Quick answer
For a first visit to Seoul, plan about five days. Day one: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong. From there, build in N Seoul Tower and Bukchon Hanok Village, and leave time for the food.
Going deeper?
A 5-day Seoul itinerary
- Day1
Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong.
- Day2
Myeongdong shopping and street food, N Seoul Tower.
- Day3
Gangnam district, COEX Mall, Bongeunsa Temple.
- Day4
DMZ day trip, or Namsangol Hanok Village for a quieter day.
- Day5
Hongdae nightlife district, a Han River park picnic.
Where to eat in Seoul
- Breakfast
- Tosokchon Samgyetang — famous ginseng chicken soup
- Lunch
- Gwangjang Market street food
- Dinner
- Myeongdong Kyoja — knife-cut noodles institution
Top sights
- Gyeongbokgung Palace
- N Seoul Tower
- Bukchon Hanok Village
- Gwangjang Market
Shopping
- Myeongdong
- Gangnam underground mall
- Insadong
Seoul FAQ
How many days do you need in Seoul?
Five days covers Seoul's highlights at a comfortable pace — start with Gyeongbokgung Palace and N Seoul Tower, then use the remaining days for neighborhoods, food and a day trip. Gigi adjusts the plan to your interests and how you like to travel.
What are the must-see sights in Seoul?
Well-known highlights include Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, Bukchon Hanok Village, Gwangjang Market. Booking timed entries or a private guide for the busiest sights saves hours in lines.
Where should you shop in Seoul?
Popular shopping stops include Myeongdong, Gangnam underground mall, Insadong. Hours and seasonal closures vary, so confirm before you go.
General reference, not Gigi's personally vetted picks — a starting point built from well-known, long-standing places. Hours, prices and openings change; she'll confirm and personalize everything before you go.