3 days in Seoul, Korea

Seoul is a city that invites you to walk — through history, across modern skylines, into quiet alleys and vibrant streets. Over four immersive days, I explored the city almost entirely on foot, staying at the beautifully located Le Méridien Myeongdong, a luxury base that was not only central to everything but also just steps away from Cheonggyecheon Stream — ideal for scenic morning runs or quiet evening strolls.

Day 1 – Village Vibes & a Towering Sunset

Check-in & Exploring Central Seoul

After checking into Le Méridien Myeongdong, I laced up my sneakers and set out to explore. First stop: Ikseondong Hanok Village, a creative neighborhood where traditional architecture meets hip cafés and indie shops. From there, I followed the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a peaceful urban waterway that flows just a block from the hotel — a local favorite for joggers and walkers alike.

I continued on to the buzzing streets of Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s busiest shopping areas, alive with skincare shops, street food stalls, and music pouring out of every storefront.

Sunset Hike to N Seoul Tower

By late afternoon, I made my way to Namsan Park and began the hour-long hike up to N Seoul Tower. It’s a steep but manageable climb through forested trails, and the reward is breathtaking — a full panorama of the city glowing in the golden hour. The tower stays open late, so it’s perfect for lingering after sunset.

Dinner: Korean BBQ at Kukbingwan

I ended the night with dinner at Kukbingwan, a classic Korean BBQ joint where the meats are rich, the side dishes are endless, and the post-hike hunger is fully satisfied.

Day 2 – Palaces, Art, and Fortress Views

Gyeongbokgung Palace & GROUND Seesaw

The day began at Gyeongbokgung Palace, where I caught the changing of the guard ceremony — a colorful and choreographed event steeped in history. After exploring the palace grounds, I walked to GROUND Seesaw, a minimalist contemporary gallery nearby.

I was lucky enough to visit during the Werner Bronkhorst exhibition — a striking display of raw, modern works that challenged and captivated me. The contrast between ancient tradition and contemporary art in the same morning was exactly the kind of cultural duality that makes Seoul so special.

Hanok Village & Lunch at Onion Anguk

Next, I wandered through Bukchon Hanok Village, taking in the quiet beauty of traditional Korean homes nestled among hills. I stopped at Onion Anguk, a beautifully restored hanok turned café, where I had lunch and one of the best pastries of the trip.

Bugaksan Fortress Wall Hike

In the afternoon, I took a short taxi ride to Changuimun Gate to begin the Bugaksan Trail, a historic hike along the Seoul Fortress Wall. You’ll need your passport for entry, but the ~2-hour walk offers dramatic views, cool mountain breezes, and a chance to see a different side of the city.

K-Star Road & Starfield COEX Mall

I closed out the day with a visit to K-Star Road in Gangnam — filled with playful pop culture tributes — then wandered through Starfield COEX Mall, home to high-end boutiques and the iconic Starfield Library.

Dinner: Fried Chicken & Beer

Dinner was delightfully laid back: crispy Korean fried chicken and an ice-cold beer at a casual local spot. No better way to recover from a double-hike day.

Day 3 – A Journey to the Border

DMZ Tour

This was the most structured day of the trip, but also one of the most powerful. I was picked up early for a guided DMZ tour, which included visits to the Third Infiltration Tunnel and the DMZ Exhibition Hall. Seeing the division between North and South Korea up close was sobering and surreal — a must-do experience that offers deep perspective on the country’s past and present.

Dinner with a View: The Griffin Bar

Back in Seoul by late afternoon, I got ready for a memorable final dinner at The Griffin Bar at JW Marriott Dongdaemun. Set on a rooftop with sweeping views of the city skyline, this cocktail bar was the perfect place to toast the trip and reflect on everything I’d seen, tasted, and walked through.