Korea – nicknamed “the land of morning calm.” For many people, this country is where K-Pop, or Korean pop music, is born and thrives. BTS, BLACKPINK, TWICE – what are your other favorites? People know Korea for these sensations. But for avid travelers, Korea is more than just about K-Pop, or K-Dramas, perhaps. In South Korea, some of the best destinations, mostly cities, are Busan, Incheon, and Pyeongchang. Then, you’ve got the beautiful Jeju Island. However, if it’s your first time here in this country, you better visit Seoul. There are lots of things to do in Seoul.

Like Paris, Seoul is fashion-forward. Like Silicon Valley in the United States, Seoul is technology-forward (Samsung is from here, y’all!). But, this dynamic city is also deeply traditional, a fusion of palaces, temples, mountain trails, and more. It’s really more than just K-Pop. In this travel guide, you’ll learn about 12 of the best things to do in Seoul.

Some Of The Best Things To Do In Seoul

Is Seoul, South Korea also your dream destination? Go get that dream. Here are 12 of the best things to do in Seoul. 

1. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, Where Korea’s Dynastic Royals Lived

In many destinations in the Asian continent, you’ll always come across temples and royal palaces. They’re like a trademark here. So, as you touch down Seoul in South Korea, one of the first things to do in Seoul is visiting royal palaces and temples, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace. You may imagine that iconic traditional Asian architecture already right now. 

Gyeongbokgung Palace was built as early as 1395, yes, during the 14th century. It was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, one of the biggest and most powerful dynasties that ruled the country. Here, you will travel back time through the traditional architectural style and those iconic roof structures the palace is built with.

There are also several things to do in Seoul while you’re here, so if you really want to feel the entirety of the place, you’d spend a few hours here. Travelers loved learning about the palace’s origins, and how it shaped Seoul and South Korea’s histories. They also loved admiring the palace’s beautiful and extensive grounds. Plus, you can even watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony, which will remind you of London’s very own.

2. Shop For Those World-Famous Korean Cosmetics And More At Myeongdong

If you watch Korean dramas or K-Pop music videos frequently, one of the things you’ll notice is the delicate skin of the celebrities. In Korea, people pay so much attention to skincare. And you can have your share. You can shop for those world-famous Korean cosmetics at the busy shopping district of Myeongdong. 

While there are other products sold at Myeongdong, this shopping center is heaven for cosmetic lovers. The place is loaded with stores of international and local cosmetics brands, as well as fashion brands. You’ll find Laneige, Sulwhasoo, Nature Republic, Etude House, Innisfree, and a whole lot more. 

After shopping, you can head over to the nearby Myeongdong Nanta Theatre to watch performances such as those that feature folk music and drama. Or, if you’re not a fan of the performing arts, you can proceed to the Myeongdong Cathedral for a peaceful retreat.

3. Munch On Authentic Korean Food

Korean food is practically now everywhere around the world. Anywhere you look, you can find restaurants, even in your locality, that offer Korean dishes. So, if you are here enjoying the things to do in Seoul, don’t forget to experience the local recipes. 

From street food stalls, to high-end restaurants, and to exotic dishes, the city is a melting pot of gastronomic delights, truly reflecting its home country of Korea. 

While you’re in Seoul, don’t miss out on experiencing the street food scene with the must-try delights such as their spicy rice cakes or tteokbokki, seaweed rice rolls or kimbap, sweet pancakes or hotteok, and the famous chicken skewers. But we tell you, there are more Korean dishes here that you should try.

Welcome to our “things to do in Seoul” guide. We recommend that you take a look at more of our travel guides to Asia. 

4. Explore Korea’s Traditional Homes At Bukchon Hanok Village

Do you live in a village? In Seoul, there’s a village that’s really super sensational, the Bukchon Hanok Village. Bukchon Hanok Village occupies the hilly neighborhood between the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces. This neighborhood has the largest collection of hanoks, traditional Korean homes with the familiar tiled roofs, as well as stone floors – 900 of them. All these hanoks date all the way back to the Joseon dynasty. 

While strolling around Bukchon Hanok Village feels like you’re traveling back in time, some parts of the neighborhoods have been transformed to keep up with today’s times. While some hanoks are still private homes, others have been converted to art galleries, museums, inns, coffee shops, and tea houses. Here, it won’t be uncommon to see a couple date in a hanok-style restaurant or for travelers to stay in a hanok guesthouse.

5. Take A Tour Around The Nearby Nami Island

The beautiful Nami Island – this is a half-moon-shaped river island in South Korea’s Gangwon Province. It formed as the land surrounding it was inundated by the rising waters of the North Han River due to the construction of the Cheongpyeong Dam in 1944. Nami Island may not be within Seoul per se, but it only takes a few hours to reach this spot from the city. Take the opportunity to see it.

Particularly, hop on this tour offered by Viator that will take you on a bus ride not just to Nami Island, but also to the Garden of Morning Calm, and the Gangchon Railbike. The tour offers you the freedom to take photos of each location, not like other tours that only want you to keep moving.

6. Go On A Night Tour Around Seoul

Korea may be “the land of morning calm,” but believe us when we say that it shows off a whole new different personality when the night falls, especially in Seoul. So, why don’t you go on a private night tour around the city?

Like many of its Asian neighbors, after sunset, neon lights and street stalls breathe life to Seoul. This night tour is more than just sightseeing, but you’ll also be able to try the world-renowned Korean barbecue. You’ll also get the chance to visit some of the city’s landmarks without too much of the crowd. This is certainly one of the best things to do in Seoul.

Liking this “things to do in Seoul”? For sure, you will also love our travel guides in other Asian destinations. 

7. Ride A Cable Car To N Seoul Tower

While you can opt to take the bus to N Seoul Tower, also one of the must-see places while you’re in Seoul, nothing beats taking the cable car for the experience and breathtaking views. But, before you get to N Seoul Tower, you’ll pass by Mount Namsan.

Mount Namsan is home to five warning beacons and a protective city hall during the illustrious Joseon dynasty. But those are things of the past. Today, Mount Namsan already hosts a park and a range of tourist spots such as an aquarium, walking trails, and more. 

Most travelers visit the park for its panoramic views of the entire city. You can at least do this for free, right at Palgakjeong, an octagon-shaped viewing pavilion that treats you to alluring vistas of Seoul. But, if you are willing to spend money to really get better views, head over to the observation platform on top of N Seoul Tower, the real showstopper of Namsan Park. Believe us, the views from here are spectacular. Definitely one of the things to do in Seoul that must be on your itineraries.

8. Bring Your Whole Family To Lotte World, Where The World’s Largest Indoor Theme Park Is

The LOTTE brand – you are familiar with this as it brings your favorite snacks as Pepero, or your favorite chewing gum like Xylitol. The brand also provides nuts, gums, candies, biscuits, and chocolates. And in Seoul, LOTTE has created a theme park it calls their own, the Lotte World. 

Lotte World is where you can find the world’s biggest indoor theme park. It offers experiences such as high-octane roller coaster rides like the Atlantic Adventure, and the Lotty’s Kidstoria which introduces visitors to “Alice in Wonderland” characters. With its attractions, Lotte World is perfect not just for kids, but for the kids at heart too, as well as both thrill-seekers and those who like it gentler.

Aside from the theme park, Lotte World also has department stores, a museum, a bowling alley, an ice rink, and an outdoor adventure theme park located right in the middle of Seokchonhosu Lake. 

Be reminded: if you’re headed here during the weekend, be prepared for more throngs of people.

9. Wear The Hanbok, Korea’s Traditional Dress, At Changdeokgung

You may have perhaps seen photos of those who have been to the city, enjoying the things to do in Seoul, wearing hanbok, Korea’s traditional attire. And they’re against the backdrops of the city’s famous landmarks, such as at Changdeokgung.

Changdeokgung was a “second-rate” palace. It was built during the 15th century as a secondary palace. But, when Seoul’s principal palace, the Gyeongbokgung, was destroyed during the Japanese invasion in the 1590s, Changdeokgung stood as the primary royal residence until the late 19th century, and it was still used through the 20th century. 

Changdeokgung is a huge palace. Some of the spots to see here are the imposing Donhwamun gate, the oldest stone bridge in the country, the beautiful Injeongjeon main palace building, government office buildings, and the royal family’s private living quarters. You can also visit its terraced garden, and the palace’s lovely Huwon or Secret Garden. 

Can’t get enough of this “things to do in Seoul” list? You might want to also visit Singapore, or maybe Thailand?

10. Plunge Into Spellbinding Artworks At The Leeum Samsung Museum of Art

The Leeum Samsung Museum of Art is Korea’s premier art gallery amidst the posh celebrity-owned apartments situated on the leafy southern slope of Namsan. As the name suggests, this art gallery is run by run by the Samsung Foundation of Culture – and they’re very successful at it. 

Beautifully designed and laid out, the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art does a perfect fusion of modern and contemporary art pieces with traditional Korean artwork across its three areas. But do you know the biggest draw here? It’s Museum 2. This area is within a rusted stainless steel structure designed by Jean Nouvel, a French architect. It showcases paintings, sculptures, and installations from the 1900s, particularly by esteemed local and international art prodigies like Nam June Paik, Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, and Damien Hirst. This deserves a visit.

11. See Deoksugung’s Junghwajeon, Its Throne Hall Adorned With Images Of Dragons

When reeling in the things to do in Seoul, you really can’t help but to have palace visits in your itinerary, and one of the city’s grandest palaces is Deoksugung, which translates to “Palace of Virtuous Longevity.” It stands out from the rest. You know why? It is the only palace you can visit during the evening, and see it illuminated. Truly a fascinating scene. 

Among its major attractions is Junghwajeon, the palace’s main throne hall. This throne hall was used for ceremonial events such as coronations, and is emblazoned with dragons and features golden window frames. 

Aside from this, you may also visit its gardens and ponds, or watch the changing of the guards ceremony. Free guided tours are available. 

12. Be Right On The Border Of The Warring North And South Korea At The DMZ

One of the turning points of Korea’s history, the conflict between North and South Korea, is alive at the Demilitarized Zone or DMZ. Visiting this place is a must if you’re in Seoul. Don’t worry, it will be completely safe. 

The DMZ is a stretch of land 148 miles long and two miles wide, marking the division between the two nations. It was formed in 1953 as a buffer zone between North Korea and South Korea. The Military Demarcation Line, which is the actual border between these two countries, has been heavily manned on both sides by their respective military personnel since it was set up. 

Here, you can literally step your feet on either side of a line along the floor that separates the two nations. Place one foot in South Korea and the other foot in North Korea. That wraps up this guide.

Thank you for reading our “things to do in Seoul” travel guide. We have more stories waiting to be discovered. Click this link.

How Much Budget Should You Prepare If You Want To Enjoy The Things To Do In Seoul?

If you are traveling to this beautiful city, you cannot and must not afford to miss out on the best things to do in Seoul. So, to help you enjoy the city to the fullest, here is a guide on how much budget that should be in your pocket if you decide to travel here. 

Be prepared to spend around $113 daily when visiting Seoul. On average, previous Seoul travelers spent around $32 on meals for one day and $16 on local transportation. Hotel prices in Seoul for a couple, on average, is $115. So, for two people for one week in Seoul, you must prepare around $1,500.

‘Seoul, My Soul’

Deeply-rooted Korean culture is embroidered within the story of Seoul. With so many things to do in Seoul, you’ll find yourself spoiled by the experiences.

The heart of Seoul is a captivating harmony of history, culture, and modernity, beckoning every traveler from all corners of the Earth. From wandering through ancient palaces to strolling along busy streets adorned with luminous neon lights, Seoul is all about you.