Booking a flight
Get a flight that will arrive in Incheon International Airport.
Korean air, Air Canada, and Delta are one of the best affordable airlines you can book tickets with.
Only bring a carry on, and a backpack because you can purchase an extra luggage in one of the markets for all of the items you will be bringing back.
Requirements
Changes are always happening. To get more information on the most updated requirements visit this following website.
Where to Stay?
During my first week in Korea, I was quarantined at Grand Hyatt Incheon. Although I was not able to get out I would still highly recommend staying there. It is a beautiful hotel, and the service was pretty great. The staff spoke English most of the time.
For travel budget, then I would recommend getting an Airbnb in either Myeongdong or Hongdae:
Namsan - Artmonstay stay's place in myeondong is a very convenient location. It is a great place to stay if you're traveling with two other people. They have a rooftop you can see the city at night while dinking soju and snacks. On the first floor, they have a cafe you can enjoy.
Mapo - gu is one of the most convenient location to book an airbnb at.
Getting Around
Arriving in Seoul could be a little intimidating. If you only have 1 carry and a backpack, go to Seoul Station. They have lockers you can rent out for almost $5 per hour the entire day while waiting to check in at your Airbnb or hotel. They also have lockers for the checked bag.
When you arrive in Incheon, you don't have to take a taxi. You can take the subway from Incheon International airport to Seoul Nation.
There are two options: Express Train or All Stop Train. The Express train runs directly from Incheon airport to Seoul in about 30 - 40 minutes. The All Stop train stops at different stations along the way until it reaches Seoul Station, including Myeondong, Hongdae and Itaewon. This usually takes about an hour.
Before you get on the train, you need to buy T-money cards. T-money cards are the easiest way to pay for transportation such as the subway and buses.
At Incheon airport or Seoul Station before you get on the subway there will be Kiosks you can purchase T-money cards at or the convenience store.
Must have apps to get around
Naver Map and Kakao Map - google or apple maps are very inaccurate, so download naver or kakao map for a more accurate map of the city.
Kakao Taxi - Uber or Lyft does not work in Korea. Kakao taxi is the best way to get around by car.
Papago - the most accurate translation app to use.
Subway - shows different subway lines and routes throughout the entire city.
First Day In Seoul
If you are able to check in at your airbnb or hotel, the first thing to do is check out Hangang River.
The first day is going to be an easy day. You can take a picture at the "I Seoul U" sign. They have a convenience store at the river where you can buy ramen noodles, snacks, and drinks. Then you can walk or bike by the river.
After Hannam-Dong, head to Geunam Market for cheap dinner.
2nd Day - Myeongdong
Go shopping at Myeongdong walking street.
There is going to be an underground shopping center too. Go in the afternoon. Most of the store is going to be closed in the morning. No store is open early in Seoul. Bring your shopping bags back to your place if it's not too far. Myeongdong is big, so don't under estimate how much you will be walking around.
Shinsegae Department Store
Head to Namdaemun Market
Then go to Namsan Seoul Tower.
Purchase a lock before you go to put it on the rails. It is more expensive when you get to the top. Going at night is definitely an amazing view, but the restaurants and stores will be closed after 8 p.m. If you don't want to take the cable car back, you'll have to walk down where the buses will be. It's about a 20-30-minute hike back. Spend enough time at the top to see Seoul. It's a great spot to drink and see the view of the city with your friends or by yourself.
Day 3 - Gyeongbokgung and Changgyeongung Palae
Start your day early as the Palaces close at 6 p.m. Make sure to wear the most comfortable shoes. You will be walking around a lo.
Before you go to the palaces you can rent out Hanbok near Gyeongbokgung palace to receive free entry on the palaces.
I highly recommend renting your hanbok with them. They styled my hair and my friends. They included hair accessories. However, if you want more stylish accessories you will have to pay extra. They teach you how to wear the hanbok. You can rent it for an entire day or a couple of hours. They also have very secure lockers in their basement where you can place your belongings. They have a photo-op area as well before you go to the palaces.
Photo's are owned by me.
Start at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Then go to Changgyeonggung Palace
After the Palaces, head to Bukchon Hanok Village
Walk around the streets to immerse yourself in Korean History.
Day 4 - Lotte World & Seoul Sky
Let's take this day as a fun day by going to an indoor amusement park,
Before Lotte World, immerse yourself dressed as a student.
Show your voucher when you get to the location. They have a variety of uniforms you can rent out for both males and females.
Photo was taken by me inside the Rental Place.
Then it's time to go to Lotte World
Purchase your ticket at Trazy to get a discounted rate for both Lotte World and the Aquarium. Spend at least 6 - 8 hours inside. They have so many rides, but the waiting line is long. There is also ice skating inside.
Lotte World Sky Tower
Purchase Tickets for the Sky Bridge Tour during the season.
Either go during the morning before Lotte World, or after Lotte World to see the sunset. I highly recommend Lotte World first as the sunset is very beautiful.
Photo taken by me.
Day 5 - Nami Island
Let's go away from the big city for today. Leave early in the morning to have enough time to go to Nami Island and back to the city. This is going to be about an hour trip.
Take the ITX train from Yongsan station
Yongsan Station to Gapyeong Station
Take the bus or taxi to Gapyeong Wharf where you can take the ferry.
Going back to Yongsan Station
Take the ferry back to Nami Island Wharf. Then to Gapyeong Station to Yongsan Station. It will take at least almost 70 minutes going back.
For more details visit the website below. My friends and I used this guide. Credit to the Author.
After getting back to Yongsan Station, take Line 1 to Namyeong Station Line and get dinner at a korean bbq restaurant called Yeoljeong Do Grilled Meat Restaurant.
Day 6 - Gangman + Starfield Coex Libary
Today will be a relaxing morning or afternoon, then we will head to the famous library inside the Starfield Coex mall.
Get a facial treatment or laser hair removal in Gangnam
Book an appointment early in the morning. There are multiple clinics in Gangnam that has English consultation.
1. Muse Clinic
2. Me Clinic Seoul
Within the location of the clinics, it is going to be the center of the Gangnam shopping district. Visit Kakao Friends, Line Friends Flagship store. There is also going to be Nike, and another shopping store you can explore.
Then go to Starfield Coex Library.
Day 7 - Incheon
Start a early in the day at this place. There is so many things to do you won't have enough time to do everything if you get there late.
Songdo Central Park
Paradise City
Day 8 - Museum + Kpop Entertainment Buildings + Hongdae
You must visit the National Museum of Korea. Entrance is Free. Go early in the day, so you travel from one area to another for the rest of the day.
Hybe Insight
Let's start with Hybe insight after the Museum. Must reserve a ticket in advance.
Let's visit the Big 3 entertainment building. During your visits, you will be able to enter the YG and SM store.
You'll visit YG entertainment last. They have a cafe you can get some drinks and purchase some YG artist merch.
At night, head to Hongdae for more shopping. They also have a lot of restaurants that you can go at. Bars and clubs are definitely for the younger crowd. Stop by at a noraebang with your friends.
Day 9 - Dongdaemun Plaza + Dongdaemun market
Shop around Dongdaemun Plaza. There is a big shopping mall and street shopping right across the plaza.
Go to Dongdaemun market first to have the taste of street food. The market closes at 7 p.m. so be there between 3 - 5 p.m.
Then once it gets darker, take your time exploring one of the most beautiful architects Korea has. Dongdaemun Design Plaza lights up at night. Dress like your filming a k-drama. Take lots of pictures.
Day 10 - Korean universities + Itaewon
If you are going to Korea, you must visit the universities where some Korean dramas were filmed. Be mindful of the time of day you are going. There are students that are actually studying. Please do not disturb them. You are not able to enter any of the buildings as you will need an ID.
The very first university you will visit is Yonsei University. This is my personal favorite as it is the campus I studied in.
Then, head to Seoul University
Finally, go to Korea university
After visiting the universities let's head to Itaewon. With the recent event that occurred there, as a foreigner be mindful of your action and your surrounding.
Take pictures at Itaewon Bridge
Go to one of the bars or restaurants in Itaewon
Day 11 - Cheongye Plaza + Cheonggyecheon Stream + Ikseon Dong Hanok Street
Whether you will be flying early or late the day before you leave, you must visit Cheongye plaza and cheonggyecheon stream last.
Start this day as early or late as you want.
Walk, eat, and play games around the Ikseon Dong Hanok Street
After spending the afternoon at the last Hanok village you will see in seoul. Head to Cheonggye and Cheonggyecheon stream.
Cheonggyecheon Stream is the best place to spend the last night in Seoul. It is definitely a more fun place to visit at night. It lights up at night. Buy some snacks and alcohol in one of the convenience stores. There will be a specific area you can seat in and just enjoy the evening talking to your friends.
Departure Day
Packing tips:
Buy an extra luggage for all of the items you bought in one of the underground markets.
Head to Daiso to buy the bag compression bags for more space in your luggage.
Make sure your passport and boarding pass is ready.
For more tips and recommendations visit my Instagram & Tiktok page @m.e.mo.ria
Booking a flight
Get a flight that will arrive in Incheon International Airport.
Korean air, Air Canada, and Delta are one of the best affordable airlines you can book tickets with.
Only bring a carry on, and a backpack because you can purchase an extra luggage in one of the markets for all of the items you will be bringing back.
Requirements
Changes are always happening. To get more information on the most updated requirements visit this following website.
Where to Stay?
During my first week in Korea, I was quarantined at Grand Hyatt Incheon. Although I was not able to get out I would still highly recommend staying there. It is a beautiful hotel, and the service was pretty great. The staff spoke English most of the time.
For travel budget, then I would recommend getting an Airbnb in either Myeongdong or Hongdae:
Namsan - Artmonstay stay's place in myeondong is a very convenient location. It is a great place to stay if you're traveling with two other people. They have a rooftop you can see the city at night while dinking soju and snacks. On the first floor, they have a cafe you can enjoy.
Mapo - gu is one of the most convenient location to book an airbnb at.
Getting Around
Arriving in Seoul could be a little intimidating. If you only have 1 carry and a backpack, go to Seoul Station. They have lockers you can rent out for almost $5 per hour the entire day while waiting to check in at your Airbnb or hotel. They also have lockers for the checked bag.
When you arrive in Incheon, you don't have to take a taxi. You can take the subway from Incheon International airport to Seoul Nation.
There are two options: Express Train or All Stop Train. The Express train runs directly from Incheon airport to Seoul in about 30 - 40 minutes. The All Stop train stops at different stations along the way until it reaches Seoul Station, including Myeondong, Hongdae and Itaewon. This usually takes about an hour.
Before you get on the train, you need to buy T-money cards. T-money cards are the easiest way to pay for transportation such as the subway and buses.
At Incheon airport or Seoul Station before you get on the subway there will be Kiosks you can purchase T-money cards at or the convenience store.
Must have apps to get around
Naver Map and Kakao Map - google or apple maps are very inaccurate, so download naver or kakao map for a more accurate map of the city.
Kakao Taxi - Uber or Lyft does not work in Korea. Kakao taxi is the best way to get around by car.
Papago - the most accurate translation app to use.
Subway - shows different subway lines and routes throughout the entire city.
First Day In Seoul
If you are able to check in at your airbnb or hotel, the first thing to do is check out Hangang River.
The first day is going to be an easy day. You can take a picture at the "I Seoul U" sign. They have a convenience store at the river where you can buy ramen noodles, snacks, and drinks. Then you can walk or bike by the river.
After Hannam-Dong, head to Geunam Market for cheap dinner.
2nd Day - Myeongdong
Go shopping at Myeongdong walking street.
There is going to be an underground shopping center too. Go in the afternoon. Most of the store is going to be closed in the morning. No store is open early in Seoul. Bring your shopping bags back to your place if it's not too far. Myeongdong is big, so don't under estimate how much you will be walking around.
Shinsegae Department Store
Head to Namdaemun Market
Then go to Namsan Seoul Tower.
Purchase a lock before you go to put it on the rails. It is more expensive when you get to the top. Going at night is definitely an amazing view, but the restaurants and stores will be closed after 8 p.m. If you don't want to take the cable car back, you'll have to walk down where the buses will be. It's about a 20-30-minute hike back. Spend enough time at the top to see Seoul. It's a great spot to drink and see the view of the city with your friends or by yourself.
Day 3 - Gyeongbokgung and Changgyeongung Palae
Start your day early as the Palaces close at 6 p.m. Make sure to wear the most comfortable shoes. You will be walking around a lo.
Before you go to the palaces you can rent out Hanbok near Gyeongbokgung palace to receive free entry on the palaces.
I highly recommend renting your hanbok with them. They styled my hair and my friends. They included hair accessories. However, if you want more stylish accessories you will have to pay extra. They teach you how to wear the hanbok. You can rent it for an entire day or a couple of hours. They also have very secure lockers in their basement where you can place your belongings. They have a photo-op area as well before you go to the palaces.
Photo's are owned by me.
Start at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Then go to Changgyeonggung Palace
After the Palaces, head to Bukchon Hanok Village
Walk around the streets to immerse yourself in Korean History.
Day 4 - Lotte World & Seoul Sky
Let's take this day as a fun day by going to an indoor amusement park,
Before Lotte World, immerse yourself dressed as a student.
Show your voucher when you get to the location. They have a variety of uniforms you can rent out for both males and females.
Photo was taken by me inside the Rental Place.
Then it's time to go to Lotte World
Purchase your ticket at Trazy to get a discounted rate for both Lotte World and the Aquarium. Spend at least 6 - 8 hours inside. They have so many rides, but the waiting line is long. There is also ice skating inside.
Lotte World Sky Tower
Purchase Tickets for the Sky Bridge Tour during the season.
Either go during the morning before Lotte World, or after Lotte World to see the sunset. I highly recommend Lotte World first as the sunset is very beautiful.
Photo taken by me.
Day 5 - Nami Island
Let's go away from the big city for today. Leave early in the morning to have enough time to go to Nami Island and back to the city. This is going to be about an hour trip.
Take the ITX train from Yongsan station
Yongsan Station to Gapyeong Station
Take the bus or taxi to Gapyeong Wharf where you can take the ferry.
Going back to Yongsan Station
Take the ferry back to Nami Island Wharf. Then to Gapyeong Station to Yongsan Station. It will take at least almost 70 minutes going back.
For more details visit the website below. My friends and I used this guide. Credit to the Author.
After getting back to Yongsan Station, take Line 1 to Namyeong Station Line and get dinner at a korean bbq restaurant called Yeoljeong Do Grilled Meat Restaurant.
Day 6 - Gangman + Starfield Coex Libary
Today will be a relaxing morning or afternoon, then we will head to the famous library inside the Starfield Coex mall.
Get a facial treatment or laser hair removal in Gangnam
Book an appointment early in the morning. There are multiple clinics in Gangnam that has English consultation.
1. Muse Clinic
2. Me Clinic Seoul
Within the location of the clinics, it is going to be the center of the Gangnam shopping district. Visit Kakao Friends, Line Friends Flagship store. There is also going to be Nike, and another shopping store you can explore.
Then go to Starfield Coex Library.
Day 7 - Incheon
Start a early in the day at this place. There is so many things to do you won't have enough time to do everything if you get there late.
Songdo Central Park
Paradise City
Day 8 - Museum + Kpop Entertainment Buildings + Hongdae
You must visit the National Museum of Korea. Entrance is Free. Go early in the day, so you travel from one area to another for the rest of the day.
Hybe Insight
Let's start with Hybe insight after the Museum. Must reserve a ticket in advance.
Let's visit the Big 3 entertainment building. During your visits, you will be able to enter the YG and SM store.
You'll visit YG entertainment last. They have a cafe you can get some drinks and purchase some YG artist merch.
At night, head to Hongdae for more shopping. They also have a lot of restaurants that you can go at. Bars and clubs are definitely for the younger crowd. Stop by at a noraebang with your friends.
Day 9 - Dongdaemun Plaza + Dongdaemun market
Shop around Dongdaemun Plaza. There is a big shopping mall and street shopping right across the plaza.
Go to Dongdaemun market first to have the taste of street food. The market closes at 7 p.m. so be there between 3 - 5 p.m.
Then once it gets darker, take your time exploring one of the most beautiful architects Korea has. Dongdaemun Design Plaza lights up at night. Dress like your filming a k-drama. Take lots of pictures.
Day 10 - Korean universities + Itaewon
If you are going to Korea, you must visit the universities where some Korean dramas were filmed. Be mindful of the time of day you are going. There are students that are actually studying. Please do not disturb them. You are not able to enter any of the buildings as you will need an ID.
The very first university you will visit is Yonsei University. This is my personal favorite as it is the campus I studied in.
Then, head to Seoul University
Finally, go to Korea university
After visiting the universities let's head to Itaewon. With the recent event that occurred there, as a foreigner be mindful of your action and your surrounding.
Take pictures at Itaewon Bridge
Go to one of the bars or restaurants in Itaewon
Day 11 - Cheongye Plaza + Cheonggyecheon Stream + Ikseon Dong Hanok Street
Whether you will be flying early or late the day before you leave, you must visit Cheongye plaza and cheonggyecheon stream last.
Start this day as early or late as you want.
Walk, eat, and play games around the Ikseon Dong Hanok Street
After spending the afternoon at the last Hanok village you will see in seoul. Head to Cheonggye and Cheonggyecheon stream.
Cheonggyecheon Stream is the best place to spend the last night in Seoul. It is definitely a more fun place to visit at night. It lights up at night. Buy some snacks and alcohol in one of the convenience stores. There will be a specific area you can seat in and just enjoy the evening talking to your friends.
Departure Day
Packing tips:
Buy an extra luggage for all of the items you bought in one of the underground markets.
Head to Daiso to buy the bag compression bags for more space in your luggage.
Make sure your passport and boarding pass is ready.
For more tips and recommendations visit my Instagram & Tiktok page @m.e.mo.ria