Day 1: History and Tradition
Morning: Start your Seoul journey at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the grandest of the city’s five royal palaces. Arrive by 9 AM to catch the changing of the guard ceremony at the main gate. Wander through the expansive courtyards and take in the stunning architecture.Next, head to Bukchon Hanok Village, a beautifully preserved neighborhood filled with traditional Korean houses. Stroll through its winding alleys and soak in the old-world charm.
Afternoon: For lunch, head to Insadong, a cultural district known for its traditional tea houses and artisan shops. Grab a bite at Tosokchon Samgyetang, famous for its ginseng chicken soup.
Afterward, visit Jogyesa Temple, the center of Korean Buddhism, where you can admire vibrant lantern displays and learn about Buddhist traditions.
Evening: Explore Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul’s oldest food markets, and sample dishes like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).Wrap up your first day with a traditional Korean music or dance performance at Jeongdong Theater
Save Tip: Rent a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) for free palace entry instead of buying a ticket.
Splurge Tip: Experience Seoul’s vibrant cocktail scene with a bar-hopping tour in Itaewon, visiting upscale spots like Alice Cheongdam or the hidden speakeasy Le Chamber for expertly crafted drinks.
Day 2: Modern Seoul and Shopping Hotspots
Morning: Start your day at N Seoul Tower, where you can take in panoramic city views from the observation deck. Don’t forget to check out the Love Locks Fence.
Afterward, explore the lively shopping district of Myeongdong, famous for its skincare stores, fashion boutiques, and street food stalls. Try hotteok (sweet pancakes) and Korean fried chicken for a quick bite.
Afternoon: Head to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), an architectural marvel perfect for design lovers. Explore its exhibitions or snap photos of the futuristic building.
Then, take a stroll through Ikseon-dong, a trendy hanok village filled with indie cafes, boutiques, and dessert spots.
Evening: Walk along the serene Cheonggyecheon Stream, a beautifully restored urban waterway perfect for an evening stroll.For dinner, visit Gwangjang Market again or head to Dongdaemun Night Market, where you can shop and try late-night Korean street food.
Save Tip: Skip the N Seoul Tower cable car and hike up instead for a budget-friendly workout with a view.
Splurge Tip: Treat yourself to a luxurious Korean spa experience at SPA 1899 Donginbi or the famous Dragon Hill Spa, where you can enjoy premium skincare treatments, saunas, and traditional jjimjilbang relaxation rooms.
Day 3: Hiking and Han River
Morning: Start your day with a refreshing outdoor adventure at Bukhansan National Park, a hiker’s paradise offering breathtaking city views. Opt for the Baegundae Peak Trail, which takes around 3–4 hours round trip and rewards you with stunning panoramic scenery. Bring plenty of water and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Afternoon: After the hike, unwind with a Han River cruise, a relaxing way to see Seoul from the water. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike and cycle along the riverside paths. Afterward, visit COEX Mall, home to the famous Starfield Library and an extensive underground shopping complex.
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Evening: Head to Gangnam, one of Seoul’s most famous districts, known for its upscale boutiques and entertainment scene. Walk along K-Star Road, where you’ll find life-sized bear statues representing K-pop groups.
Save Tip: Pack your own snacks for the Bukhansan hike instead of buying overpriced food at the park entrance.
Splurge Tip: Indulge in a premium hanwoo beef BBQ experience at a high-end restaurant like Samwon Garden, where you can savor some of the finest Korean beef available.
Day 4: Nami Island
Leave Seoul early (around 8 AM) and head to Nami Island, famous for its tree-lined paths and beautiful scenery. Rent a bike or simply walk around, taking in the picturesque surroundings.
Next, visit Petite France, a charming French-inspired village with colorful buildings, art galleries, and K-drama filming locations.If time allows, stop by the Garden of Morning Calm, a stunning botanical garden showcasing Korea’s seasonal beauty.
Head back to Seoul in the evening and enjoy a final meal at Tosokchon, famous for its comforting samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup).
Save Tip: Take a budget-friendly ITX train instead of the premium tourist bus for a cheaper but still comfortable ride to Nami Island.
Splurge Tip: Book a private chauffeured tour, including a personalized itinerary and luxury transport, for a seamless and stress-free day trip.
There is free wifi in most public places in Seoul but if you still need that security blanket of having internet access all the time then you can just buy the lowest data roaming plan.