Seoul 5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary

Day 1: City Exploration

Seoul, South Korea

8:00AM

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Start your day by visiting the magnificent Gyeongbokgung Palace, a symbol of Korea's royal history.
Take the subway Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
₩3,000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Insadong

Explore the traditional streets of Insadong, known for its antique shops, art galleries, and street food.
Insadong is a short walk from Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Free to explore, 2 hours

1:00PM

Gwangjang Market

Savor authentic Korean street food at Gwangjang Market, one of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul.
Take a subway from Anguk Station to Jongno 5-ga Station. The journey takes around 15 minutes.
Budget-friendly options available, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

N Seoul Tower

Head to N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the city skyline. Enjoy the sunset from this iconic landmark.
Take a bus or subway from Jongno 3-ga Station to Namsan Park. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
₩10,000 for observatory deck, 2 hours

7:00PM

Street Food Alley

End your day with a culinary adventure at Myeongdong Street Food Alley, tasting a variety of local delicacies.
Myeongdong is easily accessible from N Seoul Tower.
Flexible based on choices, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Foodie Paradise

Seoul, South Korea

9:00AM

Jogyesa Temple

Start your day with a peaceful visit to Jogyesa Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple in the heart of Seoul.
Jogyesa Temple is within walking distance from Insadong.
Free admission, 1 hour

11:00AM

Noryangjin Fish Market

Experience the vibrant Noryangjin Fish Market, where you can choose fresh seafood and have it prepared on-site.
Take the subway Line 1 to Noryangjin Station. The journey takes around 30 minutes.
Depends on seafood selection, 2 hours

1:00PM

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll through the charming Bukchon Hanok Village, lined with traditional Korean houses.
A short bus ride from Noryangjin Fish Market to Bukchon Hanok Village.
Free to explore, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Hongdae District

Explore the youthful energy of Hongdae District, known for its trendy shops, cafes, and street performances.
Take the subway Line 2 to Hongik University Station. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes.
Budget-friendly shopping and dining, 2 hours

7:00PM

Korean BBQ Dinner

Indulge in a delicious Korean BBQ dinner at one of the local eateries in Hongdae.
Many BBQ restaurants are within walking distance in Hongdae.
Affordable prices per person, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Coastal Escape

Incheon, South Korea

9:00AM

Songdo Central Park

Enjoy a leisurely morning at Songdo Central Park, a picturesque waterfront park with walking trails and art installations.
Take the subway Line 1 to Incheon Station, then transfer to Incheon Line 1 to Central Park Station. The journey takes around 1 hour.
Free admission, 2 hours

12:00PM

Incheon Chinatown

Savor Chinese-Korean fusion cuisine in Incheon's vibrant Chinatown, filled with shops and eateries.
Chinatown is a short walk from Songdo Central Park.
Reasonable prices for meals, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Freedom Park

Explore the historical sites at Freedom Park, including statues and monuments related to Korea's independence movement.
Freedom Park is a short walk from Incheon Chinatown.
Free to visit, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Nature Retreat

Gapyeong, South Korea

9:00AM

Nami Island

Embark on a scenic ferry ride to Nami Island, a picturesque destination famous for its tree-lined paths and serene beauty.
Take a bus from Gapyeong Station to Nami Island. The journey takes around 20 minutes.
₩13,000 for round-trip ferry, 3 hours

1:00PM

Petite France

Visit Petite France, a charming French cultural village with colorful buildings and themed exhibitions.
Take a short bus ride from Nami Island to Petite France.
Entrance fee of ₩10,000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Lakeside Relaxation

Relax by the lakeside in Gapyeong, enjoying the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
Various spots around Gapyeong are perfect for unwinding by the water.
Free activity, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Cultural Immersion

Seoul, South Korea

9:00AM

Bukhansan National Park

Hike or take a leisurely walk in Bukhansan National Park to appreciate the scenic beauty and fresh air.
Take a bus or subway to the park entrance. The journey may take up to 1 hour.
Free entry, 3 hours

1:00PM

Myeongdong Shopping

Shop for souvenirs and enjoy more street food in the bustling shopping district of Myeongdong.
Myeongdong is easily accessible from Bukhansan National Park.
Depends on shopping preferences, 2 hours

4:00PM

Han River Cruise

Take a relaxing Han River Cruise to view Seoul's landmarks from the water, offering a different perspective of the city.
Head to the nearest Han River dock for the cruise experience.
Approximately ₩15,000 per person, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Korean dishes one last time.
Pick a dining spot based on your preference, with many options available in Seoul.
Budget-friendly prices, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability