The basics
💬 Language
Korean is the native language. However, most Koreans, especially younger Koreans, are good with English.
💸 Currency
Korean Won (KRW)
✈️ Main Airport
Incheon Airport (ICN)
🗓️ Best time to visit
April-June & September-November
⏰ Recommended stay
3-4 full days
💰 Tipping
There is no tipping culture. If someone says otherwise, you can ignore it. Service charges are included in the price.
🚂 Recommended transportation
1. Seoul Metro, 2. Bus, 3. Walk! In fact, I highly recommend you ride the Seoul Metro. It is in itself a tour!
🦺 Safety
Once you visit Seoul, I guarantee you will not find anywhere safer!
⚠️ Choose 3-4 tour spots a day.
Day 1
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Recommended tour time: 1.5 hour
Gyeongbokgung Palace
@HyungWuCHOI
It is hard to find better or more memorable places than Gyeongbokgung Palace.
But, I personally do not recommend you to go deep into the palace.
1 hour is enough for you to take photos, learn about the palace, and enjoy the view.
Details
Jogyesa temple
Recommended tour tim: 0.5 hour
Jogyesa Temple
@HyungWuCHOI
As one of the few main temples in Seoul, you will be able to experience the history and culture of Korean Buddhism.
I recommend you visit the temple as early as possible to avoid the crowd because it is nicer when quiet.
Details
Insadong Street
Recommended tour time: 1-2 hours
Insadong Culture Street
@HyungWuCHOI
It is only 10 minutes away from the Gyeongbokgung Palace on foot.
Insadong is a good place to enjoy and buy Korean craft goods.
Also, it would be a great place to have lunch.
But, knowing where to go and what to try before you visit Insadong is very important.
Details
Bukchon Hanok Village
Recommended tour time: 1-1.5 hours
Bukchon Hanok Village
@HyungWuCHOI
Bukchon Hanok Village is one of the few remaining traditional Hanok towns in Seoul. And more than that, it would be a great photo spot for you.
Try Hanbok when you go to the village if possible.
⚠️ People are living there, and for that, there is a visitor hour: 10:00-17:00 and it is closed on Sundays.
Details
Gwangjang Market
Recommended tour time: 1-1.5 hours
Gwangjang Market
@HyungWuCHOI
Gwangjang Market is one of the most well-known traditional markets in Seoul, and thus many find it rather touristy.
To some extent, it is true.
However, it is still a place where you can enjoy the traditional Korean market and feel its vibe.
But, I recommend that you do not try food without doing your research.
Learn what is famous and good before you visit! It is an important preparation.
Details
⚠️ Considering the time for transportation, the places above would be enough for the first day.
✨ Note: Gwangjang Market is a bit of a walk away from the rest of the tour spots. So, instead of walking, why not use the Seoul Metro or buses?
Day 2
Lotte World Adventure
Recommended tour time: 6-7 hours
Lotte World
@HyungWuCHOI
If you like riding on rollercoasters or are a big fan of amusement parks, you must visit Lotte World Adventure. Once was the largest indoor amusement park in the world, remains one of the largest and most exciting attractions!
For visiting, I would like to recommend that you visit as soon as it opens at 10 am. Otherwise, you will end up waiting in line.
Also, before you go in, make a list of rides you want to try and organise your route. This way, you will save a lot of time and increase the chances that you ride everything you want.
Details
Lotte World Tower
Recommended tour time: 2-3 hours
LOTTE WORLD TOWER
@HyungWuCHOI
Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in Korea and 6 the tallest in the world.
From the observatory on the 123rd floor, you can see as far as Incheon and the West Sea on a good day. Also, I recommend you visit there just before the Sunset. The view you get to see is breathtaking!
But, the tower is not only about the observatory.
You can explore Lotte World Mall and the aquarium, both of which are great tourist attractions.
Details
Songridan-gil
Recommended tour time: 1.5 hours
Songnidan-gil Street
@HyungWuCHOI
A prefect street for you to unwind the day and relax, all while enjoying the view of Lotte World Tower.
It is a street that is famous among Koreans too as it is filled with nice cafes and restaurants.
Details
Starfield Library
Recommended tour time: 0.5 hour
Starfield Coex Mall
@HyungWuCHOI
It is a photospot!
Unless you love shopping, you might find that Starfield a bit boring. But, if you love shopping, this is yet another shopping spot!
Details
Express Bus Terminal
Recommended tour time: 2 hours
Express Bus Terminal
@HyungWuCHOI
Express Bus Terminal is more than a transit hub!
There are shopping malls and an underground market, and it is right next to Banpo Hangang Park. This is a must-visit, especially between March and November!
Details
⚠️ Spending time in Lotte World Adventure is more energy consuming than you might think. So, conserve your energy.
Day 3
The Hyundai Seoul
Recommended tour time: 2-3 hours
The Hyundai Seoul
@HyungWuCHOI
The Hyundai Seoul is one of the newest and hottest department stores in Seoul. It is shopping lovers' heaven. Also, it is an architectural marvel.
Plus, there are always many pop-up stores, events and exhibitions taking place. So, take advantage of them too!
Details
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Recommended tour time: 1-2 hours
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
@HyungWuCHOI
DDP is not only an architectural marvel, it is also a great landmark. Designed by the world-famous architect, Zaha Hadid, there are numerous exhibitions and conferences all year round. So, when you walk past it, do not just look from outside.
Spend your time inside and even enjoy the exhibitions.
Details
Hongdae Street
Recommended tour time: 2-3 hours
Hongdae Street
@HyungWuCHOI
People visit Hongdae Street for its vibrant atmosphere and energetic vibe!
You will love Hongdae for its trendy shops, busking, entertainment, and food!
I would like to recommend visiting there in the late afternoon as it shows more vibrant side!
Details
Yeonnam-dong
Recommended tour time: 1-2 hours
Yeonnam-dong
@HyungWuCHOI
Yeonnam-dong is an area famous for trendy cafes and restaurants. In the past years, this area has transformed from quiet residential area to streets filled with fashionable and trendy stores. This makes the town a must-visit site!
Details
Yonsei University
Recommended tour time: 1.5-2 hours
Yonsei University, Sinchon Campus
@HyungWuCHOI
Yonsei University is the ultimate campus university.
It has been a filming site of many films and dramas, and the campus is famous for its aesthetic scenery.
This is one of the must-visit tourist attractions.
⚠️ But, actual students are studying. So, please be respectful and do not enter any buildings unescorted.
Details
Have fun!
I know you will have a wonderful time in Seoul! Make sure to follow me at @seoul_express_tours on Instagram. You will learn more about Seoul and get more tips!
Other guides
Do you want to have fun, but hate planning the tour?
Hire me! I will help you plan the best possible itinerary for you!
I can also offer you a private tour. DM @seoul_express_tours to know more about it!
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