a detailed travel plan that combines history and modernity
Seoul is an attractive city that embraces history, culture, gastronomy, and nature. Below is a detailed one-week itinerary that will help you spend each day full. We guide you through each place with historical meanings, points you should not miss, and travel tips.
Day 1: Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village
Morning:
Gyeongbokgung Palace (operating hours: 9:00 to 17:00, closed on Tuesdays)
Gyeongbokgung Palace, the first and largest palace of the Joseon Dynasty, is a must-visit destination for history lovers. Geunjeongjeon Hall (National Treasure No. 223) and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion (National Treasure No. 224) show the magnificent architectural beauty of Joseon.
Don't miss: Gatekeeper shift (10:00, 14:00, 16:00)
Tip: If you rent a hanbok, you can enter free of charge, and you can also leave more special photos.
Afternoon:
Bukchon Hanok Village
Located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, Bukchon is a traditional hanok village with a 600-year history. Stroll down the alleyways and explore traditional craft shops and hanok cafes.
Don't miss: Hanok view from Gahoe-dong-gil, Viewpoint near Jeongdok Library
Tip: Walking in a quiet atmosphere is the way to feel Bukchon's charm
Day 2: Insa-dong and Ikseon-dong
Morning:
Insadong
This street is a harmonious combination of tradition and modernity, where you can buy various souvenirs and crafts. Stop by a traditional tea shop and experience Korean tea culture.
What Not to Miss: The Works of Street Painters, Antique Tea Houses (e.g., 'The Tea Room')
Tip: If you visit on the weekend, it's run as a car-free street so you can enjoy it more leisurely.
Afternoon:
Ikseon-dong Hanok Village
It is a place where hanoks built in the 1920s have been reborn with a modern sensibility. You can explore unique restaurants and cafes along small alleys.
What Don't Miss: The Night-Light Hanok's View
Tip: Popular restaurants can have long wait times, so book in advance.
Day 3: Namsan and Myeongdong
Morning:
Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower
Namsan is a place where you can enjoy the nature of the city center and the view of Seoul at the same time. If you ride a cable car or follow the trails, you will arrive at N Seoul Tower.
Don't miss: 360-degree Seoul view from Tower Observatory, love lock
Tip: Visit early in the morning and you can relax in a quiet atmosphere.
Afternoon:
Myeongdong
As a shopping and gourmet hub, there are many things to enjoy, from K-beauty products to street food.
What Don't Miss: Myeongdong Cathedral (Korea's first Gothic building)
Tip: If you don't like crowded times, visit away from lunch time.
Day 4: Han River and Yeouido
Morning:
Han River Park (for example, Banpo Han River Park)
As a resting place for Seoul citizens, rent a bike and run along the riverside.
Don't miss: Sebit Island, Han River Cruise Ship
Tip: Bike rentals are cheap at around 3,000 won per hour.
Afternoon:
Yeouido
After feeling the nature in the city at Yeouido Park, enjoy the panoramic view of Seoul from the observation deck of 63 Building.
Don't miss: 63 Building Aquarium
Tip: Yeouido is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season (April) and autumn foliage season.
Day 5: Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong
Morning:
Hongdae
The streets of young artists are full of street performances and unique cafes.
What Not to Miss: Hongdae Free Market (operating Saturday), Trick-Eye Museum of Art
Tip: Check the opening hours of cafes and restaurants in advance and visit.
Afternoon:
Yeonnam-dong
It is a place with many emotional alleys and unique cafes. It is a good place to enjoy leisure in a quiet atmosphere.
Don't miss: Yeontral Park (forest road of Gyeongui Line, Yeonnam-dong)
Tip: Enjoy lunch boxes like a picnic at Yeontral Park.
Day 6: Dongdaemun and Seoul Forest
Morning:
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
It is a landmark that showcases architectural innovation, with various exhibitions and night lights held inside.
What Not to Miss: Night Market and LED Rose Garden
Tip: Dongdaemun Shopping is more active at night.
Afternoon:
Seoul Forest
It is a healing space where you can feel the nature of the city center, and is also popular with family visitors.
Don't miss: Deer feeding experience, nearby cafe streets
Tip: I also recommend taking a bike ride around the park.
Day 7: Itaewon and Hannam-dong
Morning:
Itaewon
With the streets full of multiculturalism, you can experience the food of each country. Look around Itaewon mosques and vintage shops.
What Not to Miss: Itaewon Antique Furniture Street
Tip: You can enjoy it more leisurely if you visit during the daytime on weekdays.
