3 Days in Seoul
Seoul is a city of contrasts, where centuries-old palaces sit beneath glass towers and quiet hanok lanes give way to buzzing shopping districts within a few minutes' walk. It is also remarkably easy to navigate, thanks to one of the best metro systems in the world. Three days lets you cover the historic core, a couple of distinctive neighbourhoods and a taste of the city's famous food and nightlife without rushing.
Getting from the airport. Most international flights land at Incheon International Airport, around 50 km west of the city. The AREX train runs to Seoul Station, with an express service taking about 43 minutes and the cheaper all-stops line a little longer. Limousine buses connect the terminals directly to many hotels. For door-to-door convenience with luggage, a taxi is straightforward; look up current airport taxi fares in advance, and note that international taxis with English-speaking drivers are available at the arrivals hall.
Day 1
Morning
Begin with Gyeongbokgung, the grandest of Seoul's royal palaces. Time your visit for the changing of the guard ceremony at the main gate. If you wear a rented hanok, or hanbok, you can enter the palace grounds free of charge, which many visitors enjoy for photographs.
Afternoon
Walk to the nearby Bukchon Hanok Village, a hillside neighbourhood of traditional wooden houses and narrow lanes. Be respectful, as people still live here. Continue to Insadong for tea houses, craft shops and galleries, and stop for a late lunch of bibimbap or handmade dumplings.
Evening
Head to Myeongdong for its famous street food and cosmetics shops. The area is crowded but energetic, and the evening market stalls are a good introduction to Korean snacks. Finish with a walk along the Cheonggyecheon, a restored stream that runs through the city centre.
Day 2
Morning
Take the cable car or hike part way up Namsan to N Seoul Tower for a panorama of the sprawling city. Early morning offers the clearest air and the fewest crowds. The surrounding park is pleasant for a stroll among the trees.
Afternoon
Explore Hongdae, the university district known for street performers, independent shops and cafés. It is a good place to feel the city's youthful, creative side. Nearby, the quieter streets of Yeonnam-dong have become a relaxed café and dining destination.
Evening
Cross the river to Gangnam for a different mood: polished, modern and upscale. Have a Korean barbecue dinner, grilling meat at your own table, then explore the shops and bars. Alternatively, stay north and enjoy the lively bars of Hongdae.
Day 3
Morning
Visit Changdeokgung, another UNESCO-listed palace, and if it is open, book ahead for the Secret Garden tour, a beautifully landscaped royal retreat. It is often quieter and more atmospheric than Gyeongbokgung.
Afternoon
Spend time at Gwangjang Market, one of the city's oldest, for a hands-on food experience: mung bean pancakes, mayak kimbap and raw beef among the stalls. Then browse the textile and vintage sections upstairs.
Evening
End at Dongdaemun, where the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza glows after dark and the fashion malls stay open late. It is a fitting contrast to the palaces you started with, and a reminder of how many eras coexist in this city.
Where to stay
Myeongdong is central, well connected and full of shops and food, making it a practical first-time base. Hongdae suits younger travellers who want nightlife, live music and cafés on the doorstep. For a calmer, more upscale stay with good restaurants and easy access south of the river, consider Gangnam, though prices there run higher.
Practical tips
- Buy a T-money card for the metro and buses; it also works in convenience stores and many taxis.
- The subway is extensive, cheap and signposted in English, and it is usually the fastest way across the city.
- Many restaurants and cafés use Korean-only menus; a translation app helps, and pointing is always acceptable.
- Tipping is not customary in Korea and is generally not expected.
- Winters are cold and dry while summers are hot with a rainy season in mid-year, so pack for the season you visit.
Seoul rewards curiosity, and three days only scratches the surface of its neighbourhoods and food. For more detail on districts, day trips and getting around, read our full Seoul travel guide.