Itinerary for 10-Day Seoul Traditional Markets Trip
Direction and Purpose:
This itinerary is designed for travelers who want to experience the traditional markets of Seoul. We will visit different markets in Seoul to discover Korean culture, taste the Korean cuisine, and enjoy the shopping experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Seoul
– Check-in at the hotel in Myeong-dong, one of the most famous shopping districts
– Dinner at a nearby Korean BBQ restaurant
– Take a stroll around Myeong-dong Night Market
Mode of Transportation: Taxi
Approximate Travel Time: 1 hour
Approximate Price: $20 for transportation + $25 for dinner
Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Skypark Myeongdong III
Day 2: Gwangjang Market
– Breakfast at the hotel
– Visit Gwangjang Market, the oldest and largest traditional market in Seoul
– Try out the Korean street food and snacks
– Buy Korean traditional clothes like hanbok, and souvenirs to take back home
– Dinner at a nearby restaurant
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 30 minutes
Approximate Price: $2 for transportation + $20 for food and souvenirs
Day 3: Insadong Market
– Breakfast at the hotel
– Visit Insadong Market, another famous traditional market in Seoul
– Explore the traditional Korean handmade crafts and artworks
– Have lunch at a traditional Korean Restaurant
– Visit the nearby traditional tea shops and try the Korean tea
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 20 minutes
Approximate Price: $2 for transportation + $30 for food and shopping
Day 4: Dongdaemun Market
– Breakfast at the hotel
– Visit Dongdaemun Market, the largest wholesale and retail shopping district in Seoul
– Check out the latest trends in Korean fashion and beauty products
– Have lunch at a nearby Korean restaurant
– Visit the nearby Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a hub of exhibition and convention for the art and design community
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 15 minutes
Approximate Price: $2 for transportation + $40 for shopping and food
Day 5: Namdaemun Market
– Breakfast at the hotel
– Visit Namdaemun Market, the largest traditional market in Seoul
– Try out the street food and snacks
– Buy some souvenirs or gifts at the market
– Have dinner at a nearby restaurant
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 20 minutes
Approximate Price: $2 for transportation + $25 for food and shopping
Day 6: Noryangjin Fish Market
– Breakfast at the hotel
– Visit Noryangjin Fish Market, the largest seafood market in Seoul
– Try out the fresh and delicious Korean seafood dishes
– Have lunch at a nearby restaurant
– Visit the nearby Seoul National Cemetery, a resting place for Korean patriots and independence fighters
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 30 minutes
Approximate Price: $2 for transportation + $50 for food and sightseeing
Day 7: Bukchon Hanok Village
– Breakfast at the hotel
– Visit Bukchon Hanok Village, a residential area with traditional Korean houses
– Take a walking tour and experience the traditional Korean lifestyle
– Have lunch at a nearby traditional Korean restaurant
– Visit the nearby Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 30 minutes
Approximate Price: $2 for transportation + $40 for food and sightseeing
Day 8: Hongdae Street
– Breakfast at the hotel
– Visit Hongdae Street, a hot spot for the younger generation with fashion, art, and nightlife
– Have lunch at a nearby Korean restaurant
– Visit the nearby Trick Eye Museum, an interactive museum with 3D art
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 30 minutes
Approximate Price: $2 for transportation + $40 for food and admission fee
Day 9: Lotte Mart & World Tower
– Breakfast at the hotel
– Visit Lotte Mart, a large retail store with a variety of Korean products
– Have lunch at Lotte World Tower Food court
– Visit Lotte World Tower, the fifth tallest building in the world with a great view of the city
Mode of Transportation: Subway
Approximate Travel Time: 45 minutes
Approximate Price: $2 for transportation + $30 for food and sightseeing
Day 10: Departure from Seoul
– Breakfast at the hotel
– Check out and transfer to the airport for departure
Mode of Transportation: Airport shuttle or Taxi
Approximate Travel Time: 1 hour
Approximate Price: $50 for transportation + $20 for breakfast
FAQs:
Q: How do I pay for things at traditional markets?
A: Cash is the most common form of payment at traditional markets, but some vendors may accept credit cards or mobile payments.
Q: Are traditional markets open every day?
A: Most traditional markets in Seoul are open every day, but some may have irregular opening hours or closed on certain holidays. It’s best to check the market’s schedule online before visiting.
Q: How do I get around Seoul?
A: Seoul has an extensive public transportation system including subway and buses, which are affordable and convenient. Taxis are also readily available, but they tend to be more expensive.
Q: Can I negotiate prices at traditional markets?
A: You can try to negotiate prices with vendors at traditional markets, especially if you’re buying several items or purchasing in bulk. However, be respectful and polite, and keep in mind that some items may have fixed prices.
Q: What should I wear to traditional markets?
A: It’s best to dress comfortably and wear shoes suitable for walking, as traditional markets can be crowded and have uneven ground. The weather in Seoul can be unpredictable, so it’s also a good idea to check the forecast before heading out.