Académique Documents
Professionnel Documents
Culture Documents
16/5/15 9:27 am
South Korea
Seoul
Travel Guides
3 Days in Seoul
by Chris J, Seoul, South Korea
98%
Three days may be just enough time to graze the surface of such an amazing city, but follow my guide to
25 Places
the best sights and spots, and yours will be a truly memorable trip to Seoul.
Good for
History Buff
Thrill Seeker
Shopping Fanatic
Foodie
Thrifty Traveler
6 City Tips
Trendsetter
Like a Local
Map data
2015 Google, SK planet
2 km
Invest in a T-Money transportation card (available at subway stations or convenience stores) to allow for quick
and cheaper boarding, disembarking, and transferring.
Take advantage of the Airport Railroad Link, which goes from Incheon International Airport to Seoul Station.
Popular tourist areas will usually have an information kiosk with maps, guides, and workers able to assist you.
Taking a cab is a great idea when you're short on time and need to get somewhere that would normally require
transferring. Just make sure you avoid traffic rush hours!
Tipping is not necessary when eating out in Korea, and any tax and service charges are almost always
included in the final bill.
Koreans normally keep to themselves, but will generally be more than happy to assist tourists. Usually the
younger locals will speak better English.
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 1 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Day 1
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 2 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Castles, History Museums, Historic Sites
Chris J Says:
Seoul is home to five palaces from the Joseon Dynasty, and Gyeongbokgung is the largest one of these. It also
served as the main administrative palace of the dynasty. The palace has a fascinating history, and its splendid
buildings, living quarters, pavilions, and palace grounds make for some stunning sights.
Good for
Must See
Thrifty Traveler
History Buff
Couples
Tips
A number of free guided tours, in multiple languages, are offered throughout the day. Check the website for more
information and schedules.
A number of ceremonies, such as the changing of the guards, are held near Gwanghwamun Gate. Their homepage has
up to date schedules.
Address:
Phone:
Hours:
02-3700-3900
Wed - Mon
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Seoul
South Korea
Other:
Website
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 3 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Chris J Says:
Located inside the Gyeongbok Palace, the National Folk Museum of Korea holds more than 4,000 artefacts in its
collection, offering a comprehensive insight into how Koreans used to live. Visitors can also get the inside track on a
variety of customs and rituals, from weddings to funerals, and even learn about interesting local superstitions.
Good for
Hidden Gems
Solo
Friends
History Buff
Couples
Senior
Family
Tips
Admission to the folk museum is included with your ticket to Gyeongbok Palace.
214 Reviews
Certificate of Excellence 2014
Address:
Phone:
Other:
37 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu
02-3704-3114
Website
Seoul 110-820
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 4 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Tosokchon
Restaurants (Asian, Korean)
Chris J Says:
Samgyetang is a popular and nutritious dish: a whole chicken is stuffed with sticky rice, ginseng, chestnuts, jujubes,
and more, and simmered to create a velvety smooth broth. It's revered by locals as both a rejuvenating and tasty
dish, and there's no place that's as famous for it as Tosokchon near Gyeongbok Palace.
Good for
Foodie
Must See
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Senior
Family
Tips
To truly eat like a local, go during the summer when Koreans believe it's best to fight the heat with heat!
Lines can be long at lunch and dinner times, and even more so on weekends. Avoid the peak eating times if possible!
so yummy! 05/10/2015
Best for Ginseng Chicken (Samgyetang) 05/07/2015
728 Reviews
Certificate of Excellence 2014
Address:
Phone:
Hours:
02-737-7444
Sun - Sat
10:00 am - 10:00 pm
Seoul
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 5 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Insadong
Points of Interest & Landmarks, Neighborhoods, Historic Walking Areas
Chris J Says:
This older neighborhood is popular for its souvenir and antique shops, galleries, tea shops, and street food carts.
There's also a wide range of Korean restaurants here, some of which specialize in vegetarian, Korean Buddhist
cuisine. For a good mix of shopping, sightseeing, and eating, Insadong can't be beaten.
Good for
Foodie
Must See
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Senior
Shopping Fanatic
Family
Tips
On weekend afternoons, a number of traditional performances and activities are held for foreign tourists to experience
near the Insadong entrance.
2311 Reviews
Certificate of Excellence 2014
Address:
Insa-dong, Jongno-gu
Seoul
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 6 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Ssamji-gil
Neighborhoods
Chris J Says:
This interesting building in Insadong houses more than 70 shops and boutiques selling accessories, traditional tea,
natural soaps, clothing, and more. The spiral layout also makes exploring Ssamji-gil fun and easy.
Good for
Must See
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Senior
Shopping Fanatic
Family
Tips
There're a few places to eat and drink on the first and top floors.
The building is prettier in the evenings when the shop lights are turned on.
100 Reviews
Address:
Gwanhun-dong, Jongno-gu
Seoul
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 7 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Sinyetchatjip
Restaurants (Coffee Shop, Korean)
Chris J Says:
Sinyetchatjip is a traditional Korean tea house in Insadong, housed in an authentic Korean hanok (house). It's a
great place to learn about and experience Korean teas, while the quaint and peaceful setting also makes it a great
place to rest.
Good for
Foodie
Solo
Friends
Couples
Senior
Family
Tips
Some of the teas are good for particular ailments, such as indigestion.
Address:
Phone:
02-732-5257
Seoul
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 8 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Cheonggyecheon Stream
Bodies of Water, Historic Walking Areas
Chris J Says:
This stream running through Seoul was covered by an overpass until the waters were restored in 2005. Now
Cheonggyecheon is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, acting as a natural refuge from city life. Take a stroll
along its banks, snap a few shots of the ducks and fish, and even dip your toes into the water in warmer weather.
Good for
Must See
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Senior
Family
Nature Lover
Tips
966 Reviews
Other:
Website
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 9 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Chris J Says:
A visit to Seoul wouldn't be complete without a visit to Myeongdong. This all-encompassing neighborhood is one of
Seoul's ultimate places to meet up, shop, eat, and chill. Stores, cafes and restaurants are all stacked atop each other,
creating seemingly endless rows and making the area one of Seoul's top attractions.
Good for
Foodie
Must See
Trendsetter
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Senior
Shopping Fanatic
Family
Tips
The street food carts here are some of the city's most famous, selling famed eats such as hoddeok, french fry-encrusted
corn dogs, freshly squeezed lemonade, and more.
The nearby Lotte and Shinsegae department stores are also worth a visit.
Nanta, a popular non-verbal comedic and acrobatic cooking and music show, is held here in the Nanta Theater - worth
checking out if you have time.
Myeongdong is one of the best places to pick up globally popular Korean cosmetics.
2272 Reviews
Address:
Jung-gu
Seoul
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 10 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Chris J Says:
For more than 40 years, this institution has been churning out its famed knife-cut noodles and dumplings. The
noodles are hand rolled and cut, before being simmered in the delicious beef and vegetable broth. Yum!
Good for
Foodie
Must See
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Senior
Family
Tips
Lines here at lunch and dinner times are extra long - try to come earlier for quicker seating.
A second branch is located just a few meters north of the original branch.
The dumplings are also popular, and the pungent and extra-garlicky kimchi is famous!
709 Reviews
Certificate of Excellence 2014
Address:
Phone:
Other:
02-776-5348
Website
Seoul
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 11 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Chris J Says:
The iconic N Seoul Tower, perched atop Namsan, can be accessed by bus or a 1-hour hike, but most visitors choose
to ride this cable car up to the top for the unparalleled views it offers over the city.
Good for
Must See
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Senior
Family
Nature Lover
Tips
To reach the cable cars easily, take the Namsan outdoor elevators (Namsan Oreumi) near the entrance of the Namsan
3rd tunnel.
72 Reviews
Address:
Phone:
Hours:
02-753-2403
Sun - Sat
10:00 am - 11:00 pm
gu
Seoul
South Korea
Other:
Website
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 12 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
N Seoul Tower
Points of Interest & Landmarks, Lookouts
Chris J Says:
N Seoul Tower is one of Seoul's most iconic and popular buildings. Sitting atop Namsan, a large hill in central
Seoul, the tower offers some of the best views of the city. In recent years, it's also become a pilgrimage site for lovers
from around the world, who come to place a lock on the fence gates as a symbol of their eternal love. The tower itself
is also home to a famed fine-dining restaurant, a coffee shop, gift shop, teddy bear museum, and a separate
observatory.
Good for
Must See
Trendsetter
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Senior
Family
Nature Lover
Tips
The tower can also be reached via a number of special yellow buses designed to take visitors up the hill. Search for
boarding locations online.
The teddy bear museum and the observatory charge separate admission fees.
2706 Reviews
Address:
Phone:
Hours:
02-3455-9277
Sun - Thu
10:00 am - 11:00 pm
Fri - Sat
10:00 am - 11:30 pm
Seoul
South Korea
Other:
Website
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 13 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Chris J Says:
Tired from traveling? Unwind and relax both your body and mind with a Korean jjimjilbang at Dragon Hill Spa.
After paying, storing your stuff in a locker, and changing into the provided sweat uniforms, simply sit back and
sweat the toxins and fatigue away in one of the many different heated rooms, including jade, charcoal and clay. In
between sweating, you can lounge in the common room, grab a bite to eat and drink in the snack corner, and even
take a nap! When you're finished, try out the many hot tubs and saunas (which are divided by gender), and emerge
rested and clean.
Good for
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Thrill Seeker
Senior
Family
Tips
Make sure your locker is properly secured and keep a close eye on any personal belongings you decide to carry around
with you.
Get a full body dead skin scrub in the hot tub area from a professional scrubber - a popular and uniquely Korean
experience from which you are guaranteed to emerge squeaky clean!
Address:
Phone:
Other:
02-792-0001
Website
gu
Seoul
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 14 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Day 2
The War Memorial of Korea
Military Museums
Chris J Says:
A fantastic place to learn in-depth about the Korean War, this museum is a must for anyone interested in Korea's
painful and devastating past. The wartime artefacts on display are extensive, from weaponry to letters and
uniforms, with outdoor exhibitions that include aircrafts, tanks, and even a warship.
Good for
Must See
Solo
Friends
History Buff
Couples
Senior
Family
Tips
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 15 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Address:
Phone:
Other:
02-709-3139
Website
Seoul 140-021
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 16 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Namdaemun Market
Flea & Street Markets
Chris J Says:
The largest traditional market in Korea, this enormous district is located by Seungnyemun, one of the four major
gates of old Seoul. Just about everything can be found here, including dishes, toys, clothing, food gifts, accessories,
and more - all for very reasonable prices. It's a great place to pick up popular Korean souvenirs such as ginseng,
roasted seaweed, and chopsticks, and if you're looking for an inexpensive eye test, its cluster of opticians offer cheap
exams and stylish glasses.
Good for
Must See
Thrifty Traveler
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Thrill Seeker
Shopping Fanatic
Tips
If you want to try your hand at haggling, make sure you pay by cash and let the sellers know. No merchant will be willing
to negotiate if you are paying by card.
Food is cheap here, and you can even find an alley dedicated to kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) as well as galchi jorim
(braised fish).
752 Reviews
Address:
Namchang-dong
Jung-gu
Seoul
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 17 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Samcheongdong-gil Road
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Chris J Says:
A very popular and old neighborhood, Samcheongdong-gil Road is known as home to many restaurants, shops,
and cafes housed in renovated traditional Korean homes. The atmosphere is both charming and romantic at times,
always with a distinctly Korean feel.
Good for
Must See
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Senior
Shopping Fanatic
Family
Tips
Samcheong Park, at the end of the road, is a peaceful and quiet area to walk around.
Browse the cluster of free or inexpensive independent art galleries near the Gyeongbok Palace wall - they often host
interesting exhibitions.
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 18 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Bukchon
Neighborhoods, Historic Walking Areas
Chris J Says:
For one of the best areas to explore hanoks in Seoul, it's hard to beat the Bukchon neighborhood. Many of the
picturesque hanoks here have been converted into small museums, restaurants, and cafes, allowing you a first-hand
glimpse at the exquisite details and layout of a traditional Korean home.
Good for
Must See
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Senior
Family
Nature Lover
Tips
Bukchon is located next to Samcheongdong, making it easy to explore both in one day.
1378 Reviews
Certificate of Excellence 2014
Address:
Phone:
Other:
Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu
02-3707-8388
Website
Seoul
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 19 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Garosu-gil
Neighborhoods
Chris J Says:
In recent years, Korea has become synonymous with hip, and there are few places that better reflect this than
Garosugil. One of the trendiest neighborhoods in Seoul, it's also one of the best spots for trendy travelers to get an
idea of the latest Korean fashions in food and clothing. Browse the many boutiques, grab a bite at some of Seoul's
most popular joints, or sit with a coffee and simply people-watch!
Good for
Must See
Luxury Traveler
Trendsetter
Solo
Friends
Couples
Shopping Fanatic
Tips
200 Reviews
Address:
Shinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu
Seoul
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 20 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Chris J Says:
The largest and oldest fish and seafood market in Seoul, Noryangjin Fish Market is a must-see for all seafood lovers
and more adventurous travelers! Virtually anything that's edible from the seas of Korea can be found here, via a
seemingly endless number of shops selling the freshest catches available in Seoul. You can stick to the familiar, such
as fish, sashimi, crabs, and shrimp, or go more off-piste with choices such as sea squirt, sea worms, and even the
infamous sannakji (live small octopus)!
Good for
Foodie
Must See
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Thrill Seeker
Tips
For seafood to go, the fishmongers will clean and prepare your purchase according to how you want it.
Catch the live seafood auctions in the early twilight hours for some intense bidding action.
You can choose to eat your purchase at the market, by heading to an associated restaurant nearby. Just tell them how
you want your seafood prepared.
249 Reviews
Address:
13-8 Noryangjin-dong, Dongjak-gu
Seoul
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 21 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Hangang Park
Parks
Chris J Says:
Hangang Park, one of Seoul's most popular outdoor spaces, comprises of 12 different districts in total, all of which
make great spots to rest, exercise, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Good for
Must See
Thrifty Traveler
Solo
Friends
Couples
Nature Lover
Tips
Some of the more popular parks include Yeoido, Ttukseom, and Banpo.
Many of the park districts have bikes available to rent for very cheap prices.
349 Reviews
Certificate of Excellence 2014
Other:
Website
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 22 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Eland Cruise
Boat Tours
Chris J Says:
The hangang ferry takes you through the heart of Seoul via the Han River and is a fun and memorable boat ride.
It's popular with both tourists and locals - especially families and those on dates - and the ferry has both indoor and
outdoor seating, meaning you can enjoy the journey, whatever the weather.
Good for
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Family
Nightlife Seeker
Nature Lover
Tips
63 Reviews
Phone:
Other:
02-3271-6900
Website
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 23 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Day 3
National Museum of Korea
Specialty Museums
Chris J Says:
The largest museum in Korea (and the sixth largest in the world), this space boasts a massive collection of some
15,000 artefacts and is open to the public for free. The National Museum of Korea offers a good overview of Korea's
wide-spanning, and often complex, history, making it well worth a visit.
Good for
Must See
Solo
Friends
History Buff
Couples
Senior
Family
Tips
818 Reviews
Certificate of Excellence 2014
Address:
Phone:
Hours:
02-2077-9000
Sun
9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Tue
9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Wed
9:00 am - 9:00 pm
Thu - Fri
9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sat
9:00 am - 9:00 pm
Seoul 140-026
South Korea
Other:
Website
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 24 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Changdeokgung Palace
Castles, Historic Sites, Gardens, Architectural Buildings, Monuments & Statues
Chris J Says:
Changdeokgung's beautiful palace grounds were created with a special focus on building around the existing
natural landscape. The result is a harmonious intertwining of Korean architecture and natural beauty, which makes
Changdeokgung a front-runner for the prettiest of Seoul's palaces.
Good for
Must See
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
History Buff
Couples
Senior
Family
Nature Lover
Tips
Book in advance for a group tour and you can choose to explore the beautiful Huwon gardens, regarded by many as
one of Seoul's most beautiful spots.
It was ok 05/15/2015
Average cultural site marred by poor tour 05/14/2015
1539 Reviews
Certificate of Excellence 2014
Address:
Phone:
Hours:
99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu
02-762-8261
Sun - Sat
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Seoul 110-360
South Korea
Other:
Website
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 25 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Gwangjang Market
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Chris J Says:
Dating back to 1905, Gwangjang Market was Korea's first official traditional market. Today, more than 1,500
shops operate here, selling silk, traditional Korean clothing (hanbok), blankets, and other goods. Walking through
the market is like walking back in time, with many of the shops having been operated by generations of the same
family. The market is also famous for its budget-friendly and delicious food, including sizzling hot mung bean
pancakes, thick blood sausages, bibimbap, and more.
Good for
Foodie
Must See
Thrifty Traveler
Like a Local
Solo
Friends
Couples
Thrill Seeker
Shopping Fanatic
Tips
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 26 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Address:
Hours:
Sun - Sat
9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Seoul
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 27 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Chris J Says:
Seoul is truly a city that never sleeps, and Dongdaemun Shopping Complex is one of the best examples of this. Some
26 shopping malls, with more than 30,000 stores, are located in this active district, making it a true shopper's
paradise. Both wholesale and retailers offer the latest Korean fashion and accessories, plus souvenirs, cosmetics, and
other goods.
Good for
Foodie
Must See
Trendsetter
Like a Local
Friends
Couples
Thrill Seeker
Shopping Fanatic
Nightlife Seeker
Tips
Many clothing stores do not have a changing room. Try to research your Korean size beforehand.
Some sellers are willing to negotiate prices with you, but only if you pay in cash.
Late night/early morning shopping is a popular local activity for the true shopping enthusiast.
If you need to refuel, the major streets are teeming with street food carts, selling all manner of dishes.
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Perfect 05/09/2015
Nice surprise! 05/04/2015
Page 28 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Address:
Hours:
Sun - Sat
8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Seoul
South Korea
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 29 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Chris J Says:
Samwon Garden is one of the most popular restaurants in which to sample the famed Korean barbecue. Its
beautiful Korean garden, complete with pond and waterfall, provides a luxurious but distinctly Korean feel - a
picturesque setting in which to try the ribs and bulgogi, or other authentic Korean dishes, including galbitang,
dwenjang jjigae, nengmyeon, and more.
Good for
Foodie
Luxury Traveler
Friends
Couples
Senior
Family
Tips
Samwon offers special lunch set menus and courses everyday except Sunday - orders must be for a minimum of two
people.
57 Reviews
Address:
Phone:
Price range:
02-548-3030
KRW39,344 - KRW1,568,306
Seoul
South Korea
Hours:
Other:
Sun - Sat
12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Website
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 30 of 31
16/5/15 9:27 am
Reviews and advice on hotels, resorts, flights, vacation rentals, travel packages, and more so you can plan and book your perfect trip!
2015 TripAdvisor LLC All rights reserved. TripAdvisor Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
* TripAdvisor LLC is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site... (more)
TripAdvisor LLC is not responsible for content on external web sites. Taxes, fees not included for deals content.
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html
Page 31 of 31