Direction and Purpose:
This itinerary is for a 5-day trip to Seoul, South Korea. The purpose of this trip is to explore the cultural and historical attractions of the city, as well as to sample the local food and experience the vibrant nightlife. The itinerary will include visits to popular landmarks, museums, and markets, as well as opportunities to try Korean cuisine and visit traditional tea houses.
Day 1:
Morning: After checking into the hotel, start the day by visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest palace in Seoul. Travel time via subway is approximately 30 minutes, and the cost is 1,250 KRW (about $1). Get an audio guide for 3,000 KRW (about $2.50) to learn more about the palace’s history and significance.
Lunch: Sample Korean street food at Gwangjang Market, famous for its array of traditional dishes like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and bibimbap (mixed rice). Travel time via subway is approximately 20 minutes, and the cost is 1,250 KRW.
Afternoon: Spend the rest of the day exploring Insadong, a district known for its art galleries, antiques, and traditional crafts. Visit Ssamziegil, a multi-level shopping complex with unique shops and food stalls. Travel time via subway is approximately 20 minutes, and the cost is 1,250 KRW.
Dinner: Try Korean barbecue at Maple Tree House, a popular restaurant that serves high-quality beef and pork. Travel time via taxi is approximately 15 minutes, and the cost is about 15,000 KRW (about $13).
Day 2:
Morning: Start the day with a visit to Namsan Tower, one of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks with panoramic views of the city. Take the cable car up to the tower for 10,000 KRW (about $8.50). Travel time via subway and bus is approximately 45 minutes, and the cost is 2,250 KRW.
Lunch: Have lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang, a restaurant known for its signature dish of ginseng chicken soup. Travel time via subway is approximately 20 minutes, and the cost is 1,250 KRW.
Afternoon: Visit the Korean War Memorial and Museum to learn about the country’s history and its involvement in the war. Admission is free, and audio guides are available for 3,000 KRW.
Dinner: Head to Itaewon, a district known for its international cuisine and nightlife. Try Firebell, a popular restaurant that serves spicy chicken and beer. Travel time via subway is approximately 20 minutes, and the cost is 1,250 KRW.
Day 3:
Morning: Start the day at Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a beautiful garden that changes with each season. Travel time via subway is approximately 30 minutes, and the cost is 1,250 KRW. Get an audio guide for 3,000 KRW to learn about the palace’s history and architecture.
Lunch: Have lunch at Bukchon Hanok Village, a district with traditional Korean houses and small restaurants. Try the bibimbap at Jeonju Jungang Hoegwan. Travel time via taxi is approximately 15 minutes, and the cost is about 15,000 KRW.
Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Korea, one of the largest museums in Asia with over 220,000 artifacts. Admission is free, and audio guides are available for 3,000 KRW.
Dinner: Try Korean fried chicken at Kyochon, a popular chain known for its crispy chicken and signature sauces. Travel time via subway is approximately 20 minutes, and the cost is 1,250 KRW.
Day 4:
Morning: Visit the Noryangjin Fish Market, one of the largest seafood markets in Korea with over 700 vendors. Fresh seafood is available to buy or eat at the market’s restaurants. Travel time via subway is approximately 45 minutes, and the cost is 2,250 KRW.
Lunch: Try the traditional Korean dish of naengmyeon (cold noodles) at Hamheung Naengmyeon in Jongno. Travel time via subway is approximately 20 minutes, and the cost is 1,250 KRW.
Afternoon: Visit the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), a 2.5-mile buffer zone that divides North and South Korea. Book a guided tour in advance to visit the Joint Security Area and the Third Tunnel. Travel time via bus is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and the cost is around 40,000 KRW.
Dinner: Have dinner at Namdaemun Market, a popular shopping district with plenty of food stalls and restaurants. Try the kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) at Saebeol Kalguksu. Travel time via subway is approximately 20 minutes, and the cost is 1,250 KRW.
Day 5:
Morning: Visit the Bukhansan National Park, a peaceful oasis in the city with hiking trails and scenic views. Travel time via subway and bus is approximately 1 hour, and the cost is around 2,500 KRW.
Lunch: Try Korean-style pork cutlet at Hanshin Pocha in Hongdae. Travel time via subway is approximately 20 minutes, and the cost is 1,250 KRW.
Afternoon: Visit a traditional tea house like Boseong Samhap Tea House for a relaxing break with a cup of tea and traditional Korean sweets.
Dinner: Have a final meal at Gwangjang Market, trying the savory kimchi pancakes at Cheongjinok. Travel time via subway is approximately 20 minutes, and the cost is 1,250 KRW.
Hotel Recommendations:
For a budget option, consider staying at Zaza Backpackers Hostel in Hongdae. Prices start at around 25,000 KRW per night (about $22).
For a mid-range option, consider staying at Hotel Manu in Myeong-dong. Prices start at around 100,000 KRW per night (about $90).
For a luxury option, consider staying at the Shilla Seoul in Jangchung-dong. Prices start at around 400,000 KRW per night (about $360).
FAQs:
Q: What is the best time to visit Seoul?
A: The best time to visit is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded.
Q: Is it safe to travel to Seoul?
A: Yes, Seoul is generally a safe city with low crime rates.
Q: What is the currency used in Seoul?
A: The currency used is the Korean won (KRW).
Q: Do I need to know Korean to get around Seoul?
A: While English signs are prevalent, it can be helpful to know some basic Korean phrases to communicate with locals.
Q: Can I use my credit card in Seoul?
A: Yes, credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s still a good idea to carry some cash for street food and small purchases.
Q: Is tipping expected in Seoul?
A: No, tipping is not expected in Seoul as service charges are usually included in the bill.
