Seoul, South Korea-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Hongdae

Morning

Afternoon

  • Visit Trick Eye Museum (₩15,000) for a fun and quirky photo experience
  • Walk around Hongdae Free Market (Saturdays only) for a taste of local art, fashion, and food
  • Grab lunch at Tosokchon, a popular spot for samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup)

Evening

  • Explore the vibrant streets of Hongdae, known for its street art, indie music scene, and nightlife
  • Enjoy dinner at Jjukkumi Alley, a narrow alley filled with restaurants serving Korean-style fried chicken

Tips

  • Buy a T-Money card (₩2,500) for convenient travel on public transportation
  • Download the Naver Maps app for easy navigation in Seoul
  • Try to learn some basic Korean phrases, such as "" (annyeonghaseyo) for “hello” and "" (gamsahamnida) for “thank you”

Day 2: Palaces and Traditional Culture

Morning

  • Take the subway (Line 4) to Gwanghwamun Station
  • Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (₩3,000), the largest and most iconic palace in Korea
  • Explore the National Folk Museum within the palace grounds

Afternoon

  • Walk to Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village with beautiful hanok houses
  • Visit Jongmyo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a sacred place for Confucian rituals

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Gwangjang Market, a bustling night market with various street food options
  • Try some traditional Korean desserts, such as hotteok or patbingsu

Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the palace visit, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking
  • Be respectful of Korean culture and traditions when visiting palaces and shrines
  • Don’t forget to try some makgeolli (traditional Korean rice wine) at one of the many restaurants in the area

Day 3: Shopping and Entertainment

Morning

  • Take the subway (Line 2) to Dongdaemun Station
  • Visit Dongdaemun Market, a popular shopping destination for fashion, accessories, and souvenirs
  • Explore the nearby Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a modern architecture marvel

Afternoon

  • Head to Myeong-dong Shopping District, one of Seoul’s busiest and most iconic shopping areas
  • Visit Namsan Tower (Seoul Tower) for panoramic views of the city (₩11,000)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Myeong-dong Kyoja, a popular spot for kalguksu (hand-cut noodles)
  • Catch a show or musical performance at Seoul Arts Center

Tips

  • Be prepared for large crowds and long lines in Myeong-dong
  • Try to avoid shopping during peak hours (12:00-15:00) for a more comfortable experience
  • Don’t miss the beautiful night views of Seoul from Namsan Tower

Day 4: Foodie Adventures

Morning

  • Take the subway (Line 5) to Yeouido Station
  • Visit Yeouido Park, a scenic park with beautiful gardens and walking paths
  • Try some fresh seafood at Yeouido Seafood Market

Afternoon

  • Head to Itaewon Global Village, a multicultural neighborhood with international cuisine options
  • Visit Leeum Samsung Museum of Art, which features an impressive collection of Korean art (₩10,000)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Jinju Hoegwan, a popular spot for galbi (grilled short ribs)
  • Explore the lively streets of Itaewon, known for its international bars and clubs

Tips

  • Be adventurous when trying new foods in Korea, but also be mindful of spice levels
  • Don’t miss the beautiful sunset views at Yeouido Park
  • Itaewon can get crowded and loud at night, so plan accordingly

Day 5: Modern Seoul

Morning

  • Take the subway (Line 2) to Gangnam Station
  • Visit Bongeunsa Temple, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Gangnam
  • Explore the nearby COEX Mall, a modern underground shopping center

Afternoon

  • Head to Sinsa-dong Garosu-gil, a trendy neighborhood with fashionable boutiques and cafes
  • Visit The Museum of Contemporary Art (₩10,000), which features an impressive collection of modern art

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Gangnam Station’s Underground Food Court, a hidden gem with various Korean cuisine options
  • End your trip with a visit to the iconic Gangnam Style Horse Dance Statue

Tips

  • Be prepared for large crowds and long lines in Gangnam
  • Don’t miss the beautiful night views of Seoul from Bongeunsa Temple
  • Take plenty of photos at the Gangnam Style statue, but be respectful of other tourists

Additional Tips

  • Learn some basic Korean phrases to show respect for the culture
  • Download the Korea Tourism Organization’s app for helpful travel information and discounts
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions in Seoul, from hot summers to cold winters
  • Don’t forget to try some popular Korean snacks, such as kimchi or pepero

Transportation

  • Use the subway system (₩1,250-2,450 per ride) or buses (₩1,200-2,400 per ride) for convenient travel
  • Buy a T-Money card for easy payment and discounts on public transportation
  • Consider purchasing a Discover Seoul Pass for free admission to various attractions and discounts on public transportation

Accommodation

  • Stay in the Hongdae area for easy access to nightlife and cultural attractions
  • Book accommodations with free Wi-Fi and breakfast options for added convenience
  • Consider staying at a hostel or guesthouse for a more budget-friendly option

I hope you enjoy your trip to Seoul!