Welcome to Seoul – A City of Contrasts and Charm
Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, seamlessly blends modernity with tradition, offering a unique blend of shopping, culture, food, and history. Whether you’re looking to explore the famous palaces, indulge in delicious street food, or shop in trendy districts, this 5-day, 4-night itinerary has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the best attractions, markets, and shopping streets in Seoul.
Day 1: Mangwon Market + Hongdae Shopping Street
Morning: Mangwon Market – A Taste of Traditional Seoul
Start your journey with a visit to Mangwon Market, a lively local market that offers an authentic slice of Korean street food and culture. Wander through the narrow aisles, where you can try famous Korean snacks. A must-try are the stuffed chilli pepper which is fried to perfection and well-seasoned stuffing filled to the brim. Another must-try is ‘HOONHOON HOTTEOK’ whis arguably one of the best Hotteok in seoul with many unique flavors as well! This market is the perfect introduction to Seoul’s culinary delights.
Afternoon: Hongdae Shopping Street – Fashion and Culture
After indulging in street food, head to Hongdae, one of Seoul’s most vibrant districts, known for its street art, indie boutiques, and youthful atmosphere. Explore unique stores offering trendy clothing, accessories, and Korean streetwear, or visit one of the quirky cafes that line the streets. Don’t forget to check out the street performances by students and art-enthusiasts in the evening.
👉 Find budget-friendly hotels near Hongdae here on Trip.com!
Evening: Explore Hongdae’s Nightlife
As the sun sets, Hongdae comes alive with its nightlife scene. From live music bars to karaoke rooms to the hottest clubs in town such as Club M2 and ClubNB, it’s a hotspot for those looking for a lively night out. Dance the night away at one of the trendy clubs or unwind in a cozy pub. Hongdae is a area that never sleeps, be sure to match its vibrant energy!
Day 2: Bukchon Hanok Village + Tosokchon Samgyetang + Gyeongbokgung Palace
Morning: Bukchon Hanok Village – Explore Traditional Korea
Start your day with a stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, one of Seoul’s oldest traditional neighborhoods. This charming area is lined with hanok (traditional Korean houses) that have been preserved for centuries. The village is nestled between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is also sprinkled with many souvenirs shops for you to buy something home for remembrance.
👉 Hanbok Rental and Photoshoot Experience by Hanbok (Klook)
Lunch: Tosokchon Samgyetang – A Taste of Korean Comfort Food
After your cultural immersion, head over to Tosokchon, a famous restaurant known for its Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) which is about a 10 mins walk away. This rich and flavorful dish is perfect for rejuvenating your body and mind. The restaurant is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, so be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds. This is arguably one of the best gingseng chicken soup in town!
Afternoon: Gyeongbokgung Palace – The Heart of Korean Royalty
No visit to Seoul is complete without exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of Korea’s most iconic landmarks. This magnificent palace dates back to the Joseon Dynasty and offers a glimpse into the country’s royal history. Be sure to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony for a traditional experience.
Day 3: DDP Plaza + Apgujeong Rodeo Street + COEX Mall
Morning: DDP Plaza – A Hub of Modern Design
On Day 3, immerse yourself in Seoul’s modern architecture at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). Designed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid, DDP is an architectural masterpiece that hosts exhibitions, fashion shows, and cultural events. It’s the perfect place to marvel at the intersection of art, design, and technology.
Afternoon: Apgujeong Rodeo Street – The Luxury Shopping District
Afterward, head to Apgujeong Rodeo Street, a luxurious shopping area filled with high-end boutiques, designer stores, and chic cafes. This is the place to shop for the latest fashion trends and indulge in luxury brands. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the tree-lined streets, a serene contrast to the busy city. One particular brand not to missed is ‘Tamburins’ which sells various perfumes and fragrance, it is super hot on TikTok!
Evening: COEX Mall – A Shopper’s Paradise
Wrap up your day with a visit to COEX Mall, one of the largest underground shopping centers in Asia. With over 300 stores, a giant bookstore, and even a Starfield Library, there’s plenty to keep you busy. COEX Mall is also home to a range of restaurants, making it the perfect spot for a casual dinner after a long day of shopping. If you are feeling lucky, the ‘7 Luck Casino’ is also situated here.
👉 Find hotels near COEX Mall on Trip.com
Day 4: Ikseon-dong + Myeongdong Shopping Street + Namsan Seoul Tower
Morning: Ikseon-dong – Traditional Art, Handicrafts and Cafes
Ikseon-dong is a small but vibrant neighborhood located near Jongno in central Seoul, often overshadowed by the more famous Insadong and Myeongdong shopping streets. However, in recent years, Ikseon-dong has been gaining popularity for its trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops housed in beautifully preserved hanok buildings. There are also many breakfast options here, would recommend you to try ‘the ‘Mil Toasthouse’ a cafe famous for the steamed buns. (Beware of long queues!)
Afternoon: Myeongdong Shopping Street – Fashion and Beauty
Next, head to Myeongdong, a bustling shopping district famous for its fashion boutiques and K-beauty stores. Myeongdong is the go-to destination for the latest Korean fashion trends, skincare products, and cosmetics. Don’t miss the chance to stock up on your favorite K-beauty brands as well as savor the various street food options!
Evening: Namsan Seoul Tower – Breathtaking Views of the City
End the day with a visit to Namsan Seoul Tower, which offers panoramic views of the entire city. You can either hike up the tower or take a cable car for a more relaxed journey. Make sure to check out the locks of love left by couples on the observation deck!
👉 Book skip-the-line tickets for Namsan Seoul Tower on Klook
Day 5: Gwangjang Market + Seongsu-dong
Morning: Gwangjang Market – A Culinary Haven
On your final day, make your way to Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul’s oldest and most famous traditional markets. Known for its bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak kimbap (mini rice rolls), Gwangjang is a food lover’s paradise. Be sure to try the market’s signature dishes and grab some souvenirs while you’re there and also do try the award winning ‘ILHO Coffee Bar’ to lift up your day!
Afternoon: Seongsu-dong
After the market, head to Seongsu-dong, often referred to as “Seoul’s Brooklyn.” This former industrial area has transformed into a trendy neighborhood filled with hip cafes, galleries, and independent boutiques. It’s a great place to relax, grab a coffee, and explore the unique urban culture. This place have been getting a lot of hype recently, so be sure to check it out!
- Pro Tip: 2 of the highly recommended cafe to check out: “Rain Report Croissant” and “HANIB Bagel Seongsu”
Where to Stay in Seoul
To make your stay even more enjoyable, consider booking your accommodation through Trip.com, where you’ll find a variety of options ranging from luxury hotels to affordable guesthouses. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Seoul:
- Luxury: The Shilla Seoul – A five-star hotel offering world-class service and amenities.
👉 Book The Shilla Seoul on Trip.com - Mid-Range: L7 Myeongdong by Lotte – A stylish hotel in the heart of Myeongdong.
👉 Book L7 Myeongdong on Trip.com - Budget: Fairfield by Marriott Seoul – Affordable, comfortable, and located in a lively neighborhood.
👉 Book Itaewon Inn on Trip.com
For More in-depth guide on where to stay in seoul, do check out this post on ‘Best Places to Stay in Seoul’ here!
Conclusion
Seoul offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern flair, making it a must-visit destination for travelers of all interests. From traditional markets to luxury shopping, from palaces to towering skyscrapers, there’s something for everyone.
Make your trip even better by booking your tours, activities, and accommodations through Klook and Trip.com for exclusive discounts and deals. Ready to explore Seoul? Book your adventure today!
