Itinerary

South Korea is a fantastic destination for solo travelers, and I’m excited to help you plan a week-long adventure. Let’s dive into a 7-day itinerary that balances culture, food, and fun while keeping it cost-savvy and time-efficient.

## Day 1: Arrival in Seoul

Morning:

• Arrival at Incheon International Airport (ICN): Take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul Station (about 1 hour, ₩9,500).
• Check-in: Find a budget-friendly guesthouse or hostel in the Myeongdong area (around ₩30,000-₩50,000 per night).

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Try some local street food in Myeongdong (around ₩10,000).
• Explore Myeongdong: Check out the shops and street vendors. Don’t miss the famous Myeongdong Cathedral.

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy a Korean BBQ meal (around ₩15,000-₩25,000).
• N Seoul Tower: Take the cable car (₩9,500 round trip) for stunning views of the city at night.

## Day 2: Historical Seoul

Morning:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: Visit the main palace (entrance fee ₩3,000). Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony at 10 AM.
• Insider Tip: Rent a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) for free entry to the palace (around ₩15,000 for rental).

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Head to Bukchon Hanok Village for a traditional meal (around ₩10,000).
• Explore Bukchon: Wander through the picturesque alleys and take photos of the hanoks.

Evening:

• Dinner: Try bibimbap at a local restaurant (around ₩10,000).
• Cheonggyecheon Stream: Stroll along the stream and enjoy the night lights.

## Day 3: Day Trip to DMZ

Morning:

• DMZ Tour: Book a half-day tour (around ₩50,000) that includes transportation and a guide. Tours usually start around 8 AM.

Afternoon:

• Return to Seoul: Grab a quick lunch (around ₩10,000) at a local eatery.
• Visit the War Memorial of Korea: Free entry and a great way to learn about Korea’s history.

Evening:

• Dinner: Try some Korean fried chicken (around ₩15,000).
• Explore Hongdae: Check out the vibrant nightlife and street performances.

## Day 4: Busan

Morning:

• Travel to Busan: Take the KTX train from Seoul Station to Busan (about 2.5 hours, ₩50,000).
• Check-in: Find a budget hostel in the Haeundae area (around ₩30,000-₩50,000).

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood at Jagalchi Fish Market (around ₩15,000).
• Visit Gamcheon Culture Village: Explore the colorful streets and art installations (free entry).

Evening:

• Dinner: Try Busan’s famous milmyeon (cold noodles) (around ₩10,000).
• Haeundae Beach: Relax on the beach and enjoy the sunset.

## Day 5: Explore Busan

Morning:

• Visit Beomeosa Temple: Take the subway to Beomeosa Station (₩1,500) and hike up to the temple (free entry).

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Grab a quick bite at a local café (around ₩10,000).
• Visit Yongdusan Park: Check out Busan Tower (entrance fee ₩8,000) for panoramic views.

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy a hot pot meal (around ₩15,000).
• Gwangalli Beach: Walk along the beach and enjoy the view of the Gwangan Bridge lit up at night.

## Day 6: Gyeongju Day Trip

Morning:

• Travel to Gyeongju: Take a bus from Busan (about 1 hour, ₩6,000).
• Visit Bulguksa Temple: Entrance fee is ₩5,000. A UNESCO World Heritage site!

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Try Gyeongju’s famous ssambap (around ₩10,000).
• Explore Seokguram Grotto: Another UNESCO site (entrance fee ₩5,000).

Evening:

• Return to Busan: Grab dinner at a local restaurant (around ₩15,000).
• Relax at your hostel: Meet fellow travelers and share stories!

## Day 7: Return to Seoul

Morning:

• Travel back to Seoul: KTX train (₩50,000).
• Last-minute shopping: Head to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) for unique souvenirs.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Try some gimbap (Korean sushi rolls) (around ₩5,000).
• Visit the Dongdaemun Market: Explore the shops and grab some last-minute gifts.

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy a farewell meal at a local restaurant (around ₩15,000).
• Head to the airport: Take the AREX back to Incheon (₩9,500).

Estimated Total Costs:

• Accommodation: ₩210,000 (7 nights at ₩30,000)
• Food: ₩140,000 (average ₩20,000 per day)
• Transportation: ₩150,000 (including KTX and local transport)
• Activities/Entry Fees: ₩60,000
• Total: Approximately ₩560,000 (~$470)

Insider Tips:

• T-Money Card: Get a T-Money card for easy access to public transport (₩2,500 for the card, then top up).
• Free Wi-Fi: South Korea has excellent free Wi-Fi in most public areas.
• Language: Learn a few basic Korean phrases; locals appreciate the effort!

Enjoy your adventure in South Korea! If you have any questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask! Safe travels! 🌏✈️