Ultimate 3-Day South Korea Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Start your adventure at Gyeongbokgung Palace. As the largest of Seoul's Five Grand Palaces, this iconic landmark offers a glimpse into royal Joseon Dynasty life with its elegant architecture and changing of the guard ceremony.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Take a stroll to Bukchon Hanok Village, a picturesque neighborhood filled with hundreds of traditional Korean hanok houses, offering stunning photo spots and a unique sense of old Seoul.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Enjoy a traditional Korean lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang, famed for its comforting ginseng chicken soup in a centuries-old hanok setting.

Tosokchon Samgyetang

Walk off your meal at Insadong Street, a vibrant area with artisan shops, teahouses, and galleries, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and trying traditional teas.

Insadong Street

Experience Seoul’s vibrant night scene at Gwangjang Market, a bustling food market where you can sample local favorites like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap.

Gwangjang Market

Begin with panoramic city views from N Seoul Tower atop Namsan Mountain, where you can enjoy the Love Locks and a scenic cable car ride.

N Seoul Tower

Take a short trip to Starfield Library in COEX Mall, a stunning open public library with soaring bookshelves, perfect for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts.

Starfield Library

For lunch, try Janguhjin Sushi Bar, a hidden gem near COEX serving fresh, affordable sushi in a cozy setting loved by locals.

Janguhjin Sushi Bar

Escape the city bustle at Seoul Forest, a vast urban green space with deer, art installations, and peaceful walking trails.

Seoul Forest

End your day along the illuminated Cheonggyecheon Stream, a restored urban waterway perfect for an evening stroll and people-watching.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Take the train to Suwon and explore Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive walls, gates, and panoramic views of the city.

Hwaseong Fortress

Stop for lunch at Yeonpo Galbi, an acclaimed restaurant specializing in Suwon’s famed beef short ribs (galbi), served grilled at your table.

Yeonpo Galbi

Walk around the charming Haenggung-dong Mural Village, where colorful street art, quaint cafés, and indie boutiques await in a lively, creative neighborhood.

Haenggung-dong Mural Village

Return to Seoul and treat yourself to a classic Korean BBQ dinner at Maple Tree House in Itaewon, renowned for its premium cuts and lively atmosphere.

Maple Tree House