Seoul itinerary — 3 days
Day 1 — Seoul
6 stops · ≈ 6 h 15 minNestled in the vibrant heart of Seoul, Deoksugung Palace stands as a captivating blend of traditional Korean and Western architectural styles. This historic site, one of the five grand palaces from the Joseon dynasty, offers visitors a unique experience with its stunning evening illuminations.
Seoullo 7017 is a unique park that was opened in 2017 on a highway overpass from the 1970s, now transformed into a pedestrian walkway. Stretching for about 1km, it features various installations including architectural and artistic elements, offering stunning views of the surrounding road system. At night, the entire walkway is illuminated with a light exhibition.
LOTTE MART ZETTAPLEX Seoul Station is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. This unique supermarket offers an array of Korean products and groceries, from processed goods to cosmetics, electronics, fashion accessories, and more. It's a great place to experience local lifestyle and indulge in generous samples. The store is conveniently located next to Seoul Station and features eateries, Daiso, clothes, and other essentials.
Myeong Dong Night Market is not your typical traditional night market, but it's a popular spot for travelers due to its location in the bustling shopping district of Myeongdong. It features major stores like Lotte and Shinsegae, as well as various cosmetic brands. The market comes alive from 5:00 PM onwards with food stalls offering Korean delicacies such as gyerangbbang and dak-galbi.
Gwangjang Market is a vibrant hub of traditional Korean culture, where visitors can indulge in an impressive selection of street food and shop for unique clothing and souvenirs. After savoring delicious dishes like tteokbokki and mung bean pancakes, take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Dongdaemun Gate, a historic landmark that dates back to the late 1300s.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is a futuristic architectural landmark and events venue in Seoul. Opened in 2014, it offers a unique space to dream, design, and play. The complex features the Design Museum showcasing innovative Korean designs and the Design Market where visitors can experience cutting-edge technologies. Designed by Zaha Hadid, DDP is located in the fashion hub of Dongdaemun and has revitalized the area into a trendy district with niche designer brands.
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8If you have time left — worth it too.
Nestled along the banks of the Han River in Seoul, Lotte World is a spectacular 3-in-1 adventure park that promises fun for the entire family. This enchanting destination boasts both an expansive indoor theme park—recognized as the largest in the world—and an outdoor area known as Magic Island, reminiscent of a fairy-tale castle. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of attractions, from gentle monorail rides to thrilling log flumes and pirate ships.
Coffee Hanyakbang, which translates to traditional Korean medicine pharmacy, is a hidden gem nestled in a narrow alleyway. The cafe exudes an old-world charm with its antique furniture and decor that creates a unique ambiance. This specialty coffee shop is renowned for its hand-drip coffee, offering house-roasted blends and single-origin options to pair with delectable sweet treats. It's a favorite among coffee enthusiasts who appreciate the vintage Korean and Chinese-inspired interior design.
Located in the former Belgian Consulate building on Doldam-gil Deoksugung Stone Wall Road, Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA) is a three-story museum with six exhibition halls and various educational facilities. The museum's glocal exhibitions cover diverse art-related fields and embrace non-Western art alongside mainstream Western art.
Oil Tank Culture Park in Seoul is a unique cultural space created from six decommissioned oil tanks that were originally used to store petroleum. These industrial structures have been transformed into exhibition spaces, performance venues, and galleries as part of an urban reformation project. The park hosts free concerts, exhibitions, workshops, and village markets. Visitors can explore the hidden nooks of the venue or enjoy outdoor performances in the large plaza at the center of the complex.
Dongdaemun Market is a bustling retail haven in Seoul, South Korea. It stands out with its 26 shopping malls, 30,000 specialty shops, and 50,000 manufacturers offering a wide range of products from textiles and clothes to electronics and office supplies. The market is known for providing great deals on various items. Fashion enthusiasts will find unique and affordable clothing and accessories while also supporting aspiring designers.
Bukhansan National Park, located north of Seoul, is a popular destination known for its stunning natural beauty and historical sites. The park offers a network of trails that lead to ancient temples and a fortress, making it an ideal spot for hiking enthusiasts. During the fall season, the mountains are adorned with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow foliage, creating a picturesque setting for leisurely walks.
Hangang Park is a serene escape from the urban chaos, offering a vast green sanctuary by the Han River. It serves as a link between the river and Garosu-gil, providing diverse energies and atmospheres. This beautiful park is perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying fresh air, making it an ideal spot to unwind amidst nature's beauty.
Namsan Mountain, located in Seoul, is a popular destination offering various activities such as hiking, picnic areas, and breathtaking city views. One way to reach the iconic N Seoul Tower on top of the mountain is by taking the metro to Hoehyeon station and hiking along a section of the Seoul City Wall. The mountain provides an ideal spot to witness stunning sunsets over Seoul.
- Download a translation app for easier communication.
- Use a T-money card for convenient public transport access.
- Learn basic Korean phrases to enhance your experience.