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Feel soul good, autumn stroll through seoul, explore seoul, gyeongbokgung palace.

Convenient Palace Tours from the Airport

Namsan Park

A healing walk in the cool autumn breeze

Starfield Library

A new landmark of Seoul

Shopping Tour

Enjoy the ultimate shopping paradise

First time to Seoul?

It can be overwhelming if you’re not sure where to go, how to go, and what to see during your first visit to Seoul! That’s why we’re here to help you get around. Use the info there on the bottom to help you get started on building up your itinerary and know-how when it comes to Seoul travel!

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Seoul Upcoming!

2024 Reading at Hangang Park

“Reading at Hangang Park” is where families, friends, and couples can comfortably enjoy the sunset and shimmering reflections on the river while engaging in reading and cultural performances.

2024 Changdeokgung Palace Moonlight Tour

The 2024 Changdeokgung Palace Moonlight Tour invites visitors to light traditional cheongsachorong lanterns and discover the hidden stories of the palace as they explore.

CHUN Kyung-ja Centennial 《Turbulent Times: Women Life Art》

Celebrating the 100th anniversary of Chun Kyung-ja's birth (1924–2015)

2024 ZERO+ Ttukseom Sharing Market

The ZERO+ Ttukseom Sharing Market is a beloved secondhand market that promotes the circular use of resources by increasing the value of forgotten items through reuse.

《The Mindscape ; Encounters of the Third Kind (Imaginary Landscape: Encounter with the Unknown)》

Vivian Choi Gallery will host a three-artist exhibition, 《The Mindscape; Encounters of the Third Kind (Imaginary Landscape: Encounter with the Unknown)》, featuring works by Kim Yeon-soo, Min Hye-won,

Blue Variations

The K.O.N.G Gallery, located next to the Chunchumun Gate of the Blue House, is holding a group exhibition titled "Blue Variations" from August 23 to September 21.

SeMA Omnibus - I Want to Love Us

The 2024-themed exhibition “Connection” aligns with the community-oriented direction of the Seoul Museum of Art's Buk-Seoul branch.

Kylie Manning: Yellow Sea

Space K Seoul will host a solo exhibition titled "Yellow Sea" by Brooklyn-based international artist Kylie Manning (b. 1983) from August 9 to November 10. This exhibition presents a unique opportunity

Open-Air Museum - Pungnap

An exhibition that utilizes the spatial resources around Pungnaptoseong to host outdoor displays, aiming to create a city where tradition, the present, and the future coexist while expanding cultural

K-Drama Spotlight

An opportunity to become a main character in a drama. Let’s dive into the world of dramas through 12 media art exhibitions

Gallery Planet will host a two-person exhibition 《Crosswalk》 featuring artists Kim Jung-in and Cho Hyun-seo from August 8 to September 13, 2024.

50th Anniversary of Seoul Metropolitan Subway

Seoul Museum of History X Seoul Metro Joint Special Exhibition

Culture Flows at Seoul Plaza

Music Festival Featuring Busking Bands at Seoul Plaza

Busking All Around Seoul

A total of 150 artist teams will perform at various locations throughout Seoul

A Stroll Through Records: Seoul’s Parks

An exhibition exploring the history and transformation of Seoul's parks through records

Namsan Beacon Mound Lighting Ceremony and Traditional Cultural Reenactment Events

Events where you can experience traditional Korean culture

K-Food Festival Knock Knock

The 2024 K-Food Festival Knock Knock is a Korean food-themed festival where you can enjoy and experience Korean cuisine's diversity and unique flavors

Seoul Outdoor Library: Reading by the Clear Stream

A space where nature and culture converge in the city

Seoul Outdoor Library: Gwanghwamun Book Square

Gwanghwamun Book Square is a mirage-like space in the city where you can enjoy the pleasure of books, relaxation, and new encounters

Seoul Outdoor Library: Book Reading Seoul Plaza

A space that embraces the city's residents is filled with joy and relaxation and brings vitality to life

Bosingak Pavilion: Echoes of Time

Samgaksan Geumam Art Museum: "Elementary Art Textbooks Unleashed"

Art Exhibition for Children at Samgaksan Geumam Art Museum

Hangang River Silent Disco DJ Party

A Night Dance party where you enjoy music played through rental wireless headphones

Hangang River History Tours

Exploring the history of the Hangang River

2024 Namsangol Hanok Village Taekwondo Performance

Taekwondo performances and experience programs with monthly themes

Celestial Whisper

The exhibition, centered on the “angels” theme, seeks to make contemporary art more approachable and familiar to children and general visitors. Lowering the barriers to contemporary art offers a multi

Seoul International Garden Show 2024

A garden culture festival featuring the colorful allure of Seoul, the Garden City

Seoul's Youth and Popular Music

Seoul Urban Life Museum tells stories of ordinary Seoul residents' everyday lives. The themes of these stories are very diverse, including food, clothing, shelter, everyday objects, games, and music.

Utopia: Nowhere, Now Here

Utopia: Nowhere, Now Here, an exhibition based on a novel by Korea’s first science fiction writer

Kwon Jin Kyu's Forever Home

This exhibition showcases Kwon Jin Kyu's artistic realm, where he captures the enduring soul and eternity by observing and studying the surrounding subjects, distilling their essence, and ensuring the

Seoulite's' Picks

An autumn escapade through seoul's art galleries, escape the heat: discover the hidden oasis of suseongdong valley, living it up in sindang-dong, seoul's island escape: discovering the gems of the hangang river, summer retreat at ttukseom hangang park.

Recommendations

Discover seoul pass.

One Pass, Easy Seoul

One More Trip

Seoul's Official Local Tour & Experience Guide

Tickets and Offers

Ticketing for Hallyu performances and more

Walking tours led by tour guides

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Traveling alone in seoul for 24 hours, romantic day, seoul international garden show, visitseoul_official.

Experience the Vibrant K-pop Busking, Refreshing Han River Activities, and Stunning Night Views from SEOULDAL, tethered balloon! Your visit to Seoul will be filled with joy 🌟 #EVENT Q. If you were in Seoul, what fun activity would you want to try? Or do you have a shopping spot you’d highly recommend to friends? Share your thoughts in the comments! We’re giving away a private yacht experience through a random lottery!🎁 Spots recommended in the comments will be featured in our upcoming 'Seoul Shopping & Activities Map' ❣️ 📆 Event Period September 12 - 18 📎 How to Participate 1. Follow @visitseoul_official 2. Watch the video in this post until the end! 3. Comment with your favorite Seoul activity or shopping spot! (Tag a friend who would love to see the video for a higher chance to win!) 📢 Winner Announcements: September 26 * Winners will be notified via DM 🎁 Prizes: 1st Prize - Hangang River Private Yacht (Golden Blue Marina Princess) 1-hour experience (1 winners) 2nd Prize: Seoul Goods package worth 100,000 won (3 winners) 3rd Prize: 30,000 won Amazon or Google gift card or WeChat Hongbao (20 winners)

𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑅𝑒𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡. Find your zen at Chaehyodang Hanok Stay. Enjoy the blend of historic charm and modern comfort in the heart of Eunpyeong-gu. 😌🍃 𝟏-𝟒. 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐞𝐡𝐲𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐤 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 📍11-30 Jingwan-Gil, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul 🚌Get off at the Hanago. Samcheosa. Jingwangsa Entrance Bus stop (Approx. 246 m on foot) ⏰Check-in 3:00 pm ⏰Check-out 11:00 am IG: @chaehyodang_hanokstay 𝟓-𝟕. 𝐀 𝐏𝐢𝐠 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 / 𝐃𝐰𝐞𝐣𝐢 𝐉𝐢𝐛 📍32 Yeonseo-ro 54-gil, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul 🚌Get off at the Hanago. Samcheosa. Jingwangsa Entrance Bus stop (Approx. 619 m on foot) ⏰Mon - Sun 10:30 am - 7:00 pm IG: @a_pig_house 𝟖-𝟗. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐛𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐁𝐮𝐤𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐚𝐧 📍24-11 Daeseomun-Gil, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul 🚌Get off at the Bukhansan Fortress Stop (Approx. 155 m on foot) ⏰Weekdays 8:00 am - 9:00 pm ⏰Weekends 7:00 am - 9:00 pm

𝐹𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝐵𝑙𝑖𝑠𝑠. Enjoy the changing seasons with a peaceful picnic at Yangjae Citizens' Forest. Be sure to visit the nearby Yun Bong-gil Memorial Hall and explore the southern memorials! 𝐘𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐣𝐚𝐞 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐧'𝐬 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 (𝐌𝐚𝐞𝐡𝐞𝐨𝐧) 📍99 Maehyeon-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul 🚃 Subway Shinbundang Line, Yangjae Citizens’ Forest(Maeheon) Station, Exit 5 (Approx. 494 m on foot) ⏰ Open 24 hours Thanks to our VS Crew 🫡 📷 @ksb0423

Recording memories of Seoul 📷 Seoul pictures inspiring Jin Feast your eyes on the full version by clicking @visitseoul_official❣️ Feel Soul Good, SEOUL MY SOUL

𝕍𝕚𝕤𝕚𝕥 𝕊𝕖𝕠𝕦𝕝 𝕎𝕖𝕖𝕜𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕤. Experience the grandeur of Yongma Waterfall Park, where East Asia’s tallest artificial waterfall meets lush greenery and serene trails. Perfect for hiking, picnicking, and a refreshing escape from the city! 🌞 𝐘𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐦𝐚 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 📍 250-12 Yongmasan-ro, Jungnang-gu, Seoul 🚃 Subway Line 7, Yongmasan Station, Exit 1 (Approx. 325 m on foot) Thanks to our VS Crew 🫡 📷 @yongfeel

Stylish Seongsu, urban hiking, and mouthwatering eateries! Discover a Seoul that inspires you ✨ #EVENT Q. Share the food you’d like to try or recommend a restaurant in Seoul in the comments! We’ll be giving away fine dining vouchers for a chance to enjoy Seoul’s culinary delights 🎁 Recommended spots from the comments will later be featured in our "Seoul Restaurant" map so stay tuned❣️ 📆 Event Period September 5 - 11 📎 How to Participate 1. Follow @visitseoul_official 2. Watch the video in this post until the end! 3. Comment with your favorite Seoul soul food spot! (Tag a friend who would love to see the video for a higher chance to win!) 📢 Winner Announcements: September 19 * Winners will be notified via DM 🎁 Prizes: 1st Prize : Signiel Hotel Bicena Dinner 2-person voucher (1 winners) 2nd Prize: Seoul Goods package worth 100,000 won (3 winners) 3rd Prize: 30,000 won Amazon or Google gift card or WeChat Hongbao (20 winners)

The Seoul Guide

The Seoul Guide is a free online travel guide for visitors planning a trip to Seoul, the historic, cutting edge, and fast-paced capital city of South Korea. This site is designed and intended to help visitors plan their trip, whether it be your first time or 100th. Here you will find information about sights and attractions , transportation and getting around, food and restaurants, and the history of this great country through the use of photos, maps, high definition videos, and more.

For many visitors to Asia, Seoul is one of those places on their wish to visit list. One day, but not today. It’s often bypassed for the tropical beaches of Thailand, historic Japan, or for hectic China. Ask about South Korea to your friends and more often than not, the most they will know about South Korea is about the ongoing conflict with the north. But there’s more to this amazing country with thousands of years of history. In the beautiful city of Seoul, thousands of years of history and traditions coexist with neon signs.

Once a poor and war-torn nation, it has since turned itself around in just 50 years to make it one of the most important financial cities in Asia. This city is a city like no other on earth. Nowhere can you find such a perfect blend of history, cutting-edge technology, and promise for the future.

Seoul has a rich history which can be seen by wandering the grounds of one of the magnificent and historic Five Grand Palaces. It has large, open public parks that will make you forget that you are in the center of one of the largest urban areas in the world.

If you want to shop at any hour of the day, then you will be sure to find an almost endless amount of bustling markets and malls selling everything from fresh fish straight from the ocean at the Noryangjin Fish Market to high end fashion items at the COEX Mall, Asia’s largest underground shopping mall.

You can also find advanced technology, amazing architecture, unique foods and dishes, and friendly locals who are always welcoming to new visitors. Many neighborhoods and districts here have a small town feel to them. A sort of personal and down to earth experience, which is rare for a mega city with a population of over 25 million including its surrounding areas.

This city and its people have a special soul. It is an attack on all senses from the palaces to the markets to the food to the shopping to the people. Only those who have visited this unique destination can truly understand what it is like to be in one of the most dynamic and exciting cities on earth.

Last Updated on Dec 23, 2021

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.

N Seoul Tower

Explore the bukchon hanok traditional village, national museum of korea, lotte world tower, visit the dmz, gyeongbokgung palace, seoul museum of art, bongeunsa temple, gwanghwamun gate, take a walk along cheonggyecheon, seoul's urban stream, jingwansa temple, bukhansan national park, people watch in itaewon, dongdaemun design plaza, gwangjang market, 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.

Seoul   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Alex Barlow | Getty Images

Why Go To Seoul

The blue and red yin and yang emblazoned on South Korea's flag represent balance – an ideal that was thrown off-kilter during the Korean War. But after the 1953 armistice, a modern Seoul bloomed anew. Today, the city is characterized by stunning architecture, vibrant culture and a thriving economy – all testaments to Seoul's resilience.

Seoul may seem like its blazing into the future, but South Koreans still hold fast to their rich heritage. Tucked between vast shopping districts and lively nightlife zones are relics of Seoul's history, windows into an old Seoul before the towers of concrete and steel. Gyeongbok Palace  – the oldest and largest of five Joseon Dynasty palaces in the city – stands on manicured grounds just minutes from downtown. Nearby, Bukchon Village 's wooden, one-story homes sit in sharp contrast to the surrounding high-rises. Miraculously, Seoul's past and present do not clash; rather, they play off one another. This harmonious blend of old and new is the key to Seoul's allure and a central tenet of the city's identity.

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Best Things to Do in Seoul

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• # 3 in Bukhansan National Park

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Seoul Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Seoul are from March to May and from September to November, when the weather is mild (average daily high temperatures stay below the mid-70s) and travel expenses are low. If you're a powder hound, you'll want to visit between December and February, when average daytime temperatures stay around the freezing mark and snow can be frequent. It's best to avoid the summer months, also known as monsoon season. During these months, Seoul is uncomfortably humid and full of tourists. What's more, hotel room costs are at fever pitch.

Weather in Seoul

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• Respect your elders Korean customs hold senior citizens in the highest regard. Do as the locals do and offer the priority seats on the subway to the elderly.
• Count your decimal places 1,000 South Korean won equate to almost one U.S. dollar (actually about 90 cents), so an easy way to calculate approximate dollar costs is to move the decimal place on Korean currency to the left three places (10,000 won equals about $10).
• If it's late, call a cab The subway is reliable during the day, but it's closed between midnight and 5:30 a.m. That means night owls will have to find alternate means of transportation in the wee hours (just remember that cabs hike up their prices 20 percent between midnight and 4 a.m.).

How to Save Money in Seoul

• Purchase a SEOUL CITYPASS This transportation card covers 20 trips per day on the subway or the bus.
• Eat on the street Food stalls and 24-hour Korean "fast-food" joints offer a wide array of food options that are as pleasing to your taste buds as they are to your wallet.
• Shop "Tax Free" Foreign visitors can be eligible for a tax refund for goods they take out of the country. Look for shops that display "Tax Free" signs. Before you leave Seoul, declare your items at airport customs and receive your refund. Find out more about tax refunds on the Korea Tourism Organization's official website .

Culture & Customs

South Korean culture is still deeply rooted in ancient Confucian principles, including a strong dedication to family and society. Because of Koreans' respect for the hierarchy system, family elders and ancestors are honored above all. To uphold Korean etiquette, bow to elders in greeting (younger people are expected to bow lower than the elders out of respect) and allow them priority seating on public transportation. A bow when meeting anyone else is customary. And don't get offended if someone asks your age. Since elders are held with such high regard in Korean culture, oftentimes people ask as a way to avoid disrespecting anyone in their company. This is the same among youth culture, as younger people perceive themselves to have different roles in the group dynamic than the older participants, even if the age difference is only a couple of years. But don't worry too much about whether or not you're performing the social norms properly. Koreans have become well attuned to Western culture and don't expect foreigners to know the ins and outs of Korean etiquette (there are many different types of bows). It is also worth noting that in writing, Korean given names come after family names (the opposite is true in the United States).

South Korea's official currency is the South Korean won (KRW). One United States dollar equals roughly 1,118 won, but don't let all those decimal places scare you – won only comes in increments of 10 (10 KRW equals about 1 cent), so figuring out costs isn't terribly difficult. You can exchange money at most banks, and withdraw bills in increments of 10,000 won from ATMs. ATMs, however, have been a faulty means of getting cash for international travelers. Generally, ATMs in Seoul cater to those with Korean cards and even though your card may be listed as accepted, it still may not work. If this happens, the Korea tourism board recommends seeking out ATMs in heavily populated areas, such as train stations, bus terminals or department stores. To be safe, order Korean currency  before you go to Korea or obtain your money at the airport. 

Combat and instability are in South Korea's past, but it's important to remember that this peaceful, modern democracy's armistice with its northern neighbor has been called into question a number of times since the Korean War ended in 1953. There have been a few isolated skirmishes between the two Koreas over the past 60 years, but the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South actually stands as a safe tourist attraction.

While South Korea's crime rates are low, you should still exercise caution when it comes to personal safety. Seoul plays host to the same crimes symptomatic of any densely populated metropolitan area: Pickpocketing and purse snatching are more common in crowded areas. Don't walk alone at night and if you're a woman, exercise caution when visiting nightlife districts, as sexual assaults against women have been reported to the State Department . Make sure you only use legitimate taxis like the ones described in our guide to Getting Around Seoul too. The State Department also recommends travelers not join in protests of any kind (demonstrations are common in Seoul). If you find yourself in an emergency, dial 119 for an ambulance and 112 for the police. There are no required vaccinations for visiting Korea. Tap water is considered safe to drink but most travelers don't as the difference in water may cause stomach problems for far-flung travelers. 

What to Eat

Chowing down on hansik (traditional Korean food) is a cultural experience you won't want to miss – but it's also not for the ultra-squeamish. Many Korean meals include pickled ingredients, like kimchi (spicy fermented cabbage or other vegetables) and gochujang (fermented soy bean and red pepper paste), among other Korean flavors. Don't let fear of the unknown dissuade you – you're going to want to taste some of this.

If cabbage kimchi doesn't appeal to you, then perhaps Seoul's never-ending plethora of grilled meats will. Gather around a tabletop grill at a barbecue house and savor the aromas of sizzling samgyupsal (pork belly) or galbi (beef ribs). Watching you calorie intake? Head to one of the many Bon Bibimbap franchise locations around Seoul: Its namesake, bibimbap , comprises a bowl of rice, vegetables, chili paste, fried egg and (sometimes) marinated beef that will fill you up without putting a strain on your waistband (or your budget).

Truly adventurous eaters will want to head to Gwangjang Market, the oldest market in Seoul, where you can sample everything from mandu (rice-paper dumplings filled with ground meat or vegetables) to jokbal (pigs' feet boiled in soy sauce, ginger, rice wine and garlic). And remember to save some room for bindaeduk , a fried pancake made from ground mung beans that is reminiscent of a savory funnel cake. For more information about how to follow your taste buds around Seoul, visit the Korea Tourism Organization's official website .

Getting Around Seoul

The best way to get around Seoul is via the subway. You can throw in a taxi ride here and there if you plan on staying out late, or a bus ride if your destination is too far to walk. Seoul is too massive to be explored solely on foot, but it does contain some neighborhoods that were made for walking ( Bukchon Village , for example). Because Seoul's public transportation is so cheap and extensive, we advise against renting a car (plus, traffic in the city is legendary). If need be, you can rent a car at either of Seoul's two airports, Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP). The vast majority of international flights come in via Incheon. You can take a taxi from Incheon or Gimpo into Seoul, or if you're looking to save a little coin, the AREX (Airport Railroad Express) train goes directly into the city too.

Entry & Exit Requirements

The Republic of Korea requires U.S. citizens to hold a valid passport for tourism and business trips lasting up to 90 days from when you enter the country. A trip lasting longer than 90 days or for another reason besides tourism or business requires a visa. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

Gyeongbokgung is the oldest and largest of Seoul's five Joseon Dynasty palaces.

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Home » Travel Guides » South Korea » 55 Best Things to Do in Seoul (South Korea)

55 Best Things to Do in Seoul (South Korea)

Close to half the population of South Korea lives in the Seoul Capital Area, the world’s fifth largest conurbation.

Its centre of gravity is a pulsating city cleaved by the Han River and with a skyline punctuated by mountains.

Seoul has burgeoned since the middle of the 20th century and new projects continue to crop up by the year, like the 555-metre Lotte World Tower in 2017 and Zaha Hadid’s sensational Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

But the city has safeguarded its history, even in the face of invasions from Japan.

Set a course for Joseon Dynasty palaces, Buddhist temples and quarters like Bukchon, where there’s a warren of hanoks, which are traditional wooden houses with curled eaves.

And to really feel like Seoulite, dine at an authentic Korean BBQ joint or verse yourself in the city’s street food culture at its frenzied markets.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Seoul :

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace

The first royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty was constructed in 1395 and stood at the heart of the capital, then known as Hanyang.

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest of Five Grand Palaces of Seoul and comprises hundreds of edifices.

It was invested with huge symbolism, which has led to its destruction twice by the Japanese, during the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592–1598) and then the occupation of Korea in the 20th century.

The palace is going through a painstaking 40-year restoration project, begun in 1989. Two spectacular elements, the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and Hyangwonjeong Pond, have come through all this turbulence relatively unscathed, and need to be seen along with the Geunjeongjeon (Throne Hall) Gangnyeongjeon (King’s Quarters), Gyotaejeon (Queen’s Quarters) and Jibokjae, the library of King Gojong (1852-1919). At Gwanghwamun, the main gate to the south of palace complex, you can watch the solemn changing of the guard ceremony at the top of every hour between 10:00 and 15:00. The Folk Museum of Korea and the National Palace Museum are both set on the palace’s massive grounds.

2. N Seoul Tower

When it went up at the turn of the 1970s the N Seoul Tower was South Korea’s first general broadcast tower.

This Space Age building is at the summit of the 243-metre Namsan Mountain, and standing at more than 236 metres, the top of the tower is close to 480 metres above sea level.

There are gift shops and eateries on the plaza below, where young couples show their love by locking padlocks onto the railings at the foot of the tower.

High above the plaza are four floors, with a restaurant (T1), wishing pond, observatory, cafe and photo studio (T2), a “digital observatory” with powerful digital telescopes and 32 LED screens detailing Korea’s history (T3) and a revolving French restaurant making a turn every 48 minutes on T5 (most buildings don’t have fourth floors in Korea as the number is considered unlucky). Make sure to come at night to behold a city of 10 million people in a sea of twinkling lights.

3. Changdeokgung Palace

East of Gyeongbokgung is Changdeokgung Palace (Palace of Prospering Virtue), built a little later, at the start of the 15th century.

The best preserved of Seoul’s surviving Joseon palaces, this was established by King Taejong, fifth son of the first King of the Joseon Dynasty, Taejo.

In the Strife of Princes of the late-1390s, Taejong (then known as Yi Bangwon) killed all of his half-brothers and pretenders to the throne and switched the location of the royal palace for political purposes.

Changdeokgung is the longest-serving royal palace and is less formalist in its layout than Gyeongbokgung, blending instead with its natural environment.

The royal area is set within many layers of governmental offices and buildings for functionaries, to protect this inner sanctum in case of a break in.

Some of the outstanding things to see on a tour are the Throne Hall (Injeongjeon), a National Treasure from 1405 and rebuilt in 1610, Geumcheongyo, the oldest surviving bridge in Seoul, dating to 1411 and Donhwamun, a gate raised in 1412 and also rebuilt in the 17th century.

Huwon, the palace’s private garden is unmissable and we’ll cover it later.

4. National Museum of Korea

The largest museum in the country, and among the largest in Asia, the National Museum of Korea is on three floors enriched with hundreds of thousands of artefacts beginning in prehistory.

There’s invaluable calligraphy, celadon and buncheong ceramics, sculpture and painting, in such quantity that you could never see it all in a single day.

If time is of the essence then there are a few obligatory stops for Korean National Treasures.

The star has to be the Gilt-bronze Maitreya in Meditation (No. 83), a Silla-era treasure from the beginning of the 7th century, with one leg over the other, and a hand drawn to the chin as if in deep contemplation.

Also from the Silla kingdom is the 5th-century Gold Crown (No. 191) recovered from the tomb of Hwangnamdaechong in Gyeongju.

A monumental piece is the 14th-century Gyeongcheonsa Pagoda, ten storeys high and displayed in one of the main halls, while in the Calligraphy and Painting Gallery on the second floor is the Album of Genre Painting by the 18th-century master Donwon.

The museum’s outdoor space is lovely in good weather, scattered with pagodas, gardens of indigenous plants, lanterns, steles, waterfalls and pools.

5. Namsan Park

N Seoul Tower’s mountain roost has much more to hold your attention, whether it’s the scenic trails, fragments of Seoul’s 14th-century walls, the underground Maritime Aquarium, the cable car (from Hoehyeon-dong) or a small village of traditional houses, which we’ll cover in more detail below.

In the reign of Taejo, the first Joseon king at the turn of the 15th century, Namsan Mountain was regarded as a sacred shamanistic site, and its role in the defence of Seoul extended to a smoke beacon, Mongmyeoksan Bongsudae, with five chimneys sending signals to the city from this elevated overlook.

Near the foot of the tower on the beacon mound there’s another stirring view to be had from Namsan Palgakjeong, a dainty octagonal pavilion.

6. Lotte World

At this huge complex in Sincheon-dong is the largest indoor amusement park in the world, linked by monorail to an outdoor amusement park on a man-made island, and all accompanied by a luxury hotel, malls, cinemas, an ice rink and a folk museum charting 5,000 years of Korean history.

The epic indoor park is on four floors under a glass dome, with spaces devoted to a different part of the world (for instance, European-style village, Arabian courtyard, Jungle). There are 22 rides in all, complemented by constant parades, shows and seasonal festivals.

That folk museum is a must-see and can be found at Adventure 3F, while the French Revolution2 VR became the first Korean roller-coaster to use virtual reality technology when it opened after a revamp in 2017. In good weather you can cross the bridge to Magic Island, commanded by a Disney-style fairytale castle and offering rides like the Atlantis Adventure steel roller-coaster and Gyro Drop, an adrenaline-pumping drop ride also using VR.

7. Bukhansan National Park

One of South Korea’s 22 national parks is within the Seoul metropolitan area and a no-brainer for hiking trips.

Encompassing a little over 30 square miles Bukhansan National Park contains granite peaks (three at 800 metres or more), the 300-year-old Bukhansanseong Fortress, more than 100 temples, gorges and deep woodland.

It’s a breeze by subway, at just 25 minutes from Seoul Station: Get off at Gireum Station at the very south of the park and you’ll be on the light Bogukmun Course, a 2.4-kilometre trail that snakes past oaks, waterfalls, crystalline streams and a gorge.

The highest peak, Baegundae (836.5m) can be scaled on the Bukhansanseong Course, a tough hike to the bare granite peak but the panoramas are amazing if you catch a clear day.

The 120-room Bukhansanseong Fortress posted on the ridgeline leading to Baegundae, was a retreat for Joseon kings in times of emergency, encircled by eight kilometres of walls up to seven metres high.

The fortress is free to visit and is stunning in autumn when the leaves change.

8. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Almost defying description, DDP is a spellbinding urban landmark made up of curving, elongated structures that resemble giant blobs of liquid metal, all designed by Zaha Hadid.

This is a cultural hub, futuristic shopping space and linchpin for Dongdaemun, Korea’s largest fashion district, integrated with the Seoul Metro System and with a walkable park on its roof.

A springboard for South Korea’s creative industries, the DDP holds design-oriented exhibitions, forums, K-Pop concerts, fashion shows and conferences, and includes an Art Hall, Museum Hall, Design Market, Design Lab and the Dongdaemun History and Culture Park.

This last portion is set outside and chronicles the history of this plot of land as a military training ground in the Joseon Dynasty, and preserves the remnants of hanoks (traditional Korean houses) and the foundations of Seoul’s Fortress Wall.

Come back at night to see the DDP in lights, and visit the gorgeous LED rose garden.

9. National Folk Museum of Korea

The museum on the Gyeongbokgung Palace grounds deals with three main topics: The history of the Korean people up to the end of the Joseon Dynasty in 1910, village life before modern times, and Korean culture’s ancient links with Confucianism, and how the ideology gave rise to customs that persist today.

There’s a hall for each of these three themes, filled with more than 100,000 artefacts.

You’ll find pits to make kimchi pots, rice storage shelters, musical instruments, and objects related to worship, like spirit posts and cairns.

The building is also noteworthy, in a traditional Korean style on several storeys crested with a pagoda.

The museum arranges guided tours by reservation, and has a programme of short-term exhibitions, seminars, workshops, concerts and performance art.

10. War Memorial of Korea

With indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces, the War Memorial of Korea commemorates the Korean War (1950-1953) from a South Korean perspective and documents the broader military history of Korea.

This was set up in Yongsan-gu in the early 90s at the site of a former military base.

There are some 10,000 artefacts on show, both inside and outside, from a collection of more than 30,000. The six halls inside are the Expeditionary Forces Room, War History Room, Development Hall, Patriotic Memorial Room , 6·25 Korean War Room and Large Machinery Room.

You’ll see weapons and equipment going back to prehistory, aircraft, battlefield paintings and memorials to figures like the Korean independence activist An Jung-geun, who in 1909 assassinated Prince Itō Hirobumi, then President of the Privy Council of Japan.

The lawns around the museum building are reserved for a big line-up of heavy machinery like jets, helicopters, tanks, artillery and missiles.

11. Lotte World Tower

Over the course of the 2010s the fifth-tallest building in the world has sprung up over Lotte World in Songpa-gu.

The tower’s outline is inspired by traditional Korean ceramics and calligraphy brushes, and rises to 555 metres.

This edifice, holding offices, luxury residences and a hotel (floors 76-101), is part of the Lotte World Mall complex brimming with fashion emporia and boasting the largest duty free store in Korea.

There’s also an aquarium here, the largest multiplex cinema in Asia and a concert hall.

Floors 117-123 of the Lotte World Tower belong to Seoul Sky, where you’ll find a lounge bar, cafes and a “Photozone”. At 117 is the head-spinning View Floor, the world’s highest glass floor observatory when the tower was completed in 2017.

12. Seoul Arts Center

Korea’s national performing arts centre is on a sprawling complex in Seocho-gu, and built in time for the Seoul Olympic, hosting performances during the event.

The Seoul Arts Center is the home of respected national ensembles and companies like the Korea National Opera, the Korea National Ballet and the Korean Symphony Orchestra.

If you think the opera house looks like something you’d wear on your head you’re not mistaken, as it was designed to evoke the gat, a traditional Korean bamboo hat.

There are two more auditoriums including this, as well as the Seoul Calligraphy Art Museum, the Hangaram Art Museum, an amphitheatre and the Hangaram Design Museum.

The complex has lots of outdoor space at a Umyeonji (Korean Pond) and Jangteo (Market), which also stages performances in summer.

Come for large-scale opera, Broadway-style musicals, choral performances and recitals, as well as landmark exhibitions at the Hangaram Art Museum.

Cubist artists and the work of Frida Kahlo have appeared in recent years.

And even if you’re just passing through, the complex’s architecture deserves a second glance.

13. Hangang Park

The Seoul streets can get hectic, but whenever the city gets too much you can escape to the banks of the Han River, where’s there’s a continuous chain of parks (12 in total) on both banks, with riverside trails, sports facilities, boat piers and outdoor swimming pools.

This space was opened up in the years before the Olympics, and the best views can be had from the parks on the south bank.

You can rent a bike of course, but a wide choice of water activities is available in summer at Ttukseom Hangang Park, Yeouido Hangang Park and Jamwon Hangang Park, like gentle rowing trips, kayaking and even waterskiing and windsurfing.

As of 2019 Hangang Park is due to be regenerated in a project that will run to 2030 and turn the parks into culture and leisure hotspots mingling with riverside neighbourhoods.

14. Dongdaemun Market

It’s hard to comprehend the size of this commercial district around Heunginjimun, the east gate on Seoul Fortress’s outer wall.

Jostling for space in Dongdaemun Market are 26 malls, more than 30,000 speciality shops and 50,000 manufacturers.

You could visit for an hour or two and leave before it gets too much, but hardened, fashion-forward shoppers could easily pass a whole day hunting for bargains, as many of the outlets are oriented towards the youth market.

Meokja Golmok, Dongdaemun Market’s food alley, is the real deal for food-lovers and a crash course in Korean cuisine.

Fronted by little benches are stalls for mandu (dumplings), gimbap, (Korean sushi rolls), bibimbap (mixed rice dishes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), dak hanmari (whole chicken soup), Dakgangjeong (sticky, crispy fried chicken), kalmandu (broth with noodles) and naengmyeon (North Korean noodles served cold, often with kimchi).

15. Hongdae

It’s no accident that the Hongdae area has turned out to be super trendy.

This spot is right in front of Hongik University, known for its art school, and in the 80s and 90s young graduates set up their studios in what was then an affordable part of the city.

Hongdae has moved on from that first wave, but has kept hold of its creative swagger in its indie music scene, hip shops, cafes, galleries, clubs and fashionable eateries.

There’s an outdoor stage for live music, cool street art on Hongdae Mural Street and a free market every Saturday from March to November in front of the university’s main gate.

Have a go at Noraebang, Korea’s answer to karaoke, in private booths, hit the Zzang Games video arcade, try some of the delectable street food and hang out with sheep (really!) at the Thanks Nature Cafe.

16. Bukchon Hanok Village

For a picturesque walk back in time, Bukchon Hanok Village is a neighbourhood of tight alleys lined with traditional wooden houses, or hanoks.

Ten minutes north of Anguk Station, there are up to 900 of these buildings, with grey “giwa” roof tiles and eaves upturned at the corners.

The village is one of the last enclaves of this building style in Korea and was preserved thanks to efforts by locals during reconstruction in the 1960s.

In the days of the Joseon Dynasty royal families, affluent merchants and government officials resided in many of these houses, now occupied by teahouses, restaurants, specialty shops, studios, cultural centres and guesthouses.

One of the finest of the hanoks, at the top of the hill has been opened to the public as part of the Seoul Museum of History since 2015.

17. Cheonggyecheon Stream

This creek, flowing west to east for over five miles through downtown Seoul was covered in concrete for transport infrastructure during the city’s swift post-war development, known as the Miracle on the Han River.

The Cheonggyecheon Stream finally saw the light of day more than 40 years later during a $900m urban renewal project, completed in 2005, improving air quality, forming a clean natural haven for fish and birdlife and cooling the neighbourhoods beside it by up to 3.6 °C.

You can start your visit at the extraordinary Cheonggye Plaza, which has a design inspired by bojagi, traditional Korean wrapping cloth.

You can also see a model of the stream here, explaining the massive project needed to revive it, and check out plaques describing the 22 bridges that now cross the stream.

Just off the plaza, one of the stream’s most beautiful features is the Candlelight Fountain, a two-tiered waterfall marking the beginning of its course to the Hangang, and fabulous at night for its colourful illuminations.

18. Gwanghwamun Square

Leading off from the Gwanghwamun Gate, once the main gateway to Gyeongbokgung, Gwanghwamun Square is an awe-inspiring open space that was created in the 2000s where there used to be a 16-lane roadway.

Long before this had been the heart of Hanyang, the Joseon Dynasty capital.

The plaza was unveiled in 2009 and is commanded by statues of Admiral Yi Sunshin (1545-1598), a naval commander noted for his victories in the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592-1598) and the most celebrated king of the Joseon Dynasty, Sejong the Great (1397-1450). Below both figures are small underground museums explaining their importance.

The square is fringed by government buildings and has lots of interesting details to pore over like, the Yeoksamulgil (waterway of history), a sculpture of the symbol of Seoul (Haechi) and the 12.23 Fountain behind Yi Sunshin, marking the 23 battles he fought in 12 warships.

19. Namdaemun Gate

Designated the first National Treasure of South Korea, Namdaemun is the south gate of the Fortress Wall of Seoul, erected at the dawn of the Joseon Dynasty in the 14th century.

This monument is built from stone, capped with a two-tiered pagoda and was the main entrance to the city for foreign emissaries.

As with the rest of the fortress system it also helped keep Siberian tigers out, which were a real hazard until they were hunted to extinction during the Japanese occupation in the 20th century.

The pagoda fell victim to an arson attack in 2008, before which it had been the oldest wooden structure in Seoul, and was restored by 2013. The streets around Namdaemun are the scene of the oldest and largest market in Korea, with a story beginning in the early-15th century.

Namdaemun Market is wholesale, with stalls held by the manufacturers themselves, so you can compare prices for a massive variety of items like toys, hanbok attire (traditional Korean dress), stationery, fashion accessories, hiking gear, fishing equipment.

The street food is outstanding, and you’re sure to be tempted by the scent of hotteok (sweet pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).

20. Insa-dong

Seoul’s antiques trade coalesces around Insa-dong, a main street intersected by chaotic twisting alleys.

Down these you’ll come across up to a hundred galleries, interspersed with cafes, traditional Korean restaurants and teahouses.

There are up to 100 galleries in Insa-dong, specialising in all aspects of Korean fine art, sculpture and ceramics.

The centre for folk art is Hakgojae Gallery, while if you want to check out up-and-coming talent see the Gana Art Gallery and Art Center.

Every Saturday from 14:00 to 22:00 and Sunday from 10:00 to 22:00 the main street becomes a pedestrian zone and a place to explore Korean culture.

You can watch street performances and parades, have your fortune told, try pajeon (green onion pancake) and traditional Korean candy, while stores set up outdoor booths to tout their wares.

21. Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art

Traditional Korean art and contemporary art by Korean and international artists is on the menu at this museum in two parts.

Museum 1, by Mario Botta is for a stupendous assortment of Korea art and antiquities, 36 of which are designated National Treasures.

There’s celadaon and buncheong ceramics, ornamental daggers from the 1300s, crowns, landscape painting and portraits, as well as Buddhist manuscripts, paintings and sculptures.

Sharing the underground lobby, an inverted cone piercing the ground, is Museum 2 designed by Jean Nouvel and with a rich permanent collection counting Yves Klein, Damien Hirst, Rothko and Andy Warhol.

The museum’s master plan is the work of Rem Koolhaas, who also designed the Samsung Child Education & Cultural Center, a space to inspire the next great artists.

22. Jogyesa Temple

An emblem and head temple for Korean Buddhism, the Jogyesa Temple is on Insa-dong, close to Gyeongbokgung.

This is also the main temple for Jogye Order, which can be traced back 1,200 years to Master Doui who brought Zen to Korea from China in the 9th century.

The temple was founded at the end of the 14th century, at the start of the Joseon Dynasty and in the Japanese colonial invasion from 1910 to 1945 became a bulwark for resistance to the suppression of Korean Buddhism.

The Daeungjeon (Main Buddha Hall) was raised in 1938 using pine from Baekdu Mountain and echoes with chanting throughout the year.

In the temple’s main courtyard grow two trees, a white pine and a Chinese scholar tree (Japanese pagoda tree), that are 500 years old.

The temple is free to visit year round, and is one of two anchors, along with Bongeunsa, for Buddha’s Birthday, normally in late-April or May.

At a daily templestay you can sample the traditions of Jogye Order, learning temple etiquette, making a mandala, attending a tea ceremony and taking part in Zen meditation.

23. Namsangol Hanok Village

For anyone enchanted by Bukchon Hanok Village there’s another beautiful ensemble of traditional buildings on the north slope of Namsan Mountain.

Namsangol Hanok Village is smaller, with five Joseon-Dynasty hanoks relocated from other parts of the city and established here in 1998. What’s interesting is that the houses’ give an insight into the lifestyle of people from different social ranks, be they middle class, government officials, noblemen or aristocrats.

These residences belonged to some important people, like the parents of Queen Yun, consort to King Sunjong, the Joeon Dynasty’s 27th King, and Lee Seungeop who oversaw the construction of Gyeongbokgung Palace.

The houses are accompanied by a pavilion, performing arts stage, traditional garden and a plaza where a time capsule is buried to be dug up in 2394.

24. Bongeunsa

This Buddhist temple on the slope of Mount Sudo dates back to the end of the 8th century during the days of the Silla Kingdom.

Buddhism was suppressed during the Joseon Dynasty, and the temple was pulled down.

The ban was lifted by Queen Munjeong (1501-1565) and Bongeunsa became the main temple for the Zen sect from 1551 right through to 1936. This temple holds thousands of Buddhist scriptures, among them the works of the 19th-century scholar Gim Jeong-hui.

Those who want to immerse themselves in Korean Buddhist culture there’s a templestay programme where you can experience and take part in rituals like the dawn service, Korean Zen meditation, a tea ceremony and a traditional Buddhist meal, balwoogongyang.

On every September 9th of the Lunar Calendar a ceremony takes place here called Jeongdaebulsa, in which monks carry scriptures on their heads and recite Buddhist rites.

25. Seoul Grand Park

In the upland environment around Cheonggyesan Mountain, south of Seoul via Line 4 of the Seoul Metro there’s a humungous park complex with a variety of attractions.

Seoul Grand Park boasts the largest zoo and botanical garden in Korea, along with the amusement park Seoul Land, which we’ll talk about later in this list.

The Seoul Grand Park zoo was moved to this spot in 1984 is the tenth largest zoological park in the world, keeping nearly 3,000 animals from 350 worldwide species, among them Asiatic black bears, Siberian tigers, rhinoceroses and lions.

At the foot of Cheonggyesan Mountain is the Botanical Garden, with desert and tropical plants in its greenhouse, together with carnivorous plants and orchids.

And for kids, the Children’s Grand Park has its own zoo, botanical garden, amusements and rides, all in calming greenery.

26. Gwangjang Market

Korea’s first permanent market harks back to the end of the Joseon Dynasty and was founded in 1905. Gwagjang Market, a brief walk west of Dongdaemun Market, has a high reputation for its fabrics, which you’ll find at the second floor’s profusion of stores for silks, satin and linen.

These are sold directly by the producers, and even though they won’t be brand name products the quality is exceptional considering the price.

Gwangjang Maket’s food alley is a big part of the appeal, with rows upon rows of vendors hawking delicious authentic street food treats.

Make sure to try yukhoe (a kind of steak tartare), sashimi, jeon (fried pancakes), bindatteok (mung bean pancakes), bibimbap (mixed rice) and tteokbokki (those spicy rice cakes).

27. Seoul Forest

Served by Subway Line 2, the 300-acre Seoul Forest opened in 2005 on land that had once been used as a hunting forest for Joseon Dynasty kings.

Across five different public parks, Seoul Forest is planted with more than 400,000 trees, and provides clean open space for a dense city.

At the very centre is the Culture and Arts Park, around the Seoul Forest Square, and laid out with flowerbeds, play areas, a visitor centre, a skate park, outdoor stage and a restaurant.

There’s a Riverside Park on the north bank of the Han with 40 rose species, and beautiful natural areas to encounter at the Marsh Plants Garden and the Eco Forest, inhabited by several types of deer, elk, mandarin ducks and spot-billed ducks and set up with an observatory for a better view of this wildlife.

Finally, at the site of a former water treatment park is the Experiential Learning Park, which has an ecological playground, a botanical garden, a wetland flower garden and bird observatory.

28. South Korea Demilitarised Zone Half & Full Day Tour

The no-man’s land between the two Koreas is day-trip distance from Seoul and is an experience not to pass on.

A wide choice of tours is available on GetYourGuide.com , the most popular being the half-day or full-day tour, which includes pick-up from all the major central hotels.

Two and a half miles wide (1.25 on each side of the border) the Demilitarised Zone continues for 155 miles along the 38th Parallel across the Korean Peninsula and was formed at the end of the Korean War in 1953 through an agreement between the People’s Republic of China and United Nations Command.

On your visit you’ll enter the mile-long Third Tunnel, excavated in secret by the north to prepare for a possible invasion.

At the DMZ Theatre And Exhibition Hall you can learn the story of this project and its discovery in 1978 after a tip by a defector from the north.

On top of Mount Dora you can gaze through binoculars across the 38th Parallel to the north from the Dora Observatory, and visit Dorasan Station, intended to link the rail network to the north should the border open in the future.

29. Seoul Metro

The labyrinthine Seoul Metropolitan Subway system, with a whopping 22 lines and 716 stations, is a point of pride, the preferred mode of transport for Seoulites and much easier to navigate than it looks on a map.

It incorporates the wider metropolitan area, out to Incheon, and regional lines serve locations like Suwon, as far as 100 kilometres from the centre of Seoul.

Despite its size the Seoul Metro is praised as one of the most efficient in the world, with Wi-Fi and 4G/5G on cars, screen doors on platforms and an unbelievable degree of cleanliness.

The easiest way to get around with a rechargeable Tmoney or Cashbee, which you can buy at the airport on arrival.

There’s English signage, and an approaching train is heralded by a jaunty fanfare on the platform.

30. Seodaemun Prison

A monument to the Japanese colonial period from 1910 to 1945, Seodaemun Prison can be found at Seodaemun Independence Park.

The prison dates to the very end of the Joseon Dynasty and during the Japanese occupation became a place of infamy, where Korean dissidents were tortured and executed.

Among the important inmates were Kim Koo, who would later be Premier of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea, and Ryu Gwansun, key to the March 1st independence movement, who was killed here through torture in 1920. The prison remained a detention centre after independence, through to 1987, after which it was turned into a memorial museum, with lots of thought-provoking exhibits.

You can tour seven prison cells, watchtowers, the execution room, a hospital, a central exhibition hall, a tunnel used to transport corpses and the cell in which Ryu Gwansun died.

31. 63 Building

Easy to pick out among the skyscrapers on Yeouido Island because it’s clad with gold, the 63 Building was the tallest skyscraper outside North America (250 metres) when it was topped out in the mid-1980s.

This structure was designed as a landmark for the 1988 Seoul Olympics and is the headquarters for a handful of important financial companies, one being Korea Life Insurance.

On the lower floors are some 90 stores, an aquarium, banquet hall and convention centre.

You can head in to catch the glass-panelled elevator up to the 60th floor, the Sky Deck, which has recently been reworked as a space for art exhibitions (the highest gallery in the world) and performances like magic shows.

Linger over the views of Seoul’s mountains, the Han River and west to Incheon on the coast when the skies are clear.

32. Huwon Garden

If you have time to spare pre-book a tour of Huwon Garden when you visit Changdeokgung Palace.

In 78 acres, this is only visitable by guided tour and was plotted exclusively for the royal family and gungnyeo (female officers of the royal court). In this sumptuous space there are landscaped lawns, pavilions, a lotus pond and more than 26,000 trees from 100 different species, some more than three centuries old.

Huwon Garden is often known as Buwon (Secret Garden) as even the highest ranking officials were forbidden from entering.

A real delight is the Ongnyucheon (Jade Stream), a u-shaped water channel from the 17th century, complete with a little waterfall and a boulder inscribed with a poem.

33. Seoul Color Park (Yeouido Hangang Park)

Not to be confused with its neighbour Yeouido Park, Seoul Color Park is along the south bank of the Han River, passing under the Mapo Bridge in Yeouido.

This area is Seoul’s financial and political core, and suited office workers join the Seoulite families and tourists on these grassy banks to contemplate the city.

There’s plenty of public art here, like the impressive wave-form sculpture and benches painted in ten different colours, each charged with a certain meaning for the city of Seoul.

For instance, green stands for Namsan Mountain, dark grey represents the traditional giwa roof tiles and red symbolises the dancheong pattern that occurs in traditional architecture.

There are lots of water features at Seoul Color Park, and new installations, like the Water Light Square and Waterfalls of Light, show up by the year.

The park hosts the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival in spring, and given its supreme view of the Han is the best place to watch the World Fireworks Festival in the fall.

34. Jongmyo Shrine

A contrast to the splendour of the royal palaces, the UNESCO World Heritage site, Jongmyo Shrine is devoted to the performance of ancestral rites for the deceased kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty.

The original buildings went up at the end of the 14th century but had to be reconstructed after the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592-1598). The tablets carved with the teachings of members of this former royal family are housed here, and centuries old rituals combining court music and dance continue to take place at the shrine, perpetuating a 600-year-old tradition.

The group of understated buildings here is largely unchanged since the end of the 16th century and consists of the Jeongjeon (main hall), Yeongnyeongjeon (hall of eternal peace), and a variety of auxiliary structures.

Jeongjeon is a sensational piece of architecture, and believed to be the world’s longest freestanding wooden structure at 109 metres.

35. Sejong Center for the Performing Arts

The largest performing arts venue in Seoul is on the grand Sejongno street in Jongno-gu.

As with the street, the Sejong Center is named for Sejong the Great (1397-1450), the fourth king of the Joseon Dynasty.

The building was constructed over four years to 1978, and blends Modernist architecture with traditional Korean flourishes, as you’ll see from the enlarged eaves.

The center houses a large main auditorium seating 3,000, the smaller Minor Hall for 442, four galleries and the Sejong Convention Center.

A host of prestigious companies and ensembles are based at the Sejong Center, like the Seoul Philharmonic, the Seoul Metropolitan Theater Company, the Seoul Metropolitan Opera and the Seoul Metropolitan Chorus.

There’s always something interesting on the programme, from recitals by classical soloists to full-scale operas, international festivals, ballet, film concerts, musicals and performances of traditional Korean dance.

Something to note about the main auditorium, the Grand Theater, is that it holds the largest pipe organ in Asia, with 8,098 pipes and a case designed like a geomungo, a traditional Korean string instrument.

36. Itaewon

In Yongsan-gu you’ll stumble into a neighbourhood where the shops and people look nothing like the city around it.

Itaewon is an international enclave just east of the U.S. Army’s Yongsan Garrison and as well as being extremely diverse is heaving with shops, restaurants and nightclubs.

There are more than 20,000 expats living here, and when people need to find non-Korean cuisines and ingredients, from all over Europe, India, Southeast Asia, Mexico and the United States, Itaewon is the place to come.

You could call it a Chinatown but for every nation of the world, and like many Chinatowns the concentration of shops is startling.

People come especially for the clothes and fashion accessories; leather products are a real forte of Itaewon.

Antique Furniture Street is an eye-opener for its 100+ stores and harks back to the 1960s when American soldiers would sell off their furnishings before heading home.

37. Ihwa Mural Village

There’s a corner of Ihwa-dong, at the foot of Naksan Park, that was revitalised in the mid-2000s with imaginative and whimsical street art.

This was an initiative by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, commissioning some 70 artists to create murals and installations, and setting up communal gardens.

Traditionally working class, the low-rise Ihwa-dong, on steep ground and bounded by Seoul’s old fortress walls, had been settled by refugees at the end of the Korean War in the 1950s.

The neighbourhood fell into decline in the 80s and 90s as people departed for more prosperous parts of the city, and public art helped to make it more desirable and build a sense of community.

The project wasn’t without its problems, as the influx of tourists has led to complaints about a loss of privacy, and many pieces from 2006 have been removed.

Since the 2010s local residents have been consulted on new designs, and apart from tracking down murals you may have a fun time navigating the stairways and alleys of this quirky part of the city.

38. MMCA Seoul

The fourth branch of South Korea’s National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art opened in Seoul in 2013, right beside Gyeongbokgung.

The museum is on and around the military Defence Security Command complex, and is dedicated to international contemporary art.

Something worth mentioning about the layout is that the museum incorporates the concept of “madang”, a large convivial courtyard for gatherings.

There’s a mixed use hall for performances and interdisciplinary art, and a 122-seat theatre screening experimental films and hosting festivals.

To give you a taste of what’s in store, when we compiled this list in summer 2019 there was a retrospective for Park Seo-bo , who emerged in the 1950s as South Korea’s first Informalist artist, as well as the first exhibition in Asia for the CoBrA founder-member Asger Jorn (1914-1973).

39. Olympic Park

The vast site of the 1988 Seoul Olympics in Songpa-gu to the south-east of the city, has kept many of its facilities intact, from the velodrome to the tennis courts, gymnastics arena, swimming pool and fencing gymnasium (now used for handball). These venues are on a site with a far more distant history, harking back to the Baekje kingdom (between 1,500 and 2000) years ago.

The earthen rampart of Mongchontoseong Fortress was on the course of the running even for the modern pentathlon, and artefacts found excavations before the Olympics ended up at the Baekje Museum.

At 1.45 million square metres there’s a lot of ground to cover.

You rent a bike or pedal car to get around, and there are individual parks to visit, like an Environmental Eco-Park inhabited by spot-billed ducks, chipmunks, white herons, cuckoos and pheasants.

The Leisure Sports Park is packed with facilities, while the Cultural Art park puts on live performances and is the setting for the musical fountain and the Seoul Olympics Museum of Art, famed for its sculpture.

40. Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market

Some 300 tons of fish is traded every day at this epic market in Noryangjin-dong on the south bank of the Han.

Nighthawks can visit as early as 01:00 and the fish auction kicks off at 03:00. Before you set off you can check the website for auction prices, which tend to be driven by quantity.

For reference, retail prices are up to 20% higher than the auction price.

One of the Seoul’s great culinary experiences is buying ocean-fresh shrimp, king crab, lobster, clams, salmon (sashimi), flounder, octopus, scallops and whatever else you fancy, and carrying it upstairs to a restaurant for a seafood feast.

41. Gyeongui Line Forest Park

The century-old Gyeongui railway line has recently moved underground, and its trackbed has gradually been turned into a linear park with lawns, streams, ponds and a path edged with ginkgo trees.

The section starting in trendy Hongdae begins opposite exit three of Hongik University Station and will eventually belong to more than six kilometres of parkland from Yeonnam-dong to Munbae-dong in Yongsan.

There’s a slew of restaurants and cafes close by at the south-east end and in summer evenings the lawns fill with groups out picnicking, and street performers with guitars bring even more colour to the park.

42. Myeong-dong

A dense grid of streets and alleys illuminated by a panoply of neon signs, Myeong-dong is up there with Seoul’s most beloved shopping areas.

This honeypot for Chinese and Japanese tourists can be crammed with as many as two million people in a single day.

The two main arteries, departing from Myeong-dong Subway Station and Lotte Department Store, meet in the middle of the grid.

In terms of stores, Myeong-dong is dominated by midmarket and upmarket international brands like Zara, H&M, Lacoste, Louis Vuitton and Polo Ralph Lauren.

From late-March to mid-April and then for the whole month of September the Myeong-dong festival brings parades, special sales, live music and dance performances.

Food-wise, if you’re up for kalguksu (noodle soup) or dongaseu (pork cutlet), Myeong-dong is a go-to and abounds in street food carts.

43. Myeongdong Nanta Theatre

An international hit that made waves at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and was the first Korean show to have an extended stint on Broadway, Nanta is a non-verbal comedy show using traditional samulnori percussion.

The plot entails three cooks racing to prepare a wedding banquet and coping with a manager’s incompetent nephew among the kitchen staff.

There’s no dialogue, so Nanta is instantly accessible, and families will enjoy the mix of music (using kitchen utensils), pantomime, physical comedy, magic tricks and audience engagement.

The show, at Myeongdong Nanta Theatre, lasts for just over an hour and you can get 20% off the official ticket price by booking through GetYourGuide.com .

44. Seoul City Hall

Right on the central Seoul Plaza is the city’s main administrative building, set just behind its predecessor.

The original Seoul City Hall, now home to the Seoul Metropolitan Library is an Imperial Crown style monument from the Japanese occupation and dating to 1925. The futuristic new city hall was ready in 2012 and looks like a big breaking wave, but is also a nod to the past, evoking the curled eaves of Hanoks.

You can head in for a free 70-minute guided tour, and English tours are at 14:00 on Tuesday and 10:30 and 15:00 on Saturday.

Highlights inside are the Vertical Garden moderating air-flow, temperature and humidity, and a collection of weapons from the Joseon Dynasty.

The plaza in front is a gathering spot for demonstrations and protests, and has an ice rink each winter from the middle of December to February.

45. Changgyeonggung Palace

This palace was first constructed in the mid-15th century by King Sejong, the forth ruler of the Joseon Dynasty, as a residence for his father.

Later that century Changgyeonggung Palace was enlarged by King Seongjong, and this layout is the one that greets you today.

The complex has twice been damaged by the Japanese, during their invasions of Korea in the late-16th century and then during their 20th-century occupation when many of the buildings were dismantled and the site turned into a park.

The palace was rebuilt to its 15th-century appearance in the 1980s.

One element that has survived from the rebuild in the early-17th century is the Myeongjeongjeon (main hall), the oldest of all the main halls at Seoul’s royal palaces and inscribed as a National Treasure.

In front is the arched Okcheongyo (bridge) crossing a pond, a hallmark of Joseon dynasty palaces.

This ushers you onto the courtyard in front of the main hall, bisected by three parallel paths, the central one to be trodden only by the king.

46. Samcheongdong-gil Road

Not to be missed if you want to continue exploring old Seoul, the romantic Samcheongdong-gil Road, beside Bukchon Hanok Village, is flanked with yet more hanoks.

In these historic buildings are fashion boutiques, design shops, antique shops, galleries, restaurants and cafes.

Despite the traditional exteriors, they are all remarkably modern inside.

Samcheongdong-gil Road has long been a popular spot for first dates.

The best time for a stroll is spring, when everything’s in bloom, or fall when the foliage is beautiful.

47. National Hangeul Museum

Not just for linguists, the National Hangeul Museum studies the intriguing history of the Korean character system.

With lots of information signs in English the museum goes into depth on Hangeul’s linguistic structure and development over hundreds of years, while adding political and cultural context.

You’ll find out how this alphabet has become a cultural asset and how it complements the Korean language so neatly.

For kids there’s the Hangeul Playground, with slyly educational hands-on activities, and if you’re serious about improving your Korean, the Hangeul Learning Center is an invaluable resource.

48. Han River: Night Cruise

At the height summer Seoul can be stifling, so for a little respite in the evening you can step aboard a cruise boat and feel the breeze on a 40-minute sightseeing cruise.

With new skyscrapers like the record-breaking Lotte World Tower cropping up on the Seoul skyline each year, it’s an eye-opening experience.

One of the high points of the trip is Banpo Bridge, which has the world’s longest bridge fountain, at 1,140 metres.

Water jets shoot from 380 nozzles and are lit in rainbow colours by more than 10,000 LEDs.

On Saturdays and public holidays there’s a fireworks display behind the bridge, which you’ll get to watch on the cruise.

This experience is available through GetYourGuide.com .

49. Seoul City Wall

The wall (Hangyangdoseong) defending the centre of Seoul forms an 18.6-km ring traversing the four main mountains around the heart of the city: Bugaksan, Naksan, Namsan and Ingwangsan.

This defence, eight metres high in places, dates from the end of the 14th century, at the very beginning of the Joseon dynasty and took three decades to build.

As the city expanded sections were torn down, especially to make way for tram lines in the early 20th century.

But long pieces remain to their original height, while two of the original four main gates, Namdaemun (South Gate) and Heunginjimun (East Gate), are still standing in their original form and protected as National Treasures.

Of the four main gates and four auxiliary gates only two have been lost altogether.

The most popular and best-preserved stretch of wall runs for 2.3 kilometres over Mount Bukaksan via Sukjeongmun to Changuimun.

50. Seoul in 1 Day: Best City Highlights Tour

Coming to terms with a hectic metropolis the size of Seoul it can be difficult to know where to begin.

Going through GetYourGuide.com you could tick off all the essentials in a single day by air-conditioned bus with this highlights tour, extra convenient in summer, when temperatures hit the 30s and air pollution can be a problem.

You’ll visit the Jogyesa Temple, and move onto the Gyeongbokgung Palace to the see the changing of the guard and pose for a photo dressed up in hanbok attire.

You’ll get to poke around Insa-dong’s alleys and pick up a bite from the many street food carts.

In the afternoon the tour takes you to Bukchon Hanok Village, before ending the day with a roam around the Myeong-dong shopping area, sampling street entertainment and trying some more Korean street food delicacies.

51. Seoullo 7017

Seoul’s answer to the Coulée verte René-Dumont or the High Line is a park on what used to be the Seoul Station overpass.

Opened in May 2017, Seoullo 7017 has some 24,000 plants, flowers and trees from 230 species (the hydrangeas, magnolias and roses are lovely in spring and summer) along its 17 pedestrian paths.

The name 7017 stands for the date the overpass was built (1970), the number of paths and the year the park opened.

There’s an information centre, a gift shop and a range of cafes and kiosks for Korean snacks.

For extra background, the Seoul tourist board includes Seoullo 7017 on three free walking tours: From Hanyang to Seoul, Exploration of Modern and Contemporary Architecture at Seoullo and Night Tour of Seoullo.

52. Trickeye Museum

A tourist favourite, the Trickeye Museum in Hongdae features mind-bending works that mostly using an augmented reality developed by the gallery’s owners, and some with more conventional 3D illusions.

You can get a taste of what’s inside at a free section with ten pieces, before the paid entrance giving access to another 55. The Trickeye Camera app lets you to interact with the AR paintings, becoming absorbed into these little worlds for photos and videos, riding a dragon or a pair of sharks, dancing in Jack Vettriano’s The Singing Butler, sitting on horseback in John Collier’s Lady Godiva or relaxing in Provence, in Vincent van Gogh’s the Starry Night.

Also part of the attraction is the Ice Museum, filled with expert ice sculptures, including an entire furnished living room with chairs, a piano and TV, all rendered from ice.

53. Starfield COEX Mall

Directly opposite Samsung Station in the heart of Seoul is the largest underground mall in Asia.

Starfield COEX Mall is more than 150,000 square metres in size, almost all of which is on a single floor and with a quite spectacular atrium and five open plazas.

The mall is also joined to the COEX Convention Center, which has staged events like Seoul Motor Show and the G20 Summit in 2010. For fashionistas there are hundreds of domestic and international brands in this shopper’s paradise, among them ÅLAND, an affordable champion of Seoul’s now famous street-style scene for several years, and recently exported to the United States.

There’s also an aquarium, a museum devoted entirely to kimchi and a Megabox Cineplex with 17 screens.

Keen K-Poppers need to check out SMTOWN Coex Artium, run by the SM Entertainment label.

Fans can tour rehearsal and recording rooms, experience hologram performances and by merch for acts like Kangta, S.E.S., Red Velvet, TraxX and many more.

54. Seoul Land

In 1987, not long before the Olympics, the first theme park in Korea opened south of Seoul proper in Gwacheon, on the slopes Cheonggyesan Mountain.

Seoul Land is dwarfed by the Everland, South Korea’s largest theme park, but is much more convenient from downtown Seoul at half the distance.

There are more than 50 rides and attractions, from white-knuckle rollercoasters like the Double Loop Coaster and Black Hole 2000 to theatre experiences with 3D and motion technology.

Any child obsessed with dinosaurs will adore Jurassic Land.

Seoul Land also stands out for its seasonal festivals, like a Tulip Festival in April-May, a Starlight Rose Festival in July and August, a Chrysanthemum Festival in July and August and the Snow Light Festival between December and February.

After sunset in summer stick around for the nightly Laser Show.

55. Dream Concert

This annual one-day K-Pop festival at the Seoul World Cup Stadium celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2019. Every May Dream Concert pulls together an ensemble of 24 of the biggest K-pop artists around.

In 2019 Red Velvet, Seventeen, NCT and Taemin were all on the bill.

Tickets go on sale just a month before, so you’ll have to be quick.

If you’re an avid K-Popper and visit outside of May you can catch free live performances by heading to one of the big TV studios, watching a taping of famous showcases like Music Bank and Yoo Hee Yeol’s Sketchbook (KBS), Show! Music Core (MBC), Inkikyao (SBS) and M Countdown (Mnet Studio).

55 Best Things to Do in Seoul (South Korea):

• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• N Seoul Tower
• Changdeokgung Palace
• National Museum of Korea
• Namsan Park
• Lotte World
• Bukhansan National Park
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
• National Folk Museum of Korea
• War Memorial of Korea
• Lotte World Tower
• Seoul Arts Center
• Hangang Park
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127 Things to Do in Seoul + Attractions Map (by Category)

Last Updated: Nov 12, 2023 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 2 Comments

Seoul is the vibrant and exciting capital of South Korea , which I called home for 3 years. But frustratingly, a lot of the articles covering what to do in Seoul include a lot of day trips outside of the city, activities over an hour outside of Seoul, or even just some specific foods to eat.

So just like my favorite chocolate in Seoul , this list of Seoul attractions contains absolutely no filler. Here I highlight 100+ of the best things to do in Seoul with kids or without, from historical and cultural experiences to shopping, world-class dining, and unique entertainment.

There are actually so many things to do in Seoul for first time visitors that this post focuses only on the most unique, iconic, or underrated Seoul attractions.  Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll enjoy a number of these fun things to do in Seoul! Since this is a huge list, please use the table of contents below to navigate (and the back button to return to it).

• ✈️ Basics of Travel in South Korea
• 👨🏻‍🍳 Things to Do in Seoul for Foodies
• 🇰🇷 Things to Do in Seoul for History Buffs
• 😊 Things to Do in Seoul With Friends
• 📷 Things to Do in Seoul for Young Adults
• 🖼️ Best Museums in Seoul
• 🏯 Things to Do in Seoul for Cultural Travelers
• 🎫 Things to Do in Seoul for KPop Fans
• 🧒 Things to Do in Seoul With Kids
• 💑 Things to Do in Seoul for Couples
• 🌏 Things to Do in Seoul for Solo Travelers
• 🌉 Things to Do in Seoul at Night
• 🏕️ Nature Attractions in Seoul
• 🌧️ Indoor Things to Do in Seoul When it Rains
• 🌟 Things to Do in Seoul for Free
• 🗺️ Seoul Attractions Map

✈️ Basics of Travel in South Korea

Visa: Most travelers will need a K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization ), applied for at least 72 hours before departure. If you needed a visa before, you'll need a K-ETA now. Note that from April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and several EU nations, can visit visa-free – no K-ETA required!

Currency: South Korean won ( KRW or ₩ )

Arrival in Korea: all international flights arrive at Incheon Airport (ICN), one of the best-rated airports in the world. It usually takes about 1 hour to get through security & pick up checked bags.

Getting Around: Korea has an extensive & reliable public transport system. A refillable T-Money card is your ticket to buses and trains across the country; you can buy and refill yout TMoney card at any subways station or convenience store in Korea.

Internet & SIM Cards: Rent a Wi-Fi egg or purchase a prepaid Korean SIM card at the airport, available for up to one month of connection.

Travel Insurance: always recommended, though some credit card companies offers limited coverage when booking.

👨🏻‍🍳 Things to Do in Seoul for Foodies

Learn how to make traditional korean dishes.

Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of healthy ingredients, such as fermented vegetables and seasonal fruit. Taking a cooking class is an excellent way to learn hands-on how to make dishes like kimchi, bulgogi, bibimbap, and more.

One of the most popular cooking classes in Seoul is the O'ngo Food Communications Cooking Class, which offers hands-on experiences in a friendly and fun environment. Alternately, many locals now offer classes through Air BnB Experiences .

Grab Korean Barbeque

Korean BBQ is a must-try when visiting Seoul. It's a fun and interactive dining experience where you can cook your own meat of choice at the table, and then enjoy it with a variety of side dishes, known as banchan . Korean BBQ restaurants are everywhere in Seoul, from casual street stalls to upscale eateries.

The most popular cuts of meat for BBQ are marinated beef and pork, but you can also find chicken and seafood options. Don't forget to try some soju or Korean beer to wash it all down.

Farmer's Market at Gyeongui Line Forest Park

Address : 147-89 Donggyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Daeheung Station Line 6

Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a unique and beautiful park built on a former railway line. It hosts various events and activities throughout the year, including a farmer's market where visitors can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts from local vendors.

The park is also a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk, providing visitors with a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Try Korean Royal Cuisine

Korean Royal Cuisine, or " hanjeongsik ," is a unique and delicious dining experience that dates back to the Joseon Dynasty, hundreds of years ago. It features a wide variety of dishes that were once reserved for royalty, such as bulgogi (marinated beef), japchae (stir-fried glass noodles), and jeon (savory pancakes).

For a unique meal during your Seoul trip, you can experience this type of dining at one of the few hanjeongsik restaurants throughout the city (be sure to make a reservation).

Traditional Korean Candy in Insadong

Insadong is a popular area in Seoul for tourists and locals to experience traditional Korean cuisine and culture. The evening market offers a chance for tourists to try traditional Korean snacks and candy . Visitors can sample treats like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and dalgona candy.

Traditional Korean Rice Wine (Makgeolli) & Cooking Class in Seoul

Season : Rainy days

Operating Hours: (Monday-Wednesday & Friday) 11:00 AM, 2:30 PM & 6:00 PM; (Saturday) 11:00 AM & 6:00 PM

Location : Suguk near Guui Station

Estimated Cost : ₩42,000

Koreans love their liquor to the point that they made it a culturally acceptable way to bring people together, even in the afternoon. While most of you are familiar with soju , there’s another liquor that Koreans love to pair with barbequed meat: rice wine or makgeolli .

This class is taught by Seri Jeong, a Korean liquor expert, whose decade-long career has garnered multiple awards and domestic fame. Since this drink is best enjoyed with binddaedeok and pajeon , especially when it rains, this is also the perfect activity to do during the monsoon season. Check out their website for more details.

GREEM CAFÉ 

Season : Open year round

Operating Hours: Open daily; 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Location : Seoul, Mapo-gu, Yeonnam-dong, Seongmisan-ro, 161-10 카페 1.5층

Estimated Cost : ₩-₩₩ (ee GREEM CAFÉ’s instagram for more details)

Ever wondered what it’s like to step into a black & white cartoon strip? This is exactly what GREEM CAFÉ looks like inside, with “pencil-drawn” outlined chairs and tables, creating a 2D illusion that teases your eyes while their coffee tickles your taste buds.

So if you have vertigo, this may not be the place for you. Still, you should give this place a shot. Their Ham and Cheese croissant sandwich (₩ 6,500) is good, and it really goes well with their Herb Garden Tea (₩5,500). If you have extra room, also try their Soft Milk Cream Cake with Honey (₩5,500).

Coffee Hanyakbang

Operating Hours: Open daily, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (closes at 8:30 PM on Sundays)

Location : Euljiro 3-ga Station (Line 2, Exit 1)

Estimated Cost : ₩-₩₩

Somewhere in “hip-jiro” (a name given by the young locals to Euljiro) lies a coffee shop tucked inside an alley, populated mostly by the university youth. To get there you need to squeeze through an alley next to a ginseng shop, and the moment you step inside, you’ll find a really dark room with baristas in white.

What I love about this place is that it’s very rustic in a city that’s so futuristic. Even the menu is made out of a plank of wood; and they serve tea and coffee in an antique baking pan. Although most cafes only care about aesthetics, this one puts great care into their coffee.

Some have fruity, nutty, and chocolatey notes, resulting in a thick, creamy coffee that’s worth every cent. And since they roast their beans by hand in the back corner of the café, this Seoul attraction smells really, really good.

Museum Kimchikan (Kimchi Museum)

Season : Fall

Operating Hours: Open daily; 10:00AM to 6:00PM

Location : 35-4 Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul; Jonggak Station (Line 1, Exit 3)

Estimated Cost : Adults: ₩5,000, Children: ₩3,000

What is Korea known for? Kimchi. This traditional Korean dish is a staple in homes & restaurants, and you can find it almost everywhere in Seoul. There’s even a National Kimchi Day every November, on which most people go back to their hometowns to make enough kimchi for the year as a family.

But the best place to learn all about it is to go to a museum dedicated to it. Here you can learn all about the kimjang process, which is an immersive activity you can do with the entire family.

There are actually multiple types of kimchi (made with things like radish or bean sprouts), and one special thing about the Kimchi Museum is that they let you try all of them in their tasting room.

Coffee Nap Roasters

Season : Spring & Fall

Operating Hours: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM

Location : 70, Seongmisan-ro 27-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul; Hongik University Station (Line 2, Exit 2)

Most foodies love three things: good food, delicious drinks, and top-tier ambiance. This secluded coffee shop in Seoul has it all. Moreover, what’s unique about this place is the peculiar choice of floor design, made out of bricks stacked together irregularly like a small hill.

Therapeutic music plays softly in the background as you relax in any spot you like. Plus, this is the only place in Seoul where you can get a smoky and savory “bacon cookie” for just ₩3,200. 

Gawk at Amazing Sea Life at Noryangjin Fish Market

Operating Hours: Open 24 hours, but the infamous fish auctions start at 3 AM

Location : 674 Nodeul-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul; Noryangjin Station (Line 1 and 9, Exit 1)

Estimated Cost : ₩₩-₩₩₩

Noryangjin Fish Market is the most famous seafood market in South Korea; it's a must-visit for seafood lovers. Dating back to 1927, this fish market remains in operation today, with tanks full of large fish, crabs, and other interesting seafood freshly caught for you to try.

As one of the largest seafood markets in South Korea, you'll be amazed by the variety of fish and seafood on display. The advantage of coming to this particular wet market is that you can try the “wiggling octopus sashimi” or sannakji (₩5,000) fresh from the tank.

You can watch the fishmongers at work, haggling with buyers and skillfully filleting fish, all of which is available for purchase. Some vendors offer freshly-prepared seafood dishes, such as sashimi or grilled fish, which you can enjoy in the market's dining area with various side dishes.

Be prepared for a lively and sometimes overwhelming atmosphere, as it can get crowded with locals and tourists in the afternoons.

🇰🇷 Things to Do in Seoul for History Buffs

Visit the jogyesa temple.

Address : 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Anguk Station Line 3

Jogyesa Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Korea, as well as the center of the Jogye order of Korean Buddhism (Zen Buddhism). The temple complex is located in the heart of Seoul and offers visitors a peaceful and spiritual experience in a tranquil atmosphere.

Its architecture is a lovely example of ancient Korean designs, and features colorful lanterns and intricate wood carvings. Visitors can participate in a meditation session, learn more about Buddhism and its practices, and witness traditional ceremonies and rituals.

The temple also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Lotus Lantern Festival, which celebrates the Buddha's birthday.

Visit the Seoul City Hall

Address : 110 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : City Hall Station Line 1

The City Hall is an iconic modern building located in the heart of the city, offering visitors a great view of the city. The building's architecture is a blend of modern and traditional design and is characterized by its curved roof and glass facade.

Visitors can take an elevator to the Jeongdong Observatory on the 13th floor, where they can enjoy a panoramic view of the city skyline. The observatory offers a 360-degree view of Seoul and is an excellent spot for photography.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Season: Year round; but best seen during spring or autumn

Operating Hours: Open 24 hours

Location: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul; Anguk Station (Line 3, Exit 3)

Estimated Cost: Free

Curious what a Korean village used to look like? The beauty about coming to this place is that it has retained its traditional splendor, with hundreds of hanok that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. Each one has been carefully preserved and protected to remind people how the nobles used to live.

However, they were later replaced by commoners after several wars and disasters broke out. Plus, the village is in the middle of three prime locations that you can visit later (Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Jongmyo shrine).

Note: This village may be a historical site, but there are people still living in these homes. If you’re planning to come, please remember to be respectful and quiet. Also, this Hanok Village is the best place to come if you want to have a legitimate hanok experience in Korea .

Seodaemun Prison

Season : Summer & Winter, to emphasize its dreary atmosphere

Operating Hours : 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (closed Mondays & holidays; closes 7PM November to February)

Location : 251 Tongil-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul; Dongnimmun Station (Line 3, Exit 5)

Estimated Cost : Adults: ₩1,500, Teens: ₩1,000; Children: ₩500; Senior Citizens and Children under 6 are free

History buffs might find this Seoul attraction a worthy visit. I’s a former prison that the Japanese used to humiliate and subjugate Korean patriots, and the latter’s resistance made this landmark an ultimate domestic symbol of love towards the country and perseverance.

This horrible location also features macabre areas such as the underground gallows, isolation cells, and the execution hall, where people were tortured and killed because they wouldn’t yield.  

War Memorial of Korea

Operating Hours: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (closed Mondays)

Location : 251 Tongil-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul; Samgakji Station (Line 4, Exit 12)

Estimated Cost : Free

This site is a physical love letter to all the brave souls that died during wars throughout the 20 th century. If you come here you may be surprised to see how in-depth they retell stories from the battlefield.

The museum also lets you see decommissioned war tanks, weapons, and even missiles throughout their 6 exhibition halls and outdoor gallery (which features massive military equipment that’s too big to fit in the museum.)

Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs

Operating Hours: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM (closed Mondays & holidays)

Location : 1 Seolleung-ro 100-gil, Samseong 2(i)-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul; Seoulleung Station (Line 2, Exit 10); Seonjeongneung Station (Line 9, Exit 3)

Estimated Cost : Adults: ₩1,000; Children: ₩500

Bet you didn’t expect to see a tomb situated in the middle of Seoul’s famous Gangnam district. While it is most known for being a deluxe metropolis, most people ignore the fact that this is also the final resting place of three important individuals that ruled during the Joseon Dynasty.

Its lush green fields have turned this memorial site into a park, where most locals come for a peaceful walk along the rock wall path after visiting the shrines near the tombs.

Unhyeongung Royal Residence

Operating Hours : April to October: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM; November to March: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed Mondays & holidays)

Location : 114-10 Unni-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Did you know that this Seoul attraction used to be the home of the prince regent Heungseon Daewongun of the Joseon Dynasty? This man eventually became the father of Emperor Gojong, and raised him there until he reached puberty and ascended to the throne.

It’s fun to come here and imagine what life must have been like for the royal residents and their servants. Sometimes, they even run reenactments of big events (like the last royal wedding in 1886), just to give guests a glimpse into the past.

Ride the DMZ Train

Season : As long as there’s no heavy tension between North & South, then you can book a trip.

Operating Hours: Open only from Wednesday to Sunday; 10:00 AM

Location : Depart from Yongsan Station

Estimated Cost : Adults: ₩36,000; Children: ₩33,000; Senior Citizens: ₩34,000

This might sound like the craziest suggestion you’ll ever encounter in a guide, because I seem to be telling you to visit the border in an active war zone. Most guides would suggest you join a DMZ tour for this, but there’s actually a way to do it without one.

All you have to do is catch the DMZ Peace Train from Yongsan Station. Once you have arrived in the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), they’ll direct you to a bus that lets you experience and explore this heavily restricted area (with guides, of course. We don’t want you to find yourself in North Korea!).

Here you’ll learn a lot more about the painful history of Korea’s national division firsthand, and the strong yearning for peace in the Dorasan area.

See A Korean Baseball Game

Address : 25 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Sports Complex Station Line 2

Watching a Korean baseball game at Jamsil Stadium is a fantastic way to experience the excitement of Korean sports culture. Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Korea, and the atmosphere in the stadium is absolutely electric during a game, no matter who's playing.

Visitors can try traditional ballpark food such as fried chicken and beer while enjoying the game. The stadium is home to two professional baseball teams, the LG Twins and the Doosan Bears, and games are held throughout the season in spring.

😊 Things to Do in Seoul With Friends

Try on a hanbok at deoksugung palace.

Opening Hours : 10:30 AM to 11: 30 AM; 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM; 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM (closed Mondays & holidays)

Location : 99, Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul; Seoul Subway (Line 1 & 2, Exit 2)

Estimated Cost : (Entrance to Deoksugung Palace) Adult: ₩1,000; Children: ₩ 500; Free for children below 7 and senior citizens.

Come to catch the traditional Changing of The Guards ceremony in the morning, if you can. Afterwards you can borrow their gear in the booth next to the main gate for taking pictures.

This is also the best place to borrow a hanbok for free in Seoul. Sure, it’s not as glamorous as the ones you get from rental stores, and it’s a little worn due to multiple people wearing it before you, but hey, this is one of the rare things you can do in Seoul for free .

Pose With The King at Gwanghwamun Square

Address : 지하172 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Gwanghwamun Station Line 5

How Long to Spend : 15 minutes

Gwanghwamun Square is a beautiful and historic public space located in the heart of Seoul; it's such an attraction that it was fully renovated in 2022. Its claim to fame is as home to a statue of King Sejong, who is revered as a national hero in Korea.

Visitors can take a stroll around the square and admire the statue, as well as the surrounding architecture and scenery, before visiting the beautiful Gyeongbokgung.

Photo Booths in Downtown Seoul

How Long to Spend : 5-10 minutes

Take pictures in one of the few photo booths in Seoul, with copies for just a few thousand won. Photo booths are popular in Korea, and there are still a few in Seoul, often in arcades or shopping centers, which can be a fun way to capture memories with friends or alone.

Each set with come with one print of 4 separate snaps.

Seoul Escape Room

Address : 65-1 Dongmak-ro, Sangsu-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Sangsu Station

How Long to Spend : 1 hour

Escape rooms have become a popular form of entertainment in Seoul , and are a great way to spend an afternoon or evening. Visitors have to solve puzzles and clues to escape within a set time limit, and they're designed to be challenging.

It's a thrilling and exciting experience that's sure to leave a lasting impression, if you've never tried one in your home country. There are many different escape rooms to choose from in Seoul, each with its own theme and level of difficulty.

Visitors can do an escape room alone or with friends, and it's a fun way to test your problem-solving skills and ability to work as a team.

Bike or Scooter Around Sokchon Lake

Address : South Korea, 서울특별시 송파구 잠실6동

Closest Metro : Jamsil Station Line 8

How Long to Spend : 1-2 hours

Seokchon Lake is a beautiful and scenic spot in Seoul that's perfect for cycling, jogging, and strolling. The lake is surrounded by a picturesque park, and visitors can rent bikes or scooters to explore the area at their own pace (there are no official tours).

It's a great way to enjoy the outdoors and take in the natural beauty of the city on days with nice weather.

Traditional Korean Tea Ceremony Class

Korean tea ceremonies are a meditative and spiritual experience that have been practiced for centuries. You can take a class to learn about the different types of tea, the proper brewing techniques, and the etiquette of a Korean tea ceremony, practiced historically as a darye .

The Korean Tea Culture Foundation offers a variety of tea ceremony classes for visitors to enjoy, though their website is quite basic.

Visit a Festival or Go Shopping at CoEx Mall

Address : 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Bongeunsa Station Line 9

How Long to Spend : 2+ hours

CoEx Mall is one of the largest underground shopping malls in Asia, and is a popular shopping destination for Seoulites thanks to its huge variety of offerings. CoEx houses a wide variety of shops, from high-end luxury brands to fast fashion retailers, and is also home to several restaurants, a movie theater, an aquarium, and a convention center.

Throughout the year, the mall hosts various festivals and events, including a K-Pop concert, a chocolate festival , and a flower festival.

The Sool Gallery

Season: Open year round

Operating Hours: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (closed Mondays)

Location : 8, Insadong 11-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03145; Sinnonhyeon (Line 9)

Estimated Cost: ₩₩-₩₩₩

The Sool Gallery is a fascinating place to visit in Seoul , because it lets you enjoy a complimentary traditional liquor with options hailing from different provinces in Korea. It’s also fun to come here with friends, since you’ll have a grand time deciphering the tastes of the 2 to 5 types of liquors on offer.

During the tasting and while walking through the displays, you’ll glean a thorough understanding of the history behind these flavors. Email Sool Gallery for a tour reservation and more information.

📷 Things to Do in Seoul for Young Adults

Spend an afternoon at the harry potter cafe.

Address : 24 Yanghwa-ro 16-gil, 서교동 Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Hongik Univ. Station Line 2

King's Cross Cafe is a popular Harry Potter-themed cafe located in Hongdae, a youthful area of Seoul known for its nightlife and arts scene. The cafe is designed to look like the Hogwarfunts Express train station, complete with platform 9 ¾, a brick wall, and a luggage trolley sticking out of the wall.

Inside, the cafe is decorated with Harry Potter memorabilia, including posters, books, wands, and other magical artifacts. The menu at King's Cross Cafe features a variety of drinks and desserts with Harry Potter-themed names, such as Butterbeer, Polyjuice Potion, and Chocolate Frogs.

Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

Address : 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Gyeongbokgung Station Line No. 3

Gyeongbokgung Palace, whose grounds were built in the 14th century, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul. It's also the largest palace in Korea, and was once the home of the Royal Family during the Joseon Dynasty.

Visitors can explore the palace's various buildings & structures, including the throne hall, pavilions, and living quarters of the royal family. The palace also features a beautiful garden and a traditional Korean folk museum that showcases the history and culture of Korea.

All guests will enter through the famous Gwanghwamun Gate or the metro station entrance, which pops you out right next to the National Palace Museum of Korea. Anyone wearing a hanbok, a traditional Korean outfit, can enter the palace grounds for free.

Fun Fact : technically the full name is simply Gyeongbokgung, which translates as 'Gyeongbok Palace.'

Visit the Seoul Folk Flea Market

Address : 21 Cheonho-daero 4-gil, Sinseol-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Sinseol-dong Station Line 1

The Seoul Folk Flea Market is a popular shopping destination for both locals and visitors. It's a bustling and vibrant marketplace that offers a glimpse into traditional Korean culture through crafts, souvenirs, and street food.

The market is home to over 700 vendors, selling everything from handmade pottery to vintage clothing. Visitors can browse through the stalls and find unique souvenirs to take home, or sample some of the delicious Korean street food.

The market is also a great place to practice bargaining skills, as vendors are usually open to negotiation. It's worth noting that the market is closed on Mondays, but is open every other day of the week.

Go Shopping in Myeongdong

Address : Myeongdong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Myeongdong Station Underground Shopping Center

Myeongdong is a bustling shopping district located in the heart of Seoul, famous for its high-end fashion, cosmetics, and skincare products. Visitors can browse the numerous shopping malls, boutiques, and street food vendors, or dine in one of the many restaurants and cafes.

The district's street food stalls and restaurants are known to offer a variety of dishes, making it a perfect spot for foodies (the cheesy lobster tail is a can't miss!). Myeongdong's lively atmosphere adds to the shopping experience, and visitors will often see street performances and entertainment acts while exploring the area on the weekends.

Walk the Ewha Womans University Campus

Address : 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Ewha Womans Univ. Station Line 2

I know visiting a college campus seems like a strange vacation activity, but just like the beautiful art installations throughout the city, Seoul takes design & architecture seriously. Ewha Womans University is one of several beautiful campuses you can visit, located in the heart of Seoul's artsy district.

The campus is known for its stunning architecture and landscaping, and the university is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Korea, with a history dating back to 1886. Visitors can participate in various cultural events and activities such as music concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.

The university also offers a range of unique and innovative courses in various fields, if you're interested in becoming an international student in Seoul.

Eat at an Animal Cafe or Themed Cafe

Address : Cat Cafe: 37-14 Myeongdong 8-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Myeongdong Station Line 4

Seoul is known for its quirky themed cafes, from cat cafes to Harry Potter cafes or poop cafes (more on those below). It's a fun way to enjoy a coffee or snack while interacting with animals and experiencing something unique.

Cat cafes are the most popular, and it's typical now that they charge an entrance fee, and then reasonable prices for coffee and snacks you can enjoy while petting cute felines. Other animal cafes include dog cafes, raccoon cafes, sheep cafes, and even meerkat cafes.

Theme cafes are a fun way to break up your day of sightseeing and try something new, but just be prepared to pay a little extra for drinks, thanks to the novelty factor.

See or Stay at Lotte World Tower

Address : 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Jamsil Station Line 2

Lotte World Tower is a modern marvel of engineering and architecture; the skyscraper offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck on the 123rd floor. The tower is actually the tallest building in Korea, featuring a luxury hotel , offices, and a shopping mall.

Visitors can also enjoy a meal at one of the tower's restaurants or cafes, which offer a range of international cuisine, including Korean, Japanese, and Italian. The tower's luxurious hotel is also a popular destination for those looking to experience the height of luxury experiences in Seoul.

Take a 1Million Dance Studio K-Pop Class

Address : 33 Ttukseom-ro 13-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Seongsu Station Line 2

K-pop is a huge part of Korean culture and has been for awhile, but in recent years it's taken the world by storm. K-pop has become a global phenomenon, and Seoul is the epicenter of the industry.

1Million Dance Studio is one of the most famous dance studios in Seoul, and has trained some of the biggest K-pop stars in addition to their beloved Youtube Channel . You can take a dance class with their talented instructors and learn the choreography to some of the most popular K-pop songs.

The classes are open to all skill levels and ages, so even if you're not an experienced dancer, you can still have a fun & rewarding experience.

Self-Guided Street Art Tour of Ihwa Mural Village

Address : 49 Naksan 4-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Dongdaemun Station Line 1

Ihwa Mural Village is a vibrant and youthful neighborhood that's perfect for those interested in street art and photography.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the area, exploring the various murals and sculptures that adorn the walls and buildings. The village also offers stunning views of the city, making it a great spot for photos around dusk.

Ghost Walking Tour in Downtown Seoul

If you're interested in the paranormal, a ghost walking tour around downtown Seoul is a unique and fascinating thing to do in Seoul. Accompanied by a local guide, you'll learn about the city's haunted past and hear stories of ghosts and spirits that are said to still haunt the streets, with tour options in English.

It's a fun way to explore the city and learn more about its long history and complex culture.

Explore the Insadong Neighborhood

Insadong is a traditional neighborhood located in the heart of Seoul, known for its art galleries, traditional crafts, and contemporary teahouses. Visitors can browse the numerous craft shops and galleries, enjoy a traditional Korean meal, or relax with a cup of tea.

The neighborhood's cultural events and performances, such as the traditional Korean music and dance shows, add to the overall experience. Visitors can also explore the Ssamziegil shopping complex, known for its unique architecture and shops that sell handmade items, as well as the infamous Poop Cafe.

The neighborhood's authentic Korean atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Korean culture, and especially the traditional Korean street foods, like dalgona and hoddeok. Just note that the area is usually closing up by 6pm on weekdays (or 8-9pm on weekends).

🖼️ Best Museums in Seoul

Explore gana art center.

Address : 28, Pyeongchang 30-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03004

Closest Metro : Bukhansan Bogungmun Station UI-Sinseoul

Gana Art Center is a contemporary art museum in Jongno that showcases the work of Korean and international artists. The museum has a variety of exhibitions, from photography to sculpture to painting. Visitors can explore the museum, attend art events and workshops, and learn about the contemporary art scene in Korea.

National Museum of Palace Culture at Gyeongbokgung

Opening Hours: open daily; 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Location : 12 Hyoja-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul; Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 5, Exit 5)

This museum holds the biggest collection of artifacts dating back to the Joseon Dynasty and the Korean Empire, counting over 40,000 in total. It also houses the former things that the famous King Gojeong held dear, such as personal letters to his friends, and the seal he used to sign royal documents.

Here you’re able to read about what sort of life they had in the past, down to the art and music they were into. I find this to be a worthwhile stop for a culture-focused Seoul itinerary, because it also gives you a semblance of how simple life in Korea was before it became the dynamic, bustling metropolis it is today.

Tour the Beautiful Tea Museum

Address : 19-11 Insadong-gil, Insa-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Jongno 3 (sam)-ga Station Line 5

This museum offers a unique experience where visitors can learn about the history of tea in Korea and try different types of teas.

The museum's tea room also offers a beautiful view of the surrounding gardens, making it a peaceful and serene place to relax and enjoy a cup of tea, which you can purchase after the tasting for consuming there or bringing home.

Visit the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art

Address : 60-16 Itaewon-ro 55-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Hangangjin Station Line 6

The Leeum Samsung Museum of Art is a world-class art museum that showcases both traditional and contemporary Korean art. Visitors can explore the various galleries with works by Korean and international artists, as well as attend cultural events & workshops and learn more about Korean art and culture.

The museum is divided into three sections: the Samsung Museum of Art, which features modern and contemporary art; the Leeum Gallery, which showcases traditional Korean art and artifacts; and the Plateau, a space for experimental contemporary art installations.

Leeum Art Museum is also located in the heart of the foreigner-centric Itaewon district, making it a great place from which to start exploring the surrounding area and practicing good Korean etiquette .

Visit the National Folk Museum of Korea

Address : 37 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Gyeongbokgung Station Line 3

The National Folk Museum of Korea, also located within the grounds of the Gyeongbokgung Palace complex, offers a detailed look at the history, culture, and art of traditional Korean life . The museum features exhibits on the daily lives of Koreans throughout history, such as Korean folk traditions, customs, and beliefs, like shamanism.

The museum also showcases various artifacts such as tools, clothing, and household items from various periods in Korean history. The museum also hosts workshops and cultural performances, such as traditional Korean music and dance.

🏯 Things to Do in Seoul for Cultural Travelers

Tour the blue house, the former korean white house.

Address : 1 Cheongwadae-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Up until May 2022, the Blue House was the official residence of the President of South Korea, and is actually located in downtown Seoul (much like the American president's 'White House').

Visitors can take a guided tour of the Blue House and learn about its history since the 1950's, and its great significance in Korean politics. It's a cool way to learn more about the country's political system and see a beautiful and historic building.

Look Inside Culture Station Seoul 284

Address : 1 Tongil-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Seoul Station Line No. 1

Culture Station Seoul 284 is a historic train station that's been converted into a cultural space. It hosts various exhibitions, performances, and events throughout the year, mostly attracting a younger crowd. Visitors can explore the restored station building and learn about the history of the railway system in Korea, which is more fun than it sounds.

The Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra

Address : South Korea, Seoul, Seocho-gu, Seocho-dong, 700 Opera House 4th floor

Closest Metro : Nambu Bus Terminal, Exit 4-2

Seoul's Philharmonic Orchestra is one of the leading orchestras in Asia, known for its high-quality performances and innovative programs. The orchestra performs at the Seoul Arts Center and other venues throughout the city, offering classical music lovers a chance to experience world-class music in a beautiful setting.

Visit the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts

Address : 175 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

The Sejong Center for the Performing Arts is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the arts. Located in the heart of Seoul, the center is a cultural complex that offers a wide range of performances and events, including classical music, opera, theater, and dance.

The center is named after King Sejong the Great, who created the Korean alphabet, and is a symbol of the country's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy performances in one of the four theaters, as well as exhibitions and cultural events. The center also houses a library, a souvenir shop, and several restaurants.

Visit Namsangol Hanok Village

Address : 28 Toegye-ro 34-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Chungmuro Station Line 3

Namsangol Hanok Village is a traditional Korean village located in the heart of Seoul. The village offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Seoul, featuring restored hanok houses, traditional gardens, and cultural performances.

Visitors can take part in various cultural activities, such as traditional music and dance performances, making traditional paper & textiles, and tea ceremonies. The village's serene environment and cultural offerings make it an excellent destination for those seeking a more relaxed and traditional experience in Seoul.

Visit the Seoul National University Campus

Address : 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Gwanaksan Station

Seoul National University is the oldest and most prestigious university in South Korea, founded in 1946. The beautiful campus is located in the Gwanak-gu district and covers more than half a mile.

Visitors can explore the campus and take in the beautiful architecture, gardens, and sculptures. The university is home to several museums, including the Museum of Art, the Museum of Natural History, and the Museum of the University History.

Explore Changgyeonggung Palace

Address : 185 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Changgyeonggung Palace is another royal palace in Seoul and is known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens. It was originally built as a summer palace for the royal family, and it features several pavilions and ponds, as well as a greenhouse with a variety of exotic plants.

Like the other four royal palaces, you can enter Changgyeonggung for free when wearing a hanbok (Korean traditional outfit).

Explore Gyeonghuigung Palace

Address : 45 Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Seodaemun Station Line 5

Gyeonghuigung Palace is a smaller palace in Seoul that's perfect for those interested in Korean history and culture. It was built in the 17th century and is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional Korean architecture.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and learn about its history and significance in Korean culture.

Namdaemun Market

Operating Hours : open 24 hours

Location : Hoehyeon Station (Line 4, Exit 5)

One of the best ways to experience real parts of Korean culture is to visit a traditional market, most especially at night . Namdaemun Market in particular is famous for its multitude of high quality Korean crafts and wares (like things made out of hanji and ceramics) for a really low price.

Also, the Korean food here is authentic, delicious, and filling.

Hit Korean Drums at the National Gugak Center

Operating Hours : Daily, 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Location : 2364 Nambusunhwan-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul

Estimated Cost : ₩35,000

If you’re looking for a real traditional experience (i.e. nanta drums without the modern twist), come to the National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts. There they perform songs and dances that once entertained Korea’s royalty, who actually still live in the city.

Witnessing these things in full swing will make you fall in love with Seoul even more, as you see how the country keeps traditions a part of their national image.

See a Cultural Performance at Jeongdong Theater

Season : Open year round!

Operating Hours : Schedules vary by performance but it’s usually 8:00 PM; visit Jeongdong Theater’s website for more information

Location : 43 Jeongdong-gil, Jeong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul 

Estimated Cost : Standard seats: ₩20,000; Premium seats: ₩30,000 

Where’s the most authentic place to see traditional Korean performances without sacrificing quality? In Seoul, Jeongdong Theater is the best place for this, as the stars take the stage for a musical demonstration of the Korean instrument gayageum , and a lyrical storytelling show ( pansori ).

If you have the time, you might even want to let loose and join the farmer’s dance ( samul nori ) held every evening in the courtyard. 

Seoul Global Cultural Center

Opening Hours : 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM  (closed Mondays & holidays)

Location : 27 Myeongdong 8-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul; Myeongdong Station (Line 4, Exit 6)

Estimated Cost : ₩-₩₩₩

This crash course on Korea is perfect if you have a limited stay but would still like to experience some traditional classes. Just head over to the Global Cultural Center, where foreigners are encouraged to learn anything and everything about Seoul.

This center is also the best source of cultural programs, and they often invite people distinguished in theirs fields to teach the programs. It’s also fun to come here if you’re looking for Korean and international friends, because ultimately this is a hub for young people interested in Korean culture.

🎫 Things to Do in Seoul for KPop Fans

Hybe insight.

Opening Hours : open daily; 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Location : 42, Hangang-daero, Yongsan-gu, Seoul; Sinyongsan Station (Line 4, Exit 2)

Estimated Cost : Ticket: ₩22,000; Ticket with photocard: ₩25,000

If you’re a fan of any HYBE artists, you should book your reservation by installing the HYBE Insight app and selecting the day you want to come. Make sure to do that in advance, because there will be plenty of people waiting in line with you (though I managed to schedule my ticket on the same day).

The museum area is mostly BTS stuff, but it also gives visitors an overview of various aspects of the music industry, like music production, stage preparation, and the numerous awards groups have won.

You also get to see stage costumes up close and even ‘smell’ the song Euphoria. At the end there’s a shop that sells various merchandise, and there’s always a clearance section, so save some time at the end for a bit of shopping.

SMTOWN Hologram Musical and Museum

Opening Hours : Open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Location : 5F, 513, Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul; Samseong Station (Line 2, Exit 5)

Estimated Cost : ₩30,000

SM Artists are known for their dynamic and eye-catching performances, and the celebrities they represent have striking visuals that are sure to leave you breathless. Sadly, it’s difficult to get a ticket to see them up close in a concert… but perhaps this would suffice?

Like the holographic show in Everland , this is a surround-sound theater that lets you have an immersive experience of a broadway show titled “School of Oz.” However, the performers also happen to be very familiar names like EXO’s Suho and Red Velvet’s Seulgi. 

Visit the Hallyu K-Star Road

Opening Hours : open 24 hours

Location : 407, Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul; Apgujeong Rodeo Station (Line 3, Exit 2)

K-Pop enthusiasts this as the road where legends have graced us with their presence. Aside from being the former home of the big entertainment companies (you can easily go see where SM Entertainment used to be), you get to see the fascinating GangnamDols.

These are large round figures with the body of a bear dressed in the representative colors of famous K-Pop groups. See if you can spot all 17!

K-Pop Dance Lesson

Opening Hours : Available only MWF; 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM

Location : B1, 103, Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul; Mangwon Station (Line 6, Exit 1)

Estimated Cost : ₩50,000

K-Pop fans who are in Seoul for a week might want to squeeze this opportunity in. Along with your fellow K-Pop enthusiasts, experience what it’s like to learn the choreography of your favorite bands.

Ranging from BTS and Blackpink to Seventeen, you’ll learn the core moves of their popular songs, so you can recreate the dance at home afterwards. You don’t have to be an amazing dancer to be part of this class, and all ages are welcome. Make your reservation by visiting their website .

K-Pop X Korean Drums (BEAT TA Movement)

Opening Hours : Open daily; Weekdays: 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM; Weekends: 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Location : 38-6, Daehak-ro 11-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul; Hyehwa Station (Line 4, Exit 4)

Don’t limit your Seoul itinerary to sightseeing and food— try your hand at hitting Korean traditional drums while listening to popular K-Pop beats. Aside from giving you a workout (it’s not as easy as you think), you’ll learn short choreography like Jungkook’s nanta drum routine .

Like the other Seoul experiences listed here, you’ll have to make a reservation first. Book by visiting their Naver Café or shoot them an email .

🧒 Things to Do in Seoul With Kids

Visit rabbit park in seorae village.

Address : 96-7 Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Express Bus Terminal Station Line 7

Seorae Village is a charming neighborhood in the heart of Seoul that's known for its French-inspired architecture and cuisine. One of the highlights of the area is Rabbit Park, a small but popular park that's home to a number of cute rabbits.

Visitors can enjoy a picnic in the park or simply relax and watch the rabbits play, so it's it's one of the best things to do in Seoul for families with young children - just don't let them pet the wild bunnies!

See the Non-Verbal Musical Cookin’ Nanta

Address : South Korea, Seoul, Jung-gu, Myeongdong-gil, 26 유네스코회관

Closest Metro : Euljiro 1 (il)-ga Station Line 2

Cookin' Nanta is a hilarious and highly entertaining musical performance that incorporates cooking, music, food, and comedy. The actors use kitchen utensils and ingredients as instruments, and perform acrobatic stunts while whipping up dishes on stage.

The show is non-verbal & high-energy, so language barriers won't be an issue. After all, the humor is universal. The performance requires audience participation, making it a great way to experience Korean culture through entertainment.

The show is popular, so be sure to book your tickets for either Hongdae or Myeongdong in advance.

Pass an Afternoon at LEGO LAND

Address : 128 Hajungdo-gil, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea

Closest Metro : Chuncheon Station Gyeongchun Line

LEGO LAND is a new indoor theme park in Seoul that is dedicated to all things Lego. It features a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages, including LEGO building workshops, interactive rides, and a 4D cinema.

It's a very kid-friendly way to spend an afternoon in Seoul, but honestly, it's pretty great as an adult, too.

Drink From a Toilet at the Poop Cafe

Address : Jongno-gu, Seoul South Korea

For an offbeat and quirky experience, the Poop Cafe in Insadong is a must-visit. Visitors can enjoy a variety of food and drinks, including rose lattes and spaghettis served in toilet-shaped cups & bowls. It's a unique and memorable way to enjoy a cup of coffee or memorable lunch.

Explore the National Children’s Science Center

Address : 215 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Hyehwa Station Line 4

The National Children’s Science Center is an excellent activity for families with young children. It offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that teach children about science and technology, and keeps them entertained for hours.

It's a fun and educational way to spend the day with your kids in Seoul and learn something new together, not to mention leaving them with a host of good memories from your trip to Korea.

Scavenger Hunt in Seoul Olympic Park

Address : 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Hanseong Baekjae Station Line 9

The Seoul Olympic Park was constructed for the 1988 Summer Olympics and remains a popular destination for sports and cultural enthusiasts alike. The park covers a vast area and is home to several disparate facilities, including the Olympic Stadium, the World Peace Gate, the Olympic Museum, and the indoor Olympic Gymnastics Hall.

The park is also an ideal location for outdoor activities such as cycling, jogging, and picnicking. Visitors can also participate in various cultural events and activities such as music concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions, in addition to the city-sponsored scavenger hunt.

Spend the Day at Seoul Grand Park

Address : 102 Daegongwongwangjang-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

Closest Metro : Seoul Grand Park Station Line 4

Seoul Grand Park is a family-friendly destination and a perfect place for a day out. The park is a vast area and is home to Seoul Land amusement park, the Seoul Zoo, and the Children's Zoo. The main attraction, Seoul Land amusement park, offers a range of rides and attractions that include roller coasters, water rides, and other immersive activities.

Seoul Zoo is also one of the largest zoos in Asia, featuring over 3,000 animals from around the world. Visitors can see a wide variety of animals, from tigers and lions to elephants and bears.

Children’s Folk Museum

Opening Hours: Open daily; 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Location: 37 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul; Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5, Exit 2)

The Children’s Folk Museum of Korea, a museum inside Gyeongbokgung Palace, has introduced an interactive way to engage children in learning more about Korean culture and folklore. If you’re visiting Korea with kids, this is the best place to give them an engaging experience about Korea’s illustrious past.

Everland Amusement Park and Caribbean Bay

Season : Summer & Spring

Opening Hours : Open daily; from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Location : 199 Everland-ro, Pogok-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea

Estimated Cost : All-Day Passes for Everland: ₩33,000; Caribbean Bay: ₩48,000

Everland is known as the land of dreams and wonder. The park has five themed zones; at least one of which is sure to entertain you. Those who haven’t traveled to other parts of the world may want to swing by the park’s Global Fair, where cultural activities from other parts of the world are performed.

Some may also want to have a taste of what’s next on the neo-futuristic rides in the American Adventure. If you’d rather see animals than people, there’s the World Wild Tram that lets you see them up close. There are plenty of activities in store for you in Everland , whatever your interests. 

Season: Summer

Opening Hours: open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM; sometimes extended to 10:00 PM

Location: Seoulland, 181, Gwangmyeong-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do; Grand Park Station Subway (Line 4, Exit 2)

Estimated Cost: Adults: ₩ 49,000; Teens: ₩ 46,000; Children: ₩43,000

Your vacation in Seoul wouldn’t be complete if it didn’t have a visit to a theme park. As the first theme park ever created in Korea, Seoulland provides a range of entertainment, complete with seasonal events that you shouldn’t miss.

For instance, in the summer they throw the Summer Music Water Wars here, a festival where people can spray each other with water guns and dance along to the music. This theme park also provides discount coupons to foreigners for a day experience, if you buy through their site, so be sure to check it out before booking your ticket.

Lotte World Amusement Park

Opening Hours : Open daily; 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Location : 240 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul; Jamsil Station (Line 2 or 8, Exit 4)

Estimated Cost : Adults: ₩36,000; Children: ₩29,000

Perhaps the most popular amusement park in Korea, conveniently located in the heart of the city, Lotte World is a fun destination for families. Even though most of the rides are geared towards children, there are still so many things to see in other parts of the complex.

Fun Fact : some people rent school uniforms to wear around the park, just for the heck of it. It’s pretty kitschy, but a fun activity if you want a flashback to your younger years.

COEX Aquarium

Operating Hours: Open daily; 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Location : 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul; Samseong Station (Line 2, Exit 5 & 6)

Estimated Cost: Adults: ₩28,000; Children: ₩24,000; Senior Citizens: ₩20,000

Ever pondered what it might be like to be underwater? Although there are bigger public aquariums available, this one nonetheless boasts a remarkable collection of over 650 aquatic species in rather spacious tanks.

The whole family will undoubtedly enjoy seeing the fish swim around and above the glass arched tunnel. There’s also an area that lets visitors assist the keepers by feeding and petting them, making it a very interactive experience.

VAUNCE Trampoline Park Seoul Samseong Center

Operating Hours: Open daily; 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM

Location : 325 Yeongdong-daero, Daechi-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul; Samseong Station (Line 2, Exit 3)

Estimated Cost : ₩25,700

Even though this trampoline park is marketed to kids, this is also the perfect activity for adults who want to do a full-body workout. There’s no shortage of obstacle courses, and children can climb and rappel with no worries, knowing they can bounce back up safely.

See if you can spring higher than your favorite basketball star in their basketball court ,with floors made out of trampolines!

Play in a Kids Café (Tayo Café)

Season: Open year round!

Operating Hours: Open daily; 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Location : 16 Boramae-ro 5ga-gil, Dongjak-gu, Seoul; Boramae Medical Center Station (Shillim Line, Exit 2)

Estimated Cost: Adults (accompanying children): ₩3,000; Children: ₩12,000 (non-members) or ₩10,000 (members); Children under 12 can enter for free (bring passport or birth certificate for proof); Restaurant: ₩-₩₩

Tayo the Little Bus is the famous cartoon character seen in every toy showroom in Korea. Every kid knows who this friendly blue bus is, likely including your child. Because Tayo is such a beloved character, Korea has put up various Tayo Cafés so that kids can come interact with Tayo and his crew.

Despite the fact that this is mainly a little jungle gym, it is also known for having better food compared to other kids cafes in Seoul. 

💑 Things to Do in Seoul for Couples

Picnic at yeouido hangang park.

Season : Spring

Operating Hours: open 24 hours

Location : 330 Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul; Yeouinaru Station (Line 5, Exit 3)

If you’re looking for a good time with your date but you’re still unsure what they would like, Yeouido Hangang Park has everything you need. There’s delicious street food, performers, and cafes, plus the breathtaking night view of the Han River as it reflects the glittering city lights.

Almost every night, buskers come to serenade lovers as the night cruise sails by. It’s a beautiful sight to see, and you shouldn’t miss it if you’re in Seoul with your partner.

Cruise the Night Away (E-Land Cruise Yeouido Dock)

Operating Hours: (Sunset Cruise) April to October: 6:00 PM and November to March: 5:00 PM; (Starlight Cruise) 8:00 PM; (Moonlight Cruise) 9:30 PM

Location : 290 Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul; Yeouinaru Station (Line 5, Exit 3)

Estimated Cost : Sunset Cruise: ₩20,800; Starlight Cruise: ₩24,600; Moonlight Han River Cruise: ₩28,500

Another way to make your date memorable is to ride any of the Han River cruises in Yeouido Hangang Park. All of these cruises offer good food (optional) and romantic live bands (included).

The only difference is the route and the experience, but every cent is worth it because these cruises take you to the beautiful landmarks next to the Han river, such as the Banpo Rainbow Bridge , the Some Sevit Islands, the Seogang Bridge, and the night view of the Bamseom Island.

See a Show at the Seoul Arts Center

Address : 2406 Nambusunhwan-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea

How Long to Spend : 2-3 hours

The Seoul Arts Center is a cultural complex that plays host to performances and events open to the public throughout the year (tickets need to be purchased individually). The center is located in the heart of the city and features several performance spaces, including an opera theater, a concert hall, a theater, and a small hall.

The center also houses a library, a souvenir shop, and several restaurants. Visitors can enjoy performances, exhibitions, and cultural events throughout the year, including classical music, opera, theater, and dance.

Take a Bike Tour of the City

How Long to Spend : 3 hours

Seoul is a great city to explore by bike, and there are a number of guided bike tours available that take you through some of the city's most scenic neighborhoods and landmarks.

These tours provide visitors with a fun way to explore the city's rich history and culture while getting some exercise and fresh air. One popular tour is the Seoul Bike Tour , which takes you through the city's traditional markets, temples, and palaces.

Rent a Hanbok (Korean Traditional Clothes)

A hanbok is a traditional Korean outfit still worn by Koreans on special occasions to this day. Wearing one is a fun way to experience Korean culture and history, as hanboks come in various colors and designs, including modern styles (which you can also rent; I bought one on my last return to Seoul).

You can rent hanboks at dozens of shops throughout Seoul (for both men & women). Once you're dressed up, then you can take photos in various traditional settings and even walk around the streets of Seoul.

Note that some areas (like Myeongdong) may be crowded with other hanbok-wearing tourists. But if you're wearing a hanbok, admission to all five palaces in Seoul is also free, so that rental fee practically pays for itself!

Watch the Rainbow Bridge at Banpo Park

Address : 40 Sinbanpo-ro 11-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Express Bus Terminal, Exit 8-2

How Long to Spend : 30 minutes-1 hour

Banpo Hangang Park is a popular spot in Seoul from which to watch the Rainbow Fountain Bridge, which is the world's longest bridge fountain. Every night around 7pm the bridge lights up at night in a rainbow array of colors, and shoots water jets over them, creating a beautiful and mesmerizing display.

Visitors can watch the show from the park or from a cruise on the Han River, which depart every night at sundown. The park also offers a variety of activities such as bike rentals, picnic areas, and a playground for children.

Since the park is located near the bustling upscale neighborhood of Gangnam, visitors can explore a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife spots after an evening stroll during warmer months.

Itaewon Antique Furniture Street

Address : Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Itaewon Station Line 6

Itaewon Antique Furniture Street is a unique & quirky area of Seoul that offers a glimpse into Korea's past. These days the area is famous for its antique furniture shops, originally established after the Korean War, where visitors can find a variety of one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture.

Options can range from traditional Korean furniture to mid-century modern designs, though thanks to the nearby army base, options now are mostly American-style. The street is lined with shops that are housed in traditional Korean buildings, adding to the rustic charm of the area.

A stroll down the street offers a chance to find unique pieces that can add character and style to any home (though think of how you'd get it home), and visitors can enjoy browsing the shops and exploring the surrounding foreigner-friendly neighborhood.

Tour Myeongdong Cathedral

Address : 74 Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Myeong-dong Station Line 4

Myeongdong Cathedral is the birthplace of Catholicism in Korea, and actually has quite the fascinating story behind it. The cathedral's architecture is breathtaking, and you can take a tour of the building to learn more about its history and significance.

It's a great place to visit if you're interested in Korean religion, history, or architecture.

Explore the Secret Garden at Changdeokgung Palace

Address : 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Changdeokgung Palace is one of the most well-preserved royal palaces in Seoul, and was even designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. The palace is renowned for its traditional Korean architecture , including its painted wooden structures, which blend in beautifully with the natural surroundings.

It's also been the site of filming for numerous Korean dramas (TV shows) over the years, most commonly in the Secret Garden. The palace's Secret Garden, also known as the huwon , is located behind the main grounds and features a beautiful collection of ponds, pavilions, a royal shrine, and bridges that are a highlight of most people's visit.

You can also attend traditional Korean cultural performances and events, such as the reenactment of the royal court's life, which adds to the overall experience. Visitors can take a guided tour of the garden and learn about its history and significance when touring the palace.

Fun Fact : gung in Korean means 'palace,' so Gyeongbokgung is actually 'Gyeongbok Palace.'

Soar Above Seoul in a Cable Car (N-Seoul Tower)

Season: Spring

Operating Hours: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Location: 83, Sopa-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul; Myeongdong Station (Line 4, Exit 3)

Estimated Cost: Adult: (Return) ₩9,500 or (One-Way) ₩7,000; Children: (Return) ₩6,500 or (One-Way) ₩4,000

If you and your partner aren’t afraid of heights, then I recommend riding the Namsan Cable Car together, preferably around sunset. Starting from the top of N Seoul Tower (or heading there!), you can look out over the entire city for several minutes, taking in a view that extends for many miles on clear days.

Lock Your Relationship In (N-Seoul Tower)

Operating Hours: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM (midnight on Saturdays)

Location : 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul; Chungmuro Station (Line 3, Exit 2)

Estimated Cost : Adults & Teens: ₩11,000; Children: ₩9,000

What’s another way of telling your special someone that they mean a lot to you? Bring them to N-Seoul Tower Love Locks, Korea’s version of Paris’s Pont de l’Archevêché. It’s a sweet and thoughtful gesture, because attaching a lock with both your names on it is said to be a symbol of your love for each other.

The locks are all situated at the foot of the tower, alongside those of other couples who previously embarked upon this romantic pilgrimage. Many couples then choose to end their romantic day in one of the restaurants in the tower. 

Complete Obstacles Together (Dynamic Maze)

Operating Hours : open daily 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (ast admission: 5:00 PM)

Location : B1, Daeil Building, 12, Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Estimated Cost: ₩12,000 (all ages)

If you’re looking for a challenging thing to do, why not try to navigate this indoor adventure maze ? Best for couples (because only 2 people can go in at the same time); test your teamwork as you power through obstacles full of bouncy balls, nets, and even challenges.

Your goal is to unlock the door to the next room, similar to an escape room. You shouldn’t miss this if you are in Insadong, though sadly you can’t book in advance. Remember to wear pants!

Gyeongbokgung in Hanbok at Dusk

Opening Hours: open daily 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Estimated Cost : (Hanbok Rental) ₩8,000; (Gyeongbokgung Palace) Free – because people who come in hanboks can enter for free

Embark on a mini time travel adventure as you don traditional Korean outfits, called hanboks, and witness Gyeongbokgung at night. Here you can stroll together and watch the palace grounds beautifully light up Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, most especially when the moon is full.

The front of Geunjeongjeon Hall is a popular spot for couples to pose together, making it the perfect picture to put in your couple photo album.

Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park

Operating Hours: open daily 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (but some people ghost hunt past 8:00 PM)

Location : 18 Mangu-ro 70-gil, Jungnang-gu, Seoul; Mangu Station (Gyeongui-Jungang Line and Gyeongchun Line, Exit 1)

Estimated Cost : Adults: ₩10,000, Children: ₩5,000; Ghostly Merry-Go-Round after 8:00 PM: ₩30,000

Couples love taking their partners out to watch a scary movie, but why not up the ante? Perhaps the most unusual of the Seoul attractions listed in this post, there’s a small abandoned theme park in Yongma, well-known for its signature rusted, decommissioned carousel and bleached-out posters of 80’s pop culture icons.

Even though there seems to be nothing to do here, influencers still come to participate in its slow demise, using the lot to shoot short homemade horror films and ghost hunting content. Couples, however, love to test how strong their relationship is by taking a silent, eerie stroll around.

🌏 Things to Do in Seoul for Solo Travelers

Shop for luxury items at apgujeong rodeo street.

Season: Best in Spring

Operating Hours: Open daily, but varies per store

Location : Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul-si

Apgujeong Rodeo Street, formerly the hotspot of Korea’s most rich and famous, still holds the title as Seoul’s fashion capital. It’s the location where luxury brands of all kinds have made their homes, including famous brands of shoes, clothing, and accessories.

You don’t have to shop here, but it’s a lovely place to stroll around during the evening. That’s when the sidewalk’s fancy neon lights come to life, and you might even spot some famous names doing a bit of shopping there.

Visit Jongmyo Shrine (UNESCO)

Address : South Korea, Seoul, Jongno-gu, Jong-no 1.2.3.4가동 88-3

Closest Metro : Jongno 3(sam)-ga Station Line 3

Jongmyo Shrine is another Seoul UNESCO World Heritage site, dedicated to the memory of the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. The shrine is an impressive example of traditional Korean architecture, and visitors can quite freely explore the site and learn more about Korea's rich history throughout.

It's a great way to experience the country's physical cultural heritage and learn more about its past.

Visit Gyeongdong Traditional Market

Address : Dongdaemun, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Jegi-dong Station Line 1

Gyeongdong Traditional Market is one of the largest traditional markets in Seoul, and offers a wide range of seafood, traditional foods, and Korean medicinal herbs that can be otherwise difficult to find. Both locals and tourists frequent the market to browse the various stalls and try out local delicacies such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).

It also offers traditional Korean souvenirs, such as hanbok (Korean traditional dress) and traditional handicrafts. The market's unique atmosphere and array of products make it an excellent destination for those seeking an authentic Korean market experience.

Taekkyeon Experience

Operating Hours: open weekdays from 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM

Location : 4F, 111, Daehak-ro 8ga-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul; Hyehwa Station (Line 4, Exit 2)

Estimated Cost: ₩40,000 (all ages)

Get the chance to learn Taekkyeon (태껸), or Korean Martial Arts. This fighting style includes hand and foot techniques that throw people off balance. Learning this martial art will link you to Korea’s past, since it’ actually considered to be the oldest martial arts discipline in Korea.

If you wish to book a slot, it is recommended to secure your reservation at least a day in advance through email or their website . 

Enjoy Hongdae’s Bustling Youth Scene 

Operating Hours : Open daily, but varies per store

Location : Hongik University Station (Line 2)

If you’re thinking of seeing Japan’s Harajuku District one day, Seoul also has a version of that: Hongdae. In this area, most especially in “Grafitti Street,” the strip is full of music, art, and cafés , making it the perfect hangout for local youth.

Since it’s also near Korea’s top art university, expect to see art exhibitions, song and dance competitions, and even slam poetry performances in the street. This is also the best place in Seoul to also buy manhwas , or the Korean version of the Japanese manga. 

Seoul Nightlife Tour: Pub Crawl

Operating Hours : Friday & Saturday; 8:15 PM 

Location : Meetups are either in Route66 near Itaewon Station or RetroGameBar between Hongik University Station & Sangsu Station

Estimated Cost : ₩25,000

There are so many popular party destinations in Seoul that you might have a hard time choosing. Eliminate the stress by joining a pub crawl , where you get to skip the lines into four various clubs, with the latter being the most exclusive of them all.

What I love about this activity is that they also have a professional photographer take shots of you, making sure that you looked decent when the morning comes.

🌉 Things to Do in Seoul at Night

Enjoy a rooftop sunset cocktail.

Address : The Westin Josun Seoul: 106 Sogong-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

There are several rooftop bars that offer stunning views of the Seoul city skyline. Visitors can watch the sunset while enjoying a cocktail or even a full meal at restaurants like The Rooftop Bar at Gwanghwamun's The Westin Chosun Seoul, The Griffin Bar at The Emerald Hotel, and Seoulism at the Hamilton Hotel.

These bars offer a wide range of drinks, from traditional Korean rice wines to classic cocktails, and often feature live music or DJ performances. Rooftop bars in Seoul can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours (weeknights around midnight), so I recommend making a reservation in advance if you want a table.

Stroll Along Cheonggyecheon Stream

Address : 1 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Jonggak Station Line 1

This beautiful stream runs for several kilometers through the heart of the city and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind. You can take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the stream, often finding a night market or festival of some kind going on, especially during weekends.

The stream is especially beautiful at night when the lights reflect off the water, creating a magical, tranquil atmosphere.

Traditional Street Food at Tongin Night Market

Address : 18 Jahamun-ro 15-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Walking around Tongin night market trying traditional street food is a must-do activity for foodies visiting Seoul. The market is one of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul and offers an authentic taste of traditional Korean dishes such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), mandu (dumplings), and hotteok (sweet pancakes).

Visitors can buy coins at the entrance and use them to purchase food from the various vendors in the market, who will prepare the food in front of them. Tongin market offers a unique experience to try a variety of dishes in one place and is a great way to explore the many flavors of Korean cuisine.

Sing in a Noraebang

Noraebang is Korean-style karaoke where you can rent a private room with friends, and sing your heart out to your favorite songs. It's a popular activity for both locals and tourists, and many noraebangs offer food and drinks, so you can make a whole night of it.

Whether you're a good singer or not, it's a fun way to spend time with friends, unwind, and let loose. There are hundreds of noraebangs in Seoul, ranging from upscale establishments to more casual ones. Some noraebangs offer private rooms paid by the hour, but most of them are coin noraebangs, meaning they charge per song.

Hike Up to Visit Namsan Tower

Address : 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Hoehyeon Station Line 4

Namsan Tower , also known as the N-Seoul Tower, is a famous landmark that offers stunning views of Seoul. Visitors can reach the top of the tower by cable car or on foot, which is an enjoyable hike in nice weather. The observation deck offers panoramic views of the city, making it a perfect spot for photos.

The tower's restaurants serve an array of delicious dishes, from traditional Korean cuisine to international delicacies, making it a great dining experience. Visitors can also enjoy the tower's various activities, such as buying and adding a love lock and attaching it to the tower or visiting the tower's digital gallery.

The tower is especially beautiful at night when it is illuminated, providing a romantic atmosphere for visitors.

Walk Along the Han River

Address : 290 Yeouidong-ro, Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Yeouinaru Station Line 5

The Han River is not just a beautiful landmark in Seoul, but it also divides the city clear in half. Taking a leisurely stroll along the riverbank is a must-do activity for visitors. The river is lined with numerous parks and recreational areas, making it an ideal spot for a picnic or a bike ride in nicer weather.

Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and see a different side of Seoul away from the hustle and bustle of the city. One particular attraction is the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain , which is the world's longest bridge fountain.

The fountain puts on a colorful light show every night, and visitors can enjoy the show from the nearby park or on a river cruise.

Midnight Convenience Store Noodles

If you find yourself hungry in the middle of the night, don't worry - Seoul's convenience stores are almost all open 24 hours a day. Visitors can even purchase liquor and instant noodle cups and prepare them in the store's microwave, then eat them at the benches outside (& occasionally inside).

It's a fun and convenient way to satisfy your cravings no matter the hour, and have a quite typical Korean late-night experience.

Pub Crawl with Other Foreigners

A pub crawl with other foreigners is a fun and exciting way to experience Seoul's vibrant nightlife scene. There are several companies that offer pub crawl tours , taking visitors to some of the city's best bars and clubs.

When I was a teacher I met a ton of foreigners working at private schools who would run these tours on the side. It's a great way to meet new people, experience the city's nightlife, and have a fun night out in a safe and organized way.

Walking Food Tour in a Seoul Night Market

A walking food tour through a Seoul night market with a local guide is a great way to experience the city's vibrant food scene. You'll get to try a variety of delicious Korean dishes and learn about the history and culture behind them. It's also a fun way to explore the city and get to know the local culture.

🏕️ Nature Attractions in Seoul

Seoul botanical garden.

Opening Hours : open daily; 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Location : 812 Magok-dong, Gangseo-gu, Seoul; Magoknaru Station (Line 9, Exit 3 or 4)

Estimated Cost : Adults: ₩5,000; Students: ₩3,000; Children: ₩2,000; Free for children under 6 or senior citizens

Another way to get to know Seoul is to come to this beautiful greenhouse, which is connected to the Han River Waterway. A skywalk path overlooks the greenhouse, so your photographer skills will definitely come in handy.

With paths wide enough to let you walk and enjoy the flowers in peace, this garden also educates those who are particularly interested in native Korean flowers .

Explore Ancient Buddhist Culture at Bongeunsa Temple

Address : 531 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Bongeunsa Temple is a Buddhist temple in Seoul that was originally built in the 10th century. It was rebuilt in the 18th century, and is now known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can take a tour of the temple and learn about its history and significance in Korean Buddhism.

Stroll Through Seoul Forest

Address : 273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Seoul-Forest Station Suin Bundand Line

Seoul Forest is a large urban park located in the heart of the city, offering visitors a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park features numerous walking paths, bike trails, and outdoor art installations, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors can also enjoy the various gardens, fountains, and wildlife habitats, including a butterfly garden and a deer park. Particularly in warmer weather, Seoul Forest is an excellent place to relax and unwind with a picnic or on a walk, providing visitors with a serene environment in central Seoul.

Giant Golden Buddha Temple

Address : 262 Bogungmun-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Bukhansan Ui Station UI-Sinseol

If you're looking for a peaceful and serene place to visit in Seoul, Gungnyeongsa Temple is a great option. The temple is home to an impressive golden statue of Buddha, which is one of the largest in the world. Visitors can take in the beauty of the statue and surrounding landscape while enjoying a moment of tranquility.

Hike at Gwanaksan Mountain

Address : Gwanaksan, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Gwanaksan Station (Seoul National Univ.)

Gwanaksan Mountain is a must-visit destination for hikers and nature lovers in Seoul. It's a challenging hike, but the panoramic views of the city from the top are well worth the effort. The mountain is also home to several Buddhist temples and shrines, adding to the cultural significance of and your experience in the area.

Visit Hwaseong Fortress

Address : South Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Suwon-si, Jangan-gu, Yeonghwadong 320-2

Closest Metro : Hwaseo Station Line 1

Hwaseong Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in Suwon, a city next to Seoul. The fortress was built in the late 18th century and features several impressive gates, pavilions, and towers that make for some truly cool photos & memories.

Visitors can even take a tour of the fortress and learn about its history and significance in Korean history.

Enjoy the Pink Muhly Grass at Haneul Park

Address : 95, Haneulgongwon-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Closest Metro : Digital Media City Station Gyeogui Jungang Line

Haneul Park near Olympic Stadium is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park is known for its fluffy pink muhly grass, which blooms in the fall and creates a vibrant pink landscape which is popular for both selfies and family photos in Korea.

Walking through the park is a peaceful and relaxing experience, and you can take in the breathtaking views of the city while you do it.

Photoshoot with Cherry Blossoms in Bloom

Cherry blossom season is a magical time in Seoul, from mid-to-late March into early April. There are many parks and gardens throughout the city that are filled with cherry blossoms during peak bloom.

This is an excellent opportunity to take stunning photos, and enjoy all the traditional Korean foods, drinks, and entertainment at the many cherry blossom festivals going on in Seoul through out the season. Some of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul include Yeouido Park, Seokchon Lake, and Namsan Park.

Visit the Seoul Fortress

Address : Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro : Hansung Univ. Station Line 4

The Seoul Fortress, also known as the Wall of Seoul, is a historic wall that surrounds the city's central district The Fortress is now a historical landmark that offers visitors a glimpse into Seoul's past. It was built to protect the city during the Joseon Dynasty in the 14th century and has stood for centuries.

Visitors can walk along the fortress and explore its four gates, including the iconic Namdaemun Gate. The fortress is also surrounded by charming neighborhoods, including Bukchon Hanok Village, which features traditional Korean houses, and the trendy Samcheong-dong area.

Take a Hike at Bukhansan National Park

Bukhansan National Park is a stunning natural wonder located just outside the city of Seoul. The park features a vast network of more than 80 hiking trails that range from easy to challenging, offering a range of options for hikers of all levels.

The park's beautiful landscapes include lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and granite peaks, making it a photographer's paradise. The views of the cityscape are also nothing to scoff at. In Bukhansan, visitors can also encounter various wildlife, such as the Korean musk deer, spotted deer, and wild boar, among others.

Bukhansan is also home to many cultural sites, including Buddhist temples and traditional Korean houses, adding to the visitor's overall experience.

🌧️ Indoor Things to Do in Seoul When it Rains

Check out a book from starfield library.

Address : South Korea, Seoul, Gangnam-gu, Yeongdong-daero, 513 Starfield CoEx Mall B1

Closest Metro : Samseong Station Line 2

Starfield Library is a stunning public library located in COEX Mall. The library is designed to resemble a giant bookshelf, and it houses over 50,000 books and magazines in multiple languages. Visitors can browse and read the books for free, making it a great spot for book lovers and those looking for a quiet place to relax.

Visit the Seoul Arts Center

Closest Metro : Nambu Bus Terminal Station Line 3

Seoul Arts Center is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in culture and the arts. It's one of the largest and most prestigious cultural complexes in Korea and hosts a wide variety of performances and exhibitions throughout the year, so there's always something to see.

Visitors can enjoy classical music concerts, ballets, operas, and theater productions, as well as explore the art galleries, sculpture park, and the library.

Go to the Casino

Address : Seven Luck Casino, Gangnam COEX: South Korea, Seoul, Gangnam-gu, Teheran-ro 87-gil, 58 Convention 별관

If you're feeling lucky, why not try your hand at one of Seoul's casinos? While gambling is illegal for Koreans, foreigners can enjoy a variety of casino games in Seoul. The casinos are located in some of the city's most luxurious hotels and offer all the usual games, including blackjack, roulette, and baccarat.

Movie at the Luxury Cinema

Address : Lotte Cinema at Seoul National Univ. (1820 Nambusunhwan-ro, Yeongnyongdong Gwanak-gu, Seoul, South Korea)

Closest Metro : Seoul Nat'l Univ. Station Line 2

If you're a movie lover, you won't want to miss the luxury cinemas in Seoul . These cinemas offer a unique movie-going experience, with comfortable seating, high-quality sound systems, and VIP service. It's the perfect way to relax in the city and escape into a good film.

Take the Wine Train to Korean Wine Country

Closest Metro : Seoul Station (Start/End location of Tour)

Did you know that Korea produces some pretty decent wines? The Seoul wine train is a great way to explore the vineyards and wineries of Korea in a whole-day affair that takes you down to four stops further south, including Wine Korea Winery.

Visitors can take a scenic train ride through the countryside and sample some of Korea's finest wines, and on the way back enjoy a move or two with all-you-can-drink wines.

Visit a Traditional Korean Spa ( Jimjilbang )

Address : Riverside Spa Land (45 Guuigangbyeon-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, South Korea)

Closest Metro : Gangbyeon Station Line 2

Visiting a traditional Korean spa, known locally as a jimjilbang , is a unique and relaxing experience that's hard to find outside of Korea. Jimjilbangs offer a variety of hot and cold baths, saunas, and steam rooms, where you can unwind and rejuvenate your body and mind.

They also offer free storage for your stuff, and various massage and beauty treatments, making it a perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening. Just note that treatment areas are almost exclusively divided by gender, as most of the rooms require you to be completely naked.

One of the most popular and iconic jjimjilbangs in Seoul is Dragon Hill Spa, which features a large selection of baths, saunas, and even an indoor water park. Most places will allow you to sleep there overnight for an additional fee, but entrance can cost you as little as 8,000KRW per person, with higher-end establishments charging 20,000-25,000 KRW.

Buy Korean Cosmetics

Address : Etude House in Mapo-gu & Olive Young in Jung-gu are marked on the map below

Closest Metro : Etude House (Hongik Univ. Station Line 2); Olive Young (Myeongdong Station Line 4)

If you're a beauty enthusiast, then you have to check out Etude House or Olive Young in Seoul. These stores offer some of the best-rated and most highly-reputed cosmetics in the world, most of which are made right there in Korea.

Korean cosmetics are famous for their high quality and affordable prices, and you can find a range of skincare and makeup products here. From sheet masks and acne patches to cleansers and BB creams, you'll be spoilt for choice.

🌟 Things to Do in Seoul for Free

While it is true that Korea’s capital is one of the most expensive destinations in the world, there are still ways to enjoy Seoul for free !

Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain

Season : rainbows appear from April-October

Operating Hours : 7:00 PM until 9:30 PM

Location : Samgakji Station (Line 6, Exit 13), walk to the War Memorial Station (전쟁기념관 정류장 (03185), then ride bus 740 to Banpo Hangang Park – Sevit Island (반포한강공원.세빛섬)

Estimated Cost : free (Night Market: ₩-₩₩)

Among the Seoul attractions listed here, this one is definitely worth seeing at night. Not only do you get to see the longest LED fountain in the world, but if you’re here in summer, there’s a high chance that you’ll come on a day that the Bamdokkaebi Night Market is in full swing.

Sometimes there’s even a fireworks show painting the sky above the Han River, livening the whole place up. If you’re curious about what else there is to do in Banpo Bridge , there’s a cruise, a club, and even a beer garden that serves beer from all over the world.

Oil Tank Culture Park

Season : Open daily, but the exhibition hall is closed on Mondays

Operating Hours : 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Location : 87 Jeungsan-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul; World Cup Stadium Station (Line 6), Exit 2

This cultural hub features something you probably wouldn’t expect to see in downtown Seoul: Oil Tanks. You should come see it in person if you think I’m kidding. These oil tanks are repurposed to hold free concerts, exhibitions, and even host conventions.

Even when nothing special is going on, you can pass a few hours exploring the area’s secret corners or finding the library above a café. We recommend this place if you want to see something strange, weird, and new.

Seoullo 7017 Nature Walkway

Operating Hours : Open 24 hours

Location : 122-14 Bongnaedong 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul; Seoul Station (Line 1), Exit 2

Estimated Cost : free

Head out of Seoul Station and you’ll see the Seoullo 7017 Nature Walkway. What used to be an ordinary pedestrian walkway has been transformed into a sky garden, with a variety of flora and fauna that are truly gorgeous during spring.

First-timers to Seoul’s nature focus will love taking pictures here, because the walkway has transparent glass potholes that provide a clear view of the busy Seoul streets below.

Explore Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Season : best at night

Operating Hours : 10:00AM to 8:00PM

Location : Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Station (Line 2, 4, & 5; Exit 1)

Estimated Cost : free; (Night Market: ₩-₩₩)

What’s beautiful about this place is how many things it’s hosting at once. People who come during the day can enjoy the outdoor facilities, museum, and library with a decent-sized reading area. But the magic happens at night, when the whole structure lights up, turning into a neo-futuristic wonder that glows beautifully from afar.

Past 10PM, the outdoor walk turns into a marketplace where people gather to buy the latest clothing styles (because Dongdaemun is also known as Seoul’s fashion hub by the youth). Expect the place to be packed, because this is also where people come to eat, rest, and play after work.

Take a Seoul Free Walking Tour

Season: Spring & Fall are notoriously lovely

Operating Hours : varies

Location : Depends

Estimated Cost: Free, but if spending occurs, it’s usually not that expensive because the guides will tell you where the cheap stuff is.

If you love joining free walking tours around the world, you should visit Today’s Friend’s website and click on their “Free Walking Tour.” This site pairs you with an English-speaking Korean guide, and you can choose where you want to go.

Perhaps you might want to go to a Traditional Market during the day or night, or you’d love to see Dongdaemun’s beautiful view with a special someone. All of these are options; you can even do a temple visit and have beer with your new friends after.

Hop on the Seoul City Tour Bus

Season : year-round

Operating Hours : Tiger Bus starts at 9:00 AM to 5:20 PM [Day Course] and 7:30 PM [Night Course] (closed Mondays & holidays)

Location : Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5, Exit 6) for the City Palace Course, Seoul Panorama Course, and Night View Course

Estimated Cost : Free if you have a Discover Seoul Pass ; prices vary depending on the course chosen in the Seoul City Tour Bus website

If you don’t feel like making your own itinerary, this is the best way to hit famous tourist spots in downtown Seoul. The Seoul City Tour Bus passes by the City Palaces and the best panoramic views in Seoul. You can get on and off as much as you want, crossing off a lot of things to do in Seoul.

The routes depend on the bus tours available on their website , and there’s also other buses with almost-similar rates that have focused more on traditional spots near the Han River, Gangnam area, or the spectacular night views available in Seoul.

🗺️ Seoul Attractions Map

More All Things South Korea

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Reader Interactions

July 24, 2024 at 7:46 am

There are so many more things to do than I thought thnak you

July 25, 2024 at 12:57 pm

You're very welcome, Cocho! I hope you found a small group of things to add to your to-do list. 🙂

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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

There are traditional markets all around Seoul and in just about every district. Some are more popular than others, but what’s for sure is that traditional markets are fun to visit and always have delicious food to eat.

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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This is look incredible . Thank you for every part where you explain what have to do when someone arrive there. It’s so helpful and everybody can take a hint for their trip to Seoul. Thank you for hard working and keep up on good work.

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

Wow, I just discovered your site and, honestly, it’s probably the best travel site I’ve ever seen.

I’m currently considering moving to Korea within the next 18 months, and was looking for a site that could answer the thousands of questions I have about the country.

And then I stumbled across yours.

(I’ve only been on an airport layover in Seoul a couple of times during the 14 years I lived in Bangkok so, weirdly, never actually visited Korea. But, after 6 years in Europe, I’m desperate to get back to Asia permanently and Korea interests me. A lot),

An absolutely superb site, with SO much useful information. I have you bookmarked and will be back pretty much every day as I read through everything you have written — and maybe with some questions too 🙂

Thanks for this. I couldn’t be happier to hav e found something so darned useful 🙂

I really envy you. I wish I could do the same thing. Thank you for sharing such valuable information. I am planning a trip to Seoul and this is definitely very very useful. thank you.

Hallie Bradley

I hope you have a fantastic trip!

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!

I am just amazed! What a fantastic job you did here Hallie. Hello from Centerville Ohio!

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The Top Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea

Don't miss out on some of Seoul's top attractions

Seoul, South Korea offers something for everyone where sights and attractions are concerned. Easy to get around thanks to an efficient public transit system and also pleasantly walkable depending on where you are, Seoul is a city made for laid-back exploring.

Even travelers on a tight schedule or budget should find it easy to pack in a decent amount of sightseeing without having to worry about feeling too rushed. So where should you focus your attention when it comes to making the most of a trip to the South Korean capital? Whether you’re into history and culture, shopping, exploring the great outdoors or stuffing your face with delicious street food, you won’t be disappointed with what’s on offer.

If you’re headed to Seoul, here are some of the best things to see and do while you’re there. 

Shop 'Til You Drop at Myeongdong

Exiting the subway at Myeongdong Station, it’s easy to see which direction to head – simply follow the throngs of people all heading to one of the primary shopping districts in Seoul. But despite the presence of so many shoppers, the area still feels organized and easy to navigate, whether you're browsing or buying (or both). You’ll find some familiar name brands here (from UNIQLO and Zara, to Nike and H&M), along with many Korean brands. Myeongdong is also a mecca for anyone on the hunt for Korean beauty and skin care brands, with store shelves lined with every conceivable product to keep skin looking young and healthy. These stores are usually generous with samples, so if there’s something you’re curious about, just ask. While many Korean beauty and skin care brands are available in North America, this is the place to stock up on any hard-to-find items.

And if you get hungry, there's some good street food to be found in and around Myeongdong. Keep an eye out for Korean egg toast, Hotteok (sweet Korean pancakes), deep fried squid, gimbap (Korea's version of sushi rolls) and Korean fried chicken just to name a few standout snacks.

Head to the Top of Namsan Seoul Tower

If you’re looking to get some photo-worthy panoramic views of Seoul, this is the place to do it. Originally created as a broadcasting tower, N Seoul Tower (as it’s generally called), is located at the top of Namsan Mountain. Take in those aforementioned views over the city with a quick elevator ride to the observation deck, or ride the Namsan Cable Car, which runs from the base of Namsan Mountain up to Namsan Seoul Tower. 

Explore the Alleys of Itaewon

Itaewon is a must-see neighbourhood in Seoul for its diversity, ability to surprise and the abundance of bars, cafes and restaurants. Walking around Itaewon, it’s well worth peeking down the area’s narrow lanes and alleyways – because you never know what you’ll find. Maybe it’s a stunning piece of street art, or a tiny Italian restaurant with a shaggy dog snoozing on the stoop while wait staff sets up for dinner service. Itaewon is also home to Antique Furniture Street, which as the name suggests, is chock-a-block with shops selling beautiful antique housewares and furniture you’re not likely to find anywhere else. This is an ideal area to base yourself in on a visit to Seoul since it puts you close to public transit and in a neighborhood that always seems to be buzzing. There's great shopping here, too.

Walk Along Cheonggyecheon Stream

Seoul is bustling city, with something going on somewhere 24 hours a day. But relaxing respite can easily be found at Cheonggyecheon Stream, which runs through downtown Seoul. The 11-kilometre stream passes under nearly two dozen bridges before flowing into the Hangang River. This is a great place to come for a leisurely stroll by the water, a favorite activity among locals.

Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is probably Korea's most famous royal palace – and justifiably so. The massive complex is comprised of an impressive array of ornate structures and it’s worth spending at least three to four hours exploring the sprawling grounds. There are free guided tours in English daily at 11am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm. One-hour tours start from the information centre inside the Heungnyemun Gate.

Step Back in Time in Bukchon Hanok Village

Seoul may have a futuristic vibe and ultra-modern sensibilities in a lot of ways, but you can travel back to much simpler times with a visit to Bukchon Hanok Village. A hanok is a traditional Korean home and there are several villages you can visit in Korea, but the interesting thing about Bukchon Hanok Village is that although it’s a tourist attraction, it’s also a real residential neighborhood where people actually live. In addition to residences, many of the traditional buildings here operate as restaurants, boutiques and cultural centres.  

Relax at a Jimjilbang

Feeling stressed from travel or battling jet lag? In need of some serious relaxation? Put a visit to a Korean jimjilbang (sauna and spa) on your list of things to do in Seoul. But if you’re picturing a traditional spa, you’re in for a bit of surprise. A jimjilbang, like Dragon Hill Spa (one of the most popular in the city) are usually open 24 hours a day and offer the chance to unwind in various saunas, soaking baths of various temperatures, and opt for body treatments from scrubs to massages. There are even nap areas should you want to snooze between soaks, and most have restaurants for post-relaxation refueling. 

Learn Everything There Is to Know About Kimchi at Museum Kimchikan

Kimchi goes with or on nearly everything in Korea. The country’s go-to condiment is the focus at this museum and curious visitors can learn about the history of kimchi as well as how its made, the many methods for making the spicy side dish and the many different varieties. If you book in advance, you can also try your hand at making your own kimchi to take home.  

Take a Free Walking Tour

Exploring on foot is often one of the best ways to get a sense of a new city. But if you prefer a bit more structure to your stroll, you can sign up for a free walking tour. "Seoul City Walking Tours" is a free program offered by the city of Seoul wherein you sign up online and then get to see some of the city’s top attractions on foot with an expert local guide. Tours offer a great way to get to know the city better. Just note that reservations need to be made at least three days in advance via the Visit Seoul mobile website  and spots fill up quickly on weekends, holidays, and during peak season (April, May, September, October). 

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Urban Music Getaway ‘2024 Seoul Music Festival,’ Reservations Open on Sep. 11

Culture & tourism news.

• Seoul will host the ‘2024 Seoul Music Festival’ from Fri, Sep. 27 to Sun, Sep. 29 at Nodeul Island
• A music festival for all ages featuring artists like Kim Yun A, Bigmama, Crying Nut, SORAN, Ha Hyun Sang, and Band Nah
• All performances are free and reservations are available on a first-come, first-served basis via Naver Booking from Wed, Sep. 11

The ‘2024 Seoul Music Festival,’ one of the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s (SMG) flagship music events, will be held at Nodeul Island for three days, from Fri, Sep. 27 to Sun, Sep. 29.

All performances at the ‘2024 Seoul Music Festival’ are free, and tickets can be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis through the Naver Booking page (Korean) ( https://booking.naver.com/booking/12/bizes/1224567 ) starting from 11 AM on Wed, Sep. 11.

More detailed information about the event can be found on the official website and social media platforms. The festival will also be broadcast live online for those unable to attend in person.

• Seoul Music Festival Website: seoulmusicfestival.co.kr
• Seoul Music Festival Instagram: instagram.com/seoulmusicfesta
• YouTube Livestream: SMG YouTube ( https://www.youtube.com/@seoullive )

‘2024 Seoul Music Festival’ Poster

‘2024 Seoul Music Festival’ Line Up Poster

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