5-Day Comprehensive Seoul Travel Itinerary for an Unforgettable Experience

Day 1: Historic and Cultural Sites

Seoul, South Korea on June 19, 2025

9:00am

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Visit the grandest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. Explore the traditional architecture and witness the changing of the guard ceremony.
KRW3000, 2h0m

11:30am

Bukchon Hanok Village

Walk through this traditional village featuring hundreds of hanoks (traditional Korean houses), providing a vibrant glimpse into Korea’s past amidst a modern city.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang

Enjoy the famous Korean ginseng chicken soup, a nourishing and traditional dish beloved by locals and visitors alike. Opens 10:00am to 9:00pm.
KRW15000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Insadong Street

Explore the artsy street full of antique shops, art galleries, and traditional tea houses. Great spot for souvenirs and cultural immersion.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Jogyesa Temple

Visit Seoul’s chief temple of Korean Buddhism. The serene atmosphere and colorful lanterns provide a peaceful experience.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Myeongdong Kyoja

Dine on traditional knife-cut noodle soup and dumplings at this iconic Myeongdong restaurant. Open until 9:30pm.
KRW10000, 1h0m
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Day 2: Nature and Markets

Seoul, South Korea on June 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Butter Lips

Start with fresh, artisan pastries and excellent coffee at this trendy café in Hapjeong, open from 8:00am.
KRW8000, 1h0m

9:30am

Namsan Seoul Tower

Hike up or take the cable car to the observation tower for panoramic views of Seoul’s skyline and mountains.
KRW11000, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Gwangjang Market

Eat at one of Seoul’s oldest traditional markets. Try bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak kimbap (mini addictive rice rolls). Market is open until 10pm.
KRW15000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Cheonggyecheon Stream Walk

Stroll along this restored urban stream flowing through downtown Seoul, perfect for relaxing and photo opportunities.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Explore futuristic architecture, design exhibitions, and shops in this iconic cultural hub.
Free entry (exhibitions may charge), 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Jinokhwa Halmae Wonjo Dakhanmari

Feast on dakhanmari, a whole chicken hotpot dish, popular in Dongdaemun, served in a casual setting. Open until midnight.
KRW20000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Modern Seoul & Han River

Seoul, South Korea on June 21, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Onion Anguk

Enjoy traditional Korean-inspired pastries and coffee in a renovated hanok setting. Opens at 8:00am.
KRW9000, 1h0m

10:00am

Lotte World Tower & Seoul Sky

Visit the tallest building in Korea and experience the observation deck with breathtaking views from the 123rd floor.
KRW27000, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Place Dining

Located within Lotte World Tower, this restaurant offers international cuisine with panoramic views.
KRW25000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Han River Bike Ride

Rent a bike and enjoy a leisurely ride along the scenic Han River park paths, ideal for relaxing and photo-taking.
KRW8000, 2h0m

4:30pm

COEX Mall & Starfield Library

Explore Asia’s largest underground shopping mall and stroll through the breathtaking Starfield Library inside.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Jjamppong Alley in COEX

Savor spicy seafood noodle soup at one of COEX’s famous jjamppong specialty restaurants.
KRW12000, 1h0m
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Day 4: Traditional & Artistic Exploration

Seoul, South Korea on June 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Onion Seongsu

Hip café with industrial decor serving excellent coffee and freshly baked bread. Opens 8:00am.
KRW9000, 1h0m

9:30am

Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden

Tour a UNESCO World Heritage site palace with its beautifully preserved secret garden. Open 9am–5:30pm. Secret Garden requires a guided tour reservation.
KRW3500, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang (Repeat)

Return for another serving of the highly recommended ginseng chicken soup to rejuvenate after the palace tour.
KRW15000, 1h0m

2:30pm

National Museum of Korea

Discover Korea’s rich history and cultural artifacts in this expansive and modern museum. Open 10am–6pm.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Ihwa Mural Village

Explore colorful murals and street art in this charming hillside neighborhood perfect for an evening stroll.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Jongro BBQ

Experience traditional Korean BBQ with high-quality meats in a classic setting. Open until 10pm.
KRW30000, 1h30m
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Day 5: Shopping & Entertainment

Seoul, South Korea on June 23, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Paul Bassett Itaewon

Enjoy specialty coffee and pastries in the cosmopolitan Itaewon district. Opens at 8:30am.
KRW10000, 1h0m

10:00am

Shopping in Myeongdong

Spend the morning shopping in one of Seoul’s busiest shopping districts with international brands, Korean beauty shops, and street food.
Varies, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Yoogane Myeongdong

Savor spicy dakgalbi (stir-fried spicy chicken) at this popular and casual restaurant.
KRW12000, 1h0m

3:00pm

Lotte Department Store - Duty Free

Explore duty-free shopping offering luxury goods perfect for last-minute souvenirs and gifts.
Free, 2h0m

5:30pm

Relax at Cheonggyecheon Stream

Unwind with a gentle walk along the illuminated stream in the early evening, soaking in the city ambiance.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Seoul Garden Itaewon

Enjoy a hearty Korean-style hotpot and barbecue combined dining experience to conclude your Seoul trip.
KRW25000, 1h30m
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