Gyeongju, South Korea: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Gyeongju, South Korea? If you're planning to go to Gyeongju, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Gyeongju, South Korea

Based on the climate and weather in Gyeongju, South Korea, the best time to go is June. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Gyeongju, South Korea

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Gyeongju, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Gyeongju, South Korea by month

January

In January, Gyeongju can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Gyeongju, with several of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 50%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gyeongju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Take care to pick the right type. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit a temple, such as Bunhwangsa Temple, wear:

If you go to Gyerim Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Gyeongju is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain about half of the time. It also snows sometimes. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 50% to 50% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gyeongju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Take care to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

If you visit a temple, such as Bunhwangsa Temple, wear:

If you go to Gyerim Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

In March, Gyeongju can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Gyeongju, with several of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gyeongju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Ensure that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Bunhwangsa Temple, wear:

If you go to Gyerim Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in Gyeongju is crisp and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gyeongju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

If you visit a temple, such as Bunhwangsa Temple, wear:

If you go to Gyerim Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May in Gyeongju is balmy and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gyeongju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Check that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you visit a temple, such as Bunhwangsa Temple, wear:

If you go to Gyerim Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in Gyeongju is warm and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) to 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gyeongju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Ensure that you pick the correct type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Bunhwangsa Temple, wear:

If you go to Gyerim Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July in Gyeongju is hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gyeongju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Take care to get the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

If you visit a temple, such as Bunhwangsa Temple, wear:

If you go to Gyerim Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Gyeongju is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gyeongju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. It's important that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Bunhwangsa Temple, wear:

If you go to Gyerim Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September here is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gyeongju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Make sure to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit a temple, such as Bunhwangsa Temple, wear:

If you go to Gyerim Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you visit Gyeongju during October, you are likely to see that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gyeongju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. It's important that you find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you visit a temple, such as Bunhwangsa Temple, wear:

If you go to Gyerim Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Gyeongju is crisp and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gyeongju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Make sure to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Bunhwangsa Temple, wear:

If you go to Gyerim Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

In December, Gyeongju can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Gyeongju, with several of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 50%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Korea has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gyeongju. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types F. Make sure to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit a temple, such as Bunhwangsa Temple, wear:

If you go to Gyerim Forest, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Gyeongju, South Korea

Gyeongju is a beautiful city located in the southeastern region of South Korea. It was once the capital of the Silla dynasty, which ruled from the 7th to the 9th century. Today, Gyeongju is known for its rich history, beautiful scenery, and stunning architecture. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Gyeongju that you shouldn't miss.

1. Bulguksa Temple

Bulguksa Temple is one of the most famous temples in South Korea and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple was built in the 8th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Korean Buddhist architecture. The temple is home to numerous pagodas, statues, and temples, making it a must-visit attraction in Gyeongju.

2. Seokguram Grotto

Another UNESCO World Heritage site in Gyeongju is the Seokguram Grotto. The grotto is a man-made cave temple that was built in the 8th century. The grotto is known for its beautiful Buddha statue and is considered one of the most important Buddhist shrines in Korea.

3. Anapji Pond

Anapji Pond is a beautiful garden complex that was built during the Silla dynasty. The garden is home to several artificial ponds, pavilions, and beautiful walking paths. The garden is a spectacular place to visit and is especially beautiful at night when it is lit up with light.

4. Cheomseongdae Observatory

Cheomseongdae Observatory is the oldest existing astronomical observatory in East Asia. The structure was built during the reign of Queen Seondeok in the 7th century and is an impressive architectural feat. Visitors can climb to the top of the observatory for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

5. Gyeongju National Museum

The Gyeongju National Museum is a must-visit attraction for history lovers. The museum is home to an extensive collection of artifacts from the Silla dynasty, including pottery, sculptures, and jewelry. The museum also has several permanent exhibitions that chronicle the rise and fall of the Silla dynasty.

6. Yangdong Folk Village

Yangdong Folk Village is a traditional Korean village that is home to several historic buildings from the Joseon dynasty. Visitors can explore the winding streets and admire the beautiful traditional architecture. The village is also surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a great place to take a leisurely stroll or hike.

7. Mt. Namsan

Mt. Namsan is a beautiful mountain located in the outskirts of Gyeongju. The mountain is known for its stunning scenery, hiking trails, and cultural heritage. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain for stunning views of the surrounding landscape or explore the many temples and shrines located on the mountain.

In conclusion, Gyeongju is a city full of rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient temples, beautiful gardens, or traditional Korean villages, Gyeongju has something for everyone. So, make sure to add this beautiful city to your next travel itinerary and experience the best of South Korea's rich cultural heritage.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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