Exploring Seoul on a Budget

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

Seoul, South Korea on July 27, 2024

10:00 AM

Arrival at Incheon International Airport

Welcome to Seoul! After landing, go through immigration and customs. Exchange currency if needed and purchase a T-Money transportation card for easy access around the city.
Cost of T-Money Card: 5000 KRW, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Gwangjang Market

Head to Gwangjang Market for a wide variety of affordable Korean street food options. Don't miss the bindaetteok and bibimbap stalls!
Approximate Cost: 8000 KRW, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Explore Bukchon Hanok Village

Take a leisurely stroll through this traditional Korean village with well-preserved hanok houses. Capture some great photos and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Entrance is free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

Step back in time as you explore the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace, which was the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony if timing allows.
Entrance Fee: 3000 KRW, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Myeongdong Street Food Stalls

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Myeongdong and indulge in a variety of Korean street food delights for dinner. Try the famous tteokbokki and hotteok!
Approximate Cost: 10000 KRW, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Historical Sites and Modern Landmarks

Seoul, South Korea on July 28, 2024

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Tosokchon Samgyetang

Start your day with a nutritious and filling bowl of samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) at this renowned restaurant known for its traditional Korean dishes.
Cost of Breakfast: 15000 KRW, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon

Explore the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site of Changdeokgung Palace and its beautiful secret garden, Huwon. Join a guided tour for an in-depth experience.
Entrance Fee with Huwon Tour: 13000 KRW, 2.5 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Insadong

Head to the cultural district of Insadong for a delightful lunch at one of the traditional Korean restaurants. Try the authentic bibimbap and side dishes.
Approximate Cost: 12000 KRW, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Explore N Seoul Tower

Take a leisurely walk or a short bus ride to N Seoul Tower. Enjoy panoramic views of Seoul from the observation deck and the Love Lock Wall. Consider catching a stunning sunset.
Observatory Admission: 10000 KRW, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Hongdae District

Savor a delicious dinner in the lively Hongdae area, known for its youthful energy and vibrant nightlife. Choose from a range of affordable eateries offering Korean and international cuisine.
Approximate Cost: 15000 KRW, 2 hours
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Day 3: Day Trip to DMZ

Seoul, South Korea on July 29, 2024

8:00 AM

Travel to Imjingak Park

Embark on a day tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) from Seoul. Imjingak Park serves as a gateway to the DMZ, offering historical exhibits and viewpoints of the border area.
Cost of DMZ Tour: 50000 KRW (including transportation), Full day

6:00 PM

Return to Seoul

After a day of insightful experiences, return to Seoul and relax at your hotel. Reflect on the historical significance of the DMZ and the hope for peaceful reunification.
N/A, 2 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Immersion

Seoul, South Korea on July 30, 2024

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Tongin Market

Enjoy a unique breakfast experience at Tongin Market, where you can use old Korean coins to curate your own traditional meal from various food stalls.
Cost of Breakfast: 8000 KRW, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit National Museum of Korea

Spend the morning exploring the extensive collection of Korean art, history, and culture at the National Museum of Korea. Admission is free to the permanent exhibitions.
Entrance is free, 2.5 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Namdaemun Market

Indulge in a satisfying lunch at Namdaemun Market, one of the largest traditional markets in Seoul. Sample a variety of affordable Korean dishes and snacks.
Approximate Cost: 10000 KRW, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Shopping in Myeongdong

Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs, cosmetics, and trendy fashion items in the bustling district of Myeongdong. Look out for budget-friendly deals and discounts.
Shopping Budget: 20000 KRW, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Gwangjang Market

Return to Gwangjang Market for an authentic dining experience. Explore the food stalls and try the famous mung bean pancakes and spicy stir-fried squid.
Approximate Cost: 12000 KRW, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Day Trip to Incheon

Incheon, South Korea on July 31, 2024

9:00 AM

Travel to Incheon

Take an early morning train to Incheon, a city known for its beautiful islands, beaches, and historical sites. Upon arrival, head to Chinatown to begin your exploration.
Train Ticket to Incheon: 3000 KRW, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Discover Incheon Chinatown

Stroll through Incheon's vibrant Chinatown, lined with unique architecture, traditional Chinese restaurants, and charming tea houses. Don't miss the chance to try the famous jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles).
N/A, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Songdo Central Park

Relax and have a picnic lunch at Songdo Central Park, a picturesque urban park featuring walking trails, gardens, and beautiful waterfront views.
Cost of Lunch: 10000 KRW, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Explore Incheon Bridge Observatory

Take a short bus ride to the Incheon Bridge Observatory for breathtaking views of the Incheon Bridge and the surrounding area. Capture memorable photos of the impressive structure.
Observatory Admission: 6000 KRW, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Return to Seoul

Board the train back to Seoul and enjoy a relaxing evening in the city. Reflect on the unique experiences and beautiful landscapes of Incheon.
Train Ticket to Seoul: 3000 KRW, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Nature and Relaxation

Seoul, South Korea on August 1, 2024

9:00 AM

Visit Namsan Seoul Botanical Garden

Spend the morning exploring the beautiful Namsan Seoul Botanical Garden, home to a wide variety of plant species and themed gardens. Enjoy a peaceful walk amidst nature.
Entrance Fee: 7000 KRW, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Relax at Bongeunsa Temple

Take a short walk to Bongeunsa Temple, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Explore the temple grounds, take part in a meditation session, and find inner peace.
Donation-based visit, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Garosu-gil

Indulge in a delightful lunch at one of the trendy cafes or restaurants in Garosu-gil, a stylish tree-lined street known for its unique boutiques and eateries.
Approximate Cost: 15000 KRW, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Shop and Explore Gangnam District

Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant and upscale Gangnam District. Shop for trendy fashion, enjoy a Korean dessert cafe, and take in the energetic atmosphere.
Shopping and Cafe Budget: 20000 KRW, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Itaewon

Head to Itaewon for dinner, a diverse district known for its international cuisine and unique dining experiences. Choose from a variety of budget-friendly restaurants.
Approximate Cost: 12000 KRW, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Final Exploration and Departure Prep

Seoul, South Korea on August 2, 2024

9:00 AM

Visit COEX Mall

Spend the morning exploring COEX Mall, one of the largest underground shopping malls in Asia. Shop for last-minute souvenirs, gifts, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
Shopping and Breakfast Budget: 20000 KRW, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Relax at Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs

Take a serene stroll through the picturesque Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the royal burial mounds and serene woodland setting.
Entrance Fee: 3000 KRW, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Gangnam Style BBQ

Indulge in a delicious and satisfying lunch at a popular Korean BBQ restaurant in Gangnam. Enjoy the interactive dining experience and savor the bold flavors.
Approximate Cost: 15000 KRW, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Gangnam Underground Shopping Center

Spend the afternoon exploring the unique shops and boutiques in the Gangnam Underground Shopping Center. Find great deals on fashion, accessories, and more.
Shopping Budget: 15000 KRW, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Farewell Dinner at Han River Park

Enjoy a memorable farewell dinner at Han River Park, where you can relax by the riverside and share stories of your adventures in Seoul. Consider a riverside picnic or visit a nearby restaurant.
Approximate Cost: 10000 KRW, 2 hours
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