8-Day Ultimate Seoul Itinerary: Discover the Heart of Korea

Day 1: Explore Traditional Seoul

Seoul, South Korea

9:00AM

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Begin your journey at the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace, embodying the grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty.
Take Line 3 on the subway to Gyeongbokgung Station.
KRW 3000, 2 hours

11:30AM

National Folk Museum

Adjacent to the palace, delve into Korea’s rich history and folk culture at the National Folk Museum.
Walk 5 minutes from Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Tosokchon

Indulge in authentic Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) at Tosokchon, beloved by locals.
15-minute walk from National Folk Museum.
KRW 15000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional Korean hanoks create a picturesque setting.
20-minute walk or catch a taxi.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Insadong Street

Wander through Insadong, famous for art galleries, tea houses, and traditional crafts.
5-minute walk from Bukchon Hanok Village.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sanchon

Enjoy a vegetarian dinner at Sanchon, renowned for its temple cuisine.
10-minute walk from Insadong.
KRW 20000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Modern Seoul Adventure

Seoul, South Korea

9:00AM

N Seoul Tower

Start your day with breathtaking views from N Seoul Tower, perched atop Namsan Mountain.
Take the subway to Myeongdong Station, then hike up or take a cable car.
KRW 10000, 2 hours

11:30AM

Myeongdong Shopping Street

Dive into the energetic vibe of Myeongdong Shopping Street with bustling shops and street food.
15-minute walk from N Seoul Tower.
Variable, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Myeongdong Kyoja

Savor knife-cut noodle soup at the famous Myeongdong Kyoja.
Walk within the Myeongdong area.
KRW 12000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Explore the futuristic architecture of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza and browse creative exhibitions.
Take Line 4 from Myeongdong Station to Dongdaemun Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Take a calming stroll alongside Cheonggyecheon Stream, an urban paradise in the heart of Seoul.
10-minute walk from DDP.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Gwangjang Market

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Gwangjang Market and try bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes).
Take Line 1 from Dongdaemun Station to Jongno 5-ga Station.
KRW 5000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Immerse

Seoul, South Korea

9:00AM

Changdeokgung Palace

Visit Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO Heritage site famous for its Secret Garden.
Subway Line 3 to Anguk Station, then a 10-minute walk.
KRW 8000, 2 hours

11:30AM

Secret Garden Tour

Explore the tranquil and picturesque pathways of the Secret Garden.
Part of the Changdeokgung Palace visit.
Included, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Bukchon Sonmandu

Relish freshly made dumplings at Bukchon Sonmandu, a local favorite.
15-minute walk from Changdeokgung Palace.
KRW 10000, 1 hour

2:00PM

National Palace Museum

Explore the National Palace Museum, which houses treasures from the Joseon Dynasty and offers insights into royal culture.
Walk 10 minutes from Bukchon Sonmandu.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

National Museum of Korea

Discover Korea’s history at the National Museum of Korea, housing treasures from ancient times.
Take Line 4 from Anguk Station to Ichon Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Mapo Galmegi

Feast on authentic Korean BBQ at Mapo Galmegi, famous for its marinated meats.
Take Line 7 to Mapo Station.
KRW 25000, 2 hours
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Day 4: Shopping & Entertainment

Seoul, South Korea

9:00AM

COEX Mall

Begin your day at COEX Mall, Asia's largest underground shopping mall, featuring shops and an aquarium.
Take Line 2 to Samseong Station.
Free entry, aquarium KRW 29000, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe Street

Enjoy a light lunch at one of the many cafes, offering both local and international dishes.
Within COEX Mall.
KRW 12000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lotte World Tower

Visit Lotte World Tower for a stunning view from the highest building in Korea.
Take Line 2 from Samseong Station to Jamsil Station.
KRW 27000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Songpa Naru Park

Stroll around the park near Lotte World and enjoy the ambiance of this scenic area.
Walking distance from Lotte World Tower.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Korean Folk Village

Savor traditional fare in a cultural setting at the Korean Folk Village restaurant.
Subway Line 1 to Suwon Station; then a short taxi ride.
KRW 30000, 2 hours

8:30PM

Nanta Show

End your day with the Nanta Show, a performing art combining cooking and comedy.
Back to central Seoul, catch a taxi or subway.
KRW 50000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Nature and Relaxation

Seoul, South Korea

8:30AM

Bukhansan National Park

Head to Bukhansan National Park for amazing hiking trails and vibrant nature.
Take Line 3 to Gupabal Station and catch bus 704.
Free, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Refuel with a meal at a local restaurant near the park, offering traditional dishes.
Choose one around the park exit.
KRW 15000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Korean Spa (Jjimjilbang)

Relax at a traditional Korean spa, enjoying saunas and spa treatments.
Return to downtown Seoul via public transport.
KRW 15000, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Gangnam Shopping

Explore the upscale shops and boutiques in Gangnam, a stylish district of Seoul.
Take Line 3 to Apgujeong Station.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Gangnam Myeonok

Enjoy a delicious bowl of cold noodles at Gangnam Myeonok, a well-loved eatery.
Within the Gangnam district.
KRW 12000, 1 hour
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Day 6: Historical Exploration

Seoul, South Korea

9:00AM

Seodaemun Prison History Hall

Visit this historical site that reflects Korea's struggle for independence.
Take Line 3 to Dongnimmun Station.
KRW 3000, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Seoul City Hall

Admire the architecture of the Seoul City Hall and enjoy the surrounding plaza.
Take Line 5 to City Hall Station.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Jeongin Restaurant

Enjoy a meal at Jeongin, known for its tasty meat dishes and great ambiance.
Nearby at City Hall.
KRW 20000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Deoksugung Palace

Explore another royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty with beautiful gardens.
A short walk from Seoul City Hall.
KRW 1000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Namdaemun Market

Immerse yourself in local life at Namdaemun, a traditional market with plenty of food stalls.
10-minute walk from Deoksugung Palace.
Variable, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Jungin Hanjeongshik

Experience a full-course traditional Korean meal here.
Walking distance from Namdaemun Market.
KRW 45000, 2 hours
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Day 7: Day Trip to DMZ

Seoul, South Korea

7:00AM

DMZ Tour

Join a guided tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and experience Korea's history firsthand.
Pre-booked tour includes transportation.
KRW 60000, 6 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy lunch nearby the DMZ before returning to Seoul, often included in the tour.
Included in the tour.
Included, 1 hour

2:30PM

Return to Seoul

Travel back to Seoul and relax after your morning adventure.
Part of the tour.
N/A, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Hongdae Area Exploration

Explore Hongdae, known for its vibrant youth culture and arts scene.
Take Line 2 to Hongdae Station.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hongdae BBQ

Enjoy a lively dinner at a BBQ restaurant with fantastic grilled meats.
Nearby in Hongdae area.
KRW 20000, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Last Day Relaxation

Seoul, South Korea

9:00AM

Visit Lotte World

Enjoy your last day at Lotte World, an exciting theme park with rides and attractions.
Take Line 2 to Jamsil Station.
KRW 55000, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at the Food Court

Grab a quick bite at Lotte World's food court with varied options.
Within Lotte World.
KRW 10000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Shopping at Lotte Department Store

Wrap up your trip with shopping at Lotte Department Store, offering a wide selection of products.
Connected to Lotte World.
Variable, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Hangang River

Spend your afternoon at Hangang River Park, enjoying scenic views and peaceful ambiance.
Take a short taxi ride or subway to the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Booth

Enjoy a final dinner at The Booth, known for its fried chicken, perfect to wrap up your trip.
A short taxi ride or subway back to the city center.
KRW 20000, 1.5 hours
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