Seoul – a place where centuries-old palaces meet futuristic architecture, where street food stalls are as important as skin care shops, and where the nearest 7-Eleven is never far away. For a week, we will be immersed in a world of K-drama romance, royal history and vibrant neighbourhoods.
Day 1: Frankfurt to Seoul non-stop!
12 hours. No stopovers. Once around the globe. The flight from Frankfurt to Seoul is long, but surprisingly relaxed. Films, snacks, naps – at some point you lose track of time completely. We are kept awake by the thought of what awaits us: Neon lights, palaces, 7-Elevens.
Day 2: Landing, lights & 7-Eleven
The plane touches down on Korean soil just in time for lunch. As soon as we leave the airport, it is clear that Seoul never sleeps. We head straight to the hotel in the Insadong district – a mix of traditional and trendy shops. Tiredness is in our bones, but we know: If we sleep now, the jet lag will be relentless tomorrow.
So it’s time to take a relaxed stroll, beat the jet lag and, most importantly, explore the legendary 7-Eleven again! TikTok has prepared us and the snacks don’t disappoint: onigiri, crazy drinks, sweet desserts. We return to the hotel full and happy. Bedtime!
Day 3: Seoul between tradition and street food
The early bird gets the view, so we set off early for Bukchon Hanok Village. The traditional houses look like a film set. Perfect for getting to know Seoul from its original side: the narrow alleys, the curved roofs, the quiet atmosphere. And less tourists in the morning. We discover our first souvenirs in a small shop!
We continue to one of the most famous landmarks: Gyeongbokgung Palace. As soon as we enter the grounds, it becomes clear why this place is so impressive. There are spacious courtyards, ornate pavilions and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Here you can immerse yourself in the history of Korea.
After a short breather (and another stop at 7-Eleven, of course!), head to the Myeongdong Night Market in the evening. Food heaven! Taste test at its finest – fried chicken, garlic bread with cheese, candied fruit. The perfect ending? A stroll through the illuminated streets back to the hotel.
Day 4: Palace colours and coffee dreams
The jet lag is a little more noticeable today. No wonder, after all the running and sensory overload of the last few days. So: a slow start. We drift through the quiet streets, enjoying the mix of traditional shops and modern boutiques. Just walking around here feels like sightseeing.
Around noon, we head to the next palace: Changdeokgung. As soon as we enter, we notice how much quieter it is compared to Gyeongbokgung. The palace complex is huge and it is almost impossible to keep track of everything – in a good way. The colours of the wooden decorations are a particular highlight: lush green, bright red and intricate patterns in between.
After so much culture, you need caffeine. Luckily, the hip Café Onion is nearby. As soon as you walk in, you can see why it’s so popular: minimalist industrial design meets the best croissants we’ve had in a long time. Everything is homemade and lovingly prepared! We end the day in comfort. A short walk through Insadong and off we go: 7-Eleven, ramen, feet up.
Day 5: Book dreams come true
Today we start the day with history and spirituality: our first destination is Jongmyo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Jongmyo impresses with its simplicity and size, while many other shrines are colourful and elaborately decorated. The long paths and spacious courtyards have an almost meditative effect. You can feel the respect for ancestors that is so deeply rooted in Korean culture as you stroll around, immersed in the history of the Joseon Dynasty and enjoying the tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle.
Then the mood changes completely as we head to the young and colourful Hongdae district!
As soon as you arrive, you’ll feel like you’re in a different Seoul. Street musicians, colourful graffiti, small boutiques, hip cafes – the area is a hotspot for creativity and youth culture. We let ourselves drift. We browse through vintage shops, try street food here and there, and discover unusual clothing stores. Even if we don’t find anything special this time, we still have a great time.
In the afternoon, we visit another highlight that has long been on our list: the Starfield Library in the COEX Mall complex. And what can we say – wow! Huge shelves reaching up to the ceiling, a sea of books framed by futuristic design. There are cosy reading corners and a café, of course, but just gawping is enough. Books to the ceiling – a place to linger for hours. Just wow.
Day 6: Dumplings and temples
The day starts on a culinary note with breakfast at Chongsudang Café – minimalist, beautiful and delicious. Then it’s on to probably the best dumplings of the trip at chang.hwa.dang. Addictive!
Freshly fortified, we head to Bongeunsa Temple.
Nestled between modern high-rises, this place seems almost surreal. Huge Buddha statues, colourful lanterns, the scent of incense – we take our time, wander around and enjoy the silence.
In the afternoon we are drawn to the Lotte Tower – the sixth tallest building in the world. We wanted to go up to the observation deck, but the view wasn’t supposed to be that good today. Instead, we spontaneously change our plans and treat ourselves to a classic Korean BBQ in the evening. Meat, side dishes, grilled at the table: the perfect end to the day.
Day 7: Skyline Take Two
The last full day starts at Soha Salt Pond Café. Stylish, salty-sweet, perfect for a relaxed breakfast.
Then it’s skincare shopping time at Olive Young. Facial masks, toners, serums – once you’re in Seoul, the beauty options are endless. We stock up.
In the afternoon we try the Lotte Tower again. This time we decide to go for it. Although the view is a little hazy, the feeling of standing above the city is still great. Perfect for one last panoramic view of the city that has so quickly captivated us.
Day 8: Annyeong, Seoul – Off to Japan!
One last 7-Eleven in Korea, one last look at Seoul. Then it’s time to pack up bags and move on. Next stop: Japan!
Seoul has shown us how perfectly old and new, tranquillity and chaos, tradition and trend can coexist. From our first snack in a convenience store to our last visit to a temple, this city has surprised and inspired us, and we’re sure we haven’t seen the last of it.
