings or evenings, enjoy cooling markets and spicy dishes.
Pleasant temperatures with vivid fall foliage; ideal for hiking, street photography, and outdoor dining.
Cold and dry, sometimes snowy; bundle up and enjoy indoor attractions, markets, and cafes.
Mild and comfortable with blossoming trees; great for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Daegu at Night
Hiking in Daegu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic mountain with well-marked trails and the Gatbawi Rock; popular for day hikes.
Urban mountain park with forested trails and city outlooks, plus a convenient access to public transport.
Hiking paths around the temple complex on Palgongsan’s hillside, offering peaceful scenery and cultural stops.
Airports
How to reach Daegu by plane.
A compact, modern airport serving domestic flights and a limited number of international routes; well connected to the city by bus and taxi.
Main regional gateway for the southeast; about 1–2 hours from Daegu by rail or road; broad international and domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group with a growing proportion of students and professionals.
Universities attract international students; foreign residents from China, Southeast Asia, and Western countries live in Daegu.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Samsung Lions draw local crowds to baseball games; a popular family-friendly sport in Daegu.
Daegu FC competes in the K League 1, attracting dedicated local supporters.
A traditional Korean sport with active clubs and competitions in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Daegu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many traditional dishes center on meat; look for bibimbap, tofu stews, vegetable jjigae, and dishes labeled with ‘yachae’ (vegetable) options; ask for no seafood broth and request plant-based accompaniments when possible.