Your Perfect 3-Day Itinerary for Seoul
Experience the high-tech, fast-paced rhythm of Seoul, a sprawling metropolis where pop culture and modern skyscrapers blend seamlessly with historic palaces.
Seoul is served by Incheon International Airport and by high-speed rail from Busan. The Metro is extensive and easy to use; get a T-money card. Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (foliage) are peak times; winter is cold but clear. Book palaces, DMZ tours, and popular restaurants in advance. Neighbourhoods like Hongdae, Myeongdong, and Gangnam each offer something different—mix palaces and markets with K-food and cafés. Allow time for a hanok stay, a jimjilbang, or a day trip to the DMZ or Nami Island.
Discover the best landmarks, where to eat, and where to stay in Seoul.
Best Time to Visit Seoul
Spring
17°C / 7°C
Pleasant and warming, cherry blossoms
Summer
29°C / 22°C
Hot, humid, and rainy (monsoon season)
Fall
19°C / 10°C
Crisp, clear, and beautiful foliage
Winter
3°C / -5°C
Freezing cold and dry
Day 1
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Free guided tours are offered of this large 14th-century royal palace with a museum & gardens.
Morning activity: Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Tosokchon Samgyetang
Lunch nearby: Tosokchon Samgyetang.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Village dating to the 14th century filled with narrow streets lined with restored traditional homes.
Afternoon sightseeing: Bukchon Hanok Village.
Gwangjang Market
Bustling shopping area offering a wide array of traditional food items, plus clothing & souvenirs.
Dinner in the area: Gwangjang Market.
N Seoul Tower
Opened in 1980, this iconic tower offers panoramic views of the city & a revolving restaurant.
Evening experience: N Seoul Tower.
Day 2
Myeongdong
Many high-end international stores & restaurants draw crowds to this bustling retail district.
Morning activity: Myeongdong.
Myeongdong Kyoja
Lunch nearby: Myeongdong Kyoja.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Architectural-landmark events venue with futuristic design, a design market & food vendors.
Afternoon sightseeing: Dongdaemun Design Plaza.
Jungsik
Dinner in the area: Jungsik.
Hongdae Nightlife
Evening experience: Hongdae Nightlife.
Day 3
DMZ Tour
Morning activity: DMZ Tour.
Itaewon
Lunch nearby: Itaewon.
Starfield Library
Futuristic library & cultural event space on 2 levels of a mall with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves.
Afternoon sightseeing: Starfield Library.
Maple Tree House
Stylish chain BBQ restaurant serving high-end meat products in a lavishly decorated modern space.
Dinner in the area: Maple Tree House.
Han River Cruise
Evening experience: Han River Cruise.