The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors to Seoul, South Korea

Welcome to the bustling heart of South Korea, where ancient traditions meet modern marvels in a city that never sleeps.

We flew into Seoul from Taipei, and it is fair to say that after a great eight days in Taiwan, I had low expectations of Seoul due to previous blogs I had read and videos I had watched.

Were they right?

No, they were not! This was the most enchanting trip to a place with no expectations; Seoul exceeded them.

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, a shopaholic, or a culture enthusiast, Seoul has something incredible to offer. Over the next five days, immerse yourself in a vibrant metropolis brimming with centuries-old palaces, cutting-edge architecture, bustling markets, and top-quality coffee.

Join me on this exciting journey as we explore the top attractions, the best cafes, and must-visit spots that make Seoul an unforgettable destination.

From the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace to the trendy area of Hongdae, I'll guide you through the best experiences this dynamic city offers.

As first-time visitors, this blog would be perfect for anyone looking to book a trip to Seoul for a long weekend or a week; there is so much to see and do.

So pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in Seoul!

Let’s dive in!

Watch my episode on Seoul today!

Top Attractions in Seoul

For our five days, we tried to mix the classic traditional sights to see alongside some home comforts.

This was the beginning of summer, and the heat was challenging. After a few hours of walking, we needed that dash of air-con to regroup and refresh, so there are a lot of coffee recommendations for this one, too.

Below are all the sights we frequented during our stay.

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace

Visit the largest and most grandiose of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces. Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace offers a glimpse into Korea’s royal past with its beautiful architecture, gardens, and the changing of the guard ceremony.

Tip: Even though the entry fee is 3500 WON, there are three free English-speaking walking tours throughout the day. Head to the counter to book a time slot, then meet at the agreed-upon point. It is absolutely worth an hour to learn about the history of the palace and Korea.
Thoughts: The English-speaking walking tour was a dream. We could learn everything about the palace, and it was an hour long, so we covered most of the grounds. We loved seeing everyone dressed up in traditional Korean clothing, too, to add a bit of culture to an already culture-heavy visit. You have to visit!

2. Bukchon Hanok Village

Wander through this historic neighborhood filled with traditional Korean houses (hanoks). It’s a perfect place to experience Korean culture and take beautiful photographs of the preserved 600-year-old village.

Tip: Get your walking shoes ready as you traipse up and down hills within the village; you have great views of Seoul too.
Thoughts: Walking distance from Gyeongbokgung Palace, it is worth adding this to the same morning or afternoon. You really get a sense of what a traditional Korean village looks like, and locals still live there, so make sure you adhere to the signs of being quiet and respectful. It is a lovely afternoon walk.

3. Hongdae District

Dive into Seoul’s youth culture in this bustling district known for its indie music scene, nightlife, and trendy cafes. Hongdae is a great place to enjoy live music, street performances, and vibrant street art.

Tip: Want a hip trendy place to hang out? Then this is the area! Easily accessible by metro, this area is as bustling as it gets. A mix of happening bars, trendy cafes, Western pubs, University students and great hostels, this is the place to stay.
Thoughts: Seoul has a plethora of areas to explore, so we plumped for Hongdae. We loved it so much on our first visit that we went back to stay there on our last night. There is everything you need here. I loved the vibe and culture of being around the vibrant youth of Seoul.

4. Ihwa Mural Village

Nestled on the slopes of Naksan Mountain, Ihwa Mural Village is a vibrant testament to the power of art and community. This once-declining neighborhood has been transformed into an outdoor gallery, thanks to the efforts of local artists and residents. Strolling through its narrow alleys and steep stairways, you'll encounter a colorful array of murals, sculptures, and installations that breathe new life into the area.

Tip: Bring your camera on this trip. The buildings in the village have so much art to see, and there are also great views of Seoul.
Thoughts: What a hidden gem this was! We went to Cafe Travel for a coffee with stunning views before heading down the Mural Village, and we loved it. An area with many steps will test our walking stamina, but it is worth it as we get to see so many cool buildings and art. To avoid crowds, I would come early or late in the afternoon, but always remember there are local residents here, so be respectful when walking around.

5. The War Memorial of Korea

Located in the heart of Seoul, the War Memorial of Korea stands as a poignant reminder of the nation's turbulent history and a tribute to the bravery of those who served. Opened in 1994, this extensive museum is dedicated to preserving the memory of the Korean War and educating visitors about Korea's military history, from ancient times to the present day.

Tip: This place is huge, so be sure to give yourself enough time to see all the different exhibits. I am relatively short on knowledge about the Korean War, so we spent quite a while in the museum. Also, it is free!
Thoughts: I am a history buff, so this is right up my street. I knew very little, so I loved learning the history of this tragic war. Before heading in, you can go to Decoro Coffee for a livener; this cafe is a twenty-minute walk from the grounds. They have lovely fountains and benches outside if you need time to reflect.

6. The National Museum of Korea

Situated in Yongsan District, Seoul, the National Museum of Korea is the largest museum in the country and one of the most significant cultural institutions in Asia. Since its establishment in 1945, the museum has played a vital role in preserving and showcasing Korea's rich cultural heritage. With its vast collection spanning millennia, the National Museum of Korea offers visitors a comprehensive journey through Korea's history, art, and culture and beyond.

Tip: Free entry for foreigners means this is a great budget-friendly activity for Seoul.
Thoughts: This place was overwhelming with information about Korea, as are many National Museums, but we found this one very interactive. There was a cool room where they showed Korean history over time with a 3D animation video on screens that stretched 360 degrees. That was pretty cool!

7. Cheonggyecheon

Cheonggyecheon is a striking example of urban renewal and a beloved green space in the heart of Seoul. This 11-kilometer-long stream, which flows through downtown Seoul, offers a serene escape from the bustling city streets and serves as a symbol of the city’s commitment to sustainability and rejuvenation.

Tip: This is a hidden gem of a find in Seoul. If you are looking for a lovely flat walk below ground level in the middle of Seoul, then this is for you. We actually stayed right by it, so we checked it out a couple of times.
Thoughts: Just a gem of a walk through the urban chaos of Seoul. It is very serene, and you see all kinds of locals here, from youngsters hanging out with their friends to the older population getting their steps in for the day. We loved walking by a little stream with those water sounds intruding into our ears. Dreamy.

8. Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul’s oldest and most vibrant traditional markets, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing authentic Korean culture and cuisine. Established in 1905, this bustling market offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of locals and a taste of Korea’s rich culinary heritage.

Tip: Do you want to eat at the knife-cut noodle lady’s stand made famous on Netflix’s food show Street Food Asia? It's best to get in the queue early and be patient. We went in the evening, and there were 15 people in front of us waiting, so we checked out other stalls.
Thoughts: It is a marvellous market for traditional Korean street food. The stalls all serve the same type of food, and I tucked into delicious Mung Bean Pancakes. There are a plethora of options at every stall at very reasonable prices.

9. Starfield Library

Located in the heart of the bustling COEX Mall in Gangnam, Seoul, Starfield Library is an awe-inspiring public space that seamlessly blends modern architecture with the timeless appeal of books. Since its opening in 2017, this stunning library has become a must-visit destination for book lovers, tourists, and anyone seeking a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Tip: Sit there with a coffee and a book and marvel at this stunning library.
Thoughts: A must for book lovers, and I wish we could have stayed longer so make sure you do!

Where to stay in Seoul?

Hipzy Guesthouse

A charming 2-star hotel nestled in the vibrant city of Seoul, South Korea. With its convenient location and cozy atmosphere, this guesthouse is the perfect choice for travellers seeking comfort and affordability. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, Hipzy Guesthouse offers a warm and inviting ambiance that will make you feel right at home.

We booked Hipzy for its reasonable price and proximity to a metro station, which means you can get anywhere in Seoul using the metro system. It is also within walking distance of LoL Park, Cheonggyecheon, and Gwangjang Market—a great location!

Book here with Booking.com

Take 1 Guesthouse Hongdae

Ideally located in Seoul, Take 1 Guesthouse Hongdae offers air-conditioned rooms, a shared lounge, and free WiFi. The property is 400 metres from Hongik University Station, 1.3 km from Hongik University, and 3.1 km from Ewha Womans University. The accommodation provides a shared kitchen and luggage storage space for guests.

It is a great place to base yourself for Hongdae and within walking distance of a lot of cool stuff in the area. If I were to return to Seoul, I would stay in this area to check out a different part of the city. It is a very happening hostel and area.

Book here with Booking.com

My favourite brunch in Seoul?

Camelia Cafe

Butter-coloured, exotic brunch spot in Yeonnam-dong. Located in a quiet alley in Yeonnam-dong, Camellia Yeonnam is a renovated house cafe boasting a cozy atmosphere with open windows. It offers hearty European home-style brunch menus with a variety of fun choices. Each floor has a distinct atmosphere, making it even more special and warm! I had a fantastic English Breakfast here and this is a classy establishment.

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My top three favourite cafes for coffee in Seoul

Seoul was very hot when we were traipsing around the city, and the constant need for air conditioning was real, so we had plenty of stops for coffee breaks.

Here are my three favourites that we visited in Seoul.

1. Cafe Travel

Situated next to the Ihwa Mural Village, this cafe gem has stunning views of Seoul on top of a hill and fantastic coffee.

It is a great stop for that caffeine boost before you wander around the Ihwa Mural Village.

2. Joshwillow Coffee

Situated near Gwangjang Market, this unassuming cafe is plonked on top of a 7-Eleven, and your instant impressions are nothing special.

However, when you walk up the stairs into the cafe, you will be treated to a classy establishment with great coffee, comfy seats and food options. When you are in that part of town, be sure to visit!

3. Cafe Dokoro

A trendy, cozy Western cafe in Itaewon with various drinks from tea and coffee to beer and lemon milk.

The cafe is within walking distance of the Korean War Memorial and is sensational here.

Top attractions in Seoul I wished I had visited.

N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)

Take a trip to this iconic observation tower perched atop Namsan Mountain. Offering panoramic views of Seoul, it’s a popular spot for couples and tourists alike. Don’t forget to check out the love locks!

2. Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon (Secret Garden)

Tour this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its harmonious blending of buildings and nature. The Secret Garden is a highlight, offering a serene escape with its ponds, pavilions, and ancient trees.

3. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Explore this futuristic landmark known for its innovative design and architecture. DDP hosts various exhibitions, fashion shows, and markets. It’s a hub for design and creativity.

Book the Hipzy Guesthouse today!

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Some essential tips for navigating around Seoul.

Transport

Like most international cities, Seoul has a travel card that can be purchased at the airport and then topped up to use around the city. More information can be found here.

Seoul has excellent transport links via the train, metro, or buses; we use the metro mostly as most areas have a station to aim for. We are also walkers and found Seoul super easy to walk around. Walking those streets is the best way to see a place!

ESim or SIM card providers

In South Korea, I would stick with the ESim option, I use GigSky, which you can order here. They offer very competitive rates with popular perks such as free use of 100 in an emergency, no internet required to update your app with a new plan, and customer service options if you need to talk to someone.

Language

In South Korea, English is widely spoken, but I would commit to learning a few phrases to get by. One piece of advice here is to get any food requirements translated into Korean so you can show them on your phone when ordering food. Most of the signage was written in both Korean and English, and it was very easy to navigate around the city. We had no problems apart from trying to order vegan options.

Summary of my visit to Seoul

Wow! What a great place!

I had zero expectations, and we weren't even sure we would stay long, but we stayed five nights in total as we loved it that much!

It is a bustling city with tons of activities for all kinds of travellers.

In my opinion, it has one of the best coffee scenes I have ever visited—some claim that is from myself!

The Korean people are some of the nicest people you will meet. They are super helpful, kind, and willing to help you out!

A few people spoke to us on the metro when in Seoul.

It is a mix of traditional and modernity living side by side.

Pick an area, wander, go to a local cafe, get dinner at a food market, interact with locals and marvel at this majestic city!