Seoul mixes centuries-old palaces with some of the densest modern shopping and nightlife in Asia — this itinerary alternates between the two so neither feels like an afterthought.
Seoul mixes centuries-old palaces with some of the densest modern shopping and nightlife in Asia — this itinerary alternates between the two so neither feels like an afterthought.
Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace in the morning — try to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony — then wander Bukchon Hanok Village's traditional wooden houses nearby. Continue to Insadong for traditional crafts and tea houses, then Changdeokgung Palace in the afternoon for its famous Secret Garden.
Start at Gwangjang Market for a street-food breakfast, then explore Myeongdong for shopping and skincare stores. In the afternoon, ride up N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower) for a full city view, then experience Hongdae (Hongik University Area) or Gangnam at night for Seoul's nightlife.
Visit Jogyesa Temple or Bongeunsa Temple for a quieter morning, then relax along the Han River Parks — renting a bike is a popular way to see it. Round off the trip with a Korean Spa (Jjimjilbang) Experience, a genuinely local ritual worth trying even on a short visit.