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Home » Asia » South Korea » Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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#1 – Bukchon Hanok Village – What to Visit in Seoul for Korean architecture

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

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

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

#2 – Myeongdong – Where to go in Seoul if you love to shop!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#19 – Insa-dong

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There’s a small charge involved, and if you get there at night you can pay a little extra and ask the owner to turn on the lights of the merry-go-round while you’re there. Set against the declining rides, it’s a ghostly sight that should be savored. Or you can explore Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park with a guide. You can enjoy the picture at the photo spot for K Drama & K Pop during this Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park + Strawberry Picking tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#31 – Dongdaemun – An awesome neighborhood in Seoul.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#34 – Nami Island

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

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

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

Get insured for your trip to Seoul!

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

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

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

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

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

Find out what people want to know about the where to go in Seoul South Ko.

Is 3 days in Seoul enough?

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

Is Seoul a safe place to visit?

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

Is Seoul a cheap place to visit?

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

What is a free place to visit in Seoul?

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

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

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

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

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Nice list. I am going next week there and this abandoned theme park look like something I will visit

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

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

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

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

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13 of the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea

Feb 4, 2024 • 8 min read

From bustling street food markets to peaceful temple life, experience the best of Seoul with this guide © Plan Shooting 2 / Imazins / Getty Images

For an ultra-modern city filled with sleek high-rises and time-tested palaces, tempting street food, vibrant shopping districts and much more, head to Seoul . 

Whether you want to see the latest K-Pop sensation, take a late-night food and drink tour, or find serenity in a spa or temple, the city has something to offer 24/7. Here are the best things to do in South Korea ’s capital.

1. Taste the street food at Gwangjang Market

Street food in Seoul is beloved for its spice, variety and affordability, and there’s no better place to try it than  Gwangjang Market . Dating from the early 20th century, this covered market has gained a reputation among foodies for having some of the country’s best street snacks. 

Planning tip:  Start with an order of tteokbokki (stir-fried rice cakes in a bright orange spicy sauce), followed by a couple of mandu (Korean dumplings) and a pajeon (savory green onion pancake). For dessert, try hotteok (a pancake filled with brown sugar and cinnamon) or bungeoppang (a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste). Then do it all over again.

2. Step back in time at Gyeongbokgung Palace

If you only have time to see one sight in Seoul, make it the splendid architecture, serene pagodas and maze-like grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace . Originally built during the reign of the powerful Joseon Dynasty in the 14th century, the palace was destroyed during the 16th-century Imjin War and rebuilt in the 18th century. Gyeongbokgung is the largest and most elegant of Seoul’s five royal palaces.

Planning tip:  Take in the ceremonial changing of the Royal Guard in front of the massive Gwanghwamun Gate before strolling the grounds to admire striking hip-and-gable buildings, tranquil ponds and delicate cherry trees. Wrap up your visit with a stop at the National Folk Museum of Korea , which sits on the palace grounds and features exhibits on traditional Korean culture.

3. Stroll along the Cheong-gye-cheon Stream

In the heat of summer , nothing beats a walk along Cheong-gye-cheon Stream . A dazzling oasis that unfurls for nearly 11km (7 miles) through the towers of central Seoul, this picturesque waterway is lined with walking paths, trees and bridges. The original stream was covered with an elevated highway after the Korean War, but in 2005, the city undertook an urban renewal project to refresh the area and reintroduce the stream better than ever. Since then, it’s been a popular spot for locals and tourists looking to cool off or take a leisurely break from the city’s hustle and bustle.

4. Shop for the latest trends in Myeong-dong

You’ll want to break out the credit card for an afternoon of spending in Seoul’s most famous shopping district. Myeong-dong is renowned for trendy fashion labels, deluxe department stores and cosmetic boutiques packed with famed K-beauty products. Once you’ve sufficiently stocked up on mask sheets and moisturizer at Olive Young , innisfree and Etude House , check out the Myeong-dong Night Market for quirky souvenirs and traditional street food.

The area is also home to some of Seoul’s cutest cafes, with the Pink Pool Cafe at the Stylenanda Pink Hotel flagship store being the ultimate eye candy. This confectionery-colored spot has an ice-cream-parlor vibe, indoor ornamental pool and sweet-as-sugar art decor, making it a popular place for photo shoots.

5. Go for a dip in a jjimjilbang

More than just a way to get clean, bathing in Seoul is a full-fledged social activity. Koreans gather at bathhouses (jjimjilbang) with friends and family typically once a week. Jjimjilbang can range from an establishment with just a couple of small dipping pools to massive aquatic palaces with multiple pools, water features, cafes, saunas, relaxation rooms, gyms, spas and arcades.

First-timers should know that bathhouse etiquette requires bathing in the nude, and some bathhouses don’t allow patrons with tattoos. Once you’ve bared all, take a dip in the hot and cold pools, followed by a stretch in the sauna, then opt for a traditional full-body scrub to emerge baby-soft from your bathhouse experience.

Planning tip: The female-only Spa Lei draws patrons for its elegant atmosphere and invigorating massages.

6. Take a hike in Bukhansan National Park

Bukhansan National Park is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as “the most visited national park per unit area” – which is easy to understand since it’s set within the city limits and easily reachable by public transportation . You’ll often see athletic Koreans in colorful hiking gear riding the subways on weekends.

Bukhansan covers 80 sq km (31 sq miles) and features jagged peaks, hiking trails, dozens of storied temples and 1300 species of plants and animals. The 5-hour round-trip hike to the 836m (2744ft) summit of Bukhansan is well worth it to see Seoul spread out before you in all directions.

7. Go singing in a noraebang

Walk down any busy street in the university districts on a Friday or Saturday night, and you’re likely to hear distant singing wafting through the air. Chances are it’s not an errant K-Pop band but the raucous merriment of karaoke at a noraebang (singing room). This popular late-night activity involves private rooms with big-screen TVs, phone-book-sized lists of songs and even disco balls or musical instruments to accompany the singalong. Top it off with room service bringing snacks and cocktails, and it’s a recipe for a great night out.

8. Sip on Korean drinks: soju and makgeolli

The traditional Korean beverages soju and makgeolli have been respectively distilled and brewed since the 13th century and are the most beloved drinks in this thirsty nation. Soju also has the surprising distinction of being the world’s best-selling spirit, perhaps helped out by the fact that a standard bottle often costs less than a bottle of water.

While such upmarket small-batch distilleries as Samhae Soju and Hangang Brewery  create artisanal varieties, the most common labels, such as Jinro and Seoul Makgeolli, can be happily imbibed at the picnic tables dotting sidewalks outside convenience stores across the city.

Planning tip:  Those new to the Korean alcohol scene should check out the  Sool Company , which offers tasting tours, brewing classes and special events.

9. Star-search on K-Star Road

You’re probably familiar with Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, but did you know Seoul’s glamorous Gangnam district has its own boulevard dedicated entirely to K-Pop artists? Instead of stars on the sidewalk, K-Star Road features 3m-tall (10ft) statues of cartoon bears called GangnamDols, each decorated to represent a different K-Pop singer or band, including Super Junior, Girls’ Generation and BTS. 

Planning tip:  After taking a few selfies with your favorite bears, pop into the GangnamDol Haus near the Apgujeong Rodeo subway station to pick up a few mini bears as souvenirs.

10. Stay at a temple and take part in life with the monks

The iconic image of a colossal Buddha statue looking over sleek high-rises can be seen at the 8th-century Bongeun-sa Temple in Gangnam . Although most tourists come just to snap a photo or two, you can actually participate in temple life with the monks. Over a weekend, join in vegetarian meals, morning chanting, meditation and even the 108 daily prostrations, all meant to clear the mind and bring you closer to achieving inner peace.

Planning tip:  Temple-stay programs are offered not only at Bongeun-sa but also at various temples throughout Seoul.

11. Spend the night in Bukchon Hanok Village

Graceful sloping roofs, ornate tiles and colorful dancheong  (intricate paintwork under the eaves of traditional Korean palaces) come together to create the Korean traditional house, called hanok . Tucked between the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palace complexes lies Bukchon Hanok Village , a historic district filled with hundreds of charming hanok  that’s often used as a backdrop for period movies and television shows.

Planning tip:  While the village has cafes, teahouses, museums and boutiques, it’s also home to a handful of hanoks -turned-guesthouses where visitors can sleep on traditional ondol heated floors, walk through kimchi pot–filled courtyards and generally get a taste what life was like in old Seoul.

12. Get a bird’s-eye view at N Seoul Tower

At the top of Nam Mountain sits N Seoul Tower , a broadcasting structure dating from 1969 and rising 239m (784ft) into the sky above the city. The tower still has active transmission antennas, though today it’s better known for an observation deck that offers 360-degree views of the capital. The top of the tower also offers a few dining options, including a swanky rotating restaurant serving French fare.

Planning tip:  To reach the tower itself, you can ride the Namsan Cable Car aerial tramway or hike the meandering trails to the top through Namsan Park .

13. Take a day trip to the DMZ

One of the top day trips from Seoul , a visit to the northern border may well be the most unusual 24 hours you’ll spend on the Korean peninsula. The 250km (160-mile) border between North and South known as the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is one of the world’s most closely guarded borders.

Various outfits, such as the popular DMZ Tours company, take curious onlookers from central Seoul to the border area to catch a glimpse into North Korea from Dora Observatory , explore the Third Infiltration Tunnel (originally dug by North Korean soldiers) and even step into North Korea in the Joint Security Area . There’s also the touristy DMZ Peace Train operated by KORAIL, which whisks passengers from Seoul Station to Dorasan Station, the last stop to the north before crossing into the Hermit Kingdom.

This article was first published Mar 4, 2020 and updated Feb 4, 2024.

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SEOUL - north  |  SEOUL - south

Day Trips from Seoul  | Busan  |  Best Collections

🥁 Festivals ( Seoul • Busan )

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

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

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

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

1. Korea Palaces

Visit either:

Gyeongbokgung Palace : The largest + Changing of Royal Guards Ceremony

Changdeokgung Palace : UNESCO World Heritage + Secret Garden

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

2. Namsan Seoul Tower

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

3. Myeongdong

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

4. Cafe Streets  

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

Other popular cafe streets/areas:

Ikseondong Hanok Village

Seoul Forest Cafe Street

5. Korean BBQ

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

Other recommended BBQ restaurants at:

6. Korean Markets

KoreaToDo favourite picks include:

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

Gwangjang Market : Many popular local  food to try!

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

7. Seoul City Wall

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

KoreaToDo Top Picks:

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

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

8. Bukhansan National Park

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

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

9. Han River (Hangang) Parks

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

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

Ttukseom Hangang Park

Yeouido Hangang Park

10. Bridge Walk across Han River

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

KoreaToDo's favourite pick:

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

11. Underground Malls

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

12. Ko rean Universities

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

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

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

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

Hot picks include:

Seoul Grand Park

Seoul Forest

Olympic Park

Haneul Park

14. Kakao Friends / Line Friends Flagship  Stores

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

Best locations for both flagship stores located near subway stations:

Gangnam Shopping Street

Hongdae Shopping Street ​

15. Factory Outlets

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

Recommended picks near subway stations:

Lotte Outlets (Seoul Station Branch)

Hyundai City Outlets Dongdaemun ​

16. Olive Young

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

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

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

KoreaToDo TOP PICKS - Tours, Activities & Discount Tickets

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

N Seoul Tower Observatory Ticket

enjoy breathtaking views

Yeo Yong Guk Korean Traditional Medicine Spa Packages

must-go wellness place by KTO

Lotte World 1 Day Pass & Lotte World Aquarium

located in the heart of Seoul

Coex Aquarium in Seoul Admission Ticket

largest aquarium in Seoul

Seoul Eland Hangang River Cruise (Day Cruise)

40 mins, multiple timings

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

free access to >60 attractions

Hanbok Rental near Changdeokgung Palace by Dorothy Hanbok

Kid/Male hanbok available.

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

Myeongdong, Hongdae, etc

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

🌸SEASONAL HOT PICKS🌸 Handpicked Experiences from Seoul

2024 Pohang International Fireworks Festival (from Seoul)

incl. Hwanho Park Space Walk

2024 Boryeong Mud Festival, Daecheon Beach & Oeam Folk Village Day Tour

19 Jul - 4 Aug 2024

famous summer festival in Korea

2024 Boryeong Mud Festival, Daecheon Beach & Suspension Bridge Day Tour

Korea's famous mud festival!

Other KoreaToDo Collections that you may like:

Top Popular & Unique Day Trips from Seoul under 3 hours

Recommended Day Tours from Seoul & WHY

Top Favourite Shopping Heaven in Seoul

Essential Travel Tips to Korea

Still looking? Explore KoreaToDo handpicked collection of:

Seoul - North of Han River

Seoul - South of Han River

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The 14 best things to do in Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

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What to do in Seoul

1.  Changdeokgung Palace

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

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

2.  N Seoul Tower

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

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

3.  Gwangjang Market

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

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

4.  Ihwa Mural Village

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

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

5.  Leeum Samsung Museum of Art

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

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

6.  Insa-dong

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

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

7.  Hongdae

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

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

8.  Common Ground

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

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

9.  Dongdaemun

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

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

10.  Gyeongui Line Forest Park

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

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

11.  Myeongdong

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

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

12.  Suyeonsanbang Tea House

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

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

13.  Seoullo 7017

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

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

14.  Korea Furniture Museum

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

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

More great things to do in Seoul

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

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

A Brief Overview on Korea’s History

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gwanghwamun & Jongno-gu

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

Start here for the best places to go in Seoul!

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

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

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

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

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

At sunset or early morning it can be especially nice.

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

• Nearest Subway: Anguk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Nearest Subway: Gwanghwamun

Myeong-dong and Jung-gu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Nearest Subway: Myeong-dong

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

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

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

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

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

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

Itaewon & Yongsan-gu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Western Seoul

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

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

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

• Nearest Subway: Hongik University and Sangsu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gangnam & South of the River

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Nearest Subways: Cheongdam and Samseong

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

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

• Nearest Subway Stations: Mongchontoseong and Olympic Park

Dongdaemun and Eastern Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

Northern Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Day Trip from Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

All Over Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seoul Travel Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eating in Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accommodation – Where to Stay in Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Nearest Subway – Hapjeong

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

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

• Nearest Subway – Anguk

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

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

• Nearest Subway – Sungshin Women’s University

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

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

• Nearest Subway – Euljiro 1-ga

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Richard Barnes

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The PERFECT 3 Days in SEOUL Itinerary (2024 Guide)

8 amazing things to do in jeonju, south korea, life experiences while wwoofing in south korea, related posts, 5 most scenic hiking spots in south korea, 1 thought on “23 epic things to do in seoul, south korea (2024 edition)”.

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

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7 Essential Seoul Travel Tips for First-Timers (+ everything I wished I knew)

The first time I went to South Korea, I spent three weeks there, with two weeks in Seoul as a super-tourist and took beautiful side trips to Jeju Island and Busan in the south.

Here’s everything I wish I knew before going to South Korea as a tourist. These are specifically Seoul travel tips, but some can apply to South Korea travel in general.

If you’re new to South Korea, read my South Korea travel guide .

📖 Read Next: 28 Places to Visit in Seoul and watch the vlog 🎥

Prebook before your trip: 📲 Local sim card or eSIM card from Klook 🚊 Ride from the airport: prebook a transfer | airport bus | AREX train 🚊 Purchase a KTX Pass online for travel to multiple cities 💳 Buy a pre-loaded T-money card 🚙 Rent a car in South Korea for as cheap as $28 USD a day 🎫 Browse through dozens of available South Korea tours

Table of Contents

Best Area to Stay in Seoul

Seoul is massive, but these are three main areas where tourists generally stay.

📖 Read next: Where to Stay in Seoul Based on Your Interests

1. Central-Northern Seoul

If you want to be closer to the main tourist attractions like all the palaces and famous shopping streets, stay in the Insadong or Myeongdong area more up north.

If you like to be around a nightlife, stay in Itaewon. There’s a lot of locals and foreigners who go there. People party on the weekdays til early morning. There’s also a lot of restaurants and shops there.

🍶 Looking for a social night activity? Consider joining a Seoul pub crawl

For a busy but chiller vibe, stay in Hongdae, which is known for being the youth and indie music culture area. There’s a long walking street with tons of cute cafes, shops, and music performances.

Free printable of 70+ places to visit in Seoul

Check your email for your Seoul bucket list.

Seoul Travel Tips: My Recommendation for First-Timers

If you’re staying longer than a week and don’t mind moving hotels, I recommend trying out 2 or 3 hotels in separate areas just to experience different parts of Seoul , which is what I did.

But for first-time tourists , I recommend staying closer to Insadong and Myeongdong. It’s just closer and easier to get to the main tourist sites.

My favorite stay was Travelodge Myeongdong City Hall  (photo below).

Basic Korean Language Travel Phrases

English is not widely-spoken in South Korea. It’s best to learn some basic phrases if you’re just visiting.

In non-touristy areas or restaurants, menus may not be provided in English.

But, you can use Papago or Google Translate to scan the menu text to English.

9 main Korean phrases to learn and what I used the most

• Hello : Annyeonghaseyo (ahn-nyung-ha-seh-yo)
• One please (Just 1 person, or 1 of this): Hana juseyo (ha-na joo-seh-yo)
• Sorry : joesonghamnida (jeh-song ham-ni-da)
• Thank you : Kamsahamnida (kham-sa-hum-knee-dah)
• No : animida (ah-knee-me-dah)
• Yes : ne (neh)
• No thank you, or it’s alright : Gwenchanayo (gwen-chan-nah-yo)
• How much is it? : Eolmayeyo? (ol-ma-eh-yo)
• I don’t speak Korean : Hanguk-mal motteo (ha-ng-gook-mul mo-teh-yo)

Just remember, we’re visitors. We can’t expect locals to know or speak English to us. And if you ask someone for help and get rejected, try not to take it personally. They might have been too shy or were just busy!

Airport Tips for Seoul, South Korea

At the Incheon Airport , you want to do these 3 things:

1. Pick up a local sim card : IF your phone is unlocked. You can buy a sim card there or preorder a Korea sim card on Klook . 10 days of data costs about $20 USD.

📲 I usually use Airalo for esims in South Korea . You can use my code  ROSEAN3468  for $3 USD off your first purchase.

2. Get some won, which is the currency in Korea. Credit cards are widely accepted in Seoul, but get back up cash, and for like food stalls that only accept cash.

In general, the ATM offers a better rate than exchanging at the airport. But do whatever’s easiest.

3. Lastly, buy a T-money card at the airport or at any convenience store. It costs about $2 USD. It’s a card that you can use to pay on trains, buses, convenience stores, some supermarkets and restaurants. Some taxis even accept it.

🎫 To make it easier, buy a pre-loaded T-money card to pick up at the airport

You can use it throughout South Korea, not just Seoul. But, if you don’t want to get a T-money card, you can just buy paper tickets at the train station. But getting a T-money card is one of the top Seoul travel tips you’ll read.

It takes about an hour to get to Seoul from the airport. Here’s some transportation options to/from the airport:

• Take the AREX express train. You can book your ticket in advance here .
• Hail an airport taxi or book a Kakao T or Uber taxi ( check my example Uber in Korea costs ).
• Arrange an airport pickup or drop off in advance.
• Take the subway, which will likely mean a transfer at Seoul station.
• My favorite: take an airport bus , which stops by major areas in Seoul.

How to Get Around Seoul – Transportation Tips

The first time taking public transit in a new country is always nerve-wracking! But it gets easier. And signs and ticket machines are in English. Here’s 5 main Seoul travel tips for getting around the city.

1. I highly recommend downloading the app CityMapper, which is in English. You can download Citymapper right now just to get an idea, and it’s simple to use. The app show directions for trains, buses, and walking.

2. You can’t rely on Google Maps. It’s not optimized to use in South Korea, especially for walking directions. If you’re looking up just walking directions on Google Maps, nothing will show up.

The most popular apps for getting around in South Korea are Kakao Map and Naver Map , which I still have, but they’re less user-friendly in my opinion. They are most helpful though when traveling Busan and Jeju Island.

3. You can add money to your T-Money card at a ticket machine in a train station, or at any convenience store. You have to use cash.

Depending on how long you’re in Seoul, start with 10,000 to 20,000 won. The base fair for trains is 1250 won.

4. When riding a train or bus, don’t sit in the designated areas for elderly or pregnant women, even when the train is empty. This is not the US. 😉

5. And last thing about train stations, elevators and escalators are not common . There are elevators, but they’re in certain entrances that you have to look for, and are just harder to find in my opinion.

You’ll rarely see this in Seoul travel tips posts, but prepare for a stairs workout if you’re not able to find them, but don’t be afraid to ask others.

How to Take Buses in Seoul

Buses may seem intimidating, but are pretty easy to take. Just look for your bus number on the bus stop sign. Once you’re on the bus, tap your T-Money card on the card reader and tap again when you get off the bus.

Buses cost 1,200 won. Only major stops are announced in English. I use Google Maps or another Maps app for this to follow the dot so you know when to press the stop button.

How to Take the Taxi in Seoul

1. Uber works in Seoul. When you open your Uber app, it converts to Uber T. Your original payment info is already saved in there. You don’t need to pay in person.

2. If you do have a local sim, you can also download Kakao T , which is the main taxi app. If you’re a foreigner though, you can’t link your credit card to the app. You’ll have to pay with cash or T-money card at the end.

Kakao taxis are more readily available than Uber, but sometimes you’ll come across a language barrier if the driver can’t find you. There’s still plenty of Uber drivers. Sometimes you just have to wait a bit longer.

3. Tipping for taxis is not common.

What to Pack for Seoul, South Korea

Here are a few essential packing items for Seoul:

1. Plug Type F

In case you don’t know, South Korea uses a specific type of plug for charging your phone or laptop. It’s not the same as in the US.

You’ll have to get a plug type F charger , which is the same as a lot of European countries. Or just get a universal travel adapter , especially if you plan to travel a lot.

Some hotels do provide a USB plug, but most don’t. Make sure to get the correct plug. You can also look for one in a convenience store or supermarket in Seoul.

2. Umbrella!

If you’re visiting during the summer months of June to August, bring an umbrella, or buy one from a store, and carry it with you. Rain stops and goes.

📖 Read my Summer in Seoul tips and experiences .

3. Skin Protection

General tip, bring a hat and sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays. One of my top Seoul travel tips.

4. Walking Shoes

Bring good walking shoes. You’re most likely going to be walking a lot. I wear Xero Shoes – I can walk for hours and not have sore feet.

Culture Shocks and Cultural Differences

Here are just some random cultural differences and observations in Seoul.

1. Seoul is generally safe, and statistically safer than many countries. Always be careful of your surroundings, but I walked alone past midnight and it was fine. If you need to call for help, the number is 112.

2. Most of the restaurants I went to were self-service, which also meant returning your plates and cups to the counter and clearing out any napkins from your table.

If you’re unsure, just look at what other people do, which is what I did. ^^

You usually pay at the counter. And tipping is not common at all.

3. For those going in the summer, it gets REALLY hot. And it sometimes rains. I was always drenched in sweat. But when I looked at the locals, they looked flawless.

4. Lastly, here’s the tea, don’t expect locals to be social and friendly to you just because you’re a foreigner or an obvious tourist. They’re just minding their own business.

If you want to make friends, you have to actively try, join a meet up, a club, or English exchange. At least, that’s my experience.

And if you just want to enjoy traveling solo, that’s fun too. There’s so much to do in Seoul! You won’t run out of things to do alone. Look out for my solo Seoul travel tips post coming soon.

Top Places to Visit in Seoul

There’s always something to do in Seoul. Nature sites, cultural and historic sites. Entertainment. Here are 4 of my favorites spots.

Looking for more? Check out my 28 Places to Visit in Seoul list.

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace

If you only have time to visit just one palace in Seoul, go to Gyeongbokgung Palace . It’s massive and so beautiful.

There’s historical sites as well as nature sites. It feels like a time-hop. It’s the most popular palace and only about $2 USD.

🚌 Join a group tour for Gyeongbokgung Palace + Temple Guide

2. Cheonggyecheon Stream

This must-visit is a 7-mile stream in the middle of downtown. You can walk it or sit on a step and put your feet in the water. At night it’s lit up as well. It’s open 24 hours.

🌌 Join a Seoul Moonlight night tour of Cheonggyecheon Stream, Royal Palace, & Naksan Park

3. Bukchon Hanok Village

This is a beautiful neighborhood of hanoks, or traditional Korean houses designed with nature in mind. It’s really pretty to walk through. People also dress in traditional hanboks to take photos. You can rent a hanbok online to pick up .

4. Namsan Seoul Tower & Park

You’ll get a beautiful view of Seoul on the way up and down. I’d probably go there multiple times. The park itself is huge and the views are amazing.

🎫 Pre-book your Namsan Tower cable car ticket to skip the lines

Hope these Seoul travel tips were helpful!

Have a great time in Seoul!

Check out my city guides for: Jeju Island | Busan | Gyeongju | Pohang

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Roseanne Ducut is a solo female traveler and Filipina from the Bay Area, California. She writes practical and culture-rich travel guides and lives a not-so-secret double life as a fangirl. A veghead for over 15 years, Roseanne also writes vegan guides to help others plan their trips.

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

1. N Seoul Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ask your hotel concierge to help with reservations.

Address: 1 Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury Hotels:

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

Mid-Range Hotels :

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

Budget Hotels :

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

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
• Dongdaemun Market
• Bukchon Hanok Village
• Cheonggyecheon Stream
• Gwanghwamun Square
• Namdaemun Gate
• Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art
• Jogyesa Temple
• Namsangol Hanok Village
• Seoul Grand Park
• Gwangjang Market
• Seoul Forest
• South Korea Demilitarised Zone Half & Full Day Tour
• Seoul Metro
• Seodaemun Prison
• 63 Building
• Huwon Garden
• Seoul Color Park (Yeouido Hangang Park)
• Jongmyo Shrine
• Sejong Center for the Performing Arts
• Ihwa Mural Village
• Olympic Park
• Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market
• Gyeongui Line Forest Park
• Myeong-dong
• Myeongdong Nanta Theatre
• Seoul City Hall
• Changgyeonggung Palace
• Samcheongdong-gil Road
• National Hangeul Museum
• Han River: Night Cruise
• Seoul City Wall
• Seoul in 1 Day: Best City Highlights Tour
• Seoullo 7017
• Trickeye Museum
• Starfield COEX Mall
• Dream Concert

Seoul   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Alex Barlow | Getty Images

11 Best Things To Do in Seoul

Updated Feb. 11, 2021

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

• All Things To Do

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

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

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

Bukchon Hanok Village Bukchon Hanok Village free

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

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

Bukhansan National Park Bukhansan National Park free

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

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

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Changdeokgung (Changdeok Palace) Changdeokgung (Changdeok Palace)

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

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

Hongdae Hongdae free

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

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

Insadong Insadong free

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

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

Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbok Palace) Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbok Palace)

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

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

Dongdaemun Market Dongdaemun Market free

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

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

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Jongmyo Shrine Jongmyo Shrine

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

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

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

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

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

Lotte World Lotte World

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

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

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Weather & Climate

Guide to Public Transportation

Neighborhood Guide

48 Hours in Seoul

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Things to Do in Seoul

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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The 9 Best Areas To Stay In Seoul, Korea: From Gangnam To Hongdae

The capital city of Seoul in Korea is sprawling and you could easily spend one to two hours on the subway getting across the city. When it comes to deciding where to stay in Seoul, it’s important to focus on what it is you want to accomplish while you’re here. From the traditional sites in Bukchon Hanok Village to the artsy district of Hongdae, there is a lot to choose from and plenty to do.

Here is a breakdown of the best places in Seoul to stay and what to do nearby. This guide to the best hotels in Seoul in each area of the city is sure to help you plan an exciting trip to Seoul.

Get ready for your trip to Seoul. Let me help you figure out where to stay in Seoul!

What To Know About Seoul

Which area of seoul should i stay in.

• Bukchon: Best area to stay for a traditional experience
• Insadong: Best area to stay for first-time tourists
• Hongdae: Best area to stay for nightlife and music
• Yeouido: Best area to stay for families
• Myeongdong: Best area to stay for shopping and street food
• Gangnam: Best area to stay for K-beauty and K-pop
• Seoul Station: Best area to stay if you want to get out of Seoul more
• Itaewon: Best area to stay for international food and nightlife
• Dongdaemun: Best area to stay for shopping and design

What To Do To Prepare For Your Trip To Seoul

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• Seoul is made up of 25 different districts called a “gu” (구) in Korean. Of course there are more popular gu’s for tourists to stay in though and more residential gu’s for locals so we’ll make sure you’ve got the tips for travel here.
• Seoul is cut through the center by the Han River, or Hangang. The northern half of Seoul is called Gangbuk , meaning “north of the river”, and the southern half of Seoul is called Gangnam , meaning “south of the river”. (Not to be confused with the gu’s of the same name though.) This is important to know because the northern half and the southern half are very different in terms of what you will see and do. The northern half of Seoul is generally where you’ll find the historical and traditional character of Seoul. The southern half of Seoul is where you’ll find the more modern, glitzy areas of Seoul.
• Generally, I suggest that short term tourists stay in the Gangbuk area as it has all of the main sites you’ll likely want to visit. A day spent in Gangnam/Jamsil is generally enough for short term tourists unless you have business there or are perhaps getting into the medical tourism areas, and then Gangnam would be better for you.

Choosing the best area to stay in for you is probably the biggest decision you’ll need to make when planning a trip to Seoul. No stress or anything. Seoul is huge, but if you find the right spot for you and what you want to see, your trip will be unforgettable.

Here’s a quick guide for where to stay:

• For first time tourists to Seoul: Bukchon, Insadong, and Myeongdong
• For short term travelers to Seoul: Insadong
• For the shopping-interested: Myeongdong, Gangnam, Hongdae, or Dongdaemun
• For the nightlife lovers: Hongdae, Gangnam, or Itaewon
• For the families: Insadong or Yeouido

What Is Bukchon Known For

Bukchon, home to the Bukchon Hanok Village, is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a traditional stay in the city. Walk along streets lined with traditional Korean homes and go from quiet residential areas to palaces, temples, and there are a lot of great experiences to try here too. If you want to try a traditional stay for part of your stay, then this is a great area to start, and then move to one of the hotels in nearby Insadong.

What To See In Bukchon

• Bukchon Hanok Village : A historical village with traditional Korean homes open for tourists to visit.
• Main Palaces: Gyeongbokgung Palace , Deoksugung Palace , Changdeokgung Palace
• Unhyeongung Royal Residence : A less touristy collection of traditional Korean buildings. Great for taking photos in Hanboks, or Korean traditional clothes.
• National Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art

Recommended Hotels In Bukchon

This gorgeous traditional house is a boutique stay which means it’s been updated with the amenities that you’d appreciate like beautiful bathroom facilities and the touches are a bit more high end than you’ll find in other stays. The rooms here are just beautiful and there are options for floor sleeping as well as large beds. I’ve walked through this boutique stay and it is a stunning. I’d definitely recommend it to any visitor that comes to stay.

Book a stay here on Booking.com or on Agoda.com

Stay in this more traditional Hanok building with a beautiful courtyard. This is a more cozy atmosphere on a street with cool cafes and restaurants. In the winter take advantage of the traditional ondol (floor) heating to warm up and in the summer, use the AC which has been added for comfort. The owner is very friendly and helps out any guests with recommendations for where to go and what to see.

Book a stay here on either Booking.com or on Airbnb.com

Chiwoonjung

This former Korean president’s historic villa has been opened to the public but keeps that traditional charm. There’s also a jjimjilbang, or traditional Korean sauna, for guests to use in the evenings. The decor is traditional and beautiful with classic Korean touches. Don’t forget to take advantage of the meal time on site and eat like a king… or a former president.

Book a stay here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com

What Is Insadong Known For

Insadong is a part of the traditional and cultural center of Seoul. There are traditional Hanoks to stay in but there are also hotels for the visitors that want a bed instead of floor sleeping. With a Buddhist temple, the main Korean palaces, and lots of cafes and restaurants nearby, this is great if you want to easily get out and about to see things without worrying about the massive transit system.

This area is also great for tourists because most places in this area have menus, information, and directions in multiple languages for ease of use.

What To See In Insadong

• Palaces: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace
• Gwangjang Traditional Market : A market known for delicious and authentic Korean cuisine. Tourist friendly and even featured on Netflix.
• Sewoon Sangga : Once a local market, now it’s a collaborative space for culture and arts.
• Jogyesa Temple : A Buddhist temple in central Seoul that is the easiest for most tourists to visit.
• Cheonggyecheon Stream : A popular pedestrian-friendly stream in central Seoul that allows visitors to walk from Gwanghwamun all the way to Dongdaemun Design Plaza .

Recommended Hotels In Insadong

Nine tree premier hotel insadong.

This hotel was just opened in October of 2019 and is directly across the street from Jogyesa Temple and in a new mall in the Insadong district. The location couldn’t be better if you were looking for something in Insadong with easy access to public transportation and new new new. There is a 24 hour front desk, fitness center, and all of the amenities you want in a great stay.

Book a stay here easily on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com

Hotel Aventree Jongno

At the end of Insadong culture street is the Hotel Aventree. This sophisticated hotel is easy to access with multiple subway stations nearby and the spacious rooms are perfect for travelers who want to get out and about but also relax in style. Staff is super friendly and hospitable and the breakfast buffet is on point. This is definitely a hotel to check out while you’re in the area.

What Is Hongdae Known For

Hongdae, surrounded by three universities, tends to be where the tourists looking for busking, a young/student crowd, and lots of bars and restaurants hang. You’ll find street dancers, a vibrant music scene, and lots of shopping opportunities in Hongdae . If you’re planning to stay out nights and want to get back easily, it’s a good spot to stay.

This is on the western side of the city so not ideal if you’re looking to spend a lot of time in Gangnam or Jamsil. Easy to get downtown to the traditional sites though. Check out this guide for things to do in Hongdae to plan an amazing time there.

What To See In Hongdae

• Yeonnam-dong : A neighborhood known for fun cafes and restaurants.
• Mangwon-dong : Visit a traditional market, find quirky cafes, and delicious restaurants in a neighborhood with entrance to the Han River Parks .
• World Cup Park : A massive and less touristy park in western Seoul with metasequoia trees, fields of grasses, flowers, and more to enjoy.
• Bongwonsa Temple : A beautiful less touristy Buddhist temple on Ansan Mountain which has access to nearby hiking trails as well.
• Seonyudo Island : An island in the Han River that is easily accessible and a fun place to walk around.

Recommended Hotels In Hongdae

Ryse, Autograph Collection Marriott

One of the chicest hotels in the area is Ryse, Autograph Collection. This stylish stay has an amazing staff and beautiful style and design from top to bottom. The contemporary hotel features spacious rooms with class and elegance. I have a friend that loves this place so much she stays here about once every six months even though she LIVES right here in Seoul.

Guests also get access to an on-site fitness center and library as well as 4 on-site restaurants. And don’t miss a visit to Side Note Club on the 15th floor. The rooftop bar and lounge overlooks Hongdae and hosts some excellent events with live music.

Book your stay at Ryse, Autograph Collection Marriott here on Marriott.com if you’re a Marriott Bonvoy Member or check rates on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com .

9 Brick Hotel

If you’re looking for a brick facade, some retro hipster vibes, and friendly staff, this is the hotel for you. The most loved aspect of the hotel is the epic views that can be had from the big bathtubs. This is a fashionable stay that also feels comfortable and cozy has some European vibes. Sit beneath the beautiful chandeliers and look out through the expansive windows to see the city.

Book your stay at 9 Brick Hotel here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com .

L7 Hongdae By Lotte

L7 Hongdae is one of the very few spots in Hongdae that features a pool and it’s a rooftop pool at that! This 3-star hotel is very close to the Hongdae Subway Station which is also where the train from the airport arrives.

Owned by Lotte, the rooms have  contemporary styling and floor to ceiling windows for great views of the district. The hotel features the pool as well as a fitness center, restaurant, and bar. It’s one of the best places to stay in the area for sure.

Book a stay at L7 Hongdae here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com .

What Is Yeouido Known For

Yeouido is mainly known as a business district, but I think it’s actually a very nice family-friendly central place to stay in Seoul. Yeouido has the most popular Han Riverside park in the city which also has the dock for the E-Land Han River Cruise.

From Yeouido, it’s a straight shot north to the Korean War Memorial and National Museum beyond that is the cultural downtown. Yeouido has nice broad sidewalks for walking and quite a bit of space to spread out if you are worried about being cooped up in the downtown areas.

What To See In The Area

• Yeouido Han River Park : The most popular of the Han River Parks.
• Gongdeok District : An overlooked district in central Seoul with cafes and restaurants.
• Noryangjin Fish Market : The largest fish market in Seoul.
• 63 Building: A golden building with an observatory, aquarium, and more to enjoy.
• The Hyundai Seoul Mall: The largest luxury shopping mall in Korea.

Recommended Hotel In Yeouido

Conrad Hotel Seoul

The Conrad Hotel is a 5-star luxury hotel with amazing views of the Han River and within walking distance of the Yeouido Han River Park where you can rent bikes and go for a ride. The Hyundae Seoul which is the largest department store in Seoul is just there too.

This is the place to stay on Yeouido Island for the most exquisite stay, especially if you want an amazing staycation in Seoul with plenty to do within walking distance. You won’t want to go outside at all with everything there is to do at Conrad Hotel. There are ton of places to eat and it’s connected to another mall on Yeouido Island too!

Book a stay at Conrad Hotel Seoul here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com .

What Is Myeongdong Known For

Myeongdong is centrally located and has great food options . If you’re a walker, you could even get up to Namsan Mountain, the Korean palaces, Gwangjang Market, and other hot spots easily on foot. If you’re not a walker, no worries, all of the transportation options here too. 

Myeongdong is also super close to Seoul Station so if you’re coming in from the airport, you can get there easily on the airport train line. Myeongdong is a well-known shopping district with all of the Korean beauty brands, department stores, and small local designs you could want. It’s a great district for tourists and is convenient to get all over Seoul.

Check out the places to stay below, but if you want more, check out this guide for where to stay in Myeongdong .

What To See Myeongdong

• Myeongdong : A popular shopping district in central Seoul.
• N Seoul Tower : The most popular observatory in downtown Seoul with views outstretching from day through night.
• Gwangjang Market : A popular traditional market with great cuisine for budget-friendly trips.
• Namsangol Hanok Village : A traditional collection of buildings that is often home to various events throughout the year.
• Myeongdong Night Street Food Market

Recommended Hotels In Myeongdong

L’escape hotel.

I recently had to visit this hotel to do an article for Forbes Travel Guide and this hotel is amazing. It’s really different from other hotels you’ll find in Seoul in that it is meant to recreate French aristocrat life. It is lush, lavish, and super unique. This is also a pet friendly hotel unlike many in the area.

The rooms feature gorgeous bathrooms with black and white tile and claw foot tubs and the beds are big and comfortable. It’s really a special place and you should definitely look into it if you’re coming for a special anniversary or want to just live that French life in Seoul.

You can book a room at L’Escape Hotel here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com

Small House Big Door

Another very unique place to stay in Myeongdong is Small House Big Door. You’ll feel like you’re walking into a gallery and inhabiting a museum. The rooms are kept very simple to go along with the minimalistic style of the hotel. The location is perfect and the aesthetic quiet and blissful. Stop into their bistro and cafe to eat and sip cafe and reminisce in the calm white surroundings. Want to take photos of all of the clothes you buy in Myeongdong in cool surroundings? This is a photographers dream.

Book a stay here now on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com

Hotel28 Myeongdong

Designed with a cinematic concept, Hotel28 is Korea’s first hotel to be apart of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World Ltd. This boutique hotel is located in the center of Myeongdong and yet walking inside, you’d never know you’re surrounding by so much hustle and bustle. The location is super convenient but more than that, this is small luxury in the heart of the city. The staff will help with anything and the rooms are extremely comfortable and have all of the amenities you want and need while on vacation or maybe for a staycation.

Book a stay at Hotel28 here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com

What Is Gangnam Known For

When most people talk about Gangnam, they’re referring to Gangnam-gu rather than the broader Gangnam which refers to everything south of the river. This is for the tourist looking for the luxury shopping, K-beauty or medical tourism opportunities, and maybe even idol spotting. There are outrageous clubs and stylish cafes.

What To See In Gangnam

• Gangnam : A popular district thanks to Psy’s famous song, but if you don’t know what to see, you’ll see nothing.
• Apgujeong : A luxury district known for cosmetic surgery and luxury shopping.
• Starfield COEX Mall : The largest underground shopping mall in Asia with something for everyone.
• Banpo Bridge Lightshow : Sit on the banks of the Han River and watch this Guinness World Record lightshow.
• K-Museum of Contemporary Art
• Bongeunsa Temple : A beautiful Buddhist temple in eastern Seoul that is near COEX and easy to visit.

Recommended Hotels In Gangnam

Novotel Seoul Ambassador Gangnam

We chose the Novotel for a staycation recently because of the great reviews and the indoor pool. We love a good hotel to relax in and if it has a pool for the kiddo to check out, all the better. Enjoy the beautiful lobby and this hotel that is just in a great spot to see everything in and around Gangnam and of course don’t forget to visit the pool! If you’re looking to see Gangnam’s glitz and glamour, start here.

Le Meridien Seoul

Le Meridien, just next door to Novotel is another amazing option for a staycation in the city, or for tourists looking for a Gangnam stay. This hotel also offers an indoor pool along with five dining options, yoga classes, and an outdoor golf driving range. You will be living it up here in luxurious style.

This is a gorgeous hotel to walk around. Out front there is also an art museum to stop into. Don’t miss a stay in the comfortable spacious rooms. The stay here is really fabulous and the staff friendly and helpful.

Book a stay on Marriott.com if you’re a Marriott Bonvoy Member or check rates on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com

Seoul Station

What is the area around seoul station known for.

Most visitors to Seoul are going to see Seoul Station first. This is where the airport train line from Incheon International Airport will drop you at. Seoul Station has a variety of things to see nearby and is ideal especially if you’ll want to take trips to different regions of Korea. You can hop on and off the KTX easily and often here.

What To See Around Seoul Station

• Seoullo : A pedestrian-friendly walkway in downtown Seoul with arts and culture stops to enjoy.
• Culture Station : An arts and culture space with FREE art exhibitions in the old Seoul Station.
• War Memorial of Korea : A free museum that delves into the history of war on the Korean peninsula.
• National Museum of Korea : A massive museum that houses an excellent collection of relics and antiques.
• Deoksugung Palace : A beautiful palace unique to the others as it has a mix of traditional and more modern buildings.
• Seosomun Shrine : An intriguing building with architecture you’ll want to enjoy and history that few learn about in Korea concerning Catholicism on the Korean peninsula.

Recommended Hotels Near Seoul Station

Millenium Hilton Seoul

With 680 rooms and 29 suites, the hotel features views of the city in every direction from the mountain to Seoul Station. There is a fitness center and indoor 23 meter swimming pool as well as a hotel driving range and a spa to get a massage in.

Whether you’re stopping in early or late to catch a train from Seoul Station, this is one of the best places to stay in the area. This is a good central location to stay if you’ll be traveling and want to have great and easy access to multiple modes of transportation and get amazing treatment at a high quality hotel.

Book your stay at the Millenium Hilton Seoul here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com .

Four Points by Sheraton Seoul Namsan

Four Points is actually connected right to Seoul Station via an underground passage which makes travel even easier. There is a 24 hour help desk and bar so get help or help yourself while you’re staying in. The staff is extremely helpful and will guide you to the best cafes and restaurants in the area or around the city. Just ask!

Book your room at Four Points by Sheraton Seoul Namsan here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com .

What Is Itaewon Known For

Itaewon is the well known multicultural center of Seoul. If you’re looking for plenty of foreign food options, this is a good area to stick to. You can find everything from Korean to authentic Indian, Thai, Vietnamese, American, and more.

This is a good area to stay if you’re a bit nervous to fully immerse yourself into Korea. There’s plenty of foreign language menus and information and with the Seoul Mosque in this area, this is also where our Muslim traveling friends can find the most halal food options.

What To See In Itaewon

• Hannam-dong : Cafes, restaurants, art galleries and museums to explore.
• War Memorial Of Korea : A massive museum that delves into the history of war on the Korean peninsula.
• National Museum Of Korea : A massive museum that houses an excellent collection of relics and antiques.
• Ichon Han River Park : An interesting Han River park with art sculptures to enjoy.
• Leeum Samsung Museum

Recommended Hotels In Itaewon

Grand hyatt.

A great place to stay right down in the popular Itaewon area in the center of Seoul is the Grand Hyatt. It’s a fantastic hotel with an indoor and outdoor pool and sits on a hilltop that provides a gorgeous view of the city. It’s not right down in Itaewon though, so make sure you notice that. It’s on the hill above Itaewon, but it is the best place above Itaewon to stay that’s for sure.

Book a stay at the Grand Hyatt here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com .

Imperial Palace Boutique

If you’d rather stay on the busy Itaewon strip which is closer to the subway stations and public transportation, check out the Imperial Palace Boutique. It’s a bit quirky but elegant and chic as well and stepping out the front door will have you right on the street with restaurants and cafes and in walking distance of art museums and more.

Book a stay at the Imperial Palace Boutique here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com .

What Is Dongdaemun Known For

Dongdaemun district is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood well-known for its lively markets, fashion scene, and historical landmarks. Explore the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, find shopping for fashion-forward travelers, and indulging in the street food offerings.

• Ihwa Mural Village : A popular mural village in a daldongnae village, or village set up on the side of a mountain in central Seoul.
• Gwangjang Traditional Market : A traditional market with delicious Korean cuisine and budget-friendly eats that was also featured on Netflix.
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza : A UFO that landed in central Seoul that hosts exhibitions, fashion shows, and has a hidden children’s playplace inside.
• Cheonggyecheon Stream : A pedestrian-friendly stream in central Seoul with a waterfall at Gwanghwamun that leads to art, mosaics, and more down to Dongdaemun Design Plaza and beyond.

Recommended Hotels In Dongdaemun

Jw marriott dongdaemun square hotel.

One of the best places to stay in downtown Seoul, JW Marriott has an indoor pool, and a few restaurant options as well as a great rooftop bar. If you’re interested in taking advantage of the nightlife downtown, this is a great place to stay and it’s gorgeous inside. This is a comfortable chic place to stay in the popular shopping district. Check in to the JW Marriott Dongdaemun now.

If you’re a Marriott Bonvoy Member, book a room on Marriott.com or check rates on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com .

Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotel

Another great hotel in the area with delicious food options in the hotel and a rooftop bar with great views too, this is a great hotel to stay in Dongdaemun for families and couples. If it’s the summer, you’ll definitely want this hotel to enjoy their rooftop pool too. Not to worry for those winter visitors though. There’s an indoor pool too.

Check in to the Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun here on Booking.com or here on Agoda.com .

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.

Get a Visa:  Many people can come in easily and get a tourist visa but be sure to check that you have what you need from your home country to come in to Korea and get a visa.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

T-Money Card/Discover Seoul Pass:  To get around using the subways 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. SO, if you’ll be touristy,  grab the Discover Seoul Pass  to get out and about. But do know how to use it. Here is a  guide and itineraries for using the Discover Seoul Pass  to the max.

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  reserve both WiFi eggs  and  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.

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Desidividend.

Bookmarked your link for my upcoming trip, Does these hotels allow 2+2(2 kids and 2 adults) Having tough time to find redeem points for stays in seoul

Hallie Bradley

You should be able to with the larger international hotels, but it depends when you’re coming. If it’s over a popular holiday time, it could be more difficult probably.

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Leave me alone: Introverts recommend the best places for solo travel

D o you love getting lost in the anonymity of an unknown city? Does a solitary mountain retreat sound like heaven? Are you comfortable dining alone?

Solo travel is on the rise, with lone rangers seeking freedom, flexibility, self-discovery and an escape from routine.

But not everywhere is embracing it - Barcelona ’s restaurants recently made headlines for turning away lone diners in favour of tourist groups.

So if you’re a more solitary kind of traveller, where should you go instead?

Here are the best places for introverted travellers, according to users of Reddit’s r/travel subreddit.

Finland: ‘The most introverted nation in the world’

Dotted with lakes, forests and snowy peaks, Finland is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s also “the most introverted nation in the world”, according to one Reddit user.

“In my experience Finns are actually nice, welcoming people, but they leave you alone unless you engage with them,” they add.

“People like personal space there,” another user says. . “And they probably won't talk to you unless they are drunk.”

Subreddit members say that Helsinki , the country’s capital, is “safe, walkable and quiet”.

If you are the kind of solo traveller that is looking for isolation in the forest, then you’ll be in your element with the hiking, canoeing and fishing that Finland has to offer.

It’s perfect for “hiking around the lakes means being mostly alone surrounded by wilderness”.

Iceland: Take a solo road trip in the Land of Fire and Ice

Stunning scenery, safety and friendly locals are some of the top reasons introverts recommend Iceland for a solo getaway.

“Rent an RV and travel around the countryside,” one Reddit user suggests. .

“Early September is my favourite time [to visit] since you get the overlap of puffins and northern lights ,” says another user.

Another comment on the subreddit recommends that you “fly Icelandair and take advantage of the Stopover program.”

The airline allows you to add a one-to-seven-day stopover in Iceland on any of its transatlantic routes at no additional fare - a top money-saving hack for solo travellers, who are often hit with inflated costs.

Reddit’s solo travellers say there are also many day tours from Reykjavik which are a great way to save money while travelling alone.

Scotland: For stark and silent beauty

With history-packed cities, remote islands and rugged highlands, Scotland is the ideal place to go off-grid.

“ The Highlands are empty and beautiful, a perfect place for a contemplative holiday,” one Reddit user says. “Travel around the Outer Hebrides, it is ridiculously beautiful and very remote,” another recommends.

Remote hikes away from populated centres are a strong theme with introverted solo travellers on Reddit. One comment suggests the area around Assynt as “particularly starkly beautiful” with “lots of hikes”. Out in the Highlands you probably won’t have to talk to many people either.

Some people might be put off by Scotland ’s rainy reputation but trust an introvert to turn that around: “Great weather for reading and sleeping but also invigorating if you’re out in it,” one user says.

• ‘One life, live it’: This woman’s motto has taken her campervanning from Scotland to the Alps
• The rise of adventure travel: How millennials are reinventing solo travel

Switzerland: Stare at jaw-dropping scenery in silence

With hidden Alpine retreats and scenic train rides, Switzerland is the perfect place to switch off.

“Nobody will chat you up. Not a lot of partying or noise. Most beautiful country on earth,” one Reddit user claims. “You can just take train rides through Switzerland and do nothing but look at the jaw-dropping scenery in silence and be completely entertained.”

If you prefer to explore by foot, try hiking the Via Alpina. “It's 19 days and I walked across the country,” says a r/Travel member. “You end up in a new town every night. Start in Sargans and finish in Montreux.”

Other recommendations for introverts include the mountain village of Grindelwald - where you can hike in summer and ski in winter - taking the gondola up Mount Pilatus, and trekking the 170 km Tour du Mont Blanc trail.

Japan: For next-level solo dining

Venture outside of Europe and you’ll be rewarded with innovations that European introverts can only dream of.

Head to Tokyo, Japan for “the famous ramen chain Ichiran Ramen - an introvert's paradise,” one Reddit user recommends. “It's designed in a way that you never have to interact with anyone.”

After choosing your meal on a ticketing machine, you head to a one-person dining booth - “much like a voting booth” - where your dish is delivered through a small service hole.

• ‘Braver and bolder’: These women are fulfilling their travel dreams post-divorce

Japan’s respect for keeping to yourself is not limited to dining either. “People leave you the hell alone,” one commenter says. “ Tokyo is very safe, [there are] many things to do, and the people just mind their own business,” agrees another.

Japan “also “scores top marks for safety,” according to Redditors, who say it is “the most welcoming country for introverts I've ever been.”

The country’s extensive and punctual public transport system is also a draw for solo travellers.

“Have some days in Tokyo then get the Shinkansen [bullet train] to pretty much anywhere in Kyushu [Japan's third largest island] for some lovely rural life,” one user recommends.

South Korea: For street food and solo karaoke

Another East Asian nation that comes highly recommended for introverted travellers is South Korea.

“The people there tend to keep to themselves and [ Seoul ] is really easy to navigate via subways,” according to r/Travel members.

They claim that the capital is extremely safe - “even if you’re drunk and passed out in the middle of the street at 3am”. There’s also “lots of solo stuff to do alone and English is spoken or written most places.”

Once you’ve explored the city’s endless temples and historic palaces, stuffed yourself with tasty street food and tried “solo karaoke in a room by yourself”, head to Dobongsan mountain for some scenic hiking, South Korea's national pastime.

Los Angeles Dodgers | Dodgers turn around and head East after quick…

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Los Angeles Dodgers

Los angeles dodgers | dodgers turn around and head east after quick 3-game homestand, the schedule includes a highly anticipated weekend series with the yankees, including two nationally televised games.

It’s not ideal, but the Dodgers are trying to take the unusual stretch of travel that bookends this past weekend’s three-game homestand against the Colorado Rockies in stride.

“Is it a little weird going back to New York a couple days (after being there)? I think it’s a little weird, but what are you gonna do? You just gotta go and keep going,” catcher Austin Barnes said.

The upcoming six-game stretch, which starts Tuesday with three contests at the Pittsburgh Pirates before facing the New York Yankees for three anticipated outings over the weekend, comes after the Dodgers wrapped up another six-game road trip last week.

“My look at it is there’s no point in putting bad energy into it,” Barnes said. “We can’t change the schedule, it is what it is. Obviously we have it pretty good as major league baseball players. Travel, even though it wears on your body a little bit, it’s tough but it’s part of the job.”

The causes of this particular anomaly, one Dodgers manager Dave Roberts couldn’t recall having experienced before in his time as a player or skipper, can likely be attributed to a combination of balanced scheduling and television.

Introduced in 2023 to have every MLB team play each of the other 29 clubs at least once in the regular season, balanced scheduling had the added effect of creating more standout matchups for the league’s broadcast partners.

The Dodgers visiting the Yankees certainly qualifies, with Saturday’s game set to air nationally on Fox and Sunday night’s finale scheduled for ESPN.

One tradeoff comes in having players deal with that extra bit of travel. For those based on the West Coast, it can mean preparing for the abrupt change moving from Pacific Time to Eastern or vice versa.

“Your body, it takes a little bit to adapt back and forth, but we’ve been doing it for a while,” Barnes said.

Barnes said the Dodgers’ sports scientists and training staff advise players on the importance of sleep, given its importance in physical conditioning and recovery.

That is a marked change from Roberts’ playing days.

“We had a good time. We didn’t sleep a whole lot,” Roberts said, chuckling. “But now, it’s rest, recovery, diet, you know. That’s another reason I just think that the athletes are better than they’ve ever been. There’s just a lot more information.”

Even with an awareness of the necessity of sleep, circumstances can conspire to rob players of a night’s rest. That was the case coming back from New York last week when weather and mechanical issues prevented the team from leaving on Wednesday night as scheduled.

The delays meant the flight crew had to time out, leaving the Dodgers on the tarmac waiting for replacements to arrive. They did not take off until 5:30 a.m. EDT on Thursday, all of this after having to play three games against the Mets in two days after the opener was rained out, leading to a doubleheader on Tuesday.

“I think we were on that plane longer than we were on the plane to Korea, so it was interesting,” Barnes said, referring to the season opener in Seoul, South Korea in March. “That’s out of our control, really, so there’s nothing we could do about it, so I think a lot of guys just made the best of it.”

The Dodgers couldn’t overcome their body clocks in a 4-1 loss to Colorado on Friday . Their bats were noticeably sluggish for most of the game, which players and Roberts later attributed to the difficult adjustment coming back home.

The Dodgers fared much better the rest of the weekend, rebounding with a 4-1 win on Saturday and a 4-0 shutout on Sunday .

Momentum from winning five of their past six games won’t be the only thing they can take with them back out on the road. Closer Evan Phillips returned from a strained right hamstring on Saturday, getting the save in his first game since May 3.

Phillips is perfect in nine save opportunities this season, and his return strengthens what has been a makeshift bullpen.

“I think when our entire staff is healthy, we’re going to be in a really great position to win,” Phillips said. “We still have a lot of major pieces missing, we’re waiting on Joe Kelly and Ryan Brasier. Just to picture that bullpen when that time comes will be a lot of fun.”

Roberts sees a more amenable path ahead, even with the upcoming travel.

“We have an off day heading back to the East Coast, and then six days later we get another off day, so the schedule going forward is really going to be manageable,” Roberts said. “So it’s good to see that as far as the (upcoming) dates, the days off, the toughest part is essentially behind us.”

Dodgers (RHP Tyler Glasnow, 6-3, 3.04 ERA) at Pirates (RHP Jared Jones, 3-5, 3.55 ERA), Tuesday, 3:40 p.m., SportsNet LA, 570 AM

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