Updated February 25, 2025
As a Korean who grew up in Seoul, I’m thrilled to share how to spend the perfect 2 days in Seoul!
This Seoul itinerary includes the best places to learn about Korean history and authentically experience local life, all in just 2 days.
We’ll learn about Korean history the fun way on Day 1, by visiting the most impressive historical sites and shopping at traditional markets in the city of Seoul.
On Day 2, we’ll frolic Seoul like a local, shopping at hip neighborhoods and tasting modern Korean food.
With that, let’s dive into my guide to 2 days in Seoul!
2 Days in Seoul (Itinerary Summary)
Day 1: Historical Sightseeing & Korean Culture
- Morning: Gyeongbokgung Palace, National Palace Museum of Korea
- Afternoon: Bukchon Hanok Village, Gwangjang Market
- Evening: Myeongdong, N Seoul Tower
- Night: Myeongdong Night Market, Korean Bathhouse
Day 2: Seoul like a Local
- Morning: Coffee Shop, Leeum Museum of Art
- Afternoon: Explore Hannam, a hip and fashionable neighborhood
- Evening: Explore Seongsu-dong, the Brooklyn of Seoul
- Night: Bars & Clubs
2 Days in Seoul
Day 1: Historical Sightseeing & Korean Culture
Morning: Explore Korean History at Gyeongbokgung
Gyeongbokgung Palace (경북궁): Main Royal Palace of the Joseon Dynasty
Our first stop is majestic Gyeongbokgung, which was the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty that ruled Korea for over 500 years until 1910.
If you have time for just one historical site in Korea, this should be it!
Kick off the morning by renting a hanbok, and get those Insta-perfect pictures and Tiktok-perfect twirls out of the way.
Then feel the beat of the huge drum as 100+ actors (also dressed in hanbok!) reenact the traditional guard changing ceremony at 10am on the palace grounds.
- Cost: 3,000 KRW (2.30 USD)
- Time: 1.5 hours
- Hours: Spring (March-May): 9am-6pm; Summer (June-August): 9am-6:30pm; Winter (November-February): 9am-5pm
- Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea (Subway: Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5)
National Palace Museum of Korea (국립고궁박물관): Experience a Joseon King’s Life
The great thing about Gyeongbokgung is that there’s a few museums right within its parameters, including the National Palace Museum of Korea.
This museum is a wonderful place to learn about the Joseon Dynasty and how its kings and queens lived.
Go back in time and imagine the king sitting on the royal throne on display, complete with the bright backdrop depicting the traditional motifs of the sun, moon and mountains.
Did I mention that this museum’s free?
- Cost: Free
- Time: 1.5 hours
- Hours: On Wednesday and Saturday – 10am-9pm; All Other Days – 10am-6pm
- Address: 12 Hyoja-ro, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea (Subway: Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5)
Optional
- Understanding Korean Culture: Did you know that Koreans ask each other “Have you eaten?” (or more literally, “Have you eaten rice?”) as a greeting? Learn about both modern and traditional Korean culture at the National Folk Museum, which is also in Gyeongbokgung.
- Lovers of Royal Palaces: It’s a mile to get from Gyeongbokgung to Changdeokgung Palace, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the beautiful Secret Garden, where traditional Korean architecture harmonizes with nature rather than imposing upon it.
Afternoon: Traditional Korean Neighborhood & Market
There’s several trendy and historic neighborhoods surrounding Gyeongbokgung, and Bukchon is one of them.
At this point, if you can’t wait any longer for lunch, I’d recommend the hand-pulled dough soup at Samcheongdong Sujebi (9,000 KRW), which has been a local favorite for 30+ years and has been recognized on the Seoul Michelin Guide 2024.
Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌 한옥마을): Traditional Hanok Houses
Be prepared to be wow-ed by the classic elegance of the traditional Korean houses in Bukchon Hanok Village.
This 600 year-old neighborhood was home to high-ranking royal officials back in the Joseon Dynasty.
Despite its long history, many of the 1,500 or so traditional hanok houses in Bukchon were actually built during the Japanese colonial era (1910-1945) to alleviate the housing shortage as Seoul rapidly urbanized.
Since these hanoks are relatively contemporary, they incorporate modern features like tiles and glass windows instead of hanji paper coverings.
Pro Tip: Take yourself on a walking tour and hit a few (or all) of these 8 best vantage spots!
Gwangjang Market (광장시장): Incredible Food Stalls & Historic Shopping
Savor Korean street food and visit old-school shops at Gwangjang Market, which opened in 1905.
Korean Street Food for Lunch
Since the food stalls at Gwangjang Market are so reasonably priced, you really don’t have to pick and choose – try ’em all!
Gwangjang Market is especially known for their savory bindaetteok pancakes fresh off the griddle, addictive “drug” kimbap rice rolls glistening with fragrant sesame oil, and Korean-style beef tartare.
Here are some eateries I’d recommend hitting up:
- Crispy Mung Bean Pancakes: Soonhee’s Bindaetteok has the freshest, tastiest bintaetteok (원조숙희네빈대떡, 5 Jongro 32-gil).
- Spicy Rice Cake: Kangane Tteokbokki uniquely slices a bunch of radish into their spicy but sweet sauce. Try the Tteokbokki + Fried Food Set – I’d recommend picking the fried squid and seaweed rolls and dunking it into the tteokbokki sauce like a true Korean (5,000 KRW, 4 USD).
- Korean Beef Tartare: If you’re craving more of a sit-down vibe, try the Beef Tartare Bibimbap (10,000 KRW, 7.40 USD) at Jin Joo Beef Sashimi.
Check Out the Old-School Vendors
There’s all kinds of knick knacks at Gwangjang Market, but it’s where Koreans go to purchase fancy hanbok and fruits used in traditional celebrations like weddings, ancestral honorings and when a baby turns 100 days old.
Alternative Options
Dongdaemun Market (동대문 시장): For Clothing & Knick-Knacks
Gwangjang Market is best known for its food.
If you’re in the mood to shop for knick-knacks, head to Dongdaemun Market, where you can find leather bags imported from Italy, colorful keychains, sparkly bracelets and more from indoor mon-and-pop stalls.
On Sundays, there’s an outdoor flea market where you can snag super discounted clothes, beanies, toys and more (purchased from stores that are closing down) for prices starting from 1,000 KRW.
If you’re in the area, it’s worth snapping a picture in front of Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), the world’s largest amorphous 3D structure designed by the late architect Zaha Hadid.
Namedaemun Market (남대문): Largest Traditional Market
This sprawling 600-year old market has over 10,000 stores and is also well-known for their children’s wear.
But I’d recommend visiting Namdaemun for their food. Experiencing the casual food stalls / restaurants is an extremely rich and unique cultural experience.
One must visit is Namhae Restaurant, famously run by 3 sisters. Watching one sister pull and cut fresh noodles was cool. So was hearing her calling her sister “Mom” (ie., someone’s mom!). Then the way she playfully chastised me for mixing in the seaweed with the glutinous rice (she so kindly gave me a second portion).
And the way people bumped into me constantly as I ate food. But also the way when one sister knocked some soup near me (it’s a tight space) — how the guy sitting next to me shifted one of my plates of food so that I could wipe it.
100% recommend.
Address: 42-1 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
Evening: Myeongdong & Night Views
There’s a fair chance you’re staying at Myeongdong, the Times Square of Seoul.
Korean Food for Dinner
Here are two famous restaurants that live up to the hype in Myeongdong. I grew up eating at these places!
Option 1 – Jangsu Galbijip (장수갈비): Korean BBQ
The chef at the storefront grills hunks of heavily marinated Korean BBQ. It’s hard not to be tempted by the unmistakable mouthwatering scent of charred Korean BBQ that pervades onto the streets of Myeongdong.
The galbi at Jangsu is especially soft, addictingly sweet and dangerously salty. Before you know it, you’ll be ordering a second platter.
- Address: 54-1 Myeongdong 2-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
Option 2 – Myeongdong Gyoza (명동교자): Intensely Rich & Flavorful Knife-Cut Noodles
Typically, kalguksu knife-cut noodles are enjoyed in a clear seafood broth.
The kalguksu at Myeongdong Gyoza is unique because it’s made with this rich chicken broth that is so intensely flavorful and deeply satisfying.
- Address: 29 Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
N Seoul Tower (남산타워): Take the Cable Car and Enjoy the Night City Views
Take the Namsan Cable Car to the iconic N Seoul Tower and enjoy the twinkling city views from the observation deck, which stands at 1,660 feet (510m) tall.
N Seoul Tower is an operational TV and radio tower at the top of Namsan Mountain that transmits almost 50% of the broadcasts watched by the connected Korean population.
Across from the tower are thousands of love locks left behind by young Korean couples who mark their padlocks with their names, the date and messages of long-lasting love.
I remember visiting the tower as a kid and leaving a wish behind (I forgot if it came true 😅).
You can purchase a lock for around 15,000 KRW (11 USD) at the N Seoul Tower gift shops (or even from nearby vending machines).
Night
Myeongdong Night Market (명동거리): Gift Shopping & Snacks
I grew up shopping at Myeongdong, almost every weekend.
While it’s become very popular with tourists in the past 10-15 years, I’ve gotta admit it’s still so much fun.
Myeongdong lights up at night. The street vendors sell everything from phone cases to cutesy keychains and piping hot skewers.
It’s also a fantastic place to purchase gifts for friends and family back home because many of the cosmetics shops offer discounts if you buy in bulk. Snail mucus face masks and wine bottle-shaped lip balm, anyone?
Jjimjilbang (찜질방): Relax at a Korean Bathhouse
Relax in a sauna at a jjimjilbang, or 24-hour Korean bathhouse.
Jjimjilbangs typically have multiple saunas at different temperatures, from mild to hot. They also have areas with heated ondol floors where you can nap and hang on top of mats.
Both the saunas and ondol floors are unisex, so you’ll spot couples and families alike chilling together.
If you get the night munchies from breaking a sweat, jjimjilbangs got your back. There’s usually a snack bar with proper Korean meals as well as convenience store food.
For an authentic Korean experience, snack on ramen, boiled eggs and cool down with a shikhae rice punch!
Before you leave, take a dunk in the hot tub and cold plunges in the gender-separated locker rooms.
Check out the Sparex in Dongmyo, which is clean, spacious and very reasonably priced.
Day 2: Seoul like a Local
After learning about Korean history and culture on your first day, your second day is all about living in Seoul like a local.
Morning: Culture & Art in Hannam
Hannam is an affluent neighborhood with rows of townhouses, elegant boutiques and a thriving art scene.
There’s also a lot of cool neighborhoods within and around it, like Hangangjin, which is known for its trendy shopping and up-and-coming brands.
Nearby Itaewon was formerly home to the largest American military base in Korea, and is a more westernized, foreigner-friendly neighborhood.
Caffeinate at a Hip Coffee Shop in Hannam
Hannam Atelier is artist Huh Myoungwook’s workshop cum cafe located in a former townhouse.
The mysterious ivy-topped entrance leads up to a first-floor space with a nice, leafy terrace and a second floor with art and wooden tables.
Everything comes served in Huh’s lacquered tableware and mugs. Look out for his cute Astro Boy figurines throughout the cafe!
- Address: 7 Itaewon-ro 55na-gil, Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea
Leeum Museum of Art (리움미술관): Leading Art Museum
From Hannam Atelier, it’s a 5 minute walk to this leading art museum.
Appreciate both modern and historic art at the stunning Leeum Museum, which is run by the Samsung Foundation (known for their phones and electronics!).
Although the Leeum’s collection includes 20 national treasures, my favorite are their modern exhibitions, which showcase digital and electronic works of art, as well as cool sculptures and abstract paintings.
- Address: 60-16 Itaewon-ro 55-gil, Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea
Other Options
If you wish to continue deepening your understanding of Korean history, the National Museum of Korea has a breadth of objects from ancient to modern Korean history. Think stone cleavers from the Paleolithic Era to a gold-coated book from the Korean Empire (1897-1910).
The War Memorial of Korea, about the Korean War, is also a 15 minute bus ride from Hannam. Walk amongst tanks, fighter jets and a life-sized warship at the impressive outdoor exhibition.
Afternoon: Lunch & Hip Shopping in Hannam
Contemporary Korean Food for Lunch in Hannam
Here are a few options for a delicious and authentic lunch in Hannam!
- Korean Hole-in-the-Wall: Yetnal Guksi
- Contemporary Korean Dining: Gongi
- Korean Fine Dining: Soseoul Hannam (they have a lunch set menu!)
Shop Trendy Brands at Hangangjin
Koreans are so trendy that what’s considered the most hip neighborhood changes all the time. These days, all the cute brands are in Hangangjin. Here are some brands to check out!
- Grungy, oversized street style: INSILENCE
- Whimsical & Classic Pieces: Sienne
- 90s Clothing & Leather Bags: MARGESHERWOOD
Evening: Seongsu-dong, the Brooklyn of Seoul
Funky Flagship Stores at Seongsu-dong
Make your way east to Seongsu-dong, the Brooklyn of Seoul. Like Brooklyn, Seongsu-dong has industrial roots.
In this hip neighborhood, which has a living history of leather artisans and cobblers to this day, you’ll spot tons of former factories and warehouses that have been converted into cafes and shops.
Here are some fun flagship stores worth checking out!
- Astronauts & Spaceships: Ader Error
- K-Beauty Lovers: Amore Seongsu
- Stationary Fiends: Point of View Seoul, Paper Doll Mate Atelier
- Edgy K-Brands: Musinsa Standard, Matin Kim, Marhen.J
Korean Dinner at Seongsu-dong
After all that shopping, it’s time for dinner. Here are some of my personal favorites for a hearty and authentic Korean experience!
- Traditional Korean Banssang Dinner: Daban
- Clean & Creative Korean Flavors: Nanpo
- Old-School Beef & Rice Soup: Malbang
Night
Bars & Clubs
Koreans know how to have fun and we certainly don’t shy away from a drink or two (or too many) or a fun night of dancing!
Here are some cool places to go out for your last night in Seoul!
- Incorporation of Korean Liquors & Ingredients: Korean traditional liquor-based cocktails + one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars – Bar Cham; Korean rice wine floating down a little stream at Pung New
- Best Cocktails: Excellent cocktails by top-notch bartenders at Bar Swallow; Bespoke cocktails at reasonable prices at Eau de Vie
- Speakeasies: Zodiac and shaman-themed Zoosindang, Joseon king-inspired Myeongdong Sookhee, Cocktails in Louboutins at Cinderella Bar
- Foreigner-Friendly Nightlife: As the former home to the largest American military base in Korea, Itaewon is a more westernized part of town that is foreigner-friendly. Sunsetmood Rooftop has great views of Namsan Tower; MU/ART has live performances every Saturday; and Kockiri is a gay-friendly lounge with fantastic music.
Travel Tips: Preparing for your Trip to Seoul
Is the public transportation good in Seoul?
Yes, the public transport is reliable, extensive and affordable in Seoul.
I would recommend taking the subway or the bus most of the time in Seoul.
Taxis are almost impossible to catch without using a ride-hailing app. Even if you use Uber or KakaoTaxi, it can be hard to catch a cab during rush hour and around meal times.
Does Google Maps work in Korea?
Not really, since walking directions don’t work on Google Maps in Korea.
I would highly recommend downloading Naver Maps (iOS App Store, Google Play Store) before you arrive in Korea.
2 Days in Seoul (Conclusion)
In this perfect itinerary, we went over how to spend 2 days in Seoul.
On Day 1, we hit all the top tourist attractions in South Korea’s capital, from royal palaces to traditional markets.
On Day 2, we experienced the best of local life in the capital city of South Korea, like vibing out at coffee shops and shopping at trend-setting neighborhoods.
Day 1: Historical Sightseeing & Korean Culture
Morning: Explore Korean History at Gyeongbokgung
- Gyeongbokgung Palace (경북궁): Main Royal Palace of the Joseon Dynasty National Palace
- Museum of Korea (국립고궁박물관): Experience a Joseon King’s Life
Afternoon: Traditional Korean Neighborhood & Market
- Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌 한옥마을): Traditional Hanok Houses
- Gwangjang Market (광장시장): Incredible Food Stalls & Historic Shopping
Evening: Myeongdong & Night Views
Night
- Myeongdong Night Market (명동거리): Gift Shopping & Snacks
- Jjimjilbang (찜질방): Relax at a Korean Bathhouse
Day 2: Seoul like a Local
Morning: Culture & Art in Hannam
Afternoon: Lunch & Hip Shopping in Hannam
Evening: Seongsu-dong, the Brooklyn of Seoul
Night
Travel Tips: Preparing for your Trip to Seoul
Thanks for checking out my guide for spending 2 days in Seoul!
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