Travel Plan for 7-day Seoul Historical Landmarks
Direction/Purpose: This itinerary aims to showcase the historical landmarks of Seoul, South Korea in seven days. It will provide convenient and cost-effective transportation options, recommended hotels, and full-day activities that immerse travelers in the city’s rich history.
Day 1: Arrival and Gyeongbokgung Palace
Transportation: Take the AREX train from Incheon airport to Seoul Station (approx. 45 mins, $7). From there, take the subway to Gyeongbokgung Station (approx. 20 mins, $1).
Hotel: 9 Brick Hotel near Gyeongbokgung Palace
Activities:
– Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (admission fee: KRW 3,000)
– Watch the changing of the guard ceremony
– Explore the National Folk Museum of Korea (free admission) and learn about Korean history and culture
Food:
– Lunch: Try some bibimbap at Gogung in Gyeongbokgung Palace
– Dinner: Enjoy traditional Korean dishes at Myeongdong Kyoja in Myeongdong (approx. 30 mins by subway, $2)
Day 2: Bukchon Hanok Village and Namsan Tower
Transportation: Take the subway from Gyeongbokgung Station to Anguk Station (approx. 10 mins, $1)
Activities:
– Visit Bukchon Hanok Village and take a stroll through the traditional Korean houses and alleys
– Visit Changdeokgung Palace and its secret garden
– Walk up to the Namsan Tower for a panoramic view of the city (admission fee: KRW 10,000)
Food:
– Lunch: Grab some Korean fried chicken at Kkanbu Chicken in Bukchon Hanok Village
– Dinner: Try some local cuisine at Poom Seoul in Myeongdong (approx. 30 mins by subway, $2)
Day 3: National Museum of Korea and War Memorial of Korea
Transportation: Take the subway from Gyeongbokgung Station to Ichon Station (approx. 25 mins, $1.50)
Activities:
– Visit the National Museum of Korea (free admission) and learn about Korea’s rich history
– Visit the War Memorial of Korea (free admission) and learn about Korea’s journey through war and peace
Food:
– Lunch: Savor some Korean-style hot pot at Jinju Jip in Ichon
– Dinner: Try some delicious Korean barbecue at Seorae Galmaegi in Gangnam (approx. 30 mins by subway, $2)
Day 4: Jongmyo Shrine and Seoul Station Area
Transportation: Take the subway from Gyeongbokgung Station to Jongno 3(sam)-ga Station (approx. 15 mins, $1)
Activities:
– Visit the Jongmyo Shrine (admission fee: KRW 1,000) and learn about the royal ancestral rituals of the Joseon Dynasty
– Explore Insadong, a cultural and shopping district
Food:
– Lunch: Enjoy some traditional Korean cuisine at Sanchon in Insadong
– Dinner: Check out the street food at Gwangjang Market in Seoul Station (approx. 20 mins by subway, $1.50)
Day 5: Lotte World and Banpo Hangang Park
Transportation: Take the subway from Gyeongbokgung Station to Jamsil Station (approx. 40 mins, $1.50)
Activities:
– Spend the day at Lotte World indoor and outdoor amusement park (admission fee: KRW 57,000)
– Watch the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show at night
Food:
– Lunch: Grab a quick bite at McDonald’s in Lotte World or have some Korean-style fast food at Lotteria
– Dinner: Try some Korean-style Italian fusion cuisine at Vapiano in Jamsil (approx. 15 mins by subway, $1)
Day 6: Seodaemun Prison History Hall and Hongdae Area
Transportation: Take the subway from Gyeongbokgung Station to Seodaemun Station (approx. 30 mins, $1.50)
Activities:
– Visit the Seodaemun Prison History Hall (admission fee: KRW 5,000) and learn about Korea’s independence movement under Japanese colonial rule
– Explore the Hongdae area, a trendy neighborhood known for its street art, shops, and restaurants
Food:
– Lunch: Try some Korean-style beef soup at Hadongkwan in Myeongdong
– Dinner: Enjoy some Korean-style fusion tacos at Coreanos Kitchen in Hongdae
Day 7: Changgyeonggung Palace and Myeongdong Area
Transportation: Take the subway from Gyeongbokgung Station to Hyehwa Station (approx. 25 mins, $1.50)
Activities:
– Visit Changgyeonggung Palace (admission fee: KRW 1,000) and its beautiful gardens
– Shop and eat in Myeongdong, a busy shopping district
Food:
– Lunch: Try some Korean-style rice noodles at Jinmi Sikdang in Hyehwa
– Dinner: Savor some Korean-style seafood pancake at Gwangjang Market in Seoul Station (approx. 20 mins by subway, $1.50)
FAQs:
1. Is it safe to travel in Seoul?
Seoul is generally a safe city, and travelers should feel comfortable moving around the city. However, like any other city, it is essential to be aware of one’s surroundings and take the necessary precautions to stay safe.
2. What is the best time to visit Seoul?
The best time to visit Seoul is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is mild and enjoyable. The summer can be hot and humid, while the winters can be bitterly cold.
3. What is the preferred mode of transportation in Seoul?
The subway and buses in Seoul are efficient and affordable, making them the preferred mode of transportation for most travelers.
4. Can I use my credit card in Seoul?
Yes, most major credit cards are widely accepted in Seoul. However, it is recommended to carry some cash for small transactions and street food stalls.
5. What is a good souvenir to buy in Seoul?
Some great souvenirs to buy in Seoul include Korean ginseng, traditional Korean pottery, K-pop merchandise, and Korean beauty products.
