4 Days Exploring Seoul's Culture and Modern Life Itinerary

Begin your second day with a visit to Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower). Take the cable car up Namsan Mountain for panoramic views of Seoul from the observation deck. Afterward, explore Namsangol Hanok Village, where you can see restored traditional Korean houses and participate in cultural activities.

For lunch, try some authentic Korean BBQ at Yang Good, one of Seoul's highly-rated BBQ restaurants. Then head over to Hongdae, known for its youthful atmosphere and vibrant street art scene. Spend your afternoon exploring quirky shops, cafes, and street performances in this trendy neighborhood.

In the evening, join the Seoul: Nighttime Tour of Palace Market Naksan Park & More. This guided tour will take you through some of Seoul's most iconic nighttime spots including Gwangjang Market where you can sample local street food delicacies. End your night with stunning views from Naksan Park.

Start your third day with a visit to Changdeokgung Palace, another UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful gardens and historical significance. Don't miss out on exploring Huwon (the Secret Garden), which requires a separate ticket but is well worth it.

Afterward, head over to Insadong for lunch at Insadong Sujebi, famous for its traditional Korean dishes. Spend your afternoon wandering through Insadong's antique shops, art galleries, and tea houses. This area is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and experiencing traditional Korean culture.

In the evening, take part in an immersive cooking experience with Seoul: Taste of Korea Authentic home style Cooking class. Learn how to prepare classic Korean dishes from scratch under the guidance of a local chef. For dinner afterward, enjoy what you've cooked or dine at nearby restaurant Jungsik, known for its contemporary Korean cuisine.

Begin your final day in Seoul with a visit to Jogyesa Temple. This serene Buddhist temple is an oasis of calm in the bustling city and offers a glimpse into Korea's spiritual traditions. Afterward, take a short walk to Cheonggyecheon Stream, a beautiful urban renewal project that transformed an old highway into a picturesque stream with walking paths and art installations.

For lunch, head to Gwangjang Market, one of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul. Here, you can sample a variety of Korean street foods such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap (mini seaweed rice rolls). After lunch, explore the market's many stalls selling textiles, vintage clothing, and more. Next, visit Leeum Samsung Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of traditional and contemporary Korean art.

In the evening, join the Seoul: Nighttime Hidden Gems Walking Tour. This guided tour will take you through some lesser-known but fascinating parts of Seoul, including hidden alleyways and local hangouts. For dinner, try Mingles, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative fusion of Korean and Western cuisines.