3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

16/5/15 9:27 am3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Page 1 of 31http://www.tripadvisor.com/Guide-g294197-k35-Seoul.html

Chris J's City Tips

Asia South Korea Seoul Travel Guides

3 Days in Seoulby Chris J, Seoul, South Korea

Exclusively commissioned by TripAdvisor98%

Found this guide helpful

Three days may be just enough time to graze the surface of such an amazing city, but follow my guide tothe best sights and spots, and yours will be a truly memorable trip to Seoul.

Good for

History Buff Thrill Seeker Shopping Fanatic Foodie Peace and Quiet Seeker Thrifty Traveler Trendsetter

Like a Local

25 Places

6 City Tips

Map data 2015 Google, SK planet2 km

Invest in a T-Money transportation card (available at subway stations or convenience stores) to allow for quickand cheaper boarding, disembarking, and transferring.

Take advantage of the Airport Railroad Link, which goes from Incheon International Airport to Seoul Station.

Popular tourist areas will usually have an information kiosk with maps, guides, and workers able to assist you.

Taking a cab is a great idea when you're short on time and need to get somewhere that would normally requiretransferring. Just make sure you avoid traffic rush hours!

Tipping is not necessary when eating out in Korea, and any tax and service charges are almost alwaysincluded in the final bill.

Koreans normally keep to themselves, but will generally be more than happy to assist tourists. Usually theyounger locals will speak better English.

All Seoul Guides

3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide



Day 1



Good for

Chris J Says:

Must See Thrifty Traveler History Buff Couples Art and Architecture Lover

Tips

A number of free guided tours, in multiple languages, are offered throughout the day. Check the website for moreinformation and schedules.

A number of ceremonies, such as the changing of the guards, are held near Gwanghwamun Gate. Their homepage hasup to date schedules.

Gyeongbokgung is closed on Tuesdays.

Plan to stay: 1-2 hours

From the community

Ranked #5 of 616 things to do in Seoul2557 Reviews

Certificate of Excellence 2014

Gyeongbokgung Palace 05/14/2015Had To Visit Twice - That's How Enchanting This Place Is:) 05/14/2015

Address:161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-guSeoulSouth Korea

Phone:02-3700-3900

Hours:Wed - Mon9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Other:Website

See more photos

Seoul is home to five palaces from the Joseon Dynasty, and Gyeongbokgung is the largest one of these. It also

served as the main administrative palace of the dynasty. The palace has a fascinating history, and its splendid

buildings, living quarters, pavilions, and palace grounds make for some stunning sights.

Gyeongbokgung PalaceCastles, History Museums, Historic Sites



Good for

Chris J Says:

Peace and Quiet Seeker Hidden Gems Solo Friends History Buff Couples Senior Family

Tips

Artefacts and exhibits are extensively labelled with English descriptions.

The museum is closed on Tuesdays.

Admission to the folk museum is included with your ticket to Gyeongbok Palace.

Foreign language tours, as well as rental audio guides, are available.


From the community



Great place to learn history 05/14/2015great museum! 05/12/2015

Address:37 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-guSeoul 110-820South Korea

Phone:02-3704-3114

Other:Website

See more photos

Located inside the Gyeongbok Palace, the National Folk Museum of Korea holds more than 4,000 artefacts in its

collection, offering a comprehensive insight into how Koreans used to live. Visitors can also get the inside track on a

variety of customs and rituals, from weddings to funerals, and even learn about interesting local superstitions.

The National Folk Museum of KoreaHistory Museums



Good for

Chris J Says:

Foodie Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Family

Tips

To truly eat like a local, go during the summer when Koreans believe it's best to fight the heat with heat!

Lines can be long at lunch and dinner times, and even more so on weekends. Avoid the peak eating times if possible!

Plan to stay: Less than 1 hour

From the community

Ranked #42 of 2,129 restaurants in Seoul728 Reviews


so yummy! 05/10/2015Best for Ginseng Chicken (Samgyetang) 05/07/2015

Address:85-1 Chebu-dong, Jongro-guSeoulSouth Korea

Phone:02-737-7444

Hours:Sun - Sat10:00 am - 10:00 pm

See more photos

Samgyetang is a popular and nutritious dish: a whole chicken is stuffed with sticky rice, ginseng, chestnuts, jujubes,

and more, and simmered to create a velvety smooth broth. It's revered by locals as both a rejuvenating and tasty

dish, and there's no place that's as famous for it as Tosokchon near Gyeongbok Palace.

TosokchonRestaurants (Asian, Korean)



Good for

Chris J Says:

Foodie Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Shopping Fanatic Family

Art and Architecture Lover

Tips

On weekend afternoons, a number of traditional performances and activities are held for foreign tourists to experiencenear the Insadong entrance.


From the community



Nice walk and street food 05/14/2015Blast into the Past 05/14/2015

Address:Insa-dong, Jongno-guSeoulSouth Korea

See more photos

This older neighborhood is popular for its souvenir and antique shops, galleries, tea shops, and street food carts.

There's also a wide range of Korean restaurants here, some of which specialize in vegetarian, Korean Buddhist

cuisine. For a good mix of shopping, sightseeing, and eating, Insadong can't be beaten.

InsadongPoints of Interest & Landmarks, Neighborhoods, Historic Walking Areas



Good for

Chris J Says:

Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Shopping Fanatic Family

Tips

There're a few places to eat and drink on the first and top floors.

The building is prettier in the evenings when the shop lights are turned on.


From the community


for picture. 03/27/2015Little surprise for shop , art & tea! 03/24/2015

Address:Gwanhun-dong, Jongno-guSeoulSouth Korea

See more photos

This interesting building in Insadong houses more than 70 shops and boutiques selling accessories, traditional tea,

natural soaps, clothing, and more. The spiral layout also makes exploring Ssamji-gil fun and easy.

Ssamji-gilNeighborhoods



Good for

Chris J Says:

Foodie Peace and Quiet Seeker Solo Friends Couples Senior Family

Tips

Ask the servers for recommendations.

Some of the teas are good for particular ailments, such as indigestion.


Address:164, Gwanhun-dong, Jongno-guSeoulSouth Korea

Phone:02-732-5257

Sinyetchatjip is a traditional Korean tea house in Insadong, housed in an authentic Korean hanok (house). It's a

great place to learn about and experience Korean teas, while the quaint and peaceful setting also makes it a great

place to rest.

SinyetchatjipRestaurants (Coffee Shop, Korean)



Good for

Chris J Says:

Peace and Quiet Seeker Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Family Nature Lover

Tips

Visit Cheonggyecheon in the evening to experience a very different atmosphere.


From the community


A riverside park 05/15/2015Nice place 05/15/2015

Other:Website

See more photos

This stream running through Seoul was covered by an overpass until the waters were restored in 2005. Now

Cheonggyecheon is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, acting as a natural refuge from city life. Take a stroll

along its banks, snap a few shots of the ducks and fish, and even dip your toes into the water in warmer weather.

Cheonggyecheon StreamBodies of Water, Historic Walking Areas



Good for

Chris J Says:

Foodie Must See Trendsetter Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Shopping Fanatic

Family

Tips

The street food carts here are some of the city's most famous, selling famed eats such as hoddeok, french fry-encrustedcorn dogs, freshly squeezed lemonade, and more.

The nearby Lotte and Shinsegae department stores are also worth a visit.

Nanta, a popular non-verbal comedic and acrobatic cooking and music show, is held here in the Nanta Theater - worthchecking out if you have time.

Myeongdong is one of the best places to pick up globally popular Korean cosmetics.

Check out Myeongdong Cathedral for a bit of peace and quiet.


From the community


Street you want visiting to do shopping 05/14/2015Many places to explore 05/14/2015

Address:Jung-guSeoulSouth Korea

See more photos

A visit to Seoul wouldn't be complete without a visit to Myeongdong. This all-encompassing neighborhood is one of

Seoul's ultimate places to meet up, shop, eat, and chill. Stores, cafes and restaurants are all stacked atop each other,

creating seemingly endless rows and making the area one of Seoul's top attractions.

Myeongdong: Hyper ShoppingNeighborhoods



Good for

Chris J Says:

Foodie Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Family

Tips

Lines here at lunch and dinner times are extra long - try to come earlier for quicker seating.

A second branch is located just a few meters north of the original branch.

Additional portions of rice and noodles are free.

The dumplings are also popular, and the pungent and extra-garlicky kimchi is famous!


From the community



good korean noodle soup and dumplings? 05/08/2015Quick, tasty & inexpensive meal 05/07/2015

Address:25-2, Myeong-dong 2-ga, Jung-guSeoulSouth Korea

Phone:02-776-5348

Other:Website

See more photos

For more than 40 years, this institution has been churning out its famed knife-cut noodles and dumplings. The

noodles are hand rolled and cut, before being simmered in the delicious beef and vegetable broth. Yum!

Myeongdong Kyoja Main RestaurantRestaurants (Korean)



Good for

Chris J Says:

Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Family Nature Lover

Tips

The cable car is busiest in late afternoon and evening.

To reach the cable cars easily, take the Namsan outdoor elevators (Namsan Oreumi) near the entrance of the Namsan3rd tunnel.


From the community


Nice view of Seoul 05/07/2015Avoid 05/01/2015

Address:San 1-19, Hoehyeon-dong 1-ga, Jung-guSeoulSouth Korea

Phone:02-753-2403


Other:Website

See more photos

The iconic N Seoul Tower, perched atop Namsan, can be accessed by bus or a 1-hour hike, but most visitors choose

to ride this cable car up to the top for the unparalleled views it offers over the city.

Namsan Cable CarTrams



Good for

Chris J Says:

Must See Trendsetter Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Family Nature Lover

Tips

The tower can also be reached via a number of special yellow buses designed to take visitors up the hill. Search forboarding locations online.

The teddy bear museum and the observatory charge separate admission fees.

The tower is most popular on weekends and evenings.


From the community


Namsan Tower 05/15/2015Longest walk ever 05/14/2015

Address:105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-guSeoulSouth Korea

Phone:02-3455-9277

Hours:Sun - Thu10:00 am - 11:00 pmFri - Sat10:00 am - 11:30 pm

Other:Website

See more photos

N Seoul Tower is one of Seoul's most iconic and popular buildings. Sitting atop Namsan, a large hill in central

Seoul, the tower offers some of the best views of the city. In recent years, it's also become a pilgrimage site for lovers

from around the world, who come to place a lock on the fence gates as a symbol of their eternal love. The tower itself

is also home to a famed fine-dining restaurant, a coffee shop, gift shop, teddy bear museum, and a separate

observatory.

N Seoul TowerPoints of Interest & Landmarks, Lookouts



Good for

Chris J Says:

Peace and Quiet Seeker Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Thrill Seeker Senior Family

Tips

Make sure your locker is properly secured and keep a close eye on any personal belongings you decide to carry aroundwith you.

Get a full body dead skin scrub in the hot tub area from a professional scrubber - a popular and uniquely Koreanexperience from which you are guaranteed to emerge squeaky clean!

Weekends are more popular than weekdays.


From the community

Ranked #4 of 188 Spas & Wellness in Seoul57 Reviews

A good but not great introduction to the public bath houseexperience 01/28/2015A Fabulous way to Spend a Day! 01/18/2015

Address:40, Hangang-daero 21nagil, Yongsan-guSeoulSouth Korea

Phone:02-792-0001

Other:Website

See more photos

Tired from traveling? Unwind and relax both your body and mind with a Korean jjimjilbang at Dragon Hill Spa.

After paying, storing your stuff in a locker, and changing into the provided sweat uniforms, simply sit back and

sweat the toxins and fatigue away in one of the many different heated rooms, including jade, charcoal and clay. In

between sweating, you can lounge in the common room, grab a bite to eat and drink in the snack corner, and even

take a nap! When you're finished, try out the many hot tubs and saunas (which are divided by gender), and emerge

rested and clean.

Dragon Hill SpaSpas



Good for

Chris J Says:

Must See Solo Friends History Buff Couples Senior Family

Tips

The museum is closed on Mondays.

You can rent audio guides in English, Japanese, and Chinese.


From the community



Recommend this place 05/14/2015Wow 05/14/2015

See more photos

A fantastic place to learn in-depth about the Korean War, this museum is a must for anyone interested in Korea's

painful and devastating past. The wartime artefacts on display are extensive, from weaponry to letters and

uniforms, with outdoor exhibitions that include aircrafts, tanks, and even a warship.

Day 2

The War Memorial of KoreaMilitary Museums



Address:29, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-guSeoul 140-021South Korea

Phone:02-709-3139

Other:Website



Good for

Chris J Says:

Must See Thrifty Traveler Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Thrill Seeker Shopping Fanatic

Tips

If you want to try your hand at haggling, make sure you pay by cash and let the sellers know. No merchant will be willingto negotiate if you are paying by card.

Food is cheap here, and you can even find an alley dedicated to kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) as well as galchi jorim(braised fish).


From the community


Ripped off in a street food stall. A warning. 05/15/2015Best shopping deals 05/13/2015

Address:Namchang-dongJung-guSeoulSouth Korea

See more photos

The largest traditional market in Korea, this enormous district is located by Seungnyemun, one of the four major

gates of old Seoul. Just about everything can be found here, including dishes, toys, clothing, food gifts, accessories,

and more - all for very reasonable prices. It's a great place to pick up popular Korean souvenirs such as ginseng,

roasted seaweed, and chopsticks, and if you're looking for an inexpensive eye test, its cluster of opticians offer cheap

exams and stylish glasses.

Namdaemun MarketFlea & Street Markets

Benoit Travers



Good for

Chris J Says:

Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Shopping Fanatic Family

Art and Architecture Lover

Tips

Samcheongdong gets busier on weekends.

Samcheong Park, at the end of the road, is a peaceful and quiet area to walk around.

Browse the cluster of free or inexpensive independent art galleries near the Gyeongbok Palace wall - they often hostinteresting exhibitions.


From the community


Lovely shopping experience and great place to have astroll 04/26/2015A very charming place of Seoul 04/15/2015

See more photos

A very popular and old neighborhood, Samcheongdong-gil Road is known as home to many restaurants, shops,

and cafes housed in renovated traditional Korean homes. The atmosphere is both charming and romantic at times,

always with a distinctly Korean feel.

Samcheongdong-gil RoadPoints of Interest & Landmarks



Good for

Chris J Says:

Peace and Quiet Seeker Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Senior Family

Art and Architecture Lover Nature Lover

Tips

As many of these buildings are still residential, be respectful of the homeowners.

Bukchon is located next to Samcheongdong, making it easy to explore both in one day.


From the community



It was nice 05/15/2015Traditional House Overnight 05/14/2015

Address:Samcheong-dong, Jongno-guSeoulSouth Korea

Phone:02-3707-8388

Other:Website

See more photos

For one of the best areas to explore hanoks in Seoul, it's hard to beat the Bukchon neighborhood. Many of the

picturesque hanoks here have been converted into small museums, restaurants, and cafes, allowing you a first-hand

glimpse at the exquisite details and layout of a traditional Korean home.

BukchonNeighborhoods, Historic Walking Areas

Benoit Travers



Good for

Chris J Says:

Must See Luxury Traveler Trendsetter Solo Friends Couples Shopping Fanatic

Tips

Weekends are generally very crowded here.


From the community


Shopping & Desserts! 05/10/2015My Favorite Area in Seoul 05/05/2015

Address:Shinsa-dong, Gangnam-guSeoulSouth Korea

See more photos

In recent years, Korea has become synonymous with hip, and there are few places that better reflect this than

Garosugil. One of the trendiest neighborhoods in Seoul, it's also one of the best spots for trendy travelers to get an

idea of the latest Korean fashions in food and clothing. Browse the many boutiques, grab a bite at some of Seoul's

most popular joints, or sit with a coffee and simply people-watch!

Garosu-gilNeighborhoods



Good for

Chris J Says:

Foodie Must See Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Thrill Seeker

Tips

For seafood to go, the fishmongers will clean and prepare your purchase according to how you want it.

Catch the live seafood auctions in the early twilight hours for some intense bidding action.

You can choose to eat your purchase at the market, by heading to an associated restaurant nearby. Just tell them howyou want your seafood prepared.


From the community


Seafood Fan's Paradise! 05/11/2015Very interesting place with really tasty food 05/11/2015

Address:13-8 Noryangjin-dong, Dongjak-guSeoulSouth Korea

See more photos

The largest and oldest fish and seafood market in Seoul, Noryangjin Fish Market is a must-see for all seafood lovers

and more adventurous travelers! Virtually anything that's edible from the seas of Korea can be found here, via a

seemingly endless number of shops selling the freshest catches available in Seoul. You can stick to the familiar, such

as fish, sashimi, crabs, and shrimp, or go more off-piste with choices such as sea squirt, sea worms, and even the

infamous sannakji (live small octopus)!

Noryangjin Fish MarketFlea & Street Markets



Good for

Chris J Says:

Peace and Quiet Seeker Must See Thrifty Traveler Solo Friends Couples Nature Lover

Tips

Some of the more popular parks include Yeoido, Ttukseom, and Banpo.

Many of the park districts have bikes available to rent for very cheap prices.

Grab a snack or a beer at one of the many convenience stores around.


From the community



Lovely Spot for a Picnic 05/14/2015Great day and night hangout 05/07/2015

Other:Website

See more photos

Hangang Park, one of Seoul's most popular outdoor spaces, comprises of 12 different districts in total, all of which

make great spots to rest, exercise, or simply enjoy the scenery.

Hangang ParkParks



Good for

Chris J Says:

Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Family Nightlife Seeker Nature Lover

Tips

The ferry is most popular late afternoon and evening.

You can purchase snacks and drinks at the shops inside.


From the community

Ranked #1 of 2 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Seoul63 Reviews

Beautiful Light Show . . . But, Overall Just Okay 05/10/2015NIight cruise 04/21/2015

Phone:02-3271-6900

Other:Website

See more photos

The hangang ferry takes you through the heart of Seoul via the Han River and is a fun and memorable boat ride.

It's popular with both tourists and locals - especially families and those on dates - and the ferry has both indoor and

outdoor seating, meaning you can enjoy the journey, whatever the weather.

Eland CruiseBoat Tours



Good for

Chris J Says:

Peace and Quiet Seeker Must See Solo Friends History Buff Couples Senior Family

Tips

The museum is closed on Mondays.

Special exhibitions charge a separate admission.

Tours and audio guides in foreign languages are available.


From the community



So Much to See 05/14/2015Outstanding, and gratis 05/14/2015

Address:137 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-guSeoul 140-026South Korea

Phone:02-2077-9000

Hours:Sun9:00 am - 7:00 pmTue9:00 am - 6:00 pmWed9:00 am - 9:00 pmThu - Fri9:00 am - 6:00 pmSat9:00 am - 9:00 pm

Other:Website

See more photos

The largest museum in Korea (and the sixth largest in the world), this space boasts a massive collection of some

15,000 artefacts and is open to the public for free. The National Museum of Korea offers a good overview of Korea's

wide-spanning, and often complex, history, making it well worth a visit.

Day 3

National Museum of KoreaSpecialty Museums



Good for

Chris J Says:

Peace and Quiet Seeker Must See Like a Local Solo Friends History Buff Couples Senior Family

Nature Lover

Tips

Book in advance for a group tour and you can choose to explore the beautiful Huwon gardens, regarded by many asone of Seoul's most beautiful spots.

The palace is closed on Mondays.


From the community



It was ok 05/15/2015Average cultural site marred by poor tour 05/14/2015

Address:99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-guSeoul 110-360South Korea

Phone:02-762-8261


Other:Website

See more photos

Changdeokgung's beautiful palace grounds were created with a special focus on building around the existing

natural landscape. The result is a harmonious intertwining of Korean architecture and natural beauty, which makes

Changdeokgung a front-runner for the prettiest of Seoul's palaces.

Changdeokgung PalaceCastles, Historic Sites, Gardens, Architectural Buildings, Monuments & Statues



Good for

Chris J Says:

Foodie Must See Thrifty Traveler Like a Local Solo Friends Couples Thrill Seeker

Shopping Fanatic

Tips

Many of the stores are closed on Sundays.


From the community


Traditional foods galore! 05/14/2015Hanbok heaven and great food 05/13/2015

See more photos

Dating back to 1905, Gwangjang Market was Korea's first official traditional market. Today, more than 1,500

shops operate here, selling silk, traditional Korean clothing (hanbok), blankets, and other goods. Walking through

the market is like walking back in time, with many of the shops having been operated by generations of the same

family. The market is also famous for its budget-friendly and delicious food, including sizzling hot mung bean

pancakes, thick blood sausages, bibimbap, and more.

Gwangjang MarketPoints of Interest & Landmarks



Address:6-1 Yeji-dong, Jongno-guSeoulSouth Korea




Good for

Chris J Says:

Foodie Must See Trendsetter Like a Local Friends Couples Thrill Seeker Shopping Fanatic

Nightlife Seeker

Tips

Many clothing stores do not have a changing room. Try to research your Korean size beforehand.

Some sellers are willing to negotiate prices with you, but only if you pay in cash.

Late night/early morning shopping is a popular local activity for the true shopping enthusiast.

If you need to refuel, the major streets are teeming with street food carts, selling all manner of dishes.


From the community


Perfect 05/09/2015Nice surprise! 05/04/2015

See more photos

Seoul is truly a city that never sleeps, and Dongdaemun Shopping Complex is one of the best examples of this. Some

26 shopping malls, with more than 30,000 stores, are located in this active district, making it a true shopper's

paradise. Both wholesale and retailers offer the latest Korean fashion and accessories, plus souvenirs, cosmetics, and

other goods.

Dongdaemun Shopping ComplexShopping Malls



Address:289-3 Jongno 6-ga, Jongno-guSeoulSouth Korea




Good for

Chris J Says:

Foodie Luxury Traveler Friends Couples Senior Family

Tips

Samwon offers special lunch set menus and courses everyday except Sunday - orders must be for a minimum of twopeople.


From the community


Great Korean BBQ 05/11/2015Great Korean BBQ 03/31/2015

Address:623-5 Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-guSeoulSouth Korea

Phone:02-548-3030

Price range:KRW39,344 - KRW1,568,306

Hours:Sun - Sat12:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Other:Website

See more photos

Samwon Garden is one of the most popular restaurants in which to sample the famed Korean barbecue. Its

beautiful Korean garden, complete with pond and waterfall, provides a luxurious but distinctly Korean feel - a

picturesque setting in which to try the ribs and bulgogi, or other authentic Korean dishes, including galbitang,

dwenjang jjigae, nengmyeon, and more.

Samwon Garden Main StoreRestaurants (Korean)



Problem with this guide?

Reviews and advice on hotels, resorts, flights, vacation rentals, travel packages, and more so you can plan and book your perfect trip!

2015 TripAdvisor LLC All rights reserved. TripAdvisor Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.* TripAdvisor LLC is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site... (more)TripAdvisor LLC is not responsible for content on external web sites. Taxes, fees not included for deals content.

3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor

Documents

Transcript of 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Guide on TripAdvisor