Welcome to Seoul, where history dances with modernity, and every corner hides something delicious! April is one of the best months to visit, as cherry blossoms paint the city pink and the weather is a delightful mix of sunny days and cool breezes. Ready for a week of fun? Let’s go Seoul Searching!
| Korea’s Official name | Republic of Korea |
| Seoul’s Official Name | Seoul Special Metropolitan City (서울특별시, Seoul Teukbyeolsi) |
| Population | 10,004,800 (2024)- United Nations |
| Currency | South Korean Won (KRW) |
| Weather in April | Sunny and crisp, around 12-18°C (54-64°F) |
| Apps to Download | I have a list of apps that can be helpful in Korea. Click here! These are the ones I used the most! Naver Map (Google Maps struggles in Korea)KakaoTalk (for messaging and taxis)Papago (translation app) |
| Best Known For | Gyeongbokgung PalaceInsadong neighborhoodMyeong-dong district (fashion, cosmetics)Namsan Tower (Seoul Tower)COEX Mall (The Starfield Library)DMX (The Demilitarized Zone)K-POP Culture 🙂 |
| Language/Simple Greetings | Korean“annyeong” (hello) and “kamsahamnida” (thank you) |
Day 1: Annyeong, Seoul!
Morning: Land in Seoul and check into a cozy hanok (traditional Korean house) in Bukchon Hanok Village.
Lunch: Head to Gwangjang Market for bibimbap or a plate of crispy bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes).
Afternoon: Stroll along Insadong’s artsy streets. Pick up unique souvenirs like hand-painted fans.
Evening: Watch the sunset at Namsan Seoul Tower and lock a love padlock at the top.
Day 2: Cherry Blossoms and Royal Vibes
Morning: Explore the Gyeongbokgung Palace in hanbok (you can rent one nearby for Insta-worthy photos). Don’t miss the royal guard changing ceremony!
Lunch: Try a hearty bowl of samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) at Tosokchon Samgyetang.
Afternoon: Wander through Yeouido Hangang Park, where cherry blossoms create a fairytale vibe. Rent a bike and cruise along the Han River.
Evening: Indulge in Korean BBQ at Maple Tree House in Itaewon.
Day 3: Gangnam Glam
Morning: Visit Bongeunsa Temple, a peaceful retreat amidst Gangnam’s skyscrapers.
Mid-Morning: Strike a pose at the Gangnam Style Statue (Gangnam Hands) in front of COEX Mall. Channel your inner Psy and snap some fun, over-the-top photos!
Lunch: Dig into galbi-jjim (braised beef ribs) at Wooraeok, a Gangnam gem.
Afternoon: Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa experience at SPA 1899 DONGINBI, where the luxurious red ginseng treatments will leave you feeling refreshed. Read about my rating on this Spa here.
Stroll through COEX Mall and visit the stunning Starfield Library.
Evening: Shop til you drop along Garosu-gil, known for its trendy boutiques and chic cafes.Dinner: Wrap up with a feast of Korean BBQ at Maple Tree House in Itaewon.
Day 4: Foodie Frenzy in Hongdae
Morning: Explore Hongdae’s vibrant streets and street art.
Brunch: Sip on a fluffy Dalgona latte at Cafe Cheongsudang. After much research, I chose this cafe for their traditional Korean teas and contemporary cafe culture. (Keep in mind, most cafes open around 10:30 am, including this one).
Afternoon: Play claw machines, shop for quirky finds, and enjoy live street performances.
Snack: Try hotteok (sweet pancakes) from a street vendor.
Dinner: Dive into Korean fried chicken and beer at BBQ Olive Chicken Cafe.
You can’t leave Korea without having Korean fried chicken… it’s delicious and on a whole other level of yummy!!
Day 5: Day Trip to Suwon or DMZ
Option 1: Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
Explore this UNESCO site and learn about Korea’s Joseon Dynasty.
Don’t leave without tasting Suwon-style galbi (grilled short ribs).
Option 2: DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)
Join a tour to the DMZ and peek into North Korea from the observation deck.
Learn about Korean history and the significance of this border.
Evening: Return to Seoul and wind down at Dragon Hill Spa for a relaxing jjimjilbang (Korean sauna) experience.
I decided to do the DMZ tour to learn more about the history behind North and South Korea. A division due to the Korean War lasting three years. The conflicts still exist until today and if you are not familiarized with what happened during this time until present day, I suggest you read more about it. It was really sad to hear the stories and learn of the conflicts leading up to today’s current situation.
Day 6: Shop, Snack, and Say Goodbye
Morning: Head to Myeongdong for last-minute K-beauty shopping and street food galore. Try tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and egg bread.
Lunch: Feast on jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles) at Jinjjajang.
Afternoon: Visit COEX Mall for some indoor shopping and the Instagram-famous library.Evening: Take one last stroll along the Han River and reflect on your amazing trip before heading to Incheon Airport.
Where to stay in Seoul
I stayed at Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong. It was Nestled in the heart of Seoul’s most historic and artsy neighborhoods. I loved the walking distance to Gyeongbokgung Palace and to the historical parts of Seoul I was looking for. The rooms are spacious with comfy beds and a cute rooftop bar to enjoy. Rating: 9/10.
1. Budget-Friendly Stays ($30–$70 per night)
[Budget Option] Insadong Hostel
Location: Insadong
Vibe: Clean, cozy, and centrally located. Perfect for exploring palaces and traditional streets.
Perks: Free breakfast, rooftop views, and easy access to subway lines.
[Budget Option] Bong House
Location: Hongdae
Vibe: Backpacker-friendly, lively neighborhood, great for meeting fellow travelers.
Perks: Affordable private rooms and dormitories, plus a fun atmosphere in the bustling Hongdae area.
[Budget Option] That House
Location: Myeongdong
Vibe: A small guesthouse with basic amenities, perfect for budget travelers exploring Seoul’s main shopping district.
Perks: Friendly staff and unbeatable proximity to Myeongdong’s food scene.
2. Middle-Income Stays ($70–$150 per night)
[Mid-Range Option] Nine Tree Hotel Myeongdong
Location: Myeongdong
Vibe: Modern and sleek, close to shopping streets and great street food.
Perks: Comfortable rooms, a quiet retreat after busy days, and easy access to public transport.
[Mid-Range Option] Hotel Skypark Kingstown Dongdaemun
Location: Dongdaemun
Vibe: A stylish hotel near Seoul’s famous night markets and fashion hubs.
Perks: Spacious rooms, rooftop views, and proximity to 24-hour shopping districts.
[Mid-Range Option] Glad Mapo
Location: Mapo
Vibe: Contemporary design with convenient subway access, perfect for exploring Seoul’s cultural and foodie spots. Perks: Excellent breakfast buffet and a quieter neighborhood feel.
3. Luxury Stays ($200+ per night)
[Luxury Option] Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
Location: Gwanghwamun
Vibe: Opulent and refined, with a mix of traditional Korean aesthetics and modern luxury.
Perks: Multiple fine-dining restaurants, a world-class spa, and stunning views of Gyeongbokgung Palace.
[Luxury Option] Signiel Seoul
Location: Lotte World Tower, Jamsil
Vibe: Ultra-luxury, located in one of the tallest buildings in Korea with panoramic views.
Perks: Exclusive access to premium facilities, such as an infinity pool overlooking Seoul, and top-tier service.
[Luxury Option] Andaz Seoul Gangnam
Location: Gangnam
Vibe: Chic, artsy, and in the heart of Seoul’s trendiest district.
Perks: Incredible design, an upscale spa, and easy access to Gangnam’s cafes, boutiques, and nightlife.
Pro Tips for April in Seoul
Book your stay early as April is cherry blossom season and hotels can fill up quickly.
For budget travelers, consider guest houses or hostels near subway stations to save on transportation.
Middle and luxury options often include cherry blossom views, so ask about them when booking!
Cherry Blossom Hotspots: Yeouido Hangang Park, Seoul Forest, and Seokchon Lake.
Budget-Friendly Eats: Kimbap (Korean sushi rolls) and tteokbokki from convenience stores are cheap and yummy!
It is impossible not to feel like you lived a little slice of magic- whether it was feasting on sizzling Korean BBQ, twirling under beautiful cherry blossoms, or channeling your inner K-POP star. Seoul is a city that knows how to balance the buzz of modern life with a serene, historic charm, all wrapped up in unbeatable hospitality. I hope you consider packing your bags, grab your K-ETA (because you’ll need this for sure) and let Seoul steal your heart this spring.
