Planning a trip to Seoul and feeling overwhelmed? As a long-term expat living in this vibrant city, I’ve explored every corner, tasted countless dishes, and guided numerous friends and family members. Now, I’m excited to share my foolproof, fun-filled, week-long Seoul Travel Itinerary to help you experience the best of Seoul like a local!
To kick things off, here are some essential resources to make your trip smoother:
Seoul Travel Essentials:
- Visit Korea Website: (http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto) This website is a goldmine of information. I use it all the time to find details and directions for anywhere I want to go in Korea.
- Korea Travel Hotline 1330: (http://asiaenglish.visitkorea.or.kr/ena/GK/GK_EN_2_7_1.jsp) Need help with bookings or finding your way around? This English-speaking hotline is incredibly helpful, easy to use, and free!
- Subway App: Essential for navigating Seoul’s efficient subway system. Search for “Subway Korea” in your app store.
- Comfortable Shoes: Get ready to walk – a lot! Seoul is best explored on foot.
- Cash: While most places accept cards, cash is still handy for street food and smaller purchases.
Packing Tips for Seoul:
Pack light! Seoul has everything you need. Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, but remember that Koreans generally dress smartly. While comfort is key, especially for daytime exploring, sweatpants might make you feel a tad underdressed. Jeans are perfectly acceptable! Travel light, especially during the day, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking and encountering stairs. Anything you might need, from toiletries to snacks, is readily available at convenience stores, which are practically on every corner.
Planning Your Seoul Itinerary:
This itinerary is designed for a week-long trip, but feel free to adjust it to your interests and pace. A crucial tip: if you’re planning to visit the DMZ, book your tour well in advance – ideally months ahead – as they fill up quickly. This itinerary is based on a relaxed pace, so you can definitely fit in even more activities each day if you’re energetic!
Here’s a glimpse of your amazing week in Seoul:
Must-Try Korean Foods:
Don’t leave Seoul without indulging in these culinary delights:
- Bingsoo: Delicious shaved ice dessert, perfect for a sweet treat.
- Kimbap: Korean seaweed rice rolls, a convenient and tasty snack.
- Korean BBQ: A must-do dining experience – grilling marinated meats at your table.
- Dumplings (Mandu): Variety of savory dumplings, steamed, fried, or in soup.
- Street Foods: Explore the vibrant street food scene for unique and affordable eats.
- Dak Galbi: Spicy stir-fried chicken with vegetables and rice cakes.
Now, let’s dive into your daily Seoul travel itinerary:
Day 1: Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour – A Step into Korean History
Start your Seoul travel itinerary with a powerful and unique experience: a tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). This border area between North and South Korea offers a fascinating glimpse into the Korean War and the divided peninsula.
Book your DMZ tour in advance through a reputable site like Koridoor. While their website might seem a bit old-fashioned, they are a reliable and popular choice. You have two tour options: a full-day tour that technically takes you into North Korean territory (around $92 USD) and a half-day tour ($42 USD) that covers most of the DMZ but skips the North Korean section. In my opinion, and that of many others, the full-day tour is worth the extra cost for the complete experience.
The DMZ tour is both educational and thought-provoking. It’s a chance to learn about the Korean War, the armistice, and the ongoing tensions. While it’s a significant experience, if you only have a very short time in Seoul (2-3 days) and the DMZ isn’t a top priority, you could consider skipping it to maximize your time elsewhere. However, if you’re interested in history and unique geopolitical sites, the DMZ tour is a must-do on your Seoul travel itinerary.
Day 2: Cheonggyecheon Stream & Myeongdong Street Food – Nature and Neon
Begin day two of your Seoul travel itinerary with a refreshing walk along the Cheonggyecheon Stream. This urban oasis is one of my favorite spots in Seoul. It’s incredible to be surrounded by nature right in the heart of the bustling city, with towering buildings as a backdrop. The stream is beautifully landscaped and always has something going on, whether it’s a festival, art installation, or simply locals enjoying a stroll. You can find various route options on the Visit Korea website (http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=897540).
Night: As evening approaches, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Myeongdong. This bustling district is a quintessential Asian experience – think bright neon signs, huge crowds, and endless things to see, eat, and buy. Myeongdong is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from cosmetics and fashion to souvenirs. But the real highlight is the street food! Myeongdong street food is legendary, offering a dizzying array of delicious and affordable snacks. Be sure to try various treats as you wander through the lively streets. For tips on navigating and enjoying Korean street food, check out this guide: tips for eating street food here.
If you’re an animal lover, Myeongdong is also home to dog cafes (https://www.google.hr/#q=dog%20cafe%20myeongdong). Or, if dogs aren’t your thing, you can find pet cafes featuring cats, sheep, turtles, raccoons, and more! (https://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=pet%20cafe%20korea). Myeongdong truly captures the exciting and dynamic atmosphere that many visitors imagine when they think of Asia, making it a must-visit on your Seoul travel itinerary.
Day 3: Palaces, Hanoks, & Samcheongdong Charm – History and Culture
Day 3 of your Seoul travel itinerary is dedicated to exploring Seoul’s rich history and traditional beauty. Start your day at Gwanghwamun Gate and Gyeongbokgung Palace (/lauren-likes-blog/photowalk), the largest and arguably most stunning of Seoul’s five grand palaces. Allow ample time to wander through the palace grounds, admiring the architecture and imagining life during the Joseon Dynasty.
Next, venture into Bukchon Hanok Village (http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=561382), a beautifully preserved traditional Korean village with hundreds of hanoks (traditional houses). Stroll through the charming alleyways, admire the traditional architecture, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Afterwards, explore Samcheongdong (/lauren-likes-blog/samcheongdong-aka-athens-seoul), a trendy neighborhood known for its art galleries, boutiques, cafes, and traditional tea houses. It’s a perfect place for shopping, wandering, and enjoying the artistic vibe. You’ll also find the King Sejong Statue (http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=1382671) in this area – in fact, all these attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore them all in one day.
One fun cultural experience to try in this area is trying on a traditional Korean Hanbok. You can find places offering free or low-cost Hanbok rentals. We even found a free rental spot near the King Sejong Statue, and there are also rental places inside Gyeongbokgung Palace. Plan to dedicate a significant part of your day to this area to fully experience all it has to offer on your Seoul travel itinerary.
Food Recommendation: If you’re looking for a bite to eat in this area, there’s a delicious “build your own pasta” restaurant on the main shopping street in Samcheongdong, on the left side as you walk away from the palace. While I can’t give you the exact name, it’s quite easy to spot!
Night: For dinner and evening exploration, head to Itaewon. This international district is known for its diverse dining options and vibrant nightlife. Itaewon is a great place to find international cuisine and unique souvenirs. Some of our favorite restaurants in Itaewon include:
- Japanese Ramen: Menya Sandaime
- Middle Eastern Food: Petra Palace
- Dumplings: Jonny Dumpling
Day 4: N Seoul Tower & Namsan Park – Iconic Views and Romantic Locks
Day 4 of your Seoul travel itinerary takes you to another iconic Seoul landmark: N Seoul Tower (http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264550), located atop Namsan Mountain. The tower itself is technically free to access the base area, but the real treat is the panoramic 360-degree views of Seoul from the observation deck (entry fee applies, but it’s very affordable).
To reach the tower, you can either hike up through beautiful Namsan Park (it’s uphill, but a lovely walk) or take a bus. While there’s also a cable car option, it’s not really worth it in my opinion, as it doesn’t offer significantly better views and can be a bit inconvenient to locate.
Once at N Seoul Tower, besides the breathtaking views, you’ll often find various performances, Hanbok rental opportunities, and snack vendors. So, plan some time to explore the area and enjoy the atmosphere. And definitely don’t miss exploring Namsan Park itself – it’s a beautiful urban park offering walking trails and scenic spots.
Love Locks: A romantic tradition at N Seoul Tower is adding a “love lock” to the fences surrounding the tower. Couples write their names and a message on a lock and attach it as a symbol of their love. You can buy locks at the tower if you don’t bring your own! Make sure to add this to your Seoul travel itinerary for a memorable experience.
Night: For evening entertainment, catch the “Jump!” show (http://asiaenglish.visitkorea.or.kr/ena/SI/SI_EN_3_2_1.jsp?cid=684045). This non-verbal performance is incredibly entertaining and perfect for tourists of all ages and language backgrounds. It’s a high-energy show filled with acrobatics, martial arts, and comedy, making for a fun and memorable night out on your Seoul travel itinerary.
Day 5: Insadong Arts & Hongdae/Sinchon Vibe – Culture and Youthful Energy
Day 5 of your Seoul travel itinerary is a day of cultural immersion and youthful exploration. Start your day in Insadong (http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SH/SH_EN_7_2_2_1.jsp), a district known for its traditional Korean arts and crafts. Insadong is the perfect place to find unique souvenirs, tea sets, pottery, calligraphy, and other Korean crafts. Wander through the main street and explore the hidden alleyways filled with tea houses and art shops.
Night: As evening approaches, head to either Hongdae (http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=1326972) or Sinchon (https://english.visitkorea.or.kr:1001/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=256043). These are both vibrant university areas buzzing with youthful energy. Both districts offer street performers, trendy shops, delicious and affordable food, and a lively atmosphere. There’s always something exciting happening in Hongdae and Sinchon! If you choose Sinchon, be sure to visit the Korean Dessert Cafe for Bingsoo – a perfect way to end the day on your Seoul travel itinerary.
Day 6: War Memorial & Jewelry Making – Reflection and Creativity
Day 6 of your Seoul travel itinerary offers a blend of somber reflection and creative fun. Start your day at the War Memorial of Korea (http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=268131). This museum is a truly impressive and often overlooked gem in Seoul. Entrance is free, and it’s an incredibly well-designed, interactive, and educational museum. The War Memorial provides a comprehensive overview of Korean military history, with a strong focus on the Korean War. Plan to spend at least half a day here – you could easily spend even longer and still not see everything. It’s a powerful and moving experience that will add depth to your understanding of Korea.
Night: For a fun and creative evening activity, try making your own jewelry! “Banji 만들” (Banji Madeul) stores are workshops where you can handcraft your own silver jewelry. It’s a surprisingly fun, easy, and rewarding experience, and you’ll leave with a unique souvenir. There’s a Banji store in Itaewon, located behind the McDonald’s on the back street parallel to the main Itaewon road. It’s best to visit in person to make an appointment or just drop in, but go before 7 pm to have enough time to finish your creations. This unique activity is a great addition to your Seoul travel itinerary.
Day 7: Trick Eye & Love Museum & Gangnam Glamour – Fun and Fashion
On your final day of this Seoul travel itinerary, get ready for some fun and glamour! Head back to Hongdae to visit either the Trick Eye Museum (http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=1324865) or the Love Museum (http://lovemuseum.co.kr/). The Trick Eye Museum is an interactive museum filled with optical illusions and 3D art, perfect for taking fun and quirky photos. The Love Museum is a bit more…adult-themed, and also focuses on interactive and photo-friendly exhibits. You’ll need a few hours to fully enjoy either museum, so make sure your camera is fully charged! Both offer pure entertainment and are well worth the entrance fee.
Night: End your Seoul travel itinerary in style with an evening in Gangnam (http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264571). Gangnam is Seoul’s most upscale district, famous for its luxury shopping, trendy restaurants, and entertainment. Explore the COEX Mall, browse high-end boutiques, and soak in the glamorous atmosphere. Gangnam also boasts a fantastic dining scene. You can find another branch of the Korean Dessert Cafe here, as well as international options like Gigi’s Cupcakes (https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Restaurant_Review-g294197-d7738646-Reviews-Gigi_s_Cupcakes-Seoul.html) and numerous Western food choices. Some local favorites include Brick Oven Pizza, Fry Pan for Korean fried chicken, and Dak Galbi with a cheese moat – a delicious and indulgent way to celebrate the end of your Seoul travel itinerary.
Bonus Seoul Activities:
If you have extra time or want to swap out some activities, here are other fantastic places we love in Seoul:
- Olympic Park: (http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=789703) A vast park perfect for cycling, picnics, and enjoying nature.
- Baseball Game: Experience the Korean passion for baseball at Jamsil Stadium.
- COEX Mall: A massive underground shopping mall with an aquarium and cinema.
- Themed Movie Theaters: (http://seoulistic.com/things-to-do-in-korea/unique-movie-theaters-in-seoul/) Seoul has some incredibly unique and themed cinemas for a special movie experience.
- Seoul City Wall: (http://seoulcitywall.seoul.go.kr/front/eng/sub04/sub0401.do) Hike along sections of the historic city wall for great views.
- Bukhansan Mountain: (http://english.knps.or.kr/Knp/Bukhansan/Intro/Introduction.aspx) Enjoy a hike in this beautiful mountain just outside the city.
- Han River: Stroll or cycle along the Han River, rent a paddleboat, or enjoy a river cruise.
- Seoul Forest: Another great urban park for relaxation and nature.
Seoul truly offers an incredible amount to see and do. Use these tips (/lauren-likes-blog/find-travel-mojo) to help you plan your trip and this planner (http://static1.squarespace.com/static/6239f87c482d514fe75453eb/6250d2505ec6e140670e39c6/6250d5205ec6e140670ece4c/1649464608414/?format=original) to make the most of your time. And remember, South Korea is beautiful beyond Seoul too! Consider exploring destinations outside the capital like Sokcho (/lauren-likes-blog/sokcho-travel-guide) or Busan. You can find more Korea travel inspiration in my other posts here.
Happy travels, and feel free to ask any questions about planning your Seoul travel itinerary in the comments below! If you’ve been to Seoul, I’d love to hear about your favorite places!
