One Day in Hongdae: A Complete Itinerary for Students (2025)
Last Updated: June 2025
Why Visit Hongdae?
Hongdae (short for Hongik Daehakgyo, or Hongik University) is one of Seoul’s most vibrant and youthful neighborhoods. Known for its indie culture, fashion boutiques, affordable eats, and creative energy, it’s a top destination for students and young travelers. Whether you're studying in Korea or just visiting, spending one day in Hongdae will give you a perfect taste of local culture.
🕘 Morning: Coffee, Street Art, and Bookstores
📍 9:00 AM – Brunch at "Cafe Travel Maker"
Start your day with a hearty brunch at Cafe Travel Maker, a popular student-friendly spot offering pancakes, omelets, and decent coffee. The prices are budget-friendly and the atmosphere is cozy for early risers or solo travelers.
📍 10:00 AM – Hongdae Mural Street (Picasso’s Street)
Take a walk down Hongdae Mural Street, where colorful graffiti, street art, and installations give life to the creative energy of the area. It's a great spot for Instagram photos and a peaceful stroll before the crowds arrive.
📍 11:00 AM – "Your Mind" Indie Bookstore
Pop into Your Mind, a hidden gem bookstore selling independent zines, art books, and Korean design magazines. It’s a quiet spot that captures the intellectual and artistic soul of the neighborhood.
🕐 Afternoon: Shopping, Street Food, and Local Vibes
📍 12:00 PM – Street Shopping at Hongdae Shopping Street
Explore Hongdae Shopping Street where you can find budget fashion, cute accessories, and K-beauty items. Most stores open around noon and offer student discounts or combo deals.
📍 1:30 PM – Lunch at "Myeongmul Gimbap"
For an affordable and authentic Korean lunch, head to Myeongmul Gimbap. Try their tuna-mayo gimbap, spicy tteokbokki, and fried dumplings. You’ll get a full meal for under 6,000 KRW.
📍 2:30 PM – Trick Eye Museum or Alive Museum
If you enjoy interactive exhibits, Trick Eye Museum offers optical illusion photo zones and an attached ice museum. It's a fun, low-stress stop especially if you're traveling with friends or classmates.
🕓 Late Afternoon: Chill at a Cafe or Hang Out in the Park
📍 4:00 PM – Relax at "943 King’s Cross Cafe"
Harry Potter fans will love 943 King's Cross Cafe, a multi-floor cafe designed like Hogwarts. Costumes are available for rent, and the drinks are magical (try the butterscotch latte!). Perfect for a mid-day break and a few quirky selfies.
📍 5:30 PM – Hang Out at Hongdae Playground
As the sun starts to set, walk to Hongdae Playground. It’s a small public park that becomes lively in the evening with impromptu street performances, dance battles, and busking sessions. A great way to soak up youth culture for free.
🌙 Evening: Night Market and Live Performances
📍 7:00 PM – Hongdae Night Market (Weekend Only)
If you’re visiting on Friday or Saturday, don’t miss the Hongdae Free Market and Night Market in the park area. You'll find handmade crafts, indie snacks, and local musicians. It’s a budget-friendly way to support artists and grab souvenirs.
📍 8:00 PM – Live Club Day (Last Friday of the Month)
Hongdae is the heart of Korea’s indie music scene. On the last Friday of each month, Live Club Day gives you access to multiple live venues with one ticket. Students get discounted rates. Expect punk, rock, electronic, and acoustic sets.
📝 Budget Tips for Students
- Use your student ID for possible discounts at museums and cafes.
- Check Naver Map or KakaoMap for reviews and crowd levels.
- Use Kakao T or public buses for quick transport around the area.
- Pack a water bottle and light jacket; evenings in Seoul can get chilly even in spring or fall.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're an exchange student or a short-term traveler, a day in Hongdae offers a perfect blend of art, food, shopping, and youth culture. With careful planning and a student budget, you can fully enjoy this iconic Seoul neighborhood without overspending. From quirky cafes to underground music, Hongdae is a snapshot of Korea’s creative spirit—and it’s waiting for you to explore it.
