Seoul 3 days

The largest and most beautiful of Seoul's five grand palaces, Gyeongbokgung was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. Explore its vast grounds, including the stunning Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and Hyangwonjeong Pond, to step back into Korea's royal past. Don't miss the changing of the Royal Guard ceremony.

• Arrive before 10 AM for the changing of the guard ceremony.
• Consider renting a Hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) for free palace entry and great photo opportunities.

Wander through this charming traditional Korean village, nestled between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces. It's a living museum with hundreds of traditional houses (hanoks) that have been preserved for centuries. Enjoy the picturesque alleys and unique architecture.

• Be mindful that people live here; keep noise levels down.
• Look for small craft shops and tea houses tucked away in the alleys.

A vibrant neighborhood brimming with traditional Korean culture, art, and crafts. Insadong's main street is lined with shops selling ceramics, tea, calligraphy brushes, and unique souvenirs. It's also a great place to find traditional Korean restaurants and tea houses.

• Visit Ssamzigil, a unique spiral shopping complex with artisan shops and cafes.
• Try some traditional Korean snacks like hotteok (sweet pancake).

One of Korea's oldest and largest traditional markets, famous for its incredible street food. Experience the lively atmosphere as you sample a variety of delicious Korean dishes like bindae-tteok (mung bean pancake), mayak gimbap (mini seaweed rolls), and kalguksu (noodle soup).

• Come with an appetite and be willing to try a bit of everything.
• Look for stalls with many locals eating there for the best experience.

This world-class museum showcases a remarkable collection of traditional Korean art alongside contemporary international art. The architecture itself is a highlight, with buildings designed by renowned architects Mario Botta, Jean Nouvel, and Rem Koolhaas. It offers a deep dive into Korean artistic heritage and modern creativity.

• Check for special exhibitions which often require separate tickets.
• Allow ample time to appreciate the distinct architectural styles of each building.

A stylish tree-lined street in the trendy Sinsa-dong neighborhood, known for its upscale boutiques, independent designer shops, chic cafes, and art galleries. It's the perfect place to indulge in some window shopping or find unique fashion items and accessories.

• This area is particularly lively on weekends.
• Many cafes offer excellent people-watching opportunities.

Experience the iconic Gangnam district, made famous by Psy's hit song. Explore the 'Gangnam Style Street' for a taste of Seoul's modern, upscale lifestyle. Then, head to COEX Mall, one of Asia's largest underground shopping malls, featuring the stunning Starfield Library, a must-see for book lovers and Instagrammers.

• The Starfield Library is free to enter and a great spot for photos.
• COEX Mall has a wide variety of dining options, from food courts to sit-down restaurants.

Known as Seoul's Beverly Hills, Cheongdam-dong is an affluent area filled with luxury brand flagships, high-end designer boutiques, trendy cafes, and upscale dining establishments. It's a great place for a sophisticated evening stroll and to soak in the city's glamorous side.

• Explore the 'Fashion Street' for the latest trends.
• Many K-pop entertainment agencies are also located in this area.

This comprehensive museum offers a poignant and informative look at Korea's military history, with a particular focus on the Korean War. Its extensive exhibits include indoor displays and an outdoor exhibition of tanks, aircraft, and artillery. It provides crucial context for understanding Korean society and its past.

• Allocate sufficient time for the outdoor exhibit.
• The museum is very large; prioritize sections if time is limited.

A diverse and vibrant district known for its international atmosphere, unique shops, and wide array of global cuisine. Itaewon offers a fantastic selection of restaurants serving everything from Middle Eastern to Mexican, alongside quirky boutiques and lively bars.

• Explore the side streets for hidden gems and local eateries.
• It's a great place to find international ingredients and specialty foods.

Perched atop Namsan Mountain, this iconic tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul. Ride the cable car up for a scenic journey, then ascend to the observation decks for stunning vistas. It's also famous for its 'love locks' on the terraces.

• Visit during sunset for a magical experience as the city lights up.
• The cable car can have long queues, especially during peak hours.

Seoul's premier shopping district, bustling with energy day and night. It's famous for its cosmetics, fashion, and endless street food stalls. Indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping and sample a variety of Korean street snacks.

• Look out for excellent deals on K-beauty products.
• Be adventurous and try different street food options.