Seoul

Day Trips

Begin your day with a serene stroll through Gyeongbokgung Palace, marveling at the grand architecture and the changing of the guard ceremony. Wander through the secret gardens and ornate pavilions, absorbing the history of Korea’s Joseon Dynasty. Feel the calm energy as traditional melodies drift across the palace grounds.

Head to Bukchon Hanok Village to explore narrow alleys lined with centuries-old wooden homes. Visit artisan workshops and galleries set inside traditional hanoks, learning about ancient crafts still practiced today. Stop at a teahouse for a cup of fragrant local tea while admiring the tiled roofs against the modern city beyond.

Dine at a nearby restaurant offering royal court cuisine, sampling delicate flavors once reserved for the king. As dusk falls, join a guided lantern-lit tour around the palace walls. End the evening with panoramic views of the palace illuminated under the night sky.

Start in Insadong’s main street, weaving through shops selling handcrafted ceramics, calligraphy brushes, and hanji paper art. Engage in a short ink painting workshop to create your own piece of Korean art. Savor a traditional Korean breakfast of soybean stew and rice at a cozy local eatery.

Visit the Alive Museum for playful 3D art installations and interactive exhibits that challenge perception. Explore the nearby sidewalk galleries showcasing modern interpretations of folk art. Enjoy a bowl of ginseng chicken soup at a quaint bistro, recharging with nourishing flavors.

Attend a traditional Korean music performance at Jeongdong Theater, complete with drums and melodic flutes. Meander back to Insadong’s alleys where lantern-lit restaurants offer soju and savory pancakes. Cap the night by tasting street snacks like hotteok and twisted fries before returning to your hotel.

Dive into the bustling streets of Myeongdong, where neon signs beckon shoppers into beauty stores and fashion boutiques. Test out the latest skincare products before picking your favorites to take home. Refuel with a plate of spicy rice cakes and crispy fried chicken from a lively street vendor.

Head up to Namsan Mountain and enjoy the cable car ride to N Seoul Tower. Once at the top, lock a love padlock on the observation deck and gaze out over the sprawling city below. Explore the tower’s digital art installations and grab a light lunch at the café overlooking the skyline.

Return to Myeongdong for a nighttime food tour, sampling kimchi dumplings, grilled skewers, and sweet churros. Join a K-pop dance flash mob or simply enjoy buskers performing live covers. Before bedtime, sip on a creamy bingsu dessert under the glow of street lanterns.

Wake up early to explore Dongdaemun Market’s wholesale fashion stalls, where the latest trends are sold at unbeatable prices. Haggling is welcome—engage with friendly vendors to find unique accessories and garments. Satisfy breakfast hunger with a steaming bowl of kalguksu noodles from a market-side vendor.

Visit the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, admiring its curved steel exterior and immersive digital art exhibits inside. Join a creative workshop to design your own custom accessory or print. Grab a light fusion lunch at one of the sleek cafés dotted around the plaza.

As night falls, Dongdaemun Market transforms with illuminated tents offering street food classics like tteokbokki and odeng. Shop local designer pop-ups until late into the night. Wind down with a refreshment at a rooftop bar overlooking the bustling market below.

Start in Hongdae, the youthful heart of Seoul, known for its vibrant street art and indie music scene. Browse quirky boutiques and record shops before grabbing a specialty coffee at a hidden café. Watch street performers showcase dance battles and acoustic sets in the bustling pedestrian area.

Stroll over to Mangwon Market for an authentic glimpse into local life. Taste freshly made kimbap, sweet rice waffles, and seasonal fruits from lively stalls. Relax at Mangwon Hangang Park with panoramic river views and watch locals cycling along the water’s edge.

Return to Hongdae for a lively club night or indie band performance at a live music bar. Sample craft beers at a tucked-away pub or join a silent disco under the stars. End the evening with late-night Korean fried chicken and cold beer at a popular pojangmacha tent.

Explore the upscale streets of Gangnam, stopping at high-end boutiques and flagship stores of global brands. Photograph the iconic Gangnam Style statue and observe stylish locals on their way to work. Enjoy a gourmet brunch at a chic café serving avocado toast with a Korean twist.

Head to COEX Mall, the largest underground shopping complex in Asia. Discover the COEX Aquarium with its underwater tunnels and interactive marine exhibits. Grab a light lunch at the food court, choosing from Korean bibimbap to international sushi bars.

Attend a classical concert at the nearby SMTOWN Theatre or catch a K-pop showcase event. Dine at a Korean barbecue restaurant, grilling marinated meats at your table under modern lighting. Finish the night with cocktails at a rooftop lounge overlooking Gangnam’s dazzling skyline.

Wander through Samcheong-dong’s charming streets lined with art galleries and artisan bakeries. Sample artisanal pastries with a cup of hand drip coffee in a courtyard café. Admire the fusion of contemporary architecture with traditional hanok buildings around every corner.

Embark on a guided foodie walk in Bukchon, tasting staples like hotteok stuffed with brown sugar and savory mandoo dumplings. Learn about the history of each dish from a local culinary expert. Pause at a tea salon for a tasting of rare Korean teas paired with rice cakes.

Join a home-cooked dinner experience in a traditional hanok, where a host family prepares seasonal dishes. Participate in a short class learning how to make kimchi or jeon pancakes. Share stories with fellow travelers under soft hanji lantern light before returning to your accommodation.

Rent a bicycle and pedal along the scenic Han River bike paths, enjoying views of the city’s modern skyline. Stop at the Yeouido Hangang Park and pick up a picnic set from a convenience store. Spread out under a willow tree and savor kimbap, fruit, and chilled beverages.

Relax by the riverbank with a good book or join locals practicing tai chi and yoga. Take a gentle boat cruise under the bridges, learning about Seoul’s history from onboard commentary. Grab a light snack of bungeoppang, the fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean.

Return to Yeouido to witness the sunset reflecting off the water as street lamps flicker on. Join a riverside barbecue gathering with pre-ordered sets of grilled meat and side dishes. End the night with a dazzling Han River fountain show accompanied by music.

Spend your morning at Lotte World’s indoor theme park, enjoying thrilling rides and fairy-tale parades. Wander through the adjacent folk museum to see replicas of traditional Korean villages. Recharge with a theme park brunch of fluffy pancakes and flower-themed lattes.

Cross over to Olympic Park and cycle around the vast landscaped grounds, passing the iconic World Peace Gate. Explore sculpture gardens and the Rose Hill, where fragrant blooms set a romantic scene. Rest by the Lake of Hope, watching dragonfly shadows dance on the water.

Return to Lotte World Tower for panoramic views from the Seoul Sky observation deck at twilight. Dine at one of the tower’s fine-dining establishments, sampling modern interpretations of Korean cuisine. Conclude your day with a visit to the LED-lit fountain plaza for a symphony of light and water.