3-Day Essential Jeju

Perfect first-time visit covering the must-see highlights of Jeju Island

UNESCO SitesMountain HikingLocal CultureTraditional Food

Itinerary Overview

This carefully crafted 3-day itinerary covers Jeju's most iconic attractions, from volcanic wonders to cultural treasures. Perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience the island's highlights.

1

Arrival & Eastern Wonders

Start your Jeju adventure with iconic eastern attractions and local culture

2

Natural Wonders & Mountain Adventure

Explore Jeju's unique geological features and tackle the famous Hallasan Mountain

3

Coastal Beauty & Departure

Explore stunning coastal attractions and underground wonders before departure

Day by Day

Day 1

Arrival & Eastern Wonders

Start your Jeju adventure with iconic eastern attractions and local culture

09:00
1 hour
logistics
Arrival at Jeju International Airport

Land in paradise and get your bearings. Pick up your rental car or arrange transport to your accommodation.

πŸ“ Jeju International Airport
πŸ’‘ Insider Tips:
  • β€’Exchange currency at the airport
  • β€’Pick up a SIM card or pocket WiFi
  • β€’Download translation apps
11:00
2 hours
culture
Check-in & Jeju City Exploration

Check into your accommodation and take a quick tour of Jeju City. Visit the traditional Dongmun Market for local snacks.

πŸ“ Jeju City Center
πŸ’‘ Insider Tips:
  • β€’Try hotteok (sweet pancakes)
  • β€’Sample fresh citrus fruits
  • β€’Pick up souvenirs
14:00
3 hours
nature
moderate
Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak

Climb this UNESCO World Heritage volcanic crater for spectacular coastal views. The hike takes about 30-40 minutes each way.

πŸ“ Seongsan-eup
πŸ’‘ Insider Tips:
  • β€’Wear comfortable hiking shoes
  • β€’Bring water and snacks
  • β€’Best photos from the crater rim
17:30
1.5 hours
culture
Haenyeo Museum & Cultural Experience

Learn about Jeju's famous female divers and their UNESCO-recognized traditions at this fascinating museum.

πŸ“ Seongsan
πŸ’‘ Insider Tips:
  • β€’Watch the diving demonstration if available
  • β€’Great photo opportunities
  • β€’Learn about sustainable fishing
19:30
2 hours
dining
Dinner at Local Seafood Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood caught by haenyeo divers. Try abalone porridge or sea urchin soup - Jeju specialties!

πŸ“ Seongsan area
πŸ’‘ Insider Tips:
  • β€’Make reservations in advance
  • β€’Try local makgeolli (rice wine)
  • β€’Ask for recommendations from locals

Day 2

Natural Wonders & Mountain Adventure

Explore Jeju's unique geological features and tackle the famous Hallasan Mountain

07:00
1 hour
logistics
Early Start to Hallasan National Park

Drive to Hallasan National Park for an early start on South Korea's highest peak. Choose between Seongpanak or Gwaneumsa trails.

πŸ“ Hallasan National Park
πŸ’‘ Insider Tips:
  • β€’Pack plenty of water and snacks
  • β€’Check weather conditions
  • β€’Start early to avoid crowds
08:00
6-8 hours
nature
challenging
Hallasan Mountain Hike

Hike to Baengnokdam crater lake at the summit (1,947m). The Seongpanak trail is longer but easier, while Gwaneumsa is shorter but steeper.

πŸ“ Hallasan Summit
πŸ’‘ Insider Tips:
  • β€’Bring layers - it gets cold at the top
  • β€’Photography gear for stunning views
  • β€’Download offline maps
16:00
2 hours
rest
Rest & Recovery

Return to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest. Take a hot shower and relax your muscles.

πŸ“ Your accommodation
πŸ’‘ Insider Tips:
  • β€’Stretch to prevent soreness
  • β€’Hydrate well
  • β€’Consider a convenience store meal
18:30
2 hours
dining
Traditional Jeju Black Pork BBQ

Celebrate your mountain conquest with Jeju's famous black pork BBQ. The meat is known for its exceptional flavor and tenderness.

πŸ“ Jeju City
πŸ’‘ Insider Tips:
  • β€’Order extra banchan (side dishes)
  • β€’Try it with local vegetables
  • β€’Pair with soju for authentic experience

Day 3

Coastal Beauty & Departure

Explore stunning coastal attractions and underground wonders before departure

09:00
2 hours
nature
Manjanggul Lava Tube Cave

Explore one of the world's longest lava tube caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site with impressive rock formations.

πŸ“ Gimnyeong-ri
πŸ’‘ Insider Tips:
  • β€’Bring a light jacket - it's cool inside
  • β€’Wear non-slip shoes
  • β€’Follow the designated path
12:00
2 hours
beach
Hamdeok Beach

Relax at one of Jeju's most beautiful beaches with crystal-clear emerald waters and white sand.

πŸ“ Hamdeok
πŸ’‘ Insider Tips:
  • β€’Perfect for photos
  • β€’Try local beachside snacks
  • β€’Bring swimwear if weather permits
15:00
2 hours
shopping
Souvenir Shopping & Traditional Market

Pick up last-minute souvenirs at Dongmun Traditional Market. Try local street food and buy Jeju specialties.

πŸ“ Jeju City
πŸ’‘ Insider Tips:
  • β€’Hallabong oranges make great gifts
  • β€’Try bungeoppang (fish-shaped pastry)
  • β€’Haggle politely at market stalls
17:30
1.5 hours
logistics
Departure Preparation

Return to your accommodation, pack up, and head to the airport for your departure.

πŸ“ Airport
πŸ’‘ Insider Tips:
  • β€’Check flight status
  • β€’Arrive at airport 2 hours early
  • β€’Don't forget duty-free shopping

Practical Information

πŸ’° Budget Estimate

Accommodation (3 nights):β‚©50,000-100,000 per night
Meals (per day):β‚©30,000-50,000 per day
Transportation:β‚©40,000-60,000 (rental car for 3 days)
Attractions:β‚©20,000-30,000 total
Total per person:β‚©420,000-690,000 per person

πŸš— Transportation

Recommended:

Rental car for maximum flexibility

Alternative:

Combination of buses and taxis

Tips:
  • β€’International driving permit required
  • β€’GPS navigation recommended
  • β€’Gas stations are frequent

🏨 Accommodation

Recommended Areas:
  • β€’Jeju City for central location
  • β€’Near Seongsan for eastern attractions
  • β€’Beach hotels for morning views
Types:
  • β€’Hotels
  • β€’Guesthouses
  • β€’Pension-style accommodations

Ready for More?

Want a longer adventure? Check out our 5-day and 7-day itineraries for deeper exploration