South Korea’s energetic capital bursts with colour, culture and creativity. A city where sleek high-rises rub shoulders with ancient hanok (traditional Korean houses), trendy bars, museums and quirky cafes collide, you’ll never be bored in Seoul. One thing’s for sure, it deserves more time than a whistle-stop tour. But sometimes, 24 hours is all you have. From discovering Seoul’s artistic soul to sampling mouthwatering street food and delving into its intriguing past, we’ve planned the perfect 24 hours in Seoul to give you the best taste of city life…
9am
Bukchon Hanok Village
Kick off your 24 hours in Seoul with a slice of culture at Bukchon Hanok Village. Located in the Jongno district, the village is home to over 900 hanok and was the residence of the nobility during the Joseon dynasty. Admire the ornate buildings as you stroll the picturesque alleyways before visiting Bukchon Traditional Crafts Centre, where you can take classes in everything from hanji (traditional Korean paper) crafting to ornament making. The village is also famed for its restaurant and hanok café culture; there’s plenty to choose from, but we recommend Café Onion Anguk and Sudal Café for delicious pastries and coffee. If you rent the traditional Korean garb—hanbok—while exploring Bukchon, you’ll also gain free entrance to the nearby palaces (which are, conveniently, your next stops).
Image by Olivier Romano
10.45am
Gyeongbokgung Palace
After breakfast in Bukchon, continue your culture fix and trot over to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gyeongbokgung Palace. A mere 15-minute walk away, this iconic Korean landmark was constructed in 1395 and inhabited by royalty during the Joseon dynasty. Learn all about the history of this pristine palace on a free guided tour (occurring in English every day at 11 am), and don’t miss the atmospheric changing of the guard at 12 pm. The National Folk Museum and the National Palace Museum of Korea are also located on the palace grounds and are well worth a visit if you’ve time on your side.
12.30pm
Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon Secret Garden
Primed for more pretty palaces? Good, because nearby Changdeokgung Palace is up next. The second UNESCO-listed site on today’s agenda, this palace is famed for its secret garden, Huwon, which takes up over half of its gorgeous grounds. Spend a reflective hour among the tranquil ponds, intricate pavilions and ancient trees that populate the carefully landscaped garden, which was once a place of rest and relaxation for the royal family. Changdeokgung might’ve initially been built as a secondary palace to Gyeongbokgung, but it’s no less spectacular.
1.30pm
Gwangjang Market
All this sightseeing is hungry work. Besides, 24 hours in Seoul wouldn’t be complete without sampling its sensational cuisine. Gwangjang Market, one of the oldest traditional markets in Korea, is a great place to start. Tickle your tastebuds with the likes of bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), kalguksu (knife-cut noodle soup) and kimbap (seaweed rolls) as you watch the world go by. Aside from being the perfect people-watching and dish-gobbling spot, Gwangjang is also famous for its fabrics. Head up to the second floor to marvel at the plethora of luxurious silk, satin and linen for sale. You might even be tempted to purchase your very own hanbok…
Image by Cecile Rosenstrauch
3pm
Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art and Itaewon
Once you’ve had your fill of food and fabrics, how about seeing some art? Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art comprises two main sections, one for traditional Korean art and the other for contemporary art. Take in these diverse works and enjoy the beautiful grounds, designed by world-renowned architects and featuring some irresistibly Instagrammable outdoor sculptures. Leeum is located in the vibrant district of Itaewon, where you’ll find a thriving international scene. Explore this fascinating neighbourhood filled with colourful street art, antique furniture, craft beer and world food, along with great views from Bugundang Historical Park.
5.30pm
Insadong
Next up on your 24 hours in Seoul is the Insadong neighbourhood, one of the oldest in the city. Brimming with art galleries and antique shops (a whopping 40% of South Korea’s are found here), Insadong’s copious cobbled alleyways, bookstores, teahouses and eateries are certain to charm. Spend the remainder of your afternoon soaking up the atmosphere and browsing at your own pace. Did we mention that this is also one of the best areas to eat in the city? Come dinner time, you’re spoilt for choice. Whether you fancy sampling sizzling Korean barbeque (sorry, veggies), bowls of bibimbap (a Korean rice-based dish), or mounds of steaming mandu (Korean dumplings), Insadong has the answer.
9pm
Hongdae
In a city renowned for its vibrant nightlife, the Hongdae district is a highlight. Catering to the student population attending nearby Hongik University, it’s no surprise that Hongdae is a partying hub. The best way to begin? With some karaoke, of course. It wouldn’t be a night out in Seoul without warming up those vocals in a noraebang (singing room). For the ultimate experience, head to Su Noraebang, where swanky, chandelier-clad rooms boast giant windows that expose singers to the busy streets below. Or head to Awesome Coin Noraebang for a no-frills, low-key vibe with bundles of atmosphere, where you can bring drinks and snacks in from the local convenience store. After singing your heart out, it’s time to hit the dancefloor. Sip on soju (distilled rice spirit) or mekju (beer) and throw some shapes to international pop, k-pop and hip-hop hits in one of Hongdae’s plentiful bars and clubs.
Image by Olivier Romano
Written by Hannah Whitehall | Header image by Olivier Romano
