Welcome to the ultimate Korean adventure! Get ready to pound the pavement, chow down on some seriously delicious eats, and immerse yourself in the amazing culture of Korea. From must-visit landmarks to bustling night markets to indulgent Korean spas, this 5-day itinerary has it all. Just be warned: you may never want to leave. Buckle up and get ready for the ride of your lifetime!
After a well-deserved night of rest from your long flight, it’s time to get the day started with a delicious food adventure. Namdaemun Market is the place to be, with rows upon rows of stalls offering everything from household goods and souvenirs to clothes. But let’s be real, we’re here for the real star of the show: Hotteok. These sweet, floury pancakes come in all sorts of tasty fillings, like cinnamon sugar, pizza (yes, you read that right), and peanuts or walnuts. Trust us, one bite of these babies and you’ll be hooked. Just make sure to bring an extra suitcase to haul all your goodies back home, because you’ll definitely be making a significant dent in your wallet. But hey, it’s all worth it for the ultimate Korean breakfast treat. Bon appétit!
Okay, time to work off that delicious Hotteok with a trip to Namsan Mountain! No need to break a sweat hiking up (unless you’re feeling extra ambitious), because we’re taking the scenic route via the Namsan Cable Car. Sit back, relax, and soak in the stunning views of the city as you glide up to the top. And don’t worry, we won’t make you walk back down either – there’s always the option to take the cable car back down (or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even slide down on a giant inflatable tube – no judgement here – Joking). So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!
N Seoul Tower, baby! This iconic landmark is a must-visit when in Seoul, offering some seriously #instaworthy views of the city from up high. But let’s be real, the real fun is getting there. Climb to the top like a boss (if you’re feeling extra #fit) or take a leisurely stroll (if you’re feeling more #laidback). Either way, you’ll be treated to some amazing sights along the way. And once you reach the top? Snap some pics with the famous “Locks of Love” wall, or check out the live soldier weapon demonstrations. Get a glimpse into the history and culture of the Korean military as you watch soldiers perform with weapons (just don’t try this at home, kids). And if you’re feeling peckish, there are plenty of tasty food options to choose from. Don’t forget to bring home a souvenir or two from the gift shop – maybe a traditional Korean fan or a cute ceramic figurine. The possibilities are endless (and #educational) at N Seoul Tower. Get ready to #toweroverseoul!
Time to chow down, friends! After all that climbing (or leisurely strolling) to N Seoul Tower, you’ll definitely be ready for a tasty meal. And lucky for you, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from at the tower itself. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, head on over to Gagnam for some seriously amazing Korean gabli or refreshing cold noodles. It’s the perfect way to fuel up for the rest of your epic adventure in Seoul. Just make sure to bring your appetite (and maybe some stretchy pants) – you won’t want to miss out on all the yummy goodness. Bon appétit!
Welcome to Gangnam, y’all! This trendy neighborhood is known for its high-end shops, fancy-schmancy restaurants, and wild nightlife. But let’s be real, the real reason we’re here is for some R&R at the jjimjilbang (AKA Korean spa). Get ready to unwind and pamper yo’self with a sauna, hot tub, and various spa treatments. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous (or just extra masochistic), you can even try out the cold room or the salt room (just try not to turn into a human Popsicle). Trust us, you’ll leave feeling rejuvenated and ready to conquer the rest of your Seoul adventure. So go ahead, treat yo’self to some well-deserved relaxation. You deserve it!
Alright, it’s time to snap out of that post-jjimjilbang haze and check out some seriously stunning views at Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain. This iconic landmark is known for its beautiful rainbow-hued fountain that lights up the night sky (and makes for some seriously #instaworthy pics). So grab your camera and strike a pose (or ten) in front of the mesmerizing display. And if you’re feeling extra romantic, bring your special someone along for a magical evening under the moonlight. Just try not to get too distracted by the rainbow colors and fall into the fountain (we won’t judge). The possibilities are endless (and #romantic) at Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain. Get ready to be mesmerized (and maybe a little dizzy)!
It’s time to say goodbye to the rainbow-hued beauty of Banpo Bridge and hello to the wild world of Itaewon. This neighborhood is known for its diverse culture, international flavors, endless nightlife, and of course, some seriously amazing shopping. Get ready to explore the local boutiques and international stores, and maybe even score some unique souvenirs. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try some exotic eats (just make sure to bring some Tums if you’re prone to food comas). Itaewon is the perfect place to let your hair down, have some crazy fun, and maybe even treat yourself to a little retail therapy. So go ahead, embrace your inner adventurer and see what this neighborhood has in store. Just try not to break the bank (or your luggage). Happy shopping (and eating and partying)!
It’s time to chow down, friends! After a day of shopping and exploring, you’ll definitely be ready for some seriously delicious Korean BBQ. And Maple Tree House Korean BBQ is the place to be, offering some of the best BBQ in all of Seoul. The meat is melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness and the atmosphere is unique and cool (not to mention Instagram-worthy). Plus, this place is famous, so you know it’s gotta be good. Just make sure to bring your appetite (and maybe some stretchy pants) – you won’t want to miss out on all the mouthwatering goodness. And if you’re feeling extra hungry (or just extra gluttonous), go ahead and order that extra round of meat. No judgment here. Just make sure to save room for dessert (because who can say no to Korean Bingsu – shaved ice?).
It’s time to party, people! Whether you’re into bars, clubs, or just hanging out with friends, there’s no shortage of nightlife options in Korea. And of course, no night out is complete without trying some soju or makgeolli (just make sure to pace yourself – these drinks pack a punch and have been known to turn even the most sober of individuals into dancing machines). Get ready to let your hair down, make new friends, and fully immerse yourself in the unique culture of Korea. Just make sure to stay safe and have a designated driver (or grab a taxi) to get home. And above all, have fun! This is your chance to go wild and make some unforgettable memories. Go out and make the most of it (just don’t do anything we wouldn’t do).
Well, that was quite the day! You’ve packed in so much already – from trying some seriously delicious Hotteok at Namdaemun Market (because who can say no to a sweet, floury pancake?) to taking in the stunning views at Namsan Mountain and N Seoul Tower (just try not to get too dizzy), to pampering yourself at the jjimjilbang (because everyone deserves a little R&R), checking out the rainbow-hued fountain at Banpo Bridge (because who doesn’t love a good Instagram-worthy pic?), exploring the craziness of Itaewon (just try not to get too wild), and finishing the night with some mouthwatering Korean BBQ (because you can never have too much meat). Phew! It’s time to catch some z’s and get ready for another crazy day of adventure in Seoul. Just make sure to set your alarms (unless you want to sleep through day 2, in which case, carry on snoozing). Goodnight, Seoul!
Welcome to day 2, fellow adventurers! It’s time to start the morning off with a visit to Seoul Plaza. This iconic spot is the perfect place to take some seriously #instaworthy pics (because let’s be real, what’s a vacation without a ton of #instagood moments?). Get ready to snap some pics in front of the beautiful fountain (just try not to get too wet), check out the various events and performances (because who doesn’t love a little entertainment?), and maybe even do a little people-watching (because let’s face it, people-watching is always entertaining). Seoul Plaza is a bustling hub of activity, so there’s always something to see and do. Just make sure to bring your camera (and maybe a selfie stick if you’re feeling extra #selfie-obsessed). Happy photo-taking (and people-watching)!
It’s time to awaken your soul (and your taste buds) with a stop at Tosokchon Samgyetang, a famous restaurant known for its delicious ginger chicken soup. This soul-warming dish is the perfect pick-me-up, and the history of the restaurant only adds to its charm. But be warned – the lines can get very long, especially around peak times, so it’s important to get there early to snag a seat (or risk being hangry). Trust us, the wait is worth it for a bowl of this mouthwatering goodness. Just make sure to bring your appetite (and maybe a bib, because things might get a little messy). And if the line is too long, don’t worry – there are plenty of other delicious options in the area. Happy eating (and hopefully not hangry-ing)!
Next up on the itinerary is a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, a beautiful and historic landmark in Seoul. This stunning palace is a must-see for any visitor, and is filled with interesting history and cultural significance. Take a stroll through the gorgeous gardens, marvel at the intricate architecture, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the changing of the guard ceremony (just try not to laugh too hard at their serious faces). And if you really want to immerse yourself in the experience, consider renting a traditional hanbok and posing for some pictures. Trust us, you’ll look absolutely stunning in these beautiful, traditional Korean garments (and maybe even a little regal). Just try not to get too carried away and start demanding your subjects bow before you. Gyeongbokgung Palace is a truly breathtaking sight, and is sure to be a highlight of your trip. Just make sure to bring your camera (and maybe a comfy pair of shoes, because there’s a lot of ground to cover). Happy exploring (and picture-taking)!
Now time for a visit to Bukchon Hanok Village, a charming neighborhood filled with traditional Korean houses known as hanoks. This is your chance to step back in time and get a glimpse of what life was like in Korea during the Joseon Dynasty (because who doesn’t love a good history lesson?). Stroll through the narrow, winding streets (just try not to get lost), admire the beautifully preserved hanoks (just try not to get too jealous of the intricate architecture), and maybe even visit one of the museums or workshops (because learning is fun). And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can even try on a hanbok and snap some pics in the charming alleyways (because who doesn’t love a good #hanbokselfie?). Just be warned – the narrow streets can get pretty crowded, so make sure to watch your step (and maybe avoid wearing high heels). Bukchon Hanok Village is a truly unique and fascinating place, and is sure to be a highlight of your trip. Happy exploring (and #hanbokselfie-ing)!
After all that walking, it’s no surprise that you’re feeling a little hungry. Lucky for you, the next stop on the itinerary is Jaedong Sundubu, a delicious restaurant known for its creamy sundubu jjigae (tofu stew). This hearty dish is the perfect way to refuel after a day of exploring, and the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant only adds to the charm. Just make sure to bring your appetite (and maybe a napkin or two, because things might get a little messy). And if sundubu jjigae isn’t your thing, don’t worry – the menu has plenty of other tasty options to choose from. Happy eating!
Leave some room for dessert, because the next stop on the itinerary is the famous Insadong area, home to Café Onion in Anguk. This is probably one of the best cafes in all of Korea (or at least, that’s what all the cool kids are saying). It’s located just steps from Anguk Station, and is housed in a traditional wooden Korean house called a hanok. The cafe serves up delicious coffee and pastries baked in-house, and the atmosphere is amazing (just try not to stare too long at all the cute little details). Just be warned – it can get pretty crowded, so come early or expect to wait for a seat (or risk hangry feelings). Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, grab your drink and pastry to-go and enjoy a little picnic in the park. My order? An iced Oatly latte with an extra shot, a strawberry pastry, and an iced americano or espresso for round two. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed (unless you hate coffee and pastries, in which case, I’m sorry). Happy caffeine-ing (and pastry-eating)!
Finally, it’s time to head over to Hongdae, a vibrant and lively neighborhood known for its shopping, nightlife, and live performances (aka the ultimate trifecta). Start off with a visit to Line Friends or Kakao Friends Cafe, where you can take pictures with your favorite characters and indulge in some tasty treats (because who doesn’t love a good #charactercafe selfie?). Then, head over to Hongdae Picasso Street, where you can browse the works of talented artists (and maybe even try your hand at a little street art yourself). And of course, no visit to Hongdae is complete without some shopping and exploring (because who doesn’t love a good bargain?). The vibe in this neighborhood is electric, and there’s always something going on (whether it’s live music, street performers, or just the hum of excitement in the air). Whether you’re in the mood for a night out on the town or just soaking up the lively atmosphere, Hongdae has something for everyone. Just don’t stay out too late (or you might regret it in the morning). Happy exploring!
My recommendation for food in Hongdae is Shin Migyeong Hongdae Dakgabli. This place is known for its delicious dakgabli (spicy chicken gabli), and is the perfect spot to fuel up after a day of shopping and exploring (or just because you’re feeling hangry). The atmosphere is lively and energetic, and the staff is friendly and welcoming (just try not to drool too much while you wait for your food). Just make sure to come hungry (because the portions are generous), and maybe bring some breath mints (because that spicy chicken gabli can leave a little something to be desired in the breath department). Trust me, you won’t be disappointed (unless you hate spicy food, in which case, I’m sorry). Happy eating (and maybe bring a napkin or two, because things might get messy)!
And that’s a wrap for Day 2! You’ve had a jam-packed day of sightseeing, eating, and exploring (and probably a few too many coffees and pastries), and are probably feeling pretty tired (but also pretty satisfied). You started off the day with a visit to Seoul Plaza, where you snapped some Instagram-worthy pics and maybe even caught a glimpse of a celebrity or two (because who doesn’t love a good celebrity spotting?). You then refueled with some delicious sundubu jjigae at Jaedong Sundubu, and explored the beautiful Gyeongbokgung Palace, where you had the chance to rent a hanbok and take some pictures (because who doesn’t love a good #hanbokselfie?). You then meandered through the charming streets of Bukchon Hanok Village, and indulged in some coffee and pastries at Café Onion in Anguk (because who doesn’t love a good caffeine and sugar fix?). And finally, you ended the day in Hongdae, where you shopped, explored, and tried some delicious dakgabli (because who doesn’t love a good spicy chicken gabli?). Phew! Time to hit the hay (or maybe just the couch) and get some rest for another exciting day of adventures in Seoul. Good night (and don’t forget to brush your teeth)!
