This is a full 5-day Seoul itinerary based on a typical first-time visit.
Includes all major attractions, grouped by area so the flow makes sense.
I stayed in Hongdae, so most days start or pass through that area.
Also—this was December. Super lamig. So expect to go in and out of places more often instead of staying outside too long.
Day 1 – Hongdae + Arrival + First Night
Settle in around Hongdae.
Walk around the area:
- Hongdae shopping streets
- street performances
- cafés
Best done at night.
This is where you get your first feel of Seoul.
Day 2 – Gyeongbokgung + Bukchon + Insadong
Start early at Gyeongbokgung Palace.
If you want, you can rent a hanbok for the full experience.
Then walk to:
- Bukchon Hanok Village
- Insadong Street
These are close to each other, so it’s easy to do in one route.
Optional:
- Changdeokgung Palace
This day feels more traditional.
Day 3 – Myeongdong + N Seoul Tower + Namdaemun
Start around Myeongdong.
Explore:
- shopping streets
- food stalls
Then go to:
- N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)
You can go up or just enjoy the view from below.
Before ending the day, pass by:
- Namdaemun Market
Best done late afternoon to night.
Day 4 – Gangnam + COEX + Starfield Library
Explore the modern side of Seoul.
Go to:
- Gangnam area
- COEX Mall
- Starfield Library
Optional:
- Bongeunsa Temple (just beside COEX)
This area feels very different from the rest of Seoul.
Day 5 – Incheon + Last Day
If you have time, you can go to Incheon.
In my case, I went there to visit a friend and ended up staying overnight.
We went to Inspire Casino, then the next day had an authentic samgyupsal before heading to the airport.
If you don’t have plans in Incheon, you can use this day for:
- last shopping
- café hopping
- revisiting areas you liked
