Visit Seoul in 3 days: The complete guide (2025)
Visit Seoul in 3 Days: Plan Your Trip Effectively
Seoul, a megalopolis of over 10 million inhabitants, is a perfect blend of age-old tradition and hyper-modernity. With only 3 days to explore In this fascinating city, careful preparation is essential to capture the essence without feeling overwhelmed. But how do you organize your time to maximize your experience in the South Korean capital?
The key to a successful 3-day visit to Seoul lies in striking a balance between historic sites, trendy neighborhoods and authentic cultural experiences. The city's ultra-developed transport network will enable you to move quickly between different areas, but it's essential to group your visits by geographical sector to avoid wasting precious time in transport.
Before diving into the detailed itinerary, here are a few practical tips to optimize your stay:
- Buy a T-Money Card as soon as you arrive: this rechargeable card will give you access to the city's metro and buses, saving you time and money.
- Download the Naver Map application More precise than Google Maps in Korea, it will guide you efficiently through the city.
- Bring comfortable shoes You'll be doing a lot of walking, and some parts of Seoul are hilly.
Wondering when is the best time to visit Seoul in 3 days? Spring (April-May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September-November) are particularly recommended, offering mild temperatures and breathtaking scenery.
Day 1 in Seoul: Immersion in Korean History and Tradition
Your first day in Seoul will be devoted to discovering the city's historic gems, allowing you to understand the cultural foundations of this fascinating nation. Start early to make the most of a day full of discoveries!
Gyeongbokgung Palace: The Magnificence of the Joseon Dynasty
Begin your exploration at the most majestic of Seoul's five royal palaces: the Gyeongbokgung Palace. Arrive by 10am to witness the fascinating Changing of the Guard ceremony, a colorful spectacle that will instantly immerse you in Korean history.
Built in 1395, this impressive palace was the heart of power during the Joseon dynasty. Take time to stroll through its many pavilions, courtyards and gardens. Don't miss the Geunjeongjeon (throne room), the Gyeonghoeru (royal pavilion on the water) and the Hyangwonjeong (pavilion on the pond).
A guided tour in French is available at certain times - ask at the entrance or book in advance. Allow around 2h30 for an in-depth visit. Admission costs 3,000 won (approx. €2.50), but it's free if you wear a traditional hanbok, which you can rent from the many stores in the area.
The Village of Bukchon Hanok: A Journey Through Time
Just a 10-minute walk from Gyeongbokgung Palace is the village of Bukchon HanokThis is an unspoilt area where you can admire over 900 traditional Korean houses (hanok). These homes with their curved roofs and peaceful courtyards are still inhabited, so please respect the tranquility of the area.
Bukchon's steep cobbled streets offer superb views of the modern city in the background, creating a striking contrast between past and present. It's the ideal place to take memorable photos of your stay in Seoul!
Take the time to lose yourself in this charming labyrinth, and discover the many traditional craft stores, art galleries and small cafés nestled in these century-old houses. A traditional Korean tea break in one of these establishments will be a welcome moment of relaxation.
Lunch at Gwangjang Market: An Explosion of Flavours
For lunch, head to the Gwangjang marketone of Seoul's oldest traditional markets. This lively place is a paradise for lovers of authentic Korean street food. Take a seat on one of the many stools and indulge in :
- Visit bindaetteok (mung bean cake)
- Visit mung-bean pancake (green bean pancake)
- Visit tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes)
- Visit gimbap (rice rolls similar to maki)
- Visit sundae (Korean blood sausage)
How do you know which stand to choose? Just watch where the locals crowd around! Prices are very affordable: expect to pay around 5,000 to 8,000 won (€4-6) for a full, satisfying meal.
Jongmyo Sanctuary: Spirituality and Serenity
In the afternoon, visit the Jongmyo Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sacred site was dedicated to Confucian ceremonies in honor of the royal ancestors of the Joseon dynasty. In contrast to the colorful palaces, Jongmyo is distinguished by its sober, uncluttered architecture, reflecting the austerity of the rituals that took place there.
The visit is only possible with a guide (included in the entrance fee of 1000 won, or less than €1). Tours depart regularly and last about an hour. The site exudes an atmosphere of peace and contemplation that contrasts with the hustle and bustle of the city.
If you visit Seoul on the first Sunday in May, don't miss the Jongmyo Daeje, an ancestral ceremony where dancers in traditional costumes perform rituals handed down for over 500 years.
Evening in Insadong: Culture and Traditional Shopping
End your first day dedicated to Korean tradition in the Insadong district. This pedestrian street and its many adjacent lanes are packed with stores selling antiques, calligraphy, traditional ceramics and quality souvenirs.
Don't miss the Ssamziegil shopping mall, an architecturally fascinating building where you'll find creations by local artisans. For dinner, try a restaurant serving traditional Korean dishes such as bibimbap, bulgogi or samgyetang (chicken and ginseng soup).
After your meal, enjoy a show by "Nanta" at Insadong Theatre, a non-verbal performance combining percussion, comedy and culinary arts that will leave you with a memorable taste of contemporary Korean culture.
Day 2 in Seoul: Between Modernity and Urban Trends
After a first day devoted to history and traditions, this second day will plunge you into modern Seoul, dynamic and on the cutting edge of global trends. Get ready to discover why the South Korean capital is considered one of the most innovative cities on the planet!
The N Seoul Tower: Panoramic view of the megalopolis
Start your day with a climb to the N Seoul Tower (or Namsan Tower), located at the summit of Mount Namsan. For the full experience, take the hiking trail that winds through Namsan Park (30-40 minutes moderate climb) rather than the cable car, weather permitting.
Once at the top, the 360° observatory offers a spectacular view of the vastness of Seoul. It's the perfect place to get a feel for this gigantic city and the different districts you'll be exploring. Admission to the observatory costs 16,000 won (approx. €12), but the outdoor terrace is accessible free of charge and already offers a magnificent view.
Don't miss the "Locks of Love", a fence covered with thousands of padlocks left by couples from all over the world. Even if you're traveling alone, it's a fascinating cultural phenomenon to observe!
The Myeongdong district: Shopping and K-Beauty paradise
Descend Mount Namsan and head towards Myeongdongthe Mecca of Korean shopping and cosmetics. This lively district is the ideal place to discover why K-Beauty has conquered the world. Brands such as Innisfree, Nature Republic, Etude House and Missha offer innovative products, often at bargain prices, with many samples on offer.
But Myeongdong isn't just a paradise for skincare enthusiasts! You'll also find numerous fashion boutiques, department stores and international brands. The pedestrian streets are bustling with street food vendors offering specialties such as lobster tail with cheese, ice cream pancakes and the famous hotteok (sweet pancake with filling).
For lunch, try one of the many gargotes specializing in kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) or manduguk (Korean ravioli soup).
Exploring Hongdae: Creative Seoul
In the afternoon, take the metro to HongdaeThe student district par excellence, located near Hongik University, renowned for its arts. This lively district is the beating heart of Seoul's alternative and creative scene.
Hongdae's streets are constantly alive with street performances, independent designer boutiques and conceptual cafés. Don't miss:
- Trick Eye Museum an interactive museum of optical illusions perfect for fun photos
- KT&G Sangsangmadang a cultural complex with exhibitions of contemporary Korean art
- Free Market If you're here on a Saturday, this open-air market features original creations by local artists.
Take a break in one of the many themed cafés that have made Seoul famous: cat cafés, sheep cafés, flower cafés... the options are endless and each one more creative than the last!
Evening in Gangnam: Immerse yourself in the hippest neighborhood
For your evening, cross the Han River to discover the famous Gangnam districtmade world-famous by Psy's song. This ultra-modern district of gleaming buildings embodies South Korea's economic success.
Start with a stroll along Garosu-gil, a ginkgo-lined avenue packed with luxury boutiques, art galleries and trendy restaurants. For dinner, treat yourself to a gastronomic experience at one of Gangnam's many upscale restaurants, such as a premium Korean barbecue where you grill your own meats of exceptional quality.
After dinner, night owls can explore Gangnam's lively nightlife. Numerous clubs and cocktail bars can be found around Gangnam subway station. Club Octagon is particularly renowned for its electro nights.
If clubs aren't your cup of tea, opt for a quieter evening at the COEX Mall, Asia's largest underground shopping mall, which also houses an aquarium and the magnificent Starfield Library, a veritable paradise for lovers of books and architecture.
Day 3 in Seoul: Authentic Experiences and Urban Contrasts
For your last day in Seoul, I suggest you discover the lesser-known but equally fascinating facets of the capital, combining urban nature, alternative culture and memorable culinary experiences. This program will bring your stay to a close with unique and authentic memories.
Morning visit to Changdeokgung Secret Palace and Secret Garden
Start your day with a visit to Changdeokgung Palace, considered the finest of Seoul's five royal palaces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. What makes this palace particularly special is its "Secret Garden" (Huwon or Biwon), a magnificent 32-hectare landscaped garden that served as a private oasis for the royal family.
In contrast to the more grandiose Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung is distinguished by its perfect harmony with the surrounding natural environment. The pavilions and structures gently follow the natural terrain rather than alter it, perfectly embodying the principles of feng shui.
Visits to the Secret Garden are only possible with a guide (available in English and sometimes French) and places are limited, so advance booking online is strongly recommended. Allow around 2h30 for a complete tour of the palace and garden.
Exploring the artistic district of Seongsu-dong: "Korea's Brooklyn".
Next direction Seongsu-dongThe "Brooklyn of Seoul", a former industrial district has been converted into a mecca for alternative art and creativity. This area, still relatively untouched by mass tourism, offers an authentic glimpse of Korea's contemporary creative scene.
Former factories and warehouses have been transformed into art galleries, artists' studios, design cafés and conceptual boutiques. Don't miss the S-Factory cultural complex, a former shoe factory turned contemporary art center, and Under Stand Avenue, a creative space built from recycled shipping containers.
Seongsu-dong is also renowned for its aesthetically pleasing artisanal cafés. Take a break in one of them, such as Daelim Warehouse or OR.ER, to enjoy a specialty coffee while admiring the rehabilitated industrial design.
Gastronomic Lunch: The Temple Food Experience
For lunch, treat yourself to a unique culinary experience with Korean Buddhist temple cuisine. The Balwoo Gongyang restaurant (near Jogyesa Temple) or Sanchon (in the Insadong district) offer refined interpretations of this ancestral vegetarian cuisine.
Temple Food, developed over centuries by Buddhist monks, is based on the principles of harmony with nature and mindfulness. The dishes, made with only vegetable ingredients and no onions or garlic (considered stimulants), are not only delicious but also balanced and healthy. It's the perfect way to discover a spiritual and philosophical aspect of Korean culture through its gastronomy.
Afternoon at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): Architectural masterpiece
After lunch, visit the Dongdaemun Design Plazathe futuristic work of architect Zaha Hadid. This structure with its flowing curves and metal façade has become a symbol of modern Seoul, hosting exhibitions, fashion shows and cultural events.
Even if you're not particularly interested in any of the exhibits, the architecture inside and out is well worth a visit. Don't miss the green roof and the LED Rose Garden, a luminous installation of thousands of LED roses that light up at dusk.
Then take advantage of the many Dongdaemun markets in the surrounding area, especially for bargain clothing shopping. This is one of Asia's largest shopping districts, with over 30,000 stores in several malls and markets open until late at night.
Han River Evening: The Beating Heart of Seoul
For your last evening in Seoul, head for the banks of the Han River, which runs through the city. Yeouiedo Park is particularly pleasant, with its wide green spaces and breathtaking views of the illuminated skyscrapers.
In the evening, don't miss the spectacle of the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain on Banpo Bridge, the longest fountain on a bridge in the world, which lights up in changing colors. Shows take place several times a night between April and October.
For an authentic local experience, buy some Korean snacks and a bottle of soju (Korean rice alcohol) at a convenience store and join the Seoulites picnicking on the riverbanks. It's the perfect way to experience the city like a local and observe the daily life of the locals.
Alternatively, you can opt for a cruise on the Han River, offering a unique perspective of Seoul's illuminated buildings. Several companies offer evening cruises, some of which include a buffet dinner.
Practical tips to make the most of your 3-day visit to Seoul
Now that we've detailed a complete itinerary for visiting Seoul in 3 days, here are a few more tips to make your stay even more enjoyable and efficient.
Transportation in Seoul
How do you get around this immense metropolis efficiently? The Seoul metro is your best ally:
- The metro Clean, punctual and with English-language directions, it serves all the major sites. Lines are identified by color and number.
- Buses They are complementary to the metro for certain destinations, and are also well organized, with different colors according to their route (green for short circuits, blue for main lines, etc.).
- Cabs Taxis: affordable by European standards, they are a practical evening option. Cabs with orange stripes are those where the drivers speak English.
Insider tip: download the Kakao T app to order cabs easily, even if you don't speak Korean!
Communication and Internet in Seoul
Staying connected is essential to making the most of your time in Seoul:
- Public Wi-Fi available in most public places and on public transport
- Pocket Wi-Fi rental available at the airport (approx. 5,000 won/day)
- Korean SIM card airport ticket: available at Incheon airport (from 10,000 won)
- Useful applications Naver Map, Kakao T, Papago (translation), MangoPlate (restaurants)
A frequently asked question: do Western social networks work in South Korea? Yes, unlike in China, all social networks are accessible without restriction in Korea.
Budget and Payments : How much does a 3-day stay in Seoul cost?
For a 3-day stay in Seoul, here is an estimated budget per person (in euros):
- Hosting 150-300€ (depending on standing: Hotel, Airbnb...)
- Food 60-120€ (excellent cuisine at all prices)
- Transport 20-30€ (metro and bus very affordable)
- Activities and entrances : 50-100€
- Shopping variable according to your wishes!
If you would like to calculate your budget for your trip to Korea more precisely, you can use our South Korea travel budget calculator
Card payments are widely accepted in shops, but always carry a little cash for small markets and street food.
Conclusion: Why 3 days in Seoul will leave you with lasting memories
Visiting Seoul in 3 days is a stimulating challenge that will enable you to grasp the essence of this fascinating capital, where age-old tradition and ultra-modernity coexist harmoniously. From the serenity of ancestral palaces to the effervescence of trendy neighborhoods, from the richness of Korean gastronomy to the overflowing creativity of its cultural scene, Seoul is a city with many faces that will not fail to surprise you.
By following this carefully crafted itinerary, you'll get a complete overview of the different facets of Seoul, while avoiding the frustrating sensation of missing the essentials. Of course, 3 days isn't enough to explore every nook and cranny of this gigantic metropolis, but it will certainly make you want to come back!
And if you have the opportunity to extend your stay in South Korea, don't hesitate to explore beyond Seoul: Busan, the volcanic island of Jeju, the historic city of Gyeongju or Seoraksan National Park will give you other perspectives on this fascinating country.
So, are you ready to dive into the Seoul adventure? Pack your bags, your camera and your curiosity: Seoul awaits you for 3 days of intense exploration and memorable discoveries!
