Seoul 5 Day Itinerary

September 22, 2024

5-Day Seoul Itinerary: A Comprehensive Guide

Day 1: Explore Historic & Cultural Sites

Morning:
1. Start your day at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces of Joseon Dynasty.
2. Visit Bukchon Hanok Village to experience traditional Korean architecture and culture.
3. Explore the nearby Janggyeonggak Hall, a magnificent library of ancient books.
Lunch: Try some authentic Korean BBQ at Gogung or Woo Lae Oak.
Afternoon:
1. Head to Changdeokgung Palace and explore its Secret Garden (Advance booking required).
2. Stop by Insadong, a traditional district with plenty of souvenir shops, tea houses, and art galleries.
Dinner: Dine at Myeongdong Kyoja for handmade knife-cut noodles or Namsan Fish Market for fresh seafood options.

Day 2: Discover Modern Seoul & Nightlife

Morning:
1. Visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) and explore the surrounding Dongdaemun Market.
2. Take a stroll around Hangang River Park, offering great city views and recreational activities.
Lunch: Try the famous Tteokbokki Street Food in Dongdaemun or Tosokchon for ginseng chicken soup.
Afternoon:
1. Explore Myeongdong for shopping, street food, and the famous Catholic Myeongdong Cathedral.
2. Visit N Seoul Tower for panoramic city views and lock your love padlock on the Love Locks of Namsan.
Dinner: Dine at Wonteokjeon in Myeongdong for traditional Korean pancakes or Ihwa Mural Village for a romantic dinner with a view.
Night: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hongdae, home to many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Day 3: Explore Art & Pop Culture

Morning:
1. Visit Lotte World Tower for an observation deck with stunning views, and explore the adjacent Lotte World Adventure.
2. Head to Hongik University Street, a hub for street performances and indie fashion.
Lunch: Dine at Ramen Street inside Times Square Mall or Hongdae Ramen Alley.
Afternoon:
1. Visit the Trick Eye Museum and create your own illusions in the interactive art exhibits.
2. Head to the nearby Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) for contemporary Korean art.
Dinner: Try unique fusion cuisine at Afternoon Tea Cafe or The Hidden Jamsil.

Day 4: Adventure & Nature

Morning:
1. Take a trip to Namsan National Park, home to N Seoul Tower and several hiking trails.
2. Explore the scenic Bukhansan National Park for a more challenging hike with breathtaking views.
Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or dine at one of the local restaurants near the parks.
Afternoon:
1. If time allows, visit Olympic Park to learn about the 1988 Summer Olympics or relax at the Peace Plaza.
2. Stop by Namsan Everland for a fun day filled with roller coasters, shows, and animal attractions.
Dinner: Dine at one of the international restaurants inside Everland or return to the city for a more traditional meal.

Day 5: Shopping & Relaxation

Morning:
1. Visit Apgujeong Rodeo Street and Cheongdam-dong, home to luxury boutiques and high-end brands.
2. Head to Coex Mall for a more diverse shopping experience, including an underground aquarium (Ocean World) and the Starfield Library.
Lunch: Dine at The Kitchen for a modern Korean dining experience or explore the food court options in Coex Mall.
Afternoon:
1. Visit the Bongeunsa Temple and its beautiful gardens.
2. Explore Garosu-gil, a trendy street filled with cafes, boutiques, and art galleries.
Dinner: Dine at The Gourmet Station for a diverse selection of cuisines or Wonderbox Ssamjigil for a fun and unique dining experience.

Things to Know:

Transportation: Seoul has an extensive subway system, making it easy to get around the city. Consider getting a T-Money Card for convenient transportation and purchases.
Language: English is not as widely spoken as in other major cities, so it’s helpful to have a translation app or know some basic Korean phrases.
Currency: South Korea uses the Won (₩). Major credit cards are accepted at many establishments, but it’s always a good idea to carry cash.
Tipping: Tipping is not expected in restaurants, but rounding up is appreciated. Taxi drivers and hotel staff often speak English, so tips are not required.