Spending just one day in Seoul? Trust me, South Korea’s dynamic capital has enough energy, history, and flavor to keep you hooked for days, but if 24 hours is all you have, don’t worry—you can still experience some of the best this city has to offer. Whether you’re on a layover or squeezing Seoul into a whirlwind trip across Korea, you’ll find a fascinating mix of tradition and modernity packed into every corner.
For a deep dive into Seoul’s rich history and cultural heritage, Jongno-gu is the place to be. This district is the heart of old Seoul, home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Wander through the charming Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional Korean houses transport you to the past, then step into the grandeur of Changgyeonggung Palace. Of course, no visit is complete without marveling at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the crown jewel of Seoul’s royal history.
Beyond history, the city unfolds with endless adventures. Take in breathtaking panoramic views from N Seoul Tower perched on Namsan Mountain, explore the Olympic Park if you’re into sports, and if food is your love language, Myeongdong’s vibrant street stalls will leave you spoiled for choice. And don’t forget to seek out hidden temples and underrated gems—Seoul has a way of surprising you when you least expect it.
Overview of One Day Seoul Itinerary
Here’s an overview of your itinerary to make the most of your 24 hours in Seoul.
End in Hongdae – Experience vibrant nightlife, live performances, and karaoke.
Kickstart with Breakfast – Grab a quick bite from a café or convenience store.
Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace – Witness royal history and wear a hanbok for free entry.
Walk Through Bukchon Hanok Village – Admire traditional hanok houses with a modern Seoul backdrop.
Soak in the Views at N Seoul Tower – Hike or take the cable car for breathtaking cityscapes.
Lunch at Gwangjang Market – Feast on Korean street food like kimbap and bindaetteok.
Visit Changdeokgung Palace – Wander through its serene Secret Garden (closed on Mondays).
Shop & Snack in Myeongdong – Try street food and browse K-beauty and fashion stores.
What to Do in Seoul for a Day
Kickstart Your Day with a Quick Breakfast & Head to Gyeongbokgung Palace
Mornings in Seoul are best started with a good meal, but if you’re on a tight schedule, a quick and satisfying breakfast is the way to go. Depending on where you’re staying, you can pop into a cozy café for a fresh pastry and a cup of Korean-style Americano or grab a quick bite from a nearby convenience store—trust me, these stores are a lifesaver and stocked with surprisingly delicious options like kimbap, onigiri, and egg sandwiches. If you’re the type to snack throughout the morning, consider picking up some extra treats, but don’t worry too much—Seoul has a convenience store on nearly every corner, so you can always grab something later.
Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace & Embrace Tradition with a Hanbok
Stepping into Gyeongbokgung Palace feels like traveling back in time. Built over 600 years ago as the grandest of the Joseon Dynasty palaces, it still stands as a symbol of Korea’s rich history. Though much of the complex was damaged during Japanese rule, ongoing restoration efforts are bringing it back to its original glory. As you wander through the vast courtyards and intricate halls, it’s easy to lose yourself in the sheer scale of this historic landmark.
One of the best ways to enhance your visit? Rent a hanbok—the elegant traditional Korean attire. Not only does it make for stunning photos, but wearing a hanbok also grants you free entry to the palace! Hanbok rental shops are everywhere around Gyeongbokgung Station, so you won’t have to search long to find one.
Some must-see highlights include the majestic Geunjeongjeon Hall, where the king’s throne once stood, and the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at Gwanghwamun Gate (held daily at 10 AM and 2 PM, except Tuesdays when the palace is closed). Watching the guards in vibrant Joseon-era uniforms reenact this centuries-old ritual is an unforgettable experience.
But if I had to pick a personal favorite spot? Hyangwonjeong Pavilion. Nestled beside a tranquil pond with mountains rising in the background, this serene retreat within the palace feels like something straight out of a Korean painting. It’s the perfect place to pause, soak in the atmosphere, and appreciate the timeless beauty of Seoul.
Step Into the Past at Bukchon Hanok Village
After immersing yourself in the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace, take a leisurely stroll to Bukchon Hanok Village—just a 20-25 minute walk away. This charming neighborhood is like a living museum, where centuries-old hanok houses line the narrow alleyways, offering a glimpse into Seoul’s past. Unlike many historical sites, these hanoks aren’t just for show—they’re still used as private homes, guesthouses, and quaint cafés, making the experience feel even more authentic.
One of the most breathtaking moments? Looking up to see the contrast of modern Seoul’s skyscrapers towering in the distance, while standing amidst the meticulously preserved hanoks. It’s a perfect visual representation of how Seoul beautifully blends tradition with progress.
If you’re still wearing your hanbok, you’ll fit right into the scene—this is one of the best places to take photos in traditional Korean attire. However, if you’re short on time (and since you only have one day in Seoul), it might be more efficient to return your hanbok after visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace so you can explore freely without worrying about rental return deadlines.
Whether you’re wandering aimlessly through the stone-paved lanes or stopping at a cozy teahouse for a moment of calm, Bukchon Hanok Village is a must-visit.
N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)
For the best panoramic views of Seoul, N Seoul Tower is the place to be. Sitting atop Namsan Mountain, this iconic landmark offers a breathtaking vantage point over the sprawling cityscape. It’s often referred to as Namsan Tower because of its location, and whether you hike up or take the cable car, the journey itself is part of the adventure.
Getting there from Myeongdong Station takes around 45 minutes, with a bit of a climb if you’re going on foot. But if you’d rather skip the uphill trek, the Namsan Cable Car is a hassle-free option. Either way, the views from the top are absolutely worth it.
Is It Worth Going Inside?
You don’t actually need to go inside the tower to soak in Seoul’s skyline—the views from Namsan Mountain alone are spectacular. But if you want to take it a step further, the tower’s observation deck gives you a 360-degree perspective of the city from above. As of January 2024, admission costs ₩21,000 ($14 USD) for adults and ₩16,000 ($11 USD) for children.
More Than Just Views
Beyond the scenery, N Seoul Tower offers free live entertainment at its base. On my visit, I caught a thrilling martial arts performance, where a performer in traditional Korean attire expertly wielded a sword, captivating the crowd. The mix of history, culture, and unbeatable city views makes N Seoul Tower a must-visit, especially if you only have one day in Seoul.
Lunch at Gwangjang Market
After a morning of exploring Seoul’s rich history, it’s time to dive into one of the city’s greatest culinary experiences—lunch at Gwangjang Market. As Korea’s oldest covered market, this food paradise dates back to 1905, though its roots stretch even further to the late Joseon Dynasty, when it was part of the historic Begoge Market. Today, it remains a bustling hotspot where locals and travelers alike gather for authentic, no-frills Korean street food.
A 20-minute bus ride from Gyeongbokgung Palace will get you here, and once you arrive, prepare to feast!
What to Eat at Gwangjang Market
This is the place to indulge in some of Seoul’s most beloved comfort foods:
- Mayak Kimbap – These bite-sized seaweed rice rolls (literally translating to “addictive” kimbap) are packed with flavor, dipped in mustard soy sauce, and impossible to stop eating.
- Bindaetteok – A crispy, golden mung bean pancake that’s griddled to perfection and best enjoyed with a side of makgeolli (Korean rice wine).
- Tteokbokki – Chewy rice cakes drenched in a spicy-sweet gochujang sauce.
- Sundae (Korean Blood Sausage) – A dish for the adventurous, this savory sausage is made from glass noodles and pork blood, often served with salt and dipping sauces.
More Than Just Food
While the market is famous for its street food, it’s also a hub of traditional Korean culture. Stroll through the maze of stalls and you’ll find elegant hanbok shops, selling the ornate garments worn for weddings and special occasions. You’ll also come across vendors selling intricately arranged fruit baskets used in ancestral ceremonies and baby’s 100th-day celebrations.
Visit Changdeokgung Palace
After lunch, take a short walk to one of Seoul’s most breathtaking landmarks—Changdeokgung Palace. Unlike the grand and imposing Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung offers a more serene, nature-infused experience, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for those who appreciate history and tranquility.
While the palace itself is beautiful, the real highlight is its legendary Secret Garden (Huwon). If time allows, I highly recommend taking a guided tour to fully appreciate its centuries-old pavilions, lush greenery, lotus ponds, and secluded walkways. This hidden oasis was designed as a royal retreat, and even today, it feels like a peaceful escape from the city’s fast-paced energy.
Important Tip:
Changdeokgung Palace is closed on Mondays, so if you’re visiting Seoul for just a day and it happens to be a Monday or Tuesday, you’ll need to choose between this palace and Gyeongbokgung. Either way, both offer an incredible glimpse into Korea’s royal past.
Whether you’re wandering through its ancient halls or admiring the seamless blend of architecture and nature, Changdeokgung Palace is a true gem that deserves a spot on your one-day Seoul itinerary.
Shop, Snack, and Soak in Myeongdong
It’s time to dive into one of the city’s liveliest districts—Myeongdong. Getting here is simple: take the 01B bus down to Namsan Yejang Bus Transfer Parking Lot (just three stops) and walk 10 minutes, or opt for the scenic cable car ride.
A Street Food Lover’s Paradise
Myeongdong is THE place to indulge in Seoul’s best street food, and trust me, you won’t leave hungry. The sheer variety of snacks is overwhelming (in the best way possible). Here are some must-try treats:
- Kimchi Pancakes (Kimchi Jeon) – Crispy on the outside, packed with spicy, tangy kimchi goodness inside.
- Korean Hot Dogs – Deep-fried, coated in potato chunks, and drizzled with sauces—these aren’t your average hot dogs!
- Tteokbokki – Spicy, chewy, and drenched in a thick gochujang sauce, these Korean rice cakes are pure comfort food.
- Grilled Lobster with Cheese – A fancier street food option, but absolutely worth the splurge.
Shopping (or Just Window Shopping!)
Beyond the food, Myeongdong is a shopping mecca. From trendy K-fashion boutiques to endless K-beauty stores offering skincare deals, there’s something for everyone. Even if you’re not here to shop, wandering through the neon-lit streets, soaking in the buzzing energy, and people-watching is an experience in itself.
End Your Day in Hongdae
If you’ve still got some energy left after a full day of exploring, Hongdae is the perfect place to wrap up your one-day Seoul itinerary. Known for its vibrant nightlife, creative street performances, and indie café culture, this neighborhood is the heart of Seoul’s youthful, artistic spirit.
What to Do in Hongdae at Night
- Catch Live Street Performances – From K-pop dance covers to acoustic indie singers, the talent on display is incredible.
- Explore Quirky Shops – Whether it’s vintage fashion, handmade accessories, or fun character cafés, Hongdae is full of hidden gems.
- Grab a Drink at a Themed Bar – The area is packed with unique bars and lounges, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
- Sing Your Heart Out at a Karaoke Room (Noraebang) – No Seoul trip is complete without a late-night noraebang session! Rent a private room, pick your favorite songs, and go all out.
Whether you want to dance the night away, relax in a cozy café, or just soak in the electric atmosphere, Hongdae is the ultimate way to close out your Seoul adventure.
And that’s it—this is how I’d spend 24 hours in Seoul if I only had one day! From historic palaces to bustling markets, breathtaking city views to lively nightlife, this itinerary captures the best of Seoul in a single day.
