[Seoul Quick Trip] Go whenever you want! 3 days 2 nights solo trip diary: rapid cosmetic treatments and skincare, a top pick stay in Dongdaemun, viral squid pasta in Hongdae & must-try soy marinated crab in Myeongdong!
seoulseol
3 days ago
Sometimes, life really does need a little “let’s just go” spontaneity.
This 3-day, 2-night Seoul quick trip was a completely last-minute decision. No complicated itinerary planning, the goal was super clear: speedy self-care, amazing food, and a bit of strolling and shopping on the side. I thought three days would feel rushed, but with the right plan, everything flowed so smoothly, and both my mind and my skin felt fully recharged!
Today, I’m sharing my stay, my K-beauty clinic experience, and a few viral food spots that are genuinely safe picks!
🏨 Best stay pick: Mercure Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun
This trip was packed, so my only criterion for choosing a hotel was “convenient transportation.” In the end, I booked Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae / Dongdaemun (Mercure Dongdaemun), and it was such a pleasant surprise, way better than expected!
The biggest advantage of staying in Dongdaemun is the “central location”, whether you’re heading to Hongdae for shopping, Myeongdong for food, or the super trendy Seongsu-dong for fashion brands, the subway or taxi time is always just right. No wasting precious time on long commutes.
The room was clean, comfortable, and very modern. The natural light and soundproofing were also solid. After a full day of sightseeing and treatments, being able to truly relax back at the hotel was a huge plus. If I do another quick trip next time, I’ll definitely consider staying here again.
💆♀️ Top choice for beauty treatments: Lijin Clinic experience
The highlight of this quick trip was, of course, getting a beauty treatment at Lijin Clinic!
For quick-trip travelers, the most important things when choosing a clinic are professionalism, efficiency, and smooth communication. Lijin Clinic’s overall environment was bright and comfortable. Both the consultant and the doctor were extremely professional and attentive, they gave precise recommendations based on my current skin condition, and didn’t push unnecessary treatments.
The whole process was very smooth, with gentle techniques and great attention to detail. Right after the treatment, my skin looked noticeably clearer and firmer. I left the clinic with a real glow, honestly, flying over just for this was so worth it!
🍝 Hongdae must-eat: Onsil (온실) viral pasta
After taking care of my skin, it was time to treat my taste buds! I finally visited the Hongdae pasta spot Onsil (온실), the one that’s been absolutely everywhere on social media!
Before going, I was a little worried it might be just a “photo-op influencer place,” but it didn’t disappoint at all, it was even more impressive than I expected!
The seasoning is really unique, blending Korean flavors with Western-style pasta perfectly. The noodles were cooked just right (al dente), and the sauce was rich but not heavy. Every bite felt thoughtful, and the vibe is stylish too. This is absolutely the kind of place that’s worth lining up for!
🦀 Myeongdong classic: Udarijip soy sauce marinated crab
When you’re in Seoul, how can you not eat soy sauce marinated crab? Even though it wasn’t my first time, Udarijip in Myeongdong is still that reliable choice that never disappoints.
Their soy sauce crab is loaded with crab roe, incredibly fresh, and has none of that fishy smell people worry about. Sweet crab meat with their signature sauce, then mix seaweed and rice into the shell so it soaks up all that roe, that first bite is pure happiness, seriously beyond words. Paired with a table full of Korean side dishes and steamed egg, I always finish and think: classics are classics for a reason.
📝 3-day quick trip recap
Even though it was only 3 short days, this Seoul quick trip was seriously energizing:
Slept well (Mercure Dongdaemun, super convenient transportation)
Looked better (very satisfied with Lijin Clinic)
Ate amazingly (double satisfaction from Onsil pasta + Udarijip soy sauce crab)
Every now and then, life needs this kind of high-efficiency quick getaway! If you’ve been feeling tired lately, why not book a ticket and treat yourself to a spontaneous Seoul trip for self-care and great food?
💡 Quick tips / reader Q&A
About beauty treatments: I strongly recommend booking your time on Creatrip before you leave. Quick trips are tight on time, don’t count on walking in and getting lucky!
About transportation: If you stay in Dongdaemun, taking Subway Line 2 gets you straight to Hongdae and Seongsu, super convenient!
If you have any questions about this itinerary, my Lijin Clinic experience, or the food spots, feel free to leave a comment below and ask! See you in the next post!
