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Summary
This ultimate 5-day Seoul itinerary crafted by Gina Bear, who lived in South Korea for over five years, offers a comprehensive guide to exploring Seoul's rich history, vibrant culture, and modern attractions. From wearing traditional hanbok and visiting ancient palaces to indulging in Korean beauty treatments and experiencing the DMZ, this itinerary ensures a deep dive into what makes Seoul one of Asia's most fascinating cities. Whether you're exploring traditional neighborhoods, enjoying the nightlife, or taking day trips to historical sites, Seoul promises an unforgettable adventure.
Day One: Exploring Seoul's Heritage
Kick off your Seoul adventure by diving into its rich history and culture, wearing traditional hanbok, and exploring ancient palaces and vibrant neighborhoods.
Hanboknam Rental
Experience Korean culture by renting a traditional hanbok, granting free admission to royal palaces.
Tips
Larger sizes and shoe rentals available. Book in advance for convenience.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +82 10-6485-8507 |
| 🌐 Website: http://hanboknamglobal.com/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| 📍 Address: 133-5 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea |
🔗 Profiles:     |
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Explore the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace with a free hanbok rental from Hanboknam.
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Tips
Check out the National Palace Museum of Korea located within.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +82 2-3700-3900 |
| 🌐 Website: http://www.royalpalace.go.kr/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| ⏳ Typical duration: 1.5 hours |
| 📍 Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea |
🔗 Profiles:  |
Insadong
A prime spot for souvenirs and traditional Korean food, showcasing local artwork and cultural performances.
Tips
Visit Insadong Geujip for authentic Korean cuisine.
Ikseon-dong Hanok Village
A trendy hanok village with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, offering a blend of traditional and modern Seoul.
Tips
Ideal for afternoon exploration and experiencing the nightlife.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +82 2-2148-5243 |
| 🌐 Website: https://korean.visitseoul.net/palace/익선동한옥거리_/37008 |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| 📍 Address: Ikseon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea |
Moxy Hotel’s Rooftop Bar
Enjoy stunning views of Ikseondong Hanok Village with a drink on the rooftop of Moxy Hotel.
Tips
A great place to stay with fun and modern decorations.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 🌐 Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/selox-moxy-seoul-insadong/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0 |
| 📍 Address: 37 Donhwamun-ro 11-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea |
| 🔗 Profiles: |
🇰🇷 Day Two: Seoul's Traditional Heart
Dedicate your day to exploring Seoul's traditional side, including UNESCO sites, serene gardens, and historic villages.
🏯 Changdeokgung Palace
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Changdeokgung Palace, one of Seoul's largest palaces, renowned for its beautiful Secret Garden and status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace not only offers a glimpse into Korea's royal history but also provides a serene escape from the bustling city.
Tips
Consider a guided tour to delve deep into its history and gain a deeper understanding of the palace's significance in Korean culture.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +82 2-762-8261 |
| 🌐 Website: http://www.cdg.go.kr/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| 📍 Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea |
🌸 Secret Garden Tour
Explore the tranquil beauty of the Secret Garden, a place of rest and contemplation for the royal family. The garden comes alive with vibrant colors during cherry blossom season and autumn, offering a mesmerizing experience for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Tips
Book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you don't miss the opportunity to wander through this enchanting oasis.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +82 2-3668-2300 |
| 🌐 Website: https://royal.cha.go.kr/cdg |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| ⏳ Typical duration: 45 min |
| 📍 Address: South Korea, Seoul, Jongno-gu, 율곡로 99번지 |
🏯 Jogyesa Temple
Step into the serene ambiance of Jogyesa Temple, one of Korea's oldest Buddhist temples, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. The temple's vibrant lantern decorations during Buddha's Birthday add a touch of magic to the spiritual experience.
Tips
Visit during Buddha's Birthday for special lantern decorations and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of this ancient temple.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +82 2-768-8600 |
| 🌐 Website: http://www.jogyesa.kr/ |
| 📍 Address: 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea |
| 🔗 Profiles: |
🏘️ Bukchon Hanok Village
Wander through the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village, a neighborhood filled with traditional Korean houses that offer a glimpse into the country's architectural past. The village exudes a timeless charm, providing a perfect backdrop for cultural exploration and stunning photography.
Tips
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities, allowing you to capture the essence of traditional Korean architecture in its unspoiled beauty.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +82 2-2133-1371 |
| 🌐 Website: https://bukchon.seoul.go.kr/front/index.do |
| 📍 Address: Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea |
☕ Green Mile Coffee
Indulge in a delightful coffee experience at Green Mile Coffee, a favorite coffee shop in Bukchon known for its unique coffee and green tea creations. The cozy ambiance and scenic views from the rooftop make it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
Tips
Best visited around sunset for a relaxing atmosphere and breathtaking views of the National Folk Museum of Korea, creating a perfect ending to your day in Seoul.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +82 2-744-2404 |
| 🌐 Website: http://www.greenmilecoffee.com/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| ⏳ Typical duration: 45 min to 2 hr |
| 📍 Address: 64 Bukchon-ro, Gahoe-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea |
| 🔗 Profiles: |
🌆 Day Three: Modern Seoul and Han River
Experience the modern side of Seoul with a visit to iconic towers, shopping districts, and a relaxing picnic by the Han River.
🏙️ Namsan Tower
Namsan Tower, also known as N Seoul Tower, is a must-visit for panoramic city views and romantic moments, featured in numerous Korean dramas. The tower is situated on Namsan Mountain, offering a complex culture space where visitors can immerse themselves in the clouds meeting the mountain.
Tips
Enjoy the cable car ride to the tower and take a leisurely walk through Namsan Park. Consider dining at the observatory restaurants for a unique experience.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +82 2-3455-9277 |
| 🌐 Website: http://www.nseoultower.co.kr/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| 📍 Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea |
| 🔗 Profiles: |
🛍️ Myeongdong
Myeongdong is a bustling shopping district famous for its vibrant street food, plethora of skincare shops, and an array of Kpop merchandise. It's a vibrant and lively area that offers a true taste of modern Seoul's energy and style.
Tips
Indulge in the spicy rice cakes, known as tteokbokki, and be sure to bring cash for the street food vendors. Explore the district to get a feel for Seoul's most expensive area and take part in cultural activities beyond shopping.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| ⏳ Typical duration: 25 min to 1.5 hr |
| 📍 Address: 1-5 Myeong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea |
🌊 Cheonggyecheon Stream
The Cheonggyecheon Stream is a beautiful waterway that runs through Seoul, known for its serene ambiance and picturesque surroundings. It's particularly popular during the Seoul Lantern Festival and Christmas, adorned with stunning decorations during these festive seasons.
Tips
Ideal for a leisurely stroll, especially during the lantern festival, the stream offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city.
| Travel Information |
|---|
| 📞 Phone: +82 2-2290-7111 |
| 🌐 Website: https://www.sisul.or.kr/open_content/cheonggye/ |
| 🕒 Hours: See hours |
| ⏳ Typical duration: 1.5 hours |
| 📍 Address: Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea |
| 🔗 Profiles: |
🧺 Han River Picnic
Enjoy a classic Seoul experience with a picnic at Yeouido Park, overlooking the Han River. The park provides a serene setting for a relaxing day out, offering stunning views of the river and the city skyline.
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Tips
Order delivery to the park or grab a lunchbox from nearby convenience stores. Consider renting a bike to explore the area and enhance your picnic experience.
🚢 Han River Cruise
The Han River Cruise is a favorite tourist activity, offering stunning views of Seoul from the water. The cruise is especially beautiful at sunset, providing a unique perspective of the city as it lights up in the evening.
Tips
Book the sunset tour for a drink and to witness the city's transformation as it comes alive with lights. It's a truly memorable experience for friends, lovers, or families.
🇰🇷 Day Four: DMZ and Cultural Classes
Venture to the DMZ for a unique historical experience and immerse yourself in Korean culture with traditional classes.
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🏞️ DMZ and JSA Tour
Explore the tense yet fascinating area between North and South Korea, including a visit to the JSA. Stand in North Korea during the DMZ Tour and witness the historic meeting place of President Moon Jae-In and Dictator Kim Jong Eun.
Tips
Book your DMZ and JSA tour in advance to secure your spot and check for closures due to tensions.
🎎 Traditional Korean Class
Engage in a traditional Korean class to learn about the culture, crafts, and more. Participate in activities that showcase the beauty of Korean traditions and create unique souvenirs to take home.
Tips
Immerse yourself in the experience to make lasting memories and gain a deeper understanding of Korean culture.
💆 Korean Beauty Experience
Indulge in the world-renowned Korean beauty treatments for a rejuvenating experience. Try various treatments for glowing skin, utilizing gentle and effective Kbeauty products that have been perfected through the science of skincare.
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Tips
Treat yourself to the magic of Kbeauty products and treatments, allowing them to work their wonders on your skin and body.
🇰🇷 Day Five: Day Trips and Neighborhood Exploration
Conclude your Seoul journey with a day trip to experience traditional Korea or explore unique Seoul neighborhoods tailored to your interests.
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🚗 Day Trip from Seoul
Choose between a traditional day trip to Gyeongju, known as the very traditional old capital of Korea, where you can explore ancient temples, royal tombs, and historical sites. Alternatively, opt for a day trip to Jeonju, famous for its gorgeous hanok village and traditional Korean culture. If you prefer nature, consider a hike in Bukhansan National Park, offering stunning mountain views and serene hiking trails.
Tips
Select based on your interest in history, culture, or nature. Gyeongju and Jeonju provide a deep dive into Korea's rich heritage, while Bukhansan National Park offers a refreshing escape into nature.
🏙️ Explore Seoul Neighborhood
Customize your last day in Seoul by visiting neighborhoods like Gangnam, renowned for its vibrant entertainment scene, luxury shopping, and trendy cafes. Alternatively, explore Hongdae, a youthful and artistic district known for its indie music, street performances, and eclectic nightlife. Each neighborhood offers a unique glimpse into different aspects of Korean culture and entertainment.
Tips
Consider your interests in Kpop, Kdramas, or Korean culture to choose the right neighborhood. Gangnam is perfect for those interested in upscale shopping and entertainment, while Hongdae caters to the artistic and youthful spirit.
