4-Day Seoul Itinerary: Your Ultimate 2024 Guide
Last Updated on November 11, 2024 by Alex
One of the fascinating things about Seoul, and South Korea in general, is the blend of the modern and the old. During a 4-day Seoul itinerary, you’ll have the chance to experience both.
On the one hand, Seoul is one of the most developed, high-tech global cities, with futuristic-looking skyscrapers dominating its skyline.
Yet, on the other hand, it is a city of living history, its medieval palaces and traditional neighborhoods bustling with life.
This great and easy-to-follow 4-day Seoul itinerary will allow you to see all sides of the city: the old, the new, and the fun!
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Table of Contents
- 4 day Seoul Itinerary: Your Ultimate Guide
- Day 1 of your 4 days in Seoul: Palaces and History
- Day 2 – Explore Gangnam
- Day 3 – Namsan Mountain and Itaewon
- Day 4 – go on a day trip outside of Seoul
- Where to stay in Seoul
- What is the best time to spend 4 days in Seoul?
- Getting around town on your 4-day Seoul itinerary
- Where to eat in Seoul – our favorite restaurants + recommendations by a local
4 day Seoul Itinerary: Your Ultimate Guide
Day 1 of your 4 days in Seoul: Palaces and History

Today will be a day of exploration, stepping back in time, learning a little bit about Korea’s history, and feeling like a princess or prince.
An option would be to start your day by renting a hanbok (traditional Korean clothing), and you can read about our experience here.
However, if you don’t feel like wandering around the streets of Seoul in those clothes, don’t worry. Start your day in Bukchon Hanok Village.
Bukchon Hanok Village

The first stop in your 4-day Seoul itinerary.
If you’d like to see what a 600-year-old traditional village would look like in the middle of a high-tech, global metropolis, you must visit Bukchon Hanok.
Bukchon, literally the North Village, was the residential area of the nobility and high-ranking government officials during the Joseon period; it was the Beverly Hills of its day, the playground of the rich and famous. As its name suggests, it consists of numerous hanoks, traditional Korean houses.
According to polls, it is one of the favorite areas of foreign tourists. However, it became wildly popular with the locals after being featured in the South Korean reality show ‘1 Night 2 Days’ and the TV series ‘Personal Taste.’

The area hosts several museums, coffee shops, and restaurants. It is also a good place to rent a hanbok. So you can start the day with a coffee in Bukchon Hanok Village, then dress up and walk its history-filled streets under the admiring gaze of passersby. Once you finish visiting Changdeokgung, Gyeongbokgung, Deoksugung, and Jogyesa, you can return your outfit and enjoy a nice traditional dinner in Bukcheon. It’s worth it!
How to get to Bukchon Hanok Village: Take the subway or bus to Anguk Station. Read the complete guide here!
Address: Jongno-gu, 계동길 37
Bukchon Hanok Village to Changdeokgung Palace:

Changdeokgung Palace

The Palace of Prospering Virtue, known in Korea as Changdeokgung, was the favorite palace of many Joseon rulers. Moreover, it was the site of the royal court during two out of the three centuries that passed between Gyeongbukgung’s first destruction and its eventual reconstruction in 1868.
Changdeok stands out from Gyeongbukgung because its buildings blend in with the natural topography instead of dominating it; its construction style retains elements of the previous Three Kingdoms period of Korean history. Actually, the palace was built specifically to replace Gyeongbuk.

Today, circa 30% of the pre-Japanese structure remains; the site has been a UNESCO World Heritage monument since 1997.
Changdeok’s Gardens
Apart from the impressive historical buildings, today’s main attraction is Changdeok’s gardens.
The Huwon, or Rear Garden, was originally constructed for the royal family and palace women. Hundreds of trees and plant species surround the lotus pond, some over 300 years old. The Jade Stream area contains a U-shaped water channel initially used for floating wine cups; a small waterfall is above it.
The Gemuwon, or Forbidden Garden, was destined for the exclusive use of the king. Today, many Koreans call it Biwon, or Secret Garden.
One popular historical K-drama, ‘The Jewel in the Palace,’ was mostly filmed at Changdeokgung.


How to get there
Address: 99, Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Subway: Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 3.
Changdeokgung Palace to Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Unlike the Cantonese Chinese names I easily memorized when we lived in Hong Kong, I had difficulties learning Korean after moving to Seoul.
One of the first Korean place names I encountered was Gyeongbokgung, which was a bit tricky for someone like me who knew little about the language. Yet, once I figured out that the names are made up of separate words, it became much easier to learn them.

‘Gyeong’ means Brilliance, Honor, Respect and in Sino-Korean could also mean ‘Capital City’. ‘Bok’ usually means Fortune, while ‘Gung’ means Palace.
Thus, by giving this name to the palace, the government expressed its desire for a bright future.
Things to do at Gyeongbokgung Palace

Walking through the complex today while admiring the many visitors dressed in traditional clothing, one wouldn’t guess the place’s violent history.
We loved visiting the palace’s Secret Garden; sitting by the pond can easily transport you to a world without worries. The majestic mountain in the background adds to the serene atmosphere. Furthermore, if you are lucky enough to visit during the cherry blossom season, you can take great Instragrammable pictures.
If you enjoy military history, there is a changing of the guard ceremony; it happens several times a day, at pre-determined hours – you should time your visit accordingly.
But if you have the chance, nothing beats visiting Gyeongbok (and the other Seoul palaces and Buchan Hanok village) while dressed in traditional hanbok.
Not only can you enter Gyeongbok for free while wearing it, but the local ladies might also ask you to pose for pictures. For some reason, Koreans love to take photos of foreigners dressed in traditional Korean clothing; I never felt like a superstar before this experience.
How to get there

Address: 161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Subway:
Gyeongbokgung Station (Seoul Subway Line 3) and Exit 5.
Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3) and Exit 1.
Would you instead go on a guided tour to see the Palaces in Seoul? You can learn so much from a local guide! Here are a few of the best options to look into:
Gyeongbokgung Palace to Deoksugung Palace

Deoksugung Palace

Deoksugung Palace, also known as Gyeongungung, is one of my favorite palatial complexes. It was built by Joseon in Seoul. Maybe it’s because we spent a pleasant afternoon on its grounds, wearing hanboks and immersing ourselves in Korea’s rich history.
Built in the late 16th century by King Seonjo of the Joseon Dynasty, it was initially called Gyeongun-gung. Still, it changed its name to Deoksugung after being reconstructed during the reign of King Gojong.
Over its long history, the palace has been home to several royal families and today is an important cultural landmark for locals and tourists.
The distinctive fusion of traditional Korean and European influences found in the architecture of Joseon-era compounds makes them a truly unique sight.

The Seokjojeon West Building is a later addition. It was opened in 1938 as the House of Yi Art Museum and continues to serve as the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.
You can also book a walking tour and learn about the history of this impressive palace. The tour is done during the night for a more impressive view.
How To Get to the Palace

Address: 100-120 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul
Subway: City Hall Station (subway line 1) exit 2
Book your own unforgettable photo session with a local professional photographer here!
Deoksugung Palace to Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa is the chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism.
The Jogye Order is the representative order of traditional Korean Seon Buddhism. Its roots are over 1200 years old when the Latter Silla Master Doui brought Seon from China (‘Seon’ is what we call ‘Zen’ in the West).
The Buddhist Orders were persecuted during the Joseon period. Instead, the new rulers favored Neo-Confucianism as the basis of their society; its strong influences still permeate modern Korean culture, although most religious South Koreans are Christians.
Apart from the temple itself, the courtyard hosts a couple of unique trees over 500 years old: a White Pine tree brought by Chinese missionaries and a Chinese Scholar tree. Can you imagine that these trees were already hundreds of years old at the time of the American Revolutionary War?

Guided tours in English are held daily except Saturdays from 10 AM to 12 AM and 2 PM to 4 PM. On Saturdays, you can see the temple whenever you want without a guided tour.
How to get there
Address: 55, Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Opening Hours: the main hall is open 24 hours
Subway: Jonggak Station (Subway Line 1), Exit 2; Anguk Station (Subway Line 3), Exit 6; Gwanghwamun Station (Subway Line 5), Exit 2.
Jogyesa temple to Insadong

Insadong

Make your back towards Bukchon Hanok Village, passing through Insadong. A mix of old and new, Insadong concentrates the most art and antique shops in Seoul.
It is known for its traditional Korean culture and bustling local shops that line the streets. Here, you can find everything from antiques to handmade crafts, as well as delicious street food and unique teahouses.
Stop to buy some valuable souvenirs, grab a bite at one of the traditional restaurants hidden on the narrow streets, or grab a cup of tea at Osulloc Tea House.
Insadong to Cheonggyecheon Stream

Walk along the Cheonggyecheon stream

The Cheonggyecheon Stream is a 10.9-kilometer-long urban oasis that runs through the heart of the city, and you can easily walk there from Jogyesa Temple and Insadong.
The stream is bordered by parks and walkways filled with vibrant sculptures and art installations. It was once an open sewer, but in 2005, it was restored to its original beauty as part of an ambitious urban renewal project. Today, it serves as a tranquil refuge for locals and visitors alike who come to take in the natural scenery or enjoy leisurely strolls along its banks.
Day 2 – Explore Gangnam

Southern Seoul, or the south of the river as for the direct translation, is the new and vibrant area in town.
While it will be difficult to fit it into a 4-day Seoul itinerary, I have tried to help you scratch the surface and see its highlights.
Famous because of Psy’s song “Gangnam Style,” Gangnam is a neighborhood and a way of life in Seoul. It is the city’s most expensive area and home to some of the nicest parks and shopping malls in town.
Stroll through Sinsa and Garosu

Take the bus or the subway to the southern part of Seoul. Hannam Bridge links Yognsan to Gangnam and is one of the most picturesque places along the river.
You can even start your day with a stroll along the river, heading towards the streets of Sinsa-dong and Garosu. Home to some of the most famous and luxurious brands, it is packed with small cafes or perfume and cosmetics stores. You might be shocked to find a horse inside.
Another thing that will surprise and impress is the number of cosmetic surgery clinics crowded in this area – around Tehran-ro (street).

From Sinsa, don’t walk on Dosan-daero (Boulevard), but step on the smaller streets and allow yourself to get lost on your way to Dosan Park.
Have a coffee and brunch at a fancy place or enjoy a spa treatment
In the area of Dosan Park, you will find plenty of cafes and coffee shops, as well as flagship stores for some of the most famous Korean cosmetic brands.
Most offer an experience, and some also have spa facilities.
South Korea is home to some of the most popular and qualitative cosmetics, and you cannot do a 4-day Seoul itinerary without pampering yourself for one hour.
Visit Sulwhasoo Flagship Store

The famous cosmetics store is in an impressive building next to Dosan Park. On the ground floor, they host a small museum showcasing the brand’s history and some facts about Korea’s beauty history.
On the second floor, they have a small shop where you can also try most of their products and choose your favorites.
They also have a spa where you can enjoy luxurious treatments using quality cosmetics infused with Korean ginseng.
They have a nice rooftop terrace on top of the building, from which you can enjoy the surrounding area.
Next door, you can have brunch at Dear Dahlia’s Flagship Store, which has a girly interior, or reward yourself with a coffee at the Dior Cafe.
Bongeunsa Buddhist Temple

One of the few Buddhist Temples in the city, it is home to 13 smaller temples, each with its own history and particularities.
The temple, built in 794, has a long history (over 1200 years) and is home to 3,479 Buddhist scriptures of 13 types.
Perched on a hill, in between greens, the temple offers temple stays during which you can learn more about Buddhism, sample tea, and learn more about the temple itself.
The temple is decorated with colorful lanterns before Buddha’s Day in late summer and around the Lunar New Year. These are a symbol of Buddha’s enlightenment and can be admired, along with chanting and other processions that take place during this time.
The temple also has a tea house in one of the smaller houses, which has been open since 2018, where you can take a break and savor a cup of delicious tea.

COEX Mall and Starfield Library

Next door to the temple is the famous Starfield Library, which is located inside the COEX Mall.
Follow the signs, walk between Korean and international brands, and get to the photogenic library. The place has been thought of as a place for relaxation and socializing. Even if you can read in Korean, you won’t be permitted to borrow books and magazines, but you can read them inside the library.

Apart from the library, COEX Mall hosts an impressive indoor aquarium where you can enjoy a unique “mermaid performance.” The place also has the highest number of sharks in South Korea.
Lotte World Tower
Hop on the subway and head to Jamsil for South Korea’s tallest building. Try to make it just in time for sunset, and you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city.
The Sky Tower is Korea’s tallest building, and the Lotte World Tower is hosted on 117 – 123 floors. Apart from the stunning views, you can experience one of the world’s fastest elevators.

Another option is to extend your time around the Lotte World Tower, especially when you don’t feel like walking as much.
The itinerary can easily be altered when you purchase the Songpa L-Pass. The pass includes entrance to Lotte World Adventure, Lotte World Aquarium, and Seoul Sky, so you can spend the whole day here without getting bored.
Lotte World Adventure is a major recreation complex with the world’s largest indoor theme park and an outdoor amusement park. Whether you are traveling with kids or simply want to have fun, this is the place for you!

Day 3 – Namsan Mountain and Itaewon

Today, we will be hiking (or not), seeing views, and visiting one of Seoul’s most iconic areas: Itaewon.
Seullo 7017
Seullo translates to “towards Seoul” or “Seoul street” and is an elevated sky garden in the heart of the city. Get off at Seoul Central Station and take one of the elevators to the former highway overpass.
Especially during spring or summer, a walk on the suspended overpass will delight and impress you. From here, you can see the beautiful building that hosts the central train station, with its blue cupola, one of Seoul’s gates, the wide boulevard, and the crazy traffic.


Workers care for different types of flowers every day and await you to discover them on your walk towards Namsan Mountain.
Read the complete guide for how to get to Namsan Tower!
Namsan Mountain and N Seoul Tower
As you approach the famous Namdaemun Market, you will see one of the roads leading to the park below N Seoul Tower on your right.
Namsan Mountain is the highest peak in the center of Seoul. It is home to many plants and birds and is also one of South Koreans’ favorite recreation spots.
You can get to the top of the mountain by cable car or bus (no. 02, 03, or 05), but hiking there is rewarding and an experience in itself. The hike is moderate and offers many viewpoints where you can stop to catch your breath.
Hiking from either side of the mountain took us around one hour.

On the top of the mountain, the N Seoul Tower will welcome you with an observation deck and plenty of restaurants with an unforgettable view.
The area surrounding the tower offers plenty of photography spots, as well as a famous bridge and trees covered with thousands of lovers’ padlocks.

Descending from the mountaintop towards Itaewon will take you through a forest where you will find it hard to believe you are still in the heart of this huge metropolis.

Itaewon
Located in the city’s heart, Itaewon is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for delicious local cuisine, international restaurants, shopping options, or exciting nightlife venues, Itaewon has it all.
The narrow streets are lined with trendy boutiques selling everything from clothes to accessories, while the restaurants serve traditional Korean fare and exotic delicacies from around the world.
For those who enjoy a bit of nightlife, plenty of bars and clubs offer an array of entertainment options. Plus, if you want to take in some culture during your visit, there are several art galleries and museums located nearby.
The neighborhood is also packed with murals, trendy cafes, stunning views, and a Culture Trace Journey that allows you to learn about Seoul and this part of town.
You can easily spend half a day of your itinerary in this part of town.



Visit The Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art; explore the Itaewon Mosque, shop on the antique street, or simply taste some international oriental cuisine.
End your day with a traditional dinner at the Korea House restaurant. The setting is impressive, the food is delicious, and they often have shows or wedding ceremonies you can admire.
Day 4 – go on a day trip outside of Seoul
While the city offers many more things to do and see, you might want to consider some of the most popular day trips outside of Seoul.
Thousands of tourists visit the DMZ (the Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea) every year, even though Koreans don’t think much of it. Read our complete guide for a day trip to the DMZ here!
Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, and Petite France are stunning in every season, but you shouldn’t think twice during spring or fall.
Paju, Incheon, Suwon, and Chuncheon are only a few other places easily reachable by public transportation and worth visiting from Seoul.
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Where to stay in Seoul

Whether you are visiting the city for the first time or you are returning after a while, these are the best areas to consider staying in.
Seoul is a huge metropolis, and wasting time in traffic would mean missing some of its most important attractions. So, choose your accommodation wisely for your 4-day Seoul itinerary.
Read also: Hongdae or Myeongdong – where to stay as a first-time tourist | Where to stay in Seoul on a budget
Most first-timers choose to stay in Myeongdong. However, there are other great options as well:
- Namdaemunno is the area we chose to stay in during our first trip to Seoul, at Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Namdaemun. Check it out here!
- Insadong is the most touristy area in town, mainly because it is close to many popular spots. ibis Ambassador Insadong offers Seoul Tower views and a beautiful rooftop terrace, and it is located close to Insadong’s Main Street. Check it out here!
- Myeongdong – Nine Tree Hotel Myeongdong. It offers great quality vs price ratio and is located in the heart of the city. Check it out here!
- Hongdae. The area is perfectly connected to most of the important attractions in town. Moreover, this vibrant area has plenty of things to do and see. L7 Hongdae by LOTTE is a 4* hotel, steps away from the subway station, set on the main boulevard. Check it out here!
What is the best time to spend 4 days in Seoul?

With a temperate climate, South Korea has 4 seasons – some more appropriate than others.
The best time to visit Seoul is typically in the spring (April-May) and fall (September-November).
During these times, temperatures are mild and comfortable, and the city is full of vibrant colors from the changing leaves in fall or blossoming cherry blossoms in spring.
With countless festivals, shopping outlets, cultural activities, and outdoor spaces, Seoul is a great place to explore and take in the sights.
Plus, late fall and winter offer opportunities to ski and snowboard at various resorts outside of the city.
Read also: The comprehensive guide for the best time to visit South Korea
Getting around town on your 4-day Seoul itinerary
As mentioned, Seoul is a big metropolis, but its public transportation system is among the world’s best.
Getting around Seoul will be effortless by subway, taxi, or bus. You can pay cash on the bus, but it is highly recommended that you have a rechargeable T-Money card.
There are 9 subway lines in Seoul that will also take you to the metropolitan area.
Also, there are different types of buses depending on their itinerary: blue (main metropolitan bus lines), green (connecting blue lines to subway stations), yellow (servicing downtown Seoul), and red (connecting Seoul to other cities).
Where to eat in Seoul – our favorite restaurants + recommendations by a local

You cannot do a 4-day Seoul itinerary without tasting all the delicious local food!
Apart from our favorite restaurant in Buam-dong, here are a few other recommendations you must try if you are in the area:
A Flower Blossom on the Rice (꽃밥에피다)—in Insadong, Korean traditional food customized by the chef: bibimbap and vegetables. Please try to have a course or a single for lunch.
GlowSeoul (온천집) is Iksundong’s No. 1 traditional Korean restaurant. They also have a cafe nearby, which you might want to try.
Pildong Myeonok (필동면옥) is the No. 1 Cold Noodles place. It is one of our favorite Korean dishes (물냉면). Make sure you try it!
두툼 – Delicious Korean BBQ close to Seoul Station and Seullo.
Din Tai Fung – this isn’t a Korean restaurant, but we strongly encourage you to try it. The Taiwanese Michelin-star dumpling restaurant is famous all over the world. And you can easily find it in Myeong-dong.
Crystal Jade is a Chinese restaurant with delicious food located in Myeong-dong.
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