Seoul 10-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Incheon Airport (ICN)

Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport, proceed through customs and immigration, then take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul Station, and transfer to your hotel.

Purchase a T-Money card at a convenience store at the airport for easy public transportation use. AREX Express train takes about 43 minutes to Seoul Station.

Hotel Check-in & Freshen Up

Check into your accommodation in Seoul and take some time to settle in before starting your exploration.

Ensure your hotel is conveniently located near a subway station for easy access to major attractions.

Gwanghwamun Square

Begin your Seoul adventure at the iconic Gwanghwamun Square, featuring statues of Admiral Yi Sun-sin and King Sejong the Great.

This historic square offers a great introduction to Korean history and provides impressive views towards Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Gyeongbokgung Palace Exterior

Walk around the exterior of Gyeongbokgung Palace, appreciating its grandeur and traditional Korean architecture.

The palace closes at 18:30 in April-May, so you'll catch the evening ambiance.

Consider renting a Hanbok (traditional Korean dress) for photos if you wish, although it's late for entry today, you can plan an interior visit later if desired.

Dinner in Insadong

Enjoy a traditional Korean dinner in the charming cultural district of Insadong, known for its antique shops and traditional eateries.

Try traditional Korean dishes like Bibimbap, Bulgogi, or a hearty Kimchi stew. Many restaurants here offer vegetarian options.

Royal Seoul Cooking Class

Welcome to Our Home, 100-Year-Old Hanok in the Heart of Seoul: Step into a local’s residential home where heritage meets present, experience Korean traditional home culture.

Join our Korean culinary...

This hands-on class offers a unique cultural experience in a traditional Korean house. You'll learn to cook authentic royal Korean dishes.

Insadong Lunch & Explore

Enjoy lunch in Insadong, then spend time browsing the unique shops, art galleries, and tea houses.

Look for traditional crafts, calligraphy, and ceramics.

Don't miss Ssamziegil, a multi-story complex with unique artisan shops and a spiral walkway. Try a traditional Korean tea ceremony experience.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Wander through the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village, a preserved area of traditional Korean houses nestled between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces. Enjoy the charming alleyways and panoramic views.

Be mindful and respectful as this is a residential area. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many uphill paths.

Myeongdong Shopping & Street Food

Head to Myeongdong, a bustling shopping district famous for cosmetics, fashion, and an incredible array of street food stalls.

Sample various street foods like Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), Eomuk (fish cakes), and Gyeranppang (egg bread). Many stores offer tax refunds for tourists.

Dinner in Myeongdong

Dine at one of Myeongdong's popular restaurants, offering everything from Korean BBQ to international cuisine.

Myeongdong is very lively at night, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the energetic atmosphere.

DMZ Tour, 2nd Tunnel & UNESCO Suspension Bridge

The 2nd Tunnel was discovered in an area 13km north of Cheorwon within the DMZ on March 19, 1975.

As arch of rocks, it has 2.1m width, 2m height, 3.5km length and located between 50 and 160m (160 an...

This full-day tour offers a poignant look into the history of the Korean War and the divided peninsula. Remember to bring your passport. May 1st is a public holiday (Labour Day) in South Korea, but DMZ tours typically operate as usual; however, expect larger crowds and book well in advance.

Relaxing Dinner

After a long and emotionally impactful day, enjoy a relaxed dinner near your hotel or in a quieter neighborhood.

Reflect on the day's experiences.

Consider a hearty Korean BBQ or a comforting hot pot for dinner.

Namsan Park Hike

Enjoy a leisurely morning hike up Namsan Park, offering refreshing greenery and scenic trails.

You can choose to walk or take the Namsan Cable Car.

Wear comfortable shoes. The hike offers great views, especially during spring.

N Seoul Tower

Visit the iconic N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of Seoul.

Place a 'love lock' on the fence and explore the observation decks.

The views are spectacular, especially on a clear day. There are cafes and souvenir shops at the top.

Lunch in Itaewon or Hongdae

Head to either Itaewon for diverse international cuisine or directly to Hongdae for trendy cafes and eateries.

Itaewon is known for its international food scene, while Hongdae offers a youthful vibe with many unique cafes and restaurants.

Explore Hongdae

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant, youthful atmosphere of Hongdae, known for its street art, indie music performances, fashion boutiques, and unique cafes.

Watch for street performers and enjoy the creative energy. It's a great spot for unique souvenirs and trendy clothes.

Korean Drinking Games Night

Play Korean drinking games that only locals know!

Experience Korean drinking culture in the hottest nightlife area! Try Korean signature drink Somaek and Soju Bomb!

A fun way to experience Korean social culture, non-drinkers are also welcome. This activity is a great social ice-breaker.

Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden

Visit Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its beautiful 'Secret Garden' (Huwon).

The palace is a fine example of Joseon dynasty architecture.

Entrance to the Secret Garden requires a separate, timed ticket and is highly recommended. Book in advance if possible. Guided tours are available in English.

Samcheongdong Street

Stroll through Samcheongdong, a charming area known for its traditional houses, modern art galleries, trendy cafes, and boutiques.

This area offers a blend of traditional and contemporary Korean culture, perfect for a relaxing walk and unique finds.

Lunch in Samcheongdong

Enjoy lunch at one of the many picturesque cafes or restaurants in Samcheongdong.

Many eateries here offer fusion cuisine or unique local dishes in a cozy setting.

Learn and Make Your Own Craft Makgeolli

At Baekusaeng Makgeolli, we are more than a brewery offering a one-day experience.

We are leaders in creating makgeolli resources for brewers worldwide—through our offline c...

Discover the traditional art of brewing Makgeolli, a Korean rice wine. This hands-on experience allows you to create and taste your own brew.

Farewell Seoul Dinner (Day 5)

Enjoy a final dinner in Seoul before preparing for your journey to Busan tomorrow.

Consider trying a specific dish you haven't had yet, or revisit a favorite restaurant.

KTX Train to Busan

Travel from Seoul Station to Busan Station on the high-speed KTX train, enjoying the Korean countryside.

It's a comfortable and efficient way to cover the distance.

Hotel Check-in in Busan

Check into your accommodation in Busan, drop off your luggage, and refresh after your train journey.

Explore Gamcheon Culture Village

Wander through the vibrant, colorful alleyways of this 'Machu Picchu of Busan,' an artistic village built on a hillside. Discover murals, sculptures, and unique shops.

Wear comfortable shoes as there are many slopes and stairs. Great photo opportunities at every turn. Local transport (Busan Metro + bus) is recommended. TripAdvisor Link: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g297884-d3901349-Reviews-Busan_Gamcheon_Culture_Village-Busan.html

Dinner & BIFF Square

Enjoy dinner and soak in the lively atmosphere of BIFF Square, a cultural street dedicated to the film industry.

Try local street food like 'Ssiat Hotteok' (sweet pancake with seeds).

Perfect spot for evening strolls and tasting various Busan specialties. TripAdvisor Link: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g297884-d1605555-Reviews-BIFF_Square-Busan.html

Busan National Geopark

Explore the natural beauty of Busan National Geopark, which features unique geological formations and stunning coastal views.

Options include Igidae Park or Taejongdae Park for breathtaking cliffs and ocean scenery.

Choose a specific area of the Geopark based on your interest, such as Dadaepo Beach for sunset or Oryukdo Skywalk for panoramic ocean views. Google Places Link: https://www.google.com/maps/search/부산국가지질공원

Lunch near Haeundae

Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the many restaurants in the bustling Haeundae area, offering fresh seafood or other Korean cuisine.

Relax at Haeundae Beach

Take a leisurely stroll along the famous Haeundae Beach, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch the waves.

It's one of Korea's most beautiful beaches.

Gwangalli Beach & Gwangan Bridge View

Experience the vibrant evening atmosphere at Gwangalli Beach, famous for its stunning views of the Gwangan Bridge, especially when lit up at night.

Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

Jagalchi Fish Market

Visit Korea's largest seafood market, Jagalchi.

Witness the bustling trade of fresh catches, explore the live seafood section, and maybe even enjoy a fresh seafood breakfast.

A true sensory experience. You can buy fresh seafood and have it prepared on the spot in the market restaurants.

KTX Train to Seoul

Board the KTX train from Busan Station back to Seoul Station.

Relax and enjoy the scenic journey as you return to the capital.

Hotel Check-in in Seoul

Check back into your pre-arranged accommodation in Seoul.

Take some time to unpack and relax after your journey.

Dinner & Hongdae Exploration

Enjoy dinner in the lively Hongdae area, known for its youthful energy, street art, independent shops, and busking performances.

A great place to unwind after a travel day.

K-POP Experience Tour

Dive deep into the world of K-Pop with a unique tour that takes you inside a real K-POP entertainment company!

Connect with your favorite artists and immerse yourself in fan culture.

This is the first tour in Korea that takes you inside a real K-POP agency. Viator Product Code: 47013P27. Book in advance as spots are limited.

COEX Mall & Starfield Library

Explore COEX Mall, a massive underground shopping mall, and marvel at the stunning Starfield Library, an architectural wonder with towering bookshelves and comfortable seating.

Korean Drinking Games Night

Experience Korean drinking culture in a fun and interactive way.

Play games only locals know and try signature drinks like Somaek and Soju Bomb in a hot nightlife area. Non-drinkers are welcome too!

Viator Product Code: 5493294P1. A great way to meet locals and other travelers.

Shopping in Myeongdong

Enjoy a morning of shopping for cosmetics, fashion, and souvenirs in Myeongdong, one of Seoul's premier shopping districts.

Don't forget to sample some street food!

Traditional Lunch in Insadong

Have a final authentic Korean lunch in Insadong, a charming area known for its traditional tea houses, art galleries, and antique shops.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Pick up any last-minute gifts or souvenirs from Insadong or nearby areas, ensuring you have mementos of your trip.

Packing & Departure Preparations

Return to your hotel to finish packing and organize for your departure from Seoul tomorrow (May 9th).

Ensure all travel documents are ready.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a memorable farewell dinner at a restaurant of your choice, savoring your favorite Korean dishes one last time.