This 5-day Seoul itinerary balances must-see sights, great food and downtime β perfect for first-time visitors. Adjust it freely in our AI planner.
Day 1
Seoul highlights
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Morning
Download Naver Maps β it has vastly superior public transit directions in Korea vs Google Maps.
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Lunch
The dolsot (stone pot) version is far superior β the crispy bottom rice is the best part.
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Day 2
Seoul highlights
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Morning
Saturday night busking is extraordinary β professional-level performers compete for the best spots.
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Lunch
Charcoal BBQ (μ―λΆκ΅¬μ΄) is worth the premium β the flavour is noticeably better than gas.
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Afternoon
Book 1 month in advance for the cheapest early-bird tickets (νΉκ°, up to 30% off).
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Dinner
Gwangjang Market has the most authentic pojangmacha experience β go in the evening.
Day 3
Seoul highlights
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Morning
T-money card works on Seoul Metro, all city buses, intercity buses, and most taxis nationwide.
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Lunch
Pear juice is the secret of good bulgogi marinade β natural enzymes tenderise the beef.
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Afternoon
Kakao Pay, Samsung Pay, and Apple Pay can link T-money function β but physical card is more reliable.
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Dinner
The best kimchi jjigae uses kimchi fermented for at least 6 months β ask if it's 묡μμ§.
Day 4
Seoul highlights
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Morning
μ°λ±λ²μ€ (premium bus) has 3 seats per row instead of 4 β wider, more recline, worth the price difference.
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Lunch
Broth quality varies dramatically β Pyongyang style should be icy, clear, and subtly beefy.
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Afternoon
The 'taxi' button has multiple options: μΌλ° (regular), λΈλ (premium), λͺ¨λ² (deluxe), λν (large van).
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Day 5
Seoul highlights
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Morning
Han River cycling path is 56km long and completely flat β cycle from Jamsil to Yeouido for the best urban scenery.
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Lunch
Vegetarian japchae (μ±μ μ‘μ±) replaces beef with more mushrooms β equally satisfying.
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Afternoon
Mandatory helmet law applies β local police increasingly enforce this, especially near tourist areas.
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β Seoul Itinerary FAQ
Is 5 days enough for Seoul?
5 days is ideal for Seoul, covering the main highlights at a comfortable pace.
How much does a 5-day Seoul trip cost?
Budget travelers can do Seoul for about $50β70/day; mid-range around $120/day including food, transport and attractions.
What's the best way to get around Seoul?
Get a T-money card and use the metro and buses. Use KakaoMap or Naver Map for directions β Google Maps is limited in Korea.
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