Planning a trip to South Korea and wondering how to best experience Seoul? Look no further! This comprehensive Seoul Travel Itinerary is designed to guide you through an unforgettable 5-day adventure in South Korea’s dynamic capital.
Seoul is a city that truly has it all – a captivating blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. Imagine yourself exploring magnificent palaces in traditional Korean dress, sipping fragrant tea in historic teahouses, and then diving into the vibrant energy of trendy districts like Myeongdong and Hongdae. Indulge in world-class beauty treatments at incredibly affordable prices, and immerse yourself in the dazzling neon cityscape after enjoying local brews or soju. A Han River cruise with stunning views of Seoul’s skyline and iconic bridges is simply a must.
And let’s not forget the food! Seoul is a culinary paradise, offering a tantalizing array of street food delights, from crispy Korean fried chicken to spicy tteokbokki and sweet ssiat hotteok. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey as you explore this incredible city.
This perfectly crafted 5-day Seoul itinerary is your key to unlocking the best of Seoul.
Seoul, the heart of K-pop, Korean BBQ, and kimchi, is a city of fascinating contrasts. It’s a metropolis where modernity and tradition harmoniously coexist, where urban landscapes are interwoven with pockets of lush greenery. Gleaming skyscrapers stand tall alongside ancient palaces, and vibrant markets buzz with a controlled chaos. As South Korea’s capital and largest city, Seoul is a city that never truly sleeps – a bustling hub that rivals even the energy of New York City.
After numerous trips to Japan, we yearned to explore another East Asian gem. We sought a destination with exceptional food, a rich ancient culture, thriving modern cities, and of course, the enchanting beauty of cherry blossoms. South Korea emerged as the perfect choice, and it completely exceeded our expectations in every way imaginable.
Despite my years in the travel industry, I’ve noticed that South Korea often gets overlooked by travelers, especially from the West. While Japan and Southeast Asia are rightfully popular, South Korea remains somewhat of a hidden gem, particularly for American and European tourists. During our visit, we were struck by the relative absence of Western tourists, adding to the feeling of discovering something truly special.
So, here it is – your complete Seoul itinerary, packed with everything you need to plan your first 5 days in Seoul! Let’s dive in and start planning your dream trip.
Seoul in 5 Days: A Quick Glance
- Day 1: Immerse yourself in the traditional charm of Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, explore the artistic streets of Insadong, and experience the vibrant shopping and street food scene of Myeongdong.
- Day 2: Step back in time at the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace and wander through the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village.
- Day 3: Discover the trendy vibes of Gangnam and Sinsa-dong, explore the unique concept stores in Seongsu, and catch an exciting Korean baseball game for a taste of local culture.
- Day 4: Unleash your inner youth in the energetic Hongdae district and enjoy a relaxing evening with ramen by the scenic Han River.
- Day 5: Explore the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), take a peaceful stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream, and indulge in a culinary adventure at Gwangjang Market.
When I first began planning my Seoul itinerary, I felt a little overwhelmed. The city is vast, with countless neighborhoods and an endless array of attractions. However, I can now confidently say that Seoul’s size is part of its charm, and I am already eager to return and explore even more!
Essential Logistics for Your Seoul Itinerary
Seoul: Location and Accessibility
Seoul, the sprawling capital of South Korea, is strategically located in the heart of East Asia. Nestled on the Han River (Hangang) in the northwestern region of the country, it’s cradled by a beautiful mountainous landscape. Bukhansan Mountain rises to the north, Gwanaksan Mountain to the south, and Namsan Mountain, home to the iconic N Seoul Tower, is centrally located within the city.
Seoul boasts exceptional connectivity, being within a 3-hour flight from over 40 major cities with populations exceeding one million. This makes it incredibly accessible from many parts of the world.
Geographically, Seoul is approximately 200 miles northwest of Busan, a short flight from the idyllic Jeju Island, and within easy reach of cities like Suwon, Incheon, and Daejeon.
It’s worth noting Seoul’s proximity to the North Korean border, situated about 30 miles from the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the buffer zone separating North and South Korea. This places Seoul within range of North Korean artillery and missiles. However, a substantial military presence in and around Seoul acts as a strong deterrent against potential aggression.
While the proximity to the DMZ might seem concerning, it shouldn’t deter you from visiting Seoul. In fact, the DMZ itself is a popular tourist destination. During our visit, we felt remarkably safe. However, encountering shelters and safety equipment, even in our hotel rooms, served as a stark reminder of the geopolitical context.
Flying into Seoul
Most international travelers arrive in South Korea via Incheon International Airport (ICN), Seoul’s primary international gateway. ICN is a world-class airport, consistently ranked among the best and busiest globally, offering extensive flight connections, including numerous nonstop flights from major cities worldwide.
For example, we enjoyed a direct flight from San Francisco (SFO) to Incheon, a journey of approximately 12 hours. Direct flights to Seoul are also available from US cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, New York, and Atlanta.
Gimpo International Airport (GMP) is another airport serving Seoul, located closer to the city center. GMP primarily handles domestic flights (connecting to Busan, Jeju, etc.) and some international routes from nearby countries like Japan, Taiwan, and China.
Getting from the Airport to Seoul City Center
Airport Railroad Express (AREX)
Incheon International Airport is located about 30 miles west of central Seoul, necessitating transportation to reach the city. The Airport Railroad Express (AREX) is highly recommended for a fast and efficient transfer. AREX offers two train services:
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AREX Express Train: This non-stop express service whisks you directly from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station in approximately 45 minutes, costing around 9,500 KRW (about $7 USD). If your accommodation isn’t in the Hongdae area, you’ll likely need to transfer to the subway at Seoul Station to reach your hotel.
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AREX All-Stop Train: This train makes multiple stops en route to Seoul Station, including Gimpo Airport, Digital Media City, and Hongik University. The journey to Seoul Station takes about an hour and costs only 4,150 KRW (under $3 USD!). For those staying in Hongdae, the AREX All-Stop Train is ideal – simply disembark at Hongik University Station. Avoid the Express Train if you’re heading to Hongdae, as it bypasses Hongik University and goes directly to Seoul Station, requiring you to backtrack.
While taxis and ride-sharing services are available, they are considerably more expensive and often slower due to Seoul’s traffic congestion.
If you arrive at Gimpo International Airport (GMP), you can also utilize the AREX All-Stop Train to reach Seoul or opt for Subway Lines 5 or 9, depending on your destination within the city.
Airport Limousine Bus
For a comfortable alternative to the subway, consider the Airport Limousine Bus. These buses operate from Incheon International Airport to various key neighborhoods in Seoul, including Myeongdong, Gangnam, Hongdae, Itaewon, and Dongdaemun.
Tickets (approximately $10-15 USD) can be purchased directly at the bus stop upon arrival, with buses departing every 15-30 minutes. Advance booking is generally not necessary.
Traveling to Seoul by KTX Train
Already in South Korea? The high-speed KTX train is an excellent option for reaching Seoul from other cities. The Korea Train eXpress (KTX) is South Korea’s efficient high-speed rail system, providing swift connections between major urban centers. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons like cherry blossom season, when trains can sell out.
Consider purchasing KTX tickets through platforms like Klook, which often offer tourist-exclusive deals, such as a 2-day unlimited travel pass for groups of 2-5 people within a 10-day period.
Purchasing tickets directly through the Korail website can sometimes be challenging with foreign credit cards, and the Korail app can be less user-friendly.
After spending 3 days exploring Busan, we took the KTX train back to Seoul with ease. The journey to Seoul Station took approximately 2.5 hours, and we found the trains to be comfortable, safe (with extensive CCTV surveillance), and equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi.
Avoid using Rail Ninja to purchase KTX tickets, as they often inflate prices significantly.
KTX train services extend to other cities in South Korea, including Daegu, Daejeon, Gwangju, and Jeonju.
Navigating Seoul During Your 5-Day Trip
Public Transportation: Subway and Buses
Seoul boasts an exceptional public transportation system – efficient, clean, punctual, and safe, even late at night. It rivals Tokyo’s system and far surpasses that of New York City.
Acquire a T-money card upon arrival in Seoul. These reloadable transportation cards simplify travel on subways and buses throughout Seoul and other regions of South Korea. Using a T-money card is significantly more convenient than purchasing single-journey tickets or handling exact change for each ride.
T-money cards are readily available at convenience stores like CU, GS25, 7-Eleven, and Ministop throughout the city, as well as at airports and subway stations. Some cards feature charming character designs. Note that reloading T-money cards typically requires cash.
Seoul Metropolitan Subway: Seoul’s subway system is one of the largest and most efficient globally, spanning 23 lines and extending to Incheon and Gyeonggi Province. Lines 1, 2 (the circle line), and 4 are particularly useful for tourists, connecting many popular neighborhoods and attractions.
During our 5 days in Seoul, we relied heavily on the subway and found it easy to navigate. Signage and announcements are provided in English. However, be prepared for the occasional wrong turn or missed stop – the system is vast, and minor mishaps are part of the adventure. Download helpful apps like Subway Korea, Naver Map, and KakaoMap in advance to aid navigation.
Buses: A comprehensive bus network complements the subway system, with various bus types: blue (trunk), green (branch), yellow (circulation), and red (express). We primarily used the subway and walking, so we have less personal experience with the bus system.
Driving in Seoul
Unless you are an experienced city driver comfortable with heavy traffic, avoid driving in Seoul. Parking can be challenging and expensive, traffic congestion is prevalent, and the network of one-way streets, overpasses, and underpasses can be confusing for first-time drivers. Furthermore, Seoul’s extensive CCTV camera network makes it easy to incur traffic violations.
For this 5-day Seoul itinerary, a car is unnecessary. Public transportation, walking, and guided tours provide convenient access to all destinations.
Opt for the subway – it’s faster and avoids the stress of driving. Taxis are available but are also subject to traffic delays.
Walking in Seoul
While public transportation is essential for traversing between neighborhoods, Seoul is surprisingly walkable within districts. We walked extensively during our 5 days in Seoul, often exceeding 10 miles daily. Comfortable walking shoes are a must!
Be prepared for numerous stairs throughout Seoul. Take your time and pace yourself as needed.
While Google Maps may not provide precise walking directions in Korea, you can still utilize the blue dot for general navigation.
Best Time to Plan Your Seoul Itinerary
Seoul experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. It’s a year-round destination, but spring and autumn are generally considered the most favorable times to visit due to mild and pleasant weather.
Spring (March to May)
Spring in Seoul is mild and delightful, with temperatures ranging from the low 40s to high 60s Fahrenheit. April is particularly enchanting with the blooming of cherry blossoms.
Accommodation should be booked well in advance if you plan to visit during cherry blossom season, as it’s a popular tourist period. Pack layers, as the weather can be variable.
Spring events include Seoul Fashion Week, the Seoul Lotus Lantern Festival (celebrating Buddha’s birthday with lantern parades and cultural performances), and various cherry blossom festivals throughout the city.
We visited Seoul from late March to early April and enjoyed mostly pleasant weather, witnessing thousands of cherry trees in full bloom. We even took a day trip to the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival.
Summer (June to August)
Summers in Seoul are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 86°F (30°C) and sometimes reaching 95°F (35°C). Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, apply sunscreen frequently, stay hydrated, and seek air-conditioned breaks.
Summer is generally not the ideal time to visit Seoul due to the heat, humidity, and frequent rainfall, especially during monsoon season from late June to early August. It’s also a peak travel season for domestic tourists due to school holidays.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is a beautiful season in Seoul, characterized by cool (59°F/15°C to 41°F/5°C) and dry weather, clear skies, and vibrant fall foliage from mid-October to late November. Namsan Mountain, Bukhansan National Park, and the city’s palaces are excellent locations to admire the autumn colors.
Expect larger crowds than usual, so book accommodations, KTX tickets, and activities in advance, particularly if visiting during the Seoul Lantern Festival or Chuseok, Korea’s autumn harvest festival.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Seoul is cold, with temperatures ranging from 23°F to 41°F (-5°C to 5°C), occasionally dipping below 14°F (-10°C) at night. Snowfall is common but typically light. Pack warm coats, fleece-lined hats, and thermal clothing.
For winter sports enthusiasts, nearby ski resorts like Vivaldi Park and Alpensia Resort offer skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Winter events include the Seoul Christmas Festival and the Seoul Lantern Festival at Cheonggyecheon Stream.
Where to Stay in Seoul: Neighborhood Guide
Choosing where to stay in Seoul can be challenging due to the city’s diverse neighborhoods. Hongdae and Myeongdong are popular choices for tourists due to their shopping and dining options, but other neighborhoods offer unique appeals.
While Airbnb is available, consider hotels for your Seoul stay, especially if you don’t speak Korean. Hotel staff typically speak English and can provide valuable assistance with inquiries, restaurant reservations, and transportation.
Hongdae
Hongdae, near Hongik University, is a vibrant and youthful neighborhood with a lively nightlife and artistic atmosphere. It’s known for its trendy cafes and is ideal for those who enjoy bustling nightlife, clubs, bars, and late-night entertainment.
Hongdae offers excellent airport access via the AREX line connecting Incheon Airport to Seoul Station. However, it’s slightly further from major tourist attractions, although easily accessible by subway.
We stayed at the stylish RYSE Autograph Collection in Hongdae, enjoying impeccable service, stylish rooms, and a Blue Bottle Coffee in the lobby. It’s also conveniently located near excellent Korean fried chicken restaurants and Nike Hongdae.
Other recommended hotels in Hongdae include Mercure Ambassador Seoul and Amanti Hotel Seoul.
Myeongdong
Myeongdong is located in the heart of Seoul, offering central proximity to many neighborhoods and attractions. It’s a convenient base for first-time visitors, with abundant shopping options and a lively night market offering street food.
Some consider Myeongdong to be touristy, but its central location and convenient subway lines are undeniable advantages.
We stayed at MOXY Seoul Myeongdong on our first night in Korea. Other hotels to consider in Myeongdong include L7 Myeongdong, Metro Hotel Myeongdong, and Hotel 28 Myeongdong.
In retrospect, Myeongdong might have been a more central and convenient base for our 5-day Seoul itinerary compared to Hongdae.
Insadong
Insadong is the cultural and traditional heart of Seoul, known for its historic charm, traditional teahouses, and hanok stays. It’s accessible via Anguk Station and close to Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village.
Friends who stayed in Insadong enjoyed its traditional ambiance. Recommended hotels include MOXY Insadong, Tong Tong Petit Hotel, and Sunbee Hotel Insadong.
Itaewon
Itaewon, situated between Myeongdong and the Han River, is a multicultural district with a diverse food scene and vibrant nightlife. Once a red-light district, Itaewon has transformed into a neighborhood with numerous international restaurants.
Hotels to consider in Itaewon include Mondrian Seoul Itaewon and Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel.
Gangnam
Gangnam is a modern and upscale district, famous for high-end shopping, fine dining, cosmetic beauty clinics, and being a major business and financial hub. It’s home to COEX Mall, luxury boutiques, flagship stores, the Gangnam Style statue, and K-star Road.
Gangnam is located south of the river and further from major tourist attractions, catering more to luxury travelers and those seeking cosmetic procedures. Recommended hotels include AC Hotel by Marriott, Dormy Inn, and Josun Palace Gangnam Seoul.
While not ideal for accommodation for a first-time tourist focused on major attractions, Gangnam is worth visiting for a few hours, as included in this 5-day Seoul itinerary.
Is 5 Days Enough in Seoul?
Five days is a good starting point to experience Seoul’s highlights, but more time is always better! Seoul is a vast city with endless discoveries.
With 5 days, you can visit iconic landmarks, explore diverse neighborhoods, savor Korean cuisine, indulge in skincare treatments, and do some serious shopping. While you might not see everything, a well-planned 5-day Seoul itinerary allows you to experience a significant portion of the city’s charm.
Essential Tips and FAQs for Your Seoul Trip
Download essential apps in advance: Google Maps is not fully functional in South Korea, especially for walking directions. Download Naver Map or KakaoMap for navigation. Consider adding points of interest to your maps beforehand. Kakao Taxi is a Korean ride-sharing app; however, regular Uber also worked well during our trip.
Plan your Seoul itinerary in advance: Seoul is a city with a lot to see and do. Having a pre-planned itinerary maximizes your time and ensures you don’t miss key attractions.
Prepare for a lot of walking and stairs: Seoul is a very walkable city, but also hilly with many stairs. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some leg workouts!
Seoul vs. Busan: Seoul and Busan are distinct cities. Seoul is a fast-paced, 24-hour capital, while Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, offers a more relaxed coastal vibe with beautiful beaches. If time allows, visit both, but Seoul is indispensable on a first trip to Korea.
Visa requirements: Visa requirements for South Korea vary by nationality. Check the latest requirements for your nationality before traveling. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for tourism purposes for a specified period. Some nationalities may require a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA).
Olive Young is everywhere: Olive Young, Korea’s premier skincare and beauty retailer, has stores throughout Seoul. No need to buy everything at the first store you see. Myeongdong’s Olive Young flagship store is often crowded, so consider visiting less congested locations.
Photo booths are abundant: Photo booths are a popular part of Korean culture and offer fun souvenirs. Some booths even provide digital flipbooks of your prints.
Restaurant reservations: Restaurant reservations often require a Korean phone number. Your hotel concierge can assist with reservations. However, we dined at many excellent places without reservations.
Pack light: With extensive walking and stairs, packing light is highly recommended. Consider carry-on luggage or a suitcase with extra space for shopping finds.
Carry both card and cash (Korean Won): While cards are widely accepted, some vendors, particularly street food stalls, may prefer or only accept cash. Cash is also needed for reloading T-money cards.
English in Seoul: English is spoken by many in the tourism industry, and signage is often bilingual (Korean and English). Translation apps and gestures are helpful for communication. Some restaurants have English menus, but not all.
Now, let’s get to the detailed 5-day Seoul itinerary!
Your Detailed 5-Day Seoul Itinerary
Important Notes for this Seoul Itinerary:
- This itinerary is designed for an active pace, maximizing your exploration of Seoul. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider swapping Day 1 and Day 5 or adjusting the daily activities.
- It assumes you have 5 full days in Seoul, starting your exploration the morning after arrival.
- The itinerary involves neighborhood hopping, utilizing both walking and subway travel. Neighborhoods and attractions are grouped by proximity for efficiency.
- Be aware that many palaces, museums, and some shops are closed on Mondays. Adjust your itinerary accordingly if your trip includes a Monday.
- For a less hectic pace, Days 2 and 5 can be combined, but it will be a very full day.
Day 1: Traditional Seoul Charm – Ikseon-dong, Insadong, and Myeongdong
Morning: Stop 1 – Ikseon-dong Hanok Village
Welcome to Korea! Start your Seoul adventure in Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, a charming enclave where beautifully restored traditional Korean houses (hanoks) now house trendy cafes, boutiques, restaurants, and guesthouses.
Ikseon-dong provides a delightful introduction to Seoul, showcasing the unique blend of historical charm and modern trends. It’s also a fantastic place to start your culinary explorations. Arrive early to beat the crowds, but be prepared for queues, especially at popular cafes.
We experienced the popularity of Mil Toast firsthand, with my husband patiently waiting in line for almost an hour while I explored the village’s alleys.
Popular cafes in Ikseon-dong include:
- Mil Toast: Known for its signature steamed bread, strawberry milk, and French toast. Be prepared for a potential wait, especially during peak hours.
- Cheese Industry: Offers cheese-centric pastries like Berry Nuts Brie and Maple Burrata.
- Jayeondo Salt Bread: Famous for incredibly fluffy and flavorful salt bread. Don’t miss their fresh-squeezed orange juice.
- Soha Salt Pond: Another charming cafe with a variety of salt breads, including caramel, milk cream, corn, and truffle flavors.
- Cheong su dang Café: Features a lush greenhouse-like ambiance and meticulously crafted desserts. Their marron glace montblanc is impressive but quite sweet.
- Nakwon Station Cafe: Unique for its train track running through the cafe and a conveyor belt of cakes. Try their iced maple cream latte.
Between cafe visits, explore the trendy shops and artisan workshops in Ikseon-dong, known for handmade crafts and vintage items.
Afternoon: Stop 2 – Insadong
A short walk from Ikseon-dong brings you to Insadong, a neighborhood celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and artistic atmosphere. Insadong is filled with art galleries, traditional wooden teahouses, antique shops, and street performances.
Must-sees in Insadong:
- Insadong Shopping Street: A bustling street lined with vendors and boutiques selling calligraphy supplies, ceramics, hanbok (traditional Korean clothing), and folk crafts. Perfect for browsing and souvenir shopping.
- Starbucks Insadong: Uniquely, this Starbucks features Korean signage, making it the only Starbucks in the world without English lettering.
- Candy Vendors: Watch street vendors create traditional Korean King’s Candy (“kkultarae” or “dragon’s beard candy”), a fascinating process of transforming honey and malt into delicate strands filled with nuts and chocolate.
- Traditional Korean Tea at a Teahouse: Insadong is dotted with traditional teahouses. We chose “Traditional Teahouse Insadong” and enjoyed Korean tea in their serene traditional garden. Other options include Namusae Tea House and Shin Tea House.
- Jogyesa Temple: One of Seoul’s most important Buddhist temples. We were fortunate to see colorful decorations and lanterns for Buddha’s birthday. The Lotus Lantern Festival is a spectacular event.
- Ssamziegil Mall: A unique spiral-shaped shopping complex with shops selling handmade crafts, accessories, and art.
Evening: Stop 3 – Myeongdong
Conclude your first day in Myeongdong, a lively district known for the Namsan Cable Car, street food, and skincare shopping. Myeongdong truly comes alive in the late afternoon and evening.
The highlight of Myeongdong is its Night Market, famous for an incredible array of street food. The market typically opens around 3-4 pm. We sampled tteokbokki, egg bread, cheese BBQ, hotteok, fire marshmallow, shrimp, and mochi. The street food selection is vast and tempting.
You can dine entirely on street food or combine it with a restaurant meal. We opted for an early dinner at Myeongdong Kyoja followed by street food exploration and even got a fun caricature portrait done.
Other Myeongdong activities:
- Namsan Cable Car: If the weather is clear, take the cable car up Namsan Mountain for panoramic city views and access to N Seoul Tower.
- Customize Nike Clothing: The Nike store in Myeongdong offers customization options for clothing and sneakers.
- Skincare Shopping: Myeongdong is a skincare shopping paradise. Explore the Olive Young Flagship Store and other Korean beauty brands like Etude House, Holika Holika, and Innisfree.
- Dinner at Myeongdong Kyoja (Main Restaurant): Enjoy Michelin-recommended mandu (dumplings) and kalguksu (noodle soup) at this casual and efficient restaurant.
Day 2: Palatial Grandeur and Hanok Beauty
Morning: Stop 1 – Hanbok Rental and Dress-Up
Day 2 is dedicated to exploring traditional Korean culture. Start by renting a traditional hanbok, a highlight of our Seoul trip. Wearing a hanbok enhances your experience of Seoul’s historical sites and provides fantastic photo opportunities.
Hanbok refers to traditional Korean clothing, particularly from the Joseon period, consisting of a jeogori (jacket) and chima (skirt) for women, and jeogori and baji (pants) for men. Hanbok rentals are readily available near Gyeongbokgung Palace. Wearing a hanbok grants you free entry to Seoul’s palaces.
While hanbok shoes are available for rent, comfortable personal shoes are recommended for walking.
Late Morning/Afternoon: Stop 2 – Gyeongbokgung Palace
Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most beautiful of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces. Built in 1395, it served as the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Entrance is free when wearing a hanbok.
Don’t miss the Changing of the Royal Guard (Sumunjang) ceremony at Gwanghwamun Gate at 10 am and 2 pm daily (except Tuesdays). Arrive at the palace by 9 am for a less crowded experience.
Lunch: Stop 3 – Tongin Traditional Market
Near Gyeongbokgung Palace, Tongin Traditional Market is a great spot for a quick, affordable lunch. It’s a smaller market but offers various food options like oil tteokbokki, chicken skewers, and kimbap.
A unique aspect of Tongin Market is the option to purchase coins (10,000 won) to exchange for food at different stalls.
Afternoon: Stop 4 – Nuldam Space Cafe
Visit Nuldam Space Cafe, famous for its letter-to-your-future-self concept. Purchase a postcard, write a message, seal it with wax, and choose a future delivery date.
Late Afternoon: Stop 5 – Bukchon Hanok Village
Explore Bukchon Hanok Village, a historic village with hundreds of traditional hanoks dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Wander through cobblestone streets, visit tea houses, and artisan shops. Be mindful of residents and keep noise levels down.
For less crowded photos on the main street, arrive very early. We visited midday and still found charming photo spots in the quieter alleys.
Enjoy strawberry milk lattes at Green Mile Coffee with rooftop views of hanok roofs. Granhand Perfume is a popular shop to explore.
Consider visiting Changdeokgung Secret Garden (UNESCO World Heritage Site) if tickets are available.
Dinner: Stop 6 – Korean BBQ
Enjoy Korean BBQ for dinner. Numerous BBQ restaurants are located throughout Seoul. Head back to your neighborhood and choose a spot.
Recommended Korean BBQ restaurants:
- Wangbijib Myeongdong Main Store (Myeongdong)
- Hwanggeum Mokjang (Myeongdong)
- Myeongdong Korean BBQ Beef Mongbeulli (Myeongdong)
- Hongdae Korean BBQ All You Can Eat Pig Company (Hongdae)
- Saemaul Restaurant (Hongdae)
- 88 Rotary House (Hongdae)
- JD BBQ (Itaewon)
Learn to eat Korean BBQ by making “ssam” – lettuce wraps with meat, rice, banchan, and sauce.
Day 3: Modern Seoul – Gangnam, Seongsu, and Baseball
Morning: Stop 1 – Gangnam
Explore Gangnam, made famous by “Gangnam Style,” an upscale and trendy district known for luxury shopping, high-end fashion, and K-beauty.
Must-dos in Gangnam:
- Garosu-gil: Stroll along this tree-lined street with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. Visit Gentle Monster for avant-garde sunglasses.
- COEX Mall and Starfield Library: Visit the iconic Starfield Library inside COEX Mall. Explore shops, a movie theater, and an aquarium within the mall.
- Gangnam Style Statue: Take photos at the golden fist statue commemorating PSY’s hit song, located outside COEX Mall.
- K-Star Road: See the “GangnamDol” bear statues representing K-pop idols.
- Nudake Cafe: Located in Gentle Monster, this cafe offers unique desserts and drinks. Try their black sesame latte and black croissant.
Afternoon: Stop 2 – Seoul Forest Park
Escape to nature at Seoul Forest Park, one of Seoul’s largest parks. Enjoy greenery, walking paths, picnic areas, and possibly see deer and butterflies. It’s especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Late Afternoon: Stop 3 – Seongsu
Discover Seongsu, dubbed the “Brooklyn of Seoul,” known for its industrial-chic aesthetic, concept stores, and stylish cafes.
Don’t miss the Dior store exterior. Explore concept stores like emis, Point of View stationery, Osoi, and Ader Error.
Evening: Stop 4 – Jamsil Baseball Game
Attend a Korean baseball game at Jamsil Stadium, home to the LG Twins and Doosan Bears (KBO League). Enjoy the lively fan atmosphere, cheering, and K-pop dancers. You can bring your own food and drinks to the stadium.
Tickets can often be purchased at the stadium on game day. Consider booking a baseball experience tour for a more immersive experience.
Alternatively, visit Banpo Hangang Park to see the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain or nearby Seorae Island.
Day 4: Youthful Energy and Riverside Relaxation
Daytime: Stop 1 – Hongdae Exploration
Spend the day in Hongdae, a vibrant district known for indie music, street art, and nightlife. It’s often compared to Harajuku in Tokyo. Hongdae starts to come alive around 10 am or later.
Things to do in Hongdae:
- Skincare Treatments: Indulge in affordable skincare treatments at clinics like Lienjang Clinic. Book in advance. Consider scheduling treatments towards the end of your trip.
- Perfume Making Class at Greedy Scent: Create your custom perfume. Book in advance as classes can fill up quickly.
- Breakfast at Egg Drop or Isaac Toast: Try gourmet egg sandwiches at these popular spots. Isaac Toast was our favorite.
- Gyeongui Line Forest Park: Stroll through this linear park built on a former railway line.
- Custom Nike Clothing: Personalize Nike apparel at the Hongdae Nike store, often less crowded than Myeongdong.
- Shopping: Explore independent boutiques, vintage stores, and Korean brands like Gentle Monster, Covernat, and Stylenanda.
- FRESH PLUSH: Visit this unique pet toy “grocery store.”
- Ramyun Library: Discover a vast selection of instant ramen.
- Cute Cafes: Hongdae is full of themed cafes like Thanks Nature Cafe (sheep cafe), Sanrio Lovers Club, and 943 King’s Cross (Harry Potter cafe).
Late Afternoon/Evening: Stop 2 – Han River Ramen at 7-Eleven
Head to Yeouido Hangang Park for a relaxing break by the Han River. Enjoy instant ramen cooked at 7-Eleven machines by the river, a popular local experience. Rent a picnic blanket for a comfortable riverside meal. Sunset views are popular here.
Night: Stop 3 – Hongdae Nightlife (Optional)
Experience Hongdae’s vibrant nightlife with clubs, bars, and street performers. If clubbing isn’t your scene, enjoy a late-night walk to soak in the energetic atmosphere and street performances.
Day 5: Futuristic Design, Stream Serenity, and Market Flavors
Morning: Stop 1 – Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), an iconic futuristic architectural complex designed by Zaha Hadid. Explore its unique architecture, shopping areas, and rotating museum exhibits. Expect cherry blossoms in spring.
Late Morning: Stop 2 – Seoul City Wall Trail at Naksan Park and Ihwa Mural Village (Optional)
Hike a section of the Seoul City Wall Trail at Naksan Park for panoramic city views. Consider visiting Ihwa Mural Village along the trail, though murals may be less prevalent than before. Check recent reviews.
Afternoon: Stop 3 – Cheonggyecheon Stream Walk
Stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream, an urban renewal project in central Seoul. Enjoy waterfalls, bridges, and art installations along the 6.8-mile stream. It’s a peaceful escape in the city center.
Evening: Stop 4 – Gwangjang Market Food Tour
Embark on a Gwangjang Market food tour to navigate this large market and sample diverse Korean dishes with a local guide.
Must-try foods at Gwangjang Market: bindaetteok (mung bean pancake), kimchi, tteokbokki, and knife-cut noodles. Don’t leave without trying the twisted donut from Chapssal Kkwabaegi (Glutinous Rice Twist).
Alternatively, join a Seoul night tour that includes Gwangjang Market for a guided experience.
Concluding Your Seoul Adventure
We hope this detailed Seoul travel itinerary helps you plan an incredible 5-day trip to Seoul! South Korea is a truly captivating destination with so much to offer. Enjoy your journey and don’t forget to try some honey hotteok and egg bread for us!
