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Writer's pictureYour Korea Friend
Aug 1014 min read

7 Day Seoul Itinerary



Hello everyone!

 

Are you planning a trip to Seoul?

Are you looking for an itinerary for a Seoul trip?

 

Many people watched and liked my Seoul 5 Day Spring Itinerary video that I posted last spring. There were also requests for a fall version and a 7 day itinerary. So this time I have prepared a 7 day fall itinerary for Seoul. Today's post includes some similarities and differences compared to the previous 5 day video. So be sure to check it out.

 

By the way, even though this is a fall itinerary which includes places where you can see the fall foliage, the fall foliage spots I have chosen are also great to visit in other season, so travelers coming during different seasons can also enjoy there too. Okay, let's get started.


✔️ 5 day itinerary video: https://youtu.be/e6OoSnAlbgU

 

Day 1


For the first day in Korea, we start with the visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Heart of Korea. Gyeongbokgung Palace shows even more of its charm when the autumn leaves are falling.


 

📍Gwanghwamun Square (https://naver.me/xivmy0Vx)


But let's begin at Gwanghwamun Square. While you can head straight to Gyeongbokgung, let's walk from Gwanghwamun Square to Gyeongbokgung Palace just like how the people of Joseon Dynasty did. Pass by the statues of Admiral Yi Sun-sin and King Sejong along the way.

 

📍Gyeongbokgung Palace (https://naver.me/FLBKTWSB)


It was the main palace during the Joseon Dynasty where the king resided. You can explore on your own with a brochure from the information desk in front of Gyeongbokgung or join a free guided tour.


The English tours are at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., and lasts about an hour to an hour and a half. If you want to learn more about the history, consider joining a tour. For more details, check the website.



Additionally, there is a guard changing ceremony at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., so be sure to watch it.


The visit takes about an hour and a half to two hours. The entrance fee is 3,000 won. If you wear hanbok, you can enter for free. So check out the nearby rental shop.


After exploring Gyeongbokgung, visit the National Folk Museum of Korea located next to it, and explore the vintage Korean street in front of the museum.

 

📍Bukchon Hanok Village (https://naver.me/FhArnRDr)


This area was home to aristocrats, royalties and officials during the Joseon Dynasty and is now known for its traditional Korean houses. Some areas are used as restaurants and cafes, while others are residential, so be mindful of noise and follow the guides.


Take some time to explore the hanok village. Have lunch and enjoy a coffee break.

 

📍Cheong Wa Dae, Blue House (https://naver.me/5NY8w8OF)


It is located behind the Gyeongbokgung Palace. Cheong Wa Dae was the office and residence of the presidents until recently and is now open to the public.


The entrance is free and the visit takes about an hour to an hour and a half. You can make a reservation online or apply for a visit on site. Guided tours are available, but I don't think it's necessary. You can explore on your own.



📍Insadong Cultural Street (https://naver.me/IMQyEA7L)


Like Bukchon Hanok Village, it is a street with traditional hanok houses that are now used as a cultural complex with restaurants, cafes and craft shops. There are many workshops and is fun to browse the crafts. There are also delicious restaurants, so I recommend exploring this area and having dinner here.


After dinner, spend your time freely according to your style. When I travel, I usually enjoy sitting in a local café in the evening, walking around the night streets, trying some snacks, or resting at a hotel to prepare for the next day. Spend your evening in a way that suits your style.


Additional spots you can add in this day itinerary includes:



Note that Gyeongbokgung Palace and Cheong Wa Dae are close on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.


 

Day 2


On the second day, let's visit another landmark of Seoul, Namsan Tower.



📍Namsangol Hanok Village (https://naver.me/FuVEQHCG)


In the past, our ancestor built a pavilion in namsangol to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Namsan. The area which had disappeared due to various events in Korea, was reopened in 1998 as part of a project to restore its original appearance.


Here you can enjoy the nature and scenery that our ancestor cherished. This place also has this time capsule containing 600 items that will be revealed to descendants after 400 years.


Admission to Namsangol Hanok Village is free and it takes about an hour and a half to explore.


📍Namsan Tower (https://naver.me/xlW10MyG)


Next is Namsan Tower. There are four ways to get to Namsan Tower from Namsangol Hanok Village.


✔️ You can walk along the Namsan Trail to the entrance of Namsan Tower.

✔️ Take subway Line 4 to Myeongdong Station and take the cable car.

✔️ Take subway Line 4 to Hoehyeon Station and walk past Baekbeom Plaza Park.

✔️ Take the bus from Chungmooro Station.


During the Cherry Blossom and fall foliage seasons, I recommend the first option as the trail becomes cherry blossom and fall foliage spot. For those who prefer the cable car, the second option is the best. If you want to walk less than the first option, choose the third. If walking is difficult, take the fourth option.


Be sure to visit the observation deck at Namsan Tower. The night view at the Namsan Tower is also stunning, so consider visiting in the evening.


The admission fee to the park is free, but to go up to the tower is 21,000 won. It takes about 2 to 4 hours to explore the Namsan.


To go down, you can take the bus to City Hall station or walk down, pass by Baekbeom Plaza while enjoying the Fortress Wall.


On the way to the next destination, pass by Sungnyemun Gate and have a meal at Namdaemun Market or Bukchangdong Food alley.


📍 Sungnyemun Gate (https://naver.me/535BbD93)

📍 Namdaemun Market (https://naver.me/G8UsVfFo)

📍 Bukchangdong Food Alley (https://naver.me/G8UsVfFo)



📍Deoksugung Palace (https://naver.me/FWJPQh6D)


Deoksugung is one of the Korea's Five Grand Palaces and was used as a temporary residence for the king. First Western style palace was built here during the Korean Empire, so Deoksugung uniquely combines both Korean and Western architectural style. It is especially beautiful during the fall foliage season.


The admission fee is 1,000 won and it takes about an hour to explore.


The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is also within the palace grounds, and viewing an exhibition there would take an additional hour.


Stonewall path surrounding Deoksugung is also famous, so take a stroll along it if you have time.


📍Cheonggyecheon Stream (https://naver.me/GJrEBGB4)


Next is Cheonggyecheon Stream. Cheonggyecheon is a famous stream symbolizing Korean's urban development history. Now it serves as a natural rest area for busy city residents. Walk along the stream and take a break on the steps. Avoid visiting during the rainy season as stream may flood.


📍Myeongdong (https://naver.me/F8KuNf61)


Next is Myeongdong. Myeongdong is already a popular destination for many foreigners due to the shopping and street food. The main reason that I recommend Myeongdong is the street food. Although street food is available in Korean markets, Myeongdong offers a greater variety. Myeongdong also has its unique vibe. There are many shops selling cosmetics, snacks and clothings, as well as department store nearby, making a great place for shopping.


This concludes the itinerary for Day 2, but additional places you can add are



Note that Namsangol Hanok Village and Deoksugung Palace are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.


 

Day 3


In this itinerary, let's explore nature and local life in the western part of Seoul.



📍Haneul Park (https://naver.me/xIh2Mqa7)


Haneul Park was transformed from a closed landfill site into a park to commemorate the 2002 World Cup. Now is a place where nature breathes within the city, offering different charms each season. Cherry blossom in the spring, green meadows in summer, autumn leaves and silver grass in fall, and snow field in winter.


To reach Haneul Park, you need to walk up some stairs. While it is relatively easy, those who have difficulty walking can use a shuttle from the Haneul Park parking lot. The shuttle fare is 2,000 won one way and 3,000 won round trip.


There is no entrance fee for Haneul Park. Take a stroll along the vast park which will take about two hours.


Note that Haneul Park is also famous for its sunset and night views. So if you have time in the evening, it worth visiting.


In mid-October, there is a silver grass festival where you can enjoy both the grass field and the light shows.


Please note that Haneul Park closes after sunset, so check out the closing time.




Mangwon is known for its low rise buildings, cozy restaurants, cafes and shops, as well as Mangwon Market, and Mangwon Han River Park. Mangwon Market is smaller than Gwangjang Market, so there are fewer people, but still plenty of food options.


✔️ Mangwon Market (https://naver.me/F7CIiDbq)

✔️ Mangwon Han River Park (https://naver.me/xZDOpRx3)


Have a meal at a market or enjoy a dining at a nearby restaurant.


📍Yeonnamdong (https://naver.me/FyenmfdZ)


Yeonnamdong is currently a popular spot among young people. Rather than being a tourist destination, it offers a local experience. There are delicious restaurants, cafes, bars and sticker photo booths where locals gather to enjoy time together. In the middle, there is Gyeongui Line Forest Park, a great place to relax on a nice day.


If you didn't eat at Mangwon, you can have lunch here.



Next is Hongdae, short for Hongik University. It’s an university area. There are many university students, and recently it became a popular spot for foreign tourists too.


There are many restaurants, cafes, bars, clubs, shopping centers, arcades, karaoke rooms and various cultural attractions. Hongdae is especially known for its busking and shopping streets. If you have the chance, watch some busking performances and explore the shopping street.


After that, you can head toward Hapjeong or have dinner in Hongdae.


This is today's itinerary. If you prefer something other than shopping and local experiences in Yeonnamdong or Hongdae, you might consider an alternative route which is Hongjecheon, Hongdae, Mangwon, and Haneul Park.


Other places you can add to this itinerary include



Additional tip for this itinerary:


 

Day 4


The fourth day itinerary is in Gangnam area.




The first place to visit is Bongeunsa. Bongeunsa is a large temple located in Gangnam with a history over a thousand years. Since it's located in the city, it’s easy to access and attracts many visitors. It also has different charm at night.


You can also experience an 1 night 2 day temple stay here. Check out Bongeunsa website to book one.



Admission to Bongeunsa is free and it takes less than an hour to look around.



COEX is located right next to Bongeunsa. Although COEX is technically a convention center, the area people enjoy is called COEX Mall. But it generally referred to as COEX.


COEX features the famous Starfield Library, COEX Aquarium, Starfield Mall VR zone, movie theaters, performing hall, restaurants, and various entertainment options. Among this, you'll likely want to visit Starfield Library.


Take some photos, shop and enjoy a delicious meal. If you're with the kids, visiting the aquarium is a good option.


📍Seonjeongreung (https://naver.me/GrSqAkiY)


Seonjeongreung is where the 9th king Song Jong, his Queen, and 11th king Jung Jong were buried (empty now). This place is designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site and is well maintained attracting many visitors.


It’s located in the middle of the city, so it's served as a lunchtime retreat for many office workers. Also, the running track around Seonjeongreung turns into a sports ground in the evening. It's a combination of history and leisure.


📍Banpo Han River Park (https://naver.me/GQ4YGCy9)


When visiting Korea, Han River Park is a must see. Seoul has 11 Han River Park, which with its unique charm.


Banpo Han River Park is special mainly because of the famous Moonlight Rainbow Fountain. The fountain operates 4 to 5 times daily from April to October. Check out the time.



Additionally, you can have a picnic, rent a bicycle, walk along the bridge, explores Sebit Island  and view flowers on Seoraeseom making it a popular spot for visitors.


Try ramyeon and chicken at Han River. It will be an unforgettable memory.


That's it for this day itinerary. Additional place you can add include



 

Day 5


The fifth itinerary focuses again on traditional sightseeing.




Jongmyo is a royal ancestral shrine that houses the spirit tablets of the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. It has a serene and elegant atmosphere.


Jongmyo is a Korean treasure and a Unesco World Heritage Site. The royal descendants still perform the Jongmyo Daeje, a royal ancestral ritual every May maintaining the highest standards of Confucian procedures. This ceremony is unique in the world and is listed as a Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage.


Note that Jongmyo allows free access only on weekends. On other days you must join a guided tour, which I highly recommend. The guides provide fascinating historical insights at each site.


The English tours a time are listed so check out the English tour time and if you want to follow my itinerary, join the 10 a.m. tour.



The entrance fee is 10,000 won and it takes about an hour.


📍Gwangjang Market (https://naver.me/xFprKyPp)


It is one of the most well-known traditional markets in Korea, popular to both locals and tourists. There are various eateries and street food stalls to explore. I visit Gwangjang Market mainly for Yukhoe, raw beef. It’s really delicious so if you haven't try it, you must.


📍Changgyeonggung Palace (https://naver.me/xzcn91cN)


Changgyeonggung, connected to Changdeokgung, is another of the five grand Palaces and was used as a secondary palace for the royal family. Changgyeonggung has a simple and elegant appearance and blends well with the nature. Inside the palace, there is a small pond and a greenhouse where you can enjoy nature within the palace grounds.


The entrance fee is 1,000 won, and it takes about an hour and a half to tour.


📍Changdeokgung Palace (https://naver.me/x50l9WQT)


Changdeokgung is one of the five brand palaces and is the best preserved, often regarded as the most Korean of the five. This is because while other palaces have more artificial structures, Changdeokgung harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, showing a different charm.


Behind Changdeokgung is the Secret Garden, a royal garden that requires a separate ticket and guided tours. You can make reservation online.


✔️ Secret Garden Reservation: https://ticket.uforus.co.kr/web/main?shopEncode=#


The entrance fee to Changdeokgung is 3,000 won, and it takes about two hours to tour. If you add the Secret Garden, there is an additional entrance fee of 5,000 won and it takes an extra 80 minutes.


📍Hanok Street in Ikseon-dong (https://naver.me/x4bi12te)


The hanok street in Ikseon-dong features narrow alleys with a different charm compared to Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong Street. This area is mainly filled with restaurants, dessert shops, small shops and cafes. The street is filled with outdoor sittings for restaurants at night, showcasing the unique characteristic of Ikseon-dong.


Enjoy dinner here.


Additional places you can add include



Note that Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung are closed on Mondays, and Jongmyo is closed on Tuesdays. So I recommend visiting this places on Wednesdays, Thursdays or Fridays.


 

Day 6


This itinerary covers the Yeouido and Yongsan areas.



📍The Hyundai Seoul (https://naver.me/5PS2Ritm)


It's a department store with numerous stores. Besides that, it incorporates natural elements within the building and hosts various seasonally events and pop up stores making it an excellent spot for indoor exploration.


There are also restaurants, cafes and food court. Keep in mind that the restaurants can get crowded during the lunch time, as many office workers from nearby companies visit during lunch time.


📍Yeouido Han River Park (https://naver.me/I5FcmljL)


Yeouido Han River Park is easily accessible and features a vast open fields, making it a popular spot for picnics. On weekends, there are street vendors where you can grab some snacks.


Yeouido Han River Park is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring and the fireworks festivals in fall.


Buy some food from The Hyundai Seoul and have a picnic here. And maybe rent a bike for a ride.


📍The War Memorial of Korea (https://naver.me/5PS2bSN8)


The War Memorial gathers and preserve records and artifacts of the wars and conflicts that had defended South Korea. It's a largescale exhibition that attracts many visitors.


Admission is free and it takes about three hours to look around.



Yongsan is a popular area among locals, featuring offices, shopping malls, cinemas and restaurants. Visit Yongsan to have dinner at one of the many good restaurants in low rise buildings. The I Park Mall also offers various food courts and shops to explore.


If you have time, you can also visit places like

✔️ Hybe Entertainment (https://naver.me/5fnI57c5)

✔️ Amorepacific headquarter (https://naver.me/ForHbfWj)

✔️ Nodeul Island (https://naver.me/xaPgJl4X)


Additional places you can add include



Note that The Hyundai Seoul opens at 10:30 a.m.. If you want to visit somewhere before that, you can check out the exterior and garden of the National Assembly building in Yeouido before following the rest of the itinerary.


The War Memorial of Korea is closed on Mondays, so avoid this itinerary on Mondays.


 

Day 7


The final itinerary focuses on the Jamsil area.



📍Seoul Forest Seoul Forest (https://naver.me/xC6ir63v)


It is a park located in the heart of Seoul, featuring various facilities such as family field, outdoor stage, deer enclosure, insect plant garden, sports facilities, playgrounds and walking paths.


It is well known for its cherry blossoms in spring and fall foliage in fall. Stroll around large park and make use of the main facilities.


Admission is free and the visit takes about 2 to 3 hours.


📍Seokchon Lake (https://naver.me/51YnTfGK)


Seokchon Lake is a popular relaxation spot for residents around, known for is walking and jogging paths. It is particularly famous for cherry blossom in spring and the autumn leaves in fall.


The lake features the enchanting Magic Island of Lotte World and offers views of another Korean landmark, Lotte Tower.


Around Seokchon Lake, there are numerous delicious restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy tasty food and refreshing drinks while looking out the lake views.


📍Lotte World Tower (https://naver.me/55IrNwzn)


Lotte World Tower is one of the Seoul’s landmarks comprising 129 floors that includes a shopping mall, residences, a hotel, convention center and offices.


From Seoul Sky on the 117th to 123rd floors, you can get a panoramic view of Seoul.


The lower floors, second basement floor to 12th floor offers a variety of complex facilities such as museums, shopping places, a concert hall, cinema and aquarium. Choose what suits your interests and enjoy Lotte World Tower.


Additional places you can add to this itinerary are



 


I went over your entire seven day itinerary. This time I planned with a more relaxed pace. In the previous five day itinerary video, I had to make it as packed as possible to fit everything within five days, but since we have seven days this time, I thought it would be nice to take time and see things in more detail.


Although I have listed the days as Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, and so on, feel free to change the order as it won't make huge differences. Your schedules and circumstances may vary, so arrange it in a way that suits you best.


Some of you might wonder where to book accommodation for this itinerary. The most ideal location will be the Jongro area since Day 1, Day 2, Day 5 are in that area. Also it’s convenient for accessing Gangnam and Hongdae.


Okay, that's it for today. This turned out to be a quite long. I wanted to take some time because many of you have requested this.


Don't forget to subscribe for more Korea travel videos.

Thank you!


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