How to spend 48 hours in Seoul

Lunch at Michelin-starred Allen

For an exceptional dining experience in Seoul, head to Allen, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Gangnam that offers modern French cuisine with a Korean twist. Helmed by chef Allen Suh, the restaurant is celebrated for its refined tasting menus that blend French techniques with Korean ingredients, from fermented vegetables to seasonal seafood.

The sleek, minimalist setting keeps the focus on each meticulously crafted dish, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Explore Namsangol Hanok Village

Navigating Seoul is easy when you have the right apps. Download KakaoMap for accurate directions, as Google Maps can be unreliable here. For taxis, K.Ride is your best option, though Seoul’s public transport is efficient.

Start your afternoon of exploring at Namsangol Hanok Village, located at the foot of Namsan Mountain. This village features five restored traditional Korean houses that once belonged to aristocratic families. A walk through this quiet area offers a peaceful contrast to the city’s bustling energy.

Sunset drinks at Floating rooftop bar

If it's a clear day in Seoul, don’t miss the chance to catch a stunning sunset. Namsan Tower offers great views, but for something a little different, head to Floating, a rooftop bar on the 21st floor of the L7 Hotel. It’s tucked away near the vibrant Myeongdong district, and the views of the city skyline at dusk are striking. The extensive wine list makes it a great spot to relax and take it all in.

Evening stroll down Myeongdong Street

Myeongdong is one of Seoul’s prime shopping districts; a labyrinth of shops offering everything from fashion to cosmetics and more. It’s easy to lose track of time as you browse, however, after a long shopping spree, the true highlight of Myeongdong lies in its bustling street food scene.

From egg bread and cheese-based snacks to a variety of skewers, there’s plenty to sample. Just be sure to save some room for dessert.

Morning—Exercise at Josun Wellness club

Early risers can start their day at Josun Wellness Club. Fitness enthusiasts will discover a haven in the state-of-the-art fitness centre, which is equipped with the latest cardio and resistance training technology, while those who prefer a gentler awakening can enjoy a revitalising dip in the heated indoor pool while taking in panoramic views of the city.

Explore Ikseon-dong Hanok 

Start your exploration of Ikseon-dong Hanok Village at one of the most charming cafés in the area, Nakwon. Amidst the area's many trendy coffee shops and bakeries, Nakwon stands out for its unique ambience, featuring lush greenery and railway-inspired decor.

The menu features delicious drinks and pastries, but the real highlights are the vanilla latte and the rich dark chocolate drink—which is perfect for those looking to skip the caffeine. After enjoying your coffee, take a stroll through the picturesque Ikseon-dong Hanok Village before heading to your next stop.

Lunch at Insa-dong Geujip

Insa-dong, Seoul’s vibrant hub of traditional Korean culture, offers a captivating blend of art, crafts and teahouses. Be sure to visit Ssamziegil, a unique spiral-shaped complex showcasing local crafts and intriguing exhibitions. When hunger strikes, stop by Insa-dong Geujip for authentic Korean cuisine.

Rent a traditional hanbok and visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

No trip to Seoul is complete without a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most impressive of the city’s five grand palaces. As you wander through the majestic courtyards, it feels like stepping back in time. Here’s a tip: rent a traditional hanbok (Korean dress) to leave with stunning photos to commemorate your royal experience.

Bukchon Hanok Village and Café 04293

An afternoon stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village is the perfect way to hit your daily steps while soaking up more of Seoul's history. Dating back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), this 600-year-old village was once home to royalty, aristocrats, and high-ranking officials. Be sure to visit Bukchon-ro 11ga-gil, one of Seoul’s most photographed spots.

Finally, take a well-deserved break at Café 04293. Featuring a charming courtyard and rooftop, it's the ideal place to recharge with a smoothie and a sweet treat.

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Sunset walk in Hannam

Hannam is undoubtedly one of the coolest districts in Seoul, best visited after 5pm to experience the early evening vibe as the bars and restaurants begin to light up. Before sunset, make sure to stop by the impressive Hyundai Card Music Library, where you can listen to music and browse through their collection of over 1,000 vinyl records.

After, catch the sunset from the platform—it’s the perfect way to wrap up the day and set the mood for the evening ahead.

Eat at Gwangjang Market

Experience authentic Korean food than Gwangjang Market. As one of Seoul’s oldest traditional markets, it’s renowned for its vibrant street food scene and rich cultural heritage.

The vast selection of food can be overwhelming, but must-tries include popular dishes like the delicious tteokbokki (rice cakes), alongside sweet treats such as hotteok (filled pancakes). The lively atmosphere and communal seating create a perfect setting to enjoy genuine Korean cuisine while mingling with locals.

Explore Seongsu

Seongsu-dong, once a humble shoemaking district, now pulses with a distinctly Brooklyn-esque energy. Forget Gangnam—this is where Seoul’s trendsetters gather, sharing stories over artisanal coffee, hunting for unique finds in independent boutiques and exploring hidden galleries tucked away in repurposed factories.

The neighbourhood’s gritty industrial past provides a striking contrast to its emerging creative scene.

Vintage shopping in Hongdae

Calling all vintage lovers! Hongdae is a treasure trove of second hand finds, particularly for American-style denim and leather jackets, and a wealth of upcycled pieces. For those on the hunt for pre-loved luxury, head to the basement of an unassuming building to discover the hidden gem that is Vintage Speciality Shop. Here, you can unearth treasures like Burberry trench coats, Fendi jackets, and even vintage Miu Miu, all at surprisingly affordable prices. It’s heaven for discerning vintage enthusiasts.

Sunset drinks at 1914 Lounge & Bar

What better way to round off your Seoul trip than with a cocktail at 1914 Lounge & Bar at Josun Palace. The beautifully designed space captures the elegance of the 1930s while blending in modern touches, offering a perfect setting for your farewell drink.

Sip on an expertly crafted aperitif as live music plays in the background, and soak in one last stunning view of the city before your journey ends.

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