Seoul is a city that truly embraces its love for sweets. When I recall my visit in 2017, the first thing that surfaces in my mind is the delightful array of pastries. Every street seemed to beckon with signs highlighting freshly baked tarts or intricate dessert creations.
Yet, beyond the treats, South Korea’s capital is a vibrant blend of towering skyscrapers, expansive palaces, and bustling street markets. Seoul offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from its eclectic attractions to its lively nightlife, making it an ideal destination for a city getaway. Navigating this urban landscape is a breeze, allowing you to embark on further adventures throughout South Korea with ease.
As we await the return of safe travels, South Korea stands out as a captivating, less-traveled destination I’m eager to revisit. This guide highlights the must-see experiences in Seoul and may inspire you to consider the same.
(Note: This piece was originally penned in 2017 following my self-funded journey to Seoul and updated in August 2020 in collaboration with the #SeeKoreaNext campaign by the Korea Tourism Organisation.)
Highlights of Your First Visit to Seoul
Top Attractions in Seoul
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Among the five majestic palaces in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace is an essential stop. Known as the Northern Palace due to its position relative to the others, this historic site astounds visitors with its grandeur.
Constructed in 1395 as the principal royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung boasts impressive gates, a picturesque pavilion encircled by a serene lake, and houses both the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum of Korea.
Be sure to witness the vibrant changing of the guard ceremony held twice daily at the main entrance—it’s a colorful spectacle you won’t want to miss.
For memorable photos, consider renting a traditional Hanbok outfit from nearby rental shops; it also grants you free entry into the palace, adding to the experience.
Bukchon Hanok Village
To immerse yourself in Seoul’s history, take a stroll through the narrow alleys of Bukchon Hanok Village. Here, traditional wooden Hanok houses line the streets, some still serving as homes while others have transformed into inviting teahouses.
While exploring, don’t miss the charming independent boutiques selling handcrafted items; I regret not bringing some home with me!
Café Culture in Hongdae
Hongdae is undoubtedly my favorite district in Seoul, bustling with life around Hongik University. This hip area features an abundance of coffee shops, dessert cafes, craft beer halls, and trendy Korean BBQ joints.
During the day, you can hop between unique brunch spots or relax with puppies at pet cafes if that’s your vibe. As night falls, a plethora of restaurants spring to life, showcasing the richness of modern South Korean cuisine.
Exploring Gangnam’s Food Streets
A culinary adventure awaits in Gangnam’s Food Streets. Nestled alongside the vibrant Gangnam Shopping Street, you’ll find an array of street food ranging from the popular Shake Shack to local coffee chains and affordable Korean fried chicken outlets.
This area buzzes with energy at night, drawing office workers, students, and shoppers together in delight. One of my most memorable evenings involved a quirky beer shop where patrons helped themselves from a wall of fridges. You simply returned the empty bottles and settled up at the exit—a fantastic convenience, albeit tricky for your budget!
While you’re in Gangnam, swing by Samsung D-Light at the Samsung superstore to glimpse the future of technology.
If you’re looking for a lighthearted photo opportunity, visit the Psy Gangnam Style interactive statue at Samsung Station’s Exit 6, complete with the iconic music playing nearby.
N Seoul Tower
For a breathtaking view of the sprawling city, take the cable car ride up to N Seoul Tower, perched on Mount Namsan. The tower serves as both a communication hub and an observation point, set amid beautiful parkland ideal for relaxing picnics.
Although visibility was limited during my visit, I enjoyed exploring the shops and restaurants within the tower and observing the love locks left behind by locals and visitors. The shop sells locks if you wish to leave a piece of your heart in Seoul.
Traveling with family? Consider checking out a kid-friendly itinerary for Seoul.
Culinary Delights in Seoul
Make sure to have your accommodation secure a reservation for a highly regarded Korean BBQ restaurant in Hongdae; our experience was unforgettable.
Wander through Namdaemun Market, South Korea’s largest traditional market, where you can lose yourself in the labyrinth of street food stands. The language barrier can be a challenge—don’t be shy about diving into a stall and seeing what scrumptious offerings await. We sampled some delightful Bulgogi, though we may have navigated the assembly part a bit clumsily!
After a night out in Gangnam, indulge in Chimaek (a perfect pairing of fried chicken and beer) and venture into one of the self-serve beer shops for a memorable experience.
Shopping Hotspots in Seoul
Dongdaemun serves as the heartbeat of Seoul’s shopping scene, packed with local markets and trendy malls that could entertain you for days.
For a unique shopping experience, visit the Design Market within the stunning Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), designed by Zaha Hadid, which itself is a captivating architectural marvel.
If you’re searching for souvenirs or a bite of local culture, Insadong is where you’ll discover street food and tea houses abound.
Accommodation Options in Seoul
During my visit, I stayed at the stylish Boutique Hotel Loft, conveniently located near Dangsan Station. The easy airport bus access and subway connections made exploring the city a breeze.
After all that walking, sinking into a relaxing bath was the perfect way to unwind!
