Daegu Itinerary: Top Things to See, Do, and Experience in Daegu South Korea
Daegu is an interesting and exciting city and the fourth largest urban area in South Korea. If you are planning a trip to South Korea don’t forget to add Daegu to your travel itinerary. There really is so much to see and enjoy. The people are warm and friendly – but as the city doesn’t get hoards of tourists (yet) there is still a wonderfully traditional and authentically Korean vibe here – so I recommend you see and experience Daegu while you can and before it becomes a tourist destination trend!
When most travellers plan a trip to South Korea, they immediately think of visiting Seoul’s bustling streets and Busan’s beaches. But on route between Seoul and Busan is Daegu – so it’s an easy stop off from the KTX train.
You can take the KTX from Busan and Daegu to Seoul train or visa vera!
You can experience a Daegu day trip but I recommend you stay a minimum of two days to experience Daegu more fully.
I happen to know Daegu very well – having visited many times – as my son (who is an English teacher) and his family have lived in Daegu for almost twelve years. And, each time I travel to Daegu I always find something interesting and different to see or do in and around Daegu.
So, I’ll be your personal Daegu City Guide and let me produce for you a fabulous Daegu Itinerary!
Daegu is known for its rich cultural heritage, thriving fashion and textile industry, beautiful temples, and easy access to nature. I consider it to be ‘truly authentic Korean experience’ .
So, whether you’re seeking city life, fabulous Korean BBQ, delicious street food, a lively night market or a place to experience spiritual tranquillity, Daegu should be on your Korea itinerary.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Daegu Itinerary: Top Things to See, Do, and Experience in Daegu South Korea
- DAEGU ITINERARY
- SUGGESTED 2-DAY DAEGU ITINERARY
- THINGS YOU MIGHT LIKE TO KNOW ABOUT DAEGU
- WHY DAEGU BELONGS ON YOUR SOUTH KOREAN ITINERARY
FIND YOUR PERFECT PLACE TO STAY IN DAEGU
DAEGU ITINERARY
1. Start at Seomun Market (서문시장)
The oldest and largest traditional market in the whole of Korea, Seomun Market is a sensory feast. With over 4,000 stalls, it’s the place to sample local street foods like (my favourite) kimchi in all its glorious varieties. Plus flat dumplings (napjak mandu), tteokbokki, and mayak gimbap. By night, the market transforms into a buzzing food alley, making it a must for foodies.
2. Explore Donghwasa Temple (동화사)
For a serene escape, head to Donghwasa Temple, located on the slopes of Palgongsan Mountain. The temple is famous for its huge stone Buddha statue, peaceful walking paths, and centuries-old halls. Travellers can opt to join a temple stay here to experience meditation, tea ceremonies, and the rhythms of monastic life.
See my full post on Dongawasa Temple and watch my video to feel the spiritual vibe!
3. Take in Views from Apsan Park (앞산공원)
I love Apsan Park because it offers some of the best panoramic views of Daegu. You can hike up or take the cable car for a quicker trip to the top. The lookout point is especially stunning at sunset, when the city lights begin to twinkle against the surrounding mountains.
Read my full post on Aspan Mountain – including how to get there and what to do and see!
4. Visit The War Museum (낙동강승전기념관)
At the base of Apsan Mountain and in the park there is the Nakdong River Victory Memorial Hall (War Museum). Daegu played an important role in Korea’s modern history, especially during the Korean War and post-war recovery. This war museum is interesting and informative and preserves the memory of those who fell in the Korean War.
5. Shop and Stroll in Dongseongno Street (동성로)
This is my favourite place to shop in South Korea. I love to see the latest trends and stock up on K-Beauty products. If you love fashion, beauty, and vibrant nightlife, Dongseongno is Daegu’s youthful heart. Lined with shops, cafés, and entertainment, it’s often compared to Myeongdong in Seoul but with a more relaxed feel.
6. Discover Nature at Palgongsan (팔공산)
A short trip outside the city (I take the bus) to Palgongsan Mountain is a hiker’s paradise. Again, for those who don’t want to walk, there is a cable car to take you effortlessly to the top. In autumn, the trails are blanketed with fiery red and gold leaves, while spring brings cherry blossoms. Along the trails you’ll find ancient temples, stone Buddhas, and peaceful hermitages.
See my full post on Palgongsan Mountain and see my photos in all seasons.
7. Visit Duryu Park (두류공원)
My favourite spot in Daegu to see the blossoms in cherry blossom season. The 40-acre Duryu Park is a great place to wander and to relax but the park also offers many activities. Take a photo at the colourful Daegu sign. Duryu Park is right next door to E-World and The Daegu Tower!
See my full post on Duryu Park as it has so much to offer the visitor.
8. Have Fun at E-World (이월드)
For thrill-seekers and families, E-World is Daegu’s biggest amusement park. With roller coasters, rides, seasonal light shows, and themed festivals, it’s a fun way to spend a day. At night, the park comes alive with colourful illuminations, making it especially popular for couples. There are many spots to take photos for sharing with family and friends and the gram!
9. Admire the City from Daegu Tower (83 Tower, 83타워)
Located inside E-World, Daegu Tower (also known as 83 Tower) stands as the city’s most iconic landmark. Head up to the observation deck for panoramic views of Daegu by day or night. There’s also a revolving restaurant, a sky lounge, and seasonal exhibitions.
10. Experience Daegu’s Festivals
Time your visit with one of Daegu’s UNESCO music and cultural festivals. Daegu International Opera Festival (디에구 국제오페라축제) is a event focusing on opera performances. Jeongwol Daeboreum (대보름) festival is celebrated on the first full moon of the lunar calendar. Daegu Colorful Festival (대구 컬러풀 페스티벌) is a vibrant festival with street performances. There are also food and drink festivals. The Daegu Chimac Festival (대구 치맥 페스티벌) celebrating chicken and beer – draws crowds every summer in early July. While the Daegu Yangnyeongsi Herbal Medicine Festival showcases the city’s historic role in traditional Korean medicine.
SUGGESTED 2-DAY DAEGU ITINERARY
Day 1: Tradition & Culture
Morning: Visit Donghwasa Temple for history and peace.
Afternoon: Hike or take the cable car at Apsan Park.
Evening: Explore Seomun Market for dinner and the lively night market atmosphere.
Day 2: Modern Fun & City Life
Morning: Shop and explore Dongseongno Street.
Afternoon: Spend the day at E-World and go up Daegu Tower for city views.
Evening: Enjoy local food at Seomun or check if a festival is happening during your stay.
(If you have an extra day, add Palgongsan Mountain for hiking and temples).
THINGS YOU MIGHT LIKE TO KNOW ABOUT DAEGU
- Daegu is famously known as “Apple City,” as its climate is ideal for producing high-quality apples.
- Daegu lies in a basin surrounded by mountains in the Yeongnam region of South Korea. This unique topography makes Daegu very cold in winter and very hot and humid in summer – earning it the local nickname of ‘Daefrica’ – a play on Daegu plus Africa.
- Daegu’s summer heat is not just talk. In 2015 and again in 2023, viral reports and photos showed that Daegu’s intense summer temperatures caused traffic cones to melt.
- During the 1960s to 1980s, Daegu’s was known as a ‘textile capital’ and an economic powerhouse for South Korea’s fashion industries. This legacy is preserved in places like the Daegu Textile Museum.
- Daegu’s Seomun Market is the oldest and largest traditional market in Korea, with roots dating back to the Joseon period. It offers a massive selection of goods and delicious street food.
- Daegu is the hometown of famous K-pop stars and pop idols including Suga and V from BTS, along with other celebrities, like actress Song Hye-kyo.
- Daegu Tower – also known as The 83 Tower is an iconic symbol of Daegu and offers an incredible view of the entire city. The tower has 83 floors and has a revolving restaurant and Sky Lounge,
- Daegu is well-connected to Seoul, Busan, and other parts of the country by KTX high-speed rail, intercity buses, and a subway system.
- Daegu is a UNESCO City of Music, hosting several renowned festivals, including the Daegu International Opera Festival and the Daegu International Musical Festival.
- Daegu’s Jeongwol Daeboreum (대보름) festival is celebrated on the first full moon of the lunar calendar and involves burning a “daljib” (달집) of straw to ward off bad luck while stomping on the ground.
- Daegu has several universities and is known for its support for international students, offering scholarships and accommodations. Including Kyungpook National University and two highly regarded private universities, Keimyung University and Yeungnam University. Yeungnam University is also in Gyeongsan like Daegu University.
WHY DAEGU BELONGS ON YOUR SOUTH KOREAN ITINERARY
From vibrant markets and historic temples to mountain hikes, amusement parks, and the best city views at Daegu Tower, the city delivers a well-rounded experience that combines Korea’s past and present. Whether you’re here for one, two, or a few days, or using it as a base to explore the southeast, Daegu offers a unique slice of Korean culture you won’t want to miss.
Are you planning a trip to South Korea?
Have you ever visited Daegu?
Have I convinced you to add Daegu to your Korean Travel Itinerary?
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