SEOUL ITINERARY FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS
WHERE TO STAY IN SEOUL
- Myeongdong:
- This place is a shopper’s paradise! You’ll find everything from big-name brands to cute local shops, plus tons of amazing street food. It’s also close to cool spots like Namsan Seoul Tower.
- Highlights: Check out Myeongdong Cathedral, the Lotte Department Store, and the bustling street market.
- Convenience: Super easy to get around from here since it’s well-connected by public transport.
- Insadong:
- If you’re into traditional Korean culture, Insadong is perfect. It’s full of antique shops, art galleries, and cozy tea houses. Plus, you can catch some cultural performances. The hotels below are all from Insadong where we stayed and enjoyed thoroughly.
- Highlights: Don’t miss Jogyesa Temple and Bukchon Hanok Village, and take some time to explore the art galleries and craft shops.
- Convenience: Right in the middle of the action with easy access to both historical sites and modern attractions.
- Hongdae:
- This is the go-to spot for a younger crowd and anyone who loves music and the arts. There are loads of cafes, clubs, and street performances.
- Highlights: Visit Hongik University, the Trick Eye Museum, and enjoy the vibrant night market.
- Convenience: Tons of nightlife options and great food, plus good public transport connections.
BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS TO STAY IN SEOUL
Hotels
HOTEL MONG
Stylish, comfortable accommodations in the heart of the city, the boutique hotel is the perfect base for exploring Seoul’s vibrant attractions. They serve excellent breakfast as well!
AMID HOTEL
Perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and modern amenities close to the city’s bustling Myeongdong district. The famous Insadong street is also right at your doorstep.
ninetree insadong
Located in the heart of Seoul, Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong offers modern comforts and easy access to cultural landmarks.
PERFECT 5 DAY ITINERARY FOR SEOUL
Day 1: Arrival and Initial Exploration
Morning:
- Check-in: Settle into your hotel in the vibrant neighborhood of Insadong. The above options listed are great for mid-range and first time travellers to explore the dynamic city!
- Breakfast: Start with a hearty Korean breakfast at a local cafe. Head to the row of cute cafes at Yunposun-gil and you can’t go wrong!
Afternoon:
- Myeongdong Shopping: Wander through Myeongdong’s bustling streets, perfect for shopping and trying street food. Olive Young has their flagship store here for all your skincare needs and so do multiple other brands.
- Lunch: Enjoy some Korean BBQ or a bowl of spicy tteokbokki at a nearby restaurant. Give Myeongdong Kyoja or Yoogane Chicken Galbi a try.
Evening:
- Namsan Seoul Tower: Head up to Namsan Seoul Tower for panoramic city views. The cable car ride is a fun experience! Book your tickets here.
- Dinner: Grab dinner at one of the tower’s restaurants or return to nearby Myeongdong for more food options at their street food vendors and grab a seat at a local bar.
Day 2: Historical and Cultural Exploration
Morning:
- Gyeongbokgung Palace: Start your day with a visit to the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace. Catch the changing of the guard ceremony at 10 AM and 2PM everyday except on Tuesdays when the palace is closed. Consider renting a hanbok and having your photos taken with loved ones here!
- Bukchon Hanok Village: With your hanbok on and photographer in tow, wander through the traditional Korean houses in Bukchon Hanok Village.
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Head to Tosokchon Samgyetang for a satisfying meal of the best chicken soup! Make your way back to Insadong and spend the afternoon leisurely exploring its unique shops and galleries.
- Jogyesa Temple: Visit this beautiful Buddhist temple nearby.
Evening:
- Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): Check out the futuristic architecture and nighttime markets.
- Dinner: Have dinner in the Dongdaemun area, famous for its street food and late-night shopping. Or head over to any of the 7-Eleven or GS25 or CU to live out your K-drama dreams of the most delicious ramen and iced drink!
Day 3: Modern Seoul and Relaxation
Morning:
- Hongdae: Start your day in Hongdae, known for its youthful vibe, trendy shops, and cafes. There are innumerable fashion, accessories and cosmetic stores along Eoulmadang-ro to satisfy your shopping needs.
- Trick Eye Museum & Ice Museum: Have some fun at this quirky museums in Hongdae.
Afternoon:
- Lunch in Hongdae: Try out some hip cafes or restaurants in the area. Colline Cafe and Sokoa were personal favourites!
- Ewha Woman’s University: Walk around the beautiful campus and explore nearby shops.
Evening:
- Han River Park: Head to the Han River for a relaxing evening. Rent a bike or just enjoy a leisurely stroll. If you are feeling tired, consider doing a sunset cruise by booking your tickets here!
- Dinner: Grab some takeout and have a picnic by the river, or check out nearby restaurants.
Day 4: Day Trip and Night Market
Morning and Afternoon:
- DMZ Tour: Take a half-day tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to get a glimpse of North Korea. Consider this guided tour package with Klook!
Evening:
- Gwangjang Market: Head to Gwangjang Market for dinner which was featured in Netflix’s Street Food. Sample Korean pancakes (bindaetteok), mayak kimbap, and more street food.
- Night Market Stroll: Wander around the night market for a unique shopping experience.
Day 5: Leisure and Last-Minute Shopping
Morning:
- Lotte World Tower: Visit the Lotte World Tower and enjoy the view from the observation deck.
- Shopping: Shop around Lotte World Mall or head over to Coex mall to get your Instagram pics of the Starfield Library.
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Have lunch in the mall or nearby picture-perfect cafes.
- Gangnam: Spend your afternoon in Gangnam. Explore the trendy boutiques, and if you’re into K-pop, check out the various entertainment company buildings.
Evening:
- Dinner: Have your final dinner in Gangnam, choosing from a range of upscale restaurants or casual eateries.
- Karaoke: End your trip with a fun karaoke session in Gangnam before heading back to your hotel.