Morning: Royal Heritage & Traditional Vibes (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Start your day at Gyeongbokgung Palace (Subway Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station). Arrive by 10:00 AM to catch the Changing of the Guard Ceremony (recreated every hour). Rent a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) nearby for free palace entry and Instagram-worthy photos! Next, walk 10 minutes to Bukchon Hanok Village – a 600-year-old neighborhood with preserved hanok houses. Wander its narrow alleys for panoramic city views and hidden tea houses.
Lunch: Authentic Korean Flavors (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM)
Head to Insadong Street (12-min walk from Bukchon). Try:
- Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) at Tosokchon (famous since 1980).
- Street snacks like hotteok (sweet pancakes) or tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) from vendors.
Afternoon: Culture & Crafts (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Explore Insadong’s art galleries and traditional craft shops. Must-visits:
- Ssamziegil: A spiral mall with indie designers (great for souvenirs like handmade ceramics).
- Jogyesa Temple: Seoul’s central Buddhist temple (5-min walk). Admire the giant golden Buddha and lantern displays.
Evening: Panoramic City Views (5:30 PM – 7:30 PM)
Take the subway to N Seoul Tower (Line 4, Myeongdong Station → Cable car from Namsan Park). Arrive before sunset for 360° views of Seoul. Lock a “love padlock” on the fence and sip coffee at the observatory café.
Night: Street Food & Shopping (8:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
End in Myeongdong (next to Myeongdong Station):
- Food stalls: Try mayak gimbap (mini seaweed rolls), grilled scallops, and bungeoppang (fish-shaped pastry).
- K-Beauty shopping: Olive Young (Korea’s top cosmetics chain) for affordable sheet masks and serums.
Pro Tips:
🚇 Transport: Buy a T-money card (₩2,500) for subways/taxis. Google Maps works for transit.
⏰ Timing: Avoid Mondays (Gyeongbokgung closed).
💰 Cost Estimate: ₩80,000–₩100,000 ($60–$75) including food/entry fees.
🎒 Pack Light: Comfortable shoes essential!
Final Note: Seoul’s energy is contagious—embrace spontaneity! Grab a subak soju (watermelon soju cocktail) in Myeongdong to toast your whirlwind day. Safe travels! ✨