What to Do in Seoul: Your Personalized Guide!

Perhaps you're living around Seoul and looking for the best things to do here, or maybe you're just dreaming up your exciting post-pandemic vacation!

The good news is that I've got a ton of insider information for you. For the past year, I've been working through my bucket list of things to do in Korea. (Hey, it's a hard job, but someone's gotta do it.) I've visited all the popular, highly-recommended touristy places, and in my second year here, I've been combing my way through the hole-in-the-wall, hidden-gem areas.

I love it when people reach out to me for suggestions, and I love hearing any and all recommendations. Hence, this is my way to pay it forward!

Whenever someone asks what I recommend they do in Seoul, I always ask what sort of things they like to do while traveling. Do you like hiking? Visiting museums? Shopping?

The best way to use this list is to check out the categories that best fit your vacation style and explore from there! Have fun and let me know in the comments if you have any questions or suggestions!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Discount Tickets

Hiking

Historical Sites

Buddhist Temples

Museums

Tours

Outdoor Markets & Shopping

Easy Nature, Parks & Other Outdoor Spots

Other Must-Dos

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DISCOUNT TICKETS

Before you head out, check out these discount tickets!

Trazy: https://www.trazy.com/

Klook: https://www.klook.com/

KKDay: https://www.kkday.com/en

I'm not making any money or being sponsored by these sites. I just really love them because they've saved me a ton of money, and some also award you loyalty points for further future discounts just for using their service! Some of these websites also offer group trips, in case you're looking for a convenient trip or to make friends.

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HIKING

Bukhansan is one of the toughest mountains in Seoul. It’s got about 100 trails or so! (Dobongsan is a popular, highly-rated hike.)

Gwanaksan is my favorite hike! There are tons of military foxholes and rocky helicopter pads from the Sadang trailhead. It’s really cool and really tough if you do the long trail, which is five or six hours from Sadang to Gwacheon, which is certainly the toughest hike there but worth it. You can also do a shorter hike to experience the beautiful city view from above, if you prefer!

Inwangsan (Seoul City Wall) is the hike I keep coming back to. The trails follow the old city wall high on the mountain, so you know the views will be fantastic! There are many courses along the trail where you can begin and end, but my personal favorite is to start at Dongnimmun Station, walk through the apartments to Inwangsan Temple (an ancient Shamanistic temple where you'll find intriguing Seonbawi Rock), and then follow the steps toward the old city wall, which you can follow up to the summit and down toward downtown, near Gyeongbokgung.

Cheonggyesan is a mountain in Bundang-gu, just outside of Seoul (in Seongnam) that is quite popular with locals, especially on weekends. There's a lovely stream coming down from the mountain where families like to picnic. There are various trails you can follow, depending on how difficult you want your hike to be. The stairs leading to the summit will take your breath away, but so will the gorgeous views. A common activity up here is feeding the birds nuts and seeds.

Namhansanseong makes for a pretty amazing visit, and I should mention it's another UNESCO World Heritage site you'll discover. There are several things you'll find here: an emergency palace that was built to protect the king if there were an enemy invasion (of which there were several), a town that was built around the palace to house workers and to support the palace, and a vast fortress that overlooks the sweeping mountains and modern sprawling city of Seoul. In the town, you'll find trail maps that will aid you in planning your route. The entire compass rose is at your disposal, depending on which side of the city you'd like to view, which Buddhist temples you'd like to pass, and which fortress gate you'd like to see. During your hike, you'll pass some small archaeological sites, scenic places to eat your packed lunch, and remnants of Korean history where battles were won and lost. Yes, it is possible to take several hours to hike all around the fortress. The town is filled with beautiful cafes and restaurants where you can rest, as well.

HISTORICAL SITES

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest palace, located smack dab in the center of Seoul. You can rent hanbok (traditional Korean attire) at a multitude of rental shops across the street, which will grant you free access to the palace and the perfect chance to take self-portraits while participating in a unique cultural experience. Note: Gyeonbokgung is close enough to many other attractions that you could easily enjoy several bucket-list items in the same day!

Changdeokgung Palace is the second largest palace in Seoul. The Secret Garden tour is well worth it, but it is HIGHLY recommended that you book it ahead of time online!

How to book Changdeokgung Palace Secret Garden tickets: It is possible to reserve tickets for the Secret Garden at 10 AM, six days in advance of the day you would like to visit. You can also visit the ticket booth, where they sell tickets first-come, first-served. There are tours available in English and Korean. The earliest tours are usually the easiest to snag because, well, you know how many people feel about mornings. Currently, because of COVID-19, the tickets gain you entry to the Secret Garden for a self-guided tour, which gives you the luxury of exploring freely for as long as you'd like. However, I've done the pre-pandemic guided tour, as well, which is wonderful for learning about Korean history, monarchs, Confucian beliefs, and early living.

Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon is one of Korea's many UNESCO World Heritage sites, so you know it will be amazing! This fortress was built in the late 18th century, but you would never guess what the fortress guards, let alone the story behind it. In short, the fortress is a memorial to Prince Sado, who was killed by being forced to climb into a rice box and stay put until he died. He was buried in the area now known as Suwon, and his son constructed the fortress to honor his tomb. (I would seriously recommend reading Prince Sado's Wikipedia article for more of this dark, intriguing history.) However, you would not have the faintest idea of this history upon your first visit to Hwaseong Fortress. (I sure didn't!) It's a gorgeous remnant of the Joseon Dynasty with beautiful views of Suwon's sprawling city and rolling hills. You'll find cute cafes, affordable restaurants, a free hanok (traditional Korean architecture) museum, a culinary center, and photo-worthy scenery everywhere.

Namsangol Hanok Village is home not only to hanok (traditional Korean homes), but also to a giant time capsule (to be opened in 2394) and a picnic-perfect park with lots of grassy spots along a bubbling stream. Namsan Tower springs out of the treeline every so often to deliver picturesque views. Of all the hanok villages I've visited in Seoul, this one is my favorite!

Bukchon Hanok Village is very popular with tourists. A hanok is a traditional Korean house, and these are actually currently occupied! (That means they're well-maintained and picture-perfect, but it also means that people live there, so...shhhh.) Around this hanok village are hanbok (traditional Korean wear) rental stores. Hanbok photo shoots are a common past-time in this hanok village! I personally love to stroll up and down the streets and check out the rooftop views. There are a few cafes up there that are famous for their beautiful views, too, for you coffee/tea lovers!

BUDDHIST TEMPLES

Jogyesa Temple - Did you know that Buddhism was suppressed from Korea for 500 years? In 1905, during Japanese occupation, public Buddhist practice was finally legalized and monks were able to re-enter the city. They bought an ancient royal shrine in the city, which became this Temple, the first urban Buddhist temple. It is also Korea's Buddhist national headquarters. Additionally, it is located across from Gyeongbokgung Palace (where monarchs had banned Buddhist practice all that time). Sounds like the perfect insult, doesn't it? It also means that you can easily visit both the temple and palace in a 10-minute walk!

Bongeunsa Temple is a beautiful, serene place of worship uniquely situated across a busy road from the popular Starfield COEX Mall in Gangnam. A stunning garden greets you at the entrance, and as you scale the steps, it feels like you're ascending into a higher, purer place of being. You'll hear the monks chanting from a couple prayer rooms around the property. Thousands of prayer banners hang above you. You'll completely forget that the bustling city is just outside the walls.

MUSEUMS

The National Folk Museum of Korea is my personal favorite! It sits immediately next to Gyeonbokgung Palace, on the same property. There's an outdoor exhibit, where you can see a hanok (a traditional Korean home), stone guardians, and a gorgeous Korean-style tower. Inside the museum, you can learn how Koreans have lived for generations throughout each season. One of my favorite exhibits explains everything about the Confucian belief system and how it guided aristocratic lives. This museum was the final connector in helping me understand much of the values and practices that I see on a daily basis living here.

The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is for you art-lovers who want to take it slow for an hour or two. There are several fixed and special exhibits, so the art galleries are always full of surprises. I'm no art connoisseur by any means, and perhaps you aren't, either. If you enjoy looking at art, often stirring, this museum will fill that nice little spot perfectly.

The National Museum of Korea is an impressive architectural masterpiece in itself with an amazing view of the city and mountains. In fact, there's a binocular overlook right next to the entrance. Inside are many fixed and special exhibits, geared to archaeology enthusiasts (you'll see a tool from the Bronze Age -- I KNOW! Crazy!) and art lovers (with many beautiful art galleries). I've never seen so much pottery in my life, and I've also never seen so many hanok (traditional Korean homes) constructed within a room. One room is pretty cool, as it's filled with giant Buddha statues in various historical styles.

TOURS

The Dark Side of Seoul - I have to plug this tour here because it is awesome. I did a weekend tour with a couple friends, and Joe simply planned a fantastic time. You'll hear folk lore (and ghost lore), creepy and mysterious Korean history, jokes to lighten the mood, and perhaps you'll ever see a ghost! We didn't see any, but my protective red pepper flakes disappeared from my hand immediately after they were given to me. We never found them again... (Also, quick plug for the Dark Side of Seoul podcast, which has been my latest obsession. I'm learning a ton of Korean history, superstitions, and about the ghost who made a debut in the background of a K-pop music video.)

Changdeokgung Palace is the second largest palace in Seoul and another UNESCO World Heritage site. The Secret Garden tour is well worth it, but it is HIGHLY recommended that you book it ahead of time online!

How to book Changdeokgung Palace Secret Garden tickets: It is possible to reserve tickets for the Secret Garden at 10 AM, six days in advance of the day you would like to visit. You can also visit the ticket booth, where they sell tickets first-come, first-served. There are tours available in English and Korean. The earliest tours are usually the easiest to snag because, well, you know how many people feel about mornings. Currently, because of COVID-19, the tickets gain you entry to the Secret Garden for a self-guided tour, which gives you the luxury of exploring freely for as long as you'd like. However, I've done the pre-pandemic guided tour, as well, which is wonderful for learning about Korean history, monarchs, Confucian beliefs, and early living.

OUTDOOR MARKETS & SHOPPING

Fairness disclaimer: I'm a vegetarian (no meat, chicken, or seafood), so I have not visited the Seoul fish markets. Therefore, I'm not a reliable source for reviewing fish markets, but I can point you in the right direction, if you have any questions!

Myeongdong is one of the most popular shopping places in all of Seoul, absolutely worth visiting in the daytime and especially nighttime. It's large, and the off-shooting alleys are worth exploring to find hidden shops and restaurants. During the pandemic, this place is a ghost town. In normal times, this is the place to find Korean street food, shopping, and awesome night lights. Street food pro tip: Look for the stalls that have lines! You already know that means the food is popular, but it also means the food is fresher and hasn't been sitting out for so long!

Insadong is perfect for doing your artsy, kitschy Seoul shopping. It's a hub for arts & crafts stores for families and kids. It's souvenir central! For example, there's a really cool music box shop that lets you customize everything, from the music to the box design. You'll find art galleries, street performers, tea sets, handmade statues, street food (like the delicious Dragon's Beard candy), souvenir shops, and tons of restaurants (including Buddhist temple food). There are also some great vegan and vegetarian restaurants here! Pro tip: Bring cash in case you want to buy from an outdoor stall. Insadong is smack between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces, if you're keeping track of all the cool things to do in this area. ;)

Hongdae is a shopping nirvana, speckled with Insta-worthy cafes and bakeries, and lined with delicious food of an international variety. Make your way up and down the wide streets, watch the street performers, and enjoy the lively energy of this university district.

Namdaemun Market: How can I put this? I've never seen so many shoes in my life. Or socks, or pants, or belts, or spoons, or cell phone cases...Well, you get the picture. This market has EVERYTHING. You'll find things here you won't find in brick & mortar shops (like men's shavers with the comb thing so you men don't have to shave everything off your face). Everything is super cheap, and it's impossible to not succumb to the thrill of the hunt. The hunt for what? I don't know, perhaps the hunt for my willpower to stop shopping!

EASY NATURE, PARKS & OTHER OUTDOOR SPOTS

The Han River is arguably my #1 favorite place in Seoul. Many local Koreans would probably agree! Any weekend, you'll find families camping on the lawns for hours at a time. (In fact, you can rent a tent set, too!) Han River cruises are beautiful, and the one linked is the one I've done the most because I love it so much. The Hangang parks are great places to take a walk, or even to rent a bike and ride it along the paved path alongside the water. In the summer, you can even go kayaking or stand-up paddle-boarding on the river! Have I talked you into visiting, yet??

Seoul Grand Park is a huge outdoor complex that consists of a zoo, amusement park, botanical gardens, a forest and hiking trails, and more! This is a wonderful place for families, but we even had a ball having an outing there with friends.

Samcheongdong-gil Road is for you if you like the idea of walking down a scenic, artsy street, checking out clothing and cosmetic shops, eating at higher-priced but delicious restaurants, sampling coffee from pretty cafes, and peeking into small art galleries. Day or night, this is a nice place to be. It's also very close to Gyeongbokgung and the Blue House (where the president lives).

Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a funky building and a dream for creative types. Its design is curved, sloped, and chrome. You'll find unique gardens, art installments, modern-feeling brand-name stores, galleries and exhibits, a public piano, an archaeological site, and more! You'll be close to Dongademun Market and Naksan Park here, as well!

Seokchon Lake is famous for the amusement park island upon it, Lotte World. However, there is a walking path all around the lake, enclosed by skyscrapers, including the world's fifth tallest building, Lotte Tower. During the spring, this is a popular spot for viewing the cherry blossoms. Gentle music streams from the speaker systems, and if you walk through the tunnel, you'll likely hear the echoes of someone playing the public piano located under the bridge. The benches spotted beside the lake are perfect for a waterfront view or people-watching. After a day of shopping at Lotte Mall and wandering around the city, Seokchon Lake is exactly where you want to relax in some nature.

Naksan Park has been featured in K-dramas and Instagram feeds, as it's well-known for its scenic overlooks of Seoul. There are various hiking and walking paths to the top, which is rather gentle, as Naksan is one of the smaller mountains of Seoul. A clear day affords you pretty views of the sprawling city and mountains, but locals know to come up to this park at night. Sunset is particularly romantic, especially as the twilight gives way to darkness, exposing the twinkling lights of the city skyline and the dimly-lit old city wall that encloses the park.

Namsan is one of the best places in Seoul. It's got a cable car to the top, as well as a few staircase trails with stunning views of the city. It's surrounded by parks that are very popular with families and people who like to get into nature. At the top of Namsan, there is a tall observatory noticeable from most places around Seoul. (This is the tall tower on top of the mountain that changes colors at night to reflect the air quality levels.) There's also a bar and convenience store at the top, artists who will draw your caricature, and countless love locks for you to immortalize your lovey-dovey feelings for a special someone. If you're looking for a special memory, come up here before sunset. As the sun falls, you can watch the city bathe in golden light and watch the sky transition into a dark curtain that makes the city skyline look like a star-filled heaven.

The Garden of Morning Calm and Nami Island are located about 1.5 hours outside of Seoul, but I would highly recommend them for a day or weekend trip! With a long day that begins early morning, you could fit both of these places into a day (though, that would certainly tucker out you and your feet). Ideally, you'd have one day for each place.

The Garden of Morning Calm is an enormous piece of land covered with amazing gardens. It's open all year long, and depending on the season, you'll see different views and decor. It feels like you've entered a storybook, walking around the gardens, listening to the gentle instrumental music pouring out of the speakers, stumbling upon bubbling brooks and grassy valleys. There are various restaurants and cafes tucked around the park for when you need a break.

Nami Island is another must-see fairy tale setting. The park was built to inspire the imagination, and so will it as you journey around its various gardens, indoor and outdoor art exhibits, children's book library, ostrich enclosure (yes, really), waterfalls (sometimes frozen in the winter), restaurants, cafes, scenic parks and playgrounds, island shorelines, and more! You can easily walk the whole island, but I think the best way to explore is to rent a bike and pedal up and down the paths. Nami Island is famous for its tall maple trees, which are incredibly vibrant in the autumn season, but there were pleasant surprises around the island, like all the wild bunnies and peacocks you'll encounter on your trip. If you want to pay a pretty penny, you can also stay in one of the hanok-style accommodations on the island so you never have to leave this fantasy island.

OTHER MUST-DOS

Lotte Tower is the fifth tallest building in the world, boasting 123 floors. And yes, you can go straight to the top! You'll be looking for the Seoul Sky ticket booth, where you can buy or redeem tickets for the observatory. The elevator ride is amazingly fast, and they've made it quite an experience to get up there (reminiscent of a Disney or NASA attraction). There are several floors to explore at the top where you can take in the 360-degree view of Seoul. I would highly recommend saving this trip for a clear day when the air pollution levels are low. That will ensure you an unforgettable view of Seoul. I should mention there are some thrilling glass floors around the observatory, too! Also, if you know me, you already know that I'd recommend visiting Seoul Sky Observatory a bit before sunset so you can watch the magnificent colors in the sky and then catch the sparkling city skyline in the darkness of night. If you like extraordinary views and high-up places, this place is absolutely perfect for you.

Local Entertainment:

Do you have a chunk of time you'd like to fill with something fun that you are guaranteed to find in your local corner?

PC bang: Also known as a PC room, or what you might imagine when you think of an internet cafe, a PC bang is a dark room filled with state-of-the-art desktop computers with fantastic graphics. They usually have the most popular game software already installed on them (like PUBG Battlegrounds, Overwatch, League of Legends, etc.). To enter a PC bang, you pay a small amount of money for a lot of time at the entry console, plop yourself down into a comfy gaming chair, put a plushy headset over your ears, and start playing! You can order food and beverages from your gaming computer, too!

Noraebang, or a singing room, is the Korean style of karaoke but much swankier than your 9-year-old cousin's birthday party karaoke. You'll enter a comfortable, private room and choose from a variety of popular songs, ranging in languages, including Korean and English. You'll pay by the hour for this room, which is probably a good thing, considering how sore your voice may be by the end of those first 60 minutes!

Jjimjilbang is a traditional Korean sauna. They range in size and price, but the smaller local jjimjilbang are usually cheap, and every sauna is incredibly relaxing. You'll find hot and cold pools, exfoliation treatment, snacks, and that deep sort of comfort you can only get by letting yourself let go for a couple hours. This is the ideal place to #TreatYoself.