Pick up a T-money card at Incheon Airport and load ₩30,000 to cover subways and buses for a few days. From the airport, the AREX all-stop train gets you to Seoul Station in 60 minutes and connects directly to Line 1 and Line 4.
Palace Loop
Arrive at Gyeongbokgung before 10:00 a.m. to see the guard-changing ceremony (except Tuesdays). Hanbok rentals nearby grant free palace entry if you want photos. Afterward, walk north toward Bukchon Hanok Village—signs request quiet between 2–4 p.m., so take photos respectfully and avoid knocking on residential doors.
Continue east to Changdeokgung for the Secret Garden tour. Tickets sell out early; book online via the Cultural Heritage Administration site or queue an hour in advance. The guided walk lasts 70 minutes and covers uneven steps—wear shoes with grip.
Lunch and Markets
Tongin Market operates a fun ‘dosirak’ (lunchbox) program where you exchange ₩5,000 for brass coins and fill trays at different stalls. If you prefer sit-down comfort, head to Tosokchon for samgyetang chicken soup—expect a 20-minute line after noon.
Night Market Shuffle
- Gwangjang Market for bindaetteok and mayak gimbap; stalls accept card but bring cash for faster service.
- Dongdaemun Design Plaza rooftop for LED rose garden photos before midnight shopping.
- Mangwon Market if you want a quieter option with craft coffee stands and vegan-friendly bites.
Subways run past midnight on Fridays and Saturdays but stop around 11:45 p.m. otherwise. If you miss the last train, Kakao T taxis are reliable; check the license plate before getting in and avoid unmarked cars.