How To Make The Most Of 1 Day In Seoul: A Fast-Paced 24 Hour Itinerary

This is the perfect itinerary I would follow if I only had 1 day in Seoul. Do you have a long layover or just a quick 24 hours? Let me show you exactly how to make the most of it and catch all the highlights.

I’ve visited Seoul over 15 times since 2020, both for work as a flight attendant and on personal solo adventures. It’s one of my favourite cities in the world, and I’ve squeezed in dozens of fast-paced days exploring.

Whether you’re tackling Seoul in a day during a stopover or planning a tightly packed one-day itinerary between flights, I’ve created a realistic, energetic, and experience-packed guide based on what I do when I only have 24 hours in Seoul.

From traditional spots like Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace, to street food in Myeongdong and nightlife in Hongdae, we’re covering it all. You’ll hit the highlights without rushing so much that you can’t enjoy them.

So, lace up your sneakers, grab an iced Americano (yes, even in winter—Koreans are obsessed), and let’s get going.

If you’ve got more time, check out my 5-day Seoul itinerary and don’t forget to check for cool events happening in Seoul on the Visit Seoul Tourism Board.

Can you see Seoul in one day?

Seeing Seoul in one day is ambitious, but doable, especially if you plan smart and focus on neighbourhoods that are close together.

The good news? Many of Seoul’s must-see spots are clustered in the city centre. You can visit Myeongdong, Insadong, and Gyeongbokgung Palace all within a few hours, since they’re just a short walk or subway ride apart. From there, heading to Itaewon or Hongdae in the evening is easy too.

I’ve done this route plenty of times. When I’m in a time crunch, I love starting in Myeongdong and working my way through the city using Seoul’s amazing public transport. The subway system is clean, efficient, and easy to navigate, but if I’m short on time, I’ll happily call a Kakao Taxi.

You won’t see everything, but you’ll get a taste of Seoul’s energy, culture, shopping, and food, all in one crazy, wonderful day. If you’re a woman travelling solo to Seoul, this guide covers everything you need to know before your trip.

What is the best time to visit Seoul?

Spring in Seoul (March–May)

Spring is one of the most magical seasons in Seoul. The city bursts into pastel pink as cherry blossoms take over parks, palaces, and riverbanks. Temperatures are mild, and it’s the perfect time for long walks and palace hopping.

Just be prepared for larger crowds, especially in early April, as it’s peak blossom season.

Summer in Seoul (June–August)

Let’s be real—summer in Seoul is humid, hot, and sticky. I’ve made the mistake of visiting in July, and between the monsoon rains and 90% humidity, it was brutal. Sightseeing becomes a sweaty mission, and it’s not for the faint of heart.

That said, if you’re into rooftop bars and late-night vibes, summer nights in Seoul can be magical (with air-con and icy drinks, of course).

Fall in Seoul (September–November)

This is hands-down my favourite time to visit Seoul. The weather is crisp and cool, the skies are clear, and the fall foliage turns every park and temple into a painting. It’s ideal for exploring outdoors without melting or freezing.

October and early November are prime times for hiking and sightseeing in places like Namsan or Seoul Forest.

Winter in Seoul (December–February)

Winter in Seoul is cold—and I mean next-level cold. But if you pack thermals and embrace the chill, it’s surprisingly beautiful. The city is lit up with festive lights, cafés get extra cosy, and there’s a certain stillness that’s pretty magical.

I love visiting in winter for the quiet mornings, fewer tourists, and that first hot bowl of tteokguk after walking in the snow.

How to get around in Seoul?

Subway: Fast, Clean and Tourist-Friendly

The Seoul subway system is extensive, colour-coded, and has signage in both Korean and English. It’s the best option if you want to cover lots of ground quickly and affordably. Subway rides are air-conditioned and consistent, and every major tourist attraction is connected by train.

I always recommend downloading Naver Maps or KakaoMap before your trip. Google Maps won’t work properly for directions or public transport planning in South Korea.

Using a T-Money in Seoul

To make your transport experience seamless, get a T-money card. It’s a rechargeable tap card that you can use across subways, buses, and even some taxis. You can pick one up at convenience stores like GS25 or 7-Eleven, or at most subway stations.

Top up your card with cash and simply tap in and out as you ride. You’ll get a small discount compared to single-ride fares, and it saves you from buying a new ticket for every journey. Even for just one day in Seoul, I recommend using one—it makes moving around much easier and faster.

Bonus: It also works in other cities like Busan and Incheon if you’re travelling further. You can also buy this Climate Transport Card + Discover Seoul Pass, which gives you unlimited rides and entrance to sights in Seoul.

Buses: Affordable, But Slower

Seoul’s buses are clean, safe, and cover a wide network. They’re colour-coded by route type (blue, green, red, yellow), and many have digital signs in English. However, buses are less intuitive for short stays, and routes can be trickier to follow for first-time visitors.

If you’re only in Seoul for 24 hours, the subway and taxis are your best bet to maximise time, because rush hour can affect travel time with the bus.

Taxis and Ride Apps: Use Kakao or Uber

Uber has been available in Seoul for the last two years (It didn’t work on my solo trip to Korea in 2022). But locals rely on Kakao Taxi, which works just like Uber. The app allows you to book standard or premium taxis and even estimate the fare ahead of time.

I often take a Kakao taxi if it shaves off 20 minutes of subway transfers. Air-con, no transfers, and worth the few extra won when you’re only in the city for a day.

Where to stay in Seoul for 24 hours

If you’re only spending one day in Seoul, location is everything. You want to be close to major attractions, shopping streets, and great food, ideally with easy access to the subway.

After more than fifteen visits to Seoul, these are the places I recommend if you’re short on time but still want comfort and convenience. To have a better understanding, you can check out this article by Lonely Planet on the different neighbourhoods in Seoul.

L7 Myeongdong by Lotte

L7 Myeongdong by Lotte is a solid pick if you want to be in the heart of the action. Just a short stroll from Myeongdong Station, this hotel puts you right in the middle of the district’s buzzing shopping streets, food stalls, and beauty stores.

The spacious rooms and larger bathrooms are perfect after a full day of sightseeing. Plus, there’s a rooftop bar with incredible skyline views while enjoying a drink.

More about why I love Myeongdong? Read my post on where to stay in Seoul (best neighbourhoods).

Check availability

Aiden by Best Western Cheongdam

A great affordable option in Gangnam is Aiden By Best Western. The hotel has clean, simple rooms in a great location.

All rooms include breakfast, so there is less to worry about in the morning. The area is great for a visit to Apgujeong (lots of trendy restaurants and bars here), a walk by the Han River, and the Starfield Library in Coex Mall. Don’t forget to check out Garugosil Street.

book on booking.com

My top things to do in Seoul in 24 hours

Focus on the most iconic, walkable, and memorable spots. These are my go-to picks whenever I’m showing someone around on a short trip

• Gyeongbokgung Palace – Seoul’s most famous palace. Get there for the changing of the guard ceremony if you can.
• Bukchon Hanok Village – A peaceful walk through traditional Korean houses and some of the best photo spots in the city.
• Insadong & Ikseon-dong – For artsy shops, cute cafés, and a mix of old and new Seoul.
• Myeongdong – Street food heaven and skincare shopping central. You could spend hours here.
• Hongdae or Itaewon – Depending on your vibe, end the night in either Seoul’s artsy student district or its wild international party zone.
• Starfield Library – A quick wow moment inside the COEX Mall, especially if you love books or architecture.
• Han River Night Walk – If the weather is good, take a late-night stroll with locals by the river. It’s quiet, romantic, and very Seoul.

Each of these stops is easy to fit into a one-day itinerary, and most are close enough to link together by subway, taxi, or even on foot.

1-day in Seoul itinerary

7:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is a must-see whenever you’re in Seoul. This charming neighbourhood is packed with traditional Korean houses called hanoks, giving you a real taste of Korea’s rich history. I love wandering through the narrow alleys and checking out the architecture.

The views are amazing, with the modern Seoul skyline in the background. Bukchon Hanok Village is a residential area, so be quiet and respectful. Getting there early is the best way to avoid the crowds!

The main street with the best view for photos is Bukchon Yukgyeong. You can look for it on Google Maps! If you’re up for coffee, check out E-Chae Cafe. I love this little cafe with a little garden, and it opens at 8 a.m.

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Gyeongbokgung Palace

Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty and the biggest attraction in Seoul! You can visit Seoul and not see the palace, so adding this to our one-day itinerary is a must!

If you come in traditional Korean clothing, such as a hanbok, you can enter the palace for free. But the entrance fee won’t break the bank, setting you back a small $2. There are several places near the palace and Insadong where you can rent a hanbok if you want to.

You could easily walk around the palace for a few hours, and getting there so early in the morning would allow you to see it without the massive crowds. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony at 10:00 a.m.!

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Insadong and Ikseon-dong

From Gyeongbokgung Palace, we’ll walk to Insadong and Ikseon-dong, a neighbourhood known for its traditional tea houses, art galleries, antique shops, boutiques and restaurants. You can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in one of the many cute cafes.

Stroll through the streets and stop at Namusae Tea House for a cup of tea! The main shopping street in Insadong is Insadong Culture Street.

Insadong is also great for a good lunch after a long morning! How about authentic Korean bossam? Bossam is boiled, marinated, and sliced pork eaten with cabbage leaves and lots of banchan (side dishes). My favourite place in Insadong is Maneul Bossam.

Are you more in the mood for mandu (Korean dumplings)? Check out Bukchon Son Mandu, which has tasty boiled and fried dumplings at a super affordable price! It can get busy during lunch break, but the wait shouldn’t be that long!

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: N Seoul Tower

From Insadong, we’re taking the cable car up to N Seoul Tower and enjoying a panoramic view of Seoul! The views are very Instagrammable and iconic, making it a must-do stop for your one-day adventure in Seoul!

You could take the cable car up and walk the way down, but since we’re short on time, I suggest taking the cable car! The observation tower has a great view of Seoul and shows the direction to various other destinations.

A ticket to Namsan Tower is around $15 per person. You’ll pay separately when using the cable cars.

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3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Myeongdong

From N Seoul Tower, we’re heading to Myeongdong, a fantastic shopping district famous for its skincare and cosmetics shops. Here, you must stock up on K-Beauty products in one of the many skincare stores.

Myeongdong has a lot of streets, but the main one is called “Myeongdong Shopping Street.” The area is packed with stores and restaurants, and gets pretty busy in the evening.

When hunting for skincare deals, it’s worth shopping around a bit. But don’t let the sales ladies trick you into buying more than you want! They often offer a ‘duty-free’ discount for spending a certain amount.

Olive Young is a famous skincare store in South Korea, and you’ll find a huge one in Myeong-dong.

Starting in the late afternoon, Myeong-dong is the place for street food. Street food stalls pop up, offering the perfect chance to taste Korean treats. I recommend trying “hotteok” (Korean sweet pancakes) or “tteokbokki” (spicy rice cakes).

You could spend your evening in Myeongdong, fill up on street food for dinner, and maybe skip Hongdae. From here, head to the Starfield Library and then enjoy a walk along the Han River! Myeongdong is a must on this one-day layover in Seoul.

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5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Dinner in Hongdae

Head over to Hongdae, a neighbourhood buzzing with student energy, bars, and clubs! You’ll notice the average age is quite young, but that doesn’t spoil the fun!

Grab dinner at a Korean BBQ restaurant, where you can grill your meat at the table, or go for some authentic Korean Fried Chicken—both are fantastic! Local favourites for Korean Fried Chicken are BBQ or Nene Chicken.

After dinner, take a stroll through the lively streets of Hongdae. Check out the street performers and buskers; you might even catch a glimpse of future K-pop stars showing off their skills.

If you like dancing, Hongdae has plenty of clubs that are open until the early morning!

And don’t forget to capture some memories with a photo booth session! These unmanned booths are scattered around Seoul, filled with fun props, and let you take home some awesome photos. It’s a must-do when you’re in the city!

7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Starfield Library

The Starfield Library, located in Starfield Coex Mall, is an iconic sight in Seoul! It’s on the other side of the city in Gangnam, but it’s worth the trip to make the most of your one-day itinerary in Seoul.

You’ve probably seen those Instagram photos of the impressive library wall behind an escalator. It’s not exactly a traditional library—more like a mall with a library-inspired section. Still, it’s pretty cool to see, even if it doesn’t quite give off those Belle and the Beast vibes!

If you’re up to making the trip to the other side of Seoul and you’re a content creator, it’s a cool spot! If you’re into a slow evening, I’d say skip and head over to the Han River!

9:00 PM – 11:00 PM: Han River Night Stroll

Our final stop in this whirlwind 1-day in Seoul itinerary! It’s time to wind down before getting some sleep. Take a peaceful late-night stroll along the Han River. The night views of the city skyline are stunning, making it a perfect way to relax after a busy day. You’ll need a moment to let all these Seoul memories sink in.

Grab a beer from a convenience store and unwind near the Banpo Bridge. In the summer, there’s a light show near the bridge that’s worth catching. The area around the Han River gets lively with people having picnics or just enjoying a drink to relax!

Can I Explore Seoul During a Layover?

Yes, you can explore Seoul during a layover, especially if you have around 24 hours. If you’re arriving in the morning and flying out the next day—or staying overnight—this itinerary is a great way to make the most of your time.

Getting From Incheon Airport to the City

The fastest and easiest way to reach central Seoul is the AREX Express Train. This is what I always take. It’s clean, smooth, and takes less than an hour from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station with the non-stop option.

You’ll find ticket machines at the airport, and trains run frequently throughout the day. I always choose the express version, not the all-stop one—especially when time matters. You can also buy a ticket with Arex online through Klook for ease.

Luggage Storage Options

If you’re doing Seoul on a layover, I recommend leaving your luggage at the airport. There are plenty of lockers at Incheon Airport, and many major subway stations in Seoul have them too.

Keep in mind: locker sizes can be limited, so it’s easier if you’re travelling with a backpack or small suitcase. If you’re carrying large luggage, double-check availability or consider luggage storage services inside the airport.

What to Eat in Seoul in One Day

If you only have 24 hours in Seoul, don’t waste your meals on boring food. This city is packed with flavour, and you can still try a lot even on a tight schedule. Whether you’re grabbing snacks between sights or sitting down for dinner, these are the must-tries.

Street Food in Myeongdong

Myeongdong is a great place to start if you want quick, satisfying eats. I always go for tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), gimbap (Korean-style sushi rolls), and pork belly skewers. They’re easy to eat on the go and give you that salty, spicy hit that Korean food is known for.

Other popular options include hotteok (sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar), egg bread, and grilled cheese lobster. The energy of the food stalls makes it one of the most fun ways to eat in Seoul.

Korean BBQ or Fried Chicken

If you’re sitting down for one meal, make it Korean BBQ or fried chicken. Both are iconic, and you’ll find great spots in neighbourhoods like Hongdae, Itaewon, or Myeongdong.

Another option I love is grabbing fried chicken and a cold beer, then heading to the Han River for a casual picnic. Locals do this all the time, especially in the warmer months. It’s a relaxed, real way to experience Seoul.

My Go-To Dish: Jjajangmyeon

Whenever I’m in Korea, I try to fit in a bowl of jjajangmyeon—noodles in a rich black bean sauce. It’s just savoury and comforting, and I love it. If you’re craving something hearty and less touristy, this is it.

Trendy Cafés and Coffee Breaks

Seoul’s café culture is unmatched. You’ll stumble across Instagram-worthy cafés serving great coffee and pastries. Right now, salt bread is trending all over social media.

I haven’t tried it yet, but it’s everywhere. If you spot it, grab one and let me know if it lives up to the hype.

FAQ’s about 1 day in Seoul

How to Make the Most of One Day in Seoul

To make the most of one day in Seoul, focus on walkable neighbourhoods, use the subway or KakaoTaxi to save time, and prioritise experiences that feel like you.

You don’t need to see every corner of the city to feel its energy. From hanbok at Gyeongbokgung to street food in Myeongdong and sunset by the Han River, this 24-hour plan gives you the best of culture, food, and city life in one full day.

You’ll leave wanting more; that’s a good thing. Seoul always gives you a reason to come back.

If you’re planning to stay longer or want to dive deeper into Korea, here’s where to head next:

• The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary To Seoul: See, Eat, and Explore It All
• The Ultimate Solo Female Travel Guide To Seoul For Beginners
• The Best 10-Day South Korea Itinerary: Seoul and Busan

Still have questions? Drop them in the comments. I love hearing your plans, tips, and Seoul-in-a-day stories.

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