A Budget-Friendly 6-Day Itinerary for Seoul: Travel, Food, and Experiences

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Seoul is the capital of South Korea and is a city that has a great history, advanced technology, and a lively culture. This destination is surely in the bucket list of most people. In this article, we will help you to plan your 6 days trip in Seoul which includes the attractions, transportation tips, sample budget, cost of meals and entry fees. You can avoid using up most of your time and money by planning well. Let’s dive into the details!

Getting Around Seoul

Public transport in Seoul is very good and people can easily move from one area of the city to another. For this trip, one can buy a Climate Card for ₩15,000 (around ₱630) which gives the card holder an all you can use pass to the subway system for 5 days. The AREX Express Train from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station costs ₱376 which is convenient to book in advance.

Estimated Daily Budget

During your time in Seoul, expect to spend around ₱2,500 to ₱3,000 per day, which includes:

Meals: ₱350–₱500 per meal at mid-range restaurants or food stalls.

Street Food: ₱150–₱250 for snacks like tteokbokki or odeng.

Attractions: Many landmarks and cultural sites are free, while others have minimal fees.

Day 1: Arrival in Seoul

14:25: Departure from NAIA.

19:30: Arrival at Incheon Airport. From there, take the AREX Express Train to Seoul Station (₱376), followed by a subway ride to Yeongdeungpo Station (₱52).

21:00: Check-in at Fairfield by Marriott Seoul. Spend the evening settling in and enjoying dinner nearby for approximately ₱400.

Estimated spending for Day 1: ₱900 (including transport and dinner).

Day 2: Gangnam Adventures

8:00: Start the day by heading to Gangnam, a district known for its trendy shopping spots and modern landmarks. Take the subway from Yeongdeungpo to Gangnam Station.

Garosu-gil Shopping Street: Explore this chic area lined with boutiques and cafes.

Goto Mall: One of Seoul’s largest underground shopping centers for budget finds.

COEX Mall: Visit this massive mall for more shopping, food, and entertainment.

Bongeunsa Temple: Take a break from the hustle with a peaceful visit to this centuries-old temple.

Lotte World Tower: End the day with panoramic views from the 123rd floor (₱1,250).

Estimated food budget for the day: ₱1,500 (₱500 per meal).

Total estimated spending for Day 2: ₱3,354 (including transport, food, and entry to Lotte World Tower).

Day 3: Cultural Highlights and Hongdae

8:00: Take the subway to Gyeongbokgung Station and start the day with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of Seoul’s most iconic historical sites. Entrance is free, and don’t miss the National Folk Museum, also located within the palace grounds.

Hanbok Rental: Dress up in traditional Korean attire for ₱350 and take photos around the Bukchon Hanok Village, a charming area filled with traditional Korean houses.

Gwanghwamun Square: See the statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin.

Ewha Womans University: A beautiful campus to stroll through, free of charge.

Hongdae: Finish the day in Hongdae, a youth-filled neighborhood known for street performances, quirky shops, and trendy cafes.

Estimated food budget: ₱1,500.

Total estimated spending for Day 3: ₱2,604 (including transport, food, and hanbok rental).

Day 4: Dongdaemun and N Seoul Tower

Start your day at Dongdaemun with a visit to the Dongdaemun History and Culture Park and explore the vibrant Dongdaemun Market.

Next, head to Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, a hidden gem known for its charming cafes and boutique shops.

Continue your adventure to Insadong, where you can shop for traditional crafts and enjoy Korean tea.

Visit Cheonggyecheon Stream, a tranquil modern stream that flows through the heart of the city.

For an elevated experience, ride the Namsan Cable Car (₱610) and head to N Seoul Tower for sweeping views of Seoul.

Estimated food budget: ₱1,500.

Total estimated spending for Day 4: ₱2,812 (including transport, food, and Namsan Cable Car).

Day 5: Relaxation at Spadium 24

Spadium 24 in Namyangju is the perfect spot to unwind. For ₱534, enjoy a 6-hour spa experience that includes saunas, hot baths, and relaxation areas.

You’ll need to budget for transport and meals as well, with around ₱1,500 for food.

Total estimated spending for Day 5: ₱2,084.

Day 6: Departure from Seoul

12:00: After checking out of your hotel, head to Seoul Station from Yeongdeungpo Station for your final subway ride.

Lunch: Enjoy your last meal in Seoul for around ₱500.

16:00: Take the AREX Express Train to Incheon Airport (₱376).

20:30: Flight back to Manila.

Total estimated spending for Day 6: ₱928 (including transport and lunch).

Overall Budget for the Trip

Here’s a breakdown of your estimated expenses for 6 days in Seoul:

Climate Card for Train Transportation: ₱630

AREX Express Train and Subway Rides: ₱1,500

Meals: ₱8,000 (based on ₱350–₱500 per meal)

Attractions and Miscellaneous: ₱2,744

Total estimated spending for 6 days in Seoul: ₱12,874.

By using public transportation and planning meals and attractions carefully, you can enjoy all the wonders of Seoul without breaking the bank. This itinerary balances cultural exploration, shopping, and relaxation while keeping your budget in check.

To book your Seoul, South Korea accommodation and activities, click here.

Enjoy your trip!

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