Seoul, South Korea Travel Guide 🇰🇷

Seoul, South Korea Travel Guide 🇰🇷

Trek&Tally
🇰🇷 Uncover the captivating blend of tradition and innovation in Seoul, South Korea's bustling capital. From the historic grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace and the lively streets of Myeongdong to the artistic neighborhoods of Insadong and Hongdae, Seoul has something for every traveler. Dive into Korea's unique culture through its world-class cuisine, iconic shopping districts, and serene temples nestled within modern skyscrapers. What this guide includes; 📍10 Attractions/Must-Dos ✈️ Best Flight Options 🎫 10 City Tours 🚀 7 Adventure Tours 🛏️ 15 Hotel Recommendations 🍕 10 Restaurant Recommendations
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Attractions

Gyeongbokgung Palace
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Step into Korea’s royal history at Gyeongbokgung, Seoul’s largest and most iconic palace. Visitors can watch the changing of the guard ceremony and tour the traditional architecture and beautiful gardens, showcasing the grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty.
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Bukchon Hanok Village
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Wander through this charming village filled with traditional Korean hanok houses, offering a glimpse into Seoul’s past. It’s a picturesque area ideal for photos, cultural appreciation, and exploring boutique shops and tea houses.
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Insa-dong
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Known for its artsy vibes, Insadong is a hub for Korean crafts, antiques, and traditional souvenirs. Stroll through this cultural street, where you’ll find galleries, pottery shops, and traditional tea cafes amid a relaxed atmosphere.
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Myeondong Shopping Street
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A haven for shoppers and food lovers, Myeongdong is famous for its vast array of K-beauty products, fashion stores, and delicious street food vendors. Enjoy browsing, eating, and experiencing Korea’s vibrant consumer culture.
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N Seoul Tower
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Head to N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the city, especially stunning at sunset and night. Located atop Namsan Mountain, it’s a popular spot for couples who leave ‘love locks’ as symbols of affection.
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Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
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Admire cutting-edge architecture and design at DDP, a cultural complex known for its futuristic structure by Zaha Hadid. It’s a hot spot for exhibitions, events, and fashion shows, as well as nighttime LED rose displays.
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Lotte World
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Perfect for a day of family-friendly fun, Lotte World is a massive amusement park with indoor and outdoor rides. Nearby, the Lotte World Tower offers observation decks with breathtaking views, world-class dining, and shopping.
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Hongdae Street
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Visit this energetic neighborhood, popular with young locals and known for its street performances, independent boutiques, and cafés. It’s a lively area for discovering Seoul’s trendsetting youth culture and nightlife.
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Changgyeonggung Palace
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This UNESCO World Heritage Site features stunning architecture and landscapes, especially in its tranquil Secret Garden. Changdeokgung is less crowded than Gyeongbokgung, offering a serene historical experience.
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Namdaemun Market
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Discover Korea’s largest and oldest traditional market, where you’ll find everything from clothing and accessories to fresh local foods. Dive into the vibrant atmosphere and sample street food like hotteok (sweet pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).
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Flights

For the BEST priced flights to Seoul, check out Kiwi below! ✈️

Tour and Explore

Adventures

South Korea is buzzing with excitement, and it’s easy to see why. From mouthwatering food to architectural marvels and the charm of traditional Hanok villages, this country has it all. Join your fellow Solo-ish travellers on an epic nine-day adventure through its best spots. Dive into the vibrant energy of Seoul with your local CEO, and don’t forget to squeeze in some karaoke. Explore the historic treasures of Gyeongju-si and the coastal vibes of Busan, with plenty of time to explore on your own. It’s nine days packed with adventure, culture, and fun — what more could you want?

Looking for an adventure off the beaten path? Embark on an unforgettable journey through South Korea. Discover traditional hanok villages, stunning natural landscapes, serene island retreats, and vibrant city life all in one trip. This experience goes beyond the typical Seoul and Busan itinerary, offering a fresh perspective on Korea. Join us and explore the country through a new lens.

Join the crew as we hit all the best spots in South Korea. From the markets in Seoul, the hanok village in Jeonju, through the beautiful coast along Busan and the incredible island of Jeju. With bright city lights and relaxing island sights, this tour will make you fall in love with every single thing South Korea has to offer.

Ready for a unique travel experience? South Korea fits the bill and then some. On this eight-day trip, you’ll see the highlights in and around Seoul plus visit folk villages, unique Korean temples, and the bustling markets of Busan. Learn about the sombre history of North and South Korea and take an excursion to the Demilitarized Zone separating the two. This is the perfect snapshot of a country coming into its own as a top travel destination.

From historic streets, eccentric pop scenes, exciting arcades, and buzzing fish markets, Japan and South Korea are two of the most unique countries on Earth. Visit some of the most epic places these two countries have to offer on an unforgettable adventure through Seoul, Hanok villages, Jeju island, Tokyo and Kyoto.

Where to Stay?

Luxury Accomodations

SIGNIEL SEOUL
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Located in the Lotte World Tower, Signiel Seoul offers unmatched views from some of the highest floors in the city, along with luxury amenities like a Michelin-starred restaurant, an opulent spa, and exceptional service for an unforgettable stay.
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Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
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Combining timeless elegance with modern comforts, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul offers spacious rooms, exquisite dining options, and a wellness center, all situated in the heart of the bustling Gwanghwamun district, near cultural and historical landmarks.
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Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection, Seoul Gangnam
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A chic retreat in the stylish Gangnam district, Josun Palace blends heritage with sophistication, featuring elegant rooms, exclusive dining experiences, and premium facilities to cater to discerning travelers.
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Lotte Hotel Seoul Executive Tower
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Lotte Hotel’s Executive Tower redefines luxury with refined interiors, personalized service, and exceptional dining options. Located near Myeongdong and other central attractions, it’s ideal for business and leisure travelers alike.
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Park Hyatt Seoul
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With a sleek, minimalist design, Park Hyatt Seoul offers luxury and tranquility in the heart of Gangnam. Guests can enjoy floor-to-ceiling views, an infinity pool, and upscale dining, making it a sophisticated choice for a peaceful stay.
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Moderate Accomodations

THE PLAZA Seoul, Autograph Collection
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Known for its iconic design and central location near City Hall, The Plaza Seoul features stylish rooms, multiple dining options, and convenient access to Seoul’s major landmarks, perfect for both business and leisure travelers.
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The Westin Josun Seoul
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A historic favorite among travelers, The Westin Josun Seoul combines tradition with modern amenities, providing elegant rooms, a renowned buffet, and close proximity to the shopping and dining of Myeongdong.
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Conrad Seoul
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Situated in the business district of Yeouido, Conrad Seoul is known for its spacious rooms, contemporary decor, and excellent facilities, including a luxury spa and fine dining options, making it ideal for business travelers and tourists alike.
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LOTTE HOTEL SEOUL
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A popular choice for travelers, Lotte Hotel Seoul offers comfortable rooms, diverse dining options, and a central location that provides easy access to Seoul’s top attractions, including Myeongdong and Gyeongbokgung Palace.
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Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Seoul Myeongdong
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Perfect for travelers looking for convenience, Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel offers clean, modern rooms right in the heart of Myeongdong, close to shopping, dining, and major transportation hubs.
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Budget Accomodations

L7 Myeongdong
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This trendy hotel provides chic, contemporary accommodations with a lively atmosphere. Located in Myeongdong, it’s ideal for travelers seeking easy access to vibrant shopping and nightlife.
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Four Points by Sheraton Josun, Seoul Myeongdong
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With a convenient location near Seoul Station, this Four Points offers practical comforts, modern rooms, and friendly service, perfect for travelers on the go looking to explore Seoul with ease.
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Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae
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Located in the youthful and artsy Hongdae neighborhood, this Mercure hotel offers stylish rooms, a vibrant atmosphere, and access to Seoul’s lively cultural scene, especially popular among young travelers.
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LOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong
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Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong provides comfortable, efficient accommodations with modern amenities, situated close to the shopping district and Myeongdong subway station, perfect for those wanting convenience and value.
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L'Escape Hotel
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Inspired by Parisian elegance, L’Escape Hotel offers a romantic, boutique hotel experience in the heart of Seoul, with opulent French-inspired decor, unique dining options, and a luxurious, intimate ambiance.
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Prices may vary based on room type and time of year.

Where to Eat?

Flavors
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Located within the Lotte Hotel Seoul, Flavors offers an upscale buffet experience featuring international cuisine and local specialties, with fresh ingredients and diverse options that appeal to a range of palates.
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Hangong-Gan
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With beautiful views overlooking the Han River, Hangang-Gan serves refined Korean dishes with a modern twist, offering an elegant setting for enjoying traditional flavors with scenic river vistas.
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Daol Charcoal Grilling (Korean BBQ Daol)
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This restaurant specializes in charcoal-grilled meats, known for its quality cuts and rich smoky flavor. A popular choice for Korean BBQ lovers, Daol offers a cozy, traditional ambiance perfect for a satisfying grill experience.
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The Margaux Grill
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Situated in the Josun Palace Hotel, The Margaux Grill offers premium steak and seafood prepared with European-inspired techniques, featuring an impressive wine selection and an elegant setting in Gangnam.
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Odarijip Ganjang Gejang
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Famous for its marinated raw crab (ganjang gejang), Odarijip serves one of Korea’s beloved delicacies with a rich soy sauce flavor. It’s a must-try for adventurous food lovers seeking authentic Korean seafood experiences.
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Jungsik Seoul
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A two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Jungsik reimagines Korean cuisine with innovative, fine-dining techniques. Chef Yim Jung-sik combines tradition with modern flair, delivering a memorable gastronomic journey in a sophisticated setting.
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The Griffin Bar, Jongno-gu
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Located atop the JW Marriott, The Griffin Bar offers spectacular rooftop views of Seoul’s skyline along with expertly crafted cocktails and premium spirits, making it a perfect spot for a stylish night out.
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Tamayura
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Tamayura brings a refined Japanese dining experience to Seoul, featuring exquisite kaiseki (multi-course) meals that highlight seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation in an intimate and serene environment.
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Shin Migyeong Hongdae Dakgalbi
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Known for its spicy dakgalbi (stir-fried chicken), Shin Migyeong in Hongdae delivers flavorful Korean comfort food in a lively setting. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors seeking a spicy, hearty meal.
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Jihwaja Seoul
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A distinguished restaurant for traditional royal Korean cuisine, Jihwaja offers meticulously crafted dishes based on historical recipes. With an elegant ambiance, it provides a taste of Korean heritage and culinary artistry.
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🌎 Happy Travels!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Trek&Tally
As a passionate traveler and experienced itinerary designer, I’ve spent years exploring the hidden gems and iconic destinations around the globe. My travel style blends immersive cultural experiences with smart budgeting, ensuring every adventure is both unforgettable and cost-efficient. I specialize in curating personalized itineraries that cater to your unique interests, whether you’re seeking the thrill of off-the-beaten-path exploration or the luxury of a seamless, well-organized journey. With a background in travel planning and a deep understanding of the intricacies that make a trip extraordinary, I’ve helped countless travelers craft their dream vacations. My guides are built on first-hand experience, expert research, and a genuine love for discovering the best a destination has to offer. What sets me apart is my attention to detail and dedication to making your trip stress-free, from insider tips to day-by-day plans tailored specifically to your preferences. When you purchase my guides, you’re not just getting an itinerary—you’re tapping into years of travel expertise, meticulous planning, and a genuine desire to help you make the most of your journey. I’m here to inspire your next adventure and guide you every step of the way. Let’s explore the world together!
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