Start your foodie adventure at Gwangjang Market, one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Seoul. You can sample a variety of Korean street food including hotteok (sweet stuffed pancakes), bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), and mayak gimbap (drug rice rolls) and more. You can also shop for traditional Korean textiles and handicrafts.
Located in the heart of Seoul, Namdaemun Market is another famous traditional market known for its Korean street food. Try the famous kalguksu (handmade noodles in a hot broth), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and mandu (dumplings). You can also shop for souvenirs, accessories, and clothing.
No foodie trip to Seoul is complete without trying Korean BBQ. Head to Palsaek Samgyeopsal, known for its eight flavors of pork belly. Each flavor is marinated with different ingredients such as ginseng, wine, and curry. Make sure to try the garlic pork belly and wrap it in lettuce with ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce).
Get a taste of Korea's seafood at Noryangjin Fish Market. Choose your seafood from the market and have it cooked for you on the spot. Try sannakji (live octopus), hoe (raw fish), and gaebul (sea worm). This market also offers a variety of Korean street food and sushi.
Experience traditional Korean culture and architecture at Bukchon Hanok Village. You can visit traditional hanok houses, soak up the serene atmosphere, and take in the stunning views of Seoul. Make sure to try the traditional Korean tea and snacks offered by the locals.
Indulge in Korean street food and desserts at Myeong-dong, a popular shopping district in Seoul. Try the famous Korean fried chicken, tteokbokki, and bingsu (Korean shaved ice dessert). You can also shop for skincare and cosmetic products at the many shops.
Take a day trip to Jeonju, a city known for its traditional Korean food. Try bibimbap (mixed rice bowl), kongnamul gukbap (bean sprout soup with rice), and jeon (Korean pancake). You can also visit Jeonju Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village with over 800 traditional houses.
End your foodie adventure by visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest palace in Seoul. Explore the beautiful architecture and learn about Korea's history. Afterward, head to Tosokchon Samgyetang, a restaurant known for its ginseng chicken soup.
In Seoul, the best way to get around is by subway or bus. The subway system is extensive, affordable, and easy to use. Taxis are also widely available but can be more expensive. Consider renting a car if you plan on taking day trips outside of Seoul. Travel costs range from $1 to $30 depending on the transportation mode and distance traveled.
If you have more time, consider visiting other traditional markets such as Dongdaemun Market and Gyeongdong Market. You can also explore other popular districts in Seoul such as Gangnam and Hongdae. For less time, consider skipping the day trip to Jeonju or combining several locations in one day.
The main airport in Seoul is Incheon International Airport (ICN), located 30 miles west of the city center. It is the largest airport in Korea and serves as a hub for major airlines. Another airport, Gimpo International Airport (GMP), serves domestic and regional flights and is located closer to the city center (9 miles west).