Things To Do
in Daegu
Daegu, South Korea is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional markets. It is famous for its textile and fashion industries, earning it the nickname "Fashion City." Daegu is surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers numerous hiking opportunities.
The city is also known for hosting an annual international marathon attracting runners from all over the world.
- "안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
- "고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
- "실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)" - Excuse me
- "죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
- "얼마예요? (eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $6 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early by visiting the ancient Daegu Yangnyeongsi Herbal Medicine Museum. Discover traditional Korean medicine and stroll through the nearby herbs market.
Head to the Daegu National Museum to explore fascinating exhibits on Korean history and culture. Enjoy a leisurely walk at the nearby Duryu Park afterward.
Visit the lively Dongseongro Shopping District for dinner and shopping. Try local delicacies at one of the many street food stalls.
Begin with a visit to the picturesque Apsan Park for a morning hike and stunning views of Daegu. Take a cable car or enjoy the trails to the summit.
After your hike, unwind by visiting the 83 Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views. Grab lunch at a nearby café featuring local cuisine.
Spend your evening at the Daegu Art Museum to admire contemporary art exhibitions. End your day dining at a traditional Korean BBQ restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites, including ancient temples and traditional markets.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger South Korean cities like Seoul.
- Vibrant local cuisine, including famous dishes like Daegu-style spicy rice cake.
- Good transportation network, making it easy to commute within the city and to nearby regions.
- Pleasant climate with four distinct seasons.
- Fewer international business opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Limited English proficiency among locals, which can be a barrier for foreign residents.
- Less vibrant nightlife compared to major cities like Seoul or Busan.
- Air pollution can be an issue during certain seasons.
- Some amenities and services may not be as developed as in bigger urban centers.
Best Activities in Daegu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the scenic views and beautiful nature while hiking the trails of Apsan Park, which offers a range of difficulty levels for hikers of all abilities.
Explore the stunning landscapes and cultural sites at Palgongsan, known for its picturesque temples and natural beauty.
Immerse yourself in the diverse plant life at the Daegu Arboretum, a peaceful and educational outdoor experience perfect for nature lovers.
Tours
Uncover the best of Daegu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Daegu
Visit one of these nice places.
Apsan Park offers a stunning panoramic view of Daegu city and is a popular spot for taking memorable photos.
Duryu Park features a beautiful observation tower that provides a picturesque view of the cityscape, especially during sunset.
E-World 83 Tower offers a bird's eye view of Daegu, including its iconic amusement park and the surrounding area.
Food in Daegu
Daegu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local dish from the nearby city of Andong, Andong Jjimdak features braised chicken and various vegetables in a savory soy-based sauce, often served with glass noodles. One of the best places to try this dish is at Andong Gu Market.
Must-Try!
Makchang, or grilled pork intestines, is a beloved local specialty. You can savor this dish at Seomun Market, where numerous stalls offer it with a variety of seasonings.
Sulbing is a popular Korean dessert, particularly during warmer months. This shaved ice treat comes in a variety of flavors, with the mango and injeolmi (soybean powder) options being a crowd favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
As one of the largest markets in Daegu, Seomun Market offers a wide array of street food options, including tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), twigim (assorted deep-fried snacks), and makchang. It's an ideal place to immerse yourself in the local street food culture.
This bustling street food alley is nestled in the heart of Daegu's downtown area. Here, you can sample various Korean street foods such as hotteok (sweet pancakes), gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and odeng (fish cake skewers).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Daegu, it is important to show respect to elders by using honorific language and bowing as a sign of courtesy.
When dining in Daegu, it is customary to wait for the eldest or most senior person to start eating before beginning your meal.
It is considered polite to remove your shoes when entering someone's home in Daegu as a sign of respect for the cleanliness of the household.
Safety
Tipping in Daegu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Daegu, Korea, South. It is not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries.
Payment in Daegu, Korea, South is predominantly done using cash, credit cards, and mobile payment methods such as Samsung Pay and Apple Pay. It is customary to pay for goods and services immediately at the time of purchase, and tipping is not expected as part of the payment process.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Daegu, with pleasant weather and cherry blossoms in bloom. Expect mild temperatures and vibrant spring flora.
Warm and humid weather, with occasional rain. Expect lively summer festivals and outdoor activities.
Cool and comfortable weather, with colorful autumn foliage. Expect various cultural events and harvest festivals.
Cold weather, occasionally with snowfall. Expect winter sports, traditional holiday celebrations, and unique cultural experiences.
Daegu at Night
Hiking in Daegu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking area located within the city, featuring well-maintained trails, scenic views of Daegu, and a cable car for a quick ascent.
A beautiful mountain range that offers various trails with stunning views, including the famous Donghwasa Temple and the impressive rock formations.
Known for its diverse flora and fauna, Biseulsan offers a range of hiking paths suitable for different skill levels and provides breathtaking natural scenery.
Offers peaceful trails with a combination of gentle paths and steep climbs, ideal for hikers looking for a less crowded experience.
Features well-marked trails and panoramic views of the surrounding area. It's a great option for family hikes and nature lovers.
Aiports
How to reach Daegu by plane.
The largest international airport in South Korea, located about 50 kilometers west of Seoul, it is a major hub for international flights.
Located in Seoul, Gimpo International Airport is the second largest airport in South Korea, serving both domestic and international flights.
Situated in Busan, about 90 kilometers from Daegu, this airport serves as a major gateway for travelers to and from the southeastern region of South Korea.
Although further away, Jeju International Airport is a significant airport on Jeju Island, popular for international flights, especially from neighboring countries.
Located directly in Daegu, it serves both domestic and limited international flights, being the closest airport to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Daegu, making up the majority of the population.
Individuals from various countries working in industries such as manufacturing and construction.
Young individuals enrolled in numerous educational institutions, including universities and language schools.
A significant portion of the population is aged 65 and older, reflecting the aging demographic.
Families formed between Korean citizens and foreigners, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Daegu, with a strong local following and several clubs, including the Daegu FC, which competes in the K League.
Baseball enjoys a significant fan base in Daegu, home to the Samsung Lions, one of the prominent teams in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO).
Basketball is widely played and followed in Daegu, supported by the local team, the Daegu Korean Air Jumpers, which competes in the Korean Basketball League.
Volleyball is a popular sport in Daegu, both in professional settings and among amateurs, with local leagues and events held regularly.
Taekwondo, a traditional Korean martial art, is widely practiced in Daegu, with numerous dojos and schools promoting this discipline.
Rugby is gaining popularity in Daegu, with local clubs and schools promoting the sport and encouraging youth participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Daegu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Korean cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Daegu now offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Look for places that serve Bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables), Kimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and Dubu (tofu) dishes for satisfying options.
Finding gluten-free options in Daegu may be more challenging, as soy sauce and other wheat-based ingredients are prevalent in Korean cooking. However, some international restaurants and cafes in the city center may offer gluten-free choices.