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Are you planning a trip to Seoul? Look no further! Our comprehensive 7-day Seoul itinerary is your ultimate guide to uncovering the city’s top attractions, mouthwatering dining options, and comfortable accommodations. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Seoul while enjoying delectable Korean cuisine. Get ready to explore, eat, and stay in the bustling capital of South Korea!
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But first, here’s a recommendation list of luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels in Seoul!
Luxury Hotels:
- The Shilla Seoul: A prestigious hotel offering luxurious rooms, exquisite dining options, and a world-class spa. It boasts stunning views of Namsan Mountain and is known for its impeccable service.
- Lotte Hotel Seoul: Situated in the heart of the city, this upscale hotel offers elegant rooms, a variety of restaurants, a shopping arcade, and a fitness center. It’s conveniently located near major attractions like Myeongdong and Namdaemun Market.
- JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul: A modern and stylish hotel with spacious rooms, rooftop dining, and a relaxing spa. It’s located in the fashionable Dongdaemun area, famous for its shopping and nightlife.
- Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul: This luxurious urban resort offers panoramic views, opulent suites, and an exceptional spa. Guests can enjoy a peaceful escape while still being close to the city center.
- Conrad Seoul: With its contemporary design and luxurious amenities, this hotel offers stunning city views, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and multiple dining options. It’s located in the Yeouido Business District, near the Han River.
Mid-Range Hotels:
- Tmark Grand Hotel Myeongdong: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a buffet restaurant. It’s conveniently located near Myeongdong shopping street and public transportation.
- Ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Myeongdong: This stylish hotel offers compact yet well-designed rooms, a rooftop garden, and a complimentary breakfast. It’s within walking distance of Myeongdong and Namdaemun Market.
- Best Western Premier Hotel Kukdo: A contemporary hotel featuring comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving both Korean and international cuisine. It’s centrally located near Dongdaemun Design Plaza and Dongdaemun Market.
- Aloft Seoul Myeongdong: A trendy hotel with modern rooms, a rooftop bar, and a 24-hour fitness center. It’s located in the vibrant Myeongdong district, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
- Hotel Skypark Central Myeongdong: This boutique-style hotel offers cozy rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a complimentary breakfast. It’s situated in the heart of Myeongdong, providing easy access to shopping and dining options.
Budget Hotels:
- Hongdae Guesthouse: A budget-friendly guesthouse located in the lively Hongdae neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and street performances. It offers comfortable dormitory-style rooms and a communal kitchen.
- Kimchee Guesthouse: With multiple locations throughout the city, Kimchee Guesthouse provides affordable accommodation with private and shared rooms. They offer a friendly atmosphere and organized events for guests.
- Zaza Backpackers Hostel: A cozy and affordable hostel situated near Hongdae and Sinchon areas. It offers clean dormitory-style rooms, a communal lounge, and a shared kitchen.
- K-Guesthouse Myeongdong: Located in the bustling Myeongdong district, this guesthouse offers budget-friendly rooms with modern amenities and easy access to shopping, dining, and public transportation.
- Philstay Ehwa Boutique: A budget boutique-style guesthouse near Ewha Womans University, offering simple and comfortable rooms. It’s surrounded by trendy cafes, shops, and cultural attractions.
Seoul Itinerary Day 1: Exploring Historic Seoul
Discover the charm of Seoul’s historic sites: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Insadong. Learn about traditional Korean tea houses and indulge in authentic local cuisine.
Start your Seoul adventure with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the grandest of the city’s five palaces. Marvel at the splendid architecture and immerse yourself in the rich history of Korea. Afterward, wander through Bukchon Hanok Village, a charming neighborhood known for its traditional Korean houses. Stop by a local teahouse for a cup of aromatic Korean tea and soak in the tranquil ambiance.
For lunch, head to Insadong, a bustling area filled with shops, galleries, and traditional tea houses. Savor authentic Korean cuisine at a local restaurant, such as bibimbap or bulgogi. In the evening, explore the vibrant Myeongdong district, famous for its shopping streets and street food stalls. Indulge in some Korean fried chicken or try a bowl of spicy tteokbokki.
Seoul Itinerary Day 2: Modern Seoul and Cultural Experiences
Embark on a journey through Gangnam’s modern architecture, COEX Mall, and the Namsangol Hanok Village. Experience the vibrant arts scene and savor a traditional Korean barbecue.
Embark on a journey to the futuristic district of Gangnam, known for its modern architecture, high-end shopping, and trendy cafes. Visit COEX Mall, one of the largest underground shopping complexes in Asia. You can also explore the fascinating Starfield Library, a massive indoor library with a stunning collection of books.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Namsangol Hanok Village, a picturesque area that showcases traditional Korean homes. Participate in a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) rental experience and take memorable photos against the backdrop of these historic houses. Enjoy a traditional Korean barbecue dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Seoul Itinerary Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Shopping
Immerse yourself in Korean traditions at Changdeokgung Palace and explore the lively neighborhood of Hongdae. Discover the best shopping spots and enjoy a feast of Korean street food.
Start your day at Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its beautiful gardens and serene atmosphere. Take a guided tour to learn about the palace’s history and architectural significance.
Afterward, venture into the lively neighborhood of Hongdae, home to Hongik University and a vibrant arts scene. Explore the quirky shops, visit art galleries, and witness the impressive street performances. Treat yourself to some Korean beauty products at local cosmetics shops and enjoy a delicious Korean street food feast for dinner.
Seoul Itinerary Day 4: Discovering Korean Traditions
Uncover the National Museum of Korea’s treasures and experience the tranquility of Bongeunsa Temple. Relax in a jjimjilbang and enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments.
Dedicate the day to experiencing traditional Korean activities. Begin by visiting the National Museum of Korea, where you can admire a vast collection of artifacts and gain insights into the country’s history.
In the afternoon, head to the beautiful Bongeunsa Temple, a serene Buddhist temple in the heart of the city. Participate in a temple stay program to learn about Buddhist practices and enjoy meditation sessions. In the evening, unwind at a traditional jjimjilbang (Korean sauna and spa), where you can relax in saunas, enjoy baths, and indulge in a rejuvenating Korean-style massage.
Seoul Itinerary Day 5: Day Trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
Take a day trip to the Demilitarized Zone, a unique and historically significant area that separates North and South Korea. Explore the Joint Security Area (JSA) and Panmunjom, where you can witness the tension and learn about the Korean War. Remember to book a guided tour in advance for this excursion.
Seoul Itinerary Day 6: Modern Art and Nature
Explore the Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art, and marvel at its contemporary and traditional Korean artwork. Enjoy panoramic views of Seoul from Namsan Park and savor a delightful dinner at N Seoul Tower.
Visit the Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art, which houses a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional Korean artwork. Explore the galleries and appreciate the beauty of both Korean and international masterpieces.
Later, head to Namsan Park, a sprawling green space in the heart of the city. Hike to the N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of Seoul or take the cable car for a more leisurely ascent. Enjoy a romantic dinner with a view at one of the tower’s restaurants.
Seoul Itinerary Day 7: Foodie Paradise and Farewell
Indulge in the culinary delights of Namdaemun Market and try a variety of street foods. Experience international cuisine in Itaewon, the vibrant neighborhood known for its diverse food options.
Spend your last day exploring the vibrant food scene in Seoul. Visit Namdaemun Market, the oldest and largest traditional market in Korea, and sample a variety of street foods, from hotteok (sweet pancakes) to gimbap (Korean sushi rolls).
For your final meal in Seoul, head to the vibrant neighborhood of Itaewon, known for its international cuisine. Choose from a range of restaurants offering diverse options like Mexican, Indian, Middle Eastern, and more.
Seoul offers a captivating blend of tradition, modernity, and culinary delights. With this ultimate 7-day itinerary, you’ll be able to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, immerse yourself in its rich culture, and savor its mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or an art lover, Seoul has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags, embrace the energy of this dynamic city, and embark on an unforgettable journey through Seoul’s captivating past and vibrant present.
