Seoul is big, but the subway makes it easy. This plan groups each day by area and works around the palace closing days.
Day 1: Gyeongbokgung and the old city
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| Morning | Rent a hanbok, then visit Gyeongbokgung and watch the 10am guard ceremony. |
| Afternoon | Bukchon Hanok Village, then the tea houses of Insadong. |
| Evening | Dinner at Gwangjang Market, then a walk along Cheonggyecheon. |
Day 2: Changdeokgung, Myeongdong and Namsan
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| Morning | Changdeokgung with a Secret Garden tour (book ahead), then Jongmyo Shrine. |
| Afternoon | Myeongdong for shopping, and Namdaemun Market. |
| Evening | N Seoul Tower at sunset, then Myeongdong street food. |
Day 3: Hongdae and Seongsu
Spend the morning in Yeonnam-dong‘s cafés and on the Gyeongui Line Forest Park. In the afternoon, head to Seongsu-dong for pop-up stores and warehouse cafés. Spend the evening in Hongdae for buskers, Korean BBQ and nightlife.
Day 4: Gangnam and Jamsil
See COEX and the Starfield Library, the Bongeunsa Temple across the road, then Lotte World Tower and Seokchon Lake. If you’re in the mood, end at a jjimjilbang.
Day 5: The DMZ or the mountains
Join a DMZ tour, which is only possible with an organised group, so bring your passport. Or hike Bukhansan for granite peaks and views over the city.
Itinerary tips
- Gyeongbokgung is closed on Tuesdays, and Changdeokgung on Mondays. Plan your palace days around these.
- Top up a T-money card for the subway and buses.
- Book a DMZ tour or a food tour a few days ahead.
- Choose your base from where to stay in Seoul.
More Seoul guides
- Seoul travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Seoul
- Where to stay in Seoul
- Seoul palaces guide
- K-ETA and Korea entry requirements
- Incheon Airport to Seoul
- Best time to visit Seoul
FAQ: Seoul itinerary
Is 3 days in Seoul enough?
Yes, for the palaces, the markets, Namsan and one trendy neighbourhood. Days 1–3 above cover the essentials.
What day is Gyeongbokgung closed?
Tuesday. Changdeokgung is closed on Monday.
Can I combine Seoul with Busan?
Yes. The KTX high-speed train takes about 2.5 hours, so add 2–3 days for Busan’s beaches and seafood.
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