Wassup Korea

Planning a trip to Seoul can feel overwhelming — especially when it comes to organizing your itinerary. With so many things to see, eat, and do, where do you even begin?

This guide is designed to help you build your own travel plan by introducing you to the key regions of Seoul, each with its own unique character and strengths. Every traveler has different priorities — some are here for food, others for nature, history, shopping, or K-culture experiences. Understanding how Seoul is laid out makes it easier to match your trip with your personal goals.

We’ve divided the city into seven travel-friendly zones, grouped by geography and theme. These zones give you a clearer mental map of what to expect and help you design efficient travel routes — whether you’re staying for a weekend or a whole week.

For first-time visitors, the zones are listed in a recommended priority order — starting with must-see areas and ending with relaxed destinations to explore if you have extra time.

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🗺️ Overview of Seoul Travel Zones

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Now let’s explore Zone 1 in more detail: what to see, eat, and do.

Zone 1: Central Seoul Area (Myeongdong & Euljiro)

🏛️ Sightseeing · 🧧 Traditional Culture · 🍜 Food · 🛍️ Shopping

Located in the heart of Seoul, the Central Seoul area — especially neighborhoods like Myeongdong and Euljiro — has long served as the historical and cultural core of the capital, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. This area is extremely popular with foreign visitors because it offers some of the most “authentically Korean” experiences — from heritage sites and traditional crafts to street food and beauty shopping.

Myeongdong and Euljiro are always buzzing with energy. Expect vibrant shopping streets filled with skincare and cosmetics shops, trendy fashion stores, and countless eateries offering everything from sizzling Korean BBQ to casual street snacks.

As for food, everyone has different tastes — so instead of recommending specific restaurants here, we’ll focus on where to go. Some neighborhoods in Central Seoul are especially packed with great dining spots. In particular, Seochon and Euljiro are known for their concentration of beloved local eateries. While Myeongdong is a bustling commercial district with no shortage of restaurants, truly famous or high-quality places are relatively few. For detailed food recommendations, check out our upcoming post dedicated to must-try restaurants in each zone! filled with skincare and cosmetics shops, trendy fashion stores, and countless eateries offering everything from sizzling Korean BBQ to casual street snacks.

Some must-visit spots in this zone include:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: The largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty.
• Bukchon Hanok Village: A picturesque neighborhood of traditional Korean houses.
• Ikseon-dong Hanok Village: A fusion of old Korea with modern cafes, boutiques, and street food.
• Gwanghwamun Square: A cultural hub with historical statues and fountains.
• Insadong: A hotspot for traditional crafts, tea houses, souvenirs, and hands-on cultural experiences.

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🗓️ Recommended Itinerary for Zone 1 (Starting at 9 AM)

If you plan to start your day around 9 AM, here’s a thoughtfully paced itinerary that blends culture, food, shopping, and a bit of romance:

🕘 9:00 AM – Hanbok Rental & Gyeongbokgung Palace & Gwanghwamun Gate
Begin your day by renting a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) near Gyeongbokgung Palace. Most rental shops offer 2-hour packages, which gives you plenty of time to walk around the palace grounds and take stunning photos while dressed in traditional clothing.

🕚 11:00 AM – Return Hanbok & Explore Samcheong-dong
After returning your hanbok and changing back into your clothes, head into Samcheong-dong, a charming neighborhood near Gyeongbokgung filled with galleries, artisan boutiques, and cafés.

🕛 12:30 PM – Lunch at Samcheong-dong Sujebi
Stop by Samcheong-dong Sujebi(Link), a local favorite known for its hearty hand-pulled noodle soup. It’s a beloved spot, so you might encounter a short wait.

🕐 1:30 PM – Stroll Through Bukchon Hanok Village & Ikseondong Hanok Village
Take your time exploring the beautifully preserved traditional houses of Bukchon & Ikseondong Hanok Village and snap some photos in this quiet residential neighborhood.

🕑 2:30 PM – Cultural Experiences in Insadong
Head over to Insadong for hands-on cultural activities like traditional taffy (yeot) making or Korean handicraft workshops. This area is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and enjoying a calm tea house.

🕓 4:00 PM – Move to Myeongdong & Visit Myeongdong Cathedral
Hop on a short subway ride or take a pleasant walk to Myeongdong. Start your visit at Myeongdong Cathedral, one of Korea’s most significant Catholic churches.

🕔 5:00 PM – Beauty & Fashion Shopping in Myeongdong
This is your chance to dive into the Korean beauty scene — browse skincare shops, try free samples, and stock up on the latest trends. Lotte Department Store is just around the corner if you want to check out local fashion brands too.

🕕 6:30 PM – Dinner at Wangbijib (Korean BBQ)
Savor authentic Korean BBQ at Wangbijib(Link), a popular restaurant in Myeongdong known for its quality meats and lively dining atmosphere — a must-try experience for first-time visitors!

🕢 7:30 PM – Myeongdong Night Market Snacks
By now, the Myeongdong night market will be in full swing. Try some must-eat Korean street food like tteokbokki, grilled skewers, hotteok, or mandu as you explore the bustling streets.

🕘 9:00 PM – Relax by Cheonggyecheon Stream
End your day with a peaceful walk along Cheonggyecheon, a beautifully lit urban stream. Grab a can of beer from a nearby convenience store and enjoy the night breeze surrounded by the soft sounds of flowing water.

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Zone 2: Yongsan, Itaewon & Namdaemun Market

🏛️ Sightseeing · 🍸 Nightlife

Zone 2 offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and global influences. Yongsan is home to the impressive National Museum of Korea, the War Memorial of Korea, sprawling parks, Seoul Station, and scenic city views from Namsan Seoul Tower. Just a short distance away, Itaewon is one of Seoul’s most international neighborhoods — a hotspot for nightlife, dining from all over the world, and a vibrant bar scene that comes alive after sunset. You can also visit the beautiful Seoul Central Mosque, a key landmark in Itaewon area.

Namdaemun Market, Korea’s largest traditional market, is also part of this zone. Here, you can wander through endless stalls selling clothes, kitchenware, street food, and souvenirs at great prices. It’s a place where you can bargain a little, taste authentic Korean snacks, and experience the energy of a bustling local marketplace.

Some must-visit spots in this zone include:

• Namsan Seoul Tower: A panoramic viewpoint over the entire city.
• National Museum of Korea: A world-class museum showcasing Korea’s history and art.
• War Memorial of Korea: A powerful and educational museum dedicated to Korea’s military history.
• Seoul Station: A major transportation hub with historic architecture and modern shopping facilities.
• Itaewon: Known for its multicultural dining options, trendy bars, and unique shopping.
• Namdaemun Market: A lively market that has served Seoul for centuries.

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🗓️ Recommended Itinerary for Zone 2 (Starting at 10 AM)

🕙 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM – National Museum of Korea
Begin your day at Korea’s largest and most prestigious museum, ranked among the largest in the world. Explore national treasures, ancient artifacts, and immersive exhibitions covering thousands of years of Korean history.

🕧 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM – Lunch at Okeunnae 2 Dakgalbi(Link)
Enjoy a hearty Korean lunch of spicy stir-fried chicken, vegetables, and chewy rice cakes. This local favorite is known for generous portions and bold flavors.

🕐 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM – Optional HYBE Headquarters Visit
If you’re a BTS fan, take a quick detour to HYBE HQ near Yongsan Station. Non-fans can skip this and head directly to Seoul Station.

🕑 2:00 PM – 2:40 PM – Seoul Station
Discover Seoul’s largest transportation hub, where sleek modern facilities stand alongside the beautifully preserved Old Seoul Station, a colonial-era architectural landmark.

🕝 2:40 PM – 3:40 PM – Namdaemun Market
Wander through Korea’s oldest and biggest traditional market. Sample local snacks, shop for souvenirs, and soak in the bustling street scenes.

🕓 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM – Namsan Cable Car & Namsan Seoul Tower
Ride the cable car up Namsan Mountain for panoramic views of Seoul, then head up the iconic tower for a 360-degree cityscape.

🕠 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM – Transfer to Itaewon

🕕 6:00 PM – Evening – Explore Itaewon
Walk through Itaewon’s eclectic streets, visit the Seoul Central Mosque, and browse its many international restaurants, dessert cafes, and boutique stores.

🌙 Night – Itaewon Nightlife
Wrap up your day with cocktails, craft beer, or live music in Itaewon’s vibrant nightlife scene.

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Zone 3: Hongdae, Hapjeong & Yeonhui-dong

🍜 Food · 🛍️ Shopping · 🎨 Arts · 🍸 Nightlife

Zone 3 is one of Seoul’s most youthful and creative areas, buzzing with shopping streets, cozy cafes, and vibrant nightlife. Hongdae is the epicenter of street performances and indie culture, while Hapjeong offers a more relaxed, stylish dining scene. Yeonnam-dong is beloved for its charming streets and green spaces, and Yeonhui-dong is full of unique, hidden cafes.

Some must-visit spots in this zone include:

• Hongdae Walking Street: Street performances, trendy shops, and energetic vibes.
• Yeonnam-dong Gyeongui Line Forest Park: A peaceful urban park along a former railway.
• Yeonhui-dong Cafes: Small, stylish cafes perfect for relaxing.

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🗓️ Recommended Itinerary for Zone 3 (Starting at 10 AM)

🕙 10:00 AM – Hongdae Shopping Streets
Begin your day exploring Hongdae’s bustling shopping streets and malls. Drop your purchases off at a nearby storage locker — options are available at Hongdae Station and other spots around the area.

🕛 12:00 PM – Lunch at Jung Hwa Bok Chun (Yeonnam Park Branch) (Link)
Enjoy their signature “Kkancho Shrimp,” a dish I’ve had multiple times and highly recommend. It’s also been featured in the Michelin Guide.

🕐 1:00 PM – Stroll Through Gyeongui Line Forest Park
Take a relaxing walk in this park stretching through Yeonnam-dong, perfect for a post-lunch digest.

🕒 2:30 PM – Café Time in Yeonhui-dong
Head to Yeonhui-dong, where small, picturesque cafes are perfect for a quiet break.

🕓 4:00 PM – Hongdae Mural Street & Street Performances
Browse the colorful murals, then enjoy live busking and performances along Hongdae’s lively streets.

🕕 6:00 PM – Dinner & Nightlife in Hongdae
Have dinner in one of Hongdae’s many restaurants, then experience its energetic nightlife — one of the top spots in Seoul for young people after dark.

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Zone 4: Jamsil, Songpa & Seokchon Lake

🌳 Nature · 🏛️ Sightseeing · 🎡 Activities

Zone 4 offers a mix of scenic views, leisure activities, and modern attractions. Jamsil is home to the famous Lotte World Tower and Lotte World theme park, while Songpa boasts family-friendly spots and great shopping. Seokchon Lake provides a peaceful escape with its walking paths and seasonal cherry blossoms. The area also includes Olympic Park, a vast green space with sports arenas, outdoor sculptures, and peaceful gardens — a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

Some must-visit spots in this zone include:

• Lotte World Tower: The tallest building in Korea with an observation deck offering panoramic city views.
• Lotte World Adventure: A massive indoor and outdoor amusement park, often compared to Six Flags. Because much of it is indoors, it’s a great option even on rainy days, and it’s perfect for families.
• Seokchon Lake: A scenic lake surrounded by walking paths, especially beautiful in spring and autumn.
• Olympic Park: Built for the 1988 Summer Olympics, it’s now a sprawling public park filled with sculptures, lakes, and wide walking trails.

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🗓️ Recommended Itinerary for Zone 4 (Starting at 10 AM)

🕙 10:00 AM – Morning Walk at Seokchon Lake
Start your day with a leisurely walk around Seokchon Lake, enjoying its calm atmosphere and seasonal flowers.

🕚 11:00 AM – Lotte World Adventure
Spend a few hours enjoying rides and attractions at one of Korea’s most famous theme parks.

🕒 2:00 PM – Lunch at a Nearby Restaurant
There are plenty of dining options inside and around Lotte World Mall — from casual bites to gourmet meals. Check out the website for more shops and information! (Link)

🕓 3:30 PM – Lotte World Tower Observatory
Head up to Seoul Sky on the 123rd floor for breathtaking city views.

🕔 5:00 PM – Olympic Park
Take a relaxed walk through Olympic Park. Explore its outdoor sculptures, scenic gardens, and large open spaces, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

🕕 6:30 PM – Explore Lotte World Mall
Browse luxury and local brands, enjoy dessert at a café, or watch a movie.

🕗 8:00 PM – Evening by the Lake
Return to Seokchon Lake for a nighttime stroll, when the lights from Lotte World Tower reflect beautifully on the water.

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Zone 5: Dongdaemun, Dongmyo & Gwangjang Market

🛍️ Shopping · 🍜 Food

Zone 5 is where tradition meets trend, blending some of Seoul’s most famous markets with vibrant shopping districts. Dongdaemun is known as a fashion hub, home to massive shopping malls and late-night markets. Dongmyo offers unique thrift shops and flea markets where you can hunt for vintage treasures. Just nearby, Gwangjang Market is a paradise for food lovers, with endless stalls serving authentic Korean street food and traditional dishes.

Some must-visit spots in this zone include:

• Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): A futuristic landmark and cultural hub hosting exhibitions, events, and fashion shows.
• Dongdaemun Night Market: Famous for staying open late, offering everything from fabrics to trendy clothes.
• Dongmyo Flea Market: A quirky spot to shop for antiques, vintage clothes, and eclectic finds.
• Gwangjang Market: One of Korea’s oldest markets, known for specialties like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap (mini rice rolls).

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🗓️ Recommended Itinerary for Zone 5 (Half-day Course)

🕒 2:00 PM – Gwangjang Market
Begin your afternoon by exploring Gwangjang Market. Sample iconic street foods such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), mayak gimbap (mini rice rolls), or yukhoe (Korean beef tartare).

🕓 3:30 PM – Dongmyo Flea Market
Head over to Dongmyo to browse through vintage clothing, antiques, and quirky finds. It’s a lively spot to soak in local vibes.

🕔 5:00 PM – Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Walk around the futuristic architecture of DDP. As evening falls, the LED rose garden and illuminated curves of the building create a great photo opportunity.

🕕 6:30 PM – Dinner in Dongdaemun
Enjoy dinner at a nearby local restaurant. Options range from Korean comfort dishes like kalguksu to casual Korean BBQ.

🕗 8:00 PM – Night Shopping at Dongdaemun
End your evening at Dongdaemun’s night markets and malls, where the energy peaks with late-night shopping, lights, and bustling crowds.