Seoul landscape
Back to Guides

Perfect Weekend in Seoul

K-pop culture, royal palaces, and 24/7 Korean BBQ

📍Seoul, South Korea⏱️2 Days

Seoul is a dynamic metropolis where ancient palaces stand beside neon-lit K-pop districts and traditional hanbok coexist with cutting-edge fashion. This weekend itinerary explores 5,000 years of history, introduces you to Korean culinary delights, and reveals why Seoul is one of Asia's most exciting capitals.

📅Saturday

🌅Morning

•
8:00 AM - Gyeongbokgung Palace 🏯 Seoul's largest royal palace, arrive for 10 AM changing of guard ceremony.
•
10:00 AM - National Folk Museum 🏛️ Inside palace grounds, learn about Korean culture (free with palace ticket KRW 3,000).
•
11:30 AM - Bukchon Hanok Village 🏘️ Traditional Korean houses neighborhood with photo-worthy alleys (respect residents' privacy).

☀️Afternoon

•
12:30 PM - Lunch in Insadong 🍱 Try bibimbap, bulgogi, or Korean pancakes (jeon) in this cultural district.
•
2:00 PM - Insadong Street 🎨 Browse traditional crafts, tea houses, and art galleries.
•
3:30 PM - Cheonggyecheon Stream 🌊 Walk along this restored urban stream from Gwanghwamun to Dongdaemun.

🌆Evening

•
5:30 PM - Dongdaemun Design Plaza 🏗️ Futuristic Zaha Hadid architecture, shopping, and night markets open at 8 PM.
•
7:00 PM - Korean BBQ Dinner 🥩 All-you-can-eat samgyeopsal (pork belly) or galbi (short ribs) with soju.
•
9:00 PM - Myeongdong 🛍️ Shopping street with K-beauty stores, street food (tteokbokki, hotteok), and vibrant night scene.

📅Sunday

🌅Morning

•
9:00 AM - Bukhansan National Park ⛰️ Hike to Baegundae Peak (3-4 hours) or shorter trails for city views.
•
11:30 AM - or N Seoul Tower 🗼 Alternative: cable car up Namsan Mountain for panoramic views (KRW 16,000).
•
12:00 PM - Traditional Market Lunch 🦑 Gwangjang Market for bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap.

☀️Afternoon

•
2:00 PM - Gangnam District 🎵 See the famous "Gangnam Style" statue, high-end shopping, and COEX Mall.
•
3:30 PM - Bongeunsa Temple 🕉️ Peaceful Buddhist temple in the heart of Gangnam (free entry).
•
4:30 PM - Garosu-gil ☕ Tree-lined street with trendy cafes, boutiques, and people-watching.

🌆Evening

•
6:30 PM - Hangang Park 🚴 Rent bikes, enjoy Han River views, or have chicken and beer (chimaek) by the water.
•
8:00 PM - Hongdae 🎤 Youth culture hub with indie music, street performances, clubs, and quirky cafes.
•
10:00 PM - Korean Fried Chicken 🍗 End at a chimaek spot (chicken + maekju/beer) in Hongdae.

💡Essential Tips

•
T-Money Card - Essential rechargeable card for subway and buses (KRW 4,000 with deposit)
•
Subway is Excellent - Clean, safe, English signs, covers entire city efficiently
•
Free Walking Tours - Seoul city government offers free tours of palaces and neighborhoods
•
Hanbok Rental - KRW 20,000-30,000 to wear traditional dress, get free palace entry!
•
Korean Phrases - "Annyeonghaseyo" (hello), "Gamsahamnida" (thank you), "Eolmayeyo?" (how much?)
•
Wifi Everywhere - Free public wifi in subway stations and most cafes
•
Late Night Culture - Restaurants, shops, and attractions often open until midnight or later
•
Cashless Society - Cards accepted everywhere, but carry some cash for street vendors

💰Budget Guide

Budget Breakdown: Expect KRW 400,000-600,000 (USD 300-450) per person for the weekend (excluding accommodation). Accommodation: KRW 50,000-120,000/night (hostels KRW 20,000-40,000). Food: KRW 40,000-70,000/day (street food KRW 3,000-8,000, BBQ KRW 15,000-25,000). Transport: KRW 20,000 for weekend. Attractions: KRW 30,000-50,000/day. Seoul is very affordable!

Want More Weekend Guides?

Get new city guides delivered to your inbox every week.

Join the community of smart travelers

Weekly destination guides
Money-saving travel hacks
Packing lists & checklists
Exclusive travel deals

Your email is safe. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.