Itinerary Purpose: 5-day Seoul Korean Culture Tour
Day 1
– Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest palace in Seoul (9 AM – 5:30 PM)
– Have traditional Korean lunch at Gogung Samgyetang (approx. 30 mins by walking, 15 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 6,000 won)
– Visit Bukchon Hanok Village, a Korean traditional village (approx. 15 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 5,000 won)
– Explore Insadong, a traditional market street with cafes, galleries, and shops (approx. 20 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 6,000 won)
– Have dinner at Tosokchon, known for its delicious Korean chicken and ginseng soup (approx. 15 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 6,000 won)
Transportation: Walking, taxi
Approximate Spending: 30,000 won for lunch, 20,000 won for dinner
Hotel Recommendation: Westin Chosun Seoul
Day 2
– Visit Namsan Tower, the highest point in Seoul (9 AM – 11 PM)
– Take a stroll in Namsan Park, a great place to relax and enjoy nature (approx. 15 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 6,000 won)
– Enjoy lunch at N Seoul Tower’s Sky Restaurant, which offers spectacular views of the city (approx. 5 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 3,000 won)
– Visit Myeong-dong, a popular shopping district with many trendy shops and street food vendors (approx. 5 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 3,000 won)
– Have dinner at Palsaik Samgyupsal, which serves eight different kinds of pork belly (approx. 20 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 6,000 won)
Transportation: Taxi
Approximate Spending: 45,000 won for lunch, 20,000 won for dinner
Hotel Recommendation: Lotte Hotel Seoul
Day 3
– Visit the traditional Korean temple, Jogyesa Temple (9 AM – 5 PM)
– Explore the art galleries and antique shops in Insa-dong (approx. 10 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 4,000 won)
– Have lunch at Gwangjang Market, one of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul, and try popular street food such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) (approx. 15 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 5,000 won)
– Take a tour of Namsan Hanok Village to experience Korea’s traditional architecture and culture (approx. 10 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 4,000 won)
– Have a gourmet dinner at Jungsik, one of the most famous fine dining restaurants in Korea with a modern Korean cuisine (approx. 10 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 5,000 won)
Transportation: Taxi
Approximate Spending: 20,000 won for lunch, 100,000 won for dinner
Hotel Recommendation: Conrad Seoul
Day 4
– Visit Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the “Five Grand Palaces” (9 AM – 6 PM)
– Take a stroll in Changdeokgung Palace’s Huwon (Secret Garden) to enjoy the natural beauty (approx. 10 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 4,000 won)
– Have lunch at Tosokchon, a famous restaurant known for its ginseng chicken soup (approx. 10 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 4,000 won)
– Visit the National Museum of Korea, the largest museum in the country with over 220,000 artifacts (approx. 20 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 6,000 won)
– Have dinner at Mingles, one of the best contemporary restaurants in Korea (approx. 15 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 6,000 won)
Transportation: Taxi
Approximate Spending: 40,000 won for lunch, 100,000 won for dinner
Hotel Recommendation: Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
Day 5
– Visit the famous Cheonggyecheon Stream, a public recreational space in downtown Seoul (9 AM – 11:30 PM)
– Explore the trendy Gangnam district and have lunch at Mokran, a Korean restaurant serving traditional food with a modern twist (approx. 20 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 8,000 won)
– Visit Coex Mall, one of the largest underground shopping malls in Asia, and see the aquarium there (approx. 10 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 4,000 won)
– Have dinner at Jjimdak Baekjeong, known for its delicious Korean braised chicken and glass noodles (approx. 10 mins by taxi, taxi fee around 4,000 won)
Transportation: Taxi
Approximate Spending: 35,000 won for lunch, 25,000 won for dinner
Hotel Recommendation: JW Marriott Hotel Seoul
FAQs:
Q: How do I use public transportation in Seoul?
A: The Seoul Metropolitan Subway has an extensive network, and there are many buses and taxis available as well. The T-Money card is a convenient way to pay for public transportation, and it can be purchased at convenience stores.
Q: What is the best time to visit Seoul?
A: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Seoul, as the weather is mild and pleasant.
Q: Can I use credit cards in Seoul?
A: Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Seoul, especially at larger shops and restaurants. However, it is always a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller transactions.
Q: What are some tips for traveling to Seoul?
A: Try to learn some basic Korean phrases before your trip, and be prepared for crowded public transportation. Additionally, be respectful of Korean culture and customs, and remember to remove your shoes when entering a traditional Korean building.
