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Seoul Travel Guide: What To Do and Must-Visit Attractions

With airports opening back up and tourism increasing in the past year, there’s plenty of destinations for you to choose from.

One of those places is Seoul, South Korea, which is home to brilliant exhibits of culture and art. What is there for you to do in Seoul, and is it worth it?

Seoul, South Korea is a large city filled with culture and tourist activities that make it worthwhile. Not only is Seoul a very safe city to visit, but it is rising in popularity due to the impacts Korean culture, entertainment, and business has had on the rest of the world. Seoul is among the most visited cities in the world. 

The rest of this article will cover what to do in the city, where to stay, what Seoul is known for, and a brief conclusion.

What To Do In Seoul

Seoul (서울) is a vibrant city with gorgeous sights and culture you have to see. But before we get into that, we have to talk about one of the most important parts of South Korean culture: the food. Between side dishes, street food, and stews, South Korea has a versatile cuisine!

Side Dishes

A staple of Korean culture are the side dishes served with each meal. Called Banchan (반찬) by Koreans, side dishes is an idea that dates back to the Korean royal court cuisine, which consisted of anywhere between 2 to 12 side dishes.

Cheaper restaurants tend to serve less, but each side dish is tasty and compliments the meal. Banchan arrives before meals, but don’t confuse them with an appetizer. 

They are included in the cost of the meal, and the best part: they have free, unlimited refills!

Some common side dishes are: kelp noodle salad (cheonsachae salad or 천사채), spicy Korean coleslaw, sweet and salty soybeans (kongjabean or 콩자반), sweet and salty lotus roots (yeonkeun jorim or 연근조림), and Korean style sausage stir fry.

Street Food

If you’re looking for an alternative to dine-in restaurants, street food is just for you! Street food is ready-to-eat food you can buy from local vendors. 

Even better: vendors are easy to find and are lined up and down the Seoul streets, all you have to do is find the one that suits you!

There are plenty of foods to choose from, so get your chopsticks ready. For starters, you have to try Korean style fried chicken. It’s a must when you’re in Seoul. 

Street vendors will absolutely sell Korean fried chicken, and you should at least try them while you’re there!

There’s also bibimbap (비빔밥). Bap (밥) in Korean literally means rice, or meal. Therefore, bibimbap translates to mixed rice. 

Bibimbap has warm rice and sauteed and or seasoned vegetables. A raw or fried egg and sliced meat, normally beef, are included as well.

Korean dumplings ( mandu or 만두) are another commonly served street food dish. There are many different types of dumplings you can get such as vegetable dumplings, beef dumplings, and or pork dumplings. These foods are all super tasty and super affordable!

With Seoul having a cool climate, soups and stews are a significant portion of a Korean’s diet. One popular stew is known as Army stew. 

This stew has American processed meat such as Spam, ham, bacon, and hot dogs. Those meats are mixed into a Korean stew with kimchi .

Kimchi-jjigae (김치찌개) is a stew made with kimchi and various other ingredients such as pork or seafood, scallions, onions, and diced dubu. This stew is a popular choice in South Korea, and it’s a common stew to find in Seoul.

Lastly, another popular stew is Korean crab stew (kkotgetang 꽃게탕). This stew is pretty self-explanatory. It’s a stew with a flower crab as the primary ingredient. 

There’s also Korean radish, garlic, dried anchovies, and other ingredients that vary by the recipe.

The Sights In Seoul, South Korea

Seoul itself is an architectural landmark. There are specific sights in Seoul that are places you have to visit while you’re there. 

A few of those places are: N Seoul Tower, the Ansan Starlight Village, and the Jogyesa. There’s also entertainment like underground shopping.

N Seoul Tower

The N Seoul Tower is famous for its location and height allowing access to the gorgeous skyline of Seoul. 

Back in 1969, it was utilized as Korea’s first general radio wave tower. TV and radio broadcasts would play from the N Seoul Tower to the surrounding metropolitan area.

This tower is 236 meters high and is the second-highest point in Seoul. It is a communication and observation tower on Nam Mountain. 

The N Seoul Tower is in the center of Seoul, which is why the height and location is so perfect for tourists looking to get amazing pictures.

Ansan Starlight Village

Perhaps the brightest pick on this list, the Ansan Starlight village is a radiant garden along the expressway of Ansan. 

It is known for being festive and romantic all-year-round, and displays of over 200 animals are there. These animals include: owls, cranes, swans, elephants, and more.

Not only does it provide an astonishing atmosphere for relaxation and Instagram posts, but it’s also an area that sparks romance. 

Marriage proposals are a common occurrence there due to the perfect lighting and activities.

The Jogyesa (조계사) is a Korean Buddhist temple. It is the chief temple of the Jogye Order. The building itself dates back to the 14th century, becoming the chief temple in 1936. It is located in central Seoul, and it is known for its zen environment.

Not only is the architect magnificent, but the nature surrounding it is fresh and preserved, just like the temple. 

The Jogyesa is a common tourist site for experiencing royal palace life. You can tour the building with a guide and see all the history and architecture with your own eyes.

Underground Shopping

A famous activity in Seoul is underground shopping. Two examples of underground shopping areas are the Express Bus Terminal Underground Center and the Gangnam Underground Shopping Center. 

These shopping areas are perfect for good finds, even on a rainy day.

Many of the shopping centers, both above ground and underground, are located in Myeongdong , the shopping district of Seoul. 

Underground shopping centers don’t risk putting a large dent in your budget. They’re cheap yet fashionable and useful.

Some tips for underground shopping are to bring cash with you and check out the trendy stores. Some items require cash, no credit. 

As for the trendy stores, you can find the latest fashion trends at underground stores for more affordable prices, so be on the lookout for that!

Where To Stay In Seoul

When it comes to the size of South Korea, it’s not as large as other countries like America. So, their compromise was to build their buildings upwards to make more space, not side-to-side. This means there are many apartment buildings and hotels all around Seoul.

There are 5 main districts in Seoul you should consider staying near: Myeongdong , Hongdae , Gangnam , Itaewon , and Jamsil .

Prices and quality depends on which area you choose. There’s Myeongdong (명동), which is known for being a huge shopping district. 

The Westin Josun Seoul Hotel is only a 5-minute walk away from the bustling life of Myeongdong. It’s a highly rated hotel with many activities inside.

The shopping district has everything you’ll need from body care items you misplaced to trinkets and K-pop albums. There are department stores, shoe stores like Adidas, perfume shops, skincare stores, H&M, and many more for all your traveling and souvenir needs.

Hongdae (홍대) is for those craving an adventure more indie and fashionable. It’s a creative district with plenty of cafes and Korean BBQ. Mono House Hongdae is a minimalist housing property that’s affordable and only 5 minutes away from the Hongik University Subway Station.

The entertainment value at Hongdae is incredible. The Tricky Eye Museum Seoul relies on visual tricks to keep you on your toes and show you various art. There’s also clubs for dancing and music. Hongdae as a whole values urban arts, indie music culture, and entertainment.

Gangnam (강남구) is a wealthier district of Seoul, meaning higher quality living, but at the cost of much higher prices. The Park Hyatt Seoul is an expensive 5-star hotel that has a relaxing spa and gorgeous views of Gangnam. It’s worth the price for the views alone!

There’s also the Aloft Seoul Gangnam. This is a cheaper, 4-star hotel that’s the better option for those wishing for a taste of the high life without losing a significant amount of money in the process. It includes business services, an on-site restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and a lounge.

If you were called the life of the party growing up, Itaewon (이태원) is for you. It’s nicknamed the “Western Town” of Seoul due to the variety of international cuisine and entertainment offered there. It has multiple unique bars, restaurants, and activities around town all worth visiting.

The Grand Hyatt Seoul is a 5-star hotel with over 600 rooms and over 50 suites. It’s close to both Itaewon and Myeongdong, but it is expensive. However, it may be worth it since some amenities include an on-site restaurant, an indoor pool, and free Wi-Fi.

Jamsil (잠실동) is the best spot for families. It’s also great for those who love sports. Jamsil is home to not one, but two professional Korean baseball teams: the LG Twins and Doosan Bears. It’s rich with K-pop culture, and it’s also home to Lotte World, an amusement park.

The Lotte World Hotel is right beside the amusement park of the same name, and it is a 5-star hotel that also sits on top of Jamsil Subway Station. 

It’s the perfect hotel for your family to travel across Seoul and Jamsil, experiencing the amusement park as well as the culture.

What Seoul Is Known For

It would be impossible to talk about Seoul without mentioning the entertainment industry that has brought us popular K-dramas such as Squid Game, and the K-pop industry that brought us the worldwide superstars BTS. Seoul is overflowing with creativity and art.

Fun fact: Seoul is the birthplace of K-pop. Although the term wasn’t coined until 1999 by Cho Hyun-jin, Korean music groups rose from Seoul. 

History and culture is thriving in the city, and that’s what tourists go to visit. Places like the Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁) are famous destinations.

One of the most famous aspects of Seoul is the street food. Street food is cheaper than restaurant food and it still tastes yummy. It’s a perfect alternative to when you don’t want to spend a lot of money, and you want to wander around the streets of Seoul while eating.

South Korea is known for its beauty standards and skincare . Koreans use natural ingredients to keep their skin clean and smooth. In the west, Korean skincare products and routines are popular because of the glowing skin they cause. Many of these products come from Seoul.

Lastly, Seoul is known for the preserved royal temples around the land. There are more than 900 traditional Buddhist temples that are centuries old. In total, there are over 20,000 temples in Seoul.

Seoul is a beautiful and safe city for tourists that has grown in popularity over the years. It is known for its rich culture, entertainment, skincare, K-pop, and preservation of traditional Buddhist temples.

The food is a must-have. There are various types of food such as side dishes, street food, and stews that will keep you invested in the culture surrounding you. There’s also the sights of Seoul like the N Seoul Tower, and those sights encourage you to snap countless pictures.

Lastly, the 5 main districts of Seoul you should consider visiting are: Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, Itaewon, and Jamsil.

Each individual place has its own lifestyle and culture. There’s the shopping, the indie culture, the wealthy, the partying, and the amusement park.

Don’t forget to check out Ulsan , Sejong , and Daejeon .

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Living and traveling in Korea

An Epic Travel Guide To Seoul, Korea For The First Timer

Seoul, Korea is huge and has gained a ton of attention in the past decade for not only a beautiful culture but also the Hallyu wave that has swept over the world. When you begin to plan your trip to the capital city of Korea it can seem overwhelming and you may not know where to begin.

While I’m known for promoting the off the beaten path spots in and around Seoul and promoting new hot spots to check out, I wanted to create an essential guide for the first time visitor to this busy and fun capital of Korea.

Having lived here since 2006 when I first came as an English teacher, you can be assured, this is THE guide to read before you get here. Whether or not it’s your first time to Korea though, read through it and make sure you’ve seen everything there is to see. From Seoul’s quirky cafes to the best spots to get gorgeous views. it’s all here. Make your time in Seoul, Korea the best it can be!

This is a massive travel guide with all of the information you need for any trip to Seoul, Korea. Because it’s so long, definitely feel free to skip around. Here is what you’ll find in this post:

• What To do To Prepare For Your Trip To Seoul
• Is It Safe To Travel In South Korea?

What To Know About Money & ATMs In Seoul

• Which Is The Best Area To Stay In Seoul?
• What Is The Best Time To Visit Korea?

General Travel Tips For Korea

• A Korean palace
• A traditional market
• Rent a Hanbok
• Find the hotspots
• Visit the Han River
• Get a good view
• Visit lots and lots of cafes
• Visit a museum
• Visit a spa
• Visit an amusement park
• See the DMZ
• Check out these notable spots in between

To Join A Tour Or Not To Join A Tour

• Where To Get Out Of Seoul For A Day Trip

Want To Get Off The Beaten Path In & Around Seoul?

Places to take trips from seoul.

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

Need help with an itinerary? Elevate your travel experience with our downloadable Seoul Itinerary Pack. combine, and conquer the city’s wonders, one unforgettable day at a time.

What To Do To Prepare For Your Trip To Seoul

Are you traveling to Seoul soon? Here are some things to help you prepare for the trip:

Buy Your Plane Ticket: You can get some great deals on flights to Seoul, Korea. If you haven’t tried, check Skyscanner.com for the best rates.

Can I use the Wise Card In Korea? How To Send Money To Korea

Wise Travel Card: Whether you’re looking to travel to Korea for the first time or you’re moving to Korea and want to be able to use your money from home in Korea easily, you should look into the Wise travel card when it comes to converting currencies and getting away from card fees and bad exchange rates. The first time I came to Korea I had difficulty getting my debit card/Mastercard to work. Don’t be like me, come prepared. You can learn more about the Wise travel card in my review .

Get a Visa/Korea Electronic Travel Authorization: The process for coming into Korea has changed during Covid and now everyone must apply for a K-ETA before arrival. The K-ETA is for visa-free foreign visitors and while you’re visa free, they still want to know you’re coming and where you’re headed. Here is a guide to fill out the information for the K-ETA . Go to the K-ETA website to apply. You should find out if you’ve received approval within 24 hours, but usually faster.

Study Korean:  90 Day Languages has a great course on Korean and offers a lot of help if you’re interested in preparing before you come. A little goes a long way here and it actually only takes about an hour to learn how to read Hangul… no joke! You can also check out this guide to learning Korean online and through apps I put together to get some more Korean learning options.

Plan Your Airport Transfer:  There are numerous ways to transfer from Incheon International Airport outside of the city into the city of Seoul from the subway/train and bus to taxis. To be honest, we almost always opt for the private transfer. It’s fast and easy and we don’t have to worry about dragging our bags this way and that and up and down escalators. TaDa is a great company that provides transfers as well as rides within the city.  Book your transfer in advance  to make the trip smooth and easy.

Get Good Hard Case Luggage:  Packing all of the essentials is good only if they get to the other side with you. Make sure to have good luggage to get you and your belongings all the way.  Roam Luggage has awesome customizable bags that will go the distance and look super cool on the way. We highly recommend using hard case luggage for any international flight.

International Driver’s License: To be honest, I wouldn’t recommend driving in Seoul if it’s your first time to this massive city. BUT, if you plan to and will rent a car  while you’re here, then remember to bring your International Driver’s License. I highly recommend renting a car if you’ll be headed to Jeju Island or anywhere aside from Seoul and Busan because it’s much easier to get around that way in those cases.

Where To Buy A TMoney Card For Korea

How To Get A T-Money Card For Kids in Korea

The Discover Seoul Pass: Travel On A Budget In Seoul

The Seoul City Tour Bus Guide: What To See & Do When You Hop On Hop Off

T-Money Card/Discover Seoul Pass/Hop On & Hop Off Bus: To get around using the Seoul Subway System or buses or other public transportation options, you’ll need to get a T-Money card . This card allows you to put money on it and scan it at the turnstiles in subways and when you’re getting on and off buses and even works in taxis.

HOWEVER, if you’ll be doing a lot of touristy things and visiting the touristy sites, then you might be better off getting the Discover Seoul Pass . This pass comes with a variety of perks like access to Hanbok rentals, palaces, view points and other major attractions AND it also works as a T-Money card. On top of that, you get a free ride on the AREX and Airport bus to/from Incheon International Airport. 

SO, if you’ll be touristy,  grab the Discover Seoul Pass to get out and about plus this also acts as a T-Money card. But do know how to use it. Here is a guide and itineraries for using the Discover Seoul Pass to the max. There’s also a great Hop On/ Hop Off Tour Bus option here in Seoul you can use too.

Korea Rail Pass:  If you want to get out of Seoul and plan to use the train more than twice, then the Korea Rail Pass is the economical/budget choice you want to have on hand. You can get back and forth between the popular  Nami Island  nearby the city or go as far as  Andong  or even  Busan . The train line is the limits.  Grab the card here  and just head to the station with your confirmation and it’s as easy as that.

Wifi Eggs/Sim Cards:  While there is great WiFi in many places around Seoul and Korea, nothing beats having your own Wifi Egg so there’s no lag in connection. You can pre-reserve  Sim Cards via Klook so they’re ready and waiting for you when you fly into either Incheon International Airport or into Busan International Airport. You can alco get an eSIM with eSIM Korea which is even’t easier. Here’s a complete guide to the best Korean SIM cards for your trip to Korea.

Top 15 Apps to Download When You Come To Korea

Download Some Useful Apps: The Seoul subway system is super efficient and you can ride it for two hours or more, not pay an arm and a leg, and see a ton. Make sure to download the subway app to know where to go the easiest. The app even tells you which subway car to stand on when.

On the note of apps, do note that Google Maps is horrible when it comes to Korea and will be more difficulty than it’s worth. Another map app that you’ll find useful is Kakao Maps which can be used in both Korean and English. Kakao also has Kakao Taxi which is the best option should you want to get around using local taxis.

Pack The Right Clothes: Seoul has four distinct seasons. The summer is hot hot hot and the winter is cold cold cold! Be prepared. Check out this post for what to pack when you come to Korea . You’ll want to have everything from a fine dust mask to good walking shoes for the best trip you can have in Korea.

Recommended Travel Adapters For Korea

Don’t Forget A Travel Adapter: For some reason travel adapters are easily forgotten among the tourists I’ve met. Remember that not every place has the same plugs/outlets. Make sure you know which travel adapter to bring to Korea so your trip isn’t bumpy at the beginning as you race around trying to charge your devices.

Get Your TEFL:  This is less for travelers than it is for the soon to be teachers. There are a lot of teaching positions available in Korea so to make yourself stand out, definitely make sure you get your TEFL before you come… though you can also get it online once you come too!

Is it safe to travel in South Korea?

Generally, yes, it is very safe in Korea. That said, many foreigners come here assuming that because there is no gun violence or drug issues in Korea it’s MUCH safer than it really is. While you will likely not have any problems while you’re here, certainly don’t put yourself in situations you wouldn’t in your home country.

While I don’t think there is a ton of scamming to look out for, I do want to say you should be wary of cults in Korea that will see tourists coming a mile away. Most vendors aren’t jacking up prices just because you speak a different language, but I would watch out for people that spike drinks. Just be mindful as you should be at all times.

Is it safe to drink tap water in South Korea?

After coming here and seeing how everyone consistently opts for bottled water over tap water, you might be surprised to learn that tap water is indeed potable in Korea and actually tested more than most other places for safety. Yes, you can drink the tap water in Korea, but read this article to find out why Koreans tend to drink bottled water.

The unit of currency is the Korean Won (KRW)

Your cards will likely work, but they will also likely not work. That is to say that for every ATM you find that your card works at, it won’t work at two others and this can be frustrating. While Koreans walk around swiping everywhere now and probably have NO cash in their wallets, as a traveler, you’ll want to have some.

Make sure to let your bank/creditor know that you’ll be traveling to Korea before you come and you will be able to find an ATM that works…. at some point. But bring at least W300,000 = $300.00 in cash to get by at the beginning just in case it takes you longer to find cash.

You could even bring more just to be safe. Most places downtown will also accept your card, but if you’re looking to get into some hole in the wall spots, you’ll probably find spots that won’t take your card. Just be prepared. This is one of the biggest worries for tourists here so better to be safe rather than sorry.

If you want to exchange when you get here, the best spot to do it is in Myeongdong if you have cash and can’t find an ATM that works.

Tipping culture in Korea : Tipping is not a common part of Korean culture. Yes, you can try to tip at restaurants, to taxi drivers, or to your tour guides, but it isn’t expected, though may be accepted. Learn more in this guide to tipping in Korea so you can understand.

Is Korea cheap?

It can be, but it also may not be. For instance, a mistake a lot of new residents and tourists make is heading to expensive bars for drinks or trendy restaurants. Eating out can definitely rack up the bills, however, eating at traditional markets or in small mom and pop shops will definitely make it cheaper.

There are numerous ways to make a trip to Korea more budget friendly like taking advantage of the 40 free walking tours in Seoul. There is even hiking gear available to borrow for free from the city. Find out more ways to save money on a trip to Korea and check out this list of completely free things to do in Seoul to help you if you’re on a budget.

Which is the best area to stay in Seoul?

There are some areas that are definitely better for tourists to stay in if you’re hoping to see the top sites, have the fun, and get in the cultural experiences. Seoul is massive and you definitely don’t want to be in an area that requires a lot of transportation to get to the major sites. I’ve written a complete guide to where to stay in Seoul here. Check it out. More concisely, here are the top areas to stay in and a bit of info about each:

Myeongdong:  Myeongdong is a very central location and a great spot to stay for tourists, especially tourists that want to shop. It’s a big shopping district but that also means all of the restaurants and cafes have Korean AND English menus among other language options. Things open up with the tourists and stay open late with them too.

Transportation on the train, subway, and buses is easy from here and a lot of the tourists sites are within 20 to 30 minutes. I wrote a guide to the best places to stay in Myeongdong , but you can also go directly to Booking.com to find Myeongdong hotels here . If you want to check out the Airbnb options, look here.

Bukchon Hanok Village: If you’re looking for a more traditional Hanok house to stay in, then you’ll want to head to this area. The Bukchon Hanok Village is between the main palaces and near a lot of the cultural experiences. This is also a highly touristed area so restaurants will be able to help you and you’ll see some of the gorgeous older neighborhoods in the city.

You can find Bukchon Hanok Village stays here . If you’re an Airbnb person, then you can check here for some amazing Airbnbs in the Bukchon Hanok Village .

Hongdae: If you’re looking for a younger, hipper area with live music and an arts scene, this is the neighborhood for you. It doesn’t wake up as early as the above areas because it stays awake so late. There are a ton of restaurants and cafes here and it’s an area that best serves the night owls and the people that want to see busking, find a cool pub or bar, or see some live music.

I have culled a list of the best places to stay in Hongdae right here. But, if you want to get right to it, you can find Hongdae hotels here . For Airbnbs in the Hongdae area, look here .

Itaewon: Itaewon is the foreign area of Seoul and where a ton of foreign locals reside so there is GOOD foreign food if you’re looking for that foreign comfort food. I don’t usually recommend this area to tourists because I think the majority of sites you’ll want to see are more north, BUT if you’ll want to split your time between the Hanok villages and palaces and Gangnam which is south of the river, then Itaewon is your best bet so you have the same transportation time from here to there and everywhere.

You can find Itaewon hotels here . There are some great Airbnbs in the Itaewon area, too.

Dongdaemun: Another shopping district, Dongdaemun is very close to the touristy north and also has easy transportation to the south. This is a vibrant neighborhood with a lot of hidden gems and a lot fashionable people. There are quite a few subway line options, buses, and it’s easy to get taxis here too. You can find Dongdaemun hotels here . You can check here if you’re more of an Airbnb person.

What is the best time to visit Korea?

There are four distinct seasons in Korea… well maybe five if you include monsoon season. Since I live here and have gone through every season, I can honestly say that they are all amazing for one reason or another.

Summer (June ~ Mid-September): Summer can be horribly humid. If you aren’t used to humidity, then you definitely won’t want to stay in Seoul the entire time you’re here. Most Seoulites head to the coast whenever they can or up into the mountains to soak in the rivers and lakes because that is just the best way to cool off. There are beautiful beaches on the eastern, southern, and western coasts of Korea so make sure to have time to visit one.

Once you get here, you’ll definitely want to make the time because summer is hot hot hot! Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to summer in Korea for more information.

Autumn (Mid-September ~ November): Autumn is definitely one of the most beautiful times to visit Korea when the fall foliage bursts into an array of colors across the peninsula and the scents of cinnamony hoddeok waft down the streets. Not only do the leaves change, but there are flower fields that burst into bloom as well. You can find some gorgeous flowers in the World Cup Parks as well as at Nari Park .

The only problem with autumn is that it’s difficult to pin down. You can make plans, but the foliage can burst at any time. October is a sure bet and early November for flowers and foliage at the same time. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to fall in Korea for more information.

Winter (December ~ February): Winter is not easy in Seoul. It can be beautiful if it snows and I know a lot of tourists headed here in the winter are hoping for that winter wonderland they may have seen in Korean dramas. Honestly though, if you definitely want to see snow, make plans to head out of Seoul to the mountains where you can ski or snowboard or just visit a resort with a ton of snow. There are some great options for getting out of the city to see snow if that’s what you’re looking for.

Otherwise, if you’re staying in Seoul this winter, just plan to wear a long parka and jump inside as often as possible. It is freezing especially in January and February. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to winter in Korea for more information.

Spring (March ~ May): Spring is a gorgeous time to visit… again if it’s planned right. People often come looking for the cherry blossoms and that’s just so difficult to pinpoint early in the year. They’re often blooming on my birthday in mid April, but this year it was still soooo cold and no blooms that early, so it’s hard to say.

However, that said, there are lots of flowers to see around Seoul whether it be cherry blossoms, tulips, or daisies, so just be ready to look for some other bloomers if flowers is what you seek. Also, make sure to bring jackets and cover ups because it can still be quite chilly in the spring. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to spring in Korea for more information. 

A Guide To Spring In Korea: Cherry Blossoms and More

A Guide to Summer in Korea: Get Ready For Fun

A Guide to Fall In Korea: Foliage and More

A Guide To Winter In Korea: Snow and Ice and Everything Nice

• Tipping is not required or expected in South Korea.
• Water from the tap is potable, safe to drink.
• You won’t find large glasses of water at restaurants but you can find water machines so grab a water bottle to carry along with you.

The Top Things You Must See & Do In Seoul

1. a korean palace.

There are five palaces in the city of Seoul with the largest and most popular being Gyeongbokgung Palace . Gyeongbokgung Palace is beautiful and very much worth the visit. This is THE palace that a first-timer to Korea should see but it does get crowded during high tourist seasons so here’s what you should know about the other palaces nearby just in case.

A lot of tourists rent Hanboks and visit the palaces. Did you know you actually get free entry if you’re wearing a Hanbok? Keep reading to find the best places to go to rent a Hanbok in downtown Seoul.

The nearby Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden require a tour reservation and is known for having gorgeous views in every season. Changgyeonggung Palace is just around the corner from Changdeokgung Palace and actually connects in the back corner and yet most people never even see this one.

If you want a palace to yourself with a beautiful pond and a gorgeous greenhouse built during the Japanese colonization, don’t miss it and then you can walk through the back gate into Changdeokgung Palace. Kind of a two for one experience and a unique one at that.

Deoksugung Palace is one that’s rather well known because it’s easy to find near City Hall and they have a changing of the guard ceremony which is great fun to watch. This palace is unique in that there are numerous architectural styles on the grounds as well as an art museum inside one of the buildings in the grounds. This palace is much smaller than the others and easy to see quickly if you don’t have much time in your schedule.

Gyeonghuigung Palace is the smallest and least popular of the palaces, which doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be visited, so do look at the info for it.

Though that is the five that are well known, there is also a royal residence that is downtown that you could easily walk to and is very different from the others in that it’s unpainted and often used for photos by the locals. The royal residence is called Unhyeonggung Royal Residence. This beautiful spot is great for photos.

2. A traditional market

Gwangjang Market: This is my FAVORITE spot to take visitors and get good authentic eats in the city of Seoul. It is hustling and busy and there are good eats to be had from every vendor there.

If you want to see an awesome traditional market, the oldest traditional market, in Seoul, then go here and check out my guide t o Gwangjang Market if you want to know what to eat. This market was also featured in a Netflix series as well so if you’re a foodie, do not miss it.

Tongin Market: Tongin Market is another traditional market that does it just a bit differently. This market which is just west of Gyeongbokgung Palace , a neighborhood not often visited by tourists but more well known by locals, does a cool thing with old traditional coins and food.

This is a great option if you aren’t sure what you like yet and want to try a little of a lot of different things. Here is some information on how to use the coins at Tongin Market and what you can get.

Noryangjin Fish Market:  If you want to see the largest fish market in Seoul, then Noryangjin Fish Market is the one for you. While it is by no means the ONLY fish market in the city, it is the most popular for tourists to visit.

If you want to see the real action, you’ll have to wake up before sunrise to see the sale, but if you want to some good eats, definitely go later so you can pick out your own fish and then eat it in the market. There is both an old and a new part of Noryangjin Market , so make sure you know where you’re headed.

3. Rent a Hanbok

Renting a Hanbok is one of the most memorable and unique experiences you can have in Seoul. On top of it being a great way to learn more about the culture, it’s also a lot more budget friendly than you might realize and you can even get into traditional sites for FREE when you’re wearing a Hanbok. Learn more about where to rent a Hanbok in Seoul and everything else you need to know about it. 

4. Find the hotspots

Bukchon Hanok Village:  One of the must see neighborhoods in the city of Seoul, the Bukchon Hanok Village is popular for a reason. The residential neighborhood is home to traditional Korean Hanok houses lined up all in a row. They are beautiful and there are a ton of intimate Hanok cafes and traditional experiences.

This is one of those areas that you’ve seen pictures of again and again but will want to visit on your own. Check out this guide to Bukchon Hanok Village to learn more about the area, where to go, and what to eat. Or, check out this Bukchon Itinerary .

Insadong District:  Near Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace, this is a popular district for traditional tea houses and Buddhist restaurants. If you want to prepare for the traditional tea houses, check out this guide to traditional Korean tea options because there are so so many!

This is also THE district to head to if you’re looking to purchase Korean souvenirs to take home to friends and family. If you want to learn more about the area, check out this guide to Insadong that I put together.

Gangnam:  The district that became popular around the world when Psy’s song “Gangnam Style” took over the airwaves, this district is known for a bit of luxury, lots of cosmetic surgery, and some great eats too.

If you’re interested in seeing what there is to see in the area, then check out this guide to Gangnam to see it all from amazing street art to museums and more. Oh, and definitely make sure you see the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Show .

Hongdae: Full of live music, artistic fun, and plenty of pubs, restaurants, and fun cafes to check out . Check out this guide to Hongdae for all of the best things to do there.

The area has grown and expanded and now when people saying they’re going to Hongdae, they might very well mean they’re headed to Yeontral Park (a play on Central Park) in Yeonnam-dong or they’re headed to the up and coming district of Mangwon-dong . There are buskers and groups of K-pop dancers that make the entire area very vibrant and fun.

Myeongdong Shopping District:  Myeongdong is THE spot to go if you’re looking to get your shopping on while you’re in Seoul and is one of the best districts to try a ton of amazing street food options.

With all of the major international and local brands as well as a TON of K-beauty shops, you can get everything on your list in this area. Find out more in this guide to Myeongdong with some fun things to do in the area.

5. See a show

Nanta: This is the most popular and longest running theater show in Seoul. The show is a hilarious kitchen-based performance with a talented group of performers who have a mix of traditional folk pieces as well as modern skits.

Don’t worry if you can’t understand Korean, this performance is non-verbal and fun fun fun. Get your Nanta tickets through Klook to get an awesome discount.

The Painters: A new concept art performance that combines colorful live drawings with cutting-edge media art has been remodeled and reopened. Actors resembling idols, numbering from 4 to 8, express world-famous paintings such as Michelangelo’s ‘Creation of Heaven,’ Vincent Van Gohee’s ‘Self-Portrait,’ and Gustav Klimt’s ‘Kiss’ with splendid choreography and live drawings.

Their super luxurious stereoscopic images and live performances create a a new impression of painting. G et your tickets to see The Painters online with Klook for the discount.

6. Visit the Han River

The Han River cuts through the center of the city so at some point, you’ll definitely see it either when you’re crossing a bridge or from your tall hotel, but you should definitely take some time to go and visit one of the Han riverside parks. They are gorgeous and there is definitely going to be one near wherever you’re staying. Some of them have beautiful art installations while others are where you can jump on a Eland Hangang River cruise .

There are some great experiences to be had at the river. Check out this complete guide to all of the Han River parks to see which one will be near you. Some have outdoor swimming pools, one even has a beautiful infinity pool that ends at the river and it is super budget friendly. Some have bike rental kiosks, kayaks, sail boats and more.

7. Get a good view

Seoul Sky Tower: Seoul Sky Observatory is the third highest observatory in the world and features the highest glass deck in the world. The views are absolutely stunning and there are multiple floors for viewing from the 117th to the 120th floor. This is just next to Lotte World as well if you want to combine it with some fun and views! Seoul Sky Tower is a bit out of the way compared to a lot of the tourist sites but worth the subway ride.

And, to top it off, if you want to stay in the tallest hotel in Seoul and get the most beautiful views right when you wake up in the morning, then look no further than Signiel Hotel which is right in this tower too!

N Seoul Tower: While Seoul Sky is the newest dazzling spot in the city to get views from, Namsan Tower, also called N Seoul Tower , is older, more central, and a bit more romantic. Take a cable car up to the tower and then sit beneath a beautiful pagoda until your time to head up to the top. This tour is a major highlight in the city and is easy to combine with any bit of the itinerary in central Seoul. It’s an iconic spot that is definitely one of the top three must visit locations in the city.

Other Spots For Views: The two spots above are definitely the most popular for views, but they are not the only places to get views though they are the most iconic. If you want some more ideas though, here are more great spots in Seoul to get amazing views that also happen to be super budget friendly. These are definitely spots that will surprise you and even some that locals don’t know about.

8. Visit lots and lots of cafes

It honestly amazes me how many cafes there are and how interesting they all are. Koreans go all out with aesthetics and creating Instagrammable cafes and you can really find them all over but there are a few neighborhoods that you can literally hop from fun and quirky cafe to beautiful cafe and back again. How many coffees can you possibly drink in one day? Don’t miss the cafes in Mangwon-dong . If you want to know what some of the trendiest cafes are, check out this guide to the awesome greenhouse cafes that have been popping up over the past couple of years.

9. Visit a museum

The Korean War Memorial: There are some really amazing museums in Korea and what’s even better is that they’re budget friendly if not free. The Korean War Memorial is really interesting especially if you’re interested in learning about the Korean War and the numerous other wars in Korean history.

There are also often docents who actually fought in the Korean War available to show you around and offer stories and information. If you have children, it’s also great because there are historic planes and other relics outside that kids can climb up to and through to check out. You can learn more about the museum here .

The National Museum Of Korea: Another great museum that has both free and paid exhibitions, is the National Museum of Korea which also has a substantial park and pond with relics beautiful in all seasons. This is a museum more focused on the historical artifacts of Korea.

This is also a great option to have during monsoon season. Learn more about the National Museum of Korea here. FYI, you can also visit the National Hangeul Museum which is just in front of this one as well.

Seodaemun Prison History Museum:  The Seodaemun Prison History Museum is a former prison that housed martyrs during the Japanese colonization of Korea and is now a museum dedicated to tell the stories about the people that were once housed there.

Again, this is a very impactful museum especially if you are interested in the tumultuous history in Korea. Here is more information about the Seodaemun Prison History Museum.

The War & Women’s Human Rights Museum: A much smaller but no less impactful museum in Seoul is the War and Women’s Human Rights Museum which is dedicated to tell the story about the comfort women. The issue of sexual slavery during WWII is still highly contested by Japan but certainly proven by enough groups at this point.

The Korean comfort women are still fighting to be heard. Go visit this museum to learn more about what they went through and the fight they continue to have today.

The Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art (MMCA): If you’re more interested in the arts, then don’t miss the Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art which is just east of Gyeongbokgung Palace so it’s easy to add to any itinerary in downtown Seoul. This museum uses varying architectural styles and hosts some gorgeous exhibitions. To check out the hours and learn more about the Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art, check out this guide .

Leeum Samsung Museum: The Leeum Samsung Museum is both architecturally stunning and always has some amazing exhibitions to check out. It’s in the easy to visit area of Hannam-dong and is one of my favorite art museums in the city. There are quite a few to choose from, but this is one that should be on your list if you like art museums and architecture.

This is probably a museum that is off the beaten path for most first-travelers but might just be up your alley if you like art and architecture. Here’s more information about Leeum Samsung Museum here .

Seoul Museum of Craft Art: SeMoCA is the first national museum in Seoul created to showcase Korean crafts. The museum is made up of seven buildings so you need to weave in and out and around much like some of the embroidery products you’ll see inside.

Not only is the museum amazing, the children’s museum is just wonderful and offers so many free experiences for kids. Learn more in this guide to the Seoul Museum of Craft Art.

10. Visit a Spa

There are some great options if you want the Korean spa experience. If you don’t want to get all the way nude but want to experience at least a Korean facial , you can do that too! Here are a couple great spas to check out in Seoul if you want the full experience complete with a Korean Italy towel exfoliating scrub.

Yeo Yong Guk Korean Traditional Medicine Spa:  Want something more traditional? Visit this spa which is one of the 25 must visit wellness attractions in Korea as designated by the Korea Tourism Organization. After a quick physical analysis, the staff will provide a customized spa package using natural medicinal plants, pressure point, and massage. It’s a truly unique spa experience here in Seoul .

Hana Mud Spa: If you want a more local experience, check out this Korean bath house. The spa is a bit extra with their mud masks straight from the Boryeong mud that’s rich in minerals, but other than that, it’s a pretty standard spa for women only. Prepare to bare and enjoy the experience. If you want to know more about a Korean bath house and what to do inside, here’s a step by step guide to the Korean bath house culture.

11. Visit an amusement park

Lotte World: Lotte World is the most popular theme park in Seoul and is easy to get to right in the city. Get the Magic Pass to skip the lines and enjoy the rides. The rides to check out are the Conquistador, World Monorail, French Revolution, VR Space, and the Flume Ride. There’s fun, adventure, and more. Take a day and enjoy!

Everland: If you’ve got a bit more time, visit Everland, outside of the city of Seoul, but hop on the shuttle bus and you can get there. It is one of the world’s largest theme parks and features a ton of rides and experiences to be had. Make sure to get your tickets online before you go to get the discount that is available.

12. See the DMZ

While this isn’t technically IN Seoul, most tours to the DMZ start from Seoul . If you don’t know it yet, you’re technically visiting a country that is at war. Have I ever been scared living here? No. Let’s just get that question out the way.

Should you visit the DMZ? If you want to have a glimpse of North Korea and visit the most heavily guarded limit line in the world? Then definitely yes. There is a lot to be learned and some interesting spots to check out.

You can only go INTO the DMZ with a tour. You can get pretty close without one, but you need to be on a government approved tour if you want to go in. Most tours will take you to the DMZ area in Paju where you will first make a stop in the Nuri Peace Park and then head into to see one of the tunnels that the North Koreans dug to try and sneak into South Korea. If you want to go it on your own and try to get in, there is one option.

You can go in to see Camp Greaves which was formerly an American base which was given back to the Korean people and is now a museum featuring art and history information. Another option if you want to go it on your own a bit, head up to the Cheorwon DMZ area where you can enter with an approved taxi. No matter what, you can’t just wander in though so if you want to make it easy on yourself, sign up for a tour early as they do fill up. Here are some good options to choose from:

• Panmunjom & DMZ Tour: Visit the Unification Bridge and Panmunjom along with Imjingak/Nuri Peace Park and the 3rd Tunnel on this full day tour. Join this tour here.
• Imjingak Transfer Service: If you just want to get back and forth to Imjingak/ Nuri Peace Park area where you can get on the bus to Camp Greaves, or just enjoy the unification village, then look into this transfer service which will take you back and forth easily.

13. Check out these notable spots in between

Seoul Botanic Park: Seoul Botanic Park is one of the newest and beautiful parks in Seoul. There is a gorgeously huge greenhouse and if it’s winter, it is warm warm warm inside. If it’s summer, head inside, but then check out the substantial park that surrounds.

This is in an up and coming area of Seoul and it’s super easy to get to right out of the subway station. To learn more about this greenhouse and park, check out this complete post on the Seoul Botanic Park.

Cheonggyecheon Stream: The Cheonggyecheon Stream is another iconic spot in central Seoul. This stream was actually covered over in the modernization of the city after the war but during construction some years later was rediscovered and the high way built atop it was removed.

Not only did it make for a beautiful green space in central Seoul, but it helped in lowering the temperature downtown and birds and fish returned. Now, there are events like the Lantern Festival held here throughout the year. Walk along the stream from Gwanghwamun Square down to Gwangjang Market and even all the way down to Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): The Dongdaemun Design Plaza was immediately popular upon being built and opened to the public. Now the host of the Seoul Fashion Week as well as numerous other exhibitions and events, this eye catching structure designed by Zaha Hadid was the most Instagrammed location in Korea in 2015.

You’ll have to walk up, down, inside, and outside to really understand what is going on. Want to see some more architectural wonders in Seoul? Check out this list of really interesting architectural spots in Seoul .

Ihwa Mural Village: Ihwa Mural Village is a fun neighborhood in central Seoul near the palaces that provide a great spot to take a walk and area to learn about local communities. The neighbors didn’t ASK for their neighborhood to be turned into an attraction though, so it’s important to know the rules before you go.

Here’s more information on the street murals to see there and how to find it. See the murals and you can walk along a section of the Seoul Fortress Wall for great views out over the city as well.

Seoullo Walkway:  In central Seoul just outside of Seoul Station, is a beautiful walkway that connects the downtown neighborhoods for pedestrians so that they never have to wait for a traffic light.

The walkway used to be an overpass but was renovated into a fun spot to take a walk with outdoor installations, trampolines for kids, tons of plants and greenery and there are often events held on the walkway. If you’re headed to the train station for any reason, this is an easy addition onto the day that doesn’t take too long to enjoy. Here is more info about Seoullo and what you can do there.

Oil Tank Culture Park: I personally like to check out unique spots that show how a city is growing and adapting. The Oil Tank Culture Park is just that. There are six massive oil drums that have been converted through a series of conservation measures to now be a public space.

The drums have been opened up so visitors can use them with one housing a cafe, another a performance space, and more. If you want to see some awesome eco-friendly innovation, this is a must visit. Learn more about the Oil Tank Culture Park here.

In general, it’s easy to get around and you’ll be able to see what you see, but if you really want to learn about a place, know what’s in the food you’re about to eat, and understand Korean culture and history, I’d highly recommend joining a tour or two to get some insight. The other reason to join a tour or at least book tickets for shows, entrance fees, etc, is because online is almost always cheaper.

Koreans use companies online always and that’s because tickets can be 10%-50% cheaper than when you just walk up. Don’t get left out of the discounts. Book what you can in advance. If it’s your first time in Seoul, then find a few tours, maybe one focused on culture, one on food, and one on adventure to join while you’re here.

Here are some ideas I’d recommend:

• History of Joseon Dynasty Tour: Spend the day visiting one of the royal palaces and witnessing a beautiful changing of the guard ceremony. Stop into the Jogyesa Buddhist temple and ginseng center while learning about history and architecture and culture and then end the day in one of the traditional folk villages. It’s an all encompassing tour to see traditional spots and learn a ton about how Seoul was started and built. Check out the tour here on Klook .
• Cooking classes in Seoul : There are a number of cooking classes in Seoul that I think are great not only to try some great food, but to learn about Korea’s culinary history, tradition, and culture and you can ask questions about dining etiquette in Korea and more.

Want help with your itinerary? I have a lot of experience building the perfect itineraries for travelers to Seoul. I’ve created 15 interchangeable daily itineraries for Seoul, Korea that cover the popular spots you must see, some districts that aren’t so touristy but offer great fun, and more.

Where To Get Out Of Seoul For a Day Trip

Daytrips are awesome and there are so many places you can get to if you’ve got a free day on your itinerary. Here are a few ideas, but if you want more, check out my list of “ Best Daytrips to take from Seoul “. There are 25 spots to see and enjoy and I’ll know there is something you’ll want to do.

Nami Island: This is by far one of the most popular day trip options and for good reason. It’s gorgeous. While it’s popular with K-drama fans, I can say, as someone who has NOT seen any drama that was filmed there, that it’s not just a fan that would appreciate this place. There are art installations, restaurants, cafes, and plenty of nature to see.

I’ve visited in the autumn and summer and would definitely go back in the winter and spring too. It’s an easy option for a day trip and can be combined with some other great spots in the area. Read this guide to Nami Island if its on your list.

The DMZ:  At just 60km from Seoul, it’s easy enough to visit the DMZ, but only if you book a tour in advance. Tours do sell out so if you’re at all interested in visiting the border between North and South Korea, you’ll want to plan this ahead of time. The Demilitarized Zone is a 4 kilometer wide buffer zone between North Korea and South Korea.

There are various options from Seoul with the most popular being out to Nuri Peace Park in Paju and into the DMZ. If you do get out there and want to do something really special, visit Camp Greaves, an abandoned military base that’s been converted into an art experience. If you want to visit a spot that’s more off the beaten path but just a bit more involved, check out the trip to the Cheorwon DMZ .

Heyri Art Village: This is one of my favorite spots to take my daughter to, but it’s not just for kids, it is for everyone. There are chic art galleries and museums as well as artistic experiences for children to partake in. There are SO many museums and galleries to check out that you could stay an entire weekend and still not see everything.

We’ve gone and gone again and there’s always something new to do. If you want to know how to get there, and have some ideas on what to do, here is a guide to Heyri Art Village.

Anyang Art Park: The Anyang Art Park is an awesome natural area with art installations and exhibitions throughout the year. There are restaurants and cafes and it’s a great spot to check out if you want to get out into nature and take a walk.

The installations are super fun to find and require a bit of a walk up into a nearby mountain… but not to worry, it’s not really a trek and toddlers can even do it. Here is a guide to Anyang Art Park to help you on your way.

Seongsu-dong

Seongsu-dong has been called the Brooklyn of Seoul. Once a district known for shoe factories, today, many of those factories are being converted into cafes, galleries, and restaurants. This district is hip, it’s cool, and it is THE place to go if you want to do something different in Seoul. There is awesome street art and murals and a ton of hidden gems in this new hot spot in Seoul. If you want some suggestions for where to go, what to do, and what to eat while you’re there, check out this guide to Seongsu-dong .

Mullae-dong

Also a district known for factories, Mullae-dong is still very much filled with the iron works factories it’s famous for. Some years ago, artists from Hongdae that couldn’t afford the rent in the popular district moved south and found homes in Mullae-dong. By day, this area is noisy and gritty with iron workers, but come evening into night, there are galleries and restaurants owned by artists and musicians.

It’s off the beaten path to tourists for sure, but there are some cool things to be found if you like to have a good hunt. Here are my suggestions for what to see in Mullae-dong if you want to head there.

Yongma Land

Yongma Land is a popular abandoned amusement park in Seoul. It’s been showcased in various K-pop videos and dramas and anyone looking for some cool photos can head to the park to take their own photos. It’s a funky spot but a fun one especially if you’ve got some friends that want to get some quirky photos in Seoul or if you are a Hallyu fan and want to take photos in the same spots that you’ve seen in dramas and vids. Here’s more information on the popular abandoned Yongma Land in Seoul.

Ganghwado Island

Ganghwado is an island west of the city of Seoul that is easily accessible with public buses from the city. It used to be a bit more difficult to get to, but in recent years a bridge was added and now more and more Seoulites are making their way out to this island to see what there is to see, like the awesome Royyal Dog mural above.

There are cool restaurants and cafes, a few beaches, and some interesting historical spots to check out. Here are some flower fields and cool cafes to check out if you want to make your way out to Ganghwado.

Hannam-dong

Hannam-dong is the district that’s just up the road from the foreigner district known as Itaewon. Hannam-dong has art museums and a ton of cafes and restaurants with foreign treats if you want something in the American-fare style. Here’s a guide to the Hannam-dong area that has cool cafes, good eats, and a lot of Instagrammable book stores and staircases.

This isn’t a hugely popular spot for tourists but mostly for expats and foreigners in Korea that want to get good authentic foreign food. If you have a hankering for something other than Korean food, then you’ll easily find it over here.

Pocheon is an interesting area northeast of Seoul that has hidden wooden giants in forests, bridges, and lakes. There are some beautiful hidden wonders that are really only accessible if you’ll be renting a car for a day. But if you will be, look into this easy trip from Seoul that is off the beaten path.

Here’s a guide to Pocheon and what to see there. Again, this isn’t a spot that’s usually on the radars of most tourists, but if you want something unique, it’s a good area to get out to where can visit an amazing makgeolli, or rice wine, brewery and find nature too!

Busan is the second largest city in the country and on the southern coast of Korea. It’s the most popular spot to check out for most travelers that want to see something outside of Seoul. The city is easy to get to from Seoul using the KTX fast train and there are beaches, a seaside temple, a colorful seaside village, and a TON more to check out.

Some of the must see spots include Gamcheon Culture Village, Taejongdae , and Haeundae. You could easily spend a couple days or more in this awesome city.

Here’s a guide to Busan to help you on your way! Definitely don’t miss stops into the Huinnyeoul Culture Village and then take a ride on the cable car in Songdo or a ride on the now very popular Busan Sky Capsule . For a real treat, check out the premier spa in the country, Busan’s Spa Land . There’s so much to do, you could fill a week or more!

Gyeongju was the capital of Korea during the Silla Dynasty and the capital before Seoul. It’s one of the most historic, if not THE most historic, cities in the entire country and features more pagodas, relics, and historic sites in one city than any other in the country.

The small city is basically an open air museum as every corner you turn leads to another historic observatory, tomb, palace, or Buddhist relic. It was one of the first trips I made out of Seoul when I first moved here in 2006 and is an easy trip to make using the KTX from Seoul.

It’s a gorgeous area with history and culture and beautiful sites to visit. Definitely look into Gyeongju if you want to learn more about history in Korea and appreciate quite peaceful surroundings. Here is a guide to Gyeongju with more information on what you can find there.

Andong has been called the most traditional place in Korea. There is a beautiful huge traditional village and some amazing food to eat in Andong. It’s gorgeous in the spring when the cherry blossoms bloom and the Andong Mask Festival is an amazing event to check out in the autumn if you’re visiting at the same time.

From delicious food to traditional and cultural spots, Andong has it all. Here’s a guide to Andong , how to get there, and what to do if it sounds like the spot for you.

Most likely you came into Korea through Incheon but you probably didn’t stay too long as you headed into Seoul. You should definitely head back out there. There are some really interesting spots in Incheon including the only legit Chinatown in the country.

Incheon’s Chinatown was first started by the Chinese immigrants that came to Korea to work. Nearby there is also a fun fairytale mural village and a village made entirely of older buildings. It’s a fun area to walk around and makes for a great day trip from Seoul.

You could also plan to see what’s around the Incheon International Airport on your way in or out. The airport is on an island in Incheon and there’s plenty to do just around the airport. If you want to treat yourself on your way in or out, then definitely look into staying at the amazing Paradise City Resort . Even if you don’t stay there, there’s a free art museum and a beautiful pool and sauna that you can visit.

Want to see some amazing architecture, check out the Songdo Central Park where the awesome TriBowl is located. Another great option in Incheon is to take a ferry and visit nearby islands like Modo, Sindo, and Sido ! All of these spots are really in different parts of Incheon so don’t try to see them all in one day. You’ll have to pick one if you just have one day to travel.

Jeju Island is the most popular and largest island in Korea. It has been called the Hawai’i of Korea and is absolutely stunning. The island is bigger than you might expect so know that before you go. You can really only see things in one quadrant; northwest, northeast, southwest, or southeast at a time especially if you’ve only got a weekend. Choose what you want to see and then stay nearby (Here’s a guide to help you figure out where to stay on Jeju Island ) and an absolute must do is hiking up Mt. Halla .

If hiking isn’t your thing though, there’s also a walking trail that follows the entire coast of Jeju. Choose an area and you can walk and enjoy cliff views, black sand beaches, and forests too. If you want to get somewhere easily and have fun, check out Hamdeok Beach . Another hot spot for tourists is the O’Sulloc Green Tea Fields and the gigantic and gorgeous Jeongbang Waterfall .

But if you want my two recommendations, definitely get a ferry out to nearby Gapa Island which you can only leisurely enjoy via bicycle and then walk up Sanbang Mountain to visit a beautiful grotto Nearby you can walk along the rocky but beautiful Yeongmori Coastcoast . Jeju is amazing and there is just so much to do and see there. You can even go island hopping to visit nearby islands like Udo Island or Gapa Island . If you have time, don’t miss a trip there to get a completely different experience from the hustling bustling city of Seoul.

Danyang, Korea is in the central area of Korea so a lot of people pass right by on the way south without stopping. But if you like adventure and maybe have a bit less time, it’s definitely worth a look. Visit the Mancheonha Skywalk and then zipline down.

From there, head to Chungju Lake and ride a ferry to see the gorgeous views. Head down into the Gosu Caves that were formed over 450 million years ago and then end the weekend paragliding off of the mountains. It’s a spot for the adventure loving traveler. Here’s what you should check out in Danyang.

Oido & Daebudo Islands

Maybe you want to see the coast in quick fashion. Oido is an island you can actually reach using just the Seoul subway system! If you’ve got a car, you can go just a bit further to Daebudo Island to see the glass museum and watch the waves come in.

The islands are beautiful and great for a summer’s day. There is seafood to be eaten and a rest stop that even features an observatory. I love getting to the coast whenever I can and this is an easy spot to get to if you just have a day to work with. Here’s what you can find in Oido and Daebudo.

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I’m currently considering moving to Korea within the next 18 months, and was looking for a site that could answer the thousands of questions I have about the country.

And then I stumbled across yours.

(I’ve only been on an airport layover in Seoul a couple of times during the 14 years I lived in Bangkok so, weirdly, never actually visited Korea. But, after 6 years in Europe, I’m desperate to get back to Asia permanently and Korea interests me. A lot),

An absolutely superb site, with SO much useful information. I have you bookmarked and will be back pretty much every day as I read through everything you have written — and maybe with some questions too 🙂

Thanks for this. I couldn’t be happier to hav e found something so darned useful 🙂

I really envy you. I wish I could do the same thing. Thank you for sharing such valuable information. I am planning a trip to Seoul and this is definitely very very useful. thank you.

Hallie Bradley

I hope you have a fantastic trip!

Hi you mentioned a subway app under useful apps to download. I’m curious if you could tell me the name of the app? Thank you!

I am just amazed! What a fantastic job you did here Hallie. Hello from Centerville Ohio!

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36 Hours in Seoul

By Victoria Kim Updated Dec. 15, 2022

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South Korea’s capital, Seoul, is basking in the global attention engendered by its wildly popular cultural output . It’s not just K-pop fans flocking here; international art galleries are setting up shop one after another, and this fall, the city hosted Frieze’s first art fair in Asia. Here, you can hike fortress walls nestled amid skyscrapers, cycle past a towering LED screen abutting a royal palace and get lost in a tangle of backstreets harboring some of the city’s most interesting bars and restaurants. Seoul embraces both its past and constant reinvention, and has a resilient spirit. The city is still mourning lives lost in a Halloween crowd surge — a tragedy made all the more devastating because many of the victims were young people drawn from all parts of the world to Seoul’s vibrancy.

Recommendations

• Han River Park encompasses 11 smaller parks along both banks of the river and is best explored on its extensive bike path.
• Euljiro , a fast-changing, former industrial area, has narrow alleyways teeming with hip bars and restaurants.
• On Inwangsan , a mountain in the city’s center, you can hike along a fortress wall first built in 1396.
• Ace Four Club is a wood-paneled cocktail bar in the space that was formerly a 60-year-old teahouse.
• Nogari Alley is a street that turns into a rowdy beer hall with plastic tables and chairs, and cheap bar fare.
• Patic is a bistro with delectable, southern French-inspired dishes incorporating seasonal Korean ingredients.
• Yun Seoul serves a thoughtful prix-fixe menu that showcases dry-aged fish and housemade noodles.
• Sanullim 1992 offers an encyclopedic selection of traditional Korean grain alcohol from all corners of the country.
• Vibd Blvd is one of Seoul’s many “LP bars” that evokes ’70s nostalgia, with a D.J. spinning records from a large vinyl selection.
• Seochon Blues is a favorite post-dinner pit stop for the after-work crowd, where the walls are lined with the owner’s personal vinyl collection.
• Millennial Dining serves vegan takes on classic Korean flavors with a selection of natural wines.
• Alkimia offers surprising gelato flavors including rice, red pepper and yuja, a citrus fruit.
• Gwangjang Market is a century-old marketplace with an array of stalls serving noodles, pancakes and rice dishes.
• LCDC is a new four-story complex in a former shoe factory with a cafe, a clothing boutique and other shops.
• 29cm Seongsu is the flagship store of a popular online fashion retailer that blurs the line between a shop and an exhibition space.
• Whanki Museum showcases the works of a pioneering contemporary Korean painter in a quiet residential area.
• Seoul Forest Park is an expansive park surrounded by a trendy neighborhood with excellent coffee shops and innovative retail spaces.
• Bukhansan National Park has a network of trails with heart-pumping, steep climbs and stunning vistas, all accessible by bus or subway.
• Gocheok Sky Dome or Jamsil Baseball Stadium will immerse you in the boisterous world of Korean baseball fandom with cheap beer and some atypical ballpark fare.
• While Seoul is easy to navigate via its world-class subway and bus systems, two local apps with English options, Naver and Kakao , are your best bets for turn-by-turn directions instead of Google Maps.
• The centrally located Four Seasons Hotel Seoul ’s gentle curves pay homage to the eaves of traditional tile-roof homes known as hanok. The hotel offers rooms overlooking Gyeongbokgung Palace and the mountains to the north from around 460,000 South Korean won (KRW) a night, or $355.
• In bustling Hongdae, the trendy RYSE Autograph Collection has expansive city views (from around 210,000 KRW). The aroma from Tartine Bakery, originally of San Francisco, in the lobby is a bonus.
• Stayfolio is a booking platform founded by local architects. Reserve in advance— some of the popular properties, including renovated hanok or brick homes, can be booked up months out.
• Short-term rentals are relatively cheap. Seongsu-dong, near Seoul Forest Park, Samcheong-dong with its concentration of galleries and hanok homes, and neighborhoods along the Han River are good areas to stay.

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ASIA , SEOUL , SOUTH KOREA · May 20, 2020 Last Updated on March 14, 2024

THE ULTIMATE SEOUL CITY GUIDE

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It’s so easy to fall in love with Seoul, South Korea’s bustling and vibrant capital city. Here you’ll find not only a historical and traditional glimpse into Korea’s past but also an endless to-do list of modern and uniquely Korean experiences!

After living in South Korea as an English teacher for two years, I’ve had so much fun exploring Seoul’s best attractions, prettiest destinations, and historical sights! So before you jet off to one of my all-time favorite cities, I’ve got you covered with my ultimate Seoul city guide.

I am sharing everything from where to stay in Seoul, the best things to do in the city, must-know Korean travel tips, and more!

The Best Things To Do In Seoul

There is an infinite list of unique Seoul experiences, but here are my top ten favorite things to do in Seoul for any first time visitor. And to properly see the city, I recommend having at least three full days in Seoul if possible.

1) See The Changing Of The Guards At Gyeongbokgung, Seoul’s Largest Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and most well-known of Seoul’s five palaces, so if you only have time for one, I recommend this one! Try to time your visit to see the changing of the guards in traditional garb at 10 am or 2 pm every day the palace is open.

The entrance fee is only 3,000 won (about $3USD), and the palace is open every day except for Tuesday and has varying hours depending on the season.

Many people rent a hanbok, or traditional Korean dress, for a fun day of taking photos around the palace. There are a few different hanbok shops outside of the entrance to the palace, so be sure to pick it up before entering! It shouldn’t cost you more than 30,000 won for one day.

2) Go Back In Time In Seoul’s Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is a cluster of traditional Korean wooden homes that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. Located just a short ½ mile walk from Gyeongbokgung Palace, wandering the streets of Bukchon will transport you back to Korea’s pre-industrial past.

Admission is free, and there’s a self-guided walking tour map you can pick up from the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center.

Please be respectful while you visit; this is a residential neighborhood that can get quite disruptive and crowded with tourists. Respect the homes of those who live there and keep the area clean, calm, and quiet.

3) Walk Along The Peaceful Cheonggyecheon Stream To Gwangjang Traditional Market

On a warm and sunny day, a classic Seoul experience is to walk the beautiful urban recreation trail that follows the Cheonggyecheon Stream 2 km (1.25 miles) to Gwangjang Traditional Market . The stream starts at Cheonggye Square near Seoul City Hall and is a peaceful walk with modern and traditional murals along the way. 

Watch out for signposts for Gwangjang Market, Seoul’s oldest traditional market. Here you absolutely must try the famous Korean mung bean pancake (bindaetteok in Korean) that’s made by mixing mung beans, bean sprouts, onions, and peppers before being deep-fried into a pancake that has a texture very similar to a hash brown. It’s to die for!

You’ll also want to try the dumpling soup, kimchi dumplings, and bibimbap (mixed rice and vegetables) while you’re there.

For more great food to try, be sure to read our Vegetarian Food To Eat In South Korea article!

4) Eat Korean Street Food And Shop The Streets Of Myeongdong

Although Seoul doesn’t have a single downtown area, Myeongdong is right up there as one of the main neighborhoods of the city. Here, fantastic shopping, tall buildings, and glitzy neon signs will amaze you!

Along the walkways, street food vendors set up shop in the afternoon to sell classic, must-try Korean street food goodies as well as trinkets and souvenirs. 

Myeongdong is one of the best places to shop for Korean faves like cutesy phone cases and accessories, K beauty supplies, Korean fashion, and more.

Subscribe to get our FREE eBook with tips on saving money when you travel!

5) Climb To The Top Of The N Seoul Tower For Sweeping Views Of The City

The N Seoul Tower , or Namsan Tower, is Seoul’s most recognizable landmark. Located in the Itaewon neighborhood, visiting the observation deck is a must-do.

You can opt to spend 45 minutes climbing the stairs all the way to the top (the tower is on Namsan mountain), or instead, you can take the cable car for an extra fee (9,500 won or about $9.50USD roundtrip).

Entrance to the tower is 11,000 won (about $11USD) and is open 10:00 – 23:00 every day, closing at 24:00 on Saturdays. I recommend coming to see the sunset so you can enjoy both day and night views of Seoul’s skyline.

6) Experience The Traditional Side Of Seoul In Insadong

Here you’ll find a lovely pedestrian street that is lined with food vendors, old school tea houses, and countless shops selling traditional Korean souvenirs such as tea, Hanji paper, pottery, chopsticks, and more!

The artsy Ssamziegil shopping complex is tucked away down a small alley from the main street and houses the cutest handicraft shops.

While in Insadong, I highly recommend popping into one of Seoul’s oldest tea houses Chatjip Teahouse for traditional teas and snacks. You’ll also find in the area the silly Poop Cafe , a classic Korean cafe that sells lattes in toilet mugs and chocolate-filled, poo-shaped treats.

7) Grill Some Meat And Sip Soju Over Korean BBQ

Another excellent Korean bucket list item is feasting at a local Korean BBQ restaurant. There’s something magical about cooking your own meat and indulging in all of the small side dishes (bonchon in Korean) that come with your meal.

For authentic Korean BBQ, check out any of the restaurants in BBQ Meat Alley near Jongno Station 3, or pop into Wangbijib (왕비) , a popular BBQ restaurant in Myeongdong that will help you grill your meat. 

8) Check Out Some Of The Most Instagrammable Places In Seoul

There are so many fantastic photo spots in Seoul that are just begging to be photographed. A few of the most Instagrammable spots include:

• Yongma Land: an abandoned amusement park
• Common Ground: a shipping container shopping complex
• Leeum Samsung Museum of Art
• Inwangsan: Hike along ancient city walls with skyline views
• Starfield Coex Library in Gangnam
• Ihwa Mural Village in Incheon
• Stylenanda Pink Pink Pool Cafe

9) Get A History Lesson At The War Memorial Of Korea

Learn how the two Koreas came to be divided during a conflict that’s still unresolved to this day at the War Memorial of Korea .

Here you’ll get an eye-opening history lesson and can take in the sights of over 30,000 war artifacts. After wandering the streets of Seoul, it’s hard to imagine it was a city entirely devastated by war in the 1950s. 

The museum is open Tuesday – Sunday (closed Mondays) from 09:30 – 18:00 and is free to enter unless there is a special exhibition on offer.

10) Take A Day Trip To The DMZ

The Demilitarized Zone or DMZ is today’s border between North and South Korea, where military negotiations from the Korean War still take place today. Visitors can join a special tour that takes you to noteworthy war sights, including an observation deck looking into North Korea, a tour of the infiltration tunnel, and more.

I recommend Kooridoor as a reputable tour agency for English tourists looking to safely learn more about the tense history between North and South Korea!

How To Get Around Seoul

As a large and spread out city, many of the attractions aren’t within walking distance of one another. Check out how to quickly and affordably get around Seoul during your visit.

Public Transportation 

For those on a budget looking to save some money, public transportation is probably the best way to get around the city.

Seoul has a very comprehensive metro system, as well as hundreds of bus routes that efficiently connect every neighborhood. For tourists, everything is written out in English, so there’s no need to worry about the language barrier.

Fares depend on how far you travel but range from 1,250 – 2,000 won ($1.25USD – $2USD) for a one-way trip. You can buy your metro tickets at ticketing machines in the station before you board (you pay cash to the driver on the bus), or you can pick up a transportation card at a local convenience store such as 7/11, Family Mart, G Story, etc.

Korea’s transportation cards (T Money or Cash Bee cards) are honestly the most convenient way to travel in Seoul and cost only about four dollars.

They must be pre-loaded with cash before you ride, and you can load money onto them at the station or any convenience store that sells the cards. With a card, it’s as simple as tapping it on the turnstile reader to get in, and tapping it when you exit.

These cards work for both the bus and the metro, and also work in the other major cities in Korea, such as Busan , Daegu, Daejeon, Jeju , etc.

For faster and more convenient travel around Seoul, grabbing a public taxi is also a breeze. Compared to taxi fares in the west, the fares in Korea are generally pretty reasonable, often not exceeding $15USD-$20USD per ride.

The easiest way to get a taxi in Seoul will be via the KakaoT app . There is no Uber or Lyft in Korea, but Kakao is exactly the same. Just plug in your location and desired destination in the app, and a driver will come to pick you up and take you where you need to go.

Using the app also helps with any language barriers because it lets you use it in English while the driver receives your destination’s address in Korean. However, if you flag down a local taxi on the street, they may not understand where you’re trying to go if you don’t speak Korean.

Where To Stay In Seoul: The Best Neighborhoods

Choosing where to stay in Seoul is a challenge because of how big and interesting the city’s neighborhoods are. After living in the city, these are my favorite places to stay while visiting Seoul.

Myeondgong is the bustling shopping area of Seoul that’s home to countless international brands, local shops, and some of the best eateries in the city.

Myeongdong is a great place for tourists to stay because everything you could possibly need is right at your fingertips. It’s also a very photogenic part of the city that’s surrounded by tall buildings, flashing neon signs, and many of Seoul’s main attractions.

I recommend Myeongdong for first-time visitors seeking an authentic Korean experience in the heart of Seoul.

My top Myeongdong pick: Hotel 28 Myeongdong

Itaewon is best known as the international district of Seoul and boasts a vibrant night scene. You’ll find here some of the best international dining restaurants and the city’s most popular bars. Itaewon doesn’t offer much during the day other than a few shops and brunch spots, but in the evening, the streets come alive with party-goers and bar hoppers.

Itaewon is a great place for travelers excited to enjoy Seoul’s fantastic nightlife and looking to meet other travelers.

My top Itaewon pick: N Guesthouse Itaewon

Hongdae 

Hongdae is named after the local university and has a really unique and inspiring art and music scene.

Here you’ll find street performances by aspiring stars, fantastic shopping, and an endless supply of independent cafes, restaurants, and bars. I personally loved staying in Hongdae for the chill and hip vibe, although it’s a bit further away from the main tourist destinations.

I recommend staying in Hongdae if you enjoy staying a bit off of the beaten tourist path and want to see a more trendy side to Seoul.

My top Hongdae pick: Hotel L7 Hongdae

Where To Eat In Seoul

The list of incredible Korean foods to try and must-visit creative eateries is so vast and varied, it’s incredibly difficult to choose just a handful of recommended restaurants in Seoul. Not only are there countless Korean restaurants serving fantastic traditional dishes, but the modern and international food scene is also unparalleled.

But if this is your first time visiting Korea, I think you gotta go Korean food as much as possible! So here are my favorite, must-try Korean restaurants in Seoul.

Gaeseong Mandu Koong

Gaeseong Mandu Koong is very popular, Michelin recommended traditional dumpling restaurant that’s extremely affordable considering its worldly recognition. It’s tucked down an unsuspecting alleyway in Seoul’s Insadong district and makes for a great lunch stop while exploring the Insadong area.

Wangbijib (왕비집)

Wangbijib (왕비집) is hands down one of the most popular Korean BBQ joints in Seoul and is located near Myeongdong Station. It’s an excellent introduction to Korean BBQ because the staff will help you choose and grill your meat.

Price is charged per person, and meat proportions are based on table headcount. Don’t forget the soju and beer!

Gogung (고궁)

Gogung is a famous Korean chain offering bibimbap (mixed veggies and rice), pajeon (savory Korean pancake), and more on the main streets of Myeongdong. Gogung also offers vegetarian options, which is a rare find in Korea.

Imun Seolnongtang

Imun Seolnongtang is one of Seoul’s (and Korea’s) oldest restaurants and was opened in 1904. It has survived over a hundred years of service and miraculously made it through Korea’s brutal Japanese colonization period, historic flooding, and even the Korean War.

Today, this Michelin guide establishment still serves a local favorite, ox bone beef soup.

Jungsik has been recognized as one of Asia’s top 50 restaurants and has become a pioneer in Korea’s modern food scene. They serve a wide variety of innovative and creative Korean dishes that take inspiration from the diverse cultures around the world and offer a high-end dining experience in Seoul.

The Best Bars In Seoul

No visit to Seoul would be complete without spending a night or two out on the town. Whether you’re into creative cocktails, a cold pint of beer, or a wild night of dancing, Seoul has it all.

Blacklist is a popular and cozy cocktail bar in Itaewon that’s best known for creative and bespoke cocktails and a fantastic atmosphere. This joint is a great place to kick off the evening with a tasty cocktail and or to spend a chill night filled with excellent conversation and drinks.

Southside Parlor

Southside Parlor is a hip cocktail bar open and managed by American ex-pats that also serves some great bar food for those hungry for western bites in Itaewon. In the summer, the bar’s rooftop opens up for outdoor cocktails and fun.

Magpie Brewing

For beer enthusiasts excited to taste some Korean craft beer, head over to Magpie Brewing for a refreshing brew.

Located in Yongsan District near Itaewon, it’s one of the best spots for craft beer in Seoul. They also serve up a highly rated pizza and a cool atmosphere.

Once In A Blue Moon

Once in a Blue Moon is a trendy jazz bar that features live performances from local musicians, an impressive cocktail menu, and notable dishes.

It’s on the pricier side but delivers a memorable evening filled with music. I recommend booking a reservation in advance to ensure you get a good table.

General Travel Tips for Seoul 

When to visit south korea.

South Korea is a country that experiences all four seasons and sees both extremes of weather. In the summer, it gets hot and humid with temperatures up to 90° F, and the winter sees temperatures as low as 20° F.

For the most comfortable experience, I recommend visiting South Korea in the spring or fall, but in summer is also a good option – just prepare for some heat! 

For those excited to see South Korea’s beautiful cherry blossoms, you’ll want to aim for a visit in March – April. The exact date varies year to year and depends on the weather, so timing a trip can be a bit of a challenge. Check out South Korea’s cherry blossom forecast before you book any travel to get a better idea of when to visit.

As for winter, it’s pretty cold and gloomy between the months of November – May, so I would try to avoid traveling to South Korea then if possible! 

South Korea’s Tourist Visa Policy

For many countries (over 100), South Korea has a visa-free entry that allows travelers with a valid passport to come into the country for free!

Depending on your citizenship, you may stay for 30 to 90+ days. How easy is that? No fee, no application, and no visa special to deal with on your trip to South Korea.

Be sure to check out the requirements for your citizenship before you leave for the most up to date information!

Cash Or Card? 

Unlike many other places in Asia, a large number of shops and places accept foreign cards making your travels even more convenient. Cash is still recommended to have on hand for street vendors, public transportation, and taxis, but it’s not a necessity to carry around large amounts of cash during your stay. 

However, you may have a hard time finding ATMs that accept your foreign card because not all do. Be sure to look for ATMs that have international or global on them.

English In Korea

As a tourist visiting South Korea, you don’t need to worry too much about the language barrier as many people in Seoul can speak English reasonably well!

Popular tourist places often have menus or signs in both Korean and English, and if you ever need any help, look to younger generations as many must learn English in school starting in 3rd grade.

But that doesn’t mean you won’t need Korean at all during your trip! I recommend coming with a translation app on your phone for those inevitable situations where you’re struggling to communicate with someone.

Common examples include – communicating with a taxi driver or a bus driver when a restaurant doesn’t have a menu card in English, and when asking a local shop vendor a question or for a price. 

Learning a couple of key Korean travel phrases will also go a long way for you and make a good impression with Koreans! Start with learning hello ( An-nyeong-ha-se-yo ), thank you ( Kam-sa-ham-ni-da ), yes ( ne ), and no ( aniyo ).

Korean Manners And Etiquette 

Before heading off on your Korean adventure, be sure to learn some of the essential local manners and etiquette, so you’re respectful of the local culture during your visit. 

Important Korean manners for tourists are:

• Use two hands when giving and receiving items, including while paying for something and shaking someone’s hand
• Be quiet and respectful on public transportation, it’s considered rude to be too loud.
• Don’t place your chopsticks vertically in your rice, it’s an omen of death in Korean culture
• Take your shoes off in people’s homes as well as some local shops and restaurants – it is very offensive to step inside with shoes if it’s a no-shoes establishment
• Avoid blowing your nose in public
• Respect your elders, and bow in greeting to show respect

Apps To Download For Korea

Many of the most common apps used around the world aren’t available or flat out don’t work in South Korea. I recommend having these Korean travel apps on hand before coming into the country!

Kakao Maps is the best navigation tool to use in Korea for accurate maps, directions, and public transportation routes and schedules.

As a heads up, Google Maps doesn’t work in Korea, other than for a vague outline of the bus and metro routes. You don’t want to be caught off guard without a reliable GPS by your side.

Mango Plate

I loved using Mango Plate as a food guide for the best local restaurants in Seoul. It’s like the Korean version of Yelp and allows people to review and share photos of the city’s eateries and bars.

If you’re like me and are super dependent on reviews, you’ll want Mango Plate on your phone!

As mentioned above, KakaoT will be the easiest way to grab a taxi in Seoul. It not only helps with any potential language barriers between you and older taxi drivers, but it also will ensure you get to where you need to go without any delay or confusion.

Papago or Google Translate

Even though English is widely spoken in the city, there are still instances where having a quality translator on hand will help immensely, and Papago or Google Translate is great go-to options. Papago is a Korean app and generally has more accurate translations than Google.

We hope that this article has helped inspire you to visit Seoul, South Korea. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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Read More About South Korea

• One Week South Korea Itinerary
• Vegetarian Food To Try In South Korea
• 7 Incredible Places To Photograph Busan, South Korea
• 6 Free Things To Do In Seoul
• 8 Reasons To Visit Jeju-Do On A Budget

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Nathalie Bolet says

May 27, 2020 at 1:38 pm

This is so amazing!! Great guide

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Zen Moments in Korea

4 days in Seoul: Your ultimate 2024 itinerary

Last Updated on November 21, 2023 by Ingrid & Alex

One of the fascinating things about Seoul, and South Korea in general, is the blend between the modern and the old.

On the one hand, Seoul is one of the most developed, high-tech global cities, with futuristic-looking skyscrapers dominating its skyline.

Yet, on the other hand, it is a city of living history, its medieval palaces, and traditional neighborhoods bustling with life.

This great and easy-to-follow 4 days in Seoul itinerary , will allow you to see all sides of the city: the old, the new, and the fun!

This post contains affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. Read more about it on our  disclosure page here .

Table of Contents

Things to know when planning a trip to seoul, south korea, day 1 of your 4 days in seoul: palaces and history, day 2 – explore gangnam, day 3 – namsan mountain and itaewon, day 4 – go on a day trip outside of seoul, day 1 buam-dong and lunch + skincare treatment in myeongdong + nanta show, day 2: relax at a jjimjilbang + go on an evening tour of suwon, day 3: have coffee in yeouido park, visit seonyudo island park, and go on a food tour in mangwon, day 4: seoul forest + seongsu neighborhood + evening cruise on the han river, other things worth doing in seoul, where to stay in seoul, seoul money-saving tips, how much money do you need per day in seoul, how to get from seoul to incheon airport, what is the best time to spend 4 days in seoul, understanding seoul, getting around town on your 4 days in seoul, where to eat in seoul – our favorite restaurants + recommendations by a local, cafes with the best view in seoul, 4 days in seoul: your ultimate seoul itinerary.

If this is your first trip to South Korea, there are a few things worth knowing beforehand. As with many other countries, Korea has its particularities and a certain way of doing things, thus having the right apps and information will make your vacation careless.

We recommend you read our comprehensive article packed with useful information for when you are planning a Seoul itinerary.

VISA & K-ETA

Depending on where you are traveling from, you will or won’t need a visa . Check your Visa requirements here!

Currently, South Korea has in place a visa-free online application process for certain eligible countries (you can check the list here ) that you must obtain before your trip.

K-ETA or the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization must be obtained before boarding a flight or ship. Here is some useful information regarding the K-ETA visa:

• The approval process takes more than 72 hours, thus it is useful to apply in advance;
• You will need to have accommodation booked before applying for the K-ETA, the address is one of the required information.
• The validity of the K-ETA visa is of 2 years from the date of approval;
• With the K-ETA you can stay in South Korea for 30 to 90 days;
• However, if you are visiting for travel purposes, and plan to return after your first visit, you will have to come back and update your visa with the new hotel address;
• One person can apply for up to 30 persons and can pay for all at once;
• K-ETA price : 10.000 won (around 9-10 USD)
• Book your AREX Airport Express Ticket ,
• Take the Airport Limousine Bus ,
• Book a private transfer ,
• or read everything about getting from Incheon to Hongdae , Myeongdong , Bukchon Hanok Village , or Gangnam .

Communication and transportation

• Book your SIM Card & T-Money Card with airport pickup
• See if you would rather buy a SIM card or pocket wifi for your trip
• Or get an eSIM card directly in your email, and learn everything you must know about getting around Seoul

Getting around South Korea

• Rent a car in advance – choose an international website where you can use your credit card. Read everything about driving in South Korea
• Travel by fast train and book a multiple-day Korea Rail Pass

Other useful tips & links

• Lugg a ge delivery service – have your luggage delivered from the airport to your hotel and take the all-stop train. It might be cheaper than taking a taxi.
• Luggage storage service
• Don’t travel without insurance – this is a World Wide Travel Health Insurance + Covid suitable for almost anyone, and easy to book. On top of that, they also provide luggage insurance in case your luggage gets lost or damaged. Get the best offer here!
• Accommodation guides : where to stay in Seoul , Busan , and everywhere in between
• Should you get the Discover Seoul Pass ? See our analysis and alternatives for saving on your trip

Your 4-day Seoul itinerary for first-timers overview

Day 1 – Visit central Seoul, its historical area, and the Palaces

Day 2 – Go south of the river and explore Gangnam

Day 3 – Climb to Namsan Tower, visit a cafe in Itaewon

Day 4 – Day trip to DMZ

Today will be a day of exploration and stepping back in time, learning a little bit about Korea’s history, and feeling like a princess or prince.

An option would be to start your day by renting a hanbok (Korean traditional clothing), and you can read everything about our experience here .

However, if you don’t feel like wandering around the streets of Seoul in those clothes, don’t worry, start your day in Bukchon Hanok Village.

Bukchon Hanok Village

If you’d like to see what a 600 years-old traditional village would look like in the middle of a high-tech, global metropolis, you must visit Bukchon Hanok.

Bukchon, literally the North Village, was the residential area of the nobility and high-ranking government officials during the Joseon period; it was the Beverly Hills of its day, the playground of the rich and famous. As its name suggests, it consists of numerous hanoks, traditional Korean houses.

According to polls, it is one of the favorite areas of foreign tourists. However, it became wildly popular with the locals after it was featured in the South Korean reality show ‘ 1 Night 2 Days ’ and the TV series ‘ Personal Taste .’

The area hosts several museums, coffee shops, and restaurants. And it is also a good place to rent a hanbok from. So you can start the day with a coffee in Bukchon Hanok Village, then dress up and walk its history-filled streets under the admiring gaze of the passerby. Once you finish visiting Changdeokgung, Gyeongbokgung, Deoksugung, and Jogyesa, you can return your outfit and enjoy a nice traditional dinner in Bukcheon. It’s worth it!

Address : Jongno-gu, 계동길 37

How to get to Bukchon Hanok Village : Take the subway or bus to Anguk Station. Read the complete guide here!

Bukchon Hanok Village to Changdeokgung Palace :

Changdeokgung Palace

The Palace of Prospering Virtue, known in Korean as Changdeokgung, was the favorite palace of many Joseon rulers. Moreover, it was the site of the royal court during two out of the three centuries that passed between Gyeongbukgung’s first destruction and its eventual reconstruction in 1868.

Changdeok stands out compared to Gyeongbukgung because its buildings blend in with the natural topography instead of dominating it; its construction style retains elements of the previous Three Kingdoms period of Korean history. Actually, the palace was built specifically to replace Gyeongbuk.

One note before going into the details: according to Joseon tradition, newly crowned kings changed their names similar to the practice of Catholic Popes (e.g., the current Pope Francis was Jorge Mario Bergoglio before he ascended to the Papacy; the first Joseon ruler, King Taejo was Yi-Seonggye before being crowned). Also, in Korean naming tradition, the first name is the family name (Yi is the family name of Yi Seonggye).

King Taejong (born Yi Bangwon), the third ruler of the Joseon dynasty, was reluctant to reside at Gyeongbuk because he had bad memories of the place.

Gyeongbuk was the brainchild of Jeong Dojeon, the first official to hold the Yeonguijeong position, a kind of Prime Minister of Joseon.

Jeong Dojeon envisaged a kingdom run by ministers, with the king having a ceremonial role. However, Prince Yi Bangwon, King Taejo’s fifth son and heir-apparent believed that the Monarch should have absolute power over state affairs.

Given their fundamentally diverging views, Jeong Dojeon convinced the founder of the Joseon dynasty, King Taejo, to appoint his eighth son, Yi Bangseok, as his successor instead of Yi Bangwon.

Enraged, Yi Bangwon raided Gyeongbuk palace, killing Jeong Dojeon and some of the other princes, his own half-brothers, in the process. Saddened by the events, King Taejo abdicated and, eventually, Yi Bangwon ascended to the throne as King Taejong.

Understandably, Taejong preferred constructing a new palace rather than living in the place he committed fratricide.

Today circa 30% of the pre-Japanese structure remains; the site has been a UNESCO World Heritage monument since 1997.

Apart from the impressive historical buildings, today’s main points of attraction are Changdeok’s gardens .

The Huwon , or Rear Garden, was originally constructed for the use of the royal family and palace women. The lotus pond is surrounded by hundreds of different trees and plant species; some trees are more than 300 years old. The Jade Stream area contains a U-shaped water channel initially used for floating wine cups; there is a small waterfall above it.

The Gemuwon, or Forbidden Garden, was destined for the exclusive use of the king. Today, many Koreans call it Biwon, or Secret Garden.

One popular historical K-drama, ‘The Jewel in the Palace,’ was mostly filmed at Changdeokgung.

Admission Fees [Changdeokgung Palace] Adults (ages 25-64): 3,000 won / Group (over 10 people): 2,400 won / Youth ( ages 7-18): 1500 won Students (ages 24 and under): Free (* Except for foreign visitors)

On the last Wednesday of the month, and when wearing a hanbok dress, the entrance is free.

Opening Hours : Closed on Mondays; between 9 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. or 6 p.m. depending on the season. See opening hours here!

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

Subway : Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 3.

Changdeokgung Palace to Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Unlike the Cantonese Chinese names that I easily memorized when we lived in Hong Kong, I had difficulties learning Korean ones after moving to Seoul.

One of the first Korean place names I encountered was Gyeongbokgung, which was a bit tricky for someone like me who didn’t know much about the language. Yet, once I figured out that the names are made up of separate words, it became much easier to learn them.

‘Gyeong’ means Brilliance, Honor, Respect and in Sino-Korean could also mean ‘Capital City’. ‘Bok’ usually means Fortune, while ‘Gung’ means Palace.

Thus, by giving this name to the palace, the government expressed its desire for a bright future.

Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in South Korea. It was first built by King Taejo, founder of the Joseon Dynasty, in 1395 and served as the dynastic seat until 1592.

Unfortunately, the palace was destroyed during the 1592 – 1598 Japanese invasion of Korea but was reconstructed in 1867 under King Gojong.

Some sources state that Gyeongbokgung was set ablaze by locals, enraged by the King’s actions: he fled the capital to escape the advancing Japanese, leaving its inhabitants to the conquerers’ mercy.

Other sources seem to indicate Japanese responsibility for the destruction. Ozeki, one of the Japanese commanders, described arriving at the now-abandoned palace in his diary and noted its amazing beauty. Ozeki’s account implies that Gyeongbok wasn’t damaged when the Japanese entered the city.

Irrespective of who was to blame for the disaster, the palace complex was left in ruins for the following three centuries.

Eventually, the palace was rebuilt and expanded in 1867, regaining its status as a symbol of Korean national identity. However, after Japanese agents assassinated Empress Myeongseong in 1895, her husband, Emperor Gojong, left the palace; the Royal family never returned.

In 1915, under the pretext of organizing an Industrial Exhibition at the site, the Japanese government systematically demolished 90% of Gyeongbokgung. Furthermore, they built the Japanese General Government Building at the site, trying to eradicate any vestiges of previous Korean independence.

Finally, in 1989, the Korean government initiated a 40 years plan of rebuilding hundreds of monuments and buildings destroyed during the Japanese occupation. As a result, in 1995, the Korean authorities demolished the former Japanese General Government Building, restoring and reconstructing circa 40% of the complex. The authorities plan to fully restore Gyeongbok to its pre-occupation levels in the following decade.

Walking through the complex today while admiring the many visitors dressed in traditional clothing, one wouldn’t guess the place’s violent history.

We loved visiting the palace’s Secret Garden; sitting by the pond can easily transport you to a world without worries. The majestic mountain in the background adds to the serene atmosphere. Furthermore, if you are lucky to visit during the cherry blossom season, you will have the chance of taking great Instragrammable pictures .

If you enjoy military history, there is a changing of the guard ceremony; it happens several times a day, at pre-determined hours – you should time your visit accordingly.

But if you have the chance, nothing beats visiting Gyeongbok (and the other Seoul palaces and Buchan Hanok village) while dressed in traditional hanbok.

Not only can you enter for free at Gyeongbok while wearing it, but you might be requested to pose for pictures by the local ladies. For some reason, Koreans love to take photos of foreigners dressed in traditional Korean clothing; I never felt like a superstar before this experience.

Admission Fees Adults (ages 19-64): 3,000 won / Groups (10 people or more): 2,400 won Children (ages 7-18): 1,500 won / Groups (10 people or more): 1,200 won

Free on the last Wednesday of the month and while wearing a hanbok.

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

Opening Hours : Closed on Tuesdays; between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. depending on the season. See operating time here!

Gyeongbokgung Station (Seoul Subway Line 3) and Exit 5. Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3) and Exit 1.

Would you rather go on a guided tour to see the Palaces in Seoul ? You can learn so much from a local guide! Here are a few of the best options to look into:

Small-Group Seoul Morning Royal Palaces Tour – a 3.5 hour tour that will take you to Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jogyesa Temple, and to watch the royal guard changing ceremony at Gwanghwamun Gate. Apart from entrance fees and a local guide, the tour includes also hotel pick-up.

Seoul City Private Full-Day Tour Including Lunch – a very popular tour, that sells out fast. It includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village, Jogyesa Temple, and N Seoul Tower, and lunch at a local restaurant.

Gyeongbokgung Palace to Deoksugung Palace

Deoksugung Palace

Deoksugung Palace, also known as  Gyeongungung ,  Deoksugung Palace , or  Deoksu Palace, is one of my favorite palatial complexes built by Joseon in Seoul; maybe because we spent a pleasant afternoon on its grounds, wearing the hanboks, immersing ourselves in Korea’s rich history.

Built in the late 16th century by King Seonjo of the Joseon Dynasty, it was originally called Gyeongun-gung but changed its name to Deoksugung after being reconstructed during the reign of King Gojong.

The palace has been home to several royal families over its long history and today serves as an important cultural landmark for both locals and tourists alike.

The distinctive fusion of traditional Korean and European influences found in the architecture of Joseon-era compounds makes them a truly unique sight.

In the late 19th century, King Gojong of Joseon sought to modernize his kingdom and help it keep up with the rapid changes taking place around the world. To this end, he ordered the installation of electricity in Deoksugung Palace in 1900, making it one of the first buildings in Seoul to receive such a feature. However, during the Japanese occupation, it was transformed into a cafeteria.

Moreover, a European-style, stone palatial building was commissioned, the Seokjojeon. The building was designed by the British architect John Reginald Harding in the Neo-Renaissance style. A typical European garden complements the Seokjojeon. Today, it houses the Korean Empire History Hall.

The Seokjojeon West Building is a later addition; it was opened in 1938 as the House of Yi Art Museum. It continues to serve as the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.

Visitors can explore its many halls, pavilions, gardens, and courtyards while learning about its fascinating past.

You can also book a walking tour and learn about the history of this impressive palace. It is done during the night , for a more impressive view.

Entrance ticket fee:  Adult: 1,000 won ; Children: 500 won

Address : 100-120  99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul

Opening hours : Closed on Mondays; Open daily between 9:00AM ~ 9:00PM

Subway : City Hall Station (subway line 1) exit 2

Book your own unforgettable photo session with a local professional photographer here !

Deoksugung Palace to Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa is the chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism.

The Jogye Order is the representative order of traditional Korean Seon Buddhism. Its roots are over 1200 years old when the Latter Silla Master Doui brought Seon from China (‘Seon’ is what we call ‘Zen’ in the West).

The Buddhist Orders were persecuted during the Joseon period. Instead, the new rulers favored Neo-Confucianism as the basis of their society; its strong influences still permeate modern Korean culture, although most religious South Koreans are Christians. According to government statistics from 2015, almost half of the population is irreligious, nearly 30% are Christian, 22% are Buddhists, and less than 1% are Confucianists. You’ll surely notice the numerous churches once you arrive in Seoul.

Although Seon Masters raised troops and protected the country during the first Japanese invasion of 1592-1598, Buddhist monks were not allowed into the cities until 1895.

The Jogyesa temple dates back to the dawn of Joseon in the late XIV century, and it became the center of the Jogye Order in 1936. Initially called Gakhwangsa Temple, it changed its name in 1954 to reflect its central position in the Jogye Order.

Apart from the temple itself, the courtyard hosts a couple of unique trees over 500 years old: a White Pine tree, brought by Chinese missionaries, and a Chinese Scholar tree. Can you imagine that these trees were already hundreds of years old at the time of the American Revolutionary War?

More recently, the Temple grounds witnessed events we usually don’t associate with Zen living. For example, in the 1990s, two different Buddhist factions came to blows, and hundreds of monks engaged in violence using makeshift weaponry. Everyone has a breaking point, it seems.

Guided tours in English , are held daily except Saturdays from  10 AM, 12 AM, 14 PM, and 16 PM . The only day when you can see the temple whenever you want, without a guided tour, is on Saturdays.

Admission Fee : Adults 1000 won; Children: 500 won

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

Opening Hours : the main hall is open 24 hours

Subway : Jonggak Station (Subway Line 1), Exit 2; Anguk Station (Subway Line 3), Exit 6; Gwanghwamun Station (Subway Line 5), Exit 2.

Jogyesa temple to Insadong

Make your back towards Bukchon Hanok Village passing through Insadong. A mix of old and new, Insadong concentrates the most art and antique shops in Seoul.

It is known for its traditional Korean culture and bustling local shops that line the streets. Here you can find everything from antiques to handmade crafts, as well as delicious street food and unique teahouses.

Stop to buy some valuable souvenirs, grab a bite at one of the traditional restaurants hidden on the narrow streets, or grab a cup of tea at Osulloc Tea House .

Insadong to Cheonggyecheon Stream

Walk along the Cheonggyecheon stream

The Cheonggyecheon Stream is a 10.9-kilometer-long urban oasis that runs through the heart of the city, and you can easily walk there from Jogyesa Temple and Insadong.

The stream is bordered by parks and walkways that are filled with vibrant sculptures and art installations. It was once an open sewer, but in 2005 it was restored to its original beauty as part of an ambitious urban renewal project. Today, it serves as a tranquil refuge for locals and visitors alike who come to take in the natural scenery or enjoy leisurely strolls along its banks.

Southern Seoul, or the south of the river as for the direct translation, is the new and vibrant area in town.

While you will find it hard to see it all in one day alone, I have tried to help you scratch the surface and see its highlights.

Famous because of Psy’s song “Gangnam Style”, Gangnam is a neighborhood and a way of living. Seoul’s most expensive area, and the home to some of the nicest parks and shopping malls in town.

Stroll through Sinsa and Garosu

Take the bus or the subway and cross over to the southern part of Seoul. Hannam Bridge links Yognsan to Gangnam and is one of the most picturesque places along the river.

You can even start your day with a stroll along the river, heading towards the street of Sinsa-dong and Garosu. Home to some of the most famous and luxurious brands, packed with small cafes or perfume and cosmetics stores, you might be shocked to find a horse inside.

Another thing that will surprise and impress is the number of cosmetic surgery clinics crowded in this area – around Tehran-ro (street).

From Sinsa, don’t walk on Dosan-daero (Boulevard) but step on the smaller streets and allow yourself to get lost on your way to Dosan Park.

Have a coffee and brunch at a fancy place or enjoy a SPA treatment

In the area of Dosan Park, you will find plenty of cafes and coffee shops, but also flagship stores for some of the most famous Korean cosmetic brands.

Most offer an experience and some also have SPA facilities.

South Korea is home to some of the most popular and qualitative cosmetics, and you cannot leave without pampering yourself for at least one hour.

Sulwhasoo Flagship Store is hosted in an impressive building right next to Dosan Park. On the ground floor, they host a small museum showcasing the brand’s history and some facts about Korea’s beauty history.

On the second floor, they have a small shop where you can also try most of their products and choose your favorites.

Also, they have a SPA where you can enjoy luxurious treatments with their lush cosmetics, infused with Korean ginseng.

On top of the building, they host a nice rooftop terrace, from where you can enjoy the surrounding area.

Next door, have brunch at Dear Dahlia’s Flagship Store with its girly interior, or reward yourself with a coffee at the Dior Cafe.

Bongeunsa Buddhist Temple

One of the few Buddhist Temples you will find in the city, it is home to 13 smaller temples  each with its history and particularities.

The temple holds a long history (over 1200 years), having been built in 794, the temple is home to 3,479 Buddhist scriptures of 13 types.

Perched on a hill, in between greens, the temple offers temple stays during which you can learn more about Buddhism, sample tea, and learn more about the temple itself.

Before Buddha’s Day in late summer and around the Lunar New Year, the temple is decorated with colorful lanterns. They are actually a symbol of Buddha’s enlightenment and can be admired along with listening to chanting and other processions that take place during this time.

The temple also has a tea house in one of the smaller houses, open since 2018, where you can take a break and savor a cup of delicious tea.

COEX Mall and Starfield Library

Next door to the temple you’ll find the famous Starfield Library hosted inside the COEX Mall.

Follow the signs, walk between Korean and international brands, and get to the photogenic library. The place has been thought of as a place for relaxation and socializing. Even if you would be able to read in Korean, you wouldn’t be permitted to borrow books and magazines, but you can read them inside the library.

Apart from the library, COEX Mall hosts an impressive indoor aquarium where you can enjoy a unique “mermaid performance”. The place is also known for having the highest number of sharks in South Korea.

Lotte World Tower

Hop on the subway and head to Jamsil for South Korea’s tallest building. Try to make it just in time for sunset, and you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city.

The Sky Tower is Korea’s tallest building, and the Lotte World Tower is hosted on 117 – 123 floors. Apart from the stunning views, you can experience one of the world’s fastest elevators.

Another option would be to extend your time spent around the Lotte World Tower, especially when you don’t feel like walking so much.

The itinerary can easily be altered when you purchase the Songpa L-Pass . The pass included entrance to Lotte World Adventure, Lotte World Aquarium, and Seoul Sky. That would mean that you can spend the whole day here, without getting bored.

Lotte World Adventure is a major recreation complex, with the world’s largest indoor theme park, and an outdoor amusement park. No matter if you are traveling with kids or you simply want to have fun, this is the place for you!

Today will be about hiking (or not), views, and one of the most iconic areas of Seoul: Itaewon.

Seullo 7017

Seullo translates to “towards Seoul” or “Seoul street” and is an elevated sky garden in the heart of the city. Get off at Seoul Central Station and take one of the elevators to the former highway overpass.

Especially during spring or summer, a walk on the suspended overpass will both delight and impress you. From here, you can see the beautiful building that hosts the central train station, with its blue cupola, one of Seoul’s gates, but also the wide boulevard and the crazy traffic.

Different types of flowers are cared for every day by workers and await you to discover them on your walk towards Namsan Mountain.

Read also the complete guide for how to get to Namsan Tower !

Namsan Mountain and N Seoul Tower

As you get close to the famous Namdaemun Market, on your right-hand side you will see one of the roads that lead to the park below N Seoul Tower.

Namsan Mountain is the highest peak in the center of Seoul, home to many plants and birds, but also one of the favorite recreation spots for South Korean people.

You can easily get to the top of the mountain by cable car or by bus (no. 02, 03, or 05), but hiking there is rewarding and an experience in itself. The hike is moderate and offers lots of viewpoints where you can stop along the way to catch your breath.

Hiking from either side of the mountain took us around one hour.

On the top of the mountain, the N Seoul Tower will welcome you with an observation deck and plenty of restaurants with an unforgettable view.

In the area surrounding the tower, you will find plenty of photography spots, but also a famous bridge and trees covered with thousands of lovers’ padlocks.

Descending from the mountaintop towards Itaewon will take you through a forest where you will find it hard to believe you are still in the heart of this huge metropolis.

Located in the heart of the city, Itaewon is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for some delicious local cuisine, international restaurants, shopping options, or exciting nightlife venues – Itaewon has it all.

The narrow streets are lined with trendy boutiques selling everything from clothes to accessories, while the restaurants range from traditional Korean fare to exotic delicacies from around the world.

For those who enjoy a bit of nightlife, there are plenty of bars and clubs offering an array of entertainment options. Plus, if you want to take in some culture during your visit then there are several art galleries and museums located nearby too.

The neighborhood is also packed with murals, trendy cafes, stunning views, and a Culture Trace Journey where you can learn about Seoul and this part of town.

You can easily spend half day of your itinerary in this part of town.

Visit The Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art; explore the Itaewon Mosque, shop on the antique street, or simply taste some international oriental cuisine.

End your day with a traditional dinner at the Korea House restaurant. The setting is impressive, the food is delicious, and they often have shows or wedding ceremonies you can admire.

While the city offers many more things to do and see, you might want to consider some of the most popular day trips outside of Seoul .

DMZ (the Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea) is visited every year by hundreds of thousands of tourists, even though Koreans don’t think much of it. Read our complete guide for a day trip to DMZ here!

Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, and Petite France are stunning in every season, but you shouldn’t think twice during spring or fall.

Paju, Incheon, Suwon, or Chuncheon are only a few other places easily reachable by public transportation, and worth visiting from Seoul.

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Option 2: 4 Days in Seoul Itinerary off the beaten path

If this is not your first time in Seoul, and you are looking for some off-the-beaten-path attractions and things to do, I will help you with an itinerary option.

These are some of the places I loved exploring once I got to know Seoul better. Of course, I always loved climbing Namsan Mountain or exploring Gangnam, but these are a few things to consider when you want to do something else.

Maybe our favorite Seoul neighborhood, tucked away from the hustle and bustle, packed with nice things to enjoy.

It is an area full of history and culture and has been home to many famous Korean figures over the years.

The area is known for its traditional markets, ancient temples, and vibrant street life.

Visitors can explore this unique part of town by taking a walk through its narrow alleyways or visiting one of its many restaurants or cafes.

Buam-dong also offers a variety of cultural activities such as concerts, art galleries, and festivals throughout the year that make it an ideal destination for travelers looking for something different from the usual tourist spots in Seoul.

For lunch, stop by Jaha Son Mandu , the renowned Michelin-star restaurant is worth every second of the wait in line. With an extensive menu of exquisite dishes, each colorful plate will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. For a complete dining experience, make sure to save room for one of their signature cinnamon sweet drinks that are sure to satisfy your cravings with a sweet and tart flavor. And for the ultimate treat, snag a table by the window to take in the gorgeous views of the city while you dine.

In the afternoon, pamper yourself with a facial at one of the best-known places in town: O HUI&WHOO SPA in Myeong-dong .

Once you are relaxed, go for the popular Nanta Show at the Theatre in Myeong-dong.

The show has been captivating audiences since 1997, with its unique blend of traditional Korean percussion music, comedy, and improvisation.

It follows the story of four chefs who are trying to prepare a wedding banquet within an impossible time limit while dealing with unexpected obstacles thrown their way. With thrilling performances that combine martial arts and acrobatics, the Nanta Show is sure to provide an unforgettable experience that will leave you laughing and amazed.

One of the best things to do in South Korea, especially after spending a few days or weeks exploring, is to spend a few hours at one of the  best Korean SPA in Seoul .

There are plenty of great options in Seoul, Incheon, or Busan, and offering yourself a few hours of pampering is always a good idea. If you are traveling during  winter in Korea , the  rainy season , or you just love a good SPA, you should not skip this experience.

We loved our experience at Aquafield in Hannam, and you can read all about it and the rules to know in our comprehensive Jimjilbang guide .

End the day with a short trip outside of Seoul. Go on a night tour at Suwon.

It is a 5-hour trip that will take you to see Hwaseong Fortress under the moonlight.

Built between 1794 and 1796 to protect the city of Suwon, the fortress is an outstanding example of Korean architecture and engineering from the late Joseon period.

The fortress walls are 5.52 km long and contain four large gates with two smaller ones within them. Inside the walls, there are several historic sites such as palace buildings, pavilions, command posts, observation towers, and shooting galleries that were all built during this time period.

Hwaseong Fortress has been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 1997 due to its significance in Korean history and culture. It stands today as a testament to Korea’s rich cultural heritage and acts as an important reminder of how far Korea has come over the centuries.

Option : If you are passionate about technology, spend the whole day in Suwon, on a guided tour of the Samsung Innovation Museum and Hwaseong Fortress .

Start your day in Seoul’s financial district, but come here for the park along the Han River.

Get your coffee from Tailor Coffee in the Hyundai Department Store, and walk towards the river. From here, you can admire the I Seoul U sign, together with Seoul’s iconic skyline.

Go for a walk along the river all the way to Seonyudo Island Park. The small park is set on an island and it is filled with flowers, especially if you are visiting during spring or summer.

From there, you can take the bus and easily get to Mungwon – a less-known area, very popular with Koreans. You can explore the cafes and night market on your own, but I strongly suggest booking a food tour .

You will be joined by a local guide who will take you to some of the best food stalls in Seoul.

Seoul Forest Park covers more than four million square meters and offers an array of activities and attractions, from nature trails to amusement parks.

The park has been carefully landscaped with over 400 species of trees, shrubs, and flowers as well as numerous lakes and streams that provide a peaceful refuge from the hustle and bustle of Seoul’s streets.

You can enjoy leisurely strolls around the lake or take advantage of educational programs such as bird-watching tours or classes on traditional Korean crafts like paper making or pottery.

During spring, the park is famous for its tulips, while during fall everyone comes here for the ginkgo trees.

Right next to the park, you will find plenty of cool cafes.

From the park, you can easily get to Seongsu-dong .

The neighborhood has been a popular residential district since the 2000s and is known for its trendy restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.

Seongsu-dong is renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues catering to different tastes. There are also plenty of shopping areas where you can find products from all over the world at reasonable prices.

Moreover, in the area, you can find the Amore Pacific concept store (one of the best places to try and buy Korean skincare ), but also the iconic Dior concept store.

Finish off your day with a cruise on the Han River with a food buffet .

You can admire Seoul’s skyline from the water, and feast on traditional Korean food at a local restaurant.

Foodies will enjoy a cooking class where they can learn how to make some of the most popular delicious Korean dishes. Prepare 3 main dishes and a stew and enjoy them afterward! See more here!

Go on a walking tour with a local guide and gain an insider’s perspective from a local.

If you are feeling more adventurous, Kayaking and Paddle Boarding on the Han River might spark your interest. Alternatively, you can book a sunset cruise on the river and enjoy the skyline while learning about the most important sights.

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No matter if you are visiting the city for the first time or you are returning after a while, these are the best areas to consider staying in.

We have visited the city as tourists and we have had the chance to live there for one year, and have used that experience to help you choose the best place to stay if you don’t want to waste time commuting.

Seoul is a huge metropolis and wasting time in traffic would mean having to skip some of the most important attractions. With only 4 days in Seoul on hand, you must make the best choice when it comes to accommodation location.

Read also: Hongdae or Myeongdong – where to stay as a first-time tourist | Where to stay in Seoul on a budget

If you don’t have the time to read the full article, here are a few of our recommendations for where to stay in Seoul when you visit for the first time and for 4 days. Most first-timers choose to stay in Myeongdong , however, there are other great options as well:

• Namdaemunno  – the area we chose to stay in during our first trip to Seoul, at  Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Namdaemun . It was a nice hotel, with a view of the NSeoul tower and the Sungnyemun Gate, from where I could easily walk to many of the main attractions in town.  Check it out here!
• Insadong  – maybe the most tourist area in town, mainly because it is so close to most of the popular spots.  ibis Ambassador Insadong  offers Seoul Tower views and a beautiful rooftop terrace, and it is located close to Insadong’s Main Street, which has most of its outlets open all night.  Check it out here!
• Myeongdong  –  Nine Tree Hotel Myeongdong  – this was our first choice when we visited for the first time, mainly because of its location and facilities. However, we ended up staying in another hotel, which was quite good. If you would rather stay in Myeongdong, Nine Tree offers great quality vs price ratio.  Check it out here!
• Hongdae – while the area is not right in the heart of the city, it is perfectly connected to most of the important attractions in town. Moreover, this is a vibrant area with plenty of things to do and see. L7 Hongdae by LOTTE  is a 4* hotel, steps away from the subway station, set on the main boulevard. The hotel has a stunning rooftop restaurant and bar from where you can admire the city, but also a rooftop swimming pool for the hot days of summer. Check it out here!

It is widely known that Seoul is one of the most expensive towns in Asia and the world, thus, if you are traveling on a budget, here are a few money-saving tips you should have in mind.

Consider booking your plane ticket at the right moment – not too soon or not too late, but at least 3 months in advance, depending on where you are traveling from. Use an aggregator such as Syscanner in order to find the best options and routes from your destination.

Get the Seoul City Pass when you want to see as much as you can – it will also help you forget about public transportation (it works as a TMoney) and it will offer you free access to a selection of 42 attractions. For a 4-day Seoul itinerary, I would suggest going for the 72-hour City Pass. S e e more here!

Book your activities online in advance – Klook or Trazy are your go-to places for activities in Seoul and South Korea. They cover all of the most important attractions, day trips, guided tours, and more. And they also help you save on your trip!

Eat local food – if you are traveling on a budget and want to save money, choose to eat street food, eat at the local markets, or choose the most local-looking restaurants. Cafe s , barbeque places, and well-known restaurants (local or Western) will always be more expensive.

Some other things worth knowing:

• certain restaurants and cafes will ask you to take off your shoes, and you might even have to sit on the floor
• Google maps don’t   work properly, thus you will need local apps such as  Kakao Maps or Naver . We have always used Naver because we found it more user-friendly. If you step outside of the tourist area, it helps to search for addresses and places in Korean, otherwise ,  you might not find them.
• when taking the subway, always stay on the right side of the escalator.
• during summer or the hot season, Korean women never wore clothes too revealing with the upper part of the body (no cleavage). That doesn’t mean you should do the same, just be mindful of this when packing for South Korea.
• most restaurants won’t provide forks, and you will be expected to eat with Korean chopsticks.
• at a barbeque, Koreans cut meat with scissors, not a knife.
• download and use Papago for translating everything around you. It works perfectly with pictures, even though sometimes it could show you strange things (like the time we thought we had dog soup, when in fact it was ox cartilage).

Eating out in Seoul can be an expensive undertaking, depending on your tastes and preferences. For the budget-conscious traveler, local eateries offer delicious fare at reasonable prices—a typical meal might cost around 50,000 KRW.

On the other hand, if you’re looking to splurge, a visit to a Korean BBQ restaurant could easily set you back 100,000 KRW or more. And of course, that doesn’t include the cost of any attractions you decide to visit during your stay in Seoul.

A day in Seoul can be as expensive or as affordable as you make it. For those looking to save money, there are several options for transportation such as the subway system, buses, and even walking. Eating out is also an option, with local restaurants offering delicious meals at a fraction of the cost of Western-style chain restaurants.

Taxis are also available and can be a convenient way to get around, although they tend to be more expensive than other forms of transportation.

Of course, there are ways in which you can save money (getting the  Go City Seoul Pass  for example), but you can also spend much more when you choose high-end restaurants or enjoy shopping.

Getting from the airport to the city center or to your hotel couldn’t be simpler in Seoul.

We have personally used all options and can compare from experience.

Book a private transfer when you want to have a driver waiting for you at the airport. The price is comparable to the one of taking a taxi, but the driver will already have your final destination address. On top of that, you won’t have to worry about finding a car after a long flight.

Go by AREX ( Airport Railroad Express ) – the fast train conveniently links the Seoul Central Station to both Gimpo and Incheon International Airports. Upon arrival, follow the directions that will take you to the train tracks.

From Seoul Station, you can make your way further to your hotel or final destination.

While convenient, traveling by train and subway could prove to be challenging when you have large luggage or when you don’t stay in a hotel close to the subway station. For those times, you can choose to leave your bags at the luggage storage at Incheon or Gimpo – on top of keeping your luggage for up to one day, they can also transport them to and from your hotel. See all the options here!

The advantage is that you will be able to pay with your T-Money card , and the train is really fast – between 43 and 51 minutes depending on your terminal. Order the card or Seoul City Pass before you arrive in order to make the trip carefree.

Get a taxi from the airport – at Incheon Airport as soon as you exit arrivals you will find a designated desk for booking taxis and transfers. The people there speak English and will be able to assist you in choosing the best car option for you.

Having the address of the hotel written down in Korean will always come in handy.

Airport shuttle bus – a budget option worth taking into consideration when you don’t want to leave your luggage in storage or don’t want to spend too much on transportation.

In Terminal 2 there’s a Bus terminal, while if you arrive in Terminal 1 you can ask at the ticket booth for the location of the bus stops.

Whenever you choose to travel by car or bus, bear in mind the fact that traffic in Seoul can get crazily crowded – something worth keeping in mind, especially on your way out of South Korea.

Read the complete guide here !

With a temperate climate, South Korea has 4 seasons – some more appropriate than others.

The best time to visit Seoul is typically in the spring (April-May) and fall (September-November).

During these times, temperatures are mild and comfortable, and the city is full of vibrant colors from the changing leaves in fall or blossoming cherry blossoms in spring.

With countless festivals, shopping outlets, cultural activities, and outdoor spaces, Seoul is a great place to explore and take in the sights.

Plus, late fall and winter offer opportunities to ski and snowboard at various resorts outside of the city.

Read also : The comprehensive guide for the best time to visit South Korea

Seoul, the bustling city of South Korea, is divided by the majestic Han River into two distinct regions.

To the north lies a region that is steeped in tradition and culture, home to some of the most important and iconic historical monuments and attractions.

Directly across on the other side of the river lies an area full of modernity and vibrancy – the perfect spot for visitors to come and explore Seoul’s hip neighborhoods, trendiest cafe spots, and modern nightlife.

Seoul is split into districts (gu) and neighborhoods (dong), with the river passing below Mapo-gu, Yongsan-gu, and Seongdong-gu.

As already mentioned, Seoul is a big metropolis, but its public transportation system is amongst the best in the world.

Getting around Seoul will be effortless by subway, taxi, or bus. You can pay cash on the bus, but it is highly recommended to have a rechargeable T-Money card .

There are  9 subway lines  in Seoul that will get you also to the metropolitan area.

Also, there are different  types of buses  depending on their itinerary:

• Blue  buses – for long distances within Seoul – basic fare 1300 won
• Green  buses – for transportation between blue bus stops and subway stops – basic fare 1300 won
• Yellow  buses – downtown Seoul – basic fare 1200 won
• Red  bus – inter-city express transit – basic fare 2400 won

You cannot spend 4 days in Seoul without tasting all the local delicious food!

Apart from our favorite restaurant in Buam-dong, here are a few other recommendations you must try if you are in the area:

A Flower Blossom on the Rice (꽃밥에피다) – in Insadong, Korean traditional food customized by the chef: bibimbap and vegetables, please try to have a course or single in lunch.

GlowSeoul (온천집) – Iksundong no.1 Korean traditional restaurant. They also have a cafe nearby you might want to try.

Pildong Myeonok (필동면옥) – No 1. cold noodle (Pyeongyang cold noodle: originated from North Korea, Pyeongyang). Water cold noodle is the main, and Seasoned cold noodle is the second option. Try to eat water cold noodles (물냉면).

두툼 – Delicious Korean BBQ close to Seoul Station and Seullo.

Din Tai Fung – this isn’t a Korean restaurant, however, we strongly encourage you to try it. The Taiwanese Michelin-star dumpling restaurant is famous all over the world. And you can easily find it in Myeong-dong.

Crystal Jade – a Chinese restaurant with delicious food, located in Myeong-dong.

Noop Cafe  is open until midnight and has a terrace with a stunning view over the Namsan Tower.

Seoulism   is another popular  cafe in Seoul  with a view over the Lotte Sky Tower.  Address : 48-7 Songpa-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 송파구 송파동 48-7)

Sanmotunggi Coffee  is set in one of the best  off-the-beaten-path destinations in Seoul , our favorite neighborhood, Buam-dong. Address: 153 Baekseokdong-gil, Buam-dong, Jongno-gu (서울특별시 종로구 부암동 백석동길 153).

Type Hangang Cafe  caught my eye with its large windows and the perfect view over the Han River and Yeouido. Address: 5th floor, 128 Tojeong-ro, Mapo-gu ( 서울 마포구 토정로 128 5층).

Molto Espresso Bar  is located in the heart of Myeongdong and has a rooftop terrace overviewing the Cathedral.

PIN FOR LATER

By Ingrid & Alex

Ingrid A former financial professional, I have been passionate about photography since an early age. My fascination with Korean culture was one of the reasons Alex accepted a business role in Seoul. Alex A former corporate business executive, I am a historical fiction writer. My business career allowed us to live in Seoul and explore South Korea for one year. We fell in love with the country, its culture, food, and people, and we strongly believe you will love it too! Because we know how difficult planning a trip can be, especially to South Korea, we are here to help you out and ensure you have an awesome time there.

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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 Jul 3, 2022 and updated Feb 10, 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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Nice list. I am going next week there and this abandoned theme park look like something I will visit

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

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

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

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

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Seoul Itinerary: Ultimate DIY Travel Guide for South Korea for 5 Days (More or Less)

by Aileen Adalid Itineraries , South Korea 134 comments

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One of my recent adventures was to the dynamic metropolis of Seoul in South Korea — a bustling city that not only holds a strong presence in Asia but also in the rest of the world. To date, this influence is largely due to Seoul’s cutting-edge technology, a strong economy, and vibrant culture (I’m sure that a majority of you have encountered K-pop , K-dramas, Korean cosmetics, and Korean food among many others at least once in your life!) (Seoul Itinerary)

TRIVIA : Seoul has 25 districts ( gu ) that are further subdivided into 522 sub-districts ( dong ), and with the Han River that runs through the middle of the city, there are distinct 2 sections: Gangbuk (the northern area that’s more traditional) and Gangnam (southern area that’s more modern). But… asking for the “center” of this whole metropolitan area is a difficult thing to answer because Seoul’s districts can somehow each function like a city center itself.

It actually baffles me that I didn’t go to Seoul sooner; nevertheless, the important thing is, I’ve finally seen this city for myself, and well… I just LOVED it! I am totally smitten about how it is constantly brimming with incredible things-to-do of sorts — all of which are enough to satisfy any kind of traveler out there.

Where to Stay in Seoul?

Come and check out my list of the ‘ Best Hotels in Seoul ‘ which features the top recommended choices for cheap to luxurious accommodation choices PER district.

Clearly, the days I spent there were not enough and I would have absolutely loved to stay longer. And now, as I recall the vast array of activities and sights that could be done and seen, I’ve decided to whip up this comprehensive Seoul itinerary travel guide that spans 5 days/nights to help travelers (like you) to plan a trip with ease and speed.

Rest assured, the Seoul itinerary below is totally customizable to fit any number of days that you might be spending — but first, here are some important tips for your travel to South Korea!

Table of Contents

South Korea Travel Guide

» quick travel planning.

• Top tours & experiences
• Find flights to Korea
• Visa requirements
• Best hotels & hostels
• Travel insurance (5% discount)
• Stay connected

– – –

» Best Time to Visit

I suggest coming during autumn to see the amazing fall foliage , but of course, if you want to witness cherry blossom season then spring is a considerable option too.

• Spring : The city becomes a hit with all the flora that start to bloom and bud. And of course, much like Japan, the city has cherry blossoms which tourists often seek. Given this demand, there tends to be a slight increase in costs, but the weather and season are quite desirable.
• Summer : This is arguably the peak season in the city so things get busier and costlier. It doesn’t help either that this is the vacation month of schools and Korean companies so everyone is out and about. That’s why if I were you, you should avoid these months — also because the weather can get quite humid with occasional downpours.
• ★ Autumn : (This is the best time to visit Seoul because the weather is pleasant, prices are more affordable, and crowds are thinner. Not to mention the number of great destination must-sees for viewing vibrant leaves of autumn in South Korea . However, do take note to avoid Chuseok or Korea’s autumn harvest festival.
• Winter : As the temperatures drop, prices and airfare also drop. Take note though that it can get very chilly; but, supposing you’re not that sensitive to the cold, this can be a fun time given all the amazing ski resorts and festive atmosphere.

Other South Korean blooms to watch out for?

See this list of the most popular spring flowers in Korea — when to see them and where to go!

ADDITIONAL TIP: Arrive and start your Seoul itinerary before the weekend. For example, if you’re visiting for 5 nights, make sure to come from Wednesday to Sunday. I say this because most places, museums, and shops close on Mondays and Tuesdays. Moreover, a lot of cosmetic stores hold sales starting on Thursdays and up to the weekend .

• WINTER: Dec to Feb
• SPRING: March to May
• SUMMER: June to Aug
• AUTUMN: Sept to Nov

» Getting in to South Korea

International visitors typically arrive at the main airport called Incheon International Airport (ICN) . To get here, I recommend browsing through Skyscanner to find the best flight deals from your point of origin. If you’re from the Philippines like me, Skyscanner also scans through budget airlines such as Air Asia and Cebu Pacific in order to find which of the 2 has the cheapest rate on the dates you choose.

From ICN, below are the following modes of transportation to get to Seoul…

By train. AREX (Airport Railroad Express) or ‘airport train’ connects ICN to Seoul station and Gimpo Airport, operating from 5:20AM to 12:00AM (midnight). There are 2 types of AREX, namely ‘express’ and ‘all-stop’. As the name suggests, ‘express’ is fast as it goes directly to Seoul Station (43 minutes) whereas ‘all-stop’ will arrive at 12 stations before finally arriving at Seoul Station (53 minutes). ‘Express’ tickets typically cost ₩8,000 but if you purchase online , you can get it at a discount for about ₩6,500~ only — and if you use code AILEEN5OFF , you’ll get an additional 5% off! Contrarily, in case you hold a Discover Seoul Pass , you can avail of one (1) FREE one-way ride.

By private transfers . If you want the utmost convenience and ease, especially without having to drag your luggage around, I recommend booking a private transfer to your hotel for only $63~ (or Php 3,300~ / ₩67,000~). This works best if you’re coming together with other people so that you can share the cost and save more. Otherwise, there are taxis at the airport that charge around ₩60,000 to ₩90,000 depending on your destination (take note that if the taxi passes by a road toll, you’ll have to pay for it).

By airport limousine/bus or shared transfers. There are limousine buses that travel directly to major areas and big hotels in Seoul and are a great option when you’re traveling with a lot of luggage. To get a discounted rate on this at about ₩14,000~ only, book with KAL or via shared transfer .

» Visa for South Korea

If you’re NOT a citizen of any of South Korea’s exempted countries , you are then required to avail of a visa beforehand. (If you’re from the Philippines, you can read my guide on how to get a South Korea visa in Manila here .)

• Check full visa requirements here as per your nationality.

» Where to Stay (South Korea Accommodations)

To search for the best hotel accommodation in South Korea at the best prices, I suggest cross-checking hotel prices between Agoda and Booking.com . But if you’re rather interested in renting comfortable houses or apartments, you should search through AirBnB .

Otherwise, if you’re interested in seeing the top picks per district in Seoul, see here .

» South Korea Currency

South Korean Won (KRW / ₩) wherein KRW 1,000 is equal to about USD $0.9~, €0.7~ or Php 49.00~ (this is as of May 2021). In the event that you want to exchange your money for KRW, I highly advise that you do NOT exchange your money at the airport since the rates there are not competitive.

• How to best exchange your currency? Either exchange your money at a bank or at a money exchanger in your home country or in Seoul’s city center. Better yet, just withdraw from an ATM with your debit/credit card (do one big withdrawal to minimize fees with your bank) . Speaking of cards, a lot of Seoul’s establishments accept credit cards but it’s always advisable to have cash on hand.

» Cost of Travel in Korea

While the cost of living in South Korea is far from being cheap, your trip doesn’t have to break the bank! To give you an idea, you should expect to travel in South Korea with an average daily cost of about USD $35~ per person on a budget, or at least $100~ if you want to experience more comfort on activities, tours, hotels, and more. (Values below show low budget to medium budget ranges).

• Hotels: $20 to $100 USD / day
• Food: $10 to $30 USD / day
• Fun: $10 to $25 USD / day
• Transport: About US$1 per subway ride*

*Buy a T-Money card that saves you ₩100 on all trips.

» How to Get Around Seoul

I would recommend using Naver Map ( iOs / Android ) for researching your day-to-day route on your Seoul itinerary because it will show in detail the fastest connections you can do (by walking, by car, by bus, and by subway). To make this work, get your own pocket WiFi or SIM Card .

You might be wondering why I am not recommending Google Maps which is the app that I typically use in my travels. Well… this is because Google Maps’ driving and walking directions don’t work in South Korea. This is mainly due to the country’s old security laws that were set after the Korean War (I guess, as a way to protect their detailed topography from North Korea).

By subway . Seoul’s metro is impressive, well-connected, and cheap. To save time and make the most of the fares during your stay, it’s best to buy a T-Money card which is basically a stored value smart card that you can recharge and use between buses, trains, and subways while saving you ₩100 on all trips. You can buy this online beforehand at a cheaper rate — otherwise, it can be purchased at most of Seoul’s subway stations, newspaper kiosks, and convenience stores.

Take note that a T-money card is applicable to other locations as well in South Korea such as Gyeonggi-do, Incheon, Busan , Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju buses — plus Incheon, Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju Metropolitan Subway networks.

However, if I may give you a tip, you can actually avoid paying the cost of acquiring this card (₩3,000) if you have a Discover Seoul Pass (which I will discuss in the next section below).

NOTE : Single-ride cards cost about ₩1,200~ and they can be purchased on vending machines which accept coins and bills only. Reloading your T-Money Card can also only be done with cash. Meanwhile, remember that the last train usually departs by midnight (the subway does NOT operate for 24 hours).

By bus. The city also has an extensive and well-connected bus service that similarly makes use of the T-Money card. Just always remember to tap your card before exiting the bus or else you’ll be charged the maximum fare possible on that bus’ route. If you’re rather looking for an unlimited hop-on-hop-off bus to the city’s major spots, you can check this out.

By foot . Seoul technically isn’t too huge of a place and most of the city highlights can be reached by foot.

By taxi. There are various taxi types in Seoul and in order to learn more about them and their corresponding fares, read here . (It’s also possible to book an Uber car) .

» Money-Saving Tips in Seoul

I advise that you purchase a Discover Seoul Pass for your Seoul itinerary because it is an amazing cost-effective card that is offered only to foreigners. To illustrate, below are the range of benefits that you can get from this pass:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Deoksugung Palace
• Changgyeonggung Palace
• Changdeokgung Palace
• Jongmyo (Royal Shrine)
• N Seoul Tower Observatory
• Seoul City Tour Double-Decker Bus
• COEX Aquarium
• TrickEye & Ice Museum
• Hello Kitty Island in N Seoul Tower
• PooPoo Land
• Lotte World Adventure
• Eland Cruise
• LOTTE Duty Free
• NO WORRIES! Using your Discover Seoul Pass as a T-Money card for public transportation does NOT activate it. The Discover Seoul Pass will only activate when you first use it on its listed attraction s.

To get the best rate for a Discover Seoul Pass, you can purchase it online (it’s available in 24H and 48H options), and then pick it up either at Incheon International Airport or at Myeongdong’s Tourist Information Center.

• TIP : The last Wednesday of each month has been designated as a “Culture Day” in Korea since 2014. During this day, participating museums, galleries, and other cultural facilities will offer FREE or discounted admissions. Examples are the royal palaces, Jongmyo Shrine, National Museum of Korea, Korean National Ballet etc.

» Staying Connected in South Korea

South Korea is said to have the fastest internet in the world (and yep, it’s true!) so you’ll be assured of great connection wherever you go. To add, most places even offer FREE WiFi — but in order to consistently stay connected online during your Seoul trip, I recommend getting your own pocket WiFi or SIM Card ; otherwise, consider getting an eSIM for a hassle-free experience.

» Safety in South Korea

The Republic of Korea or South Korea remains to be one of the safest countries in the world — and also one of the safest countries for solo female travelers . Petty theft may happen but they are quite rare; so, just practice common sense at all times and you’ll be fine!

• HOW TO: Find the right travel insurance for you

» Helpful Korean Phrases

English is not widely spoken in South Korea even if it is taught in a lot of schools, but you’ll have better luck in the capital of Seoul where a lot of people put time, effort and money in learning English. Nevertheless, it doesn’t hurt to learn a bit of the local language!

• RELATED READ: Best translation apps for travel

Hello (formal): Annyeong haseyo Hello (informal): Annyeong Thank you: Gamsahamnida You’re welcome: Cheonmanyeyo Yes: Ye/Ne No: Aniyo Goodbye (to person leaving): Annyeonghi gaseyo Goodbye (to person staying): Annyeonghi gyeseyo Goodbye (informal): Annyeong

Excuse me (getting attention): Sillyehamnida I’m sorry: Joesonghamnida Is there someone here who speaks English?: Yeogi-e yeong-eoreul hasineun bun gyesimnikka? Help!: Dowajusipsio! Cheers!: Geonbae!

Other F.A.Q.

It is not customary in South Korea to tip, and sometimes, much like in Japan, they consider it as an insult so tipping is not recommended at all. In hotels and some restaurants though, you will sometimes see a 10% service charge on your bill.

South Korea typically uses type F (two round pins). The country operates on a 220V voltage and a frequency of 60Hz.

 Please check their  latest travel advisories  page for more details.

All visitors to South Korea must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the period of their intended stay (as well as have 2 blank pages).

There is and you can easily claim a tax refund for being a tourist; simply read this page for more info.

It is legal to fly a drone in the country but one of the top restrictions is to NOT fly above 150 meters and if your drone is more than 250 grams, it needs to be registered. For more info, see here .

Seoul Itinerary Guide

Take note that the 5-day Seoul itinerary below does not take into account your arrival day in Seoul — at any rate, if you’re staying longer in the city, you can make use of the last tab called ‘ Extra Days ‘ to see the other activities or trips you can do for filling up the rest of your vacation days.

TIP: It’s best to arrive and start your Seoul itinerary trip before the weekend. So for example, if you have 5 whole days, make sure to arrive on Tuesday and then start your whole tour from Wednesday to Sunday . I say this because most places, museums, and shops close on Mondays and Tuesdays. Moreover, a lot of cosmetic stores hold sales starting on Thursdays and up to the weekend so it would be a good idea to take advantage of that.

NOTE: The following section is in a tabbed format; so, in order to see the next day’s contents, just click the headings below.

DAY 1: Explore and enjoy Korean culture in a hanbok!

Photo by: Shutterstock

◘◘ Rent a hanbok and explore some of Seoul’s cultural highlights

(Nearest subway station: Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit #4) You must never leave the city without trying on the elegant Korean traditional clothing called ‘ hanbok’! Much like how Japan has kimono rental shops, South Korea has hanbok rental shops for tourists. Through these places, you can borrow and wear hanbok for a day (or more ) whilst you venture out to the cultural spots in Seoul to snap wonderful photos.

This is certainly a MUST-do activity in your Seoul itinerary because aside from the fact that you can have the chance to feel as though you’ve been transported back to the Joseon period or to a set of an old K-drama, the experience itself is also supported by the Koreans as a part of promoting their history (so yes, it’s one way of immersing yourself with their vibrant culture too). And if those reasons are not enough, wearing a hanbok grants you FREE entry to the palaces in the city!

TRIVIA : The term ‘hanbok’ literally means “Korean clothing” but it just basically refers to the traditional clothing for both men and women from the Joseon period.

There are a LOT of hanbok rental shops in Seoul but if you want the best, I highly recommend renting with Seohwa Hanbok . Apart from its prime location, it has more intricately-designed hanbok garments that are set at an affordable price! For a more comprehensive guide on this, read my ‘ Hanbok Rental ‘ post here .

As you would see on the online booking platform , Seohwa Hanbok has 3 rental options: 4 hours, 1 day, or 2 days .

NOTE: If you have purchased the Discover Seoul Pass (no matter if it’s the 24H or 48H option), it’s preferable that you do NOT activate it on this day because you’ll already be given FREE entry to 4 of the ‘Five Grand Palaces’ if you’re wearing a hanbok. Not to mention that this whole hanbok activity will already likely fill up your whole day, so it’s best to activate the pass the next day. . Unless of course, you plan to avail the FREE hanbok rental use instead that’s under the Discover Seoul Pass’ perks. Personally, I think it’s best that you avail a hanbok rental separately for longer hours because the free hanbok rental under the pass is only for 90 minutes).

Once you are clad in a hanbok of your own choosing, I recommend doing the following route:

• The Changing of the Royal Guard ( Sumunjang ) ceremony is held for FREE daily, except Tuesdays, at 10:00AM and 2:00PM in front of Gwanghwamun or the main gate of Gyeongbokgung. If you can’t make it to these time slots, you can also witness a Guard-on-Duty Performance at Gwanghwamun gate at 11:00AM and 1:00PM or a Sumungun (Gatekeeper) Military Training in Hyeopsaengmun Gate at 09:35AM and 1:35PM.
• If you’ve got time, you can check out the huge golden King Sejong Statue at the nearby Gwanghwamun Square. (King Sejong is best remembered as the inventor of ‘Hangeul’ or the Korean alphabet.)
• ★ Changdeokgung: This was the 2nd palace that was built after Gyeongbokgung and it has since been recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO in 1997. An interesting feature of this place is its ‘Secret Garden’ because there are only a limited number of admission slots per day that are given out. If you’re lucky, you can get the chance to go in if you want to!
• Deoksugung: This palace is famous for its picturesque stone-walled road (which is often featured in K-dramas like Goblin). And much like Gyeongbokgung, Deoksugung Palace has a Changing of the Royal Guards Ceremony and it is held at 11:00AM, 2:00PM, and 3:30PM daily, except on Mondays.
• Changgyeonggung: This used to be the residential quarters for queens and concubines of the king, and it later became a park with a zoo and a botanical garden during the Japanese colonial rule (today though, the zoo and garden are relocated to Seoul Land ).
• Gyeonghuigung: Located near Deoksugung Palace, this site served as the secondary palace for the king in the latter half of the Joseon period. For a time, Gyeonghuigung was of considerable size but most of its major structures have long been disassembled and moved to other parts of Seoul. .
• To get here, look for Bukchon-ro street. It will be hard to miss because the tourism board had recently appointed staff there in red clothing to help tourists and distribute maps. Basically, there are 8 major viewpoints to see in Bukchon Hanok Village and those that you must NOT miss are the Gaehoe-dong areas that are typically appointed as Views #3 to #7. If you’re coming with elderly companions, take note that there are a few uphill climbs in this area.
• Unlike other hanok villages (like Namsangol Hanok Village), Bukchon was not built for tourists as it is rather a residential village inhabited by Seoulites. Therefore, make sure to keep quiet so as not to disturb the locals.
• As you leave Bukchon, drop by the nearby neighborhood of Ikseon-dong . Much like Bukchon, it’s one of the oldest hanok villages in Seoul; but in case you want to escape the crowds, it would be a great idea to explore this hidden gem! .
• Lunch: You can either have it at Bukchon Hanok Village or at Insa-dong. There are a lot of cafes and restaurants in these areas so you won’t have a difficult time picking a place; though if I may put in my two cents, do check out Jokagbo at Bukchon (across the street near the entrance to the village) or Gogung at Insa-dong for their bibimbap (mixed rice bowl). For other food or restaurant options, click the “Extra Days” tab on top of this section — or go to this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals. .
• Drop by Insa-dong: (Nearest subway station: Anguk Station, Exit #6) As you make your way to the last stop of this route, you must not skip on the neighborhood of Insa-dong in the Jongno-gu district of Seoul. After all, its streets are one of the best places in Seoul when it comes to culture and crafts (perfect for souvenirs!). If I may also share another tip, try to stop by Ssamziegil which is a unique building wherein each of its levels is connected in the form of a spiraling walkway! .
• (OPTIONAL) Visit Namsangol Hanok Village: (Nearest subway station: Chungmuro Station, Exit #3) Located at the foot of Namsan, this village was built to feature 5 traditional houses of different social classes from the Joseon era, all relocated to this spot from different locations in Seoul in order for guests to understand the daily lives of its past people. Of all these 5 houses or hanok, only one is open to the public which is the house of Yoon-ssi of Okin-dong. It has been transformed into ‘Yoon’s Tearoom’ where visitors can learn about Korea’s tea culture. If you’re interested, you could join the tea ceremony program for only ₩7,000. (For a list of other activities in this village, see this link ).

Is it possible to just try on a hanbok for FREE? Yes. If you hold a Discover Seoul Pass , you can wear a hanbok of your choice outdoors for 90 minutes via HANBOKNAM, or take photos with a hanbok in the indoor studio of Namsan Seoul Tower Hanbok Experience Center . However, if you do not have a Discover Seoul Pass, Korea Tourism Office’s Main HQ allows you to wear simple hanbok and take shots of yourself in it indoors. . Is there a service where I can just rent a hanbok indoors and have a professional photographer take photos of me? Of course! You can book this kind of experience online for just ₩15,000~ (or USD$14~ / Php 730~). It even has the option of doing outdoor shots.

◘◘ Visit the awe-inspiring structure of Dongdaemun Design Plaza

(Nearest subway station: Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, Exit #2)

Also called “DDP”, this structure is a new major urban landmark in the heart of Seoul which has a distinctly futuristic design made by world-renowned architect, Zaha Hadid. As such, it’s not strange that it is one of the most Instagrammed locations in Korea.

Other than enjoying its grand outer architecture for your Seoul itinerary, you can also stroll through DDP’s huge 5 halls namely, Art Hall, Museum, Design Lab, Design Market, and Dongdaemun History and Culture Park — places where you can shop and watch various exhibitions, fashion shows, and performances among many others.

• From late May to late October every year, Seoul Bamdokkaebi (Goblin) Night Market will open in DDP from 6:00PM to 11:00PM, so don’t forget to make a stop here to not only buy a variety of food and goods but to also enjoy the various performances made available during this event.
• TRIVIA : This display was first put up on National Liberation Day in 2015 which is in celebration of Korea’s 70th year of independence. Hence, the number of 25,550 comes from 365 days multiplied by 70.

BONUS: If you still have some time, drop by Ihwa Mural Village, a picturesque neighborhood in Seoul that is famous for its amazing murals — as well as for its fascinating cafes and shops. It’s no wonder that a lot of K-dramas and movies have started to do their filming here. You can basically find this near Naksan Park (which also yet another hidden gem that provides great views of the cityscape).

◘◘ Eat and shop through any of Seoul’s night markets

Like the rest of Asia, Seoul has no shortage of vibrant night markets, so for dinner, go and drop by any of the following spots ( it’s best to choose only one! )

• Bamdokkaebi (Goblin) Night Market: (Nearest subway station: *various spots*) Like I’ve written above, this night market opens from May to October. It originally opened in Yeouido (Yeouinaru Station, Exit #3) but has since expanded to several locations such as DDP. The other remaining places would be Cheonggyecheon Stream (Jongno5(0)ga Station, Exit #7) and Banpo Hangang Park (Express Bus Terminal Station). .
• Dongdaemun Night Market: (Nearest subway station: Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, Exit #4) Take note that this is different from the night market found in DDP. Apart from the retail haven found in this vicinity, you will also find the ‘Open market’ with its bright yellow tents, all selling various apparel, souvenirs, and items at affordable prices starting from 10:00PM up to 5:00AM. If you’re rather looking for delicious Korean eats during your Seoul itinerary, drop by Mukja Golmok (“Let’s Eat Alley” at exit #8 of Dongdaemun Station) to feast on snacks like tteokbokki (rice rolls). .
• ★ Myeongdong Night Market: (Nearest subway station: Myeongdong Station, Exit #7) Even if this is not one of those ‘traditional’ night markets, it remains to be a popular destination for travelers as it is set in the bustling shopping district of Myeongdong that holds some of the biggest stores like Lotte and Shinsegae as well as cosmetic brands of all kinds. Starting from 5:00PM and onwards, you will start to see food stalls filling up the main street with fares like gyerangbbang (Korean egg bread), dak-galbi (spicy stir-fried chicken), etc. .
• ★ Namdaemun Night Market: (Nearest subway station: Hoehyeon Station, Exit #5) Open from 11:00PM till 4:00AM, this traditional night market is the largest in Seoul and it holds every possible thing that you can think of — from food to clothing, they have it all! .
• Gwangjang Market: (Nearest subway station: Jongno 5(o)-ga Station, Exit #8) If Namdaemun is the largest, then Gwangjang would be the oldest in Seoul, making it a common go-to place for many Korean shoppers. You can actually find this close by Dongdaemun and DDP so it’s possible to check off several of those night markets in the same night if you will it so! (TIP: This place is best if you’re looking to buy a hanbok for yourself). .
• ★ Noryangjin Fish Market: (Nearest subway station: Noryangjin Station, Exit #1) Operating 24 hours a day, this place is more than just a night market. If you come in the early morning, you can witness a bustling fish auction (reminiscent of Japan’s Tsukiji Fish Market). Anyhow, the fun part about this place is that you can buy some fresh seafood and then have it cooked by a restaurant located on the 2nd floor — and if you’re brave enough, maybe you can try the infamous Korean activity of eating a LIVE octopus?

TIP : Want a hassle-free foodie experience? With the help of a local guide, you can join a Korean Food Walking Tour or a Korean Night Dining Tour .

◘◘ Watch the famous Nanta Show

If there’s one show that you should NOT miss for your Seoul itinerary, it will be witnessing the award-winning long-running NANTA Show at Myeongdong Theatre. This is basically a non-verbal comedy show (so it’s fine even if you don’t know Korean) that incorporates traditional ‘ samul nori ‘ rhythm (which is a genre of percussion music distinct to Korea) as they do a slapstick play that mimes the story of cooks who are preparing for a wedding.

I’ve seen this show myself and it was quite entertaining as I saw knives fly and fire blasting from pots — but don’t worry, it’s all safe! But I must say that it did have a distinct sense of humor that may or may not work for you. Either way, it’s an energetic performance that has garnered distinctions and awards from Edinburg Fringe Festival and on New York’s Broadway, so I say: give it a try!

NEAREST SUBWAY: Myeongdong Station, Exit #7 BOOK: Online to get 30% off on tickets

DAY 2: “Discover” more of Seoul!

NOTE: If you have purchased the Discover Seoul Pass (no matter if it’s the 24H or 48H option), this would be a good day to start its activation.

◘◘ Explore and shop in Myeongdong and Hongdae

Myeongdong: (Nearest subway station: Myeongdong Station) This is is arguably the shopping mecca of Seoul and its 2 main streets meet in the center — the first spanning from Myeongdong Subway Station and the second from Lotte Department Store at Euljiro.

For the shopaholics, there is a wide range of branded shops and department stores that line Myeongdong’s streets and alleys (e.g. Lotte Department Store, Shinsegae Department Store, Noon Square, etc.), and they are often set relatively cheaper than the other shopping areas in the city like Cheongdam-dong.

Of course, let’s not forget that Myeongdong is a beauty lover’s dream too given the number of Korean cosmetic stores that regularly hold insane sales for their high-quality products.

As an example, I went here to shop for face masks and one piece averaged at only USD$0.40~ or Php 20~! Some of the top stores you need to check are: Innisfree, Nature Republic, Holika Holika, Tony Moly, Nature Republic, and Laneige. (If you have heard of the Instagram-famous place called as Style Nanda Pink Hotel , you can find it here in this neighborhood or ‘dong’).

TIP : Try to NOT buy from the first shop that you set foot into because most of the time, they will hand out free samples and masks, which could be quite a treat! In fact, I know that some people would hop from store to store just to collect samples, haha. Anyhow, in case you want to check out other places because you’ve got some time, shops in Hyehwa and Sincheon neighborhoods can have cheaper cosmetic products too. And oh, of course, do NOT ever forget claiming your tax refund!

Hongdae: (Nearest subway station: Hongik University Station, Exit #9) It’s no surprise that this area is often compared to Japan’s Harajuku because of its hip and youthful ambiance — with a dash of unique cafes and indie fashion shops here and there. Aside from strolling through ‘ Hongdae Walking Street’, ‘ Picasso’s Street ‘ and ‘ Club Street’ , below are some of the places in and around Hongdae that you should consider stopping by for your Seoul itinerary:

• Hongdae Free Market: Open on Saturdays from March to November at Hongik Children’s Park. You will find here an array of local artist works.
• Trickeye and Ice Museum: TrickEye museum is an interactive 3D space that gives off impressive optical illusions; whereas Ice Museum, as the name implies, is a space where you can enjoy a cool icy environment (e.g. a living room with a TV and couch made of ice and more). Entering these places is free if you hold a Discover Seoul Pass , but if you don’t have the pass, you can reserve your tickets online .
• If you’re looking to spend some time in cute cafes, go to ‘ Chuu ‘ or ‘ Zapangi’ .

BONUS: Ewha Woman’s University is an educational institute with picturesque grounds, but more than this, it’s actually smacked in a shopping area that sells a variety of affordable and stylish clothes for young people; therefore, this is also a good place to shop.

◘◘ Get lunch

It’s time to feast on a delicious Korean BBQ meal! While you’re already in Hongdae, try out either of these places: Gogigo or Old House Charcoal Meat Restaurant .

For other food or restaurant options, click the “Extra Days” tab on top of this section — or go to this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals.

◘◘ Make full use of your Discover Seoul Pass

If you’ve followed my advice and got yourself a Discover Seoul Pass , you can enter any of the establishments below for FREE during your Seoul itinerary! Take your pick from any of the following to fill up the rest of your day ( best to pick 2 at most ).

For a complete list of FREE admissions under the Discover Seoul Pass, you can also visit this page .

• MBC World: (Nearest subway station: Digital Media City Station, Exit #9) Are you a fan of K-pop, K-dramas, or Korean stars — or just ‘ hallyu ‘ (Korean Wave) in general? Then MBC World is a great destination for your Seoul itinerary, as it will give you the chance to experience hologram K-pop concerts, virtual reality drama sets, and more. (If you don’t have the Discover Seoul Pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here ) . .
• SM Town Museum: (Nearest subway station: Samseong Station, Exit #6) Still in line with the ‘hallyu’ fever, this place is dedicated to famous K-pop artists under the powerhouse of SM Entertainment in South Korea. Avid fans can tour through their training rooms, recording rooms, and so much more. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket for this, go here ) . .
• Grévin Museum: (Nearest subway station: Euljiro 1-ga Station, Exit #1) This is like Korea’s version of Madam Tussauds. You can find about 80 wax figures of Korean and international celebrities, as well as several thematic interactive experiences. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here ) . .
• 63 Square: (Nearest subway station: Yeouinaru Station, Exit #4) Other than gaining access to panoramic views of Seoul, you can also enter in 63 Square the first aquarium in Korea called Aqua Planet 63. If you’re a K-drama fan, this is actually the aquarium used in ‘Legend of the Blue Sea’ and where a Mermaid Show is regularly held. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here for combination tickets or here for the aquarium only. .
• COEX Aquarium: (Nearest subway station: Bongeunsa Station, Exit #7) This place has the largest collection of marine life in Korea and you can watch feeding shows and interactive exhibits here too. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here ). .
• Seoul City Tour Double-Decker Bus: Go on a hop-on-hop-off bus tour through the center of Seoul to get a glimpse of all of its past and present glory. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here ). .
• Alive Museum: (Nearest subway station: Euljiro 3(sam) Station, Exit #1) This place is similar to TrickEye Museum but it is arguably larger with several other exhibits such as the ‘Dynamic Maze’ (where participants must work together to overcome challenges) and the ‘Black Wonderland’ (where fairy tales like Alice in Wonderland, Frozen, Cinderella and Aladdin can be experienced in the dark ). If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here . .
• Seoul Zoo and Skylift: (Nearest subway station: Seoul Grand Park Station, Exit #2) Seoul Zoo is South Korea’s largest zoo with over 330 species of animals, inclusive of a botanical garden and a forest park. The icing on the cake? You can even ride the Sky Lift which can transport you to several places such as the Seoul Land theme park and more. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket for your Seoul itinerary, go here ). .
• Running Man: (Nearest subway station: Euljiro 1-ga Station, Exit #3) Do you want to be a part of Korea’s popular variety show, Running Man? Well with this thematic experience, you can do so! This will surely be a hilarious and fun adventure for you and your travel companions as you make your way through 6 zones, including Maze Battle. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here ). .

◘◘ Visit Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower

(Take Namsan Shuttle Bus, Circulation Bus No. 2, 3, or 5)

Mt. Namsan’s Namsan Park is a symbolic place in the center of Seoul. To get up here, you can ride a cable car, a bus, or just simply walk up its stairway path. Most visitors come to this place to enjoy nature, to see the city skyline, or to do some of the hiking trails — but a majority makes a stop at the famous N Seoul Tower which is the first tower-type tourism spot in South Korea.

Rising at almost 480m above sea level, it is certainly one of the tallest towers in Asia. Once you set foot on its premises during your Seoul itinerary, you can explore its other attractions such as the LED tunnel, Hello Kitty Island, Ssentoy Museum & Showroom, and more.

• BOOK: Online to get a discounted ticket to the tower’s observatory as well as grab great combo deals.
• TIP : Other than N Seoul Tower, you can also find Palgakjeong Pavillion (octagonal hall) and Bonghwadae (beacon mounds that were used to signal incoming enemy invasions in the past).

◘◘ Grab dinner

I have two options for you, depending on what you fancy:

• A traditional royal Korean cuisine dinner: Feast on fresh and high-quality Korean cuisine set in a traditionally-styled restaurant called Myongdongjeong . What’s more? You can also rent their hanbok for free while eating to really feel as though you’ve been transported to a royal palace. .
• A cruise buffet dinner through Hangang River: Hangang or Han River is a major river in South Korea, and it is best enjoyed during the night with Eland Cruise as you glide through the waters and taste a delectable food buffet. Before the end of your cruise, you can even witness a firework show and a front-row view on the colorful Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show. To reserve your spot, go here .

For other food or restaurant options, click the “Extra Days” tab on top of this section — or go to this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals for your Seoul itinerary.

◘◘ Walk through Cheonggyecheon Stream

(Nearest subway station: Jongno5(0)ga Station, Exit #7 )

Cheonggyecheon is a picturesque 11 km-long modern stream that runs through a total of 22 bridges before flowing into the Hangang or Han River. Some examples of the beautiful bridges that it has are the Narae Bridge (which represents a butterfly) and Gwanggyo Bridge (depicting the harmony of the past and the future).

A lot of Seoulites wind down to this spot to chill and bask under the city lights, the lush ambiance, and the surrounding man-made waterfalls, if not partake in the Bamdokkaebi (Goblin) Night Market from May to October — so why not do the same during your Seoul itinerary?

DAY 3: A chill kind of day

◘◘ Do a “ Discover Seoul Pass ” or “Extra Days” activity

I recommend that you pick up an activity that you prefer from any of the previously listed things to do that I’ve written under Day #2’s ‘Discover Seoul Pass’ options of this Seoul itinerary. If not, you can also browse through the “Extra Days” tab above.

If you ask me, doing a cooking class , a kimchi class or a K-pop dance class will be a LOT of fun! (Read more about my Kpop dance class experience here ).

Did you ever want to try spending a day with a Korean ‘oppa’ (older brother)? Join this walking tour that’s led by a local guide!

◘◘ Grab lunch

• Hangaram: (Nearest subway station: Express Bus Terminal Station) Hangaram is a great choice if you want to taste some of the beloved Korean staples like bibimbap (mixed rice bowl), bulgogi (stir-fried beef), japchae (stir-fried glass noodles), kimchi (fermented vegetables) , etc. .
• Tosokchon Samgyetang: (Nearest subway station: Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit #2) Another Korean dish that you need to taste is samgyetang or ginseng chicken soup, and this restaurant is often lauded as the BEST place to eat in.

For other food or restaurant options, click the “Extra Days” tab on top of this section — or go to this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals for your Seoul itinerary .

◘◘ Shop for highly discounted Korean food and snacks at Lotte Mart!

(Nearest subway station: Seoul Station, Exit #4 ). Naturally, going through any of the night markets I’ve listed under Day #1 will already grant you access to the cheapest food and snacks possible. However, other than those, I think that you should also go on a crazy chow shopping spree at Lotte Mart’s Seoul Station Branch! Why so? Well… as one of the leading discount store chains in South Korea, they sell ridiculously low-priced goods.

I swear to you, I bought only USD$20-worth of snacks here, yet it was enough to gift them to more than 20 people! (On top of the discounted items, you can get at most an 8% tax refund, and more to that, they also provide a free self-packing station so that you can pack all your purchased items in sealed boxes).

• For the must-buy snacks? It would be tteokbokki junk food, Binggrae banana-flavored milk, choco pies, yogurt jelly, honey butter chips, fire noodles (called also Buldak Bokkeum Myeon ), Lotte stick biscuits, and honey butter almond among many others!
• TIP: While you’re here, don’t miss dropping by the nearby newly-opened sky garden walkway called Seoullo 7017!

◘◘ Walk around Gangnam

(Nearest subway station: Gangnam Station)

There’s probably not a soul in this world who hasn’t heard of ‘Gangnam’ (and we have PSY to thank for that) .

For your info, Gangnam is Seoul’s upscale modern center that is home to high skyscrapers, designer brands, high-end restaurants, and pulsating nightclubs — so yes, it’s the home to many wealthy Koreans. In fact, you can think of it as the ‘Beverly Hills’ of Seoul. To make the most of your visit here during your Seoul itinerary, stop by the following ( it’s best to pick 3 at most ).

• Gangnam Terminal Underground Shopping Centre: You’ll find this from the moment that you step foot in Gangnam Station’s subway. With an array of accessories, clothing, cosmetics, and shoes, I have found a lot of sweet bargains here myself! .
• Gangnam Square: Right outside Gangnam Station’s Exit #5 is the spacious Gangnam Square which has a small section built as a tribute to PSY’s ‘Gangnam Style’ hit song, as well as the Gangnam-daero Road that’s speckled with various shops. .
• Apgujeong Rodeo Street and Cheongdam Fashion Street: (Nearest subway station: Apgujeong Rodeo Station, Exit #1 and Exit #3 respectively.) If you haven’t had enough of shopping but are looking for more upmarket shops. .
• Hallyu K-Star Road: K-pop fans must not skip this! Found between Apgujeong Rodeo Station and Cheongdam Station are adorable GangnamDols that are each autographed by K-pop groups like EXO, BTS, Super Junior, and more. For a detailed list, you can check here . .
• Garosu-gil Road: (Nearest subway station: Sinsa Station, Exit #8) This Gingko tree-lined street is a popular, trendy street in the city of Seoul and it is even often called an ‘artists street’ due to the number of quaint cafes and designer stores. Some charming cafes that you can choose from are Gingko Avenue, Line Friends Cafe, Cafe de Paris, and IKOVOX . .
• Starfield COEX Mall: (Nearest subway station: Bongeunsa Station, Exit #7) This mall is a shopping mecca, but more than this, it has interesting amenities too that are not limited to the COEX Aquarium and the Starfield Library. The latter is the newest built facility on the premises and it features 50,000 books and magazines in a grand yet relaxed setting. .
• SM Town Museum: (Nearest subway station: Samseong Station, Exit #6) This place is dedicated to famous K-pop artists under the powerhouse of SM Entertainment in South Korea. Avid fans can tour through their training rooms, recording rooms, and so much more. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here ) . .
• Lotte World: (Nearest subway station: Jamsil Station) As Seoul’s largest indoor and outdoor amusement theme park, you will actually need a full day to enjoy this place — but I still felt like including this here, just so you know that it’s located in this Gangnam area. So if you have a spare day in your Seoul itinerary, it would be great to visit Lotte World. Another theme park choice would be Everland , but if you want other options, check the “Extra Days” tab above.

◘◘ Go up to Lotte World Tower

Towering at 554 meters, this new 123-floor skyscraper just opened last 2017 and it is currently the tallest building in Seoul and the 5th tallest in the world. It contains several cafes, galleries, a luxury hotel, a skywalk, and an observation deck.

Obviously, this is the best place for viewing panoramic views of the cityscape and I highly suggest that you go up to the observatory not only to enjoy the view with a cup of coffee but to also experience its glass floors! Though it was nerve-wracking at first, it was really cool to feel as though I was floating up in the air like that! (Another thing you can enjoy nearby is Lotte World Mall).

NEAREST SUBWAY: Jamsil Station, Exit #2 BOOK: ₩27,000 for adults and ₩24,000 for children (Pay less if you book online ).

BONUS : From April to October, head over to the Han River’s Banpodaegyo Bridge by 8PM (plays every 20 minutes until 9PM) to watch their famous Moonlight Rainbow Fountain show.

I think it’s time to have a meal with the guidance of a local during your Seoul itinerary, so why not try a Seoul street food tour for instance? If you’re not game for that, you can find other food or restaurant options under the “Extra Days” tab on top of this section — or go to this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals for your Seoul itinerary.

DAY 4: All About JSA

◘◘ Visit the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

It’s no news that the Korean peninsula has long been divided into two countries: North Korea and South Korea. Unfortunately, it was not at all a peaceful separation given the infamous 250km-long buffer zone of the Demilitarized Zone ( DMZ ) that separates the two since 1953.

Today, it is referred to as the most heavily guarded area in the world with battle-ready armies, fences, landmines, and fences on both sides — it’s absolutely one of the scariest places in the world! …And yet, it continues to be a popular major tourist attraction in South Korea that attracts a lot of history buffs and curious folks worldwide who are seeking to witness this surreal land for themselves (people like me).

The available tours currently being held are as follows:

• Panmunjom Joint Security Area (JSA) Tour: This is the most sought-after tour by travelers to South Korea’s DMZ because this is the closest place to North Korean soil that anyone can step into without getting arrested or shot. A tour to JSA will only be possible through an organized tour that is approved by the government and it will basically take the guests to the iconic blue UN building that is smacked on the border — with both North and South Korean soldiers facing one another (as if they’re on a staring showdown). .
• North Korea Center of Unification Board: Shows over a hundred photos and documents showing the stark reality of North Korea.
• Mangbaedan Alter: The spot where Koreans separated from their families in the North. Koreans typically visit this place on New Year’s Day and Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) to perform ancestral rites to their home and relatives in the North.
• Bridge of Freedom: Where South Koreans crossed when they were released from North Korea. You will witness a lot of ribbons tied to the fences that each contain messages of hope, peace, and love.
• Dora Observatory: From here, visitors can look closer into North Korea with binoculars as they witness things like the North Korean propaganda village, Kaesong city, and others.
• Dorasan Station: This is the northernmost train stop on South Korea’s railway line and locals hope that it would one day connect North and South Korea when peace finally prevails.

It is possible to combine the two tours above for a whole-day experience during your Seoul itinerary (see here ).

BOOKING LINKS (use promo code AILEEN5OFF to get a 5% discount ) :

• Panmunjom Joint Security Area Tour (JSA) only = ₩85,000~
• Third Tunnel of Aggression only = ₩63,800~
• Panmunjom Joint Security Area Tour (JSA) & Third Tunnel of Aggression combo = ₩130,000~

◘◘ Visit a spa or a jjimjilbang

After your tense morning tour to DMZ, how about you relax and pamper yourself with Korea’s well-liked spa services? Apart from getting a Korean massage , I urge you to experience jjimjilbang or a large gender-segregated public bathhouse complete with hot tubs, showers, traditional Korean kiln saunas, and massage tables.

If you’re a fan of K-dramas, you will probably be familiar with this because it’s a common place that Koreans frequent for spa services. For this, you can visit Dragon Hill Spa (or if you hold a Discover Seoul Pass , it gives you free admission to Sealala jjimjilbang).

NEAREST SUBWAY STATION: Itaewon Station, Exit #3 BOOK: Go to this link to get a discounted rate

ALTERNATIVE : If you rather want to relax in nature during your Seoul itinerary, go over to the World Cup Park, a humongous space that used to be a landfill but has now been turned into a park with 5 different sections: Pyeonghwa (Peace) Park, Haneul (Sky) Park, Noeul (Sunset) Park, Nanjicheon Park, and Nanji Hangang Park. A crowd favorite would be Haneul Park as it’s the highest elevation of the five parks.

I have two options for you for your Seoul itinerary, depending on what you prefer:

• Buffet: Taste all kinds of gourmet food at Tavolo 24 .
• Korean gopchang: Taste the popular stir-fried Korean dish made up of small intestines from cattle or pork (often best paired with soju ) at Aunt’s Grilled Intestines Restaurant .

TIP : You can also check this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals.

DAY 5: Day tour to Gapyeong County

◘◘ Explore Gapyeong County’s wonders

It’s time to venture out of Seoul’s busy metropolis to get some fresh air and tranquility. For this, a day trip to Gapyeong County’s top attractions is recommended for your Seoul itinerary!

READ: My detailed guide on this tour by clicking [ here ].

• Petite France: This is a charming place that serves as both a cultural village and a youth training facility with over 16 French-styled buildings. Petite France is also recognized as a top filming location for Korean dramas like ‘Secret Garden’ and ‘My Love from the Star’. With its European ambiance, it is also somewhat of a tribute to Saint-Exupery, the author of the famous French Novel: ‘Le Petit France’. ~Entrance fee: ₩10,000 adults / ₩5,000 children .
• Nami Island: A half-moon-shaped island nestling inside an artificial lake known for being the filming grounds of the well-known K-drama ‘Winter Sonata’. Nami Island is home to rows of majestic trees, roaming animals, and art exhibits, making it a sought-after destination in every season! I highly recommend that you rent a bike when you’re here; otherwise, there are other activities you can do such as water sports, trying on the roller skating rink, going to the shooting range, and more. ~Entrance fee: ₩13,000 .
• Garden of Morning Calm: This grand 30,000 sqm garden is open all year round and it is regarded as the oldest private garden in Korea with an artistic space that’s sure to leave anyone in awe. The Garden of Morning Calm becomes even more magical during winter (December to March) when they set up hundreds of multi-colored lights to create themed gardens, so make sure that this is on your Seoul itinerary! ~Entrance fee: ₩9,500 adults / ₩6,000 children .
• Gangchon Rail Bike: Built on a discontinued trail line, Gangchon Rail Bike is a fun attraction where you can pedal through old railroad tracks while taking in the amazing Bukhangang River scenery. Rest assured, it doesn’t require much effort to pedal the makeshift carts because the rail lines are slightly sloping downhill. ~Entrance fee: ₩30,000 for a two-seater .
• Edelweiss Park: Edelweiss Park is similar to Petite France, but instead, it focuses more on being a Swiss-based cultural village, so it’s filled with Swiss architecture, establishments, and sceneries. ~Entrance fee: ₩10,000 .

For a hassle-free experience on your Seoul itinerary, it would be advisable to go on a guided tour. Nowadays, there are different packages so feel free to take your pick from any of the combinations below (they often already include a delectable dak-galbi lunch, but there is also a halal option ; don’t forget to use promo code AILEEN5OFF to get a 5% discount ):

• (2 stops) Nami Island + Alpaca World
• (2 stops) Nami Island + Petite France
• (2 stops) Nami Island + The Garden of Morning Calm
• (3 stops) Nami Island + Alpaca World + The Garden of Morning Calm
• (3 stops) Nami Island + The Garden of Morning Calm + Gangchon Rail Bike
• (3 stops) Nami Island + Petite France + The Garden of Morning Calm
• (3 stops) Nami Island + Petite France + Gangchon Rail Bike
• (3 stops) PRIVATE TOUR: Nami Island + Petite France + Gangchon Rail Bike
• (4 stops) Nami Island + Petite France + The Garden of Morning Calm + Gangchon Rail Bike

If not, you can take the ‘Gapyeong Tourist Bus’ which can bring you to all of these locations for only ₩6,000 — the downside though is that the buses run only once every hour, and with the crowds that go to all of these places, it’s likely that the spots get filled quickly. (This is why I suggest going on a guided tour instead.)

I have two options for you, depending on what you prefer:

• Samgyeopsal : Taste this hearty grilled pork belly dish at Palsaik which is very popular with locals.
• Jokbal: Try this Korean dish consisting of soft pig’s trotters cooked in soy sauce and spices at Manjok Ohyang Jokbal .

TIP : You can also check this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals for your Seoul itinerary. (Use promo code AILEEN5OFF to get a 5% discount).

Explore other TOP destinations in South Korea

BUSAN Known for its colorful houses, mountains, and the largest fish market in Korea!

JEJU ISLAND South Korea’s top island destination beloved by tourists and locals alike.

TIP : Check out all of the top Instagram spots in Busan to fill up your feed and Seoul itinerary!

◘◘ Family Fun ◘◘

Everland Park South Korea’s largest attraction park.

Lotte World Large indoor and outdoor theme park.

Poo Poo Land Unique and fun place for photo-ops and learning.

Love Museum Seoul’s first and only museum for adults!

◘◘ K-Drama & K-Pop ◘◘

MBC Dae Jang Geum Park Tour Largest historical drama open set in Korea.

K-pop Dance Studio Class Learn popular K-pop dances and choreography.

Seoul Hallyu Kpop Tour Ultimate KPop experience for your Seoul itinerary!

SBS MTV “The Show” Package Backstage access to live sets and broadcasts.

Everland Park Record your own K-Pop song at King Studio.

Korean School Uniform Rental Day rental of a Korean school uniform.

“Oppa” Tour Tour Seoul with an attractive “oppa”!

◘◘ Korean Performances ◘◘

Fireman Show Action-comedy show full of stunts.

CHEF: Bibap Show One of the best Korean musical shows..

The Painters HERO Famous live painting non-verbal performance.

Finding Mr. Destiny Korean musical with subtitles.

Jump – Martial Arts Show Seoul’s favorite martial arts theatre show.

Fanta Stick Show Powerful percussion show.

◘◘ Beauty ◘◘

KPop Shoot & Makeover Full makeover at a famous studio.

Pre-nup Photoshoot Pre-nup shoot with makeup, hair, and clothes.

Korean ID Shoot ID shoot in Korean style makeup and hairstyle.

Korean Salon Service Style your hair in Gangnam’s top salon.

Professional Korean-Style Beauty Consultation Learn about your own personal color based on your skin, etc.

◘◘ Workshops ◘◘

Cooking Class Cook authentic Korean dishes with a local.

Perfume-Making Class Create your own signature scent.

Ring-making Workshop Create your own unique accessories!

Kimchi Class Learn how to make kimchi and topokki!

Handmade Jewelry Experience Learn hands-on exquisite art of jewelry making.

Handmade Stamp Engraving Create your own Korean-style hand engraved seal.

◘◘ Food & Restaurants ◘◘

Assorted Grilled Beef Enjoy a Korean BBQ meal

Budae Jjigae Try budae jjigae, the iconic Korean ‘Army Stew’.

Gogung Bibimbap Specializes in authentic Bibimbap dishes!

Puffer Fish Set The first puffer fish restaurant in Seoul.

Korean Street Food Experience Korean eating and drinking culture!

VIP Seoul Pub Crawl Experience Seoul’s vibrant nightlife!

◘◘ Day Trips from Seoul ◘◘

Minsok Korean Folk Village + Gwangmyeong Cave & Uiwang Rail Bike Day Trip.

Busan Experience the best of Busan.

Booking Essentials

TIP: It’s a good idea to crosscheck the prices with other popular travel insurance providers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)! . However, take note that a travel insurance’s affordability typically means lesser coverage; so please always ensure that you read the fine print in order to decipher which travel insurance company is the right fit for you and your trip!

The Best Tours in South Korea?

Come and check out this list of the top things to do in South Korea which features the best activities and tours to do in Seoul, Busan, Jeju and more!

There’s still so much to see in Seoul! …But I believe that my Seoul itinerary travel guide here is already a good start.

Please feel free to tweak this itinerary and make full use of my extra activity suggestions in order to make your trip shorter or longer and better fitting for your travel style. Enjoy and do let me know how your trip goes!

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Hey there! I am Aileen Adalid. At 21, I quit my corporate job in the Philippines to pursue my dreams. Today, I am a successful  digital nomad  (online entrepreneur, travel writer, & vlogger) living a sustainable travel lifestyle.

My mission?  To show you how it is absolutely possible to  create a life of travel no matter the odds — and I will help you achieve that through my detailed travel hacks, guides, resources, tips, and MORE!

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How to start a successful blog, 134 comments.

Your Seoul itinerary guide is a dream come true for wanderers like me! Planning a trip can be overwhelming, but your detailed 5-day plan simplifies everything. From activities to sights, you’ve covered it all. Seoul, here I come—thanks to your fantastic guide! ❤❤❤❤

Going to Paju would be another great option for a day trip from Seoul, especially during the week. It is close, easily reached by bus, and offers amazing landscapes no matter the season.

Seoul is one of my favorite cities in the world! I’m dying to return and explore it more.

If I was given a chance, I would love to go to Seoul. Seoul is one of my dream places to go in the near future and your blog really helps and encourages me to never stop dreaming. Thank you for this :))

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Seoul itineraries and travel guides

Guides for Gunsan

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Guides for Busan 200 mi. away

Guides for Jeju Island 278 mi. away

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Seoul Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Seoul , Korea? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• Officially known as Seoul Special City, with a population of around 10 million people.
• Part of UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network due to cutting edge design.
• Located on the banks of the Han River , with a history going back 2,000 years.
• A global financial and technological powerhouse , with the world’s fourth largest metro economy by total GDP (after Tokyo, NYC, and LA).
• Has a very high quality of life , and the world’s fastest internet connections (up to 1 Gbps).
• Nickname: Soul of Asia.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency: Won (KRW).
• Spoken languages: Korean ,   although most locals have a basic grasp of English .
• Best time to visit: from  October to March . Pack a sweater and an umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable.
• Arriving via airport: Incheon Airport (ICN) connects with most areas of the city via Limousine buses and Express Train with fares calculated based on distance.
• Taxi stands are located at the arrival level and cost ₩40,000 to ₩65,000 (depending on distance).

WHERE TO STAY

• Best Seoul hostel for solo travelers: Jin’s Paradise . Just a 10 minute walk from the subway station, this is a clean, cozy, and social establishment with a friendly and helpful owner (Jin). Perfect as a base for exploring the city, or for meeting others – it’s so small that you’ll end up meeting everyone by default.
• Jongno and Sinchon offer guesthouses, hostels, backpacker bars, and cafés close to the main sights, while  Itaewon boasts a great variety of shopping options.
• Garosugil and Sinsa are fashionable and quiet, while Apgujeong takes the honours for trendy cool.

GETTING AROUND

• T-Money is a transaction and transportation card that can be used to pay for subway and bus fares, giving you a ₩100 discount on tickets plus free transfers across the network.
• The Seoul Subway is the world’s largest (by length),   and known for its   efficiency and cleanliness. Lines are distinguished by color codes. Fares start at ₩1,150 and are distance dependent.
• Bus routes are also color-coded, and cover defined routes within the city with tickets based on a starting fare plus an additional ₩100 for each km thereafter.
• Group taxis are either Call Vans or Jumbo Taxis , the first being used for passengers transporting freight and cargo goods, and the latter for regular passengers. Call Vans have negotiable fares and license plates that start with the number 8; Jumbo Taxis use the meter with fares starting at ₩4,500 for the first 3 kilometers and ₩200 for each additional 164 meters. Standard (regular) taxis charge ₩2,400 for the first 2 kilometers and ₩100 for each successive 144 meters, and can be booked on 02-1330.
• Instead of a taxi , consider calling a ride via Kakao T (the most popular ride sharing service in Korea).

SEOUL NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 19 ,   and last call is at  5 AM .
• Hongdae has a multitude of bars, cafés and street performances that go deep into the Korean sub culture.
• Sinchon and Gangnam Station are the watering hole of Korean university students looking for cheap drinks and casual bars that stay open late.
• Samcheong-dong is where the fashionable and trendy congregate.
• Great foreigner-friendly clubs : Cakeshop Seoul and Faust (both in Itaewon).
• Great bars for solo travelers: Zen and La Bamba (both in Hongdae).
• Bars and clubs always check IDs , so make sure you have one with you (government issued, with your date of birth).

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• Gyeongbok-gung is Korea’s most famous palace, once belonging to the Joseon Dynasty.
• Seoul Tower is a communication and observation tower – the highest point in the city.
• Heunginjimun is one of the Eight Gates of Seoul in the Fortress Wall of Seoul, also designated as a National Treasure.
• The National Museum of Korea is dedicated to Korean art and history, and boasts the largest collection of relics and antiquities in the country.
• Cheongwadae is the presidential residence, also referred to as the Blue House. Visits need to be booked a week in advance.
• Sangam Stadium was built for the FIFA World Cup 2012 and is a distinct structure, shaped like a traditional Korean kite.
• Lotte World is the world’s largest indoor theme park, complete with luxury hotel, top rides, excellent shopping options and the Korean Folk Museum .

INTERESTING WALKS

• Namsan Park is perched atop its namesake mountain in the centre of Seoul, accessible by cable car.
• Insadong is a one-stop shop for everything Korean including tea houses, galleries and quaint shops selling antiques.
• Namdaemun Market is perfect for souvenir shopping over some healthy haggling.
• Bukchon Hanok Village is a beautiful area of the city bearing traditional Korean housing.

LOCAL WISDOM

• Koreans place family values above individual needs. Protocols and etiquettes are strictly enforced and respected.
• Pungmullori is a traditional Korean art form combining music, dance and acrobatics. Performances can be caught at the Korean Folk Village or at Chongdong Theater.
• Great restaurants to try: Myeongdong Kyoja (multiple locations), Buchon Yukhoe (beef tartare), Xesc Menzl (German cold cuts and sandwiches), Villa Guerrero (tacos), Star Samarkand (Uzbek food), Niuroumianguan (Taiwanese), Petra (Jordanian), Savage Garden (vegetarian), Balwoogongyang ($$$ –  with vegan options).
• Looking for great Gamjatang ? Head to Taejo Gamjaguk Sungshin Women’s Univ.. Craving fried chicken? Hyodo Chicken.
• Where to find good cheap eats : Sindang and Ojang for quick and cheap meals eaten standing up, Majang meat market for barbecue and Dobong for the city’s best tofu.
• Dangerous areas : Seoul is generally very safe. Exercise caution at night, especially when walking alone (just as in any major city).

Recommended trip duration:  3-4 days

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Solo Travel in Seoul, South Korea: The Ultimate Guide

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Ever wondered what it’s like to solo travel in Seoul? South Korea isn’t the typical destination that comes to mind for solo travelers. Before I went there, I read that it’s not the best place to venture out alone.

However, South Korea, with its vibrant capital, Seoul, offered a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity, deeply rooted in its rich cultural history.

This combination intrigued me. So, in September 2023 I set out to see if South Korea truly deserved its reputation as an unconventional choice for solo travel.

In this article, we’ll not only uncover the hidden beauty of solo travel in South Korea but also provide you with the insights you need to navigate Seoul on your own.

Ready to learn what to expect as a solo traveler in South Korea?

Let’s dive in.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may contain affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase.

Is Seoul safe for a solo female traveler?

Seoul is definitely safe for a solo female traveler. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.

It’s generally considered safe to walk alone in the evening as a woman in Seoul. I think this is great, yet I would still not try my own luck walking alone at night time. Make sure that you know the way if you are wandering alone at night.

And choose to walk on the main roads where more people are walking instead of small alleyways. Have offline maps downloaded from maps.me and have your phone charged.

There are another couple of things to keep in mind when traveling alone in Seoul. One of them is to not drink too much when you go clubbing here. Especially if you’re a girl.

It’s not uncommon to be grabbed by your wrists in certain clubs while going out here. Also be aware of your drink, because of drink spiking. This may not sound very nice, but it’s good to be realistic and know what to be aware of.

Like in every part of the world, be aware of your surroundings.

The best places to stay as a solo traveler in Seoul

So, where should you stay during solo travel in Seoul? If you want to have the chance to meet new people while traveling solo in South Korea, it’s best to stay in a hostel. As a woman, the safest option is to stay in a female-only hostel.

Garosugil Homestay – Female Only

If you’re a solo female traveler and prefer to stay in a women only accommodation, then this is a great choice. Garosugil Homestay is situated in the Gangnam district.

The interior is very beautiful and clean and the owner is kind. Click here to view its prices and availability.

Hostel Haru, Seoul

Another great option is to stay in Hostel Haru . This hostel is mixed, however you can book a private bedroom, so you still have your own privacy. If you prefer to stay in a hostel room (mixed or female only), then that’s also possible.

The location in the centre of Seoul is excellent and you have great evening views from the lounge. Definitely check out this hostel here .

Hotel RU136

If you want to stay in a luxurious hotel with a gigantic bath and a lot of privacy, then choose to stay at Hotel RU136 . Here you’ll find a more extensive review of this place.

It’s very affordable compared to how luxurious it feels. The hotel is situated in a more local area with two subway stations located nearby. View its rates and availability over here .

Tips for solo travel in South Korea

Here are some tips for your solo travels in this interesting country. They help you set the right expectations for your travels here.

Have the right apps on your phone

You should download a couple of essential apps when traveling here . These will come in really handy and will make your solo travels here a lot easier.

The walking routes on Google Maps don’t work that well here, so it’s necessary to download either KakaoMaps or NaverMaps. These apps make getting around in Seoul a lot easier.

Also make sure that your phone is always charged. You don’t want to be lost in a place where you don’t know the way nor the language.

South Korea isn’t a good destination for your first solo trip

If you don’t have any travel experience, I wouldn’t recommend going on your first solo trip to South Korea. I think this would be too challenging, also because of the language barrier and cultural differences.

A better destination would be Thailand or Bali, countries where English is far more widely spoken and where getting around is very easy.

Like always, don’t drink too much

You’re an easy target in a foreign country, especially when drunk. So remember to not drink too much. This is a general safety tip during solo travel .

Also be careful of your drink, drugging is not uncommon in Korea, especially during the night in party places such as vibrant Hongdae .

Don’t expect to meet loads of new people

To set your expectations straight: Don’t expect to meet lots of new people during your travels here. I’m not sure if I’ve ever witnessed a country with so few tourists as South Korea.

A Korean guy I met told me that it’s pretty unfamiliar to see European people traveling in South Korea, especially on their own.

Another Korean local sitting next to me in the plane was also shocked that I was visiting the country on my own. Apparently it’s very uncommon! Still, I think it’s a great destination, also for solo travelers.

However, do keep in mind that there might be instances where you’ll be alone. It’s not like traveling solo in Vietnam or Thailand, where you’ll see lots of tourists and meet lots of new people.

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit Seoul alone, however it’s a good thing to keep in mind!

Seoul is fantastic, but it’s not the easiest place to meet new people. Personally, I’ve even tried Bumble Bff here, yet without success.

Normally I meet new people quite easily, wherever I go. In Seoul things were different and I’ve read many stories about people feeling the same way.

So my advice to you is this: If you’re going to travel solo in Seoul, be prepared to be alone. Stay in a hostel to try to meet new people during your travels here!

Be flexible

You can have it all planned out, but some things will still work out differently than expected. Especially in a big city like Seoul.

Before getting here, I found a coffee shop online near to my hotel. I imagined myself drinking coffee there every morning. It was a really romanticized picture I had in my head. 

My first morning in Seoul I walked to this coffeeshop, but to my surprise it wasn’t open at all. But Google had told me so? I looked for other hidden entrances, but without success. The cafe had been closed.

This sums it up for me. You can plan all you want, but in the end not everything will work out the way you think it will. And that’s not a bad thing at all. It opens up new doors and opportunities for you to explore. 

In conclusion

Solo traveling in Seoul isn’t the most common thing to do. However, it’s definitely worth doing!

There are so many things to do here. You can try street food at Gwangjang Food Market , shop at the busy Myeongdong Street , go up to the impressive Namsan Seoul Tower and much more.

Do keep in mind that it’s not the best place to meet new people. If you want to visit a country where it’s very easy to meet new travelers, opt for a destination such as Thailand instead.

However, if you don’t mind venturing out on your own and you’re interested in learning about a new culture, then definitely solo travel in Seoul, South Korea. There’s delicious food, incredible historic landmarks and many serene cafes .

Even in Seoul itself, you can easily entertain yourself for weeks and you still won’t have seen everything that this capital city has to offer.

Away with Danae

See more South Korea travel content here:

• The Best Ways To Get Around Seoul, South Korea
• Essential Apps To Download in South Korea
• Bukchon Hanok Village: Is It Really Worth Visiting?

Dongmyo Flea Market: The Best Thrifting Spot in Seoul

• Suseongdong Valley: A Hidden Gem in Seoul
• 7 Reasons Why Seoul Is Truly Worth Visiting

Danae is the founder of Away with Danae. She is 25 years old, has traveled to over 40 countries and has a background in migration law and consular affairs. Danae aims to help you discover the lesser known gems of the world. She specifically focuses on authentic travel experiences in Europe and Asia.

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The Best Ways To Get Around Seoul in South Korea

100+ Travel Solo Quotes That Will Inspire You

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This New Jeju Island Resort Is a Peaceful Getaway From Seoul — With Ocean Views, Seaside Hikes, and Shellfish Diving

Jeju is the largest of South Korea’s islands and a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a perfect respite from the big city.

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Activities and experiences, family-friendly offerings.

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How to Get the Most Value Out of Your Stay

Courtesy of JW Marriott

On a quiet cliffside suspended between a calm sea and craggy rocks, the wonders of nature and seamless architecture collide in harmonious balance at JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa . As I made my way down a winding driveway just off the main road, I caught quick glimpses of the East China Sea and hotel entrance, weaved together with layers of the island’s volcanic basalt stone lined with ancient pine.

After an hour-long flight from Seoul (where I spent three nights at another JW Marriott hotel), a car ride past peaceful fishing villages and gurgling waterfalls felt worlds away from the bustling city I had just left. Jeju, the largest of South Korea’s islands and a UNESCO World Heritage site, was formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago that birthed cavelike lava tubes, coastal rock pillars, and a subtropical climate that produces dense forests, blooming azaleas, and dune-swept beaches. 

Courtesy of JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa

Opened in March 2023 on the southern coast of Seogwipo, the new 197-room Marriott property holds a prime location above Jeju’s sweeping coastline. The lobby — which makes no small introduction to the resort — is a spacious, hanok -inspired space bordered by antique Korean chairs where guests sit to check in. The lobby’s centerpiece, a large summer tangerine tree (called hagyul), is just one of many introductions to designer Bill Bensley’s incorporation of Jeju’s thriving landscape throughout the property.

“Upon entering JW Marriott Jeju, guests are welcomed by a pathway paved with golden-hued stones, leading to the lobby, where a breathtaking view of the pristine blue ocean and Beomseom Island unfolds before them," said general manager Douglas Kim. "Instead of a bustling hotel lobby, they step into a tranquil space reminiscent of a traditional hanok, setting the tone for their experience. This is the beginning of their journey filled with enriching moments, where they can relax and immerse themselves from the very start."

When I stepped into my room, instant calm followed–made possible by the impressive quiet of the 289,000 square-foot resort and its hues of soft yellow (a symbol of good luck in Korea), sunkissed gardens, and remote, bluffside location. Soon after, a tableside afternoon tea of tiered treats like sweet corn cream cakes and citrus sponge cake was served with views of a cobalt blue ocean. The experience was just one of many ways the property succeeds at bringing guests closer to the tastes and sights of Jeju.  

Here, everything you need to know about JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa .

JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa Hotel

• A lavish weekend buffet brunch features fresh catches like lobster, sashimi, and oysters, plus colorful desserts from the resort's pâtisserie chefs and caviar with Champagne as starters.
• Inspired by Jeju Island’s raw natural beauty, the hotel’s landscape includes low-lava stone walls and mustard flowers. 
• A luxurious afternoon tea service includes local, seasonal ingredients incorporated into sweet and savory treats like duck and feta canapes and citrus sponge cake topped with green mandarin cream.
• Guests can walk along the island's famous Olle trail, which is directly connected to the hotel and provides sweeping ocean views through forested cliffside.
• The property’s omakase-style restaurant Yeomul honors haenyeo–Jeju's legendary female divers–by serving the harvested seafood the women catch.

Jeju Island’s thriving natural environment is reflected throughout the property. Metal-sculptured flying fish line the hallway corridors to the guestrooms, while basalt stones are a nod to the island’s volcanic terrain. Yellow hues throughout the property symbolize the island’s blooming canola fields, bringing color to the room’s warm wood tones. All rooms feature a balcony, with most facing the sea, and some premium rooms include outdoor wooden soaking tubs.

From my panoramic suite, I only had to step onto my balcony to see that rustic terrain reflected just below–rugged rocks jutting from the sea,  the crouching tiger-shaped Beomseom Island in the distance, and hints of what kaleidoscope springtime foliage would bring to these hillsides in the months to come. The bathroom — a low-lit black, grey, and glittering gold retreat with a sunken marble tub as its centerpiece — stood in balanced contrast to the yellow-hued, wood-lined living space and bedroom just outside. 

The all-day, sundrenched Island Kitchen is one of the property’s most popular places to eat. I’ve been fortunate to experience some pretty spectacular brunches in my lifetime, but Island Kitchen’s weekend extravaganza officially tops my list of favorites.

The feast includes an unlimited Champagne and caviar option and adjacent rooms that display rows of freshly caught crustaceans, short rib, bibimbap, roasted chicken, various salads and fruits, and house-made bread and cakes.

In addition to the buffet, diners can order from a menu of made-to-order breakfast dishes like eggs Benedict and steak paired with lobster. The best advice I can give after a visit? Plan for a nap.  

At Flying Hog , executive chef Joon Ko plates the island’s bounty like art. I ordered Jeju’s prized black pork belly, which Ko rubs with salt and lets rest in the fridge for three days before slow cooking for three hours and finishing on the grill.

The result? A crackling, chicharron-like skin that borders tender meat. Produce, including carrots, beet, and scallions, is sourced from a local purveyor, Jeju Gollaoe Gine, who specializes in sustainable farming practices. “We want our guests to experience the essence of Jeju throughout their stay. The use of local ingredients is meant to convey the changing flavors of the seasons,” said Ko.

A hidden omakase-style restaurant, Yeomul, named after the ponds that dot the property, is adjacent to an elevator and marked only by a sign of a fox peering into water. Inside the intimate space, fresh seafood harvested by the haenyeo , Jeju's legendary female divers, is served, including abalone, tilefish soup, and an assortment of sashimi. 

The marigold-colored lounge features afternoon tea and prized local snacks like Jeju’s Udo peanuts, green tangerines, and popular apple mango. A small seaside bar serves up classic cocktails or an original concoction that can be made based on your favorite flavor profiles.

The resort has a gym and four indoor pools, including a whirlpool fed by the island’s volcanic springs. One pool, a sprawling, V-shaped oasis, lends views of the sea and nearby gardens decorated with Ugo Rondinone's specially commissioned yellow, blue, and pink boulders. Guests can also enjoy several activities, including Jeju Tea Ceremonies and wine tastings with the property’s sommelier. 

JW Jeju is connected to the island’s famous Olle Trail, a well-marked 10-mile network of pathways that follow the coastline and offers views of Oedolgae Sea Stack — a basalt formation near the shores of Sammaebong that left me in awe in the wake of its Jurassic Park-like formation. 

The most memorable excursion during my visit was to Beophwan, a fishing village where I got a chance to swim with the famous haenyeo women divers — whose livelihood depends on the variety of seafood they harvest. I have read about these incredible women in books, of their ability to hold their breath for minutes without oxygen masks as they dive for up to seven hours a day for shellfish like abalone and urchins.

Dressed in a wetsuit and armed with a tewak — the net attached to an orange float used to help collect the shellfish — I fumbled into the sea, knowing well before the water reached my knees that I would never come close to achieving what these fearless women have made into a longstanding tradition. Still, I tried, and after a few humbling reality checks on my diving capabilities and lung capacity, I finally caught two gleaming abalone shells, which my haenyo instructor held to the sky in celebration. 

At the low-lit, intimate spa, I received the pro-collagen age defy facial. My skin was illuminated with a series of Elemis products and my therapist’s swift, upward hand motions.  Other treatments include foot reflexology, body masks with Thermes Marin products, and hot stone massage with nourishing oils. 

There’s no shortage of incredible opportunities for children on property. When I peeked into the colorful Kids Camp, a group of children were quietly prepping chocolate during their baking class. Other activities include Jeju Forest Adventures, where kids can join group-led outdoor excursions. Families can also enlist a picnic rental service to enjoy on the island. Family packages that include perks for both adults and children can be booked here . 

Accessibility and Sustainability 

Guest rooms include bathtub grab rails, roll-in showers, lowered electrical outlets, and adjustable hand-held shower wands. Service animals are welcome on the property, and the pool, main entrance, meeting spaces, and restaurants are all accessible. The sustainable cooking program focuses on zero-waste dishes incorporating only two to three ingredients cooked from root to leaf.

The resort is located on the southern coast of Seogwipo, about an hour's drive from Jeju International Airport. Most guests rent a car at the airport, which the hotel can help coordinate. 

As part of Marriott's Bonvoy program, you can earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points for your stay at JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa. Be sure to look at the resort's various packages on offer, as many include half-board rates at Island Kitchen or dining credits at the resort's other restaurants.

Transmigration of Seoul – Frank McNally on a long-awaited trip to South Korea

Something that unified most of our disparate group of journalists was a love of beer.

Thirsty work: last week, I finally set foot in Seoul as a participant of the World Journalists Conference 2024

Back in January 2020, I was all set to visit South Korea for the first time, as an invitee to its annual “World Journalists Conference”, scheduled for March.

But there were rumours emerging then of some new virus in China and I wondered vaguely if this might affect plans.

Sure enough, in February, the WJC organisers took the dire step of postponing their event for a whole month (the innocence is charming now).

Then it was postponed again, until June. Then October. And by the time the conference finally happened, I had to attend it in my Dublin kitchen, via something none of us had heard of in January: Zoom.

Son of the soil – Colm Keena on the occasional delights of getting our hands dirty

The ‘Bots’ marks the seasons in our busy city

Judgment Day – Alison Healy on predicting when the world will end

That itself was interesting, as I emerged from a 6.30am alarm call to address what looked like a meeting of the UN General Assembly on my laptop, with 50-odd journalists (some odder than others) from all over the world.

The conference was held online again in 2021 and ‘22: my kitchen background increasingly accessorised for global exposure. Then came 2023, when the event returned to actual Korea and somebody forgot to tell me.

But all’s well that ends well. And another year later, last week, I finally set foot in Seoul as a participant of the World Journalists Conference 2024.

Whatever about the journalists, it was a different world. If not forgotten, Covid is no longer news. The themes this year were war reporting and AI, on which there were thought-provoking contributions during the formal part of the event.

Honesty compels me to admit, however, that much of the conference’s fun was just mixing with fellow press people from such far-flung places as Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, and Cambodia, or – at the other end of the alphabetic spectrum – Uzbekistan, Vietnam, and Yemen.

The diversity of experience was in some ways humbling, as the representative from Turkey discovered.

During the session on war reporting, she asked the panellists’ opinion on the Cypriot border question. But they all had to explain politely that they didn’t know much (or anything) about Cyprus.

So – not that it was part of my plans – I instantly overcame any temptation to ask what people thought about the Irish Border, just in case nobody had ever heard of it.

A functional fluency in English was one of the conditions for attending. Meanwhile, and perhaps more surprisingly even considering they were journalists, another thing that unified most of our disparate group was a love of beer.

There were a handful of conscientious objectors, it’s true. These included the Saudi representative: a charming, veiled young woman who grew up in Texas and spoke fluent American but now lived in Riyadh and preferred it there.

When I asked if she wasn’t “oppressed”, she just laughed. If anyone was oppressing her, it was the Korean waiter who filled her wine glass at lunch when she wasn’t looking.

Not only did she not drink alcohol, she didn’t like having it in front or her. So she asked the waiter to take it away. But he thought she was complaining about the quality and tried to pour her a fresh glass.

Finally, with the cultural sensitivity towards alcohol for which we in Ireland are famous, I said “Allow me” and removed the offending object to another table.

Europeans more than made up for the abstentionists from elsewhere. One night in Suwon, along with the German and Bulgarian delegates, I accompanied a party-animal Hungarian in search of a bar where he had been earlier and left the French and Portuguese journalists.

Unfortunately, his memory of the venue did not include its name or the name of the street it was on: only a series of hunches as to where it might be, which covered an increasingly large swathe of the city centre.

Some years ago I read a great novel, The Radetsky March, which – through the microcosm of one family – explained the downfall of the Austro-Hungarian empire.

But this was the Radetsky Pub Search, during which I gained a new insight into how Hungary lost its part of the empire. By the end, we were all ready to settle for any pub, and even that proved elusive.

So again, finally, I had to take charge and, drawing on deep national reserves of know-how, found us a corner café with a fridge full of beer.

I was slightly annoyed with Italy’s representative at the WJC, if only because she ruined an old joke – popular with the Irish UN delegation – whereby I too could have claimed that in the alphabetical listing, I was located “between Iraq and a hard place”.

Mind you, there was no Israeli at the WJC so the hard place would have had to be Kazakhstan, which may or may not be hard. I had beers with the Kazakh – a handsome young TV presenter – one night too and he seemed a gentle, thoughtful sort.

On the other hand, he also told me that, in his spare time, he was an MMA fighter.

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Historic Kansong Art Museum reopens fully after decade-long closure

Korea’s oldest private institution revisits its founding history in archival show 'Bohwagak 1938'

The Kansong Art Museum — recognized as Korea’s oldest private cultural institution with a historic collection of over 16,000 artifacts, including an array of state-designated national treasures — is reopening its Bohwagak venue in Seongbuk District, northeastern Seoul, in May following a 19-month renovation.

This marks the institution’s official return to full operations after a decade-long closure due to challenges in accommodating visitors in its aging facility.

The museum was founded in 1938 by Chun Hyung-pil (1906–62), an affluent philanthropist known by the pen name Kansong who dedicated his fortune to collecting and preserving the country’s relics during the 1910–45 Japanese colonial era.

Since 1971, it has hosted biannual exhibitions of its artifacts free of charge. Each show lasted only two weeks due to space constraints and displaying conditions. As a result, every spring and autumn, throngs of visitors would form long lines outside the building, eager to catch a glimpse of treasures such as the 15th-century Hangeul handbook called “Hunminjeongeum Haeryebon” and Joseon-era painter Shin Yun-bok’s iconic “Portrait of a Beauty.”

Then came 2014, when its old and dated venue went dormant, with all subsequent shows for the next five years being temporarily displayed at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) in central Seoul instead.

In 2022, the Kansong Art Museum unveiled its newly built storage space and conservation laboratory as part of its vision to start a new chapter with more up-to-date operations. It also announced plans to extensively renovate the original Bohwagak building, aiming to transform it into a more accessible and modern exhibition hall.

To commemorate the grand reopening, the archival show, “Bohwagak 1938,” has been put on view, tracing the founding history of the museum through a never-before-seen set of blueprints and Chun’s handwritten ledgers.

Discovered among the stacks of enveloped documents during the building’s restoration, the blueprints — some of the oldest surviving of their kind in the country — were drawn and designed by Korea’s first-generation architect Park Kil-yong (1898–1943).

Displayed in rows of vitrines on the first floor, these documents offer insights into every aspect of the structure envisioned 86 years ago, including its off-white, Bauhaus-style facade with a whimsically asymmetrical touch.

Also newly unveiled to the public are the founder’s 1930s ledgers, which meticulously record each artifact’s purchase history and expenses incurred during the museum’s establishment.

Alongside these archival texts are a variety of Joseon-era “seohwa” paintings and calligraphic works from the Kansong collection, 36 of which have been put on view for the first time.

These include the 19th-century “Baekimdang Pungsok Hwacheop,” an album of folk genre paintings crafted by court artist Baek Eun-bae; “Landscape with Trains” (1888), the oldest drawing of an American landscape by Korean artist Kang Jin-hui; and the butterfly brushworks of painter Goh Jin-seung, which, until now, were only documented in text.

“I am pleased that we can now welcome visitors to our much-improved environment,” said Chun In-keon, museum director and grandson of its founder, during a press conference, Monday.

“The Kansong Art Museum will resume its regular biannual exhibition schedule as before. However, instead of staging each show for just two weeks, we have decided to extend the exhibition period to 45 days in both spring and autumn, so that more people can enjoy the collection.”

“Bohwagak 1938” runs through June 16. While admission is free, reservations must be made online through Interpark.

In September, the Seoul museum is set to open a regional branch in Daegu with an inaugural showcase of the most well-known masterpieces from its collection.

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Jeongmin Kim

Jeongmin Kim is the Lead Correspondent at NK News and Editorial Director at KOREA PRO, based in Seoul. Kim covers inter-Korean relations and North and South Korean foreign and military affairs. Kim has covered the 2022 ROK presidential election on the ground, and prior to joining NK News, she worked for the CSIS Korea Chair in Washington D.C. and Reuters news agency’s Seoul bureau.

Joon Ha Park

Joon Ha Park is an Editorial Intern at NK News and has previously written on issues related to the two Koreas at The Peninsula Report.

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