Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea, isn’t just a concrete jungle. Nestled within the cityscape are serene oases that offer a refreshing escape and a chance to reconnect with nature. Whether you’re finding the best spot for a picnic or sunrise or you just want to stroll amidst gorgeous natural scenery, this article will show you the best parks in Seoul to visit, each with its unique charm and offerings.
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Guide to Best Parks in Seoul
Seoul has no shortage of parks to visit which are gorgeous to explore all year round. If you’re short on time here’s an overview of the best parks in Seoul and key tips for visiting each park.
Traveling to Korea for the first time? Read up on these 10 must-know things before you travel to South Korea.
🌳 Overview of Best Parks in South Korea
| Park | Location | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Boramae Park | Dongjak-gu | 🌸 cherry blossom viewing spot 🧺 great picnic spot |
| Banpo Hangang Park | Seocho-gu | 🌃 must-see spot at night 🧺 popular picnic spot 🌅 great sunset spot |
| Gyeongchun Line Forest | Gonreungdong | 🤫 underrated spot to visit |
| Hangang Park | Made of 12 parks | 🚣🏻 water activities 🌅 popular sunset spot |
| Haneul Park | Mapo-gu | 🍂 popular to visit in autumn 🍃 gorgeous city & nature views |
| Ichon Hangang Park | Yongsan-gu | 🎇 holds Hanhwa Fireworks Festival 🎾 sports facilities |
| Jamsil Hangang Park | Songpa-gu | 🚲 recreational facilities 🌅 underrated sunset spot |
| Yeouido Hangang Park | Yeongdeungpo-gu | 🌸 cherry blossom viewing spot 🧺 great picnic spot |
| Namsan Park | Jung-gu | 🏙️ city & scenery views 🚶🏻♀️walking nature trails |
| Naksan Park | Jongno-gu | 🌸 cherry blossom viewing spot 🍂 fall foliage spot 📍 views of N Seoul Tower |
| Noeul Park | Mapo-gu | 🍃 underrated green space 📍observatory deck for city views |
| Olympic Park | Songpa-gu | 🍂 fall foliage spot 📍picnic spot or walking paths |
| Seokchon Lake Park | Songpa-gu | 🌸 cherry blossom viewing spot 📍Near Lotte World Tower |
| Seonyudo Park | Yeongdeungpo-gu | 🌃 Visit observatory for city views |
| Seoul Forest Park | Seongdong-gu | 🌸 cherry blossom viewing spot 🍂 fall foliage spot 🧺 great picnic spot |
| Seoul Botanic Park | Magok-dong | 🎟️ admission in Botanic Garden |
| Ttukseom Hangang Park | Gwangjin-gu | 🚲 bike rentals along riverside 🧺 great picnic spot 🌅 sunset spot with N Seoul Tower |
| World Cup Park | Mapo-gu | 🍂 fall foliage spot ☕️ cafe & convenience store |
| Yongsan Cup Park | Yongsan-gu | 📍 Near National Museum of Korea 🍃Gorgeous green spaces |
Boramae Park (보라매공원)
Address: 33, Yeouidaebang-ro 20-gil, Dongjak-gu, Seoul (서울 동작구 여의대방로20길 33)
Previously the former site of the Korean Air Force Academy, Boramae Park has been transformed by the Seoul Metropolitan Government into a gorgeous green space amidst the bustling city that shouldn’t be missed. Popular amongst locals for its library, a small zoo, swimming pool and jogging course there is plenty to do at this park. During spring it’s also an underrated cherry blossom viewing spot compared to the more well-known places such as Seoul Forest.
Discover the top cherry blossom viewing spots in Seoul in this local guide.
Banpo Hangang Park (반포한강공원)
Address: 40, Sinbanpo-ro 11-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 서초구 신반포로11길 40)
Banpo Park is a must-visit place to see in Seoul at night. It’s one of the most popular local hangout spots to enjoy with friends. Often you’ll find people catching the sunset here and having a picnic while taking in the natural scenery. This park also holds the Bamdokkaebi Night Market every Friday and Saturday between April and October. It’s a great place to try different kinds of Korean street food whilst taking in the city views.
At Banpo Park you’ll also be treated to lots of convenience stores where you can grab some snacks and drinks to enjoy at the park. Alternatively, you can try the local tradition of ordering ‘chi-maek’ which is Korean fried chicken and beer. Often you’ll see the locals enjoying this food and drink combo whilst enjoying the gorgeous rainbow light show at Banpo Bridge.
Don’t miss out on these top things to do in Seoul at night in this local travel guide.
Gyeongchun Line Forest Trail (경춘선숲길)
Address: 272-2 Gongneung-dongNowon-gu, Seoul (서울 노원구 공릉동 272-2)
Gyeongchun Line Forest Park is an underrated spot to visit in Seoul. Compared to the other parks in the city it was previously a railway line now transformed into a natural park. The Gyeongchun line was once connected to Seoul and Chuncheon in Gangwon province. In 2010 it closed after seven decades before transforming into a lush green space with a walking trail along the existing track.
Amidst the bustling city, this park offers the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely walk in a forest setting. The 6km-long park also boasts a train cafe, time museum and light garden worth checking out.
If you’re in Seoul don’t miss out on these top 15 aesthetic cafes to visit in this local guide.
Hangang Park (Han River) (한강공원)
Address: Stretches over 12 main parks along Han River.
Hangang (Han River) is the main river that runs through the heart of Seoul. With 12 main Hangang Parks in Seoul, there are plenty of green spaces to enjoy, relax, have a picnic or enjoy water activities. If you want to try and blend in with the locals, you can enjoy chimaek (chicken and beer) on the riverside whilst taking in the city views as the sun goes down.
Discover the best places to visit in Seoul for first-time visitors in this local guide.
Haneul Park (하늘공원)
Address: 95 Haneulgongwon-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 마포구 하늘공원로 95)
Haneul Park is one of the most popular parks which make up World Cup Park in Seoul. Along with the other four parks, these green spaces were established to restore the ecological environment by operating through natural energy.
In particular, Haneul Park is best known for its gorgeous nightscapes and beautiful sunsets. Boasting a rock garden, sunflower field, mixed grassland, silver grass field and observatory rest area there are plenty of areas to explore in this green space. One of the best times of the year to visit the park is during autumn to see the pink muhly grass, pampas grass and vibrant fall foliage.
For the best views I recommend heading to the top of Haneul Park where you’ll find twenty-two lookout points including the observation deck which offers gorgeous views of the city and iconic attractions including Bukhansan Mountain, Han River and Namsan Seoul Tower.
If you’re travelling to Korea in autumn don’t miss out on these 20 must-see fall foliage spots in Korea.
Ichon Hangang Park (이촌한강공원)
Address: 62, Ichon-ro 72-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 용산구 이촌로72길 62)
Found on the north bank of the Han River, Ichon Hangang Park lies between Jungrangcheon and Wonhyo bridges. At the park, there is plenty to explore including the ‘Teen Square,’ ‘X-Game Center’, a rollerblading track, tennis court and basketball courts. If you’re more interested in a leisure stroll don’t forget to check out the many art pieces littered in the park including the famous pink penguins. This park also holds the Hanwha Seoul Fireworks Festival which shouldn’t be missed during July.
Jamsil Hangang Park (잠실한강공원)
Address: 65, Hangaram-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 송파구 한가람로 65)
Found on the banks of the Hangang River, Jamsil Hangang Park is a popular resting area for locals. The park boasts access to natural learning centres, bicycle paths and recreational facilities including volleyball courts, a soccer field, an ice rink, cycling roads, inline skating rinks, and a swimming pool. A visit to Jamsil Hangang Park and you’ll be treated to endless fun activities and to see. This park is also an underrated spot to watch a sunset in Seoul and is perfect for a picnic with friends and/or family.
Yeuido Hangang Park (여의도한강공원)
Address: 330, Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 영등포구 여의동로 330)
Yeouido Hangang Park is one of the most popular parks in Seoul, especially during spring (Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival). Found on the banks of Han River, you’ll want to check the weather before visiting this park as it can get very windy.
You’ll find Yeouido Hangang Park as a local crowd favourite particularly for couples and friends to spend their evenings and/or weekends. Often you’ll see people hiring tents mats and food to have a picnic at this spot. One of the great drawcards of this park is that it’s possible to get food delivered right to your picnic location. In addition to enjoying a picturesque riverside picnic, you can also hire hover-boards, and segways to ride along the river.
Read up on 30 must-have apps for travelling in South Korea.
Namsan Park (남산공원)
Address: 231, Samil-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 중구 삼일대로 231)
Did you go to Seoul if you didn’t visit Namsan Park? Whilst most people visit the iconic Namsan Tower, most people take the bus or cable car to the top and avoid exploring the park. Found on the mountainside of Namsan (south mountain), this park is a must-visit park to be treated to panoramic city views of Seoul and natural scenery.
Featuring a ring path that circles the base of the mountain you’ll get to explore picturesque city and natural scenery on your walk. Although Namsan Park is beautiful to visit year-round. Fall and spring are the most beautiful times to visit this park. The whole park comes alive with blooming cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage during fall.
If you want to find the best spots to explore in Namsan check out these walking tours to join!
Important: If you’re planning to take the cable car up to Namsan Seoul Tower make sure to book your tickets in advance. As a foreign tourist, you can get it cheaper by booking online.
Naksan Park (낙산공원)
Address: 41, Naksan-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 낙산길 41)
Beautiful all-year round Naksan Park is particularly gorgeous during the months of spring and autumn. From seeing the blooming cherry blossoms or the vibrant fall foliage, you won’t be disappointed with the natural scenery at this park. In particular, what makes this park popular with both locals and tourists alike are its stunning views of Namsan Seoul Tower and Seoul’s Fortress Wall. This wall was built during the Joseon Dynasty and stretches for about 2.5km. The park features numerous paths that take you through mountain-top views and picturesque gardens to enjoy.
If you’re planning on exploring Naksan there are numerous walking routes you can take. I recommend starting at Dongdaemun History and Culture Park and following the Seoul wall to the peak of Naksan.
Planning a trip to Seoul for the first time? Save hours of planning with this one-stop Seoul Travel Guide.
- +300 places to explore in Seoul and outside the capital city (with Naver Map links)
- Local guide to using and booking transport in Korea
- Best places to eat in Seoul (cafe & restaurant recommendations)
- Best photo spots in Seoul (tourist traps & local recommendations)
- Insider tips on where to stay, where to shop and top things to do in Seoul
- … and more!
Noeul Park (노을 공원)
Address: 108-2, Haneulgongwon-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (서울 마포구 하늘공원로 108-2)
Previously known as Nanjido and used as a landfill until the 90s, Noeul Park has undergone urban generation to become an eco-friendly park. Today it’s a gorgeous green space in Seoul offering natural habitats for recreational and wildlife spaces for locals to use including walking paths and sports facilities. If you’re interested in sightseeing you’ll want to head to the observatory deck to enjoy scenic views of Han River, Olympicdaegyo Bridge and Nanji Hangang Park.
Olympic Park (올림픽공원)
Address: 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 송파구 올림픽로 424)
Olympic Park lies east of Seoul near Lotte Tower and Jamsil. This park is often regarded as one of the best outdoor spaces in Seoul. Whilst it is beautiful all year round during autumn Olympic Park is a must-visit location to see the fall foliage and seasonal flowers in Korea.
At the park, you can enjoy a leisure stroll exploring the grounds or have a picnic taking in the scenery. Don’t miss out on the installations that date back to the cherished 1988 Summer Olympics, including the World Peace Gate and arts and culture zone which features an outdoor sculpture park and SOMA Museum of Art.
Traveling to Korea during autumn? Discover the top places to visit in autumn and must-see fall festivals in Korea in this local guide.
Seokchon Lake Park (석촌호수공원)
Address: 136 Samhaksa-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 송파구 삼학사로 136)
Seokchon Lake Park surrounds the well-known Seokchon Lake which lies adjacent to iconic attractions in Seoul, Lotte World Tower, Lotte World Mall and Lotte World Theme Park. If you’re travelling to Korea during spring don’t miss out on this spot to see the cherry blossoms and the annual cherry blossom festival. To avoid crowds during this busy spring period I recommended visiting at night to see the lake lit up with the surrounding illuminations.
Seonyudo Park (선유도공원)
Address: 95 Yanghwa-dong Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (영등포구 양화동 95)
If you’re looking for an underrated green space in Seoul look no further than Seonyudo Park. Once a wasteland it was reclaimed into a nature’s wonderland and lies on an islet directly on the Han River. Previously the site of a sewage treatment plant, it has been transformed into a public park as part of the large-scale Hangang Renaissance Project.
Today, the park serves as a sprawling eco-conscious space with its unique botanical garden. If you’re visiting don’t miss out on the observatory found on the island’s western end. You’ll be treated to a gorgeous view of Seoul.
Seoul Forest Park (서울숲)
Address: 273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 성동구 뚝섬로 273)
Seoul Forest is one of the most well-known parks in Seoul and for good reason! Found on the banks of the Han River, the park is divided into several green spaces including the lakeside park which is the most popular. Originally this park was used as a hunting ground and drew inspiration from the famous Central Park in New York.
In addition to featuring large grass areas, it also features forest and marsh areas which beg for an afternoon picnic or leisure stroll. You can easily spend a whole day here without getting bored, as there are so many things to do here. From having a picnic near the lake, riding a bike, discovering the greenhouses filled with plants and butterflies or checking out the deer enclosure.
Besides the park, there is also a quaint neighbourhood behind the park perfect for checking out the local restaurants, cafes and shops.
For +290 recommendations of the best places to eat in Korea check out this local guide.
☕️ Want to find the best places to eat in South Korea?
Don’t miss out on over 290 cafes and restaurants to visit in Korea in my Cafe & Restaurant Guide. I cover essential information including…
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Over 290 local cafes & restaurants to visit (with Naver Map links)
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How to find hidden local eateries (cafes & restaurants)
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Over 30 essential Korean phrases & vocabulary for ordering at restaurants & cafes
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Essential etiquette for eating out in Korea ….. and more!
Seoul Botanic Park (서울 식물원)
Address: 161 Magok-dong, Gangseo-gu, Seoul, South Korea (서울 강서구 마곡동로 161)
Seoul Botanic Park consists of indoor and outdoor areas to explore. The main attraction however is the Botanic Garden (indoor area) which is a must-visit place in Seoul.
Seoul Botanic Garden lies inside a big glass structure within the Seoul Botanic Park. Inside you’ll get to explore themed areas that represent different plant life from cities around the world. Whilst Seoul Botanic Garden is the only park on this list that requires an admission fee it’s a unique park that you won’t be able to experience elsewhere.
Don’t miss out on the Seoul Pass to save money on top attractions and tickets in Seoul.
Ttukseom Hangang Park (뚝섬한강공원)
Address: 139, Gangbyeonbuk-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 광진구 강변북로 2273 (자양동))
Ttukseom Hangang Park is one of the most underrated parks in Seoul. Easily accessible from Ttukseom Resort subway station it’s worth the trip if you’re in Seoul. Throughout the year the park holds various events, particularly during summer. With areas containing stages, there are often festivals held at the river banks of this park. You can also hire bikes to ride along the river while soaking up the best river views in Seoul.
Ttukseom Hangang Park is an ideal spot for a picnic, whether you’ve prepacked snacks or want to grab some from the convenience store. One of the main drawcards of this park however is its stunning sunset views of Seoul. As the sun goes behind Namsan Seoul Tower it makes a picturesque photocard for your trip.
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous this park is one of the best places to enjoy water sports in Seoul. From paddle boarding, wakeboarding, waterskiing, windsurfing and more. Find out more about water sports rentals here.
World Cup Park (월드컵공원)
Address: 243-60, World Cup-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 마포구 하늘공원로 84)
Found near Hongdae, the World Cup Park is a must-visit destination if you’re visiting during autumn in Korea. Uniquely made of different smaller gardens, each has unique attractions worth exploring in Seoul. From Haneul Garden (translates to ‘Sky Garden’) to Nanji Hangang Park (a riverside park situated along the Han River), World Cup Stadium boasts a variety of places to explore out of all the listed parks in this article.
In addition to featuring large open areas, there is also a cafe and convenience store where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink.
Looking to experience the best of fall in Korea? Read up on underrated places to explore in Korea during autumn.
Yongsan Family Park (용산가족공원)
Address: 185, Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 용산구 서빙고로 185)
Located next to the National Museum of Korea. This quaint park provides a charming place to cool off after you’re explorations at the National Museum of Korea. From tables, picnic chairs and a spacious green space to take in the natural scenery.
There are also a variety of convenience stores in the park to grab a bite to eat or drink. If you’re a nature lover you’ll want to check out the gorgeous garden and pond with the waterfall and flower arrangements. If you have the time you can also have a picnic at this underrated picnic spot in Seoul.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular park in South Korea?
You might get different answers on ‘what’s the most popular park in South Korea?’ Generally in Seoul, top picks for popular parks in the city include Seoul Forest and Haneul Park.
Which are the best parks in Seoul to visit with family?
Most of the parks in Seoul are family-friendly, however, if you’re looking for parks to entertain kids of all ages, including playgrounds, sports facilities and walking trails check out Hangang Park, Seoul Children’s Grand Park and Yeouido Park.
What are the best parks to visit in Seoul during autumn?
If you’re visiting Seoul during autumn there are numerous parks to visit to see the fall foliage and seasonal flowers. Top picks for the best parks to visit in autumn include spots like Seoul Forest and Haneul Park. For the best places to visit in autumn in Seoul read the full local guide.
What is the closest National Park to Seoul?
Bukhansan National Park is the closest National Park to Seoul. This park is popular amongst tourists and locals alike featuring scenic hiking routes, temples to explore and picturesque natural scenery to check out. One of the best times of the year to visit Bukhansan National Park is during autumn to see the golden and crimson fall foliage.
Seoul’s best parks offer a harmonious blend of nature, recreation, and cultural experiences within the city limits. Whether you seek a serene escape, stunning vistas, outdoor activities, or a glimpse of history, these parks cater to diverse interests. From the tranquil riverside of Hangang Park to the scenic heights of Namsan, these green spaces weave an intricate tapestry of nature amidst urban life, inviting locals and travellers to embrace the beauty and tranquillity they offer. So, take a break from the bustling streets and explore these remarkable havens of greenery that Seoul proudly showcases.
Travel Planning Resources ✈️
Here are my recommendations that I’ve tried personally to make your next trip easier.
Public Transport 🚊 If you plan to use public transport make sure to order a T-money card in advance which can be used for subways, taxis, and buses. For booking Korea’s high-speed trains, save money and get unlimited rides with a Korea Rail Pass.
Arriving in Korea ✈️ Most travellers arrive at Incheon International Airport to start their journey. I’m guessing you’ll be starting your trip to Seoul. You can either use public transport (the subway) or order a private transfer to get to your accommodation to check-in. If you’re taking public transport take the Airport Express (AREX) to your destination.
Attractions & Tours 🌟 Klook and GetYourGuide are my preferred platforms for local tours and activities in Korea. They make it easy to compare tours, book experiences and the best deals. You can also download their mobile app where you can easily access your bookings on the go.
Power Adaptors : South Korea uses standard Type C and F sockets with a standard voltage of 220. Note if you have a similar plug socket from your home country that the voltage may be different so be careful with your electronics and use a voltage converter. I always recommend buying a universal adaptor so you can use it in any country (great for future travels) and it offers extra ports for USB cables to charge your devices.
Accommodation 🛌: I book all my accommodation in Korea through Booking.com. They have a wide selection of accommodations worldwide, with flexible booking options and great deals. They also have a Genius Loyalty program where you can get discounts and benefits on selected stays.
Easy Car Rental 🚗 Get hassle-free car rentals on DiscoverCars with a wide selection, competitive prices, and great customer service. Often it’s cheaper than booking direct and you can compare a large range of suppliers to check if you’re getting the best price.
Stay Connected 📶 wherever you go by easily and affordably purchasing an eSim for all your travels. Thanks to Airalo, you’ll get instant access to data and you don’t need to physically swap a plastic SIM card every time you’re travelling to a new country.
Travel Insurance 🛡️ I use World Nomads for overseas travel insurance. Travel with peace of mind knowing you’ll be covered for unexpected events and plan a worry-free journey.
Camera Gear 📸: If you’re curious about the camera gear I’ve used for my photos find out what’s in my camera bag here.
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