The Ultimate 7-Day Seoul Itinerary That Just Hits Different

If you’re heading to Seoul for a week, the first thing to accept is that you won’t see it all. Seoul is big, fast, wonderfully futuristic, and there’s so much history tucked away in every corner.

However, with a logical route, you’ll be surprised how much you can see without feeling rushed. We've put together this seoul korea itinerary 7 days to show you some of the best places to visit in Korea, like N Seoul Tower and the COEX Starfield Library. 

We’ve also carved out space for you to stumble upon Insadong's hidden teahouses, sample Myeongdong’s famous street food, or see Gangnam’s bright lights. It’s the perfect mix for anyone who wants to see the modern side of Korea without missing its past.

You’ll also find a free downloadable, fully customisable itinerary to keep on your phone, and a realistic budget breakdown at the end of the post.

Annyeong, Seoul! Let the 7-day countdown begin. Photo by DD25 on Adobe Stock

Is 7 days too long for Seoul?

No, it’s actually the right amount of time to explore the best this massive city has to offer.

Generally, 5 days is enough for the main attractions in Seoul. 10 days is better for soaking up the vibe and the local way of life, with some day trips included. 7 days is the sweet spot for balancing between everything without rushing.

>>> Check out our guide on packing for a short trip away across the globe.

Essential Logistics And Travel Tips Before You Start

Getting around Seoul is way easier if you have the right tools. Here's a list of essentials you’ll need to set up before you fly.

Incheon Airport to Seoul Transport: Once you land at Incheon (ICN), you'll need to use the AREX train to reach central Seoul. Choose the Arex Express Train if you want a quick and direct trip to the town, with reserved seats and luggage space. The AREX All-Stop Train is cheaper and is ideal if you book your hotel in Hongdae.

T-money card guide: If you want to use the Seoul metro system, grab a T-money card the second you land. It also works for Seoul’s transit, taxis, and convenience stores. Find them at any 7-Eleven or CU and keep some cash handy for quick top-ups.

Kakao Maps vs Naver Maps: When visiting Korea, you'll quickly recognise that Google Maps doesn't work here. Download Naver Map if you're looking for accurate bus/subway fares, a detailed walking path, and the best English support. You can also add KakaoMap, which shows you trendy local reviews.

SIM Card vs. Pocket Wi-Fi: If you’re travelling alone, you can buy a prepaid SIM or eSIM from SK Telecom, KT, or LG U+. Renting a Pocket Wi-Fi device is more cost-effective if you're travelling with your family or a big group.

Where to stay in Seoul?

Still picking your home base for 6 nights in Seoul? Myeongdong is highly recommended for first-timers, especially if you want to be in the middle of the action.

If you prefer something more artsy and local, you’ll definitely want to check out Hongdae.

Ikseon-dong is also a lovely neighbourhood, with beautifully renovated traditional hanok and Instagrammable cafes.

What To Do In Seoul In 7 Days Itinerary

Want to see the best of Seoul? To help you navigate it all, we've built this first time in Seoul itinerary that covers the city’s big landmarks, while still making time for the low-key spots only locals know about. Let’s jump in.

Day 1: The Heart of Old Seoul

Your journey through Seoul begins with a step back in time. Your first day will focus on the Joseon Dynasty. You’ll spend your time in the northern part of the city, home to colourful wooden carvings and winding stone alleys where the nobles used to live.

Morning: Gyeongbokgung Palace & Hanbok Rental

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)

• Admission: 3,000 KRW (Free if you wear Hanbok)

• Closest Metro Station: Gyeongbokgung (Line 3, Exit 5)

Korea’s royal guards keep tradition alive at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Photo by ZENPAKU on Adobe Stock

Gyeongbokgung has been the city's spiritual heart since 1395. It's also the grandest of the Joseon-era palaces you'll find in the city.

Upon arrival, you can easily notice those colourful Dancheong details, characterised by red and green paint that make every frame look like a built-in filter for every photo.

To really get into the spirit, we recommend stopping by nearby shops for Hanbok rental experience. It’s a great way to connect with the culture, and best of all, you won’t have to pay the entrance fee. 

There are three main highlights of Gyeongbokgung you shouldn't miss.

First, watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This occurs twice daily, at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., so schedule your visit accordingly.  

The Main Throne Hall - the architectural centrepiece - is the best place to stop for hanbok photos.

Finally, keep heading north until you hit Hyangwonjeong Pavilion. It sits right on a lake and is easily the most peaceful view in the palace.

Lunch: Nearby Traditional Eats

Tosokchon Samgyetang: This spot is on the bucket list for almost everyone visiting Seoul. Tosokchon Samgyetang is famous for its ginseng chicken soup. a whole young chicken stuffed with ginseng and glutinous rice in a rich and nutty broth.

Hwangsaengga Kalguksu: This is another popular restaurant in the historic district, so you should expect a long queue during peak hours. Try their knife-cut noodles (of course, their signature dish) and Wang Mandu (king-sized dumplings). All comes at a very reasonable price and generous portion.

Afternoon: Bukchon Hanok Village & Samcheong-dong

Wander through the beautiful alleys of Bukchon Hanok Village. Photo by sayan on Adobe Stock

After lunch, we're heading to Bukchon Hanok Village, a hilltop neighbourhood home to over 600 preserved wooden houses called hanok.

You can walk through the neighbourhood in about 15-20 minutes, but you’ll probably want to stay for an hour or two.

The photo ops are endless here, with beautiful alleys and the view of the Seoul skyline framed by traditional roofs.

Just keep in mind that people actually live here, so be mindful of the “quiet zone” signs and respect the residents’ privacy.

From the hills of Bukchon, simply walk down into the trendy streets of Samcheong-dong. Sit, relax, and go full Korean at Café Onion Anguk. This spot is famous for its “floor culture” seating and serving up finger-licking good Pandoro bread.

Evening: Insadong Traditional Neighbourhood & Jogyesa Temple

Get off the main street. Instead, you should dig into the narrow back alleys, with hidden calligraphy shops and local artisans that show you the "real" Insadong.

It’s also where the best traditional tea houses, like Shin Old Tea House, are tucked away. There's also a spiral shopping complex called Ssamziegil, where you can walk all the way up to the roof without taking the stairs. 

Also, keep an eye out for street food like hotteok (sweet syrupy pancakes), tteok (rice cakes) or the famous dragon-beard candy.

When you need a break from the crowds, take a quick five-minute stroll over to Jogyesa Temple. If you’re there in April or May for Buddha’s Birthday, you’ll see the temple lit up with hundreds of lanterns and pretty spring flowers.

Day 2: Modern Marvels And Sunset Views

Day two is all about the “Miracle on the Han River”, the city’s rapid leap into the future. We'll check out the sleekest neighbourhoods of Seoul and wrap up with an amazing skyline view.

Morning: Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

A view of the neighbourhood with Dongdaemun Design Plaza in the distance. Photo by panyaphotograph on Adobe Stock

Dongdaemun Design Plaza, or DDP, is just like a spaceship landed in the middle of Seoul. Step inside and follow the Design Path, which lifts you gently along a sweeping spiral, and the whole experience feels calm and a little surreal. 

Next, head to BtheB to experience Seoul’s cutting-edge beauty technology and lifestyle trends firsthand. You can also visit DDP Design Store on the ground, home to plenty of clever, well-designed gifts you won't find anywhere else. Before you leave, make sure you've captured that iconic "cyberpunk" shot at the Stairway to Heaven.

Afternoon: Cheonggyecheon Stream & Gwangjang Market

A short walk from Dongdaemun Design Plaza brings you to Cheonggyecheon Stream - a sunken park below street level that runs right through the city. It’s actually a bit cooler down by the water, and you'll love that the sound of the stream totally blocks out the traffic. 

Just follow the water, and you’ll run right into Gwangjang Market. This spot is the heart of Seoul’s street food scene: loud, lively and a bit chaotic, and the pancakes alone are worth the walk. You’ll likely spot some of the iconic Gwangjang Market food stalls featured on "Street Food" series on Netflix.

Recommended Lunch Spots: Ready for lunch? You've got many options at this street food haven. Soonhee’s is famous for its Mung bean pancake (Bindaetteok), best washed down with makgeolli (rice wine). Alternatively, follow the Netflix fans to Gohyang Kalguksu, where you can watch the "Netflix Lady" prep your hand-cut noodles right in front of you.

Evening: N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower) View

Namsan Tower is a must-visit on any Seoul itinerary. Photo by A. Emson on Adobe Stock

Your next destination: Namsan Mountain for an epic sunset. Ride the cable car for the best views all the way up, or hop on the Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle Bus (01A or 01B) to keep it budget-friendly.

From the 236-meter tower perched on the peak, you get a full view of the entire Seoul basin. It’s the perfect place to hang out and watch the city lights start to flicker on.

For dinner, N.GRILL is a fancy French restaurant in the highest point of the tower. Book a table if you’re looking for a romantic dinner with the best views.

Myeongdong Kyoja is also a famous spot at the bottom of the hill. They've been serving their Kalguksu (noodle soup) and thin-skinned Mandu (dumplings) since 1966.

Day 3: DMZ Tour - Living History at the Border

The DMZ is so much more than just a line on the map. On your day trip to the world's most heavily fortified border, you will walk through an underground tunnel, hear real stories about the people living nearby, and witness the ongoing hope for peace firsthand.

Morning: DMZ Tour from Seoul

From the Unification Observatory, you can see the mountains of North Korea on a clear day. Photo by arunco on Adobe Stock

On day 3, you'll be heading north to the DMZ - one of the most fortified places on the planet. We always recommend this day trip for a long tour to Korea, as it not only offers a deeper understanding of the Korean War (something you won’t learn in school) but also its impact on generations of families.  

The Demilitarised Zone is located 50-60 km north of Seoul and usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes by car. However, you cannot visit on your own and must book a tour with a licensed operator. Most DMZ tours will take you to these major stops in the area.

• Imjingak Peace Park: You’ll see the destroyed Gyeongui Train Line, the Statue of Peace, and a park filled with sculptures.

• The Third Infiltration Tunnel: Put on a helmet and head 73 meters underground into a tunnel actually dug by North Korea.

• DMZ Theatre & Exhibition Hall: You'll watch films and explore exhibits that explain the Korean War.

• Dora Observatory: Use binoculars to look across the border into North Korea, see the “Propaganda Village” and the country’s fourth-tallest flagpole.

For lunch, most DMZ tours will stop by Paju for some local comfort food. A must try is the Jangdan-kong (Soybean) Soup, which is the most famous dish here. These soybeans are known as the purest soybeans in Korea, grown right in the DMZ. Other must-try dishes include Bibimbap (served with banchan) and Bulgogi.

Afternoon: Return to Seoul Then Recharge

Aim to be back in the Seoul centre around 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM. After a history-heavy tour in the morning, head back to the hotel and take a quick nap (might be 90 minutes) to rest your legs. If you're feeling peckish, visit a nearby convenience store for viral snacks like Dubai Chocolate or a Towel Cake.

Evening: Coffee-Hopping, Sunset Walks & Itaewon Nightlife

After your nap, you can head to June Coffee (457-11 Itaewon-dong) in Itaewon. Order a latte (the strawberry flavour), head to the rooftop, and watch the sun light up pastel houses along the Namsan hills. This will give you a great start for the action-packed evening. 

Next, you can spend your evening wandering through Itaewon Antique Furniture Street, which feels just like a hidden Parisian flea market.

For the best street art in Itaewon, head toward Vietnamese Quy Nhon Gil and Little Arabia, especially along hillside streets leading up to Seoul Central Mosque.

Dinner at Maple Tree House (Itaewon Branch): Enjoy a premium BBQ dinner at Maple Tree House, Itaewon’s flagship location near the Hamilton Hotel. 7:30 PM is peak time, especially on weekends, at this BBQ spot. So, reservations are key.

After a heavy meal, we’re sure you have the energy to explore Itaewon’s vibrant nightlife. After all, this neighbourhood is the heart of Seoul's bar scene. Here are some recommendations from our editors:

• Pussyfoot Saloon or Bar Old-fashioned: For folks with a love for good “hidden gem” and great cocktails.

• Prost Pub & Grill, Seoul or Glam Lounge: If you’re looking to pass the night with electric energy.

• All That Jazz: This is Korea’s oldest jazz club, perfect to end your night with good music and a touch of glass. 

Day 4: Gangnam District (COEX Starfield Library)

On day 4, we’re crossing the Han River to find Gangnam’s futuristic towers, luxury boutiques, and the massive COEX Starfield Library. We also show you some of the district's hidden, peaceful spots for the best photos.

Morning: Bongeunsa Temple, COEX Mall / Starfield Library

Finding a pocket of peace in the heart of Seoul’s hustle. Photo by efired on Adobe Stock

Start your day with a peaceful visit to Bongeunsa Temple, famous for its towering 23-meter Maitreya Buddha statue. Just south of the Hangang River and a short stroll from Samseong Station, the temple feels worlds apart from the bustling Starfield COEX Mall beside it.

Cross the street and enter the COEX Mall to find the Starfield Library. It’s a massive, breathtaking space right in the middle of the mall with 13-meter-tall bookshelves that stretch all the way to the ceiling. Grab your phone and get the perfect shot of the most "Instagrammable" spot in Seoul. 

Pro tip: If you’re feeling a bit low on energy, grab a latte at % Arabica on the 1st floor. Stylish, energising, and just as Instagram-worthy as the library itself. 

Lunch: You can explore endless restaurants and cosy cafes for brunch/lunch. But for the best meal in the mall, we highly recommend Mutan - a high-end Korean-Chinese fusion spot. Try their signature Truffle Jjajangmyeon, which is finger-licking good black bean noodles topped with truffle and steak.

Afternoon: Apgujeong Shopping or Dosan Park Stroll

Apgujeong Rodeo is Seoul’s version of Beverly Hills, which is only a quick subway ride away from the MOEX mall. You can go window-shopping at designer flagship stores like Haus Dosan (the Gentle Monster flagship) to see their sunglasses and wild displays. 

If you need a little break right now, head to Dosan Park, a manicured green space. You can easily find some of Seoul’s trendiest cafés in the area, like Camel Coffee or the London Bagel Museum. But be prepared to wait in queue, as these popular spots often attract large crowds during peak hours.

Evening: Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Light Show

Watch the dancing water and neon lights on the world’s longest bridge fountain. Photo by tickcharoen04 on Adobe Stock

Wrap up your day at the Han River at the golden hours. You can eat at a nearby restaurant, but the real local way is to have a picnic with convenience store ramen and fried chicken. It’s a great way to relax and catch the sunset.

Don't linger here any longer, as you'd better make your way to Banpo Hangang Park to claim a good viewing spot. The Banpo Bridge rainbow fountain light show is a beautiful 20-minute display of lights and music at the world’s longest bridge fountain. Don’t forget to check the seasonal schedule before you go.

Day 5: Nature and Spa

Day 5 is all about recharging the body. You'll start with the crisp mountain air and “on top of the world” views. Post-hike, treat yourself to a well-earned soak in a traditional spa. Then, end the night in the neon-lit streets of the student district, surrounded only by great vibes and good music.

Morning – Hiking Bukhansan National Park

Quick Overview 

• Total Duration: 4 hours (Hiking) + 1.5 hours (Travel/Dining)

• Difficulty: Moderate to hard

• Admission: Free

• Most popular entrances: Bukhansanseong Entrance and Ui-dong Entrance

How to travel from Seoul Centre to Bukhansan National Park?

Bukhansan National Park has several entrances, and choosing the best one depends on which peak you plan to hike. 

Bukhansanseong Entrance (West) - Best for famous summit photo

This is the most popular route for reaching Baegundae Peak, the park's highest point. Hiking in Bukhansan National Park on this route is quite easy, as paved paths will lead you to the summit within just 2.5 hours.

• Ride Seoul Metro Line 3 to Gupabal Station, head out Exit 1

• From there, board Bus 34, 704, or 8774 and get off at Bukhansanseong Entrance / Fortress Entrance.

• Walk about 10 minutes to the Visitor Centre, where the trails start.

Take in the panoramic views of Bukhansan. Photo by CJ Nattanai on Adobe Stock

If you want to take a summit photo with the Korean flag, start at this entry point and follow the valley’s gentle stream.

Along the way, you’ll pass Daeseomun Gate, known as the "Great West Gate," as well as Muryangsa Temple.

The final stretch is a slightly challenging granite scramble with steel cables, ending at Baegundae Peak (836 m) with an incredible 360-degree view of Seoul.

Ui-dong Entrance (East) - Best for Light Hike, Doseonsa Temple & Café Break

• Take the Ui-Sinseol Line (Light Rail) to Bukhansan Ui Station (Exit 2).

• Walk about 10 minutes to the café and trailhead area near Ui-dong.

If you're after a more laid-back vibe, we recommend the Ui-dong Entrance. This path offers "the best of both worlds": nature and culture.

Unlike the steeper western routes, these paved paths are much flatter and wind through a beautiful forest, so it's easy to walk even when you're in casual shoes.

To get to the 1,100-year-old Doseonsa Temple - the main attraction, you can either take a 40-minute walk uphill or jump on the free shuttle.

High up on the ridge, Doseonsa is a key Buddhist site in Seoul, with its famous 8.4-meter rock-carved Buddha. Legend has it that a monk carved it using only his wooden staff. 

Afternoon – Cafe Hopping and Jjimjilbang (Korean Spa) Experience

Leave hiking trails behind and head back down to the valley for a short break. Lately, Ui-dong has become a trendy “Café Village”, snuggled right up against the mountains. You can check out Seonungak (The Heritage Stop), which is a Hanok café with a view of Doseonsa Temple. 

Or you can skip the coffee and head down to the foot of the Bukhansanseong Fortress Entrance to find Bukhansan Village. There are traditional Korean homes and a lot of mountain-side cafés there to rest your legs. 

Your next destination? After a long day of hiking, there’s nothing better than treating your muscles to a traditional Korean Jjimjilbang (bathhouse). The good news is that there are so many options near the mountain base or on the way toward Hongdae (your next stop). 

We highly recommend Hongdae 24-hour Bulgama Sauna as it's very close to Hongik University Station. You can explore the Hongdae neighbourhood right after your sauna visit.

Evening – Hongdae Nightlife and Street Food

Hongdae nights hit different, especially with Korean BBQ first and street performances after. Photo by 희승 이 on Adobe Stock

You haven’t seen the "real" Seoul until you’ve spent a night in Hongdae youth street. First, start your night at the Eoulmadang-ro strip, where indie artists and local students put on incredible free shows. Next, grab some spicy tteokbokki and pancakes from the local street stalls at Street Food Zone. 

But don't overdo it; you'll want a full appetite for tonight’s main event: an authentic Korean BBQ (Samgyeopsal) feast at a premier gogigip. The good news is that Hongdae streets are full of great options; just follow your nose or see where the locals are. If not, here are some nice recommendations:

• Korean BBQ Yookmong Hongdae Main Store: Turn on the map, as this restaurant is slightly off the main street. The atmosphere is cosy, and the service is prompt and attentive.

• Taecho Korean BBQ: This spot is on the pricier side, but you'll get premium cuts grilled over charcoal. Plus, you don't need to handle the grilling yourself.

Day 6: Day Trip to Nami Island

Leaving the polished streets of Gangnam behind, we head into the raw energy of nature in the Gapyeong region.

Morning: Travel to Nami Island

Take the ferry over to Nami Island for the pine forests and peaceful walking trails. Photo by PixelPlex on Adobe Stock

Nami Island is one of the most popular day trips from Seoul. This half-moon-shaped island is a peaceful retreat from Seoul's hustle, with tree-lined bike paths, lakes to stroll along, and quirky sculptures to explore.

Best of all, this island is also the backdrop of the swoon-worthy K-drama Winter Sonata.

Nami Island is just right near two other attractions, Petite France and the Garden of Morning Calm. Tourists normally bundle the trio together for their full-day trip. However, this can feel rushed, so we don’t include all of them in this itinerary. 

Once you've cleared "immigration”, you can either ride a ferry or try the zipline for a fun aerial entrance.

Check out the Metasequoia Lane, as it’s the famous Winter Sonata filming spot. Or rent a bicycle (or hop on a shuttle bus) to explore the 5 km loop around Nami Island.

No matter the season you visit, the island always showcases its seasonal beauty. Come for the blushing cherry blossoms in spring or golden ginkgo leaves in autumn.

Afternoon: The Garden of Morning Calm

• Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM (Hours vary seasonally; extended during Winter Lighting Festival)

• Admission: 11,000 KRW (Adults) - 6,000 KRW (Children)

• Transport: Around 20 minutes by taxi from Nami Island

You can take a taxi (around 20 minutes) from Nami Islands to reach the Garden of Morning Calm.

This is a great stop if you're a nature lover, a photographer, or simply someone find the nearby Petite France a bit too "artificial". 

This garden has up to 20 themed sections for you to explore, plus a traditional pavilion and tranquil pond.

In case you don’t want to cover a lot of ground (and because it’s only a short leg on your day trip), here are some interesting themes that first-time visitors should check out:

• The Sunken Garden
• The Millennium Juniper
• The Korean Garden and Seohwayeon Pond
• J’s Cottage Garden.

Evening: Return to Seoul

End your Gapyeong adventure by taking a shuttle or taxi to Gapyeong Station. If you're feeling hungry by now, check out the station market.

These street food stalls serve legendary hikers’ snacks like tteokbokki and hot fish cake skewers.

The ride back to Seoul takes about an hour or so, which means you'll have plenty of time to scroll through your photos and watch the sunset over the Han River.

Day 7: Last-Minute Souvenirs

It’s time to shop till you drop. Photo by KYOBOK - stock.adobe.com

Your final day in Seoul is designed as a slow build. We'll start with everyday Seoul life, then hit the shopping districts for one last retail spree. And of course, you should cap off your trip with a memorable dinner and a big toast to everything we’ve seen and done. It’s been an amazing ride, so let’s celebrate it!

Morning: Mangwon Market

What makes Mangwon Market special is how naturally it fits into everyday life. Nothing feels rushed here; there's only the steady flow of neighbourhood life, good food, friendly faces, and quiet authenticity.

Kickstart your day with an authentic “market breakfast”. You have plenty of options there: Hongdukke Son Kalguksu for a bowl of hand-cut noodles, HoonHoon Hotteok for a crispy treat or simply the famous Mangwon Croquette at the market entrance.

Spend the rest of the morning just browsing and shopping. The best thing is that Mangwon Market is a lively place filled with fresh produce and small speciality shops. The price is not as high as other tourist spots in Seoul, so you can shop for your souvenirs here. 

Just steps away, there are also artisanal bakeries, trendiest cafes, and boutiques along Mangridan-gil and World Cup-ro 13-gil. It’s the ultimate neighbourhood for picking up unique finds or a great cup of coffee.

Brunch/Lunch: Yeonnam-dong

Yeonnam-dong is practically next door to Mangwon. It's just an easy 15-minute walk away and on your way toward Myeongdong.

Known as Seoul’s "Café and Gourmet Capital", this neighbourhood is ideal for lunch before we hit the big shopping finale.

If you love tteokbokki and katsu, you’ll find a lot of tasty options at Happy cheese smile yeonnam.  

Located in a quiet street near Hondae, 수수연남 SUSU Yeonnam is a hidden gem for its refined, modern takes on Korean dishes.

Surprisingly, this neighbourhood also has some great Japanese restaurants if you want to try: Mippeudong (for tomato salmon noodles) and Sojeom (for okonomiyaki). 

Afternoon: K-Beauty Shopping in Myeongdong

Shop 'til you drop, then eat everything in Myeongdong. No trip to Seoul is complete without hitting the Olive Young Flagship. All you need to do is prepare your wallet for your K-Beauty overload, as the latest COSRX and Anua products are on offer here. 

You can wander through nearby Laneige, Innisfree, and Etude House boutiques to snag “Buy 1 Get 1” sheet mask deals.

For that authentic local vibe, head straight to SPAO, TOPTEN, or ALAND. You'll find plenty of clean, high-quality basics that make the 'Seoul look' incredibly easy to pull off.

After your shopping haul, make sure to try the famous grilled lobster and egg bread at Myeongdong street food stalls (open at 4:00 PM).

CabinZero’s tips: The best part of any Myeongdong shopping guide for international travellers? Keep your passport handy to get instant tax refunds for most of your skincare haul.

Farewell Dinner

As your one week in Seoul draws to a close, we want to plan a special farewell dinner to celebrate it all. Here are some dining spots for your dinner to consider:

• Myeongdong Kyoja: Myeongdong Kyoja has a laser-focused menu of just four dishes, yet every bite is unforgettable. Their standout offerings include silky, knife-cut kalguksu, juicy mandu, and boldly garlicky kimchi.

• Mingles: If you want modern Korean done right, Mingles is the place. From the melt-in-the-mouth Hanwoo beef to the famous Jang Trio dessert, Chef Mingoo Kang transforms traditional ingredients into sophisticated and elegant dishes.

Estimated South Korea Travel Budget for 7 Days

South Korea is easier on the wallet compared to Europe and the US. Photo by Sanga - stock.adobe.com

One of the best things about Seoul is that it works for almost any budget. That said, it is still fairly expensive compared to other Asian countries. To help you plan, here’s a quick look at what a Seoul Korea itinerary 7 days can look like for different travel styles.

Detailed Breakdown of South Korea Travel Budget

This detailed Seoul travel budget shows what you’ll spend on transport, food, and activities for 7 days in Seoul. Let’s start a well-planned trip with a clear financial roadmap.

Flights

• Flights within Asia: If you're flying from neighbouring Asian hubs - including Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, and Hong Kong - the estimated fare only runs around $200-$400 round-trip.

• Flights from the United States and the Americas: Round-trip economy flights from the US to South Korea generally range from $900-$1,300.

• Flights from Europe: Airfare from Europe to Seoul typically averages $900–$1,500.

Accommodation

Budget (Hostels / Gosiwons): 

• Rate: $25 – $50

• Best for: The best choice if you just need a bed and a shower. Choose a hostel in Hongdae for a social vibe, or a 'Gosiwon' for a private room on a shoestring budget.

Mid-Range (3–4 Star Hotels & Boutique Stays)

• Rate: $80 – $150

• Best for: Mid-range options include high-quality 3-4 star business hotels like Sotetsu and L7.  You can find several options in Myeong-dong or Insadong.

Luxury (5-Star Hotels / Signature Hanoks)

• Rate: $300–$600+

• Best for: You can’t go wrong with the Signiel or Four Seasons for a high-end stay. But for a unique Korean experience in Seoul, definitely check out a private Hanok in Bukchon ($350–$500).

Food & Beverages 

• Street Food and Casual Eats: $15 – $25. Popular local snacks like teokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and Gimbap (seaweed rice rolls) cost only $3–$5 per serving.

• Casual Restaurants and BBQ: You'll pay $40–$70 for casual sit-down restaurants, Korean BBQ, and trendy coffee spots.

• Fine Dining: Michelin-starred meals or high-end Gangnam spots start at $100.

Transport

• Public transport in Seoul costs about $15–$25.

• Climate Card costs 20,000 KRW (~$15) for unlimited rides on all subways and buses for 7 days.

• Airport transfers cost $7–$15, while taxis remain reasonably priced for short trips.

Sightseeing and Other Activities

• Palaces and Museums: $2–$10 (Gyeongbokgung Palace ~$2.50)

• Major landmarks, including Lotte World Tower and the N Seoul Tower, range from $20–$50.

• Full-day excursions, such as visits to Nami Island or the DMZ: $40–$90

Planning Your Daily Travel Budget

No matter how you travel, Seoul has options for every budget. Here’s what a typical day in the city looks like in 2026, across three different budget levels.

Get the Complete Seoul Itinerary Guide

Ready to explore Seoul with confidence? Grab our free 7-day Seoul itinerary guide and have everything you need for an unforgettable trip right at your fingertips.

Planning a trip can be a lot of work, but with this Seoul Korea itinerary 7 days, we believe you’re already halfway there. From the historic gates of the Joseon palaces to the best nightlife spots in Itaewon, this post has shown you Seoul's highlights. However, some of the best moments happen when you go off-script. 

That's why you should only use this guide as a foundation and leave room for spontaneity. So, don’t be afraid to get lost in a quiet alleyway or try a tucked-away cafe; let the city surprise you. Did this comprehensive Seoul guide help you plan your dream trip? Like and share this post with your travel squad, and please comment right below any hidden gem in Seoul that we missed. Happy travel!

Kelsey