Things To Do
in Yeosu
Yeosu is a picturesque coastal city in South Jeolla Province known for its archipelagic backdrop and panoramic sea views. It blends a relaxed island-town vibe with modern waterfront developments and historic sites. Iconic spots like Odongdo Island, Dolsan Park, and Yi Sun-sin Plaza anchor the waterfront experience.
Visitors can savor ultra-fresh seafood and enjoy sunset horizons across the sparkling bay.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Yeosu Airport and take a scenic shuttle bus to your accommodations overlooking the ocean. After checking in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café with beautiful views of the harbor. Spend some time exploring the charming streets of Yeosu, soaking in the warm coastal vibe.
Visit the Yeosu Maritime Cable Car for breathtaking aerial views of the coastline and islands. After descending, head to the Hyangiram Hermitage, a beautiful temple perched on a cliff that offers spiritual tranquility and stunning ocean vistas. Take your time to explore the serene surroundings and capture memorable photographs.
Dine at a local seafood restaurant, enjoying fresh catches that reflect the region's rich maritime culture. Stroll along the Yeosu naval port as the sunset paints the sky in brilliant hues, creating a picturesque backdrop. Top off the evening with a visit to the Yeosu Night Market, sampling street food and local delicacies.
After breakfast, take a short ferry ride to Odongdo Island, known for its beautiful camellia flowers and coastal pathways. Spend your morning strolling through the island's picturesque paths, surrounded by vibrant flora and the sound of waves crashing against the shore. Don’t forget to visit the lighthouse for panoramic views of the sea.
Return to Yeosu for lunch, then head to the Yeosu National Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. Explore various exhibitions, including artifacts from ancient times and contemporary art. After the museum, walk along the waterfront promenade to enjoy the fresh breeze and lively atmosphere.
Take your time exploring the area around the Yeosu Expo, and find a cozy restaurant for dinner. As night falls, witness the beautiful lighting of the Expo site, which creates a magical ambiance along the waterfront. Relax at a nearby café, savoring a warm beverage and reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍜Street food snack | $1-4 |
| 🚌Public transportation per ride | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and islands
- Delicious seafood and fresh produce
- Compact, walkable city with easy access to nature
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Can be crowded in peak tourist season
- Some attractions require ferries or short detours
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "얼마에요?" - How much is this?
- "메뉴판 주세요" - Please give me the menu
- "화장실 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Yeosu
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush camellia groves and coastal paths that glow in soft light, ideal for nature and harbor photography.
Cliffside vantage points and a striking bridge offer dramatic ocean panoramas, especially at sunset.
Modern architecture and reflective water features create compelling urban-waterfront shots.
Open promenade with views across the bay, ferries, and soft evening light.
Food in Yeosu
Yeosu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A colorful bowl of rice topped with a variety of fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables, finished with gochujang sauce.
Must-Try!
Fresh crab cured in a soy-based marinade; a coastal specialty widely enjoyed along the southern coast.
Simple, smoky whole grilled mackerel served with salt, sesame oil, and dipping sauces.
Rice sizzling in a hot stone pot with vegetables, egg, and gochujang for a crisp bottom layer.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market offering fresh seafood, vegetables, and affordable street bites.
Early-morning stalls with the catch of the day; try sashimi-style bites and steamed shellfish.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite language and deference toward elders is appreciated in daily interactions.
Shoes should be removed when entering homes or certain traditional eateries and temples.
Safety
Tipping in Yeosu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most Korean restaurants; rounding up the bill or small tips in tourist areas is appreciated but not expected.
Cards are widely accepted; cash is handy in markets. Mobile payments and local apps are commonly used across shops and taxis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with occasional monsoon rains and typhoon risk. Pack sunscreen, light clothing, and hydration; enjoy evening seafood markets and waterfront breezes.
Mild temperatures and clear skies make it ideal for outdoor activities, coastal walks, and photography with golden-hour light.
Cool but generally mild by Korean standards; windy conditions along the coast. Layered clothing is recommended; seafood remains a staple comfort.
Temperatures warm gradually; blooming trees and flowers create excellent photo opportunities around Odongdo and the harbor.
Yeosu at Night
Hiking in Yeosu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate coastal hike with expansive bay views and a lighthouse panorama.
Easy loop along the coast with sea views and camellia groves.
Rugged cliffside paths near the temple offering dramatic ocean outlooks.
Airports
How to reach Yeosu by plane.
Domestic flights and limited international routes; quick access to central Yeosu.
Regional airport with broader domestic connections; about 1.5–2 hours by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Korean nationals with a growing presence of visitors and expatriates due to tourism.
Long-standing coastal communities supporting a seafood-centric economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local and school leagues; occasional games open to the public.
Community clubs and casual matches in parks and school fields.
Sailing, kayaking, and fishing are common along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yeosu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist at many places, but some broths and fish-based sauces are common. Look for vegetable dishes, tofu-based bowls, rice bowls, and clear broths; ask for no fish stock or meat broth.