Non Touristy Things to do in Seoul

Seoul is the capital of South Korea and one of the most populous cities in the world. It is a vibrant, bustling city full of color, culture, and history that is truly something to behold. With its incredible landmarks and attractions, from traditional temples to ultra-futuristic skyscrapers, Seoul is a city that never fails to amaze. But there’s more to Seoul than just the tourist-filled sites. Here are some of the best non-touristy things to do in Seoul.

Explore the Streets of Insa-dong

Insa-dong, located in the heart of Seoul, is the city’s most popular shopping and entertainment district. This area boasts a variety of unique stores, restaurants, and bars, as well as a wide range of traditional Korean street food. It’s a great place to go for a stroll and explore the narrow alleyways lined with charming shops and eateries. The best time to visit is on the weekends, when Insa-dong becomes even more crowded and lively with street markets and food stalls.

Visit the Palaces of Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung

Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung are two of Seoul’s most beautiful palaces, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest of Seoul’s five grand palaces and was built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty. The grounds are filled with traditional Korean buildings and gardens, as well as a variety of exhibits and museums. Changdeokgung Palace is another impressive palace from the Joseon Dynasty that features stunning gardens and buildings. Both palaces are great places to learn about Korea’s history and culture.

Explore Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is a unique area of Seoul that has been preserved to look as it did hundreds of years ago. The village is home to hundreds of traditional Korean “hanok” houses, which are wooden structures with tiled roofs and courtyards. These houses are maintained by their inhabitants, who open up their homes to visitors so they can experience what life was like in this traditional neighborhood.

Go Shopping at Dongdaemun Market

Dongdaemun Market is one of the largest shopping districts in Seoul and a great place to find unique items at bargain prices. The market has over 20 shopping malls, dozens of stores, and thousands of vendors selling everything from clothing to electronics. It’s also open 24 hours a day, so visitors can shop all night long.

Experience Traditional Korean Culture at Namsangol Hanok Village

Namsangol Hanok Village is another traditional village that has been beautifully preserved. This village was built in the late 14th century and is home to five traditional Korean houses that have been restored to their former glory. Visitors can explore the village, learn about traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving, and experience Korean culture firsthand.

Visit the War Memorial of Korea

The War Memorial of Korea is an educational museum that honors those who fought in the Korean War. The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits, including a collection of weapons, vehicles, and other artifacts from the war. It’s an important place for visitors to learn about Korea’s history and its struggles for freedom.

Enjoy Traditional Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique ingredients, and there are many great places to sample it in Seoul. Traditional Korean dishes such as kimchi (fermented vegetables), bibimbap (rice with vegetables), and samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) are popular favorites. For a more modern twist on traditional Korean cuisine, head to one of Seoul’s many fusion restaurants, which combine Korean flavors with Western dishes.

Take a Hike at Bukhansan National Park

Bukhansan National Park is one of Seoul’s most popular outdoor attractions. Located just outside of the city center, Bukhansan offers stunning views of the city from its many hiking trails. The park also features a variety of interesting rock formations and ancient Buddhist temples, making it a great place for nature lovers.

Explore the Streets of Hongdae

Hongdae is another popular shopping district in Seoul that is known for its youth culture and vibrant nightlife. The area is full of interesting shops, cafes, and bars, as well as plenty of street performers and musicians. Hongdae is also home to several art galleries and performance spaces, making it an ideal spot for culture lovers.

Popular Tours

For those looking for a more organized experience during their visit to Seoul, there are plenty of tours that provide a unique insight into the city’s attractions.

Half-Day Small Group Tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace

This half-day tour provides visitors with an in-depth look at Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of Seoul’s most impressive landmarks. The tour includes an English-speaking guide who will provide an informative introduction to the palace’s history and architecture. Guests will have plenty of time to explore the palace grounds and witness the changing of the guard ceremony that takes place every hour. Afterwards, visitors will be taken to nearby attractions such as Bukchon Hanok Village and Insa-dong before returning back to Gyeongbokgung Palace. Book a half-day tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace here.

Full-Day Private Tour of Nami Island

This full-day private tour takes visitors on a journey to Nami Island, one of Korea’s most beloved destinations. Located on an island in the Han River, Nami Island is a popular spot for nature lovers with its peaceful gardens and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The tour includes roundtrip transportation from Seoul, a guided tour of Nami Island, lunch at a local restaurant, and free time to explore the island at leisure. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as walking along the tree-lined paths or taking a boat ride around the island. Book a full-day tour of Nami Island here.

Full-Day Small Group Tour of DMZ

This full-day tour takes visitors on an informative journey through the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), one of Korea’s most important historical sites. The tour includes roundtrip transportation from Seoul, a guided tour through the DMZ area, lunch at a local restaurant, and free time to explore the area at leisure. Visitors will have the chance to visit various points of interest such as Imjingak Park, which was created in commemoration of those affected by the Korean War, as well as seeing North Korea from an observation post. Book a full-day tour of DMZ here.

No matter what kind of traveler you are, there are plenty of things to do in Seoul that don’t involve touring popular sights or monuments. From exploring traditional markets to visiting ancient palaces, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for a unique experience or just want to explore the city like a local, these non-touristy activities will give you an unforgettable insight into Seoul’s culture and history.