Hey there, traveler! Seoul is an amazing city where tradition and modernity blend perfectly, making it the ideal spot for a Seoul 3-day itinerary for foreigners. I’ve put together a 3-day plan packed with must-see spots like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Myeongdong, and N Seoul Tower, plus some handy tips like English-friendly restaurants and how to get around using public transport. This guide is based on info from Google Maps, travel blogs, and the Korea Tourism Organization, so you’re all set for an unforgettable trip. If you’re looking for a “Seoul travel guide for foreigners,” you’re in the right place! Let’s dive in.
Seoul 3-Day Itinerary for Foreigners: Day 1 – Traditional Seoul
Start Your Seoul 3-Day Itinerary for Foreigners at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Let’s kick off your Seoul adventure at the stunning Gyeongbokgung Palace! Arrive around 10:00 AM and rent a hanbok to get free entry (regular ticket: 3,000 KRW). It’s super easy to find—just search “Gyeongbokgung” on Google Maps and head to Subway Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5.
- Tip: Join the English guided tours at 11:00, 13:30, or 15:30—they’re perfect for learning the palace’s history! Want more details? Check out the Korea Tourism Organization’s VisitKorea website.
- Where to Eat: Head to “Tosokchon Samgyetang” nearby—they have an English menu, and their ginseng chicken soup is a foreigner favorite.
- (이미지 추천: 경복궁 사진 추가, alt 텍스트: “Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul 3-day itinerary for foreigners”)
(내부 링크 추천: “한국 전통 문화 체험 방법” 관련 글 링크)
Insadong: Stroll Through a Traditional Street
A quick 15-minute walk from Gyeongbokgung brings you to Insadong, a lovely street full of traditional craft shops and teahouses. Search “Insadong Seoul” on Google Maps to find your way.
- Tip: Stop by “Osulloc Tea House” to sip on Korean tea and try some desserts—they’ve got an English menu and super friendly staff.
- Getting There: Take Subway Line 1 to Jongno 3-ga Station, Exit 5, then walk 5 minutes.
Bukchon Hanok Village: Snap Pics at Traditional Hanok Homes
From Insadong, grab a taxi (around 5,000 KRW) or walk 20 minutes to Bukchon Hanok Village. This area is filled with traditional hanok houses and is perfect for photos.
- Tip: Grab a snack at “Bukchon Sonmandu”—they have an English menu and serve yummy dumplings and tteokbokki.
- Dinner Idea: Wrap up your day with a warm bowl of sujebi (hand-pulled dough soup) at “Samcheongdong Sujebi” in nearby Samcheong-dong. So cozy!
Seoul 3-Day Itinerary for Foreigners: Day 2 – Modern Seoul & Night Views
Myeongdong: Shop ‘Til You Drop and Eat Street Food
Day 2 of your Seoul 3-day itinerary for foreigners starts in Myeongdong, the best spot for shopping and street food. Head to Subway Line 4, Myeongdong Station, Exit 6. Search “Myeongdong shopping” on Google Maps to get there.
- Tip: Start your day with a quick bite at “Isaac Toast”—they take English orders, and their sandwiches are delicious.
- What to Do: Shop at K-beauty stores like Etude House and Olive Young, then try street foods like hotteok and tteok-kkochi. So yummy!
(이미지 추천: 명동 거리 사진 추가, alt 텍스트: “Myeongdong shopping street in Seoul travel guide”)
(내부 링크 추천: “K-뷰티 쇼핑 가이드” 관련 글 링크)
N Seoul Tower: See Seoul’s Night View
From My eongdong, hop on the Namsan Cable Car (4,000 KRW) to N Seoul Tower. Search “N Seoul Tower” on Google Maps to find the cable car station.
- Tip: The night view from the tower’s observatory is breathtaking! Grab a burger at “The Best Burger” (English menu available) while you’re there.
- Getting There: You can also take the Namsan Circular Bus (No. 02 or 05) from near Myeongdong Station.
Han River Park: Have a Riverside Picnic
From Namsan, take Subway Line 4 to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, then transfer to Line 6 for Hangangjin Station. Search “Han River Park” to find Yeouido Han River Park.
- Tip: Pick up some ramen and kimbap at a convenience store and enjoy a picnic by the river. English signs make it easy to get around.
Seoul 3-Day Itinerary for Foreigners: Day 3 – Trendy Seoul & Shopping
Hongdae: Feel the Youthful Vibe
Head to Subway Line 2, Hongik University Station, Exit 9. Search “Hongdae Seoul” to check out street performances and cool cafés.
- Tip: Try Korean-style chicken at “Kyochon Chicken”—they have an English menu, and it’s so tasty.
- What to Do: Walk through mural streets and pop into indie bookstores for a chill vibe.
Gangnam Station: Trendy Eats and Shopping
From Hongdae, take Line 2 (about 30 minutes) to Gangnam Station. Search “Gangnam Station” for dining and shopping spots nearby.
- Tip: “BHC Chicken” and “Sinjeon Tteokbokki” both have English menus. Shop around Exit 11 of Gangnam Station.
COEX Mall: Explore a Huge Shopping Mall
From Gangnam, take Subway Line 2 to Samseong Station, Exit 5. Search “COEX Mall Seoul” to visit the indoor mall and Starfield Library.
- Tip: Have brunch at “Butterfinger Pancakes” (English menu available). Flying out? You can check in via the Airport Railroad at COEX.
Seoul 3-Day Itinerary for Foreigners: Public Transportation Tips
Getting around is super easy on your Seoul 3-day itinerary for foreigners with these tips.
- Transport Card: Grab a T-money card (around 4,000 KRW) at a convenience store and top it up for subways and buses.
- Subway App: Download “Subway Korea” for English route searches.
- Bus Info: Use Naver Map for real-time bus updates (English is limited, so Google Translate can help).
- Taxi: Install the KakaoTaxi app to enter destinations in English.
Seoul 3-Day Itinerary for Foreigners: Preparation Tips
To make your Seoul 3-day itinerary for foreigners even better, here’s what to prepare.
- Packing: Seoul’s weather changes with the seasons—pack light jackets for spring/fall, an umbrella for summer, and warm gear for winter.
- Currency Exchange: Swap dollars for won in Myeongdong for better rates.
- Wi-Fi: Rent a pocket Wi-Fi at Incheon Airport to stay connected.
- Language: Learn simple Korean greetings like “Annyeonghaseyo” (Hello) and “Gamsahamnida” (Thank you)—locals will love it.
Conclusion
I hope this Seoul 3-day itinerary for foreigners helps you fall in love with Seoul’s charm and make memories you’ll never forget. From the traditions of Gyeongbokgung to the shopping in Myeongdong and the stunning views at N Seoul Tower, this plan has it all in just 3 days. Got questions or need more tips? Drop a comment below—I’d love to help! Don’t forget to share this guide with your friends and start planning your Seoul adventure together. Have an amazing trip!