how to visit seoul

• Go to the menu

The Visit Seoul website uses cookies to enhance the user experience, improve the website, and more.

Continuing use of this website means that you agree to the use of cookies.

• Seoulite's Picks

Exhibitions

• Smart & Safe Seoul Travel
• Facebook logo icon Instagram logo icon YouTube logo icon TikTok logo icon

Recommendations

• Seoul Hiking Tourism
• Seoulites' Picks

Seoul Guided Walking Tour

• Must Visit Places of Seoul
• Discover Seoul Pass(Tourist Card)
• One More Trip
• Seoul Tourism Plaza

Tourist Destinations

• Attractions
• Entertainment
• Restaurants

Explore by Area

• Gwanghwamun
• Other Areas

Travel Information

• Guidebooks & Maps

Seoul City Tour Bus

• Before You Go
• Travel Tips
• Seoul Danurim Tour
• Traveler Assistance

New Beginnings

A seoul kinda spring, flower sightseeing.

Spring scenic spots across the city

Spring for Everyone

Making an accessible Seoul spring

Picnic Time is Back

Picnic sights and sounds

Spring Sights & Sounds

Uidong valley.

Make your long-awaited return to nature

2024 Gyeongbokgung Starlight Tour

Experience the ancient stories of the palace while touring Gyeongbokgung Palace.

DISCOVER SEOUL PASS

Your First Choice, Discover Seoul Pass

Seoul City Tour Bus Guide and Usage

Walking tours led by tour guides

Social Media Channels

Spring at the 5 royal palaces in seoul, [seoul wow] 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 vol.1: sunday morning.

• visitseoul_official 𝕍𝕚𝕤𝕚𝕥 𝕊𝕖𝕠𝕦𝕝 𝕎𝕖𝕖𝕜𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕤. Get ready for a memorable night out at Moonlight Rooftop! ✨ Indulge in delicious dishes, groove to live music, and admire panoramic views of Seoul's landmarks. Remember to book your table early to secure your spot! 𝐆𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐡𝐰𝐚𝐦𝐮𝐧 𝐑𝐨𝐨𝐟𝐓𝐨𝐩 𝐁𝐁𝐐 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 📍 25F, Koreana Hotel, Seoul 🚃 Subway Line 5, Gwanghwamun Station, Exit 6 (Approx 163m on foot) | Subway Lines 1 & 2, City Hall Station, Exit 3 (Approx 249m on foot) 📅 March 26 - July 19 / Aug 20 - Oct 25 ⏰ Daily 6:00 pm - 10:30 pm (Last order at 9:00 pm) *Closed Mondays 🎵 Music Performances: Thursdays & Fridays 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm ✔️Reservation Required: 02-2171-7830 📷 @hotelkoreana
• visitseoul_official 𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑟𝑎𝑙 𝐹𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑠𝑦 & 𝑈𝑟𝑏𝑎𝑛 𝐷𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑠. Join us for a picnic amidst the vibrant tulip festival at Seoul Forest, where nature's beauty sets the stage for relaxation and adventure. Afterward, treat yourself to coffee, snacks, and the lively café scene of Seongsu. Indulge in a day filled with floral delights and urban exploration! 𝐒𝐞𝐨𝐮𝐥 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 📍 273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 🚃 Subway Line Suin-Bundang, Seoul Forest Station Exit 4 (Approx. 260m on foot) 𝐒𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐮-𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐭 📍 Seongsu-dong 2-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 🚃 Subway Line 2, Seongsu Station Exit 3 (Approx. 119m on foot) Thanks to our VS Crew 🫡 📷 @8ak8ak
• visitseoul_official 𝑆𝑒𝑜𝑢𝑙'𝑠 𝐺𝑟𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝑂𝑎𝑠𝑖𝑠. Welcome to Yongsan Family Park: where city life blends seamlessly with nature, offering a perfect retreat. Escape the urban hustle and bond amidst lush greenery, creating memories that last a lifetime. Plan your family day out now! 𝐘𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 ⏰ Open 24 hours 🚇 Subway Line 4, Ichon Station Exit 2 (Approx 724 m on foot) Thanks to our VS Crew 🫡 📷 @ssangdoong_
• visitseoul_official 𝑁𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑔𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑇𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑠𝑠 𝐴𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑦𝑠. Let‘s dive into Seoul’s rich past and present in Euljiro 3(sam)-ga! Discover Nogari Alley, where history and modern life blend seamlessly. From its humble beginnings in 1980 to its lively pub scene today, this spot is a must-see for anyone exploring Seoul‘s downtown. Join us for a stroll through time and taste the unique flavors of Hipjiro! 𝐄𝐮𝐥𝐣𝐢𝐫𝐨 𝐍𝐨𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐢 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐲 📍 15 Eulji-ro 13-gil, Euljiro 3(sam)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul 🚇 Subway Line 2 & 3, Euljiro 3(sam)-ga Station Exit 3 (Approx. 101m on foot) 🎥 @woodyfilm_
• visitseoul_official 𝑈𝑛𝑙𝑜𝑐𝑘 𝑆𝑒𝑜𝑢𝑙'𝑠 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑚. Discover Seoul's beauty on two wheels with Ttareungyi, your perfect bike companion! From must-see spots to secret treasures, our suggested routes unveil the city's charm. Plus, the user-friendly chatbot service makes using Ttareungyi a breeze for tourists. Let's hit the road and explore Seoul together! 𝟏. 𝐀𝐧𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐰𝐚𝐲 📍 488 Yangpyeong-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul 🚇 Subway Line 5, Yangpyeong Station Exit 1 (Approx. 638m on foot) 𝟐. 𝐉𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐜𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐝𝐚𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 📍 Jangchung-dong 2-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul 🚇 Subway Line 3, Dongguk University Station Exit 6 (Approx. 340m on foot) 𝟑. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐚 𝐃𝐚𝐞(𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐥𝐮𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞) 📍 1-30 Gungjeong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul 🚇 Subway Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station Exit 3 (Approx. 1.2km on foot) 𝟒. 𝐆𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐮 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 📍 83-106 Seonsa-ro, Gangdong-gu, Seoul 🚇 Subway Line 8, Amsa Station Exit 4 (Approx. 1.2km on foot)
• visitseoul_official 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑐𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑆𝑒𝑜𝑢𝑙’𝑠 𝑆𝑜𝑢𝑙. Calling all Hongdae lovers! There‘s a lot to do in Hongdae, especially this season. Come explore Seoul’s largest complex cultural space - the eight-floor HD Café (ㅎㄷ Café). From live performances to cozy cafés, it’s a part of Hongdae‘s creative scene. 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐱 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐞, ㅎㄷ 𝐂𝐚𝐟𝐞 📍 68 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul ⏰ Daily 11:00 am - 9:00 pm 🚇 Subway Line 2, Hongdae Station, Exit 9 (Approx. 634 m on foot) [Guide] ✔️ 1 drink per person - free access to all 8 floors

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

BEST First-Time Visitor’s Seoul Itinerary (3-7 Days)

Last Updated: Nov 11, 2023 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 2 Comments

South Korea is a land of mountains, palaces, and busy streets, and this 3 to 7 day Seoul itinerary will put you right in the middle of it all. With the city’s futuristic architecture and state-of-the-art technological advancements, people sometimes get culture shock when they see how integrated they are into more traditional lifestyles.

Everywhere you go, there’s always an event happening or a festival on, and there are plenty of surprises in store – especially if you visit any of the Seoul hotspots detailed below. But while Korea is truly a magical place, it’s far from what we see in the K-Dramas.

Fans often come here expecting to meet a dashing chaebol randomly in the streets (which is highly unlikely), and are disappointed when they’re not hit on in the nightclub. Dramas and idols are just a small fraction of Korean culture .

To truly experience it for yourself, you’ll have to immerse yourself in Seoul for 3 days or more, before heading further south. That way you’ll get to try everything Korea has to offer; from delicious food to astounding historical landmarks.

So if you’re figuring what to put in your Seoul itinerary, let us help you plan how many days in Seoul you should spend, and what to do and where to go during your South Korea vacation. Use the 'Jump To' box below to go to a specific section.

Basics of Travel in South Korea

How to maximize your seoul experience, faq about seoul, where to stay in seoul, seoul itinerary 3 days, seoul itinerary 7 days, tips for visiting seoul.

Visa: Most travelers will need a K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization ), applied for at least 72 hours before departure. If you needed a visa before, you'll need a K-ETA now. Note that from April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and several EU nations, can visit visa-free – no K-ETA required!

Currency: South Korean won ( KRW or ₩ )

Arrival in Korea: all international flights arrive at Incheon Airport (ICN), one of the best-rated airports in the world. It usually takes about 1 hour to get through security & pick up checked bags.

Getting Around: Korea has an extensive & reliable public transport system. A refillable T-Money card is your ticket to buses and trains across the country; you can buy and refill yout TMoney card at any subways station or convenience store in Korea.

Internet & SIM Cards: Rent a Wi-Fi egg or purchase a prepaid Korean SIM card at the airport, available for up to one month of connection.

Travel Insurance: always recommended, though some credit card companies offers limited coverage when booking.

How many days should I spend in Seoul? While most guides will tell you that three days in Seoul is enough, we recommend that you stay in Seoul for a week.

But for those with tight budgets, we can help maximize your Seoul itinerary for as many days as you have, and thanks to the advanced metro system in Seoul, you’ll jump from one place to another without issue.

That being said, Seoul at night is a treat for the eyes, and most of the attractions in Seoul occur when the sun begins to set. Banpo Bridge, for example, has an incredible fountain show and the title of the World’s Longest LED-light display.

Around the same time each evening, stalls are set up where people enjoy delicious foods while waiting for fireworks to decorate the sky. The best part is, there’s a way to do all of these things in Seoul for free.

Simply purchase a Discover Seoul pass before your trip, and you can get into most of these attractions (once each) without worrying too much about your budget. There are three kinds of passes you can choose from (24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours), and even if you run out of hours, you can still use it to avail of discounts in any of the partner tourist attractions.

Other sites that provide discounts are kkday , Trazy and Klook .

Unfortunately, each attraction’s opening hours may change due to public holidays or unforeseen events. So if you follow this Seoul itinerary, please develop a habit of checking attractions’ schedules first if you don’t want to wait hours for a show that has already been cancelled.

For a solo traveler, a vacation in Seoul may cost between ₩1,000,000-2,000,000 ($800-1,600USD). This takes into account 3 meals a day, a public transport card, and a week in a hotel, which can all vary widely in price. The rest of your money will go to experiences and souvenirs.

The best time to visit Korea is from May to June and September to October, since this is the best time to see the cherry blossom trees bloom or watch the fall colors in the mountains. Moreover, the weather at this time is generally pleasant for locals and foreigners alike, making walking around more pleasant than in summer or winter.

Three days should be sufficient for a first trip to Korea, especially if you have a Discover Seoul pass , though one week is ideal. The pass enables you to visit key locations once for free, and best of all, get discounts on other destinations and experiences.

Here are the essentials to pack for Seoul: passport, credit cards, and travel medical insurance, as well as shorts, a sun hat, and tops with sleeves. Moreover, certain cellphones do not work in Korea, so you need to check if your phone is not region-locked or that it is equipped to intercept the networks provided in Korea, and possibly rent a phone for your trip.

Seoul is known for having culturally diverse neighborhoods, full of history, good food, and memorable experiences. There are several fantastic neighborhoods I'd recommend staying in when you visit Seoul.

There’s always something that will pique your interest, but you have to make sure that the neighborhood matches your preferences - since you might choose to add to your Seoul itinerary by experiencing the bustling Seoul nightlife .

Specifically in Ichon-dong, this is probably the most convenient place to look for accommodation, especially if you want something quick and cheap. This is also a convenient location if you want to visit the most popular areas in Seoul for free , like the National Museum of Korea, Yongsan Family Park, and Ichon Han River Park.

Creatives and digital natives love coming to this hub because this neighborhood is panned towards the younger crowd. If you’re reminiscing about your college days, this is the neighborhood in Seoul for you.

Cafés regularly host language exchange parties, coffee and pub crawls , and art appreciation guilds. Sometimes buskers hold small concerts in the streets, from late afternoon into the wee hours of night.

Rub elbows with the rich and famous by staying in this Seoul neighborhood . With large-scale suites with spectacular views of the Seoul night sky, this area boasts popular attractions for those with luxurious tastes.

Apgujeong-dong and Garuso-gil, for example, hold multiple high-end luxury chains with clothes made by internationally renowned designers, and worn by the famous K-Celebrities we know and love (like Lisa of BLACKPINK and V of BTS).

This is the city where tradition meets modernity, and you deserve to experience both sides during your 3 days in Seoul. This itinerary covers the basics and the must-sees of the city if you have limited time, with an optional extension to 7 days below.

Seoul Itinerary Day 1: Embracing Korea’s Traditional Side

Note: If your first day falls on a Monday or a Tuesday, you’ll want to move this day’s schedule to a later date— most of the palaces are closed on both those days.

Did you know that entry to any of the five Grand Palaces in Seoul is free when dressed in a hanbok ? Be sure to reserve a full day’s use online ahead of time to avoid the stress of long lines on the day of. The best thing about reserving online is that it also comes with a hefty discount.

Try checking the massive selection provided by the Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store , which actually has a Korean hairstyling service too! 

Stop 1: Gyeongbokgung Palace

Time: 9:30AM

Address: 161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩3,000, Children: ₩1,500; Groups have a discount, with ₩2,400 for Adults and ₩1,200 for children; It is free if you come wearing a hanbok.

The best way to start your day is to arrive at Gyeongbokgung Palace 30 minutes before it opens. That way you get to see the Opening Ceremony of the Palace Gates, and the procession that takes place as the guards shift their duties.

As you enter, the first thing you should do is fall in line to see Geunjeongjeon Hall. It’s quite a bit of a walk, and you’ll initially pass by the pumgyeseok (the markers court officials used to indicate where they should stand if the King calls for a meeting) before reaching the steps.

However, the view of the majestic ancient Korean architecture and the people wearing hanboks will make you feel like you have time-traveled all the way back to the Joseon Dynasty. As soon as you get to the red throne, you only have a few minutes to admire its splendor, so make sure to bring your camera with you.

If you’re able to join an English-language tour, your guide will certainly point out the parts of the palace that were heavily influenced by Chinese architecture , a fact quite revealing of the times.

Other notable parts of the palace are the Gyeonghoeru Pavillion, or what used to be the setting for lavish official banquets, and the beautiful Hyangwonjeong, a small temple-like structure on top of an artificial island on Hyangwonji Lake. 

There are plenty of things to do at Gyeongbokgung, but there’s a special tea ceremony that lets you drink the tea that delighted the King and Queen back then, and I’d highly recommend it. You’ll feel like royalty after just one sip. 

Stop 2: Hwangsaengga Kalguksu

Address: 78, Bukchon-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03053 South Korea

Prices: ₩₩-₩₩₩

Notorious for being the “best noodle and dumpling shop” near Gyeongbukgung Palace, expect long lines of people dying to have a taste. Since these dishes don’t take long to cook, people don’t have to wait long to try some of their most famous offerings, like the cold soybean soup or the rich ox bone noodles. 

Stop 3: National Palace Museum of Korea

Time: 2:00 PM

Address: 12 Hyoja-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Nearest Metro Stop: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 5)

Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, head back to the steps leading to the museum and walk further on in. This facility has everything you need if you wish to know more about Korea’s glorious and often difficult past.

Fourteen of Korea’s ‘National Treasures,’ including recovered pieces from the Joseon Dynasty and the Korean Empire, are housed in this free museum . Periodically they even host events to educate the people who come, usually involving activities like calligraphy, tea ceremonies , and even Korean traditional dance lessons.

Stop 4: Gwanghwamun Square

Time: 4:00PM

Fee: Adults: ₩3,000, Children: ₩1,500; Groups have a discount, with ₩2,400 for Adults and ₩1,200 for children.

This wide park is actually a huge commemoration site for the military strategist that led Koreans to victory during the Japanese invasion, Admiral Yi Sun-sin. His statue stands proudly next to the water fountain which entertains local kids every summer, and may be even more famous than the statue!

But this installation actually has a meaningful story behind it, because the water jets shoot exactly 18 meters high, with 300 smaller jets to symbolize the battles the Admiral fought on sea.

Meters away from the great admiral’s statue, an intimidating gold statue of Sejong the Great watches over you, perfect for taking selfies and startling visitors.

Stop 5: Cheonggyecheon Stream and Cheonggye Plaza

Time: 5:00PM

Address: 530 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul

Just a 10-minute walk from Gwanghwamun Square is a long man-made stream that doubles as a public recreation space. I recommend coming here in the late afternoon because the sunset view is legendary; you can rest your weary feet in the stream as you wait for the night to come.

By then, the lights will turn on, illuminating the traditional lanterns above and the long strip that makes the stream sparkle below. This makes for a beautiful sight, most especially if you look at it from above.

If your trip hits around summer, the sunset may come around 8PM, and the wait can get quite hot & sweaty. So if you have plans to really see the sunset, swing by Cafe imA, a coffee shop next to the Ilmin Art Museum. Visitors rave about their Hamburg Steak (₩13,500), but you can also try their desserts and waffles (₩6,500-₩8,000).

There’s also Dal.Komm Coffee on the other side of the stream, near the starting point. Most of their coffee, juice, and tea selection ranges from ₩4,100 to ₩6,100, but their Real Strawberry Lemonade (₩5,300) is the best drink to beat the summer heat.

Stop 6: Deoksugung Palace

Time: 7:00PM

Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul

Fee:  Adults: ₩1,000, Children: ₩500; Groups have a discount, with ₩800 for Adults and ₩400 for children; It is free if you come wearing a hanbok.

Cap off your first day by visiting Deoksugung , or the small palace that used to be the residence of Korea’s Royal Family. Unlike the other Five Grand Palaces , this one has the Seokjojeon , a building that features a more prominent modern & western style that King Gojong would use to enthrall the diplomats who came to visit Korea.

It’s also a beautiful sight at night, and if you arrive before 7:30 PM, you should sign up for “Seokjojeon at Night.” This is an evening tour program that lets you stroll and observe Deoksugung’s highlights, enjoy tea at the terrace, and watch a musical performance at the reception area (where the King used to meet with important figures in history).  

Seoul Itinerary Day 2: Feel Young Again in Hongdae

Stop 1: Thanks Nature Cafe 

Time: 8:30 AM

Address: 29 World cup buk-ro 4-gil, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Fee: ₩₩-₩₩₩

For breakfast , there’s a famous cafe nearby that lets you make friends with two massively fluffy and docile sheep. You can mingle with them in the playpen while waiting for your breakfast, or watch from afar if you’re just there for the pics.

They have a wide selection of coffee, smoothies, and breakfast waffles; you have to try the latter, as they only use seasonal fresh fruits on the waffles. Unfortunately, breakfast in Korea is always enjoyed at home, so not many spots are open super early.

An alternate nearby recommendation for vegans or vegetarians is Salad Brothers , a fantastic salad bar that lets you put as much dressing as you want. Their Cobb Salad is a crowd favorite because it packs quite a punch, even though the portions are small. Plus, the food is just as photogenic as their menu.

Stop 2: Coconut Box – formerly known as the Trick Eye Museum

Time: 10:00 AM

Address: 20 Hongik-ro 3-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Fee: ₩23,000  

I was sad to learn that they closed the Trick Eye Museum in Seoul; I had many fond memories there. Still, the replacement attraction of Coconut Box is a worthy visit— they reinvented the entire place into a Southeast Asian beach, with sand on the floor and wooden huts you can sit in.

You can pretend that you’re vacationing in a tropical island garden, but the real highlight of the visit is the “metaverse play” in one of their bungalows. Getting there at 10am, shortly after they open, will guarantee you’ll have the chance to enter & interact in one of the most famous paintings in the entire world: Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night.

Stop 3: Abiko Curry

Address: 25, Hongik-ro, Mapo-gu Hotel Seokyo Annex B106, Seoul

Fee: ₩-₩₩

If you’re craving a good Japanese curry, Abiko Curry lets you enjoy variations of this dish at a reasonable price. Sure it’s a little cramped, but if you don’t mind that, I swear their tonkatsu is to die for, and Koreans basically consider it a local dish at this point. Set meals are also good for sharing, and the servers are kind to foreigners. 

Stop 4: Caface Seoul

Address: 20 Hongik-ro 3-gil, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Near Abiko Curry stands Caface Seoul. This popular spot is one of those ‘only in Korea’ kind of things, that lets you have your face printed as latte art. This is also the perfect way to commemorate your day in Hongdae, and then bring your masterpiece on a stroll around the neighborhood.

Just give them any of the selfies you took earlier, hand over ₩2700, and you can have a “face latte.” I know you’re too pretty to drink, but their coffee definitely tastes better warm – so drink it while it’s hot!

Stop 5: Hongdae Shopping Street

Time: 3:00 PM

Address: 365-8 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

In any trip, it is important to have a bit of time to do some quick retail therapy. In Hongdae, where the hip, young, and fashionable gather, most of the clothes for sale are aimed at the younger crowd.

But it’s amazing how much branded stuff has heavy discounts here, albeit mostly ‘free size’ (generically large or stretchy clothes), and there are a lot of ‘2 items for $8’ offers.

Stop 6: Mapogalmaegi

Time: 7:00 PM

Address: 14 Hongik-ro 5an-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Expect lots of young women in here, because this restaurant is located close to Ehwa Women’s University. I’m a meat-lover, so I can’t let you vacation in Seoul without eating in at least one typical barbecue-type restaurant.

All Korean BBQ spots are best enjoyed with a group of people due to the layout, but most places will accept a single person unless they’re packed. Aside from meat, this spot offers soju or beer, and you can try a variety of delicious banchan to go with your meats of choice.

Another option is the Analog Garden, a charming coffee house that serves delicious salads. Though most of their dishes have meat and egg in it, a there's a vegan-friendly option called the "Falafel Wrap" worth ₩7,500.

If that is too small for you, get the "Falafel Plate" instead for ₩11,000. But what people actually come for is a homemade fake-meat set meal (soy-based), that’s said to go well with their roasted coffee.

Stop 7: Come back to Hongdae Shopping Street

Time: 9:00 PM

Come back here after dinner, because this is when the buskers come to perform. Around the performance areas are food stalls packed with delicious Korean foods for a couple bucks each; if you couldn’t or didn’t want to eat KBBQ for dinner, you can find something here.

The beauty about this place is that you can stay out late and still spot people roaming around, browsing and entering restaurants and bars. This is why most shops close past midnight here.

Seoul Itinerary Day 3: See Iconic Locations in Seoul

Stop 1: K-Pop Square

Time: 10:30 AM

Address: Right outside Samseong Station, Exit 5

K-Pop Square is a large public area in Samseong, featuring a massive LED-screen that promotes show-stopping performances from the past. This is an ode to K-Pop, which is responsible for a large portion of the country’s tourism, and why Korea is so well known across the world.

Fans will also be happy to know that somewhere in the area is a wall that lets them hold hands with their favorite idols. Also known as the “K-Pop Handprint Wall,” big stars like BTS, Shinee, and even EXO are among the artists featured here.

Stop 2: Statue of Gangnam Style

Time: 10:45 AM

Address: 524 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

At first I just thought this was a strange gold installation of two hands shielding you from the sun, but when I finally got close to it, I knew immediately who it was: Psy oppa !

Though this ‘Gentleman’ has been relatively quiet since his 2012 hit, the song Gangnam Style remains in the Youtube hall of fame as one of the fastest to hit a billion views. If you know how to dance Gangnam Style, this is the perfect location for you to shoot a dance cover of the video. 

Stop 3: Bongeunsa Seoraewon ( 봉은사 서래원)

Address: 531 Bongeunsa-ro, Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Imagine enjoying a warm meal inside a small Korean temple, without ever leaving Seoul. Bongeunsa Seoraewon lets you have that experience in the heart of the city, and the noodle prices are affordable too; most especially the sets.

After your meal, you can just walk outside and visit Bongeunsa Temple directly. What’s cool about this place is that it also has options for vegans (ask for their Bongeun Tofu).

Stop 4: COEX Starfield Library

Time: 1:30 PM

Address: 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

This is by far the most famous library in Seoul. It’s a real operating library, located inside the largest underground shopping mall in all of Asia: CoEx Starfield. Book lovers will cry at the sight of tens of thousands of books filling the 13-meter shelves.

Visitors also come to watch famous authors do book signing events, and famous poets visit to motivate young children to write.

The downside about this place is only that it is always crowded and noisy – it’s hard to appreciate the rare book you found if there are couples chatting on either side of you. But did I mention that this space is free? This is why people often try to sneak out the books, which I discourage you from trying. 

Stop 5: COEX Aquarium

Time: 5:00 PM

Address: 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, 서울특별시

Fee: Adults: ₩28,000; Children: ₩24,000; Senior Citizens: ₩20,000

CoEx Aquarium in Seoul is for those who want to see marine life up close, with more than a hundred display tanks and over 40,000 sea creatures in various themed zones. Shark lovers will be thrilled to know that this is the aquarium that houses the highest number of sharks in Korea.

Touch pools also let you feel the fish (like the manta ray), allowing you to have a healing experience with nature in a safe setting.

Stop 6: Gosoo Dalgalbi Gangnam

Time: 7:30 PM

Address: 20, Teheran-ro 5-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩-₩₩

For dinner, you should definitely try the tastiest dakgalbi in Seoul. This is a famous Korean dish not common internationally, but very popular domestically. The dish consists of loads of chopped cabbage with tender bits of chicken rib meat, stir-fried in a thick, spicy sauce (that tastes so much better with cheese, in my opinion!).

What’s so wonderful about this place is that their special, the 치즈모듬사리 ( Cheese Modeumsari ), is a party plate full of cheesy rice cake and glass noodles that is perfect for sharing.

For a fun vegan option, come to Veg Green, a delicious vegan buffet that has a homey vibe - the staff will still smile at you, even if you come late at night for dinner. At just ₩12,000 per person, it’s full of options for those who enjoy large mixed salads, including fruits and jam in a cozy ambiance.

Stop 7: GSM Terrace

Address: 327-45 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩10,000 for unlimited drinks

Friends are important, and meeting fun people from diverse, cultural backgrounds may also make your stay in Korea a fulfilling one. Sure, it’s an activity for international people, but you may spot some Koreans who are seeking places to practice their English.

Additionally, you can play all sorts of games with them if you run out of things to talk about. Everything comes easy and natural here, and all people are welcome to join in the fun.

If you find that 3 days in Seoul is not enough, you’re not alone. Most visitors spend 5-7 days in Seoul to get a taste of the culture, nightlife, and food in Korea.

The suggestions below are ideal for people who are looking for other things to visit on their Seoul vacation, since the first three days have pretty much hit all the popular places. A good alternative to Everland is Lotte World.

Seoul Itinerary Day 4: Everland Theme Park

Everland is a popular theme park in Seoul, perfect for people who just want to have a magical day with their date, family, or friends. With over 40 attractions scattered across five different themed areas, it might take an entire day or two to exhaust all of the attractions.

What I love about this place is that it always has festivals and seasonal events to entertain guests of all ages.

Operating Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Address: 199 Everland-ro, Pogog-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do

Fee: Adults: ₩54,000 to ₩64,000; Children: ₩43,000 to ₩51,000; If you want to skip the line, you can buy the tickets ahead of time . There’s also a fun option of wearing a Korean school uniform, which you can rent online or on-site.

Stop 1: Global Fair

If you’ve always wanted to travel to far-flung destinations, this fair lets you see the world all at once. Historical structures, both existing and ancient, line one area of this zone - and here you can see various architecture from different points in time, instantly turning you into a time traveler.

Stop 2: Live Hologram Adventure (Global Fair)

Time: 11:00 AM

Never been to a K-Pop concert before? That’s okay, because the Live Hologram Adventure lets you experience a 30-minute snippet of a K-Pop concert in high definition.

If you also decide to take pictures and videos, it’d look so realistic that you can trick your friends into thinking that you actually went to a BIGBANG concert.

Stop 3: Snack Buster for Lunch

When you’re in a theme park , you need a lot of grub to keep your energy levels high. Unlike other theme parks with food in small, reduced servings, Snack Buster has generous servings of high-quality Korean foods sold at an affordable price.

I highly recommend their Korean fried chicken with french fries and tteokbokki, because it’ll come in a plate that’s big enough to share with your family or friends.

Stop 4: Carnival Square (European Adventure)

Time: 2:30 PM

Around this time you should join the people gathering by the Carnival Square, because this is when you get to witness a spectacular event only seen in Everland.

Here they’ll launch flowery floats with vivacious dancers and mascots, all inviting you to come join their party. Imagine being in Rio de Janeiro, but when you leave, you’re back in Korea.

Stop 5: Panda World (Zootopia)

Time: 3:15 PM

Need I say more? Pandas are such gentle creatures, and imagine entering a world full of these adorable bears. Everland’s Zootopia should be in your Seoul itinerary for this very reason. If you don’t like pandas and prefer a different animal, then next to this enclosure is the Friendly Monkey Valley.

Stop 6: Lost Valley (Zootopia)

Enjoy zipping through a safari, riding a tram that crosses difficult terrain dotted with real animals. To enjoy this experience, then join the queue at the Lost Valley, where you’ll find your ride crossing the stream.

The trip will take you  into landscaped enclosures full of large animals including elephants, giraffes, camels, and rhinos. And then, if there’s still time, your guide will let you hand-feed these animals, giving you a chance to interact with them up close.

Step 7: Thunder Falls (Magic Land)

Time: 6:00 PM

Speaking of getting wet, there’s a fun flume ride in Everland that features backward drops and steep falls. It’s such a thrill to be on this ride, and the danger can be so exhilarating! But if you need more adrenaline rush, see if you can queue for the T-Express (aka. Everland’s Scariest Ride).

Step 8: Robot VR and Gyro VR (American Adventure)

Have you ever fantasized about channeling your inner Han Solo? These rides let you pilot a futuristic spaceship and navigate the stars. Sci-fi fans love this ride because the effects feel so real— the ride itself even follows the joystick you’re controlling!

Step 9: Four Seasons Garden & Rose Garden

Time: 8:00 PM

When the sun sets, this is the best area to end your day in Everland.  There’s always a light show with fireworks around this time, and a variety of performances that go along with it.

Seoul Itinerary Day 5: Feel the National Pride

As a tourist, one of the best ways to experience Korea is to visit the location where they played host to countries from all over the world. Coming here, you’ll see the effort Korea puts forth in promoting peace and harmony, as well as soak in the welcoming spirit. Plus, Olympic Park is 100% free to visit!

Stop 1: World Peace Gate

Time: 9:30 AM

Address: 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

The World Peace Gate is a marvelous winged structure that reveals a beautiful painting of a phoenix, tiger, turtle, and a dragon if you stand beneath it. This is called “A Painting of Four Spirits,” signifying the desire of Korea to be friends with everybody in the world.

As you stand underneath, it’s like a gate that genuinely welcomes you to enter and experience Korea. I’ve always thought it was a beautiful place to stand and reflect on your experiences in the country.

Stop 2: Olympic Museum

Learn more about the athletes that represented Korea in the past Olympic Games! Documentation about Korea’s best athletes, their training process, and even their histories are comprehensively explained here. Also, thanks to this museum, you’ll get to closely observe the gear used in the recent 2018 Winter Olympic Games in PyeongChang. 

Stop 3: Olympic Park’s Peace Square

Address: 326, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

If you time your visit around the last week of September to the first week of October this year, there will be a grand festival called the Hanseong Baekje Cultural Festival in the Olympic Park’s Peace Square.

Coming here lets you experience the rich Hanseong era in Korea, featuring food tastings, tea ceremonies, parades and performances, and even a demonstration of a hawk-aided hunting!

Moreover, the reason why they’re holding it here is because the Mongchontoseong Fortress area is known to be a remnant of the Baekje capital. Hopefully you’ll get to see this festival in person, because it truly is a fascinating way to learn more about Korea’s fascinating past.

Stop 4: Bukchon Hanok Village

Time: 4:00 PM

Address: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Perhaps one of the oldest villages in Seoul, this area dates back all the way to the Joseon Dynasty. Also called the “northern village,” this is also where two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno, are located.

What’s admirable about this area is that people hold traditional events here, giving curious tourists an opportunity to get to know the Joseon dynasty even better. Fun activities such as hanbok wearing, etiquette demonstration, and even tea ceremonies are hosted by the people here, and all of these usually occur in the afternoon.

Stop 5: Insadong Street

Address: Insadong, Jongro-gu, Seoul

One of the popular destinations in Korea, Insadong Street has a long array of lively stalls and shops to give you something to look at everywhere.This is also the best place to grab a quick snack, because they serve a variety of Korean foods you should make it a point to try.

If you’re interested in trying something new and enjoy green tea , track down O’Sulloc Tea House and order their matcha cake. Since this is one of your last days in Seoul, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that Insadong is one of the best places to buy souvenirs for your family and friends!

Stop 6: Noryangjin Fish Market

Address: 674 Nodeul-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul

I know that capping your day in a fish market is unusual, but after you swing by Insadong Street, head to the Jonggak Station and ride the subway to Noryangjin , because this is where people can eat the freshest seafood in Seoul.

You can even try the unique dishes they serve, most especially try delicacies that you definitely haven’t before - like the penis fish. You should come try the small octobps, king crab, and hwe (sliced raw fish) here, for example.

Don’t be shy if you can’t speak a lick of Korean because the people are so used to seeing foreigners that they have devised a way to make things easier and enjoyable for you.

Seoul Itinerary Day 6: See Korea’s Highest Point

Stop 1: Namsan Park

Address: 231, Samil-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul

This public park is a nature-friendly rest area smack in the middle of the city. It has clear walking trails leading to Namsan Seoul tower, but I’d encourage you to take your time appreciating this quiet, vast expanse, because it has more facilities than your average park.

Aside from seeing gardens and free physical activity facilities, there’s also a library, a botanical garden, a memorial hall, and a culture center. 

Stop 2: Mok Myeong San Bang

Address: 71 Toegye-ro 20-gil, Namsandong 2-ga, Jung-gu 1F, Hannam Building, Seoul 04629 South Korea

People might have a hard time locating this place, but keep your eyes peeled for a hanok within Namsan Park. Mok Myeong San Bang is a vegetarian-friendly, healthy, traditional lunch restaurant that serves authentic Korean cuisine.

In fact, they pride themselves as chefs who never use artificial seasoning. I highly recommend their bibimbap , which is known to be the best in Seoul, but you should explore dishes like the crispy cheesy pancake and the yukhoe (raw beef).

Stop 3: Namsangol Hanok Village

Address: 28 Toegye-ro 34-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

After a savory lunch, walk to Namsangol Hanok Village on the north side of Namsan Mountain. Here you get to see homes that were restored to their original form to give tourists a sense of how people in the Joseon dynasty used to live.

Sometimes you may chance upon demonstrations that show people how to play a traditional board game ( yunnori ) or fold a traditional paper called hanji . Sometimes there’s also a fun segment on how traditional herbal medicines are made and used.

Stop 4: N Seoul Tower

Time: 4:30 PM

Address: 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Fee: (Observatory) Adults: ₩11,000; Children: ₩9,000

Also known as the second highest tower in Seoul, Namsan Tower’s Observation Deck provides an unobstructed view of the whole city. There’s also a powerful telescope available for use that lets you have a high quality LCD view of wherever you’re pointing it at. 

Aside from museums and exhibitions, what people really come here for is attaching their own lock to Love Lock Bridge. This is the infamous site in Seoul where couples fasten a lock to symbolize their everlasting love— hence why there’s an area full of locks, and a booth that lets you customize your own to add to the bridge.

Stop 5: Lotte World Tower

Address: 300, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩27,000; Children: ₩24,000; Fast Pass for all ages: ₩50,000

After seeing the second highest point, go to the tallest building in the entirety of Korea! Lotte World Tower, just 55 minutes away from Namsangol Hanok Village. Sleek and slender with a gentle curved design, you can end your evening in a fantastically fast elevator, taking you directly to the highest point in Korea.

The ride also allows you to take great photos, because you get to see the entire city transition to night time as you arrive. Inside you can also test your courage as you walk through the highest indoor glass floor, giving you perspective of how high up in the sky you are (and how teeny every person looks from above).

Seoul Itinerary Day 7: Enjoy the Night at Dongdaemun

Stop 1: Dongdaemun Seonggwak Park

Address: right outside Dongdaemun Station Exit 1

If you feel like doing a bit of walking in the afternoon, this little tourist trap has an uphill road that takes you to a nice park. It’s not as pretty as the other ones, but it has everything you need, and it's very conveniently located for a chill afternoon out.

Since it is a little bit elevated, you get to have a clear view of Dongdaemun , which lets you see the fusion of traditional and modern elements scattered around the city. Moreover, this is where the beautiful Heunginmun gate is located, perfect for pictures on your last day in Seoul.

Stop 2: Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun Gate)

Address: 288 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Don’t skip this gate before you leave. This is an ancient monument which used to stretch longer, as it used to be a fortress with three other gates. All four gates apparently have a meaning attached to their name, and Heunginjimun is loosely translated as “benevolence, with good energy.”

There’s also a semi-circular ongsung inside, which is a pagoda-like traditional structure that makes it stand out compared to the existing gates in Seoul. Plus, the reason we’re coming to see it at 6pm is because it lights up beautifully against the backdrop of cars.

Stop 3: Bulgwangsikdang ( 부광식당 )

Time: 6:30 PM

Address: 207-26 Sungin-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Not many are comfortable in crowded places, but for this one, most will surely make an exception. If you feel like eating a proper home-cooked meal for dinner, this is the best option in Seoul. Since this is more frequented by the elderly and locals, most of the meals are made to appeal to their taste.

But who knows, you might find your favorite Korean meal here! Plus, the owners are kind and friendly, making it a less intimidating place for foreigners to try. Vegans might want to swing by Vegan is Hip (비건이즈힙), a wide sandwich and waffle bar that offers choices that range from sweet potato, tofu salad, fruits, and vegetables.

Their waffles are super delicious, even if they are made with rice flour and plant-based cream, a combination that most non-vegans find challenging to like. If you choose to come here, try their apple jam whipped cream waffle, and you won’t regret it.

Stop 4: Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Address: 43 Eulji-ro 45-gil, Sindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul

See that majestic neon embryo thing? That’s Dongdaemun Design Plaza. This huge building is absolutely worth seeing at night, since it glows brightly and makes for a good aerial photo. There are lots of free things to do inside since this also doubles as a museum and an exhibition center.

Speaking of which, there’s a large LED screen that allows you to relax your eyes with soothing colors that dance along to therapeutic music. Take your time strolling around inside. There are plenty of fun things you can do, like browse inside for things to buy or check out the books on the shelves.

You can even play on the funny chairs that let you spin without falling! There are also rest areas that let you charge your phones while you sip the coffee from the food carts outside. If you’re a K-Pop fan and you like artists from SM Entertainment, you’ll be happy to know that SM Town is inside.

Stop 5: Dongdaemun Night Market

Time: 10:30 PM

The reason you should come here late in the day is to experience one of the best night markets in Seoul . Known as a fashion destination throughout Seoul, plenty of people frequent Dongdaemun Night Market to shop, play, and eat. The best part? Most of the stalls are open until as late as 5am!

So you’re finally coming to Korea. Your bags are packed and your ticket is ready. Congratulations! But before you leave, here are helpful tips for visiting Korea that you might want to read before you arrive.

• Learn some key phrases in Hangul – or download Papago

While most of the buildings and public spaces in Seoul provide English translations for foreigners, it is rarely enough to travel without learning a few key phrases . Trust me, you’ll want to know what to say if you need to know where the nearest station is or the cost of something.

If you cannot cram these many Korean phrases into your memory, I can relate, and I recommend that you have the Papago translation app ready to assist you just in case.

• Learn basic etiquette 

Of course people don’t expect you to bow everywhere, but you should show them respect. One way to do this is, when you are giving or receiving things, you use both of your hands. As a foreigner, never call strangers ‘ahjussi’ or ‘ahjumma’ if you happen to talk to them, and most of all, learn how to respectfully address people in Korea .

• You can connect to the internet almost everywhere in Korea, but get a Korean SIM card or wifi egg just to be safe 

Don’t assume that everywhere you go, the Internet will always be with you; most Koreans have cell phones with unlimited data now, so wifi is ironically harder to access. One of the hacks I’ve used to be able to connect while on the go is to find a metro station and connect to the free Wi-Fi in there.

But in cases where a station is quite far from you, and you need to use apps like KakaoMaps to sort out your route, it’s best to have a Korean sim card handy.

• Bring a power bank!

You never know when you’ll run out of battery, and Korea is a big city. Even though cafes let people stay for a long time, you may happen to come on days when most are either closed or crowded, so you can’t count on that.

Sometimes you can visit a convenience store and ask if they have ports to charge your phone, but if you don’t want a dead battery to ruin your trip, take a power bank with you (or buy one when you arrive).

• Don’t rely on Google Maps

I cannot stress this enough! Google Maps doesn’t work in Korea, and what’s worse is that what they tell you is rarely accurate. Instead, download Kakao-brand apps when possible. Even though KakaoMaps is made primarily for Koreans in Korea, it is foreigner-friendly and even has an English version.

• Ride public transportation instead of taxis

Taxis are expensive, but Seoul is even more expensive. Also known as the 7 th most expensive capital in the world, most of the fun things to do require you to shell out more money than you might want to.

So to save on your vacation to Seoul, when you can, choose to ride the subway or the bus. Both systems are very clean, extensive, and reliable.

• Carry your own trash

Bring your trash back home with you. Unlike other cities where you can freely throw garbage in any bin, Seoul has very few public trash cans and a very specific system for sorting their waste.

In South Korea, there’s actually a national Zero Waste Policy which has resulted in 5 different types of trash and recyclables, each of which warrant a separate type of bin (I got a stern talking-to a few times over the years for using the wrong types of bags to toss my various types of trash).

I know this has been quite the Seoul travel guide, but that’s just proof that there’s plenty of things to do in Seoul. So whether you’re in Seoul for a week or just three days, I hope this Seoul itinerary can help you make the most of your trip.

More South Korea

Sharing is caring!

Reader Interactions

vincent Liptrot says

July 13, 2023 at 2:57 am

great info in here about Seoul. As you can see many fun places are in small allies and harder to reach places. it can be tricky to navigate on your own an tiring by foot to get between sights, though have a wonderful time in Seoul and enjoy this excellent blog!

July 16, 2023 at 10:05 am

Thanks, Vincent!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

TheKoreanGuide is a reader-supported site. Purchases made through links may earn a commission.

Seoul Travel Guide: What To Do and Must-Visit Attractions

With airports opening back up and tourism increasing in the past year, there’s plenty of destinations for you to choose from.

One of those places is Seoul, South Korea, which is home to brilliant exhibits of culture and art. What is there for you to do in Seoul, and is it worth it?

Seoul, South Korea is a large city filled with culture and tourist activities that make it worthwhile. Not only is Seoul a very safe city to visit, but it is rising in popularity due to the impacts Korean culture, entertainment, and business has had on the rest of the world. Seoul is among the most visited cities in the world. 

The rest of this article will cover what to do in the city, where to stay, what Seoul is known for, and a brief conclusion.

What To Do In Seoul

Seoul (서울) is a vibrant city with gorgeous sights and culture you have to see. But before we get into that, we have to talk about one of the most important parts of South Korean culture: the food. Between side dishes, street food, and stews, South Korea has a versatile cuisine!

Side Dishes

A staple of Korean culture are the side dishes served with each meal. Called Banchan (반찬) by Koreans, side dishes is an idea that dates back to the Korean royal court cuisine, which consisted of anywhere between 2 to 12 side dishes.

Cheaper restaurants tend to serve less, but each side dish is tasty and compliments the meal. Banchan arrives before meals, but don’t confuse them with an appetizer. 

They are included in the cost of the meal, and the best part: they have free, unlimited refills!

Some common side dishes are: kelp noodle salad (cheonsachae salad or 천사채), spicy Korean coleslaw, sweet and salty soybeans (kongjabean or 콩자반), sweet and salty lotus roots (yeonkeun jorim or 연근조림), and Korean style sausage stir fry.

Street Food

If you’re looking for an alternative to dine-in restaurants, street food is just for you! Street food is ready-to-eat food you can buy from local vendors. 

Even better: vendors are easy to find and are lined up and down the Seoul streets, all you have to do is find the one that suits you!

There are plenty of foods to choose from, so get your chopsticks ready. For starters, you have to try Korean style fried chicken. It’s a must when you’re in Seoul. 

Street vendors will absolutely sell Korean fried chicken, and you should at least try them while you’re there!

There’s also bibimbap (비빔밥). Bap (밥) in Korean literally means rice, or meal. Therefore, bibimbap translates to mixed rice. 

Bibimbap has warm rice and sauteed and or seasoned vegetables. A raw or fried egg and sliced meat, normally beef, are included as well.

Korean dumplings ( mandu or 만두) are another commonly served street food dish. There are many different types of dumplings you can get such as vegetable dumplings, beef dumplings, and or pork dumplings. These foods are all super tasty and super affordable!

With Seoul having a cool climate, soups and stews are a significant portion of a Korean’s diet. One popular stew is known as Army stew. 

This stew has American processed meat such as Spam, ham, bacon, and hot dogs. Those meats are mixed into a Korean stew with kimchi .

Kimchi-jjigae (김치찌개) is a stew made with kimchi and various other ingredients such as pork or seafood, scallions, onions, and diced dubu. This stew is a popular choice in South Korea, and it’s a common stew to find in Seoul.

Lastly, another popular stew is Korean crab stew (kkotgetang 꽃게탕). This stew is pretty self-explanatory. It’s a stew with a flower crab as the primary ingredient. 

There’s also Korean radish, garlic, dried anchovies, and other ingredients that vary by the recipe.

The Sights In Seoul, South Korea

Seoul itself is an architectural landmark. There are specific sights in Seoul that are places you have to visit while you’re there. 

A few of those places are: N Seoul Tower, the Ansan Starlight Village, and the Jogyesa. There’s also entertainment like underground shopping.

N Seoul Tower

The N Seoul Tower is famous for its location and height allowing access to the gorgeous skyline of Seoul. 

Back in 1969, it was utilized as Korea’s first general radio wave tower. TV and radio broadcasts would play from the N Seoul Tower to the surrounding metropolitan area.

This tower is 236 meters high and is the second-highest point in Seoul. It is a communication and observation tower on Nam Mountain. 

The N Seoul Tower is in the center of Seoul, which is why the height and location is so perfect for tourists looking to get amazing pictures.

Ansan Starlight Village

Perhaps the brightest pick on this list, the Ansan Starlight village is a radiant garden along the expressway of Ansan. 

It is known for being festive and romantic all-year-round, and displays of over 200 animals are there. These animals include: owls, cranes, swans, elephants, and more.

Not only does it provide an astonishing atmosphere for relaxation and Instagram posts, but it’s also an area that sparks romance. 

Marriage proposals are a common occurrence there due to the perfect lighting and activities.

The Jogyesa (조계사) is a Korean Buddhist temple. It is the chief temple of the Jogye Order. The building itself dates back to the 14th century, becoming the chief temple in 1936. It is located in central Seoul, and it is known for its zen environment.

Not only is the architect magnificent, but the nature surrounding it is fresh and preserved, just like the temple. 

The Jogyesa is a common tourist site for experiencing royal palace life. You can tour the building with a guide and see all the history and architecture with your own eyes.

Underground Shopping

A famous activity in Seoul is underground shopping. Two examples of underground shopping areas are the Express Bus Terminal Underground Center and the Gangnam Underground Shopping Center. 

These shopping areas are perfect for good finds, even on a rainy day.

Many of the shopping centers, both above ground and underground, are located in Myeongdong , the shopping district of Seoul. 

Underground shopping centers don’t risk putting a large dent in your budget. They’re cheap yet fashionable and useful.

Some tips for underground shopping are to bring cash with you and check out the trendy stores. Some items require cash, no credit. 

As for the trendy stores, you can find the latest fashion trends at underground stores for more affordable prices, so be on the lookout for that!

Where To Stay In Seoul

When it comes to the size of South Korea, it’s not as large as other countries like America. So, their compromise was to build their buildings upwards to make more space, not side-to-side. This means there are many apartment buildings and hotels all around Seoul.

There are 5 main districts in Seoul you should consider staying near: Myeongdong , Hongdae , Gangnam , Itaewon , and Jamsil .

Prices and quality depends on which area you choose. There’s Myeongdong (명동), which is known for being a huge shopping district. 

The Westin Josun Seoul Hotel is only a 5-minute walk away from the bustling life of Myeongdong. It’s a highly rated hotel with many activities inside.

The shopping district has everything you’ll need from body care items you misplaced to trinkets and K-pop albums. There are department stores, shoe stores like Adidas, perfume shops, skincare stores, H&M, and many more for all your traveling and souvenir needs.

Hongdae (홍대) is for those craving an adventure more indie and fashionable. It’s a creative district with plenty of cafes and Korean BBQ. Mono House Hongdae is a minimalist housing property that’s affordable and only 5 minutes away from the Hongik University Subway Station.

The entertainment value at Hongdae is incredible. The Tricky Eye Museum Seoul relies on visual tricks to keep you on your toes and show you various art. There’s also clubs for dancing and music. Hongdae as a whole values urban arts, indie music culture, and entertainment.

Gangnam (강남구) is a wealthier district of Seoul, meaning higher quality living, but at the cost of much higher prices. The Park Hyatt Seoul is an expensive 5-star hotel that has a relaxing spa and gorgeous views of Gangnam. It’s worth the price for the views alone!

There’s also the Aloft Seoul Gangnam. This is a cheaper, 4-star hotel that’s the better option for those wishing for a taste of the high life without losing a significant amount of money in the process. It includes business services, an on-site restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and a lounge.

If you were called the life of the party growing up, Itaewon (이태원) is for you. It’s nicknamed the “Western Town” of Seoul due to the variety of international cuisine and entertainment offered there. It has multiple unique bars, restaurants, and activities around town all worth visiting.

The Grand Hyatt Seoul is a 5-star hotel with over 600 rooms and over 50 suites. It’s close to both Itaewon and Myeongdong, but it is expensive. However, it may be worth it since some amenities include an on-site restaurant, an indoor pool, and free Wi-Fi.

Jamsil (잠실동) is the best spot for families. It’s also great for those who love sports. Jamsil is home to not one, but two professional Korean baseball teams: the LG Twins and Doosan Bears. It’s rich with K-pop culture, and it’s also home to Lotte World, an amusement park.

The Lotte World Hotel is right beside the amusement park of the same name, and it is a 5-star hotel that also sits on top of Jamsil Subway Station. 

It’s the perfect hotel for your family to travel across Seoul and Jamsil, experiencing the amusement park as well as the culture.

What Seoul Is Known For

It would be impossible to talk about Seoul without mentioning the entertainment industry that has brought us popular K-dramas such as Squid Game, and the K-pop industry that brought us the worldwide superstars BTS. Seoul is overflowing with creativity and art.

Fun fact: Seoul is the birthplace of K-pop. Although the term wasn’t coined until 1999 by Cho Hyun-jin, Korean music groups rose from Seoul. 

History and culture is thriving in the city, and that’s what tourists go to visit. Places like the Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁) are famous destinations.

One of the most famous aspects of Seoul is the street food. Street food is cheaper than restaurant food and it still tastes yummy. It’s a perfect alternative to when you don’t want to spend a lot of money, and you want to wander around the streets of Seoul while eating.

South Korea is known for its beauty standards and skincare . Koreans use natural ingredients to keep their skin clean and smooth. In the west, Korean skincare products and routines are popular because of the glowing skin they cause. Many of these products come from Seoul.

Lastly, Seoul is known for the preserved royal temples around the land. There are more than 900 traditional Buddhist temples that are centuries old. In total, there are over 20,000 temples in Seoul.

Seoul is a beautiful and safe city for tourists that has grown in popularity over the years. It is known for its rich culture, entertainment, skincare, K-pop, and preservation of traditional Buddhist temples.

The food is a must-have. There are various types of food such as side dishes, street food, and stews that will keep you invested in the culture surrounding you. There’s also the sights of Seoul like the N Seoul Tower, and those sights encourage you to snap countless pictures.

Lastly, the 5 main districts of Seoul you should consider visiting are: Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, Itaewon, and Jamsil.

Each individual place has its own lifestyle and culture. There’s the shopping, the indie culture, the wealthy, the partying, and the amusement park.

Don’t forget to check out Ulsan , Sejong , and Daejeon .

Enjoy the article?

You'll love my daily email! Learn something new about South Korea every single day. It's completely free. <3

About The Author

You May Also Like

10 Best Korean Toners for Dry Skin (2024 Updated)

The 8 Best Korean Essences for Dry Skin (2024 Updated)

24 Best Korean Skincare Brands of All-Time

Is Korean Skincare Cheaper in Korea?

How Long Does It Take for Korean Skincare to Work?

Is Korean Skincare Similar to Japanese?

© 2024 TheKoreanGuide.com | As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

13 of the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea

Feb 4, 2024 • 8 min read

From bustling street food markets to peaceful temple life, experience the best of Seoul with this guide © Plan Shooting 2 / Imazins / Getty Images

For an ultra-modern city filled with sleek high-rises and time-tested palaces, tempting street food, vibrant shopping districts and much more, head to Seoul . 

Whether you want to see the latest K-Pop sensation, take a late-night food and drink tour, or find serenity in a spa or temple, the city has something to offer 24/7. Here are the best things to do in South Korea ’s capital.

1. Taste the street food at Gwangjang Market

Street food in Seoul is beloved for its spice, variety and affordability, and there’s no better place to try it than  Gwangjang Market . Dating from the early 20th century, this covered market has gained a reputation among foodies for having some of the country’s best street snacks. 

Planning tip:  Start with an order of tteokbokki (stir-fried rice cakes in a bright orange spicy sauce), followed by a couple of mandu (Korean dumplings) and a pajeon (savory green onion pancake). For dessert, try hotteok (a pancake filled with brown sugar and cinnamon) or bungeoppang (a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste). Then do it all over again.

2. Step back in time at Gyeongbokgung Palace

If you only have time to see one sight in Seoul, make it the splendid architecture, serene pagodas and maze-like grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace . Originally built during the reign of the powerful Joseon Dynasty in the 14th century, the palace was destroyed during the 16th-century Imjin War and rebuilt in the 18th century. Gyeongbokgung is the largest and most elegant of Seoul’s five royal palaces.

Planning tip:  Take in the ceremonial changing of the Royal Guard in front of the massive Gwanghwamun Gate before strolling the grounds to admire striking hip-and-gable buildings, tranquil ponds and delicate cherry trees. Wrap up your visit with a stop at the National Folk Museum of Korea , which sits on the palace grounds and features exhibits on traditional Korean culture.

3. Stroll along the Cheong-gye-cheon Stream

In the heat of summer , nothing beats a walk along Cheong-gye-cheon Stream . A dazzling oasis that unfurls for nearly 11km (7 miles) through the towers of central Seoul, this picturesque waterway is lined with walking paths, trees and bridges. The original stream was covered with an elevated highway after the Korean War, but in 2005, the city undertook an urban renewal project to refresh the area and reintroduce the stream better than ever. Since then, it’s been a popular spot for locals and tourists looking to cool off or take a leisurely break from the city’s hustle and bustle.

4. Shop for the latest trends in Myeong-dong

You’ll want to break out the credit card for an afternoon of spending in Seoul’s most famous shopping district. Myeong-dong is renowned for trendy fashion labels, deluxe department stores and cosmetic boutiques packed with famed K-beauty products. Once you’ve sufficiently stocked up on mask sheets and moisturizer at Olive Young , innisfree and Etude House , check out the Myeong-dong Night Market for quirky souvenirs and traditional street food.

The area is also home to some of Seoul’s cutest cafes, with the Pink Pool Cafe at the Stylenanda Pink Hotel flagship store being the ultimate eye candy. This confectionery-colored spot has an ice-cream-parlor vibe, indoor ornamental pool and sweet-as-sugar art decor, making it a popular place for photo shoots.

5. Go for a dip in a jjimjilbang

More than just a way to get clean, bathing in Seoul is a full-fledged social activity. Koreans gather at bathhouses (jjimjilbang) with friends and family typically once a week. Jjimjilbang can range from an establishment with just a couple of small dipping pools to massive aquatic palaces with multiple pools, water features, cafes, saunas, relaxation rooms, gyms, spas and arcades.

First-timers should know that bathhouse etiquette requires bathing in the nude, and some bathhouses don’t allow patrons with tattoos. Once you’ve bared all, take a dip in the hot and cold pools, followed by a stretch in the sauna, then opt for a traditional full-body scrub to emerge baby-soft from your bathhouse experience.

Planning tip: The female-only Spa Lei draws patrons for its elegant atmosphere and invigorating massages.

6. Take a hike in Bukhansan National Park

Bukhansan National Park is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as “the most visited national park per unit area” – which is easy to understand since it’s set within the city limits and easily reachable by public transportation . You’ll often see athletic Koreans in colorful hiking gear riding the subways on weekends.

Bukhansan covers 80 sq km (31 sq miles) and features jagged peaks, hiking trails, dozens of storied temples and 1300 species of plants and animals. The 5-hour round-trip hike to the 836m (2744ft) summit of Bukhansan is well worth it to see Seoul spread out before you in all directions.

7. Go singing in a noraebang

Walk down any busy street in the university districts on a Friday or Saturday night, and you’re likely to hear distant singing wafting through the air. Chances are it’s not an errant K-Pop band but the raucous merriment of karaoke at a noraebang (singing room). This popular late-night activity involves private rooms with big-screen TVs, phone-book-sized lists of songs and even disco balls or musical instruments to accompany the singalong. Top it off with room service bringing snacks and cocktails, and it’s a recipe for a great night out.

8. Sip on Korean drinks: soju and makgeolli

The traditional Korean beverages soju and makgeolli have been respectively distilled and brewed since the 13th century and are the most beloved drinks in this thirsty nation. Soju also has the surprising distinction of being the world’s best-selling spirit, perhaps helped out by the fact that a standard bottle often costs less than a bottle of water.

While such upmarket small-batch distilleries as Samhae Soju and Hangang Brewery  create artisanal varieties, the most common labels, such as Jinro and Seoul Makgeolli, can be happily imbibed at the picnic tables dotting sidewalks outside convenience stores across the city.

Planning tip:  Those new to the Korean alcohol scene should check out the  Sool Company , which offers tasting tours, brewing classes and special events.

9. Star-search on K-Star Road

You’re probably familiar with Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, but did you know Seoul’s glamorous Gangnam district has its own boulevard dedicated entirely to K-Pop artists? Instead of stars on the sidewalk, K-Star Road features 3m-tall (10ft) statues of cartoon bears called GangnamDols, each decorated to represent a different K-Pop singer or band, including Super Junior, Girls’ Generation and BTS. 

Planning tip:  After taking a few selfies with your favorite bears, pop into the GangnamDol Haus near the Apgujeong Rodeo subway station to pick up a few mini bears as souvenirs.

10. Stay at a temple and take part in life with the monks

The iconic image of a colossal Buddha statue looking over sleek high-rises can be seen at the 8th-century Bongeun-sa Temple in Gangnam . Although most tourists come just to snap a photo or two, you can actually participate in temple life with the monks. Over a weekend, join in vegetarian meals, morning chanting, meditation and even the 108 daily prostrations, all meant to clear the mind and bring you closer to achieving inner peace.

Planning tip:  Temple-stay programs are offered not only at Bongeun-sa but also at various temples throughout Seoul.

11. Spend the night in Bukchon Hanok Village

Graceful sloping roofs, ornate tiles and colorful dancheong  (intricate paintwork under the eaves of traditional Korean palaces) come together to create the Korean traditional house, called hanok . Tucked between the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palace complexes lies Bukchon Hanok Village , a historic district filled with hundreds of charming hanok  that’s often used as a backdrop for period movies and television shows.

Planning tip:  While the village has cafes, teahouses, museums and boutiques, it’s also home to a handful of hanoks -turned-guesthouses where visitors can sleep on traditional ondol heated floors, walk through kimchi pot–filled courtyards and generally get a taste what life was like in old Seoul.

12. Get a bird’s-eye view at N Seoul Tower

At the top of Nam Mountain sits N Seoul Tower , a broadcasting structure dating from 1969 and rising 239m (784ft) into the sky above the city. The tower still has active transmission antennas, though today it’s better known for an observation deck that offers 360-degree views of the capital. The top of the tower also offers a few dining options, including a swanky rotating restaurant serving French fare.

Planning tip:  To reach the tower itself, you can ride the Namsan Cable Car aerial tramway or hike the meandering trails to the top through Namsan Park .

13. Take a day trip to the DMZ

One of the top day trips from Seoul , a visit to the northern border may well be the most unusual 24 hours you’ll spend on the Korean peninsula. The 250km (160-mile) border between North and South known as the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is one of the world’s most closely guarded borders.

Various outfits, such as the popular DMZ Tours company, take curious onlookers from central Seoul to the border area to catch a glimpse into North Korea from Dora Observatory , explore the Third Infiltration Tunnel (originally dug by North Korean soldiers) and even step into North Korea in the Joint Security Area . There’s also the touristy DMZ Peace Train operated by KORAIL, which whisks passengers from Seoul Station to Dorasan Station, the last stop to the north before crossing into the Hermit Kingdom.

This article was first published March 2020 and updated February 2024

Explore related stories

Wildlife & Nature

Feb 27, 2024 • 6 min read

April is the ideal time of year for mild-weather hikes, cherry blossom festivals, fresh produce and more.

Feb 22, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 2, 2023 • 12 min read

Jun 9, 2022 • 6 min read

Jan 19, 2022 • 10 min read

Oct 12, 2020 • 6 min read

Sep 2, 2019 • 5 min read

Oct 26, 2018 • 6 min read

Jun 14, 2018 • 7 min read

Aug 9, 2017 • 5 min read

7 Essential Seoul Travel Tips for First-Timers (+ everything I wished I knew)

The first time I went to South Korea, I spent three weeks there, with two weeks in Seoul as a super-tourist and took beautiful side trips to Jeju Island and Busan in the south.

Here’s everything I wish I knew before going to South Korea as a tourist. These are specifically Seoul travel tips, but some can apply to South Korea travel in general.

If you’re new to South Korea, read my South Korea travel guide .

📖 Read Next: 28 Places to Visit in Seoul and watch the vlog 🎥

Prebook before your trip: 📲 Local sim card or eSIM card from Klook 🚊 Ride from the airport: prebook a transfer | airport bus | AREX train 🚊 Purchase a KTX Pass online for travel to multiple cities 💳 Buy a pre-loaded T-money card 🚙 Rent a car in South Korea for as cheap as $28 USD a day 🎫 Browse through dozens of available South Korea tours

Table of Contents

Best Area to Stay in Seoul

Seoul is massive, but these are three main areas where tourists generally stay.

📖 Read next: Where to Stay in Seoul Based on Your Interests

1. Central-Northern Seoul

If you want to be closer to the main tourist attractions like all the palaces and famous shopping streets, stay in the Insadong or Myeongdong area more up north.

If you like to be around a nightlife, stay in Itaewon. There’s a lot of locals and foreigners who go there. People party on the weekdays til early morning. There’s also a lot of restaurants and shops there.

🍶 Looking for a social night activity? Consider joining a Seoul pub crawl

For a busy but chiller vibe, stay in Hongdae, which is known for being the youth and indie music culture area. There’s a long walking street with tons of cute cafes, shops, and music performances.

Free printable of 70+ places to visit in Seoul

Check your email for your Seoul bucket list.

Seoul Travel Tips: My Recommendation for First-Timers

If you’re staying longer than a week and don’t mind moving hotels, I recommend trying out 2 or 3 hotels in separate areas just to experience different parts of Seoul , which is what I did.

But for first-time tourists , I recommend staying closer to Insadong and Myeongdong. It’s just closer and easier to get to the main tourist sites.

My favorite stay was Travelodge Myeongdong City Hall  (photo below).

Basic Korean Language Travel Phrases

English is not widely-spoken in South Korea. It’s best to learn some basic phrases if you’re just visiting.

In non-touristy areas or restaurants, menus may not be provided in English.

But, you can use Papago or Google Translate to scan the menu text to English.

9 main Korean phrases to learn and what I used the most

• Hello : Annyeonghaseyo (ahn-nyung-ha-seh-yo)
• One please (Just 1 person, or 1 of this): Hana juseyo (ha-na joo-seh-yo)
• Sorry : joesonghamnida (jeh-song ham-ni-da)
• Thank you : Kamsahamnida (kham-sa-hum-knee-dah)
• No : animida (ah-knee-me-dah)
• Yes : ne (neh)
• No thank you, or it’s alright : Gwenchanayo (gwen-chan-nah-yo)
• How much is it? : Eolmayeyo? (ol-ma-eh-yo)
• I don’t speak Korean : Hanguk-mal motteo (ha-ng-gook-mul mo-teh-yo)

Just remember, we’re visitors. We can’t expect locals to know or speak English to us. And if you ask someone for help and get rejected, try not to take it personally. They might have been too shy or were just busy!

Airport Tips for Seoul, South Korea

At the Incheon Airport , you want to do these 3 things:

1. Pick up a local sim card : IF your phone is unlocked. You can buy a sim card there or preorder a Korea sim card on Klook . 10 days of data costs about $20 USD.

📲 I usually use Airalo for esims in South Korea . You can use my code  ROSEAN3468  for $3 USD off your first purchase.

2. Get some won, which is the currency in Korea. Credit cards are widely accepted in Seoul, but get back up cash, and for like food stalls that only accept cash.

In general, the ATM offers a better rate than exchanging at the airport. But do whatever’s easiest.

3. Lastly, buy a T-money card at the airport or at any convenience store. It costs about $2 USD. It’s a card that you can use to pay on trains, buses, convenience stores, some supermarkets and restaurants. Some taxis even accept it.

🎫 To make it easier, buy a pre-loaded T-money card to pick up at the airport

You can use it throughout South Korea, not just Seoul. But, if you don’t want to get a T-money card, you can just buy paper tickets at the train station. But getting a T-money card is one of the top Seoul travel tips you’ll read.

It takes about an hour to get to Seoul from the airport. Here’s some transportation options to/from the airport:

• Take the AREX express train. You can book your ticket in advance here .
• Hail an airport taxi or book a Kakao T or Uber taxi ( check my example Uber in Korea costs ).
• Arrange an airport pickup or drop off in advance.
• Take the subway, which will likely mean a transfer at Seoul station.
• My favorite: take an airport bus , which stops by major areas in Seoul.

How to Get Around Seoul – Transportation Tips

The first time taking public transit in a new country is always nerve-wracking! But it gets easier. And signs and ticket machines are in English. Here’s 5 main Seoul travel tips for getting around the city.

1. I highly recommend downloading the app CityMapper, which is in English. You can download Citymapper right now just to get an idea, and it’s simple to use. The app show directions for trains, buses, and walking.

2. You can’t rely on Google Maps. It’s not optimized to use in South Korea, especially for walking directions. If you’re looking up just walking directions on Google Maps, nothing will show up.

The most popular apps for getting around in South Korea are Kakao Map and Naver Map , which I still have, but they’re less user-friendly in my opinion. They are most helpful though when traveling Busan and Jeju Island.

3. You can add money to your T-Money card at a ticket machine in a train station, or at any convenience store. You have to use cash.

Depending on how long you’re in Seoul, start with 10,000 to 20,000 won. The base fair for trains is 1250 won.

4. When riding a train or bus, don’t sit in the designated areas for elderly or pregnant women, even when the train is empty. This is not the US. 😉

5. And last thing about train stations, elevators and escalators are not common . There are elevators, but they’re in certain entrances that you have to look for, and are just harder to find in my opinion.

You’ll rarely see this in Seoul travel tips posts, but prepare for a stairs workout if you’re not able to find them, but don’t be afraid to ask others.

How to Take Buses in Seoul

Buses may seem intimidating, but are pretty easy to take. Just look for your bus number on the bus stop sign. Once you’re on the bus, tap your T-Money card on the card reader and tap again when you get off the bus.

Buses cost 1,200 won. Only major stops are announced in English. I use Google Maps or another Maps app for this to follow the dot so you know when to press the stop button.

How to Take the Taxi in Seoul

1. Uber works in Seoul. When you open your Uber app, it converts to Uber T. Your original payment info is already saved in there. You don’t need to pay in person.

2. If you do have a local sim, you can also download Kakao T , which is the main taxi app. If you’re a foreigner though, you can’t link your credit card to the app. You’ll have to pay with cash or T-money card at the end.

Kakao taxis are more readily available than Uber, but sometimes you’ll come across a language barrier if the driver can’t find you. There’s still plenty of Uber drivers. Sometimes you just have to wait a bit longer.

3. Tipping for taxis is not common.

What to Pack for Seoul, South Korea

Here are a few essential packing items for Seoul:

1. Plug Type F

In case you don’t know, South Korea uses a specific type of plug for charging your phone or laptop. It’s not the same as in the US.

You’ll have to get a plug type F charger , which is the same as a lot of European countries. Or just get a universal travel adapter , especially if you plan to travel a lot.

Some hotels do provide a USB plug, but most don’t. Make sure to get the correct plug. You can also look for one in a convenience store or supermarket in Seoul.

2. Umbrella!

If you’re visiting during the summer months of June to August, bring an umbrella, or buy one from a store, and carry it with you. Rain stops and goes.

📖 Read my Summer in Seoul tips and experiences .

3. Skin Protection

General tip, bring a hat and sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays. One of my top Seoul travel tips.

4. Walking Shoes

Bring good walking shoes. You’re most likely going to be walking a lot. I wear Xero Shoes – I can walk for hours and not have sore feet.

Culture Shocks and Cultural Differences

Here are just some random cultural differences and observations in Seoul.

1. Seoul is generally safe, and statistically safer than many countries. Always be careful of your surroundings, but I walked alone past midnight and it was fine. If you need to call for help, the number is 112.

2. Most of the restaurants I went to were self-service, which also meant returning your plates and cups to the counter and clearing out any napkins from your table.

If you’re unsure, just look at what other people do, which is what I did. ^^

You usually pay at the counter. And tipping is not common at all.

3. For those going in the summer, it gets REALLY hot. And it sometimes rains. I was always drenched in sweat. But when I looked at the locals, they looked flawless.

4. Lastly, here’s the tea, don’t expect locals to be social and friendly to you just because you’re a foreigner or an obvious tourist. They’re just minding their own business.

If you want to make friends, you have to actively try, join a meet up, a club, or English exchange. At least, that’s my experience.

And if you just want to enjoy traveling solo, that’s fun too. There’s so much to do in Seoul! You won’t run out of things to do alone. Look out for my solo Seoul travel tips post coming soon.

Top Places to Visit in Seoul

There’s always something to do in Seoul. Nature sites, cultural and historic sites. Entertainment. Here are 4 of my favorites spots.

Looking for more? Check out my 28 Places to Visit in Seoul list.

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace

If you only have time to visit just one palace in Seoul, go to Gyeongbokgung Palace . It’s massive and so beautiful.

There’s historical sites as well as nature sites. It feels like a time-hop. It’s the most popular palace and only about $2 USD.

🚌 Join a group tour for Gyeongbokgung Palace + Temple Guide

2. Cheonggyecheon Stream

This must-visit is a 7-mile stream in the middle of downtown. You can walk it or sit on a step and put your feet in the water. At night it’s lit up as well. It’s open 24 hours.

🌌 Join a Seoul Moonlight night tour of Cheonggyecheon Stream, Royal Palace, & Naksan Park

3. Bukchon Hanok Village

This is a beautiful neighborhood of hanoks, or traditional Korean houses designed with nature in mind. It’s really pretty to walk through. People also dress in traditional hanboks to take photos. You can rent a hanbok online to pick up .

4. Namsan Seoul Tower & Park

You’ll get a beautiful view of Seoul on the way up and down. I’d probably go there multiple times. The park itself is huge and the views are amazing.

🎫 Pre-book your Namsan Tower cable car ticket to skip the lines

Hope these Seoul travel tips were helpful!

Have a great time in Seoul!

Check out my city guides for: Jeju Island | Busan | Gyeongju | Pohang

Related Posts

Best One Day in Seoul Itineraries (+ Hour Breakdown)

Where to Stay in Seoul Based on Your Interests (from a Frequent Visitor)

28 Top Seoul Attractions to Check Out in 2024

My Summer in Seoul Experiences + Tips (Worth it?)

Uber in Korea: Where it Worked & Where it Didn’t (+ Costs)

7 Best Parks in Seoul to Visit in 2024 – Don’t Skip These!

How to Visit Yonsei University in Seoul – Kdrama Filming Sites 13 Free Things to Do in Busan (Popular + Underrated Spots!)

Roseanne Ducut is a solo female traveler and Filipina from the Bay Area, California. She writes practical and culture-rich travel guides and encourages solo female travelers to take #yolo trips. A veghead for over 15 years, Roseanne also writes vegan guides to help others plan their trips.

The PERFECT 3 Days in SEOUL Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Plan an epic trip to the Korean capital with the help of this itinerary for how to spend 3 days in Seoul!

There’s no doubt that this bustling metropolis is the soul of South Korea. After all, nearly half the population of the ROK calls the city home!

Seoul is the political, cultural, and educational centre of the country. It’s also an economic powerhouse, coming in behind just New York, Tokyo, and Los Angeles on the list of largest metropolitan economies.

The Korean capital is about much more than business, though. This is a city full of fascinating cultural and historical sights, from ancient palaces to hillside temples.

When the sun goes down, the party starts in Seoul. While people here may come off as a bit shy and reserved, they sure know how to throw it down at night!

READ MORE: Check out our guide to the best things to do in Seoul !

When the soju starts flowing, the good times start rolling in Seoul.

Seoul is a massive city with lots to see and do, so planning a visit here can be a bit intimidating.

Never fear, as I’m here to guide you on what to do in Seoul in 3 days.

We visited a few times when we were teaching English in China, and my brother even lived there for a year (thanks for the tips, bro!).

Table of Contents

Ancient Palaces

Gyeongbokgung, changdeokgung, changyeonggung, gwanghwamun plaza, cheonggye stream, jongmyo shrine, gwangjang market, drinks with a view, korean breakfast, namsangol hanok village, namsan park, korean bbq and soju, yongsan park, national museum, down by the river, when to visit seoul, getting around seoul, best budget accommodation – bong house, best mid-range accommodation – g2 hotel myeongdong, best luxury accommodation – the shilla seoul, how to spend a perfect 3 days in seoul itinerary.

I’m going to share with you the perfect way to spend 3 days in Seoul using my personal experience and itinerary.

You’ve just arrived in a massive capital city that’s home to around 25 million people. What to do first?

Before you see the modern side of Seoul, it’s time to look to the past.

Back in the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), the kings had many grand palaces built in Seoul.

These days, five of them are open to the public. Paying a visit to a few of them is a must for your 3 days in Seoul itinerary.

Unless you’re a huge history buff, you’ll probably just check out one or two of the palaces.

If you’re really gung-ho about visiting them, you can pick up a combination ticket for USD$8.50 that gives you entrance to four palaces as well as the Jongmyo Shrine .

Here’s a brief rundown of the more notable palaces so you can choose your own adventure.

Alternatively, book this awesome ‘ History of Joseon Dynasty’ half-day tour with a bunch of extra sights and activities.

We’ll start with the grandest palace of them all – Gyeongbokgung. With a name meaning “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven,” you just know this place is rad!

This huge palace dates all the way back to 1395 and the time of King Taejo. At its peak, it’s estimated there were an astounding 300 buildings and some 3,000 staff members here.

Despite the name, it turns out Gyeongbokgung wasn’t really blessed by heaven. The Japanese burned it to the ground in 1592 and it lay in ruins for several centuries.

It was rebuilt, then destroyed again. This place has certainly had a turbulent history.

The city began restoration efforts once again in 1990 and they’re ongoing to this day.

A highlight of visiting Gyeongbokgung is seeing the changing of the guard ceremony.

This takes place every hour on the hour from 11-3 and the guards wear traditional Joseon-era uniforms.

While you can definitely visit on your own, it’s worth it to jump on one of the free guided English tours.

These start at 11, 1:30, and 3:30.

In addition to all the gates, pavilions, and gardens, there are also two museums here.

Both the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea are included in your ticket price.

• Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu ( click here )
• Hours: Wednesday-Monday from 9 AM-5 or 6:30 PM depending on season
• Cost: USD$2.50

The Joseon kings definitely came up with some awesome names for their palaces.

This one means “The Palace of Prospering Virtue” and it dates back to 1405.

This was the second royal palace after Gyeongbokgung, and it was actually home to the Joseon royalty longer than any other palace.

Over the years, it too has been destroyed and rebuilt several times.

Changdeokgung is notable for blending in well with its natural surroundings.

It’s also famous for its gorgeous “secret garden” that lies just behind the palace.

There are English tours of the palace available at both 10:15 AM and 1:15 PM.

• Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Waryong-dong, Jongno-gu ( click here )
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday from 9 AM-5:30 or 6:30 PM
• Cost: USD$2.50 for the palace, $6.75 for the secret garden

Any guess as to what the name of this ancient Korean palace means? If you guessed “Palace of Flourishing Gladness,” you nailed it!

King Sejong built this one to honor his retiring father, the aforementioned King Taejong.

As with the other grand palaces of Seoul, this one was also ravaged by the Japanese on a few occasions.

During the period of Japanese colonial rule, they built a zoo and botanical garden here in an attempt to undermine the royal status.

Thankfully this important piece of Seoul’s history has since been restored.

While you’re here, be sure to check out the peaceful pond at the back of the complex.

As there’s only a wall separating them, it’s easy to combine a visit to Changyeonggung with Changdeokgung.

There are English tours at 11 AM and 4 PM here if you prefer to visit with a guide.

• Address: 185 Changgyeonggung-ro, Waryong-dong, Jongno-gu ( click here )
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday from 9 AM-5:30 or 6:30PM
• Cost: USD$0.85

While you can definitely visit all three in a day if you start early, you’ll probably experience a bit of palace fatigue if you do so.

If you really want to see all three, I recommend doing Gyeongbokgung on day one and the other two the next day.

There’s a lot more to see and do on your 3 days in Seoul itinerary, so let’s keep moving.

After visiting Gyeongbokgung, you might as well take a short stroll to Gwanghwamun Plaza.

Opened in 2009, the idea behind this plaza is to have a cultural and historical place for both locals and visitors.

Previously, this area was a massive 16-lane road.

Ten of those lanes were transformed to create this public space, which is one of many aspects of Seoul’s environmentally-friendly renovation projects.

Inside the plaza, you’ll find statues honouring King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin – two very important figures in Korean history.

In front of the latter sits the 12.23 fountain. This commemorates the 12 Korean warships and the 23 battles they fought during the Japanese invasion.

In addition to checking out the statues and fountains, it’s fun just sitting on a bench and watching the city go by.

Children splash in the fountain during the warmer months and it’s a very festive atmosphere around Christmas and New Year’s.

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes surrounding the plaza, so this is the perfect place to take a lunch/coffee break.

You’ll need some energy to tackle the rest of this itinerary for 3 days in Seoul!

Once you’re nice and full/caffeinated, head south through Gwanghwamun to reach the Cheonggye Stream.

Similar to Gwanghwamun, this restoration project was a huge undertaking.

There was a stream flowing here way back in the Josen Dynasty.

After the Korean War, many people migrated to the city and set up a shantytown along the banks of the stream.

All the waste made the area quite the eyesore, so the city decided to cover the stream up with concrete.

It wasn’t until 2003 that the city began working on restoring the stream.

While it was a costly and lengthy restoration process, the results have been fantastic.

These days, there’s a lovely pedestrian-only path along the restored stream.

Along the way, you’ll pass under 22 different bridges and several fountains. It’s a great place for a stroll as it’s around 5 meters below street level.

Despite being in the heart of a mega-city, the stream remains a tranquil oasis.

After walking along the stream for a while, you can head back up to the street level to visit the Jongmyo Shrine.

This Confucian shrine is an excellent addition to your 3 days in Seoul itinerary.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is dedicated to the deceased royal family members of Korean dynasties.

It’s known as the oldest and most authentic Confucian royal shrines in the world.

While the building itself and the history behind it is impressive, the shrine is most notable for the rituals that are still performed here.

Known as Jongmyo Jerye , these ancestral worship ceremonies feature traditional music and dance.

You can visit the shrine as part of a guided tour on weekdays except Tuesday.

The English tours run at 10, 12, 2, and 4. On Saturdays and the last Wednesday of each month, you can visit at your own leisure.

• Address: 157 Jong-ro, Hunjeong-dong, Jongno-gu ( click here )
• Hours: Wednesday-Monday from 9AM-5 or 6:30 PM
• Cost: USD$0.85 (included with combination ticket)

READ MORE: Here’s our list of our best travel tips from more than a decade on the road !

Next up for our Seoul in 3 days adventure is a trip to Gwangjang Market.

This sprawling market is one of the oldest and largest in all of South Korea and is a must-see, especially if you love street food !

The market has a history going back to 1905, when Korean merchants and investors came together to create a marketplace outside of Japanese control.

At the time, most local markets were only open sporadically. This became the first major market in the city to be open every day of the week.

It continued to grow over the years, and these days it’s home to a few thousand different shops.

It’s easy to get lost in the market, but that’s half the fun! Wander around the maze of stalls and see what catches your eye (or your nose).

As I mentioned, this is a haven for Korean street food. One must-try snack here is bindae-tteok – a mung bean pancake.

If you’re into fashion, you may want to stick around and shop for some traditional hanbok clothing.

You could also join the Korean youth in hunting out some cool vintage threads here.

Whatever you do, the market should definitely be on your list of what to do in Seoul in 3 days.

• Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno 4(sa)-ga, Jongno-gu ( click here )
• Hours: Daily from around 8:30 AM-6 PM

Wow! It’s been a pretty huge first day in Seoul. Before calling it a day, though, it’s time for drinks with a view.

Head to the L7 Rooftop Floating bar in Myeongdong.

Located on the 21st floor of the L7 Myeongdong Hotel, this excellent rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the city.

Order up a Korean craft beer, glass of wine, or one of their signature cocktails and drink it in!

There are both indoor and outdoor areas of the bar.

The latter features a nice foot bath, which you’ll probably need after this epic start to your 3 days in Seoul itinerary.

• Address: 137 Toegye-ro, Chungmuro 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea ( click here )
• Hours: Every day from 5 PM-12 or 1 AM

After such a big day and with two more to go, I recommend making the adult decision to take it easy tonight.

Of course, I’m also not one to deter people from partying.

If you really want to let loose, there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from in Seoul!

Hopefully, you got some solid sleep and are ready to tackle day two in Seoul.

If you stayed out and raged on night one, well that’s just fine as well!

Whatever you did, it’s time to lace up your shoes for another big day in the Korean capital.

Before embarking on another day of sightseeing, you’ll want to load up with a nice Korean breakfast.

Don’t come here expecting eggs, bacon, and hash browns, though.

Koreans pretty much eat the same thing for breakfast that they do for lunch and dinner.

On the menu for breakfast here is usually a mixture of rice, soup, and the all-important banchan .

This is the collective name given to small side dishes that are a fixture of Korean cuisine.

These might include some simmered tofu, thin pancakes with scallions, and of course, the almighty kimchi .

Known as the national dish of Korea, kimchi is a fermented vegetable dish usually made with cabbage or radish.

Basically, it ain’t a meal in Korea unless there’s some kimchi on the table.

Eating cold, spicy fermented cabbage may not be your typical breakfast routine, but when in Rome!

Another go-to option for breakfast in Seoul is gomtang – a clear beef stew.

It’s usually made with oxtail, brisket, and tripe. A great spot to try it is Hadongkwan .

They’ve got several locations in the city and there’s usually a line, even at breakfast.

If an oxtail soup and fermented cabbage is a bit much for you in the morning, you can try a Korean spin on Western breakfast and eat some tost-u .

This Korean street toast takes an egg sandwich and adds things like cabbage, spring onion, and a sprinkling of sugar.

With a full belly, you’re ready to power on with these 3 days in Seoul.

As I mentioned on day one, you can space out your visits to the grand palaces if you want to see more than one.

Start your second day off with the others if you’re keen. If not, head straight to the Namsangol Hanok Village after breakfast.

These days, most Seoulites live in high-rise apartment buildings.

Step into a time machine here and see what life was like in the city many centuries ago.

Here you’ll find a collection of hanok – traditional Korean houses that have been restored.

There are five different Joseon-era hanok here representing a range of social classes from peasants to aristocrats.

They even chose furniture based on the era and the different social statuses to give an accurate portrayal of what the homes were like.

In addition to the hanok houses, you can explore a traditional garden. It’s a nice little slice of tranquillity set amongst the urban sprawl.

There are also frequent workshops and performances you can attend.

Check their website to see what’s going on.

• Address: 28 Toegye-ro 34-gil, Pil-dong, Jung-gu ( click here )
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday from 9 AM-8 or 9 PM

Next up for our 3 days in Seoul trip planner, we head to the city’s largest park.

Meaning “South Mountain” in Korean, Namsan is a 262-metre peak in the middle of Seoul.

There are several hiking trails that you can follow, or you can opt for the easy way out on the cable car.

Either way, you’ll end up at the N Seoul Tower .

This observation tower offers some incredible views of the city.

I tend to skip out on the pricey observation decks in cities, but the one in Seoul is pretty freaking cool.

In addition to the panoramic views of the city, you can check out the new immersive art exhibit called “Inside Seoul.”

Using 40 laser projectors and 5D mapping, this exhibit shows a fantastical view of the Korean capital.

Head up here a little before sunset so you can see the city and the tower light up at night.

The tower is open from 10 AM until 11 PM or midnight.

Tickets cost about USD$9 for adults to visit the observatory.

At this point in our 3 days in Seoul itinerary, you’ve seen a lot of the traditional side of the city.

Now it’s time to dive into modern-day Seoul.

Cruise on over to the popular Insadong area to kick off your evening.

This trendy area of the city is always bustling with activity.

There’s an outdoor bazaar, fine art museum, old tea house, and quirky attractions like the Alive Museum.

Here you can take some pretty funny pictures with artwork that creates an optical illusion.

If you’re looking to pick up some interesting souvenirs from your 3 days in Seoul, this is a great place.

There’s also plenty of tasty street food on offer here, but don’t go too big. You’re going to want to be hungry for tonight’s dinner!

While kimchi may be the national dish, the quintessential dining experience in Seoul is definitely Korean BBQ.

There’s just something magical about grilling up a feast right at your table.

The concept of Korean BBQ is simple. You order up a variety of meats and then grill them up yourself.

Be sure to order up some bulgogi – thinly sliced marinated beef.

Once it’s grilled to perfection, wrap it up in lettuce, add some spice paste, and dig in!

If you really want to do Korean BBQ right, you might as well order up a bottle of soju as well.

Korea’s famous booze is usually around 16-20% alcohol.

Many people like to pour a little in a cup and top it off with cold beer. It goes down easy but watch out – these will catch up with you!

In the Insadong area, one Korean BBQ joint that comes recommended is 853 . They’re open til 11 and you can find them on the map here .

Since you took it easy on night one (or did you?), go ahead and let loose tonight if you’re up for it!

A good place to kick off your night is the Southside Parlor in Itaewon ( click here for directions).

These guys whip up some mean cocktails. Try their signature Juarez Old Fashioned or Omija Mule. It’s a little slice of Texas right in Seoul!

How you choose to spend the rest of your night is totally up to you.

Want to rock out to a live band? Dance the night away in a club?

Sing your heart out at a karaoke joint? Get irresponsibly drunk off soju with Korean businessmen?

The world is your oyster on a night out in Seoul!

You’ve made it to the final leg of this epic 3 days in Seoul itinerary. Pat yourself on the back, because it’s been a wild ride so far.

You’ll be happy to hear I’m taking it easy on you for the final day!

After breakfast (you can go back to eggs and bacon if you need to, by the way), begin a relaxed day in Seoul at Yongsan Park.

Formerly a golf course for the US military, this is now a large public park full of walking paths, playgrounds, sports fields and more.

On a leisurely stroll around Yongsan, you can relax by the pond, check out some sculptures, and visit the patriotic flag park.

It’s located just north of the Han River. The next stop on our 3 days in Seoul itinerary just so happens to be here as well.

Before leaving Seoul, it’s time for a little history lesson on South Korea.

The country’s National Museum is huge and features a very impressive collection.

The museum spans three floors and covers ancient history, calligraphy, sculpture, and much more.

At any given time, there are over 12,000 artifacts on display here. Some of the most famous include the Pensive Bodhisattva and the Ten-Story Pagoda .

There are also special exhibitions here that rotate every few months. To see what’s going on during your trip, check their website .

There’s enough to see to keep you busy for a few hours.

Should you need a break, drop into one of the many cafes here.

• Address: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Seobinggo-dong, Yongsan-gu ( click here )
• Hours: Open every day at 10 AM until 6 PM (M, T, Th, F), 7 (Sun), 9 (Wed, Sat)
• Cost: Free to enter main exhibition, small charge for special exhibit

From the museum, it’s just a short walk south to the banks of the Han River.

Head down here to enjoy a riverside walk and take in the scenery.

Depending on what time of year and day you visit, you can rent a bicycle, take a river cruise, admire the Rainbow Fountain , or take in a fireworks show.

There’s always something going on here and it’s a favourite local hangout.

The best way to end 3 perfect days in Seoul is with a relaxing stay in one of the city’s many jimjilbang .

This is a 24-hour bathhouse with a variety of pools, saunas, lounges, and much more.

They’re a big part of Korean culture and a great way to unwind after a busy 72 hours in Seoul.

In addition to chilling in all the baths and saunas, you can also get a massage, body scrub, or a pedicure.

Typically, there are co-ed areas where you wear a bathrobe and then separated areas where you rock your birthday suit.

Most jimjilbang also have restaurants, bars, and sleeping areas.

You usually get twelve hours with the price of admission, so you can even check out of your accommodation and just crash here before heading out of town.

We’ve done that both times we visited Seoul and really enjoyed it!

There are tons of jimjilbang in Seoul, but some of the best include Dragon Hill, Spa Lei, and Siloam Sauna .

Whichever one you choose, it’ll be a glorious end to your 3 days in Seoul itinerary!

Get your entry into Dragon Hill Spa here online .

Seoul Itinerary Travel Guide

So you want to know how to tour Seoul in 3 days? It’s definitely doable, but some months are more enjoyable than others.

First up, you’ll need to figure out when to visit.

Let’s start out with the extremes. The coldest month here is January, while the hottest is August.

Unless you have no other choice, I’d recommend giving these months a hard pass.

The best time to visit Seoul is between March-May or September-November.

During these spring and fall months, you’ll get pleasant weather and some beautiful scenery.

That being said, you shouldn’t be deterred from visiting in winter or summer.

You can easily hit the slopes in this city that just hosted the Winter Olympics.

Meanwhile, summer months mean outdoor music festivals and water parks.

As far as getting around Seoul goes, your best bet is to use a combination of public transportation and your own two feet.

Here are some tips for making your way around Seoul in 3 days.

The metro system here is one of the largest and most efficient in the world.

There are currently 23 lines operating, so you can go just about anywhere in the city on the tube.

Not only is the Seoul metro efficient and convenient, but it also has super-fast WiFi!

South Korea is one of the world leaders in wireless internet coverage, so you’ll be able to post all those kickass photos you take in real-time.

If you don’t feel like waiting in line to buy a ticket for every trip, it’s a good idea to snag the Korea Tour Card .

You can pick these up in convenience stores, at the airport, or at metro stations.

For just USD$3.50, you can get this card and load it up to ride both the metro and bus system in Seoul.

It gets you a discount on the fare, free transfers, and lots of deals around the city. Read all about it here .

Even with the card, navigating the metro system can be confusing.

Download the KakaoMetro app before you go. It will tell you when the next train is arriving, which exit to take, and more.

Where to Stay in Seoul and Best Accommodation

In such a huge city, figuring out where to stay is key for your 3 days in Seoul itinerary.

You definitely don’t want to waste a bunch of time in transit when you have such a short time in the city.

To keep it simple, the city is split in half by the Han River.

The northern half is known as Gangbuk and it’s the more historical side.

This is where you’ll find many of the tourist attractions such as the palaces.

South of the river, you’ll find Gangnam.

Yes, as in “Gangnam Style.” Now you’ll be singing that damn song for the rest of this post. Sorry about that.

This is the more modern and trendy side of Seoul.

For these 3 days in Seoul, I recommend staying north of the river.

Some of the best districts for travellers include Jongno, Jung, Seodaemun, Mapo, and Yongsan .

If you’re balling on a budget for your 3 days in Seoul, look no further than Bong House .

This awesome hostel has a super convenient location and dorm beds for USD$10 and under.

We’ve stayed here and can personally recommend this fun hostel.

This centrally-located hotel is an excellent base for tackling this 3 days in Seoul itinerary.

With a gym and a rooftop garden to go along with their well-appointed rooms, this place is a steal.

Looking to be a bit fabulous on your trip to Seoul? The Shilla is definitely the place for you.

This place is constantly ranked among the best hotels in all of South Korea and for good reason.

If you can afford to splurge a bit, the Shilla is definitely worth it.

That about wraps it up for this guide on how to spend 3 days in Seoul.

While it’s not nearly enough time to see all that the Korean capital has to offer, this itinerary will give you a great introduction to the city.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Sasha and Rachel

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

23 Epic Things to Do in SEOUL, South Korea (2024 Edition)

8 amazing things to do in jeonju, south korea, life experiences while wwoofing in south korea, related posts, 5 most scenic hiking spots in south korea, 2 thoughts on “the perfect 3 days in seoul itinerary (2024 guide)”.

Hallo, I am planning (one person) to spend 3 or 4 days in Seoul at the end of November 2023, flying from Heathrow, (transfer to be included at S) staying in a centrally located 3 star hotel and possibly requiring a guide or just a bike. If possible a nearby located important site could be included. I am an experienced traveller having been to almost 120 countries. I would appreciate your comments Regards Peter Meshty

Love your itinerary. That’s a lot of activities and destinations for 3 days but I’m not complaining. There are a lot of interesting places to visit especially those cultural and historical sights like the ancient palaces. Lots of food too, can’t wait to try it out. Hope we can visit South Korea soon.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Guide to Public Transportation

Neighborhood Guide

48 Hours in Seoul

Day Trips from Seoul

Things to Do in Seoul

Amazing Temples

Where to Go Shopping

Best Museums

Foods to Try

Best Restaurants in Seoul

Nightlife in Seoul

Seoul Guide: Planning Your Trip

A capital city for more than two millennia, Seoul draws in visitors with its food, culture, history, and highly-coveted cosmetics, among other things. Whatever the reason for your visit, you won't be disappointed by your trip to South Korea's bustling, vibrant capital. Get ready for your vacation with this complete guide including what to do, where to stay, and essential travel tips.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : While crowds are bigger, the weather in Seoul is at its most pleasant during spring and fall.
• Language: Korean
• Currency: Won   . 1,100 won is equivalent to $1.
• Getting Around : The Seoul Metro is fast, reliable, and covers a majority of the city and surrounding areas. What the subway doesn't reach, above-ground trains and buses do.
• Travel Tip: Buy a tourist T-money card, you get discounts on dozens of attractions, and it's good on the subway, buses, KTX trains, and in convenience stores.

Things to Do

Shopping, eating, and exploring the city on foot are the most common things to do in Seoul, as in any major city. Because of the city's extensive history, there are several palaces and historic neighborhoods ready to explore. Seoul is also filled to the brim with cosmetic stores where you can get very cheap, high-quality skincare products. The primary commerce areas also have dozens of street stalls selling cute socks and trendy clothes.

• Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest of Seoul's five grand palaces. It was the former home of Joseon kings, and after being painstakingly restored, it's an incredibly popular tourist attraction. It's free to enter the first gate of the palace and to walk around the surrounding parks, but there is a fee to access the inner palace walls. Many visitors put on hanboks (traditional Korean dress) to walk around the palace. After visiting Gyeongbokgung, continue your tour of Korean history by walking to Bukchon Hanok Village. The neighborhood is filled with traditional homes and is free to visit.
• Namsan Tower is one of Seoul's most recognizable landmarks. The tower is at the top of a mountain and can be reached by hike or funicular. There, thousands of love locks are attached to fences and tree-shaped metal sculptures. It's exceptionally beautiful at night when you can see the sparkling city below, but be aware that you'll be sharing your view with dozens of couples.
• Olympic Park was built when Seoul hosted the 1988 Olympics   . It is a massive park with museums, walking trails, and the eternal flame. Sports and nature lovers alike will Olympic Park.

Add to your itinerary with our articles on the best things to do in Seoul , the top temples, and the best museums .

What to Eat and Drink

Foodies will love eating their way through Seoul. Whether it's trying cheesy egg bread, chowing down on ddeokbokki and fish cakes, or tucking into some Korean barbecue, Seoul has dozens of options, ranging from traditional Korean fare to international cuisine. Side dishes called banchan are served with all restaurant meals. The exact number of banchan that you will receive varies, but some sort of kimchi is guaranteed. While Korean cuisine is very meat-heavy, vegetarians and vegans will still be able to find restaurants that fit their needs.

As far as alcohol goes, South Korea is most well known for soju. It's readily available at almost all restaurants and convenience stores for less than 2,000 won (around $2). Soju pairs especially well with barbeque and fried foods. For a very Korean mixed drink, add a shot of soju to your glass of beer to make somaek . Makgeolli is another popular Korean alcohol. It is a type of rice wine and while it's not as widespread at soju, it's worth a try.

Find out where to eat with our article on the best restaurants in Seoul .

Where to Stay

Gangnam: Made famous overseas by PSY's viral hit "Gangnam Style," this neighborhood has tons of restaurants, high-end stores, and is home to the largest underground shopping center in Asia, COEX Mall .

Hongdae: Hongdae is a hot spot for live music, bars, restaurants, and boutiques. The neighborhood is close to several universities, so the crowds skew younger, and it's no surprise for streets to be bustling well into the early morning.

Itaewon: This area is home to a lot of expats, and as such, this is where you can find international restaurants and clothing in larger sizes. There are plenty of bars, cafes, and street art to check out. The Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art is in the area and has an impressive collection of traditional Korean and contemporary art.

Myeongdong: Myeongdong is a shopper's paradise. There are massive department stores along with smaller street shopping and dozens of cosmetics stores. It's also an ideal place to taste some Korean street food.

Learn more about the city's different neighborhoods and the best hotels.

Getting There

Seoul has two major international airports to choose from, but a vast majority of international flights from the U.S., Europe, and Canada fly into Incheon International Airport, the newer of the two. Gimpo International Airport is still a viable option and is closer to the city (although, since both are accessible on the same train line, the 30 minutes saved may not be a significant deciding factor).

Culture and Customs

• While Seoul is an international city and the number of foreign tourists is only growing, fluent English is not widely spoken or understood. That doesn't mean that you need to know Korean to enjoy the city; pointing and pantomiming is more than enough. However, some menus do not come in English, so having a translation app on your phone or knowing the Korean alphabet will come in handy.
• Air quality in Seoul has worsened over time. Fine dust (called "hwang sa" in Korean) used to only be an issue during the spring, but now it's a year-round threat. Purchase an air filtering face mask in convenience stores or pharmacies and keep an eye on the air quality for the neighborhoods you'll be in each day.
• Foreigners aren't held to the same cultural standards as Koreans, but it is considered rude to give or receive something, like money or a credit card, with one hand   . You'll notice that store workers will hand your card back with two hands, and it's polite to receive it with two hands. Most employees will also bow when greeting customers. When that happens, you should return the bow.
• Don't expect people to say "excuse me" when passing you on the street or when pushing past you on the train. It's just not a common practice in Seoul.
• When you want to ask for more water or side dishes at a restaurant, you should call out for an employee. Saying " sajangnim " (boss) or " yogiyo " (over here) is sufficient and is not considered rude. Some restaurants have a call button you can press instead.
• If you don't see any spoons or chopsticks on your table, check the sides. There is usually a drawer on the side of a table filled with chopsticks, napkins, and spoons.

Money Saving Tips

• When shopping at street markets, bring cash with you. While most places will accept cards, you will pay a 10 percent service fee.
• A tourist T-money card is an excellent investment. It costs slightly more (4,000 won instead of 2,500 won and is cash only), but it also gives discounts to popular attractions. Look for a card that says "Korea Tour Card" on it at the airport or in subway stations.
• It's very easy to have an excellent meal at a low price in Seoul. Street food stalls sell rice cakes, fried foods, sweet and savory hotteok , dumplings, and the list goes on. Restaurants in university neighborhoods like Hongdae or Sinchon also tend to be cheaper than in say, Itaewon or Gangnam.
• Many stores offer VAT refunds for purchases over 30,000 won ($25), and some will process the return on the spot—rather than at the airport. Make sure you bring your passport and save your receipts to get the refund.
• Some attractions like Gwanghwamun Palace have nominal entrance fees, but it's free to walk around the main gate.

Learn more about how to enjoy the city without spending a fortune by reading our guide to a budget trip to Seoul.

Seoul Tourism Organization . "All about Money in Korea."

Korea Tourism Organization . "Olympic Park."

Seoul Tourism Organization. "Etiquette."

Getting Around Seoul: Guide to Public Transportation

A Complete Guide to Drinking in South Korea

Getting Around Busan: Guide to Public Transportation

48 Hours In Seoul: The Ultimate Itinerary

Nightlife in Seoul: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

The Top Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea

Your Trip to Busan: The Complete Guide

The 12 Best Day Trips From Seoul

Your Trip to Bangkok: The Complete Guide

The Ultimate Guide to the Neighborhoods of Seoul

The 11 Best Places For Korean BBQ in LA

The Essential Guide to Seoul's Incheon International Airport

One Week in South Korea: The Ultimate Itinerary

Cooking With the Ajummas in Dubai

The Top 15 Things to Do in Daegu

The Top 14 Things to Do in Incheon, South Korea

35 Unique Things To Do In Seoul For First Time Visitors

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: August 14, 2023

Seoul has so many fun things to do for the whole family, including royal palaces, museums, hiking trails, parks and observation decks. The Seoul Sky Tower, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Peak and the War Memorial of Korea are some of the most popular attractions in the city.

In this guide we show you the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea including hidden gems we think you shouldn’t miss.

Our Seoul Experience

We spent 14 memorable days exploring Seoul in March 2023 . Our days were filled with museums, hikes, palaces and Korean BBQ. But even with two weeks, we still couldn’t accomplish everything on our Seoul bucket list because there’s just so much to do in this amazing city.

Our favorite Seoul attractions were the Lotte World Tower, touring the DMZ and Seodaemun Prison. But the popular sites are spread out throughout the entire city so we organized activities by specific area to see as much as possible . Read more  about us .

This guide will show you popular attractions you should consider adding to your Seoul itinerary along with money saving tips. Click the heart on the bottom of this page so you can easily return as you plan your trip. But before we get into our list, there are a few important transportation options you need to consider.

How To Get From Incheon Airport (ICN) To Seoul

Most visitors will arrive into Seoul from Inceheon International Airport (ICN). But this airport is located about an hour from the city so you’ll need to take a train, bus, taxi or car to your hotel. We think the easiest way to get from Incheon to Seoul is the AREX Airport Express Train . This is what we used and it takes about 43 minutes traveling nonstop between the airport and the city.

You can book tickets for the train online or at the airport like we did, but make sure you book the express train . There is another All Stop Train that runs from Inceheon, but it makes 10 stops and takes 53 minutes so it will be slower than the express option. Tickets cost 9,500 KRW (US$ 7.11) for adults or 7,500 KRW (US$ 5.61) for children.

>> Book tickets for AREX Airport Express here

If you don’t feel comfortable with public transportation or you want a little luxury during your trip, you can also book a private transfer to the neighborhood of your choice.

Travel Tip : The ticket machines at the airport do not accept credit or debit cards so you’ll need cash in South Korean Won to purchase train tickets.

How To Get Around Seoul

The easiest way to get around Seoul is by subway because the city has an extensive system with over 20 lines. We like the subway because it’s environmentally friendly and extremely cost effective. You can use cash or a T-Money card to pay for your subway tickets.

The express train will arrive into the 2nd floor basement of Seoul Station and from here, you’ll need to make it your hotel. We used the subway because it’s cheap and we saw a decent amount of traffic so wanted to avoid sitting in a taxi after a long flight.

If you’re planning to use the subway for the majority of your trip, we recommend you purchase a T-Money card . You can set the amount of money on the card and it will be scanned every time you get on and off the subway. A single use ticket costs 1,500 KRW (US$ 1.12) for adults and 500 KRW (US$0.37) for children.

Visitors can purchase a T-Money card at select convenience stores or online prior to visiting . But if you’re just arriving into Seoul with your suitcase, you can pay with cash for your first trip on the subway then purchase your T-money card once you get acclimated. We’ve included the best subway stop and exit for all attractions listed in this guide.

Travel Tip : For those visitors planning to see more than just Seoul, you should look into the Korea Rail Pass because it will give you unlimited train rides on almost all trains operated by KORAIL.

Now, let’s take a look at the best places to visit in Seoul!

1. Visit The Royal Palaces

The 5 royal palaces in Seoul were built during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). They showcase beautiful architecture and centuries of important Korean history. The most popular palace is Gyeongbokgung followed by Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung and Gyeonghuigung respectively.

Most palaces offer free guided tours which we highly recommend if this is your first time in Seoul . We’ve personally visited each palace ourselves and wrote an extensive guide with pros and cons if you don’t have enough time to visit all of them. So start with our comparison of Seoul’s royal palaces to see which one you want to visit.

If you’re not sure which palace to see, check out each one individually:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace (most popular)
• Changdeokgung Palace (has a secret garden)
• Changgyeonggung Palace (our favorite)
• Deoksugung Palace (two museums inside)
• Gyeonghuigung Palace (least visited)

Many visitors dress up in a hanbok to visit the royal palaces. A hanbok is the traditional clothing of Korea and it was used to signify an individual’s gender, class, marital status or age. Any visitor waring a hanbok will receive free entry into Seoul’s palaces . It’s very common for visitors to have their hair and make up done so they can take photos during their visit. You can rent a hanbok here .

2. Jongmyo Shrine

The Jongmyo Shrine contains the spirit tables of the deceased kings and queens from the Joseon Dynasty. Based on Confucian principles, these sacrificial rites symbolize the legitimacy of the royal family.

• Address : 157 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu
• Location : Google Maps
• Subway stop : Jungno 3-ga Station (line 1, exit 11), (line 3, exit 8), (line 5, exit 8)

In 1995, Jongmyo was listed on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and this unique shrine is definitely a must do thing in Seoul. We couldn’t visit during the free guided tour, but we used the informational brochure to explore the stunning complex.

READ : How to visit the Jongmyo Shrine

3. Bukchon Hankok Village

One of the must see things is Bukchon Hankok Village because this stunning town features 1,000 traditional homes that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. The beauty of the village makes it one of the most instagrammable places in Seoul and it can be very crowded.

• Region : Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : Anguk Station (Line 3, exit 2)

We included the main photo spot on our interactive Seoul map you’ll find later in this guide, but we recommend you wander around the village to enjoy the scenery and possibly find a quieter section in town. This experience by Klook is a great option for hanbok rentals if you want to take fun photos.

4. Namsan Seoul Tower

The Namsan Seoul Tower is one of the two observation decks that instantly grab your attention when looking at the city skyline. We think the N Seoul Tower is one of the fun things to do in Seoul because you can take a cable car up to Namsan Park , where you’ll find an entrance to the observation deck.

• Address : 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu
• Subway stop : Myeongdong Station (line 4, exit 3)

If you plan to visit, consider booking this combo ticket for the cable car and observation deck because Klook typically offers the best price. But make sure you give yourself enough time at Namsan Park as there’s so much to see in the area and the views are incredible.

READ : Tips for visiting Namsan Seoul Tower

5. Book A DMZ Tour

One of the top things to do in Seoul is visit the DMZ. While this tour is technically not in the city, most tours originate in Seoul so we’ve included it on our list. The DMZ is one of the most notorious and heavily fortified strips of land in the world running between North and South Korea with tensions still existing today.

From Seoul, most tours begin at Imjingak Park where visitors can explore the park on their own. However, Imjingak Park is the last point you can visit without a tour . You must have a tour guide to explore other locations along the DMZ such as the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel , the Dora Observatory and the Joint Security Area .

Tourists can visit both the DMZ and the JSA, but you must be part of a guided tour . Before booking, we recommend you read our DMZ Tour Review to see which tour would be best for you. But if you already know what you want to do, here are the most popular DMZ Tours:

• Get Your Guide – South Korea DMZ half or full day option
• Klook – Demilitarized Zone Tour (we booked this tour)
• Viator – DMZ Tour with expert guide
• JSA Tour – Paju JSA + DMZ one day bus tour

READ : What to see at Imjingak Park

6. Jogyesa Temple

Located near Insa-dong, Jogyesa Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Korea . It’s one of the best places to go in Seoul because the temple symbolizes modern day Korean Buddhism. Constructed in 1395, Jogyesa Temple was originally built in a different location, but it was moved in 1938 and reconstructed in its current location.

• Address : 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : Anguk Station (line 3, exit 6)

We like Daeungjeon Hall because it features three large golden statues of Amitabha Buddha, Shakyamuni Buddha and Bhaisaiya Buddha measuring 4.8m (16 ft) in height. When you visit the temple, you can also see Baeksong (a 500 year old lacebark pine tree), Brahma Bell Pavilion, Paradise Hall, the One Pillar Gate and a Chinese Scholar Tree.

7. Gwangjang Market

If you’re a foodie, the Gwangjang Market is a must do activity in Seoul . Not only can you try many unique foods, but it was Seoul’s first permanent market made popular by Running Man .

• Address : 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : Jongno 5-ga Station (line 1, exit 7) or Euljiro 4-ga Station (line 2/5, exit 4)

The food is located on the first level of Gwangjang Market while the second floor showcases silk, satin or linen goods. Popular foods include:

• Bindaetteok  (mung bean pancakes)
• Tteokbokki  (spicy rice cakes)
• Sannakji  (live octopus)
• Bibimbap (rice and meat)

If looking for these foods seems overwhelming, try this Gwangjang market food tour to help you find the best Korean street foods.

8. Dongdaemun Market

Another popular Seoul activity is the Dongdaemun Market. This is Korea’s largest wholesale and retail shopping district with a whopping 26 malls and 30,000 speciality shops.

• Address : 272 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : Dongdaemun Station (line 4, exit 8) or Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (line 4, exits 1/14)

You’ll find many types of products ranging from silks, fabrics, shoes, accessories, leather, electronics, office supplies and so much more. We had very limited space in our suitcases so we couldn’t buy anything, but it was fun to walk around the market .

9. Bukhansan National Park

Those looking for adventurous things to do in Seoul should look no further than Bukhansan National Park . Designated as the 15th national park of Korea in 1983, Bukhansan offers visitors gorgeous stretches of mountain peaks and crystal clear streams stretching between Seoul and Gyeonggi-do.

The park is divided into two main sections with Bukhansan Mountain to the south and Dobongsan Mountain to the north with Uiryeong Pass in the middle. It’s an extremely popular park with over 20 million residents living within the vicinity.

We think the best part about Bukhansan is the accessibility from just about anywhere . If you want to hike, but would feel more comfortable with a guide, check out these popular tours on Viator .

10. Inwangsan Peak

Another outdoorsy thing to do in Seoul is climb Inwangsan Peak. This is Seoul’s main hiking trail which follows the Seoul City Wall and passes through the summit at 338m. Built in 1396 to defend the capital during the Joseon Dynasty, the Hanyangdoseong or the Seoul City Wall is 18,600m long. This barrier passes through Inwangsan, Bugaksan, Naksan and Namsan peak.

There are numerous ways to access this trail and we highly recommend this hike if it’s your first visit to Seoul. Even with two weeks, we were limited with time and we didn’t want to lose an entire day hiking in Bukhansan National Park so we opted for Inwangsan Peak .

READ : Top rated hiking apps

11. Lotte World Amusement Park

Lotte World is an extremely popular entertainment complex located in the middle of the city. Here you’ll find an enormous indoor theme park, a luxury hotel, an observation tower and Magic Island , an outdoor amusement park.

• Address : 240 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu
• Subway stop : Jamsil Station (line 2/8, exit 4)

We think Lotte World is one of the best things to do in Seoul with kids , but there a few different tickets and pass options so make sure to purchase the correct one for your visit. Here are popular ticket options for Lotte World:

• Lotte World One Day Ticket
• Lotte World Aquarium
• Lotte World Tower

Travel Tip : Lotte World Amusement Park is included on the Klook Seoul Pass or you can visit the Busan Lotte World to compare parks.

12. Seoul Sky Observatory

The Seoul Sky Observatory is located in Lotte World Tower. This is the tallest building in South Korea and it’s one of the cool things to do in Seoul. Interestingly, the Lotte World Tower currently holds the record as the  world’s 6th tallest building  standing at 1,819 ft (554m) only just passing the  One World Trade Center  in NYC.

• Address : 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu
• Subway stop : Jamsil Station (line 2/8, exit 2/11)

If you’ve visited the Namsan Seoul Tower, we still recommend you climb this observatory because it’s very different. Klook offers a great deal on tickets here .

READ : How to visit the Seoul Sky Observatory

13. Nanta Show

A unique thing to do in Seoul is attend the Nanta Show. This is currently the longest running show in Korean history and features four hilarious chefs as they cook under pressure. Sadly, we didn’t have enough time for a show when we visited, but it’s on our bucket list for next time.

Shows last about 90 minutes and Nanta combines Korean folk songs with modern day music. It’s a nonverbal performance so there is no language barrier and anyone can enjoy the performance . Here are tickets for the popular Nanta Show:

• Get Your Guide

Compare prices before booking your Nanta Show to secure the best price.

Travel Tip : There is a NANTA Theater in Myeongdong and Hongdae so make sure you chose the correct theater when booking tickets.

14. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) stands for Dream, Design, and Play . This stunning complex holds various exhibitions, fashion shows, conferences, forums and international events. Designed by Zaha Hadid , the stunning curves and bold shapes of the DDP complex attract photographers and influencers alike so you can expect it to by busy.

• Address : 281 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu
• Subway stop : Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Station (line 2/4/5, exit 1) or Dongdaemun Station (line 1/4, exit 7)

Travel Tip : We loved the Magis Spun Chairs in the Designers Lounge so see if you can find them!

15. Cheonggyecheon Stream

As part of an urban renewal project, the Cheonggyecheon Stream runs straight through downtown Seoul . It mimics a stream that was present during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). You’ll find numerous informational plaques which tell some very interesting tales along the route.

• Region : Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : City Hall Station (line 1, exits 4/5), Euljiro 1-ga Station (line 2, exits 2/3) or Dongdaemun Station (line 4, exits 6/8)

The Cheonggyecheon Stream begins in the Cheonggye Plaza and passes under 22 bridges before eventually flowing into the Hangang River . You can also visit the Cheonggyecheon Museum for a non-touristy thing to do in Seoul if you want to know more about the project and this area.

The Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA) is a modern art museum featuring 6 exhibition halls, a lecture hall, a library and visual reference materials.

• Address : 61 Deoksugung-gil, Jung-gu
• Subway stop : City Hall Station (line 1/2, exit 10) or Seodaemun Station (line 5, exit 6)

Opened in 1988, this three story building holds internationally renowned exhibitions twice a year. We like SeMA because the permanent exhibitions are free to visit , but you’ll have to pay for special exhibits.

17. War Memorial Of Korea

One of the top things to do in Seoul is visit the War Memorial of Korea . Not only is the War Memorial a free activity, but it’s one of the best memorials we have ever seen . The main hall pays tribute to both Korean and international allies showcasing the names of soldiers who gave their life to protect Korea.

• Address : 29 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu
• Subway stop : Samgakji Station (line 4, exit 1), (line 6, exit 12) or Namyeong Station (line 1, exit 1)

In addition to the memorial, you can visit the War History Room, Korean War Room, an open air exhibition area and a children’s museum. We knew this would be a large complex so we gave ourselves almost an entire day to visit the memorial and we still couldn’t see everything . So if you’re interested in Korean history, you should plan to spend several hours if not a whole day here.

Travel Tip : We found a cheap and cheerful restaurant near the memorial called Hangang Burger , if you need a quick bite.

18. Starfield COEX Mall

One of the best things to do in Seoul for young adults is visit the Starfield COEX Mall because it’s the largest underground mall in Asia with hundreds of stores. Here you’ll find both domestic and international brands, numerous dining options, the Kimchi Museum, the COEX Aquarium , and a Megabox Cineplex with 17 screens.

• Address : 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu
• Subway stop : Samseong Station (Subway Line 2, exit 5/6) or Bongeunsa Station (line 9, exit 7)

A popular place to visit for tourists is the Starfield Library with two stories of floor to ceiling bookshelves. We also loved the running track spanning throughout the bottom of the mall.

19. Bongeunsa Temple

Located very close to Starfield COEX Mall, Bongeunsa is a Buddhist temple with a long history dating back more than 1,200 years ago. It’s well known for Templestays which helps to spread the culture worldwide.

• Address : 531 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu
• Subway stop : Samsung (line 2, exit 6), Chungdam (line 7, exit 2) or Bongeunsa (Line 9, exit 1)

A highlight of Bongeunsa is the 28m (91 ft) stone statue of Maitreya known as the Future Buddha. This is one of the tallest stone statues in Korea so it’s certainly worth a visit. You’ll find the statue towards the back of the temple complex.

20. Seoul Olympic Park

Built for the 1988 games, the Olympic Park is a must do in Seoul because it’s now divided into several fun zones . Locals and tourists alike can visit the beautiful green space filled with sculptures and sports venues.

• Address : 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu
• SubwaysStop : Olympic Park Station (line 5, exit 3) or Mongchontoseong Station (line 8, exit 1)

This space also houses Korea’s largest sports arena and beautiful flowers bloom throughout the entire park depending on the time of year. Additional highlights include the Mongchon Fortress walking paths, the World Peace Gate, numerous dialogue sculptures, 88 Lake and an ice skating rink in winter. Popular places in Olympic Park for photos include:

• Wild flower garden
• Gourd tunnel
• Pink muhly Ggrass
• Golden ginkgo tree road

Travel Tip : If you don’t want to walk around the entire park, you can rent a two wheeled or four-wheeled bicycle near the SK Olympic Handball Gymnasium.

21. Visit A Themed Cafe

Themed cafes are one of the unique things to do in Seoul because you can find a cafe for just about anything. Below are some of the most popular themed cafes:

• 943 King’s Cross – Harry Potter cafe (Hongdae)
• Ddong Café – Poop cafe (Insadong)
• StyleNanda Pink Pool Cafe – Pink everything cafe (Hongdae)
• Greem Cafe – 2D cafe (Hongdae)

Before visiting any type of animal cafe, we highly recommend you do a little research to ensure you are supporting a cafe with ethical business practices. This is our responsibility as travelers .

Here are important things to consider before visiting an animal cafe:

• Reviews – Always read reviews and if you see animal neglect, it’s important to leave a negative review to warn others
• Type of pet – Wild or undomesticated pets should not be in a cafe
• Understand where the animals came from – For example, rescued strays loving their new life in a cafe is okay
• The cafe doesn’t limit people – This could induce stress on animals
• Animals don’t have a private space – Even animals need a break now and then

That being said, we have visited amazing animal cafes around the world run by incredible people who are making a huge difference . Just please do your homework prior to visiting!

22. National Folk Museum Of Korea

Located near Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum of Korea features over 4,000 artifacts showcasing lifestyles, traditions and history of Korean culture. The entire complex includes three permanent exhibits along with two special exhibits, an open air space and a children’s museum.

• Address : 37 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : Auguk Station (line 3, exit 1), Gyeongbokgung (line 3, exit 5) or Gwanghwamun Station (line 5, exit 2)

Admission to the National Folk Museum is free with a Gyeongbokgung Palace ticket . You can also join a free guided tour at 10:30 and 14:30 in front of Exhibition Hall 1.

23. Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market

The Noryangjin Fish Market is the largest and oldest seafood market in Korea with a massive floor space and 700 vendors. It’s open 24 hours a day, but if you want to see the bustling market in full glory, come in the morning during the auction or during the day before the stalls close.

• Address : 674 Nodeul-ro, Dongjak-gu
• Subway Stop : Noryangjin Station (line 1, exit 1)

For one of the freshest meals of your life , you can purchase live seafood at numerous stalls and then have it prepared at a restaurant right upstairs. Or you can try this Noryangjin Fish Market Guided Tour to learn about the local food culture and try fresh seafood.

Travel Tip : If you want to get a good deal here, you’ll have to bargain. Make sure you also check the cooking charges before ordering because visitors often complain about being overcharged.

24. Seodaemun Prison

Opened in 1908 as Gyeongseong Prison, the Seodaemun Prison was used to imprison independence activists during the Japanese occupation until the liberation of Korea in 1945. While the Seodaemun Prison is not often one of the top attractions in Seoul, it’s definitely worth visiting because it commemorates the ideals of peace and freedom in Korea.

• Address : 251 Tongil-ro, Seodaemun-gu
• Subway stop : Dongnimmum Station (line 3, exit 5)

Visitors can walk through numerous exhibition halls, prison buildings, labor buildings and many other sites used during these hard times. We almost didn’t visit this museum because it’s not often included on rounds ups, but we were happy we did because we learned so much about Korea.

READ : What to see inside Seodaemun Prison

25. National Museum of Korea

Established in 1945, the National Museum of Korea should be at the top of your bucket list for Seoul because it’s the most extensive museum in the Republic of Korea . The museum has 6 large galleries showcasing prehistoric history, medieval works, calligraphy, painting, Asian art, sculpture and crafts.

• Address : 137 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu
• Subway stop : Ichon Station (line 4, exit 2)

Not only do we like this museum because there’s so much to see, but it’s also free to visit . We highly recommend you give yourself several hours to explore this incredible museum.

Travel Tip : Guided tours are available almost every day in Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese beginning on the first floor near the Korean Empire Gallery. French is available on Saturdays.

26. Hongdae

Hongdae is a popular neighborhood located near Hongik University which is very well known for its fine arts program. So it should come as no surprise that Hongdae has an extremely creative vibe . The intricate alleys are also filled with restaurants, shops, clubs or pubs and sometimes you can see various street performers.

We like Hongdae because there are amazing street food options everywhere . If you’re visiting Seoul for the first time, be sure to check out the Kakao Friends Hongdae flagship store or take a walk down Hongdae Mural Street .

READ : Best hotels in Hongdae

27. Myeongdong’s Walking Street

Another great thing to do in Seoul is take a stroll through the epicenter of the fashion world along Myeongdong’s walking street. It can be compared to Orchard Road in Singapore or Bukit Bintang in Kuala Lumpur. There are hundreds of shops, bars and restaurants hidden within the labyrinthine alleyways.

Visitors can shop for everything from high end boutiques to international brands. We love this famous shopping district because many streets are pedestrian friendly and you won’t have to contend with cars so you can shop without a worry.

Every night, the Myeongdong Night Market begins around 3pm and lasts until 11pm. But we recommend you arrive on an empty stomach to make the most of your visit!

READ : Best hotels in Myeongdong

28. Visit Gangnam

Made popular by the song Gangnam Style in 2012, this is the hip and trendy neighborhood in Seoul. It’s well-known for luxury department stores featuring Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior and Gucci. But there are more things to do in Gangnam than just shopping. Visitors can stroll down K-Pop Avenue to see the colorful teddy bears or stop by the Bongeunsa Temple . Gangnam has something for everyone.

READ : Best hotels in Gangnam

29. Seolleung and Jeongneung

Now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the royal tombs are a must visit when in Seoul because the complex is a resting place for the rulers of the Joseon Dynasty . These royal tombs include a collection of 40 tombs scattered over 18 locations , but you won’t need to visit all of them because the Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs can be found right in the city.

• Address : 1 Seolleung-ro 100-gil, Gangnam-gu
• Subway stop : Seolleung Station (line 2, exit 10) or Seonjeongneung Station (line 9, exit 3)

The Seolleung Royal Tomb belongs to King Seongjong , the 9th ruler of Joseon and his third consort, Queen Jeonghyeon . Here you can also visit the Jeongneung Royal Tomb which belongs to King Jungjong , the 11th ruler of Joseon. These were one of the most interesting things we visited in Seoul during our trip.

30. Seoul Museum Of History

Another museum to add to your list is the Seoul Museum of History . Opened in 1985, this museum showcases the history and culture of Seoul from the Joseon Dynasty to present day. It’s located right next to Gyeonghuigung Palace so it can be easily visited in tandem with the royal palace .

• Address : 55 Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : Gwanghwamun Station (line 5, exit 7)

We think this museum is a hidden gem because it’s free to visit and filled with incredible information spanning 600 years of history. During our visit, it was not busy so it was very peaceful.

31. Bank Of Korea Money Museum

The Bank of Korea Money Museum is one of the cool things to do in Seoul because this free museum demonstrates the history of currency throughout the years . Guided tours are free, but must be booked. Audio guides are also available in Korean, English, Japanese and Chinese.

• Address : 39 Namdaemun-ro, Jung-gu
• Subway stop : City Hall Station (line 1/2, exit 7), Euljiro1-ga (line 2, exit 7) or Hoehyeon Station (line 4, exit 7)

We love how this museum not only focused on Korean currency, but on how money has changed over time. As travel bloggers, we thought the currency from around the world exhibit was a must see !

Travel Tip : Find the replica vault and play with the interactive exhibits to experience how heavy money can be. Think you could carry a lot of money out of the vault?!

32. Find A Cocktail Bar

Seoul’s nightlife is known for being one of the best in Asia . You’ll find numerous clubs, bars and cocktail bars in every neighborhood. We think visiting the numerous cocktail bars is one of the fun things you can do in Seoul with friends and we couldn’t help slipping into a few ourselves in between sightseeing.

Here are some popular cocktail bars:

• Alice Cheongdam – Gangnam
• Charles H . – Jongno
• Bar Cham – Jongno
• The Griffin Bar – Jongno
• Southside Parlor – Yongsan

You won’t have to travel far to find a cocktail bar so just ask the locals or check out this popular pub crawl .

33. Try Korean BBQ

One of the best things to do in Seoul is experience a Korean BBQ. The meal involves marinated meat cooked over a hot bbq in the middle of a table . Typical meat cuts include very tender pork or beef belly, brisket, prime rib and short ribs. These cuts are then marinated in soy sauce and toasted in sesame oil or gochujang prior to grilling.

Cooking the meat right at the table is part of the entire experience and it’s meant to be enjoyed with many people . So grab your friends, travel partners or family and sit down for a Korean BBQ. Check out this Korean BBQ in Hongdae or a Secret Pub Experience if you don’t want to do all the planning yourself.

34. Cruise The Han River

A cruise along the Han River is one of the best activities in Seoul , especially for first time visitors. E-Land Cruises have been operating since 1986. Visitors can choose between a moonlight, starlight, sunset or a Han River cruise package. If you’re looking for a romantic thing to do with your partner , surprise them with a cruise.

>> Book a Han River experience : Get Your Guide | Klook | Viator

35. Seoullo 7017

Opened to the public in May 2017, the Seoullo 7017 was once an overpass for cars. But now it has been transformed in a gorgeous sky garden elevated high above the busy streets . The green space can be compared to the High Line in NYC , offering a walking path for both tourists and locals to visit attractions in the area.

• Address : 432 Cheongpa-ro, Jung-gu

We like visiting Seoullo 7017 after the sun sets because the sky garden is illuminated with blue lights. But it’s not the best area around the train station so be aware of your surroundings if you plan to visit at night .

Best Seoul Tours

At the beginning of this guide, we mentioned the importance of grouping the must do Seoul attractions in the same area. So now that you know the popular activities, do you know which ones you want to visit? Here are some highly rated tour options that include various highlights:

• Travel SIM + T-Money Card – Unlimited 4G data and a public transport card
• Dark Side of the City – A ghost stories walking tour
• Viator DMZ Tour – With option to visit the red suspension bridge
• Seoul City Full Day Tour – See the best of the city in one day
• Day Trip to Nami Island – A hassle free day option with a tour guide

Food Tours And Cooking Classes

Seoul is a foodies paradise between mouth watering street food, Korean BBQ, the Noryangjin fish market, hidden speakeasies and bustling markets. So where do you start?

This was something we struggled with too. There is so much to eat and drink in this amazing city, it can be very overwhelming. Booking a food tour or taking a cooking class is one of the best ways to learn about culinary traditions from locals . Here are popular food experiences:

• Drinking and Eating through the Alleys – A 5 hour tour featuring places you won’t find on Google
• Secret Food Tours Seoul – A half day option to iconic neighborhoods and off the beaten track gastronomy gems
• Korean Cooking Class – Learn how to cook authentic Korean dishes with an experienced chef
• Kimchi Experience – Instructed by professional Korean chefs, you’ll learn how to make kimchi
• Night Market Food Tour – Learn about Korean history while trying authentic dishes and playing drinking games

Seoul Interactive Map

Above you’ll find our interactive map featuring all of the best things to do in Seoul we mentioned in this guide. You can also access our interactive map via this link here .

However, Google maps can be unreliable in South Korea because Google does not have access to geographical data in the country . This is due to conflicts between the Korean government and security concerns.

We recommend you download KakaoMap  ( apple and android ) so you can navigate your way through Seoul. During our visit, we could load our Google Map, but it would never show us our exact location. Use our interactive map to figure out where you need to go then use the KakaoMap to navigate.

How To Save Money

If you want to visit several attractions in Seoul, you should consider purchasing a pass to help you save money. We like to compare attraction passes to buying in bulk because the more attractions you visit, the more money you’ll save.

There are two popular passes including the Klook Seoul Pass or the Go City Seoul Pass . Depending on what you plan to see, one pass may work better for you so we’ll briefly touch on each one.

Klook Pass Seoul

The Klook Pass Seoul is a very popular option that can help you save 52% on attractions and there are 10 attractions included:

• Lotte World
• N Seoul tower
• Nami Island + Petite France tour
• Hanbok experience with Korean hairstyling
• Coex Aquarium
• Alive Museum + Dynamic Maze
• Ehwa Korean school uniform rental
• Lotte World Aquarium 
• 63 Building Observatory + Aqua Planet 63

You can choose 2-4 activities from this list for one amazing price. We like this pass because it’s valid for 30 days . This means you don’t have to rush around visiting attractions by a certain time period and you can take your time.

>> Buy the Klook Seoul pass here

Go City Seoul Pass

The Go City Seoul Pass is different compared to the Klook Pass because you can choose from 29 attractions with many of these activities featured in this guide. Go City offers an attraction based all-inclusive pass or a day based explorer pass . Popular attractions include:

• N Seoul Tower
• Nanta Cooking Show
• Han River Cruise
• 14-day Korean Sim
• Incheon Airport express train
• Dark Side of Seoul Ghost Tour

>> Buy a Go City Seoul pass here

Having used these passes ourselves in London, Paris and Rome, we can tell you from experience they will save you money, especially if you plan to see many things during your trip.

Royal Palace Pass

The last option is a Royal Palace Pass . But it’s not a traditional pass like the two options we mentioned above because it only works for the palaces in Seoul. We used this pass in the city and thought it was worth it.

The pass costs 10,000 KRW (US $7.53) and it’s valid for three months from the date of purchase . Here are current prices for the palaces:

• Gyeongbokgung  (3,000 KRW)
• Changdeokgung  (3,000 KRW) with Huwon Secret Garden (5,000 KRW)
• Changgyeonggung  (1,000 KRW)
• Deoksugung  (1,000 KRW)
• Jongmyo Shrine  (1,000 KRW)

If you visited all of the sites above individually, it would cost you 14,000 KRW. This pass would save you a 4,000 KRW . You can’t purchase the royal palace pass online and it can only be purchased on site when you visit your first Seoul palace. However, if you want to visit more attractions than just the palaces, you should buy a Klook Pass Seoul or a Go City Seoul Pass .

The Morgan Conclusion

If this is your first time in the city, here are our top ten things to do in Seoul:

• War Memorial of Korea
• Visit at least one of the royal palaces
• Go on a tour the DMZ
• Climb one of the observation decks
• Have a Korean BBQ
• Stroll through the Olympic Park
• Check out the Royal Tombs
• Explore the Seodaemun Prison
• Go shopping in Gangnam
• Hike to Inwangsan Peak

These are activities we always recommend to friends or family and you can’t go wrong with anything listed above. We think 3-5 days in Seoul is enough time to see the major highlights of South Korea’s capital city. But this is a very large sprawling city and 6-8 days would be better so you can slow down.

You can visit South Korea anytime of the year, but spring from mid-March to early April is extremely popular for cherry blossom season . Another popular time is late September to early October for the peak fall foliage . Spring and fall are sunny seasons with comfortable temperatures making these the best months to travel through South Korea.

Our Seoul Guides

• How to book the best DMZ Tour
• Fun things to do at Imjingak Park
• Complete guide to Namsan Seoul Tower
• How to visit the Seoul Sky observatory
• What to see at the Jongmyo Shrine
• How to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace
• What is the best royal palace in Seoul?
• What to expect when visiting Seodaemun Prison
• 20 amazing hotels in Seoul

Want more Seoul content? Head over to our South Korea Travel Guides to explore the very best of Seoul and beyond.

We hope this guide listing the must do things in Seoul helps with planning your visit to South Korea’s capital city!

Please let us know if you have any questions about these attractions or visiting the city in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy this Seoul activities guide? Pin it for your visit!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest in travel straight to your inbox

Click here to subscribe

Seoul   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Alex Barlow | Getty Images

Why Go To Seoul

The blue and red yin and yang emblazoned on South Korea's flag represent balance – an ideal that was thrown off-kilter during the Korean War. But after the 1953 armistice, a modern Seoul bloomed anew. Today, the city is characterized by stunning architecture, vibrant culture and a thriving economy – all testaments to Seoul's resilience.

Seoul may seem like its blazing into the future, but South Koreans still hold fast to their rich heritage. Tucked between vast shopping districts and lively nightlife zones are relics of Seoul's history, windows into an old Seoul before the towers of concrete and steel. Gyeongbok Palace  – the oldest and largest of five Joseon Dynasty palaces in the city – stands on manicured grounds just minutes from downtown. Nearby, Bukchon Village 's wooden, one-story homes sit in sharp contrast to the surrounding high-rises. Miraculously, Seoul's past and present do not clash; rather, they play off one another. This harmonious blend of old and new is the key to Seoul's allure and a central tenet of the city's identity.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• # 12 in Best Places to Visit in September 2024
• # 18 in Best Places to Visit in Spring
• # 28 in Best Cities in the World to Visit

Best of Seoul

Best hotels in seoul.

• in JW Marriott Hotel Seoul
• in Lotte Hotel World
• in The Shilla Seoul

Best Things to Do in Seoul

• # 1 in Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower
• # 2 in Bukchon Hanok Village
• # 3 in Bukhansan National Park

Popular Tours

Best DMZ Tour Korea from Seoul (Red Suspension Bridge Optional)

(16997 reviews)

from $ 55.00

Korea DMZ Tour from Seoul-Hotel Pickup / option: Suspension Bridge

(7893 reviews)

Seoul City Sightseeing Tour Including Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, and Namsangol Hanok Village

(475 reviews)

from $ 99.00

Seoul Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Seoul are from March to May and from September to November, when the weather is mild (average daily high temperatures stay below the mid-70s) and travel expenses are low. If you're a powder hound, you'll want to visit between December and February, when average daytime temperatures stay around the freezing mark and snow can be frequent. It's best to avoid the summer months, also known as monsoon season. During these months, Seoul is uncomfortably humid and full of tourists. What's more, hotel room costs are at fever pitch.

Weather in Seoul

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• Respect your elders Korean customs hold senior citizens in the highest regard. Do as the locals do and offer the priority seats on the subway to the elderly.
• Count your decimal places 1,000 South Korean won equate to almost one U.S. dollar (actually about 90 cents), so an easy way to calculate approximate dollar costs is to move the decimal place on Korean currency to the left three places (10,000 won equals about $10).
• If it's late, call a cab The subway is reliable during the day, but it's closed between midnight and 5:30 a.m. That means night owls will have to find alternate means of transportation in the wee hours (just remember that cabs hike up their prices 20 percent between midnight and 4 a.m.).

How to Save Money in Seoul

• Purchase a SEOUL CITYPASS This transportation card covers 20 trips per day on the subway or the bus.
• Eat on the street Food stalls and 24-hour Korean "fast-food" joints offer a wide array of food options that are as pleasing to your taste buds as they are to your wallet.
• Shop "Tax Free" Foreign visitors can be eligible for a tax refund for goods they take out of the country. Look for shops that display "Tax Free" signs. Before you leave Seoul, declare your items at airport customs and receive your refund. Find out more about tax refunds on the Korea Tourism Organization's official website .

Culture & Customs

South Korean culture is still deeply rooted in ancient Confucian principles, including a strong dedication to family and society. Because of Koreans' respect for the hierarchy system, family elders and ancestors are honored above all. To uphold Korean etiquette, bow to elders in greeting (younger people are expected to bow lower than the elders out of respect) and allow them priority seating on public transportation. A bow when meeting anyone else is customary. And don't get offended if someone asks your age. Since elders are held with such high regard in Korean culture, oftentimes people ask as a way to avoid disrespecting anyone in their company. This is the same among youth culture, as younger people perceive themselves to have different roles in the group dynamic than the older participants, even if the age difference is only a couple of years. But don't worry too much about whether or not you're performing the social norms properly. Koreans have become well attuned to Western culture and don't expect foreigners to know the ins and outs of Korean etiquette (there are many different types of bows). It is also worth noting that in writing, Korean given names come after family names (the opposite is true in the United States).

South Korea's official currency is the South Korean won (KRW). One United States dollar equals roughly 1,118 won, but don't let all those decimal places scare you – won only comes in increments of 10 (10 KRW equals about 1 cent), so figuring out costs isn't terribly difficult. You can exchange money at most banks, and withdraw bills in increments of 10,000 won from ATMs. ATMs, however, have been a faulty means of getting cash for international travelers. Generally, ATMs in Seoul cater to those with Korean cards and even though your card may be listed as accepted, it still may not work. If this happens, the Korea tourism board recommends seeking out ATMs in heavily populated areas, such as train stations, bus terminals or department stores. To be safe, order Korean currency  before you go to Korea or obtain your money at the airport. 

Combat and instability are in South Korea's past, but it's important to remember that this peaceful, modern democracy's armistice with its northern neighbor has been called into question a number of times since the Korean War ended in 1953. There have been a few isolated skirmishes between the two Koreas over the past 60 years, but the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South actually stands as a safe tourist attraction.

While South Korea's crime rates are low, you should still exercise caution when it comes to personal safety. Seoul plays host to the same crimes symptomatic of any densely populated metropolitan area: Pickpocketing and purse snatching are more common in crowded areas. Don't walk alone at night and if you're a woman, exercise caution when visiting nightlife districts, as sexual assaults against women have been reported to the State Department . Make sure you only use legitimate taxis like the ones described in our guide to Getting Around Seoul too. The State Department also recommends travelers not join in protests of any kind (demonstrations are common in Seoul). If you find yourself in an emergency, dial 119 for an ambulance and 112 for the police. There are no required vaccinations for visiting Korea. Tap water is considered safe to drink but most travelers don't as the difference in water may cause stomach problems for far-flung travelers. 

What to Eat

Chowing down on hansik (traditional Korean food) is a cultural experience you won't want to miss – but it's also not for the ultra-squeamish. Many Korean meals include pickled ingredients, like kimchi (spicy fermented cabbage or other vegetables) and gochujang (fermented soy bean and red pepper paste), among other Korean flavors. Don't let fear of the unknown dissuade you – you're going to want to taste some of this.

If cabbage kimchi doesn't appeal to you, then perhaps Seoul's never-ending plethora of grilled meats will. Gather around a tabletop grill at a barbecue house and savor the aromas of sizzling samgyupsal (pork belly) or galbi (beef ribs). Watching you calorie intake? Head to one of the many Bon Bibimbap franchise locations around Seoul: Its namesake, bibimbap , comprises a bowl of rice, vegetables, chili paste, fried egg and (sometimes) marinated beef that will fill you up without putting a strain on your waistband (or your budget).

Truly adventurous eaters will want to head to Gwangjang Market, the oldest market in Seoul, where you can sample everything from mandu (rice-paper dumplings filled with ground meat or vegetables) to jokbal (pigs' feet boiled in soy sauce, ginger, rice wine and garlic). And remember to save some room for bindaeduk , a fried pancake made from ground mung beans that is reminiscent of a savory funnel cake. For more information about how to follow your taste buds around Seoul, visit the Korea Tourism Organization's official website .

Getting Around Seoul

The best way to get around Seoul is via the subway. You can throw in a taxi ride here and there if you plan on staying out late, or a bus ride if your destination is too far to walk. Seoul is too massive to be explored solely on foot, but it does contain some neighborhoods that were made for walking ( Bukchon Village , for example). Because Seoul's public transportation is so cheap and extensive, we advise against renting a car (plus, traffic in the city is legendary). If need be, you can rent a car at either of Seoul's two airports, Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP). The vast majority of international flights come in via Incheon. You can take a taxi from Incheon or Gimpo into Seoul, or if you're looking to save a little coin, the AREX (Airport Railroad Express) train goes directly into the city too.

Entry & Exit Requirements

The Republic of Korea requires U.S. citizens to hold a valid passport for tourism and business trips lasting up to 90 days from when you enter the country. A trip lasting longer than 90 days or for another reason besides tourism or business requires a visa. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

Gyeongbokgung is the oldest and largest of Seoul's five Joseon Dynasty palaces.

Explore More of Seoul

Things To Do

Best hotels.

You might also like

# 1 in  Best Places to Visit in Japan

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Trip to Seoul

Should you leave a tip drink the tap water stay in the touristy neighborhoods we got you..

Updated on 3/26/2021 at 6:17 PM

One glimpse of Seoul and you’ll know why it’s trending. There is no city in the world more adept at finding a fad and, with mind-boggling speed, blowing it up and putting it on every street corner and back alley. If you see it in Brooklyn today and it’s even remotely cool, you’ll likely see it in Seoul tomorrow.

World-class dining? Check. Museums and galleries? Check. A nightlife that never stops? I mean, we did rank Seoul the number one party city in the world , so. South Korea’s capital is a whirlwind of action, a high-energy hub of 10 million residents who fully embrace the work hard, play hard mentality. And since South Korea is small, with Seoul a mere four-hour train ride from even the farthest-flung city, it’s easy to go full vacation mode and explore the country at large. Allot enough time. I recommend at least a week, so you can really “do” Seoul and also take a day trip or two.

Nothing will prepare you for the rush you’ll feel surrounded by blazing neon, blaring K-pop, beckoning street food, beautiful natural escapes—and shopping, oh, the shopping! But you can get equipped for your first trip to Seoul with these basics, including when to visit, the best neighborhoods to check out, how to get around, and more.

The best time of year to visit Seoul is spring or fall

The weather in Seoul is not always agreeable. Winter is frigid. Summer feels like a swamp. At about the same latitude as the central States, Seoul’s weather and seasonality more or less mirror New York City’s. Aim for September-October or April-June, when temps range a comfortable 55-85 degrees.

Air quality, however, is a concern all year round. You’ll spot locals wearing masks to fend off the fine dust. In recent years, Seoul’s pollution levels have reached carcinogenic heights, on some days exceeding the World Health Organization’s exposure limits. If the smog is bad and you want to sport a mask too, you can find one at any convenience store or pharmacy ( but at this point, you probably own about 50 of your own! Thanks, pandemic!) .

Walking around Seoul can feel like a competitive sport

Except worse, because there are no rules. There’s no sense of directionality, as in “you walk on your side, I’ll walk on mine.” Pedestrians are pushy, motorcyclists are certainly not concerned about your safety, and the “sidewalks” are really just extra parking spaces for cars. Take it in stride (!) and bask in the bedlam. Half the country has packed itself into Seoul’s greater metropolitan area. Getting around the city can be hectic, but it’s a pleasure in its own way.

Luckily, public transit is easy to find and cheap to use

With more than 20 subway and extension lines, and hundreds of bus routes, to say that Seoul is well connected by public transit is an understatement. And despite its rapidly rising cost of living, transit is still cheap—usually only KRW 1,250 (about US $1.05) a ride. Buy a T-Money transit card and load it up at the station kiosks, or stop inside a 7-Eleven or CU convenience store and ask the clerk to do it for you. The touch-card will work on every subway, bus, and taxi—not only in Seoul, but nationwide. The super handy KakaoMap , KakaoMetro , and KakaoBus apps will help you navigate, and the Kakao T app will let you order a cab even without a Korean credit card (just select the “pay to the driver” option).

For the most part, a trip on the metro will get you within a short walk of your destination, and faster than a taxi in traffic ever could. But if you’re out late and the subway isn’t operating, do hail a cab. You’ll know the driver is available when you see the red 빈차, or “empty car,” sign illuminated in the windshield. The meter starts at KRW 3,800 (about US $3.15).

Hotels and accommodations come in many flavors

Lodging options are wide-ranging—hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and Airbnbs abound. There’s the affordable and the not-so-affordable. There’s the so-called Western style, with beds, and the more traditional Korean style, with sleeping mats on the floor. If you opt for an Airbnb, note that many Korean bathrooms don’t have bathtubs or shower stalls. Essentially the entire bathroom is your shower stall, so the whole floor is wet after you wash. That’s where those plastic sandals come into play (most Airbnb hosts will provide them).  

The best neighborhoods to check out in Seoul

Seoul is made up of 25 districts, situated north and south of the Han River that divides the city in half. While none of them will leave you high and dry in terms of places to sleep, eat, and drink, certain areas are more quiet and residential, and others offer better access to the action.

If you’re here to party ( you’re here to party, right ?) post up in Hongdae or Itaewon , where going club-, lounge-, and bar-hopping is as simple as walking out your front door. (Just be warned it will be loud at all hours of the day and night. Drinking is basically a national pastime.) A mere couple of blocks away you’ll find the Kyunglidan neighborhood, an uphill-sloping street dotted with curiosity-inducing eateries and lounges just beckoning you inside. It feels uber-urban yet tucked away and almost secret.

If you’ve come to Seoul to go on a fevered unrestrained shopping spree, visit Myeongdong or Gangnam (yeah, that Gangnam ). To explore the city’s history and culture, Jongno is the heart of old Seoul, home to royal palaces and traditional hanok homes. (To stay in a hanok , which are characterized by wide wooden floors and tiled roofs, book a guesthouse in Bukchon.) And if you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, try Mullae on the west side, or Seongsu on the east side, which are kind of like the Brooklyns of Seoul.

Pick up on local fashion cues

In Seoul, it’s all about dressing to impress… though not quite to stand out. The herd mentality is rooted deep in the culture here, and K-style is no exception. Korean idols dictate the trends; once a celebrity wears something, it’s minted a must-have and the masses rush to copy it. You might notice that everyone around you is wearing slightly different versions of the same styles. Last winter it was long puffer coats. Right now it’s hair clips, and dresses layered over shirts.  

Tips for communicating with locals

Most South Koreans understand elementary English, and while they might be shy about practicing with you, you can absolutely get around the city without any extensive Korean skills. Still, don’t be that lazy American tourist who makes zero effort to speak the language. Take the time to learn a few basic phrases: “annyeonghaseyo” (“hello”), “juseyo” (“please”), and “kamsahamnida” (“thank you”).

South Koreans are a proud people; when an outsider shows an appreciation for the local customs, food, and language, locals usually respond with praise and a warm smile—and maybe even a freebie or two at a restaurant.

That being said, South Koreans are, by nature, an insular bunch. Having connections and a proper introduction are important here, so it can be tricky for foreign travelers to make fast friends at a bar—if you like companionship, it’s not a great place to travel solo . Locals might be up for a light-hearted chat, but it’s more likely they’ll keep to themselves.  

Quick restaurant etiquette

Assuming you’ll be doing a lot of eating (and trust us, you will), you’ll quickly shake off any initial timidness about communicating in restaurants. At most places, it’s perfectly acceptable to call over the waitstaff with a shout—“yeogiyo!” or “here please!”—or push the button sometimes installed on the tabletops. Also, there’s no need to tip.

Get up to speed on Seoul’s extraordinary drinking culture

For South Koreans, drinking is an indispensable part of socializing and bonding with everyone from your friends to your boss. And, in Seoul, there is a party for every type, for every occasion, on every day of the week. So pick your poison(s) and brace yourself—a night out in South Korea goes ‘til sun-up and is conducted in cha, or rounds (up to five) hopping from establishment to establishment.

Round one might be BBQ and somaek. Round two is usually at a bar, whether it’s for spirits, cocktails, or craft beer . Round three will take you to another bar, followed by either a club or—for those left standing—a grand finale with perhaps the most beloved South Korean drinking experience of them all: noraebang, the country’s version of karaoke. Rent a private room, order drinks, select your jams, grab that tambourine, and sing your heart out. You can find a noraebang joint in any corner of the city, ranging from the luxe to the low-key.

The whole affair can sometimes span longer than a full workday. It may seem like a lot for the average reveler, but considering the endless number of unforgettable nights out to be had in Seoul, you’ll want to make time for it all .

Since you’re here, do sample the light stuff, too. In the evening, settle in at a neighborhood hof, or Korean pub, where it’s customary to order anju (drinking food) along with your pints and pitchers. Lively Nogari Alley is the place to be; you’ll find locals of every age sitting outside embracing this street-style version of Korean nightlife. Another fun local thing is to grab a few cans of beer at the convenience store and enjoy them on the patio outside, or to sit at a pocha—casual drinking spots that are usually tented with a plastic tarp on the street. Pochas can be a great place to meet young, social Koreans; get the ball rolling by asking a friendly group to show you Korean drinking games, and your evening is made.

That’s right, drinking in public is legal in Seoul

Seoul also has top-notch hookah bars, vinyl bars, and takeout bars, where you can get bagged drinks to go. That’s right, public drinking is legal in South Korea. While it’s not advisable to get carried away with public inebriation, a measured amount is also not something locals will find particularly out of the ordinary. In fact, you might be the one surprised at the state of the streets at five in the morning—people packed in like a sardine can, cans and bottles everywhere.

Stock up on water bottles

After your epic night out, we’re guessing you’ll need to spend a slow morning chugging heaps of H2O. Keep in mind that while authorities say the tap water is safe, no one actually drinks it. This is likely out of greater concern for the pipes it runs through than the quality of the water itself. You can buy the 2-liter bottled stuff for about a dollar at the convenience store.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to carry your own trash

Seoul has a complex trash disposal system that has led to a shortage of public bins. If you get a coffee to go, be prepared to walk for miles with an empty paper cup before finding a place to offload it. If you stay at an Airbnb and are responsible for taking out your own trash, be mindful of the rules: separate recycling from waste, and the compostable from the non-compostable.

Sign up here for our daily Thrillist email, get Next Flight Out for more travel coverage, and subscribe here for our YouTube channel to get your fix of the best in food/drink/fun.

Museum of Wander

Seoul Itinerary: How to Spend 4 Days in Korea’s Cool Capital

Experience the best of Korea’s cool capital with our ultimate itinerary for Seoul. Get to know Seoul in only 4 days (or more)

Seoul is one of the world’s most exciting mega-cities and offers visitors a thrilling and ultimate Asian travel experience. Whether you’re looking for the past, present or future, Seoul delivers as few others can. This Seoul itinerary shows you the best of Korea’s capital in 4 days.

Seoul is a mishmash of everything and a true city of contrast. It’s old and new, forward-thinking and traditional, futuristic and ancient, calm and hectic, ugly and beautiful, cheap and expensive… think of any antonym possible, and Seoul will effortlessly weave it together for you and make it look cool too.

Our itinerary for Seoul is from a local’s perspective and has been in the making for years. Having lived in Seoul for ten years myself and Jin being a born and bred Seoulite, we know the city inside out. Kind of. Seoul is an everchanging city, and what’s hot today is gone and old news tomorrow. This itinerary for Seoul shows you the classic highlights of the city and a few of our favourite hidden spots that have stood the test of (our) time.

Our 4 day Seoul itinerary is perfect for seeing the best of the city in only a few days. You’ll experience Seoul’s finest culture, nature and food at a relatively fast pace, just like the city itself. So look no further for things to see and do in Seoul, this guide has you covered!

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).

Cha Tteul Tea House

Little russia, see seoul light up from namsan, quick guide to seoul.

Best Time to Visit Seoul: Seoul is a year-round destination and can be enjoyed anytime, but keep the following in mind. Expect COLD winters and HOT summers . June and July is Jangma (monsoon seasons) with a lot of rain. Spring brings cherry blossoms but also hazy skies and bad air quality. Our favourite time of year in Seoul is autumn, with beautiful foilage and comfortable temperatures. Where to Stay: We always stay at Jin’s family house, but for visitors, we recommend Meyongdong for its central location or Hongdae for its fantastic nightlife. In Meyondong, check out Hotel Prince or Monday Cracker in Hongdae. Suggested Time: 3-4 days for Seoul, more for day trips and seeing the rest of Korea How to Get There : Incheon Airport in about 80 km from Seoul in the city of Incheon. The best way to reach Seoul from Incheon Airport is by AREX Express train (about $6) Must Do in Seoul: Watch Korea’s most famous performance, the Nanta Show Explore Seoul’s palaces in traditional Hanbok Take a DMZ day trip to the North/South Korea border

Why You’ll Love Seoul?

Korea has a reputation for being cool and edgy, and nowhere in the country encapsulates that better than Seoul. Korea  is  Seoul in many ways. Home to half of the country’s population, Seoul is indeed the soul of Korea. 

Seoul is many things, depending on what you’re looking for. Any Seoul itinerary will, no doubt, show you its multi-faceted personality. From serene and colourful temples and palaces to street artists jamming to the newest K-pop tunes in the newest fashion wear, Seoul is an exciting Asian travel destination.

The FOOD! Korean food is incredible and alone reason enough to visit Korea. Weird and wonderful food is likely going to be a highlight of your Seoul trip. Throw in fabulous shopping, top-class public transportation and pumping nightlife, and you’ll see why Seoul is such an exciting place to visit. 

BTS and Black Pink fans or those who binge-watched Squid Games will find the same energy, excitement and intrigue when visiting Seoul.

There is an energy following you around Seoul that sweeps you away. This youthful and vibrant energy can be seen in the city’s fashion, music and food scene. We have yet to go somewhere so alive, dynamic and energetic as Seoul. 

In contrast, temple bells ring serenely under glass skyscrapers, traditional markets are still filled with the smell of ginseng and freshly pressed sesame oil, and teahouses offer a calm retreat from the city’s commotion.

New York might never sleep, but Seoul never stops going. It truly is a 24-hour city. The city completely changes character once the sun goes down. Thousands of office workers and students spill out into the entertainment districts where alleys glow with neon lights, and the aroma of Korean street food hangs thick in the air. Make sure to experience Seoul after dark – it’s an entirely different world!

Seoul has something on offer around the clock, and that, for us, is one of its greatest appeals.

Seoul Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Royal Palaces, Hanoks & Tea Houses Deoksugung, Gwanghamun, Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon Hanok Village

Day 2: Traditional & Modern Seoul Jogyesya, Insa-dong, Gwangjang Market, Dongdaemun

Day 3: Shopping & Views Sungnyemun, Namdaemun, Meyondong, Namsan

Day 4: Go on a Day Trip DMZ/Bukhansan

Day 1: The Heart of Seoul: Royal Palaces, Hanoks & Tea Houses

The first day of your Seoul itinerary is a self-guided walking tour of central Seoul. Today you’ll see some of the city’s famous palaces, traditional architecture and experience Seoul’s unique teahouse culture.

If you start our Seoul itinerary on a Tuesday, swap it with another day, as Geongbukgung Palace is closed on Tuesdays.

Deoksugung Palace

Deoksugung Palace, right across from Seoul City Hall, is the starting point for the first day of our Seoul itinerary. While the palace and grounds are very picturesque, we suggest you admire Daehanmun Gate, the palace’s main gate, and then walk along the palace wall’s outer perimeter.

The reason we say so: It’s easy to overdose on palaces in Seoul, and honestly, they all kind of look the same after a while. So, save your palace fetish for Gyeongbokgung Palace, which we’ll visit later today.

The changing of the guard ceremony at Deoksugung Palace is spectacular, so try to see it if you can. It’s a loud and colourful affair with a cacophony of banging drums, trumpets, bells, flags, stick-on beards and shiny swords, having an almost festive atmosphere. You don’t need to pay entrance or enter Deoksukung Palace to see the ceremony, as it’s held outside the main gate.

The changing of the guard at Deoksugung Palace takes place several times a day ( 11;00, 14:00, 15:30 ), and visitors can watch from a designated viewing area. It is a great way to experience Korean culture, colour and history up close and a must-see for anyone visiting Seoul.

Before or after the ceremony, stroll along the outer palace wall. It is beautiful at any time, particularly so in autumn when the trees are ablaze in yellows and reds.

Gwanghamun Square

The walk past City Hall and Cheongeycheon Stream to Gwanghwamun Square will grant you one of Seoul’s most beautiful vistas. The view of the modern buildings flanking the square with traditional Gyeongbokgung Palace and Mount Inwangsan behind it is truly impressive.

Gwanghwamun Square offers a unique blend of history and modernity. Located in the heart of the city, the square is surrounded by significant landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History, the USA embassy, the statue of King Sejong the Great and another statue of Admiral Yi Sun-Shin.

King Sejong is particularly notable, as he is credited with creating Hangeul – the Korean alphabet. The other statue honours Admiral Yi Sun-Shin, a naval commander who defeated the Japanese in the 1590s with his ingenious turtle ship.

You’ll find an entrance at the base of the seated King Sejong statue that takes you underground to two separate museums dedicated to the Story of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-Shin.

In summer, the fountains in Gwanghwamun Square are the perfect spot for kids to cool off.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace is Seoul’s most famous royal palace and probably the city’s most popular tourist attraction. As soon as you walk through the palace gates, you’ll be transported back to the grandeur of the Joseon dynasty.

One of the most impressive sights to see is the Gwanghwamun Gate, the palace’s main entrance facing Gwanghwamun Square. After entering the palace ground, visitors can explore the palace from one courtyard to the next and easily forget that they’re in one of the world’s biggest cities and in the 21st century.

You’ll find the impressive Geunjeongjeon Hall at the centre, housing the Throne Hall, where the king held important meetings and ceremonies.

Behind the Throne Hall, Hyangwonji pond is another beautiful spot in Gyeongbokgung Palace. The small but stunning Hyangwonjeong Pavilion in the middle of the pond is a popular spot to take photos.

For those interested in Korean art, especially glazed celadon ware from the Goryeo Dynasty, the National Palace Museum of Korea houses a vast collection of artefacts and treasures from the Joseon dynasty.

Intricately decorated and colourful architecture aside, a highlight of visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace is seeing the changing of the guard ceremony. The ceremony is unlike any other changing of the guard ceremonies you’ve seen before and shouldn’t be missed.

Make sure to time your visit to coincide with the ceremony, which takes place at 10:00 and 14:00 daily.

If you want to learn more about the palace and its history, join this Gyeongbokgung Palace history walking tour and learn more from your guide while exploring every corner of the palace!

Bukchon Hanok Village

A short walk from Gyeongbokgung Palace brings you to one of our favourite spots in Seoul. Bukchon Hanok Village is drop-dead gorgeous, with traditional hanok (traditional Korean houses), teahouses and great photo opportunities. Touristy? Yes, but not too much. For us, it’s both the perfect spot for first-time visitors and being tourists in our own backyard. Besides the residential houses and pretty streets, there are two places we recommend you visit in Bukchon Hanok Village.

Bukchon Best Prospect

Wind your way up to Bukchon Best Prospect [ location ]. It might also be signposted as Bukchon Asian Cultural Art Museum. There is an entrance fee of W6,000, which includes a hot or cold tea of your choice. Most visitors stick to the famous street in Bukchon, so this place is a nice escape from the crowds with stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere.

Bukchon Best Prospect is situated at the highest point in Bukchon, granting you fantastic views over the tiled roofs of the hanok houses with Gyeongbokgung Palace and modern Seoul in the background.

Enjoy the AC in summer while sipping your tea and taking in the views. The garden is just as pretty with its decorative tilework and kimchi pots. There is also a hanok you can peek into before heading back to the streets of Bukchon.

Another place you really don’t want to miss in Bukchon is Cha Tteul [ location ], a lovely teahouse inside a renovated hanok. This stunning wooden teahouse with its large windows, set around a small garden courtyard, is just the place to relax and recharge after a day of walking around Seoul.

You might have to wait a while to get a table, as it’s very popular with Koreans. You need to take off your shoes before entering and will sit on the floor at a low table.

The menu features various traditional teas and snacks, depending on the season. The cold pine needle, persimmon or five-taste teas are good options in summer, while a hot yuja-cha (citron tea) is great when it’s cold.

The neighbourhoods surrounding Bukchon Hanok Village have some trendy places to eat and drink, often in traditional buildings or with an atmospheric setting. We especially like the Samcheong-dong area for a good dinner and drinks rendezvous.

Day 2: Traditional & Modern Seoul

Don your comfortable walking shoes and stretchy pants because the second day of our Seoul itinerary has a lot of walking and good food coming your way!

Jogeysa Temple

Jogyesa Temple was first established in 1395 during the Goryeo period, but it was destroyed in a fire in the 16th century. The temple was rebuilt in 1910 and has since become one of Korea’s most important Buddhist temples.

The temple is known for its serene atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and colourful decorations. Visiting Jogyesa is a colourful and peaceful experience regardless of religious beliefs.

Colourful lanterns, flowers, and traditional Korean artwork adorn the inside and outside of the temple throughout the year. The best time to come is around Buddha’s Birthday in May, when thousands of colourful lotus lanterns are hung around the temple for the Lotus Lantern Festival.

After enjoying the bright lanterns and temple architecture, peek into the temple’s main hall, the Daeungjeon Hall, to see the giant golden Buddha statues.

If you’re interested in Buddhism or traditional Korean culture, Jogyesa Temple offers many programs to learn about Buddhist teachings and practices. Visitors can attend meditation classes or traditional Korean Buddhist services, participate in a tea ceremony, or sign up for a temple stay .

A favourite among visitors to Seoul, Insa-dong is a pedestrian shopping street lined with art galleries, antique shops, traditional tea houses, street food vendors and souvenir shops. It’s a great place to shop, relax, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Seoul.

If you’re looking for that perfect souvenir from your Seoul trip, Insa-dong is your place. You’ll find everything from traditional pottery (pale-green glazed cups, bowls or vases are the ultimate Seoul souvenir, we think), paper lanterns, and wooden masks to modern Korean art.

For unique and trendy souvenirs and gifts, check out the Ssamziegil (쌈지길) market. Set around a large courtyard, this modern addition to Insa-dong is home to many independent galleries and workshops featuring the work of upcoming designers, college students and established artisans. There is also a sky garden where you can view the area from above or get something to eat or drink.

Another must-do for us in Insa-dong is a visit to Sanchon , Seoul’s most famous vegan restaurant, founded by a monk. Sachon serves traditional temple food using fresh seasonal veggies and mountain herbs. Your vegan feast consists of 16 courses, and the rustic and delicious food it’s beautifully presented.

Since our next stop today is Seoul’s best food market, we suggest you save yourself and return to Sachon for dinner over the next few days.

Gwangjang Market

By now, you should be hungry, which is good, because our next stop is the best place to gorge on Seoul’s incredible street food.

You can have a quick look around Tapgol Park when you reach the end of Insa-dong pedestrian street. The park has a few old pagodas and pavilions and is the preferred spot for seniors to hang out. They can be seen playing Korean chess ( baduk ) all day, every day, in the shade in and around Tapgol Park. 

From Tapgol Park, either walk down Jongo Street or take the subway one stop from Jogno 3 (sam) ga to Jogno 5 (oh) ga station. The entrance to Seoul’s culinary Nirvana is at exit 8 or 9 at Jongno 5 ga station.

Gwangjang Market has thousands of food stands where you can try all the famous and delicious Korean food you can dream of. The market is particularly famous for its  bindaetteok  (mung bean pancakes) and  mayak gimbap  (rice rolls), and  kalguksu  (especially at the Netflix Lady’s stand), which are must-try dishes for any Seoul visitor.

Learn more about the market and see what to eat on our dedicated post on Gwangjang Market .

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Ride the subway from Jongno 5 ga to Dongdaemun Culture & History Park (two stops away with one transfer) to reach our favourite Seoul landmark. 

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is a stunning architectural masterpiece designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid. The DDP started our love affair with Zaha Hadid’s architecture, and we have since seen her other magical buildings in Baku , Guangzhou and Macau . Whenever we go somewhere, I always Google to see if there’s a Zaha Hadid building nearby.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a striking combination of futuristic curves and straight lines that make it an outstanding landmark in the city. The design is inspired by the traditional Korean  bojagi , a wrapping cloth used to protect valuable items.

DDP is not only an abbreviation for the name but also stands for Dream, Design and Play. The building houses a variety of exhibitions and events that showcase design, fashion, art, and technology from Korea and the rest of the world. The exhibits change regularly, so there’s always something new to see.

The building has a spacious, modern interior with clean lines and a minimalist design. The building is a piece of art, just like the pieces it displays. The staircases are particularly trippy and photogenic.

DDP is particularly impressive at night when the building lights up with LED displays, and there is even a LED flower garden. 

Dongdaemun, the area around the DDP, is one of Seoul’s hottest fashion districts, with several fashion malls selling the newest Korean trends and a nightly fabric and clothing market. Dongdaemun’s leather and fur night market is our go-to place for good quality leather jackets and mink fur scarves. 

Another favourite spot of ours in Dongdaemun is  Little Russia , hidden in an alleyway filled with Cyrillic signs and Central Asian restaurants. Dongdaemun is home to Seoul’s migrant communities from Central Asia, especially Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Mongolia and Russia.

The shashlik, samsa, borscht, blini and Baltika lagers we’ve had here were as good as the stuff we had in Moscow . 

Find Little Russia in the Gwanghui-dong district of Dongdaemun. The easiest way to find it is by walking around Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, Exit 7, until you spot the Cyrillic signs. 

Day 3: Shopping & Views

Man, do Koreans know how to shop?! A trip to Seoul is incomplete without dipping into this national pastime. Even if you’re not serious about shopping, a visit to Seoul’s largest market and most famous shopping district is an exciting day out. We’ll end the day at Namsan, Seoul’s greatest viewpoint.

Sungnyemun (숭례문)

Start the day at Sungnyemun, also known as the Great South Gate or Namdaemun. It is a historic landmark and one of the eight gates that surrounded the city of Seoul during the Joseon Dynasty. It is the largest and oldest of the eight gates and is considered a national treasure of South Korea. After snapping a picture of the gate and the guards in their traditional costumes, cross the street to Namdaemun Market.

Namdaemun Market (남대문시장)

Across the street from Sungnyemun is my go-to place for buying cameras , lenses or anything related to photography. Known among a select few (me and my personas) as Camera Corner, this section of Namdaemun market has a row of camera stores offering the best bang for your buck in Seoul.

You’ll find new and second-hand gear at the best prices, and it’s easy to hop between shops to compare prices. Whether you’re looking for a specific Hasselblad model, a new mirrorless camera or a well-taken care of used lens, you’ll likely find it here. I always start (and usually end) at a shop called YES DICA. The friendly owner speaks good English, and the prices are right.

Just past the camera shops is another of our must-stop places when in Namdaemun. Near entrance #2 to the market (it’s easy to spot thanks to the long line) is a stand selling the famous Namdaemun Market  hotteok . 

You cannot come to the market and not have one of these delicious things.  Hotteok  is a fried sweet or savoury pancake/dumpling stuffed with honey, red beans or noodles and veggies. The yache hotteok , filled with glass noodles and veggies, is the most popular option, but the sweet cinnamon and sugar one is pretty damn good too. 

So do as they do in Namdaemun: get in line and hand over your W1,200 when you get in front. You won’t regret it.  

Namdaemun is a sprawling market with over 10,000 stores and stalls where you can find almost anything – if you know where to look. Seoulites come here to pick up cheap clothing, household supplies, food, and…well anything else they need. 

For tourists, Namdaemun is a good place to buy traditional Korean products and cheap souvenirs.

Ginseng, which comes in jars, as candy, in tea or bottled as stamina drinks, cute socks, cheap trinkets and touristy t-shirts, are all good options when shopping at Namdaemun. 

Shop & Eat in Meyongdong

Shopping and strolling in Myeongdong is an unforgettable experience. Even if you’re not planning on shopping, don’t miss the Meyondong experience. It’s one of the liveliest places in the city around the clock, and it’s buzzing day and night, especially on the weekend.

The streets are bustling with activity, and the bright lights of the shops and vendors create an exciting atmosphere day and night. Many shopping options are available, ranging from high-end luxury boutiques to street vendors selling everything from clothing and accessories to beauty products and souvenirs.

Myeongdong is particularly well-known for its beauty products, with a vast selection of Korean skincare and makeup brands. Cosmetic stores range from high-end Korean skincare brands to affordable face masks and makeup products. Olive Young, Nature Republic, Etude House and Innisfree are all good places to buy Korea’s famous cosmetic products.

Pre-pandemic, every second shop in Myeongdong was a cosmetic shop catering to the Chinese, Japanese and Southeast Asian markets. When the Chinese stopped coming, this industry took a severe beating. The best place in Myeongdong now for cosmetics is Lotte or Shinsegae Department Stores . But it will just be a matter of time before it rebounds.

Myeongdong is as famous for its fashion and cosmetics shopping as it is for street food. Over the years, the food in Meyongdong has evolved from primarily traditional Korean street food like tteokbokki, odeng and fried chicken to a fantastic mishmash of fusion food. These days you can find tropical fruit skewers, lobster, and handmade sorbet between the fish cakes, dumplings, sausages and rice rolls.

Our favourite foods in Myeongdong are the potato tornado twisters, sweet egg bread and the famous 30cm tall soft-serve ice creams.

Late afternoon, go to the Namsan Cable Car Station [ location ] to see the city from its most beautiful vantage point. Round-trip tickets are 9,500 won for adults or 6,000 for a one-way ride. You can also hike up the mountain if you feel like it.

The three-minute ride to the N Seoul Tower grants you panoramic views of Seoul’s skyline and surrounding mountains, but it gets even better once you reach the top.

From the top, the view in all directions is absolutely breathtaking. The view is particularly impressive when the city lights up at night, creating a sea of glittering lights below. Make sure to arrive before sunset to see Seoul transform from day to night.

You can also visit the observatory inside the N Seoul Tower. However, we think the 16,000 won entrance fee is a bit steep, and the view from the deck outside the tower is better than the observatory due to the angle.

Day 4: Choose Your Day Trip

Today you can head out of the city to see another side of Seoul. Our top recommendation for a day trip from Seoul is the DMZ. This trip is a real eye-opener to the reality of South Korea.

Another excellent day trip is to hit one of the hiking trails on Bukhan Mountain to experience the national hobby of hiking and enjoying the outdoors.

We suggest you do both if you have more than 4 days in Seoul.

If you have more time and want to see rural Korea and the country’s most beautiful village, head to the stunning Hahoe village for an overnight trip.

Look into the Other Korea at the DMZ

A visit to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) with the JSA is a unique and fascinating experience that offers a glimpse into the history and current situation of the Korean Peninsula. 

There are two types of day tours to the DMZ. The best option is to go with the JSA (Joint Security Area) tour. On this tour, you’ll be guided by a US soldier and taken right to the border with North and South Korea. Other tours do not visit the JSA. I went on the JSA tour twice before; it was a real eye-opener and very insightful.

It’s important to note that tours to the DMZ with JSA are subject to availability and may be affected by current events and political situations. Currently, no tours are running to JSA due to the pandemic. The only other option is to join a tour visiting Imjingak Park, the Freedom Bridge, the Third Infiltration Tunnel, and the DMZ Exhibition Hall.

Here is what to expect from a DMZ tour of the JSA:

• Early start: Most tours to the DMZ with JSA start early in the morning. The journey by bus to the DMZ takes about an hour from Seoul.
• Security checks: Visitors must go through several security checks before entering the DMZ, including passport verification and a dress code check. It’s essential to follow the rules and  dress appropriately  (no ripped jeans, no shorts, no flip flops, no bare shoulders)to avoid any issues.
• JSA briefing: Once inside the DMZ, visitors will receive a briefing from a military official about the history and current situation of the area. The JSA is a small area within the DMZ where North and South Korean soldiers stand face to face, so it’s a particularly sensitive and guarded area.
• JSA tour: Visitors will be taken on a guided tour of the JSA, which includes a visit to the famous blue buildings where North and South Korean officials occasionally meet for talks. Visitors are not allowed to enter North Korea but can stand at the border line and take photos. During my first visit, North Korean soldiers walked up to the window and took pictures of us through the window. They also took group photos of themselves with us tourists in the back, which was pretty hilarious. 
• Other DMZ attractions: Visitors may also have the opportunity to visit other DMZ attractions, such as the Third Infiltration Tunnel or the Dora Observatory, which offers views of North Korea.
• Return to Seoul: After the tour, we had a traditional Korean lunch and returned to Seoul in the mid-afternoon.

Go Hiking at Bukhansan

Besides shopping and eating, hiking is a national hobby and part of Korean DNA. Come the weekend, every true Korean will hit a hiking trail or dream about it at least.

There is something special about riding the subway to one of the trailheads early in the morning with the Korean hikers, who are geared to the max with backpacks, compasses, Gore-Tex boots and camping equipment suitable for an Everest basecamp trek. 

Once you reach the trailhead, follow the others until you reach the mountain. Grab a few gimbabs, snacks and a drink and head up the mountain. 

Along the way, you will surely encounter friendly hikers offering you some of their food, serene temples and views galore.

For an easy, but stunning hike with many temples and views of the main peaks in Bukhansan, we suggest the  Daedongmun Gate Trail , accessed from Bukhansan Ui Station.

The city’s most popular hike,  Inwangsan Mountain , goes up the mountain behind Gyeongbokgung Palace. This hike offers fantastic city views, including the royal palaces, the Blue House, the Seoul city wall and central Seoul. Start this hike at Dongnimmun Station. 

Looking for a challenging hike? Then hit the paths to Baegundae Peak , the highest in Bukhansan National Park. To reach the summit, you’ll have to pull yourself up, holding on to metal rungs. The views once you reach the top and the sense of accomplishment are well worth the sweat and effort!

Baegundae is one of the most popular in Bukhansan, so come during the week to avoid the crowds. Start this hike at Bukhansan Ui Station.

And that, people, is the ultimate itinerary for Seoul. More than 10 years in the making, we see it as unfinished work in progress we will continue to update ✌️

Hi De Wet & Jin, Planning our first trip to South Korea in Oct 23. Your detailed 4 day itinerary seems very balanced, enough variety and doable. Would appreciate your thoughts of going on a day trip to Mt Seoraksan & Nami island (Klook) on day 4 instead of hiking Mt Bukhsan.

Hi Sawhoon, Both Seoraksan and Nami Island are beautiful places, they make a good alternative to Bukhansan. It will be a long day, but definitely worth it.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

3 Days in Seoul: The Perfect Seoul Itinerary

Seeing everything that Seoul, South Korea’s sprawling capital offers in a few days is no easy task. But this Seoul itinerary packs in Joseon Dynasty palaces, all-you-can-eat BBQ feasts and pop culture staples in just 3 days. Let’s adventure! 

I just got back from an action-packed trip to South Korea , and (no surprise) Seoul was a massive highlight reel. To say that I was moving non-stop from morning to night may give you an idea of how much there is to see and do in Seoul. So, when I wrote this itinerary, I made sure to make it as efficient as possible to help you make the most out of your trip. 

We’re going to explore where to get the best street food, see the city’s stunning palaces, fit in a day trip to the DMZ and soak up a (hopefully) glorious sunrise on an urban hike.

That’s all before seeing the idyllic hanok houses in Bukchon Village, and scoring some of those K-beauty supplies you’ve been waiting to stock up on at bargain prices. 

Long story short, you’re going to do a lot on this short trip and we’ve no time to waste. Here’s what you need to know for your 3 days in Seoul.

3 Days in Seoul Itinerary 

Day 1: explore seoul old and new.

Welcome to Seoul. I’m guessing you haven’t slept off that jet lag entirely, but that’s ok. This city never stops moving, so you can get your day started no matter when you decide to roll out of bed. 

I’ll warn you – we’re going to hit the ground running on your first day. We’ll explore historic landmarks like Namdaemun Gate (the 14th-century pagoda that was once the southern entrance to the city) and the bright neon lights from the top of N Seoul Tower and more. Wear comfortable walking shoes and have a hearty breakfast. 

Walk Around Gwanghwamun Square

There’s no better place to kick off your time in Seoul than seeing Gwanghwamun Square, the meeting place of old and new Seoul in the city’s centre. 

Once known as Hanyang, Seoul has over 500 years of history under Joseon rule, and you’ll notice plenty of tributes to that history dotted around this massive 555 x 34-metre (1,820 x 112-foot) town square. 

The most important (and prominent) figures are a statue of Sejong the Great (a Joseon ruler who legit invented the Korean alphabet) and the famed Yi Sun-sin, who helped defend Korea during the Imjin War. 

The square itself is where many of the administrative buildings were from the past to present, and is now an important gathering place for locals and tourists downtown. 

It’s also a mere few paces away from our next stop, the stunning Gyeongbokgung Palace. 

Tour Gyeongbokgung Palace

Seoul has always been the focal point for power in South Korea, which explains why by the early days of the Joseon Dynasty, the city boasted not one, not two, but five Grand Palaces and, you guessed it, Gyeongbokgung Palace was one of them. The late 14th-century palace is one of the most important reminders of Joseon Dynasty rule in South Korea. It still stands despite years of remaining dormant after it was burned to the ground during the Imjin War in the late 1500s and destroyed again during the Japanese occupation, where nearly all of its buildings were levelled to the ground. But during the 1990s, South Korea began rebuilding this iconic palace, and you can once again gaze in awe at the massive gate of Gwanghwamun at the entrance, with its pagoda architecture.

Also make time for the spectacular Heungbokjeon Hall with its gorgeous details carved from wood and stone – it was once an administrative building for the royal leaders.

If you have time to visit the National Palace Museum of Korea, you can check out an exhibit that shows the 30+ years of restoration at Gyeongbokgung Palace. 

Lunch at Insadong Hangane Bulgogi Jumak

I imagine after a couple of in-depth history lessons, you’re ready for a lunch break. Luckily, you’re just a few blocks away from the ridiculously good Insadong Hangane Bulgogi Jumak. It’s a ten-minute walk to land at this fantastic restaurant which really offers one of the best deals in Seoul. 

For 18,000 Won (£11), I had a feast of stellar beef bulgogi, which included more banchan (complimentary tasty sides) than you’ll know what to do with. 

As I mentioned, the bulgogi was pretty epic, but the pickled veggies, rice, and soup were all worth saving some room for.

It does get busy, but it’s definitely worth the wait. You can also often make the wait shorter by nabbing a spot at one of the traditional tables on the raised deck in the corner of the restaurant where you eat off a low table whilst sitting on a mat on the floor. 

This local favourite is closed on Saturday and Sunday, but the food (and view) at Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong are great too.

National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

South Korea has a rich history of art that spans thousands of years. From ancient calligraphists like Shin Saimdang to more recent abstract painters like Park Seo-bo, learning more about historical and contemporary art is a must. The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is where to go to learn more.

When it opened in 1969, it was the only place in Korea where you could see modern art from local and international artists and continues to deliver groundbreaking exhibits and events. Prime example? It was the first East Asian country to host collections from The Whitney and Albertina Museum. You can see works from Warhol, Niki de Saint Phalle, and other popular international artists. But I’d focus on the local artwork since you’ll only have a couple of hours here. From the legendary self-taught Park Su-geun, famous for his unique paintings of typical days in Korea in the mid-20th century, to a current exhibit highlighting decades of work from Korean Avant-Garde Association founder Kim Kulim – you’ll learn why Seoul is one of the most exciting cities in the world for art right now . 

If you have time, walk over to see the collection of roses in Theme Garden (also in Grand Park) too. 

Visit Jogyesa Temple

While Buddhism is not quite as prevalent in Korea as it is in China, many South Korean residents have practised the religion for centuries, and you can find some beautiful temples throughout the country. Jogyesa Temple is a particularly stunning Buddhist temple, even if it is a bit younger than you might first guess. The beautiful, brightly coloured facade stands out as a symbol of old Korea amongst downtown Seoul’s office buildings and busy streets but is less than 100 years old. It’s still an active temple, with prayer, community events, and lectures happening frequently in this tranquil setting in the bustling metropolis.

If you visit between March and June, you’ll see the lotus lantern decorations. A rainbow of colours lights up the outdoor area near the temple and is nothing short of spectacular.

Chill Out at Cheonggyecheon Stream

Now it’s time to have a little break like a local. Walk over to a nearby section of the 10.9 km (6.7-mile) Cheonggyecheon Stream for a unique example of nature in an urban setting. The stream runs through the city from the nearby valleys of Inwangsan Mountain and is a great place to kill some time. While the story hasn’t always been so rosy (it was part of the city’s sewage system for decades before being covered by a freeway), it’s once again a tranquil site flowing through the ancient city. After a restoration project in the early 21st century, it’s now a popular urban park where locals hang out and relax near the water. There’s plenty to look at along the shores of the stream, with bridges, trees, and murals lining the long concrete banks. 

As it runs through the city’s centre, it’s also a nice relaxed way to walk between different neighbourhoods including Insadong and Mugyo-Dong.  

Art installations like the multi-coloured spiral horn are fun to look at year-round. But if you visit South Korea around Christmas, the decorations over the stream are really fun to see.

Check Out the Namdaemun Gate

Sungnyemun (also known as the Namdaemun Gate) is a beautiful Joseon-dynasty gate on the southern side of the city and was one of 8 gates in total.

The gorgeous Pagoda-style gate sits atop large stone steps and is a striking reminder of the Joseon-dynasty rule. It was restored only a few years ago, but this fire was a bit different than many that destroyed Korean artefacts under Japanese occupation. It was actually an elderly Korean resident who committed arson and was responsible for destroying a large section of the elaborate building and roof. Tragic.

It took nearly 25 billion to complete the project, but you can see the iconic symbol how it was always intended to look when you visit the gate.

Eat and Drink in Itaewon

If you’re getting hungry again, I can’t blame you a bit. It’s been a full day. I have just the remedy for you, and it’s dinner and drinks in the vibrant Itaewon. The multicultural neighbourhood is a popular destination for locals and tourists and a perfect place to find food and drinks worldwide.

Your options are endless, but I have a couple of suggestions. If you want traditional Korean food, Maple Tree House serves delicious Korean BBQ in a stylish room. And if you’re in the mood for something different, head to Mikkeller Bar Seoul, where you can try craft beer and food at one of the famed Danish brewer’s South Korean outposts.

Take Namsan Cable Car Up to The N Seoul Tower and Visit the Observation Deck

Now that you’ve seen many of the most historic sites in Seoul, it’s time to check it all out again from a bird’s eye view. What’s the best way to see Seoul at night? From the top of N Seoul Tower, no doubt. Once you reach the top, the observation deck offers some of the most incredible views of the city.

You can hike up, which takes about 30 minutes, but I think taking the Namsan Cable Car is worth the £16 ($20) round trip, especially at night. The views of the city and N Seoul Tower itself are spectacular, so long as you’re diligent about elbowing your way to the window so you can see them. 

I was a bit disappointed that there weren’t much of any attractions at the top (BUSAN X in Busan has 3 levels of features to enjoy), but there is the N Grill restaurant, which I hear is actually pretty good. 

If you need to use the bathroom, this is the opportunity to do it – as you’ll enjoy the same amazing views of the bright lights from the buildings and highways from your stall as you do on the observation deck. 

Lock in your tickets to N Seoul Tower ahead of time to pick a perfect time slot .

Day 2: Shopping, Eating and Sightseeing

No matter how many days you have in Seoul, you need to fit in some shopping, plus the lively food markets, futuristic malls, and hanbok shops in Bukchon Hanok Village require at least a half day to explore. 

So, on your second day in Seoul, bring your tote around town to see what surprises you can take home after your trip. 

But since this is only a 3-day itinerary, I planned a full day of sightseeing that includes some of the city’s best outdoor spaces, a Joseon Dynasty palace, and a fantastic little cocktail bar I found on my last trip. Enjoy.

Walk Around the Gardens at Changdeokgung Palace

Now, out of the 2 Joseon Dynasty royal palaces I visited, Changdeokgung Palace was my favourite. Why? Even though it’s not quite as famous as Gyeongbokgung, there’s actually a lot more to see here. For starters, the palace grounds are huge, at over 57 hectares. There are 13 buildings, and nearly ⅓ of them were not damaged when Japan occupied South Korea in the early to mid-20th century. 

Another plus? The architecture is slightly different from other royal palaces and the garden was left in a more natural-looking state.

Pop into the palace’s buildings to try the AR experience where you can “attend” a historical 60th birthday party for the emperor’s mother as if you were one of the guests. It’s a really interesting experience and  talks you through the event.  I haven’t seen this done before, but it was a great way for building historical context for the ways in which the palace buildings would have been used in the past. 

Palaces aside, the secret gardens are the star of the show. Featuring beautiful pavilions, a large pond, and several types of trees lining the pathways, you need to make some time to walk around them and take in the scenery.

My favourite part? The aesthetic changes dramatically by the season, especially when the cherry blossoms bloom in the spring and when snow covers the buildings and landscape in the winter.

The palace and gardens are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. 

Stroll Through The Bukchon Hanok Village

South Korea is famed for its stunning hanok villages – old villages with traditional hanok houses, one of the most famous of which is in Jeonju. If you can’t plan a day trip to Jeonju, don’t worry. There’s another historic Joseon-era village right here in Seoul and it’s every bit as scenic. Bukchon Hanok Village is an enclave of about 900 houses along cobbled streets that date back as far as 600 years. This is one of the best places in South Korea to see the houses from the Joseon Dynasty era, with museums and stores inside some of the historic buildings. Want the perfect photo? You can rent a hanbok from 한복남 경복궁점 Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung hanbok rental shop, and walk around the village looking for the best perspective. It’s an excellent way to take a time warp and get some fun photos for social media. 

I won’t lie – outside of the early hours, it is packed with tourists, but that’s part of its charm I guess. 

There are some excellent museums to see in the area too. Don’t miss the Bukchon Asian Cultural Art Museum, where you can see artefacts from the village dating far back into the Joseon-era.

Shopping in Samcheong-Dong

Every Seoul travel itinerary needs to feature a stroll through Samcheong-Dong. If this neighbourhood already looks familiar, you’re not mistaken. You were right next to it at the Bukchon Hanok Village, and much of the same old-world charm remains in Samcheong-Dong. Walk around the narrow alleys and steep staircases, and you’ll be treated to plenty of modern shops, murals, and restaurants (try the handmade dough soup at Samcheongdong Sujebi if you need a snack). Check out the clothing boutiques, tea shops, and K-beauty stores like Beauty of Joseon in one of the most charming areas in Seoul. 

Mellow Out at Han River Park

Han River is one of Korea’s most iconic bodies of water, stretching from Kangwŏn through Seoul to the Yellow Sea. Hangang Park is a wonderful place to enjoy peace and quiet by the famous river, in one of 12 different parks in the city. I chose Yeouido Park as a stop for your trip because it’s on the way to The Hyundai Seoul and offers a great chance to people watch and get some exercise on the tree-line paths near the Han River. It’s a local spot that’s equally fun for tourists.

If you end up doing this later in the day, head to Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market for some excellent food, but it’s only open on Fridays and Saturdays from April to October.

Pop in to the Pop-Ups at The Hyundai Seoul

A department store as a must-see on your holiday in Seoul? Absolutely. And if you know anything about K-pop (I’m guessing you do), this shopping centre is going to be a really fun stop for you. The K-culture pop-up features numerous exhibits from famous K-pop groups, some not as well-known ones, and even actors like Lee Dong-wook, who sold packages of souvenirs to fans in November. There’s also plenty of snacks you can try if all the sightseeing makes you work up an appetite. There are lots of fun, international options, but you need to try Le Freak. It’s a “burger” joint, but it’s actually a fried chicken sandwich. Korean fried chicken is incredible, and this fast food restaurant deviates a bit from tradition but nails it with a Nashville Hot and Garlic Soy option. But even if the pop-up market isn’t your thing, the department store itself is really cool. It’s a beautiful space inside filled with striking modern architecture and lots of indoor plants for a welcoming feel.

Street Food at Gwangjang Market

I hope you shared the sandwich at The Hyundai because you’ll need an appetite when you visit Gwangjang Market. The 118-year-old market is one of Korea’s most famous places to eat, and you can honestly find just about any South Korean cuisine imaginable at this local haunt. So, how do you narrow in and really find the best thing to eat? Look no further than Sunhui-ne Bindaetteok, the crazy popular mung bean pancake shop that makes them better than you’ll find… anywhere. 

This isn’t your Western breakfast pancake. It’s so much more. The crispy exterior is full of flavour and ingredients, including succulent pork, spicy kimchi, and assorted veggies to give you some sustenance for the evening. If you want more than a quick snack, find a stall selling knife-cut noodles (Gohyang Kalguksu) and enjoy them with a savoury broth that should hold you over until your next meal.

Happy Hour at Ace Four Club

Ready to party? Seoul is a lively city, where the party always seems to be going on, but if you want something a bit more sophisticated, you want to head to Ace Four Club in the trendy Euljiro-dong neighbourhood.

For starters, the vibe is just incredible. It’s a brilliant ​​ fin-de-siecle cocktail bar in a 60-year-old teahouse with beautiful views from the hardwood tables in the dimly lit space. 

But it’s not just surface-level stuff here. No, the cocktails are exquisite. The menu leans simple and classic (which I love) without too many surprises. But the negroni, old-fashioned, and high ball are all made with expert precision and the finest products. But alas, I could enjoy a G&T made by the most jaded bartender and still enjoy the timeless decor and genuine energy at this hidden gem in Seoul.

Go For a Night Out in Nogari Alley 

Nogari Alley is a street open-air drinking spot with cheap drinks and a lively atmosphere. Perfect place to kick start the last night of your Seoul 3-day itinerary, isn’t it? Euljiro is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Seoul, and Nogari Alley is its liveliest street. Think make-shift dining tables pulled out onto the sidewalks and streets with a young, local crowd chowing down on fried chicken, burgers, and beers. Have a hankering for Western food? The Ranch Brewing Euljiro sells square pizzas and craft beers in a lively setting popular with locals. It’s a lot of fun.

Day 3: Hiking, Visiting the DMZ, and Spa Time

It’s the final day of your Seoul trip itinerary. You’ll cover a lot of ground on foot and drive to the DMZ, but you’ll finish the day with a luxurious spa treatment in one of Seoul’s best spots. 

Climb Inwangsan 

You’re going to have to wake up, rally, and head out to the hiking trails early on Day 3. But trust me, the views from the top of Inwangsan will wipe away any brain fog from the bright lights and stiff drinks the night before. Climb up this short but challenging hike in Jongno-gu, which has over 550 feet of elevation gain, making you question the literal translation of Inwangsan to “compassionate/benevolent king.” I promise, the views of the sun rising over the city will put a smile on your face once you’ve caught your breath.

You can’t hike this trail on Mondays (it’s closed), so you’ll need to move this to another time if Monday is the final day of your trip.

Walk Through Seodaemun Prison 

The 20th-century Seodaemun Prison was once known as Keijo Prison under Japanese occupation. During the years of colonial rule, the jail quickly went from 500 to nearly 3,000 inmates, with harsh conditions that included torture and murder. Sad, but true. Korean independence activists spent decades in prison until it was turned over to South Korea after World War II. Now, you can tour the property and learn about the inmates’ stories and struggles in a very moving memorial, which I think everyone should do on their trip to South Korea.

You can preorder tickets for around £1.80 ($2.25) here

See North Korea at the DMZ or Visit Aegibong Peace Ecopark/i

You won’t have time for a full tour if you want to fit in other activities, so you’ll miss a few highlights of the Korean DMZ. The stretch of demarcation on the 38th parallel separating North and South Korea is a popular area to visit to learn more about the history of the Korean War and it also offers a glimpse into North Korea. Luckily, Aegibong Peace Ecopark is an excellent alternative to the standard DMZ tour, with loads of information about the history of the war and a peek into one of North Korea’s most important cities: Pyongyang (granted from far away).

The drive takes 1.5 hours each way, and you’ll want to avoid peak commute times, which you can bypass by leaving after 10 am and returning before the evening rush hour.

Korean BBQ and Nightlife in Myeongdong

Keep the party going in Myeongdong, where the busy shopping district transforms into a nightlife paradise, with neon lights covering everything from the storefronts to the trees lining the bustling avenues. Before you go out for a nightcap, be sure to visit one of the city’s favourite BBQ joints, Chung Ki Wa. Order a plate of the signature spare ribs. The secret sauce is insane, and for about £18 ($22), you’ll have enough food to handle cocktail hour.

Myeongdong is a huge neighbourhood with tons to see, but you have to check out Myeongdong Sukui. You’ll need to track down the speakeasy (it’s on the 4th floor of this building ) and kind of trust your instincts to locate the elevator. But trust me, it’s worth the effort to try one of the perfectly-made cocktails.

Call ahead to reserve a spot, the secret is out

Jijimbang at Spa Lei

South Korea has a rich history of spas (Jijimbang), which date back to royalty in the Joseon Dynasty era, taking advantage of the natural hot springs throughout the country. 

Spa culture in Seoul is a 24/7 affair, with many of the best houses staying open around the clock. Make like a true South Korean and go for a cleansing Jijimbang at the end of your night out. 

 My favourite, Spa Lei, is one such place, making it the best activity to cap off your time in Seoul. Entrance to the spa is around £25 – you can pay that by card, but you need to have cash to pay for massages / scrubs within the spa itself. I opted for the 1 hour scrub and massage combo and it cost around £70. 

This isn’t necessarily a relaxing experience, but you will come out feeling brand new. Guaranteed. Think of an ultra-modern Art Nouveau setting using traditional Korean products.

If you are going to have a scrub, definitely make sure you spend some time moving between the warm baths first (min 30 mins) as it helps soften your skin. I’ve had a lot of scrubs before but this one was *vigorous* so you’ll definitely benefit from having prepped your skin a bit beforehand. 

Have More Time? Add These To Your Itinerary 

If you have time to stretch your trip out a few more days, I’d highly recommend adding a day trip to another one of South Korea’s beautiful cities. There are many different locations to choose from, and the KTX high-speed train connects you to the top of many of the destinations in the country in under 3 hours. Here’s a look at a couple of the best.

The KTX will bring you to Busan in around 3 hours, and the first thing you’ll notice is how beautiful this city is. Located on the southeastern point of the peninsula, you can catch outstanding ocean views from the top of the tallest skyscraper, BUSAN X the SKY, or from a scenic cable car on Busan Air Cruise.

There is some excellent food here, too. If you’re at the popular Haeundae Beach, go to Korean Steak Grill 전설의 우대갈비 해운대직영점, and enjoy a plate of Korean BBQ that’s expertly cooked and sliced at your table.

If you’re looking to slow down a little and take in the scenery, food, and culture of one of South Korea’s most charming towns, jump on the KTX from Yongsan Station and arrive in Jeonju in a few hours for under £30 ($38).

You’ll find that Jeonju Hanok Village is the most charming historical Korean village in the country, with somewhere between 700-800 Joseon Dynasty-era-inspired houses (who’s counting?) lining the idyllic cobbled streets. 

Rent a hanbok dress and amble about the village, stopping at Gyeonggijeon Shrine to learn more about Joseon Dynasty’s first ruler, King Tae-jo, who was born in Jeonju.

But do save time to explore more of Jeonju, where the famous bibimbap dish was invented. It’s a culinary delight and an official UNESCO City of Gastronomy with hidden gems around every corner like the excellent 경성금돼지 – Pork Grill Restaurant. Try the cold noodles with sizzling cuts of pork and heaping spoonfuls of kimchi for a perfectly balanced treat.

Handy Tips for Planning Your Seoul Trip

• Getting around Seoul via bus and subway is really easy – simply buy and charge a transport card and use it to tap in and out of the relevant locations. 
• Use Naver or Kakao – Google Maps doesn’t really work in South Korea. 
• While it’s possible to fit in a trip to the DMZ, it may come at the expense of a couple of other locations. Prioritise what you want to see the most and visit those locations over your first 2 days in the city.
• While South Korea is mostly card-friendly, there are a few instances (like in the spa) where you need to pay in cash, so have some Korean Won with you at all times. 

Recommended Tours

What to Pack 

• Comfy sneakers, you’ll be on your feet a lot during your 3 days in Seoul.
• Bring a universal travel adapter to use with the plugs, which include both Type C and Type F.
• If you’re travelling in the winter, you’ll want a warm jacket, hat, and gloves.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight tops that cover your shoulders and chest in the summer, as South Korean women dress more conservatively. 

Recommended Hotels

Quick Info for Your 3 Days in Seoul 

• Time Zone: Korean Time Zone (GMT+9)
• Currency: South Korean won
• Plugs: Type C, Type F
• Nearest Airport: Incheon International Airport (ICN)
• 5 Must-See Spots: N Seoul Tower, Gwangjang Market, Changdeokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Cheonggyecheon Stream. 
• Top Tip: Ditch your Google Maps and use Naver or Kakao to navigate the sprawling city. 

Getting Around 

Seoul has excellent public transportation, which you can rely on to get just about anywhere in this itinerary. The train and bus system is easy to navigate. Just charge up your card as you go, and you can dip in and out of each ride.

Read All Seoul Guides

Read More South Korea Guides

• How to Spend 10 Days in South Korea
• Cool Things to do in South Korea
• The Best Things to do in Busan

Save + Share on Pinterest

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

A Complete Guide to Visiting Jeonju’s Hanok Village

A Complete Guide to Jeonju, South Korea

10 Days in South Korea: The Perfect South Korea Itinerary

A Complete Guide to Gangneung, South Korea

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

Complete Guide for Planning Your First Trip to Seoul, South Korea

Seoul, South Korea is a complex city. It's full of history and culture both new and old. From the complicated dynamics between the two Koreas to the super modern youth compared to the traditional older folks, Korea is full of experiences and opportunities to be had. When we hopped on a place to Korea back in October 2022, we knew enough about Korea to be really really excited to finally visit this country, but we were also pretty unsure what that to expect. Personally, the mystery is half the fun to me! I love being surprised by a destination and approaching with little to no preconceived thoughts or ideas.

While Korea is a safe, modern, and friendly country to visit, you'll want to go prepared, especially if you've never been to Asia before. If you're traveling from the USA or another western country, Korean is the perfect Asian country to visit. It clearly had lots of western influence as it rebuilt after the Korean War, so it's familiar but also completely foreign. It's hard to explain, but if you're nervous about this big leap across the Pacific Ocean, just go in knowing that you'lre going to be FINE and you're going to have so much fun! The people are kind, the city is clean, and no matter what happens, you're never far from wi-fi and a kind person to help you find your way again.

To help you prepare for your trip to Seoul, South Korea, here is everything we recommend knowing before hopping on that plane.

Looking for something specific? Use the links below to jump to a section.

Where is seoul, what is seoul best known for, is it safe to visit korea, is seoul, korea expensive, best time of year to visit seoul, how to get to seoul, do i need a visa to visit korea, money in korea, cell phone service and wifi in korea, where to stay in seoul, transportation in korea, navigation in korea, what to pack for korea.

Seoul is a part of the Asian nation of Korea and is located in the northern part of the South Korean peninsula. While it's a relatively small country by landmass, its population of the city of Seoul is quite large. Seoul, the capital city of South Korea and its largest metropolis, is surrounded by mountains and has a population of over 10 million people. This vibrant city offers visitors an endless array of things to do – from exploring traditional markets to sampling delicious street food.

Seoul is best known for its culture, art, food and nightlife. From traditional palaces to cutting-edge museums, Seoul has something for everyone. Seoul's most popular attractions include the Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul City Wall and Bukchon Hanok Village – all of which feature an abundance of cultural architecture to explore.  Seoul's traditional markets, such as Namdaemun and Insadong, offer an exciting way to experience Seoul's unique culture. Seoul is also renowned for its delicious street food, with some of the most popular dishes including kimchi, bibimbap and Seoul-style fried chicken. Lastly, Seoul has a vibrant nightlife, featuring a wide array of bars and clubs to explore.

Seoul is generally a safe place to visit. As with any large city, it's important to exercise caution when exploring Seoul by being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables close. We spent three weeks in Seoul and never once felt unsafe. I don't want to give a false impression that nothing bad will happen. We were just very cautious in avoiding bad neighborhoods and we always stuck together. When we traveled to neighborhoods we didn't know anything about, we opted for a taxi instead of the subway so we wouldn't stumble into a bad area.

Like with any new place you travel to, exercise caution, trust your gut, and when in doubt, ask the locals for their advice.

Seoul is a relatively affordable city to visit, even for budget travelers. The cost of living in Seoul is slightly lower than other large cities like London and New York City, with basic items like bread and milk being much cheaper than most big cities. Accommodation in Seoul ranges from cheap guesthouses to luxury hotels depending on your budget. Public transportation is also very affordable, with most trips costing less than $2.

A lot of tourists visit Korea expecting it to be incredibly affordable like nearby Thailand and Vietnam, but it definitely is not. I'd say Seoul is in line with most midsize cities in the USA, with the small towns and villages in South Korea being much less expensive.

When we visited Seoul the dollar was fluctuating significantly and the Korean won was down by about 25%. Because of this, our grasp on how expensive Korea is is slightly more skewed than what you might experience. To check your home country's current currency conversion, checkout Google free calculator HERE .

Seoul is a great place to visit all year round, and depending on your interests, different seasons offer different experiences. Seoul has four distinct seasons – spring (March - May), summer (June - August), autumn (September - November) and winter (December – February).

Spring in Seoul is mild with temperatures ranging from 50-68 Fahrenheit (10-20 Celsius). Seoul in the spring is a great time of year to visit as the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and many outdoor festivals take place throughout the city.

Summer in Seoul is hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 90 Fahrenheit (30 Celsius) at times. If you're interested in exploring Seoul's parks and outdoor attractions, as well as Seoul's famous beaches and islands, summer might be the perfect time to visit.

Autumn in Seoul is mild with temperatures ranging from 45-68 Fahrenheit (8-20 Celsius). Seoul in the autumn can be a great time to visit due to its vibrant fall foliage, although the weather can get quite cold at night. We visit for the month of October and had perfect weather! It only rained two days and the temperatures were perfect for walking around during the day and required just a jacket and warm shoes at night.

Winter in Seoul can be bitterly cold with temperatures reaching below zero Celsius, but Seoul in the winter is also a great time to visit as many of Seoul's festivals, including the Seoul Lantern Festival and Winter Sonata Music Festival take place during this time. We were advised by the locals to avoid South Korea in the winter because the Siberian winds are brutally strong and cold when they come down from Russia.

No matter when you choose to visit Seoul, there is something for everyone!

Korea is a peninsula with North Korea to the north and only the ocean to the south, so getting to South Korea you’ll need to fly. The only exception is if you’re traveling from Japan, then you’d have the option to take one of the ferries over. All of the ferries from Japan will stop in Busan, which is about a 4 hour train ride from Seoul. This would be a really fun way to travel if you have the time to visit both Japan and Korea in the same trip! We personally haven’t tried the ferry yet but really hope to next time we visit this region of the world. Because we can’t give first hand advice on how to make the journey, we recommend you check out this article for more information.

We flew Delta round trip from Nashville (BNA) which cost ~$1250 per person . The route included a short layover in Seattle both ways which was nice to break up the long haul flight. You can fly direct from the USA to Seoul (ICN) from several major cities including Detroit, Atlanta, New York City, Los Angeles, Dallas, and more. Our long leg of the journey was from Seattle to Seoul which was about 12 ½ hours on the way there, and just under 10 hours on the way home. Not too bad! If you’re like us and like to break up long haul flights, Korea makes a really great stop on your way to other places in Asia. For example, we’d strongly consider visiting Korea again for an extended layover on our way to somewhere like Thailand or Singapore.

Something really important to note: Seoul’s main airport is actually in Incheon (ICN), a neighboring city to Seoul’s west. Most international flights will fly into Incheon (ICN), then you’ll either need to take the 1-1 ½ hour train ride into the city, or catch a taxi. There are plenty of taxis and Ubers going to and from the airport to the city, so don’t worry about being able to catch one! While we love using public transit when we travel, after a long travel day, we typically opt for the taxi or Uber since we’re usually jet lagged and hungry by then.

To answer this question, you'll need to know the passport you hold. Citizens from many countries and regions are able to enter South Korea without a visa for up to 90 days, but there are some exceptions. We recommend checking out the official Korean government website for more information about which passports require a visa, as well as all of the other details.

For us as Americans holding passports from the USA, we are not required to have a visa when traveling to Korea for less than 90 days. However, as of September 2021, all visitors from visa free countries must register their visit via K-ETA before arrival. The websites states that you'll receive your QR code/access to Korea within a few days, but as always, we recommend applying as soon as you know you're visiting to save yourself the headache. I applied just a few days before we departed and had my code within the hour. Super easy to get!

Korean currency

The Korean currency is called the won (KRW). Seoul and Korea in general is an inexpensive place to visit, but prices range depending on where you are. Seoul is definitely more expensive than other cities in South Korea, such as Busan or Daegu.

COVID definitely moved many businesses to being a more credit card friendly place to visit, but there are still a few places that require cash, and it's nice to have on hand to tip throughout your trip.

How to pay in Korea

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Seoul, and most places accept Mastercard, Visa, American Express, etc. Money exchange is available at Seoul Airport (ICN) but not all airports in Korea so it's best to come prepared with some won in your pocket. It's always cheapest to convert money through your home bank a couple of weeks before your trip. We use Bank of America and we just go online to order our cash in whatever currency we need, then pick it up at the local branch.

Should you tip in Korea?

Tipping is not super common in Seoul, so it's not expected but always appreciated if you receive great service. If you do decide to tip, 5-10% of the total bill is appropriate. Just be aware that many restaurants add a 10% service charge to your bill already, so check before tipping extra!

We'd definitely recommend tipping guides if you participate in any sort of food, historical, or DMZ tour. These guides are often working for larger companies and many of the individuals are still recovering from COVID hitting Korea really hard.

If you're visiting Seoul for a few days, you'll either want to purchase a SIM card upon arrival or bring your own unlocked phone with an international plan. I have a Google Fi plan which works well for me both at home in the USA and abroad. I had excellent service in Korea, so if you travel internationally a good bit, I'd highly recommend giving Google Fi a try.

For most though, renting a SIM card (or even an entire phone!) is the best option. You can reserve your SIM card before you even leave home and just pick it up at the airport. If you forget to reserve it ahead of time, no worries, you can still rent one in the airport, just for a slightly higher price. For more information regarding renting SIM cards in Korea, I'd recommend checking out this blogpost .

Public wifi is widely available all throughout Seoul including on the subways, many of the parks, and most restaurants. Korea is incredibly connected so you're never too far from wifi!

Seoul has a variety of accommodations for all budgets, from Airbnbs and hostels to luxury and budget hotels, to even staying in a traditional hanok house . You can find just about every type of accommodation in all the most popular neighborhoods (except for the hanoks which are best found in Bukchon). Instead of looking for a particular type of accommodation, I'd recommend figuring out which neighborhood you'll most enjoy staying in while you're in Seoul.

This neighborhood is close to many of the major attractions including palaces and the Bukchon Hanok Village. This neighborhood has plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, plus it's conveniently located close to multiple subway stops.

If you know the song "Gangnam Style," you know what to expect of Gangnam. It's fashionable, flashy, and expensive. This is the neighborhood we stayed in, but only because we booked late and it was the only hotel we could find in our budget that was dog friendly. Gangnam is incredibly safe, but you will likely pay more to stay here. Unless you're really into Korean fashion or are planning on having any K-beauty treatments performed while you're there, I'd recommend staying in one of the other neighborhoods with more charm. Gangnam definitely feels very new and western compared to other parts of the city.

This was our favorite neighborhood in Seoul! Lots of great restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and overall just a really fun, young environment. There's a large university in Hongdae which certainly has a heavy influence on the neighborhood. It's a young area, but in our 30s we didn't feel too out of place here. There were plenty people of all ages enjoying the little winding streets and city park, perfect for hanging with friends and grabbing a drink after dinner.

Myeongdong is another great neighborhood option if you want to be close to many of the most popular attractions in Seoul. It's situated right between the palaces and Namsan Tower . This neighborhood offers a lot of different hotel options, so if you're planning to stay in hotels instead of Airbnbs, this might be the best place to check.

Itaewon is very popular among expats, especially American expats given its close proximity to the American military base. The neighborhood is famous for its lively nightlife scene and shopping options. If this is your first time to Asia and nervous about feeling too out of sorts as an American, this might be a good option for you. There's still plenty of Korean charm in this neighborhood, but you will see plenty of other expats walking around. Personally, we like immersing ourselves in the culture, but we do have friends who prefer to ease their way into it. There's nothing wrong with that, whatever gets you out there and traveling. Do note that Itaewon is very hilly! If you plan to walk a lot but aren't too athletic or struggle with mobility, keep that in mind.

We most commonly rely on public transit and Uber when traveling, but taxis, buses, high speed rail, and car rentals are all an option, too. Do note that if you plan on renting a car in Korea, you need to get an International Drivers Permit before you leave home.

The subway system in Korea is incredibly clean, safe, and reliable. Oh, and it's very affordable too at just ~$1 per ride. We recommend using the Naver App to help you navigate the complex Subway system throughout Seoul.

Buses are another very affordable and reliable option for getting around Seoul, although we never actually took them. We found the subway to be faster and more direct everywhere we planned on going. The Naver App also works well for helping you navigate the bus system.

Ubers and taxis are both very affordable in Korea and are easily available everywhere in the city. Taxis accept American credit cards and, of course, you pay for Uber in the app. One thing to note though: Uber in Korea will show up as UT.

Car Rentals

You can rent a car in Korea so long as you have an International Driving Permit with you. We did not rent a car in Korea, but just glancing at the availability online, you can pick up rental cars at the airports and in most neighborhoods.

High Speed Rails

Korea has high speed rails which are very safe, efficient, and far faster than driving. If you plan on visiting places outside of Seoul, consider hopping on the high speed rail and check out other cities like Busan .

While Google Maps works well in most of the world, Korea is not one of those places. They have their own apps for navigation, all of which work well. We highly recommend the Naver app because of its subway navigation help. The app easily guides you through the subway tunnels, tells you when to get on and off, and even what place to stand on the platform. The app is available for both iOS and Android .

Like with any place you travel to with fluctuating weather, packing layers is key. Sweaters and jackets are best so you can take them on and off as the weather warms and cools. If you're going to be in Seoul during the fall, winter, or spring, I'd recommend bringing gloves and a hat just in case you get some colder days. If you're like us, you'll be doing a lot of walking in Seoul so be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes for both cooler and warmer days.

Final thoughts

We absolutely loved our three weeks in Seoul. It's a massive, busy, complex, and interesting city. There's so much to see, do, and try any season of the year. If you have a piece of advice or information for other travelers to Seoul, Korea, be sure to drop it in the comments below!

Like this article? Be sure to checkout our other travel guides for South Korea!

• 16 Must Try Foods in Korea
• Renting a Hanbok and Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Medical Tourism in Korea (SMILE / LASIK Eye Surgery)
• Gwangjang Market - What to eat, when to go, and more

You May Also Like

The Ultimate Traveler's Guide to Loreto, Mexico: 21 Must-Do Activities

The 33 Best Places to Eat & Drink in Portland, Maine

Everything to Know About Crossing the Land Border from the USA into Mexico (by car, RV, or van)

We're Chris and Sara

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING?

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Asia » South Korea » Seoul

34 BEST Places to Visit in Seoul (Attraction Guide for 2024)

Seoul is one of the most popular destinations in Asia. It’s a bustling metropolis that combines cyber-punk sights with old-world goodness. It’s a truly unique city.

There are numerous cool places to visit in Seoul and a lot of sights to see. This city has it all, from a fascinating and unusual culture to great food, amazing shopping, and great entertainment options. It’s also very welcoming and used to travelers making it a safe and accessible place in Asia. There countless points of interest in Seoul, so you’ll have an exciting and busy trip to the city.

The idea of traveling in Seoul can seem a little intimidating. It’s a sprawling metropolis and doesn’t quite have the complete ease of its East Asian neighbor Japan. However, Seoul is actually a very safe city and is popular amongst tourists, so the tourist trails are well worn and easy to explore.

With this easy guide, you’ll find it easy to travel to Seoul and come back with stories and pictures that other people just can’t match! There are a lot of cool places to visit in Seoul, so let’s get to it!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Seoul:

The best places to visit in seoul, faqs on the best places to visit in seoul, final thoughts before visiting seoul’s best places.

Gangnam translates as ‘south of the river’ and is a district that has blown up in recent years. It was originally an area dedicated to sleepy rice fields – but you’d never believe it when visiting today!

• Check out the K-pop scene and pick up a few CDs at Evan Records.
• Shop for the latest fashion and boutique items (or just window shop) at Galleria department store.
• Eat bibimbap at Tokkijung or a famous Korean barbeque meal at Yang Good.

Where do you start with the best things to do in Seoul – in a city of 10 million? Your experience while travelling in South Korea will be dramatically different by the accommodation you choose. You want to make sure you’re closest to all the coolest things to do.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

#1 – Bukchon Hanok Village – A great place to see in Seoul for Korean architecture

• A great place to experience Seoul’s traditional culture.
• You’ll be able to take some awesome pictures in this area!
• Just be aware that people still live in these houses, so be respectful of their privacy.

Why it’s so awesome: The traditional houses in Seoul are called Hanok and they date back to the Joseon Dynasty between 1392 and 1910. These houses are designed to maintain a balance between the house and the outside world of mountains, rivers, and land contours. This makes them extremely aesthetically pleasing and one of the must-sees in Seoul! You may even be able to find an Airbnb in Seoul in this architectural style if you’re lucky!

What to do there: People actually still live in this residential area, which is located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, so be respectful of their spaces and time. If you can, join a guided tour early in the morning to get even more insights. Or take some extra time and explore the area and make sure you get some pictures too. There are some spots where you can see the traditional houses against more modern landmarks, and they make for the most striking photo-ops of all.

#2 – Myeongdong – A great place in Seoul if you love to shop!

• Literally shopper’s paradise!
• You’ll find amazing deals in this area on every kind of cosmetics you can imagine.
• Make sure you take advantage of the samples and the changing deals and offers.
• If you want to find out more,  get a guide  to show you around!

Why it’s so awesome: The women of Seoul look amazing. They’re always beautifully dressed and have impeccable make-up, and this area is why. Myeongdong is a whole shopping area dedicated to every cosmetic store and brand you could ever want. So, no matter what type of skin you have or what make-up look you want, you’ll be able to find the right products in this area.

What to do there: This is the most famous place in Seoul for shopping and there are always a lot of special deals and offers in this area so keep your eyes open and take advantage of them. A lot of shops also offer free samples, so don’t be afraid to try a brand you’ve never heard of! This is a trip mostly for the girls, so leave the guys at home and take your best friends along for the ride.

#3 – Lotte World – A must-do in Seoul for families!

• The world’s largest indoor amusement park.
• If you get tired of the rides, then visit the shopping complex also on-site!
• This is a Seoul must-do and a great place to take the kids.

Why it’s so awesome: Lotte World is huge. It includes both an indoor and outdoor amusement park and there is also a hotel, an aquarium, luxury boutiques, a water park, and a shopping center on-site! So, even if you get tired of the rides, you can always slip out and grab a meal or a bargain before returning to the Lotte fun.

What to do there: Take the kids, or friends, and just enjoy the amusement park. The rides and attractions are some of the best you’ll ever see at Lotte World and it’s well worth taking an entire day in this park to soak it all in.

Make sure you try the Desperados game, the Dragons Wild Shooting game, and the Comet Express rollercoaster for maximum fun and thrills! It’s easily a must-visit in Seoul if only to feel like a kid again. Buy your tickets before you go, so you won’t end up waiting in line.

#4 – Gyeongbokgung Palace – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Seoul

• When you travel to Seoul, you absolutely must not miss this historic building!
• The largest and most important palace in Seoul.
• If you wear a traditional hanbok dress, they’ll let you in for free.

Why it’s so awesome: The Gyeongbokgung Palace is often compared to the Forbidden City in Beijing and is a Seoul must-see. Built in 1395, it was the main royal palace of the Joseon family, who ruled Korea for hundreds of years.

The palace was mostly destroyed by Imperial Japan during the early 20th century but over the following years, it has been meticulously restored. It is now considered to be one of the most beautiful palaces in the world, which is why it’s one of the best places to visit in Seoul.

What to do there: There are lots of places in the city where you can hire a hanbok – a traditional Korean dress. If you turn up at the palace wearing it, they’ll let you in for free. Aside from that, just explore the site. I’d recommend jumping on a guided tour to get to know all of the details about this stunning palace.

Also, make sure you show up to see the changing of the guard or the Gwanghwamun Gate Guard-on-Duty Performance . Either one happens between 10 and 4 pm every hour on every day except Tuesday and it’s a really fun thing to see in Seoul.

#5 – N Seoul Tower – A place to go in Seoul to see the city from a different angle.

• The best place for panoramic views of the city.
• The building also hosts a variety of cultural and entertainment events as well as restaurants and snack bars.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re looking for the top place to visit in Seoul, they don’t get much more “top” than this. The N Seoul Tower is located on Mt. Namsan and has been Seoul’s most iconic site since its opening in 1980. It’s actually a communication and observation tower, but over the last few years, it’s become one of the most important and celebrated sites in the city.

What to do there: Go to the top and enjoy the views. Sometimes, the best way to explore a city is to see it high up and at a distance so you can get an idea of the scale, and this tower offers the best place in the city to do just that.

Afterwards, go down to see a movie or an exhibition in the cultural space, or just grab a table at the upscale restaurants there and enjoy a fantastic meal. If you are passing through Seoul, then you see this (but not climb) on a Seoul transit tour from the airport.

#6 – The Yun Dong-ju Literature Museum – A great place to visit in Seoul if you are alone.

• Reading the books and poetry from another culture is a great way to gain a deeper understanding, and this is a great entry point into South Korean Literature.
• If you love books and history, this is a Seoul must do.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a museum built in honor of the beloved South Korean poet Yun Dong-Ju. It’s a three-room museum where you can explore photos from his life as well as first editions of his poems. The space itself is beautiful as well; the indoor space perfectly captures the contemplative, inspiring mood of the poetry and is a Seoul itinerary must for the contemplative travelers.

What to do there: Spend some time exploring the photos and contemplating this poet’s work before going outside. You can take a wall on Poet’s Hill at the back of the museum and get great views of the city and the N Seoul Tower. After your visit, you might even be inspired to get writing!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – The Jeoldusan Martyr’s Shrine – An important historical site in Seoul.

• A sobering but beautiful shrine that remembers a very dark time in history.
• Don’t take the kids to this site as some of the displays may upset them.
• If you want to explore Seoul, going back to its roots is a good way to start.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a Catholic shrine on the Han River and marks the Byeonin Persecution of 1866. At this time, nine French missionaries were martyred which led to the French fleet attempting an invasion into Korea. In retaliation, the Jeoldusan government targets, punished and murdered French and Korean Catholics, leading to this site became known as the ‘beheading mountain’. This obviously isn’t a fun site, but it’s an important part of Korean history and must be seen if you want to understand the present.

What to do there: The shrine is especially beautiful at night when votive candles give it an otherworldly glow, but it’s still beautiful and sobering when you go during the day. Don’t bring your kids with you as the Shrine houses a gallery and museum display torture implements that were used on the captured Catholics.

#8 – The Seoul Museum of Art – The perfect attraction in Seoul if you are on a budget!

• One of the best points of interest in Seoul that’s also free!
• The museum is housed in a beautiful and historic building which offers great photo opportunities.

Why it’s so awesome: How about a free thing to do in Seoul! This museum plays host to a range of special exhibitions that can be expensive, but the permanent display is totally free. It highlights the career of the Korean artist Chun Kyung-Ja, who was influenced by African culture and art and is worth the trip to the museum alone.

What to do there: Before you go, check out what special exhibitions they have on during your stay. Korean art is very unique and well worth exploring, so spend some time getting to know their unique style. But make sure you check out the regular display as well because it’s beautiful and soulful.

#9 – The Cheongun Literature Library – Another place in Seoul for the bookworms!

• An amazing place to spend some time if you love books!
• One of the most beautiful museums in Korea.
• If you’re trying to work out what to do in Seoul on a quiet afternoon, this is a site where you can sit back and relax.

Why it’s so awesome: The collection of books at this library is fairly average, but it’s the space that makes it amazing. The reading rooms are located on the second floor of a traditional Korean house which is spacious, sunny, and welcoming. So, if you love to read , this is a perfect place to settle in and do it!

What to do there: Make sure you spend some time exploring this traditional Korean house. This style of Korean architecture is unique and oddly harmonious with the natural surroundings, so it’s worth taking note of it. And then, get away from the busyness of the city by choosing a book and taking it upstairs to read. There’s nothing like reading a good book in an atmospheric space, so take advantage of the opportunity.

#10 – Everland – A very cool place in Seoul for a day trip

• A great place to take the whole family while you’re visiting Seoul
• This park has the steepest wooden roller coaster in the world.

Why it’s so awesome: Seoul breaks a lot of world records and this affects how they build things and what they enjoy. Everland is the largest outdoor theme park in South Korea and has five zones of rides and attractions. This includes the world’s steepest wooden roller coaster and South Korea’s only safari, so come expecting some thrills.

What to do there: Get there early because there’s a lot to do and you’ll need the whole day to fit it all in. If you love roller coasters, make sure you ride the world’s tallest wooden coaster and be prepared to scream your lungs out along the way!

#11 – The NANTA Theater – Seoul and South Korea’s artistic scene is definitely a must-see.

• Another side of Korean culture and one you probably won’t expect!
• The most popular theater performance in the city.

Why it’s awesome: Every culture is different and sometimes it’s great to get a first-hand view of just how different another country can be. The NANTA Theater is the perfect place to get a different view on the modern culture of South Korea. It’s the most popular theatre in the city and has a non-verbal, musical base. Perhaps a little strange, but it’s a terrific window to seeing another side of the city while backpacking in Seoul .

What to do there: This theatre has shows regularly so check out what’s on before you arrive in the city. And once you’re there, just enjoy the culinary-themed comedy performance with acrobatic moves and rhythmic melodies. Chances are that you’ve never seen anything like it and never will again! The shows sell out fast – they’re incredibly popular – so book early to make sure you don’t miss out.

#12 – The Seoul Alive Illusion Museum – Quite the quirky place in Seoul to visit!

• The first museum of 4D optical illusions in South Korea.
• Includes more than 100, slightly quirky exhibits.
• The perfect place to go with friends or with your family while you’re visiting Seoul.

Why it’s awesome: Even if you’ve been to an optical illusion museum before, you probably haven’t seen one like this. A lot of the exhibits in this museum are slightly quirky and unusual, and you’ll probably spend a lot of your visit to this venue laughing your head off at the displays you can become part of. It’s just a little run-of-the-mill Korean madness.

What to do there: Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged before you spend a few hours at this museum because you’ll need it. Even if you’ve seen optical illusion museums before, this one is unique. Make sure that you check out the Disney displays and become a part of popular movies like Frozen and Cinderella in your own personal works of art. Sort your booking in advance to have an even better experience!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

#13 – Tosokchon – A must-do in Seoul to delight your tastebuds.

• Home to one of the most famous dishes in the city.
• Expect queues, but the wait is definitely worth it.
• Buy a ticket  online if you want to skip the line

Why it’s so awesome: Every city has a dish that they’re famous for and one of Seoul’s most famous dishes is known as Samgyetang. This is ginseng chicken soup, and the best place to buy it is at Tosokchon restaurant on Jahamun-ro 5-gil Road. Once you taste the dish, you’ll understand why people queue up to eat it every day.

What to do there: Arrive early if you want to be in the front of the line and just wait patiently. The dish is worth the trouble, as all the locals in line will tell you, so just accept the wait and enjoy your food once it arrives. Make sure you try it though; it’s a must-do when visiting Seoul!

#14 – The Cheonggyecheon Stream – A quiet and romantic place to see in Seoul.

• A chance to take a break from the busy city and enjoy a slice of nature.
• You can also walk the length of the stream, which will take you alongside lots of Seoul’s best tourist attractions.

Why it’s so awesome: Seoul is a busy modern city and sometimes it’s nice to get away from the crowds and pollution and enjoy a bit of nature. And that’s exactly what this stream is for. The locals often visit on hot summer days and spend time sitting in the shade and dipping their feet in the water, and you can do the same when you need a little break.

What to do there: Walk down to the stream and just spend some time relaxing. The stream is like a little oasis in the middle of the city, so take the time to slow down and rest. You can also walk the length of the stream if you’re feeling energetic and stop off at local attractions along the way.

#15 – Bukhansan National Park – The most beautiful nature in Seoul.

• A traditional market where you can find almost anything you want to buy.
• The prices are extremely good, so make sure you check it out if you want something specific.

Why it’s so awesome: While you’re in Seoul, you might find the city can be overwhelming at times. No matter, because just outside the city centre you’ll find the Bukhansan National Park, which is the best place to go hiking in Seoul. Aside from outdoor recreational activities, the national park boasts impressive mountain views and lush forestry. You might also see some ancient temples and fortresses along the way.

What to do there: The reason most people visit the Bukhansan National Park is to do some hiking. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a beginner level hiker, you’ll find a trail suitable to your ability here.

#16 – Gwangjang Market – Seoul’s street food delights!

• One of the best places to eat in Seoul.
• This market is popular with tourists and locals.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want good street food when you visit another country, then you need to go where the locals go. And the locals all know to go to Gwangjang Market. This was the first permanent market in Korea selling local delicacies and fine linen and it also contains some of the best stalls in the city if you enjoy trying street food.

What to do there: You can do some shopping while you’re at this market, but mostly you want to try the food. The market’s open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 10 pm, so bring your appetite and try as much of the street food as you can. Make sure that you try the bindaetteok or mung bean pancake and tteokbokki and noodles for a really unique eating experience.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

#17 – Hongdae – A must-see for foodies!

• Seoul’s nightlife center.
• This area is near the university, which is why it’s filled with young people and fashionable places to eat and party.

Why it’s so awesome: The areas around universities in most cities are beacons for popular eateries and wicked nightlife and Seoul is no different. Just moments from Hongik University, one of the most prestigious in the city, this area attracts students, locals, and tourists who enjoy the best and most fashionable shopping and dining in the city. Some of Seoul’s best hostels are in the area too!

What to do there: This is an area that really comes alive at night, so save it for an evening when you don’t have much to do. Find somewhere to eat, because this is one of the best places to eat in Seoul, and then go shopping. There is a range of clothing stalls and shops selling vintage goods so take your time and see what’s available. And if you enjoy clubbing, you’ll find lots of different options in this area.

#18 – Ikseon-dong Hanok Village – An unknown (but awesome) place to see in Seoul!

• The best place in the city to experience old Korea.
• There are some amazing cafes and pubs in this area too, so make sure you have a meal during your explorations.
• If you’re trying to decide what to do in Seoul off the tourist trail, this is the perfect place to visit.

Why it’s so awesome: This area isn’t usually listed as one of the best places to visit in Korea, but it’s great if you want to enjoy a mix of history, food, and creative shopping options. The area was first established in 1920 and preserves that time almost perfectly. Wandering the alleys could almost make you believe that you’ve moved back in time, and makes for a great afternoon.

What to do there: Just wander the alleys and enjoy the time away from Seoul’s tourist spots. There’s always something hidden to discover and explore in this area, and it’s well worth spending some time there to get a real feel for the past.

But don’t neglect the present either, because the shops are some of the most interesting in the city too. So, do some shopping and then stop at one of the artisan cafes or gastro pubs for a meal. It’s also worth it to join a pub crawl tour with a local guide to get to know the hidden gems of this cool district.

#19 – Insa-dong

• If you want unique souvenirs, this is one of the hotspots in Seoul for them.
• The center of Korean traditional culture and crafts.
• A great place to explore Seoul and support local craftsmen at the same time.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re interested in traditional Korean culture and crafts then this is the place where it’s all gathered together so you don’t miss anything. Insa-dong specializes in goods that can only be purchased or enjoyed in Korea, so it’s the perfect place to grab a souvenir for your loved ones back home!

What to do there: There are about a hundred galleries in Insa-dong and they display every type of Korean craft that you can imagine or have ever heard of. Make sure you check out the hanboks, which is a piece of traditional Korean clothing, traditional teas, and folk crafts. Also, try to go on a Sunday as streets are blocked off to allow for stalls and booths as well as traditional performances and exhibits.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

#20 – Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park – A haunted place to visit in Seoul… maybe…

• A slightly creepy look at the other side of entertainment.
• There are stories going around that the park shut down because of a ghost!
• If you want to find unusual things to do in Seoul, this is the perfect place to start.

Why it’s so awesome: Yongma was built in 1980 and was a small, family-run amusement park. It shut down in 2011, allegedly because of ghosts, though it’s far more likely that the owners had economic reasons for closing their doors. But since then, the park was bought by a savvy businessman who invites visitors to become part of the park’s demise.

What to do there: If you’ve ever wanted to explore an abandoned amusement park, this is your chance. You can clamber over old dodgem cars, try out the carousel, and take pictures next to a sad clown roller coaster.

There’s a small charge involved, and if you get there at night you can pay a little extra and ask the owner to turn on the lights of the merry-go-round while you’re there. Set against the declining rides, it’s a ghostly sight that should be savored.

#21 – Seodaemun Prison – Possibly one of the most important historical places to visit in Seoul.

• Not a fun place to visit, but an important one if you want to understand South Korean history.
• This was a prison built for Koreans who rebelled against Japanese forces.

Why it’s so awesome: Built in 1908, this prison held Korean rebels who fought against Japan’s invasion and occupation. Before it was created, the country had virtually no penal system, and this location came to symbolize the determination of the Korean people to win their freedom despite the costs. Many Korean patriots died in custody, were tortured or executed at this location, and it’s a sobering reminder of the darker side of humanity.

What to do there: This isn’t a fun place to visit in Seoul. It was designated as a historic site in 1988 and renovated in 1995 and is a stark and sometimes brutal slice of Seoul’s history. As you walk through the prison-turned-museum, you’ll see torture chambers with terrifyingly realistic mannequins of famous Korean patriots and get an idea what it was like for the people who lived and died within the prison’s walls.

#22 – Coffee Hanyakbang – Seoul’s Must-Visit for the Coffee Connoisseurs

• The perfect place for coffee lovers of all ages.
• A nearly hidden gem that only the locals know about.
• If you live for your morning coffee, you’ll find lots of new coffee tastes at this site.

Why it’s so awesome: Almost everyone loves coffee and this tiny shop allows you to celebrate it in style. It’s almost hidden down a narrow, unmarked alleyway but coffee connoisseurs know that it’s there and turn up in droves to get the perfect coffee experience. The shop is decorated in a mix of Korean and Chinese styles and is determinedly rustic, with lots of wood and exposed pipe. And it sells delicious, hand-drip coffee at decent prices.

What to do there: Drink your morning coffee, of course! The owners roast the beans by hand at the back of the shop and grind them on site, so the whole shop has that rich, tongue-tingling smell of fresh coffee. And the making of each coffee is a science too, with everything precisely calculated to create the perfect cup, every time. So enjoy!

#23 – The War Memorial of Korea – A different take on a war memorial.

• A strangely lighthearted look at Korean military history.
• Fun and educational, so it’s a great place to take the kids.

Why it’s so awesome: There are 6 exhibition halls and an outdoor space for war machines too big to fit inside at this site and the place is packed. In fact, there are over 13,000 pieces of military equipment and memorabilia at the Korean war memorial , placed on the grounds of the former army headquarters of Korea.

The focus is on the Korean and Vietnam war and this isn’t the type of museum where you just stand back and look. The displays are designed to be touched and felt, to give visitors a better idea of what the wars were really like.

What to do there: There’s a lot to see at this memorial so make sure you put aside a few hours. The Combat Experience Room is particularly interesting and uses audiovisual effects to surround you with the sounds, sights and smells of the battlefield. Outback, the lines of tanks and heavy artillery are laid out like a metal petting zoo, and if you’re interested in this type of machinery, you’ll have an amazing time exploring it all.

#24 – Jogyesa Korean Buddhist Temple – For some sacred sightseeing in Seoul.

• A Buddhist temple that’s an important part of the locals’ lives.
• The garden surrounding the temple has some ancient trees that are simply amazing.

Why it’s so awesome: Sometimes there’s nothing like exploring a temple that’s still in use in the modern-day if you want to understand a culture better. And this temple in the middle of Seoul’s high-rise district is one of the best places to visit in the city to learn more about its people. This Zen Buddhist temple is always full of locals and tourists, which makes it an exciting, as well as an interesting place to people, watch and spend some quality time.

What to do there: Spend some time just watching the people as they come and go on their everyday business. And when you’re done, explore the compound itself. You could also find yourself a guide that will show you around and explain each statue in detail.

The trees in this area are apparently over 500 years old and they’re strung with banners and streamers in bright colors to make them look even more spectacular! This all combines to make this temple one of the top places to visit in Seoul if only for a quick contemplative meditation.

#25 – Suwon’s Hwaseong Fortress – More of Seoul’s old landmarks!

• If you’re looking for a quick day trip from the city, then make it to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Located only an hour and a half from Seoul.
• One of Seoul’s most important historical sites.

Why it’s so awesome: Built between 1794 and 1796, this fortress was created to house the remains of the King’s father, who had been murdered by his own father. It’s an enormous complex that was meant to be the first step in moving the capital from Seoul to the city of Suwon, where the Fortress is located. This obviously never eventuated, but the fortress remains and was declared a UNESCO site in 1997 .

What to do there: It will take you a couple of hours to see the entire castle, so if you have a spare morning or afternoon while you’re in Seoul then make the trip out to see it. There are a lot of different features including the interior and exterior as well as a palace museum, so make sure you take enough time to see it all.

#26 – Seoul’s Children’s Park – A beautiful place to go outdoors in Seoul.

• A great place to take the kids.
• Even if you don’t have children, you’ll enjoy this massive green area in the central Seoul.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re tired of the skyscrapers and find yourself longing for some greenery, then you can find this park in the middle of the city. Not only does it include a lot of green, open areas, there are also some cool exhibits and attractions in the park that will interest everyone, not just the young.

What to do there: Escape from the city and spend some time in nature. This park also includes amusement rides and playgrounds as well, so if you feel like being a little more active then there are lots of things to try!

#27 – A Lotte Mart – A weird choice of things to see in Seoul but hear me out!

• Lotte Marts in Seoul aren’t like the ones back home, so make sure you stop by for a look and a snack, you’ll be surprised what you’ll find there.
• If you love snacking but want to save some money, you can eat like the locals do with some very unusual meals and snacks from this store.

Why it’s so awesome: It sounds a bit strange to suggest that you go to a supermarket, but this is one experience you really shouldn’t miss because these stores are one of the most famous places in Seoul.

Lotte Marts are iconic in the city and they’re one of the coolest grocery stores in the world. While wandering around you’ll get a much better idea of how important food is in Seoul. And you might also find some new treats to try too!

What to do there: Make sure you take part in the whole experience. Lotte Marts usually have free food samples as well as an incredibly wide range of foods that you’ve probably never seen anywhere else. Just watch your wallet, because it’s too easy to overspend in Lotte Mart, and buy something tasty.

#28 – The Jongmyo Shrine – Another cultural highlight of Seoul.

• A UNESCO-listed site and close by the popular suburb or Insadong.
• A Seoul must-see when you’re in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: This is one of the most popular landmarks in Seoul and it’s also one of the best ways to learn about its ancient traditions. This shrine is the most popular attraction in Seoul and it’s a UNESCO Heritage site;  the perfect way for you to learn more about the history of the city.

What to do there: If you go to the shrine on Saturday then you can explore on your own. Any other day except Tuesday when the shrine is closed, you will need to join a guided tour. There are tours in English every couple of hours. While you’re there, make sure that you pay attention. You’ll learn about ancient customs, music, and even about memorial services during your visit, so it’s worth paying attention.

#29 – National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art – More awesome Korean art!

• The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul is an amazing traditional style building.
• Located on what used to be Seoul’s Defense Security Command.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum is a must-visit on your Seoul itinerary. It’s an enormous museum that’s built on the principles of madang , which encourages people to socialize together by providing a large, communal courtyard just for that purpose. And it works too, which makes it a great place for people watching.

What to do there: The exhibits at this museum change regularly, so find out what’s on while you’re in the city and don’t miss out. Also, spend some time exploring the building while you’re there. Korean architecture is unique and deserves some time and attention.

#30 – Socheon – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Seoul

• If you’re looking for the best food in the city then you need to go to Socheon, which is where the locals go.
• You’ll have some of your best meals in a slightly dingy restaurant in this part of the city.

Why it’s so awesome: Socheon is one of the best places in Seoul for cheap and delicious local food and a good break from the tourist attractions. Located on the west side of Gyeongbokgung, this area caters mostly to locals, so you won’t find as many fancy restaurants and neon lights there. Instead, you’ll find mostly ordinary, slightly run-down restaurants that serve some of the best food you’ve ever tasted.

What to do there: Some restaurants serve great food in this area but they’re a little hard to find. Most of them don’t have a website or even a menu in English, so you’ll have to order your meal from pictures or by what the locals are eating. To get a great meal, walk until you find a place that contains a lot of locals. Figure out what you want and just point – whatever you get, it’ll be delicious!

#31 – Dongdaemun – An awesome neighborhood in Seoul.

• One of the best places in Seoul for bargain shopping!
• Bring cash so you can haggle down the prices.

Why it’s so awesome: Dongdaemun shopping area is a veritable labyrinth of wholesale and retail shops. You could quite literally get lost in this area looking for something, and the crowds of locals and tourists alike enjoying the bargains are evidence of how good the prices and the variety of goods are.

What to do there: If you’re looking for something specific to buy, chances are that you’ll find it in this area. Take cash with you so you can haggle and find something sweet. But if you just want to wander and people watch, this is the perfect place for it too. Many of the shops are open all night, so there’s always something going on for you to observe.

#32 – Dongdaemun Design Plaza – A famous modern landmark in Seoul.

• One of the hotspots in Seoul for shopping and entertainment options.
• The building itself is unusual, stunning, and looks great in photos.

Why it’s so awesome: This building is one of the most eccentric in the city and looks amazing in photographs for you to put on your social media feeds. The long, sinuous curves of the building seem to go on forever and as if that wasn’t enough it also contains countless stores, exhibition spaces, parts of the original Seoul fortress that used to stand on the site, and a design museum.

What to do there: Make sure you take a photo of yourself with this building to show the people back home because the curving lines back for a great background. And then just explore the building. You can shop, explore the history of the site, or just wander the floors looking for anything that looks like fun. It’s the perfect place to go for anyone who’s looking for Seoul vacation ideas.

#33 – Mapo-Gu – A quirky area in Seoul to visit.

• One of the quirkiest places to go in Seoul.
• If you’re looking for weird and wonderful experiences and cafes, this district will exceed your wildest expectations.

Why it’s so awesome: Mapo district is one of Seoul’s 25 districts and it’s also one of the most unusual. It’s home to a large number of themed cafes, so if you want your cup of coffee with a side of cats, dogs or raccoons, you’ll find all that and more in this district.

What to do there: Korea is constantly innovating and looking for new ways to explore old ideas and you can experience that first hand while you’re in Mapo-Gu. Try the poop café if you’re looking for one of the most unusual places in Seoul, or just wander from one café to another hugging cute animals!

#34 – Nami Island

• One of the most popular spots for a holiday break in Seoul.
• It’s usually thronged with tourists so show up early if you want to avoid the lines.

Why it’s so awesome: Nami Island is a lovely nature area close to the city that’s a fantastic place to visit in the winter and summer months. In summer it has rides, zip wires, hiking, and lots of large open spaces to explore. And in the winter, it’s set up for all the winter sports and activities that you’ve ever dreamed of trying.

What to do there: Nami Island is an awesome place to visit in winter as the lake freezes and gives you an amazing view across the lake. It’s also home to a lot of winter sports and activities, which is why tourists and locals alike travel there in throngs to enjoy the colder months. Also, if you like to read, make sure you visit Petite France, which is a village modeled after the famous book The Little Prince.

Get insured for your trip to Seoul!

When you’re travelling to Seoul, having good travel insurance is an absolute essential BEFORE you set off. It means if things go wrong, you’re already in a good position.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Seoul

Is 3 days in Seoul enough?

Three days should be enough to see the main highlights, but there are some gorgeous hikes around the city that are worth staying longer to see.

Is Seoul a safe place to visit?

Yes, Seoul is a safe place to visit and violent crimes are rare.

Is Seoul a cheap place to visit?

No, Seoul isn’t a cheap place to visit, though there are some cheap attractions that will help keep costs down.

What is a free place to visit in Seoul?

The Seoul Museum of Art is a free place to visit in Seoul and a great place for art lovers to explore.

Seoul is an ultra-modern city where you can experience the latest technology alongside ancient traditions and culture. This capital of South Korea is a powerhouse in the world economy at the moment, which makes it a very attractive location for visitors from all walks of life.

South Korea perhaps gets overlooked sometimes by its other East Asian neighbors, however, it is a rich country with an ancient history and vibrant people. Backpacking in South Korea is a rewarding journey, but more than likely you’ll start in Seoul.

Seoul is a city that never sleeps, with ancient palaces next to skyscrapers and night markets, and it’s the perfect location for anyone looking to experience a different side of Asia. And if you use this easy guide to Seoul’s coolest places to visit and the most sobering historical sights, you’ll walk away with memories that last a lifetime.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Share or save this post

Thanks for the info. Suggestions like “Mapo-Gu” are a bit ridiculous, if you pull it up on google maps that region could take a week or more of 6 hour days walking. I doubt anywhere but a small part of it is of interest, but where? Who knows. Same seems to be the case for Socheon which I don’t know how to pull up. We need like a center point or at least main strip indication please.

Hi Justin. It’s 33 minutes by bus to Mapo-Gu although I suppose you can walk there if you want. We have included this area for it’s general vibe and invite our readers to explore it on their own terms.

Hmm. Sorry what I mean is Mapo-Gu (in English Mapo District) is nearly half the size of Manhattan. Do you get what I mean when I say it wouldn’t make sense to tell someone “you can walk to Manhattan if you want, but once you are there you can experience the vibe and find everything?”

I also explored these fabulous attractions during my last tour and came back with an awesome experience.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

The ultimate Seoul itinerary for 3-7 days (2024 edition)

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: January 23, 2024

Are you looking for the perfect Seoul itinerary but not sure what to do while you’re there? Don’t worry, we have got you covered.

Seoul represents the futuristic race South Korea has run over the past years. 

The city was mostly flattened after the Korean War, and the pace at which this city has been undergoing development since then is just phenomenal. 

The few historical buildings that survived the war are now surrounded by modern skyscrapers.

In this Seoul travel blog post, we share an epic Seoul itinerary for 3 to 7 days.

We completely updated this Seoul itinerary in January 2023.

Table of Contents

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

South Korea Essentials

• We have always found the best flights to Seoul on Momondo . You also have Skyscanner and recently WayAway , a new and promising travel aggregator, has popped up. It may be worthwhile to compare these three sites.
• Looking for more inspiration for your South Korea trip? Here are all our Korean posts.
• Use this step-by-step guide to plan your trip to South Korea.
• Looking for the perfect itinerary? Check out our 1 week Korea itinerary and 2-week Korea itinerary .
• Since foreign credit and debit cards don’t always work, we advise that you bring some spare cash.
• Don’t lose time upon arrival at the airport and order your Korea travel sim or portable WiFi device in advance so that it’s ready and waiting for you at the airport when you arrive.
• Consider getting the  Discover Seoul Pass  which covers 65 of Seoul’s best tourist attractions. It also has a T-money function that will save you ₩2,500 from buying a separate T-Money card. As an extra benefit, you get one free one-way A’rex Express train ride.
• Note that the Discover Seoul Pass is not always available. If it isn’t, you can see if they have the BTS edition. It’s a 24hr edition of the Discover Seoul Pass without the T-money option. Instead, you get a Korea Tour T-money Card as a bonus. The BTS edition covers the same attractions as the regular Discover Seoul Pass. Here is more information about this pass and other Seoul discount passes.
• Visiting the DMZ is on the bucket list of many travelers. Check out the  best DMZ tours  here.
• Looking for accommodation? Look at this list of highly-rated boutique hotels or this list of cool hotels in Seoul . We also have a selection of Airbnb’s in Seoul . Accommodation posts for other places in South Korea are here .
• Here is a post with more travel tips for Korea.
• Last but not least, make sure you have travel insurance .

Seoul E-Guide

For the price of a single cup of coffee, you can get this Seoul itinerary as a nicely formatted PDF document.

It contains all the information in this post.

You can print it or store it on your phone so you can access it anytime during your visit to Seoul.

Have a look here for more information and a preview.  

Seoul Travel Itinerary

Here we share our recommended Seoul travel itinerary for 3-7 days.

The map below shows all the places you visit during these 7 days. Read on to discover which places you absolutely need to visit in Seoul.

Seoul Trip Itinerary 3 Days – What To Do in Seoul For 3 days

Brace yourself, this will be three thrilling days filled with amazing sights and activities.

After these 3 days in Seoul, you will have already seen many of the highlights of this fantastic city.

However, fear not. There is still more than enough to do during the remaining days.

Day 1: Discover The Palaces, Bukchon Hannok village, And Insadong

The palaces in seoul.

The Joseon Dynasty was the last kingdom in Korea.  

Over the reign of this dynasty, Seoul became the capital city and center of state affairs.

Throughout the years, the kings had many grand palaces built here. 

5 of them are currently open to the public.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

If you can only go to one palace during your Seoul trip, I suggest you visit   Gyeongbokgung Palace ,   because it is the main royal palace and also the largest of the 5.

It’s also the most popular and often regarded as the most beautiful as well.

Try to be there during Royal guard Changing Ceremonies.

The Royal Guard ( Sumunjang ) changing ceremony can be seen for free on weekdays, except on Tuesdays, at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM in front of Gwanghwamun.  This is the main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace.

If these time slots don’t work for you, you can also witness a shorter Guard-on-Duty Performance at the Gwanghwamun gate at 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM on weekends.

The Sumungun (Gatekeeper) Military Training at the Hyeopsaengmun Gate at 09:35 AM and 1:35 PM is temporarily canceled.

Here’s the latest schedule with all the details about the above ceremonies.

There is a free guided tour of the Palace building in English at 11.00 AM, 1.30 PM and 3.30 PM.  Check the schedule on the official website to make sure the hours are still correct.

₩3,000 or included in the combined Four Palaces ticket (see below). 

Free entrance if you’re wearing a complete and correct Hanbok .  (see the explanation on the website of what exactly qualifies)  Free entrance with the Discover Seoul Pass .

Here you can rent a hanbok.

Changdeokgung Palace

Changdeokgung was the second royal villa built after the construction of Gyeongbokgung was completed in 1405.

It was the main palace for many kings of the Joseon Dynasty and is the most well-preserved of the five remaining palaces.

It has been recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO in 1997.

The  “Secret Garden” (Huwon)  in Changdeokgung, one of the  most beautiful places in Korea,  remains a little bit mysterious up until today because there are only a limited number of people admitted each day.

The secret garden boasts a gigantic tree that is over 300 years old, a small pond, and a pavilion.

It’s a beautiful place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Be sure to reserve your tour online well in advance  if you want to visit the garden. (click on tour reservation on top of the page)

There is a free guided tour of the Palace building in English at 10.15 AM and 1.15 PM.  Check the schedule on the official website to make sure the hours are still correct.

₩3,000 for the palace building or ₩8,000 for the palace building area including the Secret garden.  Access to both is included in the combined Four Palaces ticket (see below). 

Free entrance to the palace building if you’re wearing a Hanbok.  Free entrance with the Discover Seoul Pass.

Deoksugung Palace

Deoksugung Palace is located at the corner of Seoul’s busiest downtown intersection and is famous for its elegant stone-walled road.

The palace is also worth a visit because it is the only palace that sits alongside a series of western style buildings that contribute to the uniqueness of the surrounding scenery.

Deoksugung Palace has its own Changing of the Royal Guards Ceremony. It is held at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM except on Mondays.  Due to another event, the ceremonies on Saturday afternoon are often canceled.

Once the ongoing construction is completed the ceremony at 3:30 PM will be resumed.

There is a free guided tour in English at 10.45 AM and 1.30 PM.  Check the schedule on the official website to make sure the hours are still correct.

₩1,000 or included in the combined Four Palaces ticket (see below).  Free entrance if you’re wearing a Hanbok. Free entrance with the Discover Seoul Pass.

Changgyeonggung and Changdeokgun Palace

Changgyeonggung Palace is located in the heart of Seoul. It is located next to Changdeokgun. 

Both palaces used to share the rear garden and were commonly known as the East palaces as they are located East of Gyeongbokgung Palace.

The palace was often used as residential quarters for queens and concubines.

During the Japanese colonial rule, it became a park with a zoo and a botanical garden.

In 1983 the government of Korea decided to remove the zoo and began working on the restoration of the palace. 

The botanical garden was preserved and gradually the palace is regaining its old glory.

₩1,000 or included in the combined Four Palaces ticket (see below).  Free entrance if you’re wearing a Hanbok.  Free entrance with the Discover Seoul Pass .

Gyeonghuigung Palace

Gyeonghuigung Palace   is located Southwest of Gyeongbokgung Palace and towards Deoksugung Palace.

Gyeonghuigung Palace served as the secondary palace for the king in the latter half of the Joseon period.

The secondary palace is there where the King would move in case of an emergency.  The palace was also called Seogwol which means ” a palace of the west”, as at that time it was located on the west side of Seoul.

Unhyeongung

You can also choose to visit the 6th palace,  Unhyeongung .

It’s one of Seoul’s smaller and less touristic palaces and is located near Bukchon.  

A visit is therefore easy to combine with a visit to Bukchon Hanok Village.

If you plan on visiting all the palaces you can save by buying the Four Palaces ticket which grants you access to Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Changgyenggung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, and the Jongmyo Royal Ancestral Shrine for ₩10,000.

The ticket can be bought at any of these locations and is valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.

Bukchon Hanok Village

From Unhyeoungung you can make your way to  Bukchon   to stroll between  the traditional Hanok houses. 

This district is composed of many streets and alleys. You’re free to wander around and explore the cozy inner courtyards as long as you respect the privacy of the people who live there.  

Some of the beautiful traditional Korean Houses that you will pass date back to around 600 years ago. All of them have been renovated with great respect for the cultural heritage.

There are many small alleyways and long roads for great pictures.

Bukchon lies on a hill, so there will be some uphill climbing involved.

If you want to spend the night in one of the hanok houses, check out this post in which we share an overview of the best hanoks in Seoul.

  Nearest subway station: Anguk Station, Exit #2

Bukchon it’s not far from  Insadong , one of the most traditional and cultural districts in Seoul.

It is one of those places you absolutely must visit while you are in Seoul. It’s full of coffee shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

A great place for lunch and for souvenir buying.

If you like to spoil yourself with a good brunch, take a look at the best places to brunch in Seoul.

Best Things To Do in Insadong

Make sure to drop by the beautifully decorated Jogyesa temple , one of the most famous temples in Seoul.

Noteworthy museums are  the Kimchi Museum  (Renamed to Museum Kimchikan in 2015) and The Alive Museum.   Museum Kimchikan is situated in the center of the cultural street of Insa-Dong on the 4th, 5th, and 6th floors of the Insa-dong Maru building.

It was named one of the top 11 best food museums by CNN in 2015 .

Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish and often recognized as one of the healthiest foods in the world.  Koreans eat Kimchi with almost every meal but only recently does it start to appear on tables outside the Korean borders.

A little bit further out and technically not in Insadong, but worth the detour is  Gwangjang market.

This is a traditional street market where you can mingle with the Koreans to taste some of the local street-food delicacies.

Have a look at the stalls that sell San-nakji which is a raw octopus that is killed by cutting it in pieces on your plate so that the tentacles are still moving while it is served. 

I can assure you that we did not try this either but there’s a lot more you can enjoy like the Soonday (blood sausage), different kinds of rice rolls, and bindaetteok, a kind of pancake.

Nearest subway station: Anguk Station, Exit #6

If you only have 1 day in Seoul, check out our Seoul 1 day itinerary post.

Day 2: Namsan Park, Seoul tower, Myeongdong, and Hongdae

Visit namsan park and n seoul tower.

Mt. Namsan – Namsan Park is a symbolic place in the center of Seoul.

It is the largest park in Seoul attracting over 20,000 people a day.  

Most visitors come to this park to enjoy nature, see the city skyline, or hike one of the trails.

A number of events take place at the park and one of the biggest is the annual cherry blossom festival in April. The Cherry Blossom Path in Namsan Park is the longest trail of cherry trees anywhere in the city and is spectacular in full bloom.

Discover all the things Seoul is famous for.

To get up the mountain you can ride the Namsan cable car or take the Yellow Bus. 

To get to the base station of the Cable car you take the metro to Myeongdong Station where you take exit 3 and head South. 

The cable car is probably the most convenient option to reach the top. 

The Yellow bus stops at Exit 2 of Chungmuro Station or Exit 6 of Dongguk University Station.

Alternatively, you can also just simply walk to the top of the mountain. 

There is a pedestrian walkway that starts about 50 meters from the parking lot of the Namsan Cable Car.  If you keep a steady pace you only need 30 minutes to reach the foot of the N Seoul Tower.

At the bottom of N Seoul Tower, you have some dramatic views of the Skyline of Seoul and the surrounding area.  Better yet are the vistas from the viewing platform of the N Seoul Tower.

Since 1980, the N Seoul Tower has been a landmark of the skyline of downtown. It’s also the first tower-type tourism spot in South Korea.  Rising at almost 480m above sea level, it is one of the tallest towers in Asia.

The great vistas of Seoul from Mt. Namsan are completely free if you walk to the top, you have to buy a ticket for the cable car or bus.

Check prices and availability: Seoul Tower Tickets

Shop till you drop in the  Myeongdong district which is situated at the foot of Mt. Namsan. 

This is a good place for shopping in Seoul. Here you will find everything you want from skincare to makeup, clothes, and more!

Starting at 4 PM vendors will get their carts in place and it becomes one of the best places to try the delicious Korean street food.

You will be surprised by the huge variety of sweet to spicy snacks that you can buy.

In Myeongdong you can feast on grilled lobster, tteokgalbi meatballs, and other delicacies in addition to the classics like bungeoppang (fish shaped waffle), gyerranppang (waffle with egg on top), and gimbap (Korean version of sushi).

A great place to get a snack after you come down from Mt. Namsan.

Make sure you have some spare cash for the street food as credit cards are usually not accepted.

Nearest subway station: Myeongdong Station

Its location near a few of Seoul’s colleges makes Hongdae  the mecca of nightlife, shopping, cafes, and activities.

It’s also home to one of the funniest museums in Seoul,  the Trick Eye Museum.

The Trick Eye Museum is an interactive museum that gives off impressive optical illusions.

A trip to Hongdae will also be incomplete without taking a look at the colorful collection of street art in the area.

Every Saturday from March to November, there is  the Hongdae Free market where you will find an array of local artists’ work.

Free admission to the Trickeye museum with the Discover Seoul Pass  or you can buy discounted tickets on Klook .

Nearest subway station: Hongik University Station, Exit #9

Day 3 Visit DMZ

Tours to the DMZ have restarted, but the JSA still cannot be visited. The JSA is the actual border post pictured above. The JSA is a highlight of this tour, but even without this stop, the DMZ tour remains an informative and fascinating trip where you will learn a lot about this unique border area.

A visit to the  DMZ  is a must-do when you’re in South Korea.  The DMZ area is located around 60 km up north of Seoul and can only be visited with a guided tour. 

Make sure to book your tour well in advance as they are often sold out. Tours to the DMZ, including the JSA,  run Tuesday to Friday. The regular DMZ tours continue over the weekend.

We recommend booking a full-day tour that includes the  JSA , the Joint Security Area.  This is the official building with the conference room where the leaders of both countries meet. 

The conference room is built on the border and you can step across the room, passing the border, to spend a few minutes in North Korea. Don’t forget your passport on the day of the excursion!

Here is an overview of the tours that can be booked today.

Check prices and availability: Overview DMZ tours

Or you can read our full guide about the best DMZ tours.

Seoul Itinerary 4 days – 4 Days in Seoul

Day 4:  go hiking in bukhansan national park.

If you are like us and you like nature you should definitely spend a day at Bukhansan National Park . Bukhansan National Park borders Seoul in the north.

It’s the perfect place to unwind after some busy days in the city.

Things To Do At Bukhansan National Park

There are several walks of varying lengths. You should be able to find a hike in line with the time you want to spend in the park.

We hiked up Munsubong peak to  the Bogungmun gate. 

The climb is strenuous and demanding but the view from the top is awesome.

I dare to say this might have been the best view on Seoul we had.

At the top can either follow the old city enclosures further to the North or to the South.  We continued our way south and continued to follow the ramparts to get one beautiful vista after another on the skyline of Seoul below us.

Once we got to the Daeseongmun gate we descended back towards the entrance of the park. 

This loop took us approximately 2.5 hours with the occasional stop to take pictures and enjoy the magnificent views.

This is just one of the many hikes that you can do. 

On  the National Park’s website , you will find much more hikes along with their start locations and their difficulty grade. You can get a map that shows all trails at the visitor centers.

How To Get To Bukhansan National Park

The park is quite large and has 10 different entrances. 

We started our hike at the Jeongneung Visitor Center as we came by car and this is one of the few entrances with a parking lot. 

By Public Transportation

It may not be the best entrance if you use public transportation. 

In that case, you might opt for the Weondobong entrance further north at the Bukhansan National Park Dobong office . 

Nearest subway station: The Dobongson metro station (Line 1 or 7, exit 1) is just 10 minutes walking from this entrance. 

You should be able to follow the Koreans in their colorful hiking clothes to the entrance, hiking is very popular in Korea.

Directions to all entrances are very well explained on the National Park’s website .

Check out this alternative 4-day Seoul itinerary to get an even better idea about all the things that you can do in this amazing city.

Seoul Itinerary 5 Days – 5 Days In Seoul

Day 5: gangnam.

If you are 5 days in Seoul, you definitely should visit Gangnam.

Gangnam is very known from  Psy’s song Gangnam style .

Gangnam literally means ‘south of the river,’ the neighborhood borders the southern banks of the Han river.

It’s a district where many wealthy South Koreans live. You should reserve a day to explore this exclusive upscale district.

Fun Things To Do In Gangnam

Shop til you drop.

The Gangnam district is one of the most popular districts to go shopping.  It counts many shopping malls and department stores.  They are spread out across various areas in this district.

The main areas are Apgujeong, Garosugil, COEX , and Gangnam Station.  

At Gangnam station, there is a large underground shopping center with loads of stalls with affordable clothing, fashion items, shoes, etc. 

The mall is mainly aimed at millennials and is a great place to keep up with the so-called “Gangnam Style”.

The underground shopping center below Gangnam station is your best bet to shop if you are looking for bargains in the chic Gangnam District.

Stroll Along The Streets Of Gangnam

As we walked along the wide boulevards that traverse Gangnam we felt like actors playing a role in a futuristic movie.

It seemed like any minute we could expect a flying car to pass buzzing above our heads.

Nothing as futuristic as that happened but those flying cars wouldn’t be out of place in the pictures of this district. 

The huge boulevards are lined with skyscrapers and are best enjoyed after dark when Gangnam comes alive and the huge billboards lighten up the neighborhood.

We enjoyed discovering this neighborhood and admired the classy architecture and the shiny cars that are parked in front of the exclusive bars, restaurants, and nightlife venues.

Visit The Bongeunsa Buddhist Temple

Bongeunsa is a Buddhist Temple in the center of Gangnam.  

The moment you cross the doorstep of the temple you leave the bustle of the city behind and you will find yourself surrounded by the serenity of the Buddhist mantras and the peaceful landscape of the temple’s gardens.

The  Bongeunsa Temple features a more secluded and quieter atmosphere than Jogyesa Temple in Insadong .  The various buildings of the temple complex are spread out on a forested hillside.

Twice a day, at 4:10 PM and 6:40 PM, a percussion ceremony using four instruments is performed by the monks of the temple.

This ceremony is meant to save and awaken beings on the ground using the drum, beings underwater using the wooden fish, beings in the sky using the cloud drum, and beings under the ground using the gong.

Take Subway Line 9 to Bongeunsa Temple Station (Exit 1) 

COEX – Shopping Mall And Aquarium

The COEX shopping mall is located underneath the Korea World Trade Center and is one of the largest underground shopping centers in South Korea. 

It underwent a complete renovation in 2014. 

It is a shopping mecca for international brand name stores but besides stores, it also contains a movie theater, a concert hall, an aquarium, and an extensive food court just as well as several fine dining restaurants.

Note that the Kimchi museum used to be located in the COEX mall but has moved to Insa-Dong in 2015. (see higher)

Take Subway Line 2 to Samseong Station (Exit 6) or Subway Line 7 to Cheongdam Station (Exit 2).

Seoul Olympic Park

Seoul Olympic Park, often referred to as Olpark, is absolutely enormous and a popular date spot for Seoul residents.  

It’s also popular with families with small children, people playing sports, and couples strolling. 

There are bikes, kites, balls, and skates, all of which visitors can rent at a low price. It costs about 15,000 won to rent the bike for an hour.

The park is divided into several zones and houses impressive leisure facilities legacy of the 1988 games. But besides the 6 sports stadiums that are all still in use, you also find a large collection of art and sculptures. 

At the entrance of the park, near the peace square, is the winged world peace gate that symbolizes the ability of the Korean people and peace and harmony.

Recent efforts have also succeeded in re-introducing animals like raccoons, ducks, woodpeckers, pheasants, and many more.

The vast area covers approximately 1.4 million square meters and it takes about 3 hours to explore the park completely.

Jamsil (Green Line 2, Pink Line 8) and Mongchontoseong (Olympic Park) Station (Purple Line 5)

Samsung D’light

Samsung D’light is a global promotional and exhibition center that showcases the latest technology founded by Samsung.

The name is derived from the company’s vision of being a guiding light in the digital world’. 

The center occupies three floors in the Samsung Electronics building.

The first floor is an exhibition space for Samsung’s technology and devices.

The second floor is a showcase of the possibilities of the future with Samsung solutions.

The basement floor houses Samsung’s flagship store.

All Samsung devices are available for purchase but ironically foreigners can often find Samsung devices cheaper in their home countries.

Line 2 Gangnam Station (subway line 2, Shinbundang Line) exit 8

Lotte World Adventure, Magic Island & Aquarium

Lotte World Adventure in Jamsil , just outside Gangnam, is the world’s largest indoor amusement park. 

It’s a Korean version of Disneyland and a great place to go if you’re traveling with kids. 

The park can get crowded, certainly during holidays and on weekends when you may have to queue for 90 to 120 minutes for some of the popular attractions.

Next door is Lotte World Magic Island (entrance is included with your ticket for Lotte World Adventure) with many outside attractions.  The magic castle on the magic island looks like an exact copy of Disney’s castle. 

On the opposite side of the road is the Lotte World Mall which houses the Lotte World Aquarium.

You can buy a combi-ticket to visit all three parks on the same day but in Lotte World Adventure and Magic Island you can easily spend a day.

Check prices and availability: Dicount and combi tickets for Lotte World

Nearest subway station: Jamsil (Green Line 2, Pink Line 8) Exit 4

Here is a list of more fun theme parks in and around Seoul.

Seoul Sky @ Lotte World Tower

The Lotte World Tower completed in 2017 is Seoul’s tallest tower and is ranked as the 5th tallest building in the world.

The top floors of this 123-floor skyscraper house Seoul Sky, the highest observation platform in Seoul which is also the world’s highest glass-floored observation deck.

Tickets are not cheap but worth every cent as Seoul Sky offers a great experience and a fantastic view over Seoul.

Check prices and availability: Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky admission

Nearest subway station: Jamsil (Green Line 2, Pink Line 8) Exit 1,2,10 or 11

Seoul Itinerary 7 Days

If you have 7 days in Seoul we recommend taking some day trips from Seoul.

One of the highlights of our Seoul trip was a day trip to Seoraksan National Park .

Day 6- 7: Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan National Park lies in the Northeast of Korea.

It offers some of the most beautiful sceneries of Korea and is a must-visit if you are 7 days in Seoul.

What To Do In Seoraksan National Park

You can choose from a whole selection of hikes, the shortest hikes take just a few hours the longest treks take 3 days. 

We hiked to the top of  the Ulsanbawi Rock , it took us somewhere between 3 to 4 hours. 

This is seen as the best hike if you don’t want to camp overnight in the park.

The description on the national park’s website lists 2 hours and 20 minutes but that’s quite a challenge knowing that the last kilometer of the hike is one giant flight of stairs that takes you steeply uphill along the mountainside.

Although it’s possible to get an impression of the park in one (long) day.

The interesting and impressive hikes will probably all take you up rocks or mountains and will require at least 4 hours. 

That’s why we recommend spending the night in Sokcho so that you don’t need to rush and instead enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the park.

How To Get To Seoraksan National Park

The easiest way to reach Seoraksan National Park is by car or with an organized day trip from Seoul .

If you have a car, it’s a 3h easy drive to the Park along the Yeongdong Highway ( road 50). 

It’s very easy to do a road trip in South Korea, we wrote an article about hiring a car and driving in South Korea in which we share some useful tips.

By Public Transport

It’s quite a hassle to reach the park from Seoul by public transport.

You would first need to take a bus from the Seoul Express Bus Terminal to Sokcho from where you continue your trip to the park with bus number 7 or 7-1. 

The first part from Seoul to Sokcho takes 2 hours and a half and it takes an additional 45 minutes to get from Sokcho to the park.

Where To Stay in Seoraksan

Ramada gangwon sokcho hotel.

We stayed in  the Ramada Sokcho hotel.  From here it was a 30-minute drive to the park. 

We had a big comfortable room with a balcony where we could see how the boats sailed in and out of the harbor.

We liked the extensive breakfast buffet although the restaurant isn’t really cozy.

A great place to stay if you like seafood.  It’s right next to the harbor. Boats arriving at the port drop their catch at one of the many seafood restaurants along the pier.

Check prices and availability:

Booking.com

General Information About Seoul

Here we answer some general questions you may have about your trip to Seoul.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Seoul In South Korea? 

Seoul can be visited all year round. But some seasons are better than others especially if you don’t like hot and humid summers or cold winters. 

Spring 

Mid-March to May is a great period to visit South Korea’s capital. After a cold winter, the weather starts to warm up.

This is one of the most beautiful seasons to visit Seoul.

Around the beginning of April, the cherry blossoms start to bloom making this a great time to visit Seoul. May until the beginning of June brings warmer weather.  These months are some of the most popular as well as the busiest months to visit Seoul.

Summer 

July to August brings rainy and humid summers. There is also a risk of typhoons. 

The typhoon season starts around the end of June and lasts until the end of September. 

Although this is not our favorite season to travel to Seoul due to the weather, the many festivals that are organized at this time of year can partly make up for it.

Late September until November is one of the best times to visit Seoul.

This time of the year brings mild temperatures and low rainfall. Fall is also a great time to admire the beautiful colorful foliage in Bukhansan and other parks.

Winter is also the low season in Seoul, which means fewer crowds and lower accommodation costs.

It’s a great time to visit Seoul if you don’t mind the cold or if you like to do some winter sports such as skiing.

How Many Days in Seoul?

How many days do you need to visit Seoul?

The highlights of Seoul can be visited in a few days but you will need weeks to discover all areas of this stretched-out megapolis.

3 days ( 72 hours in Seoul) is a good amount of time to visit the highlights of the city.

4 to 7 days will give you the time to go hiking, visit more of-the-beaten-path attractions, or take a few day trips from Seoul. 

South Korea Visa Requirements

We didn’t need a visa and you probably won’t either except if you’re living in Africa or Asia.

Here you can check if you need a visa. 

K-ETA South Korea

If your country is part of Korea’s Visa Waiver program you won’t need a visa but you will need to apply for a K-ETA, a Korea Electron ic Travel Authorization . Do this at least 72 hours before your flight, the approval process can take this long and you will need to show the approved K-ETA to board your flight.

Make sure to enter all information exactly as it appears in your passport. The travel authorization will usually be valid for 2 years or until the expiry date of your passport if that expires earlier.

The K-ETA costs 10,000KRW (approx. $10 USD) at the time of writing.

The application can be done on the official site , if you feel uncertain about the process or want help with the paperwork you can use a visa agency like  iVisa  which will take care of everything for you.

Cheap Flights To Seoul

  Skyscanner and Momondo are both good sites to check for cheap flights. 

Read our full review of 10 booking sites here or check out this  post where we review 10 booking sites. 

How to Get From Incheon Airport to Seoul

Most international passengers will arrive at Incheon International Airport.

South Korea’s largest airport is 47km from Seoul Station , which is considered to be the center of Seoul.  The airport is well-connected to this station.

Some hotels have courtesy shuttles to Seoul station but if they don’t you could continue your journey with the subway, the train, the limousine bus, or organize a private transfer.

The A’REX Airport Express

The fastest and cheapest way to get from Incheon International Airport to Seoul Station is using the A’REX Airport Express.

If you don’t have the Discover Seoul Pass, you can purchase your A’rex Airport Express tickets in advance here: A’rex Incheon Airport Express train tickets

Take The Limousine Bus

Another option is taking the limousine bus. There are 4 lines that stop at various places in Seoul.

• 6701 Airport: Seoul City Hall
• 6702 Airport: Dongdaemun/Namsan
• 6703 Airport: Gangnam/COEX
• 6705 Airport: Jamsil/East Seoul Bus Terminal

The buses run from early in the morning until 9 or 10 PM. Each bus has a slightly different schedule so definitely check the bus hours before booking a ticket.

Please refer to the Klook page to see which hotels are served by which bus.

How To Get Around Seoul? 

The easiest way to travel around Seoul is to use   the subway. 

Seoul’s subway is well-connected and quite cheap.

Single ride cards can be purchased on vending machines with coins and bills, credit cards are not accepted.

To avoid the hassle of buying tickets for each and every ride you can opt for the T-money recharge card .

T-Money Recharge Card

The card can be used on subways, buses, and taxis and you will save ₩100 on each subway and bus ride if you pay with this card. (not all taxis accept T-money, look for the T-money or Cashbee symbol or check with the driver before you get in)

The card can be recharged at the vending machines with coins and bills, credit cards are not accepted.

The card costs ₩2500 and this fee is not refundable. Cards can be bought in convenience stores a

At the end of your trip, you can get a refund of the funds that are still on the card minus a transaction fee of ₩500.

In addition to the regular T-money cards, there’re also some special editions that are exclusively available to tourists. We mention the most popular ones below.

Korea Tour Card

The Korea Tour card is a T-money card that can be used in the whole of Korea.

In addition to the comfort of just having to tap the card whenever you use public transportation, you also get discounts at a number of popular attractions, including Lotte World, Everland, and several more.

The Korea Tour card can also be bought in convenience stores and in a limited number of subway stations (at the airports and at Seoul Station).

The card costs ₩4000.

Users of Android phones can also use a digital version of the T-money card. It offers the same benefits. To pay for transportation you just tap your phone. NFC needs to be enabled and you need to have a data connection.

To top up the card you use the app on your phone. All major credit cards are accepted. Refunds can also be arranged in the app.

This card is a great deal as it is even cheaper than a regular T-money card. It costs ₩6000 and has a ₩5000 value that can be used towards rides.

Check prices and availability: Digital T-Money Tour Card ( Android Only)

Korail RailPlus Transport Card

In addition to the subway and busses, this card can also be used on Korail’s intercity trains, including the fast KTX trains. Some taxis also accept the Rail+ card and you can also pay your highway toll fees with this card.

You need to top up the card before you can use it. This can be done at the train and subway stations or in convenience stores. If you don’t want to use cash to add money to your card you can use the Rail Money App.

The card costs ₩2500.

Know that this card is not a T-money card. We’ve included it in our overview because it serves the same purpose and we particularly like it because you can use it to pay your highway tolls. It also offers a ₩100 discount on subways and busses (similar to T-money). You may never notice the difference with an actual T-money card but there can be instances where T-money cards are accepted but the Rail+ card isn’t.

At the end of your trip, you can go to a Korail station or eMart24 convenience store to have your remaining balance refunded.

Check prices and availability: RailPlus Card

M-pass card

During our first trip to Seoul, we used an M-pass card.

This is a transportation card exclusively for international tourists traveling in the Seoul metropolitan area.

M-PASS comes in five different durations: 1-day, 2-day, 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day passes. 

For the duration of the pass, you can do 20 free rides a day on the subway, and on the bus, and also the all-stop A’rex airport express is covered. 

You will only benefit from this card if you will be using public transport a lot, that’s also the reason we only got it once.

20 rides a day is normally more than enough but you can load extra funds on the card if needed as it basically is just another T-money card.  It cannot be used to pay for taxis though.

Discover Seoul Pass

If you plan to visit a lot of Seoul’s tourist attractions then the  Discover Seoul Pass is your ideal travel companion. 

The pass has a 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day variant and gives you discounted or free access to many top tourist destinations.

It also has a T-money function that will save you ₩2,500 of buying a separate T-Money card. As an extra benefit, you get one free one-way A’rex Express train ride.

Check prices and availability: Discover Seoul Pass

Discover Seoul Pass BTS

The Discover Seoul Pass is not always available. If it isn’t, you can see if they have the BTS edition.

It’s a 24hr edition of the Discover Seoul Pass without the T-money option. Instead, you get a Korea Tour T-money Card as a bonus.

The BTS edition covers the same attractions as the regular Discover Seoul Pass.

Check prices and availability: Discover Seoul Pass (24h+Korea Tour Card)

Hop-On-Hop-off Bus

If you don’t feel at ease using the subway, you can always jump on one of the hop-on-hop-off buses to see the highlights of Seoul.

They also have a special night tour where you drive along the river with the illuminated bridges and have beautiful views of the illuminated skyline of the city. Discover Seoul by night on a bus.

Where To Stay In Seoul

Seoul is a large city with lots of districts each with its own atmosphere and attractions.

Here we share the best places to stay for tourists and first-timers based on our own experience.

Myeongdong – City Center

Myeongdong  is right in the heart of Seoul’s city center.  This is one of the most popular places to stay. 

The Metro hotel is a good choice in Myeongdong. It is within walking distance of shopping areas, street food, and public transportation.

Insa-Dong – Palace Quarter

Insa-dong  is one of the most traditional and cultural districts in Seoul and a very touristy district.  The streets are lined with souvenir shops, restaurants, and tea houses.  You are within walking distance of most palaces, the Jogyesa Buddhist Temple, Bukchon Hanok village, and Gwanghwamum square

The Sunbee hotel lies in an excellent location for sightseeing. It is close to 2 subway stations, the Bukchon Hanok village, and the Seoul city center. You will also find many nice restaurants, tea houses, and cafes in the area.

For an overview of more amazing hotels in Seoul, check out the following posts:

• Where to stay in Seoul: Our ultimate guide that explains all areas in detail.
• 16 best hanok stays in Seoul: For those that one to experience a traditional stay.
• Cool hotels in Seoul: For those that are looking for a cool and comfortable hotel
• Best boutique hotels in Seoul : For those that are looking for a quintessential holiday experience in Seoul.
• Best Airbnbs in Seoul: For those that are looking for a list of vacation homes.

Organized Seoul tours

Here is an overview of the best-organized tours in Seoul. 

An organized tour saves you time and, moreover, the tour guide will enlighten you about the different sights you visit.

We selected 3 great tours in Seoul just for you.

• The DMZ: A visit to the Demilitarized zone is a must-do when visiting Seoul. Read more here.
• Seoul City Bus Tour : For those that want to comfortably discover the highlights of Seoul in a short amount of time.
• Nanta Show: For those that are looking for a fun night out in Seoul this nonverbal Nanta show is perfect for you. 

Internet in Seoul

The internet in Seoul is super-fast and many places offer free WiFi.

We don’t know why, but often our phones wouldn’t connect to these WiFi hotspots.

We, therefore, advise you to buy a local SIM card.

Another option is bringing or renting a Pocket Wifi Device.

Cash Is King for Visitors

Bring some cash money.

Koreans can swipe their cards everywhere but foreign cards are not always accepted.

We were surprised by the number of ATMs at Incheon airport, and even more surprised by the number of ATMs that didn’t accept our cards. 

We have been trying different machines for at least an hour before we found one that worked for us. 

Once we had left the airport things didn’t get better. 

It was always a hit or miss with the ATMs we tried.  There was no particular bank where we could say with certainty that our card would work.

The majority of times it wouldn’t work but luckily every once in a while the machine would start counting bills, a noise that made us very happy at that time. 🙂

We, therefore, advise strongly you to bring some cash money.

On the other hand, we had no problem at all using our cards for payments. Restaurants and shops would all accept our cards. We could also use it in hotels and for the deposit of our rental cars. The only place it wasn’t accepted was the highway toll booths, be sure to have some spare cash for those.

Handy Seoul Apps

• Korea Seoul Metro Navi will guide you quickly and efficiently through Seoul’s extended subway network.  The app calculates the fastest route to your destination.

Available on: Google Play – Apple

• Mangoplate is a good app to check for restaurant reviews and the best places to eat.

Do I Need Travel Insurance For Seoul

Flights are usually one of the most expensive and least flexible items in your travel expenses. 

To find a good deal on airfares you usually need to book a few months in advance and when you want a flexible rate you need to pay two- or threefold of the normal fares. 

Compare that with hotel bookings which you can book a few weeks in advance and where you only need to add a few euros to get the flexibility to cancel for free on the same day or one or two days in advance.

It would be a shame to lose this investment in a beautiful holiday through a stupid accident. 

Believe me, many things can happen in the run-up to your vacation. 

We once broke our leg in the last weeks before our vacation and had to cancel our travel plans.  

That’s why we always get travel insurance .

Travel insurance is much cheaper than paying for flexible airline tickets and protects you from any losses in case you need to cancel or change your plans. 

In addition, it covers a whole range of other things. 

Seoul is an amazing city where modern life and traditions go hand in hand.

We hope this itinerary for Seoul will help you plan an unforgettable trip.

Enjoy your trip!

Monday 3rd of June 2019

Help! We are going to Seoul in a week and im still not quite organized with our itinerary. We are planning to visit the Gyeongbokgung , Changdeokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village , Namsan Tower , MBC World, SM Town Theater, Trickeye Museum , Figure Museum , Grevin Living Museum and we only have a full 2 days to do this. Pls help me maximize our time, i tried to google which one is closest to one tourist destination but getting confused. We are planning to take train and will be staying in Myeongdong. Thanks

Tuesday 18th of June 2019

I'm sorry, we were traveling ourselves so we just saw your message now. Hopefully, it turned out fine and you had a wonderful time in Seoul.

Best regards,

Thursday 28th of March 2019

This is the best- by far- guide I've seen online. I am planning to visit South Korea in December (by myself). So, for a first timer like me, this is very helpful! :) Thank you!

Thanks a lot for your kind words. We do our best to provide in-depth information. We are happy you appreciate it.

Wednesday 20th of February 2019

Great post! It is so in-depth, and I really appreciate that. I completely agree with you that having 5-7 (or more) days in Seoul is best for exploring the city. There is so much to see and so many different neighbourhoods that having only 3 days would be so hectic. I was there for a week my first visit and 5 days my second visit and still feel like there is so much more to see. Yes to your suggestion to bring cash. I thought I could take cash out of an ATM on my first trip and was horribly wrong. It was incredibly stressful, and I ended up paying a large fee to take cash from my credit card because it was the only thing that worked. Cash really is king!

Thursday 21st of February 2019

Thanks for your nice comment.

Living and traveling in Korea

How To Visit The Blue House In Seoul: A Guide To Cheongwadae

Did you know you can visit the Blue House in Seoul now? Actually, there were tours before, but now you can see more. Formerly the president’s home, the newly elected Korean president no longer lives there, so they’ve opened it for people to see for the first time in 74 years. If you’re interested in seeing Korea’s government buildings, you should go take a tour of The Blue House, or Cheongwadae (청와대) as it’s called in Korean.

Citizens and tourists can see the Blue House but the process to see it is a bit different, so make sure you read carefully. If you’ll be visiting downtown Seoul soon, this is definitely something you should see. Who knows? Maybe the next president will move back in and it won’t be public anymore. It might be your only chance!

How To Get There

The importance of cheongwadae opening, notable south korean presidents, what to see, what to do nearby.

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.)

Situated snuggly behind Gyeongbokgung Palace with Bugaksan behind it, you can easily add this to a day in downtown Seoul.

Address: 1 Cheongwa-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 청와대로 1) By Public Transportation: Take Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung station, exit 4. Then, take bus 1711, 1020, 7018, 7016, 7022, or 7212 to Hyoja-dong, and it’s a short walk from there.

Alternatively, you could walk through Gyeongbokgung Palace and exit out the back gate to find the Blue House as well. Make sure to check when you buy tickets that the back gate will be open by the time you get there though.

Days: Wednesday – Monday

Hours: 9:00am ~ 6:00pm

Admission: Free

How to visit: Currently, reservations are required to visit the Blue House. However, if you’re a tourist you cannot make a reservation on the website. Keep reading though because you CAN still visit.

If you’re a citizen of South Korea or a resident of South Korea:

• You can register on the Cheongwadae website in order to visit.
• Registration can be made up to four weeks in advance.
• Up to 6 people can be registered per reservation.
• A local mobile number is required to verify your identity.
• Website: https://reserve1.opencheongwadae.kr/

If you are a tourist visiting South Korea:

• There are two times a day when 500 walk-ins are allowed to enter and this is when you can get in.
• Walk-in times: 9:00am & 1:30pm
• Note that you should arrive at least a half hour in advance. On popular days, the line can get long fast.
• You must bring your passport to show at the ticket booth to enter.

Because every South Korean president lived here, The Blue House was always pretty closed off to the public. There were special events held sometimes, but it was much like the American White House where few people have seen the interior. The new President Yoon Suk-Yeol, who was elected in 2022, decided not to live there and opened the residence up to the public.

Opening up Cheongwadae was a controversial decision but President Yoon strongly voiced his opinions that the Blue House was a symbol of Korea’s legacy of imperial presidencies. He vowed to return the compound to the public and move his office to the defense ministry building in Yongsan. It could be that this tourist attraction is limited to this president’s 5-year term though, so you should go see it while you can!

History of the Blue House

The land that the Blue House is on was originally a royal villa in Hanyang, the capital of the Goryeo Dynasty. Once Joseon took over and Gyeongbokgung Palace was built, it became the back garden of the palace. During the Japanese occupation, they built a government administrative building there.

When the Republic of Korea was established in 1948, the first president Syngman Rhee renamed the building to “Gyeong Mu Dae” and he used it as an office as well as a place of residence. The fourth president of South Korea, Yun Bo-seon, changed the name to Cheongwadae, which literally means “The Blue House” after the signature blue tiling on the roof.

All of the Korean presidents have used this for both their residence and official offices until the latest one, President Yoon Suk-Yeol. After a Presidential decree, The Blue House was declared a public park this year, 2022, and opened to the people for the first time since it was built. You can imagine how excited citizens and tourists have been to visit. There is a limit of 6,500 people that can enter every two hours by reservation for this reason.

• Rhee Syngman (이승만) – The first president of South Korea
• Yun Bo-Seon (윤보선) – President with the shortest term at 1 year and 224 days.
• Park Chung-Hee (박정희) – The longest-serving president at 15 years, 10 months, and 10 days. This is about 3 times the length of a current presidential term in Korea.
• Roh Tae-Woo (노태우) – The first president of the sixth and current Republic of Korea.
• Park Geun-Hye (박근혜) – The first female president of South Korea, also inspired the largest weekly protest in South Korean history with 10 million people joining.
• Moon Jae-In (문재인) – Stepped over the demarcation line at JSA and similarly welcomed Kim Jong Un to step into the south marking the first time since the Korean War a North Korean leader had entered South Korea.

Walking into Cheongwadae, you can feel the excitement of everyone there to see a building that’s been closed for so long. It feels like an incredibly fancy building, and it’s always cool to see cultural sites because you can feel all of the history in a place when you walk around.

Main Office Building (청와대 본관)

This is probably the most recognizable place in all of Cheongwadae. It’s the building that has the blue tiles on the roof that gave the property its name. It has been used as the official presidential office since it was built in 1911 to 2022. Since it’s been opened to the public, it’s been made into a museum of the lives of presidents while they used this space.

Each room in the building shows a different purpose for it, while at the end there’s a display of all of the First Ladies of South Korea. This is also the most popular building, and the line tends to be long. If you want to see it, it should be either the first or last thing you visit while at Cheongwadae.

Yeongbingwan (영빈관)

Yeongbingwan is the state reception hall. This was the place where the president would host guests from other countries. There would be traditional dance performances and banquets here to welcome other heads of state.

Presidential Residence (대통령관저)

This was the home of presidents and their families while they were in office, kept separately from the main building. It includes three sections: Bonchae, which is the actual living space; Byeolchae, which is the reception space, and Sarangchae. This last room is traditionally used as a study by the men of the house.

Sangchunjae (상춘재)

Designed similar to the Presidential Residence, Sangchunjae is a place where traditional Korean artwork is displayed to guests. It’s also a place where receptions and unofficial meetings are held.

Nokjiwon (녹지원)

This is a massive outdoor space that’s perfect for sitting with a picnic blanket and relaxing on a nice day which they might start allowing any day. There are a lot of different trees here, including commemorative trees planted by each president.

Chunchugwan (춘추관)

Built in 1990, this building is the newest addition to Cheongwadae. It’s used for official presidential announcements and for the Press Secretary to give news briefings. The name comes from the record-keeping office of the Goryeo Dynasty.

Chilgung Palace (칠궁)

The name of this building literally means “Seven Palaces”. It’s the place where the spirit tablets of the seven concubines who birthed kings of the Joseon Dynasty are enshrined. According to Confucian beliefs, it’s incredibly important to respect your elders in life and honor them in death, so it’s a necessity for their spirits to be preserved in tablets like this. If you’re wondering where everyone else’s spirit tablets are, you can visit Jongmyo Shrine , which is nearby. That is where all of the kings and queens of the Joseon dynasty’s spirits are preserved.

So you made it out to the Blue House and you want to spend the day in the area. Well there’s plenty to do!

Tongin Market

This is a really fun traditional market with a bit of a twist. You can buy traditional style coins and then shop around from vendor to vendor getting food but instead of getting big bowls of soup and platefuls of chicken, you get mini-versions of everything which is ideal if you want to sort of taste test the goods and just see what you like. Most markets serve up great food but it’s big serving sizes and if you don’t know what you’re getting, you might be afraid to try new things. This is a great way to try a lot of tiny dishes of Korean market food. See what you like!

Find out more about Tongin Market

Gyeongbokgung Palace

The largest of the Korean palaces sitting right in front of the Blue House can’t be overlooked of course. Where the Joseon Kings sat and where the presidents of Korean history sat? See them both in the same day if you can. Or the same night. Throughout the year, there are special night viewings of the palaces downtown which can’t be beat. If you’ve seen Gyeongbokgung by day, try to see it by night this time.

Find out more about Gyeongbokgung Palace

Seoul Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

The Seoul MMCA is a fabulous art museum just east of Gyeongbokgung Palace. There are always amazing exhibitions there and the layout itself and buildings that make up the museum are also really interesting too. Stop in and see what’s going on when you’re in the area.

Find out more about the Seoul Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

Did you like this post? Pin IT!

You May Also Like

Teamlab Is Finally Back In Seoul With teamlab:LIFE!

Vineworks: Interactive Wine Tasting in Seoul

Solgaheon: A Foot Bath & Tea in Bukchon

Thanks for providing the online reservation link for residents. Very helpful!

Stephanie von Wellinghoff

Many thanks Alexis, I am so grateful for this very insightful story which helped me a lot. I was lucky to get in, and can only warmly recommend visiting the Blue House. What a wonderful house, and what a proud and culturally rich nation!

Thank you for the info inside your article. Do vistors still need to make online reservations for visiting Blue House now? Where is the gathering place, at the Cheongwadae gate or at the east parking lot besides Gyeongbokgung ? Thank you. Vera

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Sign me up for the weekly updates newsletter!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Runner aims to take on Busan-to-Seoul trail in just 5 days

How many days would it take you to run from Busan to Seoul?

Chris Rae, a British national standing 197 centimeters tall, aims to do it in five days, or six at most.

"I'm gonna try to do it in five to six days," he told The Korea Times, Sunday, a day after arriving in Seoul, a few days before taking the train down to Busan on Wednesday. "The original idea was to do it over more days, but now I want to do it faster. If I do it in five, it'll bring more attention to it than some random dude running up the country."

He's started a crowdfunding campaign on justgiving.com to raise funds through the run. The recipient charity hasn't been decided yet, but he has his heart set on finding the right cause related to helping kids living in rural areas who lack direct access to education and medical services. The rules of the website mean he has 120 days after the run to find an appropriate charity.

"Will be totally honest, at the beginning of planning it all, I was very in the mindset of 'This could be a great way to get a foot in the door for getting to South Korea or finding other ways I could benefit from it,' but after visiting twice already and after everybody doing so much for us while here, I just ultimately want to give back and show how much this place actually means to me. Hopefully, the run and fundraiser can do that."

This will be his third visit, and the first time not simply, for tourism. For his first visit in September 2022, he stayed in Seoul, and the two most memorable things about that visit were the heavy rain that flooded Gangnam and going to as many LG Twins baseball games as he could.

"We fell in love with the country," he said. "I don't quite know how to explain it. It's just a feeling ... like when you listened to Have Heart for the first time, and you could hear the passion and feeling in the music, haha, I dunno. Everything and everyone was just so good."

On the second trip in April 2023, he spent 16 days traveling the country, seeing cities like Busan, Daegu, Cheongju and Gwangju. It was on that visit that he found out about the Four Rivers path and first thought about running its entire course.

"Everyone is so fascinated by Seoul but ... there is way more beauty and culture to see only hours outside," he said, "and nobody seems to care."

Rae, 35, is heavily into running and skateboarding. He's straight-edge, meaning he doesn't drink alcohol, and he used to be the lead singer of Spanish hardcore punk band The Marriage. Although he holds a British passport, he's grown up around the world, including the United States and across Asia and Africa, but most of his life has been spent in Spain.

"My upbringing is a bit crazy. I have lived around the world almost my whole life," he said. "When my parents divorced, I found hardcore and skateboarding. That was my focus in life ... the straight edge came after when I started to figure life out for myself and be on my own. It was a good path that kept me disciplined and focused."

He's done runs of comparable distances before in Spain, where he's spent the bulk of his life. He's used to rugged terrain, unpaved paths and high elevations.

For this run, he will be following the Four Rivers bike path, which he anticipates to be comparatively flat and well-paved compared to what he's used to. "Having trained in those conditions doesn't necessarily mean better, but I will find it somewhat easier to run a long flat path," he said.

His original plan was to take 10 days and make bigger stops along the way in regional cities like Daegu and Chungju, North Chungcheong Province, but in the end, he decided to focus on the run.

"I want the run to be about what it's going to be about," he said.

He has run marathon distances and ultra distances in the last five years, but nothing like this, and never for a charitable cause. But he said with confidence "[I am] 100 percent sure that I can do such a challenge."

He aims to spend six to eight hours running each day, traveling at least 65 kilometers per day to complete the winding 657km course from Busan to Seoul. The run will start at Busan River Culture Center, and he will reach Seoul Olympic Park. The next day, he plans to continue running the final leg from Seoul to Incheon, about 21 extra kilometers.

"We're a weird bunch. Runners are weird," he said. "It's a very lonely and solitary aspect of life. It's about being in my own head for a while. When you're on your own, your mind goes places you don't expect to go on a normal day. It's about going on your own and figuring your shit out on your own, and you don't come home until you figure your shit out. It's suffering, but it's enjoyable."

Visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/chrisxrunsxkorea for more information and to support Rae's run.

• Address book
• Nintendo Account details

{{pageTitle}}

, {{gameSystem}}

Starting from: {{regularPrice}} {{lowestPrice}}

How about...

• All Nintendo Switch games
• All Nintendo Switch games on sale
• All Nintendo 3DS games
• All Super Mario games
• All The Legend of Zelda games
• All Pokémon games

Visit us on

Nintendo Switch

Nintendo 3DS

My Nintendo Store

Super Mario

The Legend of Zelda

Super Smash Bros.

Animal Crossing

Fire Emblem

@NintendoUK

@NintendoUKVS

@SuperMario_UK

@AC_Isabelle from Animal Crossing: New Horizons

NintendoLaboUK

NintendoSwitchEurope

RingFitAdventureUK

Visit us on LinkedIn

• Nintendo Switch games
• Recent releases
• Upcoming games
• Free-to-start games
• Smart device games
• Nintendo 3DS games
• Wii U games
• Characters hub
• Nintendo Switch Family
• Nintendo Switch – OLED Model
• Nintendo Switch Lite
• Which Nintendo Switch is right for you?
• Accessories
• Game & Watch: The Legend of Zelda
• Nintendo 3DS Family
• Nintendo History
• Nintendo Switch Online
• Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
• Membership options
• Nintendo eShop
• Nintendo Direct
• Indie World
• Ask the Developer
• Tips and tricks
• Stay in touch
• My Nintendo

Travel Mosaics 8: Breathtaking Seoul

Video: travel mosaics 8: breathtaking seoul.

Travel Mosaics is back with a new family adventure in beautiful Seoul! Join the Walkers - a curious family of travellers who love exploring new destinations.

Solve colorful mosaic puzzles and learn curious facts while answering tricky quiz questions. On your journey, collect gold coins and souvenirs to commemorate the trip. The stunning capital of South Korea has tons of fun to offer - hop along!

Each level contains a hidden picture that you can reveal by solving it! Travel Mosaics is edutainment for all ages: pick the difficulty level corresponding to your skill and enjoy beautiful hand-crafted puzzles.

Game Features:

•Enjoy STUNNING views of Seoul

•Expand your knowledge and try your skills in trivia

•140 colorful puzzles + 20 new nonograms + 20 BONUS levels

•3 difficulty settings to choose from

All puzzles can be solved just by logic - no guessing involved! But don’t worry - the Walkers have prepared 4 types of hints to help you out if you ever get stuck.

The game utilizes Nintendo Switch™ console’s features to their full potential. Play using your Joy-Con™ controllers or use the touch screen.

This description was provided by the publisher.

What you need to know

This content is sold by Nintendo of Europe AG. The payment will be made with Nintendo eShop funds usable through the Nintendo Account used to complete the purchase.

This content is sold by Nintendo of Europe AG, payable with Nintendo eShop funds usable through your Nintendo Account. The Nintendo Account Agreement applies to the purchase of this content.

This content may be purchased by users who have registered a Nintendo Account and accepted the respective legal terms. To be able to purchase content for Wii U or Nintendo 3DS family systems, a Nintendo Network ID is also required and your funds usable through the Nintendo Account must be merged with the funds tied to your Nintendo Network ID. If the funds have not yet been merged, you will have the option to do so during the purchase process. To start the purchasing process, it is necessary to sign in with the Nintendo Account and the Nintendo Network ID. After signing in it will be possible to review the details and complete the purchase.

To be able to purchase content for Wii U or Nintendo 3DS family systems, your funds usable through the Nintendo Account must be merged with the funds tied to your Nintendo Network ID. If the funds have not yet been merged, you will have the option to do so during the purchase process. You will be able to review the details and complete the purchase on the next screen.

The details of this offer apply to users who sign in using a Nintendo Account with the country setting corresponding to the country setting of this website. If the country setting of a Nintendo Account is different, the details of this offer may be adjusted (for example, the price will be displayed in the respective local currency).

After your payment has been processed, the content will be downloaded to the applicable system linked to the respective Nintendo Account, or respective Nintendo Network ID in the case of Wii U and Nintendo 3DS family systems. This system must be updated to the latest system software and connected to the internet with automatic downloads enabled, and it must have enough storage to complete the download. Depending on the system/console/hardware model you own and your use of it, an additional storage device may be required to download software from Nintendo eShop. Please visit our Support section for more information.

In the case of games that use cloud streaming technology, only the free launcher application can be downloaded.

Please make sure you have enough storage to complete the download.

After your payment has been processed, the content will be downloaded to the applicable system linked to your Nintendo Account, or your Nintendo Network ID in the case of Wii U or Nintendo 3DS family systems. This system must be updated to the latest system software and connected to the internet with automatic downloads enabled, and it must have enough storage to complete the download. Depending on the system/console/hardware model you own and your use of it, an additional storage device may be required to download software from Nintendo eShop. Please visit our Support section for more information.

The details of the offer are displayed based on the country settings of your Nintendo Account.

The Nintendo Account Agreement applies to the purchase of this content.

About pre-ordering

The use of an unauthorised device or software that enables technical modification of the Nintendo console or software may render this game unplayable.

This product contains technological protection measures.

Content not playable before the release date: {{releaseDate}} . For pre-orders, payments will be taken automatically starting from 7 days before the release date. If you pre-order less than 7 days before the release date, payment will be taken immediately upon purchase.

© JetDogs Ltd.

Puzzle, Adventure

Single System (1)

Handheld mode , Tabletop mode , TV mode

Nintendo Switch Online features

Play online, enjoy a growing library of classic NES & Super NES games, and more with a Nintendo Switch Online membership. Find out more .

Save Data Cloud

Nintendo Switch download software

Release date

Compatible controllers

• Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

English, French, German, Dutch, Russian

Download size

Change country

• Deutschland
• UK & Ireland
• South Africa

You are about to leave the Nintendo of Europe site. Nintendo of Europe is not responsible for the content or security of the site you are about to visit.

Dear visitor,

Thank you for visiting the Nintendo website! You have been randomly chosen to take part in a brief survey. By taking a few minutes to share your thoughts and opinions, you will be helping us to improve our website.

Naturally, any information provided by you in this survey will be treated in confidence.

Your Nintendo of Europe Team

Visit us on Facebook:

Join us on Instagram:

Visit us on Twitch:

For more information about this product, please use the button below.

• Foreign Affairs
• Multicultural Community
• Environment & Animals
• Law & Crime
• Health & Science
• Cryptocurrency
• Thoughts of the Times
• Today in History
• Tribune Service
• Blondie & Garfield
• Letter to the Editor
• Travel & Food
• People & Events
• Around Town
• Fortune Telling
• Shows & Dramas
• Theater & Others
• Korean Storytellers

North Korea fires suspected short-range missiles into ocean, South says

SEOUL, South Korea — North Korea fired multiple suspected short-range ballistic missiles toward its eastern waters on Monday, South Korea ’s military said, the latest in a recent series of weapons launches by the North.

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement that it detected the launches from North Korea’s capital region but gave no further details, such as how far the weapons flew. It said South Korea has strengthened its surveillance posture and maintains a firm readiness in close coordination with the United States and Japan .

Japan also confirmed the launches, with the office of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida instructing officials to employ maximum efforts to gather information and ensure the safety of aircraft and vessels, according to a statement released on X. 

North Korea in recent months has been maintaining an accelerated pace in weapons testing as it continues to expand its military capabilities amid stalemated diplomacy with the United States and South Korea.

North Korea announced Saturday that it tested a “super-large” cruise missile warhead and a new anti-aircraft missile in a western coastal area on Friday. Earlier in April, North Korea also test-launched what it called a solid-fuel intermediate-range missile with hypersonic warhead capabilities, a weapon that experts say is meant to attack remote enemy targets in the U.S. Pacific territory of Guam and beyond. 

In response to North Korea’s evolving nuclear threats, the United States and South Korea have been strengthening their bilateral military drills and trilateral exercises with Japan.

On Monday, the chairman of South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, Kim Myung-soo, met with U.S. Space Command Commander Stephen N. Whiting for discussions on countering North Korean threats, according to South Korea’s military.

Some experts earlier said North Korea could launch major provocations such as a banned satellite launch this month to mark key state anniversaries — the April 15 birthday of state founder Kim Il Sung, the late grandfather of Kim Jong Un , and the April 25 founding anniversary of a predecessor of the North’s military.

South Korea’s military said Monday that it has detected evidence that North Korea is preparing for its second spy satellite launch but there are no signs that a launch is imminent.

The Associated Press