1-Day Seoul Itinerary
Have a 24-hour layover in Seoul or just in the city for a day? As you embark on your whirlwind adventure through this dynamic city, it's essential to concede to time constraints and have an efficient plan of action. Fear not, for in just 24 hours, this bustling metropolis promises an adventure of a lifetime, weaving together rich history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. Welcome to Seoul, where every street corner tells a story, and every bite of kimchi ignites your taste buds.
From the majestic Korean palaces steeped in centuries-old tradition to lively markets teeming with local flavours to the tranquil tea houses offering respite from the urban hustle, the South Korean capital promises a kaleidoscope of things to do in Seoul in one day. So buckle up and get ready for a whirlwind tour through the heart and soul of Seoul!
Seoul Full Day Tour Options:
Embarking on a fast-track journey through Seoul's dynamic landscape doesn't have to be daunting. You can immerse yourself in the city's wonders hassle-free with carefully curated full-day tour options. Whether you're drawn to the regal charm of ancient palaces or the bustling energy of traditional markets, there's a tour designed to cater to your every whim.
Small Group Tour
Start at Insadong and visit Jogyesa Temple, Gwanghwamun Square, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Bukchon Hanok Village.
Seoul City Tour Bus
Hop on and hop off at any stop and explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Blue House, N Seoul Tower, Insadong, Myeong-dong, Namsangol Hanok Village, and Namsan Mountain.
Personalised Tour with Local
Guided by a local, discover Seoul highlights like Changdeokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, Namdaemun Market, Bukchon Hanok Village, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, COEX Center, and Jae-dong.
Walking Tour
Start your walking tour at Seoul Plaza and visit Gwanghwamun Square, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong, Jonggak Avenue of Youth, and Myeongdong.
Four Ways to Spend 1 Day in Seoul
Seoul Icons - A Step Down the Lanes of History
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Start your Seoul 1-Day Tour with a regal touch by stepping into the hallowed halls of Gyeongbokgung Palace, where the very essence of Korea's past seems to linger in the air.
Arrive at the palace by 10 in the morning, and you'll be treated to the captivating spectacle of the changing of the guard ceremony. But before entering the palace through the Gwanghwamun Gate, don't miss the majestic statue of King Sejong the Great, the inventor of Korea’s Hangul alphabet, at the adjoining Gwanghwamun Square.
Gyeongbokgung Palace Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: Wed to Mon: 9am to 6pm
Tongin Market
As you leave the palace grounds, take a clockwise loop and follow your nose to Tongin Market. Grab a tray and 5000 won worth of 17th-century Yeopjeon coins from the coin store. Now, the fun begins – you can exchange these coins for delicious bites at various stalls and fill your tray and tummy. Just remember, Tongin Market takes a breather on Mondays and the third Sunday of each month.
Tongin Market Address: 18 Jahamun-ro 15-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily, 7am to 9pm
Blue House
After satisfying your appetite, head to the iconic Blue House, the former residence of South Korea's President, for a glimpse into the country's modern-day governance from 1948 to 2022.
Blue House Address: 1 Cheongwadae-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: Wed to Mon: 9am to 6pm
Bukchon Hanok Village
Next, wander through the Bukchon Hanok Village, where beautifully restored traditional Korean houses, known as Hanok, line the streets. Don't forget to strike a pose for that quintessential Seoul snapshot!
Here, you can also seek solace in traditional tea houses, like Osulloc Tea House Bukchon, and later, as the day draws to a close, treat yourself to traditional Korean ginseng chicken soup at Baengnyeon Samgyetang, a restaurant featured in the Michelin Guide.
Bukchon Hanok Village Address: Gyedong-Gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (map)
Secret Gardens and Hidden Gems
Changdeokgung Palace
Escape the urban hustle and immerse yourself in the hidden oasis of Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden.
As you wander through its ancient pathways, it's like stepping back in time – think 15th-century vibes, especially glorious in autumn when fiery foliage adds to the magic!
Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: Tue to Sun: 9am to 5pm
Ikseon-dong Hanok Village
After soaking in history, venture south to Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, a hidden gem offering a refreshing alternative to the more popular Bukchon Hanok Village.
Address: Ikseon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: Thu to Tue: 10am to 9pm, Wed: 11:30am to 9pm
Yongsusan and Other Culinary Treasures
Once your stomach starts growling, treat yourself to traditional Korean delicacies at Yongsusan in nearby Insadong. Alternatively, you can try Korean ginseng chicken soup at Bukchon Samgyetang, braised pork at Cheonha Bossam, or innovative Korean cuisine at the Michelin-recommended Mishmash.
Address: Changdeokgung 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Insadong
Finally, it's time to embark on an artsy journey through Insadong's quaint alleyways. From traditional crafts to modern artworks to K-beauty stores, this neighbourhood has it all! Don't forget to occasionally recharge at one of Insadong's teahouses, like Sinyet Chatjip or Namusae Tea House, in traditional Hanok settings.
Jogyesa Temple
While in the area, visit Jogyesa Temple, a peaceful Buddhist temple dating back to the 14th century. Marvel at its ever-changing decorations, from vibrant spring flowers to lanterns of the Lotus Lantern Festival.
Address: 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Sanchon and Other Korean Delights
As night falls, head to Sanchon, a vegetarian restaurant owned by a former monk, which serves traditional temple food to the general public. Not a fan of veggies? No worries! Doma Insadong serves a mouthwatering selection of Korean dishes from bibimbap to bulgogi.
Sanchon Address: 30-13 Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily, 11:30am to 9pm
A Fusion of Old and New
Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Start your day with a splash of modernity at Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a futuristic wonderland showcasing Seoul's cutting-edge design scene. Then, follow the winding path of Cheonggyecheon Stream to Gwangjang Market, where a kaleidoscope of sights, smells, and flavours teases your senses.
Address: 281 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily, 10am to 8pm
Jongmyo Shrine
Next up on your adventure is Jongmyo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site honouring Korea's ancient royalty. Next door, you'll find the charming streets of Ikseon-dong, where historic Hanok houses cosy up to trendy cafes and boutiques.
Address: 157 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: Wed to Mon, 9am to 6pm
Ikseon-dong
As evening descends, satisfy your cravings with a mouthwatering Korean BBQ feast in Ikseon-dong's lively atmosphere, where grilled meat aromas mingle with the buzz of conversations.
From History to Modern Grounds
Deoksugung Palace
Begin your day with a journey through time at Deoksugung Palace, then hop across the street to soak up the lively vibes of Seoul Plaza. Afterwards, recharge with a comforting Korean meal at Singawon or Mugyo-dong Bugeo-guk.
Deoksugung Palace Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening hours: Tue to Sun, 9am to 9pm
N Seoul Tower
After lunch, head up to N Seoul Tower for breathtaking city views. We suggest taking the cable car or shuttle bus to save time with a hassle-free ascent.
N Seoul Tower Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: Sun to Fri: 10am to 11pm, Sat: 10am to 12am
Myeongdong
As evening rolls around, dive into a culinary extravaganza at Myeongdong night food market, where vendors peddle everything from spicy street food to sweet treats. And don't forget to indulge in some shopping for Korean skincare products – Myeongdong is a skincare paradise! If you've got extra time, wander through the nearby Namdaemun Market, Korea's largest traditional market with many treasures waiting to be explored.
Namdaemun Market Address: 21 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (map)
Opening Hours: Mon to Sat: 9am to 5:30pm
Bonus Section: Must-Have Seoul Products
Discover Seoul Pass
Explore Seoul's top attractions hassle-free with the Discover Seoul Pass, and enjoy access to over 50 iconic landmarks, including palaces, museums, and cultural sites. Skip the lines and save time while uncovering the best of Seoul in just 24, 48, or 72 hours!
AREX Incheon Airport Express Train
Start your Seoul adventure right from the airport with the AREX Incheon Airport Express Train. Enjoy a comfortable and convenient journey to downtown Seoul in just 43 minutes, ensuring you capitalise on your limited time in Seoul.
KORAIL Pass - Adult Saver Pass
Get unlimited access to Korea's extensive railway network with the KORAIL Saver Pass. Travel seamlessly between cities and regions, including Seoul, Busan, and beyond, and explore the beauty of South Korea at your own pace.
DMZ Demilitarized Zone Day Tour
Dive into Korea's complex history with a DMZ Demilitarized Zone Day Tour. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Third Infiltration Tunnel and Dora Observatory, and gain insight into the historic zone that separates South Korea from North Korea. It is an enriching experience for history buffs and curious travellers alike!
A Day Well Spent
In just 24 hours, Seoul promises a breakneck adventure of a lifetime. From the grandeur of its palaces to rustic Hanok villages to the hustle and bustle of its markets, there are myriad things to see in Seoul in one day. So pack your curiosity, find your perfect itinerary with Pelago by Singapore, and head into the city, because Seoul is waiting to be explored!
Commonly Asked Questions
Is 1 day enough in Seoul?
One day is limited time, but enough to taste Seoul's highlights. Plan efficiently to make the most of your time.
How can I spend half a day in Seoul?
We recommend guided half-day tours focusing on specific attractions or neighbourhoods, such as a palace visit or a market exploration, for such a short time.
Is Seoul expensive as a tourist?
Seoul can be affordable with careful planning. Budget options for accommodation, dining, and transportation are available.
Can I visit the DMZ alongside downtown Seoul in a single day?
Visiting the DMZ typically requires a separate day due to travel time and tour duration. It's advisable to plan accordingly. You also need to join a guided tour to visit DMZ.
How to navigate from Incheon International Airport to Seoul efficiently?
Utilise airport shuttles or express trains for convenient transportation to and from the airport. Consider purchasing a T-money card and unlimited Data SIM for seamless travel within Seoul.
Can I explore Seoul during layovers?
You can explore Seoul during a long layover. Do keep in mind the extra time required to go through immigration and to travel from the airport to Seoul and back.