2-Day, 3-Night Seoul City Travel Guide: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Seoul is a city where historical traditions and cutting-edge technologycoexist. For first-time visitors, we recommend a 2-night, 3-day itinerary that allows you to experience Seoul's charm by visiting various landmarks and restaurants. This itinerary includes essential Seoul tourist spots, allowing you to maximize your experience in a short time.

Day 1: Experiencing Seoul's Tradition and Modernity

Morning: Exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village

Start your Seoul journey at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Gyeongbokgung Palace is the representative palace of the Joseon Dynasty, where you can experience Korean traditional culture along with historical architecture.

• Tip: Don't miss the Changing of the Guard ceremonyat 10:00 AM.
• Hanbok Experience: Renting a Hanbok nearby grants you free entry and is perfect for taking pictures in traditional attire.

📍 Location: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 5)

Lunch: Traditional Food in Insadong

Have lunch in Insadong. Insadong is a street with a vibrant traditional atmosphere, where you can savor various Korean traditional foods.

• Recommended Menu: Bibimbap, Bulgogi
• Visit a Traditional Tea House: You can also find tea houses offering various Korean traditional teas.

Afternoon: Stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village

After lunch, head to Bukchon Hanok Village. This village is well-preserved with traditional Korean houses (Hanok), allowing you to feel the old atmosphere of Korea while walking through the quiet alleys.

• Tip: Take a break and have tea at a Hanok cafe.

Evening: Myeongdong Shopping and Street Food Exploration

Spend the evening in Myeongdong. Myeongdong is a shopping center where you can easily find the latest K-beauty products and fashion items. You can also experience various street foods.

• Recommended Food: Kalguksu from Myeongdong Kyoja, Bungeoppang, Dakkochi
• Shopping: Visit popular K-beauty stores such as Innisfree and Olive Young.

🛏 Accommodation Recommendation: The Myeongdong area is ideal for accommodation due to its proximity to major tourist attractions.

Day 2: Enjoying Seoul's Vibrant Culture and Nature

Morning: N Seoul Tower

Visit N Seoul Towerearly in the morning to admire the panoramic view of Seoul. You can go up by cable car or on foot, and from the observatory, you can see the city of Seoul at a glance.

• Tip: If you are with your loved one, consider attaching a love lock.
• Admission Fee: The admission fee for the observatory is approximately 15,000 won.

📍 Location: Myeongdong Station (Line 4, Exit 3)

Lunch: Experiencing Traditional Food at Namdaemun Market

Have lunch at Namdaemun Market. This is Seoul's oldest traditional market, where you can enjoy various street foods and traditional snacks.

• Recommended Menu: Braised Hairtail, Hotteok, Kimbap
• Shopping: You can buy traditional souvenirs and Korean snacks at low prices.

Afternoon: Experiencing the Youth and Art of Hongdae

Hongdae is a hotspot for young people, with various street performances and unique cafes. While walking the streets, you can also see live performances and appreciate various works of art.

• Activities: Visit themed cafes (cat cafes, book cafes)
• Recommended Food: Chicken and beer (Chi-maek) is a must-try in Hongdae.

Evening: Relaxing at the Han River Park

Han River Park is a representative night view spot in Seoul. You can rent a bicycle and ride along the Han River, or spread a picnic mat and enjoy a leisurely time.

• Recommended Activity: Use a chicken delivery service on the Han River.
• Tip: You can enjoy the night view of Seoul by taking a Han River cruise.

Day 3: Seoul's Modern Landmarks and Last-Minute Shopping

Morning: Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Visit the **Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)**, a modern landmark of Seoul. It is famous for its unique architecture and hosts various exhibitions and events.

• Recommended Sights: The LED Rose Garden is particularly beautiful at night.
• Shopping: You can buy fashion items at low prices at Dongdaemun Market.

📍 Location: Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Lines 2, 4, 5)

Lunch: Gwangjang Market Food Tour

Enjoy lunch at Gwangjang Market, a representative traditional market in Seoul. You can taste various traditional foods here.

• Recommended Menu: Bindae-tteok (mung bean pancake), Mayak-Kimbap (drug-kimbap), Yukhoe (raw beef)
• Tip: Cash is mainly used at Gwangjang Market, so prepare small bills.

Afternoon: COEX and Gangnam Tour

In the afternoon of the last day, visit COEX Mall. As the largest underground shopping mall in Asia, you can enjoy various shopping and entertainment.

• Sights: Starfield Library, COEX Aquarium
• Shopping: If you are a K-pop fan, visit the SMTOWN store at COEX.

Evening: Finishing in Gangnam

Spend the last part of your trip in Gangnam. Gangnam Stationand its surrounding area is filled with high-end restaurants, clubs, and various restaurants. Finish your trip by tasting Korean BBQ.

• Recommended Food: Samgyeopsal (pork belly), Galbi (short ribs)
• Tip: If you are a fan of Hallyu, take a commemorative photo in front of the Gangnam Style statue.

✈️ Departure Tips

• Airport Transfer: When transferring to Incheon Airport, the AREX Airport Railroadis fast and convenient.
• Recommended Souvenirs: Snacks such as seaweed, Han-gwa (traditional Korean sweets), and ramen are easily available at Incheon Airport's duty-free shops.
• T-money Card: You can keep the transportation card you used during your trip as a souvenir, or get a refund at a convenience store.

Seoul is a city that offers a variety of charms even with a short schedule. We hope you create unforgettable memories in this city where tradition and modernity coexist. Happy Travels! 🌆🇰🇷✈️