Travel Plan for a 3-day Seoul Korean Culture Trip
Purpose: To experience Korean culture and cuisine in Seoul
Day 1: Exploring the city center and traditional markets
– Breakfast at a local cafe near your hotel (approx. $10)
– Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (9 am – 5 pm, closed on Tuesdays) – take subway line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station (approx. 30 mins, $1.20) and walk for 10 mins (entrance fee: $3)
– Walk along the traditional Insadong culture street and have lunch at a Korean barbecue restaurant (approx. $20) – take a short taxi to the restaurant (approx. 10 mins, $5)
– Visit Namdaemun Market and Myeong-dong shopping district for some souvenirs and street food (approx. $10) – take subway line 4 to Hoehyeon Station (approx. 20 mins, $1)
– Dinner at a traditional Korean restaurant, such as Min’s Club (approx. $30) – take a taxi to the restaurant (approx. 15 mins, $10)
– Return to your hotel for a good night’s rest
Hotel recommendation: Four Points by Sheraton Seoul, Namsan (approx. $250/night)
Day 2: Admiring the city views and learning Korean history
– Breakfast at a famous bakery, such as Tous les Jours (approx. $10) – take taxi to the bakery (approx. 15 mins, $10)
– Hike up to the top of Namsan Mountain to visit N Seoul Tower for panoramic city views (9 am – 11 pm) – take a shuttle bus from your hotel (approx. 15 mins, $5 round trip)
– Have a light lunch at the Sky Terrace restaurant in N Seoul Tower (approx. $15)
– Visit the National Museum of Korea to learn about Korean history and culture (9 am – 6 pm, closed on Mondays) – take subway line 4 to Ichon Station and transfer to Gyeongui-Jungang Line to Ichon Station (approx. 30 mins, $2)
– Dinner at a trendy restaurant, such as Hanilkwan (approx. $30) – take a taxi to the restaurant (approx. 30 mins, $15)
– Return to your hotel for a good night’s rest
Hotel recommendation: JW Marriott Hotel Seoul (approx. $350/night)
Day 3: Immersing in Korean art and food
– Breakfast at your hotel’s buffet (included)
– Visit the National Palace Museum of Korea to see ancient Korean art and artifacts (9 am – 6 pm, closed on Tuesdays) – take subway line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station (approx. 30 mins, $1.20) and walk for 5 mins (entrance fee: $5)
– Have lunch at a fusion Korean restaurant, such as Jungsik (approx. $40) – take a taxi to the restaurant (approx. 20 mins, $10)
– Visit the trendy Gangnam district for some shopping and coffee time (approx. $20) – take subway line 3 to Gangnam Station (approx. 30 mins, $1.50)
– Dinner at a Michelin-starred Korean restaurant, such as Mingles (approx. $80) – take a taxi to the restaurant (approx. 20 mins, $15)
– Return to your hotel for a good night’s rest
Hotel recommendation: Grand Hyatt Seoul (approx. $300/night)
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Seoul?
– The best time to visit is during spring (March – May) or fall (September – November) for mild weather and colorful foliage.
2. Do I need a visa to enter Seoul?
– It depends on your nationality. Please check with your embassy or consulate for information on visa requirements.
3. What is the local currency in Seoul?
– The local currency is Korean won (KRW). Many places also accept credit cards, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
4. What is the best way to get around Seoul?
– The best way to get around is by subway or bus. Taxis are also readily available but can be more expensive. Purchase a T-money card at any convenience store for easy and convenient transportation.
5. Can I use English to communicate in Seoul?
– Yes, many people in Seoul speak English. However, it’s always helpful to learn some basic Korean phrases for polite communication.
