Main Purpose: 10-day Seoul Nature and Parks Tour
Day 1: Arrival
– Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport, take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul Station (approx. 43 minutes, 9,000 won).
– Check-in at your hotel and take some time to rest after the flight.
Hotel Recommendation: Grand Hyatt Seoul or Lotte Hotel Seoul
Day 2: Bukhansan National Park
– Take subway line 3 to Gupabal Station, and transfer to bus 704 to Bukhansanseong Fortress parking lot (approx. 50 minutes, 2,500 won).
– Hike Bukhansan National Park, which offers wonderful hiking trails and stunning views of Seoul.
– Have lunch at a traditional Korean restaurant in the park (approx. 20,000 won).
– Visit the nearby Seonunsan Provincial Park for more hiking and natural wonders.
Day 3: Namsan Park and Tower
– Take a public bus to Namsan Park and hike up to Namsan Tower for stunning views of the city (approx. 20 minutes, 1,200 won).
– Have lunch at a popular Korean restaurant nearby (approx. 15,000 won).
– Visit Myeong-dong, a bustling shopping district with many trendy shops and street food options.
Day 4: Olympic Park
– Take subway line 5 to Olympic Park Station, and enjoy biking or walking around the sprawling park (approx. 30 minutes, 1,250 won).
– Have lunch at a popular Korean restaurant nearby (approx. 20,000 won).
– Visit the nearby Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in Korea, for shopping and amazing views of Seoul.
Day 5: Gyeongbokgung Palace and Botanical Garden
– Take subway line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Palace Station and visit the historic palace (approx. 20 minutes, 1,250 won).
– Have lunch at a traditional Korean restaurant in the area (approx. 20,000 won).
– Visit the nearby Seoul Botanical Garden for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature (approx. 5,000 won).
Day 6: Hangang Park
– Take subway line 9 to Yeouido Station and visit Hangang Park, which runs along the Han River and offers spectacular views of the city (approx. 20 minutes, 1,750 won).
– Rent bikes or take a boat ride to explore the park and enjoy the waterfront scenery.
– Have lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the park (approx. 20,000 won).
Day 7: DMZ Tour
– Take a guided tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating North and South Korea, which offers a fascinating insight into the history of the Korean Peninsula (approx. 3-4 hours, 100,000 won+).
– Have lunch at a Korean restaurant nearby (approx. 20,000 won).
– In the afternoon, visit Imjingak Pavilion, a popular tourist attraction with a great view of the DMZ.
Day 8: Cheonggyecheon Stream and Palace
– Take subway line 2 to Gwanghwamun Station and visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (approx. 10 minutes, 1,250 won).
– Have lunch at a traditional Korean restaurant nearby (approx. 20,000 won).
– Visit Cheonggyecheon Stream, a beautiful pedestrian walkway in the heart of Seoul (approx. 10 minutes on foot).
– In the evening, explore the nearby Jongno District, known for its traditional markets and street food (approx. 20,000 won).
Day 9: Seoraksan National Park
– Take a guided day trip to Seoraksan National Park, which offers breathtaking views of the mountains and natural scenery (approx. 3-4 hours, 100,000 won+).
– Have lunch at a traditional Korean restaurant in the park (approx. 20,000 won).
– In the evening, return to Seoul and visit Namdaemun Market, the largest traditional market in Korea (approx. 20,000 won).
Day 10: Departure
– Take the AREX from Seoul Station to Incheon International Airport (approx. 43 minutes, 9,000 won).
– Depart from Seoul to your next destination.
FAQs:
Q: What’s the best way to travel around Seoul?
A: The best way to travel around Seoul is by subway or bus, which are affordable and efficient. Taxis are also widely available, but can be more expensive.
Q: Are English-speaking guides available for the DMZ tour?
A: Yes, most DMZ tour guides speak English and provide informative commentary throughout the tour.
Q: Are there vegetarian food options available in Seoul?
A: Yes, many Korean restaurants offer vegetarian options, and there are also international restaurants that cater to vegetarians.
Q: Is it necessary to book tickets in advance for Seoraksan National Park?
A: It is recommended to book tickets in advance for Seoraksan National Park, especially during peak season, to avoid crowds and ensure availability.
