Seoul, South Korea by Emmanuel Dyan is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Visit Seoul in one day for everyone travelers

Introduction

This one-day itinerary is designed to help you explore the vibrant city of Seoul, South Korea. From historical landmarks to modern attractions, this itinerary will give you a taste of the city's rich culture and bustling atmosphere.

Itinerary

Morning

Gyeongbokgung Palace

• Location: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
• Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
• Description: Start your day by visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most iconic palace in Seoul. Explore the beautiful architecture, stroll through the palace gardens, and learn about Korea's royal history.
• Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and catch the changing of the guard ceremony at the main entrance.

Bukchon Hanok Village

• Location: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
• Time: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
• Description: Take a short walk from Gyeongbokgung Palace to Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village with well-preserved hanok houses. Wander through the narrow alleyways, admire the traditional architecture, and enjoy the charming atmosphere.
• Tips: Respect the residents' privacy and keep noise levels low while exploring the village.

Afternoon

Insadong

• Location: Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
• Time: 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
• Description: Head to Insadong, a vibrant neighborhood known for its traditional tea houses, art galleries, and souvenir shops. Browse through the unique shops, try traditional Korean tea, and pick up some souvenirs.
• Tips: Don't miss Ssamziegil, a multi-story shopping complex with a variety of shops and cafes.

N Seoul Tower

• Location: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
• Time: 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
• Description: Take a short taxi ride to N Seoul Tower, an iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the city. Ride the elevator to the observatory deck, enjoy the breathtaking views, and leave a love lock at the fence.
• Tips: Consider visiting during sunset for a stunning view of Seoul's skyline.

Evening

Myeongdong

• Location: Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
• Time: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
• Description: Experience the lively atmosphere of Myeongdong, a bustling shopping district filled with street food stalls, fashion boutiques, and cosmetic shops. Indulge in delicious street food, shop for trendy clothes, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
• Tips: Try the famous Korean street food such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).

Cheonggyecheon Stream

• Location: Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
• Time: 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
• Description: End your day with a peaceful stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream, a beautiful urban oasis in the heart of Seoul. Enjoy the serene atmosphere, admire the illuminated bridges, and relax by the water.
• Tips: Visit during the Seoul Lantern Festival for a magical experience.

Dining Recommendations

Breakfast

Isaac Toast

• Location: Multiple locations, including Myeongdong and Hongdae
• Cuisine: Korean-style toast sandwiches
• Description: Start your day with a delicious and affordable Korean-style toast sandwich from Isaac Toast. Choose from a variety of fillings such as ham, cheese, and egg, all served on toasted bread.
• Tips: Be prepared for long queues during peak hours.

Lunch

Gwangjang Market

• Location: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
• Cuisine: Traditional Korean street food
• Description: Head to Gwangjang Market for a wide selection of traditional Korean street food. Try popular dishes like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and bibimbap (mixed rice).
• Tips: Explore the market's second floor for clothing, fabrics, and vintage shops.

Dinner

Samcheongdong Sujebi

• Location: 59-1 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
• Cuisine: Korean sujebi (hand-pulled dough soup)
• Description: Enjoy a comforting bowl of sujebi at Samcheongdong Sujebi. This traditional Korean dish consists of hand-pulled dough soup with various ingredients such as vegetables, seafood, or meat.
• Tips: Try their signature mandu (dumplings) as a side dish.

Accommodation Recommendations

• Budget: K-Guesthouse Insadong

  • Located in the heart of Insadong
  • Affordable rates and clean rooms
  • Friendly staff and convenient amenities

• Mid-range: Hotel28 Myeongdong

  • Located in Myeongdong, close to shopping and dining options
  • Modern and stylish rooms
  • Rooftop terrace with panoramic views

• Luxury: The Shilla Seoul

  • Located in Jangchung-dong, near Namsan Park
  • Luxurious rooms and suites with elegant decor
  • Multiple dining options, spa, and fitness facilities

Emergency Information

• Local emergency contact number: 119
• Nearest Hospital: Seoul National University Hospital
  • Address: 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Getting There

• By Air: Seoul is served by two international airports: Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP). From both airports, you can take airport buses, taxis, or the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to the city center.
• By Train: Seoul has several train stations, including Seoul Station and Yongsan Station. These stations are well-connected to other cities in South Korea via the KTX high-speed train.
• By Bus: Seoul has multiple bus terminals, including Dong Seoul Bus Terminal and Express Bus Terminal. Buses from various cities in South Korea arrive at these terminals.

Getting Around

• Public Transportation: Seoul has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, subway, and taxis. The subway system is efficient and covers most major attractions. T-money cards can be used for seamless transfers between buses and subway.
• Car Rental: Car rental services are available in Seoul, but traffic can be congested, and parking can be challenging. It is recommended to use public transportation instead.
• Bike Rental: Seoul has a bike-sharing program called Seoul Bike. You can rent bikes from various stations throughout the city and enjoy bike-friendly routes along the Han River.