places must visit seoul

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Home » Asia » South Korea » Seoul

34 BEST Places to Visit in Seoul (Attraction Guide for 2024)

Seoul is one of the most popular destinations in Asia. It’s a bustling metropolis that combines cyber-punk sights with old-world goodness. It’s a truly unique city.

There are numerous cool places to visit in Seoul and a lot of sights to see. This city has it all, from a fascinating and unusual culture to great food, amazing shopping, and great entertainment options. It’s also very welcoming and used to travelers making it a safe and accessible place in Asia. There countless points of interest in Seoul, so you’ll have an exciting and busy trip to the city.

The idea of traveling in Seoul can seem a little intimidating. It’s a sprawling metropolis and doesn’t quite have the complete ease of its East Asian neighbor Japan. However, Seoul is actually a very safe city and is popular amongst tourists, so the tourist trails are well worn and easy to explore.

With this easy guide, you’ll find it easy to travel to Seoul and come back with stories and pictures that other people just can’t match! There are a lot of cool places to visit in Seoul, so let’s get to it!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Seoul:

The best places to visit in seoul, faqs on the best places to visit in seoul, final thoughts before visiting seoul’s best places.

Gangnam translates as ‘south of the river’ and is a district that has blown up in recent years. It was originally an area dedicated to sleepy rice fields – but you’d never believe it when visiting today!

• Check out the K-pop scene and pick up a few CDs at Evan Records.
• Shop for the latest fashion and boutique items (or just window shop) at Galleria department store.
• Eat bibimbap at Tokkijung or a famous Korean barbeque meal at Yang Good.

Where do you start with the best things to do in Seoul – in a city of 10 million? Your experience while travelling in South Korea will be dramatically different by the accommodation you choose. You want to make sure you’re closest to all the coolest things to do.

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#1 – Bukchon Hanok Village – A great place to see in Seoul for Korean architecture

• A great place to experience Seoul’s traditional culture.
• You’ll be able to take some awesome pictures in this area!
• Just be aware that people still live in these houses, so be respectful of their privacy.

Why it’s so awesome: The traditional houses in Seoul are called Hanok and they date back to the Joseon Dynasty between 1392 and 1910. These houses are designed to maintain a balance between the house and the outside world of mountains, rivers, and land contours. This makes them extremely aesthetically pleasing and one of the must-sees in Seoul! You may even be able to find an Airbnb in Seoul in this architectural style if you’re lucky!

What to do there: People actually still live in this residential area, which is located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, so be respectful of their spaces and time. If you can, join a guided tour early in the morning to get even more insights. Or take some extra time and explore the area and make sure you get some pictures too. There are some spots where you can see the traditional houses against more modern landmarks, and they make for the most striking photo-ops of all.

#2 – Myeongdong – A great place in Seoul if you love to shop!

• Literally shopper’s paradise!
• You’ll find amazing deals in this area on every kind of cosmetics you can imagine.
• Make sure you take advantage of the samples and the changing deals and offers.
• If you want to find out more,  get a guide  to show you around!

Why it’s so awesome: The women of Seoul look amazing. They’re always beautifully dressed and have impeccable make-up, and this area is why. Myeongdong is a whole shopping area dedicated to every cosmetic store and brand you could ever want. So, no matter what type of skin you have or what make-up look you want, you’ll be able to find the right products in this area.

What to do there: This is the most famous place in Seoul for shopping and there are always a lot of special deals and offers in this area so keep your eyes open and take advantage of them. A lot of shops also offer free samples, so don’t be afraid to try a brand you’ve never heard of! This is a trip mostly for the girls, so leave the guys at home and take your best friends along for the ride.

#3 – Lotte World – A must-do in Seoul for families!

• The world’s largest indoor amusement park.
• If you get tired of the rides, then visit the shopping complex also on-site!
• This is a Seoul must-do and a great place to take the kids.

Why it’s so awesome: Lotte World is huge. It includes both an indoor and outdoor amusement park and there is also a hotel, an aquarium, luxury boutiques, a water park, and a shopping center on-site! So, even if you get tired of the rides, you can always slip out and grab a meal or a bargain before returning to the Lotte fun.

What to do there: Take the kids, or friends, and just enjoy the amusement park. The rides and attractions are some of the best you’ll ever see at Lotte World and it’s well worth taking an entire day in this park to soak it all in.

Make sure you try the Desperados game, the Dragons Wild Shooting game, and the Comet Express rollercoaster for maximum fun and thrills! It’s easily a must-visit in Seoul if only to feel like a kid again. Buy your tickets before you go, so you won’t end up waiting in line.

#4 – Gyeongbokgung Palace – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Seoul

• When you travel to Seoul, you absolutely must not miss this historic building!
• The largest and most important palace in Seoul.
• If you wear a traditional hanbok dress, they’ll let you in for free.

Why it’s so awesome: The Gyeongbokgung Palace is often compared to the Forbidden City in Beijing and is a Seoul must-see. Built in 1395, it was the main royal palace of the Joseon family, who ruled Korea for hundreds of years.

The palace was mostly destroyed by Imperial Japan during the early 20th century but over the following years, it has been meticulously restored. It is now considered to be one of the most beautiful palaces in the world, which is why it’s one of the best places to visit in Seoul.

What to do there: There are lots of places in the city where you can hire a hanbok – a traditional Korean dress. If you turn up at the palace wearing it, they’ll let you in for free. Aside from that, just explore the site. I’d recommend jumping on a guided tour to get to know all of the details about this stunning palace.

Also, make sure you show up to see the changing of the guard or the Gwanghwamun Gate Guard-on-Duty Performance . Either one happens between 10 and 4 pm every hour on every day except Tuesday and it’s a really fun thing to see in Seoul.

#5 – N Seoul Tower – A place to go in Seoul to see the city from a different angle.

• The best place for panoramic views of the city.
• The building also hosts a variety of cultural and entertainment events as well as restaurants and snack bars.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re looking for the top place to visit in Seoul, they don’t get much more “top” than this. The N Seoul Tower is located on Mt. Namsan and has been Seoul’s most iconic site since its opening in 1980. It’s actually a communication and observation tower, but over the last few years, it’s become one of the most important and celebrated sites in the city.

What to do there: Go to the top and enjoy the views. Sometimes, the best way to explore a city is to see it high up and at a distance so you can get an idea of the scale, and this tower offers the best place in the city to do just that.

Afterwards, go down to see a movie or an exhibition in the cultural space, or just grab a table at the upscale restaurants there and enjoy a fantastic meal. If you are passing through Seoul, then you see this (but not climb) on a Seoul transit tour from the airport.

#6 – The Yun Dong-ju Literature Museum – A great place to visit in Seoul if you are alone.

• Reading the books and poetry from another culture is a great way to gain a deeper understanding, and this is a great entry point into South Korean Literature.
• If you love books and history, this is a Seoul must do.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a museum built in honor of the beloved South Korean poet Yun Dong-Ju. It’s a three-room museum where you can explore photos from his life as well as first editions of his poems. The space itself is beautiful as well; the indoor space perfectly captures the contemplative, inspiring mood of the poetry and is a Seoul itinerary must for the contemplative travelers.

What to do there: Spend some time exploring the photos and contemplating this poet’s work before going outside. You can take a wall on Poet’s Hill at the back of the museum and get great views of the city and the N Seoul Tower. After your visit, you might even be inspired to get writing!

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#7 – The Jeoldusan Martyr’s Shrine – An important historical site in Seoul.

• A sobering but beautiful shrine that remembers a very dark time in history.
• Don’t take the kids to this site as some of the displays may upset them.
• If you want to explore Seoul, going back to its roots is a good way to start.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a Catholic shrine on the Han River and marks the Byeonin Persecution of 1866. At this time, nine French missionaries were martyred which led to the French fleet attempting an invasion into Korea. In retaliation, the Jeoldusan government targets, punished and murdered French and Korean Catholics, leading to this site became known as the ‘beheading mountain’. This obviously isn’t a fun site, but it’s an important part of Korean history and must be seen if you want to understand the present.

What to do there: The shrine is especially beautiful at night when votive candles give it an otherworldly glow, but it’s still beautiful and sobering when you go during the day. Don’t bring your kids with you as the Shrine houses a gallery and museum display torture implements that were used on the captured Catholics.

#8 – The Seoul Museum of Art – The perfect attraction in Seoul if you are on a budget!

• One of the best points of interest in Seoul that’s also free!
• The museum is housed in a beautiful and historic building which offers great photo opportunities.

Why it’s so awesome: How about a free thing to do in Seoul! This museum plays host to a range of special exhibitions that can be expensive, but the permanent display is totally free. It highlights the career of the Korean artist Chun Kyung-Ja, who was influenced by African culture and art and is worth the trip to the museum alone.

What to do there: Before you go, check out what special exhibitions they have on during your stay. Korean art is very unique and well worth exploring, so spend some time getting to know their unique style. But make sure you check out the regular display as well because it’s beautiful and soulful.

#9 – The Cheongun Literature Library – Another place in Seoul for the bookworms!

• An amazing place to spend some time if you love books!
• One of the most beautiful museums in Korea.
• If you’re trying to work out what to do in Seoul on a quiet afternoon, this is a site where you can sit back and relax.

Why it’s so awesome: The collection of books at this library is fairly average, but it’s the space that makes it amazing. The reading rooms are located on the second floor of a traditional Korean house which is spacious, sunny, and welcoming. So, if you love to read , this is a perfect place to settle in and do it!

What to do there: Make sure you spend some time exploring this traditional Korean house. This style of Korean architecture is unique and oddly harmonious with the natural surroundings, so it’s worth taking note of it. And then, get away from the busyness of the city by choosing a book and taking it upstairs to read. There’s nothing like reading a good book in an atmospheric space, so take advantage of the opportunity.

#10 – Everland – A very cool place in Seoul for a day trip

• A great place to take the whole family while you’re visiting Seoul
• This park has the steepest wooden roller coaster in the world.

Why it’s so awesome: Seoul breaks a lot of world records and this affects how they build things and what they enjoy. Everland is the largest outdoor theme park in South Korea and has five zones of rides and attractions. This includes the world’s steepest wooden roller coaster and South Korea’s only safari, so come expecting some thrills.

What to do there: Get there early because there’s a lot to do and you’ll need the whole day to fit it all in. If you love roller coasters, make sure you ride the world’s tallest wooden coaster and be prepared to scream your lungs out along the way!

#11 – The NANTA Theater – Seoul and South Korea’s artistic scene is definitely a must-see.

• Another side of Korean culture and one you probably won’t expect!
• The most popular theater performance in the city.

Why it’s awesome: Every culture is different and sometimes it’s great to get a first-hand view of just how different another country can be. The NANTA Theater is the perfect place to get a different view on the modern culture of South Korea. It’s the most popular theatre in the city and has a non-verbal, musical base. Perhaps a little strange, but it’s a terrific window to seeing another side of the city while backpacking in Seoul .

What to do there: This theatre has shows regularly so check out what’s on before you arrive in the city. And once you’re there, just enjoy the culinary-themed comedy performance with acrobatic moves and rhythmic melodies. Chances are that you’ve never seen anything like it and never will again! The shows sell out fast – they’re incredibly popular – so book early to make sure you don’t miss out.

#12 – The Seoul Alive Illusion Museum – Quite the quirky place in Seoul to visit!

• The first museum of 4D optical illusions in South Korea.
• Includes more than 100, slightly quirky exhibits.
• The perfect place to go with friends or with your family while you’re visiting Seoul.

Why it’s awesome: Even if you’ve been to an optical illusion museum before, you probably haven’t seen one like this. A lot of the exhibits in this museum are slightly quirky and unusual, and you’ll probably spend a lot of your visit to this venue laughing your head off at the displays you can become part of. It’s just a little run-of-the-mill Korean madness.

What to do there: Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged before you spend a few hours at this museum because you’ll need it. Even if you’ve seen optical illusion museums before, this one is unique. Make sure that you check out the Disney displays and become a part of popular movies like Frozen and Cinderella in your own personal works of art. Sort your booking in advance to have an even better experience!

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#13 – Tosokchon – A must-do in Seoul to delight your tastebuds.

• Home to one of the most famous dishes in the city.
• Expect queues, but the wait is definitely worth it.
• Buy a ticket  online if you want to skip the line

Why it’s so awesome: Every city has a dish that they’re famous for and one of Seoul’s most famous dishes is known as Samgyetang. This is ginseng chicken soup, and the best place to buy it is at Tosokchon restaurant on Jahamun-ro 5-gil Road. Once you taste the dish, you’ll understand why people queue up to eat it every day.

What to do there: Arrive early if you want to be in the front of the line and just wait patiently. The dish is worth the trouble, as all the locals in line will tell you, so just accept the wait and enjoy your food once it arrives. Make sure you try it though; it’s a must-do when visiting Seoul!

#14 – The Cheonggyecheon Stream – A quiet and romantic place to see in Seoul.

• A chance to take a break from the busy city and enjoy a slice of nature.
• You can also walk the length of the stream, which will take you alongside lots of Seoul’s best tourist attractions.

Why it’s so awesome: Seoul is a busy modern city and sometimes it’s nice to get away from the crowds and pollution and enjoy a bit of nature. And that’s exactly what this stream is for. The locals often visit on hot summer days and spend time sitting in the shade and dipping their feet in the water, and you can do the same when you need a little break.

What to do there: Walk down to the stream and just spend some time relaxing. The stream is like a little oasis in the middle of the city, so take the time to slow down and rest. You can also walk the length of the stream if you’re feeling energetic and stop off at local attractions along the way.

#15 – Bukhansan National Park – The most beautiful nature in Seoul.

• A traditional market where you can find almost anything you want to buy.
• The prices are extremely good, so make sure you check it out if you want something specific.

Why it’s so awesome: While you’re in Seoul, you might find the city can be overwhelming at times. No matter, because just outside the city centre you’ll find the Bukhansan National Park, which is the best place to go hiking in Seoul. Aside from outdoor recreational activities, the national park boasts impressive mountain views and lush forestry. You might also see some ancient temples and fortresses along the way.

What to do there: The reason most people visit the Bukhansan National Park is to do some hiking. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a beginner level hiker, you’ll find a trail suitable to your ability here.

#16 – Gwangjang Market – Seoul’s street food delights!

• One of the best places to eat in Seoul.
• This market is popular with tourists and locals.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want good street food when you visit another country, then you need to go where the locals go. And the locals all know to go to Gwangjang Market. This was the first permanent market in Korea selling local delicacies and fine linen and it also contains some of the best stalls in the city if you enjoy trying street food.

What to do there: You can do some shopping while you’re at this market, but mostly you want to try the food. The market’s open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 10 pm, so bring your appetite and try as much of the street food as you can. Make sure that you try the bindaetteok or mung bean pancake and tteokbokki and noodles for a really unique eating experience.

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#17 – Hongdae – A must-see for foodies!

• Seoul’s nightlife center.
• This area is near the university, which is why it’s filled with young people and fashionable places to eat and party.

Why it’s so awesome: The areas around universities in most cities are beacons for popular eateries and wicked nightlife and Seoul is no different. Just moments from Hongik University, one of the most prestigious in the city, this area attracts students, locals, and tourists who enjoy the best and most fashionable shopping and dining in the city. Some of Seoul’s best hostels are in the area too!

What to do there: This is an area that really comes alive at night, so save it for an evening when you don’t have much to do. Find somewhere to eat, because this is one of the best places to eat in Seoul, and then go shopping. There is a range of clothing stalls and shops selling vintage goods so take your time and see what’s available. And if you enjoy clubbing, you’ll find lots of different options in this area.

#18 – Ikseon-dong Hanok Village – An unknown (but awesome) place to see in Seoul!

• The best place in the city to experience old Korea.
• There are some amazing cafes and pubs in this area too, so make sure you have a meal during your explorations.
• If you’re trying to decide what to do in Seoul off the tourist trail, this is the perfect place to visit.

Why it’s so awesome: This area isn’t usually listed as one of the best places to visit in Korea, but it’s great if you want to enjoy a mix of history, food, and creative shopping options. The area was first established in 1920 and preserves that time almost perfectly. Wandering the alleys could almost make you believe that you’ve moved back in time, and makes for a great afternoon.

What to do there: Just wander the alleys and enjoy the time away from Seoul’s tourist spots. There’s always something hidden to discover and explore in this area, and it’s well worth spending some time there to get a real feel for the past.

But don’t neglect the present either, because the shops are some of the most interesting in the city too. So, do some shopping and then stop at one of the artisan cafes or gastro pubs for a meal. It’s also worth it to join a pub crawl tour with a local guide to get to know the hidden gems of this cool district.

#19 – Insa-dong

• If you want unique souvenirs, this is one of the hotspots in Seoul for them.
• The center of Korean traditional culture and crafts.
• A great place to explore Seoul and support local craftsmen at the same time.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re interested in traditional Korean culture and crafts then this is the place where it’s all gathered together so you don’t miss anything. Insa-dong specializes in goods that can only be purchased or enjoyed in Korea, so it’s the perfect place to grab a souvenir for your loved ones back home!

What to do there: There are about a hundred galleries in Insa-dong and they display every type of Korean craft that you can imagine or have ever heard of. Make sure you check out the hanboks, which is a piece of traditional Korean clothing, traditional teas, and folk crafts. Also, try to go on a Sunday as streets are blocked off to allow for stalls and booths as well as traditional performances and exhibits.

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#20 – Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park – A haunted place to visit in Seoul… maybe…

• A slightly creepy look at the other side of entertainment.
• There are stories going around that the park shut down because of a ghost!
• If you want to find unusual things to do in Seoul, this is the perfect place to start.

Why it’s so awesome: Yongma was built in 1980 and was a small, family-run amusement park. It shut down in 2011, allegedly because of ghosts, though it’s far more likely that the owners had economic reasons for closing their doors. But since then, the park was bought by a savvy businessman who invites visitors to become part of the park’s demise.

What to do there: If you’ve ever wanted to explore an abandoned amusement park, this is your chance. You can clamber over old dodgem cars, try out the carousel, and take pictures next to a sad clown roller coaster.

There’s a small charge involved, and if you get there at night you can pay a little extra and ask the owner to turn on the lights of the merry-go-round while you’re there. Set against the declining rides, it’s a ghostly sight that should be savored.

#21 – Seodaemun Prison – Possibly one of the most important historical places to visit in Seoul.

• Not a fun place to visit, but an important one if you want to understand South Korean history.
• This was a prison built for Koreans who rebelled against Japanese forces.

Why it’s so awesome: Built in 1908, this prison held Korean rebels who fought against Japan’s invasion and occupation. Before it was created, the country had virtually no penal system, and this location came to symbolize the determination of the Korean people to win their freedom despite the costs. Many Korean patriots died in custody, were tortured or executed at this location, and it’s a sobering reminder of the darker side of humanity.

What to do there: This isn’t a fun place to visit in Seoul. It was designated as a historic site in 1988 and renovated in 1995 and is a stark and sometimes brutal slice of Seoul’s history. As you walk through the prison-turned-museum, you’ll see torture chambers with terrifyingly realistic mannequins of famous Korean patriots and get an idea what it was like for the people who lived and died within the prison’s walls.

#22 – Coffee Hanyakbang – Seoul’s Must-Visit for the Coffee Connoisseurs

• The perfect place for coffee lovers of all ages.
• A nearly hidden gem that only the locals know about.
• If you live for your morning coffee, you’ll find lots of new coffee tastes at this site.

Why it’s so awesome: Almost everyone loves coffee and this tiny shop allows you to celebrate it in style. It’s almost hidden down a narrow, unmarked alleyway but coffee connoisseurs know that it’s there and turn up in droves to get the perfect coffee experience. The shop is decorated in a mix of Korean and Chinese styles and is determinedly rustic, with lots of wood and exposed pipe. And it sells delicious, hand-drip coffee at decent prices.

What to do there: Drink your morning coffee, of course! The owners roast the beans by hand at the back of the shop and grind them on site, so the whole shop has that rich, tongue-tingling smell of fresh coffee. And the making of each coffee is a science too, with everything precisely calculated to create the perfect cup, every time. So enjoy!

#23 – The War Memorial of Korea – A different take on a war memorial.

• A strangely lighthearted look at Korean military history.
• Fun and educational, so it’s a great place to take the kids.

Why it’s so awesome: There are 6 exhibition halls and an outdoor space for war machines too big to fit inside at this site and the place is packed. In fact, there are over 13,000 pieces of military equipment and memorabilia at the Korean war memorial , placed on the grounds of the former army headquarters of Korea.

The focus is on the Korean and Vietnam war and this isn’t the type of museum where you just stand back and look. The displays are designed to be touched and felt, to give visitors a better idea of what the wars were really like.

What to do there: There’s a lot to see at this memorial so make sure you put aside a few hours. The Combat Experience Room is particularly interesting and uses audiovisual effects to surround you with the sounds, sights and smells of the battlefield. Outback, the lines of tanks and heavy artillery are laid out like a metal petting zoo, and if you’re interested in this type of machinery, you’ll have an amazing time exploring it all.

#24 – Jogyesa Korean Buddhist Temple – For some sacred sightseeing in Seoul.

• A Buddhist temple that’s an important part of the locals’ lives.
• The garden surrounding the temple has some ancient trees that are simply amazing.

Why it’s so awesome: Sometimes there’s nothing like exploring a temple that’s still in use in the modern-day if you want to understand a culture better. And this temple in the middle of Seoul’s high-rise district is one of the best places to visit in the city to learn more about its people. This Zen Buddhist temple is always full of locals and tourists, which makes it an exciting, as well as an interesting place to people, watch and spend some quality time.

What to do there: Spend some time just watching the people as they come and go on their everyday business. And when you’re done, explore the compound itself. You could also find yourself a guide that will show you around and explain each statue in detail.

The trees in this area are apparently over 500 years old and they’re strung with banners and streamers in bright colors to make them look even more spectacular! This all combines to make this temple one of the top places to visit in Seoul if only for a quick contemplative meditation.

#25 – Suwon’s Hwaseong Fortress – More of Seoul’s old landmarks!

• If you’re looking for a quick day trip from the city, then make it to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Located only an hour and a half from Seoul.
• One of Seoul’s most important historical sites.

Why it’s so awesome: Built between 1794 and 1796, this fortress was created to house the remains of the King’s father, who had been murdered by his own father. It’s an enormous complex that was meant to be the first step in moving the capital from Seoul to the city of Suwon, where the Fortress is located. This obviously never eventuated, but the fortress remains and was declared a UNESCO site in 1997 .

What to do there: It will take you a couple of hours to see the entire castle, so if you have a spare morning or afternoon while you’re in Seoul then make the trip out to see it. There are a lot of different features including the interior and exterior as well as a palace museum, so make sure you take enough time to see it all.

#26 – Seoul’s Children’s Park – A beautiful place to go outdoors in Seoul.

• A great place to take the kids.
• Even if you don’t have children, you’ll enjoy this massive green area in the central Seoul.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re tired of the skyscrapers and find yourself longing for some greenery, then you can find this park in the middle of the city. Not only does it include a lot of green, open areas, there are also some cool exhibits and attractions in the park that will interest everyone, not just the young.

What to do there: Escape from the city and spend some time in nature. This park also includes amusement rides and playgrounds as well, so if you feel like being a little more active then there are lots of things to try!

#27 – A Lotte Mart – A weird choice of things to see in Seoul but hear me out!

• Lotte Marts in Seoul aren’t like the ones back home, so make sure you stop by for a look and a snack, you’ll be surprised what you’ll find there.
• If you love snacking but want to save some money, you can eat like the locals do with some very unusual meals and snacks from this store.

Why it’s so awesome: It sounds a bit strange to suggest that you go to a supermarket, but this is one experience you really shouldn’t miss because these stores are one of the most famous places in Seoul.

Lotte Marts are iconic in the city and they’re one of the coolest grocery stores in the world. While wandering around you’ll get a much better idea of how important food is in Seoul. And you might also find some new treats to try too!

What to do there: Make sure you take part in the whole experience. Lotte Marts usually have free food samples as well as an incredibly wide range of foods that you’ve probably never seen anywhere else. Just watch your wallet, because it’s too easy to overspend in Lotte Mart, and buy something tasty.

#28 – The Jongmyo Shrine – Another cultural highlight of Seoul.

• A UNESCO-listed site and close by the popular suburb or Insadong.
• A Seoul must-see when you’re in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: This is one of the most popular landmarks in Seoul and it’s also one of the best ways to learn about its ancient traditions. This shrine is the most popular attraction in Seoul and it’s a UNESCO Heritage site;  the perfect way for you to learn more about the history of the city.

What to do there: If you go to the shrine on Saturday then you can explore on your own. Any other day except Tuesday when the shrine is closed, you will need to join a guided tour. There are tours in English every couple of hours. While you’re there, make sure that you pay attention. You’ll learn about ancient customs, music, and even about memorial services during your visit, so it’s worth paying attention.

#29 – National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art – More awesome Korean art!

• The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul is an amazing traditional style building.
• Located on what used to be Seoul’s Defense Security Command.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum is a must-visit on your Seoul itinerary. It’s an enormous museum that’s built on the principles of madang , which encourages people to socialize together by providing a large, communal courtyard just for that purpose. And it works too, which makes it a great place for people watching.

What to do there: The exhibits at this museum change regularly, so find out what’s on while you’re in the city and don’t miss out. Also, spend some time exploring the building while you’re there. Korean architecture is unique and deserves some time and attention.

#30 – Socheon – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Seoul

• If you’re looking for the best food in the city then you need to go to Socheon, which is where the locals go.
• You’ll have some of your best meals in a slightly dingy restaurant in this part of the city.

Why it’s so awesome: Socheon is one of the best places in Seoul for cheap and delicious local food and a good break from the tourist attractions. Located on the west side of Gyeongbokgung, this area caters mostly to locals, so you won’t find as many fancy restaurants and neon lights there. Instead, you’ll find mostly ordinary, slightly run-down restaurants that serve some of the best food you’ve ever tasted.

What to do there: Some restaurants serve great food in this area but they’re a little hard to find. Most of them don’t have a website or even a menu in English, so you’ll have to order your meal from pictures or by what the locals are eating. To get a great meal, walk until you find a place that contains a lot of locals. Figure out what you want and just point – whatever you get, it’ll be delicious!

#31 – Dongdaemun – An awesome neighborhood in Seoul.

• One of the best places in Seoul for bargain shopping!
• Bring cash so you can haggle down the prices.

Why it’s so awesome: Dongdaemun shopping area is a veritable labyrinth of wholesale and retail shops. You could quite literally get lost in this area looking for something, and the crowds of locals and tourists alike enjoying the bargains are evidence of how good the prices and the variety of goods are.

What to do there: If you’re looking for something specific to buy, chances are that you’ll find it in this area. Take cash with you so you can haggle and find something sweet. But if you just want to wander and people watch, this is the perfect place for it too. Many of the shops are open all night, so there’s always something going on for you to observe.

#32 – Dongdaemun Design Plaza – A famous modern landmark in Seoul.

• One of the hotspots in Seoul for shopping and entertainment options.
• The building itself is unusual, stunning, and looks great in photos.

Why it’s so awesome: This building is one of the most eccentric in the city and looks amazing in photographs for you to put on your social media feeds. The long, sinuous curves of the building seem to go on forever and as if that wasn’t enough it also contains countless stores, exhibition spaces, parts of the original Seoul fortress that used to stand on the site, and a design museum.

What to do there: Make sure you take a photo of yourself with this building to show the people back home because the curving lines back for a great background. And then just explore the building. You can shop, explore the history of the site, or just wander the floors looking for anything that looks like fun. It’s the perfect place to go for anyone who’s looking for Seoul vacation ideas.

#33 – Mapo-Gu – A quirky area in Seoul to visit.

• One of the quirkiest places to go in Seoul.
• If you’re looking for weird and wonderful experiences and cafes, this district will exceed your wildest expectations.

Why it’s so awesome: Mapo district is one of Seoul’s 25 districts and it’s also one of the most unusual. It’s home to a large number of themed cafes, so if you want your cup of coffee with a side of cats, dogs or raccoons, you’ll find all that and more in this district.

What to do there: Korea is constantly innovating and looking for new ways to explore old ideas and you can experience that first hand while you’re in Mapo-Gu. Try the poop café if you’re looking for one of the most unusual places in Seoul, or just wander from one café to another hugging cute animals!

#34 – Nami Island

• One of the most popular spots for a holiday break in Seoul.
• It’s usually thronged with tourists so show up early if you want to avoid the lines.

Why it’s so awesome: Nami Island is a lovely nature area close to the city that’s a fantastic place to visit in the winter and summer months. In summer it has rides, zip wires, hiking, and lots of large open spaces to explore. And in the winter, it’s set up for all the winter sports and activities that you’ve ever dreamed of trying.

What to do there: Nami Island is an awesome place to visit in winter as the lake freezes and gives you an amazing view across the lake. It’s also home to a lot of winter sports and activities, which is why tourists and locals alike travel there in throngs to enjoy the colder months. Also, if you like to read, make sure you visit Petite France, which is a village modeled after the famous book The Little Prince.

Get insured for your trip to Seoul!

When you’re travelling to Seoul, having good travel insurance is an absolute essential BEFORE you set off. It means if things go wrong, you’re already in a good position.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Seoul

Is 3 days in Seoul enough?

Three days should be enough to see the main highlights, but there are some gorgeous hikes around the city that are worth staying longer to see.

Is Seoul a safe place to visit?

Yes, Seoul is a safe place to visit and violent crimes are rare.

Is Seoul a cheap place to visit?

No, Seoul isn’t a cheap place to visit, though there are some cheap attractions that will help keep costs down.

What is a free place to visit in Seoul?

The Seoul Museum of Art is a free place to visit in Seoul and a great place for art lovers to explore.

Seoul is an ultra-modern city where you can experience the latest technology alongside ancient traditions and culture. This capital of South Korea is a powerhouse in the world economy at the moment, which makes it a very attractive location for visitors from all walks of life.

South Korea perhaps gets overlooked sometimes by its other East Asian neighbors, however, it is a rich country with an ancient history and vibrant people. Backpacking in South Korea is a rewarding journey, but more than likely you’ll start in Seoul.

Seoul is a city that never sleeps, with ancient palaces next to skyscrapers and night markets, and it’s the perfect location for anyone looking to experience a different side of Asia. And if you use this easy guide to Seoul’s coolest places to visit and the most sobering historical sights, you’ll walk away with memories that last a lifetime.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Thanks for the info. Suggestions like “Mapo-Gu” are a bit ridiculous, if you pull it up on google maps that region could take a week or more of 6 hour days walking. I doubt anywhere but a small part of it is of interest, but where? Who knows. Same seems to be the case for Socheon which I don’t know how to pull up. We need like a center point or at least main strip indication please.

Hi Justin. It’s 33 minutes by bus to Mapo-Gu although I suppose you can walk there if you want. We have included this area for it’s general vibe and invite our readers to explore it on their own terms.

Hmm. Sorry what I mean is Mapo-Gu (in English Mapo District) is nearly half the size of Manhattan. Do you get what I mean when I say it wouldn’t make sense to tell someone “you can walk to Manhattan if you want, but once you are there you can experience the vibe and find everything?”

I also explored these fabulous attractions during my last tour and came back with an awesome experience.

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SEOUL - north  |  SEOUL - south

Day Trips from Seoul  | Busan  |  Best Collections

🌸Festivals ( Seoul • Busan )

30 Must Visit Places & Activities To Do in Seoul, Korea

KoreaToDo handpicked collection of must visit places and activities to do in Seoul  across a wide range of cultural, most popular, hidden secrets and local favourite hunts.

The Seoul Must-visits and Must-do Collection offer quick picks for the first timers to Seoul , busy travellers with little planning time, travellers with short holiday in Korea and perhaps fresh ideas for the seasoned travellers.

Which are your favourites and how many have you visited? ENJOY!

1. Korea Palaces

Visit either:

Gyeongbokgung Palace : The largest + Changing of Royal Guards Ceremony

Changdeokgung Palace : UNESCO World Heritage + Secret Garden

Deoksugung Palace : Most conveniently located next to City Hall Station + Changing of Royal Guards Ceremony

2. Namsan Seoul Tower

With the four distinct seasons, multiple ways to reach its peak and day/night scenery, N Seoul Tower is definitely a place to visit more than once.

3. Myeongdong

The shopping, cafes,  restaurants and street food mecca! You can't claim been to Seoul without visiting Myeongdong, the hot favourite for many visitors to Seoul!  You can also catch Korea's longest running and award winning show, NANTA in Myeongdong too!

4. Cafe Streets  

Check out one of the rooftop cafes at the chic suburb of Sam cheongdong . Enjoy your favourite drink and watch the sun sets over the beautifu l horizon.

Other popular cafe streets/areas:

Ikseondong Hanok Village

Seoul Forest Cafe Street

5. Korean BBQ

With so many Korean BBQ Restaurants in Seoul, why not BBQ differently this time, over a king-size pot lit at Hansang Gadeuk BBQ Restaurant ?

Other recommended BBQ restaurants at:

6. Korean Markets

KoreaToDo favourite picks include:

Tongin Market : Fill up your lunch box with purch ases using brass coins

Gwangjang Market : Many popular local  food to try!

Yeongcheon Market : A must-visit for the doughnuts lovers, freshly made!

7. Seoul City Wall

The 18.6km long wall of cultural significance, surrounding the center of Seoul across 4 main mountains.

KoreaToDo Top Picks:

Naksan Mountain Trail : The easiest and gradual walking trail with picturesque view of the city, just 2 subway stops away from Dongdaemun Station.

Inwangsan Mountain Trail : Feel the achievement of reaching a Seoul's mountain summit (338.2m) along the Seoul City Wall.

8. Bukhansan National Park

Enjoy nature beauty with clear flowing rivers, tall trees and fresh air at this most visited National Park in Korea, so close to the Seoul City Center. 

You can choose an easy walk/hike and turn back anytime (after your picnic?) or challenge yourself to one of its peaks. There are signs in English and you will see Koreans hikers on weekdays too.

9. Han River (Hangang) Parks

Han River is a major river running through Seoul. 12 parks are created along Han River in Seoul, offering relaxation and sporting hub for the citizens.

KoreaToDo Hot Picks : Parks with direct subway station access, unique attractions & activities to do (i.e. bicycle rental, duck boat rental, ferry cruises, etc):

Ttukseom Hangang Park

Yeouido Hangang Park

10. Bridge Walk across Han River

With so many bridges connecting North and South of Seoul across Han River, bridge walk offers one of the best and unique experiences on your holiday in Seoul.

KoreaToDo's favourite pick:

Jamsil Railway Bridge Walk : end-to-end subway station connections.

11. Underground Malls

There are many underground malls in Seoul. Of which, the Express Bus Terminal Underground Mall (GOTO MALL) stands out among the rest as the largest underground mall in Seoul with over 600 shops. You can find the latest fashion wear, paintings, household items, beddings, accessories and even plants & pots at GOTO MALL .

12. Ko rean Universities

Ewha Womans University is the largest university for women in Korea. I t has the largest underground campus (ECC), designed by world renowned architect. The  beautiful campus is within walking distance to subway station. There are great shopping and restaurants outside its campus too!

In autumn, Yonsei University nearby is a must-visit for its autumn foliage!

With day tours to go and so many places to visit in Seoul, including palaces, shops, cafes and restaurants, parks are often given a miss by travellers unfortunately...

Nonetheless, please do take some time to relax in nature and enjoy the beautiful seasonal flowers and plants Seoul Parks has to offer.

Hot picks include:

Seoul Grand Park

Seoul Forest

Olympic Park

Haneul Park

14. Kakao Friends / Line Friends Flagship  Stores

You can find your favourite and cutest Kakao Friends and Line Friends merchandise from toys, stationeries, clothing and lifestyle items... only in South Korea!

Best locations for both flagship stores located near subway stations:

Gangnam Shopping Street

Hongdae Shopping Street ​

15. Factory Outlets

Deal  hunters for the popular brands like The North Face, Columbia, Fila , Adidas, New Balance, etc, check out the factory outlets in Seoul.

Recommended picks near subway stations:

Lotte Outlets (Seoul Station Branch)

Hyundai City Outlets Dongdaemun ​

16. Olive Young

We can't leave out the cult favourite for beauty lovers, Olive Young! ​

Visit the largest Olive Young store in South Korea, Olive Young Myeongdong Flagship Store and stock up your beauty care products (e.g. masks, sun cream).

💡If you are new to Korean skincare, you can check out the bestsellers on their global site.

KoreaToDo TOP PICKS - Tours, Activities & Discount Tickets

➥ Handpicked experiences by KoreaToDo for their uniqueness, value, popularity, price competitiveness and at times, tedious to reach by public transport.

N Seoul Tower Observatory Ticket

enjoy breathtaking views

Yeo Yong Guk Korean Traditional Medicine Spa Packages

must-go wellness place by KTO

Lotte World 1 Day Pass & Lotte World Aquarium

located in the heart of Seoul

Coex Aquarium in Seoul Admission Ticket

largest aquarium in Seoul

Seoul Eland Hangang River Cruise (Day Cruise)

40 mins, multiple timings

Discover Seoul Pass (Lotte World, COEX Aquarium, Han River Cruises, etc)

free access to >60 attractions

Hanbok Rental near Changdeokgung Palace by Dorothy Hanbok

Kid/Male hanbok available.

Private Transfer: Incheon Airport (ICN) to Seoul (1-3 or more pax/car)

Myeongdong, Hongdae, etc

♔  KoreaToDo recommends  Klook.com , Asia leading in-destination service provider.

🌸SPRING PICKS🌸 Handpicked Experiences from Seoul

Cherry Blossom Hunting Day Tour

29 Mar - 29 Apr 2024

2-3 most beautiful cherry blossom spots

Taean Tulip Festival & Strawberry Picking Day Tour

12 Apr - 7 May 2024

500g strawberry picking

Hwadam Botanic Garden, Nami Island & Gangchon Railbike Day Tour

29 Mar 2024 ~

Pink King Cherry Blossom Tour (Spring Flower Festival, Gaesimsa & Munsusa)

14-29 Apr 2024

king cherry blossoms are larger & denser

Taean Tulip Festival & Suspension Bridge Tour

14 Apr - 7 May 2024

largest flower festival in Korea

Pink King Cherry Blossom Tour (Wansan Flower Garden, Jeonju Hanok Village)

15-28 Apr 2023

& Gakwonsa Temple

Other KoreaToDo Collections that you may like:

Top Popular & Unique Day Trips from Seoul under 3 hours

Recommended Day Tours from Seoul & WHY

Top Favourite Shopping Heaven in Seoul

Essential Travel Tips to Korea

Still looking? Explore KoreaToDo handpicked collection of:

Seoul - North of Han River

Seoul - South of Han River

Seoul   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Alex Barlow | Getty Images

11 Best Things To Do in Seoul

Updated February 11, 2021

In a city of more than 10 million people, it should come as no surprise that many of Seoul's top attractions involve escaping the crowds and reconvening with nature. The city is filled with pockets of serenity like the peaceful gardens of Changdeok

• All Things To Do

Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower free

Home to five warning beacons and a protective city wall during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), Mount Namsan now hosts a park and a smattering of tourism sites like an aquarium, a library and a bevy of beautiful walking trails.

But most people visit Namsan Park for its panoramic views of Seoul. To scope it out for free, visit Palgakjeong, an octagon-shaped viewing pavilion that boasts alluring vistas of the city. For an even more breathtaking sight, shell out a few won to get to the observation platform atop N Seoul Tower, Namsan Park's real showstopper. Recent visitors said that on clear days, the view from 1,574 feet up is spectacular. Out on the sky deck, you can't miss the thousands of padlocks attached to the fence; couples lock them there as symbols of everlasting love (bring your own lock if you're feeling romantic). For an extra-special experience, reserve a table for dinner in the rotating French restaurant, n.GRILL, on the tower's top floor. 

Bukchon Hanok Village Bukchon Hanok Village free

Bukchon Village occupies the hilly neighborhood between Gyeongbok Palace and Changdeok Palace in north-central Seoul. The neighborhood has the largest collection of privately owned hanoks , or traditional Korean homes with tiled roofs and stone floors, in Seoul. Not only that, but these 900  hanoks  date all the way back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). While a stroll through Bukchon Village may feel like a trip through the ages, the neighborhood is not frozen in time. Some of the hanoks are still private homes, but others have been converted into tea houses, coffee shops, cafes, art galleries, inns and museums. It is not uncommon to see a Korean couple on a date in a hanok -style restaurant or for tourists to stay in a hanok guesthouse (like the Anguk or the RakKoJae ). Even if you're not bedding down in Bukchon, recent travelers strongly recommend a visit regardless. 

Travelers found the neighborhood to be picture-perfect and a lovely stroll. Make sure to bring sturdy walking shoes though, as the site is pretty hilly and takes a couple hours to cover in its entirety. Some reviewers say that because of Bukchon Village's popularity, it's best to visit early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds. Regardless of what time you visit, keep in mind that this is still a residential area, so you'll need to heed the signs posted around the village about noise. To get the most of Bukchon Village, stop by the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center  for information on walking tour routes and attractions to see within the village.

Bukhansan National Park Bukhansan National Park free

Located in northern Seoul – but still quite accessible via public transportation – Bukhansan National Park is a mountainous oasis in a bustling metropolis. The park, which covers more than 30 square miles, is home to towering granite peaks, forest-laden valleys and miles of hiking trails in between, as well as about 100 historic Buddhist temples and monks' cells. The historical must-see, though, is Bukhansanseong Fortress, a Joseon stronghold. You also won't want to skip the 5-mile mountain wall that runs along the park's rocky terrain. The fortress was built in 1711 and served as a place of refuge for kings in times of emergency (rebuilt on the foundations of the original, which dates back to A.D. 132). Bukhansan's proximity to Seoul, its natural setting and its historical significance combine to make it the park with the most visitors per square foot, according to the Guinness World Records. That means it can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends.

If it's panoramic vistas you're after, try trekking up Baegundae peak via the Bukhansanseong trail, one of the most popular hikes in the park. From the top, you're in for a great view of Seoul and lands beyond – unless the city is shrouded in smog, which does happen occasionally. Recent visitors do warn that this hike is not for the faint-hearted; the rocky path requires strength, endurance, very sturdy hiking shoes and patience (the trek is estimated to be a 3.5-hour round-trip hike). If the Baegundae hike sounds too strenuous, you might want to consider another one of Bukhansan's trails (don't worry – there are plenty that are equally rewarding).

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Changdeokgung (Changdeok Palace) Changdeokgung (Changdeok Palace)

Changdeokgung may not be the oldest or largest of Seoul's five Joseon Dynasty palaces (that honor goes to Gyeongbokgung ), but it is the most intact. Originally constructed in 1405 as a secondary palace for the king at the time, Changdeokgung, like its sister palaces, was largely razed during the Japanese invasion of 1592. After its reconstruction in 1610, however, the palace served as Korea's principal palace about 270 years after for 13 different kings. Of all the Joseon palaces, Changdeokgung is the longest lived-in residence for the royals. It's this historical significance, in combination with its architectural style and layout (it's lauded for being built around the land's geography, instead of adjusting the land to construct the buildings), that earned Changdeokgung the designation of a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.

Visitors say that the vibrantly painted structures of the palace grounds are marvelous, but the rear garden – called "Biwon," or the Secret Garden – is nothing short of spectacular. Covering about two-thirds of the 110-acre attraction, the landscaped garden features a lotus pool, fountains and pavilions surrounded by 56,000 species of trees and plants, including a single tree that is more than 300 years old. Visit in the fall to witness the changing foliage, or in the spring to see the trees burst into bloom.

Hongdae Hongdae free

The neighborhood surrounding Hongik University in west-central Seoul is a hub for Korean youth culture. Hongdae beckons to college students and other young adults with its propensity for self-expression and all-around alternative atmosphere, not to mention its plethora of bars, clubs, shops, restaurants and cafes. And because Hongik University is especially renowned for its arts programs, Hongdae is a noticeably creative area. You don't have to stroll far to find art galleries, walls adorned with street art and students singing or selling their craft on the sidewalks. Join the throngs of college students and tourists to hunt for unique souvenirs at Hongdae's two weekend markets, both held in the playground near the university's entrance. The "Free" Market takes place on Saturdays and the "Hope" Market on Sundays, both from about 1 to 7 p.m.

Night owls should head to Hongdae on "Club Day" – the last Friday of each month. On this day, revelers can club-hop among the neighborhood's hottest spots for only 15,000 won (about $14). Also, since Hongdae sits at the epicenter of Seoul's burgeoning underground and indie music scene, make sure to stop by one of the many live music venues that participates in Club Day as well.

Insadong Insadong free

In this quaint central-Seoul neighborhood, you can find everything from hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) to herbal teas to calligraphy supplies. About 40 percent of Korean crafts are exchanged in Insadong, though ceramics are the prized goods here. Insadong's alleys, which are lined with street vendors, wooden tea houses, galleries and restaurants, stretch from the Anguk-dong Rotary to Tapgol Park. By shopping here, you'll be contributing to centuries of Korean history – Insadong was central to painters during the Joseon Dynasty and continues to be a hub for artistry today.

Recent visitors lauded Insadong as a great place to buy cultural souvenirs, but they also appreciate its fun atmosphere. Guests say there are always lots of people coming to and fro as well as street performers and artists hanging around, waiting for interaction. For a trip back in time, visit Insadong on the weekends when motor vehicles are prohibited on its winding streets, adding to its quaint, Old World vibe. While the atmosphere is undoubtedly fun, visitors suggest those wanting to experience Insadong without crowds come during the weekdays. 

Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbok Palace) Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbok Palace)

The ornate Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbokgung Palace) was originally built in A.D. 1395 and served as the focal point and governmental seat of the Joseon Dynasty (1392 to 1910). In Korean, its name translates to "Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven," but its history seems to paint it as anything but blessed. Gyeongbokgung was destroyed in the 1590s during a Japanese invasion, after which Korea's rulers abandoned the palace and set up camp about a mile east in Changdeokgung (Changdeok Palace).  That is, until King Gojong began Gyeongbok Palace's restoration during his reign from 1863 to 1907. The site once housed some 500 buildings. But the king's efforts were for naught: Another Japanese invasion resulted in the demolition of the majority of the complex. Restoration of the twice-destroyed palace began afresh in 1990, and visitors today can once again marvel at its magnificent architecture, lustrous grounds and historical significance. 

Recent visitors said the Gyeongbokgung palace is a must-see for anyone interested in Seoul's Joseon Dynasty. Travelers loved learning about the history of the palace and how it played into the larger story of both Seoul and South Korea. Visitors also admired the beautiful yet extensive grounds, saying you'll need at least a couple of hours to see everything the palace has to offer. Reviewers also recommended bringing walking shoes, and if you have flexibility with your schedule, to visit when the changing of the guard ceremony commences (the ceremony is held at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. every day the attraction is open). The only thing that put off some visitors was the touristy nature of the site, noting that crowds, especially on the weekends, can hamper a visit. Try to stop by during a weekday or plan a morning visit to avoid sharing the attraction with hordes of other sightseers. 

Dongdaemun Market Dongdaemun Market free

Dongdaemun isn't just a market – it's a shopping mecca. Encompassing 10 city blocks, Dongdaemun features 26 malls, 30,000 specialty shops and scores of wholesale stores, making it place to go if you need, well, anything. Make sure to get a map of the district. With all the options available, there's no way you're going to be able to navigate this overwhelming, multi-street shopping complex without some guidance. Though if you want to try, you'll have plenty of time: Dongdaemun Market is open 24 hours per day and many shops stay open till as early as 5 a.m.

Most of the malls in Dongdaemun feature a mix of retail and wholesale shops, though it's good to know which sell the most of what. The best way of navigating this mammoth fashion hub is to split the area up by Jangchungdan-ro, a big street that runs through Dongdaemun Market. West of Jangchungdan-ro, you'll find malls that appeal more to tourists. Doota (located in Doosan Tower), Migliore, Good Morning City and Hello apM sell a mix of retail and wholesale items but have multilingual information desks and currency exchanges. East of Jangchungdan-ro, you'll find more malls that sell more wholesale than not. These include Designer's Club, Gwanghee Fashion Mall and Nuzzon. Though if all you're after is wholesale, hit up Pyeonghwa Fashion town north of the Doosan Tower. When your stomach starts to rumble, head over to Mukja Golmok, which translates to "Let's Eat Alley." There, you can find a smorgasbord of Korean cuisine.  

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Jongmyo Shrine Jongmyo Shrine

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Jongmyo Shrine is one of the oldest and best-preserved Confucian royal shrines in the world. Built in the late 14th century, the Jongmyo Shrine served as a place of worship for kings part of the Joseon Dynasty. Here, royal family members would come to carry out ancestral rites for deceased king and queens as well as pray for the state and its people. The shrine was later destroyed during the 16th-century Japanese invasion of Korea but rebuilt during the 17th century. Little has been changed since. 

The structure is composed of multiple buildings, including the main shrine (Jeongjeon) and the Hall of Eternal Peace (Yeongnyeongjeon). To this day, people congregate around the shrine once a year for the "Jongmyo Jerye" ritual, in which they honor the ancestors of the Joseon dynasty. The ceremony, which takes place the first Sunday of May, includes songs and dances that date back 600 years, making it one of Korea's prized Important Intangible Cultural Properties, not to mention one of the world's oldest complete ceremonies in the world.

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

A mere 35 miles north of Seoul, the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a 148-mile-long, 2-mile-wide swath of land marking the division between North and South Korea. Running close to the infamous 38th Parallel (the final front in the Korean War), the DMZ was set up in 1953 as a buffer zone between the two warring countries. The Military Demarcation Line – the actual border between North and South Korea – has been heavily manned on both sides by military personnel ever since. And though there have only been a few minor military altercations in the past 60 years, tensions remain between the two sides. In fact, since the DMZ was set up through an armistice and not a peace treaty, North Korea and South Korea are technically still at war.

You may think a daytrip to the DMZ is a fool's errand, but it is actually an extraordinarily popular thing to do when visiting Seoul. A number of companies run tours to Panmunjom , an abandoned town that straddles the Military Demarcation Line where the famous Joint Security Area is located. It was here that North Korean, South Korean, Chinese, American and United Nations diplomats signed the Korean War Armistice Agreement on July 27, 1953. Visitors are invited to place their feet on either side of a line that runs along the building's floor separating the two nations – one foot in South Korea and the other in North Korea. Tourists can also peer out at the mysterious country to the north through mounted telescopes.

Lotte World Lotte World

Lotte World may not be as magical as Disney World , but it is home to the largest indoor theme park in the world. Recent travelers said that if you have children in tow and you're not averse to a little Korean kitsch, it's a good place to spend the day. With high-octane roller coasters like Atlantic Adventure and attractions catered to youngsters like Lotty's Kidstoria (a whimsical room filled with "Alice in Wonderland" characters), Lotte World entertains thrill-seekers and budding adventurists alike. If you're planning a weekend visit, keep in mind that Lotte World's lines can get very long during peak visiting hours. Fortunately, there are two solutions: Visit Lotte World on a weekday or go after 4 p.m. – lines will be shorter, and your ticket price will be reduced. Aside from Lotte World Adventure indoor theme park, Lotte World is home to department stores, a folk museum, a bowling alley, an ice rink, parades and an outdoor adventure theme park located in the middle of Seokchonhosu Lake, Magic Island. Regardless of what time you visit or what you decide to do inside Lotte World, be prepared to pay. Travelers said everything from Lotte World's version of a Disneyland fast pass to snacks were pretty pricey.

Lotte World welcomes visitors year-round from 9:30 a.m. until 10 p.m. every day. Regular admission tickets cost 36,000 won (about $32) for adults and 29,000 won (about $26) for children. However, if you plan to stay all day, you should consider purchasing admission to all of Lotte World, not just the indoor theme park. This all-inclusive ticket grants you access to all of Lotte World's facilities and costs 52,000 won (about $47) for adults and 41,000 won (about $37) for children. After 4 p.m., all-inclusive tickets cost 41,000 won (about $37) for adults and 32,000 won (about $29) for children. There are also discounts for students and seniors, while children younger than 3 can enter for free. Located south of the Han River, Lotte World can be reached via Jamsil Station on Subway Lines 2 and 8 (Exit 4). For more information, visit Lotte World's official website .

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Seoul

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Freddy Sherman has visited South Korea multiple times, most recently exploring Seoul and the DMZ in 2022.

Seoul, South Korea is a vibrant and exciting city, one that deftly combines ancient history with ultra-modern design and technology. This city is filled with a wide range of fun things to do and tourist attractions of all types, from outdoor adventures like exploring Mount Namsan and its surrounding park to indoor fun like visiting one of Seoul's many museums.

Seoul is also a city of palaces, with five huge palace complexes located throughout the city and now restored to their former glory. Of course, it's also known for its food, with a mouthwatering array of street food, Korean specialties like barbecue, and even fine-dining options.

Discover the best places to visit in this exciting city with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Seoul.

1. N Seoul Tower

2. explore the bukchon hanok traditional village, 3. national museum of korea, 4. lotte world tower, 5. visit the dmz, 6. gyeongbokgung palace, 7. seoul museum of art, 8. blue house, 9. bongeunsa temple, 10. gwanghwamun gate, 11. take a walk along cheonggyecheon, seoul's urban stream, 12. jingwansa temple, bukhansan national park, 13. people watch in itaewon, 14. dongdaemun design plaza, 15. gwangjang market, 16. spend a sunday in insadong, where to stay in seoul for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in seoul, seoul, south korea - climate chart.

Rising almost 500 meters above the city, this communications and observation tower provides dramatic views of the city from its perch on the side of Mount Namsan. A cable car whisks you up the side of the mountain to the base of the tower. From here, you can go up in the tower and visit any one of four observation decks, one of which is a rotating restaurant.

There are five different dining experiences at the N Seoul Tower and, of course, several gift shops. The n.GRILL, on the top level, is considered one of Seoul's best French fine-dining restaurants. Be sure to visit the new Inside Seoul immersive media art exhibition, where 40 laser projectors create a virtual display of the city via five-dimensional mapping, with the tower at the center.

The views from the tower are great, but so are the views of the tower from most parts of the city. Computer-controlled LED lighting on the exterior of the tower provides a digital, visual cultural experience of Seoul with changing themed lighting presentations.

Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2(i)ga-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

For a taste of Korean traditional culture and architecture, a visit to the Bukchon Hanok Village is a fun and educational way to spend an afternoon. This preserved district of several ancient neighborhoods gives you a feel for what it was like to live in Korea 600 years ago. It's right in central Seoul, in the area between the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Changdeokgung Palace.

The neighborhoods of narrow streets feature hanoks or traditional Korean houses. It's a unique place, as it's a historic area, very popular with tourists, but it's also a real neighborhood because the houses are all occupied.

Some of the hanoks are now guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts , and a few are museums and can be toured. Others are cultural centers showcasing traditional crafts and other historic aspects of Korean life, but most are private homes.

This must-see attraction in Seoul showcases the incredible history and artwork of Korea and the Korean people. The National Museum of Korea , one of the largest in Asia, is in the city's Yongsan District (close to Itaewon).

It focuses on archeology, history, and art and includes a vast collection of works and objects going back more than a million years. There are ancient and prehistoric artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and other artwork along with a large collection of objects and antiques.

Before or after your museum visit, head down the street to Yongsan Family Park , a nice outdoor space to relax. Another important museum worth a visit, The War Memorial of Korea is also close by.

Address: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Seobinggo-dong, Yongsan-gu

One of the newest attractions in Seoul is the Lotte World Tower skyscraper. The tallest building in South Korea, it's 500 meters above the ground and currently the fifth-tallest building in the world . The vase-like shape, with gentle curves, is designed to mimic traditional Korean ceramic pieces.

There are several indoor and outdoor observation areas (called Seoul Sky) at the top on the 117th-123 rd floors. Views are spectacular both during the day and at night, and you can see 360 degrees around the city.

On the 118 th floor, there's the Sky Deck with the world's highest glass floor. Like magic, the floor changes from opaque to clear, terrifying unsuspecting visitors. Even getting to the top is fun, and the journey is done via super fast, double-decker elevators, with windows on one side and LED screens on the other three and on the ceiling.

Inside the tower are offices, luxury residences, and the SIGNIEL SEOUL luxury hotel. There's also the Lotte World Aquarium, the Lotte Museum of Art, and an enormous shopping mall. The tower is home to the Lotte Concert Hall and the Lotte Cinema, a state-of-the-art, 21-screen MoviePlex with the world's largest movie screen. The tower is adjacent to the Lotte World amusement park, which is a great thing to do in Seoul for families.

Address: Songpa-gu, Jamsil 6(yuk)-dong, Olympic-ro, 300, Seoul

A remnant of the Korean War, the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) is the area located along the border between North and South Korea. This highly sensitive and highly fortified area can only be visited during an official tour. Aside from the visit to the DMZ, a tour gives you a chance to get out of urban Seoul and see a bit of the Korean countryside.

The Half-Day Korean DMZ Tour , which includes pickup and drop-off in central Seoul, takes you to the important sites in the DMZ area and gets you back to Seoul right after lunch (if you take the early morning tour). The guided tour includes visits to landmarks like the 3rd Tunnel, dug by the North in anticipation of an invasion, and the Dora Observatory, where you can look over into North Korea.

First built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest of Seoul's five grand palaces built during the powerful Joseon dynasty. Destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries, it was restored to its original glory after the Second World War and totally restored in the 1990s.

A visit to the Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the best things to do in Seoul because within the palace grounds, you can also find the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea , and both are worth a visit. The palace museum is especially fascinating as it presents items from the palaces of the Joseon Dynasty.

This includes priceless antiques and artwork, as well as everyday items for cooking, cleaning, and daily life. The National Folk Museum focuses on items from daily life, as well as clothing and dioramas, to tell the story of the Korean people since prehistoric times.

Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Located behind the Deoksugung Palace, the Seoul Museum of Art , or SeMa as it's known to locals, has a large collection of artwork, mainly from the modern era. The art museum focuses on Korean art and Korean artists but has a decent selection of international works and creators. Changing temporary and visiting exhibitions also showcase unique collections and artwork.

The collection is displayed over three floors in a large building that was formerly the home of the Korean Supreme Court. The museum has six additional satellite locations in other parts of Seoul, and these feature rotating exhibits from the museum's main collection, as well as special exhibitions.

Don't miss the museum's Nam June Paik Memorial House, an exhibition and workshop space inside the house of legendary Korean contemporary artist Nam June Paik. The house is located in Seoul's Changsin-Dong neighborhood.

Address: 61, Deoksugung-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

The Blue House is Korea's version of the White House. It's the official residence of the Korean president , as well as the location of his and related executive offices of state. The Blue House isn't really a single building, it's an entire campus of buildings, all built in the traditional Korean style and all featuring the distinctive blue tile roofs where it gets its name.

One of the coolest things to do in Seoul is to take a tour of the Blue House. Hour-long tours are given, but participants must apply and schedule their tour in advance, online. The tour takes you to many parts of the palace complex including meeting rooms, reception rooms, and the Korean version of the Rose Garden, where the Korean president holds press conferences.

Ask your hotel concierge to help with reservations.

Address: 1 Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Bongeunsa is one of many Buddhist temples in and around Seoul. It first opened in the year 794 and is a complex of multiple buildings and shrines. It's easy to visit, as it's centrally located in the exciting Gangnam area. If you're spending the day sightseeing and exploring the city, this is a wonderful place to take a break.

The temple is on the side of a low mountain, directly across the street from the massive COEX convention center and mall. It's a popular spot for convention-goers to take a break and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Visitors are welcome, and the temple even has a program that allows guests to experience the daily life of a monk for a few hours.

Address: 531 Bongeunsa-ro, Samseong 1(il)-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

The largest and main gate to Seoul's Gyeongbokgung Palace , Gwanghwamun Gate is home to the changing of the guards ceremony (performed since 1469), which happens daily (except Tuesdays) at 10am and 2pm.

The gate has undergone many renovations and rebuilding, most recently in 2010, when it was restored to its original location and reconstructed with native materials using traditional tools and building techniques.

There's a large plaza in front, and the gate sits in front of the vast Gwanghwamun Square , home to frequent political demonstrations, a large subway station, a giant fountain, and some huge statues of Joseon-era leaders.

This natural creek that flows through central Seoul was covered over by highways in the post-Korean War economic boom. Seven miles of the creek were uncovered as part of an urban revitalization project and turned into an outdoor recreation area, opening in 2005.

There are now seven miles of creek-side hiking, walking and biking trails. It really has changed the CBD of Seoul by bringing an artery of water and green into what was a very urbanized, crowded area.

The creek is also home to the spectacular Seoul Lantern Festival , held each November. Ornate, lighted paper lanterns are displayed in and along the creek, and each night, thousands of people line the creek to view and enjoy the floating artwork. It's a fun, nighttime activity for families, as a lot of the art installations are geared toward children.

Set within the strikingly beautiful landscape of the Bukhansan National Park , Jingwansa is an ancient temple complex offering many ways to experience and learn about Buddhism and temple life. The traditional buildings are surrounded by miles of hiking trails (you can come here just to hike) snaking through the mountains.

The temple, which grows most of its own food (and even ferments its own kimchee), has a range of public programs. There's a temple stay program, which includes an overnight visit, plus there are cultural and learning programs. They also offer foodie experiences like a traditional vegetarian temple meal, as eaten by the monks.

Jingwansa is on the far west side of the city, it's one of the four major temples of Seoul first built around 1,000 BC.

Address: 73 Jingwan-gil, Jingwan-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul

Itaewon is a bustling neighborhood of Seoul focused on a few pedestrian streets filled with shops, cafés, and other consumer businesses. If you have limited time in the city, it's one of those places that can give you a real feel for Korean retail culture in a short time period. There are food carts and street performers, and some of the side streets are filled with restaurants. It's a great place for people-watching.

This is an excellent place to wander around and just lose yourself in the energy of the city. Be sure to wander down pedestrian-only Gyeongnidan Street, as it's lined with all kinds of restaurants and is a place to buy many international foods not easily available in Korea (like pizza and American-style barbecue). It's a fun thing to do in Seoul for families, and you'll see many parents and children here.

Another street, literally called Itaewon Antique Furniture Street, is filled with antique shops, and this is always an excellent place to buy unique gifts.

Known by its initials, the DDP is a very cool design center in Seoul's Dongdaemun area. Dongdaemun, Seoul's fashion district, is also known for its shopping; there are a lot of department stores and discount clothing and houseware stores in the area. The DDP has changing art and creative exhibitions open to the public, as well as a very cool store inside.

The silver, orb-like flowing Dongdaemun Design Plaza building looks like something from outer space. It was designed by the late Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid, considered one of the great female architects of the modern era. In perhaps Seoul's ultimate contrast, there are ruins of the ancient city fortress preserved just outside the front entrance of the design center.

The complex is filled with showrooms, workspaces, offices, and design studios. There is also what has to be Seoul's coolest shop, with small craft vendors selling all kinds of interesting items showcasing contemporary design and locally made, handcrafted items. It's an excellent place to buy unique gifts.

A visit to the DDP is one of the best things to do in Seoul at night — the design center comes alive when the sun goes down, the highlight being 25,550 white LED roses that light up. The silver-colored, modern, curving building and the rows of artificial flowers make the DDP one of Seoul's best Instagram spots.

After your visit, head across the street for a burger and crinkle-cut fries at one of Seoul's most popular new dining spots, Shake Shack. It's right across from the DDP in the Doota shopping mall.

Address: 281 Eulji-ro, Euljiro 7(chil)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul

Seoul's best street food market combines a taste-bud tempting array of street food vendors under one large roof. The market features rows of food stalls, offering every kind of Korean food you can imagine.

Most stalls have small chairs or stools in front of them, creating tiny restaurants, where you can sit and have a meal. It's all about tasting things here, and a smile and request will usually get you a sample of most of the things on offer.

The market is in central Seoul, and it's open from 9am to 10pm. The most popular things sold here are bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), bibimbap (rice mixed with sauteed beef, vegetables, and gochujang red chili paste), gimbap (Korean sushi), sundae (blood sausage), tteokbokki (stir-fried spicy rice cakes), and various types of noodles.

Other parts of the market have vendors selling meat and seafood, and other sections have clothes and household items.

Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno 4(sa)-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul

This unique neighborhood in central Seoul is filled with small stores that sell Korean traditional folk and handicrafts, along with art galleries. Stores sell things like hanji (traditional, hand-made paper), hanbok (traditional clothing), teas, pottery, and unique artwork.

The galleries in Insadong feature Korean fine art of all types. There are also a lot of tea houses and small cafes, perfect for a break during your shopping adventures.

The Insadong area really comes alive on Saturday afternoons and all day Sunday, when streets are closed to traffic and it becomes a giant craft and culture fair. Aside from food stalls and vendors, there are traditional music and dance performances and other cultural exhibits.

Luxury Hotels:

• Grand Mercure Ambassador Hotel and Residences Seoul Yongsan is one of Seoul's top 5-star resorts. Located in the heart of downtown, it offers a range of poshly decorated rooms and suites, all with stunning city views, especially after dark. Amenities include multiple restaurants, an indoor golf room, a fitness center, and spa. There is also a swimming pool, hot tub, and sauna. If you're traveling with the family, there is a kids' club, and if that family includes a dog, the hotel is pet friendly.
• Designed with relaxation in mind, SIGNIEL SEOUL has luxurious and comfortable rooms with beautiful decor. It's located high up in Seoul's Lotte World Tower, so the rooms and suites have some spectacular views. There are several restaurants in the hotel and a wide variety close by in the tower and mall complex below. Other on-site amenities include an indoor swimming pool and a hot tub and a spa with a full range of treatments. There is also a fitness center on-site.
• Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is the largest hotel in the South Korean capital city and the first in South Korea. The 5-star property has 317 rooms, including 43 suites, and all feature elegant luxe decor. Expect customizable beds with high-quality linens, spa-style bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows with great city views. The hotel is family-friendly and has a kids' pool and a children's menu at its restaurants. Other amenities include a posh spa, a heated indoor swimming pool, an indoor golf driving range, and a fitness center.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• May Place Seoul Dongdaemun is a top mid-range choice. It offers a mix of rooms and suites that are spartan but comfortable, with wood floors and white linen-draped beds. They also come with air purifiers and blackout curtains. Amenities include a restaurant, a hot tub, and a rooftop terrace where you can check out the panoramic city and mountain views.
• In the middle of Seoul's cultural district, Hotel28 Myeongdong is another excellent good-value choice, especially if you like sleek and modern décor. The hotel has glass walls of windows and well-appointed rooms and suites. Amenities include a restaurant and workout room.
• GLAD Gangnam COEX Center Hotel has a convenient locale just outside Exit 1 of the Samseong Subway Station. Rooms feature contemporary décor, floor-to-ceiling windows, and giant wall-mounted flat-screen TVs. Amenities include a restaurant with a breakfast buffet, a workout room, and a 24-hour front desk.

Budget Hotels :

• Delight Hotel is a clean and comfortable budget choice with contemporary rooms featuring luxury linens, marble bathrooms with rain showers, and large windows. Amenities include a restaurant serving complimentary breakfast, 24-hour room service, a hot tub, and even rental bikes to explore the area.
• Also, try the Grid Inn Hotel for budget-friendly lodging. Centrally located in the Gwanak-Gu district, it offers tidy rooms with refrigerators, blackout curtains, and safes. There is a restaurant and coffee shop on-site. The front desk is open 24 hours, and there is self-service laundry for guests.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Beyond Seoul: While many of the country's highlights are in Seoul, have a look at our article on the top attractions in South Korea for ideas on places to visit throughout the country.

23 Epic Things to Do in SEOUL, South Korea (2024 Edition)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From grand palaces to locations of incredible historical significance topped off with some to-die-for food, here’s our ultimate list of the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea.

If you were to ask somebody to name some Asia’s most interesting and dynamic capital cities, there is a good chance that Seoul would be overlooked.

Surprising when you consider that it is one of the continent’s most visited cities with tourism to Seoul booming in recent years.

Although there is a clear influence from the regions big hitters (China and Japan), Seoul clearly demonstrates the country’s own unique culture from its historical buildings to modern day K-Pop and Jaebeol’s (huge conglomerates like Samsung or LG).

There is no shortage of unique things to do in Seoul. 

READ MORE: Check out our perfect 3 days in Seoul itinerary to make the most of your short trip!

Table of Contents

A Brief Overview on Korea’s History

Gyeongbokgung, bukchon hanok village, changdeokgung, jongmyo shrine and park, take a break from palaces, shrines and temples and eat at insa-dong, cheong-gye-cheon, take in awesome views of seoul from namsan & the n seoul tower, take a night time stroll around deoksugung, shopping, eating and people watching in myeong-dong, shop and eat at namdaemun, national museum of korea, korean war memorial, explore hongdae, noryangjin fish market, relax in hondgae’s parks, gangnam style in gangnam, visit the olympic park, gwangjang market, visit a jimjilbang, how to get to seoul, south korea, getting around seoul, language issues, best time to visit seoul, korean fried chicken, dumplings and pancakes, sweets and treats, the best hostel in seoul – zzzip in hongdae, best budget accommodation for couples in seoul – mini hotel insa in insadong, best mid-range hotel in seoul – dh naissance hotel in dongdaemum, best luxury hotel in seoul – lotte hotel seoul in myedong.

Korea has been the centre of a tug of war between China and Japan for the last couple of hundred years.

Prior to Imperial Japan’s taking control following the first Sino-Japanese war (1894-95) Korea was a tributary of the Ming and then rather begrudgingly, Qing Dynasty; in effect it was China who was in control.

When World War 2 ended in 1945 it still wasn’t an independent nation. Although its previous rulers had been vanquished and booted out, the country was split in two: the Russian backed North and the American backed South.

Interestingly up until the 1970’s it was actually North Korea that was more developed, a far cry from today.

After overcoming poor governance, military dictatorships and a faltering economy South Korea grew year upon year and now has roughly the 11th largest GDP (some analysts have it slightly lower) and is regarded as one of the most technologically advanced nations on earth.

Seoul is the epicentre of this development. A city where the palaces of bygone dynasty’s stand alongside giant skyscrapers, K-Pop and night markets compete for pennies and attention and the Jaebeol’s are in and out the press (more often than not for something unpleasant). There truly is nowhere else like Seoul.

Our list of the Best Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is made of 25 Gu (districts) with a lot of sights concentrated in Jongno-gu, Jung-gu and Yongsan-gu.

Make no mistake, Seoul is huge but its excellent metro system means it’s very easy to get around, meaning you should have no issues seeing Seoul’s awesome sights.

READ MORE: Check out our mini-guide to the best hiking in South Korea !

Gwanghwamun & Jongno-gu

This area contains some of the most popular Seoul attractions. It’s well connected to the rest of the city and most of the sights in this area are within walking distance of each other.

Start here for the best places to go in Seoul!

This is one of Seoul’s most famous landmarks. Built in 1395 this huge palace was the home of the royal family until 1592 when it was burnt down during a Japanese invasion.

Despite its popularity it is very easy to find moments of zen, especially if you visit early in the day.

There are a number of interesting museums and exhibitions in palace and from 10am until 4pm, on the hour you can view the changing of the guard in the main courtyard. If you’re not sure what to do in Seoul, this is a pretty awesome place to start. 

• Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu
• Opening hours: every day from 9 AM – 6 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
• Price: 3,000 won
• Nearest Subway: Gyeongbokgung

This village, situated in between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung is home to roughly 900 Hanok (traditional Korean homes). It is full of small museums, art galleries and craft workshops and is a great place to explore.

At sunset or early morning it can be especially nice.

Do be aware that this place can get very busy with tourists who are in the area visiting Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung. In spite of all the museums, cafes and workshops this is still a residential area for some, so do bear that in mind when exploring.

• Nearest Subway: Anguk

Looking for a guided city tour of Seoul? Click the button below to join the best one in town!

The palace of Illustrious Virtue has a strong claim to being the most beautiful of Seoul’s palaces. You can check out some of the outer buildings by yourself however to explore the core of the palace and its gardens then you will need to join a guided tour.

There are two options; the Palace Building Area or the Secret Garden, with the latter being slightly more expensive. Check out tour schedules  and find which time suits you best.

The Secret Garden tour whilst being slightly more expensive it is one of the most interesting things to do with regards to Seoul’s dynastic past. 

During peak tourist seasons it’s advisable to try and book as far ahead as possible. Schedules vary between the summer and winter months but there are a number of English tours on offer.

• Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Waryong-dong, Jongno-gu
• Opening hours: every day from 9 AM – 5PM (closed on Mondays)

This temple is home to the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and as a result is particularly spectacular around major buddhist festivals. You can combine this with a trip to Insa-dong.

• Address: 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Gyeonji-dong, Jongno-gu
• Price: Free of charge

Located to the south of Changdeokgung this huge park is home a shrine of the same name as well as a number of others. It is the World Heritage-listed Jongmyo Shrine that is the most important.

It is here that spirit tablets of Joseon kings, queens and most loyal government officials are kept. It is believed that their spirits reside in the special hole bored into the wooden tablets.

Whilst the park is nothing too spectacular it’s certainly a nice break for the hustle and bustle of Central Seoul. 

• Address: 157 Jong-ro, Hunjeong-dong, Jongno-gu
• Opening hours: February-May, September-October from 9 AM – 6 PM Jun-August from 9 AM – 6:30 November – January from 9 AM – 5:30 PM
• Price: 1,000 won
• Nearest Subway: Jongno 3-ga

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Changdeokgung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine on a tour with Get Your Guide

South of Bukchon is Insadong, an area chock full of restaurants, bars and cafes. A great place to to take a break between the sights above.

This stream that flows from northern Seoul down to the Han River has undergone a major facelift in recent years. Roads and raised highways were torn down and replaced with walkways, waterfalls, footbridges and public artworks. 

Understandably this has been a big hit with the people of Seoul with summer and is especially popular with families. 

• Nearest Subway: Gwanghwamun

Myeong-dong and Jung-gu

Now it’s time to head to the other popular neighbourhoods of Myeong-dong and Jung-go to explore some of the best Seoul tourism activities.

Perched on top of Namsan is the N Seoul Tower, one of Seoul’s most iconic sights. You can do the awesome but slightly knackering hike up to the N Seoul Tower or you can take a cable car from close to Myeong-dong subway station.

Views from Namsan and in particular the N Seoul Tower are spectacular. Visiting in the evening can give you some awesome city views, however the wait to get up the N Seoul Tower at night can be long, so just plan wisely and book ahead if you can.

If you’re not fussed about going up the tower itself, the views from Namsan are still pretty awesome. This is definitely one of best evening’s Seoul attractions. 

• Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2(i)ga-dong, Yongsan-gu
• Opening hours: every day from 10 AM – 11 PM (except Saturday from 10 AM – 12 AM)
• Price: 11,000 won
• Nearest Subway Stations: There are two options here, Hoehyeon and Myeong-dong. If you’re hiking you can start one and hike up and loop round Namsan and finish at the other. If you want to save your knees then you can head to Myeong-dong and from there it’ a short walk to the cable car station.

The Palace of Virtuous Longevity is unique in that it’s the only Seoul landmark that you can visit at night. Naturally this is one of the best times to visit, it’s only a short walk from the neon craziness that is Myeong-dong.

The perfect way to walk off an amazing meal and certainly a unique idea for what to do in Seoul!

If visiting during the day you may be lucky enough to catch a changing of the guard ceremony or join a free guided tour of complex. For times check out their website here . 

If you do wish to go on a private guided tour – book an evening tour with Get Your Guide

• Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jeong-dong, Jung-gu
• Opening hours: every day from 9 AM – 9 PM (closed on Mondays)
• Price: 1,000 won (general admission)
• Nearest Subway: City Hall

Myeong-dong is chock full of restaurants, bars and shops and certainly one of Seoul’s glitzier districts. Although it’s not quite at the level of Gangnam, there are still plenty of opportunities to splash the cash.

Down some of the smaller alleyways, closer to the subway station there are some excellent BBQ restaurants which are a must if you’re in South Korea. The nearer you get to Myeng-dong’s neon nucleus the wider the variety of food. 

If you’ve had your fill and your pennies are running low then this is an excellent place to people watch.

• Nearest Subway: Myeong-dong

While you’re in Myeong-dong, why not book in for an epic Nanta show at the theatre ?

This sprawling 24 hour market sells anything and everything. By the evening food stalls are the name of the game and you can pick up some great bibimbap, pancakes, kimchi and various other Korean goodies.

Naturally prices are cheaper than in restaurants and most have some kind of outdoor seating, although it can be very busy so you may be looking for a seat for a while. However like in Taiwan, eating at these outdoor food markets offer some of the best local cuisine. You can’t claim you’ve had the full Seoul sightseeing experience without venturing out to its street markets.

Book a 4-hour tour to some of Seoul’s best known traditional markets +(bonus visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Changdeokgung Palace).

• Address: 21 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Hoehyeon-dong, Jung-gu
• Opening hours: 24h/7
• Nearest Subway: Hoehyeon

READ MORE: Check out our list of the best things to do in Jeonju, Korea .

Itaewon & Yongsan-gu

This area is one of the most popular expat hangouts in the city. A big reason for this is that the fact that there is an American military base close by. Expect to find a number of American bars and burger joints in this part of town.

A lot of people stay in this area, and if a night of bar hopping appeals then this may the place for you. A pub crawl in Seoul can be a fun way to meet new friends and mingle with the locals. However if you want to avoid the drunks and burger bars then you may want to look elsewhere for your evening entertainment. 

The area is home to two excellent museums that are well worth a visit and help provide a deep insight into Korea’s past, present and future, and definitely two of the best things to do in Seoul. 

The museum takes you on an in depth tour from Korea’s feudal beginnings right through to the end of the Joseon Dynasty in 1897, the countries last.

Entrance to the main exhibits are free of charge, however the regular special exhibits are not and a ticket will need to be purchased.

There is a lot to see here with everything being displayed in both English and Korean.

• Address: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Seobinggo-dong, Yongsan-gu
• Opening hours: every day from 10 AM – 6 PM (Wednesday & Saturday from 10 AM – 9 PM, Sunday from 10 AM – 7 PM)
• Price: Free of charge (separate charge for special exhibitions)
• Nearest Subway: Ichon

Frequently known as the forgotten war in the Western World, the Korean War was a battle between the competing ideologies of the USA and China and the Soviet Union.

The war raged from 1950 until 1953 when an armistice agreement was signed between the USA, China and North Korea. South Korea was not a signatory to this ceasefire and a formal peace treaty between the two Korea’s and their allies was never formally agreed meaning that the two sides are technically still at war.

As well as a memorial to those that fought and died in Korean War the site is also home to a number of excellent exhibitions giving information into one of the most brutal conflicts of the 20th century. 

The Korean War started in 1950 when North Korea launched a surprise invasion of the South. Initially the North made spectacular gains, partially thanks to weaponry and support from the Soviet Union.

However the USA soon pushed the North close to the Chinese border and then China joined in. There are many who believe that without China’s intervention North Korea would have been ceased to exist.

This museum offers a lot of insight into Korean history and for all wanting to get to know the culture better – it’s a Seoul must see!

• Address: 29 Itaewon-ro, Namyeong-dong, Yongsan-gu
• Opening hours: every day from 9:30 AM – 6 PM (closed on Mondays)
• Price: Free of charge (only parking fees – 3,000 won per 2 hrs)
• Nearest Subway: Samgakji

Western Seoul

Moving further into our Seoul travel guide, it’s time to head to the Gu of Western Seoul.

Seoul’s main student area is home to funky live music venues, cafes and some awesome restaurants. Do not expect fine dining here, it’s all about keeping the prices down. The area is also home to some excellent hotpot and BBQ restaurants.

If you’re looking to catch some of South Korea’s finest unsigned indie acts then this is the place to do it!

• Nearest Subway: Hongik University and Sangsu

South Korean cuisine is home to some outrageously good seafood dishes and the Noryangjin fish market is the place to buy the freshest seafood in Seoul.

If you have ever been to the Tsujiki fish market in Tokyo this is not as big, but unlike Tsujiki there are less idiotic tourists pissing off the local traders so they are still ok with visitors coming early and checking it out during the peak market hours.

Auctions get going at around 5am, so naturally thats the best time to visit, but stay out of the way and be quiet. Do remember that this is a working market, so keep out of the way of workers and trucks hauling around the fish that will pay their salaries.

• Address: 674 Nodeul-ro, Noryangjin-dong
• Nearest Subway: Noryangjin

This area is home to two parks which are great to while away a sunny afternoon. Peace Park which is home to the World Cup stadium is east of Hongdae.

Seonyudo Park is built on an island in the middle of the Han River that was formerly home to a water filtration plant. Now it’s full of ponds, plant nurseries and exhibitions – far more visually appealing.

• Nearest Subway: World Cup Stadium for Peace Park and Seonyudo for the park of the same name.

Gangnam & South of the River

Head south of the river to find more ideas for what to see in Seoul, Korea!

This district will always be synonymous with Gangam Style, the song that has caused many a hangover riddled guy or girl to look back on the previous nights dancing with shame.

When this song came out I had not yet been to Seoul, but a good friend of mine lived there for a year. It was him who informed me that Gangam was actually a very fancy, upmarket area in Seoul.

Think Kensington or Mayfair in London. Not sure if the song “Mayfair Style” would sell as well.

It’s certainly an interesting area to explore, with plenty of awesome and surprisingly affordable restaurants hidden in the cities back alleys.

If that’s not your thing then there are plenty of fashion brands and expensive restaurants that have made Gangnam their home.

• Nearest Subways: Cheongdam and Samseong

Seoul being named as the host city for the 1988 Olympics was a demonstration of just how far South Korea had come.

Home to some interesting museums, various Olympic memorials and venues and some lovely walking trails this is a great place to spend a sunny afternoon. There are also bikes available to hire.

• Nearest Subway Stations: Mongchontoseong and Olympic Park

Dongdaemun and Eastern Seoul

Dongdaemun is home to some of the best places to visit in Seoul.

If you are looking for a market to stuff your face with amazing Korea street food then then this is the place! This place is positively buzzing most evenings, think the huge night markets in Tainan and Taipei as a rough comparison.

Come with an empty stomach and be prepared to stagger back home, because eating really is one of the top Seoul tourist attractions.

Without a shadow of a doubt this one of Seoul’s most brilliantly chaotic places. Even if you’re not here for the food it’s certainly one of the most interesting things to see in Seoul. 

• Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno 4(sa)-ga
• Opening hours: every day from 9 AM – 5PM
• Nearest Subway: Jongno 5-ga

Northern Seoul

Head over to Northern Seoul for another day of exploring in the South Korean city.

Offering great views over Seoul this 342m peak is open to the public, however security is quite tight.

In 1968 North Korean Agents attempted to assassinate South Korea’s president by climbing over the Seoul’s old city walls at Bukaksan and into the presidential compound.

Although the mission was unsuccessful the area still remains under tight security, due to the fact the presidential palace is so close. 

This was the city’s last line of defence, and some of the views of the surrounding countryside and Seoul itself are particularly stunning. Do be aware that there are some points where photos are not allowed. Bring your passport.

• How to get there: Head to Anguk, take exit 2 and jump on bus No. 2 to Waryong Park. The hike starts here and ends at Changuimun Gate. From Here you can take buses 1020, 7022 and 7212 back to Anguk.

Best Day Trip from Seoul

Sometimes you need to get out of the city too, so to inspire you here’s my recommendation for the best day trip from Seoul.

On of the most popular day trips from Seoul is to the DMZ which includes a trip to Panmunjeon. Incidentally this is also one of the best things to in Seoul.

However if you visit during a National Holiday there is a chance you may not be able to visit this area (sadly this was the case for me). This is definitely one of the most unique places in the world, let alone in Seoul.

This one is one of the most popular DMZ tours available. However try and book at least two weeks in advance, further if you’re travelling during peak season.

Once you have booked you will be sent the details of where to meet. You WILL need to bring you passport and dress appropriately, as described on the website.

All Over Seoul

Some Seoul activities can be found just about anywhere in the city. If you’re looking for general Seoul tourist attractions, and not just the main points of interest, these are for you!

Visiting a Jimjilbang is one of the best things to do in Seoul. A Jimjilbang is a Korean onsen/sauna/spa complex offering baths, massages, games rooms, saunas and a bunch of other bits and bobs.

A number of Jimjibang’s have options to stay all night with various sleeping rooms within the complex and baths running throughout the night. 

There are plenty of these in Seoul, however the price for day time rates and night time rates is likely to differ. Plan appropriately to make sure you don’t get a surprisingly large bill.

All nighters can sometimes work out cheaper than a hotel, and you will feel fresh as a daisy the next morning.

These do have a reputation for being seedy (understandable when you describe it). However the chances of you finding such a place through a google search is pretty slim. Alternatively you can ask your guesthouse or hotel for a recommendation.

South Korea is home to some awesome live music. Dongdaemun has some excellent jazz and blues clubs whereas Hongdae is the place to go for Indie.

If K-Pop is what you’re after, and with the an ever growing fan base you wouldn’t be alone, check out the best spots online. There are various gigs going on throughout the year hosting some of the genre’s biggest acts.

To have the best K-Pop experience, you can book a tour with Get Your Guide , which will lead you to the K-Pop themed restaurant in Seoul’s posh area, Gangnam. Fantastic food, great tunes and amazing views of the Seokchon Lake and the city – a perfect recipe for a great night out!

One of Seoul’s most unique cultural exports this is the best place to experience it and see what all the fuss is about (hint: it’s pretty awesome).

Seoul Travel Guide

To help you with your visit, here’s some of our best Seoul travel tips to help you make the most of your holiday.

Seoul is a regional hub and as a result it’s not uncommon to have long distance fights transferring in Europe, meaning that you could easily extend a layover into a long weekend.

It also means that getting to Seoul is very easy from most major cities in East and South East Asia.

Seoul has two airports, Incheon and Gimpo. The vast majority of international flights will land at Incheon, save for some flights to and from China and Japan that will land at Gimpo.

Both airports have excellent connections to Seoul by train or bus, however check where the final stop is as depending on where you are staying one may be more convenient that the other.

Public travel within Korea is generally very good. There is an excellent rail and bus network with internal flights between the countries major cities.

Arriving in Seoul by bus will bring you to one of the cities two bus stations; Seoul Express Bus Terminal or Central City Express Bus Terminal. Both of these are connected directly to the cities subway system.

If coming in by train you will arrive at one of the cities five train stations, all of which are connected to the subway system.

Seoul’s public transport system is excellent, it is definitely the easiest way to get around the city. To make things more convenient you can purchase T money or cashbee cards to save having to buy tickets for every trip.

Just swipe in and out and top up when you need to.

Whilst English is taught in all primary and secondary schools in Korea, DO NOT expect everybody to speak English. Every student in the United Kingdom learns French, German or Spanish until at least 14 and that certainly does not translate into adulthood.

It seems to be a particularly common complaint on articles focusing on East Asia. In 2018 a combined 7.7 million tourists from Japan and China visited South Korea.

The country welcomed just under 1 million US visitors (the most from any English speaking country). In East Asia English is not as useful as we believe it to be. Mandarin and Japanese are far more important in terms of tourism and commerce.

Expect to do plenty of pointing, guessing and the like in Seoul, especially at the night markets or restaurants. There are plenty of restaurants that do not have English menus, which can lead to truly memorable exchanges! 

Seoul is a very popular short break destination for Chinese, Japanese and Taiwanese tourists. Therefore you may want to avoid visiting during any National Holidays in these countries as well in South Korea.

During Chinese New Year and the October National Holiday flight and hotel prices can jump as Chinese tourists swarm to sightsee and shop. If the only time you can go is during one of these times try to avoid staying in big shopping areas like Myedong and Gangnam.

Summers swelter and winters freeze, outside of these two seasons it’s generally very pleasant. Still, no matter what time you visit, you’ll still fall in love with all the top things to do in Seoul!

Eating in Seoul

Eating is the highlight of any trip to Seoul. The dazzling array of food on offer in Seoul in simply stunning, from cheap and cheerful street eats to Michelin Star restaurants.

Kimchi maybe the first thing people think when they think of Korean food, however there is far more to the Korean palette than spicy pickled cabbage.

The quintessential Korean cuisine, it is impossible to visit Seoul and not chow down on some Korean BBQ. These restaurants range from small joints down an alley way, to huge chains.

The traditional way to eat is to grill the meat, dip it in the sauce and then wrap it in a lettuce leaf, absolutely one of the best things to do in Seoul. 

One of the fun activities that we always like to partake in when traveling is learning how to cook traditional dishes! If you’re a foodie but also love to cook, sign up for a traditional Korean cooking class .

Rice with meat and veg. A simplistic definition for one of South Korea’s most defining dishes. These can be found anywhere and are usually a quick meal rather than a full blown sit down affair. Bibimbaps can come in a mind boggling array of flavours a tastes.

Heaven on a plate is how a good friend of mine described this, and he is not far wrong. Make sure you try this at least once during your time in Seoul.

Usually accompaniments that can be found at most restaurants. Whilst dumplings have definite similarities with dumplings served in both China and Japan the pancakes are a very special Korean treat. 

South Korea has a wide variety of seafood dishes on offer. One of the most unique things to try in Seoul is live octopus tentacle. Certainly not for the faint hearted. 

In 2016 South Korea won the World Bakery Cup (yes there really is such a thing). Bakeries are dotted all over Seoul and serve some fantastic sweet options. 

Naturally this is a very simplistic overview and there is plenty more to eat than what is written here. Get stuck in and chow down on some of the best food you never knew existed.

Accommodation – Where to Stay in Seoul

Seoul is blessed with a huge range of accommodation options, everything from dorms to 5 star luxury. The biggest issue is deciding where to stay in Seoul.

Below I’ve given a rough summation of some of the best places to stay in Seoul. Each of them have their own advantages and disadvantages, you just need to decide what’s going to be best for you. 

Insadong and the surrounding area is an excellent option, with accommodation and eateries to suit all budgets and tastes plus excellent transport links this is a great place to start. It’s also walking distance to some of Seoul’s most spectacular palaces and shrines. Definitely a slower pace of life here than in Hongdae or Myedong.

Hongdae is at the cheaper end of the scale but you are a little further from most sights, however with numerous cheap eats, bars and live houses this could be another great option.

Myedong is home to a fair few places, but if you’re looking for a quieter area this may not be for you. At night this area is alive as people eat, drink and shop. That being said there are a number of quiet back alleys offering some awesome Korean food.

Gangnam is home a bunch of boutiques and expensive hotels, so if you’re watching the pennies, this may not be the place for you. Also some parts are a little far from most of the main sights

Dongdaemum has a few places but it’s quite far from most sights, but is well connected by subway and it’s certainly on the quieter side of things.

Check out our list below of some of the best places to stay in Seoul.

This hostel out in Seoul’s student student district consistently receives excellent reviews. It offers dorms, singles, twins, doubles and triples. However dorms make up the majority of its guests.

It offers free breakfast and luggage storage as well as a roof terrace and all non dorm rooms have an ensuite.

If you are travelling as a couple it’s worth checking the cost of two dorm beds versus a private room. Similar to Japan, a private room can be the same price or even cheaper than two dorm beds.

• Nearest Subway – Hapjeong

This excellent little guesthouse located in the heart of Insadong is a few minutes walk from Anguk subway station and sights such as Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon and Changdeokgung. It offers free breakfast and is close to a number of awesome restaurants.

It can be a little tricky to find in the maze of alleys around Insadong but the effort is well worth it. The host is also able to offer excellent advice and tips, be it the best restaurant to visit or the best time to check out certain parts of Seoul. All this for a very wallet friendly price.

• Nearest Subway – Anguk

This 3-star hotel in Dongdaemun gets rave reviews from  guests. Located 140m from Sungshin Women’s University Subway Station it has excellent transport links in spite of the fact it’s a little further away from the centre than most.

With a fully multi-lingual staff team as well as spa’s and sauna’s on offer it’s unsurprising that this place is so popular with its guests.

• Nearest Subway – Sungshin Women’s University

Lotte is one of South Korea’s most recognised and respected brands. This 5-star hotel offers all of the luxuries you would expect. Throw in its location in the heart of Myedong along with is swimming pool, sauna and hot spring spa it’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular luxury options in Seoul.

It’s directly connected to Euljiro 1-ga subway station making travel around Seoul extremely convenient. In addition its central location means that there are plenty of awesome sights within walking distance.

• Nearest Subway – Euljiro 1-ga

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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8 Amazing Things to Do in Jeonju, South Korea

The perfect 3 days in seoul itinerary (2024 guide), life experiences while wwoofing in south korea, related posts, 5 most scenic hiking spots in south korea, 1 thought on “23 epic things to do in seoul, south korea (2024 edition)”.

Hi Richard! So nice to see a 2023 guide to Seoul!! There is so much out of date information out there and Seoul changes fast! Glad to see you are keeping up with the pace. I would suggest however that you could add another epic thing to do in Seoul to your list! Bike tours are a comfortable and fun bway to see Seoul and with a guide to keep you on the best route it is safe and efficient. There are so many bike lanes in Korea however often taking a quiet back street (rather than the big road with the bike lane) is the most rewarding. “we Ride Korea” is a company that offers some really good English tour options. The e-bike tours are not cheap but well worth it. In addition, “We Ride Korea” also offer a rickshaw service so anyone can join in the fun. I am positive they would be happy to hear from you. Have a wonderful time in Korea!

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The 14 best things to do in Seoul

The best things to do in Seoul range from hidden tea rooms to sprawling outdoor markets

Seoul, in our opinion, is like no other city on earth. It is a vast, busy metropolis, full of fresh, creative restaurants, shouty markets and mesmerising historic architecture. Sure, Korea has been having its international moment for a while, thanks to K-Pop’s popularity, and a certain group of Netflix hits and Oscar-winning films.

But whether you knew it or not, Seoul has always been cool. Insanely cool. So cool, you’re definitely going to need enough time there to take it all in. Here, trendy, arty neighbourhoods full of vintage stores meet sprawling green spaces, and tiny tea houses are tucked away behind vast forests. You’ve got to see this city in person to believe it. Read on for the best things to do in Seoul. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍴 The best restaurants in Seoul 🍸 The best bars in Seoul 🏨 The best hotels in Seoul 🦀 The best traditional markets in Seoul 🎨 The best things to do for free in Seoul 🧖   The best luxury spas in Seoul   🏠   The best Airbnbs in Seoul

Planning your next trip? Check out our latest travel guides , written by local experts.

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What to do in Seoul

1.  Changdeokgung Palace

What is it? This stunning palace complex (and Unesco World Heritage Site) was the primary royal residence for over 200 years, and is the best preserved out of the five remaining Joseon palaces in Seoul.

Why go? Besides the palace and government buildings, Changdeokgung has a truly breathtaking secret garden with landscaped lawns, ornate pavilions and a lotus pond. Continue your cultural tour of the area with the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village and charming Jogyesa Temple.

2.  N Seoul Tower

What is it? If you don’t fancy knackering your legs with a trek up the – admittedly majestic – Bukhansan mountain, the 480-metre-tall N Seoul Tower also offers mind-boggling views of Seoul.

Why go? Every knows that the best way to get your bearings with a city is to head up to the nearest really, really tall thing and take it all in. The N Seoul Tower is hundreds of metres above sea level and looks a little like a rocket taking off from the top of Namsan mountain. Its panoramas over Seoul are unlike any other: and, better yet, thanks to a lift and cable car, it’ll leave your legs with plenty of energy for the rest of your time here.

3.  Gwangjang Market

What is it? One of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Seoul, most famous for its street food market where you can find all manner of Korean snacks.

Why go? It’s the most convenient place to sample a wide variety of Korean food, from tteokboki (sweet and spicy rice cakes), bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), and mayak gimbap (seaweed rolls). Don’t forget to wash it all down with some makgeolli (rice wine).

4.  Ihwa Mural Village

What is it? Once designated for demolition, this hillside village was given a makeover as part of a government revitalisation project and has since become a tourist attraction. Just remember that it’s a village, not a theme park – residents have complained about noisy and disruptive visitors in the past.

Why go? Do it for the ‘gram. But seriously, Ihwa is a lovely place to visit if you’re a keen photographer or fan of street art. As it’s at the top of Naksan Mountain, the views are beautiful (even if the walk is a little steep).

5.  Leeum Samsung Museum of Art

What is it? Leeum is home to a significant collection of traditional Korean art, as well as modern and contemporary works from local and international artists. The art is divided between three structures designed by architectural luminaries Mario Botta, Jean Nouvel and Rem Koolhaas.

Why go? There’s something for art lovers of all tastes, whether your interest lies with Korean national treasures or contemporary painters. Don’t forget to visit the sculpture garden.

6.  Insa-dong

What is it? Located in the historic district of Jongno-gu, Insa-dong is an arty neighbourhood where traditional meets modern. Known for its plethora of galleries, this is the perfect place to take a quick break between sightseeing.

Why go? Insadong-gil, the neighbourhood’s main street, is a great place to pick up some traditional Korean souvenirs – especially during the weekly Saturday market. Make sure to visit Ssamziegil, a multi-storey shopping complex which houses over 70 shops, galleries, and cafés.

7.  Hongdae

What is it? The buzzy area around Hongik University where all of Seoul’s tastemakers congregate. Hongdae is known for being the city’s youth culture hub, with a strong indie music and nightlife scene, and a regular arts and crafts market.

Why go? Besides the hipper-than-thou street style shops and artisanal cafés, Hongdae’s main road – Hongik-ro – is home to countless bars and clubs where you can party the night away. Line your stomach at the nearby Oksang Dalbit with some delectable garlic pepper chicken.

8.  Common Ground

What is it? Occupying a whopping 5,300 square metres, this bright blue structure is the largest shipping container mall in the world. The complex comprises a market hall and street market which border a central square used for weekend markets, performances, and exhibitions.

Why go? It’s a convenient place to find and support independent businesses, whether you’re keen on fashion, art, or beauty. You won’t be short on choices for food either, with options ranging from traditional local food to international cuisines and even food trucks.

9.  Dongdaemun

What is it? The beating heart of Seoul’s no-holds-barred shopping culture. It’s got a 24-hour shopping complex, wholesale outlets, an underground shopping centre, and a bulbous, space-age silver cultural hub designed by world-famous architect Zaha Hadid.

Why go? Many boutiques in Seoul and even neighbouring countries source their stock from Dongdaemun, making it a goldmine for thrifty, fashion-conscious shoppers. Everything you want can be found off the main shopping road, Eulji-ro – including pojangmacha (street stalls) serving snacks and soju.

10.  Gyeongui Line Forest Park

What is it? A 6.3-kilometre park that runs from near Gajwa Station to Hyochang Park Station, passing through the trendy Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong neighbourhoods.

Why go? Peaceful green spaces in urban areas are always welcome, but where Gyeongui Line Forest Park sets itself apart is its charming row of local bookstores on the aptly named Gyeongui Line Book Street.

11.  Myeongdong

What is it? Known as a shopper’s paradise, Myeongdong is one of the most popular tourist hotspots in Seoul. Myeongdong’s more of a conventional shopping experience than Dongdaemun, with popular retail chains, department stores, and family restaurants lining the streets.

Why go? Myeongdong-gil, the main shopping street, is a dream come true for anyone interested in Korean fashion and beauty. If all that shopping makes you peckish, the knife-cut noodles at Myeongdong Kyoja are always a winner.

12.  Suyeonsanbang Tea House

What is it? In English, Suyeonsanbang means “a small home in the forest where writers gather” – a fitting name for this serene, traditional teahouse which was once the home of late Korean author Lee Tae-jun.

Why go? Located near the idyllic Bukhansan National Park, Suyeonsanbang feels like a mountain lodge far away from the city. It’s a wonderfully tranquil space with a rich literary history, extensive tea menu, and seasonal shaved ice.

13.  Seoullo 7017

What is it? Seoul’s answer to New York’s High Line. This eco-friendly, multi-purpose pedestrian walkway built on a former highway above Seoul Station is home to a sky garden, cafés, and even a little pool for you to dip your toes in.

Why go? Seoullo 7017 has a lot to offer, from ‘peeping pots’ that play sounds and videos of Seoul, to the kids’ trampolines, modern art at Seoullo Gallery, and Yunseul – a trippy, immersive public art project.

14.  Korea Furniture Museum

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 한국가구박물관 (@koreafurnituremuseum)

What is it? Situated on a picturesque hillside in the historic Seongbuk-dong district, this sprawling complex is brimming with historical relics from the Joseon dynasty (1392-1897). It’s essential to pre-book your tour, as walk-ins are not allowed.

Why go? The grounds and architecture alone warrant a visit, but the main attraction is the museum’s 500-piece display of Joseon furniture, exhibited in careful reconstructions of historic Korean homes. Visitors often call it this museum the best-kept secret in Seoul due to its unique insight into Korean history.

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Must-see attractions in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung

Gwanghwamun & Jongno-gu

Like a phoenix, Seoul’s premier palace has risen several times from the ashes of destruction. Hordes of tourists have replaced the thousands of government…

Changdeokgung

The World Heritage–listed Changdeokgung is the most beautiful of Seoul's five main palaces. You must join a one-hour guided tour to look around. English…

Leeum Samsung Museum of Art

Itaewon & Yongsan-gu

Amid the celebrity-owned apartments on the leafy southern slope of Namsan is Korea's premier art gallery. Beautifully designed and laid-out, it balances…

Myeong-dong & Jung-gu

One of Seoul's five grand palaces built during the Joseon dynasty, Deoksugung (meaning Palace of Virtuous Longevity) is the only one you can visit in the…

National Museum of Korea

This vast and imposing concrete slab of a museum takes visitors on a fascinating journey through Korea's past from prehistory all the way to the Korean…

War Memorial of Korea

This huge museum documents the history of the Korean War (1950–53) using multimedia exhibits and black-and-white documentary footage, along with artefacts…

Gangnam & Southern Seoul

Located in the heart of ritzy Gangnam, the shrines and halls of the Buddhist temple Bongeun-sa, with its tree-filled hillside location, stand in direct…

Dongdaemun Design Plaza & Park

Dongdaemun & Eastern Seoul

Designed by the late Zaha Hadid, this neofuturistic cultural complex was commissioned to replace the Dongdaemun Stadium, built during Japanese rule in the…

Noryangjin Fish Market

Providing terrific photo opportunities, Korea's largest fish market supplies every kind of aquatic life form to restaurants, fish shops and the general…

Namdaemun Market

You could spend all day in this swarming night-and-day market and not see it at all. The largest market in Korea, each section has hundreds of stalls,…

Seodaemun Prison History Hall

Northern Seoul

Built in 1908, this former prison is a potent symbol of Korean suffering at the hands of Japan during colonial occupation in the early 20th century…

Cheong-gye-cheon

With its landscaped walkways, footbridges, waterfalls and a variety of public artworks, such as the enormous pink-and-blue shell entitled Spring in Cheong…

N Seoul Tower & Namsan

The iconic N Seoul tower (236m), atop the city’s guardian mountain Namsan, offers panoramic views of this immense metropolis from its observation deck…

Bukchon Hanok Village

Meaning ‘North Village’, Bukchon, between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, is home to around 900 hanok, Seoul’s largest concentration of these traditional…

Hyundai Development Company commissioned Daniel Libeskind to work with Seoul-based firm Himma on its headquarters opposite COEX Mall. The result, Tangent,…

Gyeongui Line Forest Park

This 6.3km park, named for the former Gyeongui Line (on which it was built), is a narrow, long green space that runs along the discarded railroad tracks…

Korean Stone Art Museum

A score of centuries-old stone sentinels stand guard on the hillside at this terrific museum overlooking Seongbuk-dong. A road winds through sculpted…

Korea Furniture Museum

You need to apply several days in advance via a reservation page on the website to visit this museum, but you absolutely should to admire the fabulous…

Seoul K-Medi Center

Learn about the history and practice of traditional Korean medicine at this impressive facility styled to resemble Bojewon, a clinic from the early Joseon…

Ihwa Mural Village

High on the slopes of Naksan is one of the city's old daldongnae (literally ‘moon villages’) where refugees lived in shacks after the Korean War. Sixty…

KT&G SangsangMadang

Funded by Korea’s top tobacco company, this visually striking building is home to an art-house cinema, a concert space (hosting top indie bands) and…

Olympic Park

This large and pleasant park was the focus of the 1988 Olympics. Strolling its paths takes you past its stadiums surrounded by plenty of greenery, ponds…

Namsangol Hanok Village

Located in a park at the foot of Namsan, this peaceful village is a wonderful spot to encounter traditional Korean culture. It features five differing…

Lotte World

This huge complex includes an amusement park, an ice-skating rink, a cinema multiplex, a department store, a folk museum, a shopping mall, a hotel,…

Inwangsan Guksadang

This ornate shrine atop Inwangsan is one of Seoul's most important sites for shamanism, Korea's ancient, highly ritualised and somewhat taboo folk…

The focus of Jogye-sa is the grand wooden hall Daeungjeon, Seoul's largest Buddhist worship hall and the epicentre of Korean Buddhism. Completed in 1938,…

Surrounded by dense woodland, the impressive buildings of the Confucian shrine Jongmyo house the spirit tablets of the Joseon kings and queens and some of…

Seoullo 7017

This overpass-turned-park is a green space in the heart of the city. About 24,000 plants are grown here, including various types of flowers and trees, all…

Seoul City Hall

Looking like a tsunami made of glass and steel, Seoul City Hall was completely redeveloped in 2013 and now is a major architectural attraction of the city…

Combining architectural elements from several centuries of Seoul's history, this branch of the city's premier contemporary-art museum is an impressive…

Gyeongui Line Book Street

This extension of the Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a book-themed pathway of bookshops housed in train-carriage-like containers. The street commemorates…

Oil Tank Culture Park

Originally built after Korea’s first oil crisis in 1973 and reopened in 2017, this cultural centre is made up of five abandoned oil tanks. Planted in a…

Stairway Flea Market

Held on the last Saturday of each month, this market attracts hundreds of shoppers to Usadan-ro on top of Itaewon Hill, where local artists sell their…

Changgyeonggung

Originally built in the 15th century by King Sejong for his father, this is one of Seoul's 'five grand palaces'. It backs onto the more impressive…

Namsan Park

Beloved by locals as a place for exercise, peaceful contemplation and hanging out with loved ones, Namsan was a sacred shamanistic spot when the Joseon…

Lock Museum

One of Seoul’s quirkier private collections makes for a surprisingly absorbing exhibition. It focuses on the artistry of locks, latches and keys of all…

At the south end of Banpo Bridge are these three artificial floating islands interconnected by walkways. Each features futuristic buildings in a complex…

Seoul Forest

A hunting ground in Joseon times, this large park offers a number of family-friendly attractions, including a sika deer enclosure, adventure playgrounds,…

Lotte World Tower

Completed in early 2017, Seoul's latest landmark is the 555m-high Lotte World Tower – the tallest skyscraper in Korea (and sixth highest in the world)…

SMTown coexartium

This five-level interactive shrine to K-Pop in the COEX Mall has already become a pilgrimage hot spot for fans since opening in 2018. The photo hall is…

More destinations you need to see

• South Korea
• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

43 Must-Visit Attractions in Seoul

With a fizzing K-Pop scene, cut-price beauty emporiums and late-night norebang (karaoke) bars, the capital of South Korea is one of the most exciting cities in Asia. Come for a few days at least and you will find a mix of traditional and modern thrills with countless attractions and sites to explore. Here are the top must-visit attractions in Seoul .

1. bukhansan national park.

2. Gyeongbokgung

3. Gwanghwamun Square

Architectural Landmark

This new public square lies in front of Gwanghwamun Gate, the main gate to the impressive Gyeongbokgung Palace. The square features a statue of King Sejong the Great, the inventor of Korea’s Hangul alphabet. Visit on a sunny day and you can enjoy the view of the soaring green hills beyond Seoul’s skyscrapers. Most city tours of Seoul will include a photo op at Gwanghwamun Gate.

5. Bukchon Hanok Village

Archaeological site

6. Cheonggyecheon stream

Natural Feature

7. N Seoul Tower

8. Myeongdong

9. lotte world.

Amusement Park

Seoul’s largest recreation complex is home to the world’s biggest indoor theme park as well as an outdoor amusement park called Magic Island, all linked by a monorail. Lotte World, which is to the southeast of the city centre, has a luxury hotel, a national folk museum, sport facilities and cinemas. To add life and Seoul to your trip, make your way here.

10. Jogyesa Temple

Buddhist Temple

This will probably be the most colourful temple you will ever see – the exterior is bright red, jade, blue and yellow. Inside are three golden Buddhas. As the visual fanfare suggests, the chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism is one of the most important in the country. It was founded at the start of the Joseon Dynasty in 1395. Visit during Buddha’s birthday in May and you can join Korean visitors taking part in the festivities. We recommend checking out the temple when lit by lanterns on an atmospheric nighttime tour of Seoul.

11. Jongmyo Shrine

12. Gangnam

Shopping Mall

13. COEX Mall

14. Demilitarised Zone

Historical Landmark

This strip of land will make you shiver… and think. The DMZ divides the Korean peninsula and is the border between North and South Korea. Created in 1953 as a buffer between communism and capitalism, it is a surviving slice of the Cold War. It’s just 48km (30mi) north of Seoul and there are observation towers from which to peek into North Korea. It can only be visited on an organised tour. Luckily, you can visit the DMZ on Culture Trip’s 10-day trip to South Korea . Alternatively, book one of many day trip tours departing from Seoul.

15. Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art

Museum, Building

16. Heunginjimun

Restaurant, Contemporary

One of Seoul’s most reputed contemporary dining restaurants, Soigné is situated in a quiet nook of Seorae Maeul. The open kitchen, referred to as “The Stage” by owner and head chef Jun Lee, allows diners to watch the chefs elaborately create their meals. The menu rotates every few months and incorporates themes that vary from movies to seasons. For the full experience, try the full course dinner, which stretches out over a leisurely two to three hours. Recommended by Mimsie Ladner.

18. Jazz Story

Bar, Pub Grub, Korean, Fusion

At the heart of Seoul’s lively Hyehwa district is one of its best-kept secrets — Jazz Story, a unique live music bar that is spacious enough so visitors never feel cramped, even when at full capacity. Here, patrons can relax in an eclectic interior bedecked with items such as a hand-crafted airplane that hangs suspended over the stage. Otherworldly figures and contraptions adorn the exposed rebar and broken concrete walls, adding to the atmosphere. The wine, beer and cocktails on offer are varied to please just about any taste, but the house jazz band, which plays daily and takes requests, is the real draw here. Recommended by Mimsie Ladner.

19. Maple Tree House

Restaurant, Korean, BBQ

For those wishing to sample the best Korean barbecue food , a visit to the Maple Tree is a must. The restaurant is well-renowned for serving high-quality meat in a spacious setting that is decked with polished brass tables and modern interiors. Book a food tour of the city for an even more comprehensive culinary deep-dive. Recommended by Naintara Gurung.

20. War Memorial of Korea

Building, Memorial

21. Buam-dong

Nestled between Inwang and Bugak mountains, Buam-dong is a tranquil neighborhood situated in the middle of the city, but shielded by nature from the concrete that makes up the remainder of the metropolis. Untainted by retail franchisees or coffee chains, the area retains a quiet residential vibe. Boasting only a single bus stop, it is certainly not the most convenient place to visit, but its quaint galleries , beautiful nature trails and unique charm make it well worth the trek. The area even features on a tour of the filming locations from the global filmic phenomenon that was Parasite (2019). Recommended by Mimsie Ladner.

22. Korea Furniture Museum

23. national museum of korea, five unusual things to do in seoul.

Recommended by Linda Dunsmore .

24. Korean alcohol-tasting classes

Bar, Cocktails

One of the most popular alcoholic drinks in Korea is a type of rice wine called makgeolli . The Korea Tourism Organization even claims that makgeolli sales overseas have increased by 20–25% in recent years. Baesangmyeonjuga , a liquor company well-known for producing a wide selection of Korean drinks, hosts lessons on how to make makgeolli . Classes are held in Korean and take place every Saturday, and the first and third Friday of each month. There are also plenty of classes (as well as drink tours) held in English through Viator.

25. Seoul fashion week

Building, Architectural Landmark, Shop

26. Singing rooms (Noraebang)

Music Venue

If you want to explore Seoul like a local, you should visit a singing room ( Noraebang ). Private rooms of different sizes come equipped with high-tech karaoke facilities, and are available for groups of friends, families or even colleagues. Going out to sing songs and drink is a common pastime for many Koreans. Don’t know any K-Pop? No problem. Every Noraebang offers a wide selection of popular English hits.

27. Korean bathhouses

Spa, Swimming Pool

The Best Markets in Seoul

28. noryangjin fish wholesale market.

Market, Seafood

29. Namdaemun Market

30. gwangjang market.

31. Dongdaemun Market

Market, Bazaar

32. Hongdae Free Market

Every Saturday from March to November, local artists, performers, and even musicians get together to form this unique market, offering handmade arts and crafts and unique entertainment performances to the crowd. The best part about Hongdae Free market is the relaxed atmosphere that lets visitors engage with the local vendors and performers and get to know their stories and the background of their products.

33. Yangjae Flower Market

Yangjae Flower Market is one of those hidden attractions in the city not many people know about. The market first opened in 1991 and started out selling cut flowers. Today, it is the largest flower market in South Korea and carries flowers and plants of all varieties. The market also sells gardening related items.

34. Tongin Market

Just west of Gyeongbokgung Palace, you will find Tongin Market. While it might seem ordinary at a first glance, the market is actually a hotspot for the popular Korean dish tteokbokki , chewy rice cakes in a spicy chili sauce. The market is also a piece of Korean history in itself, as it was created for Japanese residents in 1941 when Korea was under Japanese rule.

The Most Scenic Outdoor Spots in and Around Seoul

Recommended by Rose Munday.

35. Seoraksan National Park

Two hours from the capital by bus is Seoraksan National Park , home to Korea’s third tallest mountain and various scenic hiking trails. The most popular is the steep climb to Daecheongbong Peak, a dramatic granite cliff overlooking the park. While a trip to Seokransan National Park is possible during a day trip from Seoul, it’s advisable to spend a night nearby in Sokcho city . The park is home to 1,562 animal species, as well as Buddhist temples and impressive caves, so you won’t run out of ways to fill the time. Book a guided hike to make sure you see the very best of the park in just one day.

36. Nami Island

The tiny landmass of Nami Island was accidentally formed when the waters of the Han River rose around it during the 1940s. Now, it’s one of the most popular day trips from Seoul, home to a dense redwood forest and the idyllic-sounding Garden of Morning Calm. If that all sounds a little too zen, why not turn up the adrenaline and zip-wire onto Nami Island from an 80-metre (262-foot) tower on the mainland? Guests can zip beside each other on twin cables reaching speeds of 55kph (35mph). Nami island is a one-hour drive from Seoul by car or bus, but you might want to ease the planning stress by booking a day tour with pick-up from the city.

37. Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort

While Japan probably springs to mind as a ski destination before South Korea, there are some excellent slopes on the mountains that surround Seoul. Elysian Gangchon Resort (open November to March) can be reached by subway in just one hour from Seoul, making it a popular option for outdoor adventurers on a budget. The resort spans more than 200,000 square metres (50 acres) and has slopes for beginners and advanced skiers and snowboarders. Catch the Gyeongchun Line from Seoul’s Cheongnyangni Station to Baegyang-ri Station, or book a day tour from Seoul with Viator.

38. The City Walls (Hanyangdoseong)

For an outdoor activity in Seoul with unrivalled views, the City Walls could be classed as either a history lesson or a hike. Hanyangdoseong measures 18 kilometres (11 miles) in length, built in 1396 to protect the city from encroaching enemies. Travelling between Seoul’s four main mountains, Inwangsan , Naksan, Bugaksan and Namsan, the City Walls pass by new and old: 600-year-old turrets looking out over gleaming skyscrapers. Take the one-hour Naksan Mountain Trail between Heunginjimun Gate and Hyehwamun Gate for a gentle hike, or the three-hour Baegak Trail between Changuiman Gate and Hyehwamun Gate. As this section passes the Blue House (the residence of the President of South Korea), you must bring your passport for identification.

39. Guui Park

If you’re short on time and unable to hike one of the mountains on the outskirts of Seoul, then an outing to Guui Park should not be overlooked. Located across the street from both Dong Seoul bus terminal and the vast TechnoMart electronics building, Guui Park is filled with exercise enthusiasts during the evening making their umpteenth lap around the track, couples canoodling on park benches and rowdy youngsters climbing the jungle gym equipment. It’s best to visit in the morning hours to enjoy the park’s ambience. Recommended by Rebecca Biage .

Romantic Date Ideas in Seoul

Recommended by Mimsie Ladner .

40. Marvel at a light and water show on Banpo Bridge

41. Enjoy the view from Seoul Dream Forest

There’s nothing more romantic than looking out on a glistening city of lights from a towering observation deck, and while there are plenty of places to make this rom-com-worthy date happen, most charge a hefty admission. But what many don’t realize, however, is that the 139-meter-high observatory at Seoul Dream Forest is both free and offers stunning panoramic views of the metropolis. The park’s Moon Reflecting Pond and Lawn Plaza are just as idyllic and make a great setting for an evening stroll.

42. Bike along the Han River

43. get artsy at dongdaemun design plaza, since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction culture trip is moving in..

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea - Seoul Attractions

Things to do in seoul.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Jongno 1.2.3.4 ga-dong
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace

2. The War Memorial of Korea

3. Myeongdong Shopping Street

4. N Seoul Tower

5. National Museum of Korea

6. Bukhansan National Park

7. Changdeokgung Palace

8. Bukchon Hanok Village

9. Insadong

10. Cheonggyecheon Stream

11. Namsan Park

12. Wiggle Wiggle Zip Dosan

13. Bongeunsa Temple

14. Hongik University Street

15. Hangang Park

16. Seoul Metro

17. Myeongdong NANTA Theater

18. Kwangjang Market

19. Lotte World Tower & Mall

20. National Folk Museum of Korea

21. Jogyesa Temple

22. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

23. Coex Aquarium

24. 3D Black Art Museum

25. Namdaemun Market

26. Myeong-dong Cathedral

27. Jamsil Baseball Stadium

28. Yeouido Hangang Park

29. Olympic Park

30. Yeouido Park

What travelers are saying.

39 EPIC things to do in Seoul perfect for first timers

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: August 2, 2023

Wondering what to do in Seoul?

Seoul is a bustling city full of old palaces and modern skyscrapers. In Seoul, you wander seamlessly from charming old streets into wide boulevards with towering skyscrapers. 

You can shop till you drop for the newest gadgets and dive into the nightlife in the trendy and cosmopolitan Itaewon district.

The view from the top of N Seoul Tower is breathtaking but we were completely blown away by the views of Seoul from Bukhansan National Park. 

This park with its imposing mountains and historic temples borders the city in the North and is a great place to unwind.

Here we compiled 39 of our favorite things to do in Seoul, South Korea.

These include some of the best places to visit in Seoul, the most popular Seoul attractions, and ideas for getting more off the beaten track. 

For information on how to fit these recommendations into your travel plan, check out our Seoul itinerary for 3 to 7 days. If you are looking for a 4 day Seoul itinerary, click here. 

If you are looking for a Seoul 1 day itinerary, click here.

If you like to make Seoul your base to discover other highlights in South Korea, check out our Seoul day trips guide.

You may also want to check out our article which covers a complete 7-day itinerary in Korea.

A self-drive is an excellent way to discover Korea.

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Seoul essentials

• The best time to visit Seoul  is during the months of April,  May, September, and October. 
• Since foreign credit and debit cards don’t always work, we recommend that you bring some extra cash.
• Consider getting the  Discover Seoul Pass  which covers 50 of Seoul’s best tourist attractions. At the same time, it also functions as a T-money rechargeable card that can be used on public transport. Here you can find more information about this and other Seoul Discount Passes.
• If you are short on time, you might prefer to go on a  city tour of Seoul  instead of exploring the city on your own.
• Visiting the DMZ is on the bucket list of many travelers. Check out the  best DMZ tours here.
• If you plan on making a day trip to Nami Island, check out this guided tour.
• For those looking for a fun night out, check out the Nanta Show. It was one of the best activities we did in Seoul.
• The best place to stay in Seoul is Myeongdong or Insadong.
• Check out our guide about where to stay in Seoul. If you want to spoil yourself by staying in a  cool hotel in Seoul, click here. 
• For an overview of Boutique hotels, click here.
• If you prefer Airbnbs, check out our overview of the best Airbnbs in Seoul.
• If you prefer a Hanok stay in Seoul, click here.
• Don’t lose time upon arrival at the airport and order your  Korea travel SIM  or  portable WIFI device  in advance so that it’s ready and waiting for you at the airport when you arrive.
• Will you also be visiting the rest of South Korea? Learn why renting a car might be a good idea and read everything you need to know about  driving in South Korea.  
• Don’t forget travel insurance. If you don’t yet have travel insurance, have a look at HeyMondo Travel Insurance.
• Here you can find  all our posts about Korea.  Everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip. Use our step-by-step guide to plan your Korea trip.
• Looking for more travel tips for South Korea, check out this post.
• Tip: Be sure to become a member of our   Korea Travel Planning and Tips Facebook group.  The purpose of this group is to help you plan an amazing vacation to Korea.  You can ask questions and exchange tips with fellow travelers.

Seoul E-Guide

For the price of a single cup of coffee, you can get a complete 3-7 Seoul itinerary as a nicely formatted PDF document.

It contains all the information of this post.

You can print it or store it on your phone so you can access it anytime during your visit to Seoul.

Have a look here for more information and a preview.

What to do in Seoul

Wander around gyeongbokgung palace.

Seoul is certainly rich in palaces.  The city boasts no less than 5 palaces that are currently open to the public.

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and often considered the most beautiful palace of the Joseon dynasty. It is one of the top things to do in Seoul.

The palace site houses more than 300 buildings and together they account for almost 6,000 rooms.

The changing of the guard ceremony is free and definitely worth seeing. It occurs twice daily at 10 AM and 2 PM.

This is one of the best things to do in Seoul.

Free entrance to the palace with the discover Seoul pass or if you wear a Hanbok. 

We have more details about the other palaces in our Seoul Itinerary

Nearest subway station: Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit #5. 

Stroll around Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is a lovely neighborhood full of traditional Hanok houses.

It’s absolutely one of the places you need to go to when you are in Seoul. 

There are about 900 traditional houses, all made of stone, wood, earth, and rice paper.  Bukchon lies on a hill and if you walk all the way to the top you can see an abundance of sloping roofs. 

Some houses can be visited, in others, you can follow workshops. 

Take your time to wander around and to discover this lovely neighborhood. 

It’s also a great spot to take beautiful Instagram worthy pictures.

  Nearest subway station: Anguk Station, Exit #2

Go up the Namsan Seoul Tower 

The 236-meter high N Seoul Tower is an iconic landmark in the city.  It’s one of the tallest observation towers in Asia. 

The observatory offers 360-degree panoramic views of Seoul.

You can buy skip the line tickets for the observatory here.

The N-Seoul Tower is a romantic place of pilgrimage for couples who want to declare eternal love to each other. T he fences are completely covered by padlocks in all colors and sizes that bear the names of couples in love. 

Once the sun sets the tower gets colorfully illuminated.

The tower stands on top of Mount Namsan.

There are 3 options to get to the tower. 

You can take a public bus or cable car.  The third alternative is to hike to the top.  There is a pathway that leads from the bottom station of the cable car to the top.

  Nearest subway station: Myeongdong Station, Exit #3. When leaving the exit head South. 

Unwind in Namsan Park

Namsan Park is the largest Park in Seoul, it attracts more than 20,000 people daily.

An absolute highlight of the park is the Cherry Blossom path, the longest trail of cherry trees in Seoul.

The park is well known for its beautiful walking trails.  As it’s situated on a mountain many trails offer beautiful vistas of the skyline of Seoul. 

The Seoul Tower is located in the center of the park.

On Sundays, it can be very busy.

  Nearest subway station: Myeongdong Station, Exit #3. When leaving the exit head South.

Visit the DMZ

Although the DMZ zone, one of the few active remnants of the cold war, lies 60 km from Seoul, it’s absolutely one of the best things to do in Seoul. 

By visiting the DMZ zone, you will learn more about Korean history and get a better understanding of the differences between North and South Korea. 

One of the most interesting sites you can visit is the Joint Security Area ( JSA ).  This is the border post with the blue barracks where the official meetings take place. 

It’s also the only place in the DMZ area where you will have the chance to enter North Korea. (at least without getting arrested or shot 🙃)

How to visit the DMZ zone

The DMZ region can really only be visited with a guided tour.

There is the option to travel to the region with the DMZ peace train but once at the station, you need to join a guided tour as well. 

For this reason, our recommendation is to join a tour that leaves from Seoul.

The advantage of such a guided tour is that you can visit the JSA zone (the Joint Security Area) and you will get more background information about the things you visit. In addition, if you compare the price of a tour from Seoul with what you pay for the train + tour, the difference is negligible.

Since DMZ tours are very popular we advise you to book well in advance.

More information and booking: DMZ Tours

Or have a look at our comprehensive overview to decide on the best tour for you.  It’s a  full guide about the DMZ  that explains the differences between the tours and gives more detail about the different areas that you can visit.

Explore Insadong

Another thing you absolutely must do during your Seoul sightseeing tour is exploring Insadong.

Insadong is a colorful neighborhood full of shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Seoul’s main shopping street cuts the neighborhood in half.

It’s a great place to buy Korean souvenirs and feast on Korean street food and snacks. 

Insadong also houses some interesting museums such as the Kimchi Museum where you can learn everything about this quintessential Korean dish.

There’s also the entertaining Alive Museum, the largest 4D art museum in Korea. This is a great activity when it rains in Seoul.

Calculate around 1-1.30 hours depending on how many pictures you want to take.

Nearest subway station: Anguk Station, Exit #6

Stop by the beautifully decorated Jogyesa Temple

The Jogyesa Temple dates from the Joseon era. 

It is a lovely serene hideaway in the middle of the busy Insadong shopping district in Seoul.

The main sights of the temple are the 3 gigantic buddha statues and the 10-story high stupa. 

The charming authentic temple contrasts sharply with the towering skyscrapers that surround it. 

The temple is a nice place to drop by and relax for a few minutes as you explore Insadong.

At night this temple is also beautifully lit.

Nearest subway station: Gwanghwamun Station, Exit #2

Shop till you drop at Myeongdong

If you love shopping and you wonder where to go in Seoul, we recommend Myeongdong. 

Shops sell everything from skincare and other beauty products to bags, shoes, clothes, and accessories.

Most of the stores offer an immediate tax refund service if you spend more than 30.000 Won.

When the clock strikes 4 PM vendors start lining up street food carts.  You will be surprised by the wide variety of snacks that are sold.  

Be sure to bring cash if you want to taste some of the street food. Chances are credit cards won’t be accepted.

If you are a shopaholic, take a look at this shopping in Seoul guide. 

Nearest subway station: Myeongdong Station

Experience vibrant Hongdae

Hongdae’s location near Hongik University Street makes it a very vibrant neighborhood that is alive day and night.

The district has a definitive party vibe and karaoke places and gaming halls will make you feel young again. The district is also dotted with budget-friendly clothing and gadget shops. 

This is a good place to visit in Seoul if you are looking for unique souvenirs.

If you’re looking for free entertainment you need to stop by Eoulmadag-ro street after dark.  There’re always many street performances ranging from K-pop dances to live singing.

Hongdae is also home to the Trick Eye Museum , a fun and interactive museum with lots of 3D optical illusions.

Download the trickeye app to take full advantage of the optical illusions.

Free admission to the Trickeye museum with the  Discover Seoul Pass  or you can  buy discounted tickets on Klook .

Nearest subway station: Hongik University Station, Exit # 9

Mingle with Koreans at the Gwangjang Market  

This street market is the perfect spot to mingle with Koreans and try local street food while you are in Seoul. This is one of the best local things to do in Seoul.

One of the strangest things you can have at the market is San-nakji, a raw octopus that is cut in pieces and served while the tentacles are still writhing. Apparently, it’s a Korean delicacy. 

Pose in front of the “I-Seoul-U” sign

Note that the signs currently are gone since they are changing the slogan.

I Seoul U has been Seoul’s slogan since 2015.  Opinions differ on what it actually means. 

Koreans think it means “Yours and my Seoul” and not all are happy with the slogan which is, as they argue, not picked by someone who was fluent in English.

That aside, the I-Seoul-U sign, travels around Seoul and can always be found in a nice picture spot.  

The park is a nice place to relax and the sign offers great opportunities for fun Instagram-worthy pictures.

Nearest subway station: Yeouinaru Station, Exit # 2 or # 3

Observe Seoul from the world’s highest glass-floored observation deck

Seoul Sky is the world’s highest glass-floored observation deck and the world’s third-highest observation deck overall.

It’s on the top floors of the Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in Korea and the 5th tallest building in the world. 

The observation platform has floor-to-ceiling windows all around so you get a breathtaking 360-degree view of Seoul. 

The daring can also walk over the glass floor, 555 meters above the ground. 

This is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Seoul, sometimes the lines can be very long. We advise you to go early in the morning to avoid the queues.

Book your tickets here: Lotte Tower tickets

Jamsil (Green Line 2, Pink Line 8) Exit # 1, # 2, # 10 or # 11

Go hiking in Bukhansan National Park

Not many megapolises have such a beautiful national park in their front yard as Seoul. 

Bukhansan National Park borders Seoul in the North, it’s so close to the city center that it’s a breeze to get here by either bus or subway.

Nature lovers, like us, will love the park.  It’s the perfect spot to escape from the hustle and bustle of busy Seoul. 

Hikers can choose from a whole range of trails, you have them in different lengths and difficulty levels.

You can find more information on the National Park’s website. 

Nearest subway station: The Dobongson metro station (Line 1 or 7, exit # 1). From the exit, it is about a 10-minute walk to the park’s entrance.

Admire the Seoul street art at Ihwa Mural Village in Ihwa-dong

This may well be Seoul’s most colorful neighborhood. 

The whole district is brightened up by numerous unique pieces of street art. If you are wondering what to see in Seoul and you love street art, you should definitely head to the Ihwa Mural Village in Ihwa-dong. 

This project was created in 2006 by more than 70 local artists in an attempt to revive the neighborhood that was scheduled to be demolished.

Then the district gained extra popularity when some music videos of popular K-pop bands were shot here.

The village has turned from what used to be almost a slum into a popular neighborhood for both locals and tourists.

So popular in fact that its residents have overpainted some of the art pieces as a protest against the numerous tourists that flood their streets.  

Since then the city administration has intervened and has taken some measures to save the residents from hordes of tourists at their doorstep. 

It’s fun to wander around the Ihwa Mural Village in search of fun mural art.

Please respect the privacy of the residents when you go.

There are at least 60 murals in the village. To see them, just follow the signs. 

Ihwa Mural Village is also often referred to as “daldongnae” which means moon village.  This because it lies on a hillside and thus closer to the moon. Know that some streets can be very steep.

Nearest subway station: Hyehwa Station, Exit #2.

Visit Lotte World

Lotte World is located in the middle of Seoul.

It houses 3 theme parks: Lotte World Adventure, Lotte Magical Land, and the Lotte World Aquarium. 

Lotte World Adventure, a Korean version of Disneyland,  is the world’s largest indoor amusement park and is perfect for kids.

Lotte Magical Land, the outdoor park, houses some amazing thrill rides. At the center of the park is a castle that looks very much like Disney’s castle.  It’s easy to see where they got their inspiration. 😉

The Lotte World Aquarium offers a large variety of sea creatures such as belugas, penguins, seals, octopuses, etc.  In total there’re more than 55,000 marine animals of 650 different species.

The highlight of the Lotte World Aquarium is the giant water tank.

You can buy  a combi-ticket to visit all three parks on the same day, but in Lotte World Adventure and Magic Island alone, you can already easily spend a day. Lotte World Adventure and the Aquarium are great destinations for rainy days.

Jamsil (Green Line 2, Pink Line 8) Exit #4

Admire the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

The Dongdaemun Design Plaza was designed by Zaha Hadid , also nicknamed the queen of curves. 

The building has a distinctively neo-futuristic design and the many curves clearly give away that it was Zaha Hadid’s design.

It’s a beautiful building featuring large global exhibition spaces, futuristic retail stores, restored parts of the Seoul fortress , and a walkable park on the roof.

At night the building is beautifully illuminated.

The permanent LED rose exhibition is also a favorite gathering place of Seoulites for romantic evenings.  The roses automatically light up as soon as the sun sets.

Here you will find more amazing things to do in Seoul at night. 

Nearest subway station: Dongdaemun Station Exit 8 or Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station Exit #1 or #14.

Stroll around the Cheonggyecheon Stream

The stream used to be a pitful part of the city until a large renewal project upgraded it along with the adjacent streets. 

The whole stretch of the stream, which starts at the Cheongye Plaza and eventually flows into the Hangang River, received a boardwalk and is now a popular hangout.

The boardwalk is almost 11 km long and attracts many residents who come here to chill and relax after a busy day.

You can dip your feet in the water and there’re frequent street performances along the river banks and at Cheongye Plaza.

There’s a weekend market along the river banks just off Gwangtongyo Bridge. 

Every Saturday Starting at 5 PM food trucks will try to seduce you with their tasty snacks. (on Sunday the markets open at 4 PM)

There are also cultural performances and some local handicrafts on sale.

This is definitely one of Seoul’s points of interest.

Nearest subway station: Gwanghwamun Station Exit #5.

Visit the secret garden (Huwon)

Palaces have always had some kind of mysterious and at the same time romantic spirit. 

The secret garden at Changdeokgung palace is a lovely example. 

Up till today, it keeps its mysterious flair as there are only a limited number of people admitted.

The secret garden is a UNESCO heritage site and together with Changdeokung palace, it is a nice place to unwind. The garden has many trees, ponds, pavilions, and buildings. 

The secret garden can only be visited with a guided tour.

Entrance is included with the four palaces ticket but you need to reserve your tour well upfront if you want to visit this mysterious site.

If you love gardens, the secret garden is one of the best attractions to see in Seoul. 

Since visits to the secret garden book up really fast, we advise you to reserve your spot early.

Nearest subway station: Anguk Station Exit #3.

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Go see a Nanta show 

A Nanta show guarantees a fun night out.  The show is a classic in Korea, the first-ever performance of this musical-like show was in 1997.

The performance is nonverbal, it includes drama, comedy, magic, and also some acrobatics. The story is set in a kitchen. 

Three cooks are rushing to finish a wedding banquet in time.  In an attempt to help, the manager installs his nephew, but he turns out to be rather incompetent.

This is a fun night out for young and old.

Since it’s Korea’s most popular performance, tickets tend to sell out quickly, so purchase your tickets well in advance.

Check reviews and book: Nanta Show Tickets

Visit the War Memorial and Museum

This is a very well-kept and maintained museum that has a great collection of inside and outside exhibits related to the Korean War. 

Outside you will find a number of memorial statues and a large assortment of aircrafts, rockets, and tanks.  Inside there’re 6 halls, each one dedicated to another aspect of the war.

The museum covers the ‘Korea War’ topic very broadly, it has exhibits that date back to the prehistoric era and not only shows elements of the Korean army but also those of friendly forces.

Free English speaking tour at 10 AM and 1 PM

Entrance: Free Hours : 9 AM – 6 PM / closed on Monday

Nearest subway station: Samgakji Station Exit #12

Things to do in Gangnam- Stroll along the streets of Gangnam

The Gangnam district is also called the Beverly Hills of Korea. It’s the district where many wealthy South Koreans live. In Gangnam, you will be able to mingle with the rich and famous.

If you still have some time left and you wonder what to do in Seoul the Gangnam district is worth a visit.

The district became a hit worldwide thanks to PSY’s song Gangnam Style.

Those who want to dance to the popular tunes right in the middle of the district that the song is about can do so on the Gangnam Style stage at exit 11 of Gangnam station. 

Believe it or not, despite that the song was a parody about the neighborhood it still got a stage as a tribute because it became so popular. 

The song used to play on loop 24/7 at first but I’m not sure if that’s still the case.  If not you will have to dance to an imaginary beat…

There’re many famous clubs spread across the district but you can also burn a hole in your wallet in the many designer stores . 

At Chenongdam Fashion Street you will find lots of designer shops such as Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Gucci. Besides upscale brands, you will also find more affordable clothing in the large underground shopping center at Gangnam station.

The COEX Mall is also located in Gangnam. It’s one of the world’s biggest underground shopping centers and besides shops, it contains a movie theater, a concert hall, and an aquarium.

What is Seoul famous for

Technology fans need to stop by Samsung D’light .  This exhibition center showcases the latest technological innovations by this Korean Chaebol.  There’s a floor about the current technological capabilities and one that shows Samsung’s vision for the future.  The basement houses Samsung’s flagship store.

You should also visit the Bongeunsa Buddhist temple .  It is right in the middle of this metropolitan district and the contrast with its surroundings couldn’t be starker.

The moment you set foot in the temple you will experience the serenity of this place.  These temple grounds feel much more secluded than those of Jogyesa we wrote about above.

Here is more info about the Gangnam district

Nearest subway station: Gangnam (Green line 2)

Take great pictures at Common Ground

Common Ground is a very trendy shopping mall near Konkuk University.  What makes it so special is that it is made from containers. 

The mall houses about 200 stores, many of them from young designer brands, and several restaurants.  Most of the restaurants are located on the rooftop terrace, a terrace that turns magical after dark when it is atmospherically lit.

If you don’t find anything to your taste at the restaurants you can try one of the food trucks that are stationed outside.

Sometimes you may also run into exhibitions, events or random performances held in the mall’s square. 

This mall is popular with Instagrammers. 

It used to be a very “hipster” place and it spread quickly on Instagram. 

Since then the place has gone somewhat more mainstream.

Nearest subway station: Konkuk University Station Exit #6.

Make a cruise on the Han river

The Han river traverses Seoul from East to West.  

Cruising the Han river is a great way to discover Seoul in a comfortable way.

You can sit back and relax while cruising the river from Yanghwa Bridge in the west to Banpo Bridge in the east. 

As the city floats by you will see popular sights such as N Seoul Tower, Jamsil Olympic Stadium, Hanwha 63 City building, the LG Twin Towers, and more.

There are several different cruises to choose from. Some go during the day and others at night.   

The night cruises tend to be the most popular because of the onboard entertainment program and the city’s illuminated skyline. 

One of the highlights of the evening cruises is also the rainbow fountain of the Banpo bridge. 

On Saturdays, there’re additional cruises with live music and fireworks. 

More information and tickets: Han River Cruise Tickets

Stroll around the largest underground mall in Asia

The Coex Shopping Mall is the largest underground mall in Asia.

It might seem a bit odd to call a shopping mall a highlight, but COEX deserves its place in this list.

Not only because it’s the largest mall in Asia, but also because it’s more than just a simple mall. 

The mall counts about 250 stores and 800 restaurants.  There are 2 large food courts. 

One noteworthy store is SMTown.  This is a shop run by SM Entertainment, a large local record label that represents many K-pop artists. 

The huge 6-floor complex in the Coex mall boasts a museum, a café, and a theatre. 

This place is heaven for K-pop fans and those who have never heard of this music, like us, can get an idea of what the hype is all about.  In the theatre on the 5th floor, you can even attend hologram concerts.

COEX is the abbreviation of Co nvention and Ex hibition center so those are present on-site as well.

Besides all this, there’s also a movie theater, a huge public library, a casino, and an aquarium. 

The latter is not as big as the Lotte World Aquarium but it still has over 40,000 animals including the largest number of shark species in Korea. 

A highlight of a visit to the aquarium is the shark tunnel which leads through the Shark basin, one of 90 different exhibition tanks.

Nearest subway station: Samseong Station Exit #6

Try the delicious Korean street food

While you are in Seoul you definitely must try some of the delicious street food the capital has to offer. 

As you discover the city you will get plenty of opportunities for tasting some local sweet or spicy delicacies. 

Gwangjang Market, Myeongdong, and the evening market at Cheonggyecheon Stream are just a few of the many places that are popular with locals.

Here are some things you can try: Kimbap or Gimbap (Korean sushi), Hweori Gamja (Tornado Potato), Yangnyeom Tongdak (Fried Chicken), Eomuk (fishcakes), and Hotteok (sweet Korean pancake) or check out this Seoul food guide. 

Rent a Hanbok

A Hanbok is a traditional Korean dress used during traditional events such as festivals and ceremonies.

While you are in Seoul you will see lots of locals and tourists wearing one. 

Besides that wearing a Hanbok is a lot of fun and offers amazing picture opportunities, it also gives you free entrance to the palaces. 

You will see many shops where you can rent a Hanbok and you can also rent one online.  So what are you waiting for? 

Rent a Hanbok online: Hanbok Rental

Take a spiritual tour inside the Jongmyo Shrine

The Jongmyo Shrine is a good example of a Confucian shrine. It is the oldest and most authentic of the royal shrines to have been preserved. 

It is dedicated to the deceased kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty.

Inside the shrine are 25 sinjus, one for each deceased king of the dynasty. 

A sinju is a small wooden tablet with the name of a deceased person written on it.  It was believed that the spirits of the deceased would find rest in the tablets.

The Jongmyo Shrine measures 109 meters in length, it is said to be the world’s longest single wooden structure.

Thanks to how well the shrine has been preserved over the years and its significance in Korea’s cultural history the shrine has also been recognized as a UNESCO world heritage.

You can only visit the shrine as part of a tour.  Exceptions are Saturdays and the last Wednesday of every month which is designated as ‘ Culture day ‘ in Korea since 2014.  On Culture day many museums, galleries, as well as other cultural sites can be visited for free.

It is always nice to discover places on your own but with a guided tour you will learn more about how Koreans cope with their ancestors and death. I recommend planning your visit according to your preferences.

English tours are available at 10 AM, 12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM

Opening hours:  

February-May and September-October: 9 AM – 6 PM

June-August: 9 AM – 6:30 PM

November-January: 9 AM – 5:30 PM

Nearest subway station: Jongno 3-ga Station Exit #8-11

Explore Olympic Park

Olympic Park is a huge park that was built for the 1998 Seoul Summer Olympic Games. 

It contains the Olympic stadiums and various museums, of which some are related to the Olympics, but most importantly it’s a vast stretched-out park that covers 1,4 square kilometers.

It’s a popular hangout for Seoulites on the weekend who take their friends or family for a picnic.  The landscaping is beautiful and you can rent bikes, and skates, or use any of the other sports facilities.

The park is divided into different zones.  Besides the impressive leisure facilities in the sports zone, there’s also a culture and art zone, and a history zone. 

A highlight of a visit to the park is the sculpture park next to the SOMA Museum of art.  It has over 200 sculptures in the open air.

If you want to visit the park but don’t like to walk or bike, you can also buy a ticket to ride the Hodori Train that goes through the park.

Nearest subway station: Olympic Park Station Exit #3 or Mongchontoseong Station Exit #1.

Visit a themed café

Themed cafés have long been a popular thing in Japan. 

This country wasn’t the one to invent the cat café but it was the first country where the concept made headlines. 

Since then cat cafés have mushroomed in its capital Tokyo . 

Now we have good news for those who want to experience such a café but don’t have plans to go to Japan.  The hype has crossed the border and in Seoul, you can find several themed cafés that are just as amazing as their Japanese counterparts.

Animal lovers will find lots of places to have a drink while in the meantime petting their favorite animals. There are the usual cat and dog cafés but also more exotic sheep, meerkats, raccoons, and reptile cafés. 

Hello Kitty is a big thing in Asia so a Hello Kitty-themed café couldn’t be missing from the list. 

Fans of this cartoon character must definitely visit the Hello Kitty café in Hongdae. 

Harry Potter fans can indulge themselves in the immense King’s cross Harry Potter café . 

This café has 4 floors and inside there’s a replica of the Hogwarts steam train. 

Make sure to explore all floors as you will stumble across great surprises everywhere.

One of the most unusual themed cafés you can visit is the Poop café in Insadong. 

Food is shaped like poop and your favorite espresso will be served in a toilet bowl.

Stroll around the Korean Folk Village

The Korean Folk Village is a replica of a traditional Korean Hanok Village dating from the Joseon dynasty.

The village contains many traditional houses and visitors can see a working traditional crafts workshop.

Every day there are also several shows. 

There’s a tightrope walking show, music, and dance performance but especially the horseback martial arts show gets high grades.

How to get there:

There are several ways to get to the Korean Folk Village

By subway and bus:

Take the Seoul S-subway Line 2 to Gangnam Station. Take exit 10 and take bus 5001-1 or 1560 to the Korean Folk Village.

Take Seoul Subway Line 1 to Jonggak Station. Take exit 3-1. and take bus 5500-1 to the Korean Folk Village.

Take the DX Subway Line to Sinnonhyeon Station. Take exit 6. and take bus 5001-1 or 1560 to the Korean Folk Village. 

Take the Bundang Subway Line to Sanggal Station. Take exit 3 and take bus 37, 10-5 or 5001-1 to Korean Folk Village or Nagok Village. 

Take the Seoul Subway Line 1 to Suwon Station. Take exit 5 and take bus 10-5 or 37 to the Korean Folk Village.

By subway and free shuttle bus:

This is probably the easiest option.  Take the Seoul Subway Line 1 to Suwin station. Take exit 4 and take the free shuttle bus.

Suwon Station → Korean Folk Village: 10:30, 12:30, 14:30 Korean Folk Village → Suwon Station: 14:00, 15:30, 16:30

You can find more information about the different  possibilities to go to the Korean Folk Village here.

Ride a roller coaster at Everland

Everland which is located 1 h from Seoul is South Korea’s largest theme park. 

The park is huge, it has 5 different theme zones and attractions for the whole family. If you are into thrill rides, you should definitely ride the T-Express, South Korea’s first wooden roller coaster.

Magic land also contains many attractions for the little ones and there is of course much more to experiences such as water rides, a 4D movie theater, and even a zoo.  

The future of theme park attractions is probably VR and in Everland you already find 2 VR attractions today.  One is called Robot VR, the other is Gyro VR.  Both require a supplement.

We would recommend visiting Everland on a weekday since the park is sometimes super crowded during the weekends and on public holidays in South Korea .

How to get there

The park is located 46 kilometers from Seoul.  There are different ways to go there.

If you want to reach  Everland on your own  there are 2 options.

The first option is to take a combination of subway and bus, this will take about 1 hour and 45 minutes:

By subway from Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, and Hongdae. Take the subway to Gangnam station on line 2 (Green). Continue on bus 5002 for 9 stops where the bus will stop at a bus terminal. At this bus terminal, you can change buses for the Free Everland Shuttle Bus.

Alternatively, you can also take a combination of several subway lines so you don’t have to take the bus. This alternative is slightly longer and will take around 2 hours.

Make your way to Wangsimni station. Take the Bundang Line to Giheung station.  Switch to the Yongin Everline to Jeondae Everland Station and take Exit 3.  Here you can take the Free Everland Shuttle Bus which will take you to the park.

A more hassle-free, quicker, and more comfortable way to get to Everland is with  the park’s  shuttle bus service.  The shuttle bus has several pick-up locations in Seoul and then heads directly to the park entrance.  Depending on where you board the bus the journey takes between 40 and 70 minutes.

More information and tickets:

Everland Ticket + Shuttle

Everland 1 Day Ticket

Here is an overview of more amazing amusement parks in Korea.

Visit Nami Island

Nami Island is located 63 km away from Seoul.

Getting there takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. 

The island is a green oasis in the middle of the Han River. The government even decided to lay all wires underground to keep this valuable unspoiled landscape as it is.

You may spot some animals such as wild bunnies or ostriches.  

The island is a pilgrimage site for fans of the popular Korean drama series “Winter Sonata”.  Many scenes of this TV series were shot here and all over the island are statues and other tributes to the program.

The only way to get to the island is on a ferry.  As Nami Island is a micronation, in 2006 the island inhabitants self-declared their independence and founded the Naminara republic, you need a “visa” to enter the island. Don’t worry about this, the Visa is issued together with the ferry tickets.  The visa is a fun souvenir of your visit.

The Naminara republic has its own flag and passports but also their own stamps.  If you want to surprise your family at home you can send a postcard from the Naminara Republic, bet they have never heard of it.

How to get there: 

The most popular way to get to Nami Island is by joining  an organized day tour.  It is the quickest way to visit Nami Island, Petite France, and the Garden of Morning Calm as you can skip the queues for buying ferry and entrance tickets.

More information and tickets: Nami Island Day Tour Tickets

If you want to go independent:  Here you can find more info about the different ways to get there.

Stay overnight at a Korean Buddhist temple

The majority of Korean temples are located in the mountains and are surrounded by dramatic landscapes. 

A temple stay is mostly popular to escape the rush of the city’s daily life and find inner peace in nature.

But a temple stay is not just about that.  It’s also about introducing you to the daily routines of temple life.  There are various programs ranging from deep spiritual multi-day stays to vegetarian cooking classes or meditation sessions.

Typical programs include one overnight stay, a delicious vegetarian dinner, and participation in the morning prayers.

We would prefer a temple stay in a green environment but if that doesn’t fit your schedule you can book one in the Jogyesa temple in Seoul or the Myogaksa temple in Seoul.

Explore Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park

Urban explorers will absolutely love this abandoned theme park. 

The park opened in the ’80s but failed to adapt to people’s appetite for newer and faster attractions.  As a result, it closed down in 2011. 

A visit to the park today feels like a flashback to the eighties.

The park is technically open again today. 

None of the attractions are open though, all the attractions still look as deserted as they were left in 2011. 

What has changed is that somebody is now taking care of the site, making sure that it can be visited safely. 

He has reopened the site as an attraction for urban explorers. There’s no need to jump across fences to visit this place, in return for an entrance fee of 10,000 Won (about $8) you can safely take as many pictures as you want. It’s one of the best sights in Seoul to take Instagram-worthy pictures.

It may not be the same charm you experience when you roam around a site that you have all to yourself but the pictures you can take here are truly amazing.

The site becomes even more ghostly once the sunsets.  After dark, the owner will lit the lights around the merry-go-round for some extra special pictures. 

You will easily spend 3 to 4 hours taking the funniest and spookiest pictures.  If you plan your visit in the late afternoon you can stay till dark to see the illuminated merry-go-round.

Nearest subway station:  Mangu Station Exit #1. From here it’s a 10-15 minute walk.

Savor a local food scene in Noryangjin Fish Market

Noryangjin Fish Market extends over 2 buildings and is located right next to Noryangjin Subway Station. 

The vendors are gradually moving from the old to the new building but up till today some stalls in the old building are still open.

The market is a wholesale market and those that suffer insomnia or are willing to get up early enough can attend the lively wholesale auctions at 3 AM.  If that’s too early for you, you don’t need to worry.

The market is open 24/7 and you can just as well drop by for lunch or dinner or come visit the place at any other time of the day.

Do not wear any fancy shoes.  Both buildings are very clean but the constant cleaning means that the floor is always wet.

The market is an inexpensive place to eat. 

As you wander through the corridors you will see all kinds of fish, octopus, and shellfish.   

Most of them are alive and in aquariums.

Vendors are usually more than happy to explain what they have to offer.  If you want to buy something they will weigh it and quote you a price.  Negotiating is quite common in the market so you can try to get the price down a little before you bite.

All vendors are associated with restaurants and they will escort you to their associated restaurant.  The restaurant will charge a small service fee but everything summed up your meal will cost less than what you would pay in a regular restaurant.

The restaurants in the new building are located on the first floor and are remarkably cleaner than those in the old building

This market is an excellent place to taste San-nakji, a specialty that is sometimes seen as the national dish of Korea. 

San-nakji is a live octopus, the tentacles are cut from a live octopus and they will still be squirming on your plate when it is served to you.

The taste is supposedly mild and it is usually served with some chili dipping sauce.  I must admit that I didn’t try it…

Nearest subway station:  Noryangjin Station Exit #1. Walk around100 meters over the train tracks via the footbridge, following the English signage.

Sweat it out at a Korean sauna, Jjimjilbang

Just like the Japanese, Koreans love to take good care of their body and soul.

To do so they spend much time relaxing and unwinding in Jjimjilbangs.  Jjimjilbangs are a combination of hot pools of various degrees, similar to Onsen in Japan, and saunas,  stone, or clay kilns with temperatures usually ranging between 50 and 90 degrees Celsius. 

You may also find indoor and/or outdoor pools.

Bigger establishments are usually open 24/7 and have sleeping rooms or capsule-like hotels.  If you arrive after the night rate kicks in and you can stay overnight for less than 16,000 won (about $13).

Want to add an original overnight stay to your vacation?  Why not stay in a Jjimjilbang for one night?

A visit to a Jjimjilbang will introduce you to the Korean art of de-stressing.

The baths and hot tubs are to be enjoyed naked.  Don’t be afraid, this is very normal for Koreans so you can just blend in with the locals.  All Jjimjilbangs are also gender-segregated so you don’t risk running into somebody from the other gender.

Do you still feel uncomfortable by the idea that you will stand out among the Koreans?  Dragon Hill Spa  in Seoul was already featured in the New York Times and on CNN and is a tourist-friendly place.

Visit Seodaemun Prison

This prison is a remnant of the dark period of the Japanese war.  It was constructed by the Japanese rulers during their occupation from 1908 to 1945. Afterward, it has been turned into a museum.

The woman’s wing has been well preserved and in it, you can see the various cells and torture chambers that the Japanese used to suppress the Koreans. 

Dolls have been used to show the horrors the prisoners had to undergo.

Nearest subway station: Dongnimmun Station Exit # 5.

Take the Wine Train

This train is excellent for those who enjoy a glass of wine every once in a while.  The train runs every day from Tuesday to Saturday and departs on the third floor of Seoul station.  

After leaving the station you get the chance to taste several different wines along with some cheese and fruit until the train pulls into Yeongdong station.  Here you will visit Korea’s only winery.

You have plenty of time for a delicious lunch, more wine tasting, a visit to the vineyard, a visit to the caves, and a relaxing wine foot bath.

Those who wish can also attend a drumming class and hike up to the nearby Okgye Falls.

Next, you board the train back to Seoul where you can enjoy more wine while you watch a movie in the cinema car.

Sweet tooths will probably love the Korean red wines which tend to be a lot sweeter than traditional red wines.

Make a Seoul ghost walking Tour

Once you have experienced the normal side of Seoul it’s time to discover the dark side.  Just like any other town Seoul has got its series of scandals, violent rapes, and bloody murders.

This tour leads you along weird and surprising landmarks and foul-mouthed tour guides will tell you the cruel history of the places that you may already have visited before.

The weekend tour is different from the week tour, both last about 1,5 hours. 

Ghost enthusiasts may consider joining the extended tour which combines both and lasts 2,5 to 3 hours.

When we arrived in Seoul it was love at first sight. The combination of the historic palaces with the modern skyscrapers gives the city a unique appearance. 

We looked in awe at the modern shiny office buildings and it felt like we were flashed back in time as we crossed the thresholds of the magnificent palaces.

The city is vast and counts almost 10 million inhabitants but it never felt too crowded and the various parks, palaces, and temples serve as zen hideouts if you want to escape the bustle of the metropolis.

As we traversed the city it felt like there was no end to the picturesque spots we passed.   I took loads of pictures. 

Our short visit gave us enough time to see many of the highlights but there remains so much to be explored. 

Seoul, we will be back!

Here is an overview of more great things to do in South Korea.

If you like this post, pin it. 

Living and traveling in Korea

An Epic Travel Guide To Seoul, Korea For The First Timer

Seoul, Korea is huge and has gained a ton of attention in the past decade for not only a beautiful culture but also the Hallyu wave that has swept over the world. When you begin to plan your trip to the capital city of Korea it can seem overwhelming and you may not know where to begin.

While I’m known for promoting the off the beaten path spots in and around Seoul and promoting new hot spots to check out, I wanted to create an essential guide for the first time visitor to this busy and fun capital of Korea.

Having lived here since 2006 when I first came as an English teacher, you can be assured, this is THE guide to read before you get here. Whether or not it’s your first time to Korea though, read through it and make sure you’ve seen everything there is to see. From Seoul’s quirky cafes to the best spots to get gorgeous views. it’s all here. Make your time in Seoul, Korea the best it can be!

This is a massive travel guide with all of the information you need for any trip to Seoul, Korea. Because it’s so long, definitely feel free to skip around. Here is what you’ll find in this post:

• What To do To Prepare For Your Trip To Seoul
• Is It Safe To Travel In South Korea?

What To Know About Money & ATMs In Seoul

• Which Is The Best Area To Stay In Seoul?
• What Is The Best Time To Visit Korea?

General Travel Tips For Korea

• A Korean palace
• A traditional market
• Rent a Hanbok
• Find the hotspots
• Visit the Han River
• Get a good view
• Visit lots and lots of cafes
• Visit a museum
• Visit a spa
• Visit an amusement park
• See the DMZ
• Check out these notable spots in between

To Join A Tour Or Not To Join A Tour

• Where To Get Out Of Seoul For A Day Trip

Want To Get Off The Beaten Path In & Around Seoul?

Places to take trips from seoul.

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.)

Need help with an itinerary? Elevate your travel experience with our downloadable Seoul Itinerary Pack. combine, and conquer the city’s wonders, one unforgettable day at a time.

What To Do To Prepare For Your Trip To Seoul

Are you traveling to Seoul soon? Here are some things to help you prepare for the trip:

Buy Your Plane Ticket: You can get some great deals on flights to Seoul, Korea. If you haven’t tried, check Skyscanner.com for the best rates.

Can I use the Wise Card In Korea? How To Send Money To Korea

Wise Travel Card: Whether you’re looking to travel to Korea for the first time or you’re moving to Korea and want to be able to use your money from home in Korea easily, you should look into the Wise travel card when it comes to converting currencies and getting away from card fees and bad exchange rates. The first time I came to Korea I had difficulty getting my debit card/Mastercard to work. Don’t be like me, come prepared. You can learn more about the Wise travel card in my review .

Get a Visa/Korea Electronic Travel Authorization: The process for coming into Korea has changed during Covid and now everyone must apply for a K-ETA before arrival. The K-ETA is for visa-free foreign visitors and while you’re visa free, they still want to know you’re coming and where you’re headed. Here is a guide to fill out the information for the K-ETA . Go to the K-ETA website to apply. You should find out if you’ve received approval within 24 hours, but usually faster.

Study Korean:  90 Day Languages has a great course on Korean and offers a lot of help if you’re interested in preparing before you come. A little goes a long way here and it actually only takes about an hour to learn how to read Hangul… no joke! You can also check out this guide to learning Korean online and through apps I put together to get some more Korean learning options.

Plan Your Airport Transfer:  There are numerous ways to transfer from Incheon International Airport outside of the city into the city of Seoul from the subway/train and bus to taxis. To be honest, we almost always opt for the private transfer. It’s fast and easy and we don’t have to worry about dragging our bags this way and that and up and down escalators. TaDa is a great company that provides transfers as well as rides within the city.  Book your transfer in advance  to make the trip smooth and easy.

Get Good Hard Case Luggage:  Packing all of the essentials is good only if they get to the other side with you. Make sure to have good luggage to get you and your belongings all the way.  Roam Luggage has awesome customizable bags that will go the distance and look super cool on the way. We highly recommend using hard case luggage for any international flight.

International Driver’s License: To be honest, I wouldn’t recommend driving in Seoul if it’s your first time to this massive city. BUT, if you plan to and will rent a car  while you’re here, then remember to bring your International Driver’s License. I highly recommend renting a car if you’ll be headed to Jeju Island or anywhere aside from Seoul and Busan because it’s much easier to get around that way in those cases.

Where To Buy A TMoney Card For Korea

How To Get A T-Money Card For Kids in Korea

The Discover Seoul Pass: Travel On A Budget In Seoul

The Seoul City Tour Bus Guide: What To See & Do When You Hop On Hop Off

T-Money Card/Discover Seoul Pass/Hop On & Hop Off Bus: To get around using the Seoul Subway System or buses or other public transportation options, you’ll need to get a T-Money card . This card allows you to put money on it and scan it at the turnstiles in subways and when you’re getting on and off buses and even works in taxis.

HOWEVER, if you’ll be doing a lot of touristy things and visiting the touristy sites, then you might be better off getting the Discover Seoul Pass . This pass comes with a variety of perks like access to Hanbok rentals, palaces, view points and other major attractions AND it also works as a T-Money card. On top of that, you get a free ride on the AREX and Airport bus to/from Incheon International Airport. 

SO, if you’ll be touristy,  grab the Discover Seoul Pass to get out and about plus this also acts as a T-Money card. But do know how to use it. Here is a guide and itineraries for using the Discover Seoul Pass to the max. There’s also a great Hop On/ Hop Off Tour Bus option here in Seoul you can use too.

Korea Rail Pass:  If you want to get out of Seoul and plan to use the train more than twice, then the Korea Rail Pass is the economical/budget choice you want to have on hand. You can get back and forth between the popular  Nami Island  nearby the city or go as far as  Andong  or even  Busan . The train line is the limits.  Grab the card here  and just head to the station with your confirmation and it’s as easy as that.

Wifi Eggs/Sim Cards:  While there is great WiFi in many places around Seoul and Korea, nothing beats having your own Wifi Egg so there’s no lag in connection. You can pre-reserve  Sim Cards via Klook so they’re ready and waiting for you when you fly into either Incheon International Airport or into Busan International Airport. You can alco get an eSIM with eSIM Korea which is even’t easier. Here’s a complete guide to the best Korean SIM cards for your trip to Korea.

Top 15 Apps to Download When You Come To Korea

Download Some Useful Apps: The Seoul subway system is super efficient and you can ride it for two hours or more, not pay an arm and a leg, and see a ton. Make sure to download the subway app to know where to go the easiest. The app even tells you which subway car to stand on when.

On the note of apps, do note that Google Maps is horrible when it comes to Korea and will be more difficulty than it’s worth. Another map app that you’ll find useful is Kakao Maps which can be used in both Korean and English. Kakao also has Kakao Taxi which is the best option should you want to get around using local taxis.

Pack The Right Clothes: Seoul has four distinct seasons. The summer is hot hot hot and the winter is cold cold cold! Be prepared. Check out this post for what to pack when you come to Korea . You’ll want to have everything from a fine dust mask to good walking shoes for the best trip you can have in Korea.

Recommended Travel Adapters For Korea

Don’t Forget A Travel Adapter: For some reason travel adapters are easily forgotten among the tourists I’ve met. Remember that not every place has the same plugs/outlets. Make sure you know which travel adapter to bring to Korea so your trip isn’t bumpy at the beginning as you race around trying to charge your devices.

Get Your TEFL:  This is less for travelers than it is for the soon to be teachers. There are a lot of teaching positions available in Korea so to make yourself stand out, definitely make sure you get your TEFL before you come… though you can also get it online once you come too!

Is it safe to travel in South Korea?

Generally, yes, it is very safe in Korea. That said, many foreigners come here assuming that because there is no gun violence or drug issues in Korea it’s MUCH safer than it really is. While you will likely not have any problems while you’re here, certainly don’t put yourself in situations you wouldn’t in your home country.

While I don’t think there is a ton of scamming to look out for, I do want to say you should be wary of cults in Korea that will see tourists coming a mile away. Most vendors aren’t jacking up prices just because you speak a different language, but I would watch out for people that spike drinks. Just be mindful as you should be at all times.

Is it safe to drink tap water in South Korea?

After coming here and seeing how everyone consistently opts for bottled water over tap water, you might be surprised to learn that tap water is indeed potable in Korea and actually tested more than most other places for safety. Yes, you can drink the tap water in Korea, but read this article to find out why Koreans tend to drink bottled water.

The unit of currency is the Korean Won (KRW)

Your cards will likely work, but they will also likely not work. That is to say that for every ATM you find that your card works at, it won’t work at two others and this can be frustrating. While Koreans walk around swiping everywhere now and probably have NO cash in their wallets, as a traveler, you’ll want to have some.

Make sure to let your bank/creditor know that you’ll be traveling to Korea before you come and you will be able to find an ATM that works…. at some point. But bring at least W300,000 = $300.00 in cash to get by at the beginning just in case it takes you longer to find cash.

You could even bring more just to be safe. Most places downtown will also accept your card, but if you’re looking to get into some hole in the wall spots, you’ll probably find spots that won’t take your card. Just be prepared. This is one of the biggest worries for tourists here so better to be safe rather than sorry.

If you want to exchange when you get here, the best spot to do it is in Myeongdong if you have cash and can’t find an ATM that works.

Tipping culture in Korea : Tipping is not a common part of Korean culture. Yes, you can try to tip at restaurants, to taxi drivers, or to your tour guides, but it isn’t expected, though may be accepted. Learn more in this guide to tipping in Korea so you can understand.

Is Korea cheap?

It can be, but it also may not be. For instance, a mistake a lot of new residents and tourists make is heading to expensive bars for drinks or trendy restaurants. Eating out can definitely rack up the bills, however, eating at traditional markets or in small mom and pop shops will definitely make it cheaper.

There are numerous ways to make a trip to Korea more budget friendly like taking advantage of the 40 free walking tours in Seoul. There is even hiking gear available to borrow for free from the city. Find out more ways to save money on a trip to Korea and check out this list of completely free things to do in Seoul to help you if you’re on a budget.

Which is the best area to stay in Seoul?

There are some areas that are definitely better for tourists to stay in if you’re hoping to see the top sites, have the fun, and get in the cultural experiences. Seoul is massive and you definitely don’t want to be in an area that requires a lot of transportation to get to the major sites. I’ve written a complete guide to where to stay in Seoul here. Check it out. More concisely, here are the top areas to stay in and a bit of info about each:

Myeongdong:  Myeongdong is a very central location and a great spot to stay for tourists, especially tourists that want to shop. It’s a big shopping district but that also means all of the restaurants and cafes have Korean AND English menus among other language options. Things open up with the tourists and stay open late with them too.

Transportation on the train, subway, and buses is easy from here and a lot of the tourists sites are within 20 to 30 minutes. I wrote a guide to the best places to stay in Myeongdong , but you can also go directly to Booking.com to find Myeongdong hotels here . If you want to check out the Airbnb options, look here.

Bukchon Hanok Village: If you’re looking for a more traditional Hanok house to stay in, then you’ll want to head to this area. The Bukchon Hanok Village is between the main palaces and near a lot of the cultural experiences. This is also a highly touristed area so restaurants will be able to help you and you’ll see some of the gorgeous older neighborhoods in the city.

You can find Bukchon Hanok Village stays here . If you’re an Airbnb person, then you can check here for some amazing Airbnbs in the Bukchon Hanok Village .

Hongdae: If you’re looking for a younger, hipper area with live music and an arts scene, this is the neighborhood for you. It doesn’t wake up as early as the above areas because it stays awake so late. There are a ton of restaurants and cafes here and it’s an area that best serves the night owls and the people that want to see busking, find a cool pub or bar, or see some live music.

I have culled a list of the best places to stay in Hongdae right here. But, if you want to get right to it, you can find Hongdae hotels here . For Airbnbs in the Hongdae area, look here .

Itaewon: Itaewon is the foreign area of Seoul and where a ton of foreign locals reside so there is GOOD foreign food if you’re looking for that foreign comfort food. I don’t usually recommend this area to tourists because I think the majority of sites you’ll want to see are more north, BUT if you’ll want to split your time between the Hanok villages and palaces and Gangnam which is south of the river, then Itaewon is your best bet so you have the same transportation time from here to there and everywhere.

You can find Itaewon hotels here . There are some great Airbnbs in the Itaewon area, too.

Dongdaemun: Another shopping district, Dongdaemun is very close to the touristy north and also has easy transportation to the south. This is a vibrant neighborhood with a lot of hidden gems and a lot fashionable people. There are quite a few subway line options, buses, and it’s easy to get taxis here too. You can find Dongdaemun hotels here . You can check here if you’re more of an Airbnb person.

What is the best time to visit Korea?

There are four distinct seasons in Korea… well maybe five if you include monsoon season. Since I live here and have gone through every season, I can honestly say that they are all amazing for one reason or another.

Summer (June ~ Mid-September): Summer can be horribly humid. If you aren’t used to humidity, then you definitely won’t want to stay in Seoul the entire time you’re here. Most Seoulites head to the coast whenever they can or up into the mountains to soak in the rivers and lakes because that is just the best way to cool off. There are beautiful beaches on the eastern, southern, and western coasts of Korea so make sure to have time to visit one.

Once you get here, you’ll definitely want to make the time because summer is hot hot hot! Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to summer in Korea for more information.

Autumn (Mid-September ~ November): Autumn is definitely one of the most beautiful times to visit Korea when the fall foliage bursts into an array of colors across the peninsula and the scents of cinnamony hoddeok waft down the streets. Not only do the leaves change, but there are flower fields that burst into bloom as well. You can find some gorgeous flowers in the World Cup Parks as well as at Nari Park .

The only problem with autumn is that it’s difficult to pin down. You can make plans, but the foliage can burst at any time. October is a sure bet and early November for flowers and foliage at the same time. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to fall in Korea for more information.

Winter (December ~ February): Winter is not easy in Seoul. It can be beautiful if it snows and I know a lot of tourists headed here in the winter are hoping for that winter wonderland they may have seen in Korean dramas. Honestly though, if you definitely want to see snow, make plans to head out of Seoul to the mountains where you can ski or snowboard or just visit a resort with a ton of snow. There are some great options for getting out of the city to see snow if that’s what you’re looking for.

Otherwise, if you’re staying in Seoul this winter, just plan to wear a long parka and jump inside as often as possible. It is freezing especially in January and February. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to winter in Korea for more information.

Spring (March ~ May): Spring is a gorgeous time to visit… again if it’s planned right. People often come looking for the cherry blossoms and that’s just so difficult to pinpoint early in the year. They’re often blooming on my birthday in mid April, but this year it was still soooo cold and no blooms that early, so it’s hard to say.

However, that said, there are lots of flowers to see around Seoul whether it be cherry blossoms, tulips, or daisies, so just be ready to look for some other bloomers if flowers is what you seek. Also, make sure to bring jackets and cover ups because it can still be quite chilly in the spring. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to spring in Korea for more information. 

A Guide To Spring In Korea: Cherry Blossoms and More

A Guide to Summer in Korea: Get Ready For Fun

A Guide to Fall In Korea: Foliage and More

A Guide To Winter In Korea: Snow and Ice and Everything Nice

• Tipping is not required or expected in South Korea.
• Water from the tap is potable, safe to drink.
• You won’t find large glasses of water at restaurants but you can find water machines so grab a water bottle to carry along with you.

The Top Things You Must See & Do In Seoul

1. a korean palace.

There are five palaces in the city of Seoul with the largest and most popular being Gyeongbokgung Palace . Gyeongbokgung Palace is beautiful and very much worth the visit. This is THE palace that a first-timer to Korea should see but it does get crowded during high tourist seasons so here’s what you should know about the other palaces nearby just in case.

A lot of tourists rent Hanboks and visit the palaces. Did you know you actually get free entry if you’re wearing a Hanbok? Keep reading to find the best places to go to rent a Hanbok in downtown Seoul.

The nearby Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden require a tour reservation and is known for having gorgeous views in every season. Changgyeonggung Palace is just around the corner from Changdeokgung Palace and actually connects in the back corner and yet most people never even see this one.

If you want a palace to yourself with a beautiful pond and a gorgeous greenhouse built during the Japanese colonization, don’t miss it and then you can walk through the back gate into Changdeokgung Palace. Kind of a two for one experience and a unique one at that.

Deoksugung Palace is one that’s rather well known because it’s easy to find near City Hall and they have a changing of the guard ceremony which is great fun to watch. This palace is unique in that there are numerous architectural styles on the grounds as well as an art museum inside one of the buildings in the grounds. This palace is much smaller than the others and easy to see quickly if you don’t have much time in your schedule.

Gyeonghuigung Palace is the smallest and least popular of the palaces, which doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be visited, so do look at the info for it.

Though that is the five that are well known, there is also a royal residence that is downtown that you could easily walk to and is very different from the others in that it’s unpainted and often used for photos by the locals. The royal residence is called Unhyeonggung Royal Residence. This beautiful spot is great for photos.

2. A traditional market

Gwangjang Market: This is my FAVORITE spot to take visitors and get good authentic eats in the city of Seoul. It is hustling and busy and there are good eats to be had from every vendor there.

If you want to see an awesome traditional market, the oldest traditional market, in Seoul, then go here and check out my guide t o Gwangjang Market if you want to know what to eat. This market was also featured in a Netflix series as well so if you’re a foodie, do not miss it.

Tongin Market: Tongin Market is another traditional market that does it just a bit differently. This market which is just west of Gyeongbokgung Palace , a neighborhood not often visited by tourists but more well known by locals, does a cool thing with old traditional coins and food.

This is a great option if you aren’t sure what you like yet and want to try a little of a lot of different things. Here is some information on how to use the coins at Tongin Market and what you can get.

Noryangjin Fish Market:  If you want to see the largest fish market in Seoul, then Noryangjin Fish Market is the one for you. While it is by no means the ONLY fish market in the city, it is the most popular for tourists to visit.

If you want to see the real action, you’ll have to wake up before sunrise to see the sale, but if you want to some good eats, definitely go later so you can pick out your own fish and then eat it in the market. There is both an old and a new part of Noryangjin Market , so make sure you know where you’re headed.

3. Rent a Hanbok

Renting a Hanbok is one of the most memorable and unique experiences you can have in Seoul. On top of it being a great way to learn more about the culture, it’s also a lot more budget friendly than you might realize and you can even get into traditional sites for FREE when you’re wearing a Hanbok. Learn more about where to rent a Hanbok in Seoul and everything else you need to know about it. 

4. Find the hotspots

Bukchon Hanok Village:  One of the must see neighborhoods in the city of Seoul, the Bukchon Hanok Village is popular for a reason. The residential neighborhood is home to traditional Korean Hanok houses lined up all in a row. They are beautiful and there are a ton of intimate Hanok cafes and traditional experiences.

This is one of those areas that you’ve seen pictures of again and again but will want to visit on your own. Check out this guide to Bukchon Hanok Village to learn more about the area, where to go, and what to eat. Or, check out this Bukchon Itinerary .

Insadong District:  Near Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace, this is a popular district for traditional tea houses and Buddhist restaurants. If you want to prepare for the traditional tea houses, check out this guide to traditional Korean tea options because there are so so many!

This is also THE district to head to if you’re looking to purchase Korean souvenirs to take home to friends and family. If you want to learn more about the area, check out this guide to Insadong that I put together.

Gangnam:  The district that became popular around the world when Psy’s song “Gangnam Style” took over the airwaves, this district is known for a bit of luxury, lots of cosmetic surgery, and some great eats too.

If you’re interested in seeing what there is to see in the area, then check out this guide to Gangnam to see it all from amazing street art to museums and more. Oh, and definitely make sure you see the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Show .

Hongdae: Full of live music, artistic fun, and plenty of pubs, restaurants, and fun cafes to check out . Check out this guide to Hongdae for all of the best things to do there.

The area has grown and expanded and now when people saying they’re going to Hongdae, they might very well mean they’re headed to Yeontral Park (a play on Central Park) in Yeonnam-dong or they’re headed to the up and coming district of Mangwon-dong . There are buskers and groups of K-pop dancers that make the entire area very vibrant and fun.

Myeongdong Shopping District:  Myeongdong is THE spot to go if you’re looking to get your shopping on while you’re in Seoul and is one of the best districts to try a ton of amazing street food options.

With all of the major international and local brands as well as a TON of K-beauty shops, you can get everything on your list in this area. Find out more in this guide to Myeongdong with some fun things to do in the area.

5. See a show

Nanta: This is the most popular and longest running theater show in Seoul. The show is a hilarious kitchen-based performance with a talented group of performers who have a mix of traditional folk pieces as well as modern skits.

Don’t worry if you can’t understand Korean, this performance is non-verbal and fun fun fun. Get your Nanta tickets through Klook to get an awesome discount.

The Painters: A new concept art performance that combines colorful live drawings with cutting-edge media art has been remodeled and reopened. Actors resembling idols, numbering from 4 to 8, express world-famous paintings such as Michelangelo’s ‘Creation of Heaven,’ Vincent Van Gohee’s ‘Self-Portrait,’ and Gustav Klimt’s ‘Kiss’ with splendid choreography and live drawings.

Their super luxurious stereoscopic images and live performances create a a new impression of painting. G et your tickets to see The Painters online with Klook for the discount.

6. Visit the Han River

The Han River cuts through the center of the city so at some point, you’ll definitely see it either when you’re crossing a bridge or from your tall hotel, but you should definitely take some time to go and visit one of the Han riverside parks. They are gorgeous and there is definitely going to be one near wherever you’re staying. Some of them have beautiful art installations while others are where you can jump on a Eland Hangang River cruise .

There are some great experiences to be had at the river. Check out this complete guide to all of the Han River parks to see which one will be near you. Some have outdoor swimming pools, one even has a beautiful infinity pool that ends at the river and it is super budget friendly. Some have bike rental kiosks, kayaks, sail boats and more.

7. Get a good view

Seoul Sky Tower: Seoul Sky Observatory is the third highest observatory in the world and features the highest glass deck in the world. The views are absolutely stunning and there are multiple floors for viewing from the 117th to the 120th floor. This is just next to Lotte World as well if you want to combine it with some fun and views! Seoul Sky Tower is a bit out of the way compared to a lot of the tourist sites but worth the subway ride.

And, to top it off, if you want to stay in the tallest hotel in Seoul and get the most beautiful views right when you wake up in the morning, then look no further than Signiel Hotel which is right in this tower too!

N Seoul Tower: While Seoul Sky is the newest dazzling spot in the city to get views from, Namsan Tower, also called N Seoul Tower , is older, more central, and a bit more romantic. Take a cable car up to the tower and then sit beneath a beautiful pagoda until your time to head up to the top. This tour is a major highlight in the city and is easy to combine with any bit of the itinerary in central Seoul. It’s an iconic spot that is definitely one of the top three must visit locations in the city.

Other Spots For Views: The two spots above are definitely the most popular for views, but they are not the only places to get views though they are the most iconic. If you want some more ideas though, here are more great spots in Seoul to get amazing views that also happen to be super budget friendly. These are definitely spots that will surprise you and even some that locals don’t know about.

8. Visit lots and lots of cafes

It honestly amazes me how many cafes there are and how interesting they all are. Koreans go all out with aesthetics and creating Instagrammable cafes and you can really find them all over but there are a few neighborhoods that you can literally hop from fun and quirky cafe to beautiful cafe and back again. How many coffees can you possibly drink in one day? Don’t miss the cafes in Mangwon-dong . If you want to know what some of the trendiest cafes are, check out this guide to the awesome greenhouse cafes that have been popping up over the past couple of years.

9. Visit a museum

The Korean War Memorial: There are some really amazing museums in Korea and what’s even better is that they’re budget friendly if not free. The Korean War Memorial is really interesting especially if you’re interested in learning about the Korean War and the numerous other wars in Korean history.

There are also often docents who actually fought in the Korean War available to show you around and offer stories and information. If you have children, it’s also great because there are historic planes and other relics outside that kids can climb up to and through to check out. You can learn more about the museum here .

The National Museum Of Korea: Another great museum that has both free and paid exhibitions, is the National Museum of Korea which also has a substantial park and pond with relics beautiful in all seasons. This is a museum more focused on the historical artifacts of Korea.

This is also a great option to have during monsoon season. Learn more about the National Museum of Korea here. FYI, you can also visit the National Hangeul Museum which is just in front of this one as well.

Seodaemun Prison History Museum:  The Seodaemun Prison History Museum is a former prison that housed martyrs during the Japanese colonization of Korea and is now a museum dedicated to tell the stories about the people that were once housed there.

Again, this is a very impactful museum especially if you are interested in the tumultuous history in Korea. Here is more information about the Seodaemun Prison History Museum.

The War & Women’s Human Rights Museum: A much smaller but no less impactful museum in Seoul is the War and Women’s Human Rights Museum which is dedicated to tell the story about the comfort women. The issue of sexual slavery during WWII is still highly contested by Japan but certainly proven by enough groups at this point.

The Korean comfort women are still fighting to be heard. Go visit this museum to learn more about what they went through and the fight they continue to have today.

The Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art (MMCA): If you’re more interested in the arts, then don’t miss the Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art which is just east of Gyeongbokgung Palace so it’s easy to add to any itinerary in downtown Seoul. This museum uses varying architectural styles and hosts some gorgeous exhibitions. To check out the hours and learn more about the Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art, check out this guide .

Leeum Samsung Museum: The Leeum Samsung Museum is both architecturally stunning and always has some amazing exhibitions to check out. It’s in the easy to visit area of Hannam-dong and is one of my favorite art museums in the city. There are quite a few to choose from, but this is one that should be on your list if you like art museums and architecture.

This is probably a museum that is off the beaten path for most first-travelers but might just be up your alley if you like art and architecture. Here’s more information about Leeum Samsung Museum here .

Seoul Museum of Craft Art: SeMoCA is the first national museum in Seoul created to showcase Korean crafts. The museum is made up of seven buildings so you need to weave in and out and around much like some of the embroidery products you’ll see inside.

Not only is the museum amazing, the children’s museum is just wonderful and offers so many free experiences for kids. Learn more in this guide to the Seoul Museum of Craft Art.

10. Visit a Spa

There are some great options if you want the Korean spa experience. If you don’t want to get all the way nude but want to experience at least a Korean facial , you can do that too! Here are a couple great spas to check out in Seoul if you want the full experience complete with a Korean Italy towel exfoliating scrub.

Yeo Yong Guk Korean Traditional Medicine Spa:  Want something more traditional? Visit this spa which is one of the 25 must visit wellness attractions in Korea as designated by the Korea Tourism Organization. After a quick physical analysis, the staff will provide a customized spa package using natural medicinal plants, pressure point, and massage. It’s a truly unique spa experience here in Seoul .

Hana Mud Spa: If you want a more local experience, check out this Korean bath house. The spa is a bit extra with their mud masks straight from the Boryeong mud that’s rich in minerals, but other than that, it’s a pretty standard spa for women only. Prepare to bare and enjoy the experience. If you want to know more about a Korean bath house and what to do inside, here’s a step by step guide to the Korean bath house culture.

11. Visit an amusement park

Lotte World: Lotte World is the most popular theme park in Seoul and is easy to get to right in the city. Get the Magic Pass to skip the lines and enjoy the rides. The rides to check out are the Conquistador, World Monorail, French Revolution, VR Space, and the Flume Ride. There’s fun, adventure, and more. Take a day and enjoy!

Everland: If you’ve got a bit more time, visit Everland, outside of the city of Seoul, but hop on the shuttle bus and you can get there. It is one of the world’s largest theme parks and features a ton of rides and experiences to be had. Make sure to get your tickets online before you go to get the discount that is available.

12. See the DMZ

While this isn’t technically IN Seoul, most tours to the DMZ start from Seoul . If you don’t know it yet, you’re technically visiting a country that is at war. Have I ever been scared living here? No. Let’s just get that question out the way.

Should you visit the DMZ? If you want to have a glimpse of North Korea and visit the most heavily guarded limit line in the world? Then definitely yes. There is a lot to be learned and some interesting spots to check out.

You can only go INTO the DMZ with a tour. You can get pretty close without one, but you need to be on a government approved tour if you want to go in. Most tours will take you to the DMZ area in Paju where you will first make a stop in the Nuri Peace Park and then head into to see one of the tunnels that the North Koreans dug to try and sneak into South Korea. If you want to go it on your own and try to get in, there is one option.

You can go in to see Camp Greaves which was formerly an American base which was given back to the Korean people and is now a museum featuring art and history information. Another option if you want to go it on your own a bit, head up to the Cheorwon DMZ area where you can enter with an approved taxi. No matter what, you can’t just wander in though so if you want to make it easy on yourself, sign up for a tour early as they do fill up. Here are some good options to choose from:

• Panmunjom & DMZ Tour: Visit the Unification Bridge and Panmunjom along with Imjingak/Nuri Peace Park and the 3rd Tunnel on this full day tour. Join this tour here.
• Imjingak Transfer Service: If you just want to get back and forth to Imjingak/ Nuri Peace Park area where you can get on the bus to Camp Greaves, or just enjoy the unification village, then look into this transfer service which will take you back and forth easily.

13. Check out these notable spots in between

Seoul Botanic Park: Seoul Botanic Park is one of the newest and beautiful parks in Seoul. There is a gorgeously huge greenhouse and if it’s winter, it is warm warm warm inside. If it’s summer, head inside, but then check out the substantial park that surrounds.

This is in an up and coming area of Seoul and it’s super easy to get to right out of the subway station. To learn more about this greenhouse and park, check out this complete post on the Seoul Botanic Park.

Cheonggyecheon Stream: The Cheonggyecheon Stream is another iconic spot in central Seoul. This stream was actually covered over in the modernization of the city after the war but during construction some years later was rediscovered and the high way built atop it was removed.

Not only did it make for a beautiful green space in central Seoul, but it helped in lowering the temperature downtown and birds and fish returned. Now, there are events like the Lantern Festival held here throughout the year. Walk along the stream from Gwanghwamun Square down to Gwangjang Market and even all the way down to Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): The Dongdaemun Design Plaza was immediately popular upon being built and opened to the public. Now the host of the Seoul Fashion Week as well as numerous other exhibitions and events, this eye catching structure designed by Zaha Hadid was the most Instagrammed location in Korea in 2015.

You’ll have to walk up, down, inside, and outside to really understand what is going on. Want to see some more architectural wonders in Seoul? Check out this list of really interesting architectural spots in Seoul .

Ihwa Mural Village: Ihwa Mural Village is a fun neighborhood in central Seoul near the palaces that provide a great spot to take a walk and area to learn about local communities. The neighbors didn’t ASK for their neighborhood to be turned into an attraction though, so it’s important to know the rules before you go.

Here’s more information on the street murals to see there and how to find it. See the murals and you can walk along a section of the Seoul Fortress Wall for great views out over the city as well.

Seoullo Walkway:  In central Seoul just outside of Seoul Station, is a beautiful walkway that connects the downtown neighborhoods for pedestrians so that they never have to wait for a traffic light.

The walkway used to be an overpass but was renovated into a fun spot to take a walk with outdoor installations, trampolines for kids, tons of plants and greenery and there are often events held on the walkway. If you’re headed to the train station for any reason, this is an easy addition onto the day that doesn’t take too long to enjoy. Here is more info about Seoullo and what you can do there.

Oil Tank Culture Park: I personally like to check out unique spots that show how a city is growing and adapting. The Oil Tank Culture Park is just that. There are six massive oil drums that have been converted through a series of conservation measures to now be a public space.

The drums have been opened up so visitors can use them with one housing a cafe, another a performance space, and more. If you want to see some awesome eco-friendly innovation, this is a must visit. Learn more about the Oil Tank Culture Park here.

In general, it’s easy to get around and you’ll be able to see what you see, but if you really want to learn about a place, know what’s in the food you’re about to eat, and understand Korean culture and history, I’d highly recommend joining a tour or two to get some insight. The other reason to join a tour or at least book tickets for shows, entrance fees, etc, is because online is almost always cheaper.

Koreans use companies online always and that’s because tickets can be 10%-50% cheaper than when you just walk up. Don’t get left out of the discounts. Book what you can in advance. If it’s your first time in Seoul, then find a few tours, maybe one focused on culture, one on food, and one on adventure to join while you’re here.

Here are some ideas I’d recommend:

• History of Joseon Dynasty Tour: Spend the day visiting one of the royal palaces and witnessing a beautiful changing of the guard ceremony. Stop into the Jogyesa Buddhist temple and ginseng center while learning about history and architecture and culture and then end the day in one of the traditional folk villages. It’s an all encompassing tour to see traditional spots and learn a ton about how Seoul was started and built. Check out the tour here on Klook .
• Cooking classes in Seoul : There are a number of cooking classes in Seoul that I think are great not only to try some great food, but to learn about Korea’s culinary history, tradition, and culture and you can ask questions about dining etiquette in Korea and more.

Want help with your itinerary? I have a lot of experience building the perfect itineraries for travelers to Seoul. I’ve created 15 interchangeable daily itineraries for Seoul, Korea that cover the popular spots you must see, some districts that aren’t so touristy but offer great fun, and more.

Where To Get Out Of Seoul For a Day Trip

Daytrips are awesome and there are so many places you can get to if you’ve got a free day on your itinerary. Here are a few ideas, but if you want more, check out my list of “ Best Daytrips to take from Seoul “. There are 25 spots to see and enjoy and I’ll know there is something you’ll want to do.

Nami Island: This is by far one of the most popular day trip options and for good reason. It’s gorgeous. While it’s popular with K-drama fans, I can say, as someone who has NOT seen any drama that was filmed there, that it’s not just a fan that would appreciate this place. There are art installations, restaurants, cafes, and plenty of nature to see.

I’ve visited in the autumn and summer and would definitely go back in the winter and spring too. It’s an easy option for a day trip and can be combined with some other great spots in the area. Read this guide to Nami Island if its on your list.

The DMZ:  At just 60km from Seoul, it’s easy enough to visit the DMZ, but only if you book a tour in advance. Tours do sell out so if you’re at all interested in visiting the border between North and South Korea, you’ll want to plan this ahead of time. The Demilitarized Zone is a 4 kilometer wide buffer zone between North Korea and South Korea.

There are various options from Seoul with the most popular being out to Nuri Peace Park in Paju and into the DMZ. If you do get out there and want to do something really special, visit Camp Greaves, an abandoned military base that’s been converted into an art experience. If you want to visit a spot that’s more off the beaten path but just a bit more involved, check out the trip to the Cheorwon DMZ .

Heyri Art Village: This is one of my favorite spots to take my daughter to, but it’s not just for kids, it is for everyone. There are chic art galleries and museums as well as artistic experiences for children to partake in. There are SO many museums and galleries to check out that you could stay an entire weekend and still not see everything.

We’ve gone and gone again and there’s always something new to do. If you want to know how to get there, and have some ideas on what to do, here is a guide to Heyri Art Village.

Anyang Art Park: The Anyang Art Park is an awesome natural area with art installations and exhibitions throughout the year. There are restaurants and cafes and it’s a great spot to check out if you want to get out into nature and take a walk.

The installations are super fun to find and require a bit of a walk up into a nearby mountain… but not to worry, it’s not really a trek and toddlers can even do it. Here is a guide to Anyang Art Park to help you on your way.

Seongsu-dong

Seongsu-dong has been called the Brooklyn of Seoul. Once a district known for shoe factories, today, many of those factories are being converted into cafes, galleries, and restaurants. This district is hip, it’s cool, and it is THE place to go if you want to do something different in Seoul. There is awesome street art and murals and a ton of hidden gems in this new hot spot in Seoul. If you want some suggestions for where to go, what to do, and what to eat while you’re there, check out this guide to Seongsu-dong .

Mullae-dong

Also a district known for factories, Mullae-dong is still very much filled with the iron works factories it’s famous for. Some years ago, artists from Hongdae that couldn’t afford the rent in the popular district moved south and found homes in Mullae-dong. By day, this area is noisy and gritty with iron workers, but come evening into night, there are galleries and restaurants owned by artists and musicians.

It’s off the beaten path to tourists for sure, but there are some cool things to be found if you like to have a good hunt. Here are my suggestions for what to see in Mullae-dong if you want to head there.

Yongma Land

Yongma Land is a popular abandoned amusement park in Seoul. It’s been showcased in various K-pop videos and dramas and anyone looking for some cool photos can head to the park to take their own photos. It’s a funky spot but a fun one especially if you’ve got some friends that want to get some quirky photos in Seoul or if you are a Hallyu fan and want to take photos in the same spots that you’ve seen in dramas and vids. Here’s more information on the popular abandoned Yongma Land in Seoul.

Ganghwado Island

Ganghwado is an island west of the city of Seoul that is easily accessible with public buses from the city. It used to be a bit more difficult to get to, but in recent years a bridge was added and now more and more Seoulites are making their way out to this island to see what there is to see, like the awesome Royyal Dog mural above.

There are cool restaurants and cafes, a few beaches, and some interesting historical spots to check out. Here are some flower fields and cool cafes to check out if you want to make your way out to Ganghwado.

Hannam-dong

Hannam-dong is the district that’s just up the road from the foreigner district known as Itaewon. Hannam-dong has art museums and a ton of cafes and restaurants with foreign treats if you want something in the American-fare style. Here’s a guide to the Hannam-dong area that has cool cafes, good eats, and a lot of Instagrammable book stores and staircases.

This isn’t a hugely popular spot for tourists but mostly for expats and foreigners in Korea that want to get good authentic foreign food. If you have a hankering for something other than Korean food, then you’ll easily find it over here.

Pocheon is an interesting area northeast of Seoul that has hidden wooden giants in forests, bridges, and lakes. There are some beautiful hidden wonders that are really only accessible if you’ll be renting a car for a day. But if you will be, look into this easy trip from Seoul that is off the beaten path.

Here’s a guide to Pocheon and what to see there. Again, this isn’t a spot that’s usually on the radars of most tourists, but if you want something unique, it’s a good area to get out to where can visit an amazing makgeolli, or rice wine, brewery and find nature too!

Busan is the second largest city in the country and on the southern coast of Korea. It’s the most popular spot to check out for most travelers that want to see something outside of Seoul. The city is easy to get to from Seoul using the KTX fast train and there are beaches, a seaside temple, a colorful seaside village, and a TON more to check out.

Some of the must see spots include Gamcheon Culture Village, Taejongdae , and Haeundae. You could easily spend a couple days or more in this awesome city.

Here’s a guide to Busan to help you on your way! Definitely don’t miss stops into the Huinnyeoul Culture Village and then take a ride on the cable car in Songdo or a ride on the now very popular Busan Sky Capsule . For a real treat, check out the premier spa in the country, Busan’s Spa Land . There’s so much to do, you could fill a week or more!

Gyeongju was the capital of Korea during the Silla Dynasty and the capital before Seoul. It’s one of the most historic, if not THE most historic, cities in the entire country and features more pagodas, relics, and historic sites in one city than any other in the country.

The small city is basically an open air museum as every corner you turn leads to another historic observatory, tomb, palace, or Buddhist relic. It was one of the first trips I made out of Seoul when I first moved here in 2006 and is an easy trip to make using the KTX from Seoul.

It’s a gorgeous area with history and culture and beautiful sites to visit. Definitely look into Gyeongju if you want to learn more about history in Korea and appreciate quite peaceful surroundings. Here is a guide to Gyeongju with more information on what you can find there.

Andong has been called the most traditional place in Korea. There is a beautiful huge traditional village and some amazing food to eat in Andong. It’s gorgeous in the spring when the cherry blossoms bloom and the Andong Mask Festival is an amazing event to check out in the autumn if you’re visiting at the same time.

From delicious food to traditional and cultural spots, Andong has it all. Here’s a guide to Andong , how to get there, and what to do if it sounds like the spot for you.

Most likely you came into Korea through Incheon but you probably didn’t stay too long as you headed into Seoul. You should definitely head back out there. There are some really interesting spots in Incheon including the only legit Chinatown in the country.

Incheon’s Chinatown was first started by the Chinese immigrants that came to Korea to work. Nearby there is also a fun fairytale mural village and a village made entirely of older buildings. It’s a fun area to walk around and makes for a great day trip from Seoul.

You could also plan to see what’s around the Incheon International Airport on your way in or out. The airport is on an island in Incheon and there’s plenty to do just around the airport. If you want to treat yourself on your way in or out, then definitely look into staying at the amazing Paradise City Resort . Even if you don’t stay there, there’s a free art museum and a beautiful pool and sauna that you can visit.

Want to see some amazing architecture, check out the Songdo Central Park where the awesome TriBowl is located. Another great option in Incheon is to take a ferry and visit nearby islands like Modo, Sindo, and Sido ! All of these spots are really in different parts of Incheon so don’t try to see them all in one day. You’ll have to pick one if you just have one day to travel.

Jeju Island is the most popular and largest island in Korea. It has been called the Hawai’i of Korea and is absolutely stunning. The island is bigger than you might expect so know that before you go. You can really only see things in one quadrant; northwest, northeast, southwest, or southeast at a time especially if you’ve only got a weekend. Choose what you want to see and then stay nearby (Here’s a guide to help you figure out where to stay on Jeju Island ) and an absolute must do is hiking up Mt. Halla .

If hiking isn’t your thing though, there’s also a walking trail that follows the entire coast of Jeju. Choose an area and you can walk and enjoy cliff views, black sand beaches, and forests too. If you want to get somewhere easily and have fun, check out Hamdeok Beach . Another hot spot for tourists is the O’Sulloc Green Tea Fields and the gigantic and gorgeous Jeongbang Waterfall .

But if you want my two recommendations, definitely get a ferry out to nearby Gapa Island which you can only leisurely enjoy via bicycle and then walk up Sanbang Mountain to visit a beautiful grotto Nearby you can walk along the rocky but beautiful Yeongmori Coastcoast . Jeju is amazing and there is just so much to do and see there. You can even go island hopping to visit nearby islands like Udo Island or Gapa Island . If you have time, don’t miss a trip there to get a completely different experience from the hustling bustling city of Seoul.

Danyang, Korea is in the central area of Korea so a lot of people pass right by on the way south without stopping. But if you like adventure and maybe have a bit less time, it’s definitely worth a look. Visit the Mancheonha Skywalk and then zipline down.

From there, head to Chungju Lake and ride a ferry to see the gorgeous views. Head down into the Gosu Caves that were formed over 450 million years ago and then end the weekend paragliding off of the mountains. It’s a spot for the adventure loving traveler. Here’s what you should check out in Danyang.

Oido & Daebudo Islands

Maybe you want to see the coast in quick fashion. Oido is an island you can actually reach using just the Seoul subway system! If you’ve got a car, you can go just a bit further to Daebudo Island to see the glass museum and watch the waves come in.

The islands are beautiful and great for a summer’s day. There is seafood to be eaten and a rest stop that even features an observatory. I love getting to the coast whenever I can and this is an easy spot to get to if you just have a day to work with. Here’s what you can find in Oido and Daebudo.

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Amaizing and so useful website! Congratulations! I will arrive in Korea on 20th of May and can’t wait to explore the country.

Michelle Topham

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Hallie Bradley

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Hi you mentioned a subway app under useful apps to download. I’m curious if you could tell me the name of the app? Thank you!

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25 of the best places to visit in Seoul

Welcome to our guide on the best places to visit in Seoul. A diverse city that’s unlike anywhere else in the world, South Korea’s capital features an endless number of things to see and do. It’s the number one spot to visit in the country and you’ll quickly find out that uncovering all its top attractions will take some time.

In this guide, we’ll share some of the best Seoul attractions; ones you simply cannot miss. We’ll also share places to visit away from the main tourist trail, where you’ll find a lot more locals than tourists. We’ve included historic attractions, trendy neighbourhoods, nature trails, parks, shopping and dining destinations, plus some unique things to do that you’ll only find in Seoul.

Continue reading for our full list of places to visit in Seoul, South Korea.

GYEONGBUKGUNG Palace

A trip to Seoul is not complete without visiting the top attraction, Gyeongbukgung Palace. The palace has a rich history dating back to 1592 and is one of the only royal residences in the city that has withstood the wars of the past few centuries. Whilst a lot smaller today than its original size, Gyeongbukgung is a marvel to explore.

Visit the palace to see the changing of the guard, the grand, ornate palace gates, and a nice lake area with traditional ginseng trees and outhouse buildings. The palace is full of tourists no matter the time of day, but the grounds are large enough for it to never feel too busy. If you fancy doing something unique, dress up in traditional Hanbok clothing for free entry to the palace grounds.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is one of the best places to visit in Seoul to experience the traditional appearance of Korea, many years ago. Hanok villages are preserved areas that have retained houses, shops and other buildings that showcase traditional Korean architecture. Pointed rooves, wooden frames and narrow streets make up the labyrinth of Bukchon Hanok Village.

Bukchon is a tourist destination, but it’s also a real neighbourhood where people live. Walk through the narrow streets to see these quaint buildings, take some photos and soak in the rich culture.

Seoul Tower, Namsan Mountain and Namsan Cable Car

Seoul is a vast city with a population of 9+ million people. The number of skyscrapers, parks and neighbourhoods is a sight to behold! One of the best ways to capture the scale of the city is by heading up to Namsan Mountain. This instantly recognisable mountain sits in the centre of the city, providing stunning panoramic views of Seoul from above. You can either hike up the Namsan Mountain trail, or alternatively, catch the Namsan Cable Car to the top in only 5 minutes.

The top of Namsan Mountain has a nice collection of cafes and shops with a view, plus a number of viewing decks. If you want to go even higher, take the elevator to the top of Seoul Tower to be at the highest point in the entire city.

Gangnam Neighborhood

Can you remember the catchy song ‘Gangnam Style’ by Korean pop artist, PSY? The tune that took the world by storm is all about the life of the wealthy in Seoul’s Gangnam neighbourhood. This trendy business hub is located south of the river. It’s one of the most expensive places to live in the city due to its central location and ‘exclusivity’. It’s also home to a number of excellent restaurants, shopping malls and modern high-rise buildings.

Visit Gangnam to experience the modern, future-thinking hub of Seoul and its many bars, shops and restaurants. It’s also worth paying a visit to the ‘Gangnam style’ statue, which features the classic PSY pose of two crossed wrists.

Starfield Shopping Mall

In the Gangnam area, you have to stop by Starfield Shopping Mall. Seoul has many malls, but not many are quite as modern, large and packed full of attractions compared to Starfield. In this mall, you’ll find a countless array of dining options for all budgets, fashion and accessory stores for both designer and high street brands and one of Korea’s best cinemas. It also has a wide selection of cafes and restaurants.

Even if you don’t want to do any shopping, experiencing the regular events, eateries and design of this popular mall makes it one of the best places to visit in Seoul.

Starfield Library

A place to visit in Seoul that has gained popularity as one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, Starfield Library is a grand, multi-floor library with an open plan layout, towering bookcases and a beautiful design. Tourists walk through to marvel at its façade and locals pull up a chair to read a book. It’s also a cool place to work.

You can visit Starfield Library at the same time as Starfield Shopping Mall. The library is nestled in the centre of the mall on the ground floor.

Bongeunsa Temple

Another top Seoul attraction in the Gangnam area is Bongeunsa Temple. Dating back to the year 794, this long-standing temple is one of the most historic places to visit in Seoul. It was created for King Wonseong by a high-ranking Buddhist monk and has been a key worship and religious festival destination ever since.

Traditional pagoda buildings, rows of coloured lanterns and ornate Hangul artwork adorn the entire temple area. At its centre is a giant Buddha statue, which is 23-metres tall. Bongeunsa is one of Seoul’s must-see temples and it’s well worth stopping by when exploring the Gangnam area.

Seoul Forest

Seoul Forest is one of the best places to visit in Seoul for those that want a quiet nature escape away from the bustling city. Located to the east of the city centre, it’s an easy place to get to on the metro. It’s a large park with a number of shaded walkways, with tall leafy trees surrounding you as you go for a relaxing stroll through the forest.

In addition to the nice scenery on offer at Seoul Forest, it has a deer park, botanical garden, insect garden and butterfly garden. It’s a very pretty place to explore, especially if visiting in spring for cherry blossom season, or in autumn for the falling orange leaves.

Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market is the go-to place to visit in Seoul for delicious street food. This giant market has countless rows of stalls, all dedicated to hearty, homemade Korean food. Visit the market any day of the week and you’ll find a bustling atmosphere of locals dining alongside tourists, the rich smell of spicy food and an endless number of dish options.

Some food stands specialise in particular dishes, whereas others serve a good variety of popular Korean dishes. The market and some of its stalls have been featured on Netflix and various TV shows, giving it a big boost in popularity. We recommend visiting for lunch. It’s slightly quieter than evenings and you stand a better chance of finding a table at a food stall.

Changgyeonggung Palace and Secret Garden

Another must-see palace in Seoul is Changgyeonggung. Located a short walk from the main Deoksugung Palace we mentioned above, this secondary royal residence is just as grand, and in our opinion, is more beautiful than Deoksungung. The palace has smaller courtyards and towering gates than the latter. However, it has a beautiful array of gardens, greenery and more intimate courtyard areas. Traditional palace buildings are surrounded by wooden sculptures, leafy trees and monuments.

Hidden in Changgyeonggung’s garden area is a tranquil forest area known as Secret Garden. In our opinion, this is one of the most beautiful locations in Seoul. It features rows upon rows of unique trees and plants, a lake area, shaded temple buildings and waterfall streams. It’s particularly impressive in the spring cherry blossom season, or during autumn when the leaves turn bright shades of orange.

Lotte World

Lotte World is one of the best places to visit in Seoul for theme park lovers! Completely unlike the theme parks you may have visited outside of Korea, Lotte World is a spacious park full of unique theming and quirky rides. It features classic rides you’d expect to see in an amusement park, but also a hot-air balloon ride, a haunted house and a selection of 3D attractions.

Lotte World has a whimsical fairy-tale theming and the food stalls in the park are very good. It’s also a cheap theme park to visit compared to other global parks.

Inwangsan Mountain Park

In a city of concrete, many buildings and lots of pedestrians, Inwangsan Mountain Park is a welcome retreat from city sightseeing. It’s a rocky hiking trail that sits along Seoul’s historic city wall, featuring stunning views of Seoul and the palace area below the trail. Inwangsan is a great place for a morning walk in nature when the weather isn’t too warm.

Walk along the trail to see various landmarks, bridges, wooden walkways, gardens, artwork and much more. Inwangsan Mountain Park is one of the best places to visit in Seoul for those that like scenic walks.

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Cheonggyecheon river walk.

Cheonggyecheon river walk is one of the top areas in Seoul for a sunset or early morning walk. Nestled between skyscrapers in the modern heart of the city, this scenic riverside area is a popular date spot. It even has a wall where locals famously propose to their significant other! Go for a slow stroll along the river, sit and enjoy the view on a park bench, or check out the latest art installations.

Ikseondong Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village (as featured above) is the most popular traditional Korean village in Seoul. However, there are many more villages to explore. We personally preferred the narrow streets and many shops, cafes and restaurants of the area known as Ikseondong Hanok Village. Situated right next to the Insadong area, this quaint collection of streets and buildings is a great place to explore on foot.

Ikseondong is home to some excellent restaurants, many of which have traditional floor seating and unique wooden décor. There are also many coffee shops, dessert parlours, boutique shops and photo booths. We personally bought some excellent homeware and had a coffee in a café with a train track running through it.

Right in the heart of the city, Myeongdong is one of the most popular places to stay when visiting Seoul. Its central location and good public transport connections makes it a great place for sightseeing. Even if you’re not staying here, Myeongdong is certainly worth a visit. It’s the shopping metropolis of Seoul, with countless shopping malls, high street stores, international brands and Korean fashion boutiques.

It’s also a top place to visit in Seoul for foodies. Every evening, the streets of Myeongdong come alive with street stalls. The Myeongdong Night Market is where you can sample some excellent traditional dishes, but also creative foods inspired by the younger generations in South Korea. It’s an affordable place to eat and we personally had dinner here 3 times during our visit.

Insadong is another bustling city centre neighbourhood, located just north of Myeongdong. It’s a busy area packed full of restaurants, shops and cafes, just like Myeongdong, but it has a more boutique and local feel to it. Shops here are independent over chain stores, there aren’t any big shopping malls and streets have small buildings compared to the skyscrapers of Myeongdong.

Insadong is one of the best places to visit in Seoul for authentic Korean restaurants. It also has some excellent handmade gifts and fashion stores and an array of themed cafes. The super-popular ‘Dong’ (poo) café is based here. The neighbourhood is full of artwork and colour; a clash of modern with tradition.

Yeouido Hangang Park

Yeouido Hangang Park is the best way to experience the iconic Han River, which runs directly through Seoul. It’s a very popular spot for locals who want to go on a long walk or cycle, but it’s also becoming increasingly popular with tourists. It has a large ‘Seoul’ sign, perfect for capturing a tourist selfie. It also has some excellent walking paths along the bank of the river. The horizon of the city in the background is where you’ll take some of your best Seoul photos.

The best way to explore Yeouido Hangang Park is by bike. Rent a cycle from one of the park booths and proceed to peddle along the promenade at your leisure. It’s a fun activity for all ages and there are dedicated cycle lanes.

War Memorial of Korea

Built in 1994, the War Memorial of Korea was set up to commemorate the many military veterans and victims of South Korea’s wartime past. Whilst a sobering and saddening place to visit in Seoul, the memorial is also interesting to anyone that wants to learn about wartime events from a South Korean perspective.

The War Memorial of Korea features multiple indoor and outdoor exhibition areas, including a large memorial hall, decommissioned military equipment and aircraft, and old military weapons. A large section of the memorial is a museum of war artefacts. The collection is very interesting for anyone that’s fascinated by military history.

Hongdae has long been known as the ‘trendy’ neighbourhood of Seoul. A very popular chill-out spot for young people, the vibe in Hongdae is upbeat and welcoming. It’s a small neighbourhood to the west of the city centre, sitting just north of the Han River. Themed cafes, including the popular ‘Harry Potter’ and 2D-style ‘Greem Café’ are just some of the unique inceptions on offer in Hongdae. It’s a place where you can dine at one-of-a-kind restaurants and street food stalls or find the latest Korean fashion.

Hondae is also an increasingly popular place to stay for those who want a lively evening atmosphere with lots of bars and restaurants. We recommend visiting in the late-afternoon and staying until the streets get packed with people.

Namdaemun Market

We’ve already listed some excellent shopping markets and street food spots in Seoul. However, if you want a more traditional local market, Namdaemun Market is the place to visit. It’s open all day, and even during the night until 4am. Locals stop by the market to buy cheap home, fashion, apparel, stationery, art, flowers and practically any other market-good you could think of. Businesses visit for the affordable wholesale offering. You then have tourists, who just want to soak in the atmosphere of this busy shopping destination. Add it to your list if you love a good market!

Banpo Bridge

Banpo Bridge is a great place to visit in Seoul early-evening. A key crossing point for the Han River and an architectural wonder in itself, there’s always something going on near the bridge’s south river bank. When the sun goes down, 380 rainbow-coloured jets light up to create a waterfall that cascades from the bridge. It’s a very cool sight to see and is well worth checking out! The rainbow fountain show is actually registered in the Guiness Book of Records as being one of the longest rainbow fountains in the world.

In addition to the must-see evening show, Banpo Bridge hosts a number of different events. It’s often a venue for K-pop concerts and other music festivals.

Gotomall Underground Shopping Mall

Underground shopping malls are huge in South Korea. They perfectly utilise space in city centres that are extremely densely populated. They’re also known to be great place to shop for fashion, apparel and accessories, offering an affordable alternative to high street retail stores and department stores. Gotomall Underground Shopping Mall is Seoul’s answer to an underground mall, and boy is it a big one!

Situated south of the Han River, near Banpo Bridge, Gotomall is a great place to visit in Seoul for those who want to buy K-fashion clothing and accessories. It’s full of independent stores and has options for all budgets. It’s also has stores selling cute accessories, electronics and more.

Haneul Park

Last but not least, Haneul Park is another excellent place to visit in Seoul. It’s a large nature reserve on the northern bank of the Han River, located on the edge of the city centre. Seoul has many excellent parks and relaxation spots, but the remote location and picturesque scenery at Haneul make it unlike anything else on our list. Tall grass, crops and flowers set the scene for a serene walk amongst nature…

Walk along the neatly maintained pathways and wooden bridges, stop at one of the exhibits or just soak in the peaceful atmosphere and views of the city. We personally love visiting Haneul Park for sunset. There isn’t a better place to be!

Thanks for reading our list of the best places to visit in Seoul. We hope we inspired you with attraction ideas and you can now explore this vast, impressive and charming city for yourself. Seoul is unlike anywhere we’ve ever been and the number of things to do is endless. Choose attractions that stand out to you the most, don’t miss the must-sees and be sure to plan an itinerary before setting off. If you have any questions about the Seoul attractions we’ve featured, be sure to post a comment below. 😊

Check out our other South Korean travel guides:

• South Korea Travel Tips: Things You Must Know Before Visiting
• 20 of The Best Foods To Try in South Korea
• One Day in Busan Itinerary

By Ricky MARSHALL

An adventurer at heart that loves anything outdoors. Beaches, mountains and amazing scenery is everything I love about travel! I also enjoy home comforts and need a nice place to relax and re-charge after every trip.

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The 15 best places to visit in Seoul: Popular attractions and fun activities.

“South Korea” is the country that whenever you hear its name, K-Pop, K-Drama and things like that cross your mind because of their worldwide popularity and craziness. K-Pop has made South Korea is famous on another level. However, at the same time, it has become one of the most underrated countries in the world in terms of natural beauty and culture.

If you are planning your trip to South Korea , this article will be helpful for visitors who want to explore South Korea. Here are the 15 best places to visit in Seoul : Popular attractions and fun activities that people should do when they travel in Seoul .

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

The Best Places to Visit in Seoul – Top Rated Attractions

1. spend a magical time at everland theme park.

Everland is the largest amusement park in South Korea, located in Yongin. It is approximately one hour away from Seoul by car. Everland has many rides and attractions for all ages, including a water park called Caribbean Bay and a zoo with 1,000 animals from 80 different species.

It also has a 4D cinema in which riders can experience their favourite movies based on animated characters like Snoopy and Hello Kitty. It’s highly recommended to visit this area if you’re travelling to Seoul with children. It’s also worth noting that several annual festivals such as Tulip, Rose, and Summer Water happens in Everland.

Even if you’re not a fan of scary rides, this is an excellent destination for couples and families.

Address: Gyeonggi-do, Yongin-si, Cheoin-gu, Pogog-eup, Everland-ro, 199 South Korea

Entry Fee:  Adults, ₩52,000; Children, ₩41,000  

Nearest Station: Jeondae-Everland (Yongin EverLine, Exit 3).

2. Experience the Fun of Lotte World with Your Family

Over 7 million people a year visit Lotte World , the world’s largest indoor theme park. Daily parades and performances are inspired by seasonal festivals such as the Rio Samba Carnival and the Happy Christmas Party. At the same time, a variety of indoor and outdoor rides keep guests entertained throughout the day.

Additional attractions include an ice rink, an elevated monorail system, a folk museum, and a plethora of shopping. By visiting on a weekday, you can avoid crowds and long lines. Also, be sure to pick up a map at the entrance to help you navigate the complex’s many levels.

Address: 240 Olympic-ro, Jamsil-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Nearest Station: Jamsil (Line 2, 8; Exit 4)

BOOK LOTTE WORLD DAY PASS WITH KLOOK

3. Take Your Breathtaking Photos at N Seoul Tower

The N SEOUL TOWER , which has become a symbol of Seoul, was built at the highest point in the city to provide a panoramic view of the city’s most beautiful images. Furthermore, Korea’s first general radio wave tower, built in 1969, broadcasts television and radio throughout the metropolitan area.

The N SEOUL TOWER houses transmission antennas for KBS, MBC, SBS TV and FM, and PBC, TBS, CBS, and BBS FM. This transmission tower receives broadcasts from 48 per cent of the country’s audio population. Because of the living nature of Namsan, the N SEOUL TOWER has served as a resting place for Seoul residents and a tourist attraction for foreign visitors since it opened to the public in 1980.

It has evolved into a form of ‘light art’ that combines various media art with an unusual cultural art experience, thanks to the latest LED technology lighting that constantly changes colours and patterns. When visiting here, please take the Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle Bus (numbers 02 and 04) but take a cable car ride for the best view.

Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2(i)ga-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Cable car boarding station: 15 minutes from Myeongdong (Line 4, Exit 3). Walk down the street on the right side of the Pacific Hotel, and it will be easily noticeable.

4. Discover Your Authentic Korean Culture Through a Hanbok Experience

If you visit Seoul, you must see the royal palaces. Traditional roof tiles supported by wooden pillars stand gracefully among the skyscraper jungle, reminding us of all of Korea’s long history. Why not dress as the royal family did hundreds of years ago while you’re on the same grounds?

You can rent a hanbok for four hours for between ₩ 13,000 and ₩15,000 at various shops throughout Seoul. While this may seem like a steep price, those dressed in hanboks are granted free admission to Seoul’s four major palaces: Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Deoksugung, and Changgyeonggung. Furthermore, the vibrant clothing will make for memorable photographs.

5. Bukchon Hanok Village: An Experience Like No Other

Bukchon Hanok is a historically significant Korean traditional village in Seoul, between Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeok Palace, and Jongmyo Royal Shrine. The traditional village is made up of numerous alleys and hanok.

It has been preserved to demonstrate a 600-year-old urban environment. It is now used as a traditional culture centre and hanok restaurant, allowing visitors to experience the vibe of the Joseon Dynasty. Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Seoul.

Address: Jongno-gu, Gahoe-dong, Seoul, South Korea

Entry Fee: FREE 

Nearby Station: Anguk Station (Line 3, Exit 1 or 2)

6. Gyeongbokgung Palace: step back into Korean Royalty

The courtyard of Gyeongbokgung Palace is well-lit. Despite the shadows of uncertain tourists, you are reminded of the palace’s grandeur. Gyeongbokgung, also known as the ‘Northern Palace,’ is the largest and most well-known five palaces.

While a visit to such a popular destination may lack uniqueness, it is important to remember that the 1395 structure is also one of the most representative of the Joseon Dynasty. Seeing the sky reflected around Gyeonghoeru Palace, particularly on a clear blue day, can serve as a reminder of why specific popular destinations remain so popular.

Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Entry fee: Adults ₩ 3,000, Youths ₩ 1,500.

Nearby station: Gyeongbokgung Palace (Line 3, Exit 5)

7. Changdeokgung Palace – Marvel at the Cultural Heritage of South Korea

Changdeokgung Palace , the best preserved of all the palaces, is the preferred palace of the Joseon princes and a personal favourite of Seoul residents. Though it is small and quiet, Changdeokgung makes an impression due to its natural integration into the surrounding landscape.

Changdeokgung’s Secret Garden awes even the most jaded of visitors. Initially reserved for the king alone, the garden’s waters reflect the hues of the surrounding pavilions. If you’re fortunate enough to visit Korea in the spring or autumn, keep an eye out for the Moonlight Tour.

Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Waryong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Entry fee: Adults ₩3,000, Youths ₩1,500. 

Nearby station : Anguk (Line 3)

8. Exploring Gangnam-gu – The Heart of Seoul

Located in the heart of Seoul, Gangnam-gu is the perfect place to explore, be it for leisure or festivities. Long before PSY’s “Gangnam Style” became a global phenomenon, Koreans were already gathering in this area for its popular nightlife spots and recreational activities. From lively bars to trendy shopping malls, there is something for everyone here!

Nearby Station: Gangnam (Line 2, Exit 10 or 11)

9. Discover the Delicious Delights of Gwangjang Market

For a unique gastronomic experience, visit the renowned Gwangjang Market in Seoul! Established over one hundred years ago, the market offers an impressive array of delicious delights that will tantalize your taste buds.

From ocean-fresh seafood to authentic Korean street food, no stomach will be left unsatisfied at Gwangjang Market. Discover the delectable dishes and discover just why this market is so beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno 4(sa)-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Entry Fee: FREE Nearby stations: Jongno 5-ga Station (Line 1, Exit 8) or Euljiro 4-ga Station (Lines 2 or 5, Exit4)

10. Exploring Myeong-Dong – Seoul’s Most Popular Shopping District

Myeong-Dong , the best part about this area is all the street food vendors. If you’re looking for branded clothes and mid-range restaurants, then head over to Cheongdamdong Avenue! There’s no shortage of places in Central Seoul that cater exclusively to your taste buds with authentic Korean cuisine on every corner – perfect if spice isn’t an issue either 😉

Admission Fee: FREE 

Nearest station: Myeongdong (Line 4, Exit 6).

11. Experience the Shopping Scene at Ewha Women’s University

Ewha Women’s University , it is the first Korean women’s educational institution, founded in 1986. A popular shopping area surrounds it as well. Although the shops here aren’t exactly large shopping malls, there are many small shops where you can find ready-made clothes, shoes, and cosmetics.

Since most of the buyers are students, the prices are significantly lower than they would otherwise be.

Address: 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Daehyeon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Entrance Fee: FREE

Nearest Station: Ewha Woman’s University Station (Line 2, Exit 2 or 3)

12. Exploring Seoul’s Coolest Neighbourhood – Hongdae

Hongdae , the centre of Seoul’s youth culture is the self-expression of many students. There are a lot of creative shops and a place for soothing food. It would be best to go here on Saturday; the free market in Hongdae comes to life on Saturday. This market is self-expression for young students who make handicrafts. It would be great to see from close up and feel a different picture.

Nearby Station: Hongik University (Line 2, Exit 9)

13. Discover the Majestic Beauty of the Jogyesa Buddhist Temple

Jogyesa Temple , originally named Gakhwangsa, was founded in 1396 in a different location than now. The present temple was bulited in 1910 and relocated to its current site in 1936. As the primary temple of the Jogye Order, the largest Buddhist sect in South Korea, it holds great significance as a religious and cultural hub for Buddhists across the country.

Upon entering the temple premises, visitors are immediately captivated by the enchanting allure of traditional Korean architecture. At the heart of the complex stands the majestic Daeungjeon, the main hall adorned with intricate woodwork and vibrant paintings. Within this hall, a breathtaking golden statue of Seokgamoni Buddha emanates an aura of tranquillity and inner peace.

As you venture further, you will encounter the bell pavilion, a remarkable structure that houses the grand Jogye Bell, a massive bronze bell. Its resounding tones permeate the temple when struck, creating a harmonious and unifying atmosphere.

Address: 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

14. A visit to Aisa’s biggest underground Mall “STARFIELD COEX MALL”

STARFIELD COEX MALL is not just a shopping destination, but also a hub for entertainment enthusiasts. As the largest underground shopping mall in Asia, it offers a wide range of cutting-edge entertainment options. Catch the latest movies at the state-of-the-art multiplex theater, complete with luxurious seating and advanced technology.

Experience the wonders of virtual reality with immersive encounters and thrilling adventures. For those seeking a cultural experience, the mall also features an art gallery showcasing works from renowned artists around the world. With its diverse range of entertainment options, STARFIELD COEX MALL ensures that every visitor finds something that piques their interest.

Address: 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea

15. Explore & Discover Nami Island – A Day Tour Guide

A day trip to Nami Island is a great way to spend a day exploring history and culture. This half-moon shaped island lies in the middle of the Han River near Chuncheon. It was once the last resting place for General Nami, a military leader from the Joseon dynasty.

The beautiful Landscape of Nami Island has also been featured in films, like the popular South Korean TV series Winter Sonata, furthering its reach to viewers around Asia and beyond! Read more about Nami Island

How to get to Nami Island:

Arrive at Gapyeong Station via train. From the station, walk or take a cab to the ferry wharf, where you can purchase tickets to the island . Additionally, you can travel by bus. Take a shuttle bus from Insadong (near Tapgol Park’s West Gate) or the Sungnyemun Square Bus Stop in front of Namdaemun Market.

The bus departs at 9:30 am. The roundtrip fare is ₩ 15,00.  By emailing [email protected] or calling +82-2-753-1247, you can reserve a bus seat. Entrance Fee for the ferry to Nami Island : ₩13,000.

Choosing the right place to stay :

There are three central backpacking districts in Seoul: Jongno , Myeongdong , and Hongdae . Which location is the best? Your financial situation determines it. Almost all of the major tourist attractions are located in the area as mentioned above, so it depends on which places you want to visit first—some of which are listed below.

Myeongdong. It is known as Seoul City’s University Area. It serves as Seoul’s central shopping district, connecting boutiques and department stores. It is close to Myeongdong Shopping Street and Namdaemun Market. If you enjoy shopping, you should come here. You are free to shop with all of your heart.

Hongdae-Sinchon . This vibrant neighbourhood is home to live cafés and clubs, art markets, and gourmet restaurants, making it a popular hangout for local youth as well as an intriguing place to explore. These one-of-a-kind locations, combined with the cultural events, street performances, and festivals here, make Hongdae a hive of activity and excitement. It is close to Hongik Mural Street, Hongik University Street, and Ehwa Women’s University. Stay here if you’re a foodie. Jongno . The main historical and cultural centre of Seoul. Around Jongno, there are numerous historical temples, shrines, and traditional palaces. Jongno is home to four of the city’s five most significant monuments. Bukchon Hanok Village, Gwangjang Market, and Insa-dong are all nearby. If this is your first visit to Seoul, you should stay here. There are numerous tourist attractions within walking distance.

Getting to Seoul from Incheon Airport:

( AREX ) EXPRESS Train: Express railway from the airport is the fastest route. Express trains usually cost ₩14,800 adults and ₩6900 children.  Travel time is 43 minutes.  (This is a non-stop train)

AREX ALL STOP Train: The cheapest option, but keep in mind that it is not direct. This train has 12 stops before arriving at Seoul station so that it will take a little longer (travel time: 58 minutes), but you will only have to pay ₩4250.

By bus from Incheon Airport:

If your hotel/hostel is near one of the city’s bus stops. The bus journey will be the most convenient for you, and you won’t have to change trains, which is especially important if you have bags or luggage. I like this method because it is difficult for me to move from one train to another with 20+ kilo bags behind me. Surprisingly, each of Seoul’s three central backpacking districts has its bus stop! Remember that the buses you need to take are labelled with the following numbers:

JONGNO: 6002 buses (at Gate 5B or 12A). Take the Jongno 1 or 2 or 3 or 4 or 5 or 6 bus, whichever is closest to your hostel/hotel. Last bus: 11:30 pm. Fare: ₩ 10,000.

HONGDAE:  6002 buses (at Gate 5B or 12A). Take a train to Hongik University Station. Last bus: 11:30 pm. Fare: ₩ 10,000.  

MYEONGDONG:  6015 buses (at Gate 5B or 11B). Leave the train at Myeongdong Station. Last bus: 10:50 pm. Fare: ₩ 15,000.

How to Get Around in the City:

Seoul is a city that is worth walking around. The locals are very welcoming to tourists and can assure people that it is safe to walk everywhere. Most historical sites are close to each other and can be explored on foot if you stay in The Jongno area.

Otherwise, there is always a subway station nearby, and if you go a little further, there is nothing to worry about. Take the subway to get to your destination faster. Seoul’s extensive subway system is the world’s third largest, with 14 lines running from the bottom of the city to the top. The subway map appears complicated at first, but once you understand it, it’s pretty simple.

Other FAQs about Korea:

Language:  Korean. English is widely spoken as well. The majority of roads and businesses are labelled in both English and Korean.

Currency:   South Korean Won (KRW, ₩). KRW 1000 is roughly USD 0.86, MYR 3.61

Transaction Method:  The majority of establishments accept cash, debit, and credit cards.

T-Money: The most commonly used payment method for transportation is a T-Money card . It will save you ₩ 100 per journey, which isn’t much, but it is convenient because you won’t have to buy tickets every time. Another benefit of this card is its acceptance on trains and buses in several cities, including Seoul and Busan. To avoid unfavourable outcomes, keep the minimum balance on it.

T-MONEY (APPS)

Pocket wifi Rental and SIM Card:

South Korea has the world’s fastest internet connection! Many places offer free wifi, particularly fast-food restaurants and cafes. Assume you want to ensure that you are always connected to the Internet. In that case, you can pre-purchase a 4G SIM card or rent pocket wifi online.

There are numerous shops near the tourism counter where you can purchase a sim card reasonably. There are various prepaid plans available depending on how long you plan to stay in Korea. Packages are available for 5, 10, and 30 days.

Discover Seoul Pass:

The Discover Seoul Pass is a one-of-a-kind tourism pass that grants access to many incredible attractions throughout Seoul! The pass is the most convenient way for visitors to visit and explore Seoul’s major tourist attractions.

The Discover Seoul Pass is available in 24-, 48-, and 72-hour increments. Tourists can visit various attractions, including Korea’s four grand palaces, with just one card (Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, and Deoksugung). You’ll get discounts on additional services and attractions with the Discover Seoul Pass! The card also functions as a transit card (T-money).

Here are some tourist sites covered by Discover Seoul Pass:

• N Seoul Tower (Observatory)
• Trickeye & Ice Museum
• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Changdeokgung Palace
• Changgyeonggung Palace

Where to Shop in Seoul:

Places other than Myongdong and Hongde where shopping can be done are :

Dongdaemun Market : Everything is fashionable, from the most recent fabrics to bridal gowns. The complex consists of 26 shopping malls spread across five blocks, is home to 50,000 unique manufacturers and 30,000 speciality shops. Although this area is best known for wholesale, retail is also thriving.

Nearby Station: Dongdaemun Stadium (Line 2, 4 or 5)

Insadong : It’s ideal if you’re looking for traditional souvenirs such as artworks, ceramics, or paper goods, or if you’re interested in visiting some of the region’s traditional tea houses. Consider visiting on a Sunday, when the road is closed to motorists.

Nearby station: Jonggak Station (Line 1, Exit 3)

There are tons of things to do in Seoul, from skydiving to trying local delicacies. You’ll be amazed at how many things this South Korean capital city has to offer. Everything from the culture and scenery to the shopping and entertainment will blow you away. I definitely encourage you to add it to your list of places to visit in the future.

Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, is a must-visit destination for any traveller. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern amenities, there is something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. From exploring ancient palaces and temples to shopping in trendy neighbourhoods and indulging in delicious Korean cuisine, Seoul offers endless opportunities for adventure and discovery. So don’t miss out on this amazing city!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should we visit in Seoul?

Some of the top attractions to visit in Seoul include Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Tower, Myeong-dong shopping district, Bukchon Hanok Village, and the Dongdaemun Design Plaza. Other popular spots include the COEX Mall, Lotte World amusement park, and the National Museum of Korea.

What is Seoul famous for?

Seoul is famous for its rich history, vibrant culture, delicious food, and modern technology. Some of the top things that Seoul is known for include its traditional palaces, bustling shopping districts, K-pop music and entertainment industry, and innovative technology and design. Other popular attractions include the Namsan Tower, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and the Han River.

Which part of Seoul is best to stay in?

It really depends on what you’re looking for in a neighbourhood. For example, Gangnam is known for its upscale shopping and nightlife, while Hongdae is popular among young people for its artsy vibe and street performances. Myeong-dong is great for shopping and food, while Itaewon is known for its international flair and diverse dining options.

How many days do I need in Seoul?

While you can certainly see some of the highlights of Seoul in just a few days, we recommend spending at least five days in the city to really get a feel for its culture, history, and food scene. This will give you enough time to explore the major neighbourhoods, visit some of the top attractions, and try out some of the local cuisines.

What attracts people to Seoul?

Seoul is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture, and many things attract people to visit. Some of the top tourist attractions in Seoul include the Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Tower, Myeong-dong shopping district, Bukchon Hanok Village, and the vibrant street food scene.

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Seoul Travel Guide: What To Do and Must-Visit Attractions

With airports opening back up and tourism increasing in the past year, there’s plenty of destinations for you to choose from.

One of those places is Seoul, South Korea, which is home to brilliant exhibits of culture and art. What is there for you to do in Seoul, and is it worth it?

Seoul, South Korea is a large city filled with culture and tourist activities that make it worthwhile. Not only is Seoul a very safe city to visit, but it is rising in popularity due to the impacts Korean culture, entertainment, and business has had on the rest of the world. Seoul is among the most visited cities in the world. 

The rest of this article will cover what to do in the city, where to stay, what Seoul is known for, and a brief conclusion.

What To Do In Seoul

Seoul (서울) is a vibrant city with gorgeous sights and culture you have to see. But before we get into that, we have to talk about one of the most important parts of South Korean culture: the food. Between side dishes, street food, and stews, South Korea has a versatile cuisine!

Side Dishes

A staple of Korean culture are the side dishes served with each meal. Called Banchan (반찬) by Koreans, side dishes is an idea that dates back to the Korean royal court cuisine, which consisted of anywhere between 2 to 12 side dishes.

Cheaper restaurants tend to serve less, but each side dish is tasty and compliments the meal. Banchan arrives before meals, but don’t confuse them with an appetizer. 

They are included in the cost of the meal, and the best part: they have free, unlimited refills!

Some common side dishes are: kelp noodle salad (cheonsachae salad or 천사채), spicy Korean coleslaw, sweet and salty soybeans (kongjabean or 콩자반), sweet and salty lotus roots (yeonkeun jorim or 연근조림), and Korean style sausage stir fry.

Street Food

If you’re looking for an alternative to dine-in restaurants, street food is just for you! Street food is ready-to-eat food you can buy from local vendors. 

Even better: vendors are easy to find and are lined up and down the Seoul streets, all you have to do is find the one that suits you!

There are plenty of foods to choose from, so get your chopsticks ready. For starters, you have to try Korean style fried chicken. It’s a must when you’re in Seoul. 

Street vendors will absolutely sell Korean fried chicken, and you should at least try them while you’re there!

There’s also bibimbap (비빔밥). Bap (밥) in Korean literally means rice, or meal. Therefore, bibimbap translates to mixed rice. 

Bibimbap has warm rice and sauteed and or seasoned vegetables. A raw or fried egg and sliced meat, normally beef, are included as well.

Korean dumplings ( mandu or 만두) are another commonly served street food dish. There are many different types of dumplings you can get such as vegetable dumplings, beef dumplings, and or pork dumplings. These foods are all super tasty and super affordable!

With Seoul having a cool climate, soups and stews are a significant portion of a Korean’s diet. One popular stew is known as Army stew. 

This stew has American processed meat such as Spam, ham, bacon, and hot dogs. Those meats are mixed into a Korean stew with kimchi .

Kimchi-jjigae (김치찌개) is a stew made with kimchi and various other ingredients such as pork or seafood, scallions, onions, and diced dubu. This stew is a popular choice in South Korea, and it’s a common stew to find in Seoul.

Lastly, another popular stew is Korean crab stew (kkotgetang 꽃게탕). This stew is pretty self-explanatory. It’s a stew with a flower crab as the primary ingredient. 

There’s also Korean radish, garlic, dried anchovies, and other ingredients that vary by the recipe.

The Sights In Seoul, South Korea

Seoul itself is an architectural landmark. There are specific sights in Seoul that are places you have to visit while you’re there. 

A few of those places are: N Seoul Tower, the Ansan Starlight Village, and the Jogyesa. There’s also entertainment like underground shopping.

N Seoul Tower

The N Seoul Tower is famous for its location and height allowing access to the gorgeous skyline of Seoul. 

Back in 1969, it was utilized as Korea’s first general radio wave tower. TV and radio broadcasts would play from the N Seoul Tower to the surrounding metropolitan area.

This tower is 236 meters high and is the second-highest point in Seoul. It is a communication and observation tower on Nam Mountain. 

The N Seoul Tower is in the center of Seoul, which is why the height and location is so perfect for tourists looking to get amazing pictures.

Ansan Starlight Village

Perhaps the brightest pick on this list, the Ansan Starlight village is a radiant garden along the expressway of Ansan. 

It is known for being festive and romantic all-year-round, and displays of over 200 animals are there. These animals include: owls, cranes, swans, elephants, and more.

Not only does it provide an astonishing atmosphere for relaxation and Instagram posts, but it’s also an area that sparks romance. 

Marriage proposals are a common occurrence there due to the perfect lighting and activities.

The Jogyesa (조계사) is a Korean Buddhist temple. It is the chief temple of the Jogye Order. The building itself dates back to the 14th century, becoming the chief temple in 1936. It is located in central Seoul, and it is known for its zen environment.

Not only is the architect magnificent, but the nature surrounding it is fresh and preserved, just like the temple. 

The Jogyesa is a common tourist site for experiencing royal palace life. You can tour the building with a guide and see all the history and architecture with your own eyes.

Underground Shopping

A famous activity in Seoul is underground shopping. Two examples of underground shopping areas are the Express Bus Terminal Underground Center and the Gangnam Underground Shopping Center. 

These shopping areas are perfect for good finds, even on a rainy day.

Many of the shopping centers, both above ground and underground, are located in Myeongdong , the shopping district of Seoul. 

Underground shopping centers don’t risk putting a large dent in your budget. They’re cheap yet fashionable and useful.

Some tips for underground shopping are to bring cash with you and check out the trendy stores. Some items require cash, no credit. 

As for the trendy stores, you can find the latest fashion trends at underground stores for more affordable prices, so be on the lookout for that!

Where To Stay In Seoul

When it comes to the size of South Korea, it’s not as large as other countries like America. So, their compromise was to build their buildings upwards to make more space, not side-to-side. This means there are many apartment buildings and hotels all around Seoul.

There are 5 main districts in Seoul you should consider staying near: Myeongdong , Hongdae , Gangnam , Itaewon , and Jamsil .

Prices and quality depends on which area you choose. There’s Myeongdong (명동), which is known for being a huge shopping district. 

The Westin Josun Seoul Hotel is only a 5-minute walk away from the bustling life of Myeongdong. It’s a highly rated hotel with many activities inside.

The shopping district has everything you’ll need from body care items you misplaced to trinkets and K-pop albums. There are department stores, shoe stores like Adidas, perfume shops, skincare stores, H&M, and many more for all your traveling and souvenir needs.

Hongdae (홍대) is for those craving an adventure more indie and fashionable. It’s a creative district with plenty of cafes and Korean BBQ. Mono House Hongdae is a minimalist housing property that’s affordable and only 5 minutes away from the Hongik University Subway Station.

The entertainment value at Hongdae is incredible. The Tricky Eye Museum Seoul relies on visual tricks to keep you on your toes and show you various art. There’s also clubs for dancing and music. Hongdae as a whole values urban arts, indie music culture, and entertainment.

Gangnam (강남구) is a wealthier district of Seoul, meaning higher quality living, but at the cost of much higher prices. The Park Hyatt Seoul is an expensive 5-star hotel that has a relaxing spa and gorgeous views of Gangnam. It’s worth the price for the views alone!

There’s also the Aloft Seoul Gangnam. This is a cheaper, 4-star hotel that’s the better option for those wishing for a taste of the high life without losing a significant amount of money in the process. It includes business services, an on-site restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and a lounge.

If you were called the life of the party growing up, Itaewon (이태원) is for you. It’s nicknamed the “Western Town” of Seoul due to the variety of international cuisine and entertainment offered there. It has multiple unique bars, restaurants, and activities around town all worth visiting.

The Grand Hyatt Seoul is a 5-star hotel with over 600 rooms and over 50 suites. It’s close to both Itaewon and Myeongdong, but it is expensive. However, it may be worth it since some amenities include an on-site restaurant, an indoor pool, and free Wi-Fi.

Jamsil (잠실동) is the best spot for families. It’s also great for those who love sports. Jamsil is home to not one, but two professional Korean baseball teams: the LG Twins and Doosan Bears. It’s rich with K-pop culture, and it’s also home to Lotte World, an amusement park.

The Lotte World Hotel is right beside the amusement park of the same name, and it is a 5-star hotel that also sits on top of Jamsil Subway Station. 

It’s the perfect hotel for your family to travel across Seoul and Jamsil, experiencing the amusement park as well as the culture.

What Seoul Is Known For

It would be impossible to talk about Seoul without mentioning the entertainment industry that has brought us popular K-dramas such as Squid Game, and the K-pop industry that brought us the worldwide superstars BTS. Seoul is overflowing with creativity and art.

Fun fact: Seoul is the birthplace of K-pop. Although the term wasn’t coined until 1999 by Cho Hyun-jin, Korean music groups rose from Seoul. 

History and culture is thriving in the city, and that’s what tourists go to visit. Places like the Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁) are famous destinations.

One of the most famous aspects of Seoul is the street food. Street food is cheaper than restaurant food and it still tastes yummy. It’s a perfect alternative to when you don’t want to spend a lot of money, and you want to wander around the streets of Seoul while eating.

South Korea is known for its beauty standards and skincare . Koreans use natural ingredients to keep their skin clean and smooth. In the west, Korean skincare products and routines are popular because of the glowing skin they cause. Many of these products come from Seoul.

Lastly, Seoul is known for the preserved royal temples around the land. There are more than 900 traditional Buddhist temples that are centuries old. In total, there are over 20,000 temples in Seoul.

Seoul is a beautiful and safe city for tourists that has grown in popularity over the years. It is known for its rich culture, entertainment, skincare, K-pop, and preservation of traditional Buddhist temples.

The food is a must-have. There are various types of food such as side dishes, street food, and stews that will keep you invested in the culture surrounding you. There’s also the sights of Seoul like the N Seoul Tower, and those sights encourage you to snap countless pictures.

Lastly, the 5 main districts of Seoul you should consider visiting are: Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, Itaewon, and Jamsil.

Each individual place has its own lifestyle and culture. There’s the shopping, the indie culture, the wealthy, the partying, and the amusement park.

Don’t forget to check out Ulsan , Sejong , and Daejeon .

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20 Must-Visit Places in Seoul

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Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is one of the most developed magnificent exciting megacities in the world and is a major tourist destination. In Seoul, situated on the banks of the miraculous Han River, there are countless must-visit places, for the first-timers as well as for the seasoned travelers. The wide spectrum of places to visit in Seoul includes a mix of traditional and modern charms for every taste! 

Here are the handpicked top 20 must-visit places in Seoul, covering natural wonders to coffee shops. As it is not possible to cover all “Must-Visit Places in Seoul” in one single post, links to other similar places are interweaved.

These places can be reached by different available modes like bus, car, subway, cable car, etc. and some of these places require prior booking (can be done online and avoid waiting line!) and may have some tickets.

Table of Contents

Cheonggyecheon Stream

The 10 km long Cheonggyecheon stream starts from Cheonggye Plaza, a popular cultural arts venue, and flows in the middle of the city, before flowing into the Hangang (River). There are 22 bridges across the river, with many attractions along its length. It offers open views of the palace and breathtaking views of the mountains.

It is a place for outdoor exhibitions and festivals and is a favorite leisure spot for the locals in the evenings. During events like Buddha’s Birthday, the Lantern Festival, Christmas, etc., the stream is decorated with light arrangements and art pieces.

Read More: Buddha’s Birthday Celebrations and the Lotus Lantern Festival in South Korea

Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon   Hanok Village is an awesome place to visit in Seoul if you love architecture and want to experience Seoul’s traditional culture. The traditional houses, called Hanok, are designed to maintain a balance between the house and nature. This makes them aesthetically pleasing and one of the must-see places in Seoul!

Read More: Want to experience a traditional Korean lifestyle? Visit Bukchon Hanok Village and stay in a Korean Hanok to feel the tranquility

The picturesque village with over 400 Hanok is situated between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace. The village features a couple of small cafes, restaurants, traditional teahouses, and shops offering handmade crafts and souvenirs. You can also find it in this area.

Jogyesa  Temple 

Jogyesa temple is one of Korea’s major Buddhist temples and is the headquarters of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. This temple is located in one of the most popular cultural streets in central Seoul. This beautiful and colorful temple is the center of Zen Buddhism in Korea and a place you must visit in Seoul. 

Read More: South Korea’s 33 Most Beautiful Temples from CNN Travel

Huge numbers of tourists visit the temple to experience Buddhist culture, learn about Buddhism, and festival atmosphere. The temple’s courtyard is filled with vibrant lanterns, and the annual lantern festival is celebrated on Buddha’s birthday at this temple. 

Jongmyo  Shrine

This UNESCO-listed Jongmyo Shrine is one of the prime tourist attractions in Seoul. Jongmyo Shrine in Seoul is adjacent to Changdeokgung Palace. It is a cultural center in the city where one can learn about the Korean culture, their traditional medicine, songs, cuisines, and customs.

In 1995, UNESCO declared the monument as the oldest preserved, royal Confucian shrine . 

Gilsangsa  Temple

The location of the temple in the middle of the city makes it quite popular destination amongst tourists and locals. Gilsangsa Temple has a relatively short history, built on the site of a fancy restaurant in 1997. 

Read More: Top Ten Meditation Retreats in Seoul

The temple features special halls dedicated to practicing meditation – a Zen center for Buddhists and the House of Silence for the general public. It serves as a downtown cultural space by offering a variety of Buddhist programs like temple experience, classes on Buddhist teachings, and temple stays.

Changdeokgung  Palace

Changdeokgung Palace is one of the most beautiful of Seoul’s five main palaces. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most well-preserved palaces amongst all the royal palaces from the Joseon Dynasty reigning from 1392 to 1910.

It is regarded as a masterpiece of Korean palace architecture, garden and landscape planning, and related arts where the buildings are in perfect harmony with the natural setting. There are many things to see in Changdeokgung Palace, including a moonlight tour of Changdeokgung Palace. This palace is wildly popular because it has a large ‘secret garden’ that you must visit in Seoul.  

Read More: Changdeokgung Palace (창덕궁) and Huwon, The Secret Garden

Huwon , The Secret Garden

Huwon, the huge “secret garden” of natural beauty at the back of the famous Changdeokgung Palace, has countless temples, pavilions, fountains, and exotic flora and fauna. It is one of a kind example of a Korean garden design that flows naturally with the surrounding nature. The exquisite design is adapted to the topography, geography, and ridges of Mt. Bugaksan. 

There is a large pond in the center of Huwon with two Pavilions with unique construction designs. One gets mesmerized with gorgeous multiple cherry blossoms during spring and with colorful foliage in the autumn/fall.

Changing of Royal Guards Ceremony

The Royal Guard changing ceremony is definitely worth watching in your trip to Seoul! Visitors get to see a rare insight of this traditional royal palace ceremony. The ceremony, which started more than 500 years ago, is revived since 1996. The ceremony makes you travel back in time as the guards perform flawlessly in their traditional uniforms and weapons.

Read More: 5 Seoul Palaces You Must Visit to Add to Your Royal South Korea Experience

The ceremony takes place at Gwanghwamun Gate, the entrance of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Gyeongbokgung Palace is the most beautiful and remains the grandest of all five palaces. The National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum are also places you must visit in Seoul.

Read More: Gyeongbokgung Palace – Korea’s Magnificent Main Palace

Changing of the Royal Guards Ceremony is also held at Deoksugung Palace, which is the smallest of the five palaces in Seoul.

Read More: Deoksugung Palace (덕수궁), Seoul

Namsan  Seoul Tower 

Also commonly known as “N Seoul Tower,” is a symbol of Seoul since it first opened to the public in 1980. It is a 236 m tall communication and observation tower located on Mt. Namsan. 

From the top, the tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of city during the day, as well as at night. The cultural space here offers exhibitions, movies, performances, as well as upscale restaurants and snack bars. N Seoul Tower is a place to visit more than once.

Read More: 10 Amazing Buildings in Seoul You Must See – Best Architecture in Seoul

Lotte  World

The Lotte World is the world’s largest indoor amusement theme park with an outdoor amusement park, ‘Magic Island.’ It is a must-visit in Seoul for families and a great place to have fun with the kids. The Gyro Drop, Gyro Swing, and the Comet Express rollercoaster are some of the best rides for maximum fun and thrills.

Read More: All you need to know about before visiting the magic world of Lotte World in Seoul

There is an artificial island inside a lake linked by monorail, shopping malls, a luxury hotel, a Korean folk museum, sports facilities, an aquarium, luxury boutiques, a water park, and movie theatres, all in one place.

Bukhansan  National Park

For lovers of natural beauty with tall trees, clear water rivers, and fresh air, Bukhansan National Park close to the Seoul City Center is the most visited National Park in Korea. This is an ideal place for picnics as well as a day-night hike up Bukhansan Mountain. You can discover a fantastic view of the city from the top.

Read More: Best Running Routes in Seoul

Starfield  COEX Mall

Starfield COEX Mall (commonly COEX Mall) is the worlds’ largest underground shopping mall. It carries national and international brands. It houses hundreds of shops, two food courts, a bookstore, a mega movie theatre, and offers attractions like an aquarium and the Kimchi Museum.

Read More: All You Need To Know About Kimchi

COEX Mall is one of the best places to go for shopaholics and fashionistas and has everything you need in one place. The COEX Mall is part of the COEX complex, run by the Korea International Trade Association, and is adjacent to the COEX Convention & Exhibition Center. 

Read More: Seoul’s Best Underground Shopping Malls – A Shopaholic’s Paradise Under Your Feet

Namdaemun  Market

Namdaemun Market is the city’s oldest and largest traditional retail market. 

This large and busy market has a bit of everything, including clothing, souvenirs, purses, flowers, and all. Namdaemun Market is the place to shop for cheap goods, as well as fresh, local fruits and vegetables. Many stalls are open into the wee hours of the morning.

Read More: 20 Must Eat Korean Street Food in Korea

On the streets, there is a maze of stalls with sellers of all kinds of merchandise at reasonable prices without compromising quality. This is another reason Namdaemun Market is so famous.

Myeongdong is the epicenter for shopping, restaurants, and street food in Seoul! Seoul’s most prominent shopping district offers all the trendy Korean fashion and skincare to take home. There’s no other place to shop than Myeongdong in Seoul, where you’ll find the variety and everything from internationally recognized brands to unique Korean items.

Read More: Top 4 K-Beauty Consumer Hotspots in Seoul

It is also the best place to shop for famous Korean Cosmetic brands such as Etude House, Skin Food, Laneige, and the face shop, Missha! The place is lively with a variety of family restaurants, fast food, plus Korean, Western, and Japanese dining options.

It is said that you can’t claim Seoul visit without visiting Myeongdong!

Read More: K-Beauty Shopping in Seoul – Innovative Flagship Stores with Innovative Experiences

Gwangjang  Market

Gwangjang Market is the largest and most famous market for silk, satin, and linen bed sheets. The market attracts both locals and tourists. In Gwangjang Market, there are plenty of food stalls, and it is also the best place to try local delicacy and all sorts of Korean street food.

It is also the market for couples planning for their wedding and setting up their new home with home furnishings, wedding presents, traditional Korean attire, hanbok, etc. The market of restaurants & vintage clothing opens all year round.

Samcheongdong Road

One of the many art galleries for art lovers is Samcheongdong Road, one of Seoul’s most visited neighborhoods. Artists have set up shops in the form of traditional and modern art museums, galleries, and workshops in charming renovated hanoks, the traditional Korean houses. One of the famed fine art galleries, GAMO Gallery, specializes in contemporary art 

From the rooftop cafes at the chic suburb of Samcheongdong, one can Enjoy favorite drinks and watch the sun sets over the beautiful horizon.

Leeum – Samsung Museum

The Leeum Samsung Museum is one of Seoul’s most powerful, prestigious, and famous private art galleries, founded by the Samsung Foundation in 2004. Leeum is a must-visit places in Seoul for anyone interested in art to explore dedicated areas displaying Korean traditional & modern art, international contemporary art, and special exhibitions.

Read More: Top Museums in Seoul, South Korea

It treasures many pieces of art that are designated national treasures by the Korean government. It is one of Seoul’s most diverse museums that exhibits a combination of Oriental and Western works from antiques to contemporary works of local and international artists. 

The War Memorial of Korea

The War Memorial of Korea is like a war museum opened on the former site of the army headquarters. It is the best place near Seoul to see the history of Korea. Poignant exhibits, War memorabilia, military equipment, fighter planes, tanks, artillery, and naval weapons used in the Korean wars, make it a perfect place to learn about Korea’s history of warfare.

Read More: Taegeukgi: The South Korean Flag – A Brief History

The War Memorial has prehistoric weapons and impressively displays from a different era of Korean history, including a high-tech 3D video about war history. The building and grounds are beautiful and full of war relics. 

DDP White Rose Garden

One of the most romantic places to visit in Seoul is the DDP White Rose Garden. This garden was set up to commemorate the nation’s 70th year of independence in 2015. The garden has more than 25,000 LEDs that light up at night to reveal a stream of white roses against the darkness.

The view is so beautiful and moving that has become one of the most famous places in Seoul. It is something to be enjoyed with someone you love.

Coffee Hanyakbang

An almost hidden place down a narrow, unmarked alleyway, Coffee Hanyakbang, is a Seoul’s Must-Visit for the Coffee Connoisseurs of all ages, for a perfect coffee experience. The decorated shop sells delicious, hand-drip coffee at reasonable prices. The whole place is filled with the aroma of fresh roasting of beans and hand-ground on-site; and offers a perfect cup of tongue-tingling fresh coffee every time.

Read More: Top 10 Korean Coffee Chains to Enjoy in Seoul

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35 Unique Things To Do In Seoul For First Time Visitors

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: August 14, 2023

Seoul has so many fun things to do for the whole family, including royal palaces, museums, hiking trails, parks and observation decks. The Seoul Sky Tower, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Peak and the War Memorial of Korea are some of the most popular attractions in the city.

In this guide we show you the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea including hidden gems we think you shouldn’t miss.

Our Seoul Experience

We spent 14 memorable days exploring Seoul in March 2023 . Our days were filled with museums, hikes, palaces and Korean BBQ. But even with two weeks, we still couldn’t accomplish everything on our Seoul bucket list because there’s just so much to do in this amazing city.

Our favorite Seoul attractions were the Lotte World Tower, touring the DMZ and Seodaemun Prison. But the popular sites are spread out throughout the entire city so we organized activities by specific area to see as much as possible . Read more  about us .

This guide will show you popular attractions you should consider adding to your Seoul itinerary along with money saving tips. Click the heart on the bottom of this page so you can easily return as you plan your trip. But before we get into our list, there are a few important transportation options you need to consider.

How To Get From Incheon Airport (ICN) To Seoul

Most visitors will arrive into Seoul from Inceheon International Airport (ICN). But this airport is located about an hour from the city so you’ll need to take a train, bus, taxi or car to your hotel. We think the easiest way to get from Incheon to Seoul is the AREX Airport Express Train . This is what we used and it takes about 43 minutes traveling nonstop between the airport and the city.

You can book tickets for the train online or at the airport like we did, but make sure you book the express train . There is another All Stop Train that runs from Inceheon, but it makes 10 stops and takes 53 minutes so it will be slower than the express option. Tickets cost 9,500 KRW (US$ 7.11) for adults or 7,500 KRW (US$ 5.61) for children.

>> Book tickets for AREX Airport Express here

If you don’t feel comfortable with public transportation or you want a little luxury during your trip, you can also book a private transfer to the neighborhood of your choice.

Travel Tip : The ticket machines at the airport do not accept credit or debit cards so you’ll need cash in South Korean Won to purchase train tickets.

How To Get Around Seoul

The easiest way to get around Seoul is by subway because the city has an extensive system with over 20 lines. We like the subway because it’s environmentally friendly and extremely cost effective. You can use cash or a T-Money card to pay for your subway tickets.

The express train will arrive into the 2nd floor basement of Seoul Station and from here, you’ll need to make it your hotel. We used the subway because it’s cheap and we saw a decent amount of traffic so wanted to avoid sitting in a taxi after a long flight.

If you’re planning to use the subway for the majority of your trip, we recommend you purchase a T-Money card . You can set the amount of money on the card and it will be scanned every time you get on and off the subway. A single use ticket costs 1,500 KRW (US$ 1.12) for adults and 500 KRW (US$0.37) for children.

Visitors can purchase a T-Money card at select convenience stores or online prior to visiting . But if you’re just arriving into Seoul with your suitcase, you can pay with cash for your first trip on the subway then purchase your T-money card once you get acclimated. We’ve included the best subway stop and exit for all attractions listed in this guide.

Travel Tip : For those visitors planning to see more than just Seoul, you should look into the Korea Rail Pass because it will give you unlimited train rides on almost all trains operated by KORAIL.

Now, let’s take a look at the best places to visit in Seoul!

1. Visit The Royal Palaces

The 5 royal palaces in Seoul were built during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). They showcase beautiful architecture and centuries of important Korean history. The most popular palace is Gyeongbokgung followed by Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung and Gyeonghuigung respectively.

Most palaces offer free guided tours which we highly recommend if this is your first time in Seoul . We’ve personally visited each palace ourselves and wrote an extensive guide with pros and cons if you don’t have enough time to visit all of them. So start with our comparison of Seoul’s royal palaces to see which one you want to visit.

If you’re not sure which palace to see, check out each one individually:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace (most popular)
• Changdeokgung Palace (has a secret garden)
• Changgyeonggung Palace (our favorite)
• Deoksugung Palace (two museums inside)
• Gyeonghuigung Palace (least visited)

Many visitors dress up in a hanbok to visit the royal palaces. A hanbok is the traditional clothing of Korea and it was used to signify an individual’s gender, class, marital status or age. Any visitor waring a hanbok will receive free entry into Seoul’s palaces . It’s very common for visitors to have their hair and make up done so they can take photos during their visit. You can rent a hanbok here .

2. Jongmyo Shrine

The Jongmyo Shrine contains the spirit tables of the deceased kings and queens from the Joseon Dynasty. Based on Confucian principles, these sacrificial rites symbolize the legitimacy of the royal family.

• Address : 157 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu
• Location : Google Maps
• Subway stop : Jungno 3-ga Station (line 1, exit 11), (line 3, exit 8), (line 5, exit 8)

In 1995, Jongmyo was listed on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and this unique shrine is definitely a must do thing in Seoul. We couldn’t visit during the free guided tour, but we used the informational brochure to explore the stunning complex.

READ : How to visit the Jongmyo Shrine

3. Bukchon Hankok Village

One of the must see things is Bukchon Hankok Village because this stunning town features 1,000 traditional homes that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. The beauty of the village makes it one of the most instagrammable places in Seoul and it can be very crowded.

• Region : Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : Anguk Station (Line 3, exit 2)

We included the main photo spot on our interactive Seoul map you’ll find later in this guide, but we recommend you wander around the village to enjoy the scenery and possibly find a quieter section in town. This experience by Klook is a great option for hanbok rentals if you want to take fun photos.

4. Namsan Seoul Tower

The Namsan Seoul Tower is one of the two observation decks that instantly grab your attention when looking at the city skyline. We think the N Seoul Tower is one of the fun things to do in Seoul because you can take a cable car up to Namsan Park , where you’ll find an entrance to the observation deck.

• Address : 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu
• Subway stop : Myeongdong Station (line 4, exit 3)

If you plan to visit, consider booking this combo ticket for the cable car and observation deck because Klook typically offers the best price. But make sure you give yourself enough time at Namsan Park as there’s so much to see in the area and the views are incredible.

READ : Tips for visiting Namsan Seoul Tower

5. Book A DMZ Tour

One of the top things to do in Seoul is visit the DMZ. While this tour is technically not in the city, most tours originate in Seoul so we’ve included it on our list. The DMZ is one of the most notorious and heavily fortified strips of land in the world running between North and South Korea with tensions still existing today.

From Seoul, most tours begin at Imjingak Park where visitors can explore the park on their own. However, Imjingak Park is the last point you can visit without a tour . You must have a tour guide to explore other locations along the DMZ such as the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel , the Dora Observatory and the Joint Security Area .

Tourists can visit both the DMZ and the JSA, but you must be part of a guided tour . Before booking, we recommend you read our DMZ Tour Review to see which tour would be best for you. But if you already know what you want to do, here are the most popular DMZ Tours:

• Get Your Guide – South Korea DMZ half or full day option
• Klook – Demilitarized Zone Tour (we booked this tour)
• Viator – DMZ Tour with expert guide
• JSA Tour – Paju JSA + DMZ one day bus tour

READ : What to see at Imjingak Park

6. Jogyesa Temple

Located near Insa-dong, Jogyesa Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Korea . It’s one of the best places to go in Seoul because the temple symbolizes modern day Korean Buddhism. Constructed in 1395, Jogyesa Temple was originally built in a different location, but it was moved in 1938 and reconstructed in its current location.

• Address : 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : Anguk Station (line 3, exit 6)

We like Daeungjeon Hall because it features three large golden statues of Amitabha Buddha, Shakyamuni Buddha and Bhaisaiya Buddha measuring 4.8m (16 ft) in height. When you visit the temple, you can also see Baeksong (a 500 year old lacebark pine tree), Brahma Bell Pavilion, Paradise Hall, the One Pillar Gate and a Chinese Scholar Tree.

7. Gwangjang Market

If you’re a foodie, the Gwangjang Market is a must do activity in Seoul . Not only can you try many unique foods, but it was Seoul’s first permanent market made popular by Running Man .

• Address : 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : Jongno 5-ga Station (line 1, exit 7) or Euljiro 4-ga Station (line 2/5, exit 4)

The food is located on the first level of Gwangjang Market while the second floor showcases silk, satin or linen goods. Popular foods include:

• Bindaetteok  (mung bean pancakes)
• Tteokbokki  (spicy rice cakes)
• Sannakji  (live octopus)
• Bibimbap (rice and meat)

If looking for these foods seems overwhelming, try this Gwangjang market food tour to help you find the best Korean street foods.

8. Dongdaemun Market

Another popular Seoul activity is the Dongdaemun Market. This is Korea’s largest wholesale and retail shopping district with a whopping 26 malls and 30,000 speciality shops.

• Address : 272 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : Dongdaemun Station (line 4, exit 8) or Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (line 4, exits 1/14)

You’ll find many types of products ranging from silks, fabrics, shoes, accessories, leather, electronics, office supplies and so much more. We had very limited space in our suitcases so we couldn’t buy anything, but it was fun to walk around the market .

9. Bukhansan National Park

Those looking for adventurous things to do in Seoul should look no further than Bukhansan National Park . Designated as the 15th national park of Korea in 1983, Bukhansan offers visitors gorgeous stretches of mountain peaks and crystal clear streams stretching between Seoul and Gyeonggi-do.

The park is divided into two main sections with Bukhansan Mountain to the south and Dobongsan Mountain to the north with Uiryeong Pass in the middle. It’s an extremely popular park with over 20 million residents living within the vicinity.

We think the best part about Bukhansan is the accessibility from just about anywhere . If you want to hike, but would feel more comfortable with a guide, check out these popular tours on Viator .

10. Inwangsan Peak

Another outdoorsy thing to do in Seoul is climb Inwangsan Peak. This is Seoul’s main hiking trail which follows the Seoul City Wall and passes through the summit at 338m. Built in 1396 to defend the capital during the Joseon Dynasty, the Hanyangdoseong or the Seoul City Wall is 18,600m long. This barrier passes through Inwangsan, Bugaksan, Naksan and Namsan peak.

There are numerous ways to access this trail and we highly recommend this hike if it’s your first visit to Seoul. Even with two weeks, we were limited with time and we didn’t want to lose an entire day hiking in Bukhansan National Park so we opted for Inwangsan Peak .

READ : Top rated hiking apps

11. Lotte World Amusement Park

Lotte World is an extremely popular entertainment complex located in the middle of the city. Here you’ll find an enormous indoor theme park, a luxury hotel, an observation tower and Magic Island , an outdoor amusement park.

• Address : 240 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu
• Subway stop : Jamsil Station (line 2/8, exit 4)

We think Lotte World is one of the best things to do in Seoul with kids , but there a few different tickets and pass options so make sure to purchase the correct one for your visit. Here are popular ticket options for Lotte World:

• Lotte World One Day Ticket
• Lotte World Aquarium
• Lotte World Tower

Travel Tip : Lotte World Amusement Park is included on the Klook Seoul Pass or you can visit the Busan Lotte World to compare parks.

12. Seoul Sky Observatory

The Seoul Sky Observatory is located in Lotte World Tower. This is the tallest building in South Korea and it’s one of the cool things to do in Seoul. Interestingly, the Lotte World Tower currently holds the record as the  world’s 6th tallest building  standing at 1,819 ft (554m) only just passing the  One World Trade Center  in NYC.

• Address : 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu
• Subway stop : Jamsil Station (line 2/8, exit 2/11)

If you’ve visited the Namsan Seoul Tower, we still recommend you climb this observatory because it’s very different. Klook offers a great deal on tickets here .

READ : How to visit the Seoul Sky Observatory

13. Nanta Show

A unique thing to do in Seoul is attend the Nanta Show. This is currently the longest running show in Korean history and features four hilarious chefs as they cook under pressure. Sadly, we didn’t have enough time for a show when we visited, but it’s on our bucket list for next time.

Shows last about 90 minutes and Nanta combines Korean folk songs with modern day music. It’s a nonverbal performance so there is no language barrier and anyone can enjoy the performance . Here are tickets for the popular Nanta Show:

• Get Your Guide

Compare prices before booking your Nanta Show to secure the best price.

Travel Tip : There is a NANTA Theater in Myeongdong and Hongdae so make sure you chose the correct theater when booking tickets.

14. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) stands for Dream, Design, and Play . This stunning complex holds various exhibitions, fashion shows, conferences, forums and international events. Designed by Zaha Hadid , the stunning curves and bold shapes of the DDP complex attract photographers and influencers alike so you can expect it to by busy.

• Address : 281 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu
• Subway stop : Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Station (line 2/4/5, exit 1) or Dongdaemun Station (line 1/4, exit 7)

Travel Tip : We loved the Magis Spun Chairs in the Designers Lounge so see if you can find them!

15. Cheonggyecheon Stream

As part of an urban renewal project, the Cheonggyecheon Stream runs straight through downtown Seoul . It mimics a stream that was present during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). You’ll find numerous informational plaques which tell some very interesting tales along the route.

• Region : Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : City Hall Station (line 1, exits 4/5), Euljiro 1-ga Station (line 2, exits 2/3) or Dongdaemun Station (line 4, exits 6/8)

The Cheonggyecheon Stream begins in the Cheonggye Plaza and passes under 22 bridges before eventually flowing into the Hangang River . You can also visit the Cheonggyecheon Museum for a non-touristy thing to do in Seoul if you want to know more about the project and this area.

The Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA) is a modern art museum featuring 6 exhibition halls, a lecture hall, a library and visual reference materials.

• Address : 61 Deoksugung-gil, Jung-gu
• Subway stop : City Hall Station (line 1/2, exit 10) or Seodaemun Station (line 5, exit 6)

Opened in 1988, this three story building holds internationally renowned exhibitions twice a year. We like SeMA because the permanent exhibitions are free to visit , but you’ll have to pay for special exhibits.

17. War Memorial Of Korea

One of the top things to do in Seoul is visit the War Memorial of Korea . Not only is the War Memorial a free activity, but it’s one of the best memorials we have ever seen . The main hall pays tribute to both Korean and international allies showcasing the names of soldiers who gave their life to protect Korea.

• Address : 29 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu
• Subway stop : Samgakji Station (line 4, exit 1), (line 6, exit 12) or Namyeong Station (line 1, exit 1)

In addition to the memorial, you can visit the War History Room, Korean War Room, an open air exhibition area and a children’s museum. We knew this would be a large complex so we gave ourselves almost an entire day to visit the memorial and we still couldn’t see everything . So if you’re interested in Korean history, you should plan to spend several hours if not a whole day here.

Travel Tip : We found a cheap and cheerful restaurant near the memorial called Hangang Burger , if you need a quick bite.

18. Starfield COEX Mall

One of the best things to do in Seoul for young adults is visit the Starfield COEX Mall because it’s the largest underground mall in Asia with hundreds of stores. Here you’ll find both domestic and international brands, numerous dining options, the Kimchi Museum, the COEX Aquarium , and a Megabox Cineplex with 17 screens.

• Address : 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu
• Subway stop : Samseong Station (Subway Line 2, exit 5/6) or Bongeunsa Station (line 9, exit 7)

A popular place to visit for tourists is the Starfield Library with two stories of floor to ceiling bookshelves. We also loved the running track spanning throughout the bottom of the mall.

19. Bongeunsa Temple

Located very close to Starfield COEX Mall, Bongeunsa is a Buddhist temple with a long history dating back more than 1,200 years ago. It’s well known for Templestays which helps to spread the culture worldwide.

• Address : 531 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu
• Subway stop : Samsung (line 2, exit 6), Chungdam (line 7, exit 2) or Bongeunsa (Line 9, exit 1)

A highlight of Bongeunsa is the 28m (91 ft) stone statue of Maitreya known as the Future Buddha. This is one of the tallest stone statues in Korea so it’s certainly worth a visit. You’ll find the statue towards the back of the temple complex.

20. Seoul Olympic Park

Built for the 1988 games, the Olympic Park is a must do in Seoul because it’s now divided into several fun zones . Locals and tourists alike can visit the beautiful green space filled with sculptures and sports venues.

• Address : 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu
• SubwaysStop : Olympic Park Station (line 5, exit 3) or Mongchontoseong Station (line 8, exit 1)

This space also houses Korea’s largest sports arena and beautiful flowers bloom throughout the entire park depending on the time of year. Additional highlights include the Mongchon Fortress walking paths, the World Peace Gate, numerous dialogue sculptures, 88 Lake and an ice skating rink in winter. Popular places in Olympic Park for photos include:

• Wild flower garden
• Gourd tunnel
• Pink muhly Ggrass
• Golden ginkgo tree road

Travel Tip : If you don’t want to walk around the entire park, you can rent a two wheeled or four-wheeled bicycle near the SK Olympic Handball Gymnasium.

21. Visit A Themed Cafe

Themed cafes are one of the unique things to do in Seoul because you can find a cafe for just about anything. Below are some of the most popular themed cafes:

• 943 King’s Cross – Harry Potter cafe (Hongdae)
• Ddong Café – Poop cafe (Insadong)
• StyleNanda Pink Pool Cafe – Pink everything cafe (Hongdae)
• Greem Cafe – 2D cafe (Hongdae)

Before visiting any type of animal cafe, we highly recommend you do a little research to ensure you are supporting a cafe with ethical business practices. This is our responsibility as travelers .

Here are important things to consider before visiting an animal cafe:

• Reviews – Always read reviews and if you see animal neglect, it’s important to leave a negative review to warn others
• Type of pet – Wild or undomesticated pets should not be in a cafe
• Understand where the animals came from – For example, rescued strays loving their new life in a cafe is okay
• The cafe doesn’t limit people – This could induce stress on animals
• Animals don’t have a private space – Even animals need a break now and then

That being said, we have visited amazing animal cafes around the world run by incredible people who are making a huge difference . Just please do your homework prior to visiting!

22. National Folk Museum Of Korea

Located near Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum of Korea features over 4,000 artifacts showcasing lifestyles, traditions and history of Korean culture. The entire complex includes three permanent exhibits along with two special exhibits, an open air space and a children’s museum.

• Address : 37 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : Auguk Station (line 3, exit 1), Gyeongbokgung (line 3, exit 5) or Gwanghwamun Station (line 5, exit 2)

Admission to the National Folk Museum is free with a Gyeongbokgung Palace ticket . You can also join a free guided tour at 10:30 and 14:30 in front of Exhibition Hall 1.

23. Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market

The Noryangjin Fish Market is the largest and oldest seafood market in Korea with a massive floor space and 700 vendors. It’s open 24 hours a day, but if you want to see the bustling market in full glory, come in the morning during the auction or during the day before the stalls close.

• Address : 674 Nodeul-ro, Dongjak-gu
• Subway Stop : Noryangjin Station (line 1, exit 1)

For one of the freshest meals of your life , you can purchase live seafood at numerous stalls and then have it prepared at a restaurant right upstairs. Or you can try this Noryangjin Fish Market Guided Tour to learn about the local food culture and try fresh seafood.

Travel Tip : If you want to get a good deal here, you’ll have to bargain. Make sure you also check the cooking charges before ordering because visitors often complain about being overcharged.

24. Seodaemun Prison

Opened in 1908 as Gyeongseong Prison, the Seodaemun Prison was used to imprison independence activists during the Japanese occupation until the liberation of Korea in 1945. While the Seodaemun Prison is not often one of the top attractions in Seoul, it’s definitely worth visiting because it commemorates the ideals of peace and freedom in Korea.

• Address : 251 Tongil-ro, Seodaemun-gu
• Subway stop : Dongnimmum Station (line 3, exit 5)

Visitors can walk through numerous exhibition halls, prison buildings, labor buildings and many other sites used during these hard times. We almost didn’t visit this museum because it’s not often included on rounds ups, but we were happy we did because we learned so much about Korea.

READ : What to see inside Seodaemun Prison

25. National Museum of Korea

Established in 1945, the National Museum of Korea should be at the top of your bucket list for Seoul because it’s the most extensive museum in the Republic of Korea . The museum has 6 large galleries showcasing prehistoric history, medieval works, calligraphy, painting, Asian art, sculpture and crafts.

• Address : 137 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu
• Subway stop : Ichon Station (line 4, exit 2)

Not only do we like this museum because there’s so much to see, but it’s also free to visit . We highly recommend you give yourself several hours to explore this incredible museum.

Travel Tip : Guided tours are available almost every day in Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese beginning on the first floor near the Korean Empire Gallery. French is available on Saturdays.

26. Hongdae

Hongdae is a popular neighborhood located near Hongik University which is very well known for its fine arts program. So it should come as no surprise that Hongdae has an extremely creative vibe . The intricate alleys are also filled with restaurants, shops, clubs or pubs and sometimes you can see various street performers.

We like Hongdae because there are amazing street food options everywhere . If you’re visiting Seoul for the first time, be sure to check out the Kakao Friends Hongdae flagship store or take a walk down Hongdae Mural Street .

READ : Best hotels in Hongdae

27. Myeongdong’s Walking Street

Another great thing to do in Seoul is take a stroll through the epicenter of the fashion world along Myeongdong’s walking street. It can be compared to Orchard Road in Singapore or Bukit Bintang in Kuala Lumpur. There are hundreds of shops, bars and restaurants hidden within the labyrinthine alleyways.

Visitors can shop for everything from high end boutiques to international brands. We love this famous shopping district because many streets are pedestrian friendly and you won’t have to contend with cars so you can shop without a worry.

Every night, the Myeongdong Night Market begins around 3pm and lasts until 11pm. But we recommend you arrive on an empty stomach to make the most of your visit!

READ : Best hotels in Myeongdong

28. Visit Gangnam

Made popular by the song Gangnam Style in 2012, this is the hip and trendy neighborhood in Seoul. It’s well-known for luxury department stores featuring Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior and Gucci. But there are more things to do in Gangnam than just shopping. Visitors can stroll down K-Pop Avenue to see the colorful teddy bears or stop by the Bongeunsa Temple . Gangnam has something for everyone.

READ : Best hotels in Gangnam

29. Seolleung and Jeongneung

Now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the royal tombs are a must visit when in Seoul because the complex is a resting place for the rulers of the Joseon Dynasty . These royal tombs include a collection of 40 tombs scattered over 18 locations , but you won’t need to visit all of them because the Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs can be found right in the city.

• Address : 1 Seolleung-ro 100-gil, Gangnam-gu
• Subway stop : Seolleung Station (line 2, exit 10) or Seonjeongneung Station (line 9, exit 3)

The Seolleung Royal Tomb belongs to King Seongjong , the 9th ruler of Joseon and his third consort, Queen Jeonghyeon . Here you can also visit the Jeongneung Royal Tomb which belongs to King Jungjong , the 11th ruler of Joseon. These were one of the most interesting things we visited in Seoul during our trip.

30. Seoul Museum Of History

Another museum to add to your list is the Seoul Museum of History . Opened in 1985, this museum showcases the history and culture of Seoul from the Joseon Dynasty to present day. It’s located right next to Gyeonghuigung Palace so it can be easily visited in tandem with the royal palace .

• Address : 55 Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu
• Subway stop : Gwanghwamun Station (line 5, exit 7)

We think this museum is a hidden gem because it’s free to visit and filled with incredible information spanning 600 years of history. During our visit, it was not busy so it was very peaceful.

31. Bank Of Korea Money Museum

The Bank of Korea Money Museum is one of the cool things to do in Seoul because this free museum demonstrates the history of currency throughout the years . Guided tours are free, but must be booked. Audio guides are also available in Korean, English, Japanese and Chinese.

• Address : 39 Namdaemun-ro, Jung-gu
• Subway stop : City Hall Station (line 1/2, exit 7), Euljiro1-ga (line 2, exit 7) or Hoehyeon Station (line 4, exit 7)

We love how this museum not only focused on Korean currency, but on how money has changed over time. As travel bloggers, we thought the currency from around the world exhibit was a must see !

Travel Tip : Find the replica vault and play with the interactive exhibits to experience how heavy money can be. Think you could carry a lot of money out of the vault?!

32. Find A Cocktail Bar

Seoul’s nightlife is known for being one of the best in Asia . You’ll find numerous clubs, bars and cocktail bars in every neighborhood. We think visiting the numerous cocktail bars is one of the fun things you can do in Seoul with friends and we couldn’t help slipping into a few ourselves in between sightseeing.

Here are some popular cocktail bars:

• Alice Cheongdam – Gangnam
• Charles H . – Jongno
• Bar Cham – Jongno
• The Griffin Bar – Jongno
• Southside Parlor – Yongsan

You won’t have to travel far to find a cocktail bar so just ask the locals or check out this popular pub crawl .

33. Try Korean BBQ

One of the best things to do in Seoul is experience a Korean BBQ. The meal involves marinated meat cooked over a hot bbq in the middle of a table . Typical meat cuts include very tender pork or beef belly, brisket, prime rib and short ribs. These cuts are then marinated in soy sauce and toasted in sesame oil or gochujang prior to grilling.

Cooking the meat right at the table is part of the entire experience and it’s meant to be enjoyed with many people . So grab your friends, travel partners or family and sit down for a Korean BBQ. Check out this Korean BBQ in Hongdae or a Secret Pub Experience if you don’t want to do all the planning yourself.

34. Cruise The Han River

A cruise along the Han River is one of the best activities in Seoul , especially for first time visitors. E-Land Cruises have been operating since 1986. Visitors can choose between a moonlight, starlight, sunset or a Han River cruise package. If you’re looking for a romantic thing to do with your partner , surprise them with a cruise.

>> Book a Han River experience : Get Your Guide | Klook | Viator

35. Seoullo 7017

Opened to the public in May 2017, the Seoullo 7017 was once an overpass for cars. But now it has been transformed in a gorgeous sky garden elevated high above the busy streets . The green space can be compared to the High Line in NYC , offering a walking path for both tourists and locals to visit attractions in the area.

• Address : 432 Cheongpa-ro, Jung-gu

We like visiting Seoullo 7017 after the sun sets because the sky garden is illuminated with blue lights. But it’s not the best area around the train station so be aware of your surroundings if you plan to visit at night .

Best Seoul Tours

At the beginning of this guide, we mentioned the importance of grouping the must do Seoul attractions in the same area. So now that you know the popular activities, do you know which ones you want to visit? Here are some highly rated tour options that include various highlights:

• Travel SIM + T-Money Card – Unlimited 4G data and a public transport card
• Dark Side of the City – A ghost stories walking tour
• Viator DMZ Tour – With option to visit the red suspension bridge
• Seoul City Full Day Tour – See the best of the city in one day
• Day Trip to Nami Island – A hassle free day option with a tour guide

Food Tours And Cooking Classes

Seoul is a foodies paradise between mouth watering street food, Korean BBQ, the Noryangjin fish market, hidden speakeasies and bustling markets. So where do you start?

This was something we struggled with too. There is so much to eat and drink in this amazing city, it can be very overwhelming. Booking a food tour or taking a cooking class is one of the best ways to learn about culinary traditions from locals . Here are popular food experiences:

• Drinking and Eating through the Alleys – A 5 hour tour featuring places you won’t find on Google
• Secret Food Tours Seoul – A half day option to iconic neighborhoods and off the beaten track gastronomy gems
• Korean Cooking Class – Learn how to cook authentic Korean dishes with an experienced chef
• Kimchi Experience – Instructed by professional Korean chefs, you’ll learn how to make kimchi
• Night Market Food Tour – Learn about Korean history while trying authentic dishes and playing drinking games

Seoul Interactive Map

Above you’ll find our interactive map featuring all of the best things to do in Seoul we mentioned in this guide. You can also access our interactive map via this link here .

However, Google maps can be unreliable in South Korea because Google does not have access to geographical data in the country . This is due to conflicts between the Korean government and security concerns.

We recommend you download KakaoMap  ( apple and android ) so you can navigate your way through Seoul. During our visit, we could load our Google Map, but it would never show us our exact location. Use our interactive map to figure out where you need to go then use the KakaoMap to navigate.

How To Save Money

If you want to visit several attractions in Seoul, you should consider purchasing a pass to help you save money. We like to compare attraction passes to buying in bulk because the more attractions you visit, the more money you’ll save.

There are two popular passes including the Klook Seoul Pass or the Go City Seoul Pass . Depending on what you plan to see, one pass may work better for you so we’ll briefly touch on each one.

Klook Pass Seoul

The Klook Pass Seoul is a very popular option that can help you save 52% on attractions and there are 10 attractions included:

• Lotte World
• N Seoul tower
• Nami Island + Petite France tour
• Hanbok experience with Korean hairstyling
• Coex Aquarium
• Alive Museum + Dynamic Maze
• Ehwa Korean school uniform rental
• Lotte World Aquarium 
• 63 Building Observatory + Aqua Planet 63

You can choose 2-4 activities from this list for one amazing price. We like this pass because it’s valid for 30 days . This means you don’t have to rush around visiting attractions by a certain time period and you can take your time.

>> Buy the Klook Seoul pass here

Go City Seoul Pass

The Go City Seoul Pass is different compared to the Klook Pass because you can choose from 29 attractions with many of these activities featured in this guide. Go City offers an attraction based all-inclusive pass or a day based explorer pass . Popular attractions include:

• N Seoul Tower
• Nanta Cooking Show
• Han River Cruise
• 14-day Korean Sim
• Incheon Airport express train
• Dark Side of Seoul Ghost Tour

>> Buy a Go City Seoul pass here

Having used these passes ourselves in London, Paris and Rome, we can tell you from experience they will save you money, especially if you plan to see many things during your trip.

Royal Palace Pass

The last option is a Royal Palace Pass . But it’s not a traditional pass like the two options we mentioned above because it only works for the palaces in Seoul. We used this pass in the city and thought it was worth it.

The pass costs 10,000 KRW (US $7.53) and it’s valid for three months from the date of purchase . Here are current prices for the palaces:

• Gyeongbokgung  (3,000 KRW)
• Changdeokgung  (3,000 KRW) with Huwon Secret Garden (5,000 KRW)
• Changgyeonggung  (1,000 KRW)
• Deoksugung  (1,000 KRW)
• Jongmyo Shrine  (1,000 KRW)

If you visited all of the sites above individually, it would cost you 14,000 KRW. This pass would save you a 4,000 KRW . You can’t purchase the royal palace pass online and it can only be purchased on site when you visit your first Seoul palace. However, if you want to visit more attractions than just the palaces, you should buy a Klook Pass Seoul or a Go City Seoul Pass .

The Morgan Conclusion

If this is your first time in the city, here are our top ten things to do in Seoul:

• War Memorial of Korea
• Visit at least one of the royal palaces
• Go on a tour the DMZ
• Climb one of the observation decks
• Have a Korean BBQ
• Stroll through the Olympic Park
• Check out the Royal Tombs
• Explore the Seodaemun Prison
• Go shopping in Gangnam
• Hike to Inwangsan Peak

These are activities we always recommend to friends or family and you can’t go wrong with anything listed above. We think 3-5 days in Seoul is enough time to see the major highlights of South Korea’s capital city. But this is a very large sprawling city and 6-8 days would be better so you can slow down.

You can visit South Korea anytime of the year, but spring from mid-March to early April is extremely popular for cherry blossom season . Another popular time is late September to early October for the peak fall foliage . Spring and fall are sunny seasons with comfortable temperatures making these the best months to travel through South Korea.

Our Seoul Guides

• How to book the best DMZ Tour
• Fun things to do at Imjingak Park
• Complete guide to Namsan Seoul Tower
• How to visit the Seoul Sky observatory
• What to see at the Jongmyo Shrine
• How to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace
• What is the best royal palace in Seoul?
• What to expect when visiting Seodaemun Prison
• 20 amazing hotels in Seoul

Want more Seoul content? Head over to our South Korea Travel Guides to explore the very best of Seoul and beyond.

We hope this guide listing the must do things in Seoul helps with planning your visit to South Korea’s capital city!

Please let us know if you have any questions about these attractions or visiting the city in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy this Seoul activities guide? Pin it for your visit!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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6 Best places to visit when traveling in South Korea

S outh Korea's rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and rich culture are a traveler's paradise. Each destination oofers a distinct blend of attractions, activities, and culinary treats, guaranteeing the perfect adventure for all travel buffs.

Thanks to the country's myriad of travel experiences, from Seoul's dynamic city life to Jeju Island's serene natural beauty, South Korea is an enigmatic Pandora's box for most travel enthusiasts.

Whether it is scouring the bustling markets, hiking in panoramic national parks, or immersing in the classic Korean traditions and arts, with its modern cities, ancient temples, and delicious cuisine, this destination promises an unforgettable and fable-like trip.

Note: This is purely the writer's opinion. We might have missed a few destinations; let us know your opinion.

6 Best places to visit in South Korea

To make the visitors to South Korea comfortable, Korean is the predominant language, and many locals in tourism communicate in English.

Ahead, Team Sportskeeda has made a curated list of the six best places to visit in South Korea while providing detailed insights into each destination.

• Jeju Island

Seoul, South Korea 's capital, is a mesmerizing mix of modern skyscrapers and ancient palaces. The best time to visit this dynamic metropolis is during the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant.

Must-visit attractions include Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, and Bukchon Hanok Village, where travelers can enjoy traditional tea ceremonies, vibrant nightlife, and shopping in neighborhoods like Myeongdong.

There are plenty of options for lodging, from opulent hotels to comfortable homestays, in addition to savoring regional delicacies like bibimbap, kimchi, and Korean BBQ.

Nearest airport: Incheon International Airport

2) Jeju Island

Jeju Island, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes. The best time to explore this picturesque South Korean locale is from April to June, adorned with blooming wildflowers.

Once here, avid travelers can explore local attractions like Hallasan National Park, Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, and Manjanggul Cave, which offer exceptional experiences for nature lovers.

Jeju Island caters to many accommodation options, from upscale resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Further, tasting Jeju's local delicacies, like fresh seafood, black pork, and hallabong oranges , is a must for all travel buffs.

Nearest airport: Jeju International Airport

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Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, a blend of modernity and coastal beauty, is famous for its beach activities and delectable seafood. The best time to visit is during the summer for beach recreation and the Busan International Film Festival in October.

Heritage sites along the coast, such as Gamcheon Culture Village, Beomeosa Temple, and Haeundae Beach, are among the city's must-see atractions.

Further, from enjoying comfortable stays in boutique hotels to beach shacks, adventurous souls can dig into Busan's dishes like dwaeji gukbap (pork soup) and milmyeon (wheat noodles).

Nearest airport: Gimhae International Airport

4) Gyeongju

Gyeongju is a South Korean city steeped in historical sites and cultures known as the Museum without Walls.' Spring and autumn are the best times to visit. The traveler can explore the attractions surrounding the vicinity like Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and the UNESCO-listed Gyeongju Historic Areas. For rest and recoup, they can stay at traditional hanok-style stays in modern hotels and inns while indulging in Gyeongju bread and haejangguk (hangover soup) for a delightful culinary experience.

Nearest airport: Gimhae International Airport in Busan

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Andong, nestled in the middle of Gyeongsangbuk-do province and known to be a haven for cultural enthusiasts, is a must-visit place, especially during the Andong Mask Dance Festival in September and the Andong International Folk Festival in October.

Once here, they can explore the Hahoe Folk Village, Andong Confucian School, and Byeongsanseowon Confucian Academy while cooling their heels at the trendy hotels, cozy homestays, or roadside motels. They can indulge in Andong's local cuisine, including Andong jjimdak (braised chicken ) and heotjesabap (lotus leaf rice) for gastronomic delights.

Further, there is no major airport in Andong, and adventure lovers can access the city via transit from nearby areas.

Nearest airport: NA

Yet another home on the UNESCO list, South Korea's Suwon, is an amalgamation of tradition and modernity. Courtesy of the ancient Hwaseong Fortress and the thriving local markets, Suwon acts like a magnet to most adventure love. Autumn and winter are the right time to visit this place. Suwon offers various lodging preferences, from business hotels to cozy guesthouses.

Further, Suwon's local goodies, like dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) and Suwon galbi (marinated beef ribs), are the authentic gastronomic delights.

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Whether the reader is a travel enthusiast, a history buff, a nature lover, or a food critic, any of these six places to visit in South Korea is a platter full of surprises for all.

So, without much dilly-dallying, they can initiate their South Korean tour with their boarding passes and backpacks ready to go!