How long will it take to visit Seoul? Our answer (2024)

Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, is a city that harmoniously blends modernity and tradition. Futuristic skyscrapers rub shoulders with centuries-old palaces, while bustling markets and trendy neighborhoods offer a total immersion in Korean culture. But the question travelers often ask is: how long does it take to visit Seoul? This article offers you a detailed guide to planning your stay, according to your interests and schedule.

Introduction

When planning a trip to Seoul, it's essential to determine the ideal length of your stay to make the most of what the city has to offer. Seoul is a vast city with a wealth of attractions, from Buddhist temples to vibrant shopping districts to the picturesque surrounding mountains. Depending on your interests, you may want to spend more or less time exploring the city. This guide will help you decide how many days to stay in Seoul depending on a number of factors, such as your budget, your pace of travel and your priorities.

How Long To Visit Seoul: Determine Your Travel Objective

Before diving into organizing your itinerary, the first question to ask yourself is: what is the main purpose of your visit to Seoul? Depending on whether you're a culture buff, a shopping enthusiast, or a hiker in search of natural scenery, the ideal length of your stay can vary considerably.

Seoul in 3 Days: Capital Essentials

If you have three days to visit Seoul, you'll have just enough time to see the city's main attractions. This type of itinerary is perfect for travelers who want a quick but comprehensive overview of the city without wasting time.

1. Day 1: Exploring historic sites
   • Gyeongbokgung Palace Palace tour: Start your visit at one of Seoul's most emblematic palaces. Take time to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
   • Bukchon Hanok Village Walk through this historic district to admire traditional Korean houses (hanok).
   • Insa-dong Explore this artistic district, where you'll find art galleries, traditional souvenir stores and tea rooms.
2. Day 2: A plunge into modernity
   • Myeong-dong This district is a shopper's paradise, with streets packed with boutiques and street food stalls.
   • Namsan Seoul Tower Take the cable car or hike up to the tower for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.
   • Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) A masterpiece of modern architecture where you can enjoy exhibitions and designer boutiques.
3. Day 3: Nature and Relaxation
   • Cheonggyecheon Stream Stroll along this urban creek that runs through the city center, a perfect place to relax.
   • Bukhansan National Park If you're a hiking enthusiast, a trip to this national park near Seoul is a must.
   • Hongdae End your day in this trendy district, known for its lively nightlife, trendy cafés and street performances.

Seoul in 5 Days: In-depth Exploration

For those who have five days to spend in Seoul, you'll have the opportunity to explore less touristy neighborhoods and take part in more immersive cultural activities.

1. Days 1 to 3: Seoul Essentials
   • Follow the itinerary for the first three days mentioned above to cover the main attractions.
2. Day 4: Cultural immersion
   • Lotte World or Everland Spend a fun-filled day at one of South Korea's two largest theme parks.
   • National Museum of Korea The history of the country is immersed in this museum, which houses thousands of artefacts.
   • Seoul Forest The city park: End the day with a stroll in this large urban park, ideal for a moment of calm in the heart of the city.
3. Day 5: Unique neighborhoods and local experiences
   • Itaewon Explore this international district, known for its culinary diversity and unique boutiques.
   • Gangnam Dive into the luxurious life of this emblematic district, world-famous for the song "Gangnam Style".
   • Jjimjilbang (Korean spa) A must-see experience: end your stay by relaxing in a traditional Korean spa.

Seoul in 7 Days or More: A Complete Discovery

If you are lucky enough to pass a week or more in SéoulYou can really take the time to discover the city in depth, including its surroundings.

1. Days 1 to 5: Cover the essentials and explore in depth
   • Follow the previous itineraries for the first five days.
2. Day 6: Excursions outside Seoul
   • DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) The Korean Peninsula: Take a day trip to visit this unique area that separates the two Koreas.
   • Suwon Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hwaseong Fortress, just a short train ride from Seoul.
3. Day 7: Exploring Seoul's Hidden Treasures
   • Ewha Womans University Visit this university campus, famous for its modern architecture and charming surroundings.
   • Seongsu-dong Discover this artistic district, often compared to Brooklyn, with its industrial cafés and art galleries.
   • Dinner in a Hanok The last thing you want to do is dine in a traditional restaurant set in a Hanok house, for an authentic culinary experience.

How Long To Visit Seoul: Factors To Consider

There are several factors to consider when planning the length of your stay in Seoul. These can influence not only your itinerary, but also the quality of your experience.

Your budget

Your budget is a key factor in determining how many days to stay in Seoul. If you're on a tight budget, you may want to maximize your time in town while minimizing costs. This could mean choosing free or low-cost attractions and opting for more economical accommodation. On the other hand, with a more comfortable budget, you can extend your stay to explore more of the city and perhaps even book some luxurious experiences.

Your pace of travel

Some people prefer to travel at a fast pace, visiting as many sites as possible in a short time, while others like to take their time and soak up the atmosphere of a place. Think about your travel style when deciding how many days to spend in Seoul. If you like to explore in depth and immerse yourself in the local culture, a longer stay will probably be more suitable.

Seasons and Weather

Weather plays an important role in the travel experience. Seoul has a continental climate, with cold, dry winters and hot, humid summers. Spring and autumn are often considered the best seasons to visit, thanks to pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. If you visit in winter, you might want to spend more time in indoor activities, such as museums and shopping malls, while in summer you might seek to escape the heat by exploring the surrounding parks and mountains.

Your interests

Finally, your personal interests are essential in determining the ideal length of your stay. If you're a history buff, you might want to devote several days to exploring the city's palaces, temples and museums. If you're a nature lover, Seoul's surrounding mountains and parks might justify an extended stay. Shopping enthusiasts, on the other hand, might want more time to explore the various shopping districts.