Seoul, South Korea-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore Bukchon Hanok Village and Myeong-dong

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village filled with hanok (traditional Korean houses) that have been preserved since the Joseon Dynasty. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets and admire the beautiful architecture.
    • Transportation: Take subway line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station, exit 1. Walk for about 10 minutes to reach Bukchon Hanok Village.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Jungsik, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern Korean cuisine. Try their signature dish, the “Galaxy” pork jowl.
    • Address: 8, Wausan-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
  • 2:00 PM: Visit Myeong-dong Shopping District, one of Seoul’s most popular shopping areas. Browse through high-end fashion stores, street food stalls, and markets selling everything from beauty products to souvenirs.
    • Transportation: Take subway line 4 to Myeong-dong Station
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Tosokchon, a restaurant serving traditional Korean fried chicken. Try their famous “Yangnyum Chicken” dish.
    • Address: 12, Gwanghwa-daero 27-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Day 2: Visit the Palace and Traditional Markets

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most iconic palace in Korea. Explore the palace grounds, including the National Folk Museum of Korea.
    • Transportation: Take subway line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station
  • 12:00 PM: Visit Namdaemun Market, a traditional market selling everything from clothing to household items. Browse through the stalls and try some street food.
    • Address: 21, Namdaemunsijang-ro 5-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
  • 2:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Gwangjang Market, another popular traditional market in Seoul. Try their signature dish, bindaetteok (mung bean pancake).
    • Address: 88, Changpiyoong-1ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul
  • 6:00 PM: Visit Hongdae, a hip and trendy neighborhood known for its street art, indie music scene, and fashion boutiques. Grab dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.
    • Transportation: Take subway line 2 to Hongik University Station

Day 3: Explore Itaewon and Namsan Tower

  • 9:00 AM: Visit Itaewon, a globalized neighborhood with a unique blend of cultures. Browse through the streets, which are lined with international restaurants, cafes, and shops.
    • Transportation: Take subway line 4 to Itaewon Station
  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Bistro 3.6, a French-inspired restaurant in Itaewon.
    • Address: 26, Seongdae-ro 15-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
  • 2:00 PM: Visit Namsan Tower (Seoul Tower), a iconic landmark with stunning views of the city. Enjoy the sunset from the tower’s observation deck.
    • Transportation: Take subway line 4 to Hoehyeon Station and walk for about 10 minutes to reach Namsan Tower
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at JW Marriott Seoul, a luxurious hotel with an excellent restaurant serving Korean cuisine. Try their signature dish, the “Beef Bulgogi”.
    • Address: 19-3, Sowol-ro 3-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Day 4: Visit the War Memorial and Hongdae

  • 9:00 AM: Visit The National Museum of Korea, which is located next to the war memorial. Explore the museum’s extensive collection of Korean art and artifacts.
    • Transportation: Take subway line 4 to Ichon Station
  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Mongwon, a restaurant serving traditional Korean cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
    • Address: 18, Yeoungdong-daero, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
  • 2:00 PM: Visit Hongdae, again! This time, explore the trendy streets and alleys of Hongdae, which are filled with street art, indie music venues, and fashion boutiques. Grab dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.
    • Transportation: Take subway line 2 to Hongik University Station

Other Tips and Recommendations

  • Transportation: Seoul has a very efficient public transportation system, including subways, buses, and taxis. Consider purchasing a T-Money card or using the Naver Maps app for easy navigation.
  • Currency: The South Korean currency is the won (KRW). You can exchange your money at banks, currency exchange offices, or ATMs.
  • Language: While many Koreans speak English, it’s still helpful to learn basic phrases like “hello” (annyeonghaseyo), “thank you” (gamsahamnida), and “excuse me” (joheunhamnida).
  • Dress Code: Seoul is a fashion-forward city. Dress modestly when visiting temples or palaces, but feel free to express yourself in the trendy areas.
  • Food: Korean cuisine is delicious and diverse. Try popular dishes like bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi stew.

Accommodation

There are many great hotels in Seoul, ranging from budget-friendly options like the Ibis Ambassador Seoul Myeong-dong to luxurious options like the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul.

Some recommended areas to stay include:

  • Myeong-dong: This area is close to shopping districts, restaurants, and nightlife.
  • Hongdae: This trendy neighborhood has plenty of fashion boutiques, indie music venues, and street art.
  • Gangnam: This upscale area has luxury hotels, high-end shopping centers, and fine dining options.

Budgeting

Seoul can be an expensive city, but with some planning, you can have a great time without breaking the bank. Budget around KRW 50,000-70,000 (USD 40-60) per day for food, transportation, and attractions.

Final Tips

  • Explore beyond Seoul: Consider visiting other Korean cities like Busan, Daegu, or Jeju Island.
  • Be open-minded: Try new foods, drinks, and experiences. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations!
  • Have fun: Seoul is a vibrant city with endless possibilities. Enjoy the ride!