Seoul South Korea 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Seoul Itinerary:

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Korean Won (KRW) - Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.
  • Language: Korean - Download a translation app or learn basic phrases like “hello” (안녕하세요 - annyeonghaseyo), “thank you” (감사합니다 - gamsahamnida), and “excuse me” (실례합니다 - sillaeyohamnida).
  • Transportation: Seoul has an excellent public transportation system with subways and buses. Purchase a T-Money card for easy and discounted travel.
  • Sim Card/Wifi: Consider getting a Korean sim card or renting a portable wifi device for convenient internet access.

Accommodation:

  • Myeongdong: Trendy area with shopping, restaurants, and nightlife.
  • Hongdae: Vibrant district known for its youthful energy, street art, and live music venues.
  • Insadong: Cultural hub with traditional tea houses, artisan shops, and historic landmarks.

Day 1: Historical Seoul

  • Morning: Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most stunning of Seoul’s five grand palaces. (Entry fee: 3,000 KRW)
  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Korean cuisine at Tosokchon Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) near Gyeongbokgung Palace.
  • Afternoon: Visit Bukchon Hanok Village, a charming neighborhood with traditional Korean houses and winding alleys.
  • Evening: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Insadong, browse artisan shops, and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Modern Seoul & Shopping

  • Morning: Head to the Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in Korea, for panoramic views of the city. (Entry fee varies)

  • Lunch: Indulge in a Korean BBQ feast at Wangbijib in Gangnam.

  • Afternoon: Shop ’til you drop in Myeongdong, Seoul’s fashion and beauty hub with countless boutiques, street food stalls, and cosmetic shops.

  • Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hongdae, explore trendy bars, cafes, and catch a live music performance.

Day 3: Culture & Tradition

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum of Korea, showcasing Korean art and history from prehistoric times to the present day. (Free Entry)

  • Lunch: Enjoy bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables and meat) at Gogung in Itaewon.

  • Afternoon: Hike up Namsan Mountain for stunning city views, visit the iconic N Seoul Tower, and enjoy a romantic cable car ride.

  • Evening: Attend a traditional Korean performance like Nanta or a K-pop concert for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Day 4: DMZ & Relaxation

  • Morning: Take a guided tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the border between North and South Korea, for a glimpse into history and geopolitics. (Tours must be booked in advance)

  • Lunch: Savor authentic Korean dumplings at Gwangjang Market, a bustling food market with diverse culinary offerings.

  • Afternoon: Relax and unwind at the beautiful Olympic Park, enjoy a leisurely stroll through its gardens, or visit the Lotte World amusement park for some fun.

  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant of your choice, reflecting on your amazing Seoul experience.

Transportation Tips:

  • Utilize the T-Money card for convenient and discounted travel on subways and buses.
  • Download subway apps like Naver Map or Kakao Metro to navigate the city efficiently.
  • Consider using taxis for longer distances, but be aware of potential traffic congestion during peak hours.

Enjoy your trip to Seoul!