Plan Your 3-Day Trip in Seoul, Korea

For anyone planning a short visit to Seoul, this 3-day itinerary offers a mix of history, culture, shopping, and local experiences. This plan is designed for first-time visitors who want to see key attractions without feeling rushed.

Use our TripPlannerz template to customize this 3-day Seoul itinerary and organize your trip in minutes.

Quick Tips

• Navigation: Use KakaoMap; Google Maps has limited function.

• Tipping: Don’t tip in Korea. It is considered impolite.

• Payment: Most places accept credit cards and cashless payments; get cash at 7-Eleven/GS25 ATMs if needed.

• Accommodation: Myeongdong or Insadong are central and easy to get around from.

Day 1

Morning: Gyeongbokgung Palace

Key Activities

• Walk through the palace grounds to see traditional architecture and landscaped gardens.

• Watch the Changing of the Royal Guard at Gwanghwamun Gate (10:00 and 14:00).

• Explore the National Folk Museum and the National Palace Museum.

Gyeongbokgung is a major cultural site in central Seoul, built during Joseon Dynasty. Witness the impressive Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony at the main gate. Wander through the palace grounds, admiring the traditional Korean architecture and beautiful gardens. Visit the National Folk Museum of Korea and the National Palace Museum of Korea, both located within the palace grounds. Renting a traditional Hanbok nearby is a popular way to enhance the experience.

Important Notes

• Closed every Tuesday.

• Admission fee: 3,000 KRW (adult).

• You can rent a Hanbok near the palace.

Afternoon: Insadong

Key Activities

• Discover tea houses, restaurants, art galleries, and craft shops.

• Browse for unique souvenirs, traditional crafts, and artwork.

• Experience Korean culinary traditions at Museum Kimchikan.

Wander the narrow alleyways lined with traditional Korean houses (Hanoks), tea houses, restaurants, art galleries, and craft shops. Browse for unique souvenirs, traditional crafts, and artwork. Visit Ssamziegil, a unique shopping complex with artisan shops. Weekends often bring street food and performances to the main street. Learn more about Kimchi at Museum Kimchikan. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony in one of the many tea houses.

Important Notes

• Most shops and attractions are open from around 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

• Accessible via Anguk Station (Line 3, Exit 6).

• Can get very crowded on weekends.

Evening: Cheonggyecheon Park

Key Activities

• Relaxing walk along the restored 10.9 km stream.

• Discover bridges and public art installations along the way.

• Visit Cheonggye Plaza to see the Candle Fountain, especially at night.

Experience a relaxing stroll along the 10.9-kilometer restored stream and public space in downtown Seoul. The peaceful atmosphere and the flowing water create a tranquil escape. Discover various bridges and public art installations lining the waterway. Visit Cheonggye Plaza at the starting point near Gwanghwamun to see the Candle Fountain with its light and water displays, especially beautiful at night.

Important Notes

• Accessible via City Hall Station (Lines 1, 2) and Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5).

• Access to the promenade may be restricted during heavy rainfall for safety reasons.

Day 2

Morning: N Seoul Tower & Park

Key Activities

• Ascend Namsan Mountain to experience panoramic views of Seoul from N Seoul Tower.

• Leave a “love lock” as a symbol of affection.

• Explore Namsan Park’s trails, picnic spots, and botanical gardens.

Journey up Namsan Mountain to the iconic N Seoul Tower. Breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Seoul await from the observatory. Leave a “love lock” on the fences around the tower as a symbol of your affection. Explore Namsan Park surrounding the tower, offering hiking trails, picnic spots, and botanical gardens. Visit the Hanbok Culture Experience Centre located at the tower.

Important Notes

• The tower is accessible via the Namsan Cable Car, bus, or by hiking.

• Consider purchasing tickets for the observatory in advance to save time.

Afternoon: Namsan Hanok Village

Key Activities

• Explore five restored Hanok houses representing different Joseon Dynasty social classes.

• Participate in hands-on workshops like Hanji folding or trying on Hanbok.

• Experience cultural performances at Seoul Namsan Traditional Theater.

Step back in time at this recreated traditional Korean village at Namsan’s base. Explore five restored Hanok houses that belonged to people from different social classes during Joseon Dynasty. Immerse yourself in Korean culture through hands-on workshops such as Hanji folding or Hanbok wearing. Experience a traditional tea ceremony or enjoy performances of music and dance at the Seoul Namsan Traditional Theater.

Important Notes

• The village is closed on Mondays.

• Accessible by Namsan Shuttle Bus (Route 02) from N Seoul Tower, or by a walk downhill from N Seoul Tower through Namsan Park.

Evening: Myeongdong Night Market

Key Activities

• Try a variety of Korean street food.

• Shop for cosmetics, fashion, accessories, and souvenirs.

Immerse yourself in this famous shopping district that transforms into a bustling night market. Try variety of Korean street food, from traditional snacks to unique creations. Shop for cosmetics, fashion, accessories, and souvenirs. Experience the lively energy and bright lights of the market. Look for street performers and entertainment.

Important Notes

• The night market typically starts setting up around 4:00 PM and continues until late evening, around 10:00 PM to 1:00 AM.

• Prepare cash to pay at food stalls.

• Can get very crowded, especially on weekends.

Day 3

Morning: Starfield COEX Mall & Library

Key Activities

• Visit the iconic Starfield Library.

• Explore the COEX Aquarium.

• Browse shops and restaurants.

Visit the Starfield Library, an iconic public space within COEX Mall featuring towering bookshelves and a vast collection of books and magazines. Explore the COEX Aquarium, one of the largest in South Korea, home to over 40,000 aquatic creatures in various themed zones. Check for popular performances like the Mermaid Show or Shark Feeding. Browse the many shops and restaurants within this expansive underground mall.

Important Notes

• Accessible via Samseong Station (Line 2, Exits 5 and 6) or Bongeunsa Station (Line 9, Exit 7).

• The library is a public space and free to enter.

Afternoon: Gangnam

Key Activities

• Explore high-end shopping and dining along Gangnam-daero.

• Visit the Kakao Friends Gangnam Flagship Store.

• Discover boutiques and cafes in Garosugil and luxury fashion in Cheongdam-dong.

• Visit Bongeunsa Temple, a serene Buddhist temple in the heart of Gangnam.

Explore the Gangnam district, famous for its high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment. Stroll along Gangnam-daero, lined with major brand stores. Visit the Kakao Friends Gangnam Flagship Store if you are into cute character stuff. Check out the luxury fashion street in Cheongdam-dong. You might also want to visit the peaceful Bongeunsa Temple, a serene Buddhist temple in the heart of Gangnam.

More Places to Visit

Mukhansan National Park: Hike trails with varying difficulty levels. Popular for anyone seeking outdoor activities and a break from the city.

Hongdae: A vibrant district known for its youth culture, indie music, street art, and delicious street food. Plan to explore unique shops, cafes, clubs, and street performances.

The War Memorial of Korea: A museum showcasing the history of warfare in Korea. See powerful exhibits of military artifacts, historical records, and outdoor displays that honor those who served.

National Museum of Korea: Journey through Korea’s rich history and cultural heritage. Houses a vast collection of Korean artifacts spanning from prehistoric times to the Joseon Dynasty. Offers insights into Korean history, art, and cultural evolution.

When to Visit Korea

South Korea is a year-round destination, but each season offers a totally different experience. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best time for your trip.

🌸Spring (April - June)

Spring is arguably the most beautiful time to visit Korea. Cities are filled with pink cherry blossoms, the air is crisp, and outdoor festivals pop up everywhere.

Weather

• Average temperatures: 10–20°C (50–68°F)

• Pleasant, dry, and warming up after winter

Best Places to Visit

• Seoul: Cherry blossoms at Yeouido Park and palace gardens

• Jinhae: Korea’s biggest cherry blossom festival

• Jeju Island: Early blooms, coastal hikes, and mild winds

☀️Summer (July - August)

If you don’t mind the heat, summer is buzzing with energy. Music festivals, beach getaways, and night markets are in full swing.

Weather

• Average temperatures: 23–30°C (73–86°F)

• Hot, humid, and the rainy season hits in July

Best Places to Visit

• Busan: Haeundae Beach, seafood markets, and coastal cafes

• Gangwon Province: Mountain escapes and rafting

• Jeju Island: Great for beaches and water activities

🍁Autumn (September - October)

Autumn in Korea is postcard-perfect. Think colorful leaves, fresh mountain air, and fewer crowds than spring.

Weather

• Average temperatures: 10–25°C (50–77°F)

• Dry and cool with clear skies

Best Places to Visit

• Seoraksan National Park: Stunning foliage and hiking trails

• Nami Island: Tree-lined paths in full fall colors

• Gyeongju: Historical sites surrounded by autumn beauty

❄️Winter (December - March)

Korea turns into a winter wonderland, especially in the mountains. It’s a great time for snow sports and holiday markets.

Weather

• Average temperatures: -5–5°C (23–41°F)

• Cold and dry, with occasional snow

Best Places to Visit

• Pyeongchang: Ski resorts and snow festivals

• Seoul: Ice skating at city plazas and winter street food

• Jeju (surprisingly!): Milder winter weather and fewer crowds

FAQs: Traveling to Korea

Use this itinerary template. Customize your Seoul adventure and organize your trip in minutes.