Oct 25, 2024 | Richard-Watkins
Myeongdong is one of Seoul’s primary shopping districts, featuring a wide variety of stores, from high-end boutique shops to trendy street stalls. This bustling area is famous for its vibrant culture, excellent food options, and proximity to significant landmarks. You'll also find beauty stores and cafes, making it an indispensable stop for tourists.
Myeongdong has been a central urban space since the early 20th century and evolved into a shopping hub in the 1970s.
Myeongdong is known for its mix of traditional and modern cultures; it's an economic hotspot thanks to tourism and retail.
December in Seoul is quite chilly with average temperatures ranging from -2°C to 4°C. It is advisable to dress in warm layers, and chances of snow add a picturesque touch to the cityscape. Be prepared for cold winds and shorter daylight hours, making cozy indoor shopping a great way to stay warm.
While Myeongdong is bustling year-round, December offers a unique charm with festive decorations and winter sales. The cold weather makes it an ideal time for indulging in warm street food and enjoying the holiday atmosphere.
16 December, 2024
Myeongdong Shopping Street, Myeong-dong, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
Check-in at the hotel located in the heart of Myeongdong, enabling easy access to the shopping streets and nearby attractions.
$100
Ensure to carry identification and booking details for a smooth check-in process.
1 hour
Enjoy a traditional Korean meal at one of the local restaurants. Myeongdong offers a range of options, from street food to fine dining.
$20
Opt for set meals for the best experience, and inform the staff of any dietary restrictions.
1 hour
Visit the historic Myeongdong Cathedral, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and a calm retreat from the bustling streets.
Free
Check the cathedral's visiting hours and respect the religious site's decorum.
1 hour
Begin your shopping adventure with a stroll down Myeongdong Shopping Street. Explore the vast array of cosmetic shops and trendy boutiques.
$200
Bargaining is common; use cash for better deals, though credit cards are widely accepted.
3 hours
End your day with a delicious Korean BBQ dinner, complete with various meats and side dishes known as 'banchan'.
$50
Make reservations in advance, and ensure that the selected restaurant has good reviews.
2 hours
17 December, 2024
Myeongdong Shopping Street, Myeong-dong, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café in Myeongdong.
$15
Try traditional Korean breakfast options like 'juk' (rice porridge).
1 hour
Visit the grandest of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces. Explore its beautiful pavilions, gardens, and museums.
$10
Wear comfortable walking shoes and plan for the changing of the guard ceremony.
2 hours
Drive to Insadong for lunch and soak in the traditional Korean ambiance with art shops and antique stores.
$20
Sample traditional Korean dishes and street food.
1 hour
Discover the charm of Bukchon Hanok Village with its traditional Korean houses. It's a great place for photographs and cultural immersion.
Free
Check for guided tours to learn more about the village’s history.
2 hours
Return to Myeongdong for dinner followed by the Nanta Show, a non-verbal comedy performance based on traditional Korean percussion.
$60
Book tickets in advance to secure your seats for the show.
3 hours
18 December, 2024
Myeongdong Shopping Street, Myeong-dong, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
Enjoy breakfast within walking distance of your hotel in Myeongdong, at a cozy café.
$15
Try Korean pastries and coffee.
1 hour
Take a cable car ride up to Namsan Mountain and visit N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the city.
$15
Check the weather for clear skies and bring a camera for photos.
2 hours
Have lunch at the revolving restaurant in N Seoul Tower, offering spectacular city views.
$30
Make a reservation for the best dining experience.
1.5 hours
Descend from N Seoul Tower and explore Namsangol Hanok Village, a reconstructed village portraying traditional Korean life.
$5
Participate in workshops if available, and learn about traditional Korean crafts.
2 hours
End the day with dinner in Itaewon, known for its international cuisine and vibrant nightlife.
$40
Choose a restaurant based on your cuisine preference for a diverse dining experience.
2 hours
19 December, 2024
Myeongdong Shopping Street, Myeong-dong, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
Quick breakfast at the hotel before departing for the DMZ tour.
$15
Eat a light but energizing breakfast and carry bottled water.
1 hour
Join an organized tour to the Demilitarized Zone, including visits to key sites such as Dorasan Station and the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel.
$50
Ensure to follow all guidelines given by your tour guide for safety.
4 hours
Have lunch in a local restaurant near the DMZ area; many tours include a lunch stop.
$20
Check if the tour package includes lunch; if not, carry snacks.
1 hour
Drive back to Seoul, arriving in the late afternoon. Utilize this time to rest or review photos from the day.
Free
Relax during the drive and prepare for evening activities.
2 hours
Dine at a restaurant overlooking the Han River, followed by an evening cruise showcasing Seoul’s illuminated cityscape.
$60
Book the cruise in advance and dress warmly for the night breeze.
3 hours
20 December, 2024
Myeongdong Shopping Street, Myeong-dong, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
Enjoy a relaxing breakfast in one of the numerous local cafes in Myeongdong.
$15
Try a different café each day for variety.
1 hour
Spend the day at Lotte World, an indoor theme park featuring rides, an ice-skating rink, and several shopping options.
$70
Check the park map and plan your visit to cover maximum attractions.
5 hours
After enjoying the theme park, head to the adjacent Lotte Department Store for high-end shopping and dining.
$200
Utilize Lotte World’s lockers for your purchases if needed.
2 hours
End the day with a fine dining experience in one of the restaurants in Lotte World Tower offering panoramic views of Seoul.
$80
Make reservations to avoid any wait times.
2 hours
Return to your hotel in Myeongdong and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.
Free
Plan the next day’s activities and rest early.
30 minutes
21 December, 2024
Myeongdong Shopping Street, Myeong-dong, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
A simple breakfast at the hotel to start your last day in Seoul.
$15
Ensure you have packed and checked out of the hotel on time.
1 hour
Spend your last morning exploring Namdaemun Market, Seoul’s largest traditional market, and grab some last-minute souvenirs.
$50
Maintain a budget and haggle wisely.
2 hours
Enjoy your final meal in Myeongdong at a restaurant you haven't tried yet.
$30
Opt for familiar dishes to avoid any travel discomfort.
1 hour
Take a last stroll through Myeongdong Shopping Street and make any remaining purchases.
$50
Use your remaining travel cash for small mementos.
1.5 hours
Return to the hotel, collect your luggage, and prepare for departure to the airport.
Free
Check your flight details and book a taxi or airport transfer in advance.
2 hours
Travel Requirement
Carry a universal adapter.
Learn basic Korean phrases.
Download a map and translation app.
Be mindful of local etiquettes.
Local Sayings
'Annyeonghaseyo' - Hello
'Kamsahamnida' - Thank you
'Joesonghamnida' - Sorry
Connectivity Info
Incheon International Airport to Myeongdong: 1 hour by taxi.
Gimpo International Airport to Myeongdong: 40 minutes by taxi.
Accept Currency + Payment Type
Currency: South Korean Won (KRW)
Credit cards widely accepted.
Nearby Shopping
Lotte Department Store
Shinsegae Department Store
Namdaemun Market
Safety Tips
Keep an eye on your belongings.
Avoid dimly lit areas at night.
Be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
Health & Medical Facilities
Seoul National University Hospital
International Clinic in Itaewon
Other Facilities
Free Wi-Fi hotspots around Myeongdong.
ATM machines available in shopping areas.
English-speaking tourist information centers.
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