seoul travel places

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

1. N Seoul Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ask your hotel concierge to help with reservations.

Address: 1 Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury Hotels:

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

Mid-Range Hotels :

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

Budget Hotels :

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

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Where to Eat, Stay, and Play in Seoul

By Katie Chang

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Though the global obsession with South Korea’s cultural and tangible exports (K-pop, K-beauty, K-dramas ) has at long last catapulted  Seoul into the limelight, travelers should understand that belying these of-the-moment pleasures is a rich, complex history stretching over 2,000 years. If there’s a single destination that embodies dichotomy, it’s Seoul. As South Korea’s capital and largest city, with over 26 million people in the metropolitan area, it offers a beguiling mix of historic and modern; natural and technological; affordable and extravagant. (Even the Korean flag is emblazoned with a yin-and-yang symbol.) 

It’s massive, too—sprawling over 233 square miles with the Han River dividing Seoul north to south. From there, the city is organized into 25 districts, which all have their own distinct neighborhoods. Centrally located Jung-gu, for example, is home to historic Gwanghwamun, shopping mecca Myeongdong, and hipster haven Euljiro. 

The most important thing to know? Don’t let Seoul’s size dissuade you. It’s easier than you think to get around, and there are free translation and navigation phone apps for extra peace of mind. But because Seoul is packed with things to do, places to eat and drink, and hotels to stay, we’ve narrowed down our top picks in this guide curated by a lifelong visitor. 

All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler  are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Rakkojae Seoul in Bukchon occupies a lovingly restored hanok.

Getting there and around

After landing at Incheon International Airport, download the Papago app for Korean to English translations (and vice versa), and purchase a refillable T-Money Card to pay for taxis, subways, and buses—the three main modes of transport. While you can hail taxis, which are plentiful as they are affordable, from the streets, you can also book them in advance with Kakao Taxi . The app supports English, and lets you select your pickup, destination, and payment method. (If you’ve just landed at the airport; however, just head to a taxi stand outside.) Because traffic is regularly an issue, make the subway your primary way of getting around. Seoul’s system is widely regarded as one of the world’s best with spotless cars, free Wi-Fi, announcements in Korean and English, and even heated seats come winter.

Book a Matter of Mind class at Epkkot to better understand the brewing process behind traditional Korean spirits.

Epkkot founder Yang Yoomi likens the introspective process of brewing spirits to that of brewing with rice—both require constant tending. 

The best things to do in Seoul

Because traditional Korean spirits are trending big time right now, book a Matter of Mind class at  Epkkot 's lab and studio, discreetly tucked away in Chungmuro. Founder Yang Yoomi, one of Seoul’s few female distillers, guides participants on a creative journey to help identify their true selves while diving deeper into the world of Korean spirits. The introspective process, Yang believes, is similar to brewing with rice, whose grains must be constantly tended to. 

Though the Western art world has finally shifted its gaze towards Seoul, resulting in Frieze’s first art fair in Asia and international outposts of König Galerie and Pace, it’s important to support establishments like  Leeum Museum of Art ,  PKM Gallery , and  Kukje Gallery , who’ve championed their home country from the start. For a one-of-a-kind art piece you can afford to take home, visit Hyung Jun Kim and Seo Seok Man’s  THR Ceramic Studio in Gyeonggi-do, where they sell their quirky pieces depicting expressive goblins ( Dogabi ) and chickens ( Naldak ) and offer ceramic-making classes, too.

Seoul is a bonafide shopping mecca, and department stores—which double up as social hubs, giving you a glimpse into how everyday life in Seoul can look—take the crown with their convenience and mind-boggling variety. (Ground and upper floors are dedicated to different departments and brands, while basements house food halls and sell groceries.) Myeongdong’s  Shinsegae Department Store has been a beloved city initiation since 1930 and is considered by many as the most glamorous, while Yeouido’s  The Hyundai  is a stark white architectural masterpiece showcasing a well-curated mix of established and up-and-coming brands—many of them Korean—to attract a younger, more fashion-focused clientele.

  Jimbba is equal parts retailer of interesting Korean spirits and tasting room for a sip of something you can’t find back home.

Where to eat in Seoul

Want to discover a lesser-known side of Korean cuisine? Bypass the barbecue, and instead try  Pyongyang naengmyeon, North Korean buckwheat noodles in an icy beef broth, from  Wooraeok and  Jinmi Pyeongyang Naengmyeon . Another affordable everyday staple,  kalguksu , or knife noodle soup, represents comfort in a bowl. Though it’s doled out all across the city,  Myeongdong Kyoja has been serving up some of the best since 1966. (You can even ask for a free second helping of noodles.) And for sluggish mornings following late nights, a bowl of  gamjatang (spicy pork bone soup) from Seongsu-dong’s  Somunnan Gamjatang , a standby hangover remedy that’s open 24 hours, will fix you right up.

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For a well-crafted meal that won’t break the bank, make a reservation at  Miro Sikdang . Tucked away up a steep hill in Mapo-gu, the unassuming eatery adored by in-the-know locals sends out ingredient-driven homestyle Korean cooking such as Spam-studded spicy whelk salad and its famous  tteokbokki  (spicy stir-fried rice cakes). If you’re looking to splurge, Seoul has you covered with Michelin-starred restaurants like  Mosu ,  Jungsik , and  Mingles —all of which artfully present contemporary cuisine through a Korean lens. For a sweet treat like no other, drop by one of  Nudake ’s locations. The boundary-pushing dessert concept by hip eyewear brand Gentle Monster bakes up whimsical creations like Birth, a snow-white layer cake topped with edible egg-shaped candles, and Fog, a black-white ombre cake layered with cheddar-cheese cream and black-olive bits in a gallery-like setting.

Nudake has multiple locations across Seoul, all offering whimsical sweets, including Birth—a snow-white cake topped with edible egg-shaped candles.

The sculptural desserts come from the team behind hip eyewear brand Gentle Monster and are showcased in a gallery-like setting.

If you prefer to devote an evening to just one neighborhood instead of hopping around, consider Sindang. Similarly to what happened in Seongsu and Euljiro in the past few years, visionary creatives have started trickling in and reimagining the spaces that once belonged to rice shops and factories into some of Seoul’s buzziest new spots to eat and drink. Your best bet is to duck—that’s because the unmarked door is super low—into  Zoo Sindang , a hidden bar specializing in Chinese zodiac-themed cocktails right when it opens, then popping by  Jimbba , a chic nook that’s equal parts retailer of interesting Korean spirits and tasting room for a sip of something you can’t find back home. Next, grab an Arancia Granita (espresso topped with fresh orange sorbet) at  Mail Room —an impossibly charming new espresso bar done up in vintage art and knick-knacks—for a pick-me-up before dinner at  Bird Shop with a Mala Bird Burger, a hefty fried chicken sandwich smothered with mala paste and jalapeño yogurt. 

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul in Gwanghwamun is walkable to historic sites.

Where to stay  

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul in Gwanghwamun has everything you need for a convenient and culturally-rich stay. On top of being walkable to historic sites and attractions such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and Insadong, the venerated property pays homage to Korean heritage through original pieces by local artists like Choi Byung Hoon, chic accommodations kitted out with hanbok-inspired headboards and vintage pottery, a modern Korean sauna, and  Oul , a lively bar devoted to lesser-known Korean spirits. Other vetted luxury hotels include Gangnam’s  The Shilla Seoul , Park Hyatt Seoul , and  Grand Hyatt Seoul .

In Bukchon is  Rakkojae Seoul , the city’s most unique accommodations. Occupying a lovingly restored  hanok (traditional Korean house) that balances architecture with nature, the minimalist rooms remain true to their roots with classic touches like  hanji  (paper made from mulberry tree bark) wallpaper, and floors warmed by  ondol , an underfloor heating system for a hushed, tranquil experience that feels far removed the city.

Prefer to plant yourself in a busier setting? Book a room at the new  Le Méridien Seoul, Myeongdong , where bright and cheery accommodations await, and friendly bilingual staff can quickly steer you in the right direction.  Ryse, Autograph Collection Seoul is another solid pick, as the design-driven and laid-back vibe mirrors its address in Hongdae, an energetic neighborhood anchored by Hongik University.

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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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The 14 best things to do in Seoul

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

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

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

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What to do in Seoul

1.  Changdeokgung Palace

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

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

2.  N Seoul Tower

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

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

3.  Gwangjang Market

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

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

4.  Ihwa Mural Village

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

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

5.  Leeum Samsung Museum of Art

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

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

6.  Insa-dong

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

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

7.  Hongdae

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

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

8.  Common Ground

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

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

9.  Dongdaemun

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

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

10.  Gyeongui Line Forest Park

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

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

11.  Myeongdong

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

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

12.  Suyeonsanbang Tea House

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

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

13.  Seoullo 7017

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

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

14.  Korea Furniture Museum

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

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

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SEOUL - north  |  SEOUL - south

Day Trips from Seoul  | Busan  |  Best Collections

🌸Festivals ( Seoul • Busan )

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

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

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

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

1. Korea Palaces

Visit either:

Gyeongbokgung Palace : The largest + Changing of Royal Guards Ceremony

Changdeokgung Palace : UNESCO World Heritage + Secret Garden

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

2. Namsan Seoul Tower

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

3. Myeongdong

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

4. Cafe Streets  

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

Other popular cafe streets/areas:

Ikseondong Hanok Village

Seoul Forest Cafe Street

5. Korean BBQ

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

Other recommended BBQ restaurants at:

6. Korean Markets

KoreaToDo favourite picks include:

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

Gwangjang Market : Many popular local  food to try!

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

7. Seoul City Wall

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

KoreaToDo Top Picks:

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

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

8. Bukhansan National Park

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

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

9. Han River (Hangang) Parks

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

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

Ttukseom Hangang Park

Yeouido Hangang Park

10. Bridge Walk across Han River

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

KoreaToDo's favourite pick:

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

11. Underground Malls

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

12. Ko rean Universities

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

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

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

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

Hot picks include:

Seoul Grand Park

Seoul Forest

Olympic Park

Haneul Park

14. Kakao Friends / Line Friends Flagship  Stores

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

Best locations for both flagship stores located near subway stations:

Gangnam Shopping Street

Hongdae Shopping Street ​

15. Factory Outlets

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

Recommended picks near subway stations:

Lotte Outlets (Seoul Station Branch)

Hyundai City Outlets Dongdaemun ​

16. Olive Young

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

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

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

KoreaToDo TOP PICKS - Tours, Activities & Discount Tickets

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

N Seoul Tower Observatory Ticket

enjoy breathtaking views

Yeo Yong Guk Korean Traditional Medicine Spa Packages

must-go wellness place by KTO

Lotte World 1 Day Pass & Lotte World Aquarium

located in the heart of Seoul

Coex Aquarium in Seoul Admission Ticket

largest aquarium in Seoul

Seoul Eland Hangang River Cruise (Day Cruise)

40 mins, multiple timings

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

free access to >60 attractions

Hanbok Rental near Changdeokgung Palace by Dorothy Hanbok

Kid/Male hanbok available.

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

Myeongdong, Hongdae, etc

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

🌸SPRING PICKS🌸 Handpicked Experiences from Seoul

Cherry Blossom Hunting Day Tour

29 Mar - 29 Apr 2024

2-3 most beautiful cherry blossom spots

Taean Tulip Festival & Strawberry Picking Day Tour

12 Apr - 7 May 2024

500g strawberry picking

Hwadam Botanic Garden, Nami Island & Gangchon Railbike Day Tour

29 Mar 2024 ~

Pink King Cherry Blossom Tour (Spring Flower Festival, Gaesimsa & Munsusa)

14-29 Apr 2024

king cherry blossoms are larger & denser

Taean Tulip Festival & Suspension Bridge Tour

14 Apr - 7 May 2024

largest flower festival in Korea

Pink King Cherry Blossom Tour (Wansan Flower Garden, Jeonju Hanok Village)

15-28 Apr 2023

& Gakwonsa Temple

Other KoreaToDo Collections that you may like:

Top Popular & Unique Day Trips from Seoul under 3 hours

Recommended Day Tours from Seoul & WHY

Top Favourite Shopping Heaven in Seoul

Essential Travel Tips to Korea

Still looking? Explore KoreaToDo handpicked collection of:

Seoul - North of Han River

Seoul - South of Han River

Seoul   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Alex Barlow | Getty Images

11 Best Things To Do in Seoul

Updated February 11, 2021

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

• All Things To Do

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

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

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

Bukchon Hanok Village Bukchon Hanok Village free

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

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

Bukhansan National Park Bukhansan National Park free

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

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

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Changdeokgung (Changdeok Palace) Changdeokgung (Changdeok Palace)

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

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

Hongdae Hongdae free

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

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

Insadong Insadong free

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

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

Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbok Palace) Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbok Palace)

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

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

Dongdaemun Market Dongdaemun Market free

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

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

DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel and Suspension Bridge Day Tour from Seoul

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Small-Group Royal Palace and Seoul City Tour w/ Lunch

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DMZ Tour from Seoul (Optional Red Suspension Bridge, DMZ Gondola)

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Jongmyo Shrine Jongmyo Shrine

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

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

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

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

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

Lotte World Lotte World

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

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

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• South Korea
• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

43 Must-Visit Attractions in Seoul

With a fizzing K-Pop scene, cut-price beauty emporiums and late-night norebang (karaoke) bars, the capital of South Korea is one of the most exciting cities in Asia. Come for a few days at least and you will find a mix of traditional and modern thrills with countless attractions and sites to explore. Here are the top must-visit attractions in Seoul .

1. bukhansan national park.

2. Gyeongbokgung

3. Gwanghwamun Square

Architectural Landmark

This new public square lies in front of Gwanghwamun Gate, the main gate to the impressive Gyeongbokgung Palace. The square features a statue of King Sejong the Great, the inventor of Korea’s Hangul alphabet. Visit on a sunny day and you can enjoy the view of the soaring green hills beyond Seoul’s skyscrapers. Most city tours of Seoul will include a photo op at Gwanghwamun Gate.

5. Bukchon Hanok Village

Archaeological site

6. Cheonggyecheon stream

Natural Feature

7. N Seoul Tower

8. Myeongdong

9. lotte world.

Amusement Park

Seoul’s largest recreation complex is home to the world’s biggest indoor theme park as well as an outdoor amusement park called Magic Island, all linked by a monorail. Lotte World, which is to the southeast of the city centre, has a luxury hotel, a national folk museum, sport facilities and cinemas. To add life and Seoul to your trip, make your way here.

10. Jogyesa Temple

Buddhist Temple

This will probably be the most colourful temple you will ever see – the exterior is bright red, jade, blue and yellow. Inside are three golden Buddhas. As the visual fanfare suggests, the chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism is one of the most important in the country. It was founded at the start of the Joseon Dynasty in 1395. Visit during Buddha’s birthday in May and you can join Korean visitors taking part in the festivities. We recommend checking out the temple when lit by lanterns on an atmospheric nighttime tour of Seoul.

11. Jongmyo Shrine

12. Gangnam

Shopping Mall

13. COEX Mall

14. Demilitarised Zone

Historical Landmark

This strip of land will make you shiver… and think. The DMZ divides the Korean peninsula and is the border between North and South Korea. Created in 1953 as a buffer between communism and capitalism, it is a surviving slice of the Cold War. It’s just 48km (30mi) north of Seoul and there are observation towers from which to peek into North Korea. It can only be visited on an organised tour. Luckily, you can visit the DMZ on Culture Trip’s 10-day trip to South Korea . Alternatively, book one of many day trip tours departing from Seoul.

15. Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art

Museum, Building

16. Heunginjimun

Restaurant, Contemporary

One of Seoul’s most reputed contemporary dining restaurants, Soigné is situated in a quiet nook of Seorae Maeul. The open kitchen, referred to as “The Stage” by owner and head chef Jun Lee, allows diners to watch the chefs elaborately create their meals. The menu rotates every few months and incorporates themes that vary from movies to seasons. For the full experience, try the full course dinner, which stretches out over a leisurely two to three hours. Recommended by Mimsie Ladner.

18. Jazz Story

Bar, Pub Grub, Korean, Fusion

At the heart of Seoul’s lively Hyehwa district is one of its best-kept secrets — Jazz Story, a unique live music bar that is spacious enough so visitors never feel cramped, even when at full capacity. Here, patrons can relax in an eclectic interior bedecked with items such as a hand-crafted airplane that hangs suspended over the stage. Otherworldly figures and contraptions adorn the exposed rebar and broken concrete walls, adding to the atmosphere. The wine, beer and cocktails on offer are varied to please just about any taste, but the house jazz band, which plays daily and takes requests, is the real draw here. Recommended by Mimsie Ladner.

19. Maple Tree House

Restaurant, Korean, BBQ

For those wishing to sample the best Korean barbecue food , a visit to the Maple Tree is a must. The restaurant is well-renowned for serving high-quality meat in a spacious setting that is decked with polished brass tables and modern interiors. Book a food tour of the city for an even more comprehensive culinary deep-dive. Recommended by Naintara Gurung.

20. War Memorial of Korea

Building, Memorial

21. Buam-dong

Nestled between Inwang and Bugak mountains, Buam-dong is a tranquil neighborhood situated in the middle of the city, but shielded by nature from the concrete that makes up the remainder of the metropolis. Untainted by retail franchisees or coffee chains, the area retains a quiet residential vibe. Boasting only a single bus stop, it is certainly not the most convenient place to visit, but its quaint galleries , beautiful nature trails and unique charm make it well worth the trek. The area even features on a tour of the filming locations from the global filmic phenomenon that was Parasite (2019). Recommended by Mimsie Ladner.

22. Korea Furniture Museum

23. national museum of korea, five unusual things to do in seoul.

Recommended by Linda Dunsmore .

24. Korean alcohol-tasting classes

Bar, Cocktails

One of the most popular alcoholic drinks in Korea is a type of rice wine called makgeolli . The Korea Tourism Organization even claims that makgeolli sales overseas have increased by 20–25% in recent years. Baesangmyeonjuga , a liquor company well-known for producing a wide selection of Korean drinks, hosts lessons on how to make makgeolli . Classes are held in Korean and take place every Saturday, and the first and third Friday of each month. There are also plenty of classes (as well as drink tours) held in English through Viator.

25. Seoul fashion week

Building, Architectural Landmark, Shop

26. Singing rooms (Noraebang)

Music Venue

If you want to explore Seoul like a local, you should visit a singing room ( Noraebang ). Private rooms of different sizes come equipped with high-tech karaoke facilities, and are available for groups of friends, families or even colleagues. Going out to sing songs and drink is a common pastime for many Koreans. Don’t know any K-Pop? No problem. Every Noraebang offers a wide selection of popular English hits.

27. Korean bathhouses

Spa, Swimming Pool

The Best Markets in Seoul

28. noryangjin fish wholesale market.

Market, Seafood

29. Namdaemun Market

30. gwangjang market.

31. Dongdaemun Market

Market, Bazaar

32. Hongdae Free Market

Every Saturday from March to November, local artists, performers, and even musicians get together to form this unique market, offering handmade arts and crafts and unique entertainment performances to the crowd. The best part about Hongdae Free market is the relaxed atmosphere that lets visitors engage with the local vendors and performers and get to know their stories and the background of their products.

33. Yangjae Flower Market

Yangjae Flower Market is one of those hidden attractions in the city not many people know about. The market first opened in 1991 and started out selling cut flowers. Today, it is the largest flower market in South Korea and carries flowers and plants of all varieties. The market also sells gardening related items.

34. Tongin Market

Just west of Gyeongbokgung Palace, you will find Tongin Market. While it might seem ordinary at a first glance, the market is actually a hotspot for the popular Korean dish tteokbokki , chewy rice cakes in a spicy chili sauce. The market is also a piece of Korean history in itself, as it was created for Japanese residents in 1941 when Korea was under Japanese rule.

The Most Scenic Outdoor Spots in and Around Seoul

Recommended by Rose Munday.

35. Seoraksan National Park

Two hours from the capital by bus is Seoraksan National Park , home to Korea’s third tallest mountain and various scenic hiking trails. The most popular is the steep climb to Daecheongbong Peak, a dramatic granite cliff overlooking the park. While a trip to Seokransan National Park is possible during a day trip from Seoul, it’s advisable to spend a night nearby in Sokcho city . The park is home to 1,562 animal species, as well as Buddhist temples and impressive caves, so you won’t run out of ways to fill the time. Book a guided hike to make sure you see the very best of the park in just one day.

36. Nami Island

The tiny landmass of Nami Island was accidentally formed when the waters of the Han River rose around it during the 1940s. Now, it’s one of the most popular day trips from Seoul, home to a dense redwood forest and the idyllic-sounding Garden of Morning Calm. If that all sounds a little too zen, why not turn up the adrenaline and zip-wire onto Nami Island from an 80-metre (262-foot) tower on the mainland? Guests can zip beside each other on twin cables reaching speeds of 55kph (35mph). Nami island is a one-hour drive from Seoul by car or bus, but you might want to ease the planning stress by booking a day tour with pick-up from the city.

37. Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort

While Japan probably springs to mind as a ski destination before South Korea, there are some excellent slopes on the mountains that surround Seoul. Elysian Gangchon Resort (open November to March) can be reached by subway in just one hour from Seoul, making it a popular option for outdoor adventurers on a budget. The resort spans more than 200,000 square metres (50 acres) and has slopes for beginners and advanced skiers and snowboarders. Catch the Gyeongchun Line from Seoul’s Cheongnyangni Station to Baegyang-ri Station, or book a day tour from Seoul with Viator.

38. The City Walls (Hanyangdoseong)

For an outdoor activity in Seoul with unrivalled views, the City Walls could be classed as either a history lesson or a hike. Hanyangdoseong measures 18 kilometres (11 miles) in length, built in 1396 to protect the city from encroaching enemies. Travelling between Seoul’s four main mountains, Inwangsan , Naksan, Bugaksan and Namsan, the City Walls pass by new and old: 600-year-old turrets looking out over gleaming skyscrapers. Take the one-hour Naksan Mountain Trail between Heunginjimun Gate and Hyehwamun Gate for a gentle hike, or the three-hour Baegak Trail between Changuiman Gate and Hyehwamun Gate. As this section passes the Blue House (the residence of the President of South Korea), you must bring your passport for identification.

39. Guui Park

If you’re short on time and unable to hike one of the mountains on the outskirts of Seoul, then an outing to Guui Park should not be overlooked. Located across the street from both Dong Seoul bus terminal and the vast TechnoMart electronics building, Guui Park is filled with exercise enthusiasts during the evening making their umpteenth lap around the track, couples canoodling on park benches and rowdy youngsters climbing the jungle gym equipment. It’s best to visit in the morning hours to enjoy the park’s ambience. Recommended by Rebecca Biage .

Romantic Date Ideas in Seoul

Recommended by Mimsie Ladner .

40. Marvel at a light and water show on Banpo Bridge

41. Enjoy the view from Seoul Dream Forest

There’s nothing more romantic than looking out on a glistening city of lights from a towering observation deck, and while there are plenty of places to make this rom-com-worthy date happen, most charge a hefty admission. But what many don’t realize, however, is that the 139-meter-high observatory at Seoul Dream Forest is both free and offers stunning panoramic views of the metropolis. The park’s Moon Reflecting Pond and Lawn Plaza are just as idyllic and make a great setting for an evening stroll.

42. Bike along the Han River

43. get artsy at dongdaemun design plaza, since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction culture trip is moving in..

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Seoul Is One of the Best Places to Visit in 2023 — Here's Why

Plan the perfect trip to South Korea's capital — cool cocktail bars, Michelin-starred restaurants, and hip boutiques included.

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

“If you visit Seoul now, you will discover a city that feels newer, richer, and fresher than ever.” 

While my friend and music producer-turned-fragrance designer Soohyang Kim of The Perfume Club has watched her hometown go through ups and downs like any other city, she wasn’t expecting it to emerge from the pandemic more compelling than before.

Neither was I. And I couldn’t have summed up my recent solo trip to South Korea’s capital — named one of the best places to visit in 2023 — any better. Over 10 days at a dizzying pace — locals embrace a ppalli ppalli (meaning quickly, quickly) lifestyle — I explored the megacity with wider eyes than usual, while discovering new and under-the-radar spots proving Seoul is much more than K-pop, barbecue, and Gangnam.

JanDee Kim/Courtesy of The Perfume Club

Few neighborhoods are more emblematic of the city’s new wave of creativity than Seongsu-dong. Flocked by Seoul’s young and stylish set, the industrial district was once home to shoe factories, but now brims with hip restaurants ( Cafe Onion , Popina , and Grandmother’s Recipe are worth checking out), bars, and boutiques occupying many of the original historic buildings. Set in a former manufacturing facility of Kim’s, The Perfume Club is an experiential, design-driven space that’s equal parts atelier, retail shop, and social hub for fellow fragrance lovers. Next door is Nudake , a dessert concept by Korean eyewear company Gentle Monster specializing in provocative baked treats such as its signature Peak Cake, a ring of black squid-ink croissants you pull apart and dip into a pea-green matcha cream center. Independent creatives aren’t the only ones who’ve planted themselves here, though. In May, Dior unveiled a stunning, three-year pop-up concept combining a cafe, garden, and boutique in an open-air, greenhouse-like structure.

Though plenty of up-and-coming talent shapes Seoul’s ever-evolving arts and crafts scene, few are turning heads more than Hyung Jun Kim and Seo Seok Man of Goyang’s THR-Ceramic . Visit their studio for a full-day class to learn the significance of Joseon Dynasty pottery and paint your own keepsake in the period’s distinctive cobalt blue. And if your luggage permits, nab as many of duo’s original Naldak pieces (chickens managing the best they can in awkward situations) and Dogabis (goblins wearing exaggerated expressions that are as unsettling as they are hilarious). Both ceramic collections are rooted in indigenous mythology and folklore, and make for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Courtesy of THR Ceramic

Department stores also remain an integral part of Korea's social fabric. They’re typically massive, multifloor buildings with each one dedicated to a different department, like food halls (almost always in the basement) or luxury goods. Opened last year, The Hyundai Seoul in Yeouido is the city’s buzziest and largest, with a minimalist, futuristic design incorporating natural elements (trees, a soaring waterfall, and floating “islands”) to bring the outdoors in and an impressive roster of international and emerging domestic brands such as Thelma and Mo-no-ha .

As for Seoul’s culinary landscape, it still beckons with a dynamic mix of everything you’d want to sink your teeth into, from affordable street foods to Michelin-starred establishments elevating traditional cuisine to new heights. Thankfully, many city stalwarts, including Woo Lae Oak — get the Pyongyang naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles) — Gwangjang Market , and Miro Sikdang were spared during the pandemic.

Courtesy of Four Season Seoul

A notable recent trend, however, has been an increased interest in artisanal jeontongju (traditional rice-based spirits) from independent producers reimagining the category with domestic fruit, longer fermentation periods, and whimsical packaging. One of the best spots to experience jeontongju (and much more) is Oul at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. A celebration of Korea’s dynamic drinking culture, the lively bar and lounge pours lesser-known drinks like bokbunja (fruit wines) alongside imaginative anju (drinking snacks) of crunchy kimchi bombs and spicy-creamy lobster tteokbokki , making it more than easy drink in Korean culture — past and present.

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.

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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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Amaizing and so useful website! Congratulations! I will arrive in Korea on 20th of May and can’t wait to explore the country.

Michelle Topham

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

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

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(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),

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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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Home » Asia » South Korea » Seoul

SEOUL Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Seoul straddles both the contemporary and the historic and fuses tranquility and excitement effortlessly. Whether your Seoul itinerary involves sipping herbal tea in a small teahouse or making your way through the crowds at Everland theme park there’s such a remarkable zest for life in the city.

Seoul’s put on a dazzling show of making the best of its tragic history by preserving old traditions and blending them with modern technology!

From imperial capital to sophisticated metropolis, Seoul has undergone amazing transformations during its 2000-year history. Royal palaces are nestled beside towering skyscrapers and stunning new museums. Whether you’re interested in the modern or ancient, we’ve got the best of both worlds on our Seoul itinerary!

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Best time to visit Seoul

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If you’re planning a trip to South Korea , remember that the city experiences monsoon season. Summers are rainy and humid, while winters are both dry and cold.

Peak season falls during summer (June to August) so don’t expect any bargains! On the upside, though, there are exciting events to put on your Seoul itinerary during this season, such as the Seoul International Cartoon and Animation Festival and the Seoul Fringe Festival.

Low season is in the winter months, from December to February. It will be cold outside but the low costs may keep things cheery!

The best time to visit Seoul, then, is during shoulder season: March to May or September to November. There’s an ideal combination of medium crowds, average costs, and good weather at this time. Also, nature brings color to the city with delicate cherry blossoms in spring and vivid red-orange leaves in autumn? keep your camera ready!

Seoul is an enormous city that stays busy: even in low season, there are 10 million locals bustling around the capital! Finding the perfect accommodation in Seoul may be overwhelming but we have plenty of advice on where to stay in Seoul !

If you’re a first-time traveler to Seoul, the best place to stay is Gangnam neighborhood. Gangnam is as flashy and hectic as the iconic song it inspired but it’s also a solid practical choice as a base for your Seoul itinerary.

The area is a bit further from the top attractions but it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in contemporary Korean culture! Beneath the shiny skyscrapers, the streets are jammed with KPOP stores and Korean restaurants. The nightlife, too, is lots and lots of fun!

Insadong is another great place to stay during your trip to Seoul! It’s more arty than Gangnam and much more laid-back but it’s also conveniently situated for access to the major Seoul landmarks. Insadong is full of wooden tea houses and stunning temples, such as the Cheondogyo Central Temple. There are also plenty of art galleries to lose yourself in! Culture-lovers, this one is for you!

There are hostels in Seoul as well as hotels, home stays and apartments for rent. It depends on what you want and of course, your budget.

Best hostel in Seoul – Zzzip Guesthouse

If you’re looking for perfection on a budget, then this is it! Zzzip Guesthouse offers impeccably clean facilities, welcoming hosts and a convenient location. Guests continue to praise Zzzip for its friendly, social atmosphere. It also provides guests with a wide array of free services like Wifi and luggage storage, and also serves free breakfast daily!

Best Airbnb in Seoul – Artist’s luxury flat @Trendy area

Looking for somewhere uber-trendy to stay in Seoul? This artist’s flat features vintage record players, Beatles memorabilia and traditional Korean furniture. Not only will interior fans be in their element, they’ll have easy access to the city’s best shopping area and transport links all over the city.

Best budget hotel in Seoul – Hanok 24 Guesthouse

You may mistake Hanok 24 Guesthouse for a historical attraction but it really is a hotel and a budget hotel at that! The traditional building offers authentic traditional Korean living arrangements.

The beautiful structure is built around interleading courtyards and walkways. The rooms are very minimalist and there aren’t any western-style beds. The location is also wonderful with easy access to public transport and top Seoul attractions.

Best luxury hotel in Seoul – RYSE Hotel, Autograph Collection by Marriott

The RYSE hotel embodies contemporary, yet characterful luxury. The rooms have a minimalist, yet comfy atmosphere. They’re decorated with warm fabrics, statement lamps and breathtaking views of the cityscape. The hotel is also a hub of creative activity, with workshops taking place regularly. There’s also a library, a fitness center and a sophisticated gallery.

There are so many wonderful places to see in Seoul that it’s best to be organized. We’ve compiled a Seoul itinerary especially for you that will take you around the city for as many days as you like.

It’s impossible to visit Seoul and not use some form of transport because the attractions are quite far apart. Your nerves need to be truly shock-proof if you want to hire a car because drivers in Seoul have no time to lose! We recommend sticking to public transport, a system which is excellent in Seoul!

The public transport system is based around the subway and the buses. The subway is the most convenient method of transport and mastering the Seoul network is really proof that you visited the capital city! Buy a Seoul City Pass or a T-money card to save on public transport. And don’t worry about getting confused: the stop announcements are made in English, too!

We don’t want you to miss out on any part of this stunning country, which is why we recommend purchasing a Rail Pass. This is the best, and cheapest, way to explore South Korea using the well-connected transit system.

Enjoy unlimited train and bus rides on South Korea’s largest transportation network. Available for  7, 14, or 21 days  of travel.

Gyeongbokgung Palace | Bukchon Traditional Village | Jongmyo Shrine | Insadong | Gwangjang Market

Day 1 of your Seoul itinerary will give you a thorough grounding in the major historical landmarks in Seoul. It’s incredible how much you can see in just one day in Seoul!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Gyeongbokgung Palace

• Why it’s awesome: It’s the most magnificent of the royal palaces in Seoul.
• Cost: $3 USD or free with the Integrated Ticket of Palaces
• Food nearby: Hwangsaengga Kalguksu wins rave reviews from everyone. The delicious noodle soup and dumplings will keep you well-energized on day one in Seoul!

Gyeongbokgung was once the home of the powerful Joseon Dynasty which ruled Korea for around 500 years from the 14th century. The Joseon Dynasty bequeathed much of its language and culture to modern-day South Korea. Building on the palace began in 1385 and it has been carefully restored to give visitors a unique experience. In its hay-day, the palace consisted of about 330 buildings that bustled with 3000 members of staff serving the Korean emperor!

The complex was designed using both Chinese and Joseon styles. In fact, Gyeongbokgung is Korea’s version of the Forbidden City! Geunjeongjeon is the main building, a splendid, double-storied masterpiece. It was the throne hall for the Joseon kings: they were crowned here and carried out state business here. Also look out for Gyeonghoeru , a pavilion that was used for state banquets. It overlooks a man-made lake which the king used for boating.

Insider’s Tip: There are free English guided tours of the palace that run at 11:00, 13:30 and 15:30.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Bukchon Traditional Village

• Why it’s awesome: Put on a hanok (traditional Korean attire) and you might as well be back in the era of the Joseon dynasty! This little area has hardly changed at all and is a must on your Seoul itinerary!
• Food nearby: Cha Masineun Tteul is a renowned spot to try out traditional Korean herbal teas along with unusual desserts (try the yummy Steam Pumpkin Cake).

Even though it’s surrounded by imposing imperial palaces, Bukchon still manages to stand out! The beautiful houses with their iconic curved roofs and wooden features were originally inhabited by the nobility. Today, the remaining homes have been preserved as a cultural and tourist attraction.

The structures have been renovated into trendy cafes and sophisticated art galleries. And it’s not just tourists that love Bukchon , the local youth have injected a contemporary energy into this historic district!

There are many craft studios in the area that offer workshops to visitors: learning to make a paper doll or to imprint fabric with gold leaf are some of the best things to do in Seoul. Also, make sure that you peek around the corners to glimpse the charming little alleys that wind around the area!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Jongmyo Shrine

• Why it’s awesome: Jongmyo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses the remains of early Joseon rulers.
• Cost: $1 USD or free with the Integrated Ticket of Palaces
• Food nearby: The ultra-modern Cafe Tong is a perfect contrast to Jongmyo but it’s a good spot to get a cool drink and a bite to eat.

Jongmyo is one of the most spectacular Seoul attractions. It’s the oldest and most authentic Confucian royal shrine in the world where royals worship their royal ancestors. The Jeongjeon, the main hall in the complex, is thought to be the largest single wooden structure in the world with a length of 109 meters.

Even though the Joseon dynasty is no longer in power, Jongmyo Jerye rituals are still carried out regularly as they have been done for the past 600 years.  As it’s such a spiritual space, Jongmyo Shrine is a lovely, tranquil wooded area that’s a good place to just pause and reflect.

  Insider Tip: Entrance to Jongmyo is free on the last Wednesday of the month! Also, be very careful of where you walk: certain pathways are for the ancestral spirits only! These paths are marked as such so keep an eye out.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Insadong

• Why it’s awesome: A DIY walking tour of Insadong will let you experience vibrant street-life in Seoul.
• Food nearby: Street food in South Korea is a serious business in Insadong so look out for corn cookies, dumplings and the legendary King’s dessert (16 000 strands of honey wrapped around an almond, chocolate or peanut center). Yum!

Insadong is full of some of the most interesting places to visit in Seoul. The Kyung-in Museum of Fine Arts hosts excellent collections of traditional Korean (and Japanese) craftsmanship. Also worth a visit is the Beautiful Tea Museum .

By now you will have realized how central tea is to Korean culture and you won’t be surprised to stumble on this little gem. There are displays on the history tea-drinking but if you want to just experience the history, pull up a chair and browse the extensive tea menu. Meanwhile, Tapgol Park is a small, pretty park that’s lined with national memorials.

Most visitors, however, end up in Insadong to stroll along the Ssamzie-Gil Market . This mall, which spills over into the street, is one of the best places in Seoul for souvenir shopping!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Gwangjang Market

• Why it’s awesome: Just catch a whiff of the scintillating smells coming out of Gwangjang and there’s not much you can do to stop yourself from wandering in!
• Cost: Entrance is free; dishes are around $4 USD
• Food nearby: Take your pick of dumplings or braised pig trotters: it’s all right here!

If you’re touring Seoul, you have to visit a food market and there’s no better way to celebrate day one of your Seoul itinerary than with a delicious meal! There’s no need to worry about finding Gwangjang Market: just mention the name to passers-by and when you’re close, you’ll be able to smell wonderful things!

Create your own dinner menu as you drift from one stall to another, sampling bean pancakes, rice wine and raw, live octopus! One of the nice things about Gwangjang is that it’s not just tourists who eat here, locals have been loving the cuisine here for decades! Grab a bench, tuck in and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere! Oh, and you can find some cheap food here so this place is great if you are backpacking Seoul on a budget .

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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  Changdeokgung Palace | National Museum of Korea | Leeum Samsung Museum of Art | N Seoul Tower | Nanta Show

If you have two days in Seoul, you’ll be able to appreciate more of its imperial history and get to grips with its contemporary side. Day 2 will round off the most important Seoul landmarks to see on your trip with a real focus on Korean art and culture.

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Changdeokgung Palace

• Why it’s awesome: Gyeongbokgung may be the most important royal palace but Changdeokgung is the most beautiful!
• Food nearby: Yongsusan offers delicious Korean fare, specializing in seafood, in an atmospheric setting.

Lovely Changdeokgung Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts plenty of starstruck visitors through the Donhwamun Gate . The large gate with three doors dates from 1609, the original version having been built in 1412. Gyujanggak , the labyrinth of small offices, was originally assigned by the emperor to various courtiers.

The star attraction is Huijeongdang Hall , a large hall used by the king for state business. The original building was burned down in 1917 so the version you see today is a newer structure. However, the hall offers a unique example of Eastern and Western decor. Injeongjeon Hall is another space that was used by the Joseon rulers. It was the venue of the traditional New Year’s Festival, national ceremonies and diplomatic greetings.

Most visitors come to Changdeokgung Palace to see Huwon Gardens . It’s also called “The Secret Garden” as it was originally for the exclusive use of royalty. Even though it’s open to the public now, it still retains a magical atmosphere. The garden is an expansive area that’s full of charming lotus ponds, pavilions and 100 different species of flora! Beside one of the lily ponds is the Juhamnu Pavilion which was used by the king as a private library.

Insider Tip: You can only visit Changdeokgung on a tour and English tours run only twice a day ( at 11:15 and 13:15). To visit the Huwon, take the 10:30, 11:30 or 15:30 tours. You must book the Huwon tickets in advance so do so online or by coming very early (only 50 people are allowed in at a time).

For a truly special experience, book a moonlight tour of the palace. These are only available once a month, for $27 USD.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – National Museum of Korea

• Why it’s awesome: This museum makes history very attractive as it takes visitors through thousands of years in a swanky environment.
• Cost: Free for the Main Exhibition Hall and the Children’s Museum; Special Exhibitions have various charges around the $9 USD mark.
• Food nearby: Mirror Pond Restaurant is the in-house museum eatery. It’s a bit on the pricier side but it sure gets convenience bang-on. The park surrounding the museum is also a popular spot for picnics (you can buy snacks at the convenience store by the main entrance).

The National Museum does a wonderful job of imparting knowledge about Korea to visitors. It chronicles the country’s history from prehistoric time to the age of the Korean Empire. Make sure to admire the Baekje Incense Burner (a 6th/7th-century artefact);  the Golden Treasures from the Great Tomb of Hwangham ; and the Ten Storey Pagoda which comes from the Gyeongcheonsa Temple in the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace.

The National Museum is also a modern architectural masterpiece. It’s built with steel, granite and concrete in an aesthetically-pleasing combination of lines and curves. The building was designed so that the sheer volume of space would be a centerpiece. The museum also emphasizes the harmony between the mountains and the water, and nature and culture.

Insider Tip: The museum offers free Wifi to download its app which serves as an audio guide. As you progress through the collections, the app will be triggered by Bluetooth signals to provide you with extra information!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Leeum Samsung Museum of Art

• Why it’s awesome: There are four floors of incredible Korean art in a beautiful setting!
• Cost: $9 USD for entrance; $1 USD for an audio guide.
• Food nearby: The in-house cafe, Artisée, has an arty ambiance and serves light meals and beverages.

Museum 1 houses traditional Korean art: Buddhist art, metalwork, paintings, calligraphy, Buncheong ware (blue-green traditional Korean stoneware), porcelain, and Celadon (the product of a practice similar to porcelain pottery that is considered to be one of the most advanced of the ceramic arts).

Museum 2 is for contemporary pieces from both Korea and the world. Works by the renowned local artists Chungjeon Lee Sang-beom and Sojung Byeon Kwan-sik are some of the highlights. Their works have defined the modern style of Korean painting. Alongside the Korean artists, the museum is also home to works by the likes of Andy Warhol and Francis Bacon.

Be sure to also admire the museum building itself: the seamless modern structure incorporates traditional craftsmanship like terra cotta tiles. It was designed by architects Jean Nouvel, Rem Koolhaas and Mario Botta. Don’t leave this wonderful attraction off your Seoul itinerary!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – N Seoul Tower

• Why it’s awesome: The views (and especially the sunsets) from up here are just spectacular!
• Cost: $9 USD
• Food nearby: There are five different eateries to choose from in N Seoul Tower: you’ll find everything from Korean fare to homemade burgers here!

Namsan Seoul Tower, on the top of Mt. Namsan, is an iconic Seoul attraction that’s a must-visit while in the South Korean capital. The spiraling TV and radio signal tower was built in 1969. It’s still used as a transmission antenna but has been open to the public since 1980.

The tower has undergone something of a facelift as it’s now one of the trendiest places to visit in Seoul. It has awesome LED technology that lights the tower up in numerous neon colors and patterns, making it a true Seoul landmark!

There are three observation decks at different levels in the tower and there are audio guides to help you pinpoint all the top Seoul points of interest!

Insider Tip: For a truly romantic experience, head up to the 7th level of N Seoul Tower to n.Grill, a French-style restaurant with stunning panoramic views. Entrance to the Observatory is free with an advance reservation at the restaurant.

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Nanta Show

• Why it’s awesome: Nanta is a lively Korean theatre show that’s guaranteed to have you in stitches throughout!
• Cost: $35 USD -$62 USD
• Food nearby: We can only highly praise Myeongdong Gyoja. The lovely restaurant serves traditional Korean cuisine like noodles and dumplings.

Nanta is a funny, silent show set in a kitchen that’s based on the samulnori rhythm ( samulnori is a traditional Korean quartet of percussionists ). These shows have become so popular that they’ve toured all the premier theatres in the world. Even though the show has been going strong since 1997, visiting a Nanta show is still one of the best things to do in Korea.

Watching a Nanta show is a great way to wrap up 2 days in Seoul as even foreigners can appreciate the storylines and spectacular acrobatic feats. There are three dedicated Nanta theatres in Seoul but the Myeongdong Nanta is the most popular with tourists.

See  here  for availability.

Zzzip Guesthouse

Based in fashion and arts district Hongdae, this guesthouse is colorful, comfy and clean. The owners pride their venue for having a ‘family feel’ and uniting backpackers from all around the globe.

• Free breakfast
• Free luggage storage

Everland Theme Park | Changgyeonggung Palace | Deoksugung Palace | Trick Eye Museum | Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Gangnam Course

If you’re lucky enough to have 3 days in Seoul, there’s a variety of fantastic attractions to choose from! Enjoyed the imperial history on your first 2 days in Seoul? We’ve got more on our Seoul itinerary for you! Preferred the contemporary landmarks? We’ve got those, too!

Everland Theme Park

• Take a trip around the world and through the ages with some of the most exciting rides in the world!
• One-day entrance is $50 USD for adults and $39 USD for children (book online to skip the queues).
• It’s actually located within a resort, Everland Resort, so some visitors choose to stay overnight, but it’s totally possible to just spend a few hours in the theme park!

Make sure you put Everland Theme Park on your Seoul trip itinerary because it’s one of the most fun things to do in Seoul! Between rides, live parades and stunning gardens, it’s easy to get lost inside the park. However, there are five main sections so you can easily prioritize which attractions to visit in advance.

As the name suggests, the American Adventure section is inspired by American history, particularly the era of the Wild West. Expect rodeos and rock ‘n roll!

The European Adventure section boasts a Mystery Mansion ride where visitors shoot at the resident ghosts along the ride! There’s also a wooden roller coaster!

In Magic Land , you’ll find attractions based on the myths of Ancient Greece. Look out for the robot ride and the flying ride! If you feel like the company of animals, head to ZooTopia .

When you’re ready to take a break from all the rides, head to the Global Fair for some food and a spot of shopping!

Buy your tickets  here  before you go.

Changgyeonggung Palace

• This imperial palace is known as the one that is “overflowing with filial devotion” as it was originally built for the king’s father.
• Entrance is $1 USD or free with the Integrated Ticket of Palaces.
• The palace is full of stories about the Joseon dynasty’s personal relationships!

If you have 3 days in Seoul, you’ll have enough time to visit more imperial palaces. The third palace to put on your Seoul itinerary is Changgyeonggung Palace, which was built in the 15th century by the Joseon Dynasty.

It was partially destroyed during the Japanese invasion in the 16th century so today’s beautiful structure is only a shadow of its former glory.

The first attraction inside the palace is Okcheongyo Bridge which is built over a pond, in the style of all Joseon bridges. Next, drift towards the Myeonjeongjeon , which was once the king’s office.

The Munjeongjeon was used as a hall for state business. In one particularly tragic case, King Yeongjo had his mentally-ill son executed outside the hall after discovering that the future ruler had been terrorizing his own people.

Tongmyeongjeon , the biggest building in the palace complex, was for the queen’s use. It’s one of the most decorative parts of the palace.

Also look out for the Punggidae , an instrument which was used to measure the speed and direction of the wind.

Deoksugung Palace

• Deoksugung Palace is another royal residence that was used by the Joseon dynasty.
• Changing of the Guard takes place thrice daily at 11:00, 14:00 and 15:30.

The “Palace of Virtuous Longevity” is the fifth and final imperial palace on your Seoul itinerary. The Joseon dynasty used it after the Japanese invasion damaged their other palaces. The palace was inhabited by the Jonseon emperors until 1919 when the last true emperor died in his Deoksugung apartment, the Hamnyeongjeon.

Deoksugung is a fascinating blend of western and eastern styles. Junghwajeon , the primary throne hall that’s decorated with dragons and gilded finishings, epitomizes indigenous design. Seokjojeon , on the other hand, was designed by a British architect in the neoclassical style. It now houses a lovely art collection.

Insider Tip: Join one of the free guided tours in English to fully appreciate the pretty palace. There are tours at 10:45 and 13:30.

Trick Eye Museum

• Ready to have your whole world turned on its feet? There are some bizarre optical illusions here!
• Entrance is $13 USD for adults and $11 USD for kids.
• Download the Trick Eye app to expand the optical illusions that are showcased!

If you’re all about the weird and wacky, then put the Trick Eye Museum on your Seoul itinerary! From blending into a 3D painting to sitting in a life-size ice sculpture carriage, you can do all of it here!

The Mirror Maze is one of the most popular attractions in the museum. It may leave you breathless and a little dizzy as you continuously lose your way but it is also lots of fun!

The museum also presents an unusual gift shop: one where you can make your own souvenirs! Another popular activity is dressing up in a hanbok (traditional Korean attire), having your hair and make-up done and then doing a photo shoot!

See  here  for availability.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Gangnam Course

• Yes, Gangnam isn’t just a song, it’s a real place!
• Tickets are just $13 USD each.
• This bus tour provides the perfect combination of convenience and flexibility for your visit to Gangnam!

If you have an extra day in Seoul, then a visit to Gangnam must be on your Seoul itinerary. The area behind the hit Psy song is a busy hub of business facilities and creative outlets. You’re allowed to use the bus pass for an entire day and audio guides are available to make the most of the tour.

Some of the top Seoul attractions are stops on this tour. Don’t miss Bongeunsa Temple , a Buddhist temple built all the way back in 794. There is a 28m tall statue of Buddha and some beautiful gardens. Go at 18:40 to witness a percussion ceremony that the monks conduct daily.

Another key stop is K-Star Road which is lined with boutique stalls, K-Pop record labels and GangnamDols of top singers. Psy’s GangnamDol is 3m high!

The Seoul Olympic Park is also worth a visit. It was built for the 1988 Summer Olympics and includes 6 different stadiums. There’s also a beautiful collection of art throughout the complex.

Seoul is generally a very safe city to visit but there are a few things to look out for. The first thing that tends to alarm most people is the proximity to North Korea. Other common concerns include fears about speeding and eating street food. Don’t worry; just follow our tips on staying safe in Seoul and you’ll be just fine!

Pickpockets do frequent Seoul landmarks so keep all your valuables safely on your person and in sight at all times. Locals are generally very friendly but if someone seems just a bit too familiar, back away. Drugs are illegal in South Korea and the penalties for drug users are severe so stay clean in Seoul.

Politics is full of pitfalls in Seoul. If you see a protest taking place in the capital (which is very likely), do not join, ever! It’s illegal for foreigners to protest in South Korea. Also, avoid talking about the Korean War and be on your best behavior if you visit the Demilitarized Zone (which is still actually guarded by soldiers).

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Seoul

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

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

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

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

Get to see a bit more of South Korea by leaving the city on one of these fabulous day trips from Seoul!

South Korea Demilitarized Zone Half & Full Day Tour

This tour allows you to get up close with the Korean conflict by visiting the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that’s on the border with North Korea.

You’ll also be able to explore The Third Tunnel which was engineered by North Korea as part of a 1978 attempt to invade South Korea.

At the Dora Observatory , you’ll be able to look into North Korea. This may be as close to visiting North Korea as you’ll ever get.

Hope that relations between the two countries will warm up remains, though, and you can see this in the Dorasan Station . This is the railway station that will be used for journeys between the countries if that day ever comes.

This day trip from Seoul is an essential on any Seoul itinerary.

Nami Island, Korean Style Garden of Morning Calm & Rail Bike

This lovely day trip from Seoul will show you South Korea’s natural side. Due to the beautiful landscape, Nami Island is the set location of many movies and K-dramas.

The Garden of Morning Calm displays traditional Korean gardens over 30 000 square meters! It’s particularly stunning if you visit in autumn.

There’s also an option to take a rail bike tour. With this activity, you’ll go for a rail bike ride an old train track in the countryside. There’s also the option of a Korean-style lunch.

Mt. Bukhan Hike & Korean-Style Spa with Full Body Treatment

On this full-day trip from Seoul, you’ll visit Mt. Bukhan, South Korea’s highest mountain. The hike only takes half of the day. You’ll be rewarded with lovely flora, stunning views from the top and the fresh mountain air!

If that’s not enough incentive, then remember that a spa treatment is included in the tour after your hike! During the treatment, you can enjoy a traditional sauna, a full-body scrub, an invigorating massage, a facial and a soothing hair wash! You’re sure to leave Mt. Bukhan even fresher and more energized than you were when you stepped into the bus!

Seoraksan National Park and Naksansa Temple Group Tour

Seoraksan National Park is host to the Seoraksan Mountain, the 3rd highest in South Korea. This rugged mountain range will be the setting of a day trip from Seoul that combines nature, history and culture!

Enjoy views of the landscape along the Baekdam Valley as you journey towards Baekdamsa Temple. The Buddhist temple will offer a glimpse into the Buddhist traditions.

Then it’s on to the Naksansa Temple which was built around 1300 years ago! The awe-inspiring temple complex boasts numerous monuments which are all architectural masterpieces!

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Tour

This short and sweet day trip from Seoul will take you to the Hwaseong Fortress. Your guide will explain the architectural features and thrilling history that have made the fortress an iconic feature on any Seoul itinerary!

The fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because, amongst other features, its original 6km long walls still survive! It’s so authentic that you may even be able to imagine yourself as a Korean soldier on the ramparts!

Things are a bit more luxurious at the Hwaseong Haenggung Palace which was the king’s palace during wartime or his travels outside of Seoul. Make sure you have your camera for the changing of the guard ceremony!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Seoul itinerary.

What should you include on a 5 day Seoul itinerary?

Don’t skip out on these Seoul highlights: – Gyeongbokgung Palace – Bukchon Traditional Village – Gwangjang Market – N Seoul Tower

Where should you stay if you have a full Seoul itinerary?

Staying in Gangnam will give you easy access Seoul’s iconic landmarks and attractions. Insadong is another great choice, it’s more laid back than Gangnam but full of culture!

Is solo travel in Seoul safe?

Seoul is very safe for solo travellers! Just stay out of politics and keep an eye on your bags and you’ll be totally fine.

What are the best day trips from Seoul?

The most popular Seoul day trips include the Demilitarized Zone , Nami Island, Mt. Bukhan Hike & Spa, and Seoraksan National Park.

The fusion of East and West, and the blending of old and new, is something that’s unique to Seoul. The enormous city boasts so many fascinating attractions that you could easily spend weeks in the Korean capital. If you’re planning a vacation in Seoul, you don’t want to miss out on all this cosmopolitan city has to offer.

But luckily, it doesn’t matter whether you’re spending 1,2, 3 or more days in Seoul because there’s an itinerary for everyone. From where to stay in Seoul to what to do in Seoul, we’ve given you all the answers. All you have to do now is to book your flight because our Seoul itinerary has everything covered for you!

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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Hi Aaron such a amazing blog and trip, i have a plan to go to Korea soon and i also found that you visit Gwangjang Market too, i heard there are alot of snacks there, i really want to try it when i reach there :), thank you so much for this post, give me alot of knowledge and information!

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25 of the best places to visit in Seoul

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

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

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

GYEONGBUKGUNG Palace

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

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

Bukchon Hanok Village

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

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

Seoul Tower, Namsan Mountain and Namsan Cable Car

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

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

Gangnam Neighborhood

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

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

Starfield Shopping Mall

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

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

Starfield Library

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

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

Bongeunsa Temple

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

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

Seoul Forest

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

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

Gwangjang Market

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

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

Changgyeonggung Palace and Secret Garden

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

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

Lotte World

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

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

Inwangsan Mountain Park

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

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

Find Seoul tours on Get Your Guide

Cheonggyecheon river walk.

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

Ikseondong Hanok Village

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yeouido Hangang Park

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

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

War Memorial of Korea

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

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

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

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

Namdaemun Market

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

Banpo Bridge

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

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

Gotomall Underground Shopping Mall

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

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

Haneul Park

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

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

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

Check out our other South Korean travel guides:

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

By Ricky MARSHALL

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

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What to know before you visit Seoul

Feb 4, 2024 • 8 min read

The hustle and bustle of Seoul can be overwhelming, but we've got the top insider tips to make your trip a success © Mongkol Chuewong / Getty Images

When I moved to Seoul , I had a clear plan that I was determined to stick to – teach English for one year and then move on to explore other parts of the world. But my plan didn't account for the way Seoul captivated and delighted me, and that single year I was committed to soon rolled into two, three, and then, ultimately, six years.

From the moment I stepped off the crowded bus from the airport and onto its bustling streets, I became enamored with its colorful neighborhoods, eclectic markets and diverse nightlife.

Here are my top insider tips to make your first trip to Seoul as special as mine was.

1. Buy a local SIM card

While many businesses around Seoul offer free wi-fi, a local SIM card ensures you're connected when you're out and about, too. Order a prepaid SIM card from Internet providers like KT and SKT and pick it up when you arrive at Incheon Airport, or purchase one from almost any convenience store around the capital.

Having a local SIM means making calls and accessing apps for restaurant reservations and late-night taxis won't result in a painful bill once you're back home again. It's also a great way to ensure you don't get lost on one of the many hikes outside of the city. SIM cards are cheap, and prices are based on the length of your stay, starting from about ₩5500 for one day.

2. Choose accommodations based on the Seoul attractions that inspire you most

Each of Seoul's neighborhoods has its own personality  – consider which district best matches your interests and base yourself there. Relish nightlife and multicultural menus? Itaewon is the place to be. Shopaholics and foodies should stay in Myeongdong or Dongdaemun , where outdoor food stalls and high-rise (and high-end) retail empires reign.

Art connoisseurs and history buffs will thrive and delight in the local art galleries and Gyeongbokgung Palace in Insadong. If staying up all night for pop-up art shows, buskers and noraebangs (karaoke rooms) is your thing, then Hongdae won't disappoint.

To dive into Korean culture, book a stay at a hanok (a traditional Korean house). These homes show off Korea's past through traditional architecture, complete with ondols (heated floors) and scenic courtyard gardens tucked away from the noisy city.

3. Download this app to navigate Seoul's subway system

Seoul's subway system is clean and safe, and it's the most efficient way to cruise around the sprawling city. Entrances and exits are marked with numbers and station names in English. Use a subway navigation app like Subway Korea (available on both iOS  and Android ) to figure out which exit number will get you closest to where you want to go. All stations and trains have wi-fi.

While subways get crowded during rush hour, the rest of the day is an easy ride. Even when the trains are packed with people, you'll find your personal space is always respected.

4. Use Kakao Taxi for late-night travel

The subway closes at midnight and doesn't reopen until 6am, so taxis are the only options for late-night journeys. The hardest places to find a ride are the bar districts – especially Gangnam , Itaewon and Hongdae – so download the Kakao T app to get better visibility of available cars. You can select exactly where you want to go and secure the price of the ride before getting into the car. It's fine to pay in cash, and the price won't change after the ride is secured.

5. Buy a Tmoney card for public transportation

Tmoney cards are rechargeable, easy-to-use travel cards that cover all of Seoul's public transportation, and they cost just ₩2500. Just pick one up from any of the ubiquitous convenience stores around the city and load it with money – congratulations, you no longer need to wait in line to buy individual tickets! Each time you scan your card, the balance is shown. When the amount gets low, head back to a convenience store or subway station kiosk to add more funds. All kiosks have a button for English-language options.

6. Korean navigation and translation apps are essentials

Some popular phone apps that work fine in other countries don't fare well in Korea, including Google Maps. While it can be useful when searching for restaurants in English, attempting to find that restaurant is a challenge. Instead, download KakaoMap to easily navigate the city – it also highlights nearby sightseeing spots and popular restaurants with user reviews.

If you're not fluent in Korean, don't despair – download Papago , which translates text, speech and images of Korean words. You can take a picture of nearly anything with Korean writing on it, from signs to bags of potato chips, and the app will translate any words it detects.

7. Familiarize yourself with Korean etiquette and key phrases

Korea embraces social harmony as an extension of the Confucianism engrained in the culture. Being polite when you speak is imperative, and knowing a few words and phrases in Korean goes a long way. Practice saying simple greetings such as " gamsahabnida " (thank you), " annyeonghaseyo " (hello) and " juseyo " (please).

In every subway car and bus, a specific seat is designated for pregnant women. It's very much frowned upon to use it unless you're pregnant. Age is highly valued in Korean society, and elders are treated with the utmost respect. If offered food or drink from someone older than you, accept it and show gratitude. A small bow will go a long way.

8. Use two hands when giving or receiving gifts, drinks and money

When meeting someone for the first time, it's best to clasp their hand with both of yours. The rule is also key when drinking in Korea. Never pour your own drink – instead, take turns pouring for one another. Whether pouring or receiving, always use two hands.

Also, when giving or accepting a gift or exchanging money in a store, the two-hand rule also applies.

9. Mind your table manners

Dining out in South Korea is a social affair. Soju (Korean rice liquor), beer and banchan (Korean side dishes) are set out on the table to share before the main course. In many restaurants, pushing the yeo-gi-yo ("over here") button located on the table summons the server. If there isn't a button, it's fine to wave down staff to get their attention. It might feel rude, but it's customary in Korea, so don't feel shy.

Koreans use metal chopsticks, which tend to be more slippery than the wooden kind. No one judges chopstick skills or lack thereof, but it's important not to pick up chopsticks until the eldest at the table does first. Avoid sticking chopsticks straight into a bowl of rice, which symbolizes a funeral ritual. Koreans use a spoon to eat rice.

Tipping is not required at restaurants and is considered impolite.

10. Take caution on Seoul's sidewalks

Seoul is not dangerous, but its traffic is a different story. Motorbikes speed down sidewalks without much regard for who's in the way, and cars use them as parking spaces. When exploring Seoul on foot, stay alert and be prepared to get out of the way quickly.

11. Public restrooms are fine to use

Many cafes and restaurants give the passcode to their restrooms only after the customer has ordered from the menu. To save some time and money, keep an eye out for public bathrooms. They are clearly marked for men and women in English and are commonly found in subway stations as well as busier districts.

Seoul's public toilets are clean, and they are one of the only places to find trash cans when you're out and about. They're also often quite sophisticated, with bidets, heated seats and a button that you can push to play rushing water if you get stage fright.

12. Understand Korea's drinking culture

Drinking alcohol is a national pastime in Korea, and Seoul is a haven for throwback dive bars and strobe-lit nightclubs. You might spot young revelers rallying outside convenience stores at 7am or suited business people passed out on benches after rowdy hoesiks (after-hours business dinners and drinks). Korean drinking etiquette encourages no glass to be left empty as a rule. If someone offers you a shot of soju , it's rude to refuse it. Stores selling alcohol are open 24/7, and there are no open container laws. Walking the streets with a drink in hand on the way to the next bar is common and accepted.

13. You'll feel safe in the city

Confucianism teaches that mutual respect and trust are of the utmost importance. Take the usual big-city precautions, but walking back to your accommodations alone at night is generally pretty safe. You can save a seat at bars and restaurants with your jacket or purse without worrying too much about it being stolen. Phones left in taxis are usually dropped off at the police station by the driver.

14. Don't worry about North Korea, but stay informed

What appears to be an ominous threat an hour and a half to the north is one mostly felt outside of Korea's borders. North and South Korea have been at a stalemate since the 1950s, and while scaremongering headlines are frightening to read, the actual threat is apparently low . You'll find Korean citizens generally unconcerned about their northerly neighbor.

This article was first published August 2022 and updated February 2024

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BEST First-Time Visitor’s Seoul Itinerary (3-7 Days)

Last Updated: Nov 11, 2023 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 2 Comments

South Korea is a land of mountains, palaces, and busy streets, and this 3 to 7 day Seoul itinerary will put you right in the middle of it all. With the city’s futuristic architecture and state-of-the-art technological advancements, people sometimes get culture shock when they see how integrated they are into more traditional lifestyles.

Everywhere you go, there’s always an event happening or a festival on, and there are plenty of surprises in store – especially if you visit any of the Seoul hotspots detailed below. But while Korea is truly a magical place, it’s far from what we see in the K-Dramas.

Fans often come here expecting to meet a dashing chaebol randomly in the streets (which is highly unlikely), and are disappointed when they’re not hit on in the nightclub. Dramas and idols are just a small fraction of Korean culture .

To truly experience it for yourself, you’ll have to immerse yourself in Seoul for 3 days or more, before heading further south. That way you’ll get to try everything Korea has to offer; from delicious food to astounding historical landmarks.

So if you’re figuring what to put in your Seoul itinerary, let us help you plan how many days in Seoul you should spend, and what to do and where to go during your South Korea vacation. Use the 'Jump To' box below to go to a specific section.

Basics of Travel in South Korea

How to maximize your seoul experience, faq about seoul, where to stay in seoul, seoul itinerary 3 days, seoul itinerary 7 days, tips for visiting seoul.

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

Currency: South Korean won ( KRW or ₩ )

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

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

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

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

How many days should I spend in Seoul? While most guides will tell you that three days in Seoul is enough, we recommend that you stay in Seoul for a week.

But for those with tight budgets, we can help maximize your Seoul itinerary for as many days as you have, and thanks to the advanced metro system in Seoul, you’ll jump from one place to another without issue.

That being said, Seoul at night is a treat for the eyes, and most of the attractions in Seoul occur when the sun begins to set. Banpo Bridge, for example, has an incredible fountain show and the title of the World’s Longest LED-light display.

Around the same time each evening, stalls are set up where people enjoy delicious foods while waiting for fireworks to decorate the sky. The best part is, there’s a way to do all of these things in Seoul for free.

Simply purchase a Discover Seoul pass before your trip, and you can get into most of these attractions (once each) without worrying too much about your budget. There are three kinds of passes you can choose from (24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours), and even if you run out of hours, you can still use it to avail of discounts in any of the partner tourist attractions.

Other sites that provide discounts are kkday , Trazy and Klook .

Unfortunately, each attraction’s opening hours may change due to public holidays or unforeseen events. So if you follow this Seoul itinerary, please develop a habit of checking attractions’ schedules first if you don’t want to wait hours for a show that has already been cancelled.

For a solo traveler, a vacation in Seoul may cost between ₩1,000,000-2,000,000 ($800-1,600USD). This takes into account 3 meals a day, a public transport card, and a week in a hotel, which can all vary widely in price. The rest of your money will go to experiences and souvenirs.

The best time to visit Korea is from May to June and September to October, since this is the best time to see the cherry blossom trees bloom or watch the fall colors in the mountains. Moreover, the weather at this time is generally pleasant for locals and foreigners alike, making walking around more pleasant than in summer or winter.

Three days should be sufficient for a first trip to Korea, especially if you have a Discover Seoul pass , though one week is ideal. The pass enables you to visit key locations once for free, and best of all, get discounts on other destinations and experiences.

Here are the essentials to pack for Seoul: passport, credit cards, and travel medical insurance, as well as shorts, a sun hat, and tops with sleeves. Moreover, certain cellphones do not work in Korea, so you need to check if your phone is not region-locked or that it is equipped to intercept the networks provided in Korea, and possibly rent a phone for your trip.

Seoul is known for having culturally diverse neighborhoods, full of history, good food, and memorable experiences. There are several fantastic neighborhoods I'd recommend staying in when you visit Seoul.

There’s always something that will pique your interest, but you have to make sure that the neighborhood matches your preferences - since you might choose to add to your Seoul itinerary by experiencing the bustling Seoul nightlife .

Specifically in Ichon-dong, this is probably the most convenient place to look for accommodation, especially if you want something quick and cheap. This is also a convenient location if you want to visit the most popular areas in Seoul for free , like the National Museum of Korea, Yongsan Family Park, and Ichon Han River Park.

Creatives and digital natives love coming to this hub because this neighborhood is panned towards the younger crowd. If you’re reminiscing about your college days, this is the neighborhood in Seoul for you.

Cafés regularly host language exchange parties, coffee and pub crawls , and art appreciation guilds. Sometimes buskers hold small concerts in the streets, from late afternoon into the wee hours of night.

Rub elbows with the rich and famous by staying in this Seoul neighborhood . With large-scale suites with spectacular views of the Seoul night sky, this area boasts popular attractions for those with luxurious tastes.

Apgujeong-dong and Garuso-gil, for example, hold multiple high-end luxury chains with clothes made by internationally renowned designers, and worn by the famous K-Celebrities we know and love (like Lisa of BLACKPINK and V of BTS).

This is the city where tradition meets modernity, and you deserve to experience both sides during your 3 days in Seoul. This itinerary covers the basics and the must-sees of the city if you have limited time, with an optional extension to 7 days below.

Seoul Itinerary Day 1: Embracing Korea’s Traditional Side

Note: If your first day falls on a Monday or a Tuesday, you’ll want to move this day’s schedule to a later date— most of the palaces are closed on both those days.

Did you know that entry to any of the five Grand Palaces in Seoul is free when dressed in a hanbok ? Be sure to reserve a full day’s use online ahead of time to avoid the stress of long lines on the day of. The best thing about reserving online is that it also comes with a hefty discount.

Try checking the massive selection provided by the Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store , which actually has a Korean hairstyling service too! 

Stop 1: Gyeongbokgung Palace

Time: 9:30AM

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

Fee: Adults: ₩3,000, Children: ₩1,500; Groups have a discount, with ₩2,400 for Adults and ₩1,200 for children; It is free if you come wearing a hanbok.

The best way to start your day is to arrive at Gyeongbokgung Palace 30 minutes before it opens. That way you get to see the Opening Ceremony of the Palace Gates, and the procession that takes place as the guards shift their duties.

As you enter, the first thing you should do is fall in line to see Geunjeongjeon Hall. It’s quite a bit of a walk, and you’ll initially pass by the pumgyeseok (the markers court officials used to indicate where they should stand if the King calls for a meeting) before reaching the steps.

However, the view of the majestic ancient Korean architecture and the people wearing hanboks will make you feel like you have time-traveled all the way back to the Joseon Dynasty. As soon as you get to the red throne, you only have a few minutes to admire its splendor, so make sure to bring your camera with you.

If you’re able to join an English-language tour, your guide will certainly point out the parts of the palace that were heavily influenced by Chinese architecture , a fact quite revealing of the times.

Other notable parts of the palace are the Gyeonghoeru Pavillion, or what used to be the setting for lavish official banquets, and the beautiful Hyangwonjeong, a small temple-like structure on top of an artificial island on Hyangwonji Lake. 

There are plenty of things to do at Gyeongbokgung, but there’s a special tea ceremony that lets you drink the tea that delighted the King and Queen back then, and I’d highly recommend it. You’ll feel like royalty after just one sip. 

Stop 2: Hwangsaengga Kalguksu

Address: 78, Bukchon-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03053 South Korea

Prices: ₩₩-₩₩₩

Notorious for being the “best noodle and dumpling shop” near Gyeongbukgung Palace, expect long lines of people dying to have a taste. Since these dishes don’t take long to cook, people don’t have to wait long to try some of their most famous offerings, like the cold soybean soup or the rich ox bone noodles. 

Stop 3: National Palace Museum of Korea

Time: 2:00 PM

Address: 12 Hyoja-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Nearest Metro Stop: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 5)

Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, head back to the steps leading to the museum and walk further on in. This facility has everything you need if you wish to know more about Korea’s glorious and often difficult past.

Fourteen of Korea’s ‘National Treasures,’ including recovered pieces from the Joseon Dynasty and the Korean Empire, are housed in this free museum . Periodically they even host events to educate the people who come, usually involving activities like calligraphy, tea ceremonies , and even Korean traditional dance lessons.

Stop 4: Gwanghwamun Square

Time: 4:00PM

Fee: Adults: ₩3,000, Children: ₩1,500; Groups have a discount, with ₩2,400 for Adults and ₩1,200 for children.

This wide park is actually a huge commemoration site for the military strategist that led Koreans to victory during the Japanese invasion, Admiral Yi Sun-sin. His statue stands proudly next to the water fountain which entertains local kids every summer, and may be even more famous than the statue!

But this installation actually has a meaningful story behind it, because the water jets shoot exactly 18 meters high, with 300 smaller jets to symbolize the battles the Admiral fought on sea.

Meters away from the great admiral’s statue, an intimidating gold statue of Sejong the Great watches over you, perfect for taking selfies and startling visitors.

Stop 5: Cheonggyecheon Stream and Cheonggye Plaza

Time: 5:00PM

Address: 530 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul

Just a 10-minute walk from Gwanghwamun Square is a long man-made stream that doubles as a public recreation space. I recommend coming here in the late afternoon because the sunset view is legendary; you can rest your weary feet in the stream as you wait for the night to come.

By then, the lights will turn on, illuminating the traditional lanterns above and the long strip that makes the stream sparkle below. This makes for a beautiful sight, most especially if you look at it from above.

If your trip hits around summer, the sunset may come around 8PM, and the wait can get quite hot & sweaty. So if you have plans to really see the sunset, swing by Cafe imA, a coffee shop next to the Ilmin Art Museum. Visitors rave about their Hamburg Steak (₩13,500), but you can also try their desserts and waffles (₩6,500-₩8,000).

There’s also Dal.Komm Coffee on the other side of the stream, near the starting point. Most of their coffee, juice, and tea selection ranges from ₩4,100 to ₩6,100, but their Real Strawberry Lemonade (₩5,300) is the best drink to beat the summer heat.

Stop 6: Deoksugung Palace

Time: 7:00PM

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

Fee:  Adults: ₩1,000, Children: ₩500; Groups have a discount, with ₩800 for Adults and ₩400 for children; It is free if you come wearing a hanbok.

Cap off your first day by visiting Deoksugung , or the small palace that used to be the residence of Korea’s Royal Family. Unlike the other Five Grand Palaces , this one has the Seokjojeon , a building that features a more prominent modern & western style that King Gojong would use to enthrall the diplomats who came to visit Korea.

It’s also a beautiful sight at night, and if you arrive before 7:30 PM, you should sign up for “Seokjojeon at Night.” This is an evening tour program that lets you stroll and observe Deoksugung’s highlights, enjoy tea at the terrace, and watch a musical performance at the reception area (where the King used to meet with important figures in history).  

Seoul Itinerary Day 2: Feel Young Again in Hongdae

Stop 1: Thanks Nature Cafe 

Time: 8:30 AM

Address: 29 World cup buk-ro 4-gil, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Fee: ₩₩-₩₩₩

For breakfast , there’s a famous cafe nearby that lets you make friends with two massively fluffy and docile sheep. You can mingle with them in the playpen while waiting for your breakfast, or watch from afar if you’re just there for the pics.

They have a wide selection of coffee, smoothies, and breakfast waffles; you have to try the latter, as they only use seasonal fresh fruits on the waffles. Unfortunately, breakfast in Korea is always enjoyed at home, so not many spots are open super early.

An alternate nearby recommendation for vegans or vegetarians is Salad Brothers , a fantastic salad bar that lets you put as much dressing as you want. Their Cobb Salad is a crowd favorite because it packs quite a punch, even though the portions are small. Plus, the food is just as photogenic as their menu.

Stop 2: Coconut Box – formerly known as the Trick Eye Museum

Time: 10:00 AM

Address: 20 Hongik-ro 3-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Fee: ₩23,000  

I was sad to learn that they closed the Trick Eye Museum in Seoul; I had many fond memories there. Still, the replacement attraction of Coconut Box is a worthy visit— they reinvented the entire place into a Southeast Asian beach, with sand on the floor and wooden huts you can sit in.

You can pretend that you’re vacationing in a tropical island garden, but the real highlight of the visit is the “metaverse play” in one of their bungalows. Getting there at 10am, shortly after they open, will guarantee you’ll have the chance to enter & interact in one of the most famous paintings in the entire world: Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night.

Stop 3: Abiko Curry

Address: 25, Hongik-ro, Mapo-gu Hotel Seokyo Annex B106, Seoul

Fee: ₩-₩₩

If you’re craving a good Japanese curry, Abiko Curry lets you enjoy variations of this dish at a reasonable price. Sure it’s a little cramped, but if you don’t mind that, I swear their tonkatsu is to die for, and Koreans basically consider it a local dish at this point. Set meals are also good for sharing, and the servers are kind to foreigners. 

Stop 4: Caface Seoul

Address: 20 Hongik-ro 3-gil, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Near Abiko Curry stands Caface Seoul. This popular spot is one of those ‘only in Korea’ kind of things, that lets you have your face printed as latte art. This is also the perfect way to commemorate your day in Hongdae, and then bring your masterpiece on a stroll around the neighborhood.

Just give them any of the selfies you took earlier, hand over ₩2700, and you can have a “face latte.” I know you’re too pretty to drink, but their coffee definitely tastes better warm – so drink it while it’s hot!

Stop 5: Hongdae Shopping Street

Time: 3:00 PM

Address: 365-8 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

In any trip, it is important to have a bit of time to do some quick retail therapy. In Hongdae, where the hip, young, and fashionable gather, most of the clothes for sale are aimed at the younger crowd.

But it’s amazing how much branded stuff has heavy discounts here, albeit mostly ‘free size’ (generically large or stretchy clothes), and there are a lot of ‘2 items for $8’ offers.

Stop 6: Mapogalmaegi

Time: 7:00 PM

Address: 14 Hongik-ro 5an-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Expect lots of young women in here, because this restaurant is located close to Ehwa Women’s University. I’m a meat-lover, so I can’t let you vacation in Seoul without eating in at least one typical barbecue-type restaurant.

All Korean BBQ spots are best enjoyed with a group of people due to the layout, but most places will accept a single person unless they’re packed. Aside from meat, this spot offers soju or beer, and you can try a variety of delicious banchan to go with your meats of choice.

Another option is the Analog Garden, a charming coffee house that serves delicious salads. Though most of their dishes have meat and egg in it, a there's a vegan-friendly option called the "Falafel Wrap" worth ₩7,500.

If that is too small for you, get the "Falafel Plate" instead for ₩11,000. But what people actually come for is a homemade fake-meat set meal (soy-based), that’s said to go well with their roasted coffee.

Stop 7: Come back to Hongdae Shopping Street

Time: 9:00 PM

Come back here after dinner, because this is when the buskers come to perform. Around the performance areas are food stalls packed with delicious Korean foods for a couple bucks each; if you couldn’t or didn’t want to eat KBBQ for dinner, you can find something here.

The beauty about this place is that you can stay out late and still spot people roaming around, browsing and entering restaurants and bars. This is why most shops close past midnight here.

Seoul Itinerary Day 3: See Iconic Locations in Seoul

Stop 1: K-Pop Square

Time: 10:30 AM

Address: Right outside Samseong Station, Exit 5

K-Pop Square is a large public area in Samseong, featuring a massive LED-screen that promotes show-stopping performances from the past. This is an ode to K-Pop, which is responsible for a large portion of the country’s tourism, and why Korea is so well known across the world.

Fans will also be happy to know that somewhere in the area is a wall that lets them hold hands with their favorite idols. Also known as the “K-Pop Handprint Wall,” big stars like BTS, Shinee, and even EXO are among the artists featured here.

Stop 2: Statue of Gangnam Style

Time: 10:45 AM

Address: 524 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

At first I just thought this was a strange gold installation of two hands shielding you from the sun, but when I finally got close to it, I knew immediately who it was: Psy oppa !

Though this ‘Gentleman’ has been relatively quiet since his 2012 hit, the song Gangnam Style remains in the Youtube hall of fame as one of the fastest to hit a billion views. If you know how to dance Gangnam Style, this is the perfect location for you to shoot a dance cover of the video. 

Stop 3: Bongeunsa Seoraewon ( 봉은사 서래원)

Address: 531 Bongeunsa-ro, Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Imagine enjoying a warm meal inside a small Korean temple, without ever leaving Seoul. Bongeunsa Seoraewon lets you have that experience in the heart of the city, and the noodle prices are affordable too; most especially the sets.

After your meal, you can just walk outside and visit Bongeunsa Temple directly. What’s cool about this place is that it also has options for vegans (ask for their Bongeun Tofu).

Stop 4: COEX Starfield Library

Time: 1:30 PM

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

This is by far the most famous library in Seoul. It’s a real operating library, located inside the largest underground shopping mall in all of Asia: CoEx Starfield. Book lovers will cry at the sight of tens of thousands of books filling the 13-meter shelves.

Visitors also come to watch famous authors do book signing events, and famous poets visit to motivate young children to write.

The downside about this place is only that it is always crowded and noisy – it’s hard to appreciate the rare book you found if there are couples chatting on either side of you. But did I mention that this space is free? This is why people often try to sneak out the books, which I discourage you from trying. 

Stop 5: COEX Aquarium

Time: 5:00 PM

Address: 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, 서울특별시

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

CoEx Aquarium in Seoul is for those who want to see marine life up close, with more than a hundred display tanks and over 40,000 sea creatures in various themed zones. Shark lovers will be thrilled to know that this is the aquarium that houses the highest number of sharks in Korea.

Touch pools also let you feel the fish (like the manta ray), allowing you to have a healing experience with nature in a safe setting.

Stop 6: Gosoo Dalgalbi Gangnam

Time: 7:30 PM

Address: 20, Teheran-ro 5-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩-₩₩

For dinner, you should definitely try the tastiest dakgalbi in Seoul. This is a famous Korean dish not common internationally, but very popular domestically. The dish consists of loads of chopped cabbage with tender bits of chicken rib meat, stir-fried in a thick, spicy sauce (that tastes so much better with cheese, in my opinion!).

What’s so wonderful about this place is that their special, the 치즈모듬사리 ( Cheese Modeumsari ), is a party plate full of cheesy rice cake and glass noodles that is perfect for sharing.

For a fun vegan option, come to Veg Green, a delicious vegan buffet that has a homey vibe - the staff will still smile at you, even if you come late at night for dinner. At just ₩12,000 per person, it’s full of options for those who enjoy large mixed salads, including fruits and jam in a cozy ambiance.

Stop 7: GSM Terrace

Address: 327-45 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩10,000 for unlimited drinks

Friends are important, and meeting fun people from diverse, cultural backgrounds may also make your stay in Korea a fulfilling one. Sure, it’s an activity for international people, but you may spot some Koreans who are seeking places to practice their English.

Additionally, you can play all sorts of games with them if you run out of things to talk about. Everything comes easy and natural here, and all people are welcome to join in the fun.

If you find that 3 days in Seoul is not enough, you’re not alone. Most visitors spend 5-7 days in Seoul to get a taste of the culture, nightlife, and food in Korea.

The suggestions below are ideal for people who are looking for other things to visit on their Seoul vacation, since the first three days have pretty much hit all the popular places. A good alternative to Everland is Lotte World.

Seoul Itinerary Day 4: Everland Theme Park

Everland is a popular theme park in Seoul, perfect for people who just want to have a magical day with their date, family, or friends. With over 40 attractions scattered across five different themed areas, it might take an entire day or two to exhaust all of the attractions.

What I love about this place is that it always has festivals and seasonal events to entertain guests of all ages.

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

Address: 199 Everland-ro, Pogog-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do

Fee: Adults: ₩54,000 to ₩64,000; Children: ₩43,000 to ₩51,000; If you want to skip the line, you can buy the tickets ahead of time . There’s also a fun option of wearing a Korean school uniform, which you can rent online or on-site.

Stop 1: Global Fair

If you’ve always wanted to travel to far-flung destinations, this fair lets you see the world all at once. Historical structures, both existing and ancient, line one area of this zone - and here you can see various architecture from different points in time, instantly turning you into a time traveler.

Stop 2: Live Hologram Adventure (Global Fair)

Time: 11:00 AM

Never been to a K-Pop concert before? That’s okay, because the Live Hologram Adventure lets you experience a 30-minute snippet of a K-Pop concert in high definition.

If you also decide to take pictures and videos, it’d look so realistic that you can trick your friends into thinking that you actually went to a BIGBANG concert.

Stop 3: Snack Buster for Lunch

When you’re in a theme park , you need a lot of grub to keep your energy levels high. Unlike other theme parks with food in small, reduced servings, Snack Buster has generous servings of high-quality Korean foods sold at an affordable price.

I highly recommend their Korean fried chicken with french fries and tteokbokki, because it’ll come in a plate that’s big enough to share with your family or friends.

Stop 4: Carnival Square (European Adventure)

Time: 2:30 PM

Around this time you should join the people gathering by the Carnival Square, because this is when you get to witness a spectacular event only seen in Everland.

Here they’ll launch flowery floats with vivacious dancers and mascots, all inviting you to come join their party. Imagine being in Rio de Janeiro, but when you leave, you’re back in Korea.

Stop 5: Panda World (Zootopia)

Time: 3:15 PM

Need I say more? Pandas are such gentle creatures, and imagine entering a world full of these adorable bears. Everland’s Zootopia should be in your Seoul itinerary for this very reason. If you don’t like pandas and prefer a different animal, then next to this enclosure is the Friendly Monkey Valley.

Stop 6: Lost Valley (Zootopia)

Enjoy zipping through a safari, riding a tram that crosses difficult terrain dotted with real animals. To enjoy this experience, then join the queue at the Lost Valley, where you’ll find your ride crossing the stream.

The trip will take you  into landscaped enclosures full of large animals including elephants, giraffes, camels, and rhinos. And then, if there’s still time, your guide will let you hand-feed these animals, giving you a chance to interact with them up close.

Step 7: Thunder Falls (Magic Land)

Time: 6:00 PM

Speaking of getting wet, there’s a fun flume ride in Everland that features backward drops and steep falls. It’s such a thrill to be on this ride, and the danger can be so exhilarating! But if you need more adrenaline rush, see if you can queue for the T-Express (aka. Everland’s Scariest Ride).

Step 8: Robot VR and Gyro VR (American Adventure)

Have you ever fantasized about channeling your inner Han Solo? These rides let you pilot a futuristic spaceship and navigate the stars. Sci-fi fans love this ride because the effects feel so real— the ride itself even follows the joystick you’re controlling!

Step 9: Four Seasons Garden & Rose Garden

Time: 8:00 PM

When the sun sets, this is the best area to end your day in Everland.  There’s always a light show with fireworks around this time, and a variety of performances that go along with it.

Seoul Itinerary Day 5: Feel the National Pride

As a tourist, one of the best ways to experience Korea is to visit the location where they played host to countries from all over the world. Coming here, you’ll see the effort Korea puts forth in promoting peace and harmony, as well as soak in the welcoming spirit. Plus, Olympic Park is 100% free to visit!

Stop 1: World Peace Gate

Time: 9:30 AM

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

The World Peace Gate is a marvelous winged structure that reveals a beautiful painting of a phoenix, tiger, turtle, and a dragon if you stand beneath it. This is called “A Painting of Four Spirits,” signifying the desire of Korea to be friends with everybody in the world.

As you stand underneath, it’s like a gate that genuinely welcomes you to enter and experience Korea. I’ve always thought it was a beautiful place to stand and reflect on your experiences in the country.

Stop 2: Olympic Museum

Learn more about the athletes that represented Korea in the past Olympic Games! Documentation about Korea’s best athletes, their training process, and even their histories are comprehensively explained here. Also, thanks to this museum, you’ll get to closely observe the gear used in the recent 2018 Winter Olympic Games in PyeongChang. 

Stop 3: Olympic Park’s Peace Square

Address: 326, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

If you time your visit around the last week of September to the first week of October this year, there will be a grand festival called the Hanseong Baekje Cultural Festival in the Olympic Park’s Peace Square.

Coming here lets you experience the rich Hanseong era in Korea, featuring food tastings, tea ceremonies, parades and performances, and even a demonstration of a hawk-aided hunting!

Moreover, the reason why they’re holding it here is because the Mongchontoseong Fortress area is known to be a remnant of the Baekje capital. Hopefully you’ll get to see this festival in person, because it truly is a fascinating way to learn more about Korea’s fascinating past.

Stop 4: Bukchon Hanok Village

Time: 4:00 PM

Address: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Perhaps one of the oldest villages in Seoul, this area dates back all the way to the Joseon Dynasty. Also called the “northern village,” this is also where two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno, are located.

What’s admirable about this area is that people hold traditional events here, giving curious tourists an opportunity to get to know the Joseon dynasty even better. Fun activities such as hanbok wearing, etiquette demonstration, and even tea ceremonies are hosted by the people here, and all of these usually occur in the afternoon.

Stop 5: Insadong Street

Address: Insadong, Jongro-gu, Seoul

One of the popular destinations in Korea, Insadong Street has a long array of lively stalls and shops to give you something to look at everywhere.This is also the best place to grab a quick snack, because they serve a variety of Korean foods you should make it a point to try.

If you’re interested in trying something new and enjoy green tea , track down O’Sulloc Tea House and order their matcha cake. Since this is one of your last days in Seoul, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that Insadong is one of the best places to buy souvenirs for your family and friends!

Stop 6: Noryangjin Fish Market

Address: 674 Nodeul-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul

I know that capping your day in a fish market is unusual, but after you swing by Insadong Street, head to the Jonggak Station and ride the subway to Noryangjin , because this is where people can eat the freshest seafood in Seoul.

You can even try the unique dishes they serve, most especially try delicacies that you definitely haven’t before - like the penis fish. You should come try the small octobps, king crab, and hwe (sliced raw fish) here, for example.

Don’t be shy if you can’t speak a lick of Korean because the people are so used to seeing foreigners that they have devised a way to make things easier and enjoyable for you.

Seoul Itinerary Day 6: See Korea’s Highest Point

Stop 1: Namsan Park

Address: 231, Samil-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul

This public park is a nature-friendly rest area smack in the middle of the city. It has clear walking trails leading to Namsan Seoul tower, but I’d encourage you to take your time appreciating this quiet, vast expanse, because it has more facilities than your average park.

Aside from seeing gardens and free physical activity facilities, there’s also a library, a botanical garden, a memorial hall, and a culture center. 

Stop 2: Mok Myeong San Bang

Address: 71 Toegye-ro 20-gil, Namsandong 2-ga, Jung-gu 1F, Hannam Building, Seoul 04629 South Korea

People might have a hard time locating this place, but keep your eyes peeled for a hanok within Namsan Park. Mok Myeong San Bang is a vegetarian-friendly, healthy, traditional lunch restaurant that serves authentic Korean cuisine.

In fact, they pride themselves as chefs who never use artificial seasoning. I highly recommend their bibimbap , which is known to be the best in Seoul, but you should explore dishes like the crispy cheesy pancake and the yukhoe (raw beef).

Stop 3: Namsangol Hanok Village

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

After a savory lunch, walk to Namsangol Hanok Village on the north side of Namsan Mountain. Here you get to see homes that were restored to their original form to give tourists a sense of how people in the Joseon dynasty used to live.

Sometimes you may chance upon demonstrations that show people how to play a traditional board game ( yunnori ) or fold a traditional paper called hanji . Sometimes there’s also a fun segment on how traditional herbal medicines are made and used.

Stop 4: N Seoul Tower

Time: 4:30 PM

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

Fee: (Observatory) Adults: ₩11,000; Children: ₩9,000

Also known as the second highest tower in Seoul, Namsan Tower’s Observation Deck provides an unobstructed view of the whole city. There’s also a powerful telescope available for use that lets you have a high quality LCD view of wherever you’re pointing it at. 

Aside from museums and exhibitions, what people really come here for is attaching their own lock to Love Lock Bridge. This is the infamous site in Seoul where couples fasten a lock to symbolize their everlasting love— hence why there’s an area full of locks, and a booth that lets you customize your own to add to the bridge.

Stop 5: Lotte World Tower

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

Fee: Adults: ₩27,000; Children: ₩24,000; Fast Pass for all ages: ₩50,000

After seeing the second highest point, go to the tallest building in the entirety of Korea! Lotte World Tower, just 55 minutes away from Namsangol Hanok Village. Sleek and slender with a gentle curved design, you can end your evening in a fantastically fast elevator, taking you directly to the highest point in Korea.

The ride also allows you to take great photos, because you get to see the entire city transition to night time as you arrive. Inside you can also test your courage as you walk through the highest indoor glass floor, giving you perspective of how high up in the sky you are (and how teeny every person looks from above).

Seoul Itinerary Day 7: Enjoy the Night at Dongdaemun

Stop 1: Dongdaemun Seonggwak Park

Address: right outside Dongdaemun Station Exit 1

If you feel like doing a bit of walking in the afternoon, this little tourist trap has an uphill road that takes you to a nice park. It’s not as pretty as the other ones, but it has everything you need, and it's very conveniently located for a chill afternoon out.

Since it is a little bit elevated, you get to have a clear view of Dongdaemun , which lets you see the fusion of traditional and modern elements scattered around the city. Moreover, this is where the beautiful Heunginmun gate is located, perfect for pictures on your last day in Seoul.

Stop 2: Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun Gate)

Address: 288 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Don’t skip this gate before you leave. This is an ancient monument which used to stretch longer, as it used to be a fortress with three other gates. All four gates apparently have a meaning attached to their name, and Heunginjimun is loosely translated as “benevolence, with good energy.”

There’s also a semi-circular ongsung inside, which is a pagoda-like traditional structure that makes it stand out compared to the existing gates in Seoul. Plus, the reason we’re coming to see it at 6pm is because it lights up beautifully against the backdrop of cars.

Stop 3: Bulgwangsikdang ( 부광식당 )

Time: 6:30 PM

Address: 207-26 Sungin-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Not many are comfortable in crowded places, but for this one, most will surely make an exception. If you feel like eating a proper home-cooked meal for dinner, this is the best option in Seoul. Since this is more frequented by the elderly and locals, most of the meals are made to appeal to their taste.

But who knows, you might find your favorite Korean meal here! Plus, the owners are kind and friendly, making it a less intimidating place for foreigners to try. Vegans might want to swing by Vegan is Hip (비건이즈힙), a wide sandwich and waffle bar that offers choices that range from sweet potato, tofu salad, fruits, and vegetables.

Their waffles are super delicious, even if they are made with rice flour and plant-based cream, a combination that most non-vegans find challenging to like. If you choose to come here, try their apple jam whipped cream waffle, and you won’t regret it.

Stop 4: Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Address: 43 Eulji-ro 45-gil, Sindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul

See that majestic neon embryo thing? That’s Dongdaemun Design Plaza. This huge building is absolutely worth seeing at night, since it glows brightly and makes for a good aerial photo. There are lots of free things to do inside since this also doubles as a museum and an exhibition center.

Speaking of which, there’s a large LED screen that allows you to relax your eyes with soothing colors that dance along to therapeutic music. Take your time strolling around inside. There are plenty of fun things you can do, like browse inside for things to buy or check out the books on the shelves.

You can even play on the funny chairs that let you spin without falling! There are also rest areas that let you charge your phones while you sip the coffee from the food carts outside. If you’re a K-Pop fan and you like artists from SM Entertainment, you’ll be happy to know that SM Town is inside.

Stop 5: Dongdaemun Night Market

Time: 10:30 PM

The reason you should come here late in the day is to experience one of the best night markets in Seoul . Known as a fashion destination throughout Seoul, plenty of people frequent Dongdaemun Night Market to shop, play, and eat. The best part? Most of the stalls are open until as late as 5am!

So you’re finally coming to Korea. Your bags are packed and your ticket is ready. Congratulations! But before you leave, here are helpful tips for visiting Korea that you might want to read before you arrive.

• Learn some key phrases in Hangul – or download Papago

While most of the buildings and public spaces in Seoul provide English translations for foreigners, it is rarely enough to travel without learning a few key phrases . Trust me, you’ll want to know what to say if you need to know where the nearest station is or the cost of something.

If you cannot cram these many Korean phrases into your memory, I can relate, and I recommend that you have the Papago translation app ready to assist you just in case.

• Learn basic etiquette 

Of course people don’t expect you to bow everywhere, but you should show them respect. One way to do this is, when you are giving or receiving things, you use both of your hands. As a foreigner, never call strangers ‘ahjussi’ or ‘ahjumma’ if you happen to talk to them, and most of all, learn how to respectfully address people in Korea .

• You can connect to the internet almost everywhere in Korea, but get a Korean SIM card or wifi egg just to be safe 

Don’t assume that everywhere you go, the Internet will always be with you; most Koreans have cell phones with unlimited data now, so wifi is ironically harder to access. One of the hacks I’ve used to be able to connect while on the go is to find a metro station and connect to the free Wi-Fi in there.

But in cases where a station is quite far from you, and you need to use apps like KakaoMaps to sort out your route, it’s best to have a Korean sim card handy.

• Bring a power bank!

You never know when you’ll run out of battery, and Korea is a big city. Even though cafes let people stay for a long time, you may happen to come on days when most are either closed or crowded, so you can’t count on that.

Sometimes you can visit a convenience store and ask if they have ports to charge your phone, but if you don’t want a dead battery to ruin your trip, take a power bank with you (or buy one when you arrive).

• Don’t rely on Google Maps

I cannot stress this enough! Google Maps doesn’t work in Korea, and what’s worse is that what they tell you is rarely accurate. Instead, download Kakao-brand apps when possible. Even though KakaoMaps is made primarily for Koreans in Korea, it is foreigner-friendly and even has an English version.

• Ride public transportation instead of taxis

Taxis are expensive, but Seoul is even more expensive. Also known as the 7 th most expensive capital in the world, most of the fun things to do require you to shell out more money than you might want to.

So to save on your vacation to Seoul, when you can, choose to ride the subway or the bus. Both systems are very clean, extensive, and reliable.

• Carry your own trash

Bring your trash back home with you. Unlike other cities where you can freely throw garbage in any bin, Seoul has very few public trash cans and a very specific system for sorting their waste.

In South Korea, there’s actually a national Zero Waste Policy which has resulted in 5 different types of trash and recyclables, each of which warrant a separate type of bin (I got a stern talking-to a few times over the years for using the wrong types of bags to toss my various types of trash).

I know this has been quite the Seoul travel guide, but that’s just proof that there’s plenty of things to do in Seoul. So whether you’re in Seoul for a week or just three days, I hope this Seoul itinerary can help you make the most of your trip.

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vincent Liptrot says

July 13, 2023 at 2:57 am

great info in here about Seoul. As you can see many fun places are in small allies and harder to reach places. it can be tricky to navigate on your own an tiring by foot to get between sights, though have a wonderful time in Seoul and enjoy this excellent blog!

July 16, 2023 at 10:05 am

Thanks, Vincent!

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Best places in the world to see cherry blossoms

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kyoto, Japan

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

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

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

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

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

Seoul, South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best hotels in Paris

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

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

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

Related: How to spend 1 day in Amsterdam

Jerte Valley, Spain

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

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

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

Washington, DC

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

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

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

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

Macon, Georgia

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

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

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

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

Vancouver, British Columbia

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

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

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

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

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

Victoria, British Columbia

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

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

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

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

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• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

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