Itinerary

First Time in Seoul: The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary

December 1, 20258 min read

Seoul is a city where ancient palaces stand in the shadow of futuristic skyscrapers, where traditional markets buzz alongside trendy shopping districts. For first-time visitors, navigating this vibrant metropolis can feel overwhelming. This 3-day itinerary is designed to give you the perfect introduction to Seoul, balancing must-see attractions with local favorites that many tourists miss.

Day 1: Historic Seoul & Palace District

Start your Seoul adventure at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most iconic of the Five Grand Palaces. Arrive early (around 9 AM) to avoid crowds and catch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at 10 AM. Spend 2-3 hours exploring the palace grounds and don't miss the National Folk Museum located within. For lunch, walk to nearby Bukchon Hanok Village. This traditional neighborhood features hundreds of hanok (traditional Korean houses), many converted into cafes, restaurants, and guesthouses. Try a traditional Korean lunch at one of the local restaurants—bibimbap or doenjang-jjigae are excellent choices. In the afternoon, explore Insadong, Seoul's cultural heart. This area is famous for traditional tea houses, art galleries, and antique shops. Don't miss Ssamziegil, a unique spiral shopping complex with indie boutiques and craft workshops. End your day at Jogyesa Temple, the center of Zen Buddhism in Korea, especially beautiful when lit up in the evening.

Related Places

Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁)
Attraction

Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁)

161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을)
Attraction

Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을)

37 Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Insadong Cultural Street (인사동 문화의 거리)
Attraction

Insadong Cultural Street (인사동 문화의 거리)

Insa-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul Metropolitan City

Day 2: Modern Seoul & Local Life

Begin day two in Myeongdong, Seoul's premier shopping and entertainment district. Even if you're not shopping, the energy here is infectious. K-beauty enthusiasts will find countless skincare and cosmetics shops offering samples and deals you won't find elsewhere. For a midday break, head to Namsan Tower. Take the cable car up for panoramic views of the entire city. The love locks here have become iconic—bring your own lock to add to the collection. The walk down through Namsan Park is pleasant and takes about 45 minutes. Evening is the perfect time to explore Hongdae, Seoul's youthful and artistic neighborhood near Hongik University. The streets come alive with buskers, street performers, and indie artists. Have dinner at a Korean BBQ restaurant—this is the quintessential Seoul dining experience. Try samgyeopsal (pork belly) or galbi (marinated beef ribs), grilled right at your table.

Related Places

Myeong-dong, Namdaemun, Bukchang-dong, Da-dong and Mugyo-dong Special Tourist Zone (명동 남대문 북창동 다동무교동 관광특구)
Attraction

Myeong-dong, Namdaemun, Bukchang-dong, Da-dong and Mugyo-dong Special Tourist Zone (명동 남대문 북창동 다동무교동 관광특구)

40, Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul

N Seoul Tower (남산서울타워)
Attraction

N Seoul Tower (남산서울타워)

105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Attraction

Hongdae (Hongik University Street) (홍대)

20 Hongik-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Day 3: Markets, Food & Hidden Gems

Dedicate your final morning to Gwangjang Market, one of Korea's oldest traditional markets. This is food heaven—start with bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), move on to mayak gimbap (addictive mini rice rolls), and don't leave without trying raw beef yukhoe. The market is best experienced on an empty stomach. Afterward, take the subway to Ikseon-dong, a hanok village that's been transformed into one of Seoul's trendiest neighborhoods. Unlike touristy Bukchon, Ikseon-dong has a more local, hipster vibe. Explore the narrow alleys filled with vintage shops, quirky cafes, and fusion restaurants. For your final evening, head to the Han River. Rent a bicycle, join locals for a picnic, or simply walk along the paths. Watching the sunset over the bridges with the city skyline in the background is the perfect way to say goodbye to Seoul. For dinner, try chimaek (chicken and beer) at one of the riverside convenience stores—it's the most Korean thing you can do.

Related Places

Gwangjang Market (광장시장)
Shopping

Gwangjang Market (광장시장)

88, Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Ikseon-dong Hanok Street (익선동 한옥거리)
Attraction

Ikseon-dong Hanok Street (익선동 한옥거리)

Ikseon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Yeouido Hangang Park (여의도한강공원)
Attraction

Yeouido Hangang Park (여의도한강공원)

330 Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

Final Thoughts

Three days in Seoul is just enough to fall in love with the city and realize you need to come back. This itinerary gives you a taste of Seoul's incredible diversity—from ancient palaces to modern skyscrapers, from traditional markets to trendy neighborhoods. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, carry a T-money card for easy transportation, and stay open to spontaneous discoveries. Seoul's magic often lies in the unexpected moments.

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