Day 1: Exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace and Insadong
Introduction: Your first day in Seoul starts with a deep dive into Korea’s royal past and traditional culture. Today, we’ll explore the largest palace in Korea, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and wander through the charming alleys of Insadong, known for its traditional shops, galleries, and teahouses.
Morning: Begin at Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul’s most iconic palace. Built in 1395, this grand palace offers a glimpse into Korea’s royal past. Be sure to arrive in time for the changing of the guard ceremony, a spectacular and colorful event that takes place outside the main gate. Once inside, explore the National Folk Museum, located within the palace grounds, to get a better understanding of Korean culture and traditions.
Midday:
Take a short walk over to Bukchon Hanok Village, where you can see beautifully preserved hanok (traditional Korean houses) from the Joseon Dynasty. Wander through the narrow streets, and enjoy the stunning architecture that contrasts beautifully with modern Seoul. If you’re interested, many shops offer hanbok rentals, so you can immerse yourself further into Korea’s traditional past by wearing the Korean royal costume.
Afternoon:
After exploring Bukchon, head to Insadong, one of Seoul’s most charming neighborhoods. Insadong is known for its antique shops, art galleries, and traditional teahouses. As you stroll down Insadong Street, stop by the many shops selling traditional Korean crafts like pottery, calligraphy materials, and hanji (Korean paper). For a break, pop into a teahouse to enjoy a cup of traditional Korean tea, accompanied by traditional sweets.
Food Tip: Try a classic dish like bibimbap or samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) in one of the local restaurants in Insadong to complete your day.
Travel Tip:
- Subway: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3) for the palace, and Anguk Station (Line 3) for Bukchon and Insadong.
Wrap-up:
Day 1 in Seoul introduces you to the essence of Korea’s royal past and traditional culture, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the city’s modern and historical balance.
Day 2: Namsan Tower and Myeongdong Shopping
Introduction:
On day two, we head to Namsan Mountain for breathtaking views of Seoul, followed by a shopping adventure in the vibrant district of Myeongdong. This day offers a balance of nature, city views, and Seoul’s bustling urban life.
Morning:
Start your day by taking the Namsan Cable Car to the top of Namsan Mountain, where you’ll find N Seoul Tower. The tower offers panoramic views of the city, providing a great photo opportunity. While you’re at the top, don’t forget to check out the love locks area—a fun spot where couples leave padlocks as symbols of their eternal love.
Midday:
After enjoying the views, make your way down the mountain and head to Myeongdong, Seoul’s shopping paradise. Myeongdong is famous for its beauty stores, fashion boutiques, and an array of Korean street food. Spend time exploring the lively streets, sampling delicious treats like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), gyeranppang (egg bread), and hotteok (sweet pancakes). If you’re into Korean skincare, Myeongdong is a must-visit. Popular brands like Etude House, Innisfree, and Nature Republic have their flagship stores here.
Afternoon:
Once you’ve had your fill of shopping and street food, head over to Namdaemun Market, the oldest traditional market in Korea. Namdaemun offers everything from clothing to home goods at great prices. It’s also a great place to try traditional Korean food like kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) or galchi-jorim (braised fish).
Food Tip: If you’re looking for something light, try mandu (Korean dumplings) or visit a gimbap shop for quick and delicious Korean sushi rolls.
Travel Tip:
- Subway: Myeongdong Station (Line 4) for shopping, and Hoehyeon Station (Line 4) for Namdaemun Market.
Wrap-up:
Day 2 takes you to new heights—literally! From stunning city views at Namsan Tower to the vibrant energy of Myeongdong’s shopping streets, you’ll experience both the scenic beauty and the urban pulse of Seoul.
Day 3: Royal Palaces and Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Introduction:
Today is all about blending history with modern design. You’ll visit the serene Changdeokgung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine, two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and end the day with a visit to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a modern architectural marvel.
Morning:
Begin your day with a tour of Changdeokgung Palace, a must-visit for anyone interested in Korea’s royal history. The palace is particularly famous for its Secret Garden (Huwon), a tranquil space that once served as a retreat for the royal family. The garden’s beautifully landscaped ponds, pavilions, and ancient trees make it a serene escape from the bustling city.
Midday:
A short walk from Changdeokgung brings you to Jongmyo Shrine, a sacred site where memorial services are held for the deceased kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. The shrine’s simplicity and the surrounding forest create a peaceful atmosphere, providing a stark contrast to Seoul’s fast-paced urban life.
Afternoon:
For a dose of modernity, head over to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) in the evening. Designed by the world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, DDP is a cultural hub for design, fashion, and exhibitions. The building’s futuristic curves and sleek design make it one of Seoul’s most Instagrammable spots. If you’re visiting at night, be sure to check out the LED rose garden for a stunning visual display.
Food Tip: Dongdaemun is also a fantastic place to grab late-night bites, as many stalls and restaurants operate around the clock.
Travel Tip:
- Subway: Anguk Station (Line 3) for Changdeokgung and Jongmyo, and Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Line 2, 4, 5) for DDP.
Wrap-up:
Day 3 is a seamless blend of old and new, from the tranquil gardens of Changdeokgung Palace to the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza. It’s a perfect way to explore Seoul’s rich cultural history and modern innovation.
Day 4: Itaewon and the War Memorial of Korea
Introduction:
Day 4 offers a mix of history and multicultural experiences. You’ll visit the War Memorial of Korea, a fascinating museum dedicated to Korea’s military history, and explore the international district of Itaewon, known for its diverse food and lively atmosphere.
Morning:
Begin your day at the War Memorial of Korea, an expansive museum that provides an in-depth look into Korea’s military past. The indoor exhibits cover Korea’s ancient battles, the Korean War, and modern military developments, while the outdoor area features impressive displays of military aircraft, tanks, and naval vessels. It’s an eye-opening experience that highlights Korea’s turbulent history and resilience.
Midday:
From the War Memorial, take a short subway ride to Itaewon, one of Seoul’s most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods. Itaewon is famous for its eclectic mix of cultures and is home to restaurants serving food from all over the world, from American-style burgers to Middle Eastern shawarma. Whether you’re craving a Korean BBQ or something more international, Itaewon has it all.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, visit Namsangol Hanok Village, located near Itaewon. This beautifully preserved village offers a look at traditional Korean life during the Joseon Dynasty, with authentic hanok homes and cultural performances. Try your hand at traditional crafts or participate in a tea ceremony to get a deeper understanding of Korean culture.
Travel Tip:
- Subway: Samgakji Station (Line 6) for the War Memorial and Itaewon Station (Line 6) for Itaewon.
Wrap-up:
Day 4 blends history with a multicultural experience. From the educational exhibits at the War Memorial to the lively, international streets of Itaewon, you’ll explore different sides of Seoul’s history and culture.
Day 5: Gangnam and COEX Mall
Introduction:
On Day 5, explore Gangnam, one of Seoul’s trendiest districts. Known for its modern skyscrapers and chic atmosphere, Gangnam offers a balance of ancient culture at Bongeunsa Temple and modern entertainment at COEX Mall, home to the famous Starfield Library.
Morning:
Start your day with a visit to Bongeunsa Temple, a serene Buddhist temple surrounded by the bustling city. The temple dates back to 794 AD and provides a peaceful retreat from the busy streets. Walk around the temple grounds to see intricate Buddhist statues, the main prayer hall, and enjoy the tranquil environment. If you’re lucky, you might catch a traditional Buddhist ceremony in progress.
Midday:
Next, head across the street to COEX Mall, Asia’s largest underground shopping center. Inside, you’ll find not only high-end and casual stores but also the famous Starfield Library, an Instagrammable public library with towering bookshelves. Take your time to browse the unique shops or enjoy the COEX Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in Korea, which features thousands of marine creatures from all over the world.
Afternoon:
After exploring the mall, take a stroll around Gangnam to experience the vibrant streets, upscale boutiques, and cafes. Gangnam became famous internationally because of PSY’s “Gangnam Style,” but there’s more to the district than its pop culture reputation. You’ll find everything from chic eateries to luxury shops, making it a great place to explore Seoul’s modern vibe.
Food Tip:
If you want to try something unique, visit one of Gangnam’s Korean BBQ restaurants for a delicious meal. Many restaurants offer a modern twist on traditional Korean dishes.
Travel Tip:
- Subway: Take Line 2 to Samseong Station for COEX Mall and Gangnam Station (Line 2) for the Gangnam area.
Wrap-up:
Day 5 in Seoul is a perfect balance of culture and modernity, where you can experience the peaceful atmosphere of Bongeunsa Temple and the trendy, modern streets of Gangnam. Whether you’re shopping, eating, or just people-watching, Gangnam offers a vibrant slice of urban life in Seoul.
Day 6: DMZ Tour and Hongdae Nightlife
Introduction:
Today, explore the historical significance of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the border separating North and South Korea. After a half-day DMZ tour, return to Seoul and experience the vibrant and creative district of Hongdae, known for its youthful energy and artistic culture.
Morning:
Book a half-day DMZ Tour in advance, as this is one of Korea’s most unique and historically significant destinations. The tour typically includes stops at Imjingak Park, the Third Infiltration Tunnel, and Dora Observatory, where you can see into North Korea. It’s a sobering but fascinating experience that offers insight into the Korean War and the ongoing tensions between the two countries.
Midday:
After the tour, return to Seoul in the early afternoon. Relax with a cup of coffee or grab lunch before heading to your next stop.
Afternoon:
In the late afternoon, head to Hongdae, a vibrant and youthful neighborhood known for its street art, music, and indie culture. Hongik University, located in the heart of the area, is famous for its art and design programs, which influence the creative atmosphere around the district. Explore the streets, where you’ll find local artists, street performers, and a variety of unique shops selling everything from handmade crafts to trendy clothes.
Evening:
Hongdae truly comes alive at night. Street performances, live music, and energetic crowds fill the streets. Pop into a K-pop cafe or visit one of Hongdae’s many bars and nightclubs if you’re in the mood to experience Seoul’s nightlife. You’ll also find quirky themed cafes, cat and dog cafes, and plenty of places to grab a late-night snack.
Food Tip:
For dinner, try Korean fried chicken paired with ice-cold beer, a classic combo known as chimaek. Hongdae has plenty of casual restaurants offering this popular dish.
Travel Tip:
- Subway: The DMZ tour departs from various locations in central Seoul. Hongdae Station (Line 2) is your gateway to the Hongdae district.
Wrap-up:
Day 6 offers a perfect blend of historical education and modern fun. From the serious atmosphere of the DMZ to the colorful and lively streets of Hongdae, it’s a day full of contrast and excitement.
Day 7: Gwangjang Market and Han River
Introduction:
Wrap up your Seoul adventure with a visit to Gwangjang Market, one of Korea’s oldest traditional markets, followed by a relaxing afternoon at Yeouido Han River Park. Today’s itinerary will satisfy your cravings for authentic Korean street food and provide a peaceful retreat by the river.
Morning:
Start your day with a visit to Gwangjang Market, a must-see for any foodie. Established in 1905, this bustling market is famous for its delicious street food and traditional goods. Wander through the food stalls and try some of the local specialties, such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), mayak gimbap (bite-sized seaweed rice rolls), and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). The market is also known for jeon (savory pancakes) and soondae (Korean blood sausage). If you love vibrant food culture, Gwangjang Market will be one of your favorite stops.
Midday:
After your market adventure, head over to Yeouido Han River Park for a relaxing afternoon. Yeouido is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy Seoul’s natural beauty. You can rent a bike and ride along the scenic paths, have a picnic by the river, or simply relax and watch the locals go about their day.
Afternoon:
For a more unique experience, you can rent a picnic mat from one of the riverside vendors and grab some fried chicken and beer from a nearby restaurant to enjoy the quintessential chimaek picnic by the river. It’s a favorite pastime for many Seoulites and a perfect way to relax after a busy week.
Evening:
End your day with a Han River cruise, which offers a peaceful boat ride with stunning views of Seoul’s skyline. As the sun sets, watch the city lights reflect off the water, making for a beautiful and memorable farewell to the city.
Food Tip:
For the perfect picnic by the river, grab fried chicken from a local chain like BHC or Kyochon, both popular for their crispy and flavorful chicken.
Travel Tip:
- Subway: Jongno 5-ga Station (Line 1) for Gwangjang Market, and Yeouinaru Station (Line 5) for Han River Park.
Wrap-up:
Day 7 is a perfect way to wind down your trip. From the energetic food stalls of Gwangjang Market to the tranquil beauty of the Han River, you’ll experience a relaxing yet fulfilling day to cap off your week in Seoul.