Living in Seoul for the better part of a year showed me that the city has something for everyone.
Yes, K-pop is everywhere, and you wouldn’t be able to skip trying out the best skin products in the world even if you wanted to, but many wouldn’t expect world-class climbing gyms, high-end PC cafes for the price of a latte, eateries more picturesque than your Pinterest board, and stunning hiking trails within earshot of the metropolis.
I’ve been to Seoul almost a dozen times. My grandparents immigrated from South Korea to Canada, and spending time there over the years has given me a unique perspective into what the country is like.
South Korea went from being one of the poorest countries in the world in the mid-1900s to being one of the richest within less than a generation. This “Miracle on the Han River” was, well, nothing short of a miracle, and this can be seen through the juxtaposition that is visible not only in the architecture but also in the fabric of society.
Whether you just want to tick off the main attractions or live like a local, read ahead for must-see spots during your time in Seoul!
Photo: Sasha Savinov
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Gangnam
Gangnam translates as ‘south of the river’ and is a district that has blown up in recent years. It was originally an area dedicated to sleepy rice fields – but you’d never believe it when visiting today!
- Check out the K-pop scene and pick up a few CDs at Evan Records.
- Shop for the latest fashion and boutique items (or just window shop) at Galleria department store.
- Eat bibimbap at Tokkijung or a famous Korean barbeque meal at Yang Good.
Where to go while backpacking Seoul South Korea in a HUGE city of 10 million that sits on the Han River? Let’s talk about it!
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
At a glance
- Known for: The Most Popular Palace in Seoul
- Cost: Adults: 3,000 KRW; Children: 1,500 KRW
- Best for: Everyone
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Half Day to Full Day
Photo: whyyan (Flickr)
If you’re only going to include one palace on your Seoul itinerary, the Gyeongbokgung Palace is THE one to see. This is evident by all the tourists that flood the gates, so be sure to visit early and on an off-peak-day to avoid crowds. I’ve been here so many times as a kid, and pretty much everyone I know who’s visited Korea has gone here to take photos.
- Built in 1935, it served as the main royal palace of the reigning Joseon family, considered one of if not the most important families in the history of Korea.
- The palace was destroyed in the early 20th century by Japan; however, it was restored and remains one of the most beautiful in the world.
- Rent a hanbok, a traditional Korean dress, and enter the palace for free!
- Be there between 10am and 4pm to see the changing of the guard, or a special performance, at every turn of the hour (except Tuesday).
2. Bukchon Hanok Village
Photo: Quinn Cho
At a glance
- Known for: Picturesque Views
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Photography, History
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Half Day to Full Day
Visiting the Bukchon Hanok Village is such a unique experience. Smack dab in the middle of the city centre lies a historic area full of Hanoks, traditional Korean houses, with locals still living in them.
While it is a popular tourist destination, be sure to be respectful since residents do actively live there.
- Hanoks are from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910)
- The aesthetic design of Hanoks evoke a sense of calming and peace. If you’re lucky enough, you may be able to find one to spend the night!
- If you don’t mind some tourists and people stopping in the middle of streets for photos, this is an easy-to-get-to place worth spending a few hours at.
- Be sure to get there as early as you can (sunrise) to avoid most of the crowds.
3. Seongsudong
At a glance
- Known for: The Brooklyn of Seoul
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Shopping and Cafés
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Half Day or Full Day
Photo: Quinn Cho
Seongsudong wasn’t a popular area when I spent time in Seoul as a kid, but it’s been getting more attention over the years often being referred to as “like Brooklyn but in Seoul”.
I didn’t really get it at first, but then you start to see all the abandoned warehouse-type buildings being converted into super cool cafes or hosting the latest pop-up from the hottest fashion or cosmetic brand.
- Spend a full day here to avoid feeling rushed. There are so many pop ups and you’ll end up waiting in lines so a few hours probably won’t be enough if you plan on seeing everything
- Start your day with a coffee at literally any café in the area
4. Myeongdong
At a glance
- Known for: Shopping and K-Beauty
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Shopaholics and K-Beauty lovers
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Half Day to Full Day
Photo: Quinn Cho
If you’re looking for a one-stop shop to find all the K-Beauty products you could ever want AND clothes from all the biggest brands, look no further than Myeongdong.
And if you end up shopping longer than you expected, stick around for the food stalls that come out at night. I used to beg my parents to go there all the time as a kid because you can hit multiple stalls without breaking the bank.
- If you’re a K-Beauty lover, be sure to keep an eye out for the free samples!
- Be sure to bring cash for the food stalls.
- A great place to pick up gifts for friends and family back home.
5. Lotte World
At a glance
- Known for: The World’s Largest Indoor Theme Park
- Cost: Adults: 67,000 KRW; Children: 50,000 KRW
- Best for: Those seeking a family-friendly day of fun
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Full Day
I went to Lotte World back in the day, and one of my biggest memories is leaving my cotton candy with my uncle before the rollercoaster and coming back to an empty cone… whoops! But seriously, I had so much fun here as a kid.
This park is absolutely massive; it’s both an indoor and an outdoor amusement park, but it doesn’t stop there–there’s a hotel, an aquarium, high-end shopping, a water park, an ice rink, and tons of food options.
- Download the Lotte World App to see if Magic Passes are available which allow you to skip lines for popular rides
- Visit the nearby Lotte World Tower (sixth-tallest building in the world)
- Plan to spend a whole day there
- Buy your tickets before you go to avoid waiting in line.
- Avoid public holidays, weekends, and school holidays.
- Make sure you try the Desperados game, the Dragons Wild Shooting game, and the Comet Express rollercoaster for maximum fun and thrills! It’s easily a must-visit in Seoul if only to feel like a kid again. Buy your tickets before you go, so you won’t end up waiting in line.
6. N Seoul Tower
At a glance
- Known for: Sweeping Views of Seoul
- Cost: Free (Paid Options)
- Best for: A Romantic Stroll
- How to get there: Bus or Taxi
- How long you need: Half Day
N Seoul Tower, otherwise known as Namsan Tower, is an iconic part of Seoul’s skyline and a must-see while backpacking South Korea.
K-Drama fans may know this spot from its numerous appearances throughout shows, but even if you’ve never seen a single K-Drama, it’s still worth the visit. I distinctly remember getting a caricature drawing of myself when I was here. The views from the top are unreal at sunset.
- Fun fact: the tower changes colour depending on the current air quality.
- Another fun fact: the tower’s primary purpose is a communication and observation tower
- A great place for romantic dates (Locks of Love Terrace).
- You can pay to go to the very top, but the view from the terrace is already great.
- You can take a cable car or shuttle bus to reach the public viewing area, but it also makes a nice moderate stroll for those up for the challenge.
7. The Yun Dong-ju Literature Museum
At a glance
- Known for: History About Korea’s Independence Movement
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Literature and Poetry Lovers
- How to get there: Bus or Taxi
- How long you need: A couple hours
Photo: Republic of Korea (Flickr)
Yun Dong Ju was a beloved poet known for his dedication to the Korean Independence Movement against the Empire of Japan.
The museum focuses on his personal life and first editions of his poems. The space itself is extremely beautiful as well. Be sure to check out views of N Seoul Tower while you’re there!
8. The Jeoldusan Martyr’s Shrine
At a glance
- Known for: An Important Historical Site
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Understanding Korea’s History
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: A couple hours
Photo: Matthew smith 254 (WikiCommons)
A beautiful shrine with some dark history, the Jeoldulsan Martyr’s Shrine covers the Byeonin Persecution of 1866.
The Catholic shrine on the Han River marks the time when French missionaries were martyred, leading to an attempt from the French to invade Korea. It’s an important part of Korean history; however, it may not be for everyone.
9. The Seoul Museum of Art
At a glance
- Known for: Contemporary Korean Art
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Art & Culture
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: A couple hours
For something a bit less touristy, you should check out the Seoul Museum of Art. Exploring a country’s artwork can give you a deeper understanding of common societal themes and forms of expression.
Expect modern art in a minimal gallery setting with artwork that features traditionally-influenced modern work.
This museum plays host to a range of special exhibitions that (like the country itself) can be expensive, but the permanent display is totally free. It highlights the career of the Korean artist Chun Kyung-Ja, who was influenced by African culture and art and is worth the trip to the museum alone.
10. The Cheongun Literature Library
At a glance
- Known for: The Most Aesthetic Library in Seoul
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Reading, Aesthetic Vibes
- How to get there: Bus
- How long you need: A couple hours
Photo: Republic of Korea (Flickr)
The physical book collection itself may not be the most impressive, but that’s not why you come here. The space itself is incredibly beautiful and will make you want to slow down and read your favourite book here for hours.
- The entire library is housed inside traditional Korean homes, Hanoks!
- Spacious reading rooms on the second floor with plenty of sunlight.
11. Everland
At a glance
- Known for: Largest Outdoor Theme Park in South Korea
- Cost: Adults/Teenagers: 52,000-68,000 KRW; Children/Elderly: 42,000 KRW-58,000 KRW
- Best for: A Full Day of Group Fun
- How to get there: Bus or Taxi
- How long you need: Full Day
Seoul loves to break world records, and Everland is no different. It boasts the world’s steepest wooden roller coaster and South Korea’s only safari, so expect some surprises.
Everland is a ways out from Seoul, so plan to take a taxi together with your friends and or family for the easiest transit there.
Do keep in mind that this is more of a Western-style theme park compared to Lotte World, so if you’re looking for something “uniquely Seoul”, consider skipping this.
12. The NANTA Theater
At a glance
- Known for: Non-Verbal Comedy Cooking Show
- Cost: 50,000 KRW
- Best for: Entertainment
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: A couple hours
Photo: THE NANTA
I absolutely loved this show on one of my early Seoul visits.
I vividly remember watching this show in Myeongdong after getting some street food. Not only was it entertaining, but the chef’s skills were seriously impressive.
- All age groups will enjoy the most popular theatre performance in the city.
- Something different to do in Seoul–a unique experience you never would’ve imagined. Maybe one of your Seoul hostel mates would be down to join?
- The show runs for 90 minutes.
- Locations in Myeongdong and Hongdae
13. The Seoul Alive Illusion Museum
At a glance
- Known for: Optical Illusion Photo Ops
- Cost: Adults: 12,000 KRW; Children: 10,000 KRW
- Best for: Entertainment with Your Friends
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: A few hours
I remember going here when I was younger and seeing some pretty whacky things… maybe even some things I shouldn’t have seen at that age haha!
- The Trick Eye Museum is a perfect place if you want to mix things up and do something interactive. If you go, be sure to grab your friends and your phone to grab some quirky pics.
- Skip this if you’re looking for a cultural experience.
- Looking back at your photos is where the optical illusions really stand out.
14. Tosokchon
At a glance
- Known for: Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup)
- Cost: 20,000-30,000 KRW per bowl
- Best for: An authentic, delicious meal
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: A couple hours
Coming to Seoul in the summer months during my elementary years, we would often try to hunt down the best samgyetang in the city. It’s a tradition to consume this hot soup during the hottest time of the year. You really have to try this Korean dish to know what all the craze is about.
- Get there early to try and avoid long lines
- One of the most famous dishes in the city (a must try)
- Beautiful hanok-style interior
15. The Cheonggyecheon Stream
At a glance
- Known for: A Peaceful Stream in the Middle of the City
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Slow Strolls
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: A couple hours
Photo: Quinn Cho
Despite all the bustle of traffic in the city, you can find a quiet little haven along the Cheonggyecheon Stream in Seoul. What started as an urban restoration project has turned into one of my favourite places in Seoul when I feel like I have no escape from the endless skyscrapers and people everywhere.
- Walking paths, bridges, art installations.
- A cool place during the hot summer days.
- Take this slow–a perfect place for reflective moments.
- Hear the rush of the stream and dip your feet in the cool water
16. Bukhansan National Park
At a glance
- Known for: Beautiful Nature in Seoul
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Nature and Hiking
- How to get there: Bus or Taxi
- How long you need: Half Day or Full Day
Photo: Quinn Cho
This was one of my favourite places while living in Seoul. As someone who’s spent their whole life living in cities with extremely accessible nature, I thought that I’d have to give that up coming to Seoul. Sure, you can see the peaks from the city, but I never knew about Bukhansan National Park as a kid.
- Beautiful nature and impressive hiking an hour away from the city.
- Depending on which part of the park you aim to visit, getting there can be a bit tricky. I recommend taking a taxi if possible for the easiest and fastest transport.
- You can often see temples and fortresses in the park!
17. Gwangjang Market
At a glance
- Known for: Authentic Korean Street Food
- Cost: 10,000-20,000 KRW
- Best for: Delicious, Local Food
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: A couple hours
Photo: Quinn Cho
I came here more times than I’d like to admit while living in Seoul. I lived nearby, and a friend I made while there happened to as well, so we often would walk over to the Gwangjang Market to get good street food and some dessert.
It can be loud and chaotic, but it’s the real deal. My favourite was the handmade noodle soup where they cut the noodles right in front of you!
- Bring cash.
- It can get quite busy and hard to find a seat at times! Expect to sit elbow to elbow with locals.
- You can find traditional market stalls here, but also restaurants and linen shops as well!
- Open from 9am to 10pm
- Don’t forget to try a famous mung bean pancake (bindaetteok)!
18. Hongdae
At a glance
- Known for: Nightlife and Shopping
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Young, Trendy Crowd
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Half Day or Full Night
Photo: Quinn Cho
Spend enough time in Hongdae and you’ll learn about the memes, but it’s a great place for shopping and nightlife. I was taking a morning class in the neighbourhood directly next to Hongdae, so I spent a lot of time here in my afternoons. If you’re young and want to go clubbing until the sun rises, this is the place to be.
- Free street performances.
- A great place to hang out if you’re a student in Seoul.
- Lots of hostels here if you’re looking for a place to stay.
19. Ikseon-dong Hanok Village
At a glance
- Known for: Trendy Spots in a Traditional Environment
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Aesthetic Cafes and Pics
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Half Day
Photo: Quinn Cho
If you’re looking for something to do for a day with a little bit of everything, check out Ikseon-dong. A lesser-known neighbourhood, there are amazing cafes, restaurants, and activities to do for everyone.
Walking through here feels like taking a step back in time as all the stores and eateries are inside beautiful Hanoks, but if you look up, you’ll also see modern skyscrapers surrounding you, which offers an interesting experience.
Picture-worthy cafes, authentic restaurants, and a plethora of small boutiques for finding souvenirs and gifts.
- Come here without a plan and wander for the day.
- Get some famous salt bread while you’re here!
- Some of the shops can feel a bit fake and glammed-up for Instagram.
20. Insa-dong
At a glance
- Known for: Traditional Crafts and Souvenirs
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Culture and Light Shopping
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Half Day
Photo: Quinn Cho
If you want to get a better taste of culture and crafts in Seoul, then Insa-dong is a great place to spend a day. I would always come here with my family because I loved all the little crafts that I could take home, like bookmarks, collectibles, and artwork.
You’ll be able to find all the souvenirs you would ever need here, and there are around 100 galleries to explore.
- Go on Sunday for a more walkable experience and to see traditional performances and exhibits.
- Check out Hanboks, traditional teas, and folk crafts.
- Super cool calligraphy shops if you’re into custom stamps and writing tools.
21. Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park
At a glance
- Known for: An Unusual, Slightly Haunted Stop
- Cost: 10,000 KRW
- Best for: Something a little unexpected!
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Half Day
If you’ve ever wanted to explore a theme park without actually taking any of the rides, then this is the place for you. It’s something a little less typical than your average experience in Seoul, but it offers a unique day for those who love urban exploration and slightly creepy places.
- Visit during the night to try and see the merry-go-round turned on.
- Grab photos in locations where popular Korean Dramas and Music Videos were filmed!
22. Seodaemun Prison
At a glance
- Known for: Japanese Occupation History
- Cost: Adults: 3,000 KRW; Children: 1,000 KRW
- Best for: History and Culture
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: A few hours
This probably won’t be the most fun stop on your trip, but it’s an important one nonetheless. Japanese occupation of Korea is an important part of the country’s history, and seeing the prison that held rebels itself allows you to see what happened to those who resisted Japan’s occupation.
- Might be dark for some, but offers a glance into Korea’s real past.
- Quiet and heavy, but important and memorable
23. Coffee Hanyakbang
At a glance
- Known for: An Old-School, Delicious Café
- Cost: 4,500 KRW
- Best for: Chill, aesthetic morning coffee
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: An hour
I love coffee, and so do most people in South Korea. You’ll never have a hard time finding a café on any street, but this is a lesser-known must. Decorated with a mix of Korean and Chinese style and very much rustic, you can find delicious, hand-drip coffee here at a good price.
- Hidden down a narrow, unmarked alleyway, this shop feels like an experience in itself just getting there.
- Come here in the morning to smell the rich, raw smell of fresh coffee as the owners roast the beans by hand and grind them on site.
24. The Korean War Memorial
At a glance
- Known for: History on the Korean War
- Cost: Free
- Best for: History and Museum Lovers
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Half Day
You probably already know that South Korea has a neighbour to its north, North Korea. But you may not know what caused Korea to separate into two less than a generation ago.
Something I learnt while there was that the two countries are still technically at war. Having Korean ancestry, this museum felt special to me to learn more about where my ancestors came from.
- Covers the Korean War along with other military history as well
- Huge, outdoor and indoor displays
- Interactive exhibits
- Come to learn more about why South Korean society is the way it is today.
25. Jogyesa Korean Buddhist Temple
At a glance
- Known for: A temple still in use in the heart of Seoul
- Cost: Free
- Best for:
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: An hour
Oftentimes learning more about a country’s religious background is a great way to gain a broader understanding of the culture. While I was in South Korea, I participated in a temple stay in the South of the peninsula, which I highly recommend if you get the chance.
Otherwise, amidst Seoul’s many skyscrapers, you can visit a temple where foreigners and locals go to practice Korean Buddhism.
- Great for people watching and slowing down.
- The trees surrounding the temple are apparently over 500 years old!
26. Suwon’s Hwaseong Fortress
At a glance
- Known for: a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Cost: 1,500 KRW
- Best for: Awesome day trip
- How to get there: Subway or Train
- How long you need: Half Day or Full Day
Walking along the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress is a fascinating experience and a great reason to get out of Seoul for a day. You can take the regular subway to get there but I’d recommend taking a faster, direct train from Seoul Station which will take you around 30 minutes rather than over an hour.
- Easy day trip from Seoul
- Book your train tickets on the KORAIL website or in-person at Seoul Station
- Walk along the walls and enjoy great views
27. Seoul’s Children’s Park
At a glance
- Known for: A park with lots to do in the city
- Cost: Free
- Best for: A casual, spontaneous day
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: half day / day trip / 2-3 nights (from Seoul)
Despite being called a Children’s Park, this isn’t just for children. If you need a little escape from the city and want to enjoy some greenery, look no further than Seoul’s Children Grand Park. There are attractions such as a zoo and an amusement park inside, but even just taking a stroll through the park itself is nice.
- Great for families, as well as solo time.
28. A Lotte Mart
At a glance
- Known for: Korean snacks
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Food and souvenirs
- How to get there: Subway or Bus
- How long you need: A couple hours
Photo: watchsmart (Flickr)
I know what you may be thinking, “Why is there a grocery store on this list?”. Okay hear me out–this may be one of the coolest grocery stores you ever step foot in. Not only are Lotte Marts iconic, you can get free samples and find snacks that your friends back home will be begging you to fill your suitcase with.
29. The Jongmyo Shrine
At a glance
- Known for: UNESCO Heritage Site
- Cost: 1,000 KRW
- Best for: History and traditions
- How to get there: Subway or Bus
- How long you need: A few hours
I visited the Jongmyo Shrine during winter with a friend, and the fresh snowfall made for such a cool experience. Don’t get me wrong, it was absolutely freezing outside, but that only added to the experience, and we raced from Hanok to Hanok to stay warm.
- Join a guided tour
- Go on Saturday if you want to explore by yourself
- Closed on Tuesdays
30. National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
At a glance
- Known for: one defining trait
- Cost: 4,000 KRW (can gain free entry during certain times)
- Best for: Korean Art and Culture
- How to get there: Subway or Bus
- How long you need: Half Day
I’m a huge art-lover–I studied it and practiced all forms throughout my schooling years, but I’d still recommend this for everyone. Depending on when you go, the current exhibition will be different, but there were tons of interactive pieces when I went, like VR experiences and live, multiplayer sessions.
- Built on the principles of madang, which encourages everyone to socialize by promoting the use of a large courtyard for doing so.
- Don’t rush your time here. It’s a big space.
- Visitors under 24 or over 65 can enter for free.
- Go on the last Wednesday of the month for free entry.
31. Seocheon
At a glance
- Known for: Local Hanok Neighbourhood
- Cost: Free
- Best for: A slow day of exploring
- How to get there: Subway or Bus
- How long you need: Half Day
For local eats where you probably won’t even know what you ordered until it’s in your mouth, head to Seocheon. Less tourists come here so it’s a good break from the usual tourist hot spots where you can find delicious local food for a good price.
Less touristy than Bukchon Hanok Village
Look for spots where you can see mostly locals inside.
Use pictures as references since translating the menu might not be that useful–or just take a chance and surprise yourself!
32. Dongdaemun
At a glance
- Known for: Late Night Shopping
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Fashion and Night Activities
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Half Day or Full Day
Dongdaemun is a super chic neighbourhood in Seoul with more shopping options than you can imagine. Whether you’re looking for high-end Western brands or you want to haggle with cash at local stalls, there’s something for everyone.
- Bring cash if you plan on trying to get bargain finds
- Come at night for the best experience
33. Dongdaemun Design Plaza
At a glance
- Known for: Eccentric Design
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Architecture and Photography
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: A couple hours
When I first saw the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, commonly referred to as the DDP. But then when I found out it was designed by Zaha Hadid, a famous architect (I had an architecture phase in my childhood), I became more interested.
The building looks so weird and cool at the same time, and if you look at it long enough, you realize that the building doesn’t have any edges.
- If you happen to be in Seoul during Fashion Week, head here. You’ll see tons of models and may even get scouted!
- Lots of people come here to take photos for Instagram, so if that’s not you thing, feel free to explore the surrounding area.
34. Mapo-Gu
At a glance
- Known for: Where students and creatives spend their time
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Cafes and Nightlife
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Half Day
You’ll like Mapo-Gu if you want to spend a day doing a lot of random things. Many students spend time here due to universities like Yonsei, Ewha, Hongik, and Sogang being in the area, so naturally, there are tons of things to do.
Photo: Quinn Cho
Whether you want to explore parks, eat at a traditional market, or try to find the most aesthetic café, you won’t run out of stuff to do.
- Check out Haneul Park for scenic views with incredible sunset views (but make sure you’re up for some solid exercise!)
- Grab something to eat at Mangwon Market before you end the day
- Walk the streets and feel the energy that makes Seoul one of the largest cities in the world.
35. Nami Island
At a glance
- Known for: Scenic, tree-lined paths
- Cost: 19,000 KRW
- Best for: Peaceful, romantic vibes with incredible scenery
- How to get there: Shuttle Bus or Train
- How long you need: half day/1 day trip / 2-3 nights (from Seoul)
Nami Island became a popular tourist spot after it first appeared in K-Dramas, but it’s still a cool day trip for anyone.
Going during the Fall months is the best because the trees turn beautiful shades of yellow and orange, but it’s gotten busier over the years, so be aware of that. This can be a really romantic spot to visit if you’re a couple.
- You can take a ferry to the island, or even hop on a zipline!
- A perfect day-trip located 2 hours from Seoul.
- Amazing photo opportunities
- Often combined with Alpaca World and the Rail Bike in Tour Packages
36. Eunpyeong Hanok Village
At a glance
- Known for: Hanok village set afoot Bukhansan
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Photos, less touristy exploring
- How to get there: Bus or Taxi
- How long you need: Half Day
Eunpyeong Hanok Village is a bit further out of the city compared to its Bukchon counterpart, but the trek is worth the much quieter scenery. The village is set in front of Bukhansan National Park, so it makes for some seriously epic views and photos.
- Spend an hour in a café admiring the views of Bukhansan.
- I vividly remember waiting at a bus stop with a friend and freezing in the late hours, so I’d recommend taking a taxi with your friends.
37. National Museum of Korea
At a glance
- Known for: Korea’s Largest Museum
- Cost: Free
- Best for: History and Culture
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Full Day
To truly learn about Korea’s history, I decided to visit the National Museum. It was way bigger than I expected, so plan to spend anywhere from a half-day to a full-day here depending on how you like to spend your time in museums. There was barely anyone there when I went, so it was nice to just spend a day roaming the halls by myself and soaking it all in.
- Extensive coverage of Korea’s history that you won’t find elsewhere
- Tons of beautiful artifacts to look at.
- A luxurious, spacious layout with an outdoor area as well.
38. Itaewon
At a glance
- Known for: The Expat Neighbourhood of Seoul
- Cost: Free
- Best for: International Eats
- How to get there: Subway
- How long you need: Half Day or Full Day
I’m someone who lovess to enjoy the local food of wherever I end up, but I can also get sick of eating the same thing every day quite quickly.
Luckily, Seoul’s Itaewon has some of the best Thai food, Mexican food, New York pizza, and Texan Barbeque that I’ve ever had–and I’ve been to all those places. If you can dream it, you’ll find it here.
- Prices are a bit on the higher side due to food options focusing on international bites
- Itaewon also has great nightlife here, though the crowd can be a bit older than Hongdae
What Actually Helped Me in Seoul
Living in Seoul taught me that the city loves efficiency, and that it makes your life a whole lot easier when you plan efficiently as well.
You should plan on buying a Climate Card or a T-money Card at a convenience store, as that will be your best friend while you’re in Seoul. You can buy 1-7 day passes or a 30-day pass with a Climate Card, which gives you unlimited travel and flexibility within that time period in Seoul.
But if you think you may be walking a lot more or splitting taxis with friends, then you should buy a T-money card, which only deducts money when you use it on the subway. It can also be used to buy things at convenience stores, so don’t worry about loading too much money onto it.
Photo: Quinn Cho
Since a lot of attractions in the city are very photogenic, always plan to go early or just expect that you may have to wait in lines or wait around for a better view.
While Seoul is becoming a very international city, much of the population isn’t comfortable speaking English. If you plan on spending many weeks in Seoul, you may find it useful to learn some basic phrases and how to read Hangeul, the Korean Language. It’s a phonetic language, so it’s actually easy to read once you learn the characters.
Use Naver Maps or Kakao Maps to navigate your way around the city. Google Maps and Apple Maps won’t be much help while in South Korea. This is another reason why learning some Korean will be useful, as the apps cater towards native citizens.
Get insured for your trip to Seoul!
When you’re travelling to Seoul, having good travel insurance is an absolute essential BEFORE you set off.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
The Seoul I Fell in Love With
Seoul may be a city that never sleeps with nightlife that rivals the likes of New York City and Berlin, but for me, it’s the random markets with food worth dying for and the rich and unique culture emanating throughout the multigenerational society that keeps me coming back.
South Koreans are very proud, and rightfully so, as they had to defend their country against surrounding nations throughout history. This can be seen through the respectful etiquette that everyone shows and the pride they have in their craft.
Whether it’s for a week or for a year, Seoul is a place that I recommend everyone has on their bucket list. You’ll truly never run out of stuff to do, and if you spend the time to slow down while travelling through the city, you’ll notice why it is as unique as it is.
Be sure to use this guide to get the full experience that Seoul has to offer. But be warned, eat too much food and you may end up being tempted to move here as many foreigners continue to do.
- Devise your ultimate itinerary for Seoul with our in-depth guide.
- Check out our Seoul hostel guide for a vibing place to stay.
- If you’re feeling like splurging, check these epic Airbnbs in Seoul.
- Our ultimate Backpacking in South Korea guide is an essential read before you travel.
- Don’t forget the essentials with our in-depth backpacking packing list.
- Plan an entire Southeast Asia backpacking adventure with our mega-guide!
Photo: @themanwiththetinyguitar
Nice list. I am going next week there and this abandoned theme park look like something I will visit
Thanks for the info. Suggestions like “Mapo-Gu” are a bit ridiculous, if you pull it up on google maps that region could take a week or more of 6 hour days walking. I doubt anywhere but a small part of it is of interest, but where? Who knows. Same seems to be the case for Socheon which I don’t know how to pull up. We need like a center point or at least main strip indication please.
Hi Justin. It’s 33 minutes by bus to Mapo-Gu although I suppose you can walk there if you want. We have included this area for it’s general vibe and invite our readers to explore it on their own terms.
Hmm. Sorry what I mean is Mapo-Gu (in English Mapo District) is nearly half the size of Manhattan. Do you get what I mean when I say it wouldn’t make sense to tell someone “you can walk to Manhattan if you want, but once you are there you can experience the vibe and find everything?”
I also explored these fabulous attractions during my last tour and came back with an awesome experience.