Begin your trip with the main palace of Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and marvel at the beauty of the traditional Korean architecture. You can also witness the royal guard-changing ceremony and visit the National Palace Museum of Korea within the palace grounds.
Explore Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its gorgeous garden and pavilions. Following that, immerse yourself in the Korean traditional village of Bukchon Hanok Village, where you can experience traditional Korean culture by interacting with locals and learning traditional games and handicrafts.
Get lost in the traditional streets of Insadong, known for its teahouses, art galleries, and antique shops. Take a break at Jogyesa Temple to experience the serene beauty of the temple and the Buddhist culture that thrives in Korea.
Learn about the powerful history of Korea at the Korean War Memorial and Museum. Then, take a tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to witness the dramatic history and tension between North and South Korea.
Head to the top of Namsan Tower to get a panoramic view of Seoul. After that, go down to Myeong-dong District, known for its fashionable boutiques, street food, and unique cafes.
Experience the food culture of Korea at Gwangjang Market, famous for its street food and traditional Korean dishes. After that, take a stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream to enjoy the picturesque scenery of the city.
Have a fun-filled day at Lotte World, a huge indoor amusement park with various attractions, and shopping centers. Then, head over to COEX Mall, the largest underground mall in Asia, for a shopping spree and dining experience.
End your trip with an educational visit to the National Museum of Korea, one of the largest museums in Asia showcasing the history, culture, and art of Korea. Finally, explore the unique and colorful Hongdae District, known for its lively nightlife, street performances, and trendy cafes.
One of the best ways to get around the city is via their subway system. A T-money card is one of the easiest ways to use the subway or bus, costing around 2,500 KRW ($2.19 USD) per ride and can be used at various convenience stores. Taxis are also readily available and start at 3,800 KRW ($3.33 USD).
If you have more days, you can consider adding a day trip to Nami Island or exploring the lesser-known palaces such as Deoksugung Palace. For those with less time, you could consider skipping some of the destinations with lower priority, such as Lotte World or Insadong.
Incheon International Airport (ICN) is the main airport serving Seoul and is located in Incheon, about 30 km (18 miles) from the city centre. Gimpo International Aiport (GMP) is the second largest airport, located in western Seoul and primarily servicing domestic flights.