Travel Plan: 7-day Seoul Shopping Districts
Welcome to Seoul, the bustling and vibrant capital city of South Korea. This travel plan is specifically designed for those who are interested in shopping and exploring the famous shopping districts in Seoul. During your seven days here, you will explore several famous shopping areas, eat traditional Korean cuisine, visit famous landmarks, and immerse yourself in Korean culture. Here is your itinerary for the next seven days.
Day 1: Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace
Hotel Recommendation: Four Points by Sheraton Seoul, Myeongdong
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 30 minutes
Approximate Cost: KRW 2,000
Morning: Start your day by visiting the historical Bukchon Hanok Village. This area is home to hundreds of traditional Korean houses, or hanoks, that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. Take a leisurely stroll down the winding alleys and appreciate the traditional architecture.
Lunch: Head over to Gyeongbokgung Palace, which is just a short walk from Bukchon Hanok Village. The palace was built in 1395 and is the largest and most grandiose palace in Korea. Watch the changing of the guard ceremony and explore the beautiful grounds.
Dinner: For dinner, try out some traditional Korean cuisine like bulgogi, bibimbap, and Korean BBQ at Palsaik Samgyeopsal located in Myeongdong.
Day 2: Gangnam District
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 20 minutes
Approximate Cost: KRW 2,000
Morning: Start your day by visiting COEX, which is the largest underground shopping mall in Asia. The mall has over 300 stores, a movie theater, aquarium, and convention center.
Lunch: Next, head over to Garosu-gil located in the trendy Gangnam district. The street is lined with stylish cafes, boutique shops, and restaurants.
Afternoon: Visit Cheongdam-dong, one of the most upmarket shopping areas in Seoul. Here you’ll find designer boutiques, luxury brands, and flagship stores.
Dinner: For dinner, head over to Itaewon for some international cuisine. This area is home to many foreigner-friendly bars and restaurants.
Day 3: Insadong and Myeongdong
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 15 minutes
Approximate Cost: KRW 2,000
Morning: Visit Insadong, a traditional neighborhood filled with antique shops, art galleries, and tea houses. Try some traditional Korean tea at one of the tea houses.
Lunch: Move onto Myeongdong, one of the busiest and most popular shopping destinations in Seoul. The area is filled with cosmetics shops, fashion stores, and street food vendors.
Afternoon: Head over to Namsan Tower, which offers a beautiful panoramic view of the city.
Dinner: For dinner, try some Korean fried chicken at Kyochon Chicken in Myeongdong.
Day 4: Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 20 minutes
Approximate Cost: KRW 2,000
Morning: Visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza, which is a beautiful and unique building designed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid. The plaza hosts several fashion and design exhibitions, art shows, and cultural events.
Lunch: Head over to the famous food alley, Mukja Golmok, located nearby Dongdaemun. The alley is filled with Korean street food vendors and small restaurants.
Afternoon: Explore the shopping district of Dongdaemun, which is open 24 hours and is known for its textile and fashion markets.
Dinner: For dinner, try some spicy food at Supyo-gol Jokbal located in Dongdaemun.
Day 5: Hongdae
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 30 minutes
Approximate Cost: KRW 2,000
Morning: Visit the Trick Eye Museum, which is an innovative 3D art museum in Hongdae.
Lunch: After the museum, try some fusion cuisine at Vatos Urban Tacos located in the heart of Hongdae.
Afternoon: Explore the fashionable neighborhood of Hongdae, which is known for its street art, cafes, and boutique shops.
Dinner: For dinner, try Korea’s famous fried chicken and beer combo at Kkanbu Chicken.
Day 6: COEX Mall and Bongeunsa Temple
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 20 minutes
Approximate Cost: KRW 2,000
Morning: Start your day by visiting COEX Mall again, this time to visit the aquarium that houses over 40,000 marine animals.
Lunch: After the aquarium, visit the nearby Bongeunsa Temple, which is a famous Buddhist temple situated in the heart of Seoul. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at the temple.
Afternoon: Head back to COEX Mall to visit SM Town, a K-pop idol museum. Explore the history of K-pop and see memorabilia from famous artists.
Dinner: For dinner, try some traditional Korean samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) at Tosokchon Samgyetang.
Day 7: Namdaemun and Gwangjang Market
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 10 minutes
Approximate Cost: KRW 2,000
Morning: Start your day by visiting Namdaemun Market, which is the largest traditional market in Korea. Here you can find all kinds of souvenirs, food items, and clothing.
Lunch: Next, head over to Gwangjang Market located nearby. This market is famous for its street food vendors and traditional Korean food stalls.
Afternoon: Take a walk along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, which is a beautiful urban park located in the middle of the city.
Dinner: For dinner, try some delicious Korean grilled pork belly at 8 Color Pork Belly in Myeongdong.
FAQs:
Q: How do I get around Seoul?
A: The most convenient and affordable way to get around Seoul is by subway. The subway system is modern, efficient, and easy to navigate.
Q: Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of?
A: Bowing is a common form of greeting in Korea, especially when meeting someone for the first time. Also, it’s customary to take off your shoes when entering someone’s home or a traditional Korean restaurant.
Q: What should I wear in Seoul?
A: Seoul has very distinct seasons, so it’s important to dress appropriately. In the summer, light and comfortable clothing is recommended, while in the winter, warm clothing is essential.
Q: Is it safe to travel solo in Seoul?
A: Yes, Seoul is generally a safe city for solo travelers. However, it’s always important to take necessary precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and not carrying too much cash or valuables.
Q: What are some souvenirs I can buy in Seoul?
A: Some popular souvenirs from Seoul include Korean cosmetics, Hanbok (traditional Korean clothing), Korean snacks, and K-pop merchandises.
