10 Day Seoul Itinerary (with Map)

If you are travelling to Seoul for the first time I am very envious. Admittedly my desire to go to Korea was always overshadowed by my obsession with Japan. I didn’t know much about Korea other than K-POP and fried chicken (thanks chimac in Dublin!), I was somewhat indifferent about visiting. From an apartment in Tokyo, with just 4 days left on my visa, I found a cheap flight and a nice apartment in Seoul. I thought feck it, let’s go. I landed in Seoul with the intention of spending 4 weeks there, I stayed 3 months! Seoul is an amazing city with countless things to do, as you will see from this 10 day Seoul itinerary.

Seoul is a futuristic city surrounded by nature. A city of two halves on one hand you have a large modern city with skyscrapers, trendy eateries, and shops, while on the other hand, there are frequent reminders of traditional Korea with hanoks and temples, all of this is seamlessly blended into Seoul’s mountainous landscape. There are 107 mountains in Seoul, four of which are in central Seoul, one minute you could be in the bustling Myeongdong, 20 minutes later you could be hiking through Namsan mountain.

This 10 day Seoul itinerary covers the essential things to see and do, along with day trips, cafes and restaurant recommendations and of course advice on where to stay. This is the only Seoul travel guide you need to have a great trip.

Is 10 days too long to spend in Seoul?

It really isn’t! Seoul is very spread out with a range of different attractions outside the main tourist areas. If you would like to see more than Seoul’s main neighbourhoods and go on day trips 10 days is the perfect amount of time.

This is a long itinerary so check out the table of contents below to skip to what interests you. You can also click on any image to save to your interest for later.

Things To Know Before You Go To Seoul

Before we start this 10 day Seoul itinerary there are some important things you need to know.

10 Day Seoul Itinerary

10 Day Seoul Itinerary Map

Printable 10 Day Seoul Itinerary

Day 1: Yeonnamm, Gyeongui, Mangwon Market + Hongdae (Mapu-gu)

Kicking off our 10 day Seoul itinerary with a day exploring Mapu-gu. I assume you are a bit jet-lagged so today we are just going to stick to Hongdae and throw ourselves into Seoul’s coolest neighbourhood. Hongdae is vibrant, lively and so much fun to explore. There are countless cafes, nice restaurants, boutiques and good nightlife.

Due to its proximity to Honjik Daeum University Hongdae is a young area with mostly 18 – 25 year olds.

Cafe Hopping In Yeonamm

One of the best things to do in Hongdae is to cafe hop, so we are starting the day off with caffeine and pastries. The area of Yeonamm isn’t technically Hongdae but it is super close and often referred to as Hongdae, there are a large number of aesthetic and themed cafes here, a popular thing to do is cafe hop between them.

The cafe culture in Korea is a big deal. Expect to find couples dressed in coordinated outfits sharing an aesthetically designed pastry and picture-perfect coffee. The cafes range from themed ones like the Harry Potter-inspired 943 King’s Cross Cafe to Perception an architecturally revered low key speciality bar.

I wrote a detailed guide on the best cafes in Seoul, many of which are located here in Yeonamm. My number one choice is Pie In The Shop.

Gyeongui Line Forest Park

After filling up on pastries and lattes a walk might be in order. Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a stunning peaceful local park nestled in amount residential buildings. A former old railway line, it has been repurposed into a relaxing park.

Gyeongui Line Forest Park is 6.3 km, that goes between Map-gu and Yongsan-gu.

If you are visiting during cherry blossom season the paths are especially beautiful as they are lined with trees.

Mangwon Market

The first of a few Korean food markets over the course of this 10 day Seoul itinerary. Compared to other markets on this list Mangwon Market is not touristy at all, it feels authentic with a wide selection of street food and fresh produce.

The market spans approximately 200 metres under a covered arcade making it also a great thing to do in Seoul when it rains.

Come here for lunch to try some Korean street food favourites like spicy tteokbokki, kalguksu, eomuk and hotteok.

Hongdae

Hongdae is one of Seoul’s most famous areas, what Shibuya is to Tokyo, Hongdae is to Seoul, no trip is complete without it! It’s known as the trendy part of town (but to me every ounce of Seoul is trendy) with a young population, clubs, boutiques and lots of aesthetic cafes. Here are some things I recommend doing in Hongdae.

Hongdae Shopping Street

Here you can find all the latest Korean fashion trends with the streets lined with fashion boutiques, jewellery, phone cases and bags to name a few. One thing to note is that the clothes are mostly just one size and you are not allowed to try them on.

Hongdae Square

In the day Hongdae colourful square is an excellent photo spot. However, it is best experienced in the evening when performers take to the streets. These performers are extremely talented, you could witness singers, dancers, and even a K-pop group busking for the crowds.

Photobooths

Did you even go to Korea if you didn’t come back with a suitcase full of Polaroids? Photobooths are so much fun! You can grab a prop and just mess around for the best everlasting souvenir.

Karaoke

Koreans LOVE karaoke, you’ll notice many karaoke joints across the country, and many have large glass windows. You can look up and see people give the performance of their life, you won’t hear them, but regular people go in and put on a show. If you’ve ever dreamed of being a pop star, now’s your chance! 수노래연습장 홍대 본점 and Su Noraebang (럭셔리수노래방) in Hongdae are both very fun.

Day 2: Namsan Tower, Naedaemun + Myeongdong

Namsan Tower

Day 2 of this 10 day Seoul itinerary starts with one of the city’s most iconic landmarks Namsan Tower, also called N Seoul Tower. Namsan Tower stands at 219 metres (915 feet) and you can decide if you want to hike or get a cable car to the top. The hike is moderately challenging with many steps that are steep in some parts, however it takes just 15 – 20 minutes.

On the other hand, the cable car will treat you to a smooth photographic journey where you will arrive a little less sweaty. Whether you decide to hike or take the cable car I encourage you to explore the many trails on Namsan mountain. The pine trail was a highlight for me.

The tower is located at the top where you can go to the observatory for stunning views across Seoul. There is also a love lock fence and lots of cafes and restaurants.

Tickets for the observatory & cable car can be purchased here.

Namdaemun Market

Location number two today is Korea’s oldest and biggest traditional market, Namdaemun. A 16 minute walk from the bottom of Namsan Mountain. This market is truly a maze of clothing, footwear, gadgets and household objects, as well as a food section.

Although it can become crowded locals certainly outnumber tourists. Prices are cheap here so it’s the perfect place to pick up a few souvenirs, haggling is also accepted and part of the fun.

In addition to shopping, there is a large area dedicated to food where you can try authentic Korean food like hotteok or kimbap (Korean sushi rolls).

Myeongdong

Myeongdong is a major hub of entertainment, it is also one of the best places to stay in Seoul due to its liveliness and centrality. I suggest spending the rest of the day here browsing the shops, trying street food and soaking up the atmosphere. it is better during the evenings as Myeongdong Street is lined with street food under the colourful lights of the surrounding buildings.

Shopping In Myeongdong

Myeongdong is one of Seoul’s shopping districts, there is a mix of Korean brands and international Western brands.

• NyuNyu is a large earring shop where you can find a huge selection of cute earrings and other accessories.
• There is also a large selection of Korean Skincare brands where you can try out the latest trends and face masks
• Korea is known for having cute affordable socks, you’ll find lots of sock shops in Myeongdong

Myeongdong Cathedral

Catholic Church is located amongst the madness of Myeongdong. It offers a peaceful place to light a candle or just admire the architecture. This was the first ever Catholic Church in Korea, it dates back to the 19th century. 11% of Koreans are Catholics.

Every Sunday at 9 am there is an English mass.

Chimaek

There is a complex in Myeongdong where 5 – 6 chimaek establishments are located together, the restaurants spill out onto the street and it gets pretty lively. I highly recommend BHC, often there are large queues but they move fast.

The fried chicken has a crunchy skin that is coated in a flavourful sauce such as Korean hot sauce or soy garlic. It’s messy and so so good!

NANTA Theatre

Get ready for some slapstick humour, a non-verbal and interactive comedy show where communicating relies on body language and rhythmic beats. I don’t want to give too much away but the show is based in a kitchen and features martial arts, circus acts and a bucket load of comedic genius.

If you want to take part make sure to book a seat close to the stage.

Tickets for the Nanta Theatre show can be purchased here.

Day 3: Palaces, Bukchon + Insadong

Day 1 and 2 were about the lively districts of Seoul and getting an insight into Korea’s modern culture. Now on day 3 of this 10 day Seoul itinerary, we are going to go back in time and learn more about Seoul’s rich history.

Palace Tour

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Dating back to 1935, Gyeongbokgung Palace has been rebuilt a number of times throughout the years from the Japanese Invasion in 1592 to a fire in 1876. Today, it is identical to the original that was standing in 1935.

A fun and memorable thing to do here is to rent a traditional Korean dress called hanbok and take some photos on the iconic ground. Lots of people do this so you will totally fit in. This will also allow you to enter the palaces around Bukchon for free!

Changgyeonggung Palace

Built during the Choseon Dynasty in 1483 Changgyeonggung Palace was once the residence of the royal family. Similar to Gyeongbokgung Palace, it was destroyed during the Japanese invasion (even converted to a zoo) in 1592, and then rebuilt in 1983

This is a large complex with over 15 significant structures that include Donhwamun Gate,

Honghwamun Gate, Chundangji Pond, Jongmyo Shrine and the secret garden.

Joygesa Temple

Considered Korea’s most important temple as it was once the headquarters of the largest branch of Korean Buddhism, the Jogye Order.

Located in Insadong it’s a small and tranquil temple where both locals and tourists come. Many events are held here so make sure to check the website for what is going on when you visit. We were lucky to be here during Buddha’s birthday when the grounds were covered in colourful hanging lanterns.

Bukchon Hanok Village

One of Seoul’s most beautiful neighbourhoods is Bukchon Hanok Village, one of my favourite areas on this 10 day Seoul itinerary. Here you will find approximately 900 traditional Korean houses called hanoks. These buildings are characterised by the strong wooden frame, and gabled roofs along with walls made from natural materials.

This village is built on a steep hill and consists of many narrow paths, some offer gorgeous views of the city (especially during sunset).

Here are just some things you can do at Bukchon Hanok Village:

• Take part in a tea ceremony
• Attend a kimchi masterclass
• Browse the boutiques of Samcheong-dong
• Visit the house of Baek Inje, the doctor who founded Inje University Seoul Paik Hospital.

Insadong Culture Street

Insadong is another traditional neighbourhood in Seoul, it is a quiet area with many shops and restaurants. There are also many nice cafes here that have been designed to look like a hanok.

You can find some cool products from local artists that will make a nice gift to you, from you!

Some things you should not miss in Insadong:

• Ssamziegil – mall with a quirky design, it is full of artisan boutiques
• Ddong Café – poop-themed cafe, silly and oddly delicious
• Visit a traditional teahouse such as Dalsaeneun Dalman Saenggak Handa or Namusae Tea house

Eulji-ro

If you have still some energy left after all of today’s activity, close to Insadong is Eulji-ro. This small corner of Seoul ended up being my favourite area to have a few drinks. The bars are trendy and laid back with great energy.

Day 4: Gangnam + Baseball

Garosu-gil Street + Apgujeong Rodeo

Gangnam is an affluent area, there are many high-end restaurants and luxury shops to spend your hard-earned cash. Me, on the other hand, these shops are totally outside of my budget but it was still enjoyable strolling the streets and looking in through shop windows at how the other live.

The best streets in Gangnam for shopping are Garosu-gil Street and Apgujeong Rodeo. Garosu-gil is a pretty tree-lined street flagged by many luxury shops while Apgujeong Rodeo features many flagship designer stores along with K star road, where you will find colourful bear statues dedicated to Kpop stars.

Bongeunsa Temple

Dating back to 794, Bongeunsa Temple is one of the oldest temples in Seoul. Surrounded by skyscrapers and trees is a large 23-metre (75-foot) Buddha statue, it is a peaceful pitstop. It is definitely worth paying a visit here while in Gangnam, especially as it’s located close to the next stop on this itinerary.

Starfield Library

Unless this blog post is the first time you’ve looked up Seoul, I’m gonna take a guess that you have already seen this library somewhere online.

Starfield library is located in COEX mall, there are mostly Western brands here so I suggest not spending too long here. However, inside the mall is the impressive  COEX Aquarium with 650 different sea species across 183 tanks, it is one of the best family-friendly things to do on this Seoul itinerary.

Jamsil Baseball Game

Did you know that Baseball is the most popular sport in Korea? No? Neither did I! Going to a baseball game in Korea is such a fun and memorable experience. Korea has its own league called the KBO with 10 teams, including Seoul’s home teams, the Doosan Bears and LG twins.

The best way to purchase tickets as a tourist is to buy them at the ticket office 1-2 hours before the start of the game.

Art Monster

If you have any energy left after the game then a short subway ride away is Art Monster, a Hong Kong-themed self-serve bar. Flickering neon signs at Art Monsters entrance transport you to the streets of Hong Kong. Although the entrance is basically spectacular, the bar offers a fun experience of trying some of their 10 craft beer flavours.

If you don’t like beer there is a very nice flavour called Sour Blueberry that tastes more like cider.

Day 5: DMZ

I am not sure any 10 day Seoul itinerary is complete without a visit to the DMZ, which is a 2.4-mile demilitarized zone separating South and North Korea.

It’s surreal to stand here and now that a stone’s throw away is a nation of prisoners, locked up by a totalitarian regime with their basic rights and freedoms stripped from them. This is not a joyful day, but one where you will learn a lot.

There are many day trips from Seoul to DMZ, which will include stops at Freedom Bridge, taking a peak into North Korea from Dora Observatory, Gamaksan Suspension Bridge and Ungye Falls.

Day 6: Rest Day

It’s been a full-on 5 days but this is a 10 day Seoul itinerary so there’s lots more to do. Therefore, I am suggesting you take today as a rest day. That doesn’t mean you stay in your hotel all day, but instead, just give your feet a rest, slow down and recoup.

Here are some things I recommend you do to have a relaxing day in Seoul.

Beauty Treatments

Koreans know a thing or two about skincare. After being in the country for less than 24 hours I couldn’t help but notice how incredible the girl’s skin here is. Seriously, glass skin is real and the Korean ladies (and men to be fair) have perfected it!

In terms of treatments, you can get just about anything done here. Korea is the capital of cosmetic surgery after all. Now, I am not suggesting you spend your day on the operating table rather something less permanent like channel injection, LDM therapy, Aqua Peel. Korea is also pretty into their botox so if that’s your thing you could save some cash here by using their homegrown version, Nabota.

Cafe Hopping

A day spent visiting some of Seoul’s many cute cafes is guaranteed to be revitalising. Cake, coffee and vibes, yes, please! Check out my list of 32 best cafes in Seoul.

Tea Ceremony

If you haven’t already a tea ceremony is a cultural and relaxing activity to do in Seoul. Known as “darye”, you typically dress up in a traditional Korean robe, learning about the etiquette of drinking tea, and how to make traditional tea bags; this ceremony even shows your how to make your own Korean tea cookies (dasik).

Day 7: City Wall Trail + Dongdaemun

City Wall Trail

One of the top things to do in Seoul is walk the historic fortress wall, a 19-kilometre trail that goes across four mountains (Baegak, Naksan, Namsan and Inwangsan). As you follow the fortress walls you will have amazing views of the city.

You don’t need to walk the full 19 kilometres (although I encourage it) there are six routes that you can follow with varying degrees of difficulty:

1. Inwangsan: difficult; 4km
2. Sungnyemun: easy; 2km
3. Namsan: moderate; 4km
4. Haeunginjimun: easy; 2km
5. Naksan: easy; 2km
6. Baegak: hard; 5km

When you are finished you will be close to Dongdaemun Design Plaza, our next spot.

This post by The Wandering Whittens covers the full trail in detail.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Dongdaemun is a shopping district, although it’s mostly wholesale markets there are also department stores with unique finds from Korean brands. Along with shopping you can visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a building like no other, it was designed by Zaha Hadid. This futuristic building holds many events and exhibitions, it’s definitely worth dropping by to see its cool architecture but you likely won’t spend too long here.

Gwangjang Market

I am sure you must be hungry after your walk, so the next stop is a traditional Korean food market, the bustling food Utopia of Gwangjang Market! This was my favourite market during my trip to Seoul, mostly due to the atmosphere with large numbers of people sitting around a stall watching the chef prepare their meal. The stalls are repetitive so I wouldn’t worry too much about which one to visit, I would just grab an available seat and enjoy the experience.

Foods to eat include hand-pulled noodles, crispy mung bean pancakes, kimchi, and tteokbokki.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Considering you have walked a lot today the last activity is just a short one, located close to Gwangan market it’d be a shame not to give it a quick visit. .

Cheonggyecheon Stream was once Cheonggye Expressway, it wasn’t until the 80’s that this highway was converted to a man-made stream. It is a wonderful example of how Korea seamlessly integrates nature into their cities.

The total length of the stream is 11 kilometres (6.8 miles), it is surrounded by Seoul’s skyline and is particularly beautiful during sunset. The juxtaposition of this peaceful stream encased by skyscrapers is surreal but it works.

You’ll notice many locals sitting along the banks with food and drinks just catching up with friends.

Day 8: Gangchon Rail Park

Gangchon Rail Park

This would not be a comprehensive 10 day Seoul itinerary if it did not include a day outside the city and into the countryside. The perfect place to see a different side of Seoul is Gangchon Rail Park. A fun, and scenic ride through the country on a railbike. I felt like I was in a K-Drama pedalling around all these scenic landscapes.

Gangchon is built on an old railway, with 3 routes that are spread out from each other. These are Gimyujeong, Gyeonggang and Gapyeong, the best one is Gimyujeong and this is the one I suggest you do today.

There is plenty to keep you entertained along the route such as 4 immersive tunnels each with a unique theme, scenic views of the  Bukhangang River and the quaint Nanguu village.

Located 1 hour and 50 minutes from Seoul, it requires two trains to get here, however, the journey is scenic and I can almost guarantee you’ll have so much here. You can also visit nearby Nami Island or take a tour that will take you to Nami Island, Alpaca Island, and Petite France.

Day 9: Museums + Itaewon

National Museum Korea

Free to enter museum focusing on the history and development of Seoul throughout the last 400 years, starting at the Joseon Dynasty up to Korea today. Free audio guides are available at the information desk which I recommend so you can learn about each exhibit.

Keep an eye out for the cool miniature model of Seoul at night which can be found at the end of the museum.

War Memorial Museum

This museum is must-visit for anyone wanting to understand South Korea’s journey to liberation. The fight for freedom has been a long and hard battle. From the Japanese invasions (1592 – 1598), to the Japanese occupation (1910 – 1945), and finally, the Korean War (1950 – 1953). The Korean War alone resulted in the loss of approximately 1.3 million South Korean soldiers and civilians, a heavy price paid for freedom.

Along with relics from the war there is a sombre tribute with the names of the fallen soldiers engraved on plaques, it really shows the magnitude of loss and the sacrifice that was made for the country’s liberty.

Itaewon

The next location is Itaewon, an international neighbourhood in Seoul. Along with a large number of foreigners residing here, there are also many international shops and restaurants. The first thing I saw when I got off the subway here was a Turkish restaurant beside a French restaurant.

Itaewon has been an international area for a long time, prior to World War II Japanese colonists lived here, then after World War II American soldiers moved in and are still there to this day, due to a nearby base. Itaewon is mostly known for its fun nightlife, with many clubs and bars. We had a few good nights here and I highly recommend Fountain.

Aside from nightlife, there are some other noteworthy places to check out in Itaewon:

Day 10: Bukhansan or Lotte World

The day we all dread on a trip, the final day! Day 10 on this 10 day Seoul itinerary has two options as I understand not everyone likes to hike. Whether you choose option 1 or option 2 you’ll be ending your trip on a high note.

[Option 1] Bukhansan Park

Often considered one of the world’s most popular parks with up to 5 million annual visitors, there are many different trails but I am going to suggest the best one, Bukhansanseong Course.

This trail takes you up to Bukhansan’s highest peak, Baegundae, at 836 metres. It is approximately 7 kilometres (4.2 miles) with a gradual incline. Some parts will have you climbing over large rocks with just a rope to hold onto. It will take between 4 – 6 hours to complete and is moderately challenging. The views of Seoul are breathtaking and worth every drop of sweat.

The mountain is very busy and safe to hike alone, but if you would prefer a guide you can find one here.

[Option 2] Lotte World

For anyone who likes to get their heart racing a different way than hiking, Lotte World will do just that!

Lotte World is a massive theme park with two distinct sections: Adventure and Magic Island. Adventure boasts one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world, while Magic Island is set outdoors, surrounding the picturesque Seokchon Lake. Most of the park’s scariest rides can be found in Magic Island, including the Gyro Drop, Gyro Swing, Atlantis, and Viking, all designed to get your adrenaline pumping. Meanwhile, Adventure offers more family-friendly attractions, though it also features two exciting indoor roller coasters.

Aside from rides there is an indoor skating rink, parades and many shops and themed restaurants. A trend here is to rent a British-style school uniform and wear it around the park. I am not entirely sure why, but it’s a thing!

It gets really busy here, to avoid super long wait times for a ride I suggest purchasing the magic pass.

Printable 10 Day Seoul Itinerary

Where To Stay In Seoul

The most central areas for tourists to stay in Seoul are Hongdae, Myeongdong, Isadong, Itaewon and Gangnam. Seoul is spread out so it takes some time to travel between each area.

One key thing to note is that the subways all stop running at 12 am. If you want to experience the nightlife Hongdae or Itaewo are the best areas to stay.

Frequently Asked Questions Seoul

Final Thoughts – 10 Day Seoul Itinerary

Seoul is without a doubt one of the world’s best cities. 10 days in Seoul might seem long but there is so much to do, don’t be surprised if you find yourself looking up flights back to Seoul while you are still in Seoul! I hope this itinerary inspires you to see not only the city but the gorgeous countryside and hikes in the city.

Let me know in the comments below if you’ve been or are planning to go to Seoul? Doing anything different than what’s on this itinerary? I’d love to hear from you !

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