best things to do in seoul

Introduction : 25 Best Things to Do in Seoul | A Local’s Guide to South Korea’s Vibrant Capital

Hey there, fellow travelers! So you’re thinking about hitting up Seoul? Well, you’re in for a treat! As someone who’s spent countless weekends getting lost in this incredible metropolis, I can tell you there’s way more to this city than just K-pop and kimchi (though those are pretty awesome too!).

Seoul is this wild mix of ultra-modern skyscrapers standing shoulder-to-shoulder with centuries-old palaces and temples. It’s a place where you can shop in futuristic malls in the morning and meditate with Buddhist monks by afternoon. Ever wondered what makes this city so special that visitors keep coming back? Let me break it down for you with these 25 amazing things to do in Seoul.

1. Get Your Royal Fix at Gyeongbokgung Palace

Let’s kick things off with the OG of Korean palaces! Gyeongbokgung is the largest and arguably the most beautiful palace in Seoul. Built in 1395, this place has survived invasions, fires, and centuries of history. The changing of the guard ceremony is something you absolutely shouldn’t miss – those colorful traditional uniforms are Instagram gold!

Pro tip: Go early on a weekday to avoid the crowds, and if you show up wearing a hanbok (traditional Korean clothing), you get in for free! How cool is that? You’ll see tons of visitors dressed in rentals, which makes for a pretty magical atmosphere. I once spent an entire afternoon just sitting in the courtyard, watching the clouds drift over those curved rooftops. Pure bliss, I tell ya.

2. Wander Through Bukchon Hanok Village

Just a stone’s throw from Gyeongbokgung is Bukchon Hanok Village, where you can see what Seoul looked like hundreds of years ago. These traditional Korean houses (hanoks) have been preserved in their original glory, with those distinctive tiled roofs and wooden doors.

The narrow alleyways are perfect for aimless wandering, but remember that people actually live here! I’ve noticed some visitors can get a bit too excited and forget that. Be respectful, keep your voice down, and you’ll have a much more authentic experience. Oh, and the hilltop views of the city? Absolutely worth the climb. My calves were screaming, but my camera roll was thanking me! 🙂

3. Shop Till You Drop in Myeongdong

If retail therapy is your jam, Myeongdong will feel like heaven. This shopping district is K-beauty central – think sheet masks for days and skincare products you never knew you needed. The streets are lined with everything from luxury brands to street vendors selling the most random (but useful!) gadgets.

IMO, the real highlight here is the street food. Those tornado potatoes? Life-changing. And don’t even get me started on the cheese-filled hotteok (sweet pancakes). I usually limit myself to one shopping spree in Myeongdong per trip because my wallet can’t handle more than that!

4. Experience Serenity at Jogyesa Temple

Need a breather from the urban chaos? Jogyesa Temple is your sanctuary. As the headquarters of Korean Buddhism, this place has a special vibe that hits you the moment you walk in. The temple complex is surprisingly peaceful despite being in the heart of the city.

My favorite time to visit is during Buddha’s Birthday in May when the whole place is decorated with thousands of colorful lanterns. Ever seen a thousand lanterns swaying in the evening breeze? It’s pretty magical, trust me. Even if you’re not religious, the architecture and gardens here offer a moment of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere in this bustling metropolis.

5. Get a Bird’s-Eye View from N Seoul Tower

Also called Namsan Tower, this is Seoul’s answer to the Eiffel Tower. The observatory deck gives you 360-degree views of the sprawling city, and on clear days, you can see for miles. The tower itself is cool, but the real fun is getting there – you can hike up Namsan Mountain or take a cable car if you’re not feeling the exercise (no judgment here!).

The love locks area at the base of the tower is super popular. Thousands of colorful locks left by couples are attached to the railings. Cheesy? Maybe a little. Instagram-worthy? Absolutely. I’ve never added a lock myself, but I always spend a few minutes reading the messages people write – some are so sweet they’ll give you cavities!

6. Dive into History at the War Memorial of Korea

This might sound like a downer, but stick with me. The War Memorial is actually one of the most fascinating museums in Seoul. It tells the story of the Korean War and other conflicts through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and even aircraft and tanks displayed outside.

The place is huge, so don’t try to see everything in one go. I usually spend about 3 hours here and still feel like I’ve only scratched the surface. It gives you crucial context for understanding modern Korea, and honestly, some of the personal stories displayed will stay with you long after you leave.

7. Cruise Down the Han River

The Han River is Seoul’s lifeline, and the parks along its banks are where locals go to escape the concrete jungle. Rent a bike, join a cruise, or just grab some fried chicken and beer (a Korean staple!) for a riverside picnic.

During summer evenings, the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show turns the river into a spectacle of water and light. I once took a night cruise during this show, and watching the city lights reflect off the water while cruising under illuminated bridges? Chef’s kiss Perfect date night activity, just saying!

8. Explore the Hipster Haven of Hongdae

If you’re looking for Seoul’s creative pulse, head to Hongdae. This university area is buzzing with energy, street performers, indie shops, and some of the most creative cafés you’ll ever see. Want to play with raccoons while drinking coffee? There’s a café for that. Looking for a place where the servers act like they’re in a K-drama? Yep, that exists too.

The nightlife here is legendary, with everything from jazz bars to EDM clubs. I’ve had some of my best Seoul nights in Hongdae, dancing until dawn and then stumbling to a 24-hour Korean barbecue joint. No regrets!

9. Time-Travel at Changdeokgung Palace and Its Secret Garden

Another palace? Yes, but this one’s different, I promise! Changdeokgung is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the stunning Huwon (Secret Garden). Unlike the more formal Gyeongbokgung, this palace was built to blend with the natural topography, creating a harmonious relationship between the structures and landscape.

The Secret Garden tour is by reservation only, and it’s absolutely worth planning ahead for. Walking through these 78 acres of carefully preserved forest feels like stepping into another century. I visited during fall once when the maple leaves were turning red and gold – it was so beautiful I actually teared up a little. (Don’t tell anyone!)

10. Get Your Art Fix at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA)

Seoul’s art scene is seriously underrated, and the MMCA is the perfect place to discover why. With four branches across the city, the main one in Samcheong-dong is my favorite. The exhibitions rotate regularly, featuring both Korean and international artists.

Even if you’re not usually a museum person, the building itself is an architectural marvel worth checking out. Plus, the museum café has some of the best views in the city. I like to grab an iced Americano there and pretend I understand all the art I just saw. 🙂

11. Taste Traditional Korea at Gwangjang Market

Forget fancy restaurants – for authentic Korean flavors, head straight to Gwangjang Market. This is one of Seoul’s oldest traditional markets and a street food paradise. The bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap (seaweed rice rolls) here are legendary.

The market is always crowded, noisy, and slightly overwhelming, but that’s part of the charm! Squeeze yourself onto a bench at one of the food stalls, point at what looks good, and prepare for a flavor explosion. Pro tip: the ajummas (older Korean ladies) running these stalls don’t mess around – if they tell you something’s good, believe them!

12. Experience K-Pop Culture in Gangnam

Yes, that Gangnam – the one from Psy’s infamous “Gangnam Style.” This upscale district is Seoul’s Beverly Hills, complete with luxury boutiques, plastic surgery clinics, and sleek office buildings. But it’s also home to major K-pop entertainment companies.

For fans, walking past HYBE or SM Entertainment buildings is like a pilgrimage. You might even spot trainees or idols if you’re lucky! Even if you’re not into K-pop, Gangnam is worth visiting for its cutting-edge architecture and high-end cafés. The whole area just screams “future,” ya know?

13. Find Peace at Bongeunsa Temple

Right in the middle of Gangnam’s glitz is Bongeunsa Temple, a 1,200-year-old Buddhist sanctuary. The contrast between the ancient temple and the modern COEX Mall across the street perfectly encapsulates Seoul’s dual nature.

They offer temple stay programs where you can experience monastic life for a day or two. I haven’t been brave enough to try the 4:30 AM meditation sessions yet, but friends who have done it say it’s life-changing. Maybe next time I’ll muster up the courage!

14. Party All Night in Itaewon

Itaewon is Seoul’s international district and home to the city’s most diverse nightlife. The main strip is packed with bars, clubs, and restaurants serving food from all over the world. If you’re missing flavors from home or looking to dance until sunrise, this is your spot.

The area has gentrified a lot in recent years, with hip cocktail bars and concept stores popping up alongside the longtime establishments. It’s gotten a bit pricey, TBH, but the people-watching alone is worth the price of a drink or two.

15. Get Crafty in Insadong

Insadong is Korean traditional culture central. The main street, Insadong-gil, is lined with galleries, tea houses, and shops selling traditional crafts. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs that aren’t your typical tourist trap junk.

Make sure to explore the small alleys branching off the main street – that’s where the real treasures are hidden. I found a tiny workshop where an elderly artisan makes hanji (traditional paper) products. Watching him work was like seeing living history, and yes, I spent way too much money there. #NoRegrets

16. Chill at Cheonggyecheon Stream

This urban renewal project transformed a covered-up stream into a 7-mile-long public recreation space running through downtown Seoul. Walking along the water level, several meters below the busy streets, offers a surprising urban oasis.

During festivals, the stream is decorated with lanterns or light installations. Even on regular days, it’s filled with couples strolling hand-in-hand, office workers eating lunch, and street musicians. I sometimes bring a book and sit by the water for hours, watching the city life unfold around me.

17. Feast on Korean BBQ in Sinchon

Korean barbecue is an experience, not just a meal, and Sinchon has some of the best joints in the city. Gather around a table with a built-in grill, order platters of marinated meat, and cook it yourself while chatting and drinking.

The real magic happens when you wrap the grilled meat in lettuce leaves with garlic, kimchi, and ssamjang (spicy dipping sauce). It’s messy, interactive dining at its best! Fair warning though – you’ll smell like barbecue afterward. Small price to pay for flavor heaven, right?

18. Take a Day Trip to the DMZ

The Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea is probably the tensest border in the world, and you can visit it on a guided tour from Seoul. It’s a sobering experience that offers insight into Korea’s divided history.

You can peer into North Korea from the Dora Observatory, walk through the Third Infiltration Tunnel, and even set foot in the Joint Security Area (depending on current political conditions). It’s not your typical tourist experience, but it’s definitely powerful and educational.

19. Shop for Vinyl in Euljiro

Euljiro has become Seoul’s hipster central in recent years. Once just an industrial area full of printing shops and hardware stores, it’s now dotted with independent cafés, vinyl shops, and small bars hidden between the workshops.

The contrast between old and new makes this area fascinating to explore. During the day, you can watch craftsmen working with metal and wood; at night, the same alleys transform into trendy hangout spots. Have you ever had a craft cocktail in what looks like an abandoned warehouse? In Euljiro, that’s just a regular Tuesday night.

20. Visit a Themed Café

Seoul is the undisputed king of themed cafés. Cat cafés? Basic. How about raccoons, sheep, or even meerkats? Prefer fantasy over fauna? There are cafés designed like cartoon worlds, fairytales, or even optical illusions for perfect photos.

My personal favorite is a café in Hongdae where everything—and I mean everything—looks like it’s straight out of a 2D drawing. Even the mugs look like sketches! The coffee is just okay, but let’s be honest, we’re there for the pics and the vibes.

21. Get Spooked at a Jjimjilbang

A jjimjilbang is a traditional Korean bathhouse and so much more. These gender-segregated spaces feature hot tubs, saunas, and areas where you can get scrubbed within an inch of your life by ajummas wielding exfoliating mitts.

After bathing, you can change into provided cotton clothes and hang out in the co-ed areas with various themed saunas, relaxation rooms, and usually a food court. Many are open 24 hours, making them a quirky (and cheap) accommodation option. Fair warning: full nudity is expected in the bathing areas. It’s awkward for about five minutes, then surprisingly liberating!

22. Hike Bukhansan Mountain

Seoul is surrounded by mountains, and Bukhansan National Park is accessible by public transportation. The trails range from easy walks to challenging climbs, with Buddhist temples and stunning city views along the way.

If you’re reasonably fit, aim for Baegundae Peak, the highest point. The trail gets crowded on weekends with fully-equipped Korean hikers (many in matching outfits—it’s a whole thing). I once made the mistake of going on a national holiday and spent more time in human traffic jams than actually hiking. Weekdays are definitely the move here!

23. Experience Traditional Performance at the Korea House

For a taste of traditional Korean performing arts, head to the Korea House for their cultural show featuring pansori (narrative singing), traditional dance, and samulnori (percussion). The performers are top-notch, and the venue itself is gorgeous.

They also offer traditional royal cuisine dining experiences if you want to go all out. Is it touristy? A bit. Is it still absolutely worth doing? Absolutely. Some traditions are popular for a reason!

24. Explore Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the DDP is a futuristic landmark that hosts fashion shows, exhibitions, and design markets. The curving metallic exterior looks even more spectacular at night when it’s illuminated.

The surrounding area is Seoul’s fashion district, with 24-hour shopping malls and wholesale markets. It’s mind-blowing to see the energy here at 3 AM, with shops still open and people still buying. Sleep? Seoul doesn’t know her.

25. Catch a Baseball Game at Jamsil Stadium

Want to experience Korean culture like a local? Forget the tourist traps and head to a baseball game! Korea’s baseball culture is unlike anything you’ve seen—organized cheering, K-pop dancing between innings, and amazing stadium food (fried chicken and beer, anyone?).

Even if you don’t know the first thing about baseball, the atmosphere at a Doosan Bears or LG Twins game is infectiously fun. Tickets are affordable, and the crowd’s energy is through the roof. I’ve converted several “I don’t like sports” friends into baseball fans after just one Korean game!

Final Thoughts: Seoul Has Something for Everyone

Whew! That was a lot, right? And honestly, we’ve barely scratched the surface of what Seoul has to offer. The city is constantly evolving, with new neighborhoods becoming trendy and fresh experiences popping up every season.

What makes Seoul special isn’t just the mix of ancient and ultramodern, though that’s definitely cool. It’s the energy, the efficiency, the way traditions are preserved alongside cutting-edge innovations. One minute you’re shopping in the world’s largest underground mall, the next you’re watching a centuries-old ritual that hasn’t changed in generations.

Have you been to Seoul before? Did I miss your favorite spot? Planning a trip and have questions? I’d love to hear about it! And if this guide helped you discover something new about this amazing city, that makes my day. Happy travels, and annyeong for now! 🙂