Seoul South Korea 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Central Seoul

  • Place to Visit: Gyeongbokgung Palace (오전), Bukchon Hanok Village (오후)
  • Activities: Learn about Korean history at Gyeongbokgung Palace, explore traditional Korean houses in Bukchon Hanok Village.
  • Food: Try Traditional Korean Cuisine at local restaurants around Insadong area such as Gwangjang Market (광장마켓) for famous Bindaetteok (Korean Mung Bean Pancake).
  • Accommodation: Stay in Myeongdong area, with easy access to shopping, food, and transportation.
  • Things to Know: Be respectful when visiting historical sites and temples. Remove shoes where necessary.
  • Transportation: Seoul Metro (Line 3 or Line 4) is the easiest way to get around the city. Get a T-Money card for convenient travel.

Day 2: Modern Seoul & Shopping

  • Place to Visit: Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP, 오전), Namdaemun Market (오후)
  • Activities: Experience modern architecture at DDP, shop for affordable fashion at Namdaemun Market.
  • Food: Eat street food at Gwangjang Market or try local chain restaurants such as Wings & Burgers Lab (윙스 엔드버거 라브) for their famous chicken wings.
  • Transportation: Use the Seoul Metro (Line 4, Line 6) to get around these areas.
  • Tips: Bargain at Namdaemun Market to get a better price.

Day 3: Nature & History in Northern Seoul

  • Place to Visit: Changdeokgung Palace (오전), Hwagye Temple (오후), Namsan Tower (오후)
  • Activities: Explore another royal palace, visit a Buddhist temple, climb up Namsan Tower for a beautiful view of the city.
  • Food: Dine at local restaurants around Insa-dong or Hongik University area.
  • Transportation: Use the Seoul Metro (Line 3, Line 5, and Jungang Line) to get around these areas.
  • Things to Know: Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Day 4: Day Trip to DMZ & Gyeongju

  • Place to Visit: Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), Gyeongju (Full day trip)
  • Activities: Learn about Korean history and politics at the DMZ, explore ancient capital city of Korea in Gyeongju.
  • Food: Have a lunch buffet at The Oriental Restaurant in Gyeongju for a taste of various traditional dishes.
  • Transportation: Take a guided tour to DMZ and Gyeongju from Seoul. Check with your hotel or a travel agency for options.
  • Tips: Bring your passport as some tour programs may include a visit to the JSA (Joint Security Area).

Day 5: Leisure & Farewell

  • Place to Visit: Lotte World (오전), Myeongdong (오후)
  • Activities: Enjoy various attractions at Lotte World including an amusement park, a skating rink, and an aquarium. Shop for souvenirs and try famous street food in Myeongdong.
  • Food: Have a delicious meal at a Korean BBQ restaurant or try the famous Cafe Pascale (카페 파스칼) for their tarts.
  • Transportation: Use the Seoul Metro (Line 2, Line 7, and Bundang Line) to get to Lotte World. Walk or take a taxi to Myeongdong.
  • Tips: Visit Lotte World early in the morning to avoid crowds.