A five-day stay in Seoul, South Korea is an excellent time for you to appreciate the highlights of this city. With a population of over 9.7 million people, Seoul has everything you might need in a big city. Historical and cultural attractions, delicious street food, and kimchi delicacies on non-stop shopping and hiking trails. You can download it. During your exploration, take adrenaline every day.
Photo by Ping Onganankun on Unsplash
General information about Seoul
South Korea visa requirements
The 48 countries can enter South Korea visa-free for up to 90 days. If you are a US citizen, you do not need a visa to come here. See more information about visa entry requirements.
How many days should I stay in Seoul?
With this 5-day itinerary, you will include 3 days in Seoul and 2 days from the City. You can spend more time in the capital, but this is the return trip. We know that something may happen during the holidays, so you can change the schedule according to your preferences.
Best time to visit Seoul
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F). There is also less chance of rain. In April, pink cherry blossoms are in full bloom in the City and other parts of Korea. Learn more about Korea’s expectations in the spring.
Summer (June to August) is humid, similar to other parts of Asia. Prepare to sweat like crazy and stay hydrated. We believe that the temperature is between 20°C and 28°C (77 82 to 82°F), and it rains. Don’t worry, everything we can do in the rainy season.
Winter (December to February) is cold, so please wear a fluffy coat and warm, warm clothing. Between -7°C to -5°C (19°F to 23°F).
How to navigate Seoul
Do you believe in the route of Google Maps? You will be out of luck. Google Maps is terrible in South Korea because GPS cannot find our location. So we often get lost when using it. The recommended navigation app is Kakao, which can be translated into English. Download for free on iOS or Android.
Transportation in Seoul
By walking
Although this is a big city, you can walk around. This is a great exercise, it can explore various places on foot. Reach the goal of over 10,000 steps on the activity tracker. (We have been using this device for many years!)
One of the best advantages of the Korean transportation system of subways, taxis, and buses is that it is very simple. From the subway, taxi, and bus, you have several options for traveling to the capital. Taking the subway is the most convenient way to reach your destination. The signs are in English, so you won’t get lost. You can take the subway anywhere in the city (or outside of the City).
We recommend that you purchase a T-money card at a convenience store. The card costs 4,000 won/3.54 US dollars, and you can add funds to the card at a convenience store or subway station. Use the T-Money card for subway, taxi, and bus tickets to make life easier. Besides, when using T-Money instead of buying a separate ticket (the printed deposit is 500 won/USD.44), the subway is cheaper. Unused funds can be returned to you at the cash return station or convenience store.
South Korea
Tip: Don’t forget to download the free Subway Korea app. It can help you determine the subway route, approximate cost, and where to go. Since you have real-time information, once you include the start and end destinations, you will get accurate information. Download here: Apple iOS or Google Play Store.
KORAIL
If you want to travel long distances (ie over 3 hours), the Korean railway system KORAIL is also an excellent choice. For other destinations, you can buy a ticket for one month in advance and then choose your seat. You cannot use a T-money card for shopping.
Seoul City Tour Bus The unique way to travel in this city is through the Seoul City Tour Bus. Choose from various attractions, see where you can get off, and hop on the bus along the route. All you need to do is buy the ticket on the same day.
How to get to the City from Incheon International Airport
The easiest and most convenient way to get from the airport to the City. Combine the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) and subway to reach the accommodation.
Take Incheon International Airport → Seoul Station (Line: Airport Railroad or Airport Railroad Express). The express train will arrive at Seoul Station sooner. The City Station is the central location for traveling to other parts of Seoul. The time required: about 1 hour Buy Airport Railroad Express (AREX) tickets in advance here. Otherwise, you can take a taxi to your residence.
The city has a variety of accommodations, from dormitories, hostels, hanok hostels to elegant 5-star hotels. It depends on your budget and where you want to sleep. Click here to view reviews of the city accommodation and book your accommodation.
South Korea
We recommend the Myeongdong area. In the middle of your location, there are some of the best restaurants in Myeongdong. Non-stop shopping for beauty products and clothes (the best things to buy in Korea), next to Myeongdong subway station.
READ: Seoul Korea Itinerary Day One Downtown and Historic District
We stayed at Aloft Seoul Myeongdong and loved it! This is a modern hotel with elegant rooms comfortable beds and clean bathrooms. Request a room with a view of this city, which makes night observation more interesting. The hotel staff is very friendly to ensure that we have a pleasant stay. Besides, you can walk to street food and local restaurants in 5-10 minutes. We use Marriott Rewards points for our stay at Aloft Seoul Myeongdong, so our stay is free. We would recommend it.
