Seoul is a city of dazzling contrasts where ancient palaces neighbor futuristic glass towers, where Buddhist temples share streets with K-pop billboards, and where 600 years of royal heritage meets the cutting edge of technology and fashion. It's the birthplace of K-pop, home to the world's fastest internet, and one of Asia's most exciting food cities.
Top Attractions
Gyeongbokgung Palace
The grandest of Seoul's five palaces served as the main royal residence for 500 years. The changing of the guard ceremony at Gwanghwamun Gate transports you back to the Joseon era. Rent a hanbok (traditional dress) for free admission and stunning photos against the traditional architecture.
Visitor Information
- Admission: ₩3,000 (free in hanbok)
- Hours: 9am-5pm (closed Tuesdays)
- Guard Ceremony: 10am and 2pm
- Tip: Join the free English guided tour at 10:30am
Bukchon Hanok Village
This residential neighborhood features hundreds of traditional Korean houses (hanok) lining hilly alleyways. Many are still private homes, so please be quiet and respectful. Some have been converted into teahouses, galleries, and guesthouses where you can experience traditional Korean living.
Myeongdong Shopping District
K-beauty capital of the world! This shopping mecca is packed with Korean skincare and cosmetics brands, fashion boutiques, and street food vendors. Most stores offer tax refunds for tourists and free samples. Street food highlights include Korean fried chicken, tteokbokki, and egg bread.
N Seoul Tower
Perched atop Namsan Mountain, N Seoul Tower offers panoramic views of the sprawling city. Take the cable car up or hike through the forest. The observation deck is surrounded by thousands of "love locks" left by couples. The tower lights up in different colors each night.
Hongdae
Named after nearby Hongik University, this area is Seoul's artistic hub. Street performers, indie musicians, and artists gather nightly. It's the best area for clubs, live music, quirky cafes, and late-night dining. The Free Market on Saturdays showcases young artists' work.
DMZ Tour
The Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea is one of the world's most unusual tourist destinations. Half-day tours include the Joint Security Area (JSA) where you can technically step into North Korea, infiltration tunnels, and the observation posts overlooking the north.
Seoul Food Guide
Korean cuisine is having a global moment, and Seoul is ground zero. From sizzling Korean BBQ to bubbling stews, from street food to temple cuisine, Seoul offers extraordinary depth and variety. Many restaurants are open 24/7, and eating is a deeply social activity here.
Must-Try Dishes
Korean BBQ
Grill your own meat at the table, wrap in lettuce with garlic, ssamjang, and banchan (side dishes). ₩15,000-40,000.
Try: Maple Tree House or Majang Meat Market
Bibimbap
Rice bowl with vegetables, chili paste, and egg - mix everything together. Simple, healthy, and delicious. ₩8,000-15,000.
Try: Gogung or any traditional restaurant
Tteokbokki
Chewy rice cakes in sweet-spicy sauce. Korea's most beloved street food. Addictively good. ₩3,000-5,000.
Try: Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town
Fried Chicken & Beer
"Chimaek" - crispy Korean fried chicken with beer. A national obsession. Multiple flavors available. ₩15,000-25,000.
Try: BHC or Kyochon
Kimchi Jjigae
Bubbling kimchi stew with pork, tofu, and vegetables. The ultimate comfort food. ₩7,000-10,000.
Try: Jaha Sonmandu or any local restaurant
Bingsu
Shaved ice dessert with sweet toppings - red bean, mango, Oreo, and more. Perfect summer treat. ₩10,000-15,000.
Try: Sulbing or any cafe
Practical Information
Getting Around
- Metro: 23 lines, runs 5:30am-midnight. ₩1,250-2,150
- T-money Card: Rechargeable card for all transit + convenience stores
- Buses: Extensive network, same T-money card
- Taxis: Cheap and plentiful. Base fare ₩4,800
Budget Guide (Per Day)
- Budget: ₩60,000-100,000 (hostels, street food, free sites)
- Mid-range: ₩150,000-250,000 (3-star hotels, restaurants, tours)
- Luxury: ₩400,000+ (5-star hotels, fine dining, experiences)
Best Time to Visit
- Mar-May: Spring, cherry blossoms in early April
- Sep-Nov: Autumn foliage, perfect weather
- Dec-Feb: Cold but festive, ski season nearby
- Jun-Aug: Hot and humid, monsoon season in July
Interactive Map
Explore Seoul's top attractions on the map. Click markers for details and directions.
Key Attractions on Map
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