The Comprehensive 5 Day Itinerary for Seoul, Korea - What to See, Eat & Experience in 2025

 If you’re planning the ultimate 5-day itinerary for Seoul, Korea, you've come to the right place.

This isn’t a simplified itinerary for Korea - it’s a carefully optimized flow that helps you experience historic Seoul, creative Seoul, and modern Gangnam Seoul in a way that feels natural, inspiring, and culturally meaningful.

If you have less than 5 days to experience Seoul, then I recommend picking about 3 attractions from the comprehensive itinerary below. If you have 5 full days, then I recommend you follow it in order. But, you can also build your own 2-day, 3-day itinerary from the list below!

DAY 1 - Royal Palaces, Hanok Culture & Iconic Seoul Night View

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁)

Gyeongbokgung is the most important royal palace in Korean history, built in 1395 during the early Joseon Dynasty. It embodies Korea’s royal legacy, political order, and deep connection to nature, with views of Bugaksan Mountain rising behind the palace walls. It is the essential starting point for understanding Seoul.

Why this place matters

• Primary royal palace of Korea’s Joseon Dynasty
• Designed with pungsu-jiri (Korean feng shui)
• The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at 10:00 AM is historically accurate and visually stunning
  

What to expect here

• Majestic throne hall, palace courtyards, lotus pond pavilion
• Traditional architecture against a dramatic mountain backdrop
• One of the most photographed cultural sites in all of Korea
  

How to get there

• If you are staying in hotels in Jongno or Gwanghwamun, it will take about 3~5 minutes walking (use the Map links: Google / Naver)
• If you are staying in other areas, take Line 3 → get off at Gyeongbokgung Station (경복궁역) → Exit 5 → palace entrance is directly in front

Want to get more out of your visit here?

• Take the guided morning tour to get the full history explanation
• Make it more memorable with Hanbok, photo shoots, and the guided tour.

2. Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을)

Hanok means (Korean traditional homes). Bukchon is a 600-year-old Hanok neighborhood, home to real residents, not a recreated tourist village. It is one of the best places in Korea to see living traditional architecture still preserved in everyday life.

Why this place matters

• Original Joseon-era noble residential area
• Still inhabited — not a staged attraction
• Offers the most iconic “hanok rooftops against city skyline” views
  

What to expect here

• Stone-paved alleys, peaceful and historic
• Elevated viewpoints like Gahoe-dong 31-gil
• Calm atmosphere - respectful walking is important
• Open to the public 10:00~17:00 daily

How to get there

• Walk 10 minutes from Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Follow the signs toward 북촌한옥마을 (Bukchon Hanok Village) uphill
• Use maps to help guide you there: Google / Naver
  

3. Insadong (인사동) — Traditional Korean Art & Teahouse Culture

Insadong is where traditional Korean artisans, tea masters, and calligraphers have gathered for centuries. It is one of the remaining districts in Seoul where authentic Korean culture has been preserved in daily life, not just for tourists.

Here is the video of Insadong.

Why this place matters

• Seoul’s historic center of Korean tea, pottery, hanji (traditional paper), and calligraphy
• Visited by local intellectuals and cultural collectors, not just tourists
• Perfect spot for an authentic hanjeongsik (traditional multi-course lunch) or Korean-style tea ceremony
  

What to expect here

• Hanok teahouses with quiet courtyard interiors
• Shops selling ceramics, brushes, traditional stationery, and Hanbok accessories
• A uniquely calm and elegant cultural atmosphere
  

How to get there

• From Bukchon Hanok Village, walk 15 minutes (Maps: Google / Naver)
• From somewhere else: Line 3 → Anguk Station (안국역) → Exit 6 → Insadong-gil begins immediately
  

Want to get more out of your visit here?

• Stay longer in Insadong to try more food, teas, and discover hidden alleys

4. Ikseon-dong Hanok Village (익선동 한옥거리)

Ikseon-dong is a 1920s hanok neighborhood that has been reborn by local chefs, designers, and artisan brands. Even as a Korean person, I am truly amazed by the mix of modern life with tradition every time I visit this place.

Why this place matters

• A real, century-old hanok district, now home to Seoul’s most atmospheric cafés
• Not a tourist reconstruction - lived in, reborn naturally through design
• One of the most photogenic and romantic places in central Seoul
  

What to expect here

• Extremely narrow hanok alleyways lined with hidden cafés and dessert bars
• Beautiful dessert cafés, natural wine bars, and handcrafted lifestyle shops with Hanok design
• Warm lighting and slow tempo - ideal for walking and discovery (well...you won't be able to walk fast as the alleys are somewhat narrow)

How to get there

• Walk 6 minutes from Insadong along pedestrian alleys (Maps: Google / Naver)
• From elsewhere: Line 1 / Line 3 / Line 5 → Jongno 3-ga Station (종로3가역) → Exit 4 → walk 3 minutes into 익선동
  (Total travel time: ~8–10 minutes)

Day 1 Evening - Best Activities for an Evening in Seoul

The way you finish the night defines how you remember your first day in Seoul. You can choose between a cinematic skyline moment or the cool river breeze with the Han River night cruise. Trust me, you can't go wrong with either one.

Option A - N Seoul Tower (남산타워) Observatory at Namsan Mountain

N Seoul Tower is Korea’s most iconic night view, set atop Namsan Mountain - where you can see the entire city light up beneath you.

Why this place matters

• Built in 1969, opened to the public in 1980
• The most filmed Seoul landmark in K-dramas
• Offers the clearest full-circle skyline view of the city
  

What to expect here

• Golden hour glow → night-time neon transition
• The famous Locks of Love terrace just below the tower
• Cable car ride makes the journey feel cinematic, not just scenic

How to get there

• Walk 8 minutes from Ikseon-dong to Jongno 3-ga Station (종로3가역. It will have lines 1/3/5) →
• Take Line 3 → 2 stops to Euljiro 3-ga (을지로3가역)
• Transfer to Line 2 → 1 stop to Myeongdong Station (명동역) → Exit 3
• Walk 8 minutes uphill to Namsan Cable Car Station (남산 케이블카)
• Take the cable car to the N Seoul Tower platform (Get your ticket for the cable car and the observatory)

Option B - Banpo Hangang River Night Picnic (반포 한강공원)

If you want to experience real local Seoul - not just sightseeing - head to the Hangang River, where locals unwind deeply after work with chimaek (chicken + beer) delivered straight to their picnic mat. When you go there (if you can't order fried chicken) stop by the convenience store to buy yourself a drink and some snacks, sit down at the park, and enjoy the Han River scenery!

Why this place matters

• Hangang culture is the soul of Seoul — this is how real locals relax
• Home to the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain — the world’s longest LED bridge fountain
• This is where Seoul feels calm, warm, human — not just impressive
  

What to expect here

• Locals eating, laughing, dating, relaxing on picnic mats
• Peaceful night river breeze + skyline + live music ambience

• If you can order delivery, they will deliver your food to the grassy picnic area, don't worry!
  

How to get there

• Walk 6 minutes from Ikseon-dong to Jongno 3-ga Station (종로3가역, it's a transfer station for Lines 1/3/5)
• Take Line 1 → 4 stops to Express Bus Terminal Station (고속터미널역) → Exit 8-1 or 8-2
• Walk 12 minutes straight toward Banpo Hangang Park (반포한강공원 - Maps: Google / Naver)

DAY 2 - Trendsetting Seoul: Youth Culture, Street Food, and Night Energy

1. Hongdae Street & Gyeongui Line Forest Park (홍대 & 경의선숲길공원)

If Day 1 was about Seoul’s heritage, begin your Day 2 in Hongdae, where Seoul’s youth culture lives and evolves in real time, driven by street performances put on by independent artists, dancers, musicians, and digital trendsetters. It is raw, expressive, and constantly changing - no two days are ever the same.

Why this place matters

• Home to Hongik University (홍익대) — Korea’s #1 art & design school
• Birthplace of K-indie street performance, dance battles, and fashion subculture
• Trends start here before they spread to the rest of Korea

What to expect here

• Buskers, dancers, and illustrators performing live in the streets
• Minimalist dessert cafés, thrift fashion shops, indie vinyl stores
• Young locals, students, travelers — a true melting pot of creative energy
• Golden hour at Gyeongui Line Forest Park → warm light across trees & picnicking locals

How to get there

• From anywhere in Seoul, go to the nearest subway station →  find your way to transfer to Line 2 (green).
• When you get to a transfer station to Line 2 transfer to Line 2 →  get off at the Hongik Univ. Station (홍대입구역) 
  • Exit 8 or 9 to start your journey at Hongdae street
  • Exit 3 to start your journey at Gyeongui Line Forest Park (경의선숲길공원) 
• Maps: Google / Naver

2. Myeongdong (명동) - Global Street Food & K-Beauty Capital

From the youth cultural trendsetting scene, shift to Myeongdong, the most famous street food + beauty shopping district in Korea - alive from late afternoon through night.

Why this place matters

• International street food center - every major Korean trend goes global from here
• The origin of K-beauty - this is where the spread of K-beauty started, with global influencers buying and filming here daily
• Iconic filming location for K-pop content & fashion street interviews
  

What to expect here

• Street foods galore - Tteokbokki, cheese corndogs, hotteok, tornado potatoes, grilled skewers, etc.
• Skincare shopping heaven - Olive Young, Innisfree, Etude House, Banila Co, Sulwhasoo 
• Limited car traffic → lively open-street market vibe perfect for evening energy

How to get there

• Walk 5 minutes back to Hongik Univ. Station (홍대입구역)
  Take Line 2 → ride 5 stops to Euljiro 1-ga Station (을지로입구역) → Exit 6 or 7 into Myeongdong shopping street
• Maps: Google / Naver

3. Cheonggyecheon Stream (청계천)

After the shopping and food at Myeongdong, cool down at the serene urban stream that was reclaimed from being buried under a highway overpass. Now, it is one of the world’s most praised city restoration projects.

Why this place matters

• Global model for urban eco-restoration - Seoul removed a concrete highway to revive this river
• Naturally cooler temperature & peaceful flow - ideal contrast after crowds
• Loved by locals and couples in the evenings
  

What to expect here

• 10 km long illuminated stream, lined with stone walkways and soft lighting
• Locals sit barefoot with snacks beside the water
• A perfect sensory break before your next night experience
  
• If you get lucky, you may see live performances, light shows, etc.

How to get there

• Walk 8 minutes from Myeongdong shopping street toward Euljiro 1-ga Station
• Follow the signs to Cheonggyecheon (청계천 입구), a clearly marked walking route
• Maps: Google / Naver

4.  Hipjiro / Euljiro Bar Alley (힙지로,을지로 노가리 골목 & 을지로 3·4가 일대)

Hipjiro (힙지로) is what locals call the ultra-hip revival of old industrial Euljiro — once full of printing shops and tool vendors, now transformed into neon-lit alleyways of beer microbars, tinned-fish pubs, KFC (Korean Fried Chicken), and underground food joints. This is Seoul’s most authentic 'chill after work with beer' night culture, and it is 100% local-approved.

* If you are not into drinking (or traveling with kids, I recommend checking out the Gwanghwamun Square (광화문 광장 - Maps: Google / Naver) to explore more of the culture (it's right in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace's main entrance) and find restaurants in the alleys to the side of the Square.

Why this place matters

• True Seoul local nightlife — zero tourist polishing, raw & real
• Print shops & industrial workshops by day → hidden bars & underground food by night
• Favored by young creatives, film directors, designers, and trend hunters
  

What to expect here

• Old factory signs still up — gritty aesthetic, not polished
• Hip natural wine bars, retro pubs, craft makgeolli bars in alley basements
• Fully walk-in culture — no reservations, no luxury — pure vibe
• This is NOT Itaewon — this is the Seoul that locals actually love right now

How to get there

• Walk 10 minutes from Cheonggyecheon Stream downstream → follow signs toward Euljiro 3-ga / 4-ga (을지로3가 / 4가)
• OR Take Line 2 from Euljiro 1-ga (을지로입구역) → get off at Euljiro 3-ga Station (을지로3가역) → Exit 9 → first right into the alleys
• Maps: Google / Naver

DAY 3 — Gangnam, Temple Serenity & Seoul’s Trendsetting Spots

1. Bongeunsa Temple (봉은사)

Start Day 3 with balance - a 1,200-year-old Buddhist temple directly facing Seoul’s business hub of Samseong (where COEX, the convention center is located) and skyscrapers. It is one of the most surreal contrasts in Seoul: ancient serenity standing eye-to-eye with modern ambition.

Why this place matters

• Founded in 794 AD, still an active temple, not just a heritage site
• Deeply respected by locals — morning chants and prayer still practiced daily
• One of the best places to feel traditional Korean spirituality without leaving the city
  

What to expect here

• Towering golden Buddha statue, lantern-lined courtyards
• Monks chanting during early morning ceremonies (if you time it right)
• The surreal temple with the skyscrapers' skyline experience unique to Seoul
  

How to get there

• Take the subway from anywhere in Seoul → Go to Bongeunsa Station (봉은사역, Line 9) → Exit 1 → walk 2 minutes straight to the temple entrance
• Maps: Google / Naver

2. COEX Mall & Starfield Library (스타필드 도서관)

Directly across from Bongeunsa is the COEX and the COEX Mall. COEX is one of Korea's largest hubs for MICE (Meetings, Incentives Travels, Conferences, and Exhibitions.

Inside the COEX Mall, there is Starfield Library, one of Seoul’s most iconic modern architecture spaces, with 15-meter-tall walls of books and a wide open public space.

If you are traveling with your kids, I recommend the SEA LIFE Aquarium at the COEX Mall.

Here is a video of the COEX Mall I filmed:

Why this place matters

• A cultural landmark, not just a mall — people visit just to be here
• Loved by designers, writers, photographers, and remote workers
• The library is a large open space for everyone, no purchase required

What to expect here

• Global restaurants, boutique dessert cafés, shopping, movie theater, etc., inside COEX Mall
• Massive book walls, floor-to-ceiling, like a movie scene
• Open public culture space — relaxing, inspiring, social

How to get there

• Walk across the street from Bongeunsa's main entrance (exit) → You will easily find the entrance to the mall.  (No subway, bus, or taxi needed, it takes 3~4 minutes walking)
• Maps: Google / Naver

3. Seongsu-dong (성수동) — Seoul’s “Brooklyn” of Today

Seongsu-dong used to be considered an industrial place (at least when I was growing up), but now it's Seoul’s most 'hip' district. The industrial factory zone was reborn into a creative neighborhood of artisan cafés, design studios, concept fashion stores, and architectural transformations.

Why this place matters

• Recognized as “the Brooklyn of Seoul” by global publications
• Prominent brands like Nike, Gentle Monster (Sunglasses), Amore Pacific (Beauty), and Vogue Korea launch concept stores
• Korea’s center of fashion, coffee, and lifestyle innovation in 2025
  

What to expect here

• Concrete factory buildings converted into high-art cafés & lifestyle brands
• Minimalist, architectural coffee spaces - designed for slow living + aesthetic satisfaction
• Often, pop-up exhibitions and store, art installations, brand collaborations happen
  

How to get there

• Walk back underground to Bongeunsa Station (봉은사역) → Take Line 9 → ride 1 stop to Seolleung Station (선릉역)
  Transfer to Line 2 → ride 3 stops to Seongsu Station (성수역)
  Exit 3 or 4 → walk 3–5 minutes into café streets
• Maps: Google / Naver

4. Final Night - Lotte World Tower (롯데월드타워) + Seokchon Lake + Lotte Mall

End your final night with the ultimate modern Seoul experience. A memorable luxury finale that feels like the city is sending you off with a final postcard moment.

The place is located in Jamsil, and the Lotte group has been trying to turn this place into the 'Lotte Town'.

If you would rather spend the day here, then you can enjoy shopping & food at the Lotte World Tower & Malls, but you can also go to Lotte World, Korea's largest indoor theme park.

I used to live in this area, and Seokchon Lake was my favorite place to go for a jog. If you are a runner, try running around the lake without stopping...you will probably die!!! (Just kidding...it's just massive).

Why this place matters

• Lotte World Tower is the Tallest building in Korea (123 floors), a symbol of the wealth & ambition of the Lotte group
• Seokchon Lake is one of Seoul’s biggest lakes. It's just great to hang out at any time of the year, but if you are there in late April to mid-May, you will be able to experience the lake beautified with cherry blossoms.
• There are two Lotte Malls in the area, all within walking distance. (I recommend going to the mall that is connected to the Lotte World Tower. It's bigger and more newer)
  

What to expect here

• Seoul Sky Observatory - glass floor, 360° skyline, insane night photography potential (get your ticket before you go)
• Seokchon Lake Night Walk right outside — mirror-like lake reflecting the tower’s lights
• Luxury shopping or dessert stop inside Lotte World Mall
• A truly cinematic, emotionally satisfying ending to your 3 days in Seoul
• If you didn't get to see the aquarium at the COEX mall, then you can check out Lotte World's Aquarium
  

How to get there

• Walk 5 minutes to the nearest station → take Line 2 to Jamsil Station (잠실역) → Exit 2 → step directly into Lotte World Tower & Mall
• Seokchon Lake is just outside via a connected glass walkway
• Maps: Google / Naver

DAY 4 — West & Central Seoul: Markets and Museums

1. Mangwon Market (망원시장) — Everyday Seoul Food Culture

Whenever I visit a city or area, I stop by the most prominent traditional or local market. There are many markets in Seoul, but since we are focusing on the west side of Seoul, I recommend Mangwon Market.

Mangwon Market is a true neighborhood market where locals buy fresh produce, snacks, and simple comfort foods. It’s unpolished and friendly, and prices reflect what real Seoul people actually pay. Great for a late breakfast or casual lunch.

Why this place matters

• Authentic local market (not a tourist performance)
• A snapshot of daily Seoul food life—vendors know their regulars
• Budget-friendly way to taste many small bites

What to expect here

• Street Food - Hotteok, croquettes, tteokbokki, fish cakes, fresh gimbap
• Narrow aisles, lively vendor chatter, handwritten signs
• Clean, casual, no-frills atmosphere
  

How to get there

• Find the nearest subway station and get on Line 2 (Green Line) → get to Hapjeong (합정역) → Transfer to Line 6 → ride 1 stop to Mangwon (망원역) → Exit 2 
• Use the Map (navigation) to get there on foot (3~5 minute walk)
  • Maps: Google / Naver

2. Mangridangil (망리단길) — Seoul’s Chill Local Café & Small Brand Street

About 10 years ago, many of the so-called 'hip' streets with unique cafes, restaurants, and shops started being called '-ridangil' with the first letter (or sound) of the region. In Mangwon, 'Mang-ridangil' became the 'hip' street of this region.

Right next to the Mangwon Market, Mangridangil (망리단길) is one of Seoul’s most relaxed and genuinely local lifestyle streets, filled with independent dessert cafés, small-batch bakeries, natural wine bars, and vintage-inspired concept shops. Unlike the more famous tourist zones, this area feels soft, slow, and community-centered — the kind of place Seoul locals go to on a Saturday afternoon with zero rush.

Why this place matters

• A truly neighborhood-born café street, not built for tourists
• Known for creative dessert labs, minimalist coffee studios, and micro local brands
• Offers the “Seoul slow life” vibe — warm, walkable, human

What to expect here

• Cafés - Artisan gelato, sourdough, brûlée tarts, soft cream croissants
• Small lifestyle shops selling ceramics, fair design objects, indie fashion
• Young locals chatting on stoops and sidewalk benches
• Perfect for lingering without a schedule

How to get there

• Walk 2–3 minutes directly from Mangwon Market’s main exit street
• Just follow the signs and crowd flow toward 망리단길 (Mangridangil) cafe alley
• Maps: Google / Naver

3. National Museum of Korea (국립중앙박물관, 용산) — Korea’s Flagship Museum

Move to Yongsan for the country’s premier history & art museum, a serene complex with lakeside paths and a world-class permanent collection. Even museum-light travelers appreciate the architecture, gardens, and well-curated highlights.

If you are into history, this place will give you a chance to better understand the history and heritage of Korea.

Why this place matters

• Largest museum in Korea with deep, accessible storytelling
• Free entry to the permanent collection (special exhibits paid)
• Calming park-like grounds - a reset in the middle of the city

What to expect here

• Ancient gold crowns, celadon, Buddhist art, calligraphy
• Lake, stone pagodas, sculpture garden for photos
• Café & bookstore for a cultured mid-afternoon pause

How to get there

• Get on the subway from Mangwon Station (망원역) → Samgakji Station (삼각지역) →  Transfer to Line 4 (Blue Line) → get to Ichon Station (이촌역) → Exit 2 → Follow museum signs → 8 minutes on foot to the National Museum of Korea
• Maps: Google / Naver

If you prefer to have a guided tour of the museum, check this out.

4.  Itaewon Night (이태원) - International Culture in Seoul

Finish Day 4 in Itaewon. Itaewon is where foreigners and young Koreans go to mingle. You will find designer restaurants, minimalist cafés, and relaxed rooftops with Namsan views. It’s upscale, yet comfortable, very local-expat, very Seoul.

Why this area matters

• Home to restaurants with international dishes
• A favorite for Seoul chefs and designers on off-days

What to expect here

• Modern Korean dining, natural wine bars, gelato labs
• Terrace cafés, casual rooftops, soft neighborhood lights
  

How to get there

• From the National Museum of Korea, walk 8 minutes back to Ichon (이촌역, Line 4) → ride 2 stops to Samgakji Station (삼각지역) → Transfer to Line 6 (Brown Line) towards Itaewon → ride  stop to Itaewon Station (이태원역) → Exit 3 
• Maps: Google / Naver

DAY 5 - Enjoy Nature Within the City & Finish with Lights and Luxury

1. Seoul Forest (서울숲) - Slow Morning in Seoul’s Urban Nature

Start your final day in one of the most beloved local nature spaces in the city — Seoul Forest, a calm, design-forward park surrounded by trees, deer enclosures, cafés, and soft morning light. It feels peaceful and local, like seeing how Seoul actually breathes.

Why this place matters

• Seoul’s most balanced nature-meets-lifestyle park
• Loved by locals, couples, early-morning walkers, and photographers
• Surrounded by minimalist coffee shops & calm brunch spots, not tourist traps
• Many celebrities live in luxurious apartment buildings in this area

What to expect here

• Tree-lined walking paths, deer garden, lakeside decks
• People walking dogs, doing light stretching, reading quietly
• Natural yet modern — a very “real life in Seoul” morning

How to get there

• Get on the subway Line 2 (Green) or Su-in Bundang Line (Bright Yellow, 수인분당선)
  • If you get on Line 2, go to Ttukseom Station (뚝섬역, Line 2) → Exit 8 → walk 5–7 minutes straight to Seoul Forest main gate
  • If you get on the Su-in Bundang Line (Bright Yellow, 수인분당선), go to Seoul Forest (서울숲) Station → Exit 4 (walk through an underground shopping area)  → cross the street
• Maps: Google / Naver

2. Apgujeong Rodeo Street (압구정 로데오 거리) - Quiet Luxury, Boutiques & Refined Cafés

Shift into Seoul’s luxury district. Apgujeong Rodeo Street, home to flagship Korean designer maisons, high-end concept cafés, quiet architectural dessert spots, and sophisticated local fashion clientele. 

When Korean people think of the term 'Gangnam', 'rich and expensive real estate' are the first few words that come to our minds. But, if you ask Korean people about Apgujeong, many will think 'super-rich and luxurious'. It's called a 'Rodeo Street' for a reason.

Why this place matters

• Epicenter of Korean luxury fashion & high-end cosmetic culture
• Frequented by stylists, celebrities, and agency people — but discreet
• Subtle, curated, elegant — not touristy or chaotic

What to expect here

• Boutique designer storefronts, modern patisseries, flagship cafés
• Minimalist streets with curated music and premium dessert bars
• Much calmer than Gangnam’s bright energy 

How to get there

• Get on the Su-in Bundang Line (Bright Yellow, 수인분당선) from the Seoul Forest (서울숲) Station → 1 stop to Apgujeong Rodeo Station (압구정로데오역) → Exit 5
  Walk 5 minutes into the luxury district
• Maps: Google / Naver

3. Gangnam Station (강남역) - High-Energy Modern Seoul Finale

If you have been following K-pop for a lo,ng time, you' 've probably heard of 'Gangnam Style' by Psy. When people think of Gangnam, the area near Gangnam Station is usually the first thing that comes to their mind.

Anway...End your final night in Gangnam, the heart of Seoul’s high-energy modern lifestyle, filled with late-night dessert cafés, Korean BBQ restaurants that are open 24 hours, flagship beauty stores, bright neon shopping streets, and effortlessly confident city energy. This is what the Seoul people imagine when they think of a pulsating Korean city at night.

Why this place matters

• Seoul’s busiest subway station & the cultural capital of modern city life
• A must-see contrast to the soft elegance of Apgujeong
• The best place for a final night dessert, bar, or simply “feel Seoul fully alive” moment

What to expect here

• Late-night beauty & fashion stores still open past 10 PM
• Digital billboards, street performers, and underground shopping arcades
• Korean BBQ restaurants and bars open 24 hours a day

How to get there

• From Apgujeong Rodeo Station (압구정로데오역, Suin–Bundang Line) → ride 3 stops to Seolleng Station
• Transfer to Line 2 (Green) toward Gangnam Station (강남역, Line 2)→ ride 2 stops to Gangnam Station (강남역)→ Exit 10 or 11 → you’re instantly in the heart of night-time Gangnam

This 5-day itinerary for Seoul, Korea, is designed for you to hit all the 'hot spots' of Seoul and experience the real soul of the city, not just the tourist surface.

Whether you originally searched for a 1-day itinerary for Seoul, Korea or wanted more than a 1-day itinerary for Korea, this expanded journey delivers the perfect first-time experience of Seoul, emotionally rich, visually powerful, and unforgettable.

If you have any other spots you want to recommend, please leave a comment below, and I will check it out!