Seoul 3-Day Travel Itinerary for First-Time Visitors (2025 Guide)
Planning your first trip to South Korea? This 3-day Seoul itinerary is perfect for beginners who want to explore culture, food, shopping, and local vibes. Simple, efficient, and packed with must-see attractions!
Why Visit Seoul?
Seoul is a vibrant city where tradition meets technology. From historic palaces and street food to K-POP districts and fashion hubs, it offers something for everyone — especially first-time travelers.
Day 1: History & Culture
🌸 Morning: Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁)
- Explore the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty
- Don't miss the guard changing ceremony (10am & 2pm)
- Tip: Rent a hanbok to enter for free
🫖 Afternoon: Bukchon Hanok Village & Insadong
- Walk through traditional Korean houses (hanoks)
- Grab tea at a traditional teahouse in Insadong
🌆 Evening: Cheonggyecheon Stream
- Relaxing urban stream walk with lights and sculptures
- Great for photos and peaceful vibe
Day 2: Food, Shopping & Pop Culture
🍜 Morning: Gwangjang Market
- Try Korean street food like Tteokbokki, Hotteok, and Gimbap
- Watch vendors cook in real-time
must-try-korean-street-foods-youll-love
🎤 Afternoon: Hongdae or Gangnam
- Hongdae: Youth culture, indie shops, street performances
- Gangnam: K-POP entertainment offices, luxury shopping
🎆 Evening: Han River Night Picnic
- Buy chicken and beer (치맥) at Yeouido Hangang Park
- Watch locals ride bikes, fly kites, and relax by the water
Day 3: Nature & Modern Seoul
🌄 Morning: Namsan Tower (N-Seoul Tower)
- Panoramic view of the city
- Take the cable car or hike up from Myeongdong
🛍 Afternoon: Myeongdong Shopping District
- Buy skincare, souvenirs, and try more street snacks
- Visit flagship stores of famous Korean brands
💆 Evening: Jjimjilbang (Korean Spa)
- End your trip with a relaxing Korean bathhouse experience
- Popular options: Siloam Sauna, Dragon Hill Spa
Tips for First-Time Travelers
- Download KakaoMap or Naver Map (Google Maps doesn’t work well)
- Get a T-money card for public transport
- Learn basic Korean phrases like “Annyeonghaseyo” (Hello)
- Most places accept cards, but keep some cash (₩10,000 notes) for markets
Final Thoughts
Seoul is safe, exciting, and full of hidden gems. With this itinerary, you'll get the best mix of tradition, trend, and taste in just 3 days. Bookmark this guide and follow KOREA Unlocked for more Korea travel tips!
