Seoul, South Korea-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Palaces and Traditional Culture

Morning

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace (): Start your day with a visit to the largest palace in Korea, built in 1395. Wear comfortable shoes for a morning of walking around the palace grounds.
  • National Folk Museum: Located inside Gyeongbokgung Palace, this museum showcases traditional Korean culture and lifestyle.

Afternoon

  • Bukchon Hanok Village (): Take a stroll through this traditional village filled with hanok (traditional Korean houses) and get a glimpse of old Korea.
  • Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang: Try the famous Ginseng Chicken Soup () at this popular restaurant.

Evening

  • Myeong-dong Shopping District (): One of Seoul’s busiest shopping areas, offering everything from high-end fashion to street food.
  • Dinner at Myeong-dong Kyoja: Savor traditional Korean dishes like naengmyeon (cold noodles) and dumplings at this local favorite.

Where to Stay

  • Ibis Ambassador Seoul Myeong-dong (): A comfortable, centrally-located hotel with easy access to major attractions.

Tips

  • Wear modest clothing when visiting palaces and temples.
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak season (June to August) for smaller crowds.
  • Don’t forget to try some street food at Myeong-dong!

Transportation

  • Take the subway () to Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 5) or Bukchon Hanok Village Station (Exit 2).
  • Use a T-Money card or cash to ride the subway.

Day 2: Modern Seoul and K-Pop

Morning

  • Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) (): Explore this futuristic building designed by Zaha Hadid, featuring exhibitions, design shops, and restaurants.
  • Lunch at Tous Les Jours: Enjoy a variety of international cuisine at this popular bakery cafe.

Afternoon

  • K-Star Road (): Visit the K-Pop themed street in Gangnam, lined with K-Pop idols’ statues and memorabilia.
  • SMTOWN Coex Artium (): Get an inside look at the world of K-Pop at this interactive museum.

Evening

  • Gangnam Station (): Experience the nightlife of Seoul’s affluent district, known for its upscale bars and clubs.
  • Dinner at Jungsik: Treat yourself to a modern Korean fine dining experience at this two-Michelin-starred restaurant.

Where to Stay

  • Park Hyatt Seoul (): A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the city, located in the heart of Gangnam.

Tips

  • Book tickets for SMTOWN Coex Artium in advance to avoid long wait times.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at K-Star Road.
  • Don’t forget to try some Korean craft beer at Gangnam Station!

Transportation

  • Take the subway () to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Exit 1) or Gangnam Station (Exit 10).
  • Use a T-Money card or cash to ride the subway.

Day 3: Markets and Food

Morning

  • Gwangjang Market (): Visit one of Seoul’s oldest traditional markets, offering a wide range of street food, souvenirs, and local goods.
  • Lunch at Gwangjang: Try some bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) or hotteok (sweet pancakes) at this bustling market.

Afternoon

  • Hongdae Free Market (): Explore this trendy market in the Hongdae neighborhood, featuring handmade crafts, vintage clothing, and indie music performances.
  • Lotte World (): Visit this massive theme park with an ice rink, folk museum, and thrilling rides.

Evening

  • Itaewon Global Village (): End your trip with a visit to this international neighborhood, known for its multicultural atmosphere and diverse dining options.
  • Dinner at La Seine: Enjoy French-Korean fusion cuisine at this cozy bistro.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Cappuccino (): A stylish hotel in the heart of Hongdae, perfect for young travelers.

Tips

  • Bargain and negotiate prices at traditional markets like Gwangjang.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions like Lotte World.
  • Don’t forget to try some Korean-style fried chicken () at Itaewon!

Transportation

  • Take the subway () to Jongno 5-ga Station (Exit 1) or Hongdae Station (Exit 9).
  • Use a T-Money card or cash to ride the subway.

Things to Know

  • Korea uses 220V, 60Hz power sockets, which are different from those in North America.
  • Learn some basic Korean phrases like "" (hello), "" (thank you), and "" (excuse me).
  • Respect for elders is deeply rooted in Korean culture; bowing is a common way to show respect.

Other Tips

  • Download the Naver Maps app () for easy navigation around Seoul.
  • Consider purchasing a Discover Seoul Pass for discounts and free admission to various attractions.
  • Don’t forget to try some Korean desserts like hotteok or patbingsu ()!