Places to Visit in Seoul, South Korea

South Korea’s bustling capital city of Seoul is a fascinating destination for tourists, with a history that goes back thousands of years. Located on the Han River, Seoul is the largest city in the country and is home to over 10 million people. From the ancient palaces of Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Jongmyo to the modern skyscrapers of Gangnam, Seoul is a city full of contrasts and surprises. Here are some of the must-visit places in Seoul that you should add to your itinerary.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the most iconic places to visit in Seoul. Located in the heart of the city, it was built in 1395 as a symbol of the newly established Joseon Dynasty. It was the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty and served as a residence for the royal family. The palace was destroyed by fire in 1592 during the Japanese invasions, but was restored in 1867. Today, visitors can explore its traditional Korean architecture, which includes its five entrances, courtyards, pavilions, and gardens. Additionally, visitors can witness the daily changing of the guard ceremony, which is held twice a day at 10am and 2pm.

Myeongdong Shopping District

Myeongdong is one of Seoul’s most popular shopping districts and a great place to find unique souvenirs to take home. Located in the heart of downtown Seoul, it’s filled with street vendors, boutiques, department stores, and restaurants. There are also many Korean cosmetics stores in Myeongdong where you can buy Korean beauty products such as sheet masks and makeup. On weekends, the area transforms into a street food paradise with vendors selling everything from hotteok (Korean pancakes) to tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).

Nami Island

Located in the middle of the Han River, Nami Island is an idyllic spot for a day trip. It’s a small island that was made famous by its starring role in the hit Korean drama ‘Winter Sonata’. The island is known for its beautiful scenery with its trees and flowers that bloom year-round. It’s also home to a variety of wildlife such as deers and rabbits that roam freely on the island. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the pathways or rent bicycles to explore the island.

Insadong

Insadong is one of the most popular areas in Seoul and a great place to get a taste of traditional Korean culture. Located near Gyeongbokgung Palace, Insadong is filled with traditional tea houses, street food vendors, art galleries, antique shops, and souvenir shops. Make sure to visit Ssamziegil, a shopping complex which features shops selling handmade crafts, souvenirs, and traditional foods. There are also street performances and puppet shows that take place regularly.

Hongdae

Hongdae is another popular area in Seoul known for its lively nightlife and vibrant street culture. Located near Hongik University, it’s a great spot for those looking for an exciting night out. The area has many bars and nightclubs that play music from all genres. In addition to nightlife, Hongdae is also home to many independent art galleries and designer stores selling unique fashion pieces. There’s also an alley filled with food vendors where visitors can try some traditional Korean street foods like kimbap (Korean sushi) and odeng (fish cake skewers).

N Seoul Tower

N Seoul Tower is one of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck. Located on top of Namsan Mountain, it stands at 236 meters tall and provides visitors with 360-degree views of Seoul. For those looking to take a unique photo, there’s also a ‘love padlock bridge’ located at the base of the tower where couples can write their names on a padlock and lock it onto the bridge.

Popular Tours in Seoul

Seoul Half Day City Tour

Discover the must-see attractions in Seoul on this 4-hour private tour. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village and take a stroll through Insadong. Learn about Seoul’s history from your knowledgeable guide as you explore the city’s past and present. This tour also includes hotel pickup and drop off service.
Book a Seoul Half Day City Tour here.

Gyeongbokgung Palace Guided Tour

Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace with an experienced guide on this 2-hour tour. Learn about the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site as you explore its grand courtyards, pavilions and gardens. Observe the changing of the guard ceremony at 10am or 2pm and visit other nearby attractions such as Cheonggyecheon Stream and Gwanghwamun Gate. This tour also includes hotel pickup and drop off service.
Book a Gyeongbokgung Palace Guided Tour here.

Seoul Night Bike Tour

Explore Seoul at night on this 3-hour bike tour. See famous landmarks such as Gwanghwamun Gate, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Namsan Park lit up against the night sky. Pedal through bustling streets and lively neighborhoods before finishing up at Dongdaemun Market for some late-night shopping. This tour also includes hotel pickup and drop off service.
Book a Seoul Night Bike Tour here.

Korean Food Tour

Experience traditional Korean cuisine on this 4-hour food tour of Seoul’s local eateries. Taste some of Seoul’s signature dishes such as bibimbap (rice bowl with vegetables), jeon (Korean pancakes) and haemul pajeon (seafood pancake) while exploring vibrant neighborhoods such as Myeongdong, Insadong and Gwangjang Market. This tour also includes hotel pickup and drop off service.
Book a Korean Food Tour here.

Seoul is an exciting destination with something for everyone – from ancient palaces to modern shopping districts and vibrant nightlife spots – there’s something to keep everyone entertained! Pack your bags for an unforgettable vacation in South Korea’s historic capital city!