3 Days in Seoul: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
A realistic 3-day Seoul itinerary linking palaces, Seongsu, Gangnam, shopping and the Han River without wasting hours crossing the city.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need before you land, in one page — and in the order you'll actually need it.
Korea Itineraries
First trip: 4–6 days in Seoul. One week: add Busan by KTX (2.5h). Ten days: Seoul + Busan + Jeju (1h flight). Our route guides are walked and timed by editors.
First-Time Guide
Three things to sort before landing: an eSIM, Naver/Kakao Map downloads, and a little cash for markets. Start with our Seoul first-timer guide below.
Transportation
One T-money card covers subway, bus and even convenience stores nationwide. KTX high-speed rail links Seoul–Busan in ~2.5h; domestic flights reach Jeju in ~1h. Taxis are affordable — use Kakao T.
Where to Stay
Seoul: Myeongdong for first-timers, Hongdae for nightlife, Gangnam for shopping. Busan: Haeundae or Gwangalli. Jeju: Jeju City for convenience, Seogwipo for scenery.
Money & Payment
Korea is nearly cashless — foreign Visa/Mastercard work almost everywhere. Keep ₩50,000–100,000 cash for markets. "Global" ATMs in convenience stores take foreign cards. No tipping, ever.
SIM, eSIM & Wi-Fi
Buy an eSIM before you fly (activates on landing) or pick up a SIM at Incheon. Free Wi-Fi is everywhere but you'll want constant data for maps and translation.
Guides
5 Days in Seoul: Palaces, Food, Shopping & Local Neighborhoods
A balanced 5-day Seoul itinerary covering historic districts, markets, Seongsu, Gangnam, Hongdae and the Han River at a realistic pace.
One Day in Gangnam: COEX, Apgujeong, Cheongdam & Banpo at Night
A practical one-day Gangnam itinerary linking Bongeunsa, COEX, Apgujeong, Cheongdam, tren:be and Banpo Hangang Park without backtracking.
One Day in Seoul: The Best 24-Hour Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
A realistic one-day Seoul itinerary from Gyeongbokgung and Bukchon to Insadong, Myeongdong and an optional Namsan night view.
Seoul Fashion Shopping Itinerary: Seongsu, Hannam, Apgujeong & Pre-Owned Luxury
A one-day Seoul fashion shopping route through Seongsu, Hannam and Apgujeong, ending with authenticated pre-owned luxury at tren:be.
Seoul for First-Timers: The Only Guide You Need
Where to stay, what to eat, seasonal weather, local etiquette and a realistic 4-day plan — written by editors who actually live here.