2 Days in Seoul, South Korea: The Perfect 48-Hour Seoul Itinerary
Last Updated on November 14, 2024 by Alex
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a vibrant place packed with tourist attractions, delicious food, and much more. If you only have 2 days in Seoul, you must plan your itinerary well to make the most of your time here.
After spending 3 days in Seoul in the cold winter, I returned for good some two years later. Now that I have my Korean ID and some experience exploring the streets of Seoul, I know I can help you out with some great itinerary options.
Thus, without further ado, because I know you want to start planning that marvelous trip, I suggest an awesome Seoul itinerary.
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Table of Contents
2 Days in Seoul, South Korea: The Perfect 48-Hour Seoul Itinerary
Day 1 in Seoul
You can choose from seeing the most popular tourist attractions in town, a mix of palaces and urban areas, tasting delicious food, and much more. The itinerary comes with a map, so you can easily plan your trip.
My suggestion:
Deoksugung – Gyeongbokgung Palace – Bukchon Hanok Village – Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon – Jogyesa temple – Myeong-dong
Deoksugung Palace
Deoksugung Palace, situated in the heart of Seoul, South Korea, is a captivating blend of traditional Korean architecture and modern urban surroundings.
Also known as “The Palace of Virtuous Longevity,” Deoksugung is unique among Seoul’s palaces for its harmonious integration of Western and Eastern design elements.
The palace’s history dates back to the Joseon Dynasty, but it underwent significant transformations during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, embracing a fusion of architectural styles.
Visitors to Deoksugung can explore its picturesque stone-wall road, beautiful gardens, and historical buildings, including Junghwajeon, the main hall, and Jeukjodang, the venue for important state affairs.
The juxtaposition of ancient structures against the backdrop of the modern Seoul skyline adds to the palace’s allure, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a glimpse into Korea’s rich cultural heritage.
Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening hours: 09:00 ~ 21:00, closed on Mondays
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace, a jewel of Joseon Dynasty architecture, graces the heart of Seoul with its grandeur and historical significance. Often referred to as the “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven,” Gyeongbokgung is the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the dynasty.
Constructed in 1395, the palace has witnessed centuries of Korea’s storied past. Majestic gates, intricate pavilions, and beautifully landscaped gardens showcase the artistry of traditional Korean palace design.
The main hall, Gyeongbokgung’s centerpiece, is Gyeongbokjeon, where royal ceremonies occur. The palace also houses the National Palace Museum of Korea, offering visitors a deep dive into the nation’s royal history.
Strolling through the vast palace grounds, one can feel the resonance of Korea’s cultural heritage while marveling at the stunning backdrop of the nearby Bukhansan Mountains.
Gyeongbokgung Palace is a timeless testament to Korea’s rich history and architectural prowess, inviting all to step back in time and embrace the grandeur of its regal past.
Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening Hours
Bukchon Hanok Village
Nestled between Seoul’s modern skyscrapers, Bukchon Hanok Village stands as a living testament to Korea’s architectural heritage.
This historic neighborhood, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, is a captivating blend of tradition and charm. Renowned for its well-preserved hanoks, traditional Korean houses with elegant tiled roofs, and intricate wooden structures, Bukchon offers a captivating journey through time.
Wandering along its winding alleyways, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of these centuries-old residences, many of which are still inhabited.
The village offers panoramic views of the city, framed by the rustic charm of the hanoks. Additionally, the area hosts various cultural centers, tea houses, and artisan shops, providing a contemporary touch to the traditional ambiance.
Address: Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Read also: What to see and do in Bukchon Hanok Village
Changdeokung Palace & Garden
Constructed during the Joseon Dynasty in 1405, it served as a secondary palace and is renowned for its harmonious integration with the surrounding natural landscape.
What sets Changdeokgung apart is its remarkable Secret Garden, a serene retreat that unfolds in perfect harmony with the palace’s structures. This meticulously designed garden boasts a picturesque lotus pond, pavilions, and lush foliage, creating an oasis of tranquility amid urban Seoul.
The palace showcases traditional Korean architecture with vibrant colors, intricate detailing, and stately gates.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Changdeokgung Palace offers visitors a glimpse into Korea’s regal past. It invites them to wander through time amidst the whispers of centuries-old palace walls and the beauty of its meticulously manicured gardens.
Address: South Korea, Seoul, Jongno-gu, 율곡로 99번지
Opening hours
Jogyesa Temple
As the chief temple of the Jogye Order, the largest Buddhist sect in Korea, Jogyesa is highly significant in the country’s religious landscape.
The temple, originally established in the late 14th century, underwent several relocations before settling into its current location in 1910. Jogyesa is a place of worship and a vibrant center for Buddhist celebrations and events, particularly during the colorful lantern festivals that illuminate the temple grounds.
The architecture of Jogyesa reflects a harmonious blend of traditional Korean and more modern influences, creating a serene atmosphere that invites visitors to explore its halls, courtyards, and sacred spaces.
Address: 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Myeong-dong
Myeongdong, a bustling district in the heart of Seoul, is a vibrant and eclectic blend of commerce, culture, and urban energy.
Renowned as one of the city’s prime shopping destinations, Myeongdong attracts locals and tourists with its plethora of trendy boutiques, flagship stores, and international brands.
The streets come alive with the latest fashion trends, skincare boutiques, and street food vendors offering delectable Korean treats.
Beyond its shopping allure, Myeongdong offers a diverse range of entertainment options, from vibrant street performances to chic cafes and beauty salons.
As the sun sets, the district transforms into a neon-lit wonderland, creating an electric atmosphere for those seeking a taste of Seoul’s nightlife.
Read also: FUN things to do in Myeongdong
Also, another great option is to forget about organizing the itinerary and book directly your Seoul one-day city highlights tour—hotel pick-up and drop-off included, and perfect sightseeing of the Korean capital. You will have it all organized for you, and it will be easier to adjust to South Korea.
Finish off your day in style with a true Korean SPA experience. You cannot come to the cosmetics capital without experiencing the best treatments.
Sulwhasoo Spa is one of the best and fanciest options. With its own cosmetics line sold worldwide, it offers a full-body massage or an intensive ginseng and jade brightening treatment. See all its options here, and book in advance to get the deal!
Whoo SPA Nonhyeon is another exceptional option. Their products come in luxurious packaging and boast some of the highest ginseng concentrations. They are well known for their anti-aging and anti-oxidant properties—a well-kept secret of Korean beauty for centuries. Choose between a facial treatment, a body massage, a VIP treatment, and more. Check out the options here!
Day 2 in Seoul
For your second day, you can adapt the second option of my one-day itinerary or choose this other option when you are interested in hidden gems and less explored places.
On this itinerary, I’ve added places that you won’t find in many guides, especially the ones targeting only two days in Seoul. These are for people who like to explore and love nature, as well as for Korean cosmetics lovers.
Seongsu-dong – Amore Seongsu – Seoul Forest Park – Coex Library – Bongeunsa Temple – Lotte World Tower
Seongsu-dong
An area I knew nothing about before moving here and being introduced to it by a new friend. As I got off the subway, I wasn’t expecting much from this area because, at first sight, it looked a bit industrial.
This is a good explanation since most of the shoe factories were located here, and even today, you can find small leather shops where you can get shoes and other things custom-made.
However, gentrification has taken place nowadays, and most factory halls have been transformed into cool cafes, restaurants, or even beauty concept stores.
Walk around and discover some cool murals—even if you visit the area several times, you won’t find the same mural again.
Where: Seongsu subway station on the green line
Amore Seongsu
Amore Seongsu is much more than a cosmetics shop. It is a place where you come to explore, test, learn, and relax.
A concept store owned by the largest cosmetics brand in South Korea, Amore Pacific, and a shop in Seongsu is where I could have spent even one day exploring.
You can test hundreds of products from tens of lines they own. And it’s not only about skincare—it’s also about body care and makeup! Every now and then, they hold skincare and makeup classes and flower design workshops.
At the end of the tour, you will receive five free samples to take home and try on your skin.
Also, you can find a tea shop and a rooftop terrace at the location.
Read also: Where to buy skincare in Seoul!
Seoul Forest Park
Okay, this is not really a forest, but it is a lovely park where you can walk toward one of the many great coffee shops in the area.
You can see and feed deer (an activity particularly appreciated by kids), take pictures in the Ginko Biloba forest, and, during spring, admire the beautiful cherry trees in bloom.
Once done with the walk in the park, stop for a good coffee at Greytcoffee.
Where: Seoul Forest subway station on the yellow line
Coex Library
Cross the river and head to one of Seoul’s most Instagrammable places: the library in Coex Mall.
You don’t have much to do here, but snap a few pictures and shop inside the mall. The library doesn’t sell books, but it has been created as a place that would attract people.
Where: Bongeunsa subway station on line 9
Bongeunsa Temple
This temple is special because it is one of the only Buddhist Temples in Seoul. Most temples in Korea are in the mountains, so finding one with a great garden in Gangnam is special.
Come here during Buddha’s Day, and you will see all the colorful decorations, in addition to the temple’s unique architecture.
They organize temple stays where you can get an introduction to Buddhism, and they also have a small, quiet tea place in one of the houses on site.
Where: Bongeunsa subway station on line 9
Lotte World Tower
The tallest building in South Korea is impressive from the outside and the inside.
Book your ticket for the observation deck and climb to level 123, where you can view Seoul from above.
Come for sunset and admire the sky painted in the most unique colors possible. Don’t leave without seeing the exhibitions and shows held in the waiting area.
You can also extend your visit with a ticket to the impressive Lotte Aquarium.
Things to know before you go
But before we dig into the attractions and things to do in 48 hours in Seoul, there are a few things you might want to know.
How to get from the airport
Traveling from the airport to your hotel shouldn’t be very hard when you choose the right places to stay in Seoul. However, no matter where you stay, transportation in Seoul is one of the best I’ve ever seen, and you have plenty of options to get around.
Depending on your budget, you can choose one of the following options to get from the airport:
- By taxi – one of the most expensive ways, but also the least troublesome. You can find taxi desks once you pick up your luggage and exit the arrival gates. Getting to the city center cost us around 70 USD (80.000 won). If you are four people, that’s not bad for a taxi ride.
Another thing worth knowing is that the ride takes around one hour and depends a lot on the traffic, which can be a nightmare sometimes.
- By train—part of the subway and very conveniently linked, it is easy to take the train directly from Seoul Station to the airport or the other way around.
There are two options available:
- The regular train—the dark blue line that stops at every station, including Gimpo Airport—takes longer but is the more affordable option, and you can pay with your T-Money card;
- The express train is a non-stop line that will get you to the airport or town in less than 30 minutes.
- Transfer – book a private transfer and forget about everything. You will get picked up from the airport and taken directly to your accommodation. See a great option here!
- Public bus (KAL) – the cheapest option for getting from Incheon Airport to the city center, with a few options taking you almost anywhere in the city. Read the complete guide here!
Read the complete guide to get from Incheon Airport to Seoul here!
How to get around Seoul
Seoul is a big city with plenty to do and see, so no matter where you choose to stay, you will have to use public transportation.
You will need a T-Money card—this is basically a rechargeable card you can use on all public transportation (subway, buses) and at different convenience stores. You can buy the card from any subway station or convenience store, such as 7-Eleven, GS25, EMart24, or CU.
The cost of the card itself is 4000 KRW (3.6 USD), and you can top it up at any of the above-mentioned stores. Just know that you will be able to pay by card for the card itself, but you will need cash to top up. If you choose to order it online beforehand, you could save some money.
You must download an app called Subway (here for Android and here for Apple). It helped me a lot to get around and understand where to change and what line to take. It also provides an updated timeline so you can make the best of your time.
Whenever you enter and exit the bus or subway, you will need to validate your card so the system knows your start point and end point and how much to charge you.
Since you only spend 2 days in Seoul, you can use the Discover Seoul Pass. The city pass offers discounts on the most important tourist attractions and activities in town. Read my complete explanation and an itinerary to help you save the most here.
Navigation
Also, when you want to walk from one place to the other, it is worth knowing that Google Maps won’t help you in South Korea. Download Naver Maps (here for Apple and here for Android) and start searching.
It is worth noting that finding addresses will not always be easy unless you write them in Korean. Use Google Translate and copy the translation into Naver Maps; this method should work most of the time.
Where to stay in Seoul
If you’re only spending 2 days in Seoul and have only one night here, I would encourage you to choose the best location.
This way, you won’t waste time on the commute and will be able to make the most out of your hours here.
Read the complete guide for the Best Areas where to Stay in Seoul!
Choose to stay in one of the below areas, with a few great hotel options:
- Namdaemunno is the area we chose to stay in during our first trip to Seoul, at Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Namdaemun. It was a nice hotel with a view of the NSeoul Tower and the Sungnyemun Gate, from which I could easily walk to many of the main attractions in town. Check it out here!
- Insadong is perhaps the most touristy area in town, mainly because it is close to the most popular spots. The ibis Ambassador Insadong offers Seoul Tower views and a beautiful rooftop terrace. It is located close to Insadong’s Main Street, which has most of its outlets open all night. Check it out here!
- Myeongdong—Nine Tree Hotel Myeongdong—I must admit this was our first choice when it came to hotels in Seoul, but somehow, we ended up with the Courtyard one (and I don’t regret it a bit). This one is perfectly located and offers a great quality vs. price ratio. Check it out here!
- Hongdae – most people look into staying in Myeongdong or Hongdae when visiting for the first time. Each has advantages and disadvantages, but if you want to remain in a dynamic and bustling area, Hongdae is the place for you. See where to stay in Hongdae!
Other things to do in Seoul and things worth knowing
Of course, there is only so much you can fit into 2 days in Seoul. However, here are a few other activities you might want to consider for your trip:
- On your visit to the palaces, rent a traditional hanbok and book a professional photographer to help you take some fantastic pictures. It will only take 1-2 hours, but you will have a memory that will last a lifetime.
- Go on a day trip to the DMZ—see the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea, a once-in-a-lifetime experience for anyone. See more about the tour here!
- Explore Hongdae and its many coffee places.
- Climb the Seoul Tower and visit some popular K-drama filming locations.
Travel Insurance
If there’s one thing we’ve learned recently, it’s that we don’t want to make travel plans without insurance. My go-to travel insurance is Aardy.com. By using them, you will get the best possible prices on travel insurance because they compare prices from over 30 providers and give you the best.
When is the best time to travel to Seoul, South Korea?
I suggest always planning your trip for the shoulder season: spring has its charming blooms and pretty weather, while fall comes with some highly romantic colors.
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