Direction and Purpose of Itinerary: This itinerary is for a 5-day trip to Seoul that explores the city’s modern architecture. The purpose is to immerse ourselves in the unique and contemporary buildings and structures that Seoul has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Seoul’s Modern Architecture
– Check-in at Hotel A in Gangnam-gu, a centrally located area in Seoul (approx. cost: $80/night)
– Lunch at Cafe Mamas located in Itaewon, an eclectic neighborhood (approx. cost: $20)
– Visit DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza), a futuristic structure designed by Zaha Hadid, known for its unique and innovative architecture (approx. travel time: 40 minutes via subway; cost: $1.50/person)
– Dinner at Sinyongsan Sky Lounge, which offers a breathtaking view of the city and modern architecture from above (approx. cost: $30)
Day 2: Exploring the Core of the City’s Modern Architecture
– Breakfast at Poop Cafe, a quirky cafe located in the heart of Gangnam-gu (approx. cost: $15)
– Visit the Seoul Olympic Stadium which was used for the 1988 Summer Olympics and has been renovated in recent years with modern designs and features (approx. travel time: 40 minutes via bus; cost: $1/person)
– Lunch at the Seoul Tower Observatory where you can enjoy the view of Seoul’s skyline and surrounding modern architecture (approx. cost: $20)
– Afternoon visit to the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul, which showcases Korean and international contemporary art and architecture (approx. travel time: 30 minutes via subway; cost: $1.50/person)
– Dinner at the Mingles Restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Korean cuisine (approx. cost: $50)
Day 3: Seoul’s Skyscrapers and Contextual Design Elements
– Breakfast at Gallery LUSSO located in Gangnam-gu, a trendy district known for its modern design (approx. cost: $20)
– Visit the Seoul City Hall which is a modern and environmentally friendly building that integrates the surrounding design elements of the city (approx. travel time: 20 minutes via subway; cost: $1.50/person)
– Lunch at the Signiel Seoul, located on the 79th floor of the Lotte World Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world that boasts a breathtaking view of the city (approx. cost: $60)
– Afternoon visit to the Starfield COEX Mall, a modern shopping center with a unique wave-like architecture (approx. travel time: 30 minutes via subway; cost: $1.50/person)
– Dinner at the MVRDV-designed Daelim Warehouse Complex, a contemporary art gallery with an industrial-like design (approx. cost: $40)
Day 4: Contemporary Museums and Artistic Neighborhoods
– Breakfast at Scandina Cafe located in the artistic neighborhood of Hongdae (approx. cost: $10)
– Visit the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art, a modern museum that showcases Korean traditional art alongside modern and international art (approx. travel time: 30 minutes via subway; cost: $1.50/person)
– Lunch at the Hanilkwan Restaurant, known for its traditional Korean dishes with a modern twist (approx. cost: $20)
– Afternoon visit to Sewoon Sangga, a 6-story commercial complex in the heart of Seoul that features unique modern architecture and local shops (approx. travel time: 20 minutes via subway; cost: $1.50/person)
– Dinner at the Invisible Bar, a modern bar with an industrial design located in the hip neighborhood of Itaewon (approx. cost: $40)
Day 5: Last Day to Explore the Seoul’s Modern Architecture Scene
– Breakfast at Bread Blue, a modern bakery located in Gangnam-gu (approx. cost: $10)
– Visit the Seoul Forest Park, a vast park with modern pavilions and buildings, as well as ecological sustainable designs (approx. travel time: 20 minutes via subway; cost: $1.50/person)
– Lunch at the Le Musée de Sens Unique, a modern art museum and restaurant (approx. cost: $30)
– Afternoon visit to the IFC Mall, a modern and luxurious shopping center that features an innovative design (approx. travel time: 20 minutes via subway; cost: $1.50/person)
– Dinner at the Modern Society Restaurant, known for its new style of contemporary Asian cuisine (approx. cost: $50)
FAQs:
1. What is the weather like in Seoul during the time of the trip?
– The best time to go to Seoul for modern architecture is during September to November when the weather is mild and comfortable, and ideal for visiting outdoor places.
2. Are there any clothing recommendations for the trip?
– It is advisable to pack comfortable clothing and shoes that are suitable for walking and exploring indoors and outdoors.
3. Are the places recommended in this itinerary child-friendly?
– Some places on this itinerary may not be suitable for children, but there are still many family-friendly activities in Seoul.
4. What are some other activities that can be included in the itinerary?
– There are many other modern and contemporary architecture landmarks and museums in Seoul, such as the NHN Green Factory, the Hyundai Card Music Library+, and the Floating Island Convention Center.
