Things To Do
in Yeosu
Yeosu is a beautiful coastal city located in the southern part of South Korea. It is known for its picturesque beaches, stunning sunsets, and vibrant marine culture. Yeosu is home to the famous Yeosu Expo Park, which showcases various exhibitions and cultural events.
Overall, Yeosu offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities for visitors to enjoy.
- "안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
- "감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)" - Thank you
- "죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
- "네 (Ne)" - Yes
- "아니요 (Aniyo)" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic walk at Yeosu's beautiful coastal promenade. Enjoy the views of the ocean and the surrounding islands.
Visit the Yi Sun-sin Square and learn about the hero of the naval battle. Grab lunch at a local seafood restaurant to taste fresh catches.
Take a ferry ride to nearby islands for stunning sunset views. Dine at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying the cooling evening breeze.
Explore the historic Hyangiram Hermitage, nestled on the cliffs. Experience the tranquility of the temple while overlooking the sea.
Head to the Yeosu Maritime Cable Car for breathtaking aerial views of the town. Visit the nearby Yeosu Aquarium to see fascinating marine life.
Stroll through the Yeosu Night Market bursting with local street food. Try delicacies like spicy fish stew and tteokbokki under the twinkling lights.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites
- Vibrant seafood market with fresh local cuisine
- Various recreational activities, including water sports and hiking
- Host of the 2012 World Expo, enhancing international recognition
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
- Tourist seasons can lead to crowded attractions
- Vulnerability to typhoons and severe weather events
- Economic reliance on tourism can lead to seasonal fluctuations
- Potential language barrier for non-Korean speakers
Best Activities in Yeosu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic beauty and tranquility of Hyangiram Hermitage, located on a small peninsula with stunning ocean views. Ideal for hiking and appreciating nature.
Take a ride on the Yeosu Maritime Cable Car for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, coastline, and surrounding islands. Perfect for photography and enjoying the landscape.
Visit Dolsan Park to enjoy beautiful walking trails, gardens, and stunning views of the Dolsan Bridge, especially at sunset. A great spot for picnicking and leisurely walks.
Take a short boat ride or walk to Odongdo Island, famous for its camellia flowers, scenic paths, and picturesque lighthouse. A great destination for hiking and birdwatching.
Relax and unwind at Yeosu Beach, where you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachside activities. The beach is also great for family outings and water sports.
Visit Gwangdeokjeong Pavilion located on a cliffside with stunning ocean views. A perfect spot for historical exploration and enjoying nature.
Experience a beautiful sunset at Jinju Bridge, perfect for evening strolls and capturing memorable photographs with the backdrop of the illuminated bridge and water.
Tours
Uncover the best of Yeosu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Yeosu
Visit one of these nice places.
A serene Buddhist temple perched on a cliff offering panoramic views of the sea and surrounding islands, particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset.
A scenic cable car ride that provides breathtaking views of the coastline, islands, and the vibrant city of Yeosu from above.
A beautiful park located on Dolsan Island, featuring walking trails and lookout points that boast spectacular views of the Dolsan Bridge and the ocean.
A boat tour around Yeosu’s coastal waters that offers unique angles of the city skyline, beaches, and nearby islands, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
A small island accessible by boat, known for its picturesque landscapes and calm waters, ideal for photography, especially at sunset.
A well-maintained area with various pavilions and structures, providing modern architectural backdrops against stunning ocean views.
An observation tower that offers a 360-degree view of Yeosu, the surrounding islands, and the distant mountains, great for capturing panoramic photographs.
A hiking spot that allows for a challenging trek leading to rewarding views over the city and harbor, perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Food in Yeosu
Yeosu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy and savory dish made from raw crabs marinated in soy sauce, ideal for seafood enthusiasts. Try it at Gejang Alley, a famous area in Yeosu dedicated to this dish.
Must-Try!
A daring dish comprising small live octopus pieces seasoned with sesame oil. You can savor this unique delicacy at numerous seafood restaurants along the coastline.
A crispy pancake filled with fresh oysters, green onions, and a savory batter. Look for local seafood eateries and markets like Jinnamgwan Market to enjoy this dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Yeosu better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this vibrant market to sample a wide array of fresh seafood, including grilled fish, sashimi, and seafood pancakes. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the famous Yeosu-style sannakji (live octopus).
This historic market is a treasure trove of local delights, offering an assortment of fresh seafood, street food such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and traditional Korean snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When greeting someone in Yeosu, a bow is a common gesture of respect. Handshakes are also acceptable, especially in business contexts. It is polite to greet the eldest person first in a group setting.
Wait for the host to begin eating before you start. It is customary to use both hands when handing or receiving items, such as food or drinks, and do not stick your chopsticks upright in a rice bowl, as this resembles a funeral rite.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or traditional sites. It's advisable to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, showing respect for local customs and cultural values.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Yeosu with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Yeosu
Ensure a smooth experience
In Yeosu, South Korea, tipping is not a customary practice and is generally not expected in most service situations, such as restaurants or taxis. Service providers often rely on their wages rather than tips. However, in some high-end establishments or tourist areas, rounding up bills or providing small tips may be appreciated, though it remains uncommon.
Payment methods in Yeosu include cash, credit cards, and mobile payment systems. While cash remains widely used, many establishments, including restaurants and shops, accept credit cards. Mobile payment options like Samsung Pay and KakaoPay are also popular among locals. Foreign tourists should be aware that some smaller vendors may not accept credit cards, so carrying some cash is advisable.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Yeosu.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (April to June) is one of the best times to visit Yeosu. The weather is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Cherry blossoms bloom during this time, providing beautiful scenery. Visitors can enjoy various festivals, including the Yeosu Cherry Blossom Festival.
Summer (July to August) in Yeosu can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This is the peak tourist season due to the beautiful beaches and coastal activities. Expect large crowds and vibrant nightlife, but be prepared for occasional typhoons.
Autumn (September to November) is another favorable time to visit Yeosu. The weather cools down, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and the foliage changes colors, creating picturesque landscapes. Autumn offers clear skies and is less crowded than summer, making it ideal for sightseeing.
Winter (December to February) is relatively mild in Yeosu compared to other regions in Korea, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Though it may not be the most popular season for tourists, visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the area, and there are fewer crowds. Additionally, winter festivals and local seafood can be experienced during this time.
Yeosu at Night
Hiking in Yeosu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park on Dolsan Island with walking trails and beautiful coastal views.
Located on the cliffs, this hiking spot offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding islands.
A popular hiking destination featuring various trails with diverse flora and fauna.
Offers challenging trails and panoramic views of Yeosu and the surrounding area.
A scenic coastal trail that stretches along the shoreline with stunning ocean views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Yeosu through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Yeosu by plane.
Located approximately 70 kilometers from Yeosu, Gwangju International Airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Situated around 80 kilometers from Yeosu, Muan International Airport offers international flights along with domestic connections.
Located about 410 kilometers from Yeosu, Kimpo International Airport is one of the primary international airports serving Seoul and features a wide range of international flights.
Approximately 450 kilometers from Yeosu, Incheon International Airport is the largest airport in South Korea and serves as a major international gateway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Yeosu, comprising the majority of the population.
Includes migrants from various countries, primarily engaged in construction and fisheries.
Students from other countries attending educational institutions in Yeosu.
Older adults, often retired, who constitute a significant portion of the population.
The Soul of Yeosu
Discover the essence of Yeosu through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Yeosu, with several local teams and a strong fan base.
Soccer draws large crowds in Yeosu, featuring local tournaments and community support for the sport.
Basketball is widely played and enjoyed in Yeosu, with many schools and parks having courts available for practice and games.
Volleyball, both indoor and beach, is popular among locals, particularly during the warmer months along the coast.
Given its coastal location, swimming is a favored recreational activity in Yeosu, with various swimming competitions held throughout the year.
As a traditional Korean martial art, Taekwondo is practiced widely in Yeosu, with many dojos offering classes for various age groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yeosu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is dominant in Yeosu, some restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian dishes like bibimbap (mixed rice) and vegetable-based jeon (pancake). In addition, vegan-friendly restaurants in Yeosu provide plant-based alternatives and tofu-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy rice-based dishes such as bibimbap, grilled seafood, and rice cakes. Many eateries in Yeosu also offer gluten-free versions of traditional dishes upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Yeosu with these cultural adventures.