Seoul Itinerary and Attractions

Plan your own trip to Seoul: Seoul Itinerary and Attractions!

Seoul has so much to offer. You can never get tired of it. While you are staying in Seoul, you will be amazed by the numerous new things to see and experience. Here are the hottest places to go and do for your Seoul itinerary.

Over 40 fun Seoul attractions to choose from.

Seoul Metropolitan Government announced the Top 7 Seoul Attractions. Let’s take a look at the places first.

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
2. Coex Mall
3. Starfield Library
4. DDP (Dongdaemun Plaza)
5. Gwangjang Market
6. Cheonggyecheon Stream
7. Dongdaemun Market

And before we go further, if you have to carry your luggage or bags during the sightseeing, take a look at our post, “Luggage Storage Services in Seoul” to travel light. And you can check all the detailed information about the subway storage near you.

One Day in Seoul: Must-Visit Attractions

If you are allowed to stay for only one day in Seoul, the Discover Seoul Pass will definitely be worth to buy. It will dramatically reduce your effort and costs while seeing only the highlights of Seoul. The best part is that the Discover Seoul Pass provides free admission to 35 Seoul attractions and offers discounts to 29 attractions in Seoul. You can also use this pass on the AREX (Airport Railroad Express) to the Incheon International Airport and the City Tour Bus.

Don’t miss out the deals of the Discover Seoul Pass👇🏻

“Begin an unforgettable journey through Seoul with this curated list of top-rated tourist spots. Explore each destination effortlessly with the convenience of the hop-on-hop-off city tour bus. Let’s start our Seoul adventure!

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Our first recommendation on the list is Gyeongbokgung Palace, a must-visit attraction in Seoul. Dating back to 1395, this palace served as the principal residence of the Joseon Dynasty. It continues to enchant visitors with its historical significance and breathtaking architecture. One highlight of the palace experience is the opportunity to wear traditional Korean attire known as Hanbok, allowing you to capture memorable moments as you stroll through the palace grounds. For further details on Gyeongbokgung Palace, including operating hours, admission fees, how to get there, free walking tour, and guided tours, click here!

Gwanghwamun

Gwanghwamun square is the main southern gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace. You can see the Gwanghwamun square stretched out from the Gwanghwamun gate after viewing the Gyeongbokgung tour. This monumental national landmark is 555m square long and 34m wide. At the center of Sejong-daero stands the widest statue of The Great King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sunshin. Near Gwanghwamun Station Exit 6, you can take the Seoul City Tour Bus (Downtown Palace Course). It’s a departure point.

Namdaemun Market

Namdaemun Market is the oldest and largest Korean traditional market in Seoul. Countless shops and street stalls, lined up in the alleys, selling clothes, household items, and food at a low price.

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In addition, you can try various Korean street foods along the streets of the Namdaemun market like Hotteock, Korean Hot-dog, Dumpling, Boongeobbang, etc.

Myeongdong

Myeongdong is Korea’s best-known shopping district. The streets are lined with many flagship department stores including Lotte and Shinsegae and shopping malls that sell brand-name cosmetics, accessories, clothes and shoes. Plus, you can visit Myeongdong Cathedral which is the most iconic cathedral in Korea. It has symbolized Korean Catholicism for 119 years and this majestic wonder is also the first Gothic cathedral in Korea.

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Additionally, Myeongdong is renowned as the ultimate destination for various Korean street foods😋. For details like Myeongdong shopping, street food, and Myeongdong Nightmarket, head here!

Dongdaemun Fashion Street & DDP

DDP, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a new landmark in Dongdaemun has been recently constructed by the world-renowned architect, Zaha Hadid. Surely it’s the best place to go to if you’re interested in the arts! Every now and then, this place hosts wonderful exhibitions that are both, inspiring and stunning. The art exhibited here is more related to the designing industry, which is why the Plaza is so-called. Even if you don’t have a specific interest in art, you should still visit this place because the exhibitions are truly mesmerizing!

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Furthermore, you can indulge in the vibrant shopping scene of Dongdaemun shopping malls. These malls boast an extensive array of fashion apparel, catering to every style and preference. Additionally, the bustling night market adds to the excitement, offering a diverse selection of goods and culinary delights to explore and enjoy.

Daehakno

Daehangno is the center of performance culture where over 150 small theaters can be found. There are also various art galleries, movie theaters, and restaurants making this an excellent place to visit, both day and night.

You can also go to Naksan Park because it offers a spectacular view of Daehangro from its peak. This park is a famous filming location for popular Korean TV dramas and is a great spot to enjoy a beautiful sunset or night view of the city. 

Insadong Culture Street

Insa-dong is where you can see Seoul’s history. The alleys and main street of Insa-dong are lined with craft workshops, galleries, and traditional tea houses. It’s a good place to get beautiful souvenirs for everyone back home. One of the hot spots in Insa-dong is Ssamzigil. This is a multicultural space for traditional arts, crafts, exhibitions, and performances. Discover the best places to visit in Insadong on this page.

Bukchon Hanok Village

There are over 900 Korean traditional houses, Hanoks, in Bukchon Hanok Village, located between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung. Members of the royal family and aristocrats lived here during the Joseon dynasty. Still, it retains the city’s old appearance. Don’t miss out on Bukchon’s eight beautiful sights in which you will have an aerial view of Changdeokgung Palace. Also, “Seoul City Walking Tours” is a FREE program offered by the city of Seoul. It’s designed for tourists who want to see Seoul’s top tourist attractions on foot under the expert guidance of multilingual tour guides. For reservations, please check the website (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese).

N Seoul Tower

Namsan Seoul Tower, standing at 236.7 meters tall, is the main tourist attraction where you can enjoy a complete view of Seoul. Enjoy the fantastic laser show and beautiful night scenery of Seoul from the observatory on the second and third floor or in the revolving restaurant.

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 If you are planning to visit during day time, I recommend for you to come up to the tower via Namsan Park, where you can experience a beautiful walking path harmonized with nature.

Seoul Itinerary: 2 to 4 days in Seoul

For travelers planning a stay in Seoul ranging from two to four days, we highly recommend including these attractions on your itinerary.

Popular Attractions in Gangnam

Gangnam represents the latest trends in Seoul. This district is a favorite spot among tourists because of its trendy designer shops, cafes, and galleries stretching from the business and commercial zone around Samseong Station and Gangnam Station. 

Gangnam Shopping Street

Apgujeong Rodeo Street and Cheongdam-dong Fashion Area are packed with luxury brand stores from mega shopping malls that sell luxury goods and showrooms to studios and beauty shops. 

If you want to go shopping in Gangnam at an affordable price, Gangnam Station Underground Shopping Center is just for you. It offers a convenient shopping experience with hundreds of trendy fashion and accessory stores all in one place. 

Lotte World Amusement Park

Lotte World is a huge indoor and outdoor amusement park. In fact, it’s one of the biggest indoor parks in the world! It consists of Adventure and Magic Island, a folk museum, an ice rink, a department store, etc. Let your kids have the time of their lives in this park while you shop in the nearby shopping complex! It’s a win-win situation for everyone, right? Please check the details and get a discount here.

Seoul Sky

The Seoul-sky observatory provides thrilling and outstanding views of Seoul. The observatory deck has two-story-high glass windows for the 360-degree view. It’s on the 117 to 123rd floors of the Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in Korea, and the 5th in the world. Get a full panoramic view of Seoul here, the highest point in Seoul. It’s amazing at night!

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Moreover, experience the thrill of Seoul Sky, where the Magic Deck offers breathtaking views and the Sky Bridge delivers an adrenaline rush. Indulge in their signature milk ice cream for a sweet treat, then unwind in the luxurious lounge with a drink in hand, all while taking in the stunning cityscape below. Whether seeking excitement or relaxation, Seoul Sky promises an unforgettable experience for all.

Coex

Coex is a multi-purpose venue that includes shopping malls with more than 180 stores, an attractive aquarium and movie theater. As it’s located near CALT City Airport Terminal, this is the best place for last-minute shopping before your departure. Also, the COEX Aquarium is highly recommended to see diverse aquatic creatures. 

Bongeunsa Temple

Situated in close proximity to Coex, Bongeunsa Temple stands as a testament to Seoul’s rich cultural heritage. Dating back to 794 during the Shilla dynasty, it held the distinction of being the largest temple in Seoul throughout the Joseon Dynasty. Immerse yourself in Buddhist culture with a unique temple stay experience right in the heart of downtown Seoul. Additionally, don’t miss out on the seasonal events held at the temple, offering a deeper insight into traditional practices and celebrations.

Nonhyeon Gourmet Alley

Gangnam boasts an eclectic array of dining and nightlife options, with Nonhyeon-dong Gourmet Alley standing out as a culinary hub. Indulge in a diverse range of offerings including Korean barbecue, fresh seafood, crispy fried chicken, savory pig’s trotters, and a variety of spicy soups. For those seeking a vibrant Seoul night experience, a visit to this bustling area is a must. Plus, we’ve listed up the best Korean restaurants in Gangnam here!

Samsung d’light

Samsung d’light, located in Gangnam, is a cutting-edge experiential showcase that offers visitors a glimpse into the future of technology. This innovative space allows guests to explore Samsung’s latest products and technologies through interactive displays and immersive exhibits. From the latest smartphones and smart home devices to futuristic concepts and prototypes, Samsung d’light provides a captivating journey through the brand’s vision for the future. It’s a must-visit destination for tech enthusiasts and anyone interested in experiencing the forefront of innovation firsthand. You can test and use all the latest products made by Samsung Electronics within the Samsung Electronics headquarters building in Gangnam!

Garosugil Shopping+Cafe+Restaurant

Garosu-gil is a charming street filled with various attractions. There are many cafés and restaurants that you can explore from romantic outdoor cafes to boutique shops run by designers. If you’re looking for coffee, dessert, or just a light snack, this is where you should head over to! You can have brunch at one of the exotic cafes or enjoy a relaxing afternoon at a delightful restaurant along these streets. 

Banpo Hangang Park

Hangang Park, conveniently situated near Garosu-gil at a mere 750 meters away, offers a splendid opportunity to marvel at the nighttime beauty of the Hangang River and Seoul’s skyline. As you stroll towards Banpodaegyo Bridge, be captivated by the mesmerizing light and water show that unfolds before you.

This spectacle, known as the Banpodaegyo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain, holds the prestigious title of the world’s longest bridge fountain according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Moreover, Hangang Park provides a chance to immerse yourself in local culture, offering enriching cultural experiences alongside friendly locals.

K-pop Dance Class

For avid K-pop enthusiasts, we highly recommend indulging in a K-pop Dance Class experience in Gangnam. Under the guidance of professional instructors, you’ll have the opportunity to learn the latest and hottest K-pop dance moves. It promises to be a dynamic, energetic, and exhilarating experience that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this chance to immerse yourself in the world of K-pop culture! Visit here for further details and booking information.

Seoul nightlife- Clubs around Gangnam Station

Seoul’s vibrant nightlife pulses through the clubs surrounding Gangnam, where the beats keep going until dawn. With a diverse array of genres spanning from hip-hop to electronic music, there’s something to suit every taste. Especially on weekends, these clubs come alive with crowds of people reveling in the energetic atmosphere, making it the ultimate destination for an unforgettable night out.

Must-Do in Hongdae (Hongik University)

Hongdae Shopping Street

Hongdae, the area near Hongik University, is a must-visit spot in Seoul. It’s famous for its indie art culture and trendy vibe. You’ll find cool clothing stores, accessory shops, makeup stores, theaters, and clubs all around. It’s the perfect place to shop, have fun, and soak up the lively atmosphere of Seoul!

Before heading out for a shopping spree, make sure to check out the must-buy beauty items at Olive Young. It’s your best chance to snag top-quality products! And don’t forget to visit the flea market hosted by young artists at Hongik Children’s Park every Saturday. It’s a fantastic opportunity to discover unique finds and support local talent.

Try Local Korean Foods

You can easily find attractive restaurants and bars in Hongdae. There are lots of menus you can choose such as Korean bbq, traditional Korean dishes, fried chicken, seafood, Western-style food, and East-Asia menu and more. Tasting local foods while traveling abroad is always a wonderful experience. Korea is definitely a foodie’s paradise. Don’t forget to try Korean Street Food as well! 

Gyeongui Line Forest Park (Yeonnamdong)

You can go to Gyeongui Line Forest Park on foot. It’s only a 10-minute walking distance from Hongdae’s mainstream and just doorstep from Hongik University Station exit 3. It’s a wonderful place for a family outing, to hang out with friends, or go on a date. There are many restaurants, cafes, and shops lined along the park where you can grab some snacks and beer and have a picnic like the locals!  

Lovely Dessert Cafes

Yeonnamdong is a paradise for cafe enthusiasts in Seoul, with its charming streets lined with a plethora of captivating little cafes that not only delight your taste buds but also feast your eyes. With plenty of Instagram-worthy cafes on offer, Yeonnamdong promises a delightful experience for coffee & sweets lovers! Lots of instagrammable cafes are on this list!

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Here you can save the map of the best Instagramable cafes in Seoul!

Hair Styling & Nail Shops

In Hongdae, you’ll find a vibrant array of hair styling and nail shops, perfect for those looking to pamper themselves and enhance their style. These English-speaking hair shops offer a diverse range of services, from trendy haircuts and vibrant hair colors to intricate nail art designs.

Whether you’re seeking a bold new look or simply want to treat yourself to a manicure or pedicure, Hongdae’s nail shops cater to every taste and preference. With their skilled professionals and trendy ambiance, they provide the ideal setting for a refreshing beauty experience in the heart of Seoul’s lively urban scene.

Nightlife in Hongdae – Hunting Pubs & Club

Hongdae is known as the main hub for nightlife. New York Times picked Hongdae as one of the top ten sites to visit in Seoul. It’s bursting with tourists and popularity. It offers music and dances of different genres such as electronic, hip-hop, K-pop, house, deep-house and jazz. We recommend live bars with indie bands for a different taste of nightlife in Seoul. Check the most popular Hunting pubs in Hongdae.

Norae-bang (Karaoke)

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Noraebang(Karaoke) is popular as a nighttime activity in Korea. Just walk into a Noraebang and pay for hours to sing and dance with friends. Be a pop star tonight! 

Nanta Show

In Hongdae, we also recommend the award-winning Nanta Show. It is the most popular show for visitors from all around the world. Nanta combines the rhythms from Korean folk songs with modern music, creating a non-verbal performance that’s accessible to an international audience.

Trickeye AR Museum

Trickeye Museum is located in the center of the Hongdae main shopping street. Make outrageous memories through the use of optical illusions. Get swallowed up by a shark, or stand upside down from the ceiling or pretend your Mona Lisa at the Trickeye Museum. 

Things to Do in Yeouido

63 Building

The 63 Building stands tall as one of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks, offering a host of attractions including museum, observatory, and aquarium. From the heights of 63 Art, the world’s highest gallery, visitors can marvel at the breathtaking night view of Seoul, a spectacle that truly captivates the senses. Whether exploring the exhibits, enjoying panoramic vistas, or immersing oneself in the aquatic wonders of the aquarium, a visit to the 63 Building promises an unforgettable experience for all.

Hangang Moonlight Cruise

Hangang cruise is a unique way to discover Seoul and enjoy the city’s beautiful scenery. You can see Seoul’s landmarks along the river like Bamseom Oslet, 63 Square, NamsanSeoul Tower, and others. Also, you can choose to do a variety of activities such as listening to music performances, feeding seagulls, viewing the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain, and watching fireworks! 

Noryangjin Fish Market

Just one stop away from Yeouido Station is Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market. It is the best place to go if you’re a seafood enthusiast! The market opens in the morning, so go early and get the best catch of the day! Then you can get the seafood cooked by any local restaurant that provides this service. Just take an escalator to the 2nd floor and choose one of the restaurants which will cook your purchased seafood to your preference. 

Yeouido Hangang Park

Exploring the vibrant streets of Seoul on a bike offers a firsthand glimpse into local life. For an unforgettable experience, head to Yeouido Hangang Park, where you can immerse yourself in a variety of urban festivals and enjoy a leisurely picnic. Don’t miss out on trying delivery favorites like fried chicken and beer, renowned for Korea’s efficient motorcycle delivery services.

During the summer months, take a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool while soaking in the stunning Hangang River views right in the heart of Seoul. Additionally, Yeouido Hangang Park is one of the prime spots for witnessing Seoul’s biggest cherry blossom festival, adding a touch of natural beauty to your urban adventure.

Kayaking and Paddle Boarding Experience

Hangang is the ideal place for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. You can easily find people enjoying the sweet breeze and beautiful view of Hangang river while sailing by Seoul’s landmarks and historical sites. Furthermore, don’t miss out on Korean foods by the food trucks at the park. The food tastes even better outside!

Jongno, City-Center Area

Ikseon-dong Culture Street

Ikseon-dong is becoming immensely popular amongst young locals. It shows a mix of traditional and modern architecture. Almost all the places have Hanok-like dessert cafes, restaurants, and shops. Take subway line 1, 3, or 5 to Jongno 3-ga station and exit 4. Walk down any backstreet. It might be hard to find because of the very small narrow alleys but it’s worth seeing the preservation of Seoul’s old neighborhood with the new. Discover my favorite place in Ikseongdong here. 

Korean Cooking Class

There are many culinary institutions available in Seoul that will teach you how to prepare authentic Korean food. In addition, they’ll also take you to the local markets near the cooking studio to get the fresh ingredients. It’s a fun way to explore the local market while learning how to make Korean dishes so that you can try making it back home as well. Best of all, nothing is better than your own cooking as you celebrate your self-made dishes after the class. 

Dongmyo Flea Market

If you like vintage and old-school stuff, Dongmyo flea market is the place to go. Unlike any other shopping streets in Seoul, you could easily get a variety of exceptional items made several decades ago. Check out the largest flea market in Seoul. It is full of unusual antique pieces and affordable second-hand items. 

Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market is a traditional Korean market in Jongno. You can enjoy a variety of Korean street foods here. Bindae-tteok(mung bean pancake), Tteokbokki(sweet-spicy rice cake), Mayak-gimbap(kind of sushi), Dongtae-tang(pollock fish stew), raw octopus and fish, etc.

Having raw octopus will be an unforgettable experience. If you are not a seafood person, we highly recommend you to try Bbindae-tteok with Makgeolli(rice wine), it’s our favorite!

Itaewon – Mixed Cultural Place

Itaewon Street

This is a place of its own. In Itaewon, you can see everything from Islamic mosques to exotic foods that you’ve never even heard of. Take the opportunity to visit Itaewon to experience fashion, foods, music, and culture. You can also check out the side streets like Usadan-gil, Gyeongnidan-gil, and Itaewon Antique furniture street. Enjoy the brunch menus and enjoy the party culture that only Itaewon can bring! Check out this page for more things to do in this charming area, Itaewon. 

The War Memorial of Korea

Korea’s only museum that exhibits the entire history of the Korean War, it houses 9,000 items related to the war across eight exhibition rooms. If you are interested in the Korean war, it would be good to put it on your Seoul itinerary. The admission is free and if you make a call ahead you can reserve free English, Japanese, and Chinese guides. 

Tel. 02-709-3139
Web. www.warmemo.or.kr 

Jjimjilbang: Korean Spa

A Jjimjilbang is a traditional bathhouse and a vital part of Korean culture – these heated rooms are also known as Korean Spas. It is common for locals to hang out, soak and engage in various beauty-related rituals and services. A basic Jjimjilbang offers a traditional experience with various types of baths and saunas while the newer ones offer a variety of services including nail bars, restaurants, and swimming pools! See the 5 best Jjimjilbangs, Korean Spas in Seoul here.

Seoul Itinerary: 5 to 7 days in Seoul

If you’re staying in Seoul for five to seven days, don’t miss out on these nearby attractions for a perfect day trip. Loved by both locals and tourists, they’re just a stone’s throw away from the city and offer something for everyone to enjoy.

Nami Island

Nami Island is one of the best romantic places near Seoul. It’s famous for its forest road, a pine tree path, a metasequoia path, and amusement facilities with various Korea restaurants. Plus, there are so many attractions near Nami Island, such as Chuncheon city, Soyang lake, Petit France, and Garden of Morning calm.

Gangchon Rail Bike

The Gangchon Rail Bike is a popular activity on Nami Island. You will pedal along the old Gangchon Rail Park track while taking in the scenery of the beautiful 318km Bukhangang River. Let’s see the beauty of Korea’s nature enjoying this fantastic activity with family and friends!  

DMZ

If you are willing to learn more about the Korean War and the Cold war, DMZ tour would be very interesting. Only foreign tourists are allowed to visit the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), just a few miles from North Korea and see stunning panoramic views of North Korea from the top of the Dora Observatory. For more information, please check our post of One Day DMZ Tour. 

Everland Theme Park

This is the largest theme park in South Korea with fantastic rides and a zoo. So, if you are visiting Seoul with kids, we definitely recommend you add Everland theme park to the Seoul itinerary. Enjoy 5 zones of amazing attractions and thrills and have fun for all ages with different zones, including safari, petting zoos, and live performances!

So far, we’ve covered over 40 exciting things to see and do in and near Seoul. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there’s plenty to explore and experience in this vibrant city. Whether you’re indulging in traditional cuisine, exploring historic sites, or immersing yourself in modern culture, Seoul offers something for every traveler. We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable Seoul itinerary filled with adventure, discovery, and memories to last a lifetime! So, start planning and get ready for an incredible journey through Seoul!

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