Travel Plan for a 5-Day Seoul Historical Landmarks Tour
Direction: This itinerary is created for travelers who want to explore the historical landmarks of Seoul in five days. The tour will take you through ancient royal palaces, traditional markets, and other cultural sites.
Day 1: Arrival in Seoul
As you arrive in Seoul, check into the Westin Chosun Hotel, located at the heart of the city, in the Jung-gu district. After checking in, enjoy a Korean-style lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang, famous for its ginseng chicken soup. In the afternoon, take a walk to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. Here, experience the changing of the guard ceremony and watch the Royal Family Costume Experience. Take the subway to reach Cheonggyecheon Stream, which is beautifully lit up at night.
Transportation: Taxi from the airport to the hotel for approximately $50. Subway from the hotel to Gyeongbokgung Palace for $1.5.
Food and Activity Budget: Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang for $15. Entrance fee to Gyeongbokgung Palace for $3. Total budget: $18.5.
Day 2: Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong
Start your day by exploring the Bukchon Hanok Village, consisting of hundreds of traditional Korean-style houses from the Joseon dynasty. Visit the Bukchon Hanok Center for detailed information. Have lunch at the Insadong Gwangjjang Market, a traditional market known for its Korean street food. In the afternoon, visit Ssamziegil, a unique shopping complex in Insadong, known for its traditional Korean art crafts, souvenirs, and accessories.
Transportation: Subway from the hotel to Bukchon Hanok Village for $1.5.
Food and Activity Budget: Lunch at Insadong Gwangjjang Market for approximately $15. Total budget: $15.
Day 3: Namsan Tower and Myeong-dong
Take a cable car to Namsan Tower from Myeong-dong Station to experience the breathtaking view of Seoul city. Have lunch at Myeong-dong Kyoja, a restaurant famous for its traditional Korean noodles. In the afternoon, explore the Myeong-dong shopping district, where you can find many popular Korean and international brands.
Transportation: Subway from the hotel to Myeong-dong Station for $1.5. Cable car to Namsan Tower for $7.
Food and Activity Budget: Lunch at Myeong-dong Kyoja for $10. Entrance to Namsan Tower for $10. Total budget: $17.
Day 4: Changdeokgung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine
Start your day by visiting Changdeokgung Palace, UNESCO World Heritage site and the most well-preserved royal palace in Seoul. After the visit, walk to Jongmyo Shrine, where the royal family held ancestral rituals. Have lunch at Kko Kko Nara Chicken, one of the most famous fried chicken restaurants in Seoul. In the afternoon, visit Namdaemun Market, one of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul.
Transportation: Subway from the hotel to Changdeokgung Palace for $1.5.
Food and Activity Budget: Lunch at Kko Kko Nara Chicken for approximately $15. Entrance fee to Changdeokgung Palace for $3. Total budget: $18.5.
Day 5: Gwanghwamun Square and Gwangjang Market
Visit Gwanghwamun Square, which represents the major historical events of Korea. Afterward, take a short walk to Gwangjang Market, a traditional Korean market known for its Korean street food, silk bedding, and traditional Korean dresses. Have lunch at Gwangjang Market, where you should try bindaetteok, a Korean pancake made of mung beans.
Transportation: Subway from the hotel to Gwanghwamun Station for $1.5.
Food and Activity Budget: Lunch at Gwangjang Market for approximately $10. Total budget: $10.
FAQs
1. What is the best way to travel around Seoul?
The subway is the most convenient and cost-effective means of transport in Seoul. There are also plenty of taxis at reasonable rates.
2. Is Seoul safe for tourists?
Seoul is generally a safe city for tourists. It has a low crime rate, and people are friendly and helpful.
3. Are there any recommended souvenirs to bring back from Seoul?
Korean snacks, traditional Korean dress, Korean ginseng, and K-beauty products are excellent souvenirs from Seoul.
4. Do I need to learn Korean to travel to Seoul?
In Seoul, many people speak English, and signage is usually in English as well, so you can manage without speaking Korean. However, learning essential Korean phrases can help you navigate and communicate better.
