Purpose: To experience the rich Korean culture and explore the beautiful city of Seoul in a span of five days.
Day 1:
– Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and watch the changing of the guards ceremony [Transportation: Subway – Line 3, exit 5 (Gyeongbokgung station) / Price: KRW 3,000 (entrance fee)]
– Have lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang, a restaurant famous for its ginseng chicken soup [Transportation: Subway – Line 3, exit 2 (Gyeongbokgung station) / Price: KRW 15,000]
– Explore Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village with over 900 traditional houses [Transportation: Subway – Line 3, exit 2 (Anguk station) / Price: Free]
– Continue the cultural immersion and watch a traditional Korean performance at the Jeongdong Theater [Transportation: Subway – Line 1, exit 4 or 5 (City Hall station) / Price: KRW 40,000]
Accommodation recommendation: Four Points by Sheraton Seoul, Namsan [Price: Starting from KRW 180,000/night]
Day 2:
– Take a morning hike up to Namsan Tower and enjoy the stunning view of the city [Transportation: Cable car (KRW 9,000 round trip) or on foot (free) / Approximate travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes]
– Have lunch at Myeongdong Kyoja, a restaurant famous for its handmade Korean noodles [Transportation: Subway – Line 4, exit 10 (Myeongdong station) / Price: KRW 10,000]
– Shop for skincare and beauty products at Myeongdong, a bustling shopping district [Transportation: Subway – Line 4].
– Visit the Korean War Memorial Museum and pay tribute to the soldiers who fought for the country [Transportation: Subway – Line 4, exit 12 (Samgakji station) / Price: Free]
Day 3:
– Take a day trip to the nearby city of Suwon and visit the Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site [Transportation: Subway – Line 1, Suwon station, then take a local bus or taxi to Hwaseong Fortress / Approximate travel time: 1 hour / Price: KRW 3,000 (entrance fee)]
– Have lunch at Suwon Galbi, a famous restaurant for its grilled beef ribs [Transportation: Local bus or taxi / Price: KRW 30,000]
– Visit the KBS Suwon Drama Center, a popular filming location for Korean dramas [Transportation: Subway – Line 1, Suwon station / Approximate travel time: 25 minutes / Price: KRW 5,000 (entrance fee)]
Day 4:
– Take a morning stroll at the Hangang Park and enjoy the view of the Han River [Transportation: Subway – Line 2, Yeouinaru station, exit 2 / Price: Free]
– Have lunch at Palsaek Samgyupsal, a restaurant famous for its pork belly in eight different flavors [Transportation: Subway – Line 2, Hongik University station, exit 9 / Price: KRW 15,000]
– Visit the National Museum of Korea and learn more about the country’s rich history [Transportation: Subway – Line 4, Ichon station, exit 2 / Price: Free]
Day 5:
– Take a morning hike at the Bukhansan National Park and enjoy the scenic view [Transportation: Subway – Line 3, Gupabal station, then take bus no. 704 to the Bukhansan National Park entrance / Approximate travel time: 1 hour / Price: Free]
– Have lunch at Gwangjang Market, the oldest traditional market in Seoul, and try their famous bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) [Transportation: Subway – Line 1 or 2, Jongno 5-ga station, exit 7 / Price: KRW 5,000]
– Visit the Seoul City Hall and take a free tour inside the building [Transportation: Subway – Line 1 or 2, City Hall station, exit 1 / Price: Free]
Hotel recommendation: InterContinental Seoul COEX [Price: Starting from KRW 230,000/night]
FAQs:
1. Do I need to know Korean to get around Seoul?
– While knowing Korean is helpful, it is not necessary as most signs and maps are available in English. Google Maps and subway apps are also available in English.
2. What is the best time to visit Seoul?
– The best time to visit is during spring (April to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
3. Is Seoul an expensive city?
– It can be expensive, but there are also many affordable options for food and accommodation.
4. Is public transportation in Seoul reliable?
– Yes, public transportation in Seoul is reliable and efficient, making it easy to get around the city. Taxis are also readily available.
5. What are some other day trip options from Seoul?
– Other day trip options include visiting the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), Everland (amusement park), and the Nami Island.
