5-Day Fun Seoul Trip Itinerary with Budget Plan

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Seoul without breaking the bank! Here's a well-structured itinerary with an estimated daily budget to help you enjoy the city’s best offerings affordably.

Total Estimated Budget Overview (Per Person):

Accommodation: $30 - $80 per night (budget to mid-range)
Transportation: $10 per day (T-money card for subways/buses)
Food: $20 - $40 per day (mix of street food and casual dining)
Attractions: $10 - $30 per day (entry fees, experiences)
Shopping/Extras: Optional

Estimated Daily Budget: $70 - $150 per day (depending on preferences)

Day 1: Exploring Historic Seoul (Budget: $80-$120)

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Morning:

Gyeongbokgung Palace ($3 entry) – Experience Korea’s royal history and catch the changing of the guard ceremony. (Subway: Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5)
Bukchon Hanok Village (Free) – Stroll through a traditional Korean neighborhood filled with hanok houses.
Insadong (Souvenirs $10-$20) – Buy unique handmade crafts and enjoy traditional street snacks.

Afternoon:

Lunch at Insadong ($10-$15) – Try Bibimbap or a traditional Korean meal.
Jogyesa Temple (Free) – Peaceful temple visit with beautiful architecture.
Cheonggyecheon Stream (Free) – Walk along this refreshing urban oasis.

Evening:

Myeongdong Street Food Dinner ($10-$15) – Enjoy tteokbokki, hotteok, and Korean fried chicken.
Shopping in Myeongdong ($20-$50) – Grab K-beauty products and fashion bargains.

Day 1 Budget Breakdown:

Attractions: $3
Food: $25-$30
Transport: $10
Shopping (optional): $20-$50

Day 2: K-Pop, Shopping & Trendy Seoul (Budget: $90-$140)

Morning:

K-Star Road (Free) – Spot life-size bear statues of your favorite K-pop groups. (Subway: Apgujeong Rodeo Station, Exit 2)
COEX Starfield Library (Free) – Snap Instagram-worthy pictures of the giant bookshelves.
COEX Aquarium ($20) – Explore Korea’s largest aquarium with exotic sea creatures.

Afternoon:

Lunch at Gangnam ($15-$20) – Try authentic Korean BBQ or a trendy café meal.
Garosugil Shopping ($20-$40) – Browse unique boutiques and stylish fashion.

Evening:

Han River Cruise ($15-$20) – Relax and watch the city lights from the water.
Dinner at Yeouido ($10-$15) – Try ramen or convenience store picnic by the river.

Day 2 Budget Breakdown:

Attractions: $20-$40
Food: $25-$35
Transport: $10
Shopping (optional): $20-$40

Day 3: Nature & Relaxation (Budget: $60-$100)

Morning:

Bukhansan National Park (Free) – Hike up the trails for stunning panoramic city views. (Subway: Gupabal Station, Exit 1 + bus ride)
Temple Stay Experience ($20 donation) – Participate in a meditation or tea ceremony.

Afternoon:

Lunch at Traditional Market ($10-$15) – Try handmade dumplings or kalguksu (noodle soup) at Gwangjang Market.
Dragon Hill Spa ($15-$25) – Relax at a traditional jjimjilbang (Korean spa).

Evening:

Dinner ($10-$15) – Enjoy Korean street-style skewers and rice dishes.
Stroll around Dongdaemun Design Plaza (Free) – Marvel at futuristic architecture and night markets.

Day 3 Budget Breakdown:

Attractions: $15-$45
Food: $20-$30
Transport: $10

Day 4: Theme Park Adventure (Budget: $100-$150)

Morning:

Lotte World Adventure Park ($50 entry) – Thrill rides and fun indoor theme park experience. (Subway: Jamsil Station, Exit 4)

Afternoon:

Lunch at Lotte World ($15-$20) – Theme park food like corndogs, fried chicken, and snacks.
Lotte Tower Observation Deck ($25) – Stunning skyline views from the 123rd floor.

Evening:

Dinner at Jamsil ($15-$20) – Grab famous Korean fried chicken and beer combo.
Seokchon Lake Walk (Free) – A peaceful evening stroll with beautiful reflections of Lotte Tower.

Day 4 Budget Breakdown:

Attractions: $75
Food: $30-$40
Transport: $10

Day 5: Final Shopping & Chill (Budget: $70-$110)

Morning:

Namdaemun Market ($10-$30 shopping) – Souvenir shopping heaven! (Subway: Hoehyeon Station, Exit 5)
Lunch ($10-$15) – Try bulgogi or a quick kimbap meal.

Afternoon:

Hongdae Street Art (Free) – Explore hipster cafes, graffiti art, and indie shops.
Ewha Women’s University Shopping ($20-$40) – Affordable fashion and accessories.

Evening:

Dinner ($15-$20) – Enjoy one last feast of Korean BBQ or hotpot.
Night Out in Hongdae (Drinks $15-$25) – Dance and celebrate the end of your trip!

Day 5 Budget Breakdown:

Attractions: Free
Food: $30-$40
Transport: $10
Shopping (optional): $20-$50

Final Budget Summary (5 Days Total):

Expense Type	Budget Range ($)
Accommodation	150 - 400
Food	100 - 200
Transport	50
Attractions	120 - 250
Shopping	50 - 150 (optional)
Total Estimate:	$470 - $1,050

Money-Saving Tips:

Get a T-Money Card: Saves you money on public transport.
Eat at Markets: Gwangjang and Namdaemun have budget-friendly, delicious meals.
Look for Free Attractions: Parks, temples, and scenic walks don’t cost a thing!
Stay in Guesthouses: Budget-friendly and a great way to meet fellow travelers.
Plan Shopping Smart: Dongdaemun and Ewha are affordable shopping districts.

This budget-friendly itinerary lets you experience the best of Seoul without overspending, ensuring maximum fun and unforgettable memories. Enjoy your trip! 🎉

Beyond K-Lingo