Day 1

For anyone visiting Korea for the first time, I highly recommend roaming around the Bukchon and Samcheong-dong area, marked in the green box below. If you have extra time, try Ikseon-dong as well, which is walkable from Bukchon.

The blue boxes indicate Nine Tree by Parnas Insadong Hotel, Hanok Smith Likes, and Hwigyumjae.

This area is full of traditional hanok tucked into charming alleyways, alongside boutique tea shops, fashion stores, restaurants, bakeries, and galleries. Keep an open mind and simply wander wherever your heart desires.

 

🏯 Historic & Cultural Landmarks

  • Gwanghwamun (광화문) -  the main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace and a symbol of Seoul where history meets modern city life. It sits at the center of Gwanghwamun Square, surrounded by landmarks and statues of important historical figures, with traditional palace architecture behind it and a bustling city in front. 

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁) – The largest and most iconic royal palace (try the guard changing ceremony)

  • Samchungdong (삼청동)- A charming street where traditional and modern culture meet, filled with art, crafts, museums, restaurants, and cafés—perfect for a leisurely stroll. 

  • Jogyesa Temple (조계사) – Main Buddhist temple in Seoul

  • Changdeokgung Palace(창덕궁) & Secret Garden – UNESCO site with beautiful landscaped gardens

  • Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌 한옥 마을) – Traditional Korean houses (hanok) with great photo spots

  • Insadong (인사동) – Street full of traditional crafts, tea houses, and galleries

  • Iksun hanok village (익선 한옥 마을) -  a charming area of narrow alleys and traditional Korean houses, now filled with trendy cafés, restaurants, and shops—blending historic architecture with a modern, creative vibe.

  • Shinheung Market (신흥시장)  stands out for its striking contrast between old and new—traditional market structures and aging storefronts sit alongside trendy cafés, stylish bars, and modern shops. This blend creates a unique atmosphere where nostalgic, local charm meets a fresh, creative energy. Located in Haebangchon (해방촌), a laid-back hillside neighborhood known for its international food scene, cozy streets, and city views, it reflects the area’s eclectic and relaxed vibe.


🌆 Modern & City Highlights

  • Sungsudong (성수동) -  a trendy neighborhood in Seoul often called the “Brooklyn of Seoul,” known for its creative, industrial vibe. Once an area of factories and warehouses, it has been transformed into a hub for hip cafés, pop-up stores, art spaces, and designer shops. Many buildings keep their raw, industrial look—exposed concrete, high ceilings—while housing stylish, modern interiors.

  • Seoul Sky (서울 스카이, 잠실) - a breathtaking observation deck at the top of Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in Korea. It sits on floors 117–123, about 500–555 meters above ground, offering a full 360-degree panoramic view of Seoul—from the Han River to the surrounding mountains. Highly recommended only if the sky is clear. The Korean sky is often smoggy. 

  • N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower) – Panoramic view of the city. Not the most hip or new, but it’s an iconic tower of Seoul. 

  • Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) – Futuristic architecture + night lights

  • Gangnam District – Upscale shopping, nightlife, K-pop culture

  • COEX Mall & Starfield Library – Massive underground mall + iconic library

🏛️ Museums in Seoul

  • 🎧 Audeum Audio Museum (오디움)

    A design-forward museum focused on sound, designed by Kengo Kuma. Its striking exterior and immersive, sensory exhibits make it feel like a “temple of sound.”

    Reservation is a must. 

  • 🏛️ National Museum of Korea (국립중앙박물관)

    The largest museum in Korea, featuring a grand, modern structure with spacious halls and a calm, reflective atmosphere. It showcases Korean history and art in a sleek, contemporary setting.

  • 🌿 Museum SAN (뮤지엄 산)

    Located outside Seoul in Wonju, designed by Tadao Ando. Known for its minimalist concrete architecture, nature integration, and meditative spaces (including the famous Sky Space by James Turrell).

  • 🖼️ National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA), Seoul (삼청동)

    A major contemporary art museum blending modern architecture with its historic surroundings. Known for innovative exhibitions and large-scale installations.

  • 🧱 Leeum Museum of Art (리움미술관)

    Architecturally iconic, designed by Rem Koolhaas, Jean Nouvel, and Mario Botta. Combines traditional and futuristic design with high-end art collections.

  • 🌀 Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

    A futuristic, flowing structure by Zaha Hadid. Hosts exhibitions and events in a bold, experimental space.

  • 🧩 Art Sonje Center (아트선재센터)

    A contemporary gallery space known for experimental and emerging artists in a clean, modern setting.

  • 🏢 Amorepacific Museum of Art

    Minimalist and refined, with beautifully curated exhibitions and serene architectural design.

🛍️ Shopping & Street Life

  • Seongsu - Hip with lots of great foods, interesting shops and pop up stores. Very hip. Super crowded. I highly recommend visiting during a week. 

  • Iksun hanok village (익선 한옥 마을) - Also considered a cultural landmark, this small alleyway offers a striking blend of traditional Korean architecture and modern interior design. It’s filled with great restaurants, cafés, and shops to explore. Don’t forget to try the famous salt bread—the line may look intimidating, but it moves quickly. 

  • Myeongdong – Tons of neon signs. very touristy. Street foods with unknown origins. Very lively, especially at night. Worth a visit for the famous Korean Myeongdong knife noodle (명동칼국수). 

  • Hongdae – Youth culture, busking, indie shops, nightlife. 

  • Namdaemun Market – Traditional market. 

  • Itaewon – International vibe, diverse food scene

  • Dapsimni Antique Art Market (답십리 고미술 상가)
     Dapsimni Antique Art Market is one of Seoul’s most famous places for traditional antiques and vintage items. You can find a wide variety of goods, including ceramics, paintings, calligraphy, furniture, and unique collectibles. It’s a great spot to explore Korean history and culture through art and artifacts.

🌿 Nature & Scenic Spots

  • Seoul Forest (서울숲) is a large urban park in Seoul’s Seongsu area, often compared to Central Park. Opened in 2005, it combines nature, art, and recreation.Free to enter and easy to reach by subway, it’s a favorite spot for relaxing in the city. You can visit the Forest and Seongsu Street on the same day. 

  • Cheonggyecheon Stream – Peaceful urban stream walk in Jongno near the hotel. 

  • Han River Parks (Hangang Park) – Picnic, biking, river views. 

  • (Outside of Seoul)🌿 Medonggol Garden (메덩골 정원) https://medongaule.com/en

Medonggol Garden is a peaceful traditional-style garden in Korea, known for its natural scenery and quiet atmosphere. Surrounded by greenery, it offers a relaxing escape from the city and is a nice place to take a walk, enjoy seasonal views, and experience a more tranquil side of Korean culture. Best for a slow, contemplative experience in nature, rather than a typical tourist attraction.
Tip: You can visit both Museum San and Medonggol Garden on the same day if you rent a car. 


🍜 Food Experiences

🍶 Makgeolli (Korean Rice Wine)

Makgeolli is a traditional Korean rice wine made from rice, water, and nuruk (a natural fermentation starter).It has a milky appearance, light sparkle, and a slightly sweet, tangy flavor, usually around 6–9% alcohol.

⭐ Makgeolli Tasting Spots (Seoul)

1. Chunpoong Brewery (춘풍양조장)

📍 Jung-gu (near Yaksu Station)
Best for: Full brewery + tasting experience

  • Guided brewery tours with tastings

  • Learn the full process from fermentation to serving

  • Clean, well-structured experience

2. The Sool Company (술 컴패니)

📍 Jongno
Best for: Beginner-friendly tastings

  • Guided tasting sessions with explanations

  • Try multiple styles side-by-side

  • Focus on Korean alcohol culture overall

3. Baekusaeng Makgeolli (백우생 막걸리)

📍 Mapo (Ahyeon Market area)
Best for: Authentic craft flavor

  • Small-scale, traditional brewing

  • Tasting of fresh, less commercial styles

  • More intimate and local feel

🎎 Unique Experiences