best cities to visit near seoul

Real Korean Life Story

5 Best Cities near Seoul to visit within 1 hour

Table of Contents

Introduction

While Seoul’s magnetic charm is undeniable, South Korea’s true essence lies beyond its bustling capital. Discover captivating 5 best cities near Seoul, all reachable within just an hour by public transportation. They offer unique cultural experiences and scenic beauty that many people unnoticed. These cities- Gwanggyo, Dongtan, Yongin, Suwon, and Incheon – each hold their own distinct allure. With more than 20 years of personal connection to these locales, get ready to broaden your horizons and create unforgettable memories in these captivating cities near Seoul.

Beyond the Airport – Exploring Diversity and Delight

Incheon, often overshadowed by its airport status, is a city pulsating with life and culture. Beyond its transit hub reputation, it reveals itself as a colorful tapestry woven with diverse cultures and flavors. Dive into the vibrant hues of Incheon’s Chinatown, where a symphony of aromas and tastes create a culinary journey around the world. Meander through the enchanting waterfront of Wolmido Island, a place where you can see wonderful sea breeze. The Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village transports visitors to a storybook realm, allowing imaginations to run wild. For more tour detials, please visit Incheon Tourism Council website.

Time Travel Through Korea’s Rich Heritage and Entertainment

Yongin masterfully intertwines the threads of history and entertainment, creating a city that caters to diverse interests. A stroll through the captivating Korean Folk Village is like flipping through the pages of a living history book, offering a vivid window into traditional Korean life. For the adventurous souls, Everland Resort unleashes a torrent of exhilaration with its thrilling rides and captivating shows. Everland Resort is the biggest amusement park in Korea. The dynamic interplay between the past and present in Yongin ensures a cultural adventure that satisfies every facet of curiosity.

A Timeless Journey Through Heritage and Modernity

Suwon seamlessly bridges the chasm between history and contemporary living, embodying a city where time-travel becomes a reality. The UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress stands as a sentinel of Korea’s past, offering panoramic vistas that paint a picture of the city’s evolution. Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural tapestry of the Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival, and don’t overlook the Folk Village’s timeless charm, a living canvas of traditions. In Suwon, history is not confined to textbooks; it is a living, breathing entity. There are so many good restaurants that you can taste trendy flavors.

An Urban Oasis of Innovation and Beauty

Gwanggyo showoff modern urban planning, where innovative architectural marvels and nature’s lush embrace coalesce harmoniously. Find tranquility in Gwanggyo Lake Park, a place where time seems to stand still amidst breathtaking views. The futuristic Galleria Gwanggyo Mall stands as a masterpiece of luxury shopping and refined dining, an embodiment of the city’s sophisticated soul. One of the most clean and modern city in Korea, Gwanggyo has an exceptional experience waiting to be discovered by every discerning traveler.

Nurturing Nature’s Embrace in South Korea’s Eco-City

Dongtan, an exemplar of urban living in harmony with environmental consciousness, stands tall as a beacon of sustainable development. The city’s blueprint revolves around innovative green initiatives and sustainable architecture. Within the tranquility of Dongtan Central Park, the bustling urban landscape melts away, revealing a sanctuary where nature reigns supreme. By immersing yourself in a lifestyle that honors nature’s rhythm, you bear witness to the harmonious coexistence of modern convenience and environmental preservation. Samsung, one of the biggest company locates here, able to see big eco factories.

Conclusion: Visit best cities near Seoul

South Korea’s allure radiates far beyond Seoul’s city limits. Visit best cities near Seoul: Incheon’s multi-faceted charm, Gwanggyo’s innovation, Dongtan’s harmonious eco-consciousness, Yongin’s immersive cultural tapestry, and Suwon’s rich historical treasures come together to form a kaleidoscope of experiences catering to every traveler’s unique palate. As you embark on your South Korean adventure, let these cities beckon you to venture beyond the capital’s borders. Unveil the hidden cities near Seoul that encapsulate the heart and soul of this extraordinary nation, optimizing your journey for exploration and discovery.

picture fig. Incheon Tourism Council / Gwanggyo Lake Park / kayak / KoreaJobWorld/ koreafolkvillage

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Out of Your Comfort Zone

The art of backpacking & adventures to get out of your comfort zone – tips and advice, 13 places to visit in south korea outside seoul.

Last Updated on February 16, 2024 by Talita

While South Korea is often passed over for tourists in favor of a place like Japan or China, it’s a place that really has a lot to offer. Between its mostly mountainous landscape (+70% of the country), coastline dotted with beautiful islands, and ancient culture, it’s definitely worth a stop on your itinerary.

For most people, their first stop in Korea will be Seoul. While a Seoul Itinerary is fascinating and lively that can entertain you for weeks, if you have the time I highly recommend getting out of Seoul to see what else Korea has to offer.

*Note: But if you do only have time to visit Seoul, at the very least try to hit up some of the mountains within the city…. they’ll give you some incredible views! You can read about them here and here :

Over the course of our year in South Korea, we tried to travel as much as we could. A number of our trips were done through Seoul Hiking Group . Warren, the creator of the group, is always up for a good, though slightly chaotic, time. The prices tended to be pretty reasonable (and often not much more than they would be if we did it on our own) and the tours were full of great people. We’ll mark the places that we went to with Seoul Hiking Group with a *. We’ve also made this fancy little map so you can see where exactly these places are, numbered with the names of the cities. So, here goes:

Table of Contents

• 0.1    1. Busan
• 0.2    
• 0.3    2. Gyeonju
• 0.4    3. Jirisan National Park
• 0.5    4. Jeju Island
• 0.6    5. Saryangdo Island
• 0.7    6. Sokcho
• 0.8    7. Seoraksan National Park
• 0.9    8. Gangneung
• 0.10    9. Pyeongchang (home of the 2018 Winter Olympics!)
• 0.11    10. Ulleungdo Island
• 0.12    11. Jeonju + Maisan National Park
• 0.13    12. The Demilitarized Zone (the DMZ)
• 0.14    13. Suwon
• 0.15 Looking for other activities, excursions, and day trips around South Korea?
• 0.16 GetYourGuide
• 0.19 Viator
• 1 Planning your next trip?

   1. Busan

Okay, so Busan is still pretty firmly on the tourist trail as the country’s 2 nd largest city. However , we found the people to be friendlier and the city to be more chilled out and less overwhelming than Seoul. Plus, it’s on the coast so has a nice beachy feel. If I were to return to Korea and had to choose a single city to live in, it would be here.

Location: on the coast in the Southeast, not far from Gyeonju or Jirisan

   2. gyeonju.

Often called Korea’s most “Korean city,” Gyeonju’s position as an ancient capital for nearly 1,000 years has turned the entire city into a museum without walls. From the colorful temples, relics of Buddhism dotting the hillside, and burial mounds scattered throughout the city, it’s a must for anyone interested in history and Korean culture.

Location: about an hour north of Busan accessible by buses leaving many times a day

Extra tip: If you like both history and nature, don’t miss out on Gyeonju National Park! It’s a pleasant hike full of temples, shrines, and statues along the way.

   3. Jirisan National Park

This popular National Park is home to South Korea’s 2 nd highest mountain (the highest is on Jeju Island) at 1,952 meters (6,404.19 feet). The mountain is beautiful all year round and a favorite among Koreans. If you really want to hike Korean style, then you better bring your headlamps to start hiking at 4 in the morning as well as lots of soju and makgeolli !

*2 Days / 1 Night trip done through Seoul Hiking Group

Location: in the South of the country, most easily accessed via Busan or Gyeonju

   4. Jeju Island

It’s impossible to talk about Korea without talking about Jeju Island. For whatever reason, we weren’t really that impressed with Jeju (though we had a good time nonetheless), but Koreans praise it endlessly and flights out of Seoul are cheap so it’s worth checking out if you have time. If you’re into hiking, Korea’s highest peak, Hallasan, is here as well. Though, to be frank, we also found this hike to be a bit boring, but it is the perfect hike for beginners .

Location: A short flight away from Seoul or a few hours by ferry from Korea’s southern coastline

   5. Saryangdo Island

This was one of our very first trips in Korea and it remains one of our favorites. This small, unspoilt island placed on Korea’s southern coastline features a beautiful, relatively easy hike up along the island’s ridge giving you a view of the surrounding islands and the deep blue sea.

*2 Days /1 Night trip done through Seoul Hiking Group

Location: off the Southeast coastline catching a ferry leaving from Tongyeong

   6. Sokcho

Sokcho is a pleasant little town on Korea’s eastern coast famous for its fish market and beaches. It’s also in a good spot for visiting a few other attractions. A mere 50 kilometers to the north is the DMZ (the Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea) and the Goseong Unification Observatory which’ll give you a very clear view of some of North Korea’s mountains.

15 kilometers to the west is Seoraksan National Park and Sokcho often serves as the entry-point to this stunning National Park.

*3 Days / 2 Night trip done through Seoul Hiking Group including a visit to Sokcho, Seoraksan National Park Hike, and a 50 km bike to the DMZ

Location: on Korea’s East Sea, not far from the DMZ and near Seoraksan National Park

Tasty treats in a market in Sokcho

   7. Seoraksan National Park

If you read our article about 22 interesting things I learned while living in South Korea , you’ll know that Koreans love to hike and Seoraksan is at the top of many people’s lists.

Home to the 3 rd highest mountain in Korea and the infamous “Dinosaur Ridge,” a trek 13+ hours of grueling ups and downs that’ll earn you serious points if you tell Korean hikers. It’s painful, but the views and sense of accomplishment are worth it. If that sounds a bit too intense for you, there’s plenty of shorter hikes as well as a cable car in the park.

* 3 Days / 2 Nights trip done through Seoul Hiking Group including a visit to Sokcho, Seoraksan National Park, and a 50 km bike to the DMZ

   8. Gangneung

Though we just spent a single day here, there’s a nice beach as well as a lake that you can rent bicycles to ride around. Plus, it’s only 1 hour from Sokcho so it’d be easy to combine the two in a single trip.

Location: 1 hour south of Sokcho and Seoraksan National Park

    9. Pyeongchang (home of the 2018 Winter Olympics!)

Though the city itself is not much to look at, Pyeongchang is home to a number of ski resorts (including Korea’s biggest and host to the next winter Olympics, Yongpyong) so it’s a pleasant little trip in the winter.

* 3 Days / 2 Nights ski/snowboard trip done through Seoul Hiking Group

Location: about 3-4 hours southeast of Seoul in the middle of the country

   10. Ulleungdo Island

Arguably the most stunning place we’ve seen in Korea, words don’t really do it justice so you can take a peek at the photos in this article here: https://livetravelteach.com/2015/10/02/chuseok-at-the-striking-ulleungdo-island-in-korea-gateway-to-dokdo/ .

It’s not really the easiest place to get to but I would certainly consider this to be the most impressive of Korea’s islands. If you’d like to visit Dokdo, Korea’s disputed island with Japan, you’ll have to get here to first to take the ferry.

* 5 Days / 4 Nights trip done through Seoul Hiking Group including a day in Gangneung while waiting for the ferry

Location: just under 200 km from Korea’s east coast

   11. Jeonju + Maisan National Park

Though small, Jeonju is worth visiting for its cute little Hanok Village (a village of traditional Korean houses), pleasant atmosphere, and delicious Jeonju bibimbap .

Additionally, it’s serves as a gateway to Maisan National Park, home to what we believe to be the most beautiful temples we’ve seen (and trust us, we’ve seen a lot) while in Korea.

Location: 2 hours south of Seoul

Extra tip: don’t forget to visit the Reptile Café in Jeonju! Here, you can play with reptiles of all shapes and sizes (lizards, snakes etc..) while sipping on your coffee…. much more interesting than a visit to Starbucks. It was a bit hard to find so I think asking in your hostel, hotel or at the Tourist Info Center will be the best way to find it.

   12. The Demilitarized Zone (the DMZ)

The most highly-fortified border in the world, this glimpse into the relationship between North and South Korea isn’t to be missed.

Location: less than an hour north of Seoul

Extra tip: You’ll have to take a tour leaving from Seoul to visit the DMZ… we found the cheapest way to visit the DMZ to be here: .

P.S.: If you would like to know how to visit North Korea itself, check out our article  How to Visit North Korea on a Budget .

   13. Suwon

Okay, so Suwon might not be at the top of most people’s agendas, but seeing as we lived here and it’s only an hour from Seoul, it seemed a shame not to include it. Suwon is famous for its position as capital in the past and its well-preserved fortress looping around the city….you can read more about things to do in Suwon here:  https://outofyourcomfortzone.net/how-to-visit-the-free-samsung-museum-in-suwon-south-korea/

Location: an easy 1 hour or less bus ride from Seoul

Though small, it’s clear that South Korea packs quite a punch. So really, whether you are heading off to Korea as an English teacher or simply as a tourist, do your best to get out of Seoul for a bit… I’m sure you won’t regret it!

P.S: We have been to all these places above, so if you have any specific question about any of them, please use the comments area below and we will answer as soon as we can.

Looking for other activities, excursions, and day trips around South Korea?

Then I recommend checking out GetYourGuide or Viator to explore your options and find the best deals. They offer everything from day trips to excursions to full travel packages around South Korea for several days. It worth taking a look. 

GetYourGuide

*This article was written by the website’s contributing editor and author, Nikki Elliott. Nikki is an American who has several big backpacking trips under her belt and is currently teaching English in South Korea. If you wish to contact her about her article, please comment below.

And don’t miss our other articles about South Korea (we lived there for a year):

The Cheapest Way to Visit the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) and the JSA (Joint Security Area) in South Korea

22 Interesting Things I Learned Living in South Korea

How to Visit the Free Samsung Museum in Suwon, South Korea

How to Climb Bukhansan: the Closest Mountain to Seoul, South Korea

And North Korea (we visited for 10 days):

How to Visit North Korea on a Budget

101 Pictures of North Korea: Pyongyang – Part 1

101 Pictures of North Korea: Pyongyang – Part 2

Planning your next trip?

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes .

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.

8 Responses

One of the most useful summaries I have read – thanks!

Hey, that’s great to read! Thank you so much! 🙂

Love to travel to South Korea, all the places seem amazing, and I really prefer to go to Busan.

Hi Chandra, thank you for your comment. Glad you enjoyed South Korea. Indeed, I really liked Busan as well. Let me know if you have any questions!

Greste informative blog…,. Thanks for sharing

Hi Hari, thank you for your comment! Glad you liked the article! Let me know if you have any questions about it! 🙂

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Top 6 Best Cities to Visit besides Seoul

South Korea, home to Kdrama, Kpop, and amazing food, is a country with a plethora of activities. Everyone has heard of the city of Seoul with over 25M people, the megalopolis has everything one can possibly imagine. There is for everyone’s taste: hiking in a nearby mountain, visiting centuries-old palaces and temples, going club-hopping, and shopping off designer brands from all around the world. As such, there’s always something new to see and do.

Seoul is a must-visit at least once in a lifetime, but South Korea isn’t only Seoul and this country still has a lot more to offer. This is why, we compile for you a list of the 6 places you can’t miss out on when you travel to South Korea.

The country’s second-largest city, Busan is a popular destination for both locals and foreigners. The bustling city located in the southern peninsula, has gorgeous beaches and greeny mountains. Thanks to its port and proximity to the ocean, the city is famous for its amazing seafood dishes.

Visitors from all around the world also come to visit the many historical sites scattered around town, like the Beomeosa Temple with its hot springs. Another one is the hillside Gamcheon Cultural Village , with brightly-colored houses, the cultural town is the cutest Instagram spot!

Jeju Island

The popular honeymoon destination for both local and foreign couples, the island has a high reputation as a paradisiac spot of its own. Its south location gives a warmer climate making it a hotspot for the summer to come to enjoy the fancy hotels, beaches, and beautiful wildlife.

Jeju City is the island’s biggest city hence a cute location with great restaurants, shops, and accommodations. It is also a nice base to start from to explore the rest of the pretty island.

Seogwipo, located on the same island, is a stunning example of what nature still has to show us! This popular hiking destination has everything from waterfalls, and long beaches, to rocky coastlines, so expect gorgeous scenery.

Today South Korea’s 3rd largest city, Incheon is only 40km away from the capital of Seoul. It is home to an amazing port and the biggest international airport in South Korea. It is a rapidly expanding area, with more and more visitors coming every year.

The city is both important historically and economically speaking, it is home to the oldest temple in the country – Jeondeungsa, as well as lovely old architecture buildings. The city has a vibrant Chinatown, a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars to make everyone’s visit worth it. The perfect affordable day trip away from Seoul!

Jeonju / Gyeongju

Both cities are open-air museums, hence the perfect places to visit for history lovers!

The city of Jeonju is located on the west side, below Seoul. It is full of historical sites and cultural landmarks. It is home to one of the largest Hanok villages, showcasing traditional houses and artisanal products. Amongst the traditional houses, you can also find the cutest cafés and restaurants for the foodies.

Gyeonju, located on the east-south side of the peninsula, offers a boasting showcase of 2000-year-old Korean history. The city has an endless array of temples, tombs, and archaeological sites from being the capital during the Silla Kingdom. Bulguksa Temple, from the 8th century and Seokguram Grotto next to it, are a must-visit!

Last but not least, the southern rural city of Gwangju. This lively town has all the merits to be on the podium being the fifth biggest city. The city is a cultural hub home to many renowned art museums such as Gwangju Biennale Festival , and the Gwangju National Museum.

The city is also close to the Mudeungsan National Park where you can find a thousand years old Buddhist temple! A real cultural hub with the friendliest local population. My personal favorite.

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South Korea

Travel guide.

• The Best Small Towns and Villages
• The Best Temples & Shrines
• Frommer's Favorite Experiences
• The Best Views
• Best Dining Bets
• Best Hotel Bets
• The Best Festivals and Celebrations
• The Best Historic Sites
• The Best Markets
• Things to See
• Planning a Trip
• Suggested Itineraries

The Best Small Towns and Villages in South Korea

• Icheon (Gyeonggi-do): Just outside of Seoul, this town is one of the foremost ceramics centers in the country, famous for its traditional artisans. The dozens of active kilns in the area are a vital part of Korea's cultural heritage. Don't miss the famous rice meals.
• Boseong (Jeollanam-do): In late March and early April, the first new tea leaves peek out from tea bushes along these terraced farmlands. The hillsides here are gorgeous even in the dead of winter, but seeing dozens of older women hand-picking green tea is quite a treat. Finish off your visit with a cup of (what else?) green tea, green tea noodles, or some green tea ice cream.
• Damyang (Jeollanam-do): The bamboo capital of South Korea, this town is famous for its bamboo forests and for producing pretty much anything and everything you could imagine from this versatile plant. My advice is to lose yourself in the midst of the bamboo and listen as the leaves of these tall grasses whisper secrets to the wind.
• Gurim (Jeollanam-do): A tiny village located just outside of Wolchulsan National Park, this historic locale is known for its ancient pottery and its replicas of antique works.
• Andong (Gyeongsangbuk-do): Andong's folk village is the best in the country, bar none. It even warranted a visit from Queen Elizabeth II, as locals will be happy to inform you. If you can, try to visit in October when the mask dance festival is on, to experience traditional folk performances.
• Tongyeong (Gyeongsangnam-do): Tongyeong is the hometown of world-renowned classical composer Isang Yun. Once you see the magnificent views from the city's oceanside cliffs, you'll see why the composer, who spent much of his career in Germany, yearned so much for his hometown.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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15 Best Neighborhoods in Seoul (Guide From a Local!)

Last Updated: Apr 15, 2024 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

When navigating around Seoul, it’s easy to spot the diversity from one neighborhood to another. While certain neighborhoods in Seoul are quite modern, bright, and full of action, others are more traditional, quiet, and peaceful.

Each one is so different, offering anything & everything, from Korean food to shopping and nightlife , though some are better for these than others.

The capital city has turned into a cultural melting pot with an interesting mix of immigrants, students, office workers, teachers, and everyone else looking to make a living in Korea. Given the country's relatively limited geographical sites, it is still a tremendous feat that they have so much to offer in one city.

It certainly gives visitors the impression that Korea is a massive country. But in reality, it’s quite a bit smaller relative to other Asian countries, with the Han River splitting Seoul into two halves: suburban Ganbuk and world-class Gangnam .

At the mouth of this iconic river stands Incheon Port, which is the gateway to Gyeongin, Seoul’s largest economic region. Further inland, Korea’s known for having several American towns built by the U.S. Army, and these bases have really affected the lifestyle and culture of the neighborhoods built around them.

This is why, if you’re coming to Seoul for the first time, it makes sense to try venturing into as many of the following 15 best Seoul neighborhoods as you can.

Basics of Travel in South Korea

Main areas in seoul, apgujeong (sinsa), gangnam (yeoksam), gwanghwamun (jongno), hongdae (hapjeong), itaewon (hbc area), jamsil & olympic park, myeongdong (namdaemun), namsan (n seoul tower), samcheongdong, samseongdong, sinchon (ehwa).

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

Currency: South Korean won ( KRW or ₩ )

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

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

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

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

What it’s known for : “Korea’s Wealthiest Neighborhood”

This upscale Seoul neighborhood is best known for its high-class residential areas, luxury shopping sites, and residents rocking the latest fashion trends. This is because in the 90s, this area— or more specifically Apgujeong Rodeo Street— mimicked Beverly Hills’ Rodeo Drive.

If you're unfamiliar with Beverly Hills, it's a neighborhood universally known as one of the world’s most exclusive luxury destinations. Apgujeong is also known for housing Galleria Department Store, or the most prestigious luxury mall in Korea, which houses internationally-acclaimed fashion brands like Prada and Gucci. 

It’s also home to the artistic Garosu-gil, an area in Seoul known for its gingko trees and upscale Bohemian vibes. Celebrities are often spotted frequenting the neighborhood’s boutiques, beauty salons and skin care clinics (which specialize in dermatology and plastic surgery, like when I got LASIK in Seoul) , because they’re run by some of the most highly-regarded experts in the industry.

Hallyu fans are also dominant along Apgujeong’s K-Star Road, where old buildings of major entertainment companies like SM, JYP, and YG are located. While these buildings are either abandoned or are already frequented by other businesses, it is still nice to visit these places to get an idea how their favorite K-Pop idols reported to work.

What it’s known for : “Performance Art Capital of Korea”

Think of any genre you’d like to see in the form of film, musicals, and plays – Daehakro has it all. If you love discovering those pockets in a new city where all the creatives flock, this is your spot. Locals come here to paint stories through creative mediums such as dance, song, and thought-provoking art.

Stand-up comedians and slam poets also frequent Daehakro’s bars to start gaining local recognition, making for the perfect date night on the weekends. Famous Korean actors sometimes also hold acting workshops and performances in Seoul Theater Center, near Hyehwa Station.

Sadly these are delivered purely in Korean, and it is rare for these events to provide a translator, but if you feel like seeing one in action, you won’t regret it. Those who feel like listening to live music will enjoy that indie and jazz cafes are quite prolific here, and they greatly encourage the audience to participate and even showcase their talents.

Who knows? Maybe being in the right place at the right time in Daehakro might help launch your music or acting career. Note that Daehakro is also known as Korea’s “Little Manila,” because this Seoul neighborhood hosts a lot of Filipino restaurants which serve delicious regional foods like meat skewers, lumpia , and balut .  

What it’s known for : “Special Tourism Zone”

Travelers love coming to Dongdaemun , because it offers a little bit of everything that Korea has to offer— from traditional to modern Seoul attractions, trust that this neighborhood has it all. During the day, people who want to go on a historical pilgrimage can pay the Dongdaemun History and Culture Park a visit.

That's actually where you can see actual remnants of the Joseon Dynasty’s Seoul Fortress: the Yigansumun Water Gate and the Chiseong Defense Facility. Aside from these marvelous structures, you can also visit the large military training ground known as Hadogamteo Site.

At night, central Dongdaemun turns into a shopping center for locals and travelers alike. The advantage of Dongdaemun Market is that it is open for 24 hours, with booths selling food, clothes, and all sorts of other products that can’t be found anywhere else.

Near the night market stands one of Seoul’s greatest architectural wonders: Dongdaemun Design Plaza, which is a museum and convention center with futuristic-looking curves that glow brightly at night. 

What it’s known for : “The Gangnam Style Song”

Psy’s 2012 hit song really did make this Seoul neighborhood stand out from the rest. But really, ‘Gangnam Style’ is a Korean term referring to a stereotype about this district, a reputation that existed long before the song about it rocked the world.

People with ‘Gangnam Style’ are thought to be hip, trendy, and classy; having a house in Korea , and specifically in these parts of Seoul, is said to secure your social status and wealth. Yeoksam, specifically, is one part of Seoul neighborhood that is rapidly growing due to its massive outdoor art, impressive skyscrapers, and numerous I.T. Companies.

Teheran Valley, Korea’s version of the “Silicon Valley,” is the dream destination of most Korean tech start-ups. Near Apgujeong and Cheongdam, expect Gangnam to be full of luxury brands as well, with big names like fashion designer Vera Wang and French jeweler Cartier.

The neighborhood is also a powerful economic hub, housing Korean companies that compete globally, in technological pursuits or worldwide entertainment. Moreover, one interesting Seoul attraction, the Simone Handbag Museum, displays a collection of 300 luxury handbags dating all the way back to the 1550s.

It is also the surprising location of the government-run Liquor Museum and a burial ground of three key figures from the Joseon Dynasty, the Seonjeongneung.

What it’s known for : “A Perfect Preview of Korea’s Glorious Past”

History buffs will feel most at home in Jongno, because this is where a lot of Joseon Dynasty structures are built and preserved. One good example is the eye-catching “Gwanghwamun Gate,” an impressive entryway that serves as the main gate to Gyeongbokgung Palace – and that’s why it’s the grandest gate of all those in Seoul. 

This is where the royals used to pass by, with the King always using the most richly-decorated middle archway. While it is a spectacular sight to see during the day, at night it lights up beautifully, reinforcing the fine details of the Korean architecture. Sometimes when you pass this area you’ll find special events that are made available to onlookers for free. 

As long as you’re present, you’ll be treated to spectacular festivals, grand events, and demonstrations of Korean martial arts. People who come to Gwanghwamun will also be near hanok restaurants (like Ikseong-dong Hanok Street).

These are traditional floor-seated restaurants, most of them looking to feed customers that come from the grand palace . Wherever you go, there are installations and buildings installed to reinforce this neighborhood’s glorious past.

What it’s known for : “Korea’s Creative Youth Hub”

Hongdae is filled to the brim with young people dressed in crazy outfits that reveal a bit too much. There’s rarely an older person in sight, and for good reason – most of the things found in this Seoul neighborhood are targeted towards the younger crowd.

Things like K-Pop, manhwa cafés, and hip-hop competitions proliferate in the area, making it the destination for all things hip and happening at all hours of the day. “Picasso’s Street” is a must-visit if you wish to see thought-provoking art pieces and installations.

Street dancers also often battle in Hongdae, and people gather to watch, with live auditions for local TV talent and survival shows from time to time. Buskers often come to Hongdae to try their luck, though most are angling to display their talents in one of the many unique dive bars and restaurants in Hongdae. 

Still, if you wish to stay in the area and just somewhere quieter, look for Hapjeong – also known as Hongdae’s chill and quiet twin. Everything you’ll find in Hongdae is present here, but with a stylish, more sophisticated twist, but what Hapjeong is really famous for is their charming and pretty café street.

What it’s known for: “Best Traditional Tea & Street Food Experience”

I often say this is the best area to stay in Seoul for first time visitors, because this is the best place to experience the street food scene, with multiple carts and stalls holding crowd favorites like gimbap, sundae, and even odeng .

Compared to other areas in Seoul, this one has a lot of antique shops and art galleries. Ceramic pieces, fans made out of hanji and other quirky trinkets line the streets, often engaging people to buy souvenirs for their friends and families, or themselves.

Several temples are also present in Insadong, but the most notable one is the Jogyesa Temple, or one of Korea’s major Buddhist temples. Here, you’ll get to see monks hold rituals, lectures, and even ceremonies throughout the year. 

Moreover, the tea experience here is quite unique and traditional. Several alleys have a number of tea houses that teach you how to properly drink tea the Korean way. Furthermore, Insadong is also home to O’Sulloc Tea House, which is hands down the best Korean tea brand; one of their gift sets would make for a lovely gift to a tea-loving friend.

Due to its popularity, people often line up outside for takeout drinks, despite the store having plenty of seating. Speaking of traditional, this is also where the Bukchon Hanok Village is located, a lovely neighborhood with well-preserved hanok houses for foreigners to come visit and observe.

Throughout particular Seoul neighborhood , visitors can learn about things like lantern making, mulberry paper art, and even straw glass making.

What it’s known for: “That Foreigner-Friendly Neighborhood at the Foot of Namsan”

Itaewon is a foreigner-friendly hub of Seoul with that has a strong American influence, thanks to its close proximity to the Yongsan Garrison U.S. Military Base. This also means that there’s a diverse mix of food and experiences here, so it’s a font for international products in Seoul.

Plus, if you’re looking to find friends from other cultures, it’s worth coming clubbing or drinking in Itaewon. Most areas have English-speaking establishments run by nice foreigners who fell in love with Korea and decided to stay. 

On the other hand Haebangchon, or HBC, is a small unknown Seoul neighborhood that borders Itaewon and provides discreet glimpses back at the Japanese occupation. Prime examples are the “108 Stairway,” a marble staircase that led up to a Shinto shrine (now destroyed) which held names of Korean conscripted soldiers who died during this devastating period in Korea’s history.

Many years ago, schoolchildren were forced to climb these stairs to attend the daily rituals there. Present-day HBC government tore down the shrine, but the unimpressive and dull stairway has remained, and current residents don’t tend to know what these stairs used to be.

Still, the area is slowly becoming known for something else – for one, the wall paintings decorating its streets, as well as the restaurants and pubs that serve American-style pizza and burgers. 

What it’s known for: “The Haven for Sports Fans & Olympics Fanatics”

Jamsil used to be known as the silkworm breeding neighborhood of Seoul, since this area was largely responsible for Korea’s sericulture industry. Though now it feels more like a business area rather than the quiet neighborhood that it used to be, thanks to the influx of tourists.

These days Jamsil attracts sports fans from all over Korea, as this is where the country’s most architecturally magnificent sports stadiums have been erected. Aside from stadiums, there’s also the vast Olympic Park, where flags of the nations that participated in the first Olympics in Seoul were raised.

A large gate stands in the middle, inviting people from all cultures to stand underneath to feel Korea’s warm welcome and appreciation for visiting their country – or just take a nice selfie. Moreover, the Lotte franchise has decided to set up a home base here, establishing the tallest building in South Korea: Lotte World Tower.

Inside, there are multiple department stores, galleries, cafés, restaurants, and even a hotel. With an entrance ticket, you can zip straight up to the top floor of the tower for a 360-degree view of the streets below.

What it’s known for: “Seoul’s Ultimate Shopping District”

Did you know that Myeongdong is known as the ninth most expensive shopping street in the entire world? This is because each store is full of franchise-branded items, ranging from cosmetics and clothes to K-Pop merchandise and traditional souvenirs – so if you’re looking for something to take back from your trip, Myeongdong is your spot.

It’s also one of the most popular places to stay in Seoul, as it’s very central and foreigner-friendly. The streets here are wide enough to host public events, so expect to witness street performances and singing competitions during your visit.

Myeongdong has become the site of several variety shows’ regular filming, so you may even chance upon some up-and-coming K-Pop idols or actors doing challenges. Situated within this area is Namdaemun, Korea’s oldest and biggest market, which can also be discovered from the Great South Gate and Deoksugung Palace.

Open 24 hours, this market is a less flashy version of Myeongdong with the same charm but a more traditional twist. But people really come for the local delicacies served in Kalguksu Alley and Galchi Gorim Alley. There you’ll find tasty knife-cut noodles and a special that was crafted in this very market: the braised hairtail fish stew.

What it’s known for: “The Highest Point in Seoul”

People who don’t mind trekking to get around regularly would love to stay in Namsan. Most of the residents here maintain businesses for hikers who come to visit the highest point in Seoul, either by feeding them or providing things that would aid them in their hiking, camping, or picnicking.

Since the lifestyle of this region is strongly based on the mountains, expect this area to be quieter than most other parts of Seoul. This area also offers a great view of downtown Seoul’s skyline. The best place to see it from is inside N Seoul Tower, another famous tower whose height and amenities rival those of Lotte Tower in Jamsil.

Coming here provides a beautiful panoramic view of the entire city, and is definitely a must-visit during your trip to Seoul. There’s also a cable car that lets you travel all the way up to the base of the tower, though if you're too afraid of heights, another option is to pass by Namsan Park, which is the largest park in Seoul.

What it’s known for: “Seoul’s Little Europe”

While there are plenty of hanok tea houses in this area (because it’s near Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village), this is also where you’ll find a plethora of European-style cafés, giving an Amsterdam vibe to the area.

During your visit, you’ll notice a ton of gelato shops, but don’t miss the organic vanilla ice-cream with honeycomb from the Softree stall. In my opinion, this is the prettiest Seoul neighborhood I’ve visited, and I’ve found myself coming back each time I’m in Korea.

The roads are quiet and clean, and the scenic view from any of Samcheongdong’s rooftop cafés provides a sense of peace and tranquility, thanks to the spectacular view of Namsan in the backdrop.

Pro-tip : Jeongdok Public Library has the best view during Spring (aside from Yeouido Hangang Park), where multiple cherry blossoms bloom vividly while visitors walk the paths to the entrance of this charming brick library.

What it’s known for: “The Yolk of Seoul” (seriously!)

As if Seoul were a giant egg, locals fondly call Samseongdong the “yolk” of Seoul, due to its future potential. Aside from the fact that it’s where big names in hallyu find themselves living, this is also the area where fans have the highest possibility of meeting or bumping into them, if not in Apgujeong.

This is because COEX Mall in Samseongdong hosts SMTown, the official headquarters for artists under SM Entertainment. There are also other things in store for you in Samseongdong if you’re not into K-Pop; this is where the infamous COEX Mall is.

The entire theme of this place is to “connect” and “experience” things, and to do that, they’ve included activities to help you feel this with the people residing in the swankiest area in Seoul. 

The mall is surprisingly the home to one of the largest free libraries in the world, with over 50,000 books you can just freely take and read. There’s also the CoEX Aquarium, where people can ogle at various sea creatures up close, without needing to go on a submarine ride.

VR fans can even try every virtual reality gadget in VRZONE X! But if you seek more traditional flavor in the midst of all this chaos, Samseongdong also houses Bongeunsa Temple and the Seolleung & Jeongneung Royal Tomb.

What it’s known for: “Hub for University Students”

People who come to Seodaemun will be impressed by the highly-regarded schools it hosts, which are the reasons why the neighborhood is full of university students. Yonsei University and Ehwa Women’s University are just a short walk away from each other.

I was once told cheekily by a Korean friend about an area where boys and girls meet just to “get to know each other really well.” I didn’t ask for more details. The best part about taking a stroll in Seodaemun is that you’ll get to hear a lot of English speakers, more so than in any other part of Seoul.

Most residents know English here because they regularly interact with foreigners in the markets, especially those who come for the affordable prices. It's easy to forget when you look at it now that Seodaemun was the center of Korea’s painful past with the Japanese. 

This is where you can find Seodaemun Prison Park, the site where brave Koreans were tortured and executed for standing up against their oppressors. But these days only few are willing to come see the chambers up close, because some claim that they still hear voices whenever they set foot in there.

What it’s known for: “The Best Shopping District for University Students” 

I love coming to Sinchon more than almost any other of the many neighborhoods in Seoul. As soon as you exit the subway, there are buskers performing in every nook and cranny. Coffee shops and study rooms proliferate, and this is the best spot for cheap and fashionable clothes in Seoul .

This is because Ehwa is where Edae is, or the shopping district created to sell things to students attending Ehwa Women’s University. Sinchon tends to attract a lot of newcomers to Seoul, especially young women, as most all stores have really cute clothes at affordable prices.

Dongdaemun is also just a few stations away from Sinchon, so I try my hardest not to get tempted. Pro-tip for visiting students: this is the best place to get your hair and nails done, because there’s a student discount at most shops, if you can show your ID.

This guide was written to help give you a preview of what to expect in every Seoul neighborhood – but don’t limit yourself to these spots, because there’s definitely more to explore in the Land of Morning Calm! 

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How to get around Seoul

Feb 10, 2024 • 8 min read

With efficient public transport and plenty of pedestrianized areas, Seoul is refreshingly easy to explore © Chalamkhav / Shutterstock

Seoul's public transport network is amongst the best in the world – clean, punctual and committed to accessibility – and getting around the capital of South Korea is now smoother than ever thanks to several smartphone apps that provide real-time information. 

KakaoMap  is available in English and can plan your journey from door to door, covering everything from when the next bus will come to the best train car to board, depending on where you're disembarking. And Seoul's subway trains and buses have free wi-fi, so you can keep track of your journey online, even without a SIM card.

From buses and bicycles to taxis and trains, here's the insider scoop on the best ways to get around Seoul .

A transport pass brings convenience and savings

Seoul's buses and trains are operated by several different companies, but you can pay for journeys with all operators with a transport pass . There are three to choose from: NAMANE, T-money and Cashbee.

You can get a physical NAMANE card from a kiosk at transport hubs or use a digital one via the app. Top it up and use it across public transport, as well as in some retailers. T-money and Cashbee cards can be purchased at convenience stores as well as transport hubs. Just top them up to use on any public transport and affiliated retailers – keep in mind that T-money is more widely accepted in stores than Cashbee.

It is possible to buy a single-ride ticket at the station each time or pay in cash on the bus, but transport cards can be used in taxis, subways and buses across the country, and T-money can be purchased in conjunction with other special deals for foreign tourists.

Because many of the cards have a special design or theme (such as pictures of K-pop group BTS), many people choose to keep the card as a souvenir, but they can be refunded for the original price at Incheon International Airport when you leave the country.

The metro is the fastest and most affordable way to get around Seoul

With 22 subway lines making 302 stops across the city, the Seoul Metro is a highly efficient way to get around the city. Download the Metro app for iPhone or Android , and you'll find the entire process quite straightforward. Each station has English-language signs, and stops are announced in Korean, English, Chinese and Japanese.

Fares start at ₩1400 per ride with a transport pass, and you're allowed up to four transfers to another subway line or bus for free within 30 minutes. Platform screens detail what metros are due to arrive and depart, and exit signs detail what major landmarks are next to each one.

If you're changing between one subway line and another, you generally don't tap out to make transfers. The subway tends to stop running from midnight to 5:30am, but times vary by line – check the app for your journey.

Know your subway etiquette

Etiquette is important on Seoul's subway. Most people line up outside the train doors and enter in an orderly manner. Train cars usually have reserved seats for the elderly, pregnant passengers and travelers with disabilities. Visitors sometimes use these seats when they are available, but it's considered good manners to leave these seats empty for those in need.

Seoul's buses can take you anywhere in the city

Buses may take a little longer than the metro, but they can be a great option if you're traveling to a more residential area or if your subway route requires more than one transfer.

Bus stops generally show routes in both Korean and English and have a digital screen that shows when the next bus arrives, as well as indicating how crowded the bus is. The seat availability signage is only in Korean, but the "comfortable" sign is usually white, the "average" sign is yellow, and the "busy" sign is red. Bus stop signs also give weather and air quality information, and some bus stops even have seats that warm up in colder weather.

Seoul has five types of buses that are color-coded to indicate their purpose. Green and blue buses cover cross-town routes, and an adult ticket costs ₩1500. The small green local buses known as  maeul are about half the size of the regular green buses, and they stick to just one neighborhood or district – the fare is ₩1200. Red buses travel between Seoul and outer regions and cost ₩3000. The yellow buses, or circulator buses, loop around popular tourist destinations such as Namsan and Myeongdong and cost ₩1400.

You are allowed up to four transfers either to the subway or another bus for free within 30 minutes. Typically, you tap in at the front door when you enter the bus and tap out at the back door when you exit. Remember to tap out to secure your free transfers and discounts. The queuing system is pretty loose for the bus. During rush hour, passengers often enter through the back door or exit through the front door. However, some bus drivers frown upon this practice.

Night buses are indicated by an N before the number, and the fare is ₩2500. The etiquette of avoiding seats for the elderly, pregnant and travelers with disabilities does not apply like it does on the subway, but you'll be expected to give up your seat if someone needs it.

Hail a taxi for late-night journeys

Seoul cabs come in many different shapes and sizes; the most common are mid-size sedans in orange or silver that take a maximum of four passengers. Cabs charge a base fare of ₩4800, plus increments of ₩100 for every eighth of a mile – the incremental price increases a little between 10pm and 4am. You can pay with a credit card, cash or transport card.

Korean ride-hailing apps do exist, but you might need a valid Korean phone number to use them. If you have a local number, download Kakao T , a popular app that's available in English. Cabs operated by International Taxi Service can be booked on the website or via phone or email, but reservations are required 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, you can hail cabs on the street.

Even if you are confident in your ability to pronounce your destination, it's best to show a cab driver the name of your destination written in Korean because some places have similar names, such as Sinchon Station and Sincheon Station. If you need to explain your route in detail to your driver, you can call a free interpretation hotline – the number is usually indicated on a sticker on the window side of a cab, but if you don't see it, try using the  BBB  app – it's staffed by volunteers and available on both Apple and Android.

Be aware that many cab drivers are reluctant to take on short journeys and sometimes reject passengers for this reason. Locals often get in and shut the door before telling the driver which way they're going to get around this problem.

See the city up close on a bike

Seoul has a handful of bike-share schemes, but the best-known and most accessible to non-Koreans is Ttareungi, with its distinctive white and green bicycles. Visitors should create an account online and download the Seoul Bike app to use the system. You can purchase hourly, daily or yearly passes, and bicycles can be rented at one station and returned at another.

There are some useful dedicated cycle paths – including the Hangang River Cycling Trail , which follows the Han River right across the city – but many roads do not have a separate bike path, and cyclists often have to share the sidewalk with pedestrians. Cyclists are  required to dismount and walk across pedestrian crosswalks – although this is not vigorously enforced, ignoring it may make you liable in the event of an accident.

Driving in Seoul is not recommended

Traffic in Seoul can be gridlocked, and parking is cutthroat, even by most city standards. Although you can rent a car with an international driver's license, we don't recommend it for a short-term visit.

Walking is often the best option

Seoul is an incredibly dense city, with shops, restaurants and cultural sights often packed tightly together, so you can see a lot more on foot. A walk of only 1.3km (0.9 miles) will take you from Gyeongbokgung Palace (the largest of the capital's five grand palaces) to Changdeokgung Palace (often considered the most beautiful of the five). Between these two sights, there are dozens of lesser-known attractions and cafes, such as the Arario Museum , Cafe Onion and Seoul Museum of Craft Art, that you'd miss if you took a cab, bus or train.

Accessible transportation in Seoul

With audio and visual information systems, elevators, Braille tiles, accessible turnstiles and bathrooms at almost all subway stations across the city, Seoul Metro is considered "mostly accessible" by organizations such as WheelchairTravel.org . If the elevators aren't working, approach an attendant at the station to help you with a wheelchair lift to the train platform. Priority seating is available for travelers with disabilities, and train cars with wheelchair spaces are marked with a large green wheelchair sign on the floor.

Priority seating is also available on all of Seoul's buses, almost all of which have a ramp or a floor that can be lowered for those with mobility needs. For more information about accessible sightseeing and calling wheelchair-accessible taxis, check out Seoul Danurim , an accessible travel organization. For more information on accessible travel, see Lonely Planet's free accessible travel resources .

This article was first published July 2022 and updated February 2024

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Home » Asia » South Korea » Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#19 – Insa-dong

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#31 – Dongdaemun – An awesome neighborhood in Seoul.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#34 – Nami Island

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

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

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

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

Is 3 days in Seoul enough?

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

Is Seoul a safe place to visit?

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

Is Seoul a cheap place to visit?

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

What is a free place to visit in Seoul?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

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15 best places to visit in Seoul

22/12/2019 by Roobens 5 Comments

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Preparing my visit to Seoul wasn’t very easy. Indeed, few backpackers go there (it’s logical since the cost of living is quite high there!). That means I couldn’t ask the fellow travelers I met on the road what to do and what to see there (like I used to do all the time in Southeast Asia ). To visit Seoul, before getting there, I decided to turn to the internet then but once again, there’s few information about the Korean capital. It really surprised me since Seoul is one of the most visited cities in the world! I ended up wondering if it was worth it to go there. Fortunately, I went there and everything went really fine. Moreover, I had a French friend who lives there with me, and he showed me all the beautiful places to visit in Seoul! By the way, here’s a South Korea itinerary if you’re planning to visit the country!

Table of Contents

New technologies

Before talking about the places to visit in Seoul, let’s describe the city real quick! We’re not in Southeast Asia, and you can feel it quickly when you get there. The prices are the same as in Western countries, and you can clearly see South Korea is a developed country. Actually it’s the Mecca of cutting-edge technology. In South Korea, you’ll find all the latest electronic devices. On average, the Koreans change their smartphones every six months! Yes I said on average, that means some of them change it more frequently!!! It’s insane! My two-years-old smartphone is a relic of the past for them! Like in Hong Kong , they’re glued to their smartphones, all the damn time!

Plastic surgery in South Korea

South Korea holds another record : this is where you’ll find the greatest number of people having plastic surgery. Estimations say between 70 and 90% of women in South Korea have plastic surgery!  That means in the street, you have to find the women with natural beauty. They get a nose job, they westernize their eyes, ask for a surgery for their lips… Regarding men, it’s less common to have plastic surgery, but still, they’re numerous compared to us! We have to assume that plastic surgery is cultural in South Korea! If you’re curious, go to Sinsa, a neighborhood in Seoul. This is where all the practice for plastic surgery are!

Koreans rather discreet

During my visit to Seoul, I noticed the Koreans are very courteous (compared to us Parisians), and also quiet reserved by nature. In fact yeah they’re courteous except in the subway, where people push and elbow one another to get a seat! But otherwise they’re nice. I have to admit it’s quite complicated to communicate with them. They don’t speak English well although the Korean society is Americanized (it’s probably the most Westernized country in Asia). Moreover, you’re less inclined to talk to people who wear an anti pollution mask (they’re numerous wearing those in the street).

Korean food

Have you ever been to a Korean restaurant? Where they bring you meat, there’s a mini barbecue in the middle of the table and you have to cook your meat yourself? It’s exactly how it goes in Korea!  You order meat, vegetables, they bring it to you and it’s your go! The staff helps you out if they notice you’re having a hard time cooking your food (basically they help you out if you’re not Korean!). If you’re not into barbecue, there are obviously other options. The most popular dish is called bibimbap : a bowl of white rice, beef, vegetables and raw or fried egg. Everything is separated and you have to stir the dish together thoroughly before eating.

Things to do in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung palace.

Why so few people go to Seoul? There’s nothing to do there? Fortunately it’s not the case. Although it’s a big capital, there are beautiful places to see in Seoul. The most popular tourist attraction in Seoul is Gyeongbokgung Palace. It was built in 1394, and it means “radiant happiness palace”. Since the 14th century, the palace was destroyed twice by Japan, and they rebuilt it twice (it’s actually still under reconstruction). The palace’s enclosure is huge, and even though the palace is popular and crowded, there are a few quieter areas. The palace is quite colored and has a Japanese architecture, which is logical given that Japanese occupied there several times during the last few centuries.

Some people love the palace, others are disappointed. I liked it. Partly because I wore a hanbok. What’s that!? It’s a traditional Korean outfit. You can get one in one of the several shops just next to the palace. They keep your clothes for several hours, you wear the hanbok and with it, you can get in the palace for free (otherwise it’s 3000 won, or 2.50 euros). You’ll notice most visitors also wear a hanbok! A black guy with a hanbok in Seoul, I was a star! Everyone wanted to get a picture with me ! That’s what I call traveling while black ! One last thing regarding the Gyeongbokgung Palace, it’s possible to attend the changing of the guards. I didn’t see it but from what I heard, it’s impressive. Try to get some information about the schedule because it’s often changing. It’s usually at 10am and 1pm, but sometimes it’s at 10am and 2pm.

Not far from Gyeongbokgung Palace, take some time to have a walk at Bukchon . Be prepared, the slopes are steep! What’s so special about Bukchon? First off, it’s a quiet area, and it feels good in this big city. But most importantly, you’ll find hanoks there! Those are traditional Korean houses. From the outside, they’re beautiful, and they look robust! Unfortunately, we cannot see what it’s like inside. Indeed, there are really people living in those houses and with all the tourists passing by, I understand why the locals barricade themselves in their houses (by the way, I heard living in Bukchon is extremely expensive. Back in the day, the aristocracy and the nobility used to live there). Anyway, take some time to have a walk in the narrow streets of Bukchon, admire the hanoks, visit the small museums, go to a tea house…

The palaces of Seoul

I talked earlier about Gyeongbokgung Palace. It’s one of the five grand palaces of Seoul built during the reign of the Joseon dynasty, around the 14th and 15th century. The four other ones are Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung and Gyeonghuigung palaces. You can visit all of them! I visited Deoksugung Palace . It’s 1000 won (less than one euro) to get in unless you wear a hanbok. If you wear one, it’s free. It’s also a beautiful palace, but a bit smaller than the other ones. There’s also a changing of the guards at 11am, 2pm and 3:30pm everyday except on Mondays.

I also visited Changgyeonggung Palace , it’s also 1000 won (less than one euro) to get in. A beautiful palace with a lot less people, it’s nice! Just next to it, you’ll find Changdeokgung Palace . It’s 3000 won to get in (2.50€). There’s also a secret garden in this palace, Huwon garden. It’s 5000 won (4 euros) to get in the garden. I didn’t go to Gyeonghuigung palace.

Ihwa Mural Village

Apart from the palaces, there are several areas of Seoul to see. Have a look around Ihwa Mural Village. Another district in the heights of the city, and you’re gonna love it if you’re into street art! There are mural paintings almost everywhere in this area of Seoul, but also art galleries, and it’s honestly done very well! The area is colored, not too bustling and you’ll also find trebdy cafés in this small village. A lot of teenagers and young adults hang out there.

In Ihwa Mural Village, you’ll see signs telling you where to find the most interesting paintings, that’s cool! Like in Bukchon, there are locals who really live there, so don’t be too noisy. Because of noise pollution, the residents wiped off some paintings. Apparently the visitors were getting excited in front of some paintings and were making a lot of noise…

Go to a jimjilbang

If you have the opportunity, try out a jimjilbang! What’s that!? It’s a Korean public bathhouse furnished with saunas, jacuzzis, hammam, hot tubs, massage tables… A place to relax! Men and women are separated and everybody’s naked! The common parts are mixed and we’re dressed (we all wear the same “uniform”), but otherwise in the bathing areas (where men and women are separated), we’re all naked! Honestly it’s even possible to live on the spot, there’s a room with TVs, several restaurants if you’re hungry, activities for the kids… I saw guys holding hands, women as well. It’s just friendship. It reminded me of the public baths of the Pamir Highway in Tajikistan … I went to the jimjilbang at the Starfield mall, which is a bit top of the range. It’s 22000 won (17 euros) to get in, 16000 won (12 euros) if you get there after 6pm. In Seoul, you can easily find cheaper ones, about 7000 won (5.50€).

It’s not that I’m watching but it’s impossible not to notice : the locals don’t shave at all their pubic hair. It’s impossible not to notice because a black tuft on a very pale skin, even not watching, you see it! It’s quite imposing and it goes all over the place… Anyway, from what I was told, those who shave their pubic hair are the pervs, the porn actors, the pedophiles… It’s cultural! It seems like it’s the same in Japan .

Ikseon Dong

Otherwise, visit the different districts of Seoul. Ikseon Dong is a small area with a lot of narrow streets. Not a single car runs there, and a lot of hip young Koreans hang out there. There are also plenty of small bars and restaurants, tea houses, cafés… It’s very lively there! The locals meet up there after work to have a drink.

You can also check Itaewon , an area where live most of the expats in Seoul. One of the few areas where you’ll hear people speaking English, German or Italian.

Don’t miss Hongdae by night,  a student area, full of life and illuminated. Once again, you’ll find bars, restaurants, clubs, etc… An area to see, just for the vibe, and listen to K-pop music! For a complete guide about Hongdae, check here the things to do in Hongdae .

Wanna go shopping? Go to Myeongdong , you’ll find what you’re looking for, for sure! There are shops all over the place there, and many restaurants! Here’s what to eat in Myeongdong !

Insadong is the cultural area of Seoul , you’ll find shops selling antiques there, art galleries, shops selling old relics, and also the oldest traditional tea house of Seoul!

Finally, Gangnam , popularized by Gangnam style , is a posh district of Seoul. You’ll find fashion boutiques there, shops selling the latest devices but also numerous nightclubs, more posh/chic/classy than anywhere else in Seoul.

Lotte World Tower

You can also see the Lotte World Tower , which is 555 meters (1821 ft.) high. It’s the tallest building in Asia. Click here to buy a ticket to get in Lotte World, a them park and aquarium just next to the Lotte World Tower.

N Seoul Tower

There’s also the N Seoul Tower that I saw from afar. You have to take a cable car to get there. It’s 8500 won (6.50€) the two-way trip, then you have to pay to get on top of the tower. I didn’t do it because I was told that it wasn’t necessary. Several locals told me the view is not that great! Click here to buy your ticket if you really want to get on top of the tower!

Activities in Seoul

There are so many things to do in Seoul. This list can help you out :

• First off, check out this list of the best day trips from Seoul
• I wanted to see the demilitarized zone (DMZ), which is not far from Seoul. Basically it’s the border between the two Korea, but the DMZ was closed to the public during my whole stay there. However, if you wanna go, here is the best DMZ tour from Seoul to go on ! Click here to buy your ticket!
• You can join a fun Korean cooking class. Click here for more info .
• You can go to Aquarium COEX. Click here for more info .
• There are many shows in Seoul : oriental martial arts , fireman show , beatbox and breakdance …
• You can go on an e-bike tour with a guide. Click here for more info .

I think that’s it! As you can see, Seoul is not a city with nothing to do. I liked the week I spent there, especially thanks to a good friend who showed me Seoul in every nook and cranny. I suggest you to spend at least four days there, to have enough time to visit the city. If you spend some time in the country, here are places to visit in South Korea outside Seoul .

How to get to Seoul

You’ll have to get there by plane. Click here to check the latest flight prices.

How to get around in Seoul

The easiest way to get around in Seoul? The subway!

Where to stay in Seoul

First off, here’s where to stay in Seoul . If you’re traveling on a budget, I suggest you to stay at the Yakorea Hostel. Click here to book your stay . If you want to stay in a mid-range hotel, the Heima Guesthouse is a great one. Click here to book your stay . If you’re into luxury hotels, there’s the Four Seasons for you. Click here to book your stay . Otherwise click here to check what are the hotels available in Seoul.

Seoul travel tips

• Traveling soon? Check out my travel resources page! This list of travel accessories can also be useful for you!
• Wanna go to South Korea?  Check the visa policy here . Most Western countries can stay up to 90 days without a visa.
• Read my post with all the things you need to know about South Korea .
• Don’t go to South Korea without a travel insurance ! Here’s why buy travel insurance !
• Want a tailor-made trip to South Korea? Get a free quote here !
• Always use a VPN when traveling. I use ExpressVPN and I love it! Here’s why use a VPN when traveling .

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17/04/2019 at 07:28

Great Post. this article is very interesting and effective.

17/04/2019 at 15:59

25/04/2019 at 22:18

Hello Roobens very interesting article about Seoul. How much is the rental of the traditional costumes next to Changgyeonggung Palace. What kind of garments can we keep underneath ? (leggings, underwear, shoes, socks ??) You look lovely in the red robe. Regards M

26/04/2019 at 13:24

Hey thanks Marina! I just checked, it’s actually about 15000 won (11.50€) for a 4-hours rental! From what I remember, you keep your underwear, socks and shoes (don’t quote me on that!). They keep your clothes and all your stuff in a locker in the back of the shop. Don’t forget to bring your passport, otherwise you won’t be able to rent a hanbok!

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Seoul   Travel Guide

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11 Best Things To Do in Seoul

Updated February 11, 2021

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

• All Things To Do

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

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

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

Bukchon Hanok Village Bukchon Hanok Village free

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

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

Bukhansan National Park Bukhansan National Park free

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

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

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Changdeokgung (Changdeok Palace) Changdeokgung (Changdeok Palace)

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

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

Hongdae Hongdae free

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

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

Insadong Insadong free

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

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

Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbok Palace) Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbok Palace)

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

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

Dongdaemun Market Dongdaemun Market free

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

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

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Jongmyo Shrine Jongmyo Shrine

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

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

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

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

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

Lotte World Lotte World

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

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

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25 of the best places to visit in Seoul

Welcome to our guide on the best places to visit in Seoul. A diverse city that’s unlike anywhere else in the world, South Korea’s capital features an endless number of things to see and do. It’s the number one spot to visit in the country and you’ll quickly find out that uncovering all its top attractions will take some time.

In this guide, we’ll share some of the best Seoul attractions; ones you simply cannot miss. We’ll also share places to visit away from the main tourist trail, where you’ll find a lot more locals than tourists. We’ve included historic attractions, trendy neighbourhoods, nature trails, parks, shopping and dining destinations, plus some unique things to do that you’ll only find in Seoul.

Continue reading for our full list of places to visit in Seoul, South Korea.

GYEONGBUKGUNG Palace

A trip to Seoul is not complete without visiting the top attraction, Gyeongbukgung Palace. The palace has a rich history dating back to 1592 and is one of the only royal residences in the city that has withstood the wars of the past few centuries. Whilst a lot smaller today than its original size, Gyeongbukgung is a marvel to explore.

Visit the palace to see the changing of the guard, the grand, ornate palace gates, and a nice lake area with traditional ginseng trees and outhouse buildings. The palace is full of tourists no matter the time of day, but the grounds are large enough for it to never feel too busy. If you fancy doing something unique, dress up in traditional Hanbok clothing for free entry to the palace grounds.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is one of the best places to visit in Seoul to experience the traditional appearance of Korea, many years ago. Hanok villages are preserved areas that have retained houses, shops and other buildings that showcase traditional Korean architecture. Pointed rooves, wooden frames and narrow streets make up the labyrinth of Bukchon Hanok Village.

Bukchon is a tourist destination, but it’s also a real neighbourhood where people live. Walk through the narrow streets to see these quaint buildings, take some photos and soak in the rich culture.

Seoul Tower, Namsan Mountain and Namsan Cable Car

Seoul is a vast city with a population of 9+ million people. The number of skyscrapers, parks and neighbourhoods is a sight to behold! One of the best ways to capture the scale of the city is by heading up to Namsan Mountain. This instantly recognisable mountain sits in the centre of the city, providing stunning panoramic views of Seoul from above. You can either hike up the Namsan Mountain trail, or alternatively, catch the Namsan Cable Car to the top in only 5 minutes.

The top of Namsan Mountain has a nice collection of cafes and shops with a view, plus a number of viewing decks. If you want to go even higher, take the elevator to the top of Seoul Tower to be at the highest point in the entire city.

Gangnam Neighborhood

Can you remember the catchy song ‘Gangnam Style’ by Korean pop artist, PSY? The tune that took the world by storm is all about the life of the wealthy in Seoul’s Gangnam neighbourhood. This trendy business hub is located south of the river. It’s one of the most expensive places to live in the city due to its central location and ‘exclusivity’. It’s also home to a number of excellent restaurants, shopping malls and modern high-rise buildings.

Visit Gangnam to experience the modern, future-thinking hub of Seoul and its many bars, shops and restaurants. It’s also worth paying a visit to the ‘Gangnam style’ statue, which features the classic PSY pose of two crossed wrists.

Starfield Shopping Mall

In the Gangnam area, you have to stop by Starfield Shopping Mall. Seoul has many malls, but not many are quite as modern, large and packed full of attractions compared to Starfield. In this mall, you’ll find a countless array of dining options for all budgets, fashion and accessory stores for both designer and high street brands and one of Korea’s best cinemas. It also has a wide selection of cafes and restaurants.

Even if you don’t want to do any shopping, experiencing the regular events, eateries and design of this popular mall makes it one of the best places to visit in Seoul.

Starfield Library

A place to visit in Seoul that has gained popularity as one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, Starfield Library is a grand, multi-floor library with an open plan layout, towering bookcases and a beautiful design. Tourists walk through to marvel at its façade and locals pull up a chair to read a book. It’s also a cool place to work.

You can visit Starfield Library at the same time as Starfield Shopping Mall. The library is nestled in the centre of the mall on the ground floor.

Bongeunsa Temple

Another top Seoul attraction in the Gangnam area is Bongeunsa Temple. Dating back to the year 794, this long-standing temple is one of the most historic places to visit in Seoul. It was created for King Wonseong by a high-ranking Buddhist monk and has been a key worship and religious festival destination ever since.

Traditional pagoda buildings, rows of coloured lanterns and ornate Hangul artwork adorn the entire temple area. At its centre is a giant Buddha statue, which is 23-metres tall. Bongeunsa is one of Seoul’s must-see temples and it’s well worth stopping by when exploring the Gangnam area.

Seoul Forest

Seoul Forest is one of the best places to visit in Seoul for those that want a quiet nature escape away from the bustling city. Located to the east of the city centre, it’s an easy place to get to on the metro. It’s a large park with a number of shaded walkways, with tall leafy trees surrounding you as you go for a relaxing stroll through the forest.

In addition to the nice scenery on offer at Seoul Forest, it has a deer park, botanical garden, insect garden and butterfly garden. It’s a very pretty place to explore, especially if visiting in spring for cherry blossom season, or in autumn for the falling orange leaves.

Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market is the go-to place to visit in Seoul for delicious street food. This giant market has countless rows of stalls, all dedicated to hearty, homemade Korean food. Visit the market any day of the week and you’ll find a bustling atmosphere of locals dining alongside tourists, the rich smell of spicy food and an endless number of dish options.

Some food stands specialise in particular dishes, whereas others serve a good variety of popular Korean dishes. The market and some of its stalls have been featured on Netflix and various TV shows, giving it a big boost in popularity. We recommend visiting for lunch. It’s slightly quieter than evenings and you stand a better chance of finding a table at a food stall.

Changgyeonggung Palace and Secret Garden

Another must-see palace in Seoul is Changgyeonggung. Located a short walk from the main Deoksugung Palace we mentioned above, this secondary royal residence is just as grand, and in our opinion, is more beautiful than Deoksungung. The palace has smaller courtyards and towering gates than the latter. However, it has a beautiful array of gardens, greenery and more intimate courtyard areas. Traditional palace buildings are surrounded by wooden sculptures, leafy trees and monuments.

Hidden in Changgyeonggung’s garden area is a tranquil forest area known as Secret Garden. In our opinion, this is one of the most beautiful locations in Seoul. It features rows upon rows of unique trees and plants, a lake area, shaded temple buildings and waterfall streams. It’s particularly impressive in the spring cherry blossom season, or during autumn when the leaves turn bright shades of orange.

Lotte World

Lotte World is one of the best places to visit in Seoul for theme park lovers! Completely unlike the theme parks you may have visited outside of Korea, Lotte World is a spacious park full of unique theming and quirky rides. It features classic rides you’d expect to see in an amusement park, but also a hot-air balloon ride, a haunted house and a selection of 3D attractions.

Lotte World has a whimsical fairy-tale theming and the food stalls in the park are very good. It’s also a cheap theme park to visit compared to other global parks.

Inwangsan Mountain Park

In a city of concrete, many buildings and lots of pedestrians, Inwangsan Mountain Park is a welcome retreat from city sightseeing. It’s a rocky hiking trail that sits along Seoul’s historic city wall, featuring stunning views of Seoul and the palace area below the trail. Inwangsan is a great place for a morning walk in nature when the weather isn’t too warm.

Walk along the trail to see various landmarks, bridges, wooden walkways, gardens, artwork and much more. Inwangsan Mountain Park is one of the best places to visit in Seoul for those that like scenic walks.

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Cheonggyecheon river walk.

Cheonggyecheon river walk is one of the top areas in Seoul for a sunset or early morning walk. Nestled between skyscrapers in the modern heart of the city, this scenic riverside area is a popular date spot. It even has a wall where locals famously propose to their significant other! Go for a slow stroll along the river, sit and enjoy the view on a park bench, or check out the latest art installations.

Ikseondong Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village (as featured above) is the most popular traditional Korean village in Seoul. However, there are many more villages to explore. We personally preferred the narrow streets and many shops, cafes and restaurants of the area known as Ikseondong Hanok Village. Situated right next to the Insadong area, this quaint collection of streets and buildings is a great place to explore on foot.

Ikseondong is home to some excellent restaurants, many of which have traditional floor seating and unique wooden décor. There are also many coffee shops, dessert parlours, boutique shops and photo booths. We personally bought some excellent homeware and had a coffee in a café with a train track running through it.

Right in the heart of the city, Myeongdong is one of the most popular places to stay when visiting Seoul. Its central location and good public transport connections makes it a great place for sightseeing. Even if you’re not staying here, Myeongdong is certainly worth a visit. It’s the shopping metropolis of Seoul, with countless shopping malls, high street stores, international brands and Korean fashion boutiques.

It’s also a top place to visit in Seoul for foodies. Every evening, the streets of Myeongdong come alive with street stalls. The Myeongdong Night Market is where you can sample some excellent traditional dishes, but also creative foods inspired by the younger generations in South Korea. It’s an affordable place to eat and we personally had dinner here 3 times during our visit.

Insadong is another bustling city centre neighbourhood, located just north of Myeongdong. It’s a busy area packed full of restaurants, shops and cafes, just like Myeongdong, but it has a more boutique and local feel to it. Shops here are independent over chain stores, there aren’t any big shopping malls and streets have small buildings compared to the skyscrapers of Myeongdong.

Insadong is one of the best places to visit in Seoul for authentic Korean restaurants. It also has some excellent handmade gifts and fashion stores and an array of themed cafes. The super-popular ‘Dong’ (poo) café is based here. The neighbourhood is full of artwork and colour; a clash of modern with tradition.

Yeouido Hangang Park

Yeouido Hangang Park is the best way to experience the iconic Han River, which runs directly through Seoul. It’s a very popular spot for locals who want to go on a long walk or cycle, but it’s also becoming increasingly popular with tourists. It has a large ‘Seoul’ sign, perfect for capturing a tourist selfie. It also has some excellent walking paths along the bank of the river. The horizon of the city in the background is where you’ll take some of your best Seoul photos.

The best way to explore Yeouido Hangang Park is by bike. Rent a cycle from one of the park booths and proceed to peddle along the promenade at your leisure. It’s a fun activity for all ages and there are dedicated cycle lanes.

War Memorial of Korea

Built in 1994, the War Memorial of Korea was set up to commemorate the many military veterans and victims of South Korea’s wartime past. Whilst a sobering and saddening place to visit in Seoul, the memorial is also interesting to anyone that wants to learn about wartime events from a South Korean perspective.

The War Memorial of Korea features multiple indoor and outdoor exhibition areas, including a large memorial hall, decommissioned military equipment and aircraft, and old military weapons. A large section of the memorial is a museum of war artefacts. The collection is very interesting for anyone that’s fascinated by military history.

Hongdae has long been known as the ‘trendy’ neighbourhood of Seoul. A very popular chill-out spot for young people, the vibe in Hongdae is upbeat and welcoming. It’s a small neighbourhood to the west of the city centre, sitting just north of the Han River. Themed cafes, including the popular ‘Harry Potter’ and 2D-style ‘Greem Café’ are just some of the unique inceptions on offer in Hongdae. It’s a place where you can dine at one-of-a-kind restaurants and street food stalls or find the latest Korean fashion.

Hondae is also an increasingly popular place to stay for those who want a lively evening atmosphere with lots of bars and restaurants. We recommend visiting in the late-afternoon and staying until the streets get packed with people.

Namdaemun Market

We’ve already listed some excellent shopping markets and street food spots in Seoul. However, if you want a more traditional local market, Namdaemun Market is the place to visit. It’s open all day, and even during the night until 4am. Locals stop by the market to buy cheap home, fashion, apparel, stationery, art, flowers and practically any other market-good you could think of. Businesses visit for the affordable wholesale offering. You then have tourists, who just want to soak in the atmosphere of this busy shopping destination. Add it to your list if you love a good market!

Banpo Bridge

Banpo Bridge is a great place to visit in Seoul early-evening. A key crossing point for the Han River and an architectural wonder in itself, there’s always something going on near the bridge’s south river bank. When the sun goes down, 380 rainbow-coloured jets light up to create a waterfall that cascades from the bridge. It’s a very cool sight to see and is well worth checking out! The rainbow fountain show is actually registered in the Guiness Book of Records as being one of the longest rainbow fountains in the world.

In addition to the must-see evening show, Banpo Bridge hosts a number of different events. It’s often a venue for K-pop concerts and other music festivals.

Gotomall Underground Shopping Mall

Underground shopping malls are huge in South Korea. They perfectly utilise space in city centres that are extremely densely populated. They’re also known to be great place to shop for fashion, apparel and accessories, offering an affordable alternative to high street retail stores and department stores. Gotomall Underground Shopping Mall is Seoul’s answer to an underground mall, and boy is it a big one!

Situated south of the Han River, near Banpo Bridge, Gotomall is a great place to visit in Seoul for those who want to buy K-fashion clothing and accessories. It’s full of independent stores and has options for all budgets. It’s also has stores selling cute accessories, electronics and more.

Haneul Park

Last but not least, Haneul Park is another excellent place to visit in Seoul. It’s a large nature reserve on the northern bank of the Han River, located on the edge of the city centre. Seoul has many excellent parks and relaxation spots, but the remote location and picturesque scenery at Haneul make it unlike anything else on our list. Tall grass, crops and flowers set the scene for a serene walk amongst nature…

Walk along the neatly maintained pathways and wooden bridges, stop at one of the exhibits or just soak in the peaceful atmosphere and views of the city. We personally love visiting Haneul Park for sunset. There isn’t a better place to be!

Thanks for reading our list of the best places to visit in Seoul. We hope we inspired you with attraction ideas and you can now explore this vast, impressive and charming city for yourself. Seoul is unlike anywhere we’ve ever been and the number of things to do is endless. Choose attractions that stand out to you the most, don’t miss the must-sees and be sure to plan an itinerary before setting off. If you have any questions about the Seoul attractions we’ve featured, be sure to post a comment below. 😊

Check out our other South Korean travel guides:

• South Korea Travel Tips: Things You Must Know Before Visiting
• 20 of The Best Foods To Try in South Korea
• One Day in Busan Itinerary

By Ricky MARSHALL

An adventurer at heart that loves anything outdoors. Beaches, mountains and amazing scenery is everything I love about travel! I also enjoy home comforts and need a nice place to relax and re-charge after every trip.

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20 Most Beautiful Places in Seoul

Traveling to Korea and want to capture the best sights of Seoul, but not sure where to go, what to see, and when to visit? Want to know the most iconic landscapes, attractions, and structures? Then feast your eyes on these 20 beautiful places in Seoul and find out not only where to go, but also when to visit and how to get around.

This illuminating guide to Seoul’s loveliest spots will whisk you around Seoul, from the mountainous peaks of Bukhansan National Park, to the wooded valleys that surround Seoul Grand Park in southern Seoul. You’ll discover incredible sights from tall towers, peaceful contemplation in ancient Buddhist temples, and secret gardens fit for royalty.

Although beauty is in the eye of the beholder, it would be hard to argue against these 20 beautiful sights in Seoul. They’re not only popular tourist destinations that are must-see places in Seoul, but also fashionable hangouts for locals who want to enjoy natural beauty, architectural wonders, or healing spots that calm the body and mind.

Find out for yourself all the beauty and wonder that Seoul has to offer with these 20 incredible spots. Don’t miss our tips for visiting these beautiful places in Seoul including the best times to travel.

When To Visit These Beautiful Places In Seoul

Some of these beautiful sights in Seoul really shine at certain times of the year, especially the areas with lots of natural surroundings. This list has been created with locations you can enjoy at any time of year, and they’re all timelessly beautiful places you’ll want to visit when in Seoul.

First, here’s a brief overview of what to expect in each different season. Korea certainly is a country with 4 (or even 5) very distinct seasons and knowing what they’re like can really help you plan your journey.

This is arguably the best time of year to travel to Korea. From late March to early April you can see pink cherry blossoms all over Korea, with many festivals dedicated to the delicate flower. April and May are two of the nicest months to be in Korea. The weather is warm, sunny, and nature starts its beautiful display.

For those not used to high temperatures and humidity, summer can be a difficult season to travel to Korea. Temperatures can go over 100 during the day and don’t drop below 75, even at night. The humidity makes it feel even worse. However, if you’re OK with the heat, late July and August are good times to explore Korea’s beaches and coasts. If you’re in Seoul, plan to spend time inside for air conditioned breaks.

Fall offers a welcome break from the heat and humidity of summer. From mid-September, the temperatures are pleasant and locals and tourists alike start to travel more across Korea. The highlight of this season is the fall foliage, which slowly emerges from north to south starting in early October and ending in mid-November. Great weather, beautiful blue skies, and colorful fall foliage shine especially bright.

Winter arrives very quickly after the last of the fall foliage drops, with temperatures quickly dropping into the 30s by mid-November. It can even snow in some areas from late November, however, the most common time for snow is in January and February. Winter is cold and dry. That means you’ll see clear blue skies – perfect for sightseeing. Temperatures drop to below 0 at night during January, so be prepared to wrap up warm when you travel.

Rainy Season

Korea’s 5th season, which is known as rainy season, runs from mid-June until mid-July. During this time you can expect to see a lot of rain. It doesn’t rain constantly, but downpours can last anywhere from 5 minutes to 5 days. It’s difficult to predict. Be prepared for the worst. Typhoon season begins around the same time and lasts until the end of fall. However, most of Korea is safe from typhoons. Jeju Island gets the worst of it.

Whenever you’re traveling to Seoul, be aware of the weather as it can change your travel plans. Spring and fall are the best (most temperate) times to travel, but also the busiest. Book ahead if plan to visit in cherry blossom or fall foliage season as tours and hotels get booked up early.

Now, here’s the list of these 20 beautiful places in Seoul that you’ll definitely want to visit whenever you travel.

1: Secret Garden In Changdeokgung Palace

Visitors to Seoul definitely shouldn’t miss the chance to witness the majestic beauty of the Secret Garden in Changdeokgung Palace . This sprawling garden area is tucked away at the back of the palace and features carefully crafted ponds, pagodas, and designs fit for a prince or princess.

The Secret Garden has to be one of the most beautiful places in Seoul and also among the least visited. This isn’t because it’s not a popular spot, quite the opposite. Access to this palace garden was restricted to members of the royal family for centuries and is still restricted to a small number of tour groups each day. Get there early to reserve your tour.

Our Tip: Wear hanbok to gain access to Changdeokgung Palace for free (and look stunning).

Best Time To Visit:

Any time is a good time to visit the Secret Garden. See cherry blossoms in spring, abundant nature in summer, crispy fall foliage in fall, and snowy, frozen ponds in winter.

How To Get There:

Take the subway to Anguk Station and head towards Changdeokgung Palace. To get into the Secret Garden, you’ll need to reserve a guided tour. Tours sell out early, so book as soon as you arrive.

Address In Korean:

서울특별시 종로구 명륜3가

2: Seokcheon Lake & Lotte World Tower

The dazzling waters of Seokchon Lake and the tree-lined pathways that run around this figure-of-eight pond make this the perfect place for a short stroll on a sunny afternoon. As you walk around, you’ll also see the Lotte World Magic Island (very Disney-esque) and Lotte World Tower.

The impressive Lotte World Tower is a marvel of human design and engineering and a must-see spot when you visit Seoul. The world’s 6th tallest building offers views of Seokchon Lake and the whole of Seoul. Feeling brave? Look through the glass floor from Seoul Sky Observatory. If that’s not scary enough, walk outside on top of the tower (541m high) with the Sky Bridge Tour .

Our Tip: Plan a day out and have a Lotte fun at the Lotte World Tower, Seoul Sky, Lotte World Aquarium, and Lotte World Adventure indoor theme park. Get free access to all of these places with the Songpa L Pass and save $50 on entry fees.

Seokchon Lake is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in early April, with millions of people visiting for a stroll around the wooded lake paths. Weekends are a good time to visit to see performances and food trucks, especially in the summer.

Take the subway to Jamsil Station and go out Exit 2 for Lotte World Tower and Seokchon Lake.

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3: Gyeongbokgung Palace Grounds

For those idyllic postcard views of Seoul, you can’t beat Gyeongbukgung Palace . This beautiful royal palace is one of five in Seoul, but the one that draws the most tourists dressed in hanbok looking for that perfect picture. Wander the grounds and see the historic sights, well-groomed nature, and cultural exhibitions and performances.

There are so many picturesque places to take photos in this palace, including the cherry blossomed-line Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and pond, the newly restored Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, the royal exhibition rooms, or the many traditional rooms scattered throughout the palace grounds.

Our Tip: Visit at 10am or 2pm to see the changing of the guard outside the front gates.

Another place that’s great to visit all year round. If you want to wear hanbok and see the best of Korea’s nature, then visit in early April for cherry blossoms or late October for fall leaves, both of which can be seen in this palace.

Take the subway to Gyeongbokgung Station or walk from Gwanghwamun Station

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4: Yeouido Island & Riverside Parks

Of all these beautiful places in Seoul, this is the one most visited by locals. Seoulites flock to Yeouido Island to enjoy the relaxing riverside parks with a bowl of Korean ramen and can of beer. In summer, you can rent a sunshade here during the day and enjoy fireworks and street performances at night.

This small island is lined with parks, trees, and upmarket malls where you can enjoy fine dining and luxury shopping. Be sure to check out the view from some of the skyscrapers in the area, such as from the Sky Farm in the Federation of Korean Industry building. You can see all over Seoul on a sunny day.

Our Tip: Book a Han River Cruise to enjoy the night sights along the river and the many colorful bridges.

This is the site of one of the biggest cherry blossom spots in Seoul and there are long tree-lined streets of the pink-petalled blossoms in early April. Summer is also great and this is a popular place to cool off by the river and enjoy the cooler evening.

How to get there:

Take the subway to Yeouinaru Station and go out Exit 2 or Exit 3 for the Yeouido Hangang River Park.

Address in Korean:

서울특별시 영등포구 여의동로 330

5: Cheonggyecheon Stream

The 11km Cheonggyecheon Stream that cuts through the heart of Seoul is a charming place to enjoy a romantic walk. As you walk along the stream, cross the stepping stone bridges and smell the roses and other flowers growing from the walls lining this little oasis.

You can join the stream in many places as you journey across Seoul, but the best place to begin is at Cheonggye Plaza – the beginning section near Gwanghwamun Square. From this start point you can see a gigantic seashell, waterfalls, and regular cultural events.

Our Tip: Grab a coffee from Blue Bottle Coffee and walk along the stream early in the morning when it’s empty.

There’s no bad time to visit Cheonggyecheon Stream. Check out the weekend night markets here during summer. Visit in winter to see the Seoul Lantern Festival and Christmas decorations floating in the stream.

For the start point, take the subway to Gwanghwamun Station and walk 1 block south, or to City Hall Station and walk 1 block north.

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6: Bukchon Hanok Village

Located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace is the historic Bukchon Hanok Village . This is truly one of the most beautiful places in Seoul and one that’s a popular attraction for tourists. Get dressed up in flowing hanbok and explore the traditional alleys that look out over central Seoul.

See the wooden beams and doors holding up the black slate roofs. Follow the flowing artwork and designs on the tall brick walls outside each house. In some places you can even enter the hanok buildings and enjoy traditional Korean teas, desserts, and snacks. There are also a number of art galleries and workshops in the area you can explore.

Our Tip: Rent hanbok when you visit this area for the best pictures.

This is a residential area so it’s best to visit during the day to not disturb the people living here. Come around 9am in the morning before it gets busy. If you visit in winter, you might get to see the curved rooftops covered in snow.

Take the subway to Anguk Station and walk north from Exit 2.

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7: N Seoul Tower On Namsan Mountain

For couples looking for beautiful places in Seoul to spend a romantic evening, the N Seoul Tower is a great place for a date night. Set in the leafy heights of Namsan Mountain, this old broadcast tower has been converted into a spot for lovers to lock away their feelings forever. Literally, with the help of love locks that you can place on the rails around the lookout points.

Take a trip to the observation deck inside the N Seoul Tower and see the incredible 360 degree views of Seoul, including the royal palaces, hanok villages, the presidential Blue House, and many of these other beautiful places in Seoul. Visit at night and walk along the fortress walls, place a love lock, and enjoy a meal looking out over the city.

Our Tip: Book N Seoul Tower Tickets online to save money on the entrance fee.

The mountain is awash with golden fall foliage in late October. Head up in the early evening, stay for the sunset, then watch as the city switches from day to night.

Take the Namsan Cable Car from near Myeongdong Station or the Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle Bus 01 from Chungmuro Station or Dongguk Univ. Station. You can also walk up a footpath from Myeongdong.

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8: Cheong Wa Dae Presidential Blue House

Until 2022, Cheong Wa Dae , also known as the Blue House for its vivid blue roof tiles, was the presidential residence and could only be visited through an organised tour. However, since the new president took over in 2022, the presidential residence has moved location and the historic palace is now open to the public.

This exquisite house, the Korean version of the White House, is nestled among the forested foothills of Bugaksan Mountain, which provides a stunning backdrop. For the first time in over a century, you can now trek through the mountain paths behind the Blue House and see a side of Seoul few have had the pleasure of witnessing.

Our Tip: Add a stop at Cheong Wa Dae to your central Seoul itinerary after visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace or Bukchon Hanok Village

Visit between spring and fall for the best views of the Blue House contrasting with the rich green lawns and trees that surround it.

Take the subway to Gyeongbokgung Station and walk north past Gyeongbokgung Palace. Cheong Wa Dae is directly behind the palace.

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9: Gyeongui Line Forest Park & Book Street

The 100 year old Gyeongui Line was once a busy train-line through central Seoul, but is now home to one of the most beautiful green spaces in Seoul. You’ll find plenty of urban culture, trendy cafes and restaurants in this long pathway stretching away east and west from Hongik University Station in Hongdae.

The best part of these twin pathways are the delightful green spots where you can sit and enjoy a book, chat with friends over coffee, or enjoy one of the many park-side bars and restaurants. You won’t believe you’re in the middle of Seoul as you walk along the Gyeongui Line.

Our Tip: Walk the Gyeongui Line parks as the sun is setting. The light during dusk is incredible as you watch the sun rays falling slowly through the apartment blocks onto the tracks. Find somewhere cosy and enjoy the free show.

Visit in the evening during summer to see Seoulites enjoying the cooler weather and late nights. Grab a seat in a bar and cafe and enjoy the hot weather that persists all day and night during Korean summer.

Take the subway to Hongik University Station and use Exit 2 for Gyeongui Line Forest Park. Use Exit 6 for Gyeongui Line Book Street.

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10: Naksan Park & Seoul Fortress Walls

Seoul has many fortress walls that offer breathtaking views across the city. Perhaps the most beautiful place in Seoul to explore these fortress walls is from Naksan Park near Dongdaemun. Cutting like a knife through Seoul’s old urban center, the fortress walls offer views in all directions, gazing out over Gyeongbokgung Palace, Cheong Wa Dae, and the iconic N Seoul Tower in the distance.

Explore Naksan Park during spring and see the wide array of colorful blossoms and flowers here, as well as wooden pagodas and old stony walls. There are a collection of rooftop cafes and bars on the walk from Naksan Park down towards the historic Dongdaemun Gate that are perfect for enjoying Seoul’s sunset and warm summer evenings.

Our Tip: Take the subway to Hyehwa and explore the pretty Ihwa Mural Village as you walk up towards Naksan Park.

You’ll find incredible views here all year round. Winter can be the best as there’s the highest chance of clear, blue skies. The walls are one of the best places to see snow in Seoul, too.

Take the subway to Dongdaemun Station and use Exit 1 to access the start of the fortress wall path. For Naksan Park, take the subway to Hyehwa Station and use Exit 2. Walk up the hill and follow the signposts to Naksan Park.

서울특별시 종로구 낙산길 41

11: Bongeunsa Temple & Starfield Library

Mix traditional and modern Korean culture in Seoul’s famous Gangnam district. See the giant statue of Buddha, the centerpiece of Bongeunsa Temple , as it looks out over the modern COEX Mall, home to the Starfield Library and the tallest wall of books you’ll find in Korea.

These contrasting views offer travelers the perfect chance to seek spiritual solace in their preferred form – either from the pages of a book, or from deep contemplation in the surrounds of a Korean Buddhist temple as incense fills the air.

Our Tip: Explore the many attractions of COEX Mall, including the wonderful Starfield Library, during the day, then visit Bongeunsa after the sun goes down for Gangnam night views and a more peaceful temple experience. See all of these with a Tour of Gangnam

Bongeunsa is a Korean Buddhist temple and the best time to visit is right before and during Buddha’s Birthday in spring. You can see thousands of illuminated lanterns streaming along the roads and all around the temple during this time.

Take the subway to Samseong (World Trade Centre Seoul) Station and use Exit 6 to access COEX Mall. Take the subway to Bongeunsa Station and use Exit 1 or walk from COEX Mall to the temple.

서울특별시 강남구 봉은사로 531

12: Namsangol Hanok Village & Namsangol Park

The second hanok village on this list of beautiful places in Seoul, Namsangol Hanok Village , offers up a contrasting experience from the aforementioned Bukchon Hanok Village. For starters, this village is a showcase of what traditional village life looked like in Korea, with traditional games, open hanok houses, and a window into Korea’s past.

The Namsangol Hanok Village is also different as it’s situated in a lovely park at the foot of Namsan Mountain (home of the N Seoul Tower) and offers open spaces to walk around and enjoy traditional and natural sights. There are ponds and streams with ducks and fish swimming around, an abundance of plants and trees to see, and fortress walls skirting around the corners of the park.

Our Tip: Visit one of the hanok cafes and enjoy some refreshing Korean green tea or herbal teas. They’ll give you energy for the day ahead.

Visit in spring to see the vivid array of colors that the spring blossoms release and enjoy sights of N Seoul Tower from a hanok cafe inside the park during the warm afternoon.

Take the subway to Chungmuro Station and use Exit 4. The entrance to the park is less than 1 minute away.

서울특별시 중구 퇴계로34길 28

13: Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

The Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is a building unlike you’ve ever seen before. It’s hard to define the DDP, a mixture of galleries, shops, cafes, and creative spaces, but easy to describe it. Futuristic, stylish, elegant, unique, alienesque. Once you see the DDP for yourself, you’ll understand.

What makes the DDP a must-see beautiful sight in Seoul? The curves of the building, the random outdoor pianos that people practice on, the pop-up shops and markets that bring life to the DDP, and all the fun exhibits and attractions going on inside. The DDP houses bizarre and wonderful experiences throughout the year. From gigantic indoor playgrounds to mind-bending trick art, movie sets, and more.

Our Tip: Take time to explore every corner, including the rooftop lawn that most people miss. There’s so much to see at the DDP and it changes all the time.

Any time is a good time to visit the DDP as the exhibits change regularly and there’s always something going on. There are night markets here during the summer and light displays on the side of the curved buildings during winter.

Take the subway to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park and use Exit 1.

서울특별시 중구 을지로7가 을지로 281

14: Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa Temple , located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Insadong Art Street, is a popular tourist sight in central Seoul. It’s also one you can easily miss as it’s hidden between other buildings. When you do find it, you’ll understand why it’s so popular and marvel at it’s beautiful Buddha statues, intricate woodwork designs, and colorful decorations.

Jogyesa Temple was built in the 14th Century and is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Korea. It’s still an active temple, so you can see people going in to worship and monks carrying out ceremonies inside. Jogyesa offers a glimpse into Korean Buddhism and provides a stunning location to take pictures.

Our Tip: Be respectful when you visit the temple. You’re allowed to take photos and to look into the buildings, but try to observe and not interfere. Enjoy the opportunity to see Buddhist monks performing their rituals.

As with Bongeunsa Temple, the best time to visit is in Spring for Buddha’s Birthday. There’s a large festival called Yeon Deung Hoe Lotus Lantern Festival where massive lanterns are paraded through the city.

Take the subway to Anguk Station and use Exit 6. Jogyesa Temple is a short walk from here.

서울특별시 종로구 우정국로 55

15: Haneul Sky Park & Oil Tank Culture Park

You might wonder why an old oil storage site is on a list of beautiful places in Seoul, but once you visit, you’ll understand why the Oil Tank Culture Park is a must-see place in Seoul. This area features delightfully landscaped gardens, open air performance spaces, and renovated oil tanks that have been turned into cafes, galleries, and curved contemplation rooms. A wonderful mix of industrial and natural design, this space makes you consider angles, volumes, and the human impact on nature.

Haneul Sky Park is one of many riverside parks along the Han River, but one that offers a unique view as it’s located atop a small hill. Hike up the walking path and you’ll be treated to an ocean of swaying reeds that form a maze on top of the large, flat hilltop. This park is also one of the best places to see pink muhly in Seoul – a frizzy pink bush that has become very popular in Korea in the last few years.

Our Tip: Enjoy an afternoon at these locations, explore the nooks and crannies of the old oil tanks and the many pathways through the Haneul Sky Park, then jump on the subway to Hapjeong Station for some of the best meals in Seoul.

Visit Haneul Sky Park and the Oil Tank Culture Park in October to see silver reeds swaying in the wind and fall foliage in the nearby riverside parks. There are seasonal markets, performances, and activities as well, such as the Santa Sled Race.

Take the subway to World Cup Stadium Station. The Oil Tank Culture Park and Haneul Sky Park are about 5 minutes away. Walk towards the river to find them.

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16: Deoksugung Stonewall Walkway & Deoksugung Palace

The Deoksugung Stonewall Walkway is a pretty spot near city hall that’s listed as one of the 100 Most Beautiful Roads in Korea. It’s a pedestrian-friendly street that runs around Deoksugung Palace, past Seoul Museum of Art and the Jeongdong Theater. It’s also a popular K-Drama filming location in Seoul for dramas such as Goblin (2016) and Reflection of You (2021).

The area is peaceful and calm and perfect for an afternoon stroll, admiring the statues and pretty buildings on the way. After walking around the palace walls, head into Deoksugung Palace itself and admire the lush trees, fusion of Korean and international architecture, and the gift shop that sells excellent examples of Korean pottery, handicrafts, and traditional goods.

Our Tip: Plan to spend a whole afternoon in this area walking along the wall-lined streets, checking out the backstreets, visiting museums and galleries, and entering Deoksugung Palace . There’s a lot to do in a small area.

Visit the Deoksugung Stonewall Walkway in fall for beautiful fall foliage sights, with large leaves dropping down from the trees, creating a crunchy pathway to walk along. The vibrant colors contrast well with the plain stone walls and black tiles.

Take the subway to City Hall Station and use Exit 12. Follow the walls around the palace for the Stonewall Walkway

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17: Seoul Grand Park, Seoul Zoo, & Seoul Land

Seoul Grand Park is a beautiful place in Seoul for a family day out, packed with attractions, sights, and natural beauty. Set in a wooded valley in southern Seoul, this sprawling park contains Seoul Land theme park, Seoul Zoo, an elephant train to take you between attractions, a pretty lake you can ride over on a sky lift, and hundreds of cherry trees.

Kids will love the wild animals, the roller coasters, the attractions, and the petting zoo with rabbits, sheep, and other animals. There are even alpacas. But even if you’re not traveling in Seoul with children, Seoul Grand Park offers forest paths and lakeside rest spots that allow adults to appreciate nature and get away from the busy city.

Our Tip: Save 40% on Seoul Land tickets and get free entry to Seoul Zoo with a Discover Seoul Pass . You can also use it to get free entry to the palaces and free hanbok rental.

This is another great cherry blossom spot in Seoul that is less crowded than places like Yeouido and Seokchon Lake, which makes it perfect for those who want to enjoy the blossoms in a more relaxed way. Visit in early April for cherry blossoms. The fall foliage is equally beautiful and can be enjoyed from mid-October to early November.

Take the subway to Seoul Grand Park Station. This is the entrance to Seoul Grand Park. You can take the elephant train between locations (Seoul Land, Seoul Zoo) or walk.

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18: Kyung Hee University Campus

The Kyung Hee University Campus is one of the most beautiful places in Seoul for a number of reasons. First, the striking neo-classical architecture really stands out from most other buildings in Seoul. Secondly, the thick foliage that weaves through the campus grounds make it a very pleasant place to explore on a sunny day. You might mistake it for an American college campus.

This university, home to more than 30,000 students and, has picturesque gardens, leafy pathways to walk through, and terrace cafes to sit in and enjoy the views. It’s best visited on the weekend when the students are mostly off campus or not studying.

Our Tip: When it’s open to the public, you can visit the rooftop of the College of Fine Arts building and see the campus from above.

Both spring and fall are perfect times to visit this pretty campus. The cherry trees are light pink and camouflage the stark white buildings while the fall foliage is full of burnt coppers and dark reds, brining the classical architecture to life in contrast to the dying leaves.

Take the subway to Hoegi Station or Hanguk Univ. Of Foreign Studies Station. It’s a short walk to the Seoul Campus from either station.

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19: Bukhansan National Park

Did you know there’s a national park within Seoul itself? Carving its way into northern Seoul is Bukhansan National Park , a rocky set of mountains that are home to mountain temples, dozens of hiking and climbing paths, and wild animals such as boars. This is a great place to hike during the day, offering views of Seoul in all directions.

One of the most beautiful parts of Bukhansan National Park is Jingwansa Temple on the western side of the mountains. This is near the base of the mountain, so you can access it easily. It’s also right next to Eunpyeong Hanok Village , a large hanok village that offers a more traditional experience than Bukchon Hanok Village and has Bukhansan to provide an impressive background.

Our Tip: If you want to hike Bukhansan National Park, it should only take a few hours to reach the top. The main peak is Baekundae, which is 835 meters high. It’s a rewarding introduction to hiking in Korea.

Avoid hiking in the summer (July & August) as the weather is very hot. April to early June or September to early November are perfect times to hike. If you want to see snow in Seoul, the high peaks often get snowed on during winter.

Take the subway to Gupabal Station and use Exit 1 or 2. Walk to the nearby bus stop between the two exits. There are 3 buses that go to Bukhansan: Bus 34, 704, and 720.

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20: Seoul Forest & Seongsu-Dong Cafe Area

Seoul Forest is a breath of fresh air for Seoulites, a reserved corner of Seoul that looks out onto the Han River. This is family-friendly place has several playgrounds, a deer sanctuary, and tree-lined pathways and gardens. The abundant sycamore trees in Seoul Forest, with their giant leaves as big as a football, make this a great place to visit during fall. There are also beds of tall, willowy silver reeds that people climb into for captivating pictures.

The area around Seoul Forest, known as Seonsu-Dong, is a quiet residential area that has become gentrified in recent years and now features boutique bakeries, fine foreign foods, arts and crafts shops, and dozens of unique cafes to relax in. There’s also the Under Stand Avenue – a collection of galleries, cafes, and shops made up from shipping containers that’s a symbol of the eco-friendly attitudes in this area.

Our Tip: Visit on a sunny day and explore the park at your leisure. Afterwards, rent a Seoul Public Bike and ride along the riverside paths before retiring for afternoon snacks and coffee in Seonsu-Dong.

If you want some peace and quiet, visit the Seoul Forest during the week as it gets busy on the weekends with local families enjoying a slice of nature. Spring and fall are extremely pleasant, with clear skies, cherry blossoms, flowers, and then fall foliage later in the year.

Take the subway to Seoul Forest Station for the park. Use Exit 5 to head towards to Seongsu-dong Cafe Area.

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Planning To See Beautiful Places In Seoul?

Has this list of the most beautiful places in Seoul inspired you to visit Korea’s capital? Do you want to know what else the rest of Korea has to offer? Maybe you’ve already got plans to go and want some advice about the current travel restrictions, what else there is to see and do, and other unmissable experiences to be had in Seoul and beyond?

If so, be sure to check out our South Korea Travel Guide for more info about what to see, where to stay, when to visit, and everything else you need to plan your trip to Korea. And be sure to brush up on Korean Etiquette and Culture to avoid making any cultural faux pas. Learn some Korea before you travel with our guide to the Best Ways To Learn Korean and travel more easily.

As mentioned, the best time to visit Seoul is definitely in spring or fall, where you can see cherry blossoms and fall foliage respectively. January and February are good if you want to enjoy winter sports and possibly see snow. Summer is best spent on Korea’s sandy beaches.

Now, here are a few more tips to help you make your trip to Seoul more comfortable and guarantee you a great stay in the Land of Morning Calm. Check out these hotel recommendations and some of our favorite Korea travel essentials.

Where To Stay In Seoul To See Beautiful Places

Want to know where to stay to see these beautiful places in Seoul? Want to be close to the royal palaces and traditional hanok houses, or in the heart of modern Korean culture, street food, and fashion? Not sure of the most convenient places to stay with good subway connections, great nearby restaurants, or lively nightlife?

Whether you’re traveling on a budget, want to spend on the best service available, or want to balance both, we’ve selected 9 of the best Seoul hotels that you’ll love. Click on the name of each hotel to check prices.

Luxury Hotels

If you want the best the Seoul has to offer, then these three hotels are for you. Located in Seoul’s wealthy neighborhoods of Gangnam and Itaewon, these hotels are in walking distance of Michelin-starred restaurants, chic boutiques, galleries and museums, and the finest shopping experiences available.

Signiel Hotel Seoul ★★★★★​ One of the best hotels in Korea, if not the world, the Signiel Hotel Seoul is inside the world’s 6th tallest building – the Lotte World Tower – and will give you an incredible stay in Seoul. Experience unbeatable views from the Seoul Sky Observatory on the 117th floor.

Grand Hyatt Seoul ★★★★★ This sleek hotel is tucked away in a peaceful residential area with trendsetting fashion boutiques, cozy cafes & upmarket restaurants, all within sight of the N Seoul Tower. The views from the hotel are spectacular.​

InterContinental Seoul Parnas ★★★★★​ The hotel is adjacent to COEX Mall with convenient access to one of the topmost shopping, entertainment, and business complexes in Korea. Guest rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a sophisticated ambiance to unwind and relax.

Mid-Range Hotels

Families, couples, and other travelers that want to experience the best of Seoul without breaking the bank can sleep easy with these next three hotel recommendations. Discover stylish accommodation in these popular districts, each with fantastic city views. These hotels all conveniently located for sight seeing, shopping, and eating out. Great hotels with reasonable prices.

Mondrian Seoul Itaewon ★★★★★​ Mondrian Seoul Itaewon is an immersive lifestyle destination fueled by bold, captivating designs expressed through a playful mindset–an ideal choice both for forward-thinking locals and for international visitors who are looking for fresh and exciting cultural experiences.

Four Points by Sheraton Seoul ★★★★​ Explore vibrant Gangnam and famous local attractions including Apgujeong and Garosugil, the Han River, museums and the Hyundai Department Store. Immerse yourself in K-pop culture and K-beauty experiences, great shopping, trendy restaurants and famous lounge bars and clubs.

Lotte Hotel Seoul ★★★★★​ Step outside the hotel and you’ll find yourself in Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s most popular district for tourists, with royal palaces, famous markets, street food stalls, and a wealth of shopping all a few footsteps away. This hotel is a great base for busy travelers.

Budget Hotels

Seoul has a wealth of budget accommodation options that will help make your money go further. These hotels are all under $100 but offer comfort and convenience. One hotel even has a beautiful rooftop pool. Although these hotels are cheaper, don’t lower your expectations. You’ll always find great service in Korea. Save on sleeping to spend more on shopping, souvenirs, sights, and all the other fun things there are to do in Seoul.

L7 Hongdae by Lotte ★★★★​ L7 Hongdae is a delightful cultural station, filled with chic and artistic decorations and colorful rooms that resonate with the stylish inhabitants of the neighborhood. Travelers looking for a relaxing place to stay in a trendy area will love this hotel.

Rosana Boutique Hotel ★★★★​ The Rosana Boutique Hotel is a stylish hotel that offers a comfortable night’s stay at budget prices. Located under the shadow of the world’s 6th tallest building – The Lotte World Tower, this is a great hotel for bargain hunters who want beautiful surroundings without 5 star prices.

Mercure Ambassador Hongdae ★★★★​ Well known for urban arts, indie music, clubs, restaurants and various entertainment offerings, Hongdae is where you can experience the beating heart of Seoul’s creativity. Watch local students perform at night and try out cutting-edge youth fashion in the boutiques.

Our Recommended Seoul Travel Essentials

From mobile internet to travel passes that save you time and money getting around, here are some of our top tips for when you visit Seoul.

Flights To Korea: Check prices on flight search sites like Skyscanner and Expedia before booking your flights. You can find some amazing discounts and flights to match your schedule from 100s of different airlines.

Getting To Seoul From Incheon Airport: Ride the Airport Express high-speed train to Seoul Station and connect to the subway system and local taxis. However, if you’re traveling as a group, or have a lot of luggage, an Incheon Airport Private Transfer direct to your hotel is a lot more comfortable.

Transportation: Grab a T-Money Card as soon as you arrive at Incheon Airport. You can use it to ride the subway, buses, and pay for purchases in shops, cafes, convenience stores, and more.

Mobile Internet: Internet access makes traveling so much easier these days. Check the weather, get around, order food, book tickets, and so much more. Best of Korea recommends a Korean Sim Card if you want to use Korean apps (you need a number), or a Portable WiFi Router if you just want Internet access without the number. Preorder online and collect at the airport.

Discover Seoul Pass: If you want to see some of Seoul’s hottest attractions, definitely buy a Discover Seoul Pass . This will get you free entry to the N Seoul Tower, COEX Aquarium, Lotte World, Royal Palaces, and lots more. You even get a free T-Money Card and Airport Express Ride with the card.

Keep checking Best of Korea for all of the latest travel recommendations and travel advice.

Thanks for reading.

Author:  Joel Marrinan

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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

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.)

• 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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• 5 Best Beaches Near Seoul For A Tour Under The Soothing Sun And Waves

23 Mar 2023

The capital city of South Korea, Seoul offers plenty of stunning skyscrapers, charming palaces, serene temples and street markets attracting tourists by a large number. With major gorgeous sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace , Jogyesa Temple and Dongdaemun Design Plaza, we wouldn’t be surprised if you wish to stay longer than planned. But, in order to get the best of this South Korean land, beaches near Seoul will make for a perfect getaway. So, scroll down to know what to include in your holiday to soak in more sun!

Best Time To Visit Seoul

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The fact that certain months make for perfect weather in Seoul is what attracts many visitors from across the globe. An ideal time to visit Seoul is from March to May and from September to November. The month of April can get you to see overall warm weather with many tourists around. Around this time, you will also witness spectacular flowers blooming around and many of the good beaches near Seoul .

Suggested Read: Top 7 Reasons To Visit South Korea & Have A Blast With Your Friends & Family

5 Best Beaches Near Seoul, South Korea

Take a look at all these fascinating beaches close to Seoul in South Korea that you ought to visit when you’re exploring this wonderful country.

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1. Muchangpo Beach

Located close to the famous Daecheon Beach, Muchangpo Beach is particularly famous for an exclusive phenomenon that occurs every year between 15 July to 30 July here. Around this time, the seabed appears as if its cutting the seawater into two separate sections. It is locally called as the ‘Moses Phenomenon’. This beach is amongst the best beaches in Korea near Seoul is often visited by locals as well as tourists to view a splendid view of the sunset and for trying some traditional fishing activity.

Location: 10, Yeollinbada 1-gil, Ungcheon-eup, Boryeong, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea

Suggested Read: Banpo Bridge: All You Need To Know For Your Visit To South Korea’s Marvelous Attraction

2. Daecheon Beach

Situated at a distance of 30 minutes by road, Daecheon Beach is only 3 hours away from Seoul. You’ll find a variety of pebbles and shells on this beach along with a stunning view of the sea. This beach is also famous for the grand celebration of Boryeong Mud Festival, which is easily carried out due to the shallow waters and fluffy texture of the sand at the beach. This is yet another one that tops the list of best beaches near Seoul for tourists!

Location: Boryeong, South Korea

Suggested Read: 8 Hotels In South Korea That Are All About Class, Comfort, And Convenience!

3. Naksan Beach

If you’re planning to visit the charming Naksan Beach, make sure you don’t miss out on the sunrise view from Uisangdae Pavilion, Naksansa Temple and Mt. Seoraksan National Park, which makes it one of the most beautiful beaches near Seoul . Comparatively bigger in length than the neighbouring Gyeongpo beach, both beaches are very similar to each other in terms of views, sands and exteriors. So, make sure you don’t confuse one with another while you’re in Seoul.

Location: 1 Ju Cheong-ri, Ganghyeon-myeon, Yangyang, Gangwon-do, South Korea

Suggested Read: Top 10 Things To Do In South Korea To Experience The Essence Of The Vibrant Country

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4. Guryongpo Beach

Despite being far from Seoul, Guryongpo beach has crystal clear waters and when these soothing waves splash across the white sands of this beach, a sense of calm lingers in the air. Tourists mostly prefer this beach for camping and getting your own food is also allowed here since food is slightly costlier here at the stalls. You can check out Pohang city if you wish to stay for a night near this beach on your holiday as this beach is amongst the most famous beaches around Seoul !

Location: 6 Homi-ro 426beon-gil, Guryongpo-eup, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Suggested Read: 24 Best Places To Visit In South Korea

5. Eurwangni Beach

Located in Incheon, the public Eurwangni Beach is close to the airport and you can easily make this your mandatory stop if you wish to dip your toes in the soothing ocean waves of one of the best Korea beaches near Seoul . Due to the fact that it is close to the airport, this beach can be crowded most of the time around the year and the serene shallow waters make for a perfect spot for kids to swim around. However, you can avoid walking barefoot here as the various sea shells present might hurt your feet.

Location: Yongyu-dong, Incheon, South Korea

Further Read: 5 Places Worth Exploring On Korea Tour-Land Of Morning Calm

Many of Seoul’s famous attractions are its best kept secrets that you must explore while in South Korean land. Make sure you visit all of these fascinating beaches on your next holiday. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning a trip to Seoul for an extraordinary beach experience while in the capital city! So, are you ready for your beach holiday near Seoul?

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Best places in the world to see cherry blossoms

A fter a long gray winter, there are few things that can lift my mood like seeing the first pink cherry blossoms of spring filling the sky with their delicate blooms.

I'm especially lucky — some of the best buds on the East Coast bloom near me at Branch Brook Park in Newark (yes, that Newark ). The 5,000 trees create a cotton candy skyline for a week in early April that banishes all thoughts of bleak winter days.

I'm not the only one who feels the cherry blossoms' positive mood pull. The Japanese equate sakura , cherry blossoms, with new beginnings, and the act of hanami , or cherry blossom viewing, in early spring is met with both reverence and celebration in Japan, with multiple generations spending days and evenings at parties, picnics and festivals lauding this fresh new start.

Although Japan, especially Tokyo, is equated with hanami celebrations, you can find sakura in destinations around the globe. It's the perfect excuse to plan spring travel — a cherry blossom pilgrimage offers not just the visual spectacle of the blooms and their aftermath of soft silky petals covering the ground like fragrant snow, but a chance to immerse yourself in the culture of each destination, too.

Related: The best places to see cherry blossoms around the US this spring

Of course, trees can be temperamental depending on the weather, so build a bit of time buffer into your travels if you're planning a trip specifically around seeing the delicate pink and cream blooms and their flower fireworks.

From Amsterdam to Japan, here's where to immerse yourself in spring's sakura.

If you're considering traveling to see spring's cherry blossom bloom, chances are you have Tokyo in your sights already, since sakura are synonymous with this city, where the tradition of hanami dates back 1,200 years. The entire city celebrates the blooms with picnics and events, special sakura-themed menus, and hanami bento and snack spots near viewing areas.

There are multiple locations around Tokyo to view the pink sakura wave. Among the most prominent is Ueno Park, which transforms into a pink wonderland with 1,000 flowering trees that bring millions of visitors to bask in their rosy glow. In the evenings, the park is illuminated for a glowing nighttime visit. Another top stop is Chidorigafuchi Park, where the Imperial Palace is located, which is especially memorable for its nearly half-mile tunnel of blooms plus a sakura-lined canal that you can boat through.

According to Japan's cherry blossom forecast , Tokyo's blooms are predicted to start March 23 and be at full flower on March 30. (Once again, these dates can wiggle a bit depending on Mother Nature.)

Where to stay: Staying near major transportation hubs will make it easy to see sakura around the city (and not be stuck in the crowds at the most popular spots). The Conrad Tokyo occupies the top floors of the Shiodome skyscraper, with stellar views of Tokyo Bay, and is near several train stations. It's also next to Hama-rikyu Gardens, a hidden gem for peaceful sakura viewing. During peak hanami, the last week in March, rooms start at $818 or 95,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Related: The best hotels in Tokyo for your next Japan getaway

Kyoto, Japan

It's not just Tokyo where the sakura are revered in Japan. Kyoto is also world-renowned for its surge of cherry blossoms that bloom just in time for spring and romantically outline the tranquil pathways of its many parks. Known as the cultural heart of Japan, and serving as the central preservation hub for Japan's vibrant culture and history, seeing the sakura among its 2,000 temples and shrines — including Nijo Castle and Toji Temple — truly imbues the ancient practice with a sense of history.

One particularly special spot is Philosopher's Path, which weaves through cherry tree-lined canals between the Ginkakuji and Nanzenji temples. It's a particularly serene setting for hanami. For evening viewing, Maruyama-Koen Park is especially popular for its illuminated branches and picnic areas under the bowers.

According to the Japan Meteorological Corporation, peak sakura viewing in Kyoto will start with the first blooms on March 23 and peak on March 31. The city sponsors multiple events, including night viewings.

Where to stay: The Park Hyatt Kyoto has a prime location in the Higashiyama ward and combines modern luxury with ancient pagoda guesthouse-style accommodations. (TPG staffers also love its French-inspired teppanyaki dining at Yasaka and its convivial bar, Kohaku, where craft cocktails are served with classic Kyoto views). Rates during hanami start at $1,273 or 35,000-45,000 World of Hyatt points per night, making it a great option for World of Hyatt loyalists.

Related: What's faster: Race from Tokyo to Kyoto by Japan Airlines plane and bullet train

Seoul, South Korea

The cherry blossom spectacle at Yeouido Hangang Park in Seoul is a must-see, and it doesn't have the same influx of foreign travelers that you'll find in Tokyo, so you can avoid some of the flower-viewing crush that's become part of the experience there. Some of the top viewing spots are Yeouido Park and Gyeongbokgung Palace, both of which have stunning views of clouds of blooms.

The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the biggest viewing events in South Korea. It takes place in early April and features parades and performances, including a magical night lantern parade. Although it's not in Seoul, it's possible to do a one-day excursion with Klook , where a bus will pick you up in the morning, take you to the festival and then bring you back in the evening.

Where to stay: The stylish Andaz Seoul Gangnam is centrally located, making it easy to walk to most of Seoul's main attractions; plus, there's direct access to Apgujeong station to reach the cherry blossom sites. Expect design details like bojagi, a traditional Korean cloth used to create textile art. The hotel has an array of hot tubs, a sauna and a lap pool. The property is a Category 5 World of Hyatt property; rooms start at $281 or 20,000 Hyatt points per night during the first week of April.

Related: A confluence of innovation and honored traditions: South Korea 2024

I am solidly in the camp that thinks Paris is always a good idea, especially in late March and the beginning of April when cerisiers (cherry trees) paint the town pink.

You'll find pockets of the pink flowers all around the city. Some top spots include near the Louvre at the Jardin du Palais-Royal, where you'll also spot spring daffodils filling the flower beds. You can also catch the pink wave along the Champ de Mars leading to the Eiffel Tower and in the Trocadero Gardens (the ultimate Instagram selfie with the tower and the pink petals). One of my favorite cherry blossom spots in Paris — Square Jean XXIII, next to Notre Dame — is currently closed, but it should be open for the 2025 flower season, if you're planning a trip for next year.

Unlike other destinations where you'll find cherry blossom events, there are no organized festivals in the City of Light. Do like the Parisians do, and plan a picnic under the flowering bowers.

Where to stay: The Hotel du Louvre, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, is tucked in between the Louvre and the Jardin du Palais-Royal, so you'll have cherry blossom views no matter which way you turn when you walk out the door. For a double room in mid-April, the member rate with breakfast starts at $565 per night. This is a Hyatt Category 7 property, with point redemptions available for mid-April starting at 30,000 points per night.

Related: The best hotels in Paris

Although this might not be the biggest display in Europe, the cherry blossom season in Amsterdam has something that no other city can claim: a distinctly feminist feel. At Kersenbloesempark (Cherry Blossom Park) in Amsterdamse Bos (Amsterdam Forest) in Amstelveen , a suburb of Amsterdam located 5 miles south of downtown, the park's 400 trees, a gift from the Japanese Women's Club, are all named after women, with half in Dutch and half in Japanese.

There are no exact dates for the blooms, but expect about a two-week bloom sometime in late March or early April. Note that picnicking is only allowed during weekdays, and there are no restrooms in the gardens (check out the Amstelveen website for nearby restaurants).

Where to stay: From the centrally located Kimpton DeWitt Amsterdam , it's easy to both explore Amsterdam and to hop on tram line 5 to reach Amstelveen (about a 25-minute ride). IHG member rates for the hotel start at $231 a night in early April, with reward night stays starting at 31,000 IHG points. And as part of Kimpton's Plant Pals program, the hotel will deliver a plant, which has a name and name tag, to your room.

Related: How to spend 1 day in Amsterdam

Jerte Valley, Spain

Sure, it's impressive to see hundreds of cherry blossom trees together. And when you view thousands in one place, it's quite a sight. But how about millions of trees? That's what awaits in the Jerte Valley in the Extremadura region of Spain (about three hours west of Madrid), where more than 2 million cherry trees create a sea of petals in late March and early April.

During an extended celebration that runs from late March all the way into May, you'll find everything from special marketplaces to medieval fairs, plus music, culture and cuisine events centered around the blooms. Unlike the ornamental varieties of Japanese cherry trees, the ones here produce prized fruit. If you return in May or June, you can even join the cherry harvest.

Where to stay: The Jerte Valley enjoys a rural setting, and there are no opportunities for points redemptions here. However, there are some authentic and welcoming places to spend the night, including Hospederia Valle del Jerte, which has a historic exterior but modern rooms. There's an outdoor pool, a full breakfast and fantastic views of the valley, all for around $110 per night.

Washington, DC

As a former resident of the nation's capital, I can attest that Washington's nearly 4,000 Yoshino cherry blossom trees transform the serious, buttoned-up city into a veritable pink carnival during the short lifespan of the blooms.

In addition to the festival held March 20 to April 14, with everything from a parade to a kite festival to a "Petalpalooza," the Tidal Basin, where the majority of cherry blossoms are located, turns into a round-the-clock picnic scene, with thousands of people lying in the soft fallen petals, enjoying the spring weather.

Note that if ​​you can't visit during the main peak bloom period, another variety of cherry blossom, the Kwanzan, usually blooms two weeks later in other parts of the city. And if you want to avoid the crowds, head to the National Arboretum for a much more relaxed viewing experience.

Where to stay: Hilton fans will want to head to the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC, which occupies the Old Post Office building. It's grand and very ornate, with a multifloor atrium and even a 19-foot cherry blossom tree in the lobby, where a Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea is served. Special Cherry Blossom packages include a two-night stay, exclusive seating for the tea and special access to hanami locations around DC. Expect rates around $580 or 110,000 Hilton Honors points per night during the peak of bloom season.

Macon, Georgia

Here's a U.S. spot for hanami that may come as a surprise: Macon, Georgia. The Yoshino trees here were mistaken for the more popular dogwood when they were originally planted in 1949, according to city officials. Today, though, the annual bloom is celebrated in big style. For 10 days — this year, the bloom is predicted from March 15 to 24 — the entire city turns pink as more than 350,000 cherry trees are in full bloom (by comparison, Washington has 3,800).

This year a new event, The Pink Provisions Party on Poplar, on March 15, will feature local restaurants and bars presenting all of their signature creations for the celebration. Think cherry ice cream, pink doughnuts, foamy fuchsia cocktails, a cherry blossom pilsner from Ocmulgee Brewpub and even a cherry blossom coffee blend from Z Beans.

A live "Bloom Cam" feed allows those who can't make it to watch the cherry trees as they announce the arrival of spring.

Where to stay: Use your Marriott points to stay at Hotel Forty Five, Macon, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel . The new boutique 95-room hotel is right in the middle of all the pink party happenings, and you can check it out from the Hightales Rooftop Bar. Double room rates start at $216 or 39,000 Marriott Bonvoy points a night during cherry blossom season.

Vancouver, British Columbia

With more than 40,000 cherry trees, many of which came directly from Japan, Vancouver's Queen Elizabeth Park becomes a veritable puff of pink in the spring.

With so many trees comprising multiple varieties, the blooming period spreads over nearly two months, so if you're visiting in March or April, you will likely be able to spot some petals on the trees.

The Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival will be held from March 29 to April 25 (almost a full month), with a mix of arts and culture events, including a Japanese Sakura Days Fair, a Haiku Festival and a Blossoms After Dark event for illuminated evening viewing.

Where to stay: Keep your stay green with a visit to the Fairmont Waterfront , whose organic rooftop garden grows everything from vegetables to fruit trees, not to mention beehives (you can try the honey at their "pollinator" dinner.) Room rates start at $299 a night in early April (Accor Live Limitless members receive 5% off the lowest rate).

Related: Booking the perfect Pacific Northwest summer vacation with points and miles

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria boasts the mildest year-round climate in Canada, and as a result it's a haven for spring florals. Starting at the end of February and going until May, the city offers an incredibly extended, and impressive, cherry blossom bloom.

One of the most popular places to see the tapestry of pink hues is along the aptly named View Street in the heart of Downtown Victoria. It's usually the first area to explode in a sea of pink flowers, so this is a stop for early birds.

Although there's no formal festival, Victoria does have an interactive cherry blossom map , so you can find the blooms around the city whenever you visit in the spring.

Where to stay: The Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour is a TPG favorite, with availability starting at $225 or 36,000 Marriott Bonvoy points a night in March. There are cherry blossoms around the harbor area for easy viewing, and the hotel has a pool for post-hanami relaxation.

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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.