Direction: Seoul Modern Architecture 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Gangnam District
– Breakfast at Café Mamas in Gangnam-gu (approx. $6)
– Visit the COEX Mall and Aquarium via subway (Line 2) for shopping and marine life (approx. 30 mins, $2)
– Lunch at Namdo Sikdang, a traditional Korean restaurant known for stone bowls (approx. $10)
– Explore the Gangnam Finance Center and its modern design (approx. 15 mins, free)
– Dinner at Saebyukjib for Korean-style fried chicken and beer (approx. $15)
– Stay at Grand Intercontinental Seoul Parnas Hotel in Gangnam-gu (approx. $150/night)
Day 2: Han River and Architecture Tour
– Breakfast at Common Ground, a hipster complex with pop-up stores (approx. $8)
– Take a river ferry cruise on the Han River to see urban skyline views (approx. 1 hr, $10)
– Visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza for its futuristic landmark design (approx. 30 mins, free)
– Lunch at Lucky Chins, a fusion café-restaurant in a modern warehouse (approx. $12)
– Visit the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art for art and architecture (approx. 45 mins, $7)
– Dinner at Hanchu, a Korean fish restaurant in a renovated hanok (approx. $25)
– Stay at Hotel Loft in Guro-gu (approx. $70/night)
Day 3: Northern Seoul and Heights
– Breakfast at Café Pastel, a petite corner café with designer pastries (approx. $5)
– Visit Namsan Tower for cityscape views and cable car ride (approx. 30 mins, $8)
– Lunch at Meraki, a Greek restaurant with rooftop views (approx. $20)
– Explore the Digital Media City and its futuristic architecture (approx. 30 mins, free)
– Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace for traditional and modern fusion architecture (approx. 1 hr, $3)
– Dinner at Don Day, a Korean barbecue with skyscraper views (approx. $30)
– Stay at Four Points by Sheraton Seoul Namsan in Jung-gu (approx. $90/night)
Day 4: Downtown and Skyscrapers
– Breakfast at Bakery Bonbon, a bakery café with trendy interior (approx. $6)
– Take the elevator to Seoul Sky for 360-degree views of the city skyline (approx. 30 mins, $20)
– Visit the Seoul Metropolitan Library for its geometric architecture (approx. 15 mins, free)
– Lunch at Mr. Holmes Bakehouse, a California-imported bakery café (approx. $10)
– Visit the Seoul City Hall and its innovative administrative building (approx. 30 mins, free)
– Walk along the Cheonggyecheon stream for urban renewal and greenery (approx. 1 hr, free)
– Dinner at Wonghwa Dang, a royal court cuisine in a heritage house (approx. $40)
– Stay at The Plaza Hotel Seoul in Jung-gu (approx. $120/night)
Day 5: Art and Exhibition
– Breakfast at Twosome Place, a sophisticated café chain owned by CJ (approx. $7)
– Visit the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art for Korean art and modern architecture (approx. 1 hr, $5)
– Lunch at Ikovox, a fusion café with art exhibitions and live music (approx. $14)
– Visit the Seoul Museum of Art and its industrial meets contemporary design (approx. 1 hr, free)
– Shop at Hyundai Department Store for luxury goods and rooftop garden (approx. 30 mins, free)
– Dinner at Tosokchon Samgyetang, a traditional Korean chicken soup restaurant (approx. $15)
– Stay at Lotte Hotel Seoul in Jung-gu (approx. $200/night)
FAQs:
1. How much is the transportation fee in Seoul?
– The subway costs around $1-2 per ride depending on the distance, while a taxi ride starts at $3.
2. Are there English translations for the signage and menu?
– Yes, most places have English translations, and some may have staff who can speak English.
3. Can I use credit cards in Seoul?
– Yes, most places accept credit cards, but it is recommended to bring some cash for small shops and street vendors.
4. Are there halal or vegetarian restaurants in Seoul?
– Yes, there are halal and vegetarian restaurants in Seoul, but they may be limited in some areas.
5. Do I need to prepare anything special for the itinerary?
– No, but it is recommended to bring comfortable shoes for walking and dressing in layers for the changing weather.
