Direction: The purpose of this travel plan is to provide a comprehensive 7-day itinerary for exploring the cultural and traditional aspects of Seoul, South Korea. The plan will include recommendations for accommodations, dining, transportation, and activities.
Day 1:
– Arrive at Incheon International Airport and take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul Station. (Approximate travel time: 45 minutes, price: ~$7 USD).
– Check into Hotel Skypark Myeongdong 3, which is a cozy and convenient hotel located in the heart of Seoul.
– Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang, a famous restaurant known for its traditional Korean chicken soup. (Price: ~$20 USD).
– Head to Gyeongbokgung Palace for a traditional Changing of the Guard ceremony at 2 pm. (Price: ~$3 USD).
– Visit the National Folk Museum of Korea, a museum dedicated to the folk history and culture of Korea. (Price: Free)
– Dinner at Myeongdong Kyoja, a famous restaurant serving Korean-style noodles. (Price: ~$15 USD).
Day 2:
– Breakfast at Gwangjang Market, the oldest traditional market in Seoul. It is famous for its street food, and you can try bindaetteok, Korean-style pancakes made of mung bean paste. (Price: ~$5 USD)
– Visit Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village that showcases the architecture of the Joseon Dynasty, and try hanbok, the traditional Korean dress. (Price: ~$5 USD to rent a hanbok)
– Lunch at Gamcheon Sikdang, a Korean restaurant famous for its bibimbap. (Price: ~$8 USD)
– Take the cable car to Namsan Seoul Tower, a famous tourist attraction that offers panoramic views of Seoul. (Price: ~$8 USD for the cable car)
– Dinner at Korean BBQ restaurant Maple Tree House. (Price: ~$20 USD)
Day 3:
– Visit the Jongmyo Shrine, the royal ancestral shrine of the Joseon Dynasty. (Price: ~$3 USD)
– Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang or Gwangjang Market. (Price: ~$15 USD)
– Visit the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art, a museum dedicated to contemporary art and traditional Korean art. (Price: ~$10 USD)
– Explore the Garosu-gil neighborhood, known for its trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants.
– Dinner at Palsaik Korean BBQ, a restaurant famous for its eight-flavor pork belly. (Price: ~$20 USD)
Day 4:
– Visit the DMZ, the demilitarized zone that separates North and South Korea. Take a tour and visit the Third Tunnel or the Joint Security Area. (Price: ~$60 USD per person)
– Late lunch at Nolboo Hangari Galbi, a Korean BBQ restaurant located near the DMZ. (Price: ~$20 USD)
– Return to Seoul and relax at a traditional Korean spa, such as Dragon Hill Spa. (Price: ~$15 USD)
– Dinner at Pojang Macha, a street food stand known for its delicious food carts. (Price: ~$10 USD)
Day 5:
– Visit the Yeouido Hangang Park, where you can rent a bike and explore the Han River. (Price: ~$10 USD)
– Lunch at artisanal toast cafe Arco. (Price: ~$10 USD)
– Take a guided tour of the Grevin Seoul Wax Museum, which features wax figures of celebrities and Korean historical figures. (Price: ~$15 USD)
– Visit the COEX Mall, one of the largest underground malls in Asia.
– Dinner at Korean restaurant 938 Reggae Chicken. (Price: ~$15 USD)
Day 6:
– Visit the National Museum of Korea, which showcases Korean history and culture. (Price: Free)
– Lunch at the famous Korean beef restaurant Hanwoo Banjeom. (Price: ~$40 USD)
– Take a stroll through the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a restored urban waterway that runs through downtown Seoul.
– Visit the Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market, where you can buy fresh seafood and have it cooked on the spot. (Price: ~$20 USD)
– Dinner at Italian restaurant La Tavola, located in the Gangnam district. (Price: ~$30 USD)
Day 7:
– Visit the traditional Gwangjang Market for some final shopping and street food. (Price: ~$5 USD)
– Lunch at trendy restaurant Playground, located in the trendy neighborhood of Hannam-dong. (Price: ~$15 USD)
– Take a tour of the Blue House, the official residence of the South Korean President. (Price: Free)
– Enjoy coffee and dessert at Cafe Daelim, a stylish cafe located in the heart of Seoul.
– Dinner at Korean restaurant Jinju Hoegwan, known for its spicy mixed seafood stew. (Price: ~$20 USD)
FAQs:
Q: How do I get around in Seoul?
A: The best way to get around Seoul is by taking the subway or bus. Both modes of transportation are affordable and efficient.
Q: What is the best time to visit Seoul?
A: The best time to visit Seoul is during spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and comfortable.
Q: Are there any specific cultural customs I should be aware of when visiting Seoul?
A: When visiting traditional Korean sites or attractions, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering. Also, it is important to be respectful of Korean culture by using proper etiquette, such as bowing to elders and removing your hat indoors.
Q: Can you recommend any other hotels in Seoul?
A: Yes! Other recommended hotels in Seoul include:
– Lotte Hotel Seoul
– Grand Ambassador Seoul Associated with Pullman
– The Westin Chosun Seoul
– Grand Hyatt Seoul.
