Things To Do In Seoul
As one of the largest cities in the world, Seoul offers visitors plenty to explore. Any traveler will find an activity to fit their taste - the Korean capital has everything from historical sites to museums, art galleries, recognizable landmarks, traditional parks and palaces, casinos (only open to foreigners!), theme parks and much more. Seoul certainly is one of those cities that boasts the thrilling variety a traveller craves.
Olesya Kuznetsova/Shutterstock.comGyeongbokgung Palace
If you only have time for one palace visit make sure this is the one. Also referred to as the "Northern Palace", it was built in 1395 and is a stunning example of traditional Korean palatial architecture. Free guided tours are available in English, Japanese and Chinese.
CJ Nattanai/Shutterstock.comNational Folk Museum Of Korea
The museum is located inside Gyeongbokgung Palace and offers an excellent collection of Korean cultural exhibits. There are over 4,000 historical artifacts on display, and it is a great place to learn more about the history and historic lifestyles of the Korean people.
MOLPIX/Shutterstock.comNamsangol Hanok Village
A trip to Namsangol Hanok Village will grant visitors insight into the traditional ways of living during the extended period of of Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) rule. Here, one will be able to see restored housing dating back centuries, watch performances and even try a hand at activities such as archery.
SiHo/Shutterstock.comSeoul Tower
For sweeping views of the city from Seoul's highest point, head to the observation deck of Seoul Tower - a local landmark and attraction that's been in operation for over three decades. The top floor features an upscale revolving restaurant; other eateries and attractions operate on-site.
Guitar photographer/Shutterstock.comHangang River Ferry Cruise
Taking a cruises along the Hangang River in Seoul is a great way to enjoy the city panorama - ferries pass local attractions en route, and those in the evening often include a dining option. Cruises vary in length (some as short at 40 minutes) and have an on-board tour guide.
leungchopan/Shutterstock.comBukhansan Mountain National Park
Escape the bustle of the city and retreat to the tranquility of the mountains. Bukhansan National Park has several gorges, granite peaks and more than 1,300 species of flora and fauna. There are also many historical and cultural sites including Bukhansanseong Fortress, Buddhist temples and monk’s cells. Bukhansan National Park Office:
Guitar photographer/Shutterstock.comLotte World
Lotte World is an amusement park located in the heart of the city. The theme park features exciting rides, an ice rink, a folk museum, a lake, both indoor and outdoor games, a fantasy forest with animals and much more. Lotte World is a very popular site - about 6,000,000 visitors are welcomed here every year.
Efired/Shutterstock.comCoex Aquarium
Coex Aquarium is a great stop for families with children - the little ones will no doubt enjoy the massive display of live marine creatures from waters in and around Korea and all over the world. The aquarium contains an incredible 40,000 animals altogether.
Olena Zaskochenko/Shutterstock.comBongeunsa Temple
This little gem is situated in the middle of Seoul and is an easy one to overlook. Bongeunsa Temple was founded in 794 during the Shilla King Weongseong’s reign. There is a special 2-hour program designed for visitors, which includes meditation and a tea ceremony. Do not miss the huge Buddha statue in the back.
ESB Professional/Shutterstock.comChangdeokgung
Changdeokgung is a grand palace from the last Korean dynasty. This is a great place to learn about Korean history but be sure to have some comfortable shoes on since the place is big. Enjoy the guided tour in English that lasts for one hour and be sure not to miss the guard changing ceremony.
Alexander A.Trofimov/Shutterstock.comTrickeye Museum
Trickeye Museum is an interactive museum with paintings which are created with 'trompe l'oeil' (eye-tricking) techniques that give each 2D art piece the impression of being in 3D. This allows you to interact with the paintings in a way that makes it look like you are part of the original work.
Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock.comSeoul City Tour Bus
The City Tour Bus is a great way to see Seoul. The tour includes stops at some of Seoul’s most popular attractions and shopping venues. There are 26 stops and you can get off at any station and then take the next bus again. Buses run at 30-minute intervals. Departure location: In front of Donghwa duty-free Shops at Gwanghwamun.
Syda Productions/Shutterstock.comThe War Memorial Of Korea
This huge museum is a great place where you can learn about the history of the Korean Military. There are many things to see both inside and outside the museum. On display are military airplanes, tanks, weapons and other military equipment. Put your walking shoes on since this is a massive place. There are English-language tours available.
06photo/Shutterstock.comNational Museum Of Korea
The National Museum of Korea contains thousands of artifacts dating back to various points throughout history, from ancient times to modernity. These include items from Korea and greater Asia, including sculpture, calligraphy, paintings, porcelain, and more.
blurAZ/Shutterstock.comNamsan Park
Stroll around and enjoy this botanical garden with great sports facilities such as a swimming pool, tennis court, ping-pong court, baseball stadium and roller-skating area. You can also take the cable car to the top or walk up the stairway path to get a great view over the city. Here at Namsan Park you will find the Seoul Tower.
PKphotograph/Shutterstock.comSeoul Olympic Park
Once used as a site for Seoul's 1988 Olympic Games, the park now contains Korea's biggest sporting arena, and is frequented by city residents who come for nature walks amongst the park greenery or sporting events in one of the park's modern stadiums.
Ahn Eun sil/Shutterstock.comLeeum Samsung Museum of Art
Leeum Samsung Museum of Art showcases a selection of artwork by artists from across the globe - both Korean and international creators. Works range from traditional to contemporary art, and exhibitions change frequently. Guided tours in English available on Saturdays and Sundays.
guruXOX/Shutterstock.comYeouido Hangang Park
Conveniently located in Seoul's Yeouido neighborhood, the riverside Hangang Park is a green outdoor area popular with both locals and visitors. Open year-round, the park frequently hosts festivals and concerts, such as the Cherry Blossom and World Fireworks Festivals.
Lexter Yap/Shutterstock.comDeoksugung Palace
Set amidst high-rise modern buildings, the Deoksugung Palace is an oasis of traditional Korea in the very heart of Seoul's downtown. Historically, it served for various administrative purposes and was inhabited by Korean royalty. Today, the palace and premises are open to visitors (guided tours available).
Kanuman/Shutterstock.comDongdaemun Design Plaza
One of the newest urban developments in Seoul, the state-of-the-art Dongdaemun Design Plaza contains a Design Museum and Exhibition Hall, shops and markets, as well as several other important sights, such as the Seoul Fortress and the Igansumun Water Gate.
yochika photographer/Shutterstock.comSeoullo 7017 Skygarden
A unique public space constructed on what once was a barren highway overpass, the Seoullo 7017 Skygarden features cafes, street music performances, relaxation and play areas with flowerbeds and foot baths that light up at night, visually transforming the area after sundown.
TRAVAL TAKE PHOTOS/Shutterstock.comCheonggyecheon
The Cheonggyecheon was originally a creek that flowed through downtown Seoul -- in the wake of rapid post-war economic development, it was buried under concrete to facilitate urban expansion. Today, however, the over 10 km-long creek and its banks have been uncovered and remodeled into an exciting recreational area for locals and tourists, with clean water and natural habitats bordering on residential and office buildings.
SS Pixels/Shutterstock.com