4-day Seoul essentials
Palaces, Gangnam, and street food in four days.
4 daysFirst-timersBest: April–June, September–November
Last updated: 2025-03-15
Day 1 – Gyeongbokgung and Bukchon
- Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong
Morning Gyeongbokgung (catch changing of the guard). Bukchon Hanok Village. Afternoon Insadong for tea and crafts. Evening Jongno or Myeongdong.
Tips:
Rent hanbok for free palace entry. Bukchon is residential; be quiet. Insadong is great for souvenirs.
Day 2 – Myeongdong and N Seoul Tower
- Myeongdong shopping, N Seoul Tower
Morning Myeongdong for shopping and street food. Afternoon N Seoul Tower (cable car or walk). Evening Hongdae or Itaewon.
Tips:
N Tower is best at dusk for day and night views. Hongdae has great nightlife and cheap eats.
Day 3 – Gangnam and COEX
- Gangnam, COEX Mall, Starfield Library
Morning Gangnam (PSY mural and area). COEX Mall and Starfield Library. Afternoon Bongeunsa Temple or Garosu-gil. Evening Gangnam or return to Hongdae.
Tips:
COEX aquarium is popular. Starfield Library is free and photogenic.
Day 4 – DMZ or last neighbourhoods
- DMZ tour, or Gwangjang Market, Dongdaemun
Option A: Half-day DMZ tour (book ahead). Option B: Gwangjang Market and Dongdaemun. Last meal and departure. Incheon Airport is 45–60 minutes by train.
Tips:
DMZ tours need a passport; book with a licensed operator. Gwangjang is great for bindaetteok and mayak gimbap.
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