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3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide

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3 Days in Seoul by Chris J, Seoul, South Korea

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Three days may be just enough time to graze the surface of such an amazing city, but follow my guide to 25 Places the best sights and spots, and yours will be a truly memorable trip to Seoul. 6 City Tips

Good for History Buff Thrill Seeker Shopping Fanatic Foodie Peace and Quiet Seeker Thrifty Traveler Trendsetter

Like a Local

Map data 2© k2m0 17 Google, SK telecom

Chris J's City Tips

■ Invest in a T­Money transportation card (available at subway stations or convenience stores) to allow for quick and cheaper boarding, disembarking, and transferring.

■ Take advantage of the Airport Railroad Link, which goes from International Airport to Seoul Station.

■ Popular tourist areas will usually have an information kiosk with maps, guides, and workers able to assist you.

■ Taking a cab is a great idea when you're short on time and need to get somewhere that would normally require transferring. Just make sure you avoid traffic rush hours!

■ Koreans normally keep to themselves, but will generally be more than happy to assist tourists. Usually the younger locals will speak better English.

■ Tipping is not necessary when eating out in Korea, and any tax and service charges are almost always included in the final bill.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 1/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Day 1

Gyeongbokgung Palace Castles, Historic Sites, History Museums

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Chris J Says:

“Seoul is home to five palaces from the Joseon Dynasty, and Gyeongbokgung is the largest one of these. It also served as the main administrative palace of the dynasty. The palace has a fascinating history, and its splendid buildings, living quarters, pavilions, and palace grounds make for some stunning sights.”

Good for Must See History Buff Couples Thrifty Traveler Art and Architecture Lover

Tips

■ A number of ceremonies, such as the changing of the guards, are held near Gwanghwamun Gate. Their homepage has up to date schedules.

■ A number of free guided tours, in multiple languages, are offered throughout the day. Check the website for more information and schedules. ■ Gyeongbokgung is closed on Tuesdays.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #3 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Very pretty” 12/31/2016 6285 Reviews “Tourist spot” 12/31/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Hours: 161 Sajik­ro, ­gu +82 2­3700­3900 Wed ­ Sun Seoul 9:00 am ­ 5:00 pm South Korea

Other: Website

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 2/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

The National Folk Museum of Korea History Museums

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Chris J Says:

“Located inside the Gyeongbok Palace, the National Folk Museum of Korea holds more than 4,000 artefacts in its collection, offering a comprehensive insight into how Koreans used to live. Visitors can also get the inside track on a variety of customs and rituals, from weddings to funerals, and even learn about interesting local superstitions.”

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Tips

■ Admission to the folk museum is included with your ticket to Gyeongbok Palace. ■ The museum is closed on Tuesdays.

■ Foreign language tours, as well as rental audio guides, are available. ■ Artefacts and exhibits are extensively labelled with English descriptions.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #31 of 729 things to do in Seoul “NICE MUSEUM” 12/29/2016 610 Reviews “Go while visiting Gyeongbokgung” 12/29/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Other: 37 Samcheong­ro, Jongno­gu +82 2­3704­3114 Website Seoul 110­820 South Korea

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 3/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Tosokchon Samgyetang Restaurants (Asian, Korean, Soups)

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Chris J Says:

“Samgyetang is a popular and nutritious dish: a whole chicken is stuffed with sticky rice, ginseng, chestnuts, jujubes, and more, and simmered to create a velvety smooth broth. It's revered by locals as both a rejuvenating and tasty dish, and there's no place that's as famous for it as Tosokchon near Gyeongbok Palace.”

Good for Foodie Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Family

Tips

■ Lines can be long at lunch and dinner times, and even more so on weekends. Avoid the peak eating times if possible! ■ To truly eat like a local, go during the summer when Koreans believe it's best to fight the heat with heat!

Plan to stay: Less than 1 hour

From the community

Ranked #13 of 19,037 restaurants in Seoul “Yummy ginseng chicken” 12/30/2016 1555 Reviews “Good chicken soup” 12/29/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Hours: 5, Jahamun­ro 5­gil, Jongno­gu +82 2­737­7444 Sun ­ Sat Seoul 03041 10:00 am ­ 10:00 pm South Korea

Other: Website

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 4/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Insadong Historic Walking Areas, Neighborhoods, Points of Interest & Landmarks

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Chris J Says:

“This older neighborhood is popular for its souvenir and antique shops, galleries, tea shops, and street food carts. There's also a wide range of Korean restaurants here, some of which specialize in vegetarian, Korean Buddhist cuisine. For a good mix of shopping, sightseeing, and eating, Insadong can't be beaten.”

Good for Foodie Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Shopping Fanatic Family

Art and Architecture Lover

Tips

■ On weekend afternoons, a number of traditional performances and activities are held for foreign tourists to experience near the Insadong entrance.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #11 of 729 things to do in Seoul “old Korea” 12/31/2016 4561 Reviews “A relaxed and comfort walk to look, eat and buy” 12/30/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Other: Insa­dong, Jongno­gu 09022151006 Website Seoul South Korea

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 5/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Ssamji­gil Neighborhoods

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Chris J Says:

“This interesting building in Insadong houses more than 70 shops and boutiques selling accessories, traditional tea, natural soaps, clothing, and more. The spiral layout also makes exploring Ssamji­gil fun and easy.”

Good for Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Shopping Fanatic Family

Tips

■ The building is prettier in the evenings when the shop lights are turned on.

■ There're a few places to eat and drink on the first and top floors.

Plan to stay: Less than 1 hour

From the community

Ranked #53 of 729 things to do in Seoul “A standalone gallery of designers stuff at the heart of 281 Reviews Insadong” 12/30/2016 “Interesting concept, random cool stuff, toilet shaped served dishes on top floor” 12/25/2016

Address: Other: Gwanhun­dong, Jongno­gu Website Seoul South Korea

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 6/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Sinyetchatjip Restaurants (Cafe, Asian, Korean)

Chris J Says:

“Sinyetchatjip is a traditional Korean tea house in Insadong, housed in an authentic Korean ´hanok´ (house). It's a great place to learn about and experience Korean teas, while the quaint and peaceful setting also makes it a great place to rest.”

Good for Foodie Peace and Quiet Seeker Solo Friends Couples Senior Family

Tips

■ Ask the servers for recommendations.

■ Some of the teas are good for particular ailments, such as indigestion.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #4,807 of 19,037 restaurants in Seoul “Amazing tea house!” 10/16/2016 2 Reviews “인사동의 숨은 명소” 09/05/2015

Address: Phone: 164, Gwanhun­dong, Jongno­gu +82 2­732­5257 Seoul South Korea

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 7/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Cheonggyecheon Stream Historic Walking Areas, Bodies of Water

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Chris J Says:

“This stream running through Seoul was covered by an overpass until the waters were restored in 2005. Now Cheonggyecheon is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, acting as a natural refuge from city life. Take a stroll along its banks, snap a few shots of the ducks and fish, and even dip your toes into the water in warmer weather.”

Good for Peace and Quiet Seeker Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Family Nature Lover

Tips

■ Visit Cheonggyecheon in the evening to experience a very different atmosphere.

Plan to stay: Less than 1 hour

From the community

Ranked #13 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Cheonggyecheon Stream” 12/30/2016 2583 Reviews “nice stroll through town” 12/30/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Phone: Other: +82 2­762­8261 Website

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 8/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Myeongdong Shopping Street Neighborhoods

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Chris J Says:

“A visit to Seoul wouldn't be complete without a visit to Myeongdong. This all­encompassing neighborhood is one of Seoul's ultimate places to meet up, shop, eat, and chill. Stores, cafes and restaurants are all stacked atop each other, creating seemingly endless rows and making the area one of Seoul's top attractions.”

Good for Foodie Must See Trendsetter Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Shopping Fanatic

Family

Tips

■ Nanta, a popular non­verbal comedic and acrobatic cooking and music show, is held here in the Nanta Theater ­ worth checking out if you have time.

■ Myeongdong is one of the best places to pick up globally popular Korean cosmetics.

■ Check out Myeongdong Cathedral for a bit of peace and quiet.

■ The street food carts here are some of the city's most famous, selling famed eats such as hoddeok, french fry­encrusted corn dogs, freshly squeezed lemonade, and more.

■ The nearby Lotte and Shinsegae department stores are also worth a visit.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #7 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Street food, eateries and Korean beauty products” 12/31/2016 5992 Reviews “Shopping street with food stalls” 12/31/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Other: Jung­gu 09022151006 Website Seoul South Korea

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 9/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Myeongdong Kyoja Main Restaurants (Asian, Korean, Soups)

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Chris J Says:

“For more than 40 years, this institution has been churning out its famed knife­cut noodles and dumplings. The noodles are hand rolled and cut, before being simmered in the delicious beef and vegetable broth. Yum!”

Good for Foodie Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Family

Tips

■ Lines here at lunch and dinner times are extra long ­ try to come earlier for quicker seating.

■ A second branch is located just a few meters north of the original branch.

■ Additional portions of rice and noodles are free.

■ The dumplings are also popular, and the pungent and extra­garlicky kimchi is famous!

Plan to stay: Less than 1 hour

From the community

Ranked #10 of 19,037 restaurants in Seoul “Myeongdong Kyoja” 12/30/2016 1933 Reviews “Not sure what the fuss is about” 12/28/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Hours: 29­1, Myeongdong 10­gil, Jung­gu +82 2­776­5348 Sun ­ Sat Seoul 04537 10:30 am ­ 9:30 pm South Korea

Other: Website

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 10/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Namsan Cable Car Tramways

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Chris J Says:

“The iconic N Seoul Tower, perched atop Namsan, can be accessed by bus or a 1­hour hike, but most visitors choose to ride this cable car up to the top for the unparalleled views it offers over the city.”

Good for Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Family Nature Lover

Tips

■ To reach the cable cars easily, take the Namsan outdoor elevators (Namsan Oreumi) near the entrance of the Namsan 3rd tunnel.

■ The cable car is busiest in late afternoon and evening.

Plan to stay: Less than 1 hour

From the community

Ranked #79 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Be early to avoid long queue” 12/31/2016 204 Reviews “Fun, useful but crowded” 12/10/2016

Address: Phone: Hours: San 1­19, Hoehyeon­dong 1­ga, Jung­ +82 2­753­2403 Sun ­ Sat gu 10:00 am ­ 11:00 pm Seoul South Korea

Other: Website

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 11/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

N Seoul Tower Points of Interest & Landmarks, Lookouts

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Chris J Says:

“N Seoul Tower is one of Seoul's most iconic and popular buildings. Sitting atop Namsan, a large hill in central Seoul, the tower offers some of the best views of the city. In recent years, it's also become a pilgrimage site for lovers from around the world, who come to place a lock on the fence gates as a symbol of their eternal love. The tower itself is also home to a famed fine­dining restaurant, a coffee shop, gift shop, teddy bear museum, and a separate observatory.”

Good for Must See Trendsetter Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Family Nature Lover

Tips

■ The tower is most popular on weekends and evenings.

■ The tower can also be reached via a number of special yellow buses designed to take visitors up the hill. Search for boarding locations online.

■ The teddy bear museum and the observatory charge separate admission fees.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #10 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Nice view of Seoul skyline” 12/31/2016 6192 Reviews “Colorful tower” 12/31/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Hours: 105, Namsangongwon­gil, Yongsan­gu 82­2­3455­9277 Sun ­ Thu Seoul 10:00 am ­ 11:00 pm South Korea Fri ­ Sat 10:00 am ­ 11:30 pm

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 12/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Dragon Hill Spa Spas

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Chris J Says:

“Tired from traveling? Unwind and relax both your body and mind with a Korean ´jjimjilbang´ at Dragon Hill Spa. After paying, storing your stuff in a locker, and changing into the provided ´sweat´ uniforms, simply sit back and sweat the toxins and fatigue away in one of the many different heated rooms, including jade, charcoal and clay. In between sweating, you can lounge in the common room, grab a bite to eat and drink in the snack corner, and even take a nap! When you're finished, try out the many hot tubs and saunas (which are divided by gender), and emerge rested and clean.”

Good for Peace and Quiet Seeker Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Thrill Seeker Senior Family

Tips

■ Get a full body dead skin scrub in the hot tub area from a professional scrubber ­ a popular and uniquely Korean experience from which you are guaranteed to emerge squeaky clean! ■ Make sure your locker is properly secured and keep a close eye on any personal belongings you decide to carry around with you.

■ Weekends are more popular than weekdays.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #4 of 231 Spas & Wellness in Seoul “A little run down” 12/31/2016 141 Reviews “good experience of dragon spa” 11/22/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Other: 40, Hangang­daero 21nagil, Yongsan­ +82 2­792­0001 Website gu Seoul South Korea

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 13/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Day 2

The War Memorial of Korea Military Museums

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Chris J Says:

“A fantastic place to learn in­depth about the Korean War, this museum is a must for anyone interested in Korea's painful and devastating past. The wartime artefacts on display are extensive, from weaponry to letters and uniforms, with outdoor exhibitions that include aircrafts, tanks, and even a warship.”

Good for Must See Solo Friends History Buff Couples Senior Family

Tips

■ The museum is closed on Mondays.

■ You can rent audio guides in English, Japanese, and Chinese.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #2 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Good museum to reflect on wars in Korea” 12/30/2016 2913 Reviews “A glimpse of Korean past” 12/29/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Other: 29, ­ro, Yongsan­gu +82 2­709­3139 Website Seoul 04353 South Korea

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 14/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Namdaemun Market Flea & Street Markets

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Chris J Says:

“The largest traditional market in Korea, this enormous district is located by Seungnyemun, one of the four major gates of old Seoul. Just about everything can be found here, including dishes, toys, clothing, food gifts, accessories, and more ­ all for very reasonable prices. It's a great place to pick up popular Korean souvenirs such as ginseng, roasted seaweed, and chopsticks, and if you're looking for an inexpensive eye test, its cluster of opticians offer cheap exams and stylish glasses.”

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Tips

■ If you want to try your hand at haggling, make sure you pay by cash and let the sellers know. No merchant will be willing to negotiate if you are paying by card.

■ Food is cheap here, and you can even find an alley dedicated to kalguksu (knife­cut noodles) as well as galchi jorim (braised fish).

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #40 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Crowded shopping street” 12/29/2016 1621 Reviews “Great place to experience the hustle and bustle of Seoul” 12/26/2016

Address: Phone: Other: 21, Namdaemunsijang 4­gil, Jung­gu +82 2­753­2805 Website Seoul 04529 South Korea

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 15/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Samcheongdong­gil Road Points of Interest & Landmarks

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Chris J Says:

“A very popular and old neighborhood, Samcheongdong­gil Road is known as home to many restaurants, shops, and cafes housed in renovated traditional Korean homes. The atmosphere is both charming and romantic at times, always with a distinctly Korean feel.”

Good for Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Shopping Fanatic Family

Art and Architecture Lover

Tips

■ Samcheong Park, at the end of the road, is a peaceful and quiet area to walk around.

■ Samcheongdong gets busier on weekends.

■ Browse the cluster of free or inexpensive independent art galleries near the Gyeongbok Palace wall ­ they often host interesting exhibitions.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #35 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Half day casual walk” 12/05/2016 305 Reviews “Hip Place!” 12/01/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Samcheong­dong, Jongno­gu Seoul South Korea

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 16/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Bukchon Historic Walking Areas, Neighborhoods

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Chris J Says:

“For one of the best areas to explore hanoks in Seoul, it's hard to beat the Bukchon neighborhood. Many of the picturesque hanoks here have been converted into small museums, restaurants, and cafes, allowing you a first­hand glimpse at the exquisite details and layout of a traditional Korean home.”

Good for Peace and Quiet Seeker Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Family

Art and Architecture Lover Nature Lover

Tips

■ Bukchon is located next to Samcheongdong, making it easy to explore both in one day.

■ As many of these buildings are still residential, be respectful of the homeowners.

Plan to stay: Less than 1 hour

From the community

Ranked #12 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Should be in your itinerary” 12/31/2016 3125 Reviews “Nice for pictures” 12/31/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Other: Samcheong­dong, Jongno­gu 82­2­3707­8388 Website Seoul South Korea

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 17/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Garosu­gil Neighborhoods

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Chris J Says:

“In recent years, Korea has become synonymous with ´hip´, and there are few places that better reflect this than Garosugil. One of the trendiest neighborhoods in Seoul, it's also one of the best spots for trendy travelers to get an idea of the latest Korean fashions in food and clothing. Browse the many boutiques, grab a bite at some of Seoul's most popular joints, or sit with a coffee and simply people­watch!”

Good for Must See Luxury Traveler Trendsetter Solo Friends Couples Shopping Fanatic

Tips

■ Weekends are generally very crowded here.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #43 of 729 things to do in Seoul “A shopping heaven for fashionistas” 12/29/2016 582 Reviews “Short, fashion street” 12/07/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Shinsa­dong, Gangnam­gu Seoul South Korea

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 18/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Noryangjin Fish Market Flea & Street Markets

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Chris J Says:

“The largest and oldest fish and seafood market in Seoul, Noryangjin Fish Market is a must­see for all seafood lovers and more adventurous travelers! Virtually anything that's edible from the seas of Korea can be found here, via a seemingly endless number of shops selling the freshest catches available in Seoul. You can stick to the familiar, such as fish, sashimi, crabs, and shrimp, or go more off­piste with choices such as sea squirt, sea worms, and even the infamous sannakji (live small octopus)!”

Good for Foodie Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Thrill Seeker

Tips

■ For seafood to go, the fishmongers will clean and prepare your purchase according to how you want it.

■ You can choose to eat your purchase at the market, by heading to an associated restaurant nearby. Just tell them how you want your seafood prepared. ■ Catch the live seafood auctions in the early twilight hours for some intense bidding action.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #46 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Eye opener! Frash seafood at great prices! ” 12/31/2016 527 Reviews “Good place for fresh seafood” 12/24/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Other: 674 Nodeul­ro, Dongjak­gu +82 2­2254­8000 Website Seoul South Korea

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 19/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Hangang Park Parks

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Chris J Says:

“Hangang Park, one of Seoul's most popular outdoor spaces, comprises of 12 different districts in total, all of which make great spots to rest, exercise, or simply enjoy the scenery.”

Good for Peace and Quiet Seeker Must See Thrifty Traveler Solo Friends Couples Nature Lover

Tips

■ Some of the more popular parks include Yeoido, Ttukseom, and Banpo.

■ Many of the park districts have bikes available to rent for very cheap prices.

■ Grab a snack or a beer at one of the many convenience stores around.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #9 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Morning, Afternoon, Night” 12/28/2016 1160 Reviews “Hang­ing by the river” 12/27/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Phone: Other: +82 2­3780­0561 Website

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 20/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Eland Cruise Boat Tours

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Chris J Says:

“The hangang ferry takes you through the heart of Seoul via the and is a fun and memorable boat ride. It's popular with both tourists and locals ­ especially families and those on dates ­ and the ferry has both indoor and outdoor seating, meaning you can enjoy the journey, whatever the weather.”

Good for Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Family Nightlife Seeker Nature Lover

Tips

■ The ferry is most popular late afternoon and evening. ■ You can purchase snacks and drinks at the shops inside.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #1 of 6 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Seoul “Night Cruising” 11/19/2016 110 Reviews “Do a night cruise” 11/01/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Phone: Other: +82 2­3271­6900 Website

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 21/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Day 3

National Museum of Korea History Museums

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Chris J Says:

“The largest museum in Korea (and the sixth largest in the world), this space boasts a massive collection of some 15,000 artefacts and is open to the public for free. The National Museum of Korea offers a good overview of Korea's wide­spanning, and often complex, history, making it well worth a visit.”

Good for Peace and Quiet Seeker Must See Solo Friends History Buff Couples Senior Family

Tips

■ The museum is closed on Mondays. ■ Tours and audio guides in foreign languages are available.

■ Special exhibitions charge a separate admission.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #8 of 729 things to do in Seoul “A look into Korean culture” 12/30/2016 1536 Reviews “Informative Overview of Korean History” 12/30/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Hours: 137 Seobinggo­ro, Yongsan­gu +82 2­2077­9000 Sun Seoul 04383 9:00 am ­ 7:00 pm South Korea Tue 9:00 am ­ 6:00 pm Wed 9:00 am ­ 9:00 pm Thu ­ Fri 9:00 am ­ 6:00 pm Sat 9:00 am ­ 9:00 pm

Other: Website

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 22/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Changdeokgung Palace Architectural Buildings, Castles, Historic Sites, Monuments & Statues, Gardens

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Chris J Says:

“Changdeokgung's beautiful palace grounds were created with a special focus on building around the existing natural landscape. The result is a harmonious intertwining of Korean architecture and natural beauty, which makes Changdeokgung a front­runner for the prettiest of Seoul's palaces.”

Good for Peace and Quiet Seeker Must See Like a Local Solo Friends History Buff Couples Senior Family

Nature Lover

Tips

■ The palace is closed on Mondays.

■ Book in advance for a group tour and you can choose to explore the beautiful Huwon gardens, regarded by many as one of Seoul's most beautiful spots.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #6 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Love it!” 12/30/2016 3081 Reviews “One of the 2 Cultural Heritage Site at Seoul” 12/30/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Hours: 99, Yulgok­ro, Jongno­gu +82 2­762­8261 Tue ­ Sun Seoul 03072 9:00 am ­ 5:00 pm South Korea

Other: Website

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 23/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Gwangjang Market Points of Interest & Landmarks

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Chris J Says:

“Dating back to 1905, Gwangjang Market was Korea's first official traditional market. Today, more than 1,500 shops operate here, selling silk, traditional Korean clothing (hanbok), blankets, and other goods. Walking through the market is like walking back in time, with many of the shops having been operated by generations of the same family. The market is also famous for its budget­friendly and delicious food, including sizzling hot mung bean pancakes, thick blood sausages, bibimbap, and more.”

Good for Foodie Must See Thrifty Traveler Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Thrill Seeker Shopping Fanatic

Tips

■ Many of the stores are closed on Sundays.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #26 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Gwangjang Market” 12/30/2016 1280 Reviews “Good food at night!” 12/29/2016 Certificate of Excellence 2014

Address: Phone: Hours: 88, Changgyeonggung­ro, Jongno­gu 02­2267­0291 Sun ­ Sat Seoul 03195 9:00 am ­ 6:00 pm South Korea

Other: Website

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide­g294197­k35­Seoul.html 24/27 1/2/2017 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Dongdaemun Shopping Complex Shopping Malls

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Chris J Says:

“Seoul is truly a city that never sleeps, and Dongdaemun Shopping Complex is one of the best examples of this. Some 26 shopping malls, with more than 30,000 stores, are located in this active district, making it a true shopper's paradise. Both wholesale and retailers offer the latest Korean fashion and accessories, plus souvenirs, cosmetics, and other goods.”

Good for Foodie Must See Trendsetter Like a Local Friends Couples Thrill Seeker Shopping Fanatic

Nightlife Seeker

Tips

■ Many clothing stores do not have a changing room. Try to research your Korean size beforehand. ■ Some sellers are willing to negotiate prices with you, but only if you pay in cash.

■ If you need to refuel, the major streets are teeming with street food carts, selling all manner of dishes. ■ Late night/early morning shopping is a popular local activity for the true shopping enthusiast.

Plan to stay: 1­2 hours

From the community

Ranked #66 of 729 things to do in Seoul “Shopping ” 12/21/2016 452 Reviews “Korean Designer Show” 12/13/2016

Address: Hours: Other: 289­3 Jongno 6­ga, Jongno­gu Sun ­ Sat Website Seoul 8:00 am ­ 7:00 pm South Korea

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Samwon Garden Main Store Restaurants (Barbecue, Asian, Korean)

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Chris J Says:

“Samwon Garden is one of the most popular restaurants in which to sample the famed Korean barbecue. Its beautiful Korean garden, complete with pond and waterfall, provides a luxurious but distinctly Korean feel ­ a picturesque setting in which to try the ribs and bulgogi, or other authentic Korean dishes, including galbitang, dwenjang jjigae, nengmyeon, and more.”

Good for Foodie Luxury Traveler Friends Couples Senior Family

Tips

■ Samwon offers special lunch set menus and courses everyday except Sunday ­ orders must be for a minimum of two people.

Plan to stay: Less than 1 hour

From the community

Ranked #495 of 19,037 restaurants in Seoul “good but over­hyped” 10/19/2016 103 Reviews “Korean Charcoal BBQ at its best ” 10/06/2016

Address: Phone: Price range: 623­5 Sinsa­dong, Gangnam­gu +82 2­548­3030 IDR 486,000 ­ IDR 19,392,000 Seoul South Korea

Hours: Other: Sun ­ Sat Website 12:00 pm ­ 10:00 pm

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