Budget-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in Seoul

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Day 1: Explore City Sights

Seoul, South Korea

8:00AM

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty.
₩3,000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Insadong

Take a stroll through Insadong, known for its traditional Korean houses, antique shops, and art galleries. You can find affordable souvenirs and street food here.
Free, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Gwangjang Market

Head to Gwangjang Market for a budget-friendly lunch experience. Try some delicious Korean street food like bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) and bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables and meat).
₩10,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Bukchon Hanok Village

Explore the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village with its narrow alleys and hanok (traditional Korean houses). It's a great place for photos and soaking in the local culture.
Free, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Myeongdong Street Food Stalls

Enjoy a variety of affordable street food options in Myeongdong. Don't miss out on hotteok (sweet Korean pancake) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).
₩8,000, 1 hour

Day 2: Historical and Cultural Exploration

Seoul, South Korea

9:00AM

Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden

Explore the stunning Changdeokgung Palace and its beautiful Secret Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering a peaceful escape from the city.
₩8,000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tongin Market

Indulge in a unique dining experience at Tongin Market, where you can create your own lunchbox (dosirak) by purchasing various traditional Korean food tokens.
₩5,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Insadong Ssamziegil Shopping

Visit the artsy Ssamziegil mall in Insadong, filled with local designer shops, handicrafts, and cultural experiences. It's a great place to pick up affordable gifts.
Free, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Jogyesa Temple

Take a peaceful stroll through Jogyesa Temple, the chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, and admire its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Noryangjin Fish Market

Experience the vibrant Noryangjin Fish Market and enjoy fresh seafood at affordable prices. Choose from a wide selection of fish and have it prepared on the spot.
₩15,000, 1-2 hours

Day 3: Modern City Exploration

Seoul, South Korea

10:00AM

N Seoul Tower

Take a leisurely walk up to N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the city. There's an affordable observation deck offering stunning vistas of Seoul.
₩10,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Namdaemun Market

Head to Namdaemun Market for a budget-friendly lunch. Try some savory bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) and kalguksu (handmade noodle soup).
₩8,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hangang Park

Relax at Hangang Park by the Han River. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll, biking, or enjoying a riverside picnic with affordable snacks from local vendors.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gwangjang Market

Return to Gwangjang Market for a delightful dinner experience. Sample the famous bindaetteok and enjoy a bowl of refreshing kongguksu (soy milk noodle soup).
₩12,000, 1 hour

Day 4: Day Trip to Nearby Attractions

Seoul, South Korea

9:00AM

Day Trip to Suwon

Take a day trip to Suwon, a city near Seoul known for its well-preserved Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the fortress and its surrounding area.
₩5,000 (one-way subway fare), Full day

Day 5: Cultural Immersion and Farewell

Seoul, South Korea

10:00AM

Korean Folk Village

Visit the Korean Folk Village to experience traditional Korean culture, folk performances, and workshops. It's a fascinating and budget-friendly cultural immersion.
₩15,000, 3-4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Insa-dong Street

Savor a final budget-friendly lunch in Insa-dong, known for its traditional tea houses and affordable local eateries offering authentic Korean dishes.
₩10,000, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Samcheong-dong

Take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Samcheong-dong, lined with trendy cafes, art galleries, and unique shops. It's a great place for souvenirs.
Free, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Itaewon

End your trip with a farewell dinner in Itaewon, a vibrant neighborhood with diverse dining options. Choose from affordable international cuisines and local favorites.
₩20,000, 2 hours