Comprehensive Winter Seoul and Surroundings Itinerary Including Skiing and Cultural Highlights

Day 1: Arrival and Night Exploration

Seoul, South Korea on December 9, 2025

12:00am

Arrival at Incheon Airport

Land from Kota Kinabalu and transfer to your hotel in Seoul, resting from your overnight flight.
KRW0, 1h

9:00am

Breakfast at Isaac Toast (Myeongdong)

Enjoy a delicious Korean style toasted sandwich for a quick and energising breakfast near your hotel.
KRW4500, 0h30m

10:00am

Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

Explore the grandest palace of the Joseon dynasty, offering cultural insight and beautiful architecture. Open 9am to 5pm.
KRW3000, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang

Savour the traditional Korean ginseng chicken soup, famous near Gyeongbokgung, perfect for winter days.
KRW16000, 1h

2:00pm

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll through a traditional neighbourhood filled with hanok houses, providing a glimpse into historic Korean life.
KRW0, 1h30m

4:00pm

Namsan Seoul Tower

Visit this iconic landmark with panoramic views of Seoul; open until 11pm, great for sunset and night city views.
KRW11000, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner in Myeongdong Street Food alleys

Try various Korean street foods such as tteokbokki, hotteok, and fried chicken in famous shopping and food hub Myeongdong.
KRW12000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Shopping and Culture Day

Seoul, South Korea on December 10, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Onion Anguk

Enjoy artisanal pastries and coffee in a trendy setting near Bukchon.
KRW8000, 1h

10:00am

Namdaemun Market

Visit Korea’s largest traditional market, perfect for souvenirs, snacks, and local atmosphere. Open 10am to 6pm.
KRW0, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Myeongdong Kyoja

Famous for its kalguksu (handmade noodle soup) and dumplings, a hearty meal in the heart of Myeongdong.
KRW9000, 1h

2:00pm

Gangnam District

Explore Seoul’s upscale area with stylish shops, cafes, and the Starfield COEX Mall. Visit Bongeunsa Temple nearby for contrast.
KRW0, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Jungsik

Experience Michelin-starred modern Korean cuisine in Gangnam for a special evening meal. Reservation recommended.
KRW120000, 2h
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Day 3: Nami Island and Skiing

Near Seoul, South Korea on December 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or convenience store

Quick breakfast to prepare for a full-day excursion to Nami Island and the ski resort.
KRW5000, 0h30m

8:00am

Travel to Nami Island

Take a shuttle or train to Nami Island, famous for its tree-lined paths and beautiful winter landscapes. Island open 7am to 9pm.
KRW13000 (including ferry), 2h

10:30am

Explore Nami Island

Walk or rent bicycles to explore the scenic island, especially magical covered in snow in December.
Included, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nami Island restaurant

Enjoy Korean fare like bibimbap or hot soups to warm up after outdoor activities.
KRW15000, 1h

2:00pm

Skiing at nearby resort (e.g. Yugwacheon Ski Resort)

Spend the afternoon skiing or snowboarding at a ski resort close to Nami Island. Ski rental and passes available onsite.
KRW60000, 3h

6:00pm

Return to Seoul

Travel back to Seoul after a day of outdoor adventure.
KRW0, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Itaewon

Try international cuisine or Korean BBQ near the Itaewon Mosque neighbourhood, vibrant at night.
KRW25000, 1h30m
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Day 4: Hongdae and Dongdaemun

Seoul, South Korea on December 12, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Anthracite Coffee Roasters in Hongdae

Start your day with quality coffee and a light meal in Hongdae’s hip coffee scene.
KRW10000, 1h

10:00am

Explore Hongdae

Walk around the youthful, artsy neighbourhood known for murals, street performances, and unique shops.
KRW0, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at a Korean fried chicken restaurant in Hongdae

Taste crispy fried chicken, a beloved Korean comfort food perfect for lunch.
KRW15000, 1h

2:30pm

Dongdaemun Design Plaza and Shopping

Visit the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, famous for architecture and night markets. Open until 11pm.
KRW0, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gwangjang Market

Sample traditional Korean street food such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap.
KRW12000, 1h30m
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Day 5: Cultural and Local Sites

Seoul, South Korea on December 13, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local cafe

Start with a relaxed Korean or Western style breakfast near your accommodation.
KRW8000, 0h45m

10:00am

Itaewon Mosque visit

Visit the Itaewon Mosque, the first and largest mosque in Korea, reflecting the multicultural side of Seoul.
KRW0, 1h

11:30am

Explore Itaewon

Wander through the diverse and vibrant streets of Itaewon, known for multicultural eateries and shops.
KRW0, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Vatos Urban Tacos

Have Korean-Mexican fusion food, a fusion reflecting Itaewon’s international atmosphere.
KRW18000, 1h

3:00pm

Free time for shopping or relaxing

Use the afternoon to revisit favourite areas, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a Korean spa (jimjilbang).
Varies, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Maple Tree House

Enjoy premium Korean BBQ in a comfortable setting to close your day with delicious grilled meats.
KRW40000, 2h
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Day 6: Suwon Day Trip

Suwon, South Korea on December 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Eat an early breakfast before heading out for your day trip to Suwon.
KRW8000, 0h30m

8:30am

Travel to Suwon

Take a train or bus to Suwon, famous for its Hwaseong Fortress and cultural sites.
KRW4500, 1h

10:00am

Hwaseong Fortress

Walk along this UNESCO World Heritage site fortress walls with beautiful views and historical insight.
KRW1000, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at a local Suwon galbi restaurant

Try Suwon’s famous grilled beef ribs, a regional delicacy known nationwide.
KRW20000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Korean Folk Village (optional)

If time permits, explore this living museum showcasing traditional Korean culture, open until 5pm.
KRW18000, 2h

4:30pm

Return to Seoul

Travel back to Seoul to rest and prepare for departure.
KRW4500, 1h

7:00pm

Farewell dinner in Seoul

Enjoy a final meal at a favourite local restaurant or hotel dining to reflect on your trip.
KRW30000, 2h
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Day 7: Departure

Seoul, South Korea on December 15, 2025

12:00am

Transfer to Airport

Depart Seoul Incheon Airport for your return flight to Kota Kinabalu at 1am.
KRW0, 1h
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