3 Days in Seoul: Perfect Itinerary for First-Timers

Planning your first trip to South Korea? Not sure what to do in Seoul in 3 days?

This carefully crafted 3-day Seoul itinerary is the perfect guide for first-time visitors who want to experience the best of Korea’s vibrant capital. From historic palaces and traditional villages to local food markets and relaxing jjimjilbang (Korean saunas), you'll discover what to do in Seoul day by day—with practical travel tips and hidden gems only locals know.

Whether you're into culture, shopping, street food, or just want to soak up the city’s unique energy, this Seoul travel guide is designed to help you explore efficiently and meaningfully. Get ready for the ultimate Seoul itinerary for beginners—simple, smart, and unforgettable.

 

🗓️ Day 1 – Tradition Meets Tranquility

Route: Gyeongbokgung Palace → Bukchon Hanok Village → Samcheong-dong → Cheonggyecheon Stream
Estimated Time: 7~8 hours
Main Keywords: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Hanbok, Bukchon Hanok Village, Cheonggyecheon Stream

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🏯 Gyeongbokgung Palace (Morning)

Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul

Begin your Seoul adventure at the grandest royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony takes place at 10:00 AM.

📌 Local Tips:

• Free entrance if wearing hanbok (₩3,000 without).
• The palace is large – especially in summer, bring water, as there are no cafés or convenience stores inside.
• Only one drink vending machine is available inside the National Folk Museum.

🕒 ~1.5–2 hours

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🏘️ Bukchon Hanok Village & Samcheong-dong (Midday)

Quiet alley with traditional hanok houses at Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll through traditional hanok alleyways and enjoy the artsy vibes of nearby Samcheong-dong.

📌 Local Tips:

• Bukchon is a residential area – entry may be restricted after 6 PM. Keep voices low and be respectful.
• Search for “Bukchon 8 Views” for the best photo spots.
• Take a break at a local tea house or dessert café in Samcheong-dong.

🕒 ~1.5–2 hours

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🌊 Cheonggyecheon Stream (Evening)

People sitting and dipping their feet in Cheonggyecheon Stream under a bridge at night in Seoul

Wrap up your day with a relaxing walk by this scenic urban stream.

📌 Local Tips:

• You can dip your feet in the stream—great on a hot day.
• Occasional pop-up libraries and local events are held along the way.
• The best walking route is from Gwanghwamun to Dongdaemun.

🕒 ~1.5 hours

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🗓️ Day 2 – Street Food, Markets & Hidden Bars

Route: Myeongdong → Gwangjang Market → Euljiro
Estimated Time: 8 hours
Main Keywords: Myeongdong Shopping, Korean street food, Gwangjang Market, Euljiro nightlife

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🛍️ Myeongdong Shopping Street (Morning)

The go-to place for K-beauty, skincare, and trendy street food.

📌 Local Tips:

• Visit in the morning to avoid crowds.
• Must-try snacks: Tornado Potato, spicy rice cakes(Tteokbokki), sweet pancakes (Hotteok).
• Backstreets usually offer better exchange rates than main roads.

🕒 ~2 hours

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🍱 Gwangjang Market (Lunch)

Experience authentic Korean flavors in a historic traditional market.

📌 Local Tips:

• Popular dishes: mayak gimbap, bindaetteok, yukhoe bibimbap.
• Join the longest line – that’s usually the best spot.
• Some vendors offer makgeolli set discounts with food.

🕒 ~1.5 hours

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🍺 Euljiro (Evening)

Explore this hipster district where old printing shops meet new-age speakeasies.

📌 Local Tips:

• The coolest spots are hidden deep in the alleys—don’t be afraid to explore.
• Rooftop bars, retro pubs, and Korean rice wine houses abound.
• Focus your walk between Euljiro 3-ga and 4-ga for the best gems.

🕒 ~3 hours

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🗓️ Day 3 – Modern History & Korean-Style Relaxation

Route: Donuimun Museum Village → Korean Jjimjilbang → Korean BBQ
Estimated Time: 7 hours
Main Keywords: Korean sauna, jjimjilbang, modern Seoul, Korean BBQ

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🖼️ Donuimun Museum Village (Morning)

Travel back in time through this recreated 20th-century neighborhood filled with history and retro photo zones.

📌 Local Tips:

• Great for photos and learning Korea’s modern past.
• Some areas are free; others have small fees for activities.
• Can be combined with a visit to the nearby Seoul Museum of History.

🕒 ~1.5–2 hours

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🧖 Korean Jjimjilbang (Afternoon)

Unwind the Korean way at a public bathhouse and sauna.

📌 Local Tips:

• Entrance usually starts from ₩15,000, with towels and basic amenities included.
• Don’t miss the classic sweet rice drink (sikhye) and baked eggs.
• Weekday afternoons are quieter and more relaxing.

📍 Top 3 Saunas in Seoul:

• 🧡 Spa Rex (Dongdaemun) – Open late, has city views, great for travelers
• 💙 Spa Rex (Songpa Park Habio) – Casual and spacious, perfect for couples or solo relaxation
• 💜 Aqua Field (Hannam or Goyang) – Premium, modern Korean spa with designer interiors

🕒 ~2.5 hours

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🍽️ Korean BBQ Dinner (Evening)

• No trip to Seoul is complete without a sizzling Korean BBQ experience, and samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) is the undisputed favorite among locals.
  • 🥓 Kkotppineun Gogi (꽃피는고기) – A stylish, modern BBQ spot popular among locals for its high-quality pork belly and sleek atmosphere. Great for first-timers looking for a clean and comfortable setting.
  • 🐮 Myeongnyun Jinsagalbi (명륜진사갈비) – A popular all-you-can-eat BBQ chain famous for its unbeatable price. You’ll grill the meat yourself, and the place is usually very crowded and quite noisy, especially during peak hours. While it’s not ideal for a quiet dinner, it’s a great option for budget travelers who want to eat plenty without breaking the bank.
  📌 Local Tips
  • Most BBQ spots require at least two people per table.
  • Don’t forget the classic combo: grilled garlic + ssamjang (spicy soybean paste) + lettuce wrap!
  • Some places offer free doenjang jjigae (soybean stew) or let you add it for a small price.
• 📌 Recommended Restaurants

🕒 ~1.5 hours

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✅ Final Notes for First-Time Visitors

• Buy a T-money card for easy subway and bus rides.
• Download Naver Map or KakaoMap—Google Maps doesn't work well in Korea.
• Public restrooms in Korea are usually free, clean, and easy to find—even in subways.
• Don’t be shy about asking for help—many younger Koreans speak basic English and are happy to assist.
• Learn a few Korean phrases like “annyeonghaseyo” (hello) or “gamsahamnida” (thank you)—locals appreciate the effort!