Seoul Itinerary 7 Days: The Best of the Capital in Just One Week

Seoul is massive.

You could spend years here and still discover something new.

And we’re not just talking about the latest Olive Young store.

From museums and temples to cozy cafes and attractions, there's so much to explore.

If it’s your first time, you might be wondering how many days you need in Seoul.

Well, don’t worry - one week is more than enough to get a great taste of the city.

But with over 10 million people in the capital, it can be overwhelming to know where to shop, what to see, and which day trips to take.

That’s where we come in.

Our 7-day Seoul travel itinerary will guide you through the best spots.

All so you can make the most of your time in this incredible city.

Let’s dive in:

7-Days in Seoul: Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Visiting Seoul is a glorious experience, so don’t rush it.

While this itinerary is realistic, it is super jam-packed.

We’ve really just designed it to showcase the best of the city, be it culture, nature, shopping, or attractions.

But if you prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to dial down the schedule a little.

In any case, we recommend adjusting the itinerary to suit your preferences.

Here's your Seoul trip plan for 7 days:

Day 1: Arrival and Myeongdong

11am: Myeongdong Cathedral

Kick off your Seoul adventure with a visit to the gorgeous Myeongdong Cathedral.

Built in the late 1800s, this 45-metre-tall church was the first in the country to be made with red bricks.

With its stunning Gothic Revival style, you'd be forgiven for feeling like you’re in France or England.

Inside, you'll find soaring ceilings and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Definitely worth snapping a few Instagram shots to kick off your trip to Korea, in our opinion.

Fun fact: the cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Seoul, Peter Chung Soon-taick, making it a place of real significance too.

1pm: Namsan Seoul Tower

No trip to Seoul is complete without visiting the N Seoul Tower.

It’s a great second stop on your first day in the city.

And if you're on the hunt for K-drama filming locations in Seoul, you can't go wrong with a visit here.

The tower was in shows like Itaewon Class and The Last Empress.

Plus, the epic views of the city skyline from the observatory are to die for.

Pro tip: do yourself a favour and plan your trip around spring. You'll be treated to the sight of Namsan Park covered in cherry blossoms. Beauty redefined, we say.

4:30pm: Myeong-dong Shopping Street

It’s back to Myeong-dong after your visit to N Seoul Tower, Korea’s famous shopping and fashion district.

Here, it’s all about shopping till you drop.

Go crazy over K-beauty brands or find the hottest fashion around town - the choice is yours.

Photo: @mahdanialh on Instagram

You can also spend a considerable amount of time at Olive Young or Daiso (the second largest in Korea, by the way).

Plus, you’ll find big brands as well as hip stores like ALAND, which cater to K-pop fashion.

Feeling peckish after all that shopping?

You can always join a food tour in the area.

You’ll get to try everything from anchovy noodles to tangsuyuk (fried pork coated in a jelly-like sweet and sour sauce).

There are also boozy tours that take you to the best chimaek spots in the city.

Fried chicken and beer is a classic pairing, after all.

Evening: Watch the Nanta Musical Show

After a jam-packed day of sightseeing, end things off with something a little different.

The Nanta Musical Show is a unique experience that'll leave you grinning.

This high-energy, non-verbal show turns everyday kitchen tools – like pots, pans, and knives – into musical instruments.

It’s loud, funny, and full of chaos (in the best possible way!).

You’ll get a fun mix of traditional and modern music, acrobatics, and even some audience participation.

If you have about an hour to spare after the show, why not take a stroll along the beautifully lit Cheonggyecheon Stream?

There’s no better way to end your first day in Seoul.

Day 2: Historic Seoul – Palaces, Gwanghwamun & Major Attractions

9am: Gyeongbokgung Palace

Start your second day in Seoul with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace for a taste of Korean history.

The palace was built in 1395 as the main royal residence of the Joseon Dynasty.

And the main royal palace grounds are absolutely majestic.

You can explore on your own, but it’s really best to join a tour so a guide can explain the history behind the palace.

Check out Geunjeongjeon Hall, where you can admire some incredible Joseon-era sculptures.

And don’t miss the Hyangwonjeong and Gyeonghoeru Pavilions - they’re both stunning.

Hyangwonjeong Pavilion

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not rent a hanbok (traditional Korean clothing)?

It’s a fun way to "travel" back in time and snap some memorable photos.

Besides, there’s another benefit to wearing hanbok around the palace: you get in for free!

If not, the Gyeongbokgung Palace entrance fee is 3,000 Korean won (approximately USD 2).

Oh, and definitely try to catch the Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony - it happens at 10am and 2pm.

Just a heads-up, though, the palace is closed on Tuesdays, so make sure to plan accordingly.

11am: Changdeokgung Palace

Keep your traditional Korean dress on.

The next stop is Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Built in 1405, it served as a secondary palace for the Joseon kings.

It’s especially famous for its stunning Secret Garden, which makes for the perfect Instagram backdrop.

With its well-preserved grounds, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Though you might be snapped back to the present when you pull out your smartphone to take some photos.

The palace looks especially beautiful during cherry blossom season, autumn, and winter.

So, if you want to experience Changdeokgung at its best, try to visit Korea during those times.

1pm: Gwanghwamun Square

To continue your rich cultural heritage adventure, take a stroll through Gwanghwamun Square.

Since its renovation and reopening in 2022, the square has doubled in size - meaning double the fun.

A new highlight is the 212-metre-long History Waterway which tells the Korean story through engravings on stone.

Photo: @mariseazevedo16 on Instagram

There's also the Hangeul Fountain, which shoots water in the shape of the Korean alphabet - now how cool is that?

3pm: Museum Kimchikan

Next up, it’s time to dive into Korean culture through one of its most iconic dishes - kimchi!

Photo: @gaufrechocolatcoree on Instagram

If you love Korean food (and honestly, who doesn’t?), Museum Kimchikan is a must-visit.

This hidden gem is packed with cool exhibits, including a KBS documentary and a refrigeration room stocked with different types of kimchi from around the world.

But the real fun?

You get to roll up your sleeves and make your own kimchi - then taste it too.

It’s a hands-on, tasty way to experience food traditions.

If that sounds like your kind of thing, just grab your tickets online before heading over.

5pm: Hongdae (Hongik University Area)

After a day of history, it’s time to shake things up on your second day in Seoul.

If you’re after vibrant nightlife in a trendy neighbourhood, Hongdae is the place to be.

Packed with pubs, cafés, and boutiques, the Hongik University area has a vibe for both the young and the young at heart.

Themed cafés are a big thing here and are some of the most unique things to do in Seoul.

Like Thanks Nature Café, where you can meet sheep, or 943 King’s Cross, a must-visit for Harry Potter fans.

Photo: @babytobeat on Instagram

You can go thrift shopping or admire the street art.

Or belt out a song at a karaoke bar or catch live street performances.

You get the idea; this place is buzzing.

But it’s when night falls that Hongdae truly comes alive.

With party scenes for every taste, from hip-hop to heavy metal, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

If you're looking for something different, why not try a DIY photoshoot in Hongdae?

It makes sense that a trendy neighborhood will help you capture your trendiest self - so why not give it a go?

Or, if you want to spend the day in Hongdae instead of the night, the Gyeongui Line Forest Park is another great option.

It's a peaceful spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and is a perfect addition to any Seoul itinerary.

Day 3: Everland or Lotte World + Coex Mall & Gangnam Style Statue

No matter how many days you plan to spend in Seoul, you should set aside some time for a theme park visit.

There are a few options, but for your 7-day itinerary, we’ll focus on the two biggest ones.

Option 1: Everland

If you only have one theme park on your Korea itinerary, why not make it Everland?

As the largest theme park in South Korea, Everland is made up of five exciting themed zones.

Double Rock Spin (American Adventure)

There’s so much to see and do here, and you could easily spend an entire day exploring.

But don’t worry about the size - Everland is easy to navigate on foot.

Be sure to ride the T-Express, Korea's first wooden roller coaster.

Not only is it thrilling, but it’s also one of the world’s top 10 fastest wooden roller coasters.

As for its top speed, it's a whopping 104 km/h.

And if you’re a wildlife lover, don’t miss the Safari World in Zootopia, where you can spot tigers, lions, and bears.

During winter, snow tubing adds even more fun for young families.

Just remember to book your tickets in advance for peace of mind.

Option 2: Lotte World Theme Park

Another great pick is Lotte World. The park has two sections - Lotte World Adventure (an indoor theme park) and Magic Island (the outdoor area).

Think high-speed roller coasters like the famous Gyro Swing, the first anti-noise spin ride in Asia.

Gyro Swing

But there’s more than just rides here.

You can go ice skating, browse cute craft shops, or check out the Lotte World Folk Museum (one of the top museums in the city).

If you're feeling hungry, Lotte World Mall has plenty of food spots. Plus, there's the Lotte World Aquarium, perfect for checking out marine life.

For the best city views, don’t miss the Seoul Sky Observatory across from the park.

At 555 metres high, it’s one of the tallest observation decks in the world.

Your camera roll won’t be lacking that epic Seoul skyline shot now.

Evening:

If you're not tired already, head over to Starfield COEX Mall and its Insta-famous library.

Located in one of Seoul’s largest malls, the jaw-dropping Starfield Library feels like something from the future.

Photo: @derekdough on Instagram

The library's got massive bookshelves filled with books.

And of course, there's that Instagrammable escalator where everyone takes a photo.

Speaking of photos, don't forget to snap one at the nearby Gangnam Style Statue (which you can also visit on a tour, by the way).

You’ll be channeling your inner Psy at this quirky spot, complete with that famous dance move!

Day 4: Nami Island

For your fourth day, take a day trip to Nami Island from Seoul.

This scenic gem, famous from K-dramas like Winter Sonata and When My Love Blooms, is a must-visit if you're in Seoul.

The iconic statues of Bae Yong-Joon and Choi Ji-Woo from Winter Sonata

Nami Island is like its own little world.

It even has its own name, the Naminara Republic, a self-declared micro-nation.

You can hop on a ferry to get there, or for a little extra thrill, try the zip-wire.

Once you're on the island, enjoy a relaxed stroll along the tree-lined paths.

Grab some photos at spots like Metasequoia Lane and Ginkgo Tree Lane. They’re especially stunning in the fall.

And if you’re after a romantic vibe, visiting Nami Island in winter is pure magic.

For folks with a bit of extra time, add the Garden of Morning Calm to your Nami Island visit, with 5,000 plant species to explore.

Or, go all in with a tour that also includes Petite France, a cute French-style village with museums, galleries, and cafés.

Day 5: Busan or Seoraksan

Option 1: Take a Train to Busan

For your fifth day in Seoul, a day trip to Busan will do you good.

The fastest journey takes roughly two hours and 15 minutes on a high-speed KTX train.

That makes this coastal gem totally worth a visit, especially if you don't mind a bit of a rushed journey.

Although we generally recommend staying in Busan for two to three days since it's one of South Korea's major cities - there's really a lot to do here.

You can explore the colourful Gamcheon Cultural Village, for instance.

Or ride the super pretty, highly Instagrammable Haeundae Sky Capsule.

Whatever you choose, you're sure to enjoy yourself.

Option 2: Seoraksan National Park:

Are you the type who loves to visit places where locals go in their own country?

Then Seoraksan National Park is perfect for you.

This mountainous park is super beautiful. And most tourists don't even bother venturing beyond Seoul to head here.

If you have the time, take a few hours to make the journey.

The drive takes just over two hours for those familiar with Korean roads.

If not, you can always opt for a private day trip from Seoul for ease and convenience.

Photo: @holyhwan_ssam on Instagram

Once there, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking mountain views and scenic hiking trails that can easily be completed in a day.

Pro tip: Take the cable car ride to Gwongeumseong Peak – it’s a stunning spot that requires zero effort to enjoy.

Day 6: Traditional Seoul – Bukchon, Insadong & Seoul City Wall

10am: Bukchon Hanok Village

Back to the main city after a series of day trips.

For your sixth day, head over to Bukchon Hanok Village, one of the coolest spots in Seoul.

This area is home to over 900 hanoks - traditional Korean houses - many of which are still occupied by residents.

What’s even more fascinating is that many of these hanoks date back to the Joseon era.

Wander through the narrow alleys and admire the homes.

Trust us, it’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Just remember, it’s still a residential area.

So be mindful of the locals and their privacy while exploring.

Remember, do keep your noise levels down.

There’s actually been so much tourist disruption that a curfew is in place from 5pm to 10am in certain areas.

So, please do your part.

If Bukchon Hanok Village is too crowded, you can check out Eunpyeong Hanok Village for a lesser-known hanok experience.

12pm: Seoul City Wall

Got some time to spare? Why not hike a section of the Seoul City Wall?

It’s a crowd favourite with its blend of medieval architecture and mountain and city views.

You can keep it chill with a one-hour route or push yourself with a more challenging 3.5-hour trek.

Either way, if you’re a sucker for fresh mountain air and breathtaking scenery, you’re going to love this spot.

5pm: Insadong

End your evening in Insadong, home to some of the best antique stores in the capital.

Think traditional stationery shops, old-school pottery stores, and handicraft stalls.

But it’s not all about the past.

Head to Ssamziegil, a unique shopping complex with trendy boutiques and quirky finds like Ddong Café, a hilarious poo-themed café.

You'll also find art galleries and traditional tea houses hidden inside them.

Take Jeontong Dawon, for example. It's a tea house tucked inside the Kyungin Museum of Fine Art, offering a tranquil escape from the busy streets outside.

But if teahouses aren't quite your cup of tea, and you prefer something more upbeat, check out quirky attractions like Dynamic Maze and Alive Museum.

Want to make the most of your time in Insadong? You can join a walking tour to explore nearby neighbourhoods.

Another great option is also this Netflix-inspired market tour.

It takes you through both Insadong and Gwangjang Market.

There, feast on favourites like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and bibimbap (mixed rice bowls).

Day 7: Visiting the DMZ

For your final day, start your morning with a fascinating day trip to the DMZ from Seoul.

This is no ordinary tour – it’s a serious experience, complete with military checks along the way.

The border between North and South Korea, which runs across the Korean Peninsula, is one of the most heavily guarded areas in the world.

You can truly feel the history here.

If you're into history or curious about global politics, a visit to the DMZ is a must.

Photo: @ashleesplanet on Instagram

It’s surprisingly close to the capital, so tours from Seoul are easily available.

Most tours differ in package options but generally visit the same main areas.

Some tours will take you to the Dora Observatory, where you can peek into North Korea.

Another must-see stop is the Third Infiltration Tunnel, dug by North Korea in 1978.

What's cool is that you can actually walk through the tunnel (though it’s not for claustrophobic folks).

Pro tip: You can "buy" North Korean currency as a cool souvenir, so keep an eye out for that.

How to Get to Seoul from Incheon or Gimpo Airport

From Incheon International Airport (ICN):

Getting from Incheon Airport to Seoul is super easy with plenty of options to choose from.

If you're in a rush, the AREX Express Train is your best bet – it’ll get you to Seoul Station in about 40 minutes, with comfy seats, loads of space for your luggage, and free Wi-Fi to keep you connected.

For budget-travellers, the All Stop Train is a cheaper option, though it makes a few stops along the way, including Hongik University and Gimpo Airport.

For a bit more comfort, the KAL Limousine Bus is a great choice, offering a relaxed ride with stops at various hotels in Seoul.

If you prefer to keep things private, a taxi or private transfer will take you directly to your hotel.

From Gimpo Airport (GMP):

If you're looking for a fast and affordable option, the AREX All-Stop train is your best choice.

It’ll zip you from Gimpo Airport to Seoul Station in just 23 minutes.

However, the AREX Express Train isn’t available here.

There's also the airport bus, which departs every 20 to 30 minutes, but it isn’t available after 11:30 pm.

Alternatively, you can simply hop in a taxi, but it might set you back at least USD 15 to 30, depending on your hotel and destination.

Other Tips for Visiting Seoul

• Don't use Google Maps, as it doesn't work well in South Korea. Instead, download the Naver or Kakao Map apps.

• Go cashless – you can use T-Money cards at convenience stores or prepaid NAMANE cards at cafes and restaurants. Travel wallets like YouTrip and Wise will also come in handy. Just remember to bring your physical cards, as Apple Pay is less widely supported in Seoul compared to Samsung Pay.

Customised NAMANE cards

• Become a pro at using public transportation in Seoul – here's a handy guide on how to navigate the subway.

• Download Naver Papago for all your translation needs, from menus to connecting with the locals.

• Don't forget to get a prepaid SIM card – staying connected makes getting around much easier, and it reduces your reliance on finding places with unreliable Wi-Fi connections.

Commonly Asked Questions

Is 7 days in Seoul too long?

Not at all. A week is the perfect amount of time to spend in Seoul. South Korea's capital is massive.

And you'll have plenty of time to see the top attractions and even make nearby day trips, all without feeling too rushed on a relaxed itinerary.

How much does 7 days in Seoul cost?

It really depends on where you're staying, what you're eating, and which attractions you're visiting.

Budgets are quite subjective, depending on your comfort level. But on average, be prepared to spend around USD 2,000 to 2,500 per person for a trip with enough frills and creature comforts.