I am one of those who’s fond of watching K dramas and hmmn K pop. Well, korean artists, korean food, korean merchandise and anything korean were the reasons why we planned a trip to South Korea. We actually booked our plane ticket 8 months beforehand giving us enough time to plan and to save just enough for this dream trip.
Our first 3 days were spent in Busan, Korea which we really enjoyed so much from its flower farms, night life, beaches and streetfoods. After our 3 fully-loaded day in Busan, we were so ready for a Seoulful adventure. Although we’re tired and badly needed some rest, I was so excited to explore Seoul that moment. We we’re welcomed again by the chilly weather and of course with the fast pace lifestyle (literally people who walks too fast and who looked like they’re running after the other) of Seoul right after we went out the train station.
So here it is! Just a few snaps of my DIY 5 days 4 nights tour in Seoul, South Korea.
Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁)
Gyeongbokgund Palace is also known as the Northern Palace that was built in 1395 and the main royal Palace of Joseon Dynasty.
A must for tourist who visits Seoul for the first time. This is considered as the grandiest and most beautoful of all other five palaces in Seoul (Changgyeonggung, Gyeonghuigung, Deoksugung, Changdeokgung).
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Visiting the palace wearing the traditional Korean attire, ‘Hanbok’ will grant you free entry into the palace while having the oppurtunity to fully embrace the Korean culture.
So, ready your camera and be prepared to capture beautiful archetectures and scenery in this palace.
Haneul Sky Park (하늘공원)
One of the most visited parks in Seoul. This park is situated near Seoul World Cup Stadium and is best to go during Autumn.
How to get here
Haneul Park can be reached by Subway from Seoul city center. Get off at the World Cup Stadium Station (Subway Line 6) and then take Exit 1. Right after we came out the subway station we got confused because we didn’t know which way to go from exit 1. Good thing was, google map and a step by step direction in getting here was screenshot by my friend. You may also look for the World Cup Park Map to guide to in reaching the park.
From Exit 1, just turn right and go around the stadium. Follow the big road and turn left to cross the street at the 4-way intersection. You’ll know that you’re near the park if you can see stairs on the hill. In parking lot area, there is a shuttle bus station that you can use to reach the top. We didn’t bought a ticket instead we decided to take the zigzag stairway with 291 steps to finally arrive at the Park.
Petite France
A French cultural village perfectly set in the Korean countryside! Petite France serves as both a French cultural village and a youth training facility (Goseong Youth Training Center). The village consists of 16 French-style buildings where visitors can lodge and experience French food, clothing, music and even household culture.
Little Prince is one of the concept of Petite France. This is also one of the filming locations of the famous ‘My Love from the Star’ and ‘Secret Garden’.
Namiseom Island
If you’ve watched the famous K drama ‘Winter Sonata’ you’ll surely know that many scenes were shot in this place.
Nami island or now called as the Naminara Republic as declared its independence from the Republic of Korea is a half moon-shaped isle near Seoul. One should never miss visiting Nami Island because of the amazing scenic experience each season thus, making it the perfect day trip from Seoul any time of the year.
Garden of the Morning Calm
A 30, 000 square meter garden inspired by Korea’s nickname, ” The Land of the Morning Calm”. Nature lovers and photographers will surely enjoy the floral arrangements and lanscaped gardens built in harmony with the surroundings.
This is also one of the filming locations of the many Kdramas including the, “Moonlight Drawn by Clouds”.
How to get here
Located in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province north of Seoul. The Garden of Morning Calm can be reached within 2 hours by car.
For first-time travelers like us, taking a tour is one a great option if you want to save time. It is the most convenient way to visit the garden and other 2 famous tourist destinations nearby which are the Nami Island and Petite France.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon is a village where traditional Korean houses called hanoks are found. This Northern village is located between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palace. The streets of the village are lined with the traditional hanok houses where tourists could see the kind of life of the Koreans during the Joseon Dynasty 600 years ago.
How to get here
By Subway From Anguk Station Line 3 take Exit 2. Walk straight for about 300m
Everland
Aside from K-dramas, K-pops, cosmetics, food, culture and tradition, Seoul is also famous for their amusements parks. And one of the most recommended parks is Everland!
We spent 1 whole day in this park and tried all the rides we could find including the most thrilling of all the T Express! We also had a chance experience the Lost Valley adventure where we board a particular vehicle and got a chance to interact with the wild animals that roam around freely.
Lucky us we were able to see thousands of tulips because of the coming tulips festival.
How to get here
By Subway & Bus – Jeondae-Everland Station (Yongin EverLine) – Exit 3. Take the free shuttle bus to Everland.
N Seoul Tower
N Seoul Tower is located at the heart of the city atop Namsan mountain. It attracts tourists for its view atop especially the cityscape at night. This location was also featured in many Kdrama series such as “Legend of the Blue sea” and “My Love from the Star”.
N Seoul tower is also a great place to spend with friends and loved ones over a meal or a cup of coffee while taking in the beautiful cityscape.
How to get here
Public transportation
From Chungmuro Station (Seoul Subway Line 3, 4), Exit 2 → From Chungmuro Station Exit 2•Daehan Theater Bus Stop, take Namsan Circulation Bus No. 02 to N Seoul Tower Bus Stop
Myeong-dong
If you are looking for beauty items, hottest fashion trends and mouth- watering foods, then this district is the best for you to visit. This famous streets of Myeong-dong features food carts, shopping malls and entertainment. Any hour of the day the streets are packed with locals and tourist who enjoys their food, shopping and night life.
Story by Shiela Barrera
