Direction/Purpose: A 10-day travel plan for exploring traditional markets in Seoul, South Korea.
Day 1:
Mode of Transportation: Take the airport express train to Seoul Station
Approximate Travel Time: 1 hour
Approximate Cost: $9 USD
Hotel Recommendation: Four Points by Sheraton Seoul Namsan
Activities:
– Explore Namdaemun Market, one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Seoul
– Visit Namsangol Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village with preserved buildings and cultural activities
– Enjoy traditional Korean cuisine at Gogung in Myeong-dong
Approximate Cost of Activities and Meals: $50 USD
Day 2:
Mode of Transportation: Take Seoul Metro Line 3 to Express Bus Terminal Station
Approximate Travel Time: 40 minutes
Approximate Cost: $1.5 USD
Activities:
– Shop for souvenirs at Express Bus Terminal Underground Shopping Center
– Visit Banpo Hangang Park, a riverside park with scenic views and walking trails
– Try Korean-style fried chicken at Kyochon Chicken in Itaewon
Approximate Cost of Activities and Meals: $40 USD
Day 3:
Mode of Transportation: Take a taxi to Gwangjang Market
Approximate Travel Time: 30 minutes
Approximate Cost: $10 USD
Activities:
– Explore Gwangjang Market, known for street food and traditional Korean clothing
– Visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a futuristic building with exhibitions and cultural events
– Taste Korean-style seafood at Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market
Approximate Cost of Activities and Meals: $60 USD
Day 4:
Mode of Transportation: Take Seoul Metro Line 4 to Hyehwa Station
Approximate Travel Time: 30 minutes
Approximate Cost: $1.5 USD
Activities:
– Visit Ihwa Mural Village, a neighborhood with colorful murals and street art
– Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most famous palace in Seoul
– Dine at Tosokchon Samgyetang, known for its traditional Korean chicken soup
Approximate Cost of Activities and Meals: $50 USD
Day 5:
Mode of Transportation: Take a taxi to Tongin Market
Approximate Travel Time: 20 minutes
Approximate Cost: $7 USD
Activities:
– Try traditional Korean snacks at Tongin Market, where visitors can use old coins to buy food
– Visit Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful gardens
– Enjoy Korean barbecue at Maple Tree House in Itaewon
Approximate Cost of Activities and Meals: $70 USD
Day 6:
Mode of Transportation: Take Seoul Metro Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station
Approximate Travel Time: 20 minutes
Approximate Cost: $1.5 USD
Activities:
– Explore Insadong, a neighborhood known for traditional crafts and tea shops
– Visit Seoul Museum of History, exhibiting the city’s history and culture
– Experience authentic Korean bibimbap at Gogung in Insa-dong
Approximate Cost of Activities and Meals: $50 USD
Day 7:
Mode of Transportation: Take a taxi to Seoul Folk Flea Market
Approximate Travel Time: 30 minutes
Approximate Cost: $10 USD
Activities:
– Shop for vintage and antique items at Seoul Folk Flea Market
– Visit Bukchon Hanok Village, a preserved traditional Korean village
– Enjoy Korean-style fried rice at Jeonju Jungang Hoekwan in Myeong-dong
Approximate Cost of Activities and Meals: $60 USD
Day 8:
Mode of Transportation: Take Seoul Metro Line 2 to Sindang Station
Approximate Travel Time: 20 minutes
Approximate Cost: $1.5 USD
Activities:
– Try tteokbokki, Korean spicy rice cakes, at Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town
– Visit Naksan Park, a hilltop park with panoramic views of Seoul
– Savor Korean-style pork belly at Palsaek Samgyeopsal in Itaewon
Approximate Cost of Activities and Meals: $50 USD
Day 9:
Mode of Transportation: Take a taxi to Gyeongdong Market
Approximate Travel Time: 30 minutes
Approximate Cost: $10 USD
Activities:
– Explore Gyeongdong Market, a traditional market known for herbs and Korean medicines
– Visit Namsan Seoul Tower, a landmark offering expansive views of the city
– Indulge in Korean-style shabu shabu at Hanilkwan in Jongno
Approximate Cost of Activities and Meals: $70 USD
Day 10:
Mode of Transportation: Take the airport express train to Incheon International Airport
Approximate Travel Time: 1 hour
Approximate Cost: $9 USD
Activities:
– Enjoy a final Korean-style breakfast at a local restaurant
– Shop for Korean cosmetics and souvenirs at the airport
– Depart for home
Approximate Cost of Activities and Meals: $30 USD
FAQs:
Q: What if I don’t eat meat or have other dietary restrictions?
A: Many traditional markets and restaurants in Seoul offer vegetarian or vegan options. Be sure to inform the staff of your dietary requirements when ordering.
Q: How do I navigate public transportation in Seoul?
A: Seoul has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, subways, and trains. You can use a T-money card for easy and convenient travel. Downloading a transportation app or using Google Maps can also be helpful for planning your route.
Q: What should I wear when visiting traditional markets?
A: Comfortable shoes are a must, as there is a lot of walking involved. Dress in layers as the weather can change quickly. Avoid bulky backpacks or purses to help navigate crowded markets.
Q: How do I communicate with locals who may not speak English?
A: Many locals in Seoul speak at least some English, but it’s a good idea to bring a translation app or book. Learning a few basic Korean phrases can also be helpful, such as “hello” (annyeonghaseyo) and “thank you” (kamsahamnida).
