7 days in Seoul, South Korea: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Picture Seoul, South Korea, a city where ancient palaces stand proud alongside cutting-edge skyscrapers, where your taste buds dance with delight after indulging in mouthwatering Korean cuisine, and where the energy never fades. This bustling metropolitan area combines modernity with rich cultural history, offering endless opportunities to explore and enjoy. From the serenity of Gyeongbokgung Palace to the lively atmosphere of Hongdae, Seoul captivates the hearts of all who visit.
Things to consider before arriving to Seoul
- Safety: Seoul is known for its low crime rates, making it safe to stroll the streets day or night.
- Public Transportation: The city boasts a world-class public transportation system with subways and buses that connect every corner of Seoul.
- Language Barrier: Although English is becoming more widespread, communication can still be a challenge, especially with older generations.
- For You: If you love exploring vibrant cities with rich history and delicious cuisine, Seoul is the perfect destination for you.
What to bring with you
Make sure to pack comfortable shoes for walking around the city, a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, a travel adapter for your electronic devices, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Learning basic Korean phrases will also enhance your experience.
Best time of the year to visit Seoul
The ideal time to explore Seoul is during the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when temperatures are mild, and the city is awash with blooming flowers or vibrant foliage.
How to get into the city
- By Air: Incheon International Airport (ICN) serves as the main gateway to Seoul. After arriving, you can take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) or other train services, buses, or taxis to reach the city center.
- By Train: Seoul is also accessible by train, with services such as the KTX (Korea Train Express) connecting the city to other major destinations in South Korea.
- By Bus: Intercity and express buses connect Seoul to various parts of the country, arriving at Seoul Express Bus Terminal or Central City Terminal in the heart of the city.
7 day city guide trip in Seoul, South Korea
Day 1: Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village
Start the day by visiting the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the palace and the royal family. Then, head to Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village with beautiful hanok houses. Stop for lunch at Tosokchon, a famous restaurant that serves delicious samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup). In the afternoon, visit Jogyesa Temple and end the day exploring Myeong-dong, a popular shopping district.
Day 2: Namsan Tower and Namsangol Hanok Village
Start the day early and go for a hike at Namsan Mountain. Once you reach the top, enjoy the breathtaking view of the city and take a cable car to Namsan Tower. Afterward, take a taxi to Namsangol Hanok Village, where you can experience and learn about the traditional Korean way of life. For dinner, head to Gwangjang Market and try the famous bindaetteok (mung bean pancake).
Day 3: DMZ Tour and Korean BBQ
Take a day trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and visit the Joint Security Area (JSA) where North and South Korea meet. Book a tour in advance to guarantee your spot. In the evening, treat yourself to a Korean BBQ dinner. We recommend Seorae Village or Hongdae for the best BBQ experience.
Day 4: Lotte World and Seoul Tower
Spend the day at Lotte World, an amusement park with indoor and outdoor rides, shows, and attractions. For lunch, try the famous Lotteria burger. In the evening, visit the Seoul Tower, also known as Namsan Tower, to see the city lights from above.
Day 5: Gangnam and Coex Mall
Start the day visiting the Gangnam area, where you can find high-end fashion boutiques, trendy cafes, and restaurants. Don’t forget to snap a picture at the Gangnam Style horse statue. In the afternoon, visit the Coex Mall, one of the largest underground shopping malls in Asia. Stop for a coffee break at the beautiful Starfield Library inside the mall.
Day 6: Myeongdong Street Food and Han River Cruise
Spend the morning exploring Myeongdong’s street food scene and trying delicacies such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and mandu (dumplings). In the afternoon, take a cruise along the Han River and enjoy the city skyline from the water.
Day 7: Korean Folk Village
Take another day trip to the Korean Folk Village, an open-air museum that showcases Korean traditional culture and architecture. Take part in various experiences such as pottery-making and traditional Korean games. For lunch, try the bibimbap (mixed rice) at the village’s restaurant.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Seoul
If you want to explore more of South Korea, we recommend visiting Busan, known for its beautiful beaches and tasty seafood. Take the KTX high-speed train from Seoul Station, it only takes around 2.5 hours. Don’t miss the Jagalchi Fish Market and the Gamcheon Culture Village.
Another great option is Jeju Island, a volcanic island with stunning natural scenery such as waterfalls, beaches, and a dormant volcano. Take a flight from Gimpo Airport to Jeju International Airport, it only takes around 1 hour. Don’t miss the Manjanggul Cave and the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak.
