Seoul Travel Guide: Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions

Seoul Travel! Seoul is a city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. From towering skyscrapers to serene palaces, every corner of this vibrant city offers a new experience. Today, let’s explore the top 10 must-visit spots that will make your trip to Seoul unforgettable. Ready to discover the true beauty of this fascinating metropolis? Let’s dive in!

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1. Gyeongbokgung Palace – A Grand Display of Tradition

At the heart of Seoul stands Gyeongbokgung Palace, the most iconic royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. It’s a must-visit for history lovers, and the daily changing of the royal guards’ ceremony is a spectacular sight.

  • Tip: Wear a traditional hanbok and enjoy free admission while taking stunning photos throughout the palace grounds.
  • Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
  • Admission: 3,000 KRW for adults

2. N Seoul Tower – The Best View of Seoul

Located atop Namsan Mountain, N Seoul Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The tower is especially beautiful during sunset and at night when Seoul lights up.

  • Special Experience: Visit the “Locks of Love” area and leave a padlock with your loved one as a symbol of eternal affection.
  • Hours: 10 AM – 11 PM
  • Cable Car Fare: 14,000 KRW round trip

3. Bukchon Hanok Village – A Journey Back in Time

Bukchon Hanok Village is a serene area filled with traditional Korean hanok houses. It’s a perfect escape from the bustling city streets and offers a glimpse into Seoul’s past.

  • Photo Tip: Each alley has a unique charm, making it an excellent spot for memorable photos.
  • Tip: Visit in the early morning for a quieter, more peaceful walk.

4. Hangang Park – Nature in the Heart of the City

Hangang Park is a beloved spot for locals, offering a range of activities like cycling, picnicking, and even kayaking on the river. It’s a fantastic place to experience Seoul’s laid-back vibe.

  • Recommended Activity: Rent a bike (4,000 KRW per hour) and ride along the Han River, enjoying the breeze.
  • Evening Tip: Have a picnic with Korea’s famous “chimaek” (fried chicken and beer) while watching the sunset.
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5. Myeongdong – A Paradise for Shoppers and Food Lovers

Myeongdong is a vibrant shopping district filled with everything from skincare stores to delicious street food. The neon lights and bustling energy of this area will leave you in awe.

  • Must-Try Foods: Spicy tteokbokki (rice cakes), crispy chicken skewers, and sweet hoddeok (pancakes) are crowd favorites.
  • Shopping Tip: Many stores offer discounts and coupons for tourists, so take advantage of them!

6. Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Known for its harmonious blend with nature, Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden are simply mesmerizing. Join a guided tour to learn about its rich history.

  • Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
  • Admission: 8,000 KRW for adults (including Secret Garden)
  • Tip: Reservations for the Secret Garden are required, so book in advance.

7. Itaewon – The Hub of Global Culture

Itaewon is famous for its multicultural atmosphere, with countless international restaurants and vibrant nightlife. The trendy areas of Gyeongridan-gil and Haebangchon have recently gained popularity.

  • Must-Visit Spots: Explore the variety of global cuisines and the unique shops along the streets. Don’t miss the iconic Seoul Central Mosque.
  • Night View Tip: Head to Haebangchon for a stunning view of the city lights.

8. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) – A Glimpse Into the Future

DDP is an architectural marvel that serves as a hub for design and fashion events, including Seoul Fashion Week. At night, the LED Rose Garden illuminates the area with a magical glow.

  • Hours: Open 24 hours (exhibits may have specific hours and fees)
  • Event Tip: Check the DDP website for ongoing exhibitions and nighttime events.

9. Hongdae – The Street of Youth and Art

Hongdae is a lively district known for its artistic atmosphere and youthful energy. Street performances, unique cafes, and quirky shops make it a hotspot for creativity.

  • Unique Experience: Watch or participate in flash mob dances or explore a themed cafe for a one-of-a-kind experience.
  • Shopping Tip: Visit the vintage market to discover hidden gems and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

10. Insadong – A Cultural Street Full of Tradition

If you want to immerse yourself in Korean culture, head to Insadong. The streets are lined with traditional craft shops, tea houses, and art galleries. It’s the perfect place to buy a meaningful souvenir.

  • Special Experience: Try your hand at making pottery or enjoy a cup of traditional Korean tea at a quiet tea house.
  • Hours: Most shops are open from 10 AM to 8 PM.
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Seoul Travel Tips: Essential Information for a Seamless Trip

Exploring a city as dynamic as Seoul can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. To make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible, here are some practical tips and must-know information about getting around and making the most of your time in Korea’s vibrant capital.

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Myeongdong Tourist Information Center

Your first stop for essential travel resources should be the Myeongdong Tourist Information Center. Here, you can browse and pick up a wide array of Seoul-related guidebooks and brochures, making it easy to plan your sightseeing. Additionally, the center offers services like souvenir sales, and you can purchase the convenient Discover Seoul Pass to access top attractions at a discount.

  • Location: 1st floor of the Myeongdong KEB Hana Bank Annex, conveniently located near Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station (Subway Line 2, Exit 5 or 6)
  • Operating Hours: Open daily from 09:00 to 18:00 (Closed on Lunar New Year’s Day and Chuseok)
  • Contact Information: +82-(0)2-778-0333

Why Visit? The center is an excellent place to get personalized travel advice from multilingual staff who can answer any questions you might have. It’s also perfect for picking up free maps and finding out about the latest events in Seoul.

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Seoul City Tour Bus [Downtown-Palace Route]

One of the best ways to see Seoul’s rich history and modern highlights in a single day is to hop on the Seoul City Tour Bus, especially the Downtown-Palace Route. This service covers 22 major tourist attractions, including iconic palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, cultural landmarks, and bustling shopping districts.

  • Starting Point: In front of Gwanghwamun Donghwa Duty-Free Shop (Subway Line 5, Gwanghwamun Station, Exit 6)
  • Fares: Adults: 24,000 KRW / Children (ages 6 to high school): 15,000 KRW
  • Operating Hours:
  • Tuesday to Friday: First departure at 09:30, last departure at 16:50, with buses running every 40 minutes
  • Weekends and Public Holidays: First departure at 09:20, last departure at 16:50, with buses departing every 30 minutes
  • Contact Information: Visit www.seoulcitybus.com or www.seoulcitytourbus.co.kr for more details

Travel Tip: The tour bus is a convenient way to enjoy Seoul at a relaxed pace, especially if you’re short on time. Don’t forget to grab a seat on the top deck for the best views!

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Discover Seoul Pass

If you’re looking to explore multiple attractions while saving money, consider the Discover Seoul Pass. This handy pass grants free admission or discounted access to Seoul’s top tourist destinations for a specified period. It even functions as a transportation card and offers benefits like direct train service to the airport.

  • How to Purchase: Available through the official website, mobile app, affiliated travel agency websites, or in-person at the Myeongdong Tourist Information Center
  • Price Options:
  • 24-hour pass: 50,000 KRW
  • 48-hour pass: 70,000 KRW
  • 72-hour pass: 90,000 KRW
  • Contact Information: Visit www.discoverseoulpass.com or call +82-(0)2-1644-1060

Why Get It? The Discover Seoul Pass is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing. It covers over 30 attractions, including museums, palaces, and theme parks, making it a fantastic value if you plan to explore a lot.

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Seoul Subway

Navigating Seoul is a breeze thanks to its extensive and efficient subway system, which consists of nine color-coded lines. Each station is numbered and labeled in English, making it easy even for non-Korean speakers to use. The subway is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between attractions.

  • How to Use: Purchase single-use transport cards or get a rechargeable T-money card at vending machines located within the subway stations. Fares start at 1,400 KRW for a single-use ticket (plus a deposit of 500 KRW), with additional charges based on the distance traveled.
  • Tips:
  • Recharge your T-money card at convenience stores or subway stations for seamless travel.
  • Subway stations often have lockers available, ideal for storing luggage or shopping bags if you’re exploring multiple areas in one day.

Subway Etiquette: During peak hours, the trains can get crowded, so be prepared for a bit of a squeeze. It’s also polite to offer your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, or those with disabilities.