Seoul, South Korea-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Seoul Itinerary: A Blend of History, Culture & K-Pop

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Guesthouses in Hongdae or Itaewon offer vibrant atmospheres. Consider “The Backpackers” or “Kimchee Guesthouse”.

  • Mid-range: Hotels near Myeongdong like “Hotel28 Myeongdong” or “Shilla Stay Myeongdong” are convenient and stylish.

  • Luxury: Treat yourself to the iconic “Lotte Hotel Seoul” or “The Shilla Seoul”, both boasting exceptional service and views.

Transportation:

  • T-Money Card: Purchase this rechargeable card for seamless travel on subways and buses.
  • Subway: Seoul’s extensive subway network is efficient and affordable. Download the “Subway Korea” app for navigation.
  • Taxi: Easily hail taxis, but be aware of traffic during peak hours.

Things to Know:

  • Language: Korean is the official language, but English signage is common in tourist areas. Learn basic phrases like “hello” (안녕하세요 - Annyeonghaseyo) and “thank you” (감사합니다 - Gamsahamnida).
  • Currency: South Korean Won (KRW). ATMs are widely available.

Day 1: Historical Immersion

  • Morning: Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most beautiful royal palace in Seoul. Witness the changing of the guard ceremony for a cultural experience.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, admiring traditional Korean houses. Stop by a teahouse for a relaxing break.
  • Evening: Dine at Tosokchon Samgyetang, famous for its ginseng chicken soup (samgyetang).

Day 2: Shopping & Street Food Delights

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of Myeongdong, Seoul’s shopping mecca. Find trendy fashion, cosmetics, and street food stalls.
  • Afternoon: Visit Insadong for unique souvenirs, traditional crafts, and art galleries.
  • Evening: Indulge in a Korean BBQ feast at Wangbijib, known for its high-quality meats and vibrant atmosphere.

Day 3: Panoramic Views & K-Pop Fever

  • Morning: Hike up Namsan Mountain to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul from the iconic N Seoul Tower.
  • Afternoon: Visit the SMTOWN Museum, a paradise for K-pop fans with interactive exhibits and memorabilia dedicated to popular groups like EXO and NCT.
  • Evening: Catch a live K-pop performance or attend a music show recording for an unforgettable experience.

Day 4: Culture & Relaxation

  • Morning: Explore the National Museum of Korea, housing a vast collection of Korean art and artifacts spanning millennia.
  • Afternoon: Unwind at the beautiful Seoul Forest, enjoying nature trails, a deer park, and various themed gardens.
  • Evening: Savor delicious bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables and meat) at Gogung, a traditional Korean restaurant.

Day 5: Day Trip to DMZ

  • Full Day: Join a guided tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the border between North and South Korea. Experience history firsthand and gain insight into the divided peninsula.

Day 6: Trendy Vibes & Entertainment

  • Morning: Explore Hongdae, Seoul’s vibrant youth district known for its street art, independent boutiques, and live music venues.
  • Afternoon: Visit Lotte World, an amusement park with thrilling rides and entertainment for all ages.
  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at Goryeo Samgyetang, famous for their flavorful ginseng chicken soup served in traditional clay pots.

Day 7: Farewell & Shopping

  • Morning: Revisit your favorite spot or explore a hidden gem you discovered during the week.

  • Afternoon: Do some last-minute souvenir shopping at Namdaemun Market, one of Seoul’s largest and oldest markets.

  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Hanam Pig House, renowned for its flavorful pork barbecue and lively atmosphere.

Additional Tips:

  • Download KakaoTalk, a popular messaging app used by locals for communication and finding information.

  • Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. Book accommodations and tours in advance.

  • Learn basic Korean phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.

  • Embrace the street food culture; Seoul offers diverse and delicious options.

  • Pack comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.