Exploring the City of Seoul in 8 Days

  • Day 1: Gyeongbokgung Palace
    45 minutes (20 km) from Incheon International Airport

    The Gyeongbokgung Palace, built-in 1395, was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. Visitors can explore the palace and witness the traditional changing of the guard ceremony.

  • Day 2: Namsan Tower
    35 minutes (7 km) from Gyeongbokgung Palace

    The iconic Namsan Tower is the highest point in Seoul, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Visitors can explore the tower, enjoy various restaurants, souvenir shops, and nearby walking trails.

  • Day 3: Insadong Market
    20 minutes (5 km) from Namsan Tower

    The Insadong Market is a popular tourist destination, offering traditional Korean tea shops, street food stalls, and a variety of art galleries. Visitors can explore Korean culture and purchase handmade souvenirs.

  • Day 4: Bukchon Hanok Village
    30 minutes (7 km) from Insadong Market

    Bukchon Hanok Village is an urban area representing the traditional Korean village of the Joseon Dynasty. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk while appreciating the traditional Korean architecture and heritage.

  • Day 5: Lotte World Tower & Theme Park
    45 minutes (8 km) from Bukchon Hanok Village

    The Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in South Korea, offering city views from a height of 555 meters. Visitors can explore the tower, shop in the mall, and enjoy various rides and attractions in the adjacent Lotte World Theme Park.

  • Day 6: Dongdaemun Design Plaza
    35 minutes (10 km) from Lotte World Tower & Theme Park

    The Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a neo-futuristic building offering art exhibitions, fashion shows, and design events. Visitors can explore the plaza, purchase stylish souvenirs, and experience the LED rose garden at night.

  • Day 7: Garosu-gil
    40 minutes (13 km) from Dongdaemun Design Plaza

    The Garosu-gil street is a popular shopping and dining destination, lined with beautiful trees and designer shops. Visitors can explore Korean fashion and beauty trends, dine in Korean fusion restaurants, and visit nearby art galleries.

  • Day 8: Hongdae
    30 minutes (9 km) from Garosu-gil

    Hongdae is a bustling neighborhood, popular among the younger generation for its urban culture, street art, and nightlife. Visitors can explore the indie music scenes, enjoy various street performances, and dine in popular Korean western fusion restaurants.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace (2 hours, free)
  • Namsan Tower (2 hours, £7)
  • Insadong Market (2 hours, £20)
  • Bukchon Hanok Village (2 hours, free)
  • Lotte World Tower & Theme Park (4 hours, £55)
  • Dongdaemun Design Plaza (3 hours, free)
  • Garosu-gil (3 hours, £30)
  • Hongdae (3 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: £112

Transportation

Seoul has a well-connected transportation system, including the subway, buses, and taxis. The T-money card can be used to pay for public transportation, and it's recommended to purchase one upon arrival at the airport. A taxi ride from Incheon International Airport to the city center costs around £35 and takes approximately 45 minutes.

Useful Tips

For travelers with more time, it's recommended to explore the nearby cities of Incheon and Suwon. For those with less time, it's possible to combine two or three locations in one day.

Airports

The primary airport in Seoul is the Incheon International Airport (ICN), located approximately 50 km west of the city center. The airport code is ICN, and it offers various transportation options, including the subway, buses, and taxis.

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