Seoul is such a big city that offers so many fantastic things- including its amazing food, ancient temples, outstanding fashion and much more. Everyone can find activities in Seoul that will make them enjoy their trip. However, the city can be a little bit overwhelming so we prepare a list of must see attractions to start your journey.
1. Eat authentic Korean street food at Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang Market is a top place to visit to try authentic Korean street food. Established in 1905, it’s the oldest functioning market in South Korea.
Delicious and affordable, both locals and tourists gather here to taste traditional Korean food.
Sundae (blood sausage), Tteokbokki (rice rolls), Bindaetteok (mung bean pancake), Kimbap and many more varieties of food are spreaded over 5,000 shops.
It officially opens from 8:30am to 11pm but each stall has its own business hours/days.To avoid the lunch crowd, we recommend coming either in the morning or late afternoon to better enjoy the market.
2. Visit Gyeongbok Palace in Hanbok
Built in 1395 in the north part of Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest palace of the Joseon dynasty (the last dynastic kingdom of Korea).
The site is open from 9AM – 6PM, we recommend you to come to see the guard changing ceremony at the main entrance that happens at 10AM and 2PM (except Tuesday). Live permanence of traditional music accompanies the ceremony.
One of the main attractions is also wearing a Hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) during your visit. You can find several rental stores around the area at affordable prices (starting from 10,000₩ / $8). It’s a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself fully in the experience.
3. Wander around Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Village consists of around 900 traditional Korean houses, called Hanok. Near the Gyeongbokgung Palace, wealthy people from the Joseon dynasty used to live here.
You can find cultural centers, museums, tea houses and more. This place is ideal if you would like to see a more traditional side of Seoul.
4. Take a rest in a themed coffee place
If you are a coffee lover, you will enjoy your trip to South Korea. In Seoul alone, there are around 18,000 coffee shops.
But what makes it even more exciting is that you find many themed cafes, offering a unique atmosphere that transports you to new environments and make your experience even better.
Among them you have “Thanks Nature Cafe”, a place where you drink your coffee surrounded by sheeps in Hongdae district.
In “Nuldam Space”, you enjoy your coffee while writing a letter or a postcard to your turn in the future.
And if you prefer to drink your coffee in a traditional place, “Onion” is the perfect coffee shop for you as it’s located in a Hanok.
5. Take pictures at Ihwa Mural Village
Ihwa Mural Village is an ideal place to stand out from the crowd while staying in Seoul.
Located on top of the hill, the walk is quite exhausting but worth it. You can admire all the street arts while wandering in the neighborhood.
On your way, you can visit some local shops and take a rest in a coffee shop. Once you reach on top of the village, you’ll get to admire the amazing view.
6. Enjoy Lotte World Tower and its various attractions
Lotte World Tower is a 555m entertainment and recreation complex. It’s a good way to spend time on a rainy-day as you can find a mall and an aquarium among others.
You can also enjoy attractions at Lotte World Adventure, a very popular theme park with 22 rides where both adults and children get to have fun!
The site can be crowded so we recommend purchasing tickets in advance so you don’t have to line up at the ticketing office.
7. N Seoul Tower to admire Seoul
N Seoul Tower is a 236m-tall tower located on Namsan Mountain. It’s well-known for its 360 panoramic view of Seoul and Namsan Hill.
You can go during the daytime but we recommend visiting the site in the late-afternoon. You will admire the sunset followed by Seoul illuminated. And for a full experience, don’t hesitate to have food at the tower.
8. Ride in Namsan Cable Car
If you plan to visit N Seoul Tower, taking the Namsan Cable Car is a must-do. You don’t have to climb to go on top of the mountain but you’ll get to enjoy an amazing view of Seoul.
The waiting time can be quite long so we recommend purchasing your tickets before your visit.
9. Enjoy Han River on a boat
Han River is a must-see while visiting Seoul. To fully experience it, we 100% highly recommend to board a boat. It’s the best way to admire the river and discover Seoul from a unique perspective.
You can choose from different types of cruises to match your style: daytime, sunset, nighttime and more.
10. Learn about Korean history at the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
Visiting the Demilitarized Zone is a great way to learn more about Korean History and Korea during the Cold War.
The site is located in Peju and is a good option for a one-day trip out of Seoul.
For a comprehensive experience, we highly recommend visiting the area with a guide who can provide detailed explanations of everything.
