Main Direction and Purpose of Itinerary: To explore the historical landmarks in Seoul and immerse in South Korea’s rich culture for 10 days.
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction
– Check-in at the Grand Hyatt Seoul (approx. $300/night) and freshen up
– Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang, a renowned restaurant serving Korean ginseng chicken soup (approx. $20)
– Visit the Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest palace in Seoul that was built in 1395 (approx. $3)
– Watch a traditional Korean performance at the National Theater of Korea (approx. $15)
Day 2: Art and Culture
– Breakfast at Café Mamas, a cozy café with a view of Namsan Tower (approx. $15)
– Visit the National Museum of Korea and explore Korean art and history (free admission)
– Lunch at Namdaemun Market and try Korean street food (approx. $10)
– Visit the Bukchon Hanok Village, a preserved traditional Korean village (free admission)
– Dinner at Apgujeong Rodeo Street, a trendy shopping and dining street (approx. $30)
Day 3: Shopping and Entertainment
– Breakfast at Paul & Paulina, a French bakery in Gangnam (approx. $10)
– Shopping at Myeong-dong, a bustling shopping district with popular Korean brands (varies)
– Lunch at Gwangjang Market, a traditional market with a variety of Korean food (approx. $15)
– Explore the neighborhoods of Gangnam and Nonhyeon-dong for K-pop attractions (free)
– Korean BBQ dinner at Maple Tree House (approx. $30)
Day 4: Mountains and Temples
– Breakfast at Morning Glory, a coffee shop with a rooftop terrace with a view of Namsan Tower (approx. $15)
– Visit Namsan Park and hike up to Namsan Tower (approx. $10)
– Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang, a renowned restaurant serving Korean ginseng chicken soup (approx. $20)
– Visit the Jogyesa Temple, a beautiful temple in the heart of Seoul (free)
– Dinner at Insadong, a district with traditional Korean restaurants (approx. $20)
Day 5: History and Museums
– Breakfast at Koi Dessert Café, a café with beautiful desserts inspired by Korean culture (approx. $10)
– Visit the War Memorial of Korea and learn about the Korean War (free admission)
– Lunch at Tongin Market and try Korean traditional dosirak (approx. $10)
– Visit the Seodaemun Prison History Hall and learn about Korean history (approx. $5)
– Dinner at Noryangjin Fish Market and try fresh seafood (approx. $30)
Day 6: Theme Parks and Nightlife
– Breakfast at Bongwonsa Temple, a temple with a view of the city (free)
– Visit Lotte World, a theme park with indoor and outdoor rides (approx. $40)
– Lunch at Myeong-dong Gyoja, a traditional Korean restaurant famous for its noodles (approx. $10)
– Explore the nightlife at Hongdae, a trendy district with clubs and live music (free)
– Dinner at Gwangjang Market and try traditional Korean street food (approx. $15)
Day 7: Day Trip to Suwon
– Breakfast at Café Bene, a cozy café with a variety of coffee and desserts (approx. $10)
– Day trip to Suwon and visit the Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site (approx. $5)
– Lunch at Nolboo Budaejjigae, a popular Korean restaurant serving army stew (approx. $10)
– Visit the KBS Drama Center and learn about Korean dramas (free admission)
– Dinner at Suwon Galbi, a traditional Korean barbecue restaurant (approx. $30)
Day 8: Palaces and Garden
– Breakfast at A TWOSOME PLACE, a café with a view of Gyeongbokgung Palace (approx. $10)
– Visit the Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful garden (approx. $5)
– Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang, a renowned restaurant serving Korean ginseng chicken soup (approx. $20)
– Visit the Naksan Park and enjoy the view of the city (free)
– Dinner at Insadong, a district with traditional Korean restaurants (approx. $20)
Day 9: Han River and Gangnam
– Breakfast at Daelim Changgo Gallery Café, a café with a view of the Han River (approx. $15)
– Take a ferry tour on the Han River and enjoy the scenery (approx. $20)
– Lunch at COEX Mall and explore the largest underground shopping center in Asia (varies)
– Visit the Gangnam Finance Center Observatory and enjoy a panoramic view of Seoul (approx. $15)
– Dinner at Hongdae and try Korean street food (approx. $15)
Day 10: Final Day
– Breakfast at Maison de Paris, a café with a variety of croissants and coffee (approx. $10)
– Visit the Seoul Museum of Art and explore Korean art (free admission)
– Lunch at Gwangjang Market and try traditional Korean street food (approx. $15)
– Buy souvenirs at Insa Art Space and Insa-dong street (varies)
– FAQ section:
1. How do I get around Seoul?
– Seoul has a well-connected public transportation system, including subway, bus, and taxi. You can purchase T-money cards at convenience stores or subway station for convenient traveling.
2. Can I use a credit card in Seoul?
– Yes, most places in Seoul accept credit cards. It’s best to bring some cash just in case.
3. What’s the best time to visit Seoul?
– The best time to visit Seoul is spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) when the weather is mild.
4. Is it safe to travel in Seoul?
– Yes, Seoul is a safe city for travelers. However, be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas.
Total approximate cost: $1,650 (excluding airfare and shopping expenses)
