Ah, Seoul—where skincare is life, KBBQ is a religious experience, and shopping somehow feels like cardio. If you’re ready to dive into a mix of culture, food, and beauty (because who isn’t curious about getting that famous “glass skin” look?), you’re in the right place.
Before we jump into the details of How to Spend 5 Full Days in Seoul, let’s break down Seoul’s coolest neighbourhoods and how to get around.
TLDR 🫣
Seoul: The ultimate destination for beauty, culture, and food lovers.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Hongdae & Ewha Womans University - Colour Analysis and Architecture
- Day 2: Seongsu & Gangnam – Hipster and Classy Vibes
- Day 3: Dongdaemun & Myeongdong – Markets, Palaces, and Street Food
- Day 4: Central Seoul (Insadong & Jongno) – More Culture and Shopping
- Day 5: Hongdae (again) Itaewon – Wrapping It Up Right
Pro Tips:
- Get a T-money or Cashbee card to help you move around Busan: Load it lightly as you can reload it everywhere.
- Download local apps: Use KakaoMetro for subway navigation and Naver Map for accurate directions. Google Maps is not friendly here. Many of the top attractions in Busan are far apart from each other.
- If planning to do both a colour analysis and a skin treatment, do the colour analysis first to avoid skewing results.
Top Awards:
- Best experiences included having my colour analysis done in Hongdae (Spoiler Alert: I'm a summer mute!) and catching up with my childhood best friend.
- Best food was from a small cafe in Seongsu that sold Salt Bread. What is it? I still don't fully know but it was the best bread of my life.
- Best e-SIM is Airalo (You can use our referral code "CELINA4205" to save $4.50 CAD OFF your first purchase. Heads up: We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase.)
Seoul’s Districts: A Quick & Fun Guide
– Hongdae:
Welcome to the artsy, hipster heart of Seoul. Hongdae is where you’ll find indie cafes, quirky art galleries, live street performances, and those vintage stores you pretend to “stumble upon” but actually mapped out two weeks ago. It’s youthful and chaotic in the best way possible. We stayed in an Airbnb nearby this region. They tend to be more affordable than the busier Myeongdong accommodations that most tourists flock to.
– Dongdaemun & Myeongdong:
Two words: shopping heaven. Dongdaemun’s late-night markets and massive malls will put your budget to the test, while Myeongdong’s skincare shops make you wonder if you really need that 17-step routine (hello Olive Young!) And let’s not forget street food—it’s a competition to see how much tteokbokki you can eat between shopping bags.
– Gangnam:
Yes, the Gangnam from that viral song. This is Seoul’s polished, wealthy side—glamorous, sleek, and Instagram-ready. Gangnam is home to designer stores, futuristic skyscrapers, and skincare clinics that will make you feel like you belong on a K-drama set. It’s where you go when you want to feel fancy. While Hongdae and Myeongdong also have skin care clinics, the OGs are from here.
– Central Seoul (Insadong, Jongno):
Central Seoul is all about that traditional Korean vibe. Gyeongbokgung Palace, hanok villages, and temples are a nod to the city’s ancient past, while Insadong’s artsy alleys remind you that you should probably buy a tea set to feel cultured.
– Itaewon:
The international hub of Seoul. Itaewon is the perfect place to find cuisines from around the world, and its market, nightlife, and quirky boutiques make it a must-visit. This area is relaxed and cool, with just the right mix of expat and local culture.
– Seongsu:
Often called “The Brooklyn of Seoul,” Seongsu is where the cool kids hang out. It’s filled with converted factories turned into hip cafes, art galleries, and pop-up shops. If you’re into understated chic or hipster vibes, Seongsu is your jam.
We also spent 3 days in Busan, South Korea. For more on that itinerary, check out How to Spend 3 Full Days in Busan!
How to Get Around Seoul
Getting around Seoul is incredibly easy, thanks to its well-connected public transportation system. Here’s a breakdown of your best options:
1. Subway
Seoul’s subway system is one of the most efficient and affordable ways to get around. It’s super clean, fast, and covers pretty much every part of the city. Each station has signs in Korean and English, so it’s foreigner-friendly too.
– Similar to Seoul, you can get a T-money or Cashbee card for seamless travel on the subway, buses, and even taxis. These rechargeable cards can be purchased at convenience stores or subway stations. We got ours at a CU convenience store. You can also use the card for purchases at shops. The card itself costs around 4,000 – 10,000 won ($4-$10 CAD), depending on the design. Just remember to load it with cash!
Pro Tip: Don’t overload your card initially; convenience stores are abundant. We each loaded 50,000 won ($50 CAD), which turned out to be more than enough for our trip in both Busan and Seoul!
Cost: Base fare is around 1,250 won (roughly $1.20 CAD), and you can transfer between subway lines or even to buses without extra charge within a certain time limit.
2. Buses
Seoul’s bus system is another convenient way to get around. The buses are colour-coded:
– Blue buses: Long-distance routes, crossing several districts.
– Green buses: Shorter trips, connecting subway stations and neighbourhoods.
– Yellow buses: Circular routes within specific districts.
– Red buses: Express buses that run between Seoul and nearby cities.
Buses also accept IC cards, and transfers between buses and the subway are seamless. Pro Tip: Avoid bringing luggage on buses. Similar to Japan, bringing luggage is discouraged as it can block aisles and take up too much space. We once tried to board a bus in Busan early in the morning (7:00 AM) with just carry-on-sized luggage and were initially denied. However, the driver made an exception since there were only a few passengers at that early hour.
3. Walking
Seoul is a very walkable city, especially in areas like Insadong, Hongdae, and Myeongdong. If you’re hopping between spots within a district, walking might be your best option. You’ll get to see more of the city, stumble upon hidden gems, and burn off all the KBBQ you’ve been eating!
Navigation Apps
Seoul is a smart city, and there are several apps that can help you navigate easily:
Naver Map or KakaoMap: These are more accurate than Google Maps in Korea and work in English. They provide detailed walking, driving, and public transit directions.
KakaoTaxi: This app is great for ordering taxis. You can also use Uber, but we found it to be more expensive that Kakao. They do not have Grab here.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Hongdae & Ewha Womans University – Colour Analysis and Architecture
Day 2: Seongsu & Gangnam – Hipster and Classy Vibes
Day 3: Dongdaemun & Myeongdong – Markets, Palaces, and Street Food
Day 4: Central Seoul (Insadong & Jongno) – More Culture and Shopping
Day 5: Hongdae (again) Itaewon – Wrapping It Up Right
Day 1: Hongdae & Ewha Womans University – Colour Analysis and Architecture
Colour Analysis
Kick off your first day with a colour analysis—it’s like having your fashion future predicted! Pro Tip: Make sure to do this before any skincare treatments, as those can affect your complexion and change your results.
I went to Color of You, which, according to my pre-trip research, was the most affordable option for a colour and fit analysis. For about 90 minutes, I had a one-on-one consultation where I learned everything I needed for a full glow-up.
During the colour analysis, I discovered my ideal shades for clothing (I’m a summer mute!), as well as the best colours for hair, makeup, eyeshadow, eyeliner, eyebrows, lips, and even accessories. In the fit analysis, I got advice on my body type and what materials and patterns would suit me best. The consultant also gave tips on the most flattering hairstyles, necklines, pants, skirts, dresses, coats, and even the right shoes and boots for my frame and face shape!
It was super thorough that I thought the $270 CAD price tag was worth the investment, especially because it included an English translator. I booked my appointment via Instagram several weeks in advance and then paid via credit card on the day of my appointment. We took videos but not many photos of the consultation!
Skin Care
Next, shop around for skin clinics. I knew I wanted to try a treatment in Seoul, but I didn’t know which clinics would suit my needs. Prior to coming to Seoul, I did my research (thank you, reddit) and What’sApped two clinics to schedule a consultation. I made sure these consults were free! I went to LJ Skin Clinic and Ppneum in Hongdae for consultations back-to-back (both of which are foreigner-friendly and offer tax refunds). They each lasted around 15 minutes, where the consultant visually examined my skin, and then recommended various treatments I could select based on my budget. Some people have SUPER high budgets here – just be prepared for sticker shock! Both clinics were really helpful, very polite, and allowed me to take the time to think about the treatment options and come back if I decided to proceed with any of them (see Day 5).
Lunch: Korean BBQ in Hongdae (Restaurant Name: EICHIJEOII(HJ)PALLETEU2)
No need to sugarcoat this: you’re going to smell like BBQ for the rest of the day, and you’re going to love it. Hongdae’s BBQ joints are full of sizzling meats and self-serve side dishes (the more kimchi, the better). Pro Tip: Wear the aprons! I loved that nearly every restaurant we visited in Seoul provided aprons to keep your clothes clean while you eat! Lunch costed us $28 CAD.
Ewha Womans University
Next up: A university? This isn’t just any university—it’s a shopping paradise with chic, affordable boutiques and skincare stores. The campus architecture is also worth admiring, making it perfect for a post-lunch stroll. Grab a few sheet masks while you’re at it!
Bingsu Break nearby the university (Restaurant Name: RYE field)
Shopping and skincare require sustenance. Stop for a bingsu (a giant shaved ice dessert) to refuel and cool down—because it’s always a good time for bingsu. We got the Black Sesame one for $9 CAD.
Sinchon Shopping Street
More shopping? Absolutely. Sinchon offers a variety of indie stores for everything from clothes to gadgets. By this point, your arms will be full of bags, and your credit card will be starting to sweat.
Hongdae’s Indie Scene
Round out the day by exploring Hongdae’s indie shops, art galleries, and street performances. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a killer busker or stumble upon a street dance battle. This is the artsy, funky heart of Seoul, and it comes alive at night.
Dinner: Bibimbap & Gimbop (Restaurant Name: Tera)
End your day with some bibimbap and gimbop at a local joint in Hongdae. Bibimbap and gimbap are two popular Korean dishes that are often confused because of their similar names, but they’re quite different.
– Bibimbap: This is a mixed rice dish. It usually comes in a bowl with a base of warm white rice, topped with various vegetables, a protein (like beef, chicken, or tofu), a fried egg, and a dollop of spicy gochujang (Korean chili paste). To eat it, you mix everything together, blending the flavors and textures. It’s healthy, flavorful, and customizable based on your preference.
– Gimbap (Kimbap): Gimbap looks like sushi but has Korean ingredients. It’s made by rolling rice, vegetables, and a protein (like beef, tuna, or egg) in seaweed (gim) and slicing it into bite-sized pieces. Unlike sushi, gimbap rice is seasoned with sesame oil instead of vinegar, and the fillings tend to be cooked or pickled, not raw. It’s a popular snack or picnic food in Korea.
Personally, I’m obsessed with gimbap. In South Korea, gimbap is my equivalent of a Banh Mi in Vietnam or an Onigiri in Japan—my go-to snack! I just want someone to make a song about these foods now.
Day 2: Seongsu & Gangnam – Hipster and Classy Vibes
Ready to switch gears and get a taste of hipster Seoul? Seongsu is known for their small cafes and pop-up shops!
AMORE Seongsu
Start with a visit to the AMORE Pacific Store in Seongsu to learn everything about cutting-edge beauty products. Pro Tip: If you’re thinking of buying a product from the AMORE brand, they are generally cheaper here than Olive Young! We loved that you could try on any of their products – they even have a face washing station when you first enter. Another cool thing here is that you can use AI to scan your face and they’ll give you a skin report. It also suggest products you could purchase or if you wanted to, you could make your own custom serum, based on the report. If you’d like a custom lipstick to match your skin complexion, you can also do that here, although they require advance reservations!
There’s also this little cafe that sells Salt Bread, not too far away from AMORE. They only bake, and therefore, sell at certain hours of the day so be sure to check out their display bulletin at the front. I kid you not, the smell of this bread convinced us to buy a bag, regardless of how much it would cost us. We waited in line and had THE BEST BREAD OF OUR ENTIRE LIVES ($12 CAD for four) with some coffee from Raw Coffee ($5 CAD). I will be dreaming of this bread every day for the rest of my life. I don’t know how to even explain it. It’s salty, sweet, and oh so buttery!
Bus Terminal Express Underground Mall
From there, if you’re looking for some coverage from the rain or the sun, head to the underground mall! This underground shopping mall is a labyrinth of budget-friendly finds. If you need more clothes or beauty products (because apparently, the first day wasn’t enough), this is your go-to spot. Pro Tip: We found the same clothes to be roughly 10-20% cheaper in Hongdae.
Bongeunsa Temple
As we make our way to Gangnam, find some peace and tranquility at Bongeunsa Temple—a nice break from the city’s hustle and bustle.
COEX Mall & Starfield Library
Finish off in COEX Mall, home to the Starfield Library (one of these nicest and largest libraries we’ve ever visited) and a Sky Garden in Gangnam. It’s sleek, modern, and offers some great places for people-watching.
The mall even has an indoor running track!
Ryan showing off his dance moves at night in Gangnam.
And you can grab dinner here—Gangnam style, of course. We opted for some spicy pork bone stew from an unnamed, random restaurant ($15 CAD for two people). I couldn’t believe how much food we got for just $15 CAD. We had to pack up our leftovers.
Day 3: Dongdaemun & Myeongdong – Markets, Palaces, and Street Food
Dongdaemun Market
Start your day early at Dongdaemun Market (but not on Sundays when it’s closed). It’s a sprawling shopping mecca, offering everything from clothes to home goods. But outside, there are so many food stalls including this one made famous by Netflix’s Street Foods Asia – the Baffle (baked waffle!). It’s got everything you need, from pork to kimchi, for folks on the go. Definitely worth it for $5 CAD! Check her out on Netflix.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Pop over to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza for a dose of futuristic architecture. Take a selfie, admire the free exhibitions, and be inspired. They have tours throughout the day in Korean and English if you’re into learning about architecture!
Lunch at Gwangjang Market
For lunch, hit up Gwangjang Market, one of the best places for traditional Korean street food. From savory mung bean pancakes to spicy tteokbokki, your taste buds are in for a treat. We had hand cut noodles and dumplings from Gohyang Kalguksum, another Netflix star from Street Foods Asia ($12 CAD).
Cheonggyecheon Stream
Walk off lunch along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a peaceful urban oasis in the middle of the city. We actually took a 15 minute nap underneath the bridge as the sound of water flowed by.
Then, we grabbed a matcha latte with a shot of espresso from Mammoth coffee ($3.70 CAD). Clearly, we needed more caffeine! Throughout our time in South Korea, this dirty matcha ended up being our go-to drink. Did you know, the cafe scene is huge in Korea?
Deoksugung Palace
Next up is Deoksugung Palace, a beautiful blend of traditional Korean and Western-style architecture. Make sure to catch the changing of the guard ceremony. We missed it, but we hear it’s really special. The cost was only $1 CAD per person to enter.
Namdaemun Market
From the palace, we wandered into another market. This one is all about budget-friendly finds and delicious street food. Whether you’re in the mood for Korean souvenirs or snacks, Namdaemun has got you covered.
We had this delicious honey and nut hotteok for $2 CAD. It was pan fried. Hotteok is a popular Korean street food that resembles a filled pancake. It’s made from a simple dough of flour, water, milk, and yeast, which is allowed to rise before being stuffed with a sweet filling, typically a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts or seeds.
But then, at the end of the road, there was a long line for whaaaaatttt ….. DEEP FRIED hotteok. Ryan could not resist. We bought the one with red bean filling this time, also only $2 CAD.
Myeongdong Skincare Shopping
From there, it was time to go to the busiest tourist district in all of Seoul. Myeongdong is where skincare dreams come true. Start with All Mask Story No.1 just to see the prices, then head to Olive Young—make sure to hit the second floor for tax refunds. They also have a vending machine that gives away free samples when you sign up for their mailing list! We spent around 1 hour inside and had around $200 CAD worth of products, but Olive Young gives you an instant refund, so we only had to pay $180 CAD. No need to bring your receipt to the refund counter at the airport!
Myeongdong Street Food
Snack your way through Myeongdong’s street food scene. Try the egg bread and tornado potatoes—yes, they’re as good as they sound. We spent $2 CAD on this little egg bread. In my opinion, the hotteok was better!
Dinner at Your Airbnb
After all that eating and shopping, if you’re still hungry, head back to Hongdae where there’s more choices for food. For us, it was time to unwind back at our Airbnb in Hongdae with korean fried chicken ($17 CAD) and leftover spicy pork bone stew from yesterday. It’s been a busy day!
Day 4: Central Seoul (Insadong & Jongno) – More Culture and Shopping
Today’s the day to dive into Seoul’s rich history and culture.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Start your day at Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony—it’s a must-see. They also provide you with a little cartoon pamphlet to help you understand the different historical figures and titles.
This was by far one of those most cultural palaces we’ve visited in Seoul! It was absolutely beautiful and worth the $3 CAD/person entry fee. Pro Tip: Those dressed in traditional hanboks are allowed inside for free.
Blue House
Take a peek at The Blue House, South Korea’s presidential residence. You might not get a tour, but the view from the outside is pretty cool. Plus, it’s free if you’re a foreigner! Just remember to bring your passport.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Take a stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional Korean houses line the narrow streets. It’s a peaceful escape in the middle of the city and an excellent spot for lunch. Pro Tip: A lot of the restaurants are closed on Sunday! We didn’t know and came on a Sunday, so it was super quiet. We ended up grabbing a late lunch at a small restaurant nearby the palace we visited in the morning ($19 CAD).
Jogyesa Temple
Wrap up the day with a visit to Jogyesa Temple, where you can experience a traditional tea ceremony. We didn’t opt for the tea, but when we arrived, it was such a special moment. The monks started to drum, unexpectedly and loudly, for what felt like 10 minutes. We later learned that the gong and drum are used to gather everyone to announce the precepts, meal times, etc. It felt like we were special guests, witnessing a part of their daily routine which we never even knew existed before. Such a pinch me moment!
Insadong Culture Street
End the evening with a leisurely walk down Insadong Culture Street, filled with art galleries, antique shops, and traditional tea houses. Grab some souvenirs here—maybe a piece of Korean pottery or a calligraphy set!
Dinner in Insadong
For dinner, find a cozy local restaurant in Insadong. Whether it’s samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) or a sizzling hot pot, this area offers a more traditional dining experience that will warm your soul (and your stomach).
Late Night Snacks in Myeongdong (again)
We made another stop in Myeongdong to indulge in some street food that had tempted us the day before! How about glazed strawberries for $5 CAD and a giant matcha ice cream for $4 CAD?
Day 5: Hongdae (again) & Itaewon – Wrapping It Up Right
The final day is all about tying up loose ends, and by “loose ends,” I mean your beauty regimen – one of the many reasons we loved staying near Hongdae!
Final Skin Clinic Visit
After visiting two skin clinics on Day 1, I made my decision on Day 2 and What’sApped them back to schedule an appointment. Thankfully, they had availability on Day 5 in the morning, so I quickly booked a session. I personally went for Brightening Microneedling and Laser at LJ Skin Clinic (~142 CAD), but pick the treatment that makes you feel like a K-pop star. In the meantime, Ryan got his hair cut (~24 CAD). My treatment was quick and painless (they put numbing creaming all over your face), perhaps only 45 minutes max. I also received a receipt that I would claim at the airport for a tax refund. My face was a little red after the procedure, but we’ll see how it brightens up over the next few days. Honest Review: I did not notice a big difference.
Mangwon Market for Lunch
After your beauty sesh, head to Mangwon Market for a local lunch. It’s a less touristy spot, filled with fresh produce, street food stalls, and local specialties. Grab some kimchi pancakes and kimbap rolls to fuel your afternoon. We opted for the market noodles (cold), including Jajangmyeong, a dish made of thick wheat noodles with a savory black bean sauce, pork belly, onions, cabbage, zucchini and cucumbers. Lunch cost $24 for two people.
AMORE Pacific Store – Headquarters (Optional)
Your skincare journey continues at the AMORE Pacific Store Headquarters. This is where all your favourite Korean beauty brands are born, so be prepared to leave with more serums than you knew existed. We wanted to compare prices between this AMORE Pacific Store and the one in Seongsu (flagship store). Hands down, it’s cheaper in Seongsu!
Stroll Through Yongsan Family Park or Enjoy a Peaceful Picnic by the Han River
Before dinner, take a peaceful walk through Yongsan Family Park, a green space that’s perfect for some downtime after all that sightseeing. It’s also a great route to Itaewon if you’re walking.
We actually met up with my long lost childhood best friend (it’s a wild story for another time), so we hung out by the river and enjoyed korean fried chicken while catching up. Honestly, I couldn’t believe this day! I had been searching for her for 2+ weeks, but she doesn’t have an online presence. Another pinch me moment in Seoul! Meeting up with your friend from elementary school after not seeing her for 10 years and enjoying fried chicken as the sun sets on a Monday night – what is this life I get to live?!
Dinner in Itaewon
Itaewon’s international food scene is unbeatable, so you can end your day with whatever cuisine you’re craving. Itaewon is the place to get a bit adventurous with your meals and drinks! Canned peaches anyone? You can wrap up your Seoul adventure with a late-night visit to Itaewon Market. It’s bustling with energy, offering everything from vintage clothes to quirky knick-knacks. And if you’re not ready to call it a night, Itaewon’s bars and clubs are open until the wee hours, so grab a drink (or two) to toast your five-day adventure.
TOTAL COST for 5 Full Days in Seoul (Approximate, CAD for 2 people):
Accommodations (we actually stayed for 8 nights and travelled at a slower pace): $557
Activities: $8
Food: $366
Shopping: $282 (includes Olive Young purchases)
Colour Analysis: $270
Skin Treatment and Hair Cut: $166
TOTAL: $1649 (Roughly $103 per person, per day)
FINAL THOUGHTS
After five days in Seoul, you’ll leave with a suitcase full of skincare products, a phone bursting with food pics, and maybe a slight BBQ-induced food coma. From Hongdae’s youthful energy to Gangnam’s glam, from historic palaces to futuristic malls, Seoul has something for everyone. Whether you’re here for the beauty treatments, street food, or endless shopping, Seoul’s charm will keep pulling you back—just like those sheet masks you promised yourself you’d stop buying.
So pack light, bring an extra suitcase for all your new skincare products, and get ready to fall in love with one of the most dynamic cities in the world! We also spent 3 days in Busan, South Korea. For more on that itinerary, check out How to Spend 3 Full Days in Busan! Let us know if you have any questions in the comments below!
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