You only have one day in Seoul!

Finally, you're in Seoul! Welcome! Alright, now that you've arrived, you'll need some breakfast (and coffee!) to fuel up and get ready for your adventures. Fortunately, in Seoul, we not only have fantastic coffee but also plenty of breakfast options.

The natural choice – hotel breakfast – is not something we're dismissing at all; but if you've decided to look for something beyond the hotel's confines, Seoul is a great place for breakfast. I would recommend starting somewhere around Myeongdong or the "Bell Street" of Jongno, or in the administrative district near the main gate of Gyeongbok Palace, such as Junggakdong; in the morning, diligent Koreans rush to work, and many prefer to grab a bite not at home, but right before the office; hence, the central office districts are excellent places for breakfast. If you're into good coffee, a perfect start to your day would be at the Paul Bassett chain (for example, near Exit 2 of Jonggak Station; or near Gyeongbok Palace at 50 Junggakdong Jongno-1-gil). Modern Gimpap, near Exit 3 of Gyeongbokgung Station, offers you traditional Korean "gimbap" rolls, and their energy will last you until lunch. If none of these options suit you, you can also consider the exits of the subway stations at Jonggak, Jongno-3-ga, and Myeongdong. As I mentioned, office workers also orient themselves around these stations!

Hotel or not, I hope you're well-prepared for our next step!

Seoul City Hall, palaces, historic Sunnemun city gates, Namdaemun Market, Myeongdong district, artificial stream Cheonggyecheon, Buddhist temple Jogyesa, leisurely areas Insadong, Bukchon, Seochon – all located in the center of Seoul are within walking distance! You won't even need transportation to move between them.

Of course, if you have a little time – a walking tour with us will open your eyes to modern and old Seoul; we'll stroll through the city's most significant landmarks; besides, the guide can provide a lot of information about your further (independent) travel. Learn more here and book your tour!

Where would you be in Seoul without it! By the way, which one exactly? And how do they differ?

First of all - their operating days. All palaces are closed on Mondays except Gyeongbokgung, which is closed on Tuesdays.

If, for some reason, your palace visit is postponed to the evening – Changgyeonggung (창경궁) or Deoksugung (덕수궁) – are your choices: they remain open even after sunset, offering you a magical illuminated stroll filled with romance. Deoksugung is a bit smaller, but it's the imperial one! On the other hand, Gyeongbokgung is simply royal, albeit the largest (and main) of them all.

Changdeokgung - smaller compared to Gyeongbokgung; however, it's the one that made it to UNESCO's World Heritage list.

Perhaps, that's enough, or else your head might start spinning from all these palaces!

The lyrics of the song "Gangnam Style" in Korean language ironically reflect the lifestyle and style of the Gangnam district in Seoul - one of the most fashionable and affluent neighborhoods in the city. The term "Gangnam" in this context is used to signify high fashion, luxury, and status.

That's where we're headed. Since we have limited time, we'll use the subway. You can learn how to use the subway here.

We'll need one of the following stations (both are on the 2nd, green line):

• Jamsil: perfect for Step 6 (tower/stroll/shopping)
• Samsung: no tower, but everything else is available.

So, you've reached the COEX or Lotte World mall. Before you start lunch, take a moment to walk around. Immerse yourself and treat yourself at the COEX or Lotte World Mall.

If you've arrived at COEX (Samsung Station), take a stroll to Bongeunsa, a picturesque Buddhist temple just across the street from COEX. Grab a bite or dine at one of the numerous restaurants in Starfield COEX Mall (all entertainment is on B1 - the first basement floor). Don't miss Gourmet Street, the creative Korean cuisine restaurant backkop house, local Korean cuisine at GEUM BOK DANG, or the gastropub Devil's Door. As mentioned earlier, you'll also find Paul Bassett and Starbucks at COEX. Looking for something unique in terms of coffee? How about GABAEDO - the "Coffee Island"? You'll find excellent artisan tiramisu here. As you can see, COEX offers a vibrant atmosphere with a diverse selection of dishes.

At Lotte World Tower/Mall, you'll also find plenty to indulge in. On the 81st floor, you'll discover Michelin-starred restaurants - modern Korean cuisine at Bicena or French cuisine at STAY by Yannick; you can also stop for a glass of wine at Bar81. Perhaps after visiting one of these establishments, you won't need our Step 6?

In the mall, you can explore one of the numerous eateries, restaurants, or cafes: Seoul 3080 (from the 1930s to the 1980s), exotic options on 29 Street, and cafes intertwined with shops in the 3355-zone.

It's time to head up to the Lotte World Tower that boasts several Guinness World Records!

If you are still in COEX Mall - take the subway to Jamsil station; it will only take you about 10 minutes.

In the first basement floor (B1) of the Lotte World Mall complex, look for the Seoul Sky sign - this is the name of the observation deck at the very, very top of the Lotte World Tower. It's worth it: great views of Seoul, lots of activities, from the elevator, which is included in the Guinness Book of Records, and ending with the opportunity (for an additional fee) to walk between the two "horns" of the tower. Upstairs you will have the opportunity to have a drink and a cup of coffee "with a view".

Please note that you are arriving by high-speed elevator to the 117th floor; and back must go from the 120th floor.

To reach the Han River waterfront in the Banpo area, it will take you about 50 minutes: directly under the Lotte World Tower, take the subway (Line 2, Chamshil Station); at Seoul National University of Education Station, transfer to the orange (Line 3) line and travel one stop to Seoul Express Bus Terminal Station. Take Exit 8-1; it's about a 10-minute walk to the riverside park.

The waterfront near Banpo Bridge has become famous for its unique fountain, which transforms into a stunning spectacle in the evenings known as the "Moonlight Rainbow Fountain Show."

What awaits us on the waterfront?

• Moonlight Rainbow Fountain Show: As soon as darkness falls, the fountains on the Banpo waterfront turn into true works of art. Water creates shapes illuminated by colorful beams of light. This spectacle is accompanied by music that creates an emotional and romantic atmosphere.
• City Silhouettes: The sunset lighting makes the silhouettes of buildings and bridges along the waterfront more expressive. You'll be able to enjoy the beauty of the cityscape of Itaewon and Banpo neighborhoods and architectural details against the backdrop of the sunset hues.
• Romantic Atmosphere: The sunset on the Panpho waterfront creates a romantic and meditative atmosphere. Numerous couples, individuals, and families gather here to enjoy the beauty of nature and architecture in the embrace of the setting sun's rays.
• The sunset on the Han River waterfront in the Panpho area is a unique event that will leave you with unforgettable memories of the beauty of nature and human creativity.

Be aware:

• Rain: The fountain may be closed without warning due to rain.
• Daytime atmosphere: The fountain looks much more expressive during the nighttime.

From Banpo Bridge to "Grand Pear Gardens" - Itaewon - you can get either on foot (about an hour) or by taxi (10-15 minutes). It is THE place to enjoy:

• Dessert in Itaewon:

Itaewon is a true paradise for lovers of delicious sweets. You'll find numerous cafes and restaurants offering a variety of desserts to satisfy every palate. From classic Korean desserts like bingsu (sherbet) with various fillings and toppings to modern creative interpretations of sweet dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to taste their diversity and enjoy unique flavor combinations.

• Drink in Itaewon:

Itaewon is known for its diverse selection of bars and establishments offering various drinks. If you're into cocktails, you won't have to search for long. You can find both classic cocktails and bartender's original creations that amaze with their uniqueness and flavor combinations. We recommend taking a stroll along Itaewon 27ga-gil (an alley located just behind the Hamilton Hotel) - look for a roof-top bar - and you won't be disappointed!

• Dinner in Itaewon:

Itaewon is a true culinary mix, and this is reflected in the dinner options. Here, you'll find restaurants with cuisines from different parts of the world – from Italian and Japanese to Mexican and Turkish. So, whether you want to try something new and exotic or enjoy classic dishes, you'll definitely have plenty to choose from.

No matter which option you decide to enjoy in Itaewon – dessert, drink, or dinner – you'll have a chance to explore a true variety of flavors and cultural influences that make this area so unique and fascinating for food enthusiasts.

In the Hondae area, the night truly transforms the surroundings, turning it into a captivating world of entertainment and opportunities. Here are some aspects of the nightlife that make Hondae so unique:

The nightlife in Hondae is in full swing thanks to the diversity of clubs and bars. There's a place for everyone here, seeking musical rhythms and fun until the early hours.

Pedestrian Streets: At night, the streets of Hondae turn into magical alleys. Pedestrian zones, cafes, shops, and street artists give this area an atmosphere of celebration and freedom.

Unique Cafes: From cafes with the ambiance of J. K. Rowling's books to cafes with meerkats, wallabies, and other exotic animals, Hondae offers a range of distinctive cafe experiences.

No matter how you choose to spend your nights in Hondae – dancing at a club, enjoying a cocktail with a city view, or immersing yourself in cultural events – you will undoubtedly immerse yourself in a unique atmosphere that makes the nightlife of this area truly unforgettable.