Seoul, South Korea 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Central Seoul

Palace Area & Bukchon Hanok Village

• Start your day at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built by the Joseon dynasty. Gyeongbokgung Station (Subway Line 3)
• Walk towards Bukchon Hanok Village to experience traditional Korean architecture and lifestyle. Anguk Station (Subway Line 3)
• Visit Changdeokgung Palace, one of the best-preserved royal villas featuring a beautiful garden, Huwon (Secret Garden). Changdeokgung East Gate Station (Subway Line 3)

Insadong & Myeongdong

• Head to Insadong, a traditional Korean cultural district with antique shops, tea houses, and galleries. Try Gukhwa-cha (Flower Tea) at Tteurakang. Jonggak Station (Subway Line 1)
• Next, visit Myeongdong, a popular shopping and food district famous for its skincare products and street food like Takoyaki and Tteokbokki. Myeongdong Station (Subway Line 4)

Dinner & Nightlife

• Enjoy a delicious meal of BBQ at Mapo Mandu Gomtang Myeonok or Samgyetang, a ginseng chicken soup, at Pororo Chicken. Hongik University Station (Subway Line 2)
• Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hongdae, filled with street art, indie music venues, and bars. Hongik University Station (Subway Line 2)

Day 2: Modern Seoul & Shopping

Dongdaemun & Namdaemun Market

• Begin your day at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a unique architectural masterpiece housing fashion exhibitions, shops, and restaurants. Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Subway Line 4)
• Nearby, explore Namdaemun Market, one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Korea selling various goods, including clothing, accessories, and street food. Hoehyeon Station (Subway Line 6)

Gangnam & COEX Mall

• Venture to the affluent district of Gangnam, made famous by Psy’s song “Gangnam Style.” Apgujeong Rodeo Street Station (Subway Line 3)
• Spend the afternoon at COEX Mall, an underground shopping mall with over 200 stores, an aquarium, and a casino. Samseong Station (Subway Line 2)

Dinner & Nightlife

• For dinner, try modern Korean cuisine at Gaonnuri or enjoy delicious seafood at A.O.U (Arae Ongal Undong). Apgujeong Rodeo Street Station (Subway Line 3)
• End your night in Gangnam’s entertainment district, Garosugil, filled with chic bars, cafes, and trendy restaurants. Sinsa Station (Subway Line 3)

Where to Stay:

• For budget-friendly accommodations, check out M House Myeongdong or Hotel Unique Gangnam.
• If you prefer luxury, consider Park Hyatt Seoul or The Shilla Seoul.

Transportation:

• T-Money cards can be purchased at convenience stores and are useful for using the subway, buses, and taxis throughout Seoul.

Things to Know:

• Koreans typically remove their shoes when entering homes, hotels, and some restaurants.
• It’s common to tip in high-end restaurants or taxis but not in casual eateries or cafes.
• The official language is Korean, but many people also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

Tips:

• Always carry tissues, as public restrooms often don’t provide them.
• Be aware of local customs and etiquette to show respect and avoid offending locals.