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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 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

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Roseanne Ducut is a solo female traveler and Filipina from the Bay Area, California. She writes practical and culture-rich travel guides and lives a not-so-secret double life as a fangirl. A veghead for over 15 years, Roseanne also writes vegan guides to help others plan their trips.

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 Mar 4, 2020 and updated Feb 4, 2024.

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First Timer’s Seoul Itinerary for 5 Days (+ Labeled Map)

Updated: Oct 7, 2023 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 8 Comments

When people start doing research for their trip to Seoul, often they tell me they were immediately struck by just how big it is. Places can be far apart, so it's important to plan your Seoul itinerary in advance. That way you can visit each one in a way that makes sense, even if you're only in Seoul on a layover .

You could easily pass a couple of weeks wandering the streets of Seoul, visiting a different festival or cafe or museum each day, but most first timers come for just 5 days in Seoul. So this Seoul itinerary covers a little something for every interest, plus a few swaps dependent upon weather and days of the week.

But before I jump into where to go when, I'll mention some of the best things to do in Seoul in each of the main tourist neighborhoods. After living in Korea for 3 years, I've discovered a lot of corners of the capital city that aren't obvious if you've only visited once or even just a dozen times, and I want you to have more options for your trip.

Click here to read about where to stay in Seoul!

As an expat in Korea, I have insights into many more unusual things you can add to a longer South Korea itinerary , once you leave Seoul. So I hope this guide and my personal experience helps you plan your own trip to Seoul.

Since this is such a massive Seoul guide, please use the table of contents to find exactly what you're looking for. If you navigate to one part and then click the back button it will take you back to this table of contents.

Buy a PDF Version of This Post!

• 🎒 Planning a Trip to Seoul
• 🛬 Arrival & Getting Around Seoul
• 📝 Basics of Visiting Seoul
• ❄️ Visiting Seoul in Winter
• 🏠 Where to Stay in Seoul
• ✨ Unique Things To Do In Seoul
• ☀️ Day Trips From Seoul
• 🥘 What Foods to Eat in Seoul
• 🏙️ Sample Seoul Itinerary: 5 Days
• 🔍 Seoul Itinerary: Practical Info
• 🧳 Seoul Travel FAQ
• 🎢 Seoul Attractions Map

🎒 Planning a Trip to Seoul

Those of you looking to visit South Korea are probably as confused by all the changes as I was before I visited again post-covid. But as of March 20th, 2024, masks are still required in medical settings like hospitals but are NO LONGER REQUIRED in all other indoor public places, including public transport.

Here are what document you need to visit Korea as a tourist:

• K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization , applied for at least 72 hours before departure) OR Visa to visit Korea (countries which previously had a visa exemption now need to apply for a K-ETA). From April 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries will also temporarily NOT need a K-ETA or visa to visit Korea (includes: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam)). If you're a valid ABTC card holder (APEC card), you are not required to apply for a K-ETA [excluding Americans & Canadians].
• Q-Code (can also be filled out upon arrival) : visitors need to fill out information for the Korean quarantine system, known as Q-Code . Note that all travelers are now allowed in regardless of vaccination status, but you do need to have filled out your Q-Code before going through immigration.

If for some reason you need to take a covid test in a South Korea airport, the cost of a covid test in Incheon Airport is currently ₩80,000 ($60USD), with some options within Seoul as inexpensive as ₩65,000 ($50USD). There's no testing requirement to leave South Korea.

🛬 Arrival & Getting Around Seoul

When you arrive, almost certainly at Incheon Airport, you won't actually be in Seoul proper. You'll be anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour-and-a-half from the part of Seoul you want to be in. So unless you're swimming in cash for a long taxi ride, the best way from Incheon Airport into Seoul is by metro.

Alternatively, you can also catch a local bus just outside the airport, or even a direct nonstop bus (called the "airport limousine") to a variety of destinations, though airport limousine service is currently suspended due to covid-19.

Your first goal when you get to the airport's metro station will be to buy a T-money card. This purple rectangle will be your ticket to ride any bus or train in the city, and even use to pay for most taxis and at some chain cafes.

You can get one for ₩2500 (~$2USD) from one of the machines at the entrance to the airport's metro station, and then just add money to recharge it, which you can do at any station in the city. You can even use your T-money card to get around in Busan or on Jeju!

By metro from Incheon Airport it's roughly 50 minutes to the Hongdae area, and 75 minutes to the neighborhoods of Gangnam, Myeongdong, or Itaewon. Once you're in Seoul, getting around is a matter of figuring out the Seoul metro system and the city's extensive bus routes.

Don't forget to tap your T-money card again as you get off the bus, too. You just need to press the red button or pull the yellow cord in order to ask the driver to stop the bus.

As convenient as taxis are, drivers rarely speak English, and most of the time it's faster to take the metro, anyway. I recommend downloading a Korean translation app like Papago, as well as Naver Maps, which is the preferred map app for Korea. Google Maps will not work very well in Korea.

When looking for directions, keep an eye out for people wearing red vests and red cowboy hats; they hang out in popular tourist areas in Seoul and speak multiple languages. Usually they come in pairs, with one man and one woman, so talk to whomever you're most comfortable.

Many readers have remarked that they enjoyed using the Discover Seoul Pass to more easily see the most popular tourist attractions, like Changdeokgung Palace and Namsan Tower.

📝 Basics of Visiting Seoul

Language: Koreans speak  the Korean language , but many of those living in urban areas also speak decent English, especially younger people. 

Population: ~10 million in Seoul, and ~24 million within an hour of the city.

Currency: Korean won (KRW), written as either ₩ or 원 (1000 won is equal to about $0.78USD or ₱42).

Korea Visa: right now there are 112 countries whose citizens don't need to apply for visas before visiting South Korea (for 30 to 90 days), but they do need to apply for a K-ETA (more info on those below). Check on your country  here . Common countries: Singapore (up to 90 days), USA (up to 90 days), Malaysia (up to 90 days), Canada (up to 6 months), and South Africa (up to 30 days).

Voltage: 220v and 60Hz, with two round tines as the plug (type F).

Cultural Norms: there are dozens of books on Korean etiquette, but here's a quick primer. Korean society is culturally Buddhist, meaning that there are colorful & intricate temples throughout the country, and a few big things to know before visiting Seoul. Don't wear shoes inside.

Accept & give things with two hands whenever possible. Dress more conservatively, especially on top and even if it's hot outside. Bow slightly when greeting people; bow more deeply with older people. Stay quieter in public, but feel free to drink alcohol absolutely anywhere.

You can read more commonly asked questions about Korea here !

❄️ Visiting Seoul in Winter

Plenty of people visit Seoul in winter! But planning a visit to Seoul in wintertime can be intimidating. It snows in Seoul as early as the beginning of November and potentially into early March, and it can snow hard .

It’s important to pack your winter clothes, including heat tech layers & an insulated winter jacket if you're visiting anytime from late November to early March. Winter 2018 was particularly brutal, as early December temperatures hit below -10C.

So what is there to do in Seoul in the winter, anyway? Well, there are tons of indoor activities detailed in the 5 day Seoul itinerary below. But importantly, try to plan any outside activities for the sunniest part of the day (12pm-3pm) and stay inside at night.

Look for a restaurant or strip of outdoor vendors near your accommodation, and figure out how to get there & back ahead of time. Some of the best indoor activities in Seoul are: CoEx Aquarium, the Liquor Museum or the Kimchi Museum, animal cafes, art installations like Samsung Museum of Art, Itaewon Land, and of course, shopping.

Outdoor activities for the daytime include Insadong Street, Gyeongbok Palace, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, and the various outdoor open-air markets across the city. I’ve visited many of them during winter in Seoul, and lived just fine to tell the tale.

Don’t be afraid to visit Seoul in wintertime, but just remember to pack your fluffiest jacket and plan outfits with layers. You’ll be glad you have them when you’re wandering outdoor markets or staring up at the architecture of Seoul's stunning royal palaces !

🏠 Where to Stay in Seoul

Now that you know how to get there, you also need to decide where to stay in Seoul. There are four main areas in which tourists often stay: Hongdae, Itaewon, Gangnam, and Myeongdong (Jongno).

Some people stay in a few random hotels scattered across the city, but the hotels have clustered to these areas with good reason; all the tourist attractions are there. My recommendation for most first-timers would actually be to stay in Myeongdong due to its centrality.

But if you're here for a bit longer or more into nightlife, you may want to check out Hongdae or Itaewon. I've shared round-ups of where to stay in each of the six main neighborhoods in Seoul in my post on where to stay in the Korean capital .

✨ Unique Things To Do In Seoul

After dozens of trips into the city, I've been able to do or visit most everything interesting in Seoul. I've been dragged to art installations and malls and clubs, and dragged people to chocolate shops , food festivals, and even a liquor museum. But Seoul is no small area to see; it can easily take two hours to get from one side to the other.

So to make it easier for you to plan your trip, I've divided Seoul attractions by neighborhood, and added each of them to a map of Seoul attractions at the bottom of the post . I haven't detailed all the most typical Korean experiences like noraebang , chicken & beer at 4am, and photo booths in the street.

But that's because those are side activities, and they're kind of pedestrian, to be honest. I want to showcase the best things to do in Seoul. But with just 5 days in Seoul, it's important to have a good idea of what you want to do each day.

So, similar to this section in my Jeju Island Guide , below you'll find a bevy of points of interest in Seoul. Later in this post I've divided each of these into five one-day itineraries. Unlike when deciding on where to stay in Seoul, this isn't a one-time choice!

Things To Do In Hongdae (홍대)

Coconut Box Museum (서울 코코넛 박스) /// ₩23000 entrance /// 9am-9pm One of my favorite things to bring visitors to, the Trick Eye Museum in Hongdae, has now been replaced by Coconut Box, a digital experience center in the heart of Hongdae. The attraction includes 32 beautifully-decorated "bungalows," and 7 large experience centers dedicated to VR tech & NFT immersion.

Some bungalows may need advance registration, but overall this is well-rated, and seen as one of the best winter activities in Seoul. It's fun in the summer as well, but with so few things to do in Seoul during winter, spending a couple of hours acting a fool with your friends is the perfect medicine.

Seoul Escape Room (방탈출카페) /// ~₩18000 /// 10am-10:30pm An Escape Room is basically a room styled to look like a crime scene, with clues hidden throughout. You & whoever comes with you have an hour to find all of the clue and solve the crime, and unlock the door to escape.

They're super popular on the weekends, so be sure to make a reservation through their site if you want to go on a Friday or Saturday night. You can find English-speaker-friendly Escape Rooms in Hongdae, Myeongdong, and Gangnam, but I've only marked off one in Hongdae on the map below.

Picnic at Gyeongui Line Forest Park (경의 숲길) /// free entrance /// all hours One of my favorite things to do when the weather is warm is have a picnic in this quieter area of Hongdae. Popular with couples, this park-like region has a lot of cafes and restaurants, and quickly gets covered in people on picnic blankets once the temperature hits north of 10°C ( 50°F).

Sometimes there are even companies doing a giveaway. You can also see some students performing songs or dances here in the evenings, so it's a prime people-watching spot. If it's after 10pm, head to downtown Hongdae or the Playground for your people-watching.

Go Dancing (클러빙) /// ₩0-20000 /// ~11pm-8am Korea is a country for night owls. A list of things to do in Hongdae is incomplete without recommending a club or two. Unlike Gangnam, which is dominated by hip hop and EDM clubs, Hongdae had a little bit of everything from salsa, swing, and reggaeton to rap, rock, and pop. Luckily, all these genres are generally played at different clubs.

Go See Cookin' Nanta (홍대난타전용관) /// ₩40000-60000 /// twice daily The first time I saw this show, I couldn't even read Korean, much less understand any of it. But it was such a knee-slapping hilarious performance that I highly recommend it to any visitor.

There's almost no dialogue, and all the songs are their own mini-slapstick performance, complete with food props and your monthly allowance of juggling. Shows are at 5PM & 8PM Monday-Friday/ 2PM & 5PM Saturday-Sunday & National Holidays.

Things To Do In Itaewon (이태원 )

Itaewon Antique Furniture Street (이태원 앤틱 가구 거리) /// free entrance /// ~9am-6pm This street has become famous over the past few decades for having an abundance of furniture and other knickknack shops. Most of what they sell is on the older side, some of it even left over from right after the Korean War, when American soldiers were leaving the country and selling off their stuff en masse .

It's fun to poke around the stores looking for good deals, especially if you're actually looking to buy some jewelry or kitchen utensils or furniture. Don't forget to bargain! Note that on the map below I've marked off only the end closest to Itaewon Station.

Itaewon Land Spa (이태원랜드) /// ₩10000+ /// 24 Hours This 5-story building is pretty much full service and houses the typical jjimjilbang (sleeping) and sauna (relaxing) facilities. But it also has a restaurant and a massage area, and many more rooms and options within the sauna than smaller or sleeker places.

Spending an afternoon at the sauna between lunch and dinner a pretty typical Korean past time, so I'd definitely recommend you add it to your Seoul itinerary. Did I mention you have to get completely naked?

Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art (리움 삼성미술관 ) /// ₩10000 /// ~10:30am-6pm (closed Mondays) This museum is gorgeous. It's a rather popular date activity to walk around looking at the installations, but on the weekends you'll also see a fair number of groups and families.

The modern art featured inside is mostly by Korean artists, but there are some international works featured. Give yourself at least an hour to look through each of the rooms, as it's bigger than it looks.

Namsan Seoul Tower (N서울타워) /// ₩0-10000 /// ~9am-6pm Namsan Tower is characteristic of Itaewon and the HBC area. It's set in a very green park, and right around the tower itself is a temple and a gate with "love locks" attached to it. But the Tower is really best known for its spectacular view of the city.

It's a bit of a walk from Itaewon's downtown area, but there's a bus if you get tired, and a cable car to take you to the top. Note that you only have to pay to take the cable car or go up to the top couple of floors of the tower itself, which may not be worth it; I think the view is just as good from the cafe right before the top floor.

Things To Do In Insadong (인사동)

Beautiful Tea Museum (아름다운 차박물관) /// free entrance /// 10am-10pm If you come to Insadong and don't have a single cup of tea, did you really come here at all? The tea museum has information & exhibits for 130 teas from all over Asia, each one available for purchase in their cafe.

It's a lot to take in if you're not a tea lover, but if you want a sense of the abundance of history and cultural significance behind each tea, this is your spot. The teas are definitely on the pricey side, but it's an experience you're purchasing, not just a cup of cha . Note that while the museum is free, drinks from the attached cafe are not.

Eat Street Food Along Insadong Street (인사동길 ) /// free entrance /// ~10am-7pm Insadong is the best place in Seoul for street food , by far. Prices are much more reasonable than in nearby Myeongdong, the options of more typically Korean, and I think the quality is better.

In the wintertime I'd highly recommend getting some hoddeok (glutinous cinnamon sugar pancakes) or a baked sweet potato, and in the summer go for the fish-shaped ice cream or some eomuk (fish cakes). On the map, only one end of Insadong-gil is marked.

Visit Gyungbokgung (경복궁) /// ₩1500-3000 entrance /// ~9am-5pm (closed Tuesdays) Gyeongbokgung is one of the 5 royal palaces in Seoul, and by far the most accessible by public transportation. I also think it's the most beautiful, but I've had the chance to visit in both fall and spring, when the colors of the palace grounds come to life.

The grounds of Gyeongbongung are large and date back to the Joseon Dynasty, but you could spend anywhere from twenty minutes to three hours exploring however many of the nooks & crannies catch your eye.

There's also a free guided tour in English at 11am every day (at the moment). Right next to the Gyeongbokgung Metro entrance is the Museum of the Royal Palaces, which is another free thing to do in Seoul and worth a look.

The Poop Cafe (또옹카페) /// free entrance /// 10:30am-9pm I know it sounds disconcerting, but bear with me. Koreans have this fascination with "taboo" body parts & bodily functions, something which defies most visitors' understandings (see: Love Land on Jeju Island ). The idea of eating poop-shaped cookies and drinking their latte out of a faux toilet is just a bit much.

But personally I think it's hilarious, and every time I can convince someone to go to Insadong I bring them to Ddo-ong Cafe. I've fully embraced the poop spaghetti and crappy rose lattes (which are delicious; do get one one those), and I hope you will, too.

Things To Do In Jamsil (잠실)

See A Game At Jamsil Baseball Stadium (잠실야구장) /// ₩4000-70000 entrance /// varies Baseball seems like a very American past time, but it's also become a very Korean one. South Korea actually has ten professional baseball teams, and they're very popular.

Every spring Korean baseball fans flood stadiums across the country to drink beer and watch the game. If you like beer, baseball, and fried chicken, this is the weekend activity for you. Baseball season runs from March to August.

Lotte World (롯데월드) /// ₩44000-55000 entrance /// 9:30am-10pm Along with Everland, Lotte World is one of the most popular weekend spots for kids. It's one of the world's largest theme parks and has both indoor and outdoor areas.

But it's not just the youngsters who want to visit this amusement park, either; adults and teens also frequent it. Lotte World gets millions of visitors each year, and is considered an all-day kind of event, especially when the water park opens for the summer.

Lotte World Tower (롯데월드타워) /// ₩0-27000 entrance /// 10am-10pm Lotte World Tower is not to be confused with the amusement park with the same name. It's actually the 5th tallest building in the world and the tallest in Korea; if you want a great view of the entire city, this is the spot to see it from.

You actually only have to pay to go up to the observatory on the top 3 floors, but it's free to check out the other floors of the tower, so don't be scared away by the entrance fee.

Walk Around Olympic Park (올림픽공원) /// free entrance /// 5am-10pm This is a legitimate, interactive activity, perfect for families. Every day from 9am to 6pm you can pick up a pass book & map from the Information Center; this will take you on a predetermined route around several of the important 1988 Olympic locations.

At each one you collect a different stamp, and can return the completed book for a small present. Otherwise, the park is huge and encompasses a forest, art installations, recreational sports facilities, gardens, and all the flags from the 1988 Summer Olympic games, all especially busy on the weekends. Note that the location on the map below is for the Information Center.

Interesting Things To Do Around Seoul

Hanbok Photoshoot In Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을) /// free entrance /// ~5am-11pm Hanbok is the traditional Korean dress, and in my small town in rural Korea, I still see old women wearing them to the markets some weeks.

Renting a hanbok to wear around some of the more historical sites in Seoul is rightfully a favorite activity of both Korean and visitors alike, as most young Koreans no longer own their own hanbok . A hanok , on the other hand, is a traditional Korean house, the small ones with the thatched roofs and beautiful painted walls.

In the spring and fall the foliage creates a stunning backdrop for photos, so it's the perfect time to enjoy the village in traditional garb. Note that the village doesn't actually close, but it's respectful to stay away while residents are sleeping.

Eat At Noryangjin Fish Market (노량진수산물도매시장) /// free entrance /// 24 hours People often forget that Seoul is a port city. Seafood is an important part of the Korean diet, and one of the best places to get a taste of fresh, traditional Korean dishes is at Noryangjin Fish Market. The open air market is open all day, all year.

The first floor is dedicated to the market itself, where you can browse and purchase fresh seafood for dinner, both the familiar and unfamiliar. Up on the higher floors are the restaurants where they'll prepare your catch for you, plus a rooftop on which to relax after your meal.

Han River Cruise at Sunset (한강유람선) /// starting at ₩14000 per ticket /// after 7pm During the summertime, peak cruise season, there are five cruises after 7pm. All cruises must be booked in advance on ELand's website, where they will be the cheapest, or through a third-party site if you can't read Korean.

The cruises each last 45 minutes, and even though I absolutely thought it would be lame at first, it was actually spectacular. I went with my Mom and Aunt, and we had a great time watching the skies change color, listening to the live music, and seeing the bridges & buildings all lit up. Definitely worth the trip down to the river!

Visit A Theme Cafe (카페) /// free entrance /// varies Animal cafes are all the rage in East Asia, but especially in Seoul. We got sheep and cats and dogs and raccoons… but we also have an eclectic collection of other cafes, like art or chocolate cafes, where you can create something or enjoy a sweet treat over a latte.

Recently it's become popular to do an activity with your significant other at so-called "couple cafes," but really there's a cafe in Seoul for every thing and every interest. Seriously. I dare you to google it.

Gana Art Center (가나아트센터 ) /// free entrance /// 10am-7pm Gana is known for its beautiful think pieces. Amidst all of the traditional food and aesthetics of northern Seoul, walking into Gana Art Center gives you another perspective on the current events in the country.

Luckily, you don't have to speak any Korean to get the gist of real art, though its helpful to know some about Korean culture in order to get the full impact of some of the pieces. Note that while the permanent exhibits are free, you may have to pay to enter any special exhibits.

Sool Gallery (전통주 갤러리) /// free entrance /// 10am-8pm (closed Mondays) The Seoul alcohol museum much have sounded too obvious, but that's what this actually is ("sool" is Korean for "alcohol"). And believe it or not, but it's actually run by the government, and showcases an unbelievably number of different liquors & wines.

Since it moved to Gangnam in 2017, I've had the chance to visit and check out their selection during a tour, which they offer for free as visitors come in. After the tour you get to taste a selection of 3 to 5 liquors— you can request specific ones if you want— and ask all the questions you'd like. And yes, there is a gift shop.

☀️ Day Trips From Seoul

Hiking Bukhansan National Park Less than an hour north of Seoul is one of Korea's many national parks. Hiking is one of Korea's national past times, so every day of the week you'll see groups of older people geared up for a half day trip up Bukhansan, usually ending in a picnic and drinks at whichever peak they decide to stop on.

Strange as it sounds, don't be afraid to sit nearby and try to make conversation with them, especially if you're learning Korean. The base of the mountain range is marked on the map.

Chuncheon: Nami Island, Petite France, & Garden of Morning Calm The Garden of Morning Calm is one of my favorite places in South Korea. In spring, summer and fall, there's no better place to experience the varied foliage that Korea has to offer, and take lots of beautiful pictures.

Nami Island and Petite France are also beautiful, but definitely more geared towards couples. The zip line to Nami Island is somewhat legendary; there's a reason this is one of the few Seoul day trips I always recommend. All 3 destinations are marked on the map.

Gangneung: 2018 Winter Olympics Stomping Ground If you're looking for a beach destination often overlooked even by Koreans, Gangneung is your spot. But more recently, it was also the site of the 2018 Winter Olympics, and the government has made it very easy for interested visitors to visit all the sites of the games.

If that's less your thing, though, the aquarium & cafe street are very nice. Gangneung intercity bus terminal is marked on the map.

DMZ Tour: Full-Day or Half-Day It's certainly not for everyone, but visiting the demilitarized zone, known as the DMZ, can give you great insight into how Korea became the country it is today. Different tours will show you different spots, but the guide you go with makes all the difference, so choose your tour carefully. Read more about my experience at the DMZ here .

🥘 What Foods to Eat in Seoul

Street Foods : there are too many to name here, but the most popular street foods in Korea are definitely Eomuk (어묵) & Ddeokbokki (떡볶이) , which are fish cakes & spicy rice cakes, respectively, and are often served together.

Skewers (꼬치) , usually chicken skewers served with onion and barbecue sauce, are a very filling and cheap alternative for those who don't like seafood.

Hoddeok (호떡) , a cinnamon sugar-filled fried rice cake, is my absolute favorite treat and one of the few traditional sweets in Korea (get it in Insadong). Finally, Soondae (순대) is Korean blood sausage, and it's inexplicably popular.

Various Anju (안주) : anju is a term meaning "food eaten while drinking alcohol," and many bars will require you to order some anju to go with your liquor or beer. They're just fried, salty foods that cut the bite of the alcohol, but some are heartier, like fried chicken or potato pancakes.

If you're a big group, look for the words "모든" or "모든안주," which means it's a mix of all or almost all the dishes they offer. It'll give everyone a variety of dishes to try with their soju (소주) and beer (맥주).

Japchae (잡채) : I like to think of japchae as Korean pad thai . It's a noodle dish prepared with lots of thinly chopped vegetables, sweet potato starch noodles, and sometimes a little bit of meat.

It's great served warm as a main dish, but it's just as good as part of a bigger meal, and it's even better when re-heated the next morning. It's served with sesame oil and soy sauce, so it's a mild dish, but very good.

Jjambbong (짬뽕) : it's like a spicy seafood stew, served in a huge boiling pot for everyone to eat out of together. There are mussels and clams and squid, but the broth is usually pork-based, so there's noodles and bits of pork floating around, as well.

This is a Korean Chinese food, so it's common to see at Chinese-Korean fusion restaurants throughout the country.

Bingsu (빙수): the ideal dessert on a warm day, bingsu is basically Korean shaved ice with milk and, well, sometimes beans. But I prefer the fruit bingsus that have become very popular in recent years, now even sold in some coffee shops.

Check out the dessert cafe chain SulBing for a large selection of delicious shaved ices worthy of sharing with a friend (and maybe your Instagram followers). This is also spelled bingsoo.

Samgyupsal (삼겹살) : pork belly, which is the most popular meat of choice, is just one of many options for Korean barbecue. Galbi (갈비) , ribs, usually of the pork variety, or Hanu (한우) , Korean-raised beef, are my other two recommendations for a nice night of barbecue, though are a bit harder to find than pork belly.

Korean Beef Village just north of the city center is a great spot where you can buy hanu downstairs, and then take it upstairs to cook it with all the side dishes for a small fee. If this is your only trip to Korea, you need to have a taste of K-BBQ before you go (though Korean Fried Chicken is never a bad plan)!

Sannakji (산낙지) : possibly one of the most famous Korean foods— other than barbecue— sannakji is often called "live octopus," though it's actually just an extremely fresh version of the sea creature.

Served immediately after it's killed, sannakji is squirted with acidic fruit juices, which make the tentacles continue to move around even after it's placed in front of you.

It's not served alive, but people certainly act as if it were, as most people shy away from trying the fresh dish. This would be something to try at one of the fish markets, like Noryangjin.

Dolsot Bibimbap (돌솥 비빔밥) : the most basic Korean meal is rice with a bunch of side dishes; taking that up a notch means adding mixed vegetables.

Bibimbap literally means "mixed rice," so the dolsot version is a variation of that rice with mixed vegetables, adding a raw egg and serving it all in a piping hot stone bowl ( dolsot) . This cooks the egg and crisps up the bottom layer of rice, adding a lovely texture to the whole dish.

Mul Nangmyeon (물냉면) : cold noodles made with buckwheat flour, served with sliced cucumber and half a boiled egg on top. You'll also get mustard and vinegar sauces on the side. Mul naengmyeon (directly translated as "water cold noodles") is made with a meat broth base.

It's commonly eaten right after barbecue, especially pork belly, because it's said to wash down the oily meat to aid with digestion. Do this, and make sure the meat is still hot from the grill.

Samgyetang (삼계탕) : quite possibly my favorite Korean food, samgyetang is like Korean chicken soup, and it's just as homey. The broth is usually clear, but there are lots of local variations, including one made with poison oak.

The main attraction is the chicken, however, which is served whole and young, so you get to pick off the meat. Inside the bird is a mixture of rice and a bit of ginseng, jujubes, and ginko beans, which you eat with the meat and soup after you dip it in the salt served on the side.

🏙️ Sample Seoul Itinerary: 5 Days

A 5 day Seoul itinerary could take many forms, but since you have a bit of leeway, I've chosen a variety of typical Seoul activities to give you a taste of the city. They're planned such that you'll have ample time to spend at each place and get from one spot to the next via the subway (which is very reliable).

Some activities have alternatives in case of differing weather, but most things to do in Seoul are indoors or non-weather dependent, anyway. The first and last days are more relaxing, to give you time to adjust to your new surroundings. Just remember to have fun, and don't be afraid to move the days around depending on how you're feeling!

Seoul Itinerary Day 1: Settling In

Most hostels and hotels in Seoul will provide food for breakfast, but if they don't then ask for a recommendation or stop by a convenience store on the way out. Heed this warning for each day of your trip!

12pm // Namsan Tower : after you check into your hotel, this is the perfect spot from which to take in a view of the entire city, from the top of Namsan Mountain.

There's a small temple and an observation deck here, so there's plenty to keep you occupied for a couple of hours, but I wouldn't recommend paying to get up to the top floor unless you're extremely eager. Take the cable car down to Myeongdong when you're ready to leave.

3pm // Explore Myeongdong : sample some street food when you first arrive, just to tide you over for dinner (I recommend the cheap & delicious chicken skewers). Walk around Myeongdong and go shopping, especially for cosmetics and body care products you can relax with on your first night. Stop in at a cat cafe, if that's your kind of thing, but don't forget to soak it all in.

6pm // Dinner : have a big bowl of samgyetang (chicken soup) or grab some street food or convenience store snacks before settling into your hotel for the night. Rest up for your big day tomorrow!

Seoul Itinerary Day 2: Nature & Nightlife

9am // Hike Bukhansan : the morning is the best time to hike Bukhansan. The trip takes 4-6 hours depending on how fast you walk and how often you stop to snack and take pictures.

Alternative Afternoon Activity:   if it's cooler out or you want a less strenuous activity, go on a half-day DMZ tour ; either option will finish around 3pm.

3pm // People-Watch in Hongdae : head to Hongdae or request to be dropped off there after your tour. Your first mission is to snag a table and order up some barbecue, preferably samgyupsal (pork belly) or galbi (pork or beef ribs). After your late lunch, walk around the neighborhood people-watching, and settle in on a bench if it's nicer weather.

5pm // Go see NANTA : this play is absolutely amazing. But if the show is sold out or if theatre isn't at all your thing, then another nearby option is to visit Coconut Box, a "Southeast Asia Vacation Experieince" that replaced the old Trick Eye Museum in Hongdae.

7:30pm // Dinner : since Hongdae is known for cheap food and accommodation, this is the perfect time to pick a random local restaurant and order something cheap. This is how & where I ordered my first meal in Korea by myself (I ended up with a delicious bowl of oxtail stew).

The rule is that anything under ₩10000 is fair game, but if you stumble upon a night market you can find even cheaper local eats.

9pm // Escape Room : if you're visiting Seoul with friends, this is the perfect time to go to an escape room. Alternatively, you could go clubbing if it's a weekend night. If you're alone I'd recommend checking out a coin noraebang (karaoke room); they're extremely popular throughout Korea.

Seoul Itinerary Day 3: Traditional Korea

10am // Bukchon Hanok Village : this is the perfect time to visit the village on any day, as tourists don't usually show up until just before noon. If you can find a rental shop open, you can walk around in a hanbok (traditional Korean dress), taking pictures with all of the traditional-style houses ( hanoks ).

Whenever you tires yourself out or decide you've seen enough of the neighborhood, return your hanbok and stop in at one of the local restaurants for a bowl of bibimbap (rice with mixed vegetables). It'll keep you full and it's cheap!

1pm // Gyeongbokgung : while everyone else is having lunch, walk around the grounds of one of Seoul's 5 palaces. If you didn't find a hanbok to wear in Bukchon, here's your opportunity. Don't tell the others, but I think Gyeongbok is the prettiest of the gung (meaning "palace").

3pm // Poop Cafe : don't give up on me now! The poop cafe is the perfect combination of childish humor and Korean photo-ops. Try the rose latte; I swear you won't be disappointed.

4pm // Walk Down Insadong-gil : Insadong is both the neighborhood and the main street of said neighborhood. After you've had a rest in a cafe, this is the perfect chance to go shopping for traditional souvenirs, devouring street food for dinner as you go.

Shops start to close around 6pm, but street food stalls will stay open a bit longer, especially in the summer.

8pm // Dongdaemun : once you've had a rest back at your hotel, get geared up for another Korean adventure: night shopping. Dongdaemun is the civilian-oriented shopping complex, cousin of wholesale-based Namdaemun market.

It's perfect for clothes shopping in the middle of the night, if that's your idea of a good time. Even if it isn't, however, it's very interesting insight into current Korean fashion and another opportunity to people-watch.

Seoul Itinerary Day 4: Explore Outside Seoul

Today we're headed to the Garden of Morning Calm, Nami Island, and Petite France. I do recommend going through a tour agency for this one if you're even remotely willing, as it saves time and helps with translation. But if that's not your style, it's perfectly doable on your own.

Since this is such a well-trodden path, there are actually intercity buses that take you direct from one place to another. There are also lots of Korean restaurants around the sites, so this is a great time to try a local dish like dakgalbi or bulgogi jjaguri for lunch and dinner.

Check out this article for more information on how to get between the sites; they're each 1-1.5 hours outside of Seoul. Alternative: take the KTX to Gangneung and spend the day visiting sites where the 2018 Olympic Games were held.

Seoul Itinerary Day 5: Cultural Indulgence

Your last day is the perfect time to absorb some of the more low-key Seoul activities. Note that this day CANNOT be on a Monday, so switch this with another day if your last day happens to fall on a Monday.

10:30am // Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art : arrive right when it opens and walk around the inside installations before moving to the striking ones outside.

Depending on how struck you are, this could take a bit longer. Grab lunch somewhere nearby, because the next stop is also in Itaewon. If you feel like American contemporary cuisine, I highly recommend cheeseflo, which is just a block away.

1pm // Itaewon Land : one of the biggest spas in the country, Itaewon Land has an impressive number of bath options and spa amenities. They even have a place to sleep in a traditional  jjimjilbang . Spend your last of 5 days in Seoul just soaking in the fresh water and leaving your toxins behind.

Just remember that the fully-nude areas are separated by gender, so rent a swimsuit at the front if you'd like to spend time with anyone of the opposite sex!

5pm // Gawk at Noryangjin Fish Market : think of it as a pre-dinner show, because you will absolutely see some new species here. After you've looked your fill, pick out your dinner and bring it up to a restaurant on one of the upper levels; there they'll cook it for you and provide side dishes for a small fee.

7pm // Sool Museum : before it closes at 8pm, take a free tour of the Korean liquor museum, complete with a tasting. There's a direct train from Noryangjin.

Then, walk around the area close to Gangnam Station; it's the place that inspired the famous song Gangnam Style . There's even a Gangnam Style statue, located near Gangnam Station exit 11!

🔍 Seoul Itinerary: Practical Info

Best time to visit seoul.

Everywhere in Korea, people are pretty much unanimous that April and October are the best months to visit weather-wise. However, I'd endorse April, May, June, September, and October as the best times to visit Seoul or anywhere else in Korea (just bring a mask for air pollution in May).

It's different each month, but in early spring you'll find cherry blossoms , while late spring brings the rest of the flowers and beautiful weather (as well as some pollution). October in Seoul in particular is best for cooling temperatures and fewer crowds, as well as stunning fall leaves.

If you come in very late August or early September, you may even be able to catch a beach day in Incheon after all the kids are back in schools. But this depends on how well you coordinate your trip with the government's open beach times, unless you're only looking to visit one of the islands off the coast near Seoul.

Safety Level: 9/10

Despite a few rough patches, much like the southern city of Busan , Seoul is a very safe city. It is, however, still a city, so always keep an eye on your bags and don't flash cash in crowded areas. Public consumption of alcohol is legal, so keep an eye out for drunk people doing stupid things, especially on the weekends in Hongdae and Itaewon.

Sample Seoul Budget: 5 Days

This budget assumes you’re spending 5 full days and 5 nights in the city, and are travelling alone using the 5 day Seoul itinerary above (not doing any of the alternate activities). If you're looking for an idea of prices, you're probably also looking to travel Seoul as a backpacker, but still staying in a nice guesthouse.

Cheap travel in Seoul is more than possible, especially if you're indulging in delicious Korean foods . Note that the current exchange rate is roughly $0.78USD or ₱42PHP per ₩1000KR.

• Lodging: $100USD/₱5,240PHP (see this post for good, but cheap Seoul hostel recommendations)
• Transport: $30USD/₱5,240PHP (just for metro and buses to visit Chuncheon on day 4; flights are so varied in cost that those are not included in this budget)
• Activities: $120USD/₱1,580PHP (includes entrance fees, NANTA ticket,  hanbok rental, and cable car)
• Food: $100USD/₱5,240PHP (assuming you're indulging in local dishes and street food for most meals)

Total: $350USD/₱18,350PHP

Basic Korean Lesson

So you're ready to visit Seoul, but you don’t know any Korean! Let’s fix that right up. You won't be fluent overnight, but lucky for you, I’ve already broken down the English-Korean language barrier several times over. Here's a shortlist to help you order food & drinks, and just generally be respectful.

Many Koreans understand enough English for you to order in English, but it’s always polite to throw in a little Korean. I’d also highly recommend downloading a picture-capable translation app before you go, like Google Translate.

Hello //  An-nyeong-ha-se-yo . (안녕하세요.)

Thank you //  Gam-saahm-ni-da . (감사합니다.)

Do you speak English? //  Yeong-aw jal-hae-yo?  (영어 잘해요?)

I don’t speak any Korean. //  Han-guk-aw jal-moat-hae-yo.  (한국어 잘못해요.)

How much is it? //  Eol-ma-yeh-yo?  (얼마예요?)

One of these, please. //  Ee-gaw ha-na ju-say-yo.  (이거 하나 주세요.)

It’s to-go/takeout. //  Po-jahng ee-eh-yo  or  Tae-ee-kow-tay-oh.  (포장 이예요 or 테잌아웃에요.)

Lesson complete! Now let’s go pack.

🧳 Seoul Travel FAQ

Three days in Seoul is enough to get a taste for the city, but ideally you'd spend 5-7 days based in Seoul so as to take one or two day trips out of the city while still having enough time to explore the royal palaces, traditional markets, and future-driven fashion that Korea is known for.

When choosing how many days to spend in Seoul, first consider how many things there are to do in Seoul which interest you. Most people find 4 to 5 days in Seoul to be sufficient, but if there are a lot of activities you're interested in, you may want an extra day or two.

This depends on your style of travel, but a mid-range budget for a solo traveler spending 5 days in Seoul would be about $80USD per day. If you're willing to stay in cheap hostels, stick to more free activities in Seoul, and eat local foods, then you could get it down to maybe $50USD per day. So I'd say that traveling in Seoul is really quite affordable, though you can always upgrade your trip, and the longer you stay the cheaper it will be per dium.

🎢 Seoul Attractions Map

Did this Seoul guide help you sort out your itinerary for Seoul? Save it on Pinterest so that it can help others, too!

More South Korea Travel & Life

Reader Interactions

Abid Ansari

June 02, 2023 at 4:43 am

We are a family of three looking at shopping and food. Your blog has been very helpful. The map stands out as being unique among travelblogs.

June 02, 2023 at 9:51 pm

Thanks, Abid! It's definitely something I appreciate when traveling, so I try to add one anytime I make any kind of guide. 🙂

April 13, 2023 at 4:52 am

How do you get premium magic pass for Lotte World now?

April 14, 2023 at 9:40 am

You can now buy one through Klook, though they may be restricted in which dates on which they're available.

February 19, 2023 at 12:35 am

This is exactly the type of list I was looking for, non-typical things to do in Korea. Thank you for putting this together and sharing!

February 19, 2023 at 12:40 am

It's my pleasure, Albert! I'm glad you've found it helpful.

Maelene Wong

August 10, 2022 at 9:31 am

A small group of us (5-7) are extending our trip from Japan to Seoul for 4 days. Can you send me the names of your recommended Local Tour Guides who might be interested in escorting us around for four days maybe in a small van based on our and their recommended lists of things to do and places to go in and around Seoul?

August 10, 2022 at 3:13 pm

Sorry, I'm not connected with any tour guides, but the Hop On Hop Off Bus tours would be a great start for looking for private pre-arranged tours within the city!

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Amazing Temples

Where to Go Shopping

Best Museums

Foods to Try

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Weather & Climate

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Things to Do in Seoul

The Top Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea

Don't miss out on some of Seoul's top attractions

Seoul, South Korea offers something for everyone where sights and attractions are concerned. Easy to get around thanks to an efficient public transit system and also pleasantly walkable depending on where you are, Seoul is a city made for laid-back exploring.

Even travelers on a tight schedule or budget should find it easy to pack in a decent amount of sightseeing without having to worry about feeling too rushed. So where should you focus your attention when it comes to making the most of a trip to the South Korean capital? Whether you’re into history and culture, shopping, exploring the great outdoors or stuffing your face with delicious street food, you won’t be disappointed with what’s on offer.

If you’re headed to Seoul, here are some of the best things to see and do while you’re there. 

Shop 'Til You Drop at Myeongdong

Exiting the subway at Myeongdong Station, it’s easy to see which direction to head – simply follow the throngs of people all heading to one of the primary shopping districts in Seoul. But despite the presence of so many shoppers, the area still feels organized and easy to navigate, whether you're browsing or buying (or both). You’ll find some familiar name brands here (from UNIQLO and Zara, to Nike and H&M), along with many Korean brands. Myeongdong is also a mecca for anyone on the hunt for Korean beauty and skin care brands, with store shelves lined with every conceivable product to keep skin looking young and healthy. These stores are usually generous with samples, so if there’s something you’re curious about, just ask. While many Korean beauty and skin care brands are available in North America, this is the place to stock up on any hard-to-find items.

And if you get hungry, there's some good street food to be found in and around Myeongdong. Keep an eye out for Korean egg toast, Hotteok (sweet Korean pancakes), deep fried squid, gimbap (Korea's version of sushi rolls) and Korean fried chicken just to name a few standout snacks.

Head to the Top of Namsan Seoul Tower

If you’re looking to get some photo-worthy panoramic views of Seoul, this is the place to do it. Originally created as a broadcasting tower, N Seoul Tower (as it’s generally called), is located at the top of Namsan Mountain. Take in those aforementioned views over the city with a quick elevator ride to the observation deck, or ride the Namsan Cable Car, which runs from the base of Namsan Mountain up to Namsan Seoul Tower. 

Explore the Alleys of Itaewon

Itaewon is a must-see neighbourhood in Seoul for its diversity, ability to surprise and the abundance of bars, cafes and restaurants. Walking around Itaewon, it’s well worth peeking down the area’s narrow lanes and alleyways – because you never know what you’ll find. Maybe it’s a stunning piece of street art, or a tiny Italian restaurant with a shaggy dog snoozing on the stoop while wait staff sets up for dinner service. Itaewon is also home to Antique Furniture Street, which as the name suggests, is chock-a-block with shops selling beautiful antique housewares and furniture you’re not likely to find anywhere else. This is an ideal area to base yourself in on a visit to Seoul since it puts you close to public transit and in a neighborhood that always seems to be buzzing. There's great shopping here, too.

Walk Along Cheonggyecheon Stream

Seoul is bustling city, with something going on somewhere 24 hours a day. But relaxing respite can easily be found at Cheonggyecheon Stream, which runs through downtown Seoul. The 11-kilometre stream passes under nearly two dozen bridges before flowing into the Hangang River. This is a great place to come for a leisurely stroll by the water, a favorite activity among locals.

Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is probably Korea's most famous royal palace – and justifiably so. The massive complex is comprised of an impressive array of ornate structures and it’s worth spending at least three to four hours exploring the sprawling grounds. There are free guided tours in English daily at 11am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm. One-hour tours start from the information centre inside the Heungnyemun Gate.

Step Back in Time in Bukchon Hanok Village

Seoul may have a futuristic vibe and ultra-modern sensibilities in a lot of ways, but you can travel back to much simpler times with a visit to Bukchon Hanok Village. A hanok is a traditional Korean home and there are several villages you can visit in Korea, but the interesting thing about Bukchon Hanok Village is that although it’s a tourist attraction, it’s also a real residential neighborhood where people actually live. In addition to residences, many of the traditional buildings here operate as restaurants, boutiques and cultural centres.  

Relax at a Jimjilbang

Feeling stressed from travel or battling jet lag? In need of some serious relaxation? Put a visit to a Korean jimjilbang (sauna and spa) on your list of things to do in Seoul. But if you’re picturing a traditional spa, you’re in for a bit of surprise. A jimjilbang, like Dragon Hill Spa (one of the most popular in the city) are usually open 24 hours a day and offer the chance to unwind in various saunas, soaking baths of various temperatures, and opt for body treatments from scrubs to massages. There are even nap areas should you want to snooze between soaks, and most have restaurants for post-relaxation refueling. 

Learn Everything There Is to Know About Kimchi at Museum Kimchikan

Kimchi goes with or on nearly everything in Korea. The country’s go-to condiment is the focus at this museum and curious visitors can learn about the history of kimchi as well as how its made, the many methods for making the spicy side dish and the many different varieties. If you book in advance, you can also try your hand at making your own kimchi to take home.  

Take a Free Walking Tour

Exploring on foot is often one of the best ways to get a sense of a new city. But if you prefer a bit more structure to your stroll, you can sign up for a free walking tour. "Seoul City Walking Tours" is a free program offered by the city of Seoul wherein you sign up online and then get to see some of the city’s top attractions on foot with an expert local guide. Tours offer a great way to get to know the city better. Just note that reservations need to be made at least three days in advance via the Visit Seoul mobile website  and spots fill up quickly on weekends, holidays, and during peak season (April, May, September, October). 

Seoul Guide: Planning Your Trip

Bukchon Hanok Village: The Complete Guide

48 Hours In Seoul: The Ultimate Itinerary

Bukhansan National Park: The Complete Guide

The Top 18 Things to Do in South Korea

One Week in South Korea: The Ultimate Itinerary

The Ultimate Guide to the Neighborhoods of Seoul

The Best Time to Visit Seoul

12 Things You Need to Eat in Seoul, South Korea

The 12 Best Day Trips From Seoul

The 10 Best Museums in Seoul

The Top 14 Things to Do in Incheon, South Korea

The Top 10 Destinations in South Korea

A Complete Guide to Drinking in South Korea

Seoul's Namdaemun Market: The Complete Guide

The Best Time to Visit South Korea

enSquared♡Aired

11 Of The Most Useful Travel Tips For Seoul Korea

Pssst… this post may contain affiliate links. That means I may earn a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you decide to make a purchase. For details on what this means, read my disclaimer policy .

Although South Korea was not part of my original travel plans, I was stoked to learn that I can stopover in Seoul. With only two days in Seoul, my plans revolved around eating Korean food, market hopping, buying cute Korean stationery, and visiting sites along the way. Since my first visit to South Korea was super short, I tried to fit it into my schedule during my year of travelling , but to no avail.

At first glance, Seoul does not feel big, but it is actually very large in terms of population. With over 25.4 million people, Seoul itself is almost the size of Canada! Not surprisingly, this city is also the fourth largest metropolitan area in Asia. What I love most about Seoul is the liveliness of the city, regardless of the time of day.

Bonus tip: Find Line friends and take a photo with this cute bear!

Here, I have rounded up some practical tips for first-time travellers heading to Seoul.

#1 Travel Tip For Seoul Korea: No English everywhere, so practice excelling in charades

Remember those years you spent playing charades? Would you believe me if I said acting out words is an essential life skill in a non-English speaking country? Seriously, that was how I got around and communicated with people in Seoul. Alternatively, a few basic Korean phrases are helpful to know if you do not want to look like a doofus.

#2 Travel Tip For Seoul Korea: Get a T-Money card if you are in Seoul for more than two days

Get a T-Money card if you can, because it is a huge time and money saver! The card itself costs 2,500 won, but it is so worth not having to line up and fumble for change to buy single journey tickets. Public transportation is always 100 won cheaper with this card, and you can even use it to make purchases at participating convenience stores. You can find more information about the T-Money card on the Visit Korea website .

#3 Travel Tip For Seoul Korea: Most stores accept credit card

This is helpful if you are the type of traveller who does not like to carry too much cash. Find a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees, and you are ready to go.

As always, it is wise to carry some cash as a precaution. Plan to have some cash for street food, T-Card refills, transportation, and little souvenirs from the markets. When arriving at the airport, exchange just enough money to cover transportation to your hotel in Seoul since airports charge higher rates. Foreign currency centers are ubiquitous on every busy corner and your hotel can exchange money for you as well. Even better, to save the hassle of having to figure out how to get to Seoul, book a one-way airport express ticket to Seoul in advance!

#4 Travel Tip For Seoul Korea: Tourist information sites and your hotel concierge are your best friends

Tourist information sites are your friends! Use them to answer all your questions! Typically, when I am lost in a city, I often find a young local to ask for directions. Not so in Seoul, since even the young folk could not converse in basic English. As an added bonus, tourist information centers have reliable Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and various phone chargers! Talk about thoughtfulness!

Alternatively, if you are staying at a hotel that has a concierge service, do not hesitate to ask them for help! If you believe that your hotel has your interests at heart, then you can trust their recommendations.

#5 Travel Tip For Seoul Korea: street food is clean and safe to eat upon your arrival

Seoul has the most incredible street food!

I’m usually wary of street food and will cautiously eat only after spending a few days in the country. However, because Seoul is so clean and sanitary, I think it’s safe to eat street food on the first day you arrive.

#6 Travel Tip For Seoul Korea: The metro system is your second best friend

Get to know the metro system and know where you are going. Considering how people cannot speak English very well, the best person you can depend on is yourself! Every place you can possibly want to visit is conveniently located next to a metro stop. The map may look like a messy web at first, but you will figure out the logic within minutes. Once it clicks in your head, you will want to meet the mastermind behind this genius metro map!

I also noticed the metro is very efficient; never once did I experience a delay during my stay in Seoul. Twice, I had issues with my metro card at the terminal. Before I could look up to ask for help, a metro employee was already there to help me. As well, the metro is very clean; it is not a rare sight to see someone go through the metro to sweep throughout the day.

Seoul’s map of the metro. Photo credit: Seoul Sublet

Tips on how to orient yourself with the metro map: Colours are your friend. Find out where you want to go on the map and make a note of which colour your destination is on. Now match the colour with the line the train is on (i.e. blue is on line 1). Once you figure out your destination and line colour, follow that line colour from your point of origin. Simple, right? I did not realize the colours had a rhyme or reason until a few subway trips later…

If taking the metro isn’t your thing, consider taking an affordable sightseeing bus, which will take you around Seoul !

#7 Travel Tip For Seoul Korea: There are many stairs when entering and exiting the metro

Seriously, there is a lot of stairs to climb when entering and exiting the metro. This is something to keep in mind when planning your trips and shoes to wear while in Seoul.

I consider myself decently fit, but I remember the burn in my thighs each time I left the metro. I recall thinking to myself; this is how Korean women stay slim and pretty; their commute is a workout! While there are escalators in certain stops, they are mostly located once you are inside the metro.

#8 Travel Tip For Seoul Korea: Seoul is a safe city

Never once did I feel scared in Seoul, which is unusual since I normally am on high alert while travelling. Nor did I ever feel like any vendor I interacted with tried to rip me off. I guess because Seoul is such a prosperous city, they had better things to do than to steal stuff. While it is important to exercise caution at all times, the brightly lit streets and the sheer volume of people made me feel comfortable walking around the city, even at night.

#9 Travel Tip For Seoul Korea: Possibly the most diplomatic bargaining experience you will ever have in Asia

Koreans are polite bargainers when it comes to negotiating at the markets. There is no yelling, cursing, or dramatic hand gestures; they just say no if they don’t like your offer. On the flip side, it could be that I did not bargain hard enough, but I doubt that.

#10 Travel Tip For Seoul Korea: Koreans are kind and beautiful

I have a funny story that demonstrates just how kind and helpful Koreans are. While I was waiting for my train to the airport, this elderly woman kept talking to me in Korean. She also kept pointing and laughing at my suitcase, leaving me even more confused. At some point, I politely ignored her, but she would not give up and kept talking to me until I finally realized she was trying to tell me that I was on the wrong train! I am so grateful to her because I would have missed my flight had it not been her persistence in trying to communicate with me.

As well, everyone here is so beautiful and well dressed. Most women wore heels and I saw many outfits that are unique, trendy, and classy at the same time. That’s another reason why I felt safe; why steal my plain bag when you can take an Hermès bag instead?

#11 Travel Tip For Seoul Korea: Wi-fi is everywhere, but unreliable

Even though Seoul is the world’s most wired city, I was surprised to find Wi-Fi to be shoddy. While most places offered public Wi-Fi, the hassle of trying to connect was too much and not worth my time. If you don’t want to deal with the same trouble, pick up a pocket WiFi at the airport instead .

Other Travel Tips For Seoul Korea

• Stay for 4-5 nights. There’s so much to do and so many sights to see
• If you have an itinerary, be ok with not following it at times. Just go with the flow! You will find that when you reach a neighbourhood in Seoul, you will come across sites you did not know about
• Many Koreans can speak Mandarin. Sadly, I have sub-par Mandarin skills so that did not help me much
• Get to know your K-pop stars, because there is a good chance you will run into them! Or better yet, immerse yourself in K-pop culture with one of these fun experiences !

What other important tips do you wish you had known before your visit to Seoul? Share your thoughts in the comment below

PIN FOR LATER

This post was first published in August 2016 and last updated in April 2019

Related posts:

About Nancy

Hi, I’m Nancy! I am obsessed with self-awareness, food, semi-minimalism, stories, budgets, & adventures around the world. Read more here.

Reader Interactions

September 8, 2018 at 3:12 am

Korea is very special and I am very pleased to come to it. Much we can enjoy and these tips really useful. Komodoresort.com

September 15, 2018 at 1:15 pm

Thank you Adam 🙂

September 27, 2018 at 9:21 am

I fully agree with your travel Tips. I also suggest everybody carry your passport with you at all times and make a color copy to store in your luggage. Contact your cellular phone carrier to be sure your phone will work at your destination. You can also enroll in the US State Department Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.

September 29, 2018 at 12:46 pm

Great tips, although I would not carry my passport outside of the hotel. The risk of losing it feels higher than if I were to leave it locked up inside my luggage (which is then tethered to a permanent fixture).

May 8, 2019 at 12:53 pm

Great content. I love this city and these tips are useful really. 😉

May 19, 2019 at 12:05 pm

Thanks, James!

March 28, 2020 at 4:29 am

Good afternoon, Nancy. I’m Vietnamese and i just want to say thank u a lot because your sharing helps me a lot to complete my final exam. I hope someday you will travel to Vietnam and have some exciting posts like this.

August 2, 2020 at 12:45 pm

I’m glad to hear! I have been to Vietnam 3 times – you can see some of my posts about Vietnam on this blog 🙂

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Home » Asia » South Korea » Seoul

SEOUL Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Seoul straddles both the contemporary and the historic and fuses tranquility and excitement effortlessly. Whether your Seoul itinerary involves sipping herbal tea in a small teahouse or making your way through the crowds at Everland theme park there’s such a remarkable zest for life in the city.

Seoul’s put on a dazzling show of making the best of its tragic history by preserving old traditions and blending them with modern technology!

From imperial capital to sophisticated metropolis, Seoul has undergone amazing transformations during its 2000-year history. Royal palaces are nestled beside towering skyscrapers and stunning new museums. Whether you’re interested in the modern or ancient, we’ve got the best of both worlds on our Seoul itinerary!

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Best time to visit Seoul

Where to stay in seoul, seoul itinerary, day 1 itinerary in seoul, day 2 itinerary in seoul, seoul itinerary – day 3 and beyond, staying safe in seoul, day trips from seoul, faq on seoul itinerary.

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If you’re planning a trip to South Korea , remember that the city experiences monsoon season. Summers are rainy and humid, while winters are both dry and cold.

Peak season falls during summer (June to August) so don’t expect any bargains! On the upside, though, there are exciting events to put on your Seoul itinerary during this season, such as the Seoul International Cartoon and Animation Festival and the Seoul Fringe Festival.

Low season is in the winter months, from December to February. It will be cold outside but the low costs may keep things cheery!

The best time to visit Seoul, then, is during shoulder season: March to May or September to November. There’s an ideal combination of medium crowds, average costs, and good weather at this time. Also, nature brings color to the city with delicate cherry blossoms in spring and vivid red-orange leaves in autumn? keep your camera ready!

Seoul is an enormous city that stays busy: even in low season, there are 10 million locals bustling around the capital! Finding the perfect accommodation in Seoul may be overwhelming but we have plenty of advice on where to stay in Seoul !

If you’re a first-time traveler to Seoul, the best place to stay is Gangnam neighborhood. Gangnam is as flashy and hectic as the iconic song it inspired but it’s also a solid practical choice as a base for your Seoul itinerary.

The area is a bit further from the top attractions but it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in contemporary Korean culture! Beneath the shiny skyscrapers, the streets are jammed with KPOP stores and Korean restaurants. The nightlife, too, is lots and lots of fun!

Insadong is another great place to stay during your trip to Seoul! It’s more arty than Gangnam and much more laid-back but it’s also conveniently situated for access to the major Seoul landmarks. Insadong is full of wooden tea houses and stunning temples, such as the Cheondogyo Central Temple. There are also plenty of art galleries to lose yourself in! Culture-lovers, this one is for you!

There are hostels in Seoul as well as hotels, home stays and apartments for rent. It depends on what you want and of course, your budget.

Best hostel in Seoul – Zzzip Guesthouse

If you’re looking for perfection on a budget, then this is it! Zzzip Guesthouse offers impeccably clean facilities, welcoming hosts and a convenient location. Guests continue to praise Zzzip for its friendly, social atmosphere. It also provides guests with a wide array of free services like Wifi and luggage storage, and also serves free breakfast daily!

Best Airbnb in Seoul – Artist’s luxury flat @Trendy area

Looking for somewhere uber-trendy to stay in Seoul? This artist’s flat features vintage record players, Beatles memorabilia and traditional Korean furniture. Not only will interior fans be in their element, they’ll have easy access to the city’s best shopping area and transport links all over the city.

Best budget hotel in Seoul – Hanok 24 Guesthouse

You may mistake Hanok 24 Guesthouse for a historical attraction but it really is a hotel and a budget hotel at that! The traditional building offers authentic traditional Korean living arrangements.

The beautiful structure is built around interleading courtyards and walkways. The rooms are very minimalist and there aren’t any western-style beds. The location is also wonderful with easy access to public transport and top Seoul attractions.

Best luxury hotel in Seoul – RYSE Hotel, Autograph Collection by Marriott

The RYSE hotel embodies contemporary, yet characterful luxury. The rooms have a minimalist, yet comfy atmosphere. They’re decorated with warm fabrics, statement lamps and breathtaking views of the cityscape. The hotel is also a hub of creative activity, with workshops taking place regularly. There’s also a library, a fitness center and a sophisticated gallery.

There are so many wonderful places to see in Seoul that it’s best to be organized. We’ve compiled a Seoul itinerary especially for you that will take you around the city for as many days as you like.

It’s impossible to visit Seoul and not use some form of transport because the attractions are quite far apart. Your nerves need to be truly shock-proof if you want to hire a car because drivers in Seoul have no time to lose! We recommend sticking to public transport, a system which is excellent in Seoul!

The public transport system is based around the subway and the buses. The subway is the most convenient method of transport and mastering the Seoul network is really proof that you visited the capital city! Buy a Seoul City Pass or a T-money card to save on public transport. And don’t worry about getting confused: the stop announcements are made in English, too!

We don’t want you to miss out on any part of this stunning country, which is why we recommend purchasing a Rail Pass. This is the best, and cheapest, way to explore South Korea using the well-connected transit system.

Enjoy unlimited train and bus rides on South Korea’s largest transportation network. Available for  7, 14, or 21 days  of travel.

Gyeongbokgung Palace | Bukchon Traditional Village | Jongmyo Shrine | Insadong | Gwangjang Market

Day 1 of your Seoul itinerary will give you a thorough grounding in the major historical landmarks in Seoul. It’s incredible how much you can see in just one day in Seoul!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Gyeongbokgung Palace

• Why it’s awesome: It’s the most magnificent of the royal palaces in Seoul.
• Cost: $3 USD or free with the Integrated Ticket of Palaces
• Food nearby: Hwangsaengga Kalguksu wins rave reviews from everyone. The delicious noodle soup and dumplings will keep you well-energized on day one in Seoul!

Gyeongbokgung was once the home of the powerful Joseon Dynasty which ruled Korea for around 500 years from the 14th century. The Joseon Dynasty bequeathed much of its language and culture to modern-day South Korea. Building on the palace began in 1385 and it has been carefully restored to give visitors a unique experience. In its hay-day, the palace consisted of about 330 buildings that bustled with 3000 members of staff serving the Korean emperor!

The complex was designed using both Chinese and Joseon styles. In fact, Gyeongbokgung is Korea’s version of the Forbidden City! Geunjeongjeon is the main building, a splendid, double-storied masterpiece. It was the throne hall for the Joseon kings: they were crowned here and carried out state business here. Also look out for Gyeonghoeru , a pavilion that was used for state banquets. It overlooks a man-made lake which the king used for boating.

Insider’s Tip: There are free English guided tours of the palace that run at 11:00, 13:30 and 15:30.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Bukchon Traditional Village

• Why it’s awesome: Put on a hanok (traditional Korean attire) and you might as well be back in the era of the Joseon dynasty! This little area has hardly changed at all and is a must on your Seoul itinerary!
• Food nearby: Cha Masineun Tteul is a renowned spot to try out traditional Korean herbal teas along with unusual desserts (try the yummy Steam Pumpkin Cake).

Even though it’s surrounded by imposing imperial palaces, Bukchon still manages to stand out! The beautiful houses with their iconic curved roofs and wooden features were originally inhabited by the nobility. Today, the remaining homes have been preserved as a cultural and tourist attraction.

The structures have been renovated into trendy cafes and sophisticated art galleries. And it’s not just tourists that love Bukchon , the local youth have injected a contemporary energy into this historic district!

There are many craft studios in the area that offer workshops to visitors: learning to make a paper doll or to imprint fabric with gold leaf are some of the best things to do in Seoul. Also, make sure that you peek around the corners to glimpse the charming little alleys that wind around the area!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Jongmyo Shrine

• Why it’s awesome: Jongmyo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses the remains of early Joseon rulers.
• Cost: $1 USD or free with the Integrated Ticket of Palaces
• Food nearby: The ultra-modern Cafe Tong is a perfect contrast to Jongmyo but it’s a good spot to get a cool drink and a bite to eat.

Jongmyo is one of the most spectacular Seoul attractions. It’s the oldest and most authentic Confucian royal shrine in the world where royals worship their royal ancestors. The Jeongjeon, the main hall in the complex, is thought to be the largest single wooden structure in the world with a length of 109 meters.

Even though the Joseon dynasty is no longer in power, Jongmyo Jerye rituals are still carried out regularly as they have been done for the past 600 years.  As it’s such a spiritual space, Jongmyo Shrine is a lovely, tranquil wooded area that’s a good place to just pause and reflect.

  Insider Tip: Entrance to Jongmyo is free on the last Wednesday of the month! Also, be very careful of where you walk: certain pathways are for the ancestral spirits only! These paths are marked as such so keep an eye out.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Insadong

• Why it’s awesome: A DIY walking tour of Insadong will let you experience vibrant street-life in Seoul.
• Food nearby: Street food in South Korea is a serious business in Insadong so look out for corn cookies, dumplings and the legendary King’s dessert (16 000 strands of honey wrapped around an almond, chocolate or peanut center). Yum!

Insadong is full of some of the most interesting places to visit in Seoul. The Kyung-in Museum of Fine Arts hosts excellent collections of traditional Korean (and Japanese) craftsmanship. Also worth a visit is the Beautiful Tea Museum .

By now you will have realized how central tea is to Korean culture and you won’t be surprised to stumble on this little gem. There are displays on the history tea-drinking but if you want to just experience the history, pull up a chair and browse the extensive tea menu. Meanwhile, Tapgol Park is a small, pretty park that’s lined with national memorials.

Most visitors, however, end up in Insadong to stroll along the Ssamzie-Gil Market . This mall, which spills over into the street, is one of the best places in Seoul for souvenir shopping!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Gwangjang Market

• Why it’s awesome: Just catch a whiff of the scintillating smells coming out of Gwangjang and there’s not much you can do to stop yourself from wandering in!
• Cost: Entrance is free; dishes are around $4 USD
• Food nearby: Take your pick of dumplings or braised pig trotters: it’s all right here!

If you’re touring Seoul, you have to visit a food market and there’s no better way to celebrate day one of your Seoul itinerary than with a delicious meal! There’s no need to worry about finding Gwangjang Market: just mention the name to passers-by and when you’re close, you’ll be able to smell wonderful things!

Create your own dinner menu as you drift from one stall to another, sampling bean pancakes, rice wine and raw, live octopus! One of the nice things about Gwangjang is that it’s not just tourists who eat here, locals have been loving the cuisine here for decades! Grab a bench, tuck in and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere! Oh, and you can find some cheap food here so this place is great if you are backpacking Seoul on a budget .

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…

  Changdeokgung Palace | National Museum of Korea | Leeum Samsung Museum of Art | N Seoul Tower | Nanta Show

If you have two days in Seoul, you’ll be able to appreciate more of its imperial history and get to grips with its contemporary side. Day 2 will round off the most important Seoul landmarks to see on your trip with a real focus on Korean art and culture.

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Changdeokgung Palace

• Why it’s awesome: Gyeongbokgung may be the most important royal palace but Changdeokgung is the most beautiful!
• Food nearby: Yongsusan offers delicious Korean fare, specializing in seafood, in an atmospheric setting.

Lovely Changdeokgung Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts plenty of starstruck visitors through the Donhwamun Gate . The large gate with three doors dates from 1609, the original version having been built in 1412. Gyujanggak , the labyrinth of small offices, was originally assigned by the emperor to various courtiers.

The star attraction is Huijeongdang Hall , a large hall used by the king for state business. The original building was burned down in 1917 so the version you see today is a newer structure. However, the hall offers a unique example of Eastern and Western decor. Injeongjeon Hall is another space that was used by the Joseon rulers. It was the venue of the traditional New Year’s Festival, national ceremonies and diplomatic greetings.

Most visitors come to Changdeokgung Palace to see Huwon Gardens . It’s also called “The Secret Garden” as it was originally for the exclusive use of royalty. Even though it’s open to the public now, it still retains a magical atmosphere. The garden is an expansive area that’s full of charming lotus ponds, pavilions and 100 different species of flora! Beside one of the lily ponds is the Juhamnu Pavilion which was used by the king as a private library.

Insider Tip: You can only visit Changdeokgung on a tour and English tours run only twice a day ( at 11:15 and 13:15). To visit the Huwon, take the 10:30, 11:30 or 15:30 tours. You must book the Huwon tickets in advance so do so online or by coming very early (only 50 people are allowed in at a time).

For a truly special experience, book a moonlight tour of the palace. These are only available once a month, for $27 USD.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – National Museum of Korea

• Why it’s awesome: This museum makes history very attractive as it takes visitors through thousands of years in a swanky environment.
• Cost: Free for the Main Exhibition Hall and the Children’s Museum; Special Exhibitions have various charges around the $9 USD mark.
• Food nearby: Mirror Pond Restaurant is the in-house museum eatery. It’s a bit on the pricier side but it sure gets convenience bang-on. The park surrounding the museum is also a popular spot for picnics (you can buy snacks at the convenience store by the main entrance).

The National Museum does a wonderful job of imparting knowledge about Korea to visitors. It chronicles the country’s history from prehistoric time to the age of the Korean Empire. Make sure to admire the Baekje Incense Burner (a 6th/7th-century artefact);  the Golden Treasures from the Great Tomb of Hwangham ; and the Ten Storey Pagoda which comes from the Gyeongcheonsa Temple in the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace.

The National Museum is also a modern architectural masterpiece. It’s built with steel, granite and concrete in an aesthetically-pleasing combination of lines and curves. The building was designed so that the sheer volume of space would be a centerpiece. The museum also emphasizes the harmony between the mountains and the water, and nature and culture.

Insider Tip: The museum offers free Wifi to download its app which serves as an audio guide. As you progress through the collections, the app will be triggered by Bluetooth signals to provide you with extra information!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Leeum Samsung Museum of Art

• Why it’s awesome: There are four floors of incredible Korean art in a beautiful setting!
• Cost: $9 USD for entrance; $1 USD for an audio guide.
• Food nearby: The in-house cafe, Artisée, has an arty ambiance and serves light meals and beverages.

Museum 1 houses traditional Korean art: Buddhist art, metalwork, paintings, calligraphy, Buncheong ware (blue-green traditional Korean stoneware), porcelain, and Celadon (the product of a practice similar to porcelain pottery that is considered to be one of the most advanced of the ceramic arts).

Museum 2 is for contemporary pieces from both Korea and the world. Works by the renowned local artists Chungjeon Lee Sang-beom and Sojung Byeon Kwan-sik are some of the highlights. Their works have defined the modern style of Korean painting. Alongside the Korean artists, the museum is also home to works by the likes of Andy Warhol and Francis Bacon.

Be sure to also admire the museum building itself: the seamless modern structure incorporates traditional craftsmanship like terra cotta tiles. It was designed by architects Jean Nouvel, Rem Koolhaas and Mario Botta. Don’t leave this wonderful attraction off your Seoul itinerary!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – N Seoul Tower

• Why it’s awesome: The views (and especially the sunsets) from up here are just spectacular!
• Cost: $9 USD
• Food nearby: There are five different eateries to choose from in N Seoul Tower: you’ll find everything from Korean fare to homemade burgers here!

Namsan Seoul Tower, on the top of Mt. Namsan, is an iconic Seoul attraction that’s a must-visit while in the South Korean capital. The spiraling TV and radio signal tower was built in 1969. It’s still used as a transmission antenna but has been open to the public since 1980.

The tower has undergone something of a facelift as it’s now one of the trendiest places to visit in Seoul. It has awesome LED technology that lights the tower up in numerous neon colors and patterns, making it a true Seoul landmark!

There are three observation decks at different levels in the tower and there are audio guides to help you pinpoint all the top Seoul points of interest!

Insider Tip: For a truly romantic experience, head up to the 7th level of N Seoul Tower to n.Grill, a French-style restaurant with stunning panoramic views. Entrance to the Observatory is free with an advance reservation at the restaurant.

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Nanta Show

• Why it’s awesome: Nanta is a lively Korean theatre show that’s guaranteed to have you in stitches throughout!
• Cost: $35 USD -$62 USD
• Food nearby: We can only highly praise Myeongdong Gyoja. The lovely restaurant serves traditional Korean cuisine like noodles and dumplings.

Nanta is a funny, silent show set in a kitchen that’s based on the samulnori rhythm ( samulnori is a traditional Korean quartet of percussionists ). These shows have become so popular that they’ve toured all the premier theatres in the world. Even though the show has been going strong since 1997, visiting a Nanta show is still one of the best things to do in Korea.

Watching a Nanta show is a great way to wrap up 2 days in Seoul as even foreigners can appreciate the storylines and spectacular acrobatic feats. There are three dedicated Nanta theatres in Seoul but the Myeongdong Nanta is the most popular with tourists.

See  here  for availability.

Zzzip Guesthouse

Based in fashion and arts district Hongdae, this guesthouse is colorful, comfy and clean. The owners pride their venue for having a ‘family feel’ and uniting backpackers from all around the globe.

• Free breakfast
• Free luggage storage

Everland Theme Park | Changgyeonggung Palace | Deoksugung Palace | Trick Eye Museum | Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Gangnam Course

If you’re lucky enough to have 3 days in Seoul, there’s a variety of fantastic attractions to choose from! Enjoyed the imperial history on your first 2 days in Seoul? We’ve got more on our Seoul itinerary for you! Preferred the contemporary landmarks? We’ve got those, too!

Everland Theme Park

• Take a trip around the world and through the ages with some of the most exciting rides in the world!
• One-day entrance is $50 USD for adults and $39 USD for children (book online to skip the queues).
• It’s actually located within a resort, Everland Resort, so some visitors choose to stay overnight, but it’s totally possible to just spend a few hours in the theme park!

Make sure you put Everland Theme Park on your Seoul trip itinerary because it’s one of the most fun things to do in Seoul! Between rides, live parades and stunning gardens, it’s easy to get lost inside the park. However, there are five main sections so you can easily prioritize which attractions to visit in advance.

As the name suggests, the American Adventure section is inspired by American history, particularly the era of the Wild West. Expect rodeos and rock ‘n roll!

The European Adventure section boasts a Mystery Mansion ride where visitors shoot at the resident ghosts along the ride! There’s also a wooden roller coaster!

In Magic Land , you’ll find attractions based on the myths of Ancient Greece. Look out for the robot ride and the flying ride! If you feel like the company of animals, head to ZooTopia .

When you’re ready to take a break from all the rides, head to the Global Fair for some food and a spot of shopping!

Buy your tickets  here  before you go.

Changgyeonggung Palace

• This imperial palace is known as the one that is “overflowing with filial devotion” as it was originally built for the king’s father.
• Entrance is $1 USD or free with the Integrated Ticket of Palaces.
• The palace is full of stories about the Joseon dynasty’s personal relationships!

If you have 3 days in Seoul, you’ll have enough time to visit more imperial palaces. The third palace to put on your Seoul itinerary is Changgyeonggung Palace, which was built in the 15th century by the Joseon Dynasty.

It was partially destroyed during the Japanese invasion in the 16th century so today’s beautiful structure is only a shadow of its former glory.

The first attraction inside the palace is Okcheongyo Bridge which is built over a pond, in the style of all Joseon bridges. Next, drift towards the Myeonjeongjeon , which was once the king’s office.

The Munjeongjeon was used as a hall for state business. In one particularly tragic case, King Yeongjo had his mentally-ill son executed outside the hall after discovering that the future ruler had been terrorizing his own people.

Tongmyeongjeon , the biggest building in the palace complex, was for the queen’s use. It’s one of the most decorative parts of the palace.

Also look out for the Punggidae , an instrument which was used to measure the speed and direction of the wind.

Deoksugung Palace

• Deoksugung Palace is another royal residence that was used by the Joseon dynasty.
• Changing of the Guard takes place thrice daily at 11:00, 14:00 and 15:30.

The “Palace of Virtuous Longevity” is the fifth and final imperial palace on your Seoul itinerary. The Joseon dynasty used it after the Japanese invasion damaged their other palaces. The palace was inhabited by the Jonseon emperors until 1919 when the last true emperor died in his Deoksugung apartment, the Hamnyeongjeon.

Deoksugung is a fascinating blend of western and eastern styles. Junghwajeon , the primary throne hall that’s decorated with dragons and gilded finishings, epitomizes indigenous design. Seokjojeon , on the other hand, was designed by a British architect in the neoclassical style. It now houses a lovely art collection.

Insider Tip: Join one of the free guided tours in English to fully appreciate the pretty palace. There are tours at 10:45 and 13:30.

Trick Eye Museum

• Ready to have your whole world turned on its feet? There are some bizarre optical illusions here!
• Entrance is $13 USD for adults and $11 USD for kids.
• Download the Trick Eye app to expand the optical illusions that are showcased!

If you’re all about the weird and wacky, then put the Trick Eye Museum on your Seoul itinerary! From blending into a 3D painting to sitting in a life-size ice sculpture carriage, you can do all of it here!

The Mirror Maze is one of the most popular attractions in the museum. It may leave you breathless and a little dizzy as you continuously lose your way but it is also lots of fun!

The museum also presents an unusual gift shop: one where you can make your own souvenirs! Another popular activity is dressing up in a hanbok (traditional Korean attire), having your hair and make-up done and then doing a photo shoot!

See  here  for availability.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Gangnam Course

• Yes, Gangnam isn’t just a song, it’s a real place!
• Tickets are just $13 USD each.
• This bus tour provides the perfect combination of convenience and flexibility for your visit to Gangnam!

If you have an extra day in Seoul, then a visit to Gangnam must be on your Seoul itinerary. The area behind the hit Psy song is a busy hub of business facilities and creative outlets. You’re allowed to use the bus pass for an entire day and audio guides are available to make the most of the tour.

Some of the top Seoul attractions are stops on this tour. Don’t miss Bongeunsa Temple , a Buddhist temple built all the way back in 794. There is a 28m tall statue of Buddha and some beautiful gardens. Go at 18:40 to witness a percussion ceremony that the monks conduct daily.

Another key stop is K-Star Road which is lined with boutique stalls, K-Pop record labels and GangnamDols of top singers. Psy’s GangnamDol is 3m high!

The Seoul Olympic Park is also worth a visit. It was built for the 1988 Summer Olympics and includes 6 different stadiums. There’s also a beautiful collection of art throughout the complex.

Seoul is generally a very safe city to visit but there are a few things to look out for. The first thing that tends to alarm most people is the proximity to North Korea. Other common concerns include fears about speeding and eating street food. Don’t worry; just follow our tips on staying safe in Seoul and you’ll be just fine!

Pickpockets do frequent Seoul landmarks so keep all your valuables safely on your person and in sight at all times. Locals are generally very friendly but if someone seems just a bit too familiar, back away. Drugs are illegal in South Korea and the penalties for drug users are severe so stay clean in Seoul.

Politics is full of pitfalls in Seoul. If you see a protest taking place in the capital (which is very likely), do not join, ever! It’s illegal for foreigners to protest in South Korea. Also, avoid talking about the Korean War and be on your best behavior if you visit the Demilitarized Zone (which is still actually guarded by soldiers).

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Seoul

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.

Get to see a bit more of South Korea by leaving the city on one of these fabulous day trips from Seoul!

South Korea Demilitarized Zone Half & Full Day Tour

This tour allows you to get up close with the Korean conflict by visiting the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that’s on the border with North Korea.

You’ll also be able to explore The Third Tunnel which was engineered by North Korea as part of a 1978 attempt to invade South Korea.

At the Dora Observatory , you’ll be able to look into North Korea. This may be as close to visiting North Korea as you’ll ever get.

Hope that relations between the two countries will warm up remains, though, and you can see this in the Dorasan Station . This is the railway station that will be used for journeys between the countries if that day ever comes.

This day trip from Seoul is an essential on any Seoul itinerary.

Nami Island, Korean Style Garden of Morning Calm & Rail Bike

This lovely day trip from Seoul will show you South Korea’s natural side. Due to the beautiful landscape, Nami Island is the set location of many movies and K-dramas.

The Garden of Morning Calm displays traditional Korean gardens over 30 000 square meters! It’s particularly stunning if you visit in autumn.

There’s also an option to take a rail bike tour. With this activity, you’ll go for a rail bike ride an old train track in the countryside. There’s also the option of a Korean-style lunch.

Mt. Bukhan Hike & Korean-Style Spa with Full Body Treatment

On this full-day trip from Seoul, you’ll visit Mt. Bukhan, South Korea’s highest mountain. The hike only takes half of the day. You’ll be rewarded with lovely flora, stunning views from the top and the fresh mountain air!

If that’s not enough incentive, then remember that a spa treatment is included in the tour after your hike! During the treatment, you can enjoy a traditional sauna, a full-body scrub, an invigorating massage, a facial and a soothing hair wash! You’re sure to leave Mt. Bukhan even fresher and more energized than you were when you stepped into the bus!

Seoraksan National Park and Naksansa Temple Group Tour

Seoraksan National Park is host to the Seoraksan Mountain, the 3rd highest in South Korea. This rugged mountain range will be the setting of a day trip from Seoul that combines nature, history and culture!

Enjoy views of the landscape along the Baekdam Valley as you journey towards Baekdamsa Temple. The Buddhist temple will offer a glimpse into the Buddhist traditions.

Then it’s on to the Naksansa Temple which was built around 1300 years ago! The awe-inspiring temple complex boasts numerous monuments which are all architectural masterpieces!

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Tour

This short and sweet day trip from Seoul will take you to the Hwaseong Fortress. Your guide will explain the architectural features and thrilling history that have made the fortress an iconic feature on any Seoul itinerary!

The fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because, amongst other features, its original 6km long walls still survive! It’s so authentic that you may even be able to imagine yourself as a Korean soldier on the ramparts!

Things are a bit more luxurious at the Hwaseong Haenggung Palace which was the king’s palace during wartime or his travels outside of Seoul. Make sure you have your camera for the changing of the guard ceremony!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Seoul itinerary.

What should you include on a 5 day Seoul itinerary?

Don’t skip out on these Seoul highlights: – Gyeongbokgung Palace – Bukchon Traditional Village – Gwangjang Market – N Seoul Tower

Where should you stay if you have a full Seoul itinerary?

Staying in Gangnam will give you easy access Seoul’s iconic landmarks and attractions. Insadong is another great choice, it’s more laid back than Gangnam but full of culture!

Is solo travel in Seoul safe?

Seoul is very safe for solo travellers! Just stay out of politics and keep an eye on your bags and you’ll be totally fine.

What are the best day trips from Seoul?

The most popular Seoul day trips include the Demilitarized Zone , Nami Island, Mt. Bukhan Hike & Spa, and Seoraksan National Park.

The fusion of East and West, and the blending of old and new, is something that’s unique to Seoul. The enormous city boasts so many fascinating attractions that you could easily spend weeks in the Korean capital. If you’re planning a vacation in Seoul, you don’t want to miss out on all this cosmopolitan city has to offer.

But luckily, it doesn’t matter whether you’re spending 1,2, 3 or more days in Seoul because there’s an itinerary for everyone. From where to stay in Seoul to what to do in Seoul, we’ve given you all the answers. All you have to do now is to book your flight because our Seoul itinerary has everything covered for you!

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Hi Aaron such a amazing blog and trip, i have a plan to go to Korea soon and i also found that you visit Gwangjang Market too, i heard there are alot of snacks there, i really want to try it when i reach there :), thank you so much for this post, give me alot of knowledge and information!

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2 Days in Seoul, South Korea: The Perfect 48-Hour Seoul Itinerary

Though Seoul is one of the most developed cities in the world, when it comes to tourism, the capital city of South Korea is, surprisingly, often overlooked. But the city of Seoul is home to interesting tourist sites, vibrant nightlife, incredible shopping, and delicious food.

Whether you have a week or just a few hours to explore the city, you’re guaranteed to make loads of fun memories in this eclectic city. From ancient royal palaces to fine-dining restaurants, there is so much to explore and experience in Seoul.

Seoul is just a short flight away from many other Asian destinations and Incheon International Airport is a common stopover between North America and Asia. This makes Seoul an ideal location for a long layover or a weekend getaway. But if you’re short on time, deciding what to do in Seoul can be quite overwhelming.

So, if you just have 48 hours in Seoul, you’ll love this detailed Seoul itinerary to experience the best of the city in just one weekend!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

48 Hours in Seoul, South Korea: A Weekend Guide

Day 1 in seoul itinerary: morning, 7 am – land at incheon international airport.

One of the largest and busiest airports in the world, Incheon International Airport is like a mini-Seoul in itself. At the airport, you can experience everything from local Korean cuisine to traditional spa treatments and even fun cultural activities.

From the airport, head to your hotel to drop off your bags before beginning your sightseeing tour of Seoul . We recommend booking your accommodations in the Myeongdong district due to its proximity to the airport. 

10 am – Shopping in Myeongdong

There is no better place to start your Seoul 2-day tour than the Myeongdong shopping district. This lively Seoul neighborhood has everything from bustling shopping markets to delicious street food stalls where you can try lots of delicious Korean food .

Myeongdong is also home to some of the trendiest bars in Seoul, but it’s still morning and we suggest you hold off on the bars until nighttime. Take your time exploring the shops and markets of Myeongdon, it’s one of the best neighborhoods in Seoul. 

Day 1 in Seoul: Afternoon

12 pm – gyeongbokgung palace.

Grab an early lunch in Myeongdong before leaving so you can stay focused on sightseeing in Seoul. Begin your tour with Gyeongbokgung Palace , one of the most iconic attractions in Seoul. The palace has been located here since the 14th century; however, the present version was built in the 19th century.

While visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony which is a beautiful reenactment of yesteryear. The ceremony is observed twice a day – at 10 am and 2 pm. 

Pro Tip: Purchasing the Discover Seoul Pass is an awesome way to save money in Seoul. It gives you free entrance to 42 attractions in Seoul, including Gyeongbokgung Palace and the N Seoul Tower. You can also use it as a T-Money card when you’re riding the metro and buses around Seoul

Buy a Discover Seoul Pass

3 pm – Insadong and the Gyeongin Museum of Fine Art

Another popular neighborhood in your Seoul itinerary, Insadong, is dotted with charming hanoks (traditional Korean houses) and gently curving dancheong (intricately painted roofs). There is no shortage of things to do in Insadong , and you’ll definitely want to spend a couple of hours exploring this picturesque Korean neighborhood.

Insadong is crammed with traditional Korean teahouses so stop at one for an afternoon break. We recommend Dawon Teahouse which is regarded as one of the best teahouses in Insadong. It’s located in a hanok on the grounds of the Gyeongin Museum of Fine Ar t, another popular Seoul attraction. 

Day 1 in Seoul: Evening

5 pm – cheonggyecheon stream.

Just a short walk from Insadong is another must-visit location in your Seoul itinerary. Cheonggyecheon Stream , a 7-mile-long man-made stream, is perfect for a late afternoon or evening stroll.

The Cheonggyecheon Stream was a natural stream that flowed through Seoul before rapid urbanization caused it to be paved over in the 1960s. But then in 2003, a massive urban renewal project led to the riverbed being excavated and the stream was turned into a peaceful pedestrian park.

Engirdled by concrete and high-rises, the Cheonggyecheon Stream is a perfect peaceful hideout to stroll quietly while adoring the beautiful view of the city. The stream is also adorned with small waterfalls that help drown out the noise from the city, and you’ll almost certainly see birds bathing in the shallow water. 

8 pm – Nam Mountain and N Seoul Tower

One of the best things to do in Seoul has to be to visit Nam Mountain , an 860-foot high peak in the Jung District.

You’ll start your visit by riding the Namsan Cable Car to the N Seoul Tower near the top of the mountain. From there, you’ll take the elevator up the N Seoul Tower to the observation deck which provides a 360-degree view of the entire city of Seoul.

Here you can also enjoy an unforgettable dining experience at N Grill . It is one of the best restaurants in Seoul which serves French and Korean fusion cuisine.  

11 pm – Noraebang

If you want to make the most of your 48 hours in Seoul, then sleep is simply not an option. And visiting a noraebang is one of the best things to do in Seoul at night!

A noraebang is a Korean-style private karaoke room. You’ll have your own microphones, TV, and even your own waitstaff to ensure you’re never short on food and drinks to keep the karaoke party going all night long.

If you are looking for the best noreabangs in Seoul, then head to the Hongdae District where you’ll have dozens to choose from.

Day 2 in Seoul Itinerary: Morning

10 am – itaewon.

Itaewon is yet another popular neighborhood in your Seoul itinerary. Often touted as a multicultural district, Itaewon is best known for its outstanding food scene. Here you’ll find food from all over the world! Whether you choose to dine on Indian, German, Italian, French, or Mexican cuisine, Itaewon has something for everyone. 

You’ll find the highest concentration of restaurants on the street behind the Hamilton Hotel – just take Exit #2 from Itaewon Station.

Day 2 in Seoul: Afternoon

1 pm – visit a jimjilbang.

A jimjilbang is a traditional Korean bathhouse where you can enjoy soaking in hot pools, steaming in saunas, and bathing in waterfalls.

For hundreds of years, jimjilbangs have been an integral part of Korean culture. They are the perfect place to spend some relaxing time with friends and family. Some of Seoul’s larger jimjilbangs even contain karaoke rooms, cafes, salons, fitness centers, and libraries so you can spend an entire day and not run out of things to do!

Dragon Hill Spa and Silloam Fire Pot are two of the most popular jimjilbangs in Seoul. Dragon Hill Spa, the largest jimjilbang in Seoul, is centrally located in the Yongsan District, and Silloam Fire Pot is in the Jung District. Both are just a short metro ride from Myeongdong.

Day 2 in Seoul: Evening

7 pm – gangnam district .

The swanky Gangnam District will be your last stop on your 48-hour tour of your Seoul itinerary. This district is one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city and it has become even more famous thanks to the K-Pop mega-hit, Gangnam Style .

Full of upscale condos, high-end plastic surgery clinics, and designer boutiques, Gangnam is home to many of Seoul’s wealthiest residents. In fact, it’s sometimes referred to as the Beverly Hills of South Korea.

But, what draws tourists here is the vibrant nightlife of Gangnam. From cheap Korean street food stalls to laidback cafes and cozy restaurants, this district has something for every taste and budget. A night of dining, drinking, and partying in Gangnam is the perfect way to end your 2 days in Seoul!

So, there you have it! Our recommended itinerary for your 2-day trip to Seoul. Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!

Traveling to Seoul? Check out our favorite books and travel guides.

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Jimmy and Tah – About the Authors:

We are Jimmy and Tah, American and Thai millennials who left our careers in military and finance to become travel inspirers & storytellers.

We started our life of non-stop travel in September 2017 and began sharing our journey on DivertLiving.com . Now we’re living the life we have always dreamed of – traveling the world and working from wherever we love (as long as there is Wi-Fi and coffee).

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Living and traveling in Korea

An Epic Travel Guide To Seoul, Korea For The First Timer

Seoul, Korea is huge and has gained a ton of attention in the past decade for not only a beautiful culture but also the Hallyu wave that has swept over the world. When you begin to plan your trip to the capital city of Korea it can seem overwhelming and you may not know where to begin.

While I’m known for promoting the off the beaten path spots in and around Seoul and promoting new hot spots to check out, I wanted to create an essential guide for the first time visitor to this busy and fun capital of Korea.

Having lived here since 2006 when I first came as an English teacher, you can be assured, this is THE guide to read before you get here. Whether or not it’s your first time to Korea though, read through it and make sure you’ve seen everything there is to see. From Seoul’s quirky cafes to the best spots to get gorgeous views. it’s all here. Make your time in Seoul, Korea the best it can be!

This is a massive travel guide with all of the information you need for any trip to Seoul, Korea. Because it’s so long, definitely feel free to skip around. Here is what you’ll find in this post:

• What To do To Prepare For Your Trip To Seoul
• Is It Safe To Travel In South Korea?

What To Know About Money & ATMs In Seoul

• Which Is The Best Area To Stay In Seoul?
• What Is The Best Time To Visit Korea?

General Travel Tips For Korea

• A Korean palace
• A traditional market
• Rent a Hanbok
• Find the hotspots
• Visit the Han River
• Get a good view
• Visit lots and lots of cafes
• Visit a museum
• Visit a spa
• Visit an amusement park
• See the DMZ
• Check out these notable spots in between

To Join A Tour Or Not To Join A Tour

• Where To Get Out Of Seoul For A Day Trip

Want To Get Off The Beaten Path In & Around Seoul?

Places to take trips from seoul.

(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.)

Need help with an itinerary? Elevate your travel experience with our downloadable Seoul Itinerary Pack. combine, and conquer the city’s wonders, one unforgettable day at a time.

What To Do To Prepare For Your Trip To Seoul

Are you traveling to Seoul soon? Here are some things to help you prepare for the trip:

Buy Your Plane Ticket: You can get some great deals on flights to Seoul, Korea. If you haven’t tried, check Skyscanner.com for the best rates.

Can I use the Wise Card In Korea? How To Send Money To Korea

Wise Travel Card: Whether you’re looking to travel to Korea for the first time or you’re moving to Korea and want to be able to use your money from home in Korea easily, you should look into the Wise travel card when it comes to converting currencies and getting away from card fees and bad exchange rates. The first time I came to Korea I had difficulty getting my debit card/Mastercard to work. Don’t be like me, come prepared. You can learn more about the Wise travel card in my review .

Get a Visa/Korea Electronic Travel Authorization: The process for coming into Korea has changed during Covid and now everyone must apply for a K-ETA before arrival. The K-ETA is for visa-free foreign visitors and while you’re visa free, they still want to know you’re coming and where you’re headed. Here is a guide to fill out the information for the K-ETA . Go to the K-ETA website to apply. You should find out if you’ve received approval within 24 hours, but usually faster.

Study Korean:  90 Day Languages has a great course on Korean and offers a lot of help if you’re interested in preparing before you come. A little goes a long way here and it actually only takes about an hour to learn how to read Hangul… no joke! You can also check out this guide to learning Korean online and through apps I put together to get some more Korean learning options.

Plan Your Airport Transfer:  There are numerous ways to transfer from Incheon International Airport outside of the city into the city of Seoul from the subway/train and bus to taxis. To be honest, we almost always opt for the private transfer. It’s fast and easy and we don’t have to worry about dragging our bags this way and that and up and down escalators. TaDa is a great company that provides transfers as well as rides within the city.  Book your transfer in advance  to make the trip smooth and easy.

Get Good Hard Case Luggage:  Packing all of the essentials is good only if they get to the other side with you. Make sure to have good luggage to get you and your belongings all the way.  Roam Luggage has awesome customizable bags that will go the distance and look super cool on the way. We highly recommend using hard case luggage for any international flight.

International Driver’s License: To be honest, I wouldn’t recommend driving in Seoul if it’s your first time to this massive city. BUT, if you plan to and will rent a car  while you’re here, then remember to bring your International Driver’s License. I highly recommend renting a car if you’ll be headed to Jeju Island or anywhere aside from Seoul and Busan because it’s much easier to get around that way in those cases.

Where To Buy A TMoney Card For Korea

How To Get A T-Money Card For Kids in Korea

The Discover Seoul Pass: Travel On A Budget In Seoul

The Seoul City Tour Bus Guide: What To See & Do When You Hop On Hop Off

T-Money Card/Discover Seoul Pass/Hop On & Hop Off Bus: To get around using the Seoul Subway System or buses or other public transportation options, you’ll need to get a T-Money card . This card allows you to put money on it and scan it at the turnstiles in subways and when you’re getting on and off buses and even works in taxis.

HOWEVER, if you’ll be doing a lot of touristy things and visiting the touristy sites, then you might be better off getting the Discover Seoul Pass . This pass comes with a variety of perks like access to Hanbok rentals, palaces, view points and other major attractions AND it also works as a T-Money card. On top of that, you get a free ride on the AREX and Airport bus to/from Incheon International Airport. 

SO, if you’ll be touristy,  grab the Discover Seoul Pass to get out and about plus this also acts as a T-Money card. But do know how to use it. Here is a guide and itineraries for using the Discover Seoul Pass to the max. There’s also a great Hop On/ Hop Off Tour Bus option here in Seoul you can use too.

Korea Rail Pass:  If you want to get out of Seoul and plan to use the train more than twice, then the Korea Rail Pass is the economical/budget choice you want to have on hand. You can get back and forth between the popular  Nami Island  nearby the city or go as far as  Andong  or even  Busan . The train line is the limits.  Grab the card here  and just head to the station with your confirmation and it’s as easy as that.

Wifi Eggs/Sim Cards:  While there is great WiFi in many places around Seoul and Korea, nothing beats having your own Wifi Egg so there’s no lag in connection. You can pre-reserve  Sim Cards via Klook so they’re ready and waiting for you when you fly into either Incheon International Airport or into Busan International Airport. You can alco get an eSIM with eSIM Korea which is even’t easier. Here’s a complete guide to the best Korean SIM cards for your trip to Korea.

Top 15 Apps to Download When You Come To Korea

Download Some Useful Apps: The Seoul subway system is super efficient and you can ride it for two hours or more, not pay an arm and a leg, and see a ton. Make sure to download the subway app to know where to go the easiest. The app even tells you which subway car to stand on when.

On the note of apps, do note that Google Maps is horrible when it comes to Korea and will be more difficulty than it’s worth. Another map app that you’ll find useful is Kakao Maps which can be used in both Korean and English. Kakao also has Kakao Taxi which is the best option should you want to get around using local taxis.

Pack The Right Clothes: Seoul has four distinct seasons. The summer is hot hot hot and the winter is cold cold cold! Be prepared. Check out this post for what to pack when you come to Korea . You’ll want to have everything from a fine dust mask to good walking shoes for the best trip you can have in Korea.

Recommended Travel Adapters For Korea

Don’t Forget A Travel Adapter: For some reason travel adapters are easily forgotten among the tourists I’ve met. Remember that not every place has the same plugs/outlets. Make sure you know which travel adapter to bring to Korea so your trip isn’t bumpy at the beginning as you race around trying to charge your devices.

Get Your TEFL:  This is less for travelers than it is for the soon to be teachers. There are a lot of teaching positions available in Korea so to make yourself stand out, definitely make sure you get your TEFL before you come… though you can also get it online once you come too!

Is it safe to travel in South Korea?

Generally, yes, it is very safe in Korea. That said, many foreigners come here assuming that because there is no gun violence or drug issues in Korea it’s MUCH safer than it really is. While you will likely not have any problems while you’re here, certainly don’t put yourself in situations you wouldn’t in your home country.

While I don’t think there is a ton of scamming to look out for, I do want to say you should be wary of cults in Korea that will see tourists coming a mile away. Most vendors aren’t jacking up prices just because you speak a different language, but I would watch out for people that spike drinks. Just be mindful as you should be at all times.

Is it safe to drink tap water in South Korea?

After coming here and seeing how everyone consistently opts for bottled water over tap water, you might be surprised to learn that tap water is indeed potable in Korea and actually tested more than most other places for safety. Yes, you can drink the tap water in Korea, but read this article to find out why Koreans tend to drink bottled water.

The unit of currency is the Korean Won (KRW)

Your cards will likely work, but they will also likely not work. That is to say that for every ATM you find that your card works at, it won’t work at two others and this can be frustrating. While Koreans walk around swiping everywhere now and probably have NO cash in their wallets, as a traveler, you’ll want to have some.

Make sure to let your bank/creditor know that you’ll be traveling to Korea before you come and you will be able to find an ATM that works…. at some point. But bring at least W300,000 = $300.00 in cash to get by at the beginning just in case it takes you longer to find cash.

You could even bring more just to be safe. Most places downtown will also accept your card, but if you’re looking to get into some hole in the wall spots, you’ll probably find spots that won’t take your card. Just be prepared. This is one of the biggest worries for tourists here so better to be safe rather than sorry.

If you want to exchange when you get here, the best spot to do it is in Myeongdong if you have cash and can’t find an ATM that works.

Tipping culture in Korea : Tipping is not a common part of Korean culture. Yes, you can try to tip at restaurants, to taxi drivers, or to your tour guides, but it isn’t expected, though may be accepted. Learn more in this guide to tipping in Korea so you can understand.

Is Korea cheap?

It can be, but it also may not be. For instance, a mistake a lot of new residents and tourists make is heading to expensive bars for drinks or trendy restaurants. Eating out can definitely rack up the bills, however, eating at traditional markets or in small mom and pop shops will definitely make it cheaper.

There are numerous ways to make a trip to Korea more budget friendly like taking advantage of the 40 free walking tours in Seoul. There is even hiking gear available to borrow for free from the city. Find out more ways to save money on a trip to Korea and check out this list of completely free things to do in Seoul to help you if you’re on a budget.

Which is the best area to stay in Seoul?

There are some areas that are definitely better for tourists to stay in if you’re hoping to see the top sites, have the fun, and get in the cultural experiences. Seoul is massive and you definitely don’t want to be in an area that requires a lot of transportation to get to the major sites. I’ve written a complete guide to where to stay in Seoul here. Check it out. More concisely, here are the top areas to stay in and a bit of info about each:

Myeongdong:  Myeongdong is a very central location and a great spot to stay for tourists, especially tourists that want to shop. It’s a big shopping district but that also means all of the restaurants and cafes have Korean AND English menus among other language options. Things open up with the tourists and stay open late with them too.

Transportation on the train, subway, and buses is easy from here and a lot of the tourists sites are within 20 to 30 minutes. I wrote a guide to the best places to stay in Myeongdong , but you can also go directly to Booking.com to find Myeongdong hotels here . If you want to check out the Airbnb options, look here.

Bukchon Hanok Village: If you’re looking for a more traditional Hanok house to stay in, then you’ll want to head to this area. The Bukchon Hanok Village is between the main palaces and near a lot of the cultural experiences. This is also a highly touristed area so restaurants will be able to help you and you’ll see some of the gorgeous older neighborhoods in the city.

You can find Bukchon Hanok Village stays here . If you’re an Airbnb person, then you can check here for some amazing Airbnbs in the Bukchon Hanok Village .

Hongdae: If you’re looking for a younger, hipper area with live music and an arts scene, this is the neighborhood for you. It doesn’t wake up as early as the above areas because it stays awake so late. There are a ton of restaurants and cafes here and it’s an area that best serves the night owls and the people that want to see busking, find a cool pub or bar, or see some live music.

I have culled a list of the best places to stay in Hongdae right here. But, if you want to get right to it, you can find Hongdae hotels here . For Airbnbs in the Hongdae area, look here .

Itaewon: Itaewon is the foreign area of Seoul and where a ton of foreign locals reside so there is GOOD foreign food if you’re looking for that foreign comfort food. I don’t usually recommend this area to tourists because I think the majority of sites you’ll want to see are more north, BUT if you’ll want to split your time between the Hanok villages and palaces and Gangnam which is south of the river, then Itaewon is your best bet so you have the same transportation time from here to there and everywhere.

You can find Itaewon hotels here . There are some great Airbnbs in the Itaewon area, too.

Dongdaemun: Another shopping district, Dongdaemun is very close to the touristy north and also has easy transportation to the south. This is a vibrant neighborhood with a lot of hidden gems and a lot fashionable people. There are quite a few subway line options, buses, and it’s easy to get taxis here too. You can find Dongdaemun hotels here . You can check here if you’re more of an Airbnb person.

What is the best time to visit Korea?

There are four distinct seasons in Korea… well maybe five if you include monsoon season. Since I live here and have gone through every season, I can honestly say that they are all amazing for one reason or another.

Summer (June ~ Mid-September): Summer can be horribly humid. If you aren’t used to humidity, then you definitely won’t want to stay in Seoul the entire time you’re here. Most Seoulites head to the coast whenever they can or up into the mountains to soak in the rivers and lakes because that is just the best way to cool off. There are beautiful beaches on the eastern, southern, and western coasts of Korea so make sure to have time to visit one.

Once you get here, you’ll definitely want to make the time because summer is hot hot hot! Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to summer in Korea for more information.

Autumn (Mid-September ~ November): Autumn is definitely one of the most beautiful times to visit Korea when the fall foliage bursts into an array of colors across the peninsula and the scents of cinnamony hoddeok waft down the streets. Not only do the leaves change, but there are flower fields that burst into bloom as well. You can find some gorgeous flowers in the World Cup Parks as well as at Nari Park .

The only problem with autumn is that it’s difficult to pin down. You can make plans, but the foliage can burst at any time. October is a sure bet and early November for flowers and foliage at the same time. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to fall in Korea for more information.

Winter (December ~ February): Winter is not easy in Seoul. It can be beautiful if it snows and I know a lot of tourists headed here in the winter are hoping for that winter wonderland they may have seen in Korean dramas. Honestly though, if you definitely want to see snow, make plans to head out of Seoul to the mountains where you can ski or snowboard or just visit a resort with a ton of snow. There are some great options for getting out of the city to see snow if that’s what you’re looking for.

Otherwise, if you’re staying in Seoul this winter, just plan to wear a long parka and jump inside as often as possible. It is freezing especially in January and February. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to winter in Korea for more information.

Spring (March ~ May): Spring is a gorgeous time to visit… again if it’s planned right. People often come looking for the cherry blossoms and that’s just so difficult to pinpoint early in the year. They’re often blooming on my birthday in mid April, but this year it was still soooo cold and no blooms that early, so it’s hard to say.

However, that said, there are lots of flowers to see around Seoul whether it be cherry blossoms, tulips, or daisies, so just be ready to look for some other bloomers if flowers is what you seek. Also, make sure to bring jackets and cover ups because it can still be quite chilly in the spring. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to spring in Korea for more information. 

A Guide To Spring In Korea: Cherry Blossoms and More

A Guide to Summer in Korea: Get Ready For Fun

A Guide to Fall In Korea: Foliage and More

A Guide To Winter In Korea: Snow and Ice and Everything Nice

• Tipping is not required or expected in South Korea.
• Water from the tap is potable, safe to drink.
• You won’t find large glasses of water at restaurants but you can find water machines so grab a water bottle to carry along with you.

The Top Things You Must See & Do In Seoul

1. a korean palace.

There are five palaces in the city of Seoul with the largest and most popular being Gyeongbokgung Palace . Gyeongbokgung Palace is beautiful and very much worth the visit. This is THE palace that a first-timer to Korea should see but it does get crowded during high tourist seasons so here’s what you should know about the other palaces nearby just in case.

A lot of tourists rent Hanboks and visit the palaces. Did you know you actually get free entry if you’re wearing a Hanbok? Keep reading to find the best places to go to rent a Hanbok in downtown Seoul.

The nearby Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden require a tour reservation and is known for having gorgeous views in every season. Changgyeonggung Palace is just around the corner from Changdeokgung Palace and actually connects in the back corner and yet most people never even see this one.

If you want a palace to yourself with a beautiful pond and a gorgeous greenhouse built during the Japanese colonization, don’t miss it and then you can walk through the back gate into Changdeokgung Palace. Kind of a two for one experience and a unique one at that.

Deoksugung Palace is one that’s rather well known because it’s easy to find near City Hall and they have a changing of the guard ceremony which is great fun to watch. This palace is unique in that there are numerous architectural styles on the grounds as well as an art museum inside one of the buildings in the grounds. This palace is much smaller than the others and easy to see quickly if you don’t have much time in your schedule.

Gyeonghuigung Palace is the smallest and least popular of the palaces, which doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be visited, so do look at the info for it.

Though that is the five that are well known, there is also a royal residence that is downtown that you could easily walk to and is very different from the others in that it’s unpainted and often used for photos by the locals. The royal residence is called Unhyeonggung Royal Residence. This beautiful spot is great for photos.

2. A traditional market

There are traditional markets all around Seoul and in just about every district. Some are more popular than others, but what’s for sure is that traditional markets are fun to visit and always have delicious food to eat.

Gwangjang Market: This is my FAVORITE spot to take visitors and get good authentic eats in the city of Seoul. It is hustling and busy and there are good eats to be had from every vendor there.

If you want to see an awesome traditional market, the oldest traditional market, in Seoul, then go here and check out my guide t o Gwangjang Market if you want to know what to eat. This market was also featured in a Netflix series as well so if you’re a foodie, do not miss it.

Tongin Market: Tongin Market is another traditional market that does it just a bit differently. This market which is just west of Gyeongbokgung Palace , a neighborhood not often visited by tourists but more well known by locals, does a cool thing with old traditional coins and food.

This is a great option if you aren’t sure what you like yet and want to try a little of a lot of different things. Here is some information on how to use the coins at Tongin Market and what you can get.

Noryangjin Fish Market:  If you want to see the largest fish market in Seoul, then Noryangjin Fish Market is the one for you. While it is by no means the ONLY fish market in the city, it is the most popular for tourists to visit.

If you want to see the real action, you’ll have to wake up before sunrise to see the sale, but if you want to some good eats, definitely go later so you can pick out your own fish and then eat it in the market. There is both an old and a new part of Noryangjin Market , so make sure you know where you’re headed.

3. Rent a Hanbok

Renting a Hanbok is one of the most memorable and unique experiences you can have in Seoul. On top of it being a great way to learn more about the culture, it’s also a lot more budget friendly than you might realize and you can even get into traditional sites for FREE when you’re wearing a Hanbok. Learn more about where to rent a Hanbok in Seoul and everything else you need to know about it. 

4. Find the hotspots

Bukchon Hanok Village:  One of the must see neighborhoods in the city of Seoul, the Bukchon Hanok Village is popular for a reason. The residential neighborhood is home to traditional Korean Hanok houses lined up all in a row. They are beautiful and there are a ton of intimate Hanok cafes and traditional experiences.

This is one of those areas that you’ve seen pictures of again and again but will want to visit on your own. Check out this guide to Bukchon Hanok Village to learn more about the area, where to go, and what to eat. Or, check out this Bukchon Itinerary .

Insadong District:  Near Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace, this is a popular district for traditional tea houses and Buddhist restaurants. If you want to prepare for the traditional tea houses, check out this guide to traditional Korean tea options because there are so so many!

This is also THE district to head to if you’re looking to purchase Korean souvenirs to take home to friends and family. If you want to learn more about the area, check out this guide to Insadong that I put together.

Gangnam:  The district that became popular around the world when Psy’s song “Gangnam Style” took over the airwaves, this district is known for a bit of luxury, lots of cosmetic surgery, and some great eats too.

If you’re interested in seeing what there is to see in the area, then check out this guide to Gangnam to see it all from amazing street art to museums and more. Oh, and definitely make sure you see the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Show .

Hongdae: Full of live music, artistic fun, and plenty of pubs, restaurants, and fun cafes to check out . Check out this guide to Hongdae for all of the best things to do there.

The area has grown and expanded and now when people saying they’re going to Hongdae, they might very well mean they’re headed to Yeontral Park (a play on Central Park) in Yeonnam-dong or they’re headed to the up and coming district of Mangwon-dong . There are buskers and groups of K-pop dancers that make the entire area very vibrant and fun.

Myeongdong Shopping District:  Myeongdong is THE spot to go if you’re looking to get your shopping on while you’re in Seoul and is one of the best districts to try a ton of amazing street food options.

With all of the major international and local brands as well as a TON of K-beauty shops, you can get everything on your list in this area. Find out more in this guide to Myeongdong with some fun things to do in the area.

5. See a show

Nanta: This is the most popular and longest running theater show in Seoul. The show is a hilarious kitchen-based performance with a talented group of performers who have a mix of traditional folk pieces as well as modern skits.

Don’t worry if you can’t understand Korean, this performance is non-verbal and fun fun fun. Get your Nanta tickets through Klook to get an awesome discount.

The Painters: A new concept art performance that combines colorful live drawings with cutting-edge media art has been remodeled and reopened. Actors resembling idols, numbering from 4 to 8, express world-famous paintings such as Michelangelo’s ‘Creation of Heaven,’ Vincent Van Gohee’s ‘Self-Portrait,’ and Gustav Klimt’s ‘Kiss’ with splendid choreography and live drawings.

Their super luxurious stereoscopic images and live performances create a a new impression of painting. G et your tickets to see The Painters online with Klook for the discount.

6. Visit the Han River

The Han River cuts through the center of the city so at some point, you’ll definitely see it either when you’re crossing a bridge or from your tall hotel, but you should definitely take some time to go and visit one of the Han riverside parks. They are gorgeous and there is definitely going to be one near wherever you’re staying. Some of them have beautiful art installations while others are where you can jump on a Eland Hangang River cruise .

There are some great experiences to be had at the river. Check out this complete guide to all of the Han River parks to see which one will be near you. Some have outdoor swimming pools, one even has a beautiful infinity pool that ends at the river and it is super budget friendly. Some have bike rental kiosks, kayaks, sail boats and more.

7. Get a good view

Seoul Sky Tower: Seoul Sky Observatory is the third highest observatory in the world and features the highest glass deck in the world. The views are absolutely stunning and there are multiple floors for viewing from the 117th to the 120th floor. This is just next to Lotte World as well if you want to combine it with some fun and views! Seoul Sky Tower is a bit out of the way compared to a lot of the tourist sites but worth the subway ride.

And, to top it off, if you want to stay in the tallest hotel in Seoul and get the most beautiful views right when you wake up in the morning, then look no further than Signiel Hotel which is right in this tower too!

N Seoul Tower: While Seoul Sky is the newest dazzling spot in the city to get views from, Namsan Tower, also called N Seoul Tower , is older, more central, and a bit more romantic. Take a cable car up to the tower and then sit beneath a beautiful pagoda until your time to head up to the top. This tour is a major highlight in the city and is easy to combine with any bit of the itinerary in central Seoul. It’s an iconic spot that is definitely one of the top three must visit locations in the city.

Other Spots For Views: The two spots above are definitely the most popular for views, but they are not the only places to get views though they are the most iconic. If you want some more ideas though, here are more great spots in Seoul to get amazing views that also happen to be super budget friendly. These are definitely spots that will surprise you and even some that locals don’t know about.

8. Visit lots and lots of cafes

It honestly amazes me how many cafes there are and how interesting they all are. Koreans go all out with aesthetics and creating Instagrammable cafes and you can really find them all over but there are a few neighborhoods that you can literally hop from fun and quirky cafe to beautiful cafe and back again. How many coffees can you possibly drink in one day? Don’t miss the cafes in Mangwon-dong . If you want to know what some of the trendiest cafes are, check out this guide to the awesome greenhouse cafes that have been popping up over the past couple of years.

9. Visit a museum

The Korean War Memorial: There are some really amazing museums in Korea and what’s even better is that they’re budget friendly if not free. The Korean War Memorial is really interesting especially if you’re interested in learning about the Korean War and the numerous other wars in Korean history.

There are also often docents who actually fought in the Korean War available to show you around and offer stories and information. If you have children, it’s also great because there are historic planes and other relics outside that kids can climb up to and through to check out. You can learn more about the museum here .

The National Museum Of Korea: Another great museum that has both free and paid exhibitions, is the National Museum of Korea which also has a substantial park and pond with relics beautiful in all seasons. This is a museum more focused on the historical artifacts of Korea.

This is also a great option to have during monsoon season. Learn more about the National Museum of Korea here. FYI, you can also visit the National Hangeul Museum which is just in front of this one as well.

Seodaemun Prison History Museum:  The Seodaemun Prison History Museum is a former prison that housed martyrs during the Japanese colonization of Korea and is now a museum dedicated to tell the stories about the people that were once housed there.

Again, this is a very impactful museum especially if you are interested in the tumultuous history in Korea. Here is more information about the Seodaemun Prison History Museum.

The War & Women’s Human Rights Museum: A much smaller but no less impactful museum in Seoul is the War and Women’s Human Rights Museum which is dedicated to tell the story about the comfort women. The issue of sexual slavery during WWII is still highly contested by Japan but certainly proven by enough groups at this point.

The Korean comfort women are still fighting to be heard. Go visit this museum to learn more about what they went through and the fight they continue to have today.

The Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art (MMCA): If you’re more interested in the arts, then don’t miss the Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art which is just east of Gyeongbokgung Palace so it’s easy to add to any itinerary in downtown Seoul. This museum uses varying architectural styles and hosts some gorgeous exhibitions. To check out the hours and learn more about the Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art, check out this guide .

Leeum Samsung Museum: The Leeum Samsung Museum is both architecturally stunning and always has some amazing exhibitions to check out. It’s in the easy to visit area of Hannam-dong and is one of my favorite art museums in the city. There are quite a few to choose from, but this is one that should be on your list if you like art museums and architecture.

This is probably a museum that is off the beaten path for most first-travelers but might just be up your alley if you like art and architecture. Here’s more information about Leeum Samsung Museum here .

Seoul Museum of Craft Art: SeMoCA is the first national museum in Seoul created to showcase Korean crafts. The museum is made up of seven buildings so you need to weave in and out and around much like some of the embroidery products you’ll see inside.

Not only is the museum amazing, the children’s museum is just wonderful and offers so many free experiences for kids. Learn more in this guide to the Seoul Museum of Craft Art.

10. Visit a Spa

There are some great options if you want the Korean spa experience. If you don’t want to get all the way nude but want to experience at least a Korean facial , you can do that too! Here are a couple great spas to check out in Seoul if you want the full experience complete with a Korean Italy towel exfoliating scrub.

Yeo Yong Guk Korean Traditional Medicine Spa:  Want something more traditional? Visit this spa which is one of the 25 must visit wellness attractions in Korea as designated by the Korea Tourism Organization. After a quick physical analysis, the staff will provide a customized spa package using natural medicinal plants, pressure point, and massage. It’s a truly unique spa experience here in Seoul .

Hana Mud Spa: If you want a more local experience, check out this Korean bath house. The spa is a bit extra with their mud masks straight from the Boryeong mud that’s rich in minerals, but other than that, it’s a pretty standard spa for women only. Prepare to bare and enjoy the experience. If you want to know more about a Korean bath house and what to do inside, here’s a step by step guide to the Korean bath house culture.

11. Visit an amusement park

Lotte World: Lotte World is the most popular theme park in Seoul and is easy to get to right in the city. Get the Magic Pass to skip the lines and enjoy the rides. The rides to check out are the Conquistador, World Monorail, French Revolution, VR Space, and the Flume Ride. There’s fun, adventure, and more. Take a day and enjoy!

Everland: If you’ve got a bit more time, visit Everland, outside of the city of Seoul, but hop on the shuttle bus and you can get there. It is one of the world’s largest theme parks and features a ton of rides and experiences to be had. Make sure to get your tickets online before you go to get the discount that is available.

12. See the DMZ

While this isn’t technically IN Seoul, most tours to the DMZ start from Seoul . If you don’t know it yet, you’re technically visiting a country that is at war. Have I ever been scared living here? No. Let’s just get that question out the way.

Should you visit the DMZ? If you want to have a glimpse of North Korea and visit the most heavily guarded limit line in the world? Then definitely yes. There is a lot to be learned and some interesting spots to check out.

You can only go INTO the DMZ with a tour. You can get pretty close without one, but you need to be on a government approved tour if you want to go in. Most tours will take you to the DMZ area in Paju where you will first make a stop in the Nuri Peace Park and then head into to see one of the tunnels that the North Koreans dug to try and sneak into South Korea. If you want to go it on your own and try to get in, there is one option.

You can go in to see Camp Greaves which was formerly an American base which was given back to the Korean people and is now a museum featuring art and history information. Another option if you want to go it on your own a bit, head up to the Cheorwon DMZ area where you can enter with an approved taxi. No matter what, you can’t just wander in though so if you want to make it easy on yourself, sign up for a tour early as they do fill up. Here are some good options to choose from:

• Panmunjom & DMZ Tour: Visit the Unification Bridge and Panmunjom along with Imjingak/Nuri Peace Park and the 3rd Tunnel on this full day tour. Join this tour here.
• Imjingak Transfer Service: If you just want to get back and forth to Imjingak/ Nuri Peace Park area where you can get on the bus to Camp Greaves, or just enjoy the unification village, then look into this transfer service which will take you back and forth easily.

13. Check out these notable spots in between

Seoul Botanic Park: Seoul Botanic Park is one of the newest and beautiful parks in Seoul. There is a gorgeously huge greenhouse and if it’s winter, it is warm warm warm inside. If it’s summer, head inside, but then check out the substantial park that surrounds.

This is in an up and coming area of Seoul and it’s super easy to get to right out of the subway station. To learn more about this greenhouse and park, check out this complete post on the Seoul Botanic Park.

Cheonggyecheon Stream: The Cheonggyecheon Stream is another iconic spot in central Seoul. This stream was actually covered over in the modernization of the city after the war but during construction some years later was rediscovered and the high way built atop it was removed.

Not only did it make for a beautiful green space in central Seoul, but it helped in lowering the temperature downtown and birds and fish returned. Now, there are events like the Lantern Festival held here throughout the year. Walk along the stream from Gwanghwamun Square down to Gwangjang Market and even all the way down to Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): The Dongdaemun Design Plaza was immediately popular upon being built and opened to the public. Now the host of the Seoul Fashion Week as well as numerous other exhibitions and events, this eye catching structure designed by Zaha Hadid was the most Instagrammed location in Korea in 2015.

You’ll have to walk up, down, inside, and outside to really understand what is going on. Want to see some more architectural wonders in Seoul? Check out this list of really interesting architectural spots in Seoul .

Ihwa Mural Village: Ihwa Mural Village is a fun neighborhood in central Seoul near the palaces that provide a great spot to take a walk and area to learn about local communities. The neighbors didn’t ASK for their neighborhood to be turned into an attraction though, so it’s important to know the rules before you go.

Here’s more information on the street murals to see there and how to find it. See the murals and you can walk along a section of the Seoul Fortress Wall for great views out over the city as well.

Seoullo Walkway:  In central Seoul just outside of Seoul Station, is a beautiful walkway that connects the downtown neighborhoods for pedestrians so that they never have to wait for a traffic light.

The walkway used to be an overpass but was renovated into a fun spot to take a walk with outdoor installations, trampolines for kids, tons of plants and greenery and there are often events held on the walkway. If you’re headed to the train station for any reason, this is an easy addition onto the day that doesn’t take too long to enjoy. Here is more info about Seoullo and what you can do there.

Oil Tank Culture Park: I personally like to check out unique spots that show how a city is growing and adapting. The Oil Tank Culture Park is just that. There are six massive oil drums that have been converted through a series of conservation measures to now be a public space.

The drums have been opened up so visitors can use them with one housing a cafe, another a performance space, and more. If you want to see some awesome eco-friendly innovation, this is a must visit. Learn more about the Oil Tank Culture Park here.

In general, it’s easy to get around and you’ll be able to see what you see, but if you really want to learn about a place, know what’s in the food you’re about to eat, and understand Korean culture and history, I’d highly recommend joining a tour or two to get some insight. The other reason to join a tour or at least book tickets for shows, entrance fees, etc, is because online is almost always cheaper.

Koreans use companies online always and that’s because tickets can be 10%-50% cheaper than when you just walk up. Don’t get left out of the discounts. Book what you can in advance. If it’s your first time in Seoul, then find a few tours, maybe one focused on culture, one on food, and one on adventure to join while you’re here.

Here are some ideas I’d recommend:

• History of Joseon Dynasty Tour: Spend the day visiting one of the royal palaces and witnessing a beautiful changing of the guard ceremony. Stop into the Jogyesa Buddhist temple and ginseng center while learning about history and architecture and culture and then end the day in one of the traditional folk villages. It’s an all encompassing tour to see traditional spots and learn a ton about how Seoul was started and built. Check out the tour here on Klook .
• Cooking classes in Seoul : There are a number of cooking classes in Seoul that I think are great not only to try some great food, but to learn about Korea’s culinary history, tradition, and culture and you can ask questions about dining etiquette in Korea and more.

Want help with your itinerary? I have a lot of experience building the perfect itineraries for travelers to Seoul. I’ve created 15 interchangeable daily itineraries for Seoul, Korea that cover the popular spots you must see, some districts that aren’t so touristy but offer great fun, and more.

Where To Get Out Of Seoul For a Day Trip

Daytrips are awesome and there are so many places you can get to if you’ve got a free day on your itinerary. Here are a few ideas, but if you want more, check out my list of “ Best Daytrips to take from Seoul “. There are 25 spots to see and enjoy and I’ll know there is something you’ll want to do.

Nami Island: This is by far one of the most popular day trip options and for good reason. It’s gorgeous. While it’s popular with K-drama fans, I can say, as someone who has NOT seen any drama that was filmed there, that it’s not just a fan that would appreciate this place. There are art installations, restaurants, cafes, and plenty of nature to see.

I’ve visited in the autumn and summer and would definitely go back in the winter and spring too. It’s an easy option for a day trip and can be combined with some other great spots in the area. Read this guide to Nami Island if its on your list.

The DMZ:  At just 60km from Seoul, it’s easy enough to visit the DMZ, but only if you book a tour in advance. Tours do sell out so if you’re at all interested in visiting the border between North and South Korea, you’ll want to plan this ahead of time. The Demilitarized Zone is a 4 kilometer wide buffer zone between North Korea and South Korea.

There are various options from Seoul with the most popular being out to Nuri Peace Park in Paju and into the DMZ. If you do get out there and want to do something really special, visit Camp Greaves, an abandoned military base that’s been converted into an art experience. If you want to visit a spot that’s more off the beaten path but just a bit more involved, check out the trip to the Cheorwon DMZ .

Heyri Art Village: This is one of my favorite spots to take my daughter to, but it’s not just for kids, it is for everyone. There are chic art galleries and museums as well as artistic experiences for children to partake in. There are SO many museums and galleries to check out that you could stay an entire weekend and still not see everything.

We’ve gone and gone again and there’s always something new to do. If you want to know how to get there, and have some ideas on what to do, here is a guide to Heyri Art Village.

Anyang Art Park: The Anyang Art Park is an awesome natural area with art installations and exhibitions throughout the year. There are restaurants and cafes and it’s a great spot to check out if you want to get out into nature and take a walk.

The installations are super fun to find and require a bit of a walk up into a nearby mountain… but not to worry, it’s not really a trek and toddlers can even do it. Here is a guide to Anyang Art Park to help you on your way.

Seongsu-dong

Seongsu-dong has been called the Brooklyn of Seoul. Once a district known for shoe factories, today, many of those factories are being converted into cafes, galleries, and restaurants. This district is hip, it’s cool, and it is THE place to go if you want to do something different in Seoul. There is awesome street art and murals and a ton of hidden gems in this new hot spot in Seoul. If you want some suggestions for where to go, what to do, and what to eat while you’re there, check out this guide to Seongsu-dong .

Mullae-dong

Also a district known for factories, Mullae-dong is still very much filled with the iron works factories it’s famous for. Some years ago, artists from Hongdae that couldn’t afford the rent in the popular district moved south and found homes in Mullae-dong. By day, this area is noisy and gritty with iron workers, but come evening into night, there are galleries and restaurants owned by artists and musicians.

It’s off the beaten path to tourists for sure, but there are some cool things to be found if you like to have a good hunt. Here are my suggestions for what to see in Mullae-dong if you want to head there.

Yongma Land

Yongma Land is a popular abandoned amusement park in Seoul. It’s been showcased in various K-pop videos and dramas and anyone looking for some cool photos can head to the park to take their own photos. It’s a funky spot but a fun one especially if you’ve got some friends that want to get some quirky photos in Seoul or if you are a Hallyu fan and want to take photos in the same spots that you’ve seen in dramas and vids. Here’s more information on the popular abandoned Yongma Land in Seoul.

Ganghwado Island

Ganghwado is an island west of the city of Seoul that is easily accessible with public buses from the city. It used to be a bit more difficult to get to, but in recent years a bridge was added and now more and more Seoulites are making their way out to this island to see what there is to see, like the awesome Royyal Dog mural above.

There are cool restaurants and cafes, a few beaches, and some interesting historical spots to check out. Here are some flower fields and cool cafes to check out if you want to make your way out to Ganghwado.

Hannam-dong

Hannam-dong is the district that’s just up the road from the foreigner district known as Itaewon. Hannam-dong has art museums and a ton of cafes and restaurants with foreign treats if you want something in the American-fare style. Here’s a guide to the Hannam-dong area that has cool cafes, good eats, and a lot of Instagrammable book stores and staircases.

This isn’t a hugely popular spot for tourists but mostly for expats and foreigners in Korea that want to get good authentic foreign food. If you have a hankering for something other than Korean food, then you’ll easily find it over here.

Pocheon is an interesting area northeast of Seoul that has hidden wooden giants in forests, bridges, and lakes. There are some beautiful hidden wonders that are really only accessible if you’ll be renting a car for a day. But if you will be, look into this easy trip from Seoul that is off the beaten path.

Here’s a guide to Pocheon and what to see there. Again, this isn’t a spot that’s usually on the radars of most tourists, but if you want something unique, it’s a good area to get out to where can visit an amazing makgeolli, or rice wine, brewery and find nature too!

Busan is the second largest city in the country and on the southern coast of Korea. It’s the most popular spot to check out for most travelers that want to see something outside of Seoul. The city is easy to get to from Seoul using the KTX fast train and there are beaches, a seaside temple, a colorful seaside village, and a TON more to check out.

Some of the must see spots include Gamcheon Culture Village, Taejongdae , and Haeundae. You could easily spend a couple days or more in this awesome city.

Here’s a guide to Busan to help you on your way! Definitely don’t miss stops into the Huinnyeoul Culture Village and then take a ride on the cable car in Songdo or a ride on the now very popular Busan Sky Capsule . For a real treat, check out the premier spa in the country, Busan’s Spa Land . There’s so much to do, you could fill a week or more!

Gyeongju was the capital of Korea during the Silla Dynasty and the capital before Seoul. It’s one of the most historic, if not THE most historic, cities in the entire country and features more pagodas, relics, and historic sites in one city than any other in the country.

The small city is basically an open air museum as every corner you turn leads to another historic observatory, tomb, palace, or Buddhist relic. It was one of the first trips I made out of Seoul when I first moved here in 2006 and is an easy trip to make using the KTX from Seoul.

It’s a gorgeous area with history and culture and beautiful sites to visit. Definitely look into Gyeongju if you want to learn more about history in Korea and appreciate quite peaceful surroundings. Here is a guide to Gyeongju with more information on what you can find there.

Andong has been called the most traditional place in Korea. There is a beautiful huge traditional village and some amazing food to eat in Andong. It’s gorgeous in the spring when the cherry blossoms bloom and the Andong Mask Festival is an amazing event to check out in the autumn if you’re visiting at the same time.

From delicious food to traditional and cultural spots, Andong has it all. Here’s a guide to Andong , how to get there, and what to do if it sounds like the spot for you.

Most likely you came into Korea through Incheon but you probably didn’t stay too long as you headed into Seoul. You should definitely head back out there. There are some really interesting spots in Incheon including the only legit Chinatown in the country.

Incheon’s Chinatown was first started by the Chinese immigrants that came to Korea to work. Nearby there is also a fun fairytale mural village and a village made entirely of older buildings. It’s a fun area to walk around and makes for a great day trip from Seoul.

You could also plan to see what’s around the Incheon International Airport on your way in or out. The airport is on an island in Incheon and there’s plenty to do just around the airport. If you want to treat yourself on your way in or out, then definitely look into staying at the amazing Paradise City Resort . Even if you don’t stay there, there’s a free art museum and a beautiful pool and sauna that you can visit.

Want to see some amazing architecture, check out the Songdo Central Park where the awesome TriBowl is located. Another great option in Incheon is to take a ferry and visit nearby islands like Modo, Sindo, and Sido ! All of these spots are really in different parts of Incheon so don’t try to see them all in one day. You’ll have to pick one if you just have one day to travel.

Jeju Island is the most popular and largest island in Korea. It has been called the Hawai’i of Korea and is absolutely stunning. The island is bigger than you might expect so know that before you go. You can really only see things in one quadrant; northwest, northeast, southwest, or southeast at a time especially if you’ve only got a weekend. Choose what you want to see and then stay nearby (Here’s a guide to help you figure out where to stay on Jeju Island ) and an absolute must do is hiking up Mt. Halla .

If hiking isn’t your thing though, there’s also a walking trail that follows the entire coast of Jeju. Choose an area and you can walk and enjoy cliff views, black sand beaches, and forests too. If you want to get somewhere easily and have fun, check out Hamdeok Beach . Another hot spot for tourists is the O’Sulloc Green Tea Fields and the gigantic and gorgeous Jeongbang Waterfall .

But if you want my two recommendations, definitely get a ferry out to nearby Gapa Island which you can only leisurely enjoy via bicycle and then walk up Sanbang Mountain to visit a beautiful grotto Nearby you can walk along the rocky but beautiful Yeongmori Coastcoast . Jeju is amazing and there is just so much to do and see there. You can even go island hopping to visit nearby islands like Udo Island or Gapa Island . If you have time, don’t miss a trip there to get a completely different experience from the hustling bustling city of Seoul.

Danyang, Korea is in the central area of Korea so a lot of people pass right by on the way south without stopping. But if you like adventure and maybe have a bit less time, it’s definitely worth a look. Visit the Mancheonha Skywalk and then zipline down.

From there, head to Chungju Lake and ride a ferry to see the gorgeous views. Head down into the Gosu Caves that were formed over 450 million years ago and then end the weekend paragliding off of the mountains. It’s a spot for the adventure loving traveler. Here’s what you should check out in Danyang.

Oido & Daebudo Islands

Maybe you want to see the coast in quick fashion. Oido is an island you can actually reach using just the Seoul subway system! If you’ve got a car, you can go just a bit further to Daebudo Island to see the glass museum and watch the waves come in.

The islands are beautiful and great for a summer’s day. There is seafood to be eaten and a rest stop that even features an observatory. I love getting to the coast whenever I can and this is an easy spot to get to if you just have a day to work with. Here’s what you can find in Oido and Daebudo.

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Traveling With Children: Stop Judging Me

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Home » Travel Guides » South Korea » 15 Best Day Trips from Seoul

15 Best Day Trips from Seoul

South Korea’s popularity as an intrepid traveller’s ideal destination has skyrocketed in recent years, with Seoul often topping the lists of places to go.

With its unique culture, modern skyscrapers and delicious cuisine, it’s easy to see why the capital is rapidly becoming a phenomenal Asian destination.

However, it’s not only all about Seoul when it comes to the intriguing sites in Korea that are piquing tourist’s interest.

Aside from the capital’s fascinating mix of culture, cuisine and tradition, there are countless hidden gems scattered around the surrounding areas, from gorgeous beaches to ancient temples and everything in between.

Check out this quick handy guide to find out where to start planning your day trips from Seoul.

1. Korean Folk Village

Intended to be an amalgamation of Korean culture presented to the public in astounding detail, the Korean Folk Village has been open since 1974 and is an authentic showcase of almost 300 replica houses from different regions and social classes.

This fascinating mixture of exhibits and performances is one of the most popular day trips for people visiting Korea for the first time, and is an eye-opening introduction to the national culture.

Available tour : Andong Day Trip: Hahoe Folk Village from Seoul

2. Hwaseong Fortress

Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its cultural significance and impressive architectural achievement, Hwaseong Fortress is by far the most popular attraction in Suwon, a city to the south of Seoul.

Constructed during the Joeson Dynasty in the 18th Century, Hwaseong Fortress is spread out over five kilometres and surrounded by high walls, backdropped by the stunning Paldal Mountain.

Visitors can hike the perimeter of the walls soaking in some of the gorgeous views, before making their way to the center, where there’s an enormous statue of King Jeongjo, the ruler at the time of construction.

Recommended tour : Suwon Hwaseong Fortress (UNESCO) Half-Day Tour from Seoul

3. Ansan Multicultural Food Street

Shattering the presumption that Korean food and culture may be a little “samey”, Ansan Multicultural Food Street is a melting pot of countless mouth-watering cuisines, from Thai and Vietnamese to Russian, to name a few.

Whether you’re in search of a mouth-watering meal or simply want to experience the electric atmosphere, Ansan is without question a journey for the senses.

Other than the vast assortment of street food available, there are various world class restaurants in the area.

The Kantipur restaurant is particularly accomplished in creating delicious Indian and Nepali meals, while the Samarkand Cafe is a go-to for meat lovers.

4. Paju Book City

A paradise for intellectuals, curious travellers and children, Paju is most well-known for being the home of the Paju Book City, a cultural complex featuring publishers, printing, and distribution enterprises.

Here you can wander the streets learning the various stories behind the businesses, or visit famous book cafes such as Darakwon and Moongongsa.

The Tan Tan Story House is a particularly beloved stop, well known for hosting various events to get children interested in books.

5. Jayu Park

Tucked away in the coastal Incheon Metropolitan City, Jayu Park is predominantly a historical site that houses a vast number of structures commemorating key events concerning American-Korean relations over the last century.

The highlight is most definitely the majestic statue of General MacArthur that stands at over 15 metres and signifies the treaty of amity between the United States and Korea.

Near the park, you’ll also find a thriving and wildly popular Chinatown, serving some truly mouthwatering Chinese dishes made by descendants of some of the first ever Chinese settlers in the area, as well a healthy dose of pioneering Chinese-Korean fusion food.

6. Gangchon Rail Park

You can expect a visit to Gangchon Rail Park to be novel, active, and beautifully scenic.

It involves riding rail bikes through one of two routes you can choose from, leading you through the charmingly picturesque Korean countryside.

You’ll arrive at either Gimyujeong Station or Gyeonggang Station, depending on which route you take.

Both paths are back dropped by gorgeous mountain scenery and split up by tunnels playing popular Korean music.

7. Muuido Island

Known for its beautiful beaches and gently rolling, forested hills, Muuido Island is the ideal beach getaway for locals and travellers who want to escape the hectic pace of life of the capital.

Instantly recognisable by the colourfully painted beach huts lining the shore, Hanagae Beach is without a doubt the most picturesque and popular destination on the island.

From enjoying seafood in the sun during the day, to attending lively barbecues at night, the atmosphere at Hangae is always laid back and enjoyable.

If you want to do something more active you can hike around other parts of the island – the ocean views are particularly beautiful from the top of the numerous hills.

8. Ganghwado Island

Filled with commemorative statues, Buddhist temples and paddy fields, Ganghwado is a rural island and a gorgeously scenic and interesting alternative to spending a day in the city.

It is popular with people looking for both nature and culture combined.

Discover Korean history dating to the Bronze Age at the Goindol Rocks, or wander the pine forests at Bomunsa Temple, which is also famed as a place from which you can catch beautiful sunsets.

Ganghwado actually consists of various islands, both inhabited and uninhabited, so be sure to research where you want to go before embarking on your trip.

9. Nami Island

Reachable in under 30 minutes by ferry, Nami Island is both beautifully picturesque and tranquil in equal measure, perfect for visitors who want to spend the day strolling around lantern adorned gardens and serene forests.

The Garden of Morning Calm is particularly breath-taking; not only is it attractive, but it is also Korea’s oldest garden.

Photographers tend to head to the famous tree-lined lanes that consist of paths flanked by trees decorated with colorful lanterns, such as the Maple Land of True Love.

If you happen to be visiting in winter, then don’t miss the biggest light festival in the whole of Korea, with thousands and thousands of lights illuminating the island.

It’s a truly magical experience.

Available tour : Nami Island with Petite France and Garden of Morning Calm

10. Yeongjong

Home to a gorgeous collection of temples, ecologically significant beaches and hot springs, Yeongjong Island is a refreshing respite from the bustling streets of Seoul.

The best of these temples is without a doubt the Yonggunsa Temple, famed for the gorgeous 1,300-year-old zelkova tree standing outside, adding a serene majesty to the already tranquil atmosphere.

After exploring the temples, head down to the Eurwangni Beach to explore the dramatic mudflats that have formed there.

These are considered to be extremely valuable, given that they are the most significant feeding grounds for the vast numbers of shore birds that migrate to Korea.

11. Mount Seorak

Situated in one of the most beautiful natural reserves in the country, Mount Seorak is the third highest mountain in Korea and it offers what are easily some of the best views too.

The Seoraksan National Park is comprised of the Baekdamcheon, Gayadong and Suryeomdong Valleys which are all hike-worthy to a fault, although the highlight is without question hiking to the peak of Mount Seorak to take in the breathtaking panoramas of the land below.

The hikes however are not the only attraction in the area, as it’s also home to the Baekdamsa Temple, renowned for its gorgeous mountain location and architectural beauty.

Suggested tour : Seoraksan National Park and Naksansa Temple 1 Day Tour

12. Mangwolsa Mountain Temple

Nestled within the Bukhansan National Park, you’ll find the beautiful Mangwolsa Mountain Temple, the oldest in the area, and skilfully rebuilt after being destroyed once in the Japanese invasion and again during the Korean War.

Its fascinating history traces its function as a refuge for everyone from monks and soldiers to volunteers, but it’s now used as a temple for Buddhist nuns.

The highlight of the temple is the 13-storey pagoda where Buddha is enshrined, which attracts visitors from far and wide to pay their respects.

Yongin is the colorful, ever-exciting city that is wildly popular with locals because of its many theme parks, which are the main reasons people visit.

Everland is one of these, and is in fact one of the most visited theme parks in the world.

It is made up of several zones, such as European Adventure and Zootopia.

Home to hologram theatres and one of the tallest wooden rollercoasters in the world, a day trip to Everland is sure to be adrenaline-filled and family friendly.

Book online : Everland Tickets and Transfer from Seoul

14. Hwaseong Haenggung

Located deep within Hwaeseong Fortress, far from the outer walls encircling it, you’ll find the enormous Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, the largest of its kind outside of Seoul.

On a guided tour, you can find out more about its former use as King Jeongjo’s residence as you wander the grounds of the traditionally designed buildings.

Once there, you can also enjoy a few lessons of traditional Korean archery, just as the King used to do, at the internal archery site.

15. Suwon Chicken Street

As a widely enjoyed and mouthwatering treat, fried chicken is hugely popular with locals, who will regularly get together to socialise with family and friends and share this tasty delicacy.

Suwon’s bustling Suwon Chicken Street is a thriving community street with up to 14 chicken restaurants all on the same road – some more than 40 years old.

One of the most highly recommended is Yongsung Chicken, where you can enjoy the crispy speciality and an ice cold Korean beer that’ll have you coming back for more.

15 Best Day Trips from Seoul:

• Korean Folk Village
• Hwaseong Fortress
• Ansan Multicultural Food Street
• Paju Book City
• Gangchon Rail Park
• Muuido Island
• Ganghwado Island
• Nami Island
• Mount Seorak
• Mangwolsa Mountain Temple
• Hwaseong Haenggung
• Suwon Chicken Street

• South Korea
• A Solo Travelers Guide To...

A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Seoul

The capital city of South Korea is a pulsating metropolis that combines traditional Korean ideals with modern architecture and young neighbourhoods. While it’s often overshadowed by bigger neighbours Beijing and Tokyo, Seoul has recently become one of the hottest cities in East Asia. If you’re planning on travelling to Seoul alone, here are the top places to add to your itinerary.

Thinking of joining a small-group tour instead of going solo? Our 10-day South Korea trip will take you around the country with other like-minded travellers, led by our Local Insider.

The best neighbourhoods to visit in Seoul

Yes, this is the home of Gangnam Style, but it’s not as dorky as you might think. In fact, Gangnam is the most modern district in the city – it was farmland until the 1970s – with Starfield COEX Mall, one of the largest underground shopping malls in the world, expensive high rises and the best plastic surgeons in town. Gangnam is split into several main areas: Cheongdam-dong, home to celebrities and expensive cars; Samseong-dong, home to the Bongeunsa Temple; and Nonhyeon-dong, home to quiet, back-street bars.

Looking for a place to stay? Check out our pick of the best hotels in Gangnam .

If you have an artistic streak, you will fall in love with Insadong. This charming neighbourhood is home to local artists, teahouses, contemporary galleries and boutique shops. It’s the perfect spot for serious souvenir shopping, but you’ll also find historically significant buildings here, including the Unhyeongung Royal Residence and Jogyesa, an important Korean Buddhist temple. Read more in our guide to the best things to do in Insadong .

Shopaholics will faint when they see the seemingly endless arrangement of shops in this part of Seoul. Have you watched any Korean dramas? If so, Myeongdong will look familiar. It’s home to the largest department stores in South Korea, including Lotte and Hyundai, which means foreign shoppers can buy duty-free goods from high-end brands. In the evening, many visitors head to Myeongdong to grab a bite at one of the many local restaurants .

Want more? Browse our pick of the best places to stay in Myeongdong .

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Most travellers instantly feel at home in Itaewon: this part of town is the multicultural district of Seoul, home to a vibrant expat community. If you need a break from Korean food, this is the place to find impeccable international restaurants. On top of that, Itaewon also offers lots of nightlife with countless bars and pubs open until the early hours. For an inside take, find out what it’s like to live in Itaewon .

This university neighbourhood is where the cool kids hang. Home to four big schools – Hongik, Yonsei, Sogang and Ewha – it’s no surprise Hongdae is the best place for quirky eats, cheap shopping and thrilling nightlife. If you’ve heard about the themed cafes in South Korea, this is where the idea was born.

If Hongdae sounds like an ideal base for you, take your pick from our roundup of great hotels in the neighbourhood .

Where to stay in Seoul

Insa hostel.

If you’re looking for a budget stay that doesn’t skimp on character, Insa Hostel in the artistic Insadong neighbourhood is the ideal place. Opened in 2013, Insa benefits from being within walking distance of the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces as well as the Myeongdong neighbourhood. The rooms here may be simple, but the rooftop terrace, free breakfast and heated bathroom floors more than make up for it.

Makers Hotel

Brick walls, leather sofas and antique furnishings kit out this boutique hotel in bustling Jongno, the centre of Seoul for 600 years. Upstairs you’ll find stylish rooms with wood-panelling and simple decor; downstairs is the Common Cafe, a mid-century-style space, which serves a continental breakfast. With the metro station next door, there’s easy access the rest of the city.

Fancy a stay? A three-night stay in the Makers Hotel is included in Culture Trip’s carefully curated tour of South Korea , where you’ll explore Seoul and beyond over the course of 10 days.

The Shilla is one of the most sophisticated hotels in Seoul. Regularly voted as one of the top hotels in the world, it emphasises the harmony between modernism and tradition through elegant design and high-end facilities, which includes a luxurious spa, five restaurants and even a Korean sculpture garden. It has a peaceful setting on the outskirts of the city centre, but a free shuttle service will keep you connected to the sites.

Where to eat in Seoul

Mapo sutbul galbi.

Koreans love BBQ. It’s more than just food: it’s a whole social ritual with friends and drinking. One of the best places to grab galbi (meat), is Mapo Sutbul Galbi. This family-owned place is best known for its marinated beef and pork and is one of the only places in town that uses plums in their marinade – giving the meat a sweet taste.

Even though Korean cuisine is relatively meat heavy, vegetarians won’t starve. One of the top addresses for first-class veggie food in Seoul is Sanchon . This restaurant was founded by a Buddhist monk and offers set meals with more than 20 dishes prepared to Buddhist standards. If you’re visiting in the evening, you’ll experience the daily Korean dance performance at 8pm.

Myeongdong Kyoja

Myeongdong Kyoja specialises in chicken kalguksu (noodle soup), served with sliced pumpkin, spicy onions and a unique kimchi that is the pride of the restaurant. This outlet has been serving customers in the Myeongdong neighbourhood for more than 50 years – its popularity is down to the outstanding hospitality: if you’re still hungry, just ask for a free refill.

What to do in Seoul

Visit the demilitarised zone (dmz).

Many visitors like to get in touch with South Korean history. If that’s you, take a day tour up to the DMZ between North and South Korea, where the Cold War is still very much in existence. The zone is about 250km (155mi) long – head to the Joint Security Area (JSA) near the western end to head down the Third Infiltration Tunnel, try North Korean liquor and get a glimpse of the isolated nation.

Climb Bukhansan

South Koreans love hiking. With the staggering number of mountains and national parks in the country, it’s no wonder why. But don’t worry, you don’t need to travel far outside the Seoul borders to climb one of the most beautiful mountains in Korea. When you reach the top of Bukhan Mountain, to the north of the capital, you will be rewarded with breath-taking views of the city skyline.

Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace

Central Gyeongbokgung was the main palace during the Joseon Dynasty. Built in 1395, it is the largest of the Five Grand Palaces of South Korea, with some 500 buildings and 7,700 rooms. Gyeongbokgung has been undergoing extensive restoration since the 1990s, and is today the most visited attraction in South Korea, hosting various events throughout the year.

Wander the narrow streets of Bukchon Hanok Village

Travel back in time in Bukchon Hanok Village. Featuring a collection of 600-year-old Korean houses, this traditional village is filled with teahouses, coffee shops, restaurants and boutique stores. Take a stroll through the narrow alleys; you can even wear traditional Korean hanbok dresses for unforgettable holiday photos.

Take photos in Gwanghwamun Plaza

Facing Gwanghwamun, the main gate of Gyeongbokgung palace, is its eponymous plaza. This area offers superb photography opportunities in the evening when the sun sets in the distance behind the main gate. The square also features a large statue of Sejong the Great, considered one of the most important kings in Korean history as he created the Korean alphabet Hangul.

Practical tips for visiting Seoul solo

Getting around.

Seoul has a convenient network of affordable subways and public buses that are easy to use. Taking certain subway lines during rush hour can be quite nerve-wracking though – this might be the perfect time to take an Uber. South Korea also has its own version of the convenient dial-a-ride service called Kakao T, which is also widely used.

Health and safety in Seoul

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Seoul unless it’s been boiled, but don’t shy away from trying street food as South Korea has a rich foodie culture. Locals love snacking on the go and you can best experience Korean flavours when out and about. South Koreans are extremely relaxed and it’s not uncommon to leave your camera on the table while ordering coffee or to give the waiter your phone to charge it for you – this level of trust makes South Korea a safe place to travel alone.

Solo travel doesn’t have to be an entirely lonesome affair. Join Culture Trip’s 10-day South Korea adventure for the chance to experience Seoul and beyond with a small group of travellers who are as culturally curious as you are.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

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All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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SEOUL - north  |  SEOUL - south

Day Trips from Seoul  | Busan  |  Best Collections

🥁 Festivals ( Seoul • Busan )

18 Popular & Unique Day Trips from Seoul under 3 hours

Koreatodo collection with a mix of popular, less travelled (but worthy) and easily accessible day trips by public transport from seoul under 3 hours., from the popular everland theme park, nami island to cultural experiences like the korean folk village or off the beaten track seoul day trips to gwangmyeong cave, alpaca world animal farm and many more., explore new destinations or visit your favourite places again on your holiday to korea, easily with our seoul day trips guide:, our guide includes where to go, how to go, location maps, bus/train routes, travel time required, useful tips  and other attractions to explore around the area., take your picks and be the first to share your korea's travel discoveries and favourites with your friends, nami island / petite france / the garden of morning calm / gapyeong rail park (gangwon & gyeonggi provinces).

Nami Island, beautiful in all seasons is probably the most popular and must-visit day trip for many visitors to Korea.

Nami Island is normally visited with Petite France, The Garden of Morning Calm and/or Gapyeong Rail Park. This can be done on a free and easy day trip by hopping on Gapyeong City Tour Bus at Gapyeong or join a local day tour from Seoul.

Directions Overview:

108 mins on Seoul Subway (or 40 mins on ITX Train), followed by short shuttle bus/taxi ride to destination.

Everland Theme Park (Yongin, GYEONGGI)

Korea's largest amusement park for all ages and a popular day trip option for many visitors to Seoul!

Ride on the World's top 10 fastest wooden roller coaster, T-Express with a steep drop at 77 degree! Visit the famous Panda Bao Family or get up close to the animals on the tram ride at Zootopia. Enjoy a fun and exciting day at Everland.

35 mins bus ride from Gangnam Station.

Gangchon Rail Bike Park +ATV (Chuncheon, GANGWON)

Built on the discontinued train line, Gangchon Rail Bike is the largest rail bike course in Korea. This will be a fun day trip from Seoul for all ages!

Pedal on the two or four-seater rail bike and enjoy breathtaking countryside scenery of farmland, mountains and flowing rivers. During the rail bike course, you will pass through different interesting themed tunnels of disco lights and music. At the end of the course, you can walk to nearby town for their local delights or rent an ATV for another exciting course. Alternatively, you can do this day trip together with Nami Island or The Garden of Morning Calm.

2 hrs on Seoul Subway (from Seoul/Myeongdong Station), followed by 2 mins walk to Park.

LEGOLAND Korea Resort (Chuncheon, GANGWON)

Officially opened on 5 May 2022, LEGOLAND Korea is the largest Legoland theme park in Asia and World's second largest. It is also the first Legoland resort to be built on an island.

The theme park offers authentic Lego experience with over 40 rides, shows and attractions across 7 themes. They include Pirate Shores, Bricktopia, LEGO Castle, LEGO City, LEGO Ninjago World, Brick Street and Miniland.

1hr 15mins on ITX-Cheongchun Train from Yongsan Station in Seoul, followed by 15mins free shuttle to theme park entrance.

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage) & Nearby Attractions (Suwon, GYEONGGI)

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site makes a worthy day trip from Seoul. The fortress stretches 5.74km long, forming a loop with many military structures built in Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910).

Within the fortress wall, there are many other popular attractions, activities, cafes and restaurants within walking distance like Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, Suwon Chicken Street, Suwon Hwaseong Tourist Train ride, Korean Archery Experience, Flying Suwon (helium-filled balloon), Haenggungdong Mural Village, Suwon Workshop Street, museums and Cultural Heritage Media Art Festival (autumn).

30 mins/1hr from Seoul (ITX-KTX Trains/Seoul Subway), followed by 10 mins bus ride to destination).

Chinatown / Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village / Jayu Park / Wolmido Island (INCHEON)

Enjoy delicious Chinese cuisine especially jajangmyeon (black bean sauce noodles) at Incheon Chinatown. Photo-taking at Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village and enjoy the view from the top of Jayu Park.

Next, hop on the bus to Wolmido Island nearby. Enjoy the beautiful sea views, feed the seagulls, fun rides at Wolmi Theme Park or dine at its many cafes or fresh seafood restaurants.

67 mins on Seoul Subway (from Seoul Station). Incheon Chinatown is directly across the road from train station.

Gyeongju - UNESCO World Heritage (Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, Cheomseongdae Observatory, Daereungwon Royal Tombs, Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond, etc)

Gyeongju was the ancient capital city of the Silla Dynasty that ruled the Korean Peninsula for 992 years.

It is home to many historical heritage sites designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Buddhist art masterpieces, relics, palaces, royal tombs, temples and fortress from the culture of Silla Kingdom.

From Seoul (2hrs on KTX/SRT train) or Busan (35 mins on KTX/SRT Train or 50 mins on intercity bus).

Alpaca World (Hongcheon, GANGWON)

Alpaca World is the largest forest experience farm in Korea. Come here to touch and walk with the strange-looking but adorable Alpacas!

Enjoy other activities like horse riding, alpaca & deer safari train and animals performances. How about grabbing the picnic basket for an outing in the woods?

1 hr on intercity bus from Seoul, followed by another hour local bus [*no longer operating*] and 918m walk to Alpaca World.

Dumulmeori / Semiwon Garden / Strawberry Farms / Bukhangang Railroad Bridge (Yangpyeong, GYEONGGI)

A highly recommended day trip from Seoul easily accessible on Seoul Subway. Rustic beauty of mountain and river presented the moment you step out of the train station. Semiwon Garden is famous for its lotus. Dumulmeori is a popular filming location. Strawberry picking is a highlight for visitors to Yangpyeong.

Many of the attractions are within walking distance or you can rent a bike and cycle to Bukhangang Railroad Bridge. Check out the cafes and restaurants in town too.

70 mins on Seoul Subway (from Seoul Station). 12 mins walk to Semiwon Garden and onwards to Dumulmeori or Strawberry Farm.

Gwangmyeong Cave (Gwangmyeong, GYEONGGI)

An abandoned mine (for gold, silver) transformed into the best Cave Theme Park in Korea.

In-cave attractions include underground passage, underground lake, lights tunnel, etc.In addition, there is a 194m long Wine Cave where 170 types of wine from around South Korea are sold.

40 mins on Seoul Subway (from Seoul Station), followed by 45 mins bus ride to Cave.

Namhansanseong Fortress, UNESCO World Heritage (Gwangju, GYEONGGI)

A UNESCO World Heritage with rich history as the emergency capital during Joseon dynasty. Namhansanseong Provincial Park is surrounded in natural mountainous setting with numerous hiking trails along its fortress.

Its pine forest is the largest in the metropolitan area and do check out the Namhansansung Palace on this day trip as well.

55 mins on Seoul Subway (from Seoul Station), followed by 17 mins bus ride to Park.

Korean Folk Village (Yongin, GYEONGGI)

A large village enacting the daily life culture of a typical village during Joseon dynasty.

Korean Folk Village is a popular film site for many well-known historical dramas including My Love from the Star (2013), Moon Embracing the Sun (2012), Dong Yi (2010), etc. This is a great place to journey into the past to experience the wisdom and wits of Joseon dynasty.

55 mins bus ride from Gangnam Station, followed by 5 mins walk to entrance.

Seoraksan National Park (Sokcho, GANGWON)

Seoraksan National Park is a very popular park with the locals and foreign visitors to Korea. There are many scenic hiking courses and visitors can take the cable car to the mountain top.

At Sokcho Town, the must-visits include its 'Best Traditional Markets for Foreign Tourists' and Sokcho Beach. Overnight stay is highly recommended.

2.5 hrs intercity bus from Seoul, followed by 30 mins bus ride to Park.

Provence Village / Heyri Art Village / Paju Premium Outlets / SkinAnniversary Beauty Town (Paju, GYEONGGI)

Get close to the Korean city, Paju located beside the west end of DMZ, the world's most militarised border.

Explore Provence Village, a French culture town with beautiful pastel-like buildings. Next, walk to nearby Heyri Art Village to discover your favourite art works. Complete your day trip stopping by Paju Premium Outlets or facial at Asia's largest beauty complex, SkinAnniversary Beauty Town.

20 mins on Seoul Subway (from Seoul Station), followed by 50 mins bus ride to both villages.

DMZ Train (GYEONGGI)

Journey into the land of history and mystery from the comfort of DMZ Train by KORAIL.

You can get to train terminals closest to the DMZ and join your preferred tour to visit the key DMZ attractions from there before departing back to Seoul.

per train shedule.

Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm (Pyeongchang, GANGWON)

Korea’s first sheep farm, located in the Alps of Pyeongchang. Over 300 sheep graze on the vast field in nature at Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm.

Visitors can walk on the 1.2km trail to feed and touch the sheep, bring back beautiful memories.

2.5 hrs on intercity bus from Seoul, followed by a short local shuttle bus or 8 mins taxi ride to Farm.

Daegwallyeong Sky Ranch (Pyeongchang, GANGWON)

A huge ranch of over 400 cows, 100 sheep, 40 horses and goats.

There are tractor carriages that bring visitors on a 5km course around the ranch and to the observation deck. Wanna try horseback riding at this vast natural grassland?

2.5 hrs intercity bus from Seoul, followed by 12 mins taxi ride to Ranch.

Wondaeri Birch Forest (Inje, GANGWON)

For something different from the mainstream day trips from Seoul, check out Wondaeri Birch Forest.

This is a beautiful nature sanctuary with over 700,000 birch trees, scenic hiking paths and stunning lookout spots.

1.5 hrs on intercity bus from Seoul, followed by 20 mins local bus ride to Forest.

KoreaToDo TOP PICKS - Tours, Activities & Discount Tickets

➥ Handpicked experiences by KoreaToDo for their uniqueness, value, popularity, price competitiveness and at times, tedious to reach by public transport.

DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel & Majang Lake Suspension Bridge Day Tour

220m long bridge by the lake

Nami Island, Petite France, Italian Village & The Morning Calm Day Tour

Korean Folk Village, Suwon Hwaseong & Suwon Nammun Market Day Tour

Authentic cultural experience

Alpaca World, Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

enjoy the best of Gangwon!

IN THE SOOP BTS Ver. (PyeongChang) Filming Location Tour

incl. official merchandise gift!

Legoland Korea & Nami Island Day Tour

World's 2nd largest Legoland!

Everland Day Tour (Admission, Tour Guide & Round Trip Transfer)

Eng./Mandarin speaking guide

PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Nami Island & Rail Bike (& more)

hotel pickup & admissions

♔  KoreaToDo recommends  Klook.com , Asia leading in-destination service provider.

🌸SEASONAL HOT PICKS🌸 Handpicked Experiences from Seoul

2024 Boryeong Mud Festival, Daecheon Beach & Oeam Folk Village Day Tour

19 Jul - 4 Aug 2024

famous summer festival in Korea

2024 Boryeong Mud Festival, Daecheon Beach & Suspension Bridge Day Tour

Korea's famous mud festival!

Hongcheon Starlight Music Beer Festival & Alpaca World

31 Jul - 4 Aug 2024

beer coupons & limited beer mug

Other KoreaToDo 'Best of Collections' that you may like:

Top Hidden Attractions & Secret Places to Explore in Seoul

Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Korea

Top Shopping Heaven in Seoul

Still looking? Explore KoreaToDo handpicked collection of:

Seoul - North of Han River

Seoul - South of Han River

The ultimate Seoul itinerary for 3-7 days (2024 edition)

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: June 8, 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 waste 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 24-hour 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.

Here is a list of more free things to do in Seoul.

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).

Best indoor activities in Seoul. 

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.

Saturday, June 08, 2024 2:20 pm (Paris)

South Korea: Seoul authorities find Shein products contain high levels of toxic chemicals

The government of South Korea's capital Seoul found toxic substances in amounts hundreds of times above acceptable levels in children's products.

Le Monde with AFP

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Children's products sold by the Chinese-founded online shopping giant Shein contained toxic substances in amounts hundreds of times above acceptable levels, the government of South Korea's capital Seoul said on Tuesday, May 28.

Shein, headquartered in Singapore, has skyrocketed in popularity around the world in recent years, offering a vast selection of trendy clothes and accessories at stunningly low prices.

This explosive growth has also led to increased scrutiny of its business practices and safety standards, including in the European Union and South Korea – where Seoul authorities have been conducting weekly inspections of items sold by platforms including Shein, Temu and AliExpress.

In the latest round, they selected eight products sold by Shein, including children's shoes, leather bags and a belt and found several to contain high amounts of phthalates – chemicals used to soften plastics. One pair of shoes contained 428 times the permitted levels of phthalates – the highest observed so far during the Seoul inspections – and three bags had amounts as high as 153 times the limit, the city government said.

Phthalates are widely used to soften plastic and are found in thousands of products including containers, beauty products and toys. However, they have been known for decades to cause hormone disruptions and have been linked to obesity, heart disease, some cancers and fertility problems.

Seoul city official Park Sang-jin told Agence France-Presse (AFP) they had requested the removal of these products from sale, and said that since the city began inspections in April, most platforms have complied with such requests.

A Shein spokesperson told AFP the company "takes product safety very seriously." The company requires its suppliers to comply with its controls and standards, and works with international third-party testing agencies to ensure compliance with product safety standards, it said. "Upon learning of any claim against our products, we immediately remove the product(s) from our site as a matter of caution whilst conducting our investigations," it said, adding it takes appropriate follow-up action "if non-compliance is verified."

So far, Seoul authorities have said they have inspected 93 products and found that almost half of them contained toxic substances. These items include children's watches and coloring pencils.

Last month, the European Union added Shein to its list of digital firms that are big enough to come under stricter safety rules – including measures to protect customers from unsafe products, especially those that could be harmful to minors.

Shein and Temu have followed Chinese e-commerce titan Alibaba in challenging Amazon, especially by making inroads in the US market.

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Tallahassee's Takko Korean Taqueria Market Square location closed

As local foodies mourn the closure of a handful of dining favorites sprinkled throughout the city, another establishment has added to their grief with news that Takko Korean Taqueria on Market Square is closed for good.

The announcement came from a post on the Takko-Market Square Facebook page Tuesday, May 28, reading: "Thank you for your patronage, Tallahassee! Unfortunately, we’ve had to make the difficult decision to permanently close our Market Square location."

Patrons of the restaurant responded in the comments with sadness but a bittersweet relief knowing that one location still remains.

One fan commented: "Glad to see it's just one location, although sad it had to close - if Tallahassee takes away Takko completely, I'm throwing chairs."

The Korean-themed casual dining restaurant owned by Tomas Lee was popular for a number of Chef Lee's specialties including the fried chicken taco – a combination of double-fried boneless chicken, chipotle aioli sauce, jack cheese and a soy-sesame salad – which was also featured in Good Morning America's “United States of Taco” competition last fall.

The chain restaurant will continue to operate its location in the Magnolia Grove location on South Magnolia Drive, which houses other casual dining spots like Blaze Pizza, Mission BBQ and Which Wich.

Kyla A Sanford covers dining and entertainment for the Tallahassee Democrat. She can be reached at [email protected]. New restaurant opening up, special deals, or events coming up? Let me know!

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South Korean, Chinese and Japanese leaders discuss thorny topics and ways to boost cooperation

Leaders of South Korea, China and Japan will meet in Seoul on Monday for their first trilateral talks in more than four years. (AP video shot by Yong-ho Kim)

Chinese Premier Li Qiang, left, waves to media members before getting into a car as Kim Hong-kyun, right, South Korean 1st vice foreign minister, follows behind at the Seoul airport in Seongnam, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024, as the premier arrives for a trilateral meeting. Leaders of South Korea, China and Japan will meet next week in Seoul for their first trilateral talks since 2019. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

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Chinese Premier Li Qiang waves as he arrives for a trilateral meeting at the Seoul airport in Seongnam, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024. Leaders of South Korea, China and Japan will meet next week in Seoul for their first trilateral talks since 2019. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

Chinese Premier Li Qiang, second right, is welcomed by Kim Hong-kyun, right, South Korean 1st vice minister, as the premier arrives for a trilateral meeting, at the Seoul airport in Seongnam, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024. Leaders of South Korea, China and Japan will meet next week in Seoul for their first trilateral talks since 2019. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, left, shakes hands with Chinese Premier Li Qiang before their meeting in Seoul, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (Daisuke Suzuki/Kyodo News via AP)

Chinese Premier Li Qiang speaks during a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Seoul, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (Daisuke Suzuki/Kyodo News via AP)

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, right, shakes hands with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during a meeting at the Presidential Office in Seoul, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, Pool)

Chinese Premier Li Qiang, center left, is welcomed by Kim Hong-kyun, right, South Korean 1st vice foreign minister, as the premier arrives for a trilateral meeting at the Seoul airport in Seongnam, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024. Leaders of South Korea, China and Japan will meet next week in Seoul for their first trilateral talks since 2019. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrives for a trilateral meeting, at the Seoul airport in Seongnam, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024. Leaders of South Korea, China and Japan will meet next week in Seoul for their first trilateral talks since 2019. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, second from right, speaks to South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, second from left, during a meeting at the Presidential Office in Seoul, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, Pool)

Chinese Premier Li Qiang waves to media members upon his arrival for trilateral meetings at the Seoul airport in Seongnam, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024. Leaders of South Korea, China and Japan will meet next week in Seoul for their first trilateral talks since 2019. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, third left, holds a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, third right, in Seoul, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (Daisuke Suzuki/Kyodo News via AP)

Chinese Premier Li Qiang waves to media members before getting into a car as Kim Hong-kyun, right, South Korean 1st vice foreign minister, follows behind at the Seoul airport in Seongnam, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024, as the premier arrives for a trilateral meeting. Leaders of South Korea, China and Japan will meet next week in Seoul for their first trilateral talks since 2019. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida speaks during a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Seoul, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (Daisuke Suzuki/Kyodo News via AP)

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, right, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida gesture during a meeting at the Presidential Office in Seoul, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, Pool)

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, left, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida move their positions during a meeting at the Presidential Office in Seoul, South Korea, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, Pool)

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — The Japanese and South Korean leaders raised sensitive topics like Taiwan, North Korea and the South China Sea as well as ways to boost cooperation when they individually met China’s premier Sunday on the eve of a fuller trilateral meeting.

It was unclear how serious discussions the three leaders had on those thorny issues, which are not among the official agenda items for Monday’s three-way gathering in Seoul, the first of its kind in more than four years.

No major announcement is expected from the meeting, but observers say that just resuming the highest-level talks among the three Northeast Asian neighbors is a good sign and suggests they are intent on improving relations. Their trilateral meeting was supposed to happen annually but it had stalled since the last one in December 2019 because of the COVID-19 pandemic and complex ties among the three countries.

After meeting Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told reporters that he expressed serious concerns about the situations in the South China Sea, Hong Kong and China’s northwestern Xinjiang region. He said Japan is closely monitoring developments on self-governed Taiwan.

He referred to China’s military assertiveness in the South China Sea, clampdowns of pro-democracy movements in Hong Kong and human rights abuses against minorities in Xinjiang. Last week, China also launched a large military exercise around Taiwan to show its anger over the inauguration of the island’s new president who refuses to accept its insistence that Taiwan is part of China.

During a separate meeting with Li, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, on his part, asked China, as a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council, to contribute to promoting peace on the Korean Peninsula, while speaking about North Korea’s nuclear program and its deepening military ties with Russia, according to Yoon’s office.

Yoon’s office said Yoon and Kishida in their separate meeting expressed worries about North Korea’s nuclear program and agreed to strengthen their cooperation with the United States.

South Korea, Japan and the U.S. have long urged China — North Korea’s major ally and economic pipeline — to use its leverage to persuade the North to abandon its nuclear ambitions. But China is suspected of avoiding fully enforcing U.N. sanctions on North Korea and sending clandestine aid shipments to help its impoverished neighbor stay afloat.

The three leaders also discussed how to bolster economic and other cooperation.

Yoon and Li agreed to launch a new South Korean-Chinese dialogue channel involving senior diplomats and defense officials in mid-June. They also agreed to restart negotiations to expand the free trade agreement and reactivate dormant bodies on personnel exchanges, investments and other issues, according to Yoon’s office.

Chinese state media reported Li told Yoon that the two countries should safeguard the stability of their deeply intertwined industrial and supply chains and resist turning economic and trade issues into political and security-related issues.

Kishida said he and Li reaffirmed Japan and China will seek progress on various areas to promote mutually beneficial relations. Kishida and Yoon also said they agreed to further strengthen ties, which have warmed significantly since last year following an earlier setback over issues related to Japan’s 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula.

South Korean officials said that a joint statement after Monday’s trilateral meeting will cover the leaders’ discussion on cooperation in areas like people-to-people exchanges, climate change, trade, health issues, technology and disaster responses.

The three Asian nations are important trading partners and their cooperation is key to promoting regional peace and prosperity. They together make up about 25% of global gross domestic product. But the three countries have been repeatedly embroiled in bitter disputes over a range of historical and diplomatic issues originating from Japan’s wartime atrocities. China’s rise and a U.S. push reinforce its Asian alliances have also significantly impacted their three-way ties in recent years.

Experts say South Korea, China and Japan now share a need to improve ties. South Korea and Japan want better ties with China because it is their biggest trading partner. China, for its part, likely believes a further strengthening of the South Korea-Japan-U.S. cooperation would hurt its national interests.

China, meanwhile, has always sent its premier, the country’s No. 2 official, to the trilateral leaders’ meeting since its first session in 2008. Observers say China earlier argued that under then-collective leadership, its premier was chiefly in charge of economic affairs and best suited to attend the meeting, which largely focuses on economic issues.

But they say China may face more demands for President Xi Jinping to attend because he has concentrated power in his hands and defied the norms of collective leadership.

Associated Press writers Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo and Simina Mistreanu in Taipei, Taiwan contributed to this report.