Top 14 Things To do in Seoul
You cannot miss the mesmerizing beauty of Seoul whenever you visit South Korea. It has many things that attract visitors from the core.
The ancient buildings in Seoul have a rich and illustrious past, as shown by the city’s many temples and palaces. Young and cultural, the city combines stunning natural scenery and cutting-edge architecture.
There are many activities in Seoul that can feel overwhelming to plan for a first-time visit.
If this is your first time in Seoul, why not try to adapt to the local culture as much as possible? Tourists may further appreciate the one-of-a-kind experience by staying in prime locations in thematic hotels or historic inns.
Read on for a list of Seoul’s 14 best attractions and activities.
1. Leeum’s Samsung Museum of Art
The museum is one of the top places to visit in Seoul, featuring an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art from both Korean and foreign artists, along with a wide assortment of classic Korean art.
Three buildings, designed by famous architects Mario Botta, Rem Koolhaas, and Jean Nouvel, house the many works of art. Whether you’re interested in modern art or Korean national treasures, this exhibition is one of the must-see activities to do in Seoul. And don’t forget to check out the sculpture garden while you’re there.
And don’t forget to check out the sculpture garden while you’re there.
2. N Seoul Tower
Mount Namsan is home to the N Seoul Tower, a must-see place to visit in Seoul. This communications and observation tower features four viewing decks, one of which is a spinning restaurant offering stunning views.
Among the top things to do in Seoul, Korea, is dining at the n.GRILL, a renowned French fine dining establishment located on the tower’s rooftop.
Another highlight is “Inside Seoul,” an immersive media art event that uses five-dimensional mapping to create a virtual representation of the city. This experience is definitely worth checking out.
The building’s exterior is illuminated by LED lights controlled by a computer, creating a moving visual cultural panorama of Seoul that is sure to impress.
3. Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village
The Bukchon Hanok Village is one of the top places to visit in Seoul. This area is a collection of traditional residential neighborhoods that Koreans have carefully preserved.
Here, you can explore Hanoks, traditional Korean homes, set within winding alleyways. The neighborhood is both tourist- and resident-friendly, as all the homes are still inhabited. Some have been converted into hotels and inns, while others serve as museums.
Located in the heart of Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village is nestled between the two significant palaces of Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, making it one of the must-see instagrammable places in Seoul.
4. National Museum of Korea
If you find yourself in Seoul, don’t miss out on the National Museum of Korea, one of the top places to visit in Seoul. This museum is among the largest in Asia and specializes in archaeology, history, and art. You’ll find a diverse collection of antiques and artifacts from various historical eras on display.
For a peaceful spot to unwind before or after your visit, Yongsan Family Park is a great option. It’s a lovely place to relax and is one of the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea.
5. Gwangjang Market
This Korean Street Food Market is a must-visit spot and a top place to visit in Seoul. It’s both a historical and modern-day institution, with its name becoming synonymous with delicious Korean street cuisine.
Here, you can sample a variety of popular Korean dishes such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), tteokbokki (sweet and spicy rice cakes), and mayak gimbap (a combination of raw and cooked seafood).
If you’re looking for things to do in Seoul, Korea, there’s no better place to experience a wide range of traditional Korean foods.
6. Insa-dong
Artistic and eclectic, Insa-dong is a place where old and new coexist, making it one of the top places to visit in Seoul. This area is well-known for its many art galleries and is a beautiful rest stop.
For a unique shopping experience, head to Insadong-gil, the main street in the area, where you can pick up authentic Korean trinkets. Ssamziegil is a prominent retail center with 70 stores, galleries, and cafes spread over five stories.
Insa-dong is also one of the best things to do in Seoul, Korea, offering a blend of traditional charm and modern culture.
7. Hongdae
8. Seoul Fortress Wall
9. The Jeoldusan Martyr’s
Located on the banks of the Han River, the Jeoldusan Catholic Shrine is a significant place to visit in Seoul. Known as the ‘beheading mountain,’ this shrine commemorates the Byeonin Persecution of 1866, a dark chapter in Korean history.
The shrine remembers the deaths of nine French missionaries, which led to a French naval attack on Korea. The Jeoldusan regime responded with severe persecution of Catholics in both France and Korea, including imprisonment and execution.
At the shrine’s gallery and museum, you can see torture devices used on the persecuted Catholics. While the illumination of votive candles at night gives the shrine a surreal atmosphere, visiting during the day will still leave you feeling reflective and awed by its beauty.
For a meaningful and historical experience, this site is one of the must-do things to do in Seoul, South Korea.
10. The Seoul Museum of Art
This exhibit alone is well worth the journey to the museum, making it one of the top places to visit in Seoul. It showcases the work of a Korean artist deeply inspired by African artwork and culture.
While this specific exhibit is captivating, the regular presentations at the museum are also gorgeous and moving, so make sure not to miss them.
The primary collection is free to view, but be aware that temporary exhibits can sometimes be quite pricey. If you’re looking for things to do in Seoul, Korea, this museum offers a unique and enriching experience.
11. The Cheong Literature Library
12. Everland
Everland, located near Yongin, is the largest amusement park in South Korea and one of the top places to visit in Seoul. The park offers a wide range of rides and activities for all ages, including the Caribbean Bay water park and a zoo with over 1,000 animals from 80 different species.
If you’re visiting Seoul with kids, a trip to Everland is a must. The park also hosts several annual events, such as the Tulip, Rose, and Summer Water festivals.
Even if you’re not a fan of thrill coasters, Everland provides plenty of things to do in Seoul, South Korea, making it a great destination for both families and couples.
13. Lotte World
When it comes to indoor theme parks, Lotte World stands out as one of the top places to visit in Seoul. Inspired by the Rio Samba Carnival and the Happy Christmas Party, Lotte World features daily parades and performances that are sure to entertain.
In addition to the exciting rides, the park offers an ice rink, a monorail, a folk museum, and numerous stores. To avoid weekend crowds and long wait times, consider planning your visit during the week.
Tip: Grab a map at the front desk to help navigate the various floors of this large indoor attraction. Lotte World is definitely among the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea.
14. Ewha Women’s University
In 1986, Ewha Women’s University became the first Korean university dedicated exclusively to female students. Today, the area around the university is a vibrant place to visit in Seoul, with many mom-and-pop stores offering premade clothing, shoes, and makeup at lower prices, thanks to the student population.
This neighborhood is perfect for shopping and exploring, making it one of the top things to do in Seoul, Korea.
Final Thoughts
South Korea is a stunning country that showcases the timeless beauty and serenity of its landscapes. Seoul is a must-visit destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Explore the nation like never before by discovering the top places to visit in Seoul and things to do in Seoul, Korea. Make South Korea your next vacation spot and tick this incredible experience off your list.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT THINGS TO DO IN SEOUL KOREA
Gyeongbokgung Palace Gyeongbokgung Palace was the first and largest of the royal palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. Changdeokgung Palace Changdeokgung Palace is also known as Donggwol, the Eastern Palace, because of its location to the east of Gyeongbokgung.
- Visit the Demilitarized Zone. …
- See the best of Seoul. …
- Pump up your adrenaline at Korea’s theme parks. …
- See the beauty of the Han River. …
- Embrace the Morning Calm vibe on Nami Island. …
- Check out the mountains in Seoraksan National Park.
- Korean Cinema and K-Drama. …
- Kimchi. …
- Hanbok. …
- Cherry Blossoms. …
- Korean Cosmetics. …
- Korean Technology. …
- Soju. Speaking of popular things in South Korea, it would be unfair to leave Soju out of the list. …
- Hangul. The next on the list of famous things in South Korea is Hangul.
Overall, I recommend not spending less than three days in Seoul, or else you’ll likely miss out on too much. A week is a good introduction to the city and, if you plan it right, will give you enough time to see a lot of the highlights.
Home to sleek skyscrapers and shopping malls, as well as well-preserved royal palaces and Buddhist temples, the South Korean capital is teeming with unique culture and modern comforts. Seoul has an extensive subway system, where notable landmarks are usually a few stops away from each other.
Bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) is a Korean traditional dish that’s commonly found in Seoul. It’s primarily made with mung bean flour, chopped kimchi, minced meat, bean sprouts and various seasonings. The batter is pan-fried until golden brown, and served with dipping sauce, kimchi and pickled onion.
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Seoul cost? A one week trip to Seoul usually costs around $749 (₩1,036,796) for one person and $1,497 (₩2,073,591) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
- Myeongdong Shopping Street. 10,456. Points of Interest & Landmarks Myeongdong. …
- Namdaemun Market. 2,928. Flea & Street Markets Myeongdong. …
- Myeongdong NANTA Theater. 540. …
- 3D Black Art Museum. 221. …
- Lotte Department Store Main. 666. …
- Myeong-dong Cathedral. 1,112. …
- Shinsegae Department Store Myeongdong Main. 369. …
- Sungnyemun Gate. 347.
Seoul is the principal tourist destination for visitors; popular tourist destinations outside of Seoul include the major coastal city of Busan, the Seorak-san national park, the historic city of Gyeongju and subtropical Jeju Island.
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