72 hours in Seoul, South Korea. <3
A girls’ trip to Seoul is a must! From incredible food to cutting-edge beauty products, South Korea offers an unforgettable experience. While I wish I had more time to explore beyond Seoul, our 72-hour itinerary covered everything on our list and more. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of a short stay in this vibrant city.
Transportation
Seoul is about a 1-2 hour journey from Incheon International Airport, depending on your mode of transport and traffic. The city boasts an excellent transportation system with options like the airport limousine bus, which conveniently connects travelers to various hotels across the city. After customs and immigration, follow the signs with a bus icon to the ticket office. Provide the name and address of your hotel, and you’ll receive a ticket and directions to your platform. It’s that easy!
Our hotel was a five-minute walk from Seoul Station, a hub for subways and buses. However, navigating transportation apps can be tricky. Google Maps and Apple Maps don’t function fully in South Korea. We managed to use Google Maps for bus routes, but it wasn’t always reliable. Uber is also limited, requiring you to walk to designated pickup points that might be far. Ultimately, walking became our preferred mode of transport—it allowed us to discover charming streets, alleys, and local vendors.
Where to Stay
We stayed at the Hilton Millennium Hotel, perfectly located just a five-minute walk from Seoul Station and a 15-minute stroll to the lifts for Namsan Tower. The hotel’s elegant decor, complete with floral arrangements and a central fountain, made for a welcoming atmosphere. Our room offered stunning views of the city, and the amenities—a gym, pool, and spa—were top-notch. The staff were friendly and helpful, providing excellent recommendations.
There’s also a casino and three restaurants on-site. While the hotel is an Uber pickup point, returning by Uber can be tricky. Overall, the Hilton Millennium’s location and amenities make it a great base for exploring Seoul.
What to Wear
March in Seoul is similar to San Francisco weather: warm in the sun, chilly in the shade, and freezing at night. I packed versatile layers, including jeans, sweaters, a suede jacket, and a peacoat. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring; my checkered Vans, black booties, and white Supergas were perfect. Don’t forget a scarf, gloves, and a beanie for those colder moments.
What to Eat
Korean BBQ
For an authentic Korean BBQ experience, we visited Arirang Restaurant, where the service was exceptional. The all-female staff helped us choose meats and explained the numerous side dishes served with the meal. Korean BBQ can be pricier than in the U.S., so budget accordingly. But if it’s your first time, YOLO—it’s worth it!
Street Food
A highlight was hotteok, a Korean street food similar to a pupusa. These stuffed pancakes come with savory fillings like rice noodles and veggies or sweet fillings like cinnamon and sugar. Pair one with a can of Milkis, a creamy milk soda that tastes like sherbet ice cream.
Cafes
Seoul’s cafe culture is unparalleled, with themes ranging from chic to whimsical. Two favorites were:
- Stylenanda Pink Pool Cafe: Located atop the Stylenanda store in Myeong-dong, this cafe features Instagram-worthy decor and a rooftop lounge with comfy pillows and umbrellas.
- Poop Cafe: Yes, you read that right! Situated near temples and shops, this quirky spot serves lattes in toilet-shaped mugs. I tried the rose latte, which was too floral for my taste but made for great photos.
Night Markets
Head to Namdaemun Market for a vibrant dinner experience. Explore small restaurants and street food vendors offering a variety of unique dishes. Watching the vendors cook is half the fun!
What to Do
Myeong-dong District
Spend a day in this bustling district, known for its beauty and fashion stores. Etude House and Tony Moly are must-visits for stocking up on skincare and face masks. Korean beauty products are legendary, and you’ll find everything from jelly masks to pore minimizes.
Namsan Tower
Take a lift to the top of Namsan Tower for breathtaking views of Seoul’s skyline. The area features shops, a movie theater, and a lock garden where you can leave a personalized message. Pro tip: Take your time and enjoy the scenery—there’s no rush.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Explore this traditional Korean village nestled between historic palaces and shrines. The high walls and winding alleys make it easy to get delightfully lost. Rent a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) to fully immerse yourself in the experience and capture timeless photos. The serene atmosphere of the village, complete with meditation temples, makes it a must-visit.
Final thoughts
Seoul is a city of contrasts, blending modern innovation with rich tradition. Whether you’re indulging in street food, shopping for beauty products, or marveling at historic landmarks, every moment feels like an adventure. I hope this guide inspires you to pack your bags and embark on your own Seoul-searching journey!