The Ultimate 3 Days in Seoul Itinerary
Planning your first trip to South Korea? This 3-day itinerary for Seoul covers historic palaces, bustling street food markets, and futuristic modern culture. Experience the best of South Korea’s capital!
6 min read
Your Gateway to the Land of the Morning Calm
Seoul is a masterpiece of contradictions. Step out of Seoul Station to an intriguing blend of neon skyscrapers and ancient stone gates. Seoul is home to five massive royal palaces, yet it also boasts the world’s fastest internet speeds. You can wear a traditional Hanbok to a 600-year-old temple by day and lose yourself in a futuristic K-pop dance studio by night. Whether you’re a foodie hunting for the legendary "Netflix Lady" at Gwangjang Market or a history buff eager to walk the halls of the Joseon Dynasty, this 3-day plan has something for you. Let’s dive into the ultimate Seoul experience!
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Day 1: Imperial Grandeur and Old-World Charm
To understand the soul of Seoul, Day 1 starts at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the "Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven." Built in 1395, it is the largest of the Five Grand Palaces. Are you fashion-curious? Try renting a Hanbok (traditional Korean dress) from one of the nearby boutiques. Not only does it feel like royalty, but the palace offers free admission to anyone wearing one. Don’t miss the Sumunjang (Royal Guard) Changing Ceremony, with rhythmic drumming and musicians in vibrant uniforms. It's like stepping through a portal to the Joseon Dynasty.
Just a short walk away lies Bukchon Hanok Village, where locals still reside in traditional tiled roof houses. When navigating the steep and winding alleys, remember you’re walking through a residential neighbourhood. Afterward, head to Insadong. This cultural district is the best place to find authentic souvenirs like calligraphy brushes or hand carved stamps. Tucked away in the side streets are traditional tea houses like Shin Old Tea House. Sit on the floor cushions, sip hot ginger tea, and watch the weather pass over the charming courtyard.
Day 2: Markets, Mountains, and Myeongdong Magic
Day 2 starts with a bird’s eye view. Head to Namsan Mountain to reach the iconic N Seoul Tower. At the base of the tower, there are thousands of "Love Locks" fastened to the fences, a testament to Seoul's status as a hub for couples. You can take a bus up the mountain, but the cable car is more fun. Up above, the observation deck offers a panoramic view of the Han River snaking through the massive metropolis.
Hungry? Gwangjang Market is one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in South Korea. Get ready for some taste sensations. Listen for the sizzle of bindae-tteok (mung bean pancakes) and admire the mini-mountains of mayak kimbap (addictive seaweed rice rolls). You can also find the "Netflix Lady", who won over hearts and taste buds on the show Netflix Street Food: Asia, at her famous noodle stall. She serves kal-guksu (hand-cut noodles) made fresh right in front of the customers.
As the sun sets, the neon lights of Myeongdong start to glow and so can your skin. This is the capital of K-beauty, South Korea’s famous skincare philosophy for achieving a luminous complexion. Sounds good to Wanderwell. In this neighbourhood, everyone wants to help you look fabulous. Shops such as Olive Young, Innisfree, or Etude House often hand out free samples just for walking in. Between skincare hauls, graze on the legendary Myeongdong street food. Try the grilled lobster tails with cheese followed by the viral 32cm tall soft serve ice cream. Trust us.
Day 3: The Pulse of Modern Seoul and Gangnam Style
The final day is devoted to the "Future" side of Seoul. Start at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). Designed by ground-breaking Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid, this curving, silver structure looks like a spaceship crashed in the middle of the city, but in a good way. It’s the hub of Korean design and fashion, filled with quirky galleries and high-end boutiques. It is an architectural marvel that demands a spot on any social media feed.
Next, take the subway south of the river to the upscale Gangnam neighbourhood, on which the famous song Gangnam Style is based. The first stop is the COEX Mall, home to the breath-taking Starfield Library. With floor to ceiling bookshelves, it’s a bibliophile’s dream. For a typical Seoul contradiction, cross the street and visit Bongeunsa Temple to contemplate stone pagodas and smell burning incense. It’s the perfect place to reflect on your journey so far.
Finally, end the 72-hour adventure at Han River Park. Whether at Yeouido or Banpo, the vibe is pure relaxation. Locals love to rent a picnic mat and order "Chimaek" (fried chicken and beer) delivered directly to their spot via a mobile app. Watch the sunset over the water, enjoy the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain show, and raise a glass to your incredible three days.
Seoul is Calling
Three days is just enough time to fall head over heels for this city, but many travellers already plan their return flight before reaching the departure lounge at Incheon Airport! From the quiet dignity of the royal palaces to the high-octane energy of Gangnam, Seoul offers a soul stirring adventure that simply cannot be found anywhere else. Ready to start packing?
Essential Travel Tips for Your Seoul Adventure
Navigating a new city can be a challenge, but Seoul is tourist-friendly once you know the basics. From transportation hacks to cultural do's and don'ts, here is everything to keep in mind for a smooth journey.
Mastering Public Transportation with T-Money
The T-Money card is an absolute necessity for any visitor. This rechargeable smart card is used to pay for subways, buses, and even some taxis or convenience store purchases.
Where to Buy: Pick one up immediately upon arrival at Incheon Airport, any subway station vending machine, or convenience stores like GS25, CU, and 7-Eleven. The physical card usually costs between 3,000 KRW and 5,000 KRW.
Topping Up: Note that you can only reload these cards with cash (Korean Won) at subway stations or convenience stores. It is wise to load about 20,000 to 30,000 KRW to start.
The Golden Rule: Always tap your card on the sensor when entering and exiting both buses and subways. Tapping out ensures you receive transfer discounts and avoid being charged the maximum distance fare.
Climate Card Alternative: If you plan on taking more than four rides a day within Seoul, consider the Climate Card. It offers unlimited transit for a flat fee (e.g., a 3-day pass for roughly 10,000 KRW).
Navigating the City: Apps to Download
Standard global map apps often struggle with turn-by-turn walking or driving directions in South Korea due to local security regulations. To avoid getting lost, download these local favourites:
Naver Map: Widely considered the best for tourists, it offers comprehensive English support and highly accurate walking paths through Seoul's narrow alleys.
KakaoMap: A great alternative with a very intuitive interface and excellent real-time bus arrival data.
KakaoTaxi: If you need a cab, this is the local version of Uber. It allows you to set your destination in the app to avoid language barriers with drivers.
Cultural Etiquette and Tipping
South Korea has a unique social fabric built on respect and efficiency. Following these simple customs will help you blend in:
Tipping: There is no tipping culture in South Korea. In fact, leaving extra money at a restaurant or in a taxi can sometimes cause confusion or be viewed as a mistake. Exceptional service is considered part of the job.
The Two-Hand Rule: When giving or receiving anything, whether it is your credit card at a shop or a drink at dinner, use both hands. It is a sign of respect and politeness.
Subway Manners: Avoid sitting in the designated seats at the ends of subway cars. These are strictly reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and the disabled, even if the train is empty. Also, keep your voice low; loud talking on public transit is generally frowned upon.
Shoes Off: If you visit a traditional restaurant with floor seating or a local home, you will be expected to remove your shoes at the entrance.
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