Purpose: This 5-day itinerary is designed for travelers who want to immerse themselves in Seoul’s rich history and culture. This itinerary will take you to some of the most iconic historical landmarks in the city and introduce you to Korean traditions and customs.
Day 1: Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village
– Breakfast at Gogung in Gyeongbokgung Palace ($15)
– Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (2-3 hours, $3.50 entrance fee)
– Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the palace
– Lunch at Samcheongdong Kalguksu ($10)
– Take a stroll around the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village (1-2 hours)
– Take a break at a Korean traditional tea house, Osulluc Tea House ($10)
– Dinner at Tosokchon Samgyetang ($15)
– Stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul ($300/night)
Day 2: Changdeokgung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine
– Breakfast at Namdo Sikdang ($10)
– Visit Changdeokgung Palace (2-3 hours, $3.50 entrance fee)
– Walk around the secret garden at Changdeokgung (1-2 hours, $5.50 entrance fee)
– Lunch at Gwangjang Market ($10)
– Visit Jongmyo Shrine (1-2 hours, $3 entrance fee)
– Take a traditional Korean cooking class at O’ngo Food Communications ($60)
– Dinner at Palsaek Samgyeopsal ($20)
– Stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
Day 3: Namsangol Hanok Village and Namsan Tower
– Breakfast at the hotel
– Visit Namsangol Hanok Village (1-2 hours, free entrance)
– Visit Namsan Tower (2-3 hours, $9 entrance fee)
– Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang ($15)
– Visit the National Museum of Korea (2-3 hours, free entrance)
– Dinner at Myeongdong Kyoja ($10)
– Stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
Day 4: War Memorial of Korea and Seoul Fortress Wall
– Breakfast at the hotel
– Visit the War Memorial of Korea (2-3 hours, free entrance)
– Lunch at Gogung in Gyeongbokgung Palace ($15)
– Walk along the Seoul Fortress Wall (1-2 hours, free)
– Visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (1-2 hours)
– Dinner at Gwangjang Market ($10)
– Stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
Day 5: Noryangjin Fish Market and Gangnam District
– Breakfast at Isaac Toast ($5)
– Take a morning visit to Noryangjin Fish Market (1-2 hours)
– Lunch at Jinju Hoegwan ($10)
– Visit the COEX Mall (2-3 hours)
– Dinner at Hanilkwan ($30)
– Stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
FAQs:
– What is the best time of year to visit Seoul for historical landmarks?
Spring (April and May) and Fall (September and October) are the best times to visit as the weather is mild and comfortable.
– Are there any tips for navigating public transportation in Seoul?
Yes, the T-Money card is an essential transportation card in Seoul. It can be used for subways, buses, and taxis. You can purchase and recharge T-Money at convenience stores and subway stations.
– What should I expect when visiting traditional Korean hanok villages?
Expect to see traditional Korean-style houses and experience traditional Korean culture and customs. Many hanok villages have souvenir shops, tea houses, and guest houses as well.
– Are there any traditional Korean dishes that I should try while in Seoul?
Yes, you should try bibimbap, samgyetang, bulgogi, and kimchi jjigae. These are some of the most popular and traditional Korean dishes.
