Looking for the best activities to do in Seoul? Here are the must-see attractions and sights in South Korea’s capital.
Seoul (서울), the bustling capital of South Korea, is home to over 10 million residents. While “Gangnam Style” and Korean cuisine may come to mind first when thinking of Seoul, this megacity offers much more than K-pop and K-dramas alone. With a history stretching over 2,000 years, Seoul boasts stunning ancient palaces and temples alongside modern architectural marvels. It’s a mix of old and new, with delicious street food and fun neighbourhoods to explore.
We absolutely love Seoul – it’s one of our favourite Asian cities! We’ve been to the city a few times, the first time all the way back in 2015. With each visit, we discover something new. There’s just so much to do in Seoul!
In this guide, we’ll outline some of the best things to do in Seoul. Whether you’re just visiting for a short hop, a long weekend, or a few weeks, this guide will help maximise your Seoul adventure!
Table of Contents Show
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click on the link and purchase the item or service, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using our links, you’re supporting us to provide you with free content for your city trips. Learn more on our Privacy Policy page.
Short on time? Here’s a quick list of the highlights in Seoul:
1. Step back in time at the largest of the five royal palaces, Gyeongbokgung Palace.
2. See the views from N Seoul Tower.
3. Savour street food at a traditional food market like Gwangjang Market.
4. Visit a traditional tea house in Insadong.
5. Make a day trip to a living history museum, the Korean Folk Village.
Keep reading for our detailed information on each of these activities and even more great things to do, as well as insider tips!
17 Best Activities to Do in Seoul, South Korea
Seoul is packed with incredible experiences that could keep you occupied for weeks. But let’s face it, not everyone has that kind of time.
Here’s a selection of some of the very best things to do in Seoul, organised into categories so you can quickly find what interests you most: Historic Landmarks | Korean Culture | Culinary Delights | Modern Marvels | Nightlife and Entertainment | Day trips from Seoul
Explore Historic Landmarks
Seoul is a paradise for history buffs! With over 2,000 years of Korean history on display, you can explore the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) through Seoul’s iconic landmarks like the five Grand Palaces and 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites.
1. Step back in time at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁) was built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty and is the largest of the five royal palaces. Its name translates to “The Palace Greatly Blessed”.
The palace grounds contain more than 330 buildings and 5,700 rooms.
Gyeongbokgung served as the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty until it was burnt down during the Japanese invasion in 1592 and left abandoned. Reconstruction began in 1865, and it has since been restored to its former glory.
Our Top Tips for Visiting Gyeongbokgung
- If you can only visit one palace, make it this one as it’s the most stunning!
- Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard Ceremony, which takes place daily at 10am and 2pm by the main gate. Arrive early for the best views of the guards dressed in traditional Joseon Dynasty outfits.
- Pick up a free map before entering because the palace grounds are enormous.
- Join one of the free guided tours starting from the information centre inside the palace at 11am, 1:30pm, and 3:30pm each day, lasting about an hour.
- The National Folk Museum within the palace complex is completely free to enter and worth a visit. Stop by at the end of your palace visit because once you exit the museum, you won’t be able to return to the palace.
- Wear a hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) for free entry into the palace.
Admission and opening hours: The ticket for Gyeongbokgung is ₩3,000 (≈ £2 or 2€ or US$2). The palace is open from Wednesday to Monday, from 9am-5pm; it’s closed on Tuesdays. Watching the guard ceremony is free.
Tickets for Gyeongbokgung Palace can be bought on-site or in advance as part of a tour.
2. Wander through Bukchon Hanok Village
One of our favourite spots in Seoul is Bukchon Hanok Village, a neighbourhood with more than 900 hanoks, traditional Korean houses. They date back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), meaning some structures are over 600 years old.
The village is located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace. During the Joseon Dynasty, it served as a residential area for high-ranking officials and nobility.
Many hanoks in this traditional Korean village have been beautifully converted into cafes, restaurants, boutique shops, and art galleries.
Our Top Tips for Visiting Bukchon Hanok Village
- Keep an eye out for hidden courtyards and gardens within the hanoks.
- From this village, you have stunning panoramic views of Seoul’s skyline and nearby historic landmarks.
- Arrive early to beat the crowds – it’s an extremely popular spot, especially during weekends.
- Pick up a free map from the tourist centre along the way from Anguk Station to the village. The staff will also advise you on the best walking routes.
Admission and opening hours: Bukchon Hanok Village is free to explore and open daily, 24/7.
3. Explore the Secret Garden of Changdeokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace was constructed in the 15th century as a secondary palace to the main palace of Gyeongbokgung. It later served as the primary royal residence for many Joseon Dynasty kings.
Did you know? Changdeokgung once had a secret tunnel network connecting it with other locations, possibly used by the royal family for escape during emergencies.
The palace is the best-preserved of Seoul’s five royal Joseon palaces. This UNESCO World Heritage site is celebrated for its striking architecture and gardens. It blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings and reflects principles of balance and respect for nature.
One of the highlights is the extensive garden called Biwon, or Secret Garden. There are artificial hills, a small pond, a pavilion, and ancient trees.
Top tip: To explore the Secret Garden, you must join a tour led by an official palace guide. Although an additional fee applies, the experience is truly worthwhile!
Admission and Opening Hours: Entry to the palace is ₩3,000 (≈ £2 or 2€ or US$2), and to the Secret Garden, it’s ₩5,000 (≈ £3 or 3€ or US$4). The palace is open from 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday through Sunday, while the Secret Garden is open from 10am-4:10pm. The entire complex is closed on Mondays.
Buy your Changdeokgung Palace tickets in advance here.
4. Dive into Buddhist culture at Jogyesa Temple
Jogyesa Temple is the main temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. It has significantly influenced the current state of Seon Buddhism across South Korea.
Built in 1395, Jogyesa Temple is one of Korea’s oldest and most valued Buddhist temples.
The temple is close to Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village. It’s not huge, but definitely worth a visit for its blend of traditional Korean Buddhist architecture, colours, and cultural experiences!
Did you know? Jogyesa Temple houses ten Sariri, crystallised remains believed to be fragments of Buddha’s bones.
Every year, in honour of Buddha’s birthday celebrations, Jogyesa Temple hosts the Lotus Lantern Festival, where thousands of bright lanterns illuminate the temple grounds.
Top tip: Make sure to view the three golden Buddhas inside the temple. Also, visit the temple at night to see its spectacular illumination!
Admission and opening hours: Jogyesa Temple is free to visit and open 24/7.
5. Walk a section of the Seoul City Wall Trail
In cities like Paris or London, remnants of ancient city walls peek out here and there, but few cities have preserved theirs as meticulously as Seoul.
The Seoul City Wall Trail follows the ancient fortress walls that once protected the city of Seoul for 514 years (1396-1910).
The entire trail is 18.6 kilometres (11.6 miles) long and passes through several ancient gates, which served as important entryways to Seoul (then known as Hanyang) during the Joseon Dynasty.
If you’re in the city for just a few days, tackling the entire trail may not be feasible. But one great benefit of the Seoul City Wall Trail is that you can choose any section that best suits your schedule and interests.
Here’s a suggestion for a fantastic 40-minute walk that combines history and a bit of ascent:
- Begin your journey at Heunginjimun Gate (Dongdaemun).
- Next, stop by Seoul City Wall Museum (free admission!) for a quick history lesson on the wall’s significance.
- As you continue, you’ll pass by Naksan Pavilion, a charming spot for a photo with the city as your backdrop.
- Finally, take in breathtaking panoramic views at Naksan Summit.
Admission and opening hours: Seoul City Wall Trail is free to walk and open 24/7.
Here are your hotel options for Seoul.
Immerse Yourself in Korean Culture
Engaging in cultural activities allows you to go beyond the typical tourist experience. There are various ways you can connect with Seoul’s spirit and understand local customs. Here are our two favourite ones:
6. Wear traditional Korean clothing (hanbok)
Dress yourself in traditional Korean attire worn for generations, perfect for capturing special moments in photos.
Hanbok is known for its vibrant colours and consists of two main pieces: a jeogori (jacket) plus a baji (trousers) for men or a chima (skirt) for women.
Wearing hanbok is a very popular activity for visitors to Seoul – and, yes, it’s totally okay for tourists to do so!
Most rental shops are conveniently located in historic areas, giving you plenty of picturesque backdrops, such as palaces and traditional villages, for stunning photos in your hanbok.
Top tip: Rent hanbok before visiting cultural attractions. Wearing traditional Korean clothing will grant you free access to several palaces, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Price: The cost of renting hanbok depends on factors like duration, style, quality, and location. Prices typically range between ₩10,000-30,000 (≈ £6-18 or 7-21€ or US$7-22). We had heard from several people that booking via the Klook app (link below) often resulted in cheaper rates compared to in-store prices, and we found this to be true.
Check availability and pricing of hanbok rentals on Klook.
7. Stay in a traditional Korean house (hanok)
We already mentioned hanoks when we introduced you to Bukchon Hanok Village. As a reminder, hanok is a traditional Korean house with wooden frames, tiled roofs, and heated floors known as ondol.
Staying in a hanok is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Korean culture. Some hanoks even offer traditional activities such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy lessons or learning how to wear traditional Korean clothing (hanbok).
Check availability and pricing of stays in a hanok.
Indulge in Culinary Delights
Food is an integral part of Korean culture. Korean cuisine features sweet, savoury, spicy, and fermented flavours that will tantalise your tastebuds.
Hands down, Korean food is delicious! Here are our favourite ways to experience Korean cuisine:
8. Savour street food at a traditional market
Gwangjang Market is the ideal destination to experience authentic Korean street food. Here, you’ll find small street vendors selling a variety of Korean dishes.
Our favourites are tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), sundubu jjigae (soft tofu stew), kimchi (fermented cabbage), kimchi pancakes, and gimbab (rice seaweed roll). Try hotteok (deep-fried dough filled with brown sugar) or bingsu (shaved ice) for dessert.
Another great choice is Namdaemun Market, Seoul’s largest traditional market. It offers a wide variety of goods, from clothing and souvenirs to food options. But Gwangjang Market is definitely a better choice for foodies as it focuses primarily on Korean cuisine and street food!
Top tip: If you’re new to Korean food or prefer to explore a traditional food market with a local, consider a food tour.
Admission and opening hours: Gwangjang Market is free to visit and typically open from 9am-6pm, although some vendors might have slightly different hours.
9. Visit a traditional tea house in Insadong
We highly recommend visiting one of Insadong’s traditional tea houses.
Insadong is a neighbourhood in downtown Seoul, known for its traditional Korean culture, crafts, and lively atmosphere. There, you’ll find narrow alleys with antique shops, art galleries, coffee shops, pretty little tea houses, and traditional Korean restaurants.
Did you know? Insadong dates back over 500 years to the Joseon Dynasty, when it served as a gathering point for artists, scholars, and artisans.
Most tea houses in Insadong are located in traditional Korean houses (hanoks).
During your visit, you can experience a traditional tea ceremony and taste local delicacies.
Here are the two tea houses we liked:
- Yetchatjip – One of Seoul’s oldest and most famous teahouses, known for its beautiful traditional setting and unique selection of Korean teas.
- Banjjak Banjjak Binnaneun – Offers a charming atmosphere in a traditional hanok.
10. Dine at a Korean BBQ Restaurant
So, if you visit Seoul, you shouldn’t miss Korean BBQ, or KBBQ. It’s a very popular dining experience among Koreans!
Korean BBQ offers a unique dining experience that goes far beyond simply grilling meat. While food arrives pre-cooked at a traditional BBQ, Korean BBQ allows you to grill the meat yourself at your table on a built-in grill.
You can choose from a variety of meats, such as bulgogi (beef), galbi (ribs), and samgyeopsal (pork belly), as well as seafood options. It comes with many delicious side dishes called banchan, like kimchi, pickled vegetables, and japchae (glass noodles).
Top tip: While enjoying your Korean BBQ, sample Soju or Makgeolli (or both!), two popular Korean alcoholic beverages. Soju is a distilled liquor traditionally made from rice with a slightly sweet or savoury note. In contrast, Makgeolli is an unfiltered Korean rice wine with a slightly sweet and milky taste and a subtle grain flavour. Both drinks are delicious!
Here are your hotel options for Seoul.
Related Read
Enjoy Modern Marvels
Seoul blends its rich history with modern advancements, giving the city a distinct personality.
11. See the views from N Seoul Tower
As we explore a new city, one of our favourite things is getting a bird’s eye view of its surroundings. One of the top spots in Seoul to do just this is N Seoul Tower, with its rotating 360-degree observation deck.
Originally built as a telecommunications tower in 1969, N Seoul Tower has become an iconic landmark and tourist attraction. Along with breathtaking views, it’s famous for its Locks of Love, where visitors attach padlocks to the fences around the tower.
Did you know? The “N” in the tower’s name stands for “Namsan”, the name of the mountain on which the tower is located. That’s why N Seoul Tower is sometimes called Namsan Tower.
While the tower is only 236 metres (775 feet) high, it sits on the Namsan mountain, which adds to its elevation. However, it’s still shorter than other famous observatory towers, like the CN Tower in Toronto (Canada), which is 553 metres (1,814 feet), or the Tokyo Skytree in Japan, which is 634 metres (2,080 metres).
Our Top Tips for Visiting N Seoul Tower
- To get up to the observation tower, you can walk, take a bus or taxi, or ride the Namsan cable car.
- If you enjoy walking (like us), we highly recommend the scenic route through Namsan Park, which takes about 40 minutes.
- If visiting during the afternoon or evening, expect long lines at cable car and tower lift entrances. To avoid crowds, plan to visit early in the morning and avoid weekends if possible.
- Explore the “Sky Restrooms” on the lower observation deck for a unique experience.
- Choose a clear day for optimal visibility and the best views.
Admission and Opening Hours: An observatory ticket at N Seoul Tower costs ₩21,000 (≈ £12 or 14€ or US$16). It’s open weekdays from 10:30am-10.30pm and weekends 10am-11pm.
Buy your N Seoul Tower ticket here.
12. Stroll through Myeongdong
Myeongdong is a vibrant shopping district known for its trendy fashion boutiques, street food vendors, and lively atmosphere. The atmosphere there is truly mesmerising!
Did you know? The Myeongdong district is often called the “Cosmetic Capital of Korea” due to its abundance of Korean skincare and cosmetics shops (K-beauty).
Take in the latest trends, indulge in delicious food, soak up the buzz, and get a glimpse into modern Korean life!
You can also watch a traditional performance at one of the numerous theatres.
Admission and Opening Hours: Myeongdong is free to explore, with most shops opening around 11am and closing after 10pm.
13. Go shopping at Starfield COEX Mall
While Myeongdong provides a trendy shopping adventure lined with vendors and unique Korean stores, COEX Mall provides a more luxurious experience with high-end department stores and a wider variety of international brands.
Be prepared; this place is massive! In fact, it’s one of the largest underground shopping complexes in Asia. It houses over 250 stores, 100 restaurants, a huge aquarium, a cinema, an art museum, and more under one roof.
Top tip: Our favourite spot at COEX Mall (and probably one of the most Instagram-worthy spots) is the Starfield Library – don’t miss it! This visually stunning bookstore spans two floors and offers an extensive collection of books across various genres.
COEX Mall is located in Gangnam, one of the wealthiest districts in Seoul, so make sure to walk around the district after your mall visit. PSY’s global hit “Gangnam Style” in 2012 put the district on the map internationally. Stop by the Buddhist temple Bongeunsa and the famous Statue of Gangnam Style.
Admission and opening hours: COEX Mall is free to explore and open from 10:30am-10pm.
Experience Nightlife and Entertainment
By experiencing Seoul’s nightlife and entertainment, you’ll better understand the city’s culture and how locals unwind and socialise.
14. Explore Hongdae
Hongdae, short for the Hongik University area (Korea’s top art school), is widely considered Seoul’s creative and artistic hub. The district is known for its vibrant indie music scene with numerous live venues, clubs and street performances.
Did you know? Hongdae wasn’t always trendy; in the 1960s, it was a quiet industrial area. However, the arrival of Hongik University in the 1940s and the growth of the student population gradually transformed it into the artistic and youthful district it is today.
Hondae reminded us a lot of districts like Williamsburg in NYC, Shimokitazawa in Tokyo, and Shoreditch in London.
At night, Hongdae comes alive with a bustling nightlife scene. You’ll find trendy bars, rooftop terraces, nightclubs, and karaoke rooms, making it the perfect neighbourhood to experience Seoul’s nightlife.
Top tip: Visiting a karaoke room, or “noraebang” in Korean, is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Korean culture. It’s a very popular social activity for Koreans of all ages. Sing your heart out in a private room with state-of-the-art sound systems and customisable lighting effects!
Admission and opening hours: Hongdae is free to explore and open 24/7.
15. Visit a Themed Café
Life in Seoul can be fast-paced and demanding; themed cafes provide an oasis of relief from daily obligations.
Seoulites (the people who live in Seoul) love the combination of delicious coffee, unique experiences, and social connections. The cafes span themes like cat cafes, K-pop cafes, board game cafes, flower cafes and VR cafes.
During our travels, we visited various themed cafes. Here are our favourites:
- Ddong Café – Poop-themed! From furniture to drinks, expect a fun and lighthearted experience with everything resembling poop emojis.
- Ddong Café – Poop-themed! From furniture to drinks, expect a fun and lighthearted experience with everything resembling poop emojis.
- Thanks Nature Café – Sheep Encounter! Enjoy your coffee surrounded by real sheep in an outdoor area that offers a touch of nature within the city.
- Stylenanda Pink Pool Café – Hotel-themed! Imagine sipping your coffee surrounded by pool floats and a pink colour scheme.
- Soha Salt Pond – A salty experience! This cafe incorporates a salt cave theme, offering a unique ambience and potential health benefits.
- Cheese Industry – Calling all cheese lovers! This cafe celebrates all things cheese, with cheesy decor and cheesecakes that resemble cheese wheels.
Take a Day Trip from Seoul
Seoul has so much to offer that it would take weeks to explore the city. However, there are other areas outside of Seoul that are totally worth your time! We recommend three specific day trips:
16. Visit the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
The DMZ is a 250-kilometre (160-mile) buffer zone that separates North and South Korea. It was established following the Korean War armistice in 1953.
Visits to the DMZ are an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Korean history, the impact of war and division, and the potential for future peace.
Access to the DMZ is restricted for safety reasons due to ongoing political tensions and heavily fortified borders. While you can’t enter this region on your own, you can take a guided tour of the area.
We highly suggest taking a guided tour to DMZ. Textbooks can only tell part of the story, but visiting brings its history alive. You won’t want to miss this mind-opening experience during your visit to Seoul!
On a guided tour (we took this DMZ tour), you can visit different sites within the DMZ. For example, you can view a North Korean propaganda village from the Dora Observatory. Our favourite part of the DMZ tour was visiting the Third Tunnel, which North Korea dug in an attempt to infiltrate South Korea. It was discovered in 1978.
Check availability and pricing of DMZ tours here.
17. Experience the Joseon Dynasty in the Korean Folk Village
Korean Folk Village is a living museum in Yongin that you can easily visit as part of a day tour from Seoul. This open-air museum is a fantastic way to experience Korean life firsthand.
Did you know? The village has been the backdrop for multiple Korean historical television series and movies, such as “Kingdom”, “Jewel in the Palace”, and “Sungkyunkwan Scandal”.
Actors and artisans depict historical figures and daily activities from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). You can explore over 260 traditional houses that reflect that era’s social class and regional styles.
Top tip: Don’t miss the traditional Korean performances (folk dances, musical performances and martial arts demonstrations). Check the schedule listed on maps and flyers at the entrance.
Admission and opening hours: The entrance fee to Korean Folk Village is ₩32,000 (≈ £19 or 22€ or US$24). It’s open daily from 10am-6pm from November to January, 10am-6:30pm from February to April and October, and 10am-7pm from May to September.
Buy a discounted Korean Folk Village ticket in advance here or find a day tour from Seoul to the village here.
Plan Your Seoul Trip
Practical Tips for a Hassle-Free Seoul Adventure
Here are a few practical tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and navigate Seoul confidently.
Culture and Etiquette
- Learn a few basic Korean phrases: “Hello” (안녕하세요, an-nyeong-ha-se-yo) and “Thank you” (감사합니다, gam-sa-hab-ni-da) go a long way in showing respect.
- Mind your table manners: Slurping noodles and using chopsticks to point at something/somebody are considered impolite.
- Respect personal space: Crowded as Seoul can be, Koreans generally value personal space. Avoid bumping into people or standing too close in lines.
- Tipping culture: Tipping is not customary in Seoul. It’s not expected in restaurants, taxis, or other service establishments. In fact, attempting to tip may sometimes cause confusion or embarrassment. Show appreciation for excellent service with a sincere “thank you” instead.
- Take shoes off indoors: This applies to temples, traditional houses (hanoks), and some restaurants with seating on the floor.
Planning and Logistics
- Download a language translation app: Before your trip, download a language translation app like Google Translate. While some signs and menus may be in English, most will be in Korean. With Google Translate, you can download the language offline, allowing you to access translations without mobile data or Wi-Fi. Plus, its camera feature instantly translates text when you point your phone at it.
- Download a map app: Naver Maps or Kakao Maps are popular Korean map options. Keep in mind that Google Maps’ functionality in Korea is limited due to business implications and national security regulations. While Naver Maps sometimes struggles with English, it provides accurate information and works well most of the time. Google Maps won’t show walking directions at all in Korea.
- Areas to stay: For convenience and accessibility, consider staying in central areas like Jongno, Insadong, Myeongdong, or Gangnam. These neighbourhoods offer a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.
- Consider a travel pass: Depending on your itinerary, a travel pass like the Seoul Discovery Pass might save you money on attractions.
- Pack for the weather: Seoul has four distinct seasons. Spring and fall are comfortable, summers can be hot and humid, and winters are cold and dry. Pack accordingly.
- Get a T-money card: This rechargeable card simplifies travel on public transportation, including buses, subways, and taxis. You can buy one at convenience stores.
Exploring and Experiencing
- Embrace the street food scene: Seoul is a haven for delicious and affordable eats. Try everything from savoury pancakes (kimchi jeon) to spicy stews (bibimbap).
- Don’t be afraid to try new things: Karaoke, temple stays, and traditional tea ceremonies are unique Korean experiences.
- Convenience stores are your lifesaver: Seoul has an incredible network of convenience stores that are open 24/7. These stores are perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, basic toiletries, and even phone chargers. You can also use them to withdraw cash using international ATMs or top up your T-money card. The most common chains are CU, GS25, and 7-Eleven.
Other Things to Do and See
For our city guides, we always carefully select the activities we think are the best to do and see. However, if you have more time in Seoul, consider these additional sights:
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) – A futuristic architectural landmark featuring a unique, curved design. It houses art installations, design exhibitions, fashion shows, and cultural events.
Cheong Wa Dae (Blue House) – The official residence of the South Korean president, known for its beautiful traditional architecture and landscaped gardens.
Hwaseong Fortress – A fortress built in the late 18th century in Suwon (part of the Greater Seoul metropolitan area), which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fortress is 5.7 kilometres (3.5 miles) in length and covers an area of 130 hectares, making it one of the largest fortifications in Korea.
MBC Dae Jang Geum Park – If you’re a K-drama fan, then you shouldn’t miss a day trip to MBC Dae Jang Geum Park. There, you can explore filming locations and traditional buildings and experience Korean culture.
Mount Seorak – A stunning mountain range in eastern South Korea known for its breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and Buddhist temples.
Jongmyo Shrine – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest royal Confucian shrine in Korea, dedicated to the memory of past kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty.
Lotte World – A gigantic entertainment complex featuring an indoor theme park, an outdoor amusement park, an aquarium, and a shopping mall – all in one place!
Nami Island (Namiseom) – A half-moon-shaped island famous for its picturesque tree-lined paths, romantic atmosphere, and filming locations for Korean dramas.
National Museum of Korea – Museum that showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of Korea.
Han River – Seoul’s main waterway. Relax in riverside parks, enjoy a stroll along the Han River, or take a scenic cruise for stunning city views.
Visiting Seoul: FAQ
What is Seoul popular for?
Seoul, South Korea’s capital city, is famous for blending ancient history with contemporary life. It’s known for K-pop, K-dramas, delicious food, and exciting nightlife. Visitors can explore traditional palaces alongside futuristic buildings, making Seoul truly unique.
Is Seoul tourist-friendly?
Absolutely! Seoul is incredibly tourist-friendly, with a well-developed tourism infrastructure and attractions catering to international visitors. You’ll find English signage in major areas, and younger locals often understand basic English. While English proficiency might be limited outside tourist spots, South Korea is a fantastic destination with friendly locals. With some preparation, flexibility and our handy tips, you can explore Seoul hassle-free!
How many days do you need in Seoul?
For a first-time visit to Seoul, plan for at least 4-5 days to explore the top attractions, cultural experiences, and delicious food scene. If you want to dive deeper into its history or venture beyond the city for day trips, consider 6 or more days. Even after several visits to Seoul, we continue to discover new and exciting attractions.
Is English widely spoken in Seoul?
English isn’t as widely spoken in Seoul as it is in many other capitals around the world. However, it’s becoming more common, especially among younger generations. While you may not find fluent English speakers everywhere, many Seoulites have some knowledge of English in tourist areas like Myeongdong, Insadong, and Hongdae. Carrying a translation app like Google Translate can be helpful for understanding signs and menus.
Do I need cash for Seoul?
Seoul, like much of South Korea, is transitioning to a cashless society. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, having some cash on hand is convenient for traditional markets and smaller shops. According to the Global Payments Report by FIS Global, cash in South Korea was only used for 11% of point-of-sale (POS) transactions in 2023.
Which month is best to visit Seoul?
The best time to visit Seoul is October, with comfortable temperatures, minimal rainfall, and around 7 hours of sunshine. Other ideal months include April to June and September to November, offering mild weather. It’s best to avoid the summer months due to high humidity and tourist crowds.
Final Thoughts on Seoul’s Must-See Sights & Experiences
We hope our list of the top 17 activities to do in Seoul was informative, along with our helpful travel tips for your visit. Seoul is a bustling metropolis with lots to see and do, so you could easily spend weeks exploring! It’s got a great mix of history, culture, modern vibes, and tasty grub.
For more insight into South Korea’s capital, take a look at our post with 20 interesting facts about Seoul.
And if you’re thinking of exploring more of the Korean peninsula, make sure Busan is on your itinerary – it’s a stunning seaside city easily reachable via train from Seoul.
If you have any questions, drop them in the comments below. We love hearing from our readers!
Check out our other South Korea posts:
- 5 best areas to stay in Seoul: top neighbourhoods & recommended hotels
- 20 interesting facts about Seoul you probably didn’t know
- Guide to Busan’s Haeundae Sky Capsule