Seoul in 3 days

Start at Gyeongbokgung Palace to catch the royal guard changing ceremony and tour the grounds and National Folk Museum. Walk east to Bukchon Hanok Village to see traditional hanok houses and narrow lanes for photo opportunities.

Stroll down to Insadong for antique shops, tea houses, and craft galleries; stop at Ssamziegil for local crafts and street snacks. Continue to Jogyesa Temple nearby to experience a serene Buddhist temple amid the city.

Head to Cheonggyecheon Stream for a relaxing riverside walk after sunset, then walk or take a short taxi to Gwangjang Market to sample bindaetteok (mung pancake), mayak kimbap, and other street foods.

Visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) to see contemporary architecture and morning exhibitions; explore nearby Dongdaemun Market for fabrics and wholesale fashion. If interested, visit Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun Gate) which is adjacent to the shopping area.

Travel to Myeongdong for intensive shopping, cosmetics stores, and busy street-food stalls for lunch. Afterward take the subway to COEX Mall in Gangnam to visit the Starfield Library and, if time permits, the COEX Aquarium.

Stay in Gangnam to experience dinner at a Korean barbecue restaurant and explore Apgujeong or Garosu-gil for trendy cafés and nightlife options.

Begin with a relaxing bike ride or walk along the Han River parks (Yeouido Hangang Park recommended) and, on weekends, check out local markets or picnickers. Optionally take a short Han River cruise from Yeouido Dock for city views.

Head to Namsan and take the cable car or hike up to N Seoul Tower for panoramic views; explore Namsan Park trails and return toward Myeongdong for a late lunch. Walk toward Namdaemun Market for last-minute souvenirs and local snacks.

Finish in Itaewon for a diverse international dining scene and bars; visit the Itaewon Antique Furniture Street or nearby Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art if museums are still open earlier in the day.