Planning your first trip to South Korea’s capital city? You’re in for an unforgettable experience! From ancient palaces and traditional villages to modern architecture and trendy neighborhoods, Seoul is a city that perfectly blends the old with the new.
In this blog post, we’ll introduce the Top 10 must-see attractions in Seoul travel for every traveler. Whether you’re into history, food, culture, or shopping, this list covers the best of what Seoul has to offer.
🇰🇷 1. Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁)
- Location: Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Why Visit: As the most iconic of Seoul’s five grand palaces, Gyeongbokgung is a majestic symbol of Korean history.
- Highlights: Changing of the guard ceremony, traditional hanbok rentals, National Palace Museum.
- Tip: Visit early in the morning or during hanbok-wearing hours (free admission for hanbok wearers).
📸 Great for history buffs and Instagram-worthy photos.
🛍️ 2. Myeongdong Shopping Street (명동)
- Location: Jung-gu, Seoul
- Why Visit: A paradise for beauty lovers, fashionistas, and foodies. Myeongdong is packed with cosmetic stores, clothing boutiques, and endless street food stalls.
- Must-Try Snacks: Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), gyeran-bbang (egg bread), and Korean-style corn dogs.
- Tip: Visit at night for the full neon-light experience and vibrant street vibe.
💄 Perfect for beauty shopping and eating your way through Korean snacks.
🏞️ 3. Namsan Seoul Tower (남산타워)
- Location: Yongsan-gu, Seoul
- Why Visit: Offering panoramic views of Seoul’s skyline, Namsan Tower is one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
- What to Do: Take the cable car or hike up Namsan Park, visit the love locks area, and enjoy the revolving restaurant.
- Tip: Go at sunset to see Seoul transform from day to night.
🌇 Ideal for couples and photographers.
🧧 4. Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을)
- Location: Between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces
- Why Visit: This area preserves traditional Korean hanok houses and gives you a glimpse of Joseon-era architecture in the heart of the city.
- Must-Do: Rent a hanbok and walk the cobbled streets, visit tea houses, and check out local artisan workshops.
- Etiquette: It’s a residential area, so be respectful and quiet.
🏯 Great for cultural immersion and scenic walking tours.
☕ 5. Hongdae (홍대)
- Location: Mapo-gu, near Hongik University
- Why Visit: A youthful, creative neighborhood known for indie music, street performances, art, and quirky cafes.
- Things to Explore: K-pop dance buskers, art markets, VR arcades, and aesthetic dessert cafes.
- Nightlife: Bars, clubs, and live music venues are buzzing till late.
🎨 Best for Gen Z travelers and nightlife lovers.
🏯 6. Changdeokgung & Huwon (창덕궁과 후원)
- Location: Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Why Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this palace is beloved for its harmony with nature and its secret garden (Huwon).
- Guided Tours: Required for garden access—book in advance.
- Seasonal Beauty: Spectacular in autumn and spring.
🍁 Don’t miss the royal pavilion views in fall foliage.
🚶♂️ 7. Insadong (인사동)
- Location: Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Why Visit: The perfect place to find Korean souvenirs, traditional crafts, calligraphy, and antiques.
- Top Picks: Traditional tea houses, Ssamziegil shopping complex, handmade stationery.
- Bonus: Often hosts cultural performances and parades.
🎁 Best for souvenir hunters and lovers of traditional Korean arts.
🌉 8. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP / 동대문디자인플라자)
- Location: Dongdaemun, Seoul
- Why Visit: A futuristic structure designed by Zaha Hadid, DDP is a hub for design exhibitions, fashion shows, and night markets.
- What to See: LED rose garden, art exhibits, design shops.
- Late Night Shopping: Nearby malls are open till 5am.
🛒 A favorite spot for trendsetters and design lovers.
🚇 9. Gangnam District (강남)
- Location: South of the Han River
- Why Visit: Made famous by Psy’s “Gangnam Style,” this area is Seoul’s upscale, high-energy district filled with luxury stores, plastic surgery clinics, and business towers.
- Don’t Miss: COEX Mall (Asia’s largest underground shopping mall), Starfield Library, and Bongeunsa Temple.
- Tip: Explore both the glitzy streets and the calm temple for a well-rounded experience.
💼 Ideal for modern Seoul vibes and high-end shopping.
🌸 10. Han River Parks (한강공원)
- Location: Spans across various districts along the Han River
- Why Visit: These riverside parks are loved by locals for picnics, biking, jogging, or simply relaxing.
- Activities: Rent bikes or e-scooters, enjoy convenience store picnics, take a river cruise.
- Seasonal Events: Fireworks Festival, cherry blossom views in spring, and night markets in summer.
🚴♀️ Must-do for laid-back afternoons and people-watching.
📌 Bonus Tips for Seoul Travel
- T-Money Card: Get one at any convenience store for seamless travel across buses, subways, and taxis.
- Download These Apps: Naver Map, KakaoTalk, Papago (for translation), and Subway Korea.
- Currency: South Korean Won (KRW)
- Etiquette: Bow when greeting, take your shoes off indoors, and don’t talk loudly on public transport.
✨ Final Thoughts
Seoul is a city that constantly surprises. Its vibrant neighborhoods, historical landmarks, and world-class shopping make it one of the most rewarding destinations in Asia.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, these 10 spots will help you uncover the essence of Seoul—from past to future.
🧳 Ready to plan your Seoul travel adventure? Let this list be your starting point!
For more Korea travel inspiration, visit koreanmario.com
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