Planning a short trip to Seoul, South Korea, can be a bit overwhelming, with so much history, cuisine, and unique experiences to choose from. This Seoul itinerary simplifies your travel with a guide through the must-see landmarks, local food spots, and cultural highlights of Seoul. Ideal for first-time visitors, this two-day itinerary ensures you make the most of 48 hours in Seoul, including both historic treasures and vibrant modern neighborhoods.
Day 1: Discovering Historic Seoul
Morning: Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Changing of the Guard
Kickstart your Seoul adventure with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the most significant and stunning royal palaces in South Korea. Established in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung stands as an impressive symbol of Korea’s historical and architectural legacy. Arriving early will let you witness the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at the Gwanghwamun Gate, a traditional ritual performed by guards dressed in vibrant uniforms.
Explore the grounds and admire the intricate architecture, from the throne hall to the scenic Hyangwonjeong Pavilion. For a more immersive experience, consider renting a hanbok (Korean traditional clothing) from nearby rental shops; not only does this enhance your experience, but it also grants you free entry to the palace grounds, a perk available at many historic sites in Seoul.
Mid-Morning: Walk Through Bukchon Hanok Village
A short walk from Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon Hanok Village is a picturesque neighborhood known for its well-preserved traditional Korean houses called hanoks. The narrow, cobbled lanes wind through the village, offering glimpses of life in Seoul centuries ago. Bukchon’s traditional ambiance, combined with its many cafes, art galleries, and shops, makes it a fantastic area to explore. Stroll along the iconic “Insadong-gil” street to shop for locally-made crafts or to visit a traditional tea house for an authentic taste of omija-cha (five-flavor tea).
Lunch: Korean Flavors in Insadong
Nearby, Insadong is a cultural hub full of Korean art galleries, craft shops, and eateries. Stop here for lunch to try classic Korean dishes like bibimbap (rice with mixed vegetables) or tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) at one of the many traditional restaurants. The street food vendors here also offer unique snacks, making it a great place for a bite on the go.
Afternoon: Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden
After lunch, visit Changdeokgung Palace, another historical highlight and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This palace is particularly famous for its Secret Garden, a secluded area that was once a retreat for the royal family. Unlike Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung features elements harmonized with nature, creating a tranquil and serene setting that transports visitors back in time. Guided tours of the Secret Garden are available and highly recommended to fully appreciate its historical and architectural significance.
Evening: Myeongdong Street Food and Shopping
Conclude your day at Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s busiest shopping districts. The area is known for its countless street food stalls and beauty shops. Sample popular treats like hotteok (sweet pancakes) and kimbap (Korean sushi rolls) while browsing through skincare and fashion outlets. Myeongdong is a fantastic place to pick up souvenirs and enjoy an evening stroll amidst the vibrant atmosphere.
Day 2: Modern Seoul and Cultural Gems
Morning: Views from N Seoul Tower
On the second day of your Seoul itinerary, head to N Seoul Tower, a prominent landmark on Namsan Mountain. You can either hike up the trail or take a cable car for an easy ascent. Once at the top, the observation deck offers panoramic views of Seoul’s skyline. The “Locks of Love” fence, where couples leave padlocks as symbols of their love, is a popular photo spot here.
Early arrival is advised to enjoy quieter views and capture some stunning photos. The observation deck ticket costs around 10,000 KRW, and the view from here beautifully showcases Seoul’s dynamic blend of modernity and nature.
Mid-Morning: Explore COEX Mall and Starfield Library in Gangnam
From Namsan, head to the iconic Gangnam District to experience Seoul’s modern, fashionable side. Start with a visit to COEX Mall, the largest underground shopping mall in Asia, which houses numerous retail outlets, a cinema, an aquarium, and the famous Starfield Library. The library’s towering bookshelves, filled with hundreds of titles, have become an Instagram sensation and are a must-see for visitors.
A stroll through COEX offers a glimpse of modern Korean culture, with unique pop-up shops, high-end boutiques, and tech stores. This is a great place to shop for souvenirs or simply take in the trendy ambiance.
Lunch: Korean BBQ in Gangnam
While in Gangnam, indulge in one of Korea’s most beloved dining experiences: Korean BBQ. There are numerous restaurants in the area where you can grill pork belly, beef, and vegetables right at your table. Each BBQ meal includes a variety of banchan (side dishes), such as kimchi and pickled radishes, creating a flavorful and interactive meal that’s popular with locals and tourists alike.
Afternoon: Bongeunsa Temple and the Han River
After lunch, visit Bongeunsa Temple, a serene Buddhist temple founded in 794 AD and located right across from COEX Mall. This temple provides a peaceful retreat with its tranquil courtyards, prayer halls, and a giant Buddha statue, making it a unique stop on this Seoul itinerary.
For a memorable finale, take a river cruise along the Han River to enjoy the cityscape from a different perspective. Several cruises offer evening views of the city’s bridges and illuminated skyscrapers, with some including live performances onboard for added entertainment.
Evening: Nightlife in Hongdae
Wrap up your Seoul adventure in Hongdae, the city’s youthful and artistic neighborhood known for street performances, live music, and vibrant nightlife. Here, you can visit themed cafes, explore indie shops, or watch local artists performing on the streets. Hongdae’s bars, pubs, and clubs are popular among both locals and tourists, making it the ideal spot to experience Seoul’s dynamic nightlife before concluding your trip.
Travel Tips for Your Seoul Itinerary
- Getting Around: The subway is an efficient and affordable way to navigate the city. Pick up a T-money card at any convenience store for easy access to public transportation.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, ideal for sightseeing.
- Currency and Payments: Korea primarily uses Korean Won (KRW). Cash is accepted, but credit cards are widely used, especially in tourist areas.
With this Seoul itinerary, you’ll experience a balance of Seoul’s traditional and modern attractions. In two days, you’ll get to see the historic palaces, explore the creative spaces of Hongdae, and sample delicious Korean cuisine.
