Seoul for 12 hours, best things to do?

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munkin
munkin

Hi,

We will be stopping for a long layover in Seoul on the way to Vietnam. We'll have approx. 12 hours to kill and were thinking about jetting down to Seoul from Icheon Intnl. Airport on the express train or whatever is most convenient.

We're looking for suggestions of what would be highlights or must sees in this time span? Also, any great areas for food stalls or great food haunts,local style? Seoul looks real modern and set up but any gems or savvy traveler tips would be greatly appreciated!!

Thanks!

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phiby
phiby

I would vote for one or more of the palaces, the biggest and most impressive being Gyeongbokgung right downtown. There is a metro stop right next to it. Stroll down the Saejong daero boulevard just to get a feel for modern Seoul. If you go up into the neighborhoods behind the palace, there are lots of quaint shops and tea rooms. The Korean War Museum is also fantastic.

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munkin
munkin

Thanks Phiby,

Unfortunately that big palace is closed on Tuesday's according to the website which is when we'll be there of all days, but we'll look into others.

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violets
violets

I really liked the Korean national museum, or you might consider going to the baths and having a scrub and massage. There's a good one near Seoul station.

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livelearntravelteach
livelearntravelteach

I would recommend one of the palaces and perhaps Namdaemun Market . It is a bustling traditional Korean market with EVERYTHING for sale. You can pick up some authentic Korean snacks and shop around. Personally I ate and just browsed while taking in the craziness. Namsan is also a great option, especially if you'll have a nighttime view. You can read about them all and see pictures on my blog.
Namsan/Seoul Tower My favorite palaces were Gyeongbukgung , Deoksugung , & Changdeokgung ,

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