Day-by-Day Itinerary
Settle into Seoul and dive into Korean royal history at the magnificent Gyeongbokgung Palace, followed by traditional architecture exploration in Bukchon.
Morning
Airport arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive at
Incheon International Airport and take the Airport Railroad Express to Seoul Station. Check into your accommodation and freshen up. Take a gentle orientation walk around your neighborhood to shake off jet lag and grab coffee at a local cafe to energize for the afternoon ahead.
3-4 hours
$10-15 (airport transfer)
Purchase a T-money card at the airport for seamless public transportation throughout your stay
Lunch
A traditional Korean restaurant near Insadong serving bibimbap and banchan
Korean
Mid-range
Afternoon
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Explore Korea's largest and most iconic palace, built in 1395. Watch the colorful changing of the guard ceremony, wander through the throne halls, and visit the National Palace Museum within the grounds. The palace's mountain backdrop creates stunning photo opportunities, and you can rent traditional hanbok clothing for an immersive experience and free palace admission.
2-3 hours
$3 entrance fee (free with hanbok rental from nearby shops at $15-25)
Arrive by 10am or 2pm to catch the guard-changing ceremony at Gwanghwamun Gate
Evening
Bukchon Hanok Village exploration and dinner
Stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village's traditional alleyways at golden hour, then enjoy Korean BBQ at a restaurant in the nearby Samcheong-dong area
Where to Stay Tonight
Jongno or Myeongdong district (Mid-range hotel or guesthouse in central Seoul)
Central location provides easy access to major palaces, shopping districts, and excellent subway connections for the coming days
Visit Bukchon Hanok Village after 5pm when day-trippers have left and residents are returning home - you'll experience the neighborhood's authentic residential atmosphere
Day 1 Budget: $85-110
Immerse yourself in Korean history at world-class museums before ascending N Seoul Tower for panoramic city views at sunset.
Morning
National Museum of Korea
Spend the morning at Korea's flagship museum housing over 310,000 artifacts spanning Korean history from ancient times to the modern era. Highlights include the stunning Gilt Bronze Incense Burner, Baekje golden ornaments, and the extensive Buddhist sculpture collection. The museum's architecture itself is impressive, with outdoor gardens perfect for a mid-morning stroll between galleries.
3 hours
Free admission
Lunch
The museum's food court or a nearby restaurant in Yongsan serving Korean comfort food
Korean
Budget
Afternoon
War Memorial of Korea
Continue your historical journey at this comprehensive memorial documenting Korea's military history from ancient times through the Korean War. The indoor exhibitions are deeply moving, featuring personal stories and artifacts. Outside, explore the large collection of military equipment including tanks, aircraft, and naval vessels. The memorial provides essential context for understanding modern Korea.
2-3 hours
Free admission
Evening
N Seoul Tower sunset visit
Take the cable car up Namsan Mountain to N Seoul Tower before sunset. Enjoy 360-degree views of Seoul's sprawling cityscape from the observation deck, then dine at a restaurant on the mountain with night views
Where to Stay Tonight
Jongno or Myeongdong district (Same accommodation as Day 1)
Staying in the same location eliminates check-in/check-out time and keeps you centrally located
Visit N Seoul Tower on a weekday evening to avoid weekend crowds, and walk down Namsan Mountain afterward through the illuminated walking paths rather than taking the cable car
Day 2 Budget: $75-95
Experience Seoul's artistic side in a hillside mural village, then step back in time at a recreated Joseon-era folk village.
Morning
Ihwa-dong Mural Village
Climb the charming stepped alleyways of this hillside neighborhood transformed by artists into an open-air gallery. Discover colorful murals, sculptures, and installations around every corner, including the famous koi fish stairs and angel wings. The neighborhood offers glimpses into local residential life alongside the art, with cafes tucked into renovated hanok houses providing rest stops during your exploration.
2 hours
Free (bring cash for cafe stops)
Lunch
A cozy cafe in Ihwa-dong serving Korean fusion dishes and excellent coffee
Korean fusion
Mid-range
Afternoon
Namsangol Hanok Village
Visit this restored traditional village featuring five authentic hanok houses from the Joseon Dynasty, relocated from various parts of Seoul. Participate in traditional activities like tea ceremonies, try on hanbok, and watch cultural performances including traditional music and dance. The time capsule plaza and traditional gardens provide peaceful spaces to absorb the atmosphere of old Seoul.
2-3 hours
Free admission (traditional activities $5-10)
Evening
Myeongdong shopping and street food
Explore Myeongdong's bustling shopping streets, sampling Korean street food favorites like tteokbokki, hotteok, and egg bread while browsing cosmetics shops and fashion boutiques
Where to Stay Tonight
Jongno or Myeongdong district (Same accommodation as previous nights)
Final night in this location before tomorrow's day trip
Visit Ihwa-dong early in the morning for the best light for photography and fewer crowds - the village is accessible 24/7 as it's a residential neighborhood
Day 3 Budget: $70-90
Escape Seoul for a day trip to the picturesque Nami
Island, famous for its tree-lined paths and natural beauty.
Morning
Take an early morning train or bus to Gapyeong, then board the ferry to Nami
Island. This half-moon shaped
island became famous as a filming location for Korean dramas and offers stunning tree-lined paths perfect for leisurely walks. Explore the metasequoia lane, ginkgo tree road, and peaceful riverside paths while spotting ostriches, rabbits, and peacocks roaming the
island.
Start early to enjoy the
island before tour groups arrive, typically departing Seoul by 8am
Lunch
A casual restaurant on Nami
Island serving Korean dishes and international options
Korean and international
Mid-range
Afternoon
Nami
Island continued exploration
Continue exploring Nami
Island's attractions including art galleries, small museums, and seasonal gardens. Rent bicycles to cover more ground, or simply relax by the riverside. Visit the
island's unique themed zones and photo spots. Before leaving, browse the souvenir shops for locally made crafts and snacks to bring back to Seoul.
2-3 hours
$10 (bike rental and activities)
Evening
Return to Seoul and Hongdae nightlife
Return to Seoul in the early evening and head to the youthful Hongdae district for dinner at a trendy restaurant, followed by live music venues or indie cafes popular with university students
Where to Stay Tonight
Hongdae or Mapo district (Boutique hotel or guesthouse in the artistic Hongdae area)
Experience a different Seoul neighborhood with vibrant nightlife and youth culture
Purchase a combined ticket package that includes Nami
Island and nearby Garden of Morning Calm if you have extra time - the garden is especially beautiful during seasonal illumination events
Day 4 Budget: $90-115
Spend an action-packed day at Korea's largest indoor/outdoor theme park complex with rides, shows, and shopping.
Morning
Lotte World
Arrive early at this massive entertainment complex featuring the world's largest indoor theme park plus outdoor Magic
Island. Start with popular rides like the Gyro Drop and French Revolution roller coaster before queues build. The indoor section offers all-weather entertainment with themed zones, parades, and performances throughout the day. Don't miss the ice skating rink and folk museum within the complex.
4-5 hours
$45-55 (day pass)
Purchase tickets online in advance for small discounts and faster entry, especially on weekends
Lunch
One of the many restaurants inside Lotte World complex serving Korean, Western, and fast food options
Various
Mid-range
Afternoon
Lotte World Tower and Aquarium
After the theme park, visit the adjacent Lotte World Tower, Korea's tallest building. Take the high-speed elevator to Seoul Sky observation deck on floors 117-123 for breathtaking views. If time permits, explore the Lotte Aquarium in the tower's basement levels, home to over 55,000 marine animals including beluga whales and penguins.
2-3 hours
$25-30 (Seoul Sky) or $20-25 (Aquarium)
Combination tickets for tower and aquarium offer better value than separate purchases
Evening
Jamsil area dinner and rest
Dine at a restaurant in the Lotte World Mall or nearby Jamsil area, then return to your accommodation to rest after an active day
Where to Stay Tonight
Hongdae or Mapo district (Same accommodation as Day 4)
Easy subway access from Lotte World back to Hongdae area
Download the Lotte World app for real-time ride wait times and show schedules - this helps you plan your route efficiently through the park
Day 5 Budget: $100-130
Discover Seoul's traditional western village and explore more hanok architecture in a quieter, less touristy setting.
Morning
Seochon Hanok Village
Explore this charming neighborhood west of Gyeongbokgung Palace, where traditional hanok houses blend with modern cafes, galleries, and boutiques. Unlike the busier Bukchon, Seochon retains a more authentic residential feel. Wander the narrow alleyways discovering hidden courtyards, traditional craft shops, and historic sites including the former homes of famous Korean artists and scholars.
2-3 hours
Free (bring cash for cafe and shop visits)
Lunch
A traditional Korean restaurant in Seochon serving home-style dishes in a converted hanok
Korean
Mid-range
Afternoon
Namsan Palgakjeong (Octagonal Pavilion) and Namsan walking trails
Hike or take a bus partway up Namsan Mountain to discover this historic octagonal pavilion offering panoramic Seoul views without the crowds of N Seoul Tower. Explore the surrounding walking trails through pine forests, passing exercise stations and scenic viewpoints. The area provides a peaceful nature escape in the heart of the city with well-maintained paths suitable for all fitness levels.
2-3 hours
Free
Evening
Itaewon international dining
Head to Itaewon's diverse restaurant scene for international cuisine options including Middle Eastern, Indian, Mexican, or American food, followed by drinks at a rooftop bar
Where to Stay Tonight
Hongdae or Mapo district (Same accommodation as previous nights)
Final night in Seoul before heading to Suwon tomorrow
Seochon is best explored slowly - allow yourself to get pleasantly lost in the alleyways and follow whichever paths look intriguing rather than following a strict route
Day 6 Budget: $75-95
Travel to Suwon to explore the impressive UNESCO World Heritage fortress and the beautiful temporary
royal palace.
Morning
Travel to Suwon and Hwaseong Haenggung
Take the subway to Suwon, then visit Hwaseong Haenggung, the largest temporary palace built for when the king visited his father's tomb. This beautifully restored complex features traditional architecture, throne halls, and living quarters. Watch traditional guard performances and explore the various buildings that showcase royal life during the Joseon Dynasty. The palace hosts cultural events and reenactments regularly.
2-3 hours
$3-5 (entrance plus transport from Seoul)
Lunch
A restaurant in Suwon's traditional market area serving the city's famous galbi (grilled ribs)
Korean BBQ
Mid-range
Afternoon
Hwaseong Fortress wall walk
Walk sections of the magnificent Hwaseong Fortress wall, built in the 1790s and remarkably well-preserved. The 5.7km wall features gates, command posts, and observation towers offering views over Suwon. You don't need to walk the entire circuit - focus on highlights like Paldalmun Gate and the northern section with its dramatic architecture. The fortress demonstrates innovative 18th-century military engineering.
2-3 hours
Included in palace ticket
Evening
Return to Seoul or stay in Suwon
Either return to Seoul for dinner in Gangnam district, or stay in Suwon and explore the traditional market area for local street food and casual dining
Where to Stay Tonight
Gangnam or Suwon (Modern hotel in Gangnam district or business hotel in Suwon)
Gangnam offers upscale dining and shopping experiences; Suwon allows more time at the fortress
Rent bicycles near the fortress to ride along the wall's perimeter path - it's a fantastic way to see the entire structure without the walking fatigue
Day 7 Budget: $80-105
Explore a fascinating cave complex in the morning, then head to Korea's largest theme park for afternoon entertainment.
Morning
Gwangmyeong Cave
Visit this unique former gold and silver mine transformed into an underground cultural space. The cave features wine cellars, aquarium tanks, light installations, and art exhibitions within the atmospheric tunnels. The constant cool temperature provides relief in summer. Explore the various themed zones including the golden waterfall and underground lake, learning about the mine's history through displays and preserved equipment.
2 hours
$5-8 (entrance)
Lunch
A restaurant near the cave or grab food before heading to Everland
Korean
Budget
Afternoon
Everland
Spend the afternoon at Korea's largest theme park, featuring thrilling roller coasters, a safari, gardens, and seasonal festivals. Highlights include the T-Express wooden coaster, the safari world where you can see lions and tigers, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The park offers different zones themed around European villages, American adventure, and magic land with attractions for all ages.
5-6 hours
$50-60 (day pass plus transport)
Book tickets online in advance for discounts; visit on weekdays to avoid long queues
Evening
Evening at Everland or return to Seoul
Stay for Everland's evening parade and illuminations if visiting during special events, or return to Seoul for dinner in the Gangnam area
Where to Stay Tonight
Gangnam district (Mid-range to upscale hotel in Seoul's modern business district)
Convenient location with excellent shopping, dining, and nightlife options
Everland gets very crowded on weekends and holidays - if you must visit then, arrive 30 minutes before opening and head straight to the most popular rides first
Day 8 Budget: $110-140
Experience a more nostalgic Korean theme park, then explore Seoul's shopping districts in the afternoon.
Morning
Seoulland
Visit this classic Korean amusement park located in Seoul Grand Park, offering a more retro and local experience than the mega-parks. The park features traditional rides, a sky lift, and beautiful natural surroundings. It's particularly charming during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage. The park has a nostalgic feel popular with Korean families and offers gentler rides alongside some thrilling attractions.
3-4 hours
$20-30 (entrance and rides)
Lunch
A casual restaurant in the Seoul Grand Park area or nearby Gwacheon
Korean casual dining
Budget
Afternoon
Gangnam shopping and COEX Mall
Return to Gangnam for world-class shopping at COEX Mall, Asia's largest underground shopping complex. Visit the stunning Starfield Library with its towering bookshelves, browse Korean beauty and fashion brands, and explore the aquarium if you missed it earlier. The area around Gangnam Station offers additional shopping streets with trendy boutiques and cosmetics shops.
3-4 hours
$20-50 (shopping varies)
Evening
Gangnam dining and K-pop culture
Dine at a modern Korean restaurant in Gangnam, then explore K-pop entertainment company buildings, visit K-Star Road with its idol group bear statues, or catch a K-pop concert if available
Where to Stay Tonight
Gangnam district (Same accommodation as Day 8)
Staying in the same area maximizes your time for activities
The Starfield Library in COEX is most photogenic early in the morning before crowds arrive - it opens at 10:30am with the mall
Day 9 Budget: $85-120
Take a day trip to
Daejeon to explore unique attractions including an animal park and innovative skyroad.
Morning
Take the KTX high-speed train to
Daejeon, South Korea's fifth-largest city. Visit
Daejeon O-World, a combination zoo and amusement park featuring animals from around the world including elephants, giraffes, and big cats. The zoo section emphasizes animal welfare with naturalistic habitats. The adjacent amusement park offers rides with mountain views, creating a full-day entertainment complex.
3-4 hours
$40-50 (KTX train and entrance)
Book KTX tickets in advance online for better prices and seat selection
Lunch
A restaurant inside O-World or in nearby
Daejeon university district
Korean and casual options
Budget
Afternoon
Experience this unique elevated walkway offering panoramic views over
Daejeon city and surrounding mountains. The skyroad provides a bird's-eye perspective of the urban landscape with glass-bottom sections for thrill-seekers. The area includes observation decks, photo zones, and information about
Daejeon's development. It's especially beautiful during sunset when the city lights begin to illuminate.
1-2 hours
$5-8 (entrance)
Evening
Return to Seoul
Take the KTX back to Seoul in the evening and enjoy a late dinner in your hotel area, or dine in
Daejeon's downtown area before returning
Where to Stay Tonight
Seoul Station or Yongsan area (Hotel near major train station for convenience)
Proximity to Seoul Station makes day trips easier and provides good transport connections
Daejeon is known for affordable food compared to Seoul - try the university district near KAIST for budget-friendly and delicious Korean meals popular with students
Day 10 Budget: $95-125
Discover authentic Korean folk village life and enjoy nature at a scenic tree park.
Morning
Oeam Folk Village
Visit this authentic folk village showcasing traditional Korean rural life with well-preserved hanok houses and cultural heritage. Unlike reconstructed villages, Oeam maintains its original structures where some residents still live traditionally. Explore the narrow stone pathways between thatched-roof houses, traditional wells, and ancestral shrines. The village offers demonstrations of traditional crafts and farming methods, providing insight into pre-modern Korean daily life.
2-3 hours
$15-25 (transport and entrance)
Lunch
A traditional restaurant near the folk village serving countryside-style Korean dishes
Traditional Korean
Mid-range
Afternoon
Bear Tree Park
Spend the afternoon at this nature park featuring beautiful tree gardens, walking trails, and seasonal flowers. The park offers peaceful natural scenery with well-maintained paths through various themed garden areas. Depending on the season, you'll see cherry blossoms, azaleas, autumn foliage, or winter landscapes. The park provides a relaxing contrast to Seoul's urban energy with benches and rest areas throughout.
2-3 hours
$8-12 (entrance)
Evening
Return to Seoul and Dongdaemun night market
Return to Seoul and explore Dongdaemun Design Plaza and the surrounding night markets for late-night shopping, street food, and fashion wholesale districts open until dawn
Where to Stay Tonight
Dongdaemun or Jongno area (Mid-range hotel near Dongdaemun)
Perfect location for experiencing Seoul's famous night markets and 24-hour shopping culture
Oeam Folk Village is most atmospheric early in the morning when mist often hangs in the valleys and you can see traditional morning routines if any residents are present
Day 11 Budget: $85-110
Explore Seoul's vibrant traditional markets and contemporary design landmarks for a full cultural experience.
Morning
Traditional market exploration
Visit Gwangjang Market, one of Korea's oldest traditional markets, for breakfast and shopping. Try bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), mayak gimbap (mini seaweed rice rolls), and other market specialties. Browse fabric stalls, vintage clothing, and traditional Korean goods. The market buzzes with local energy and offers authentic Seoul experiences away from tourist areas. Interact with vendors and observe daily Korean market culture.
2-3 hours
$15-25 (food and shopping)
Lunch
Continue eating at Gwangjang Market or head to nearby Jongno for a traditional Korean lunch
Korean street food and traditional
Budget
Afternoon
Dongdaemun Design Plaza and shopping
Explore the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), an architectural landmark designed by Zaha Hadid. Visit exhibitions, design shops, and the rooftop park with LED rose garden. The surrounding Dongdaemun area offers massive shopping complexes, wholesale markets, and fashion malls. Browse everything from cutting-edge Korean fashion to affordable accessories and fabrics in this shopping paradise.
3-4 hours
$20-40 (shopping varies)
Evening
Cheonggyecheon Stream walk and dinner
Walk along the restored Cheonggyecheon Stream as it lights up at night, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the nearby business district
Where to Stay Tonight
Dongdaemun or Jongno area (Same accommodation as Day 11)
Convenient for your final full day exploring Seoul tomorrow
Dongdaemun shopping malls stay open very late (many until 5am) - if you're a night owl, shopping after 10pm means fewer crowds and vendors more willing to negotiate prices
Day 12 Budget: $80-110
Spend your last full day revisiting favorite spots, shopping for souvenirs, and experiencing any missed attractions.
Morning
Revisit favorite neighborhood or missed attraction
Use the morning to return to your favorite Seoul neighborhood for a leisurely breakfast and final exploration. Alternatively, visit any attractions from the verified list you haven't seen yet based on your interests. This flexible morning allows you to shop for last-minute souvenirs, take final photos, or simply soak in the atmosphere of your preferred area at a relaxed pace.
3 hours
$20-30
Lunch
A memorable farewell meal at a restaurant serving your favorite Korean dish discovered during the trip
Korean
Mid-range
Afternoon
Insadong cultural street and souvenir shopping
Spend the afternoon on Insadong's main street and alleyways browsing traditional crafts, art galleries, tea houses, and souvenir shops. This is the perfect place for last-minute gift shopping with items like traditional tea sets, hanbok accessories, calligraphy supplies, and Korean cosmetics. Visit Ssamziegil, a unique spiral-shaped mall with artisan shops and rooftop garden offering creative Korean-made products.
3 hours
$30-60 (souvenir shopping)
Evening
Farewell dinner and Han River evening
Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a restaurant with Han River views, then take an evening stroll along the riverbanks where locals gather for picnics, cycling, and relaxation - a perfect Seoul finale
Where to Stay Tonight
Near airport or Seoul Station (Hotel convenient for tomorrow's departure)
Minimize travel time on departure day and allow for easy airport access
Pack souvenirs carefully tonight and weigh your luggage - Korean snacks, cosmetics, and traditional items make great gifts but can add weight quickly
Day 13 Budget: $90-130
Final morning in Seoul before heading to the airport for your departure flight.
Morning
Hotel checkout and airport transfer
Enjoy a final Korean breakfast at your hotel or nearby cafe. Complete checkout procedures and take the Airport Railroad Express or airport limousine bus to
Incheon International Airport. Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights. If time permits before your flight, explore the airport's cultural performances, Korean culture museum, or duty-free shopping areas showcasing Korean products.
3-4 hours including travel
$10-15 (airport transfer)
Check your flight status the night before and confirm airport transfer timing with your hotel
Lunch
Korean restaurant in the airport terminal for a final Korean meal, or international options if preferred
Korean or international
Mid-range
Afternoon
Airport shopping and departure
Browse duty-free shops for last-minute Korean cosmetics, snacks, and souvenirs at potentially better prices than downtown. Incheon Airport offers excellent shopping and dining options with Korean traditional craft shops and cultural experiences. Take advantage of tax refund services if applicable. Board your flight with memories of two incredible weeks exploring South Korea's cultural treasures and modern wonders.
Until departure
$20-100 (last-minute shopping)
Evening
Departure
Safe travels home with your Korean memories and souvenirs
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Incheon Airport offers free showers, rest areas, and cultural performances - arrive early to enjoy these amenities and leave Korea relaxed rather than rushed
Day 14 Budget: $50-80