Seoul: What to See in 4 Days - Complete Itinerary

We explored Seoul far and wide, immersing ourselves in its vibrant soul, where futuristic skyscrapers stand alongside ancient temples and traditional villages. The capital of South Korea is a mosaic of history, culture and modernity, ready to surprise every traveller. In this article, we’ll guide you through the city’s best attractions, from the Golden Suguksa Temple to the buzz of Gangnam, including the handy Royal Palace Pass to make the most of your palace visits. At the end, you’ll find a well-structured 4-day itinerary to experience Seoul at its best. Ready? Let’s go!

The best things to see in Seoul

Here’s a list of the must-see attractions that make Seoul unique, perfect for planning your trip.

1. The Royal Palaces

Seoul boasts five magnificent royal palaces, each with its own unique character.

Gyeongbokgung

Known as the “Palace of Shining Happiness”, it’s the largest and most famous of Seoul’s five royal palaces. Inside, alongside the rooms that once housed royals and top officials, you’ll find a garden and the beautiful Gyeonghoeru pavilion, overlooking a small lake, wonderful to admire in every season.

Open 9am-6pm, closed on Tuesdays. The changing of the guard takes place every day at 10am and 2pm.

Changdeokgung

Known as the “Palace of Illustrious Virtue”, it became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997. This building was constructed in the fifteenth century as a secondary residence and is home to the famous secret garden Huwon, once reserved exclusively for the King and court ladies.

If you decide to visit the garden too, keep in mind that booking and an additional ticket are required.

Open 9am-5pm, closed on Mondays.

Changgyeonggung

Built in the 15th century as a residence for widowed queens. Although less grand than other palaces, it has a unique charm with its green spaces and small lake. During Japanese colonial rule, the palace was turned into a zoological and botanical garden, but was later restored to recover its former splendour. A truly special experience is a visit at sunset, when the soft light creates a magical atmosphere.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the greenhouse at the far end of the gardens, past the central pond, to discover a hidden corner of peace and beauty.

Open 9am-9pm (last entry 8pm), closed on Mondays.

Deoksugung

This palace, only designated as the main royal palace at the end of the nineteenth century, sits in the heart of the city and offers an interesting contrast between past and present.

Parts of the structure were rebuilt or altered during the twentieth century, which is why it stands out for blending Western and traditional Korean architectural styles.

Open 9am-9pm, closed on Mondays.

Changing of the guard at the main entrance at 11am, 2pm and 3:30pm.

The Royal Palace Pass: What It Is and Why to Use It

The Royal Palace Pass isn’t a palace, but a handy way to save time and money. It’s a combined ticket giving access to the four royal palaces (Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung) and Jongmyo Shrine for 10,000 won (about 7 euros). Valid for 6 months, it lets you visit the sites at your own pace, skipping the queues for individual tickets. You can buy it at the palace ticket offices.

Good news for travellers over 65: entry to the palaces is free, making the experience even more accessible! An ideal option for anyone wanting to explore Seoul’s royal history without the stress!

read also Guide to Documents and Visas for Travelling to South Korea

2. Bukchon Hanok Village and Ikseon-dong

Bukchon Hanok Village is famous for its traditional houses (hanok), picturesque alleys and breathtaking views. It dates back more than 600 years and sits atop a hill, from which you can enjoy one of the city’s most beautiful (and free) views from above.

A short walk away, Ikseon-dong adds a hipster touch, with over 300 trendy cafés and craft shops, while keeping the charm of the past alive.

3. Jogyesa Temple

In the beating heart of the city, Jogyesa Temple is a corner of Buddhist spirituality. It’s the main temple of the Jogye order, Korea’s Zen Buddhist sect. With its colourful lanterns and calm energy, it’s a fascinating contrast to the surrounding skyscrapers.

4. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

The DDP is a masterpiece of futuristic architecture designed by Zaha Hadid that fully embodies Seoul’s race towards the future. Don’t just admire it from outside, because inside it hosts art exhibitions, interactive installations (some free, some paid) and design shops that make it a paradise for creative souls. At night, it lights up in spectacular colours.

Open every day from 10am to 8pm, closed only on 1 January and Chuseok.

5. Ihwa Mural Village

The Ihwa art district, which until a few years ago was slated for demolition to clear an old, unattractive slum, is now an explosion of colour. In 2006 it was turned into an artistic landmark, and today vibrant murals decorate its narrow streets, telling local stories. It’s perfect for taking photos and discovering Seoul’s street art.

You can reach the district on foot, or better yet by walking along part of the old city walls, which will give you a real sense of the city’s rush towards modernity and the contrasts found throughout the country.

6. Namsangol Hanok Village

Often overlooked in favour of the more popular Bukchon Village, it’s actually the most beautiful hanok village of them all. Namsangol takes you back in time with perfectly preserved traditional houses, gardens and cultural performances. Ideal for immersing yourself in the Korea of old.

Time travel
Besides the old houses, the wonderful garden and the chance to try your hand at traditional games ( and yes, we tried them too  ), this village is also home to a Time Capsule containing 600 objects representing Seoul, buried 15 metres underground on 29 November 1994 to celebrate the 600th anniversary of Seoul as Korea’s capital. The Time Capsule is due to be dug up on 29 November 2394, to mark Seoul’s 1000th anniversary. Shame, we won’t be around for that one 😅

7. Myeongdong: the home of skincare

Myeongdong is a shopping temple, especially for Korean cosmetics. Here you’ll find brands like Etude House and Innisfree, plus street food sold from 5pm onwards, delicious (and spicy) like tteokbokki, even though prices are noticeably higher than in other parts of Seoul. (guide in Italian)

8. Gangnam District

Made famous by Psy’s song, Gangnam is the neighbourhood of the wealthy and the stylish. Luxury boutiques, trendy restaurants and lively nightlife make it perfect for a glamorous evening out. Don’t miss the statue dedicated to the song, the striking Bongeunsa Temple and the Starfield Library in COEX Mall. The latter, with its towering shelves and spectacular design, is a paradise for book lovers, perfect for relaxing or taking memorable photos.

9. Cheonggyecheon Stream

This spot is truly one of Seoul’s most charming corners, a small island of peace set within the city’s traffic. Once a motorway, today the Cheonggyecheon is an urban stream lined with paths, bridges and soft lighting. A walk here, especially in the evening, is a genuinely refreshing experience.

10. Seochon

Known as the “Western Village”, Seochon keeps the charm of old Seoul intact. This district, once home to artists and intellectuals, today hosts small independent art galleries, literary cafés, traditional craft shops and vintage bookstores. We’d recommend it if, like us, you have a slightly nostalgic, retro soul.

11. Golden Suguksa Temple

An oasis of calm set in nature, Suguksa is a lesser-known Buddhist temple, ideal for starting your trip at a slower pace. Its golden decorations shine under the sun, creating an atmosphere that invites reflection.

Suguksa, which means “Temple of National Protection”, was rebuilt on its current site in 1900, after a fire. It’s worth a visit, even a short one, to soak up a peaceful place and enjoy a pleasant stroll through its quiet gardens.

4-Day Seoul Itinerary

Now that you know the attractions, here’s how to organise them into a 4-day itinerary, balancing history, culture and modernity. To get around easily, we recommend using the Seoul subway, easy and reliable (guide in Italian).

Day 1: Royal palaces and art

• Morning: Visit Gyeongbokgung, the most iconic palace. If you’re lucky, catch the changing of the guard ceremony. With the Royal Palace Pass, entry is quick.
• Afternoon: Head to Changdeokgung to explore the secret garden (book ahead). Then, stroll through the nearby Ihwa Mural Village for an artistic touch.
• Evening: Enjoy Changgyeonggung at night, when the lights create a magical atmosphere.

Day 2: History and modernity

• Morning: Discover Namsangol Hanok Village, immersing yourself in traditional Korea. Continue on to Deoksugung, a more intimate but equally charming palace.
• Afternoon: Head over to the futuristic DDP, exploring exhibitions and design shops.
• Evening: Stroll along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

Day 3: Tradition and spirituality

• Morning: Start with the Golden Suguksa Temple for a dose of nature and spirituality. Continue on to Jogyesa Temple, admiring the lanterns and the Zen atmosphere.
• Afternoon: Explore Bukchon Hanok Village and Ikseon-dong. Wander among the hanok houses, and stop for a Korean-style coffee.
• Evening: Wrap up with dinner in Myeongdong, trying street food and browsing the skincare shops.

Day 4: Luxury and culture

• Morning: Start with Seochon, exploring its authentic streets and stopping at a traditional café.
• Afternoon: Visit the Starfield Library at COEX Mall, a paradise for photos and relaxing. Then, immerse yourself in the luxury of Gangnam, among boutiques and trendy restaurants.
• Evening: Finish with an elegant dinner in Gangnam or one last stroll around Myeongdong for some last-minute shopping.

Final Tips

Seoul is a city that surprises at every turn, and this itinerary covers the best of it in just 4 days. To plan things well, remember to download these essential apps and read up on how to get a T-Money card to save money on the subway (guides in Italian). The Royal Palace Pass will save you time, leaving you more of it to enjoy the city. Pack comfortable shoes and let yourself be won over by the magic of Seoul!