Complete Seoul Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Seoul

Wondering how to spend 3 days in Seoul? You are in the right place because I have prepared a detailed Seoul itinerary for 3 days with a lot of useful travel tips.

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a dynamic metropolis nestled along the Han River. It stands as a vibrant hotspot of culture, technology, and history. In Seoul, there’s something for everyone!

It is a city of contrasts, where historical palaces stand in the shadows of modern skyscrapers. Lively districts coexist with serene green spaces and parks. The culinary scene is equally diverse, offering everything from local eateries to prestigious 3-star Michelin restaurants.

In this article, you will find a complete Seoul Itinerary for 3 days with other things that you should know before visiting Seoul. After you are done reading, you will be ready for your trip to Seoul.

*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Things to know before visiting Seoul

Is Seoul worth visiting?

Seoul is a vibrant and dynamic city that offers a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, technological advancements, and lively urban energy. If that sounds interesting to you, Seoul is definitely worth visiting.

You can wander through historic palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Bukchon Hanok Village to lose yourself in the rich cultural heritage. Meanwhile, the futuristic skyscrapers and busy shopping districts like Myeongdong showcase the city’s contemporary side.

Food enthusiasts will find Seoul to be a paradise. Indulge in the delicious world of Korean cuisine with iconic dishes like bibimbap, kimchi, and Korean barbecue. Street food markets like Gwangjang Market offer an authentic taste of local flavors.

Seoul is a haven for technology lovers, offering cutting-edge innovations and a thriving tech scene. Explore districts like Gangnam, known for its trendy shops and vibrant nightlife, to experience the city’s modern pulse.

The city has something for nature lovers as well. The city is surrounded by picturesque mountains and parks, providing a refreshing escape. Hike up Namsan Mountain for panoramic views of the skyline or stroll through the serene grounds of Namsan Seoul Tower.

Transportation in Seoul is convenient, with an efficient subway system and affordable taxis, making it easy for visitors to navigate the city.

Did I convince you already? All these reasons make Seoul a popular travel destination and bucket list place for many travelers.

How many days in Seoul?

3 days in Seoul is the perfect amount of time to enjoy all the essentials of Seoul, taste unique food, and try lifetime experiences.

A brief visit of 3 days allows you to explore popular attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace and N Seoul Tower. If you’re into shopping and want to make a day trip from Seoul, extend your stay to 4-5 days to experience the most of it.

In this itinerary, we will cover how to spend 3 days in Seoul and how to maximize your time in this charming city. I will add some optional stops, so this itinerary suits different travelers and interests.

How to move around Seoul in 3 days?

When visiting Seoul for 3 days, choosing the right method to move around is essential to save time and money. I will add more tips within this Seoul itinerary so you know what is walkable and where you will need transport, but here are the best ways to move around Seoul.

Public Transport

Seoul is huge, but luckily the public transport is phenomenal and widely regarded as one of the best in the world. In my opinion, it is the best way to move around Seoul.

Seoul has an extensive subway system that covers most of the city and its surrounding areas. Where the subway doesn’t arrive, you will find the busses. 

The public transport is cheap, reliable and comfortable. The fare is calculated based on the distance traveled, and payment can be made using a T-Money card or in cash (exact change required for buses).

The T-Money card is a rechargeable smart card that can be used for multiple modes of transportation, including subway, bus, and even taxis.

Taxi

Getting around Seoul is made convenient with taxis, especially if you’re pressed for time or have specific places to reach. Taxis offer flexibility, door-to-door service, and the convenience of a direct route to your destination.

In Seoul, taxis are easily accessible throughout the city. The most common types are regular (ilban) taxis, usually silver or white, and deluxe (mobeom) taxis, identifiable by their black color and yellow sign.

For added convenience, consider using ride-hailing apps like Uber, or local alternatives such as KakaoTaxi. These apps streamline the process of securing a ride.

When taking a taxi in Seoul, it’s advisable to have your destination written in Korean or displayed on your phone. While some drivers may have limited English proficiency, they are generally familiar with major tourist attractions and popular destinations

Seoul City Tour Bus

The Seoul City Tour Bus is a hop-on-hop-off bus service that takes you to major tourist attractions in Seoul. It offers several routes, and you can purchase a day pass to hop on and off at different attractions throughout the day. 

This is a convenient option for tourists who want to explore popular sights without worrying about navigating public transportation. You can purchase the tickets for the best price here.

Walking

Despite its huge size, Seoul is a pedestrian-friendly city, especially in central areas and around tourist attractions. Walking allows you to soak in the city’s atmosphere, explore narrow streets, and discover hidden gems. 

Where to stay in Seoul for 3 days?

It is important to find the right accommodation for your trip, so I have prepared a list of the best hotels in Seoul for every budget. Depending on your travel style, I am sure you will find something suitable, so take a look and decide where to stay in Seoul.

Luxury: Lotte Hotel Seoul Executive Tower

Unique: Hanok Guesthouse Suni 

Mid Range: Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae

Affordable: Glue Hotel

What to do in Seoul for 3 days?

• Explore 5 palaces of Seoul
• Eat your way through Korean cuisine
• Stop by some of the most iconic cafes in Seoul
• Discover hidden gems like Unhyeongung, Seoul Book Repository, Jogyesa Temple
• Get lost at the popular Hanok village – Ikseon-dong
• See the vibrant nightlife and market scene at the Myeongdong
• Hike up to Namsan Baekbeom Square for some of the best views of Seoul
• Visit the modern side of Seoul at the Lotte World Tower
• Take a photo at the most Instagrammable place in Seoul – Starfield Library
• Make a stop at the War Memorial of Korea or Yeouido Hangang Park 

3 days in Seoul itinerary

Overview of day 1 of your 3 days in Seoul

• Morning: Cafe Onion Anguk (optional), Changgyeonggung Palace or Changdeokgung Palace, Bukchon Village 
• Lunch: Bukchon Handmade Noodle or Keunkiwajip
• Afternoon: Unhyeongung, Ikseon-dong, Kyungin Museum of Fine Art (optional)
• Dinner: Gaeseong Traditional Dumpling House

Cafe Onion Anguk (optional)

If your accommodation doesn’t provide any breakfast, start your 3-day Seoul itinerary in Cafe Onion Anguk – one of the most popular cafes in the Capital of South Korea.

I recommend you get here early because the place tends to get very crowded very quickly but keep in mind that some of the pastries or cakes might not be ready yet.

Their signature pastry is Pandoro with iced sugar. It has nothing to do with Italian Pandoro, but it is still worth a try if you have a sweet tooth. Also, this is the first thing that sells out, so you will need a bit of luck.

The cafe is built in a classic Korean style but with a modern touch and offers international handmade specialties with an aesthetic touch.

Breakfast here will cost you around 15.000 KRW depending on your appetite.

Changgyeonggung Palace

Start your 3 days in Seoul discovering the oldest main hall of all the palaces in the Korean Capital.

The complex was built in 1483 and served various purposes, including as a residence for queens and a venue for state affairs. The palace has faced destruction and reconstruction throughout its history, with parts of it serving different purposes during various periods. 

Despite these changes, Changgyeonggung Palace remains a fascinating destination, offering a glimpse into the evolution of Korean architecture and royal lifestyles.

Another must-visit for any 3-day Seoul itinerary within Changgyeonggung Palace is the Grand Greenhouse. Built in 1909, it is Korea’s first Western-style greenhouse. Designed by a Japanese architect and built by a French company, the structure combines steel and wood, covered in glass.

The entrance fee is 1000 KRW. The opening hours are from 9 am to 9 pm. Please note that the last admission is allowed one hour before closing time. Changgyeonggung Palace is closed on Mondays.

Visiting Changgyeonggung or Changdeokung palaces can take up to 2 hours each. If you want to get the best out of your 72-hour Seoul itinerary, you will need to pick one of them, so I will leave that decision up to you.

Changdeokung Palace

Changdeokgung Palace, located in the heart of Seoul, is a historical gem and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its stunning architecture and serene gardens, the palace is one of the must-visit places during 3 days in Seoul.

Built in the Joseon Dynasty in 1405, Changdeokgung served as a secondary palace where kings could retreat and connect with nature. The palace complex includes various halls, residences, and beautiful landscaped gardens.

Explore its intricate structures like Injeongjeon, which is the main hall, and admire the elegance of its design. The palace is not only perfect for getting a glimpse of Korean culture but also for looking for some of the most beautiful places in Seoul. 

Changdeokung Palace Garden is another place to visit in Seoul. This secret garden is a beautiful area with pavilions and ponds where the human touch collides wonderfully with the surrounding nature. It is wonderful during spring and fall.

Inside the garden, you will find the Juhamnu Pavilion. It is a two-story structure, that functioned as a library and reading room during King Jeongjo’s reign. The second floor served as a reading room. If you ask me, this is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Seoul.

You shouldn’t miss Aeryeonjeong Pavilion, Jondeokjeong Pavilion, Uiduhap Pavilion, and Yeongyeongdang Hall when visiting Changdeokung Palace Garden.

Keep in mind that, visitors must participate in a guided tour of the Secret Garden. So we can safely say that you won’t miss any of these locations when visiting the garden.

Access to the Secret Garden is restricted to 100 individuals per session, with online reservations available for 50 people and on-site purchases for the remaining 50 on a first-come, first-served basis.

Opening times and fees

The opening hours are from 9 am to 6.30 pm from June to August and from 9 am to 5.30 pm from November to January. Rest of the year it is open from 9 am to 6 pm. The ticket office closes one hour before closing time.

Closed: Mondays
Entrance fee: 3000 KRW for the palace and an additional 5000 KRW for Changdeokung Palace Garden.
Free guided tours in English: 10.15 am and 1.15 pm for the palace and 10.30 am, 11.30 am, 2.30 pm, and 3.30 pm for the Changdeokung Palace Garden.

Bukchon Village 

After discovering one of the most visited attractions in South Korea, your Seoul itinerary for 3 days will take you to Bukchon Village, which is probably the most picturesque location in the city.

This little district stands between Changgyeonggung and Gyeongbokgung Palace and it is one of the best examples of South Korea’s cultural heritage. 

Take your time to walk the narrow alleys lined with well-preserved Hanoks, the traditional Korean houses. The architecture reflects the elegance of a bygone era, and it’s a great way to dive into the lives of the aristocracy.

Enrich your 3 day Seoul itinerary by sitting in one of the cafes, visiting the galleries, or shopping in some of the local boutiques.

Bukchon Village location also offers a panoramic view of Seoul’s skyline, creating a unique contrast of the old and the new. It will be quite a climb to get there, but trust me, the views over Seoul are worth it.

If you are wondering how to find the famous street in Bukchon Village with views of the modern landscape, use the Jaundang guest house as your destination – it is located on the picturesque street.

Keep in mind that this is a must-visit for anyone who travels to Seoul. So if you are here on a photo mission, I recommend you start your day by visiting Bukchon Village first thing in the morning and only then head to the palaces.

Lunch: Bukchon Handmade Noodle or Keunkiwajip

If you’re looking for a genuine, affordable, and delicious lunch, Bukchon Handmade Noodle is the perfect idea. They have several delicious Korean specialties for less than 10.000 KRW. The place is not so big but their food is amazing. Everything from the noodles soup to the dumplings.

For slow food and fish lovers, I strongly recommend Keunkiwajip. The prices are higher ranging between 40.000 and 70.000 KRW for a meal but the quality and freshness of the products are top. The ambiance is pretty simple and traditional but still very cozy and welcoming.

Unhyeongung

After lunch, your 3 days in Seoul itinerary takes you to Unhyeongung. This palace is a window to South Korea’s royal past. Built during the Joseon Dynasty, this place is like a time machine, letting you step into the days of kings and queens.

The main hall, stands tall and proud, showing off the beautiful Korean-style architecture. Walking through the palace feels like exploring the lives of important people from way back. Unhyeongung is also famous for its gardens. 

What makes this place even cooler is the love story of King Gojong and Queen Min. It’s like a real-life fairy tale that adds a bit of romance to the history lessons.

Nowadays the location hosts events and even Korean traditional weddings due to the romantic history of the place. 

You can visit Unhyeongung from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm.

Ikseon-dong

After a full immersion in culture, head to Ikseon-dong, another must-see for your 3 days in Seoul. This is the quintessential Korean neighborhood filled with shops with traditional Korean crafts like beautiful ceramics and pretty hanboks.

And oh, the smell of food in the air is amazing! If you are in for a snack or a drink, there are stalls selling all sorts of tasty treats like sweet pancakes and fish cake skewers. 

If you’re into tea, Insa-dong is your spot. There are cozy teahouses where you can relax, enjoy a cup of traditional tea, and take a break from the busy street.

Some of my favorite and most popular cafes in Seoul are Cheongsudang Café and Nakwon. They both are Insta-famous for their aesthetic design, delicious menus, and eye-pleasing servings.

While Cheongsudang Café has a more traditional and neat style, Nakwon shows a more hipster and quirky atmosphere, with even a railway in the yard. Cakes and drinks in both places are simply so beautiful that it’s almost a shame to eat.

A coffee break in both cafes will cost you around 20.000 KRW. Since these cafes are pretty famous, you might have to wait a little to get a table. However, a perfect 3-day Seoul itinerary for first-timers has to include a visit to at least one of these cafes.

The area is also home to one of Ssamziegil Shopping Complex, a huge and modern shopping where you can find any kind of goods. From clothing to local famous cosmetic products.

Kyungin Museum of Fine Art (optional)

If you are wondering what to see in Seoul for 3 days if you are passionate about Korean art this is the place to be. This museum provides a haven for art enthusiasts, showcasing a diverse collection that spans various genres and periods.

The galleries house an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artistic creations. From classical masterpieces to contemporary works, the Kyungin Museum of Fine Art offers a journey through the evolution of artistic styles.

It is interesting to know that the museum serves as a platform for emerging artists. It provides them with a space to exhibit their creativity.

Tickets can typically be purchased at the museum entrance or online, depending on your preference. It is open from 10 am to 6 pm every day except Monday.

Dinner: Gaeseong Traditional Dumpling House

Korean food is super famous worldwide, right? So, for an epic 3-day Seoul itinerary, you need to try some local gems. 

Gaeseong Traditional Dumpling House is a famous restaurant that’s been around since 1970 and is still rocking it. They even got a prestigious award from the Michelin Guide called “Bib Gourmand.”

This place is all about Gaeseong-style dumplings, and they’ve been making them for three generations. The owners put a lot of love into making fresh dumplings every day with top-notch ingredients.

Another reason that will make you want to visit this place is the cool Korean Hanok setting. It’s like traveling back in time and having a delicious meal in a historical place! You can’t miss it!

If you’re up for it, the restaurant is open from 11.30 am to 8 pm. So, whether you’re a local looking for a taste of home or a visitor ready for a yummy adventure, this place is a must-try.

Overview of day 2 of your 3 days in Seoul

• Morning: Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Lunch: Jangan Samgyetang or A Flower Blossom on the Rice
• Afternoon: Deoksugung Palace, Cheonggyecheon, Namsan Baekbeom Square, Myeongdong
• Dinner: The Best Grilled Mackerel in Universe or Pildong Myeonok

Gyeongbokgung Palace

The second day of your Seoul itinerary for 3 days starts with the iconic Gyeongbokgung. This majestic palace in the heart of Seoul is a must-visit for anyone who wants to explore South Korea’s rich history. 

Originally built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and arguably the most beautiful of the Five Grand Palaces built in Seoul. Its name translates to “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven,” and as you step through its grand gates, you’ll quickly understand why.

As you explore the site, you’ll find historical structures like Gwanghwamun, Geunjeongjeon, the main throne hall, and the beautiful Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, set between a serene lotus pond. These buildings are some of the most beautiful places in Seoul.

To complete your experience, consider exploring the National Folk Museum of Korea within the palace grounds. It houses a remarkable collection of artifacts that further the golden age of Korea’s royal past, if not, don’t forget to photograph its iconic tower.

Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Gwanghwamun. This ritual takes place at 10 am and 2 pm every day except Tuesdays. The guards with the traditional colorful costumes will make you travel back in time and give you the chance to take some unique Seoul photos.

Here is a quick overview of the places that you shouldn’t miss within Gyeongbokgung Palace: 

• Gwanghwamun
• Heungnyemun
• The National Folk Museum of Korea
• Hyangwonjeong Pavilion
• Geunjeongjeon.

Opening times and the entrance fee

From November to February it is open from 9 am to 5 pm and from June to August – from 9 am to 6.30 pm. The rest of the year you can stay at the palace until 6 pm.

Considering the popularity of the place, I recommend that you visit Gyeongbokgung Palace before the closing time and be one of the last to leave. While the last admission is one hour before closing time, I recommend you plan 2-3 hours for this beautiful place in Seoul.

Also, you can see the Changing of the Guard at the Gwanghwamun earlier in the day without actually entering the palace.

Closed: Tuesdays
Entrance fee: 3000 KRW.
Free guided tours in English: 11 am, 1.30 pm and 3.30 pm.

Lunch: Jangan Samgyetang or A Flower Blossom on the Rice

For lunch, I prepared two alternatives. These were two of my favorite restaurants in the city, so make sure you try at least one of them during your 3 day Seoul itinerary.

Jangan Samgyetang has been around since 1971 and offers local specialties. If you like the strong taste, make sure you try the fried ginseng. Their chicken is also delicious both fried and roasted. The prices are very reasonable, a dish usually starts from 20.000 KRW.

A different concept in a more romantic ambiance can be found atFlower Blossom on the Rice. If you are into healthy food, the place only serves wholesome home-cooked fare using certified organic ingredients sourced straight from the farm.

Don’t miss their signature dish Bojagi Bibimbap which is a log of cooked rice topped with five different sautéed vegetables. A degustation and A la carte menu is available.

Prices are higher compared to other restaurants of its kind, but the quality is over the top. Dishes usually start from 25.000 KRW and above.

Deoksugung Palace

Your 3-day Seoul itinerary takes you to Deoksugung Palace – a little hidden gem in the heart of the Korean Capital. This is a palace complex like no other in Seoul.

Built during the Joseon Dynasty in the 15th century, Deoksugung has a different vibe compared to other palaces. What makes it special is the blend of traditional Korean and Western architecture. 

As you wander through the palace grounds, you’ll come across Junghwajeon, the main hall, standing proudly with its striking red exterior. The contrast between the vibrant Korean architecture and the Western-style Seokjojeon, a stone building nearby, adds a unique touch to the experience.

Just like for Gyeongbokgung, one highlight is the changing of the guard ceremony that takes place three times per day at 11 am, 2 pm, and 3.30 pm. The ceremony takes place every day except on Mondays, rainy days, and in extremely hot or cold weather.

The entrance fee is 1000 KRW and it is open from 9 am to 9 pm. The last admission is 1 hour before closing time. Keep in mind that it is closed on Mondays.

Cheonggyecheon

3 perfect days in Seoul have to include a visit to Cheonggyecheon where you can take a glimpse at the new city taking over Cheonggyecheon. This iconic stream, flowing through the busy city, has transformed into a peaceful haven, and it has become an escape for both locals and visitors.

Once a neglected waterway covered by an elevated highway, Cheonggyecheon underwent a transformative urban renewal project that removed the highway and restored the stream to its natural state. Today, it stands as a symbol of environmental sustainability

Strolling along the stream, you’ll encounter various bridges, art installations, and even stepping stones. The stream also hosts cultural events and festivals, further enhancing its role as a communal space for the people of Seoul.

Namsan Baekbeom Square

As the sun begins to set, reach Namsan Baekbeom Square and find one of the most iconic views of Seoul. The highlight of Baekbeom Square Park is undoubtedly the view of Seoul Tower, standing tall on Namsan Mountain.

A short segment of Seoul city’s wall adds a historical touch to the park. However, behind the historical wall, you will find a landscape of impressive skyscrapers and city lights – I think that is a perfect representation of Seoul which makes it one of the most beautiful places in Seoul.

Namsan Baekbeom Square is dedicated to General Kim Hong-jip, a key figure in Korea’s fight for independence during the Japanese colonial period.

You can take a short but intense but short climb from the Namsan Park entrance or follow the path from Hohyeondang that leads you to the Namsan Baekbeom Square and welcomes you with a fantastic view over Seoul.

When you visit Seoul in 3 days, make sure you catch a sunset at the Namsan Baekbeom Square and bring your camera with you. I promise you, it will be one of the highlights of your trip to Seoul.

Myeongdong

Myeongdong is the main shopping street, parade route, and tourism district and it gives you several chances to see contemporary South Korea.

The streets come alive with the buzz of nightlife, offering a range of entertainment options from lively pubs to trendy clubs. As darkness settles, the neon signs of Myeongdong illuminate the place.

The area is famous for the hundreds of food stalls where you can take a glimpse of Korean cuisine. The Myeong Dong Night Market is another place that is worth visiting during 3 days in Seoul. 

Here you can also find the Myeongdong Cathedral, with its stunning facade, is one of the prettiest places in Seoul. It offers a different vibe, in terms of architecture and quietness.

Dinner: The Best Grilled Mackerel in Universe or Pildong Myeonok

To finish the second day of your complete Seoul itinerary for 3 days I give you two alternatives. These places are a short distance away from Myeongdong, so you can also try some of the street food in the area and skip dinner. It all depends on your preference.

The specialty at The Best Grilled Mackerel in Universe is grilled mackerels, but you can pick other cooking methods as well. Alongside this star dish, you’ll find classics of Korean cuisine. The prices here are down-to-earth, starting from a modest 10.000 KRW making this a great budget option.

Pildong Myeonok is a more traditional restaurant, where you can try Korean cold noodles with a fantastic broth. Another popular specialty here is the buttery and tender boiled pork slices, served in thick slices with a dipping sauce. Homemade dumplings are also popular.

Overview of day 3 of your 3 days in Seoul

• Morning: Starfield Library, Bongeunsa
• Lunch: Cheongwaok Main Store
• Afternoon: Lotte World, Lotte Tower, Lake Seokchon (optional), Seoul Book Repository or War Memorial of Korea or Yeouido Hangang Park viewpoint
• Dinner: Mosu or Yangyang Memil Makguksu

Starfield Library 

The last day of your 3 days in Seoul will take you to one of the most Instagrammable places in the world – the Starfield Library.

Starfield Library located inside the Starfield COEX Mall is, without a doubt, one of the most Instagrammable places in Seoul. The library opened in 2017 and since then it has become one of Seoul’s main attractions.

The first thing that grabs your attention is the towering bookshelves, stretching from floor to ceiling, filled with a diverse collection of books in multiple languages. What makes the Starfield Library even more special is its giant open-air square, surrounded by glass walls.

All the little details, massive bookshelves, and bright lights create a picture-perfect setting. You simply have to take the iconic photo as you take the escalator. If you are wondering what to do in Seoul for 3 days come here. It’s an absolute must.

If you feel in a shopping mood, you can the rest of the Starfield COEX Mall or continue your Seoul 3-day itinerary discovering more treasures around the city.

Opening times and the entrance fee

While the name suggests that this is a library, this is just a book shop which means that you don’t need a library card and there is no entrance fee to see this beautiful place in Seoul.

While Google says that it is open from 10.30 am to 10 pm, this is not entirely true. We wanted to be there at the opening time and ended up at the library at 10.15 am. And guess what? It was already full of people comfortably working on their laptops, which makes me think it was open for a while.

I am not sure what time they open, but I would recommend coming around 10 am. 15 minutes after our arrival, the place was flooded with people which made it almost impossible to take photos. Especially if you want to iconic photo on the escalator.

Bongeunsa

Bongeunsa is probably one of the most underrated places in Seoul. I found this spot almost randomly after I was visiting the Starfield Library and I immediately fell in love with this place, so I highly recommend that you visit it during 3 days in Seoul.

Bongeunsa was made one of the Korean Empire’s 14 major temples in 1902. A fire in 1939 and the Korean War destroyed most of the buildings. Fortunately, the temple has had many repairs and renovations and is now once again a large complex.

At the heart of Bongeunsa stands a majestic 23-meter Maitreya Buddha statue which is also the main attraction of the temple.

The traditional architecture of the temple, adorned with intricate details and vibrant colors, creates a perfect location for a relaxing stroll.

Bongeunsa and Starfield Library are both located within Gangnam-gu. It gained international fame, thanks in part to the popular song “Gangnam Style” by Psy, which humorously depicted the district’s trendy and upscale lifestyle. Don’t miss the Statue of Gangnam Style while visiting the area.

Lunch: Cheongwaok Main Store

Cheongwaok Main Store is a culinary haven for those seeking delicious and authentic Korean cuisine. Which makes it an absolute must for your 3-day Seoul itinerary.

The spotlight shines on the famous Sundae Gukbap, a flavorful pork bone broth accompanied by blood sausages that have earned its fame through appearances on various TV shows. For those with diverse tastes, the menu offers other traditional delights such as Yukhoe and grilled cuttlefish.

In Cheongwaok Main Store, you will immerse yourself in the ambiance that embraces every detail of Korean tradition, taking you on a fun journey through time. 

Despite its popularity in Seoul, Cheongwaok Main Store maintains reasonable prices, offering a set with rice and soup for just 9,000 KRW. However, be prepared for the trade-off of popularity – long waiting times.

If you’re seeking a quick lunch option, this might not be the ideal choice. But if you’re in the mood to savor the rich flavors of authentic Korean dishes in a genuinely Korean atmosphere, Cheongwaok Main Store is a culinary adventure waiting to be discovered.

Lotte World

Spending an afternoon at the Lotte World is one of the best things to do in Seoul in 3 days. Conveniently located in central Seoul, this amusement park has become popular among tourists and locals. 

The indoor theme park, known as Lotte World Adventure, is housed in a giant castle-like structure. It features a variety of rides, shows, and attractions, making it a popular destination throughout the year.

Outside, Magic Island offers a mix of thrilling rides and scenic views. The Gyro Drop and Atlantis Adventure are the most popular outdoor attractions, offering exciting experiences while admiring the surrounding landscape.

Lotte Tower

In the Lotte World, you can also find the iconic Lotte Tower. The Tower is a masterpiece on Seoul’s skyline and one of the most recognizable buildings in the entire city.

Inside the tower, you can find everything from luxury hotels and high-end shopping to fine dining restaurants with panoramic views, several condos, and offices.

The sky deck of the Tower offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views of Seoul. You can purchase tickets here.

Lake Seokchon (optional)

You can finish up your experience by visiting Lake Seokchon. This picturesque lake, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic pathways, is the ideal spot to find a peaceful oasis in the big city.

It has a particular charm during cherry blossom season and fall foliage, however, it offers amazing views of Lotte World which makes it an attractive destination all year around.

If you are feeling tired after visiting Lotte World, you can easily skip this location, but it is super easy to combine these locations.

Seoul Book Repository, War Memorial of Korea, or Yeouido Hangang Park viewpoint

Considering limited time and individual preferences, I have preferred 3 options for your next stop. However, these are some of the best things to do in Seoul in 3 days, so make sure you pick at least one.

Looking for hidden photo spots in Seoul? Seoul Book Repository should be on the top of your list. It is like a little cousin of Starfield Library – a smaller bookshop that offers a more laid-back experience and some great photo opportunities.

While the book collection is impressive, the design caught my eye. The repository is built inside an old warehouse and offers a spiral tunnel of books – making it one of the best photo spots in Seoul.

History lovers have to pay a visit to the War Memorial of Korea.  Established in 1994, this monumental institution tells about Korea’s military history, preserving the stories of valor and the great impact of wars that have shaped the nation.

If you are tired and just want to enjoy a romantic sunset in the city, visit Yeouido Hangang Park and its famous viewpoint. The park is a beautiful and popular riverside park located on Yeouido Island in Seoul. Relax and watch Seoul lighting up in front of you.

Dinner: Mosu or Yangyang Memil Makguksu

Depending on your taste and food interest I prepared two alternatives to make your Seoul vacation extra tasty.

If you are into fine dining and want to finish your 3 days in Seoul in a special way, Mosu is your place to be. Mosu is one of the few restaurants in the world to receive 3 prestigious Michelin Stars. 

The completely innovative menu and concept are unmissable if you are interested in having a unique dinner you will never forget.

The lunch menu is 210.000 KRW with 140.000 KRW for the wine pairing, while the dinner is 370.000 KRW with 240.000 for the wine pairing.

If you are interested in something more traditional and affordable yet delicious, Yangyang Memil Makguksu is a great place to explore Seoul’s gastronomy. 

They specialize in the Gangwon-do Province-style cold buckwheat noodles, but other classics of Korean food can be tried here like a bowl of spicy noodles composed of homemade kimchi. The basic spread is simple, but it’s rustic food at its best, made with love.

The prices on the menu start from 12.000 and rise according to your preferences.

Whether you choose the Michelin-starred elegance of Mosu or the down-to-earth charm of Yangyang Memil Makguksu, your 3 perfect days in Seoul will end with delicious flavors and satisfied bellies.

Other things to know before visiting Seoul

Koreans use Type-F plugs, so don’t forget your adapters. In case you don’t have one you can find it in the airports or at other electronic stores or souvenir shops. Most of the hotels can help with adapters as well.

The currency is the Korean Won 1 euro is approximately 1400. Cards are mostly accepted in stores, but everything else will require cash. The good thing is that you can find ATMs almost everywhere.

You will need to use Google Maps and Google Translate a lot and it requires a good internet connection. Getting a local SIM is the best solution, so you can purchase a SIM here.

Further reading for 3 days in Seoul itinerary

Or read more about: Seoul | South Korea

In conclusion…

If you were wondering what to do in Seoul for 3 days, I am sure that now you are fully prepared for your trip and can’t wait to discover this unique Korean city.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

Pin it for later and save this perfect 3 days in Seoul itinerary for first-timers!