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One Day Seoul City Itinerary: KKday Travel Guide

One Day Seoul City Itinerary: Gyeongbokgung Palace

One day in Seoul City—or any city, for that matter—may not seem like much. But you’d be surprised with what you can cover with the right itinerary! Whether you’re killing a long layover, or squeezing in an extra day to explore the city, read KKday’s One Day Seoul City Travel Guide for a quick but rich taste of South Korea’s capital.

9:00 am: Gyeongbokgung Palace

One Day Seoul City Itinerary: Gyeongbokgung Palace
One Day Seoul City Itinerary: Gyeongbokgung Palace

After grabbing a quick breakfast nearby (READ: Instagram-worthy Cafes in Seoul) head to this definite can’t-miss attraction. Gyeongbokgung Palace stands majestically as one of Seoul’s most iconic attractions even centuries after the end of the Korean Empire. Built in 1395, the palace served as both the seat of government and home of the Kings of the Joseon Dynasty. Head back in time as you wander the palace grounds and its secret gardens.

12:00 pm: Bukchon Hanok Village

One Day Seoul City Itinerary: Bukchon Hanok Village
One Day Seoul City Itinerary: Bukchon Hanok Village

A short walk away from the palace is another glimpse into Korea’s charming past. Stroll through the narrow winding alleys of Bukchon Village, a neighborhood of well-preserved traditional hanok-style houses. The quaint village is full of novelty shops, cafes, and cultural centers worth checking out.

1:00 pm: Visit Myeongdong Shopping District

One Day in Seoul City Itinerary: Myeong-dong Shopping District
One Day in Seoul City Itinerary: Myeong-dong Shopping District

For a taste of modern, everyday Seoul, head to the Myeong-dong commercial district. This area is full of the cities most popular retail and restaurant options, as well as a few quirky ones worth checking out. From ARITAUM’s incredible selection of skincare and cosmetics, to Strawberry Mochi Isigoya for every kind of strawberry treat imaginable. This is a great place to do some last-minute shopping and sample a few street bites.

5:00 pm: Feast on a Royal Dinner

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wsyCGuQOMk?cid=4819

Treat yourself on this short trip and feast like royalty. Head to Korean House for a traditional dinner served in the style of the Joseon Dynasty era. Our friends, David and Andrew of the Fung Brothers described their meal as an “ancient, dynastic, delicious Korean experience.” Sample a plate of steamed beef tongue and bulgogi with potato wine, and top it off with some royal dessert.  

8:00 pm: Namsan Tower

One Day Seoul City Itinerary: N Seoul Tower
One Day Seoul City Itinerary: N Seoul Tower

Even on a tight, 1 day schedule, try and sneak this stop in. Make your last glimpse of Seoul city an unforgettable one, and head up to N Seoul Tower. Make your way to the observation deck and drink in the stunning panoramic view of Seoul city atop Namsan Mountain.

10:00 pm: Incheon International Airport

Wow, that’s a lot to do with less than 24 hours in Seoul! After a jam-packed day of touring the city, head back to the airport in ease to catch your flight with a convenient airport transfer that’ll take you right from downtown Seoul to Incheon International Airport. Keep coming back here for more—Seoul City is definitely worth exploring again and again.

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