01Gyeongbokgung
Palace courtyards are an introduction to royal-era Seoul.
Seoul · a flexible first visit
ASIA✳SOUTH KOREA
Historic palaces, food streets and a fast-moving modern capital.
EXPLORE THE GUIDEHistoric palaces, food streets and a fast-moving modern capital.
Seoul is easier to enjoy when each day focuses on one or two nearby areas. Balance palace visits and historic streets with markets, contemporary neighborhoods and time to sample local food.
Use the ideas below as a starting point and shape the days around your interests and travel dates.
Start with the highlightsThree starting points for a first visit to Seoul.
01Palace courtyards are an introduction to royal-era Seoul.
Seoul · a flexible first visitTraditional houses sit within a lived-in neighborhood that merits respectful visiting.
Seoul · a flexible first visitMusic, shops and cafés give the city a more contemporary evening mood.
Seoul · a flexible first visitA relaxed starting route through Seoul. Check distances and current access before you set the order.
AN IDEA TO MAKE YOUR OWN, NOT A FIXED SCHEDULE.Choose dates around the kind of days you want to have.
Spring and autumn often suit long walks; summers can be hot and wet, while winters are cold.
Check palace opening days and current transport options before fixing your route.
Food is another way into Seoul. These are a few local flavors to look for; menus and availability vary.
Rice topped with vegetables and other ingredients.
Chewy rice cakes in a spicy sauce.
Meat or vegetables cooked and shared at the table.
Check palace opening days and current transport options before fixing your route. Use the route above as a guide, then check current opening hours, transport and conditions for your dates.
Prices, access and local conditions change. Confirm details with official sources and providers before booking.
ILLUSTRATIVE VIEW ✳Gyeongbokgung is one possible first stop. Pair it with Bukchon if the journey works for your day.
Two days can give you an introduction, but the route above is deliberately flexible. Add time if you want to slow down or explore beyond these starting points.
Check palace opening days and current transport options before fixing your route. Check final prices and availability with each provider.
PLAN YOUR TRIP
Find experiences, choose a place to stay and compare flights. Check current details with each provider before you book.
THINGS TO DOThree ways to start exploring. Open an idea to see current activities and availability.
Explore accommodation near Seoul, then choose dates and check availability on Booking.com.
Compare places that fit your dates and budget.
See available staysChoose your departure point and dates, then compare flights on Expedia. You can edit the destination if another airport works better.
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