7-day itinerary for a holiday in Seoul, South Korea: Day 1: Arrival and Myeongdong - **Morning**: Arrive in Seoul and check into your accommodation. - **Afternoon**: Explore Myeongdong, a popular shopping district. Visit Myeongdong Cathedral and shop for skincare products and trendy clothes. - **Evening**: Enjoy street food at Myeongdong Night Market and have dinner at a local restaurant. ### Day 2: Historical and Cultural Exploration - **Morning**: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. Catch the changing of the guard ceremony. - **Afternoon**: Walk over to Bukchon Hanok Village to see traditional Korean houses and explore the narrow alleys. - **Evening**: Visit Insadong for traditional tea houses, antique shops, and handicrafts. Have dinner at a traditional Korean restaurant. ### Day 3: Modern Seoul and Han River - **Morning**: Visit N Seoul Tower on Namsan Mountain for a panoramic view of the city. - **Afternoon**: Head to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) for contemporary architecture, exhibitions, and shopping. - **Evening**: Relax at Hangang Park by the Han River. Rent a bike or have a picnic by the water. Have dinner at a riverside restaurant. ### Day 4: Day Trip to DMZ - **Morning**: Take a guided tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and visit key sites such as the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel and Dora Observatory. - **Afternoon**: Continue your DMZ tour, returning to Seoul in the late afternoon. - **Evening**: Explore Hongdae, known for its youthful vibe, street performances, and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery. ### Day 5: Korean Culture and K-Pop - **Morning**: Visit the National Museum of Korea to learn about the country's history and culture. - **Afternoon**: Explore the trendy Gangnam district. Visit COEX Mall and the Starfield Library. If you're a K-pop fan, visit the SMTOWN coexartium. - **Evening**: Enjoy a K-pop hologram concert or visit a K-pop café. Have dinner in Gangnam. ### Day 6: Traditional Markets and Hanbok Experience - **Morning**: Visit Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden. If possible, wear a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) for an immersive experience. - **Afternoon**: Head to Gwangjang Market to try traditional Korean street food like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). - **Evening**: Walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream and enjoy the scenic nighttime views. Have dinner nearby. ### Day 7: Shopping and Relaxation - **Morning**: Spend your morning shopping in Itaewon, a district known for its international vibe and diverse range of shops. - **Afternoon**: Relax at a jjimjilbang (Korean spa), such as Dragon Hill Spa, to unwind before your departure. - **Evening**: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a Korean BBQ restaurant. ### Additional Tips: - **Transportation**: Use the Seoul Metropolitan Subway and buses to get around efficiently. Consider getting a T-money card for convenient travel. - **Dining**: Try various Korean dishes like bibimbap, bulgogi, kimchi, and samgyeopsal. Don’t miss out on local street food. - **Reservations**: For popular attractions like the DMZ tour and certain restaurants, it's a good idea to book in advance. This itinerary provides a mix of cultural, historical, and modern experiences, giving you a comprehensive taste of what Seoul has to offer. Adjustments can be made based on your interests and preferences.
