Seoul
Seoul, South Korea is a vibrant metropolis that harmoniously blends ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology, with historic palaces co-existing alongside glittering skyscrapers and bustling street markets.
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Seoul are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when temperatures are mild, rainfall is lower, and the city is adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms or vibrant fall colors.
How to Get There
Getting to Seoul, South Korea typically involves flying into Incheon International Airport (ICN), which is one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, serving many international flights from across the globe. From the airport, you can reach the city center via express trains, buses, or taxis. If you're in another part of South Korea, you can also reach Seoul by high-speed train (KTX), bus, or car.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Seoul, South Korea
Top 26 Attractions in Seoul
Seoul, South Korea, has a mix of modern and traditional attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit:
Gyeongbokgung Palace: One of the most iconic sights in all of Korea, this palace offers a peek into the history of the Joseon Dynasty.
Bukchon Hanok Village: A traditional Korean village with centuries-old houses known as hanoks, it's a great place to immerse yourself in traditional Korean culture.
Myeongdong: This is one of Seoul's main shopping and entertainment districts. It's also famous for its street food.
Namsan Seoul Tower: Also known as N Seoul Tower, it offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
Insadong: This is a hub for local artists and antique dealers. On Sundays, the main street becomes pedestrian-only and fills with street performances and traditional games.
Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon Garden: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this palace complex is appreciated for its blend of architecture with natural surroundings in harmony.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): A modern architectural landmark, it's a hub for fashion and design-related exhibitions, and it lights up beautifully at night.
Hangang River Park: Hangang River Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. There are many activities you can do at Hangang River Park such as cycling (bicycle rental kiosk available at park), duck boat, yacht, motor boat & row boat rental, Han River Cruises (by Eland Cruise), Ttukseom Flea Market (every Sat & Sun), cafe in spring & autumn, outdoor swimming pool, windsurfing, stand up paddle (SUP), kayaking, water ski in summer and snow sledding in winter.
Hongdae: A neighborhood in Seoul near the University known for its youthful ambiance, indie music scene, clubs, eateries, and fashion stores.
Cheonggyecheon Stream: This urban renewal project is a serene stream cutting through the heart of downtown Seoul, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Namdaemun Market: It's the largest traditional market in Korea with shops selling various goods.
Jogyesa Temple: This is the chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and a peaceful place in the bustling city.
War Memorial of Korea: It's a comprehensive museum dedicated to the history of the Korean War.
DMZ Tour: While not in Seoul itself, many visitors take a day trip to the Demilitarized Zone, a significant historical site related to the Korean War.
Lotte World: One of the world's largest indoor theme parks, which also includes an outdoor amusement park called "Magic Island".
Seoul Sky (Lotte World Tower): It is the fifth highest building in the world and offers a panoramic view of the entire city from its observatory.
Everland: South Korea's largest theme park, offers a diverse range of exciting rides, picturesque gardens, and themed festivals, making it a delightful destination for family-friendly fun and adventure.
Seoul Forest: A large park in the city, which is often compared to Central Park in New York City.
Bongeunsa Temple: A centuries-old Buddhist temple located in the heart of the modern Gangnam district, offering temple stay programs.
National Museum of Korea: The largest museum in Korea, it houses a vast collection of artworks and relics from Korea and other parts of Asia.
Itaewon: Itaewon, situated in Seoul, South Korea, is a vibrant and diverse commercial district. Renowned as one of Seoul's top destinations, this neighborhood captivates visitors with its lively nightlife and fashionable dining establishments.
COEX Mall: Situated beneath the Korea World Trade Center in Samseongdong, Seoul, COEX Mall stands as Asia's largest underground shopping destination. Spanning a vast expanse, this colossal mall extends from Samseong station to Bongeunsa Temple in the north. Regarded as the premier shopping and entertainment complex in the vicinity, COEX Mall offers a myriad of options for indulging in retail therapy and leisurely pursuits.
Garosugil: It's a trendy neighborhood in the Gangnam district, known for its tree-lined streets, chic boutiques, stylish cafes, and art galleries.
Deoksugung Palace: One of the five grand palaces built by the kings of the Joseon Dynasty, it is unique for its blend of traditional Korean and Western-style architectures. Don't miss the royal guard changing ceremony.
Seodaemun Prison History Museum: A significant place to learn about the Korean independence movement during the Japanese occupation, it was a prison used to house anti-colonial activists.
Ikseon-dong Hanok Village: Unlike the more famous Bukchon Hanok Village, Ikseon-dong is less crowded and offers a mix of traditional Hanok houses that have been converted into trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Top 25 Activities to do in Seoul
Seoul offers a range of activities that cater to different interests. Here are the top 25 activities to do:
Changing of the Guard Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace: This is a reenactment of the traditional guard changing ceremony, offering a glimpse into royal traditions of the Joseon Dynasty. The guards wear royal uniforms, carry traditional weapons and play traditional instruments.
Cheonggyecheon Stream: Once a neglected waterway, the stream has been transformed into a haven of tranquility with walking paths, waterfalls, and numerous bridges amid the hustle and bustle of city life.
DMZ (Demilitarized Zone): This area is a unique place, serving as a buffer zone between North and South Korea. Taking a guided tour, you can visit several poignant points of interest such as the Joint Security Area (JSA), Dora Observatory, and the Third Infiltration Tunnel.
Myeongdong: This is a shopping haven for cosmetics lovers, with streets lined with both international and local beauty brands. Street food stalls and fashion stores also abound in the area.
Bukchon Hanok Village: This is an ancient neighborhood with traditional Korean houses, known as hanoks, that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. It's a unique place to experience traditional Korean culture.
Gwangjang Market: One of the oldest and largest traditional markets in South Korea, it's famous for its variety of street food, including bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and live octopus.
Namsan Mountain and N Seoul Tower: You can hike or take a cable car up to the N Seoul Tower, which provides panoramic views of Seoul. It's particularly popular at sunset and in the evening when the city lights up.
Starfield Library at COEX Mall: This is a massive public library located within a shopping mall, with over 50,000 books and magazines. Its two-story athenaeum is a sight to behold.
Lotte World and Everland: These are South Korea's largest theme parks, offering a variety of rides, attractions, and performances. Lotte World includes an indoor theme park and an outdoor amusement park called Magic Island, while Everland also features a zoo and a water park.
National Museum of Korea: It's the largest museum in Korea, housing a vast collection of over 220,000 artifacts from Korea and other parts of Asia, spanning prehistoric times to the end of the Joseon Dynasty.
Temple Stay Program at Bongeunsa or Jogyesa Temple: These programs allow you to experience Buddhist monastic life through activities like meditation, tea ceremony, and communal Buddhist meals.
Hongdae Nightlife and Music Scene: Hongdae is known for its youthful vibe, with plenty of clubs, bars, live music venues, and street performances, mostly influenced by the nearby Hongik University, a famous school of Fine Arts and Design.
Hangang Park and Han River Ferry Cruise: Hangang Park is a series of parks that line the Han River, offering biking and walking paths, picnic areas, and sports facilities. A ferry cruise provides a different perspective of Seoul from the water.
Itaewon and Garosugil: Itaewon is a multicultural area with numerous restaurants and shops offering diverse international goods and cuisine. Garosugil, located in the Sinsa-dong neighborhood, is a trendy area known for its lined ginkgo trees, upscale boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
Attend a live K-Pop concert or show (if available): Seoul is the epicenter of the K-pop phenomenon. If there's a concert happening during your visit, it can be an unforgettable experience. You might also try attending a live TV music broadcast or visiting the K-Pop entertainment agencies’ cafes and buildings.
Go shopping for electronics in the Yongsan district: This area is known for the Yongsan Electronics Market, a massive complex with hundreds of stores selling everything from the latest tech gadgets to used products at relatively cheaper prices.
Visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza and explore the nearby night markets: The Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is an architectural marvel where various exhibitions and fashion shows take place. The area is also home to the Dongdaemun Market, a large commercial district comprising traditional markets and shopping centers that operate through the night.
Take a traditional tea ceremony class in Insadong: Insadong is known for its traditional Korean culture, and taking part in a tea ceremony is a calm and peaceful way to engage with it. You will learn how to prepare, pour, and properly drink Korean tea.
Visit the War Memorial of Korea: The memorial displays military equipment from the Korean War and runs exhibitions related to the military history of Korea. It's a profound reminder of the country's past and the importance of peace.
Discover art at the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art or the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA): Both museums host impressive collections of Korean and international contemporary art. The Leeum, in particular, is noted for its modern architecture and its collection of traditional Korean art.
Try a Korean BBQ in one of Seoul’s many grill-your-own meat restaurants: Korean BBQ is a must-try experience where you grill your own selection of meats at the table. It's often enjoyed with side dishes like kimchi, garlic, and various types of lettuce to wrap the meat in.
Visit the Trick Eye Museum or the Seoul Museum of Art: The Trick Eye Museum is filled with paintings and installations that create optical illusions. The Seoul Museum of Art is one of the most significant art institutions in the country, featuring a range of Korean and international art across different mediums.
Explore the various themed cafes: Seoul is famous for its unique and quirky themed cafes. You can find anything from animal cafes (where you can interact with pets or wildlife), to character-themed cafes, to cafes dedicated to specific aesthetics or hobbies.
Stroll through the flower shops at Yangjae Flower Market: This wholesale flower market is filled with a vast array of flowers and plants. It's a colorful and fragrant place to explore, particularly early in the morning when the flowers are fresh.
Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Korean dishes: A cooking class is a hands-on way to delve into Korean culture and cuisine. You can learn how to make popular dishes like bibimbap, kimchi, or bulgogi, and then enjoy the meal you've prepared.
Neighborhoods
Seoul is a large and diverse city with many neighborhoods that cater to a wide range of interests. Here are some of the city's most tourist-friendly districts:
Myeongdong: This bustling neighborhood is known for its shopping opportunities, particularly for cosmetics and skincare products. There are also plenty of street food vendors and restaurants where you can try local cuisine.
Insadong: Known for its traditional Korean culture, Insadong is filled with art galleries, antique stores, and craft shops. It's a great place to find souvenirs like traditional Korean pottery, hanboks, or handmade crafts.
Hongdae: This vibrant neighborhood is known for its indie music culture, clubs, art markets, and boutiques. Near Hongik University, the streets are often filled with students, street performances, and a youthful, creative energy.
Gangnam: Made famous worldwide by the song "Gangnam Style", this upscale area is a center for fashion and modernity. It's packed with high-end shops, trendy cafes, and is known for its nightlife.
Itaewon: This is a diverse and multicultural district. Itaewon is home to many restaurants serving international cuisine, unique boutiques, and lively nightlife. It's also near the Namsan Mountain, where you can hike up to the N Seoul Tower.
Bukchon Hanok Village and Samcheong-dong: Located near Gyeongbokgung Palace, this area is home to many traditional Korean houses, called hanoks. It's a beautiful place to take a walk and see what the city looked like in the Joseon Dynasty. Samcheong-dong also has a street full of unique shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Dongdaemun: This district is a shopping paradise, particularly for fashion lovers. With its 24-hour shopping malls and the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, it's a hub for both traditional and modern Korean design.
Jongno: This area houses some of the most significant historic sites in Seoul, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine. It's also near Insadong and Bukchon Hanok Village, making it a great area to explore Seoul's past.
Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own unique charm and character, offering different experiences, foods, and sights. Enjoy exploring them!
Best Shopping
Seoul is a shopper's paradise with a mix of modern malls, unique boutiques, artsy streets, and traditional markets. Here are some of the best places to shop in Seoul:
Myeongdong: Myeongdong is one of Seoul's main shopping districts featuring mid- to high-end international fashion brands. It's also famous for its cosmetics stores, with every other shop selling a range of skincare and makeup products. Street food stalls peppered around the district make shopping here a gastronomic delight too.
Insadong: This area offers a mix of modern galleries and tea shops along with antique stores and craft shops selling traditional Korean goods such as hanbok (traditional clothing), pottery, and handmade paper.
Dongdaemun Market: Open 24/7, Dongdaemun Market consists of several malls and is a favorite destination for fashion enthusiasts. With everything from fabric and trimmings to the latest in Korean fashion, it's a one-stop-shop for clothes, accessories, and more.
Namdaemun Market: Korea's largest traditional market, Namdaemun is a bustling hive of stalls selling clothing, homeware, toys, jewelry, food, and more at reasonable prices. Don't forget to haggle!
Hongdae's Shopping Streets: Near Hongik University, the streets of Hongdae are filled with an array of unique and trendy boutiques, second-hand vinyl stores, and handmade crafts. It's an area that buzzes with youthful energy and creativity.
Gangnam Underground Shopping Center: Located underneath Gangnam Station, it's a long stretch of affordable clothing, accessories, and cosmetics shops.
Garosugil (Sinsa-dong): This tree-lined street in the Gangnam area is home to an upscale selection of boutiques, designer shops, and chic cafes. You'll find a mix of international brands along with local Korean designers.
Itaewon: Known for its diverse culture, Itaewon is great for vintage clothing, custom-made suits, and international brands that may be hard to find elsewhere in Seoul.
Yongsan Electronics Market: For those interested in tech and electronics, Yongsan is the go-to place. You can find almost any gadget, appliance, or tech-related item here.
Lotte Department Store: This high-end department store offers a mix of luxury international and Korean brands. It's a good spot for premium shopping.
Starfield COEX Mall: One of the largest underground malls in Asia, it offers a vast range of stores selling everything from books to high-end fashion. It's also home to the Starfield Library, an open public space with towering bookshelves.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Seoul is known for its vibrant and diverse entertainment scene and nightlife that caters to various tastes and preferences. Whether you're interested in music, food, or socializing, there's something for everyone.
Hongdae: Known for its lively music scene and youthful energy, Hongdae is an area where you'll find live music venues, dance clubs, bars, and a host of unique cafes and eateries. The area buzzes with street performers and artists, particularly in the vicinity of Hongik University.
Itaewon: Itaewon is a hub of international culture and nightlife in Seoul. The neighborhood is home to a diverse range of bars, clubs, and restaurants serving cuisines from around the world. The area is also known for its LGBTQ+ friendly venues, particularly in an area known as Homo Hill.
Gangnam: As the song "Gangnam Style" suggests, this area is famous for its upscale and energetic nightlife. Gangnam is packed with high-end clubs, trendy bars, and fine dining restaurants. Clubs like Octagon and Arena are popular spots for a night of dancing.
Jongno: For those looking for a more traditional Korean nightlife experience, Jongno is a great place to visit. Here, you'll find plenty of pojangmacha (tent bars) where you can try local street food and soju, a popular Korean alcohol. You can also explore the bustling Jongno-gu district, known for its traditional teahouses and charming taverns.
Dongdaemun: If you're a night owl who loves shopping, Dongdaemun is the place for you. This district is home to multiple 24-hour shopping centers where you can shop till you drop.
Namsan Tower: For a romantic evening, take a cable car up to Namsan Tower to enjoy panoramic views of Seoul's night skyline. There's also a revolving restaurant at the top where you can enjoy a meal with a view.
K-Pop Concerts and Shows: Seoul is the heart of the K-Pop industry, and there are often concerts and shows happening in the city. Check out the schedules of popular venues like the Gocheok Sky Dome or the Seoul Olympic Stadium.
Han River Parks: For a relaxing night, grab some snacks and soju, and head to one of the many parks along the Han River. You can rent a tent or a picnic table, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Local Cuisine
Seoul offers a smorgasbord of delicious foods that range from traditional Korean dishes to innovative modern fare. Here are some must-try dishes and food experiences when you're in the city:
Kimchi: This spicy, fermented cabbage dish is a staple in every Korean meal. It has a tangy, savory, and spicy flavor that pairs well with various dishes. You can also try different types of kimchi, like radish kimchi (kkakdugi) or cucumber kimchi (oi kimchi).
Bibimbap: A hearty and healthy dish, bibimbap is a bowl of warm rice topped with an assortment of sautéed and fresh vegetables, a raw or fried egg, and sliced meat, usually beef. It's mixed with gochujang (Korean chili paste) before eating.
Samgyeopsal: This popular Korean BBQ dish is made from thick, fatty slices of pork belly. It's typically grilled at your table, and you wrap the meat in lettuce leaves with garlic, kimchi, and a variety of other condiments.
Bulgogi: Bulgogi is marinated, thinly sliced beef or pork that's grilled or stir-fried. It's often served with a side of lettuce leaves to wrap the meat, similar to samgyeopsal.
Tteokbokki: These are spicy rice cakes cooked in a sauce made from gochujang. It's a popular street food and can be found in many snack bars and stalls around the city.
Japchae: This is a dish made from sweet potato noodles (which are gluten-free), stir-fried in sesame oil with a variety of vegetables and meat, usually beef. The dish is garnished with sesame seeds and served either hot or cold.
Korean Fried Chicken: Korean fried chicken or 'chimaek' (a portmanteau of chicken and maekju, the Korean word for beer) is a popular food for gatherings. The chicken is fried to perfection, with a crunchy outside and juicy inside, and is usually coated in either a spicy red sauce or a sweet, garlicky soy sauce.
Street Food: You can't leave Seoul without trying the street food. From hotteok (sweet pancakes) to sundae (Korean blood sausage), there's a wide variety of street foods to try. Popular areas for street food include Myeongdong and Hongdae.
Soju: This popular Korean spirit is usually consumed neat. Its flavor is similar to vodka but slightly sweeter. It's often enjoyed alongside a meal or snacks and is a key part of socializing in Korean culture.
Makgeolli: This is a traditional Korean rice wine. It's a slightly sweet, milky, and fizzy alcoholic beverage and is often consumed in the company of pajeon (Korean pancake) during a rainy day.
Many of these foods can be enjoyed at different types of restaurants, from high-end dining to casual street food stalls. It's also fun to try Korean food at a local market, like Gwangjang Market, where you can enjoy a variety of dishes and see where locals eat.
Try the Street Food:
Seoul is famous for its street food, which can be found in various markets throughout the city. Here are some of the best street food markets to visit:
Gwangjang Market: As one of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul, Gwangjang Market is a must-visit for food lovers. It's particularly famous for its bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), along with other delicacies such as tteokbokki, sundae (Korean blood sausage), and a variety of traditional Korean pancakes.
Myeongdong Street Food Alley: Located within the bustling shopping district of Myeongdong, the Street Food Alley offers a variety of Korean snacks, from skewered meats to egg bread, cheese hotdogs, and more. The sweet and spicy Korean fried chicken, ice cream-filled churros, and fresh fruit juices are also worth trying.
Namdaemun Market: As the largest traditional market in Korea, Namdaemun Market offers a variety of street food options. You can try dishes like kalguksu (handmade noodle soup), bibimbap, and dumplings, or sweets like hotteok (sweet Korean pancakes).
Dongdaemun Market: Another large market in Seoul, Dongdaemun is not just a shopping paradise but also a food haven. From the delectable dumplings to Korean-style sushi (gimbap), the market offers a wide array of Korean snacks.
Insadong Street: In the cultural district of Insadong, you can find traditional Korean street food alongside more modern interpretations. Look out for the giant spiral of fried dough covered in sugar, known as kkwabaegi, and the dragon's beard candy, a traditional Korean sweet with a honey and nut filling.
Mangwon Market: Less touristy compared to other markets, Mangwon Market gives you a more local experience. The market is famous for its desserts, including the Mangwon doughnuts that come with various fillings.
Remember, each market has its own unique charm and different food options, so don't hesitate to try as many as you can while you're in Seoul!
Accommodations
Where you choose to stay in Seoul can depend on your personal preferences and what you're interested in seeing and doing during your visit. Here are some of the best areas to consider:
Myeongdong: This is a great place to stay if you're interested in shopping, especially for cosmetics and skincare products. The neighborhood is lively, with plenty of restaurants, street food vendors, and shops. It's also conveniently located near other tourist attractions like Namsan Tower and Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Insadong: For those interested in traditional Korean culture and art, Insadong is the perfect place. It's home to many antique shops, art galleries, and traditional tea houses. It's also within walking distance of several palaces and the Bukchon Hanok Village.
Hongdae: Known for its youthful atmosphere and indie music scene, Hongdae is full of trendy cafes, art markets, and clubs. If you're into nightlife and the contemporary arts scene, this is the place to be. It's located near Hongik University, adding to its vibrant and young atmosphere.
Gangnam: This upscale district is known for its high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment. It's a modern and luxurious area with plenty of stylish cafes, restaurants, and bars. The COEX Mall and Bongeunsa Temple are also located here.
Itaewon: If you prefer a multicultural and diverse atmosphere, consider staying in Itaewon. It's known for its international restaurants and vibrant nightlife. This district is also LGBTQ+ friendly, with a variety of clubs and bars catering to the community.
Jongno: Jongno is a great area to stay for history and culture enthusiasts. It's close to many of Seoul's historic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine. The area also offers easy access to Insadong and Bukchon Hanok Village.
Dongdaemun: If you're a fashion lover or night owl, Dongdaemun is a good choice. Known for its 24-hour shopping malls and the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, it's a paradise for shoppers and fashion enthusiasts.
Remember, Seoul has an extensive subway system, so even if you're not staying right in the center of the action, you'll still be able to get around easily. Choose an area that best matches your interests and activities you're planning to do during your visit.
Itinerary
Exploring the Soul of Seoul: A Three-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Palaces, Traditions, and Markets
Morning: Start your day with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and arguably the most beautiful palace in Seoul. Watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony, and make sure to explore the National Folk Museum within the palace grounds.
Afternoon: From Gyeongbokgung, take a short walk to Bukchon Hanok Village to admire traditional Korean houses called Hanoks. Afterward, head over to Insadong Street for lunch and spend your afternoon exploring its many art galleries, tea houses, and craft shops.
Evening: In the evening, head to Gwangjang Market for dinner where you can feast on a variety of Korean street foods such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and sundae (Korean sausage).
Day 2: Modern Seoul and Shopping Galore
Morning: Start your day at Namsan Seoul Tower. Take a cable car up the mountain and enjoy a panoramic view of Seoul from the observatory.
Afternoon: Spend your afternoon in Myeongdong, Seoul's shopping mecca. Grab lunch in one of the many restaurants before hitting the shops. Whether you're into cosmetics, fashion, or just want to explore, Myeongdong has it all. Don't forget to try the street food!
Evening: For dinner, head to Gangnam District. This upscale area offers a wide range of dining options. After dinner, experience the energetic nightlife in Gangnam, or if you prefer a quieter evening, take a stroll along the Han River at Hangang Park.
Day 3: Art, Culture, and Food
Morning: Start your morning by visiting Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). This neo-futuristic building hosts various exhibitions, fashion shows, and forums. Next, explore Dongdaemun Market for some retail therapy.
Afternoon: For lunch, head to Hongdae, the area around Hongik University, known for its vibrant youth culture. Explore its quirky cafes, street art, and indie music venues.
Evening: Dine in one of the trendy restaurants in the Hongdae area. After dinner, check out a live music performance or club in the area to experience Seoul's lively nightlife scene. If clubs aren't your scene, a quieter option could be visiting one of the many unique cafes or taking a leisurely evening stroll around the district.
