Overview of Seoul:
Seoul is the capital of South Korea, known for its vibrant mix of modernity and traditional culture. It offers an exciting combination of towering skyscrapers, historic palaces, bustling markets and delicious cuisine. Thanks to efficient public transport systems such as the metro, the city is well connected, making it easy to explore the city. Mandatory attractions:
Gyeongbokgung Palace: a majestic palace with beautiful architecture and the iconic Gwanghwamun Gate. Don't miss the changing of the guard ceremony. Bukchon Hanok Village: a preserved traditional village where you can experience the charm of traditional Korean homes (hanoks) and local crafts.
Namsan Tower Seoul: an important tower with panoramic views of the city. Ride the cable car or walk to the observatory for amazing views.
Myeongdong: a vibrant shopping district known for trendy fashion, cosmetics and street food. Discover the lively atmosphere of the night market.
Insadong: A neighborhood full of traditional teahouses, art galleries and antique shops. Perfect for experiencing Korean traditional culture.
Cultural experiences:
Hanbok Experience: Rent hanbok, a traditional Korean dress, and take memorable photos in palaces or Bukchon Hanok Village.
Korean BBQ: Enjoy a delicious barbecue experience where you can grill your own meat and enjoy a variety of toppings (banchan).
Traditional Performances: See a traditional Korean performance such as a Nanta performance or a traditional dance and music performance at the National Theater of Korea.
Temple Stay: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and join a temple stay program to experience Buddhist culture and meditation at a local temple.
Food and dining:
Try Korean dishes like bibimbap (mixed rice), kimchi (spicy fermented cabbage), bulgogi (marinated grilled beef) and samgyeopsal (pork belly). Check out the street food stalls serving delicacies such as tteokbokki (spicy rice), gimbap (seaweed rice balls) and hotteok (sweet pancakes). Visit traditional markets such as Namdaemun Market or Gwangjang Market for a wide variety of street food and fresh produce.
Day trips from Seoul:
DMZ Tour: Take a guided tour of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to learn about the division between North and South Korea and visit historical sites.
Suwon Hwaseong Citadel: Explore the UNESCO-listed citadel and its surroundings, known for its impressive walls and historical significance.
Incheon: Visit the bustling port city of Incheon, known for its coastal scenery, Chinatown and Incheon International Airport.
Practical tips:
Language: Although English is spoken in the tourist areas, it can be useful to learn some basic Korean phrases.
Transportation: Use Seoul's efficient subway system or consider getting a T-Ran transit card for convenience.
Weather: Seoul has four distinct seasons, hot summers and cold winters. Plan your visit accordingly.
Etiquette: Respect Korean customs such as bowing when greeting, removing shoes when entering homes or certain rooms, and using both hands when receiving or transferring goods. Be sure to check the latest travel information, check opening hours for specific attractions, and plan your itinerary accordingly. Enjoy your stay in Seoul and immerse yourself in its rich culture and the unique experiences it has to offer!