Suwon South Korea 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary: Exploring Historic Suwon, South Korea

Suwon, a vibrant city south of Seoul, boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. This 7-day itinerary will take you on a journey through its captivating landmarks, cultural experiences, and culinary delights.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Korean Won (KRW)
  • Language: Korean. English is spoken in tourist areas but learning basic phrases is helpful.
  • Transportation: Suwon is well-connected by public transport. The subway system is efficient and affordable. Taxis are readily available.
  • Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Suwon Guesthouse, K-Pop Hostel
  • Mid-range: Hotel Lotte City Suwon, Ramada by Wyndham Suwon
  • Luxury: The Shilla Seoul (in nearby Seoul with easy access to Suwon)

Transportation:

  • Subway: Suwon Station is the main transportation hub. Line 1 connects to Seoul and other cities.
  • Bus: Extensive bus network covers most of Suwon. Use T-money card for convenient payment.
  • Taxi: Readily available but can be expensive during peak hours.

Day 1: Historical Immersion at Hwaseong Fortress

  • Morning: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, Hwaseong Fortress. Wander along its massive walls, marvel at the intricate gates, and learn about its fascinating history at the museum.
  • Afternoon: Hike up Paldalmun Gate, the main entrance to the fortress, for panoramic views of Suwon.

Where to eat:

  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Korean dishes like bibimbap at Hwajeong Restaurant.

Day 2: Cultural Explorations and Shopping Spree

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in Korean culture at the Suwon Museum of Art, showcasing contemporary and traditional works.
  • Afternoon: Indulge in retail therapy at the bustling Suwon Central Market, offering a wide range of goods, from clothing to local delicacies.

Where to eat:

  • Lunch: Savor authentic Korean street food like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) at the market.
  • Dinner: Experience fine dining at Toscano Trattoria, serving delicious Italian cuisine.

Day 3: Nature Retreat and Culinary Delights

  • Morning: Escape the city buzz with a visit to Gwanggyo Lake Park. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic lake, rent a bike, or take a boat ride.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant Suwon Street Art Festival, featuring impressive murals and installations (seasonal).

Where to eat:

  • Lunch: Relish fresh seafood at Gwanggyo Lake Fish Market.
  • Dinner: Indulge in Korean BBQ at Hanam Pig House.

Day 4: Day Trip to Seoul

  • Take a convenient subway ride to Seoul, South Korea’s vibrant capital. Explore iconic landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace, the N Seoul Tower, and the bustling shopping district of Myeongdong.
  • Tip: Purchase a T-money card for seamless travel on Seoul’s public transport.

Where to eat:

  • Enjoy a variety of street food options in Myeongdong or savor traditional Korean cuisine at Tosokchon Samgyetang.

Day 5: Traditional Crafts and Relaxation

  • Morning: Learn the art of pottery making at the Suwon Ceramic Museum, where you can try your hand at crafting beautiful ceramics.
  • Afternoon: Unwind with a relaxing massage at a traditional Korean sauna (jjimjilbang) like Dragon Hill Spa.

Where to eat:

  • Lunch: Enjoy delicious Korean pancakes (jeon) and noodles at Jeonju Jjokbal.
  • Dinner: Sample Suwon’s famous galbi (marinated short ribs) at Leegane Galbi.

Day 6: Sports Enthusiast’s Paradise and Entertainment

  • Morning: Cheer for the home team, Suwon Samsung Bluewings, at the iconic Suwon World Cup Stadium, one of South Korea’s largest football stadiums.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a thrilling performance at the Suwon Performing Arts Center.

Where to eat:

  • Lunch: Grab a quick bite at one of the many cafes around the stadium.
  • Dinner: Savor delicious Korean fried chicken (dakgangjeong) at Kyochon Chicken.

Day 7: Farewell and Souvenir Shopping

  • Morning: Browse for souvenirs and unique gifts at the Suwon Traditional Market, offering a wide selection of handcrafted goods and local specialties.
  • Afternoon: Reflect on your Suwon adventure with a farewell dinner at a restaurant of your choice.

Additional Tips:

  • Download a translation app to help communicate with locals.
  • Learn basic Korean phrases like “hello” (annyeonghaseyo), “thank you” (kamsahamnida), and “please” (juseyo).
  • Pack comfortable shoes for walking, as Suwon is best explored on foot.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through the historical and vibrant city of Suwon!