If you’re planning a trip to South Korea you’ll need to add these places for your trip to Seoul. Seoul is a huge city to explore with a range of activities to try for any first-time and seasoned traveler. Living in Korea since 2022 I always find myself discovering new places and activities in this bustling city.

In this post, I’ll be sharing some of the best places to visit in Seoul for first-timers. Beyond sharing local places to visit in Korea, I’ll also be sharing local tips for your trip to make your trip more memorable and helpful recommendations to save money and time for your Korea trip. If it’s your first time visiting Korea be sure to read up on these 10 things to know for your trip to South Korea.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Seoul

Seoul’s Five Palaces

If you’re visiting Seoul in South Korea you’ll need to check out at least one palace in the capital city. The best part, you can get entry into all of Seoul’s five palaces. Wondering how? Simply visit one of the palaces on the last Wednesday of each month to receive free entry. Alternatively, you can also rent a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) which will allow you to get free entry into the palaces and it makes a fun activity to explore Korea’s historic sites. Find out everything you need to know about a hanbok rental here.

Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁)

Admission: ￦3,000 for adults.

Address: 161, Sajik‑ro, Jongno‑gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 사직로 161)

Free entry: Wearing (hanbok) or Culture Day (last Wednesday of every month).

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the most well-known palace out of Seoul’s 5 grand palaces. It can easily be explored in half a day. If you want to avoid large crowds I recommend visiting early in the morning or at night. If you want to visit at night you need to book a tour in advance.

❗️If you’re planning to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul make sure to check out the guard changing ceremony at Gwanghwamun Gate. The gate is located in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace the ceremony occurs at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm each day (except Tuesdays).

Chandeokgung Palace (창덕궁과 후원)

Address: 99, Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 율곡로 99)

Admission: ￦3,000 for adults & ￦1,500 for children.

Free entry: Wearing (hanbok) or Culture Day (last Wednesday of every month).

One of the most well-preserved of the 5 remaining royal palaces in South Korea. The area consists of a public palace area, a paved courtyard, open corridors, and the royal family’s residence. One of the most photographed spots at Changdeokgung Palace is the Huwon Garden. You’ll get to see a lily pond and elegant pavilions surrounded by beautiful flowers. Whilst this palace is beautiful all-year-round it is the most time to visit is during autumn to see the fall foliage and the palace grounds (tour required for the secret garden).

Hanok Villages in Seoul

Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을)

Admission: Free entry.

Address: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 계동길 37 (계동))

Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon (4 pm to 5pm) to avoid the big crowds.

Surrounded by Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo shrine, this hanok village is home to hundreds of traditional houses called hanok which date back to the Joseon dynasty. This village previously housed Joseon dynasty officials and the wealthy nobility. However today it is more well-known as an instagrammable spot amongst foreigners.

Despite its well-known popularity online, it’s a great Hanok village to explore and get lost in. If you have time you can rent a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) to explore the local streets and take some photos. It’s a great alternative to Gyeongbokgung Palace to avoid the crowds who’ve rented a hanbok. At this hanok village, you’ll get to see Namsan Tower peaking behind the hanok village. Besides getting lost in the local streets, surrounding the area are cute local stores and cafes worth visiting. You can expect to find more local authentic souvenirs compared to what you find in Myeongdong.

What to do in Bukchon Hanok Village

Souvenir shopping: If you’re looking for more local authentic and affordable souvenirs compared to Myeongdong look no further than Bukchon Hanok Village. The streets are lined with local shops offering local crafts from jewelry, accessories, postcards, and more.

Cafe Hopping: Surrounding Bukchon Hanok Village are streets lined with local cafes waiting to be explored. Not only will you be treated to delicious baked treats, meals, and drinks you’ll get a stunning view of the surrounding hanok village. I’ve linked a few recommendations further in the post.

Hanok homestay: If you’re looking for a local stay experience in a traditional Korean house consider staying in a hanok in this hanok village. If you’re looking for local recommendations check out my in-depth local guide to a hanok stay in Korea.

Traditional Cultural Center (북촌문화센터) Try a hands-on activity by trying a local workshop to get insight into the hard work behind the ancient crafts that epitomize Korean culture.

Cafes near Bukchon Hanok Village

O’Sulloc Tea House Bukchon

(오설록 티하우스 북촌점):

45 Bukchon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 북촌로 45)

Visit this sleek and modern cafe in Bukchon. If you’re a tea lover you’ll be treated with a range of traditional teas from Korea and a stunning view above Bukchon Hanok Village.

Layered (레이어드):

2-3 Bukchon-ro 2-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 북촌로2길 2-3

A cozy bakery cafe that is perfect for sweet treats. You’ll have plenty of baked treats to try and be accompanied by a view of Bukchon Hanok Village.

Cheong Su Dang 청수당:

31-9 Donhwamun-ro 11na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Nakwon Station Cafe 낙원역:

33-5 Supyo-ro 28-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

☕️ 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’ve included some of my favourite eateries and essential information including:

Over 290 local cafes & restaurants to visit (with Naver Map links)
How to find hidden local eateries (cafes & restaurants)
Over 30 essential Korean phrases & vocabulary for ordering at restaurants & cafes
Essential etiquette for eating out in Korea ….. and more!

Eunpyeong Hanok Village (은평한옥마을)

Admission: Free entry.

Address: 127-25, Jingwan-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 은평구 진관동 127-25)

How to get here? Take Bus No. 701 or 7211 from Yeonsinnae Station (Seoul Subway Line 3, 6), Exit 3 to Hanago, Jingwansa, Samcheonsa Entrance Bus Stop

Found at the foot of Bukhansan Mountain, this hanok village has become the largest neighborhood of new hanok houses in Seoul’s metropolitan area. If you visit this Seoul attraction be sure to leave room for a half-day itinerary to enjoy walking along the forested trails on Bukhansan Mountain, visiting a temple, or museum, and/or enjoying a break at a cafe or restaurant with stunning mountain views.

Namsangol Hanok Village (남산골한옥마을)

Admission: Free entry.

Address: 28, Toegye‑ro 34‑gil, Jung‑gu, Seoul (서울특별시 중구 퇴계로34길 28 (필동2가))

Personally one of my favorite hanok villages in Korea to visit. It is an underrated spot in Seoul compared to the popular Bukchon Hanok Village. This hanok village has more areas to explore and has a stunning free view of Namsan Seoul Tower. Every time I visit this spot there are hardly any crowds, however, this may change from when I publish this post (July 2023). As always, if you want to avoid crowds at any local attraction in Seoul it’s best to visit outside of peak visiting hours. This includes visiting early in the morning (before 9 am) or later in the day such as late afternoon (4 pm). You can also visit during the night to see Namsan Tower light up the sky in the background of this hanok village and the mountains.

Bongeunsa Temple (봉은사)

Admission: Free entry.

Address: 531, Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 강남구 봉은사로 531)

Don’t forget to check out Korea’s picturesque temples. Bongeunsa Temple is one of the most popular Korean temples in Seoul and is found in Gangnam, near Starfield COEX Mall. This temple boasts several cultural events throughout the year and is surrounded by lush greenery in Seoul. If you visit this temple around Buddha’s birthday you’ll be treated to hundreds of lanterns decorating the place. This is a great time to visit the temple at night to see this spot glowing up the city’s landscape.

How to get here?

This temple is easily accessible by public transport. Take the subway line 9 to Bongeunsa Temple Station and leave through Exit 1.

Temple Stay

You can also try a host temple stay at Bongeunsa Temple. Part of the temple stay experience includes a traditional tea ceremony, monastic meals, a temple tour, and guided meditation. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous and want a more local authentic experience for your trip. Find out more information here.

COEX Starfield Library 별마당도서관

Admission: Free

Address: 513, Yeongdong‑daero, Gangnam‑gu, Seoul (서울특별시 강남구 영동대로 513)

COEX Starfield Library is one of the most instagrammable places in Seoul and I think despite it being overhyped on social media It’s worth visiting at least once if you are in the Gangnam area. It’s located in the center of COEX Gangnam Mall and it’s a public open space where anyone can freely come to sit down, take a break or get some photos.

Important Notes

Just note that this space is much smaller than the pictures online and there isn’t a lot of space to walk around and explore. In fact, there are only three towering bookshelves where most people take photos in front of. The library is also designed more of a cultural space than a ‘traditional library’ and is become more known as an instagrammable spot to take photos. This spot is definitely not one of my favorite places to visit in Seoul but if you’re in Gangnam you can check out this spot and explore the other nearby sites.

Activities in or near COEX Mall

After you’ve visited this library you can go shopping or grab a bite to eat at one of the many eateries in the shopping mall. Or if you want to do some more exploring consider trying out these activities nearby. Just make sure to reserve a booking beforehand.

COEX Aquarium: Visit one of Korea’s maritime theme parks and see over 650 different species including white beluga whales, cow nose rays, and more. Reserve your tickets in advance to avoid the long queues at the entrance.

Lotte World: Visit Korea’s indoor and outdoor theme park in the heart of Seoul for thrilling rides, parades, fireworks, and more. It’s the perfect whole-day activity to enjoy with friends and/or family for your trip to Seoul.

📌 Need travel inspiration for a day trip in South Korea?

Travel to the coastal city of Pohang on the eastern coast of Korea. Find out all the best things to do in this coastal city in this Pohang travel guide.

Myeongdong Shopping Street

Address: Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 중구 명동길 (명동1가)

If you’re planning on shopping in Seoul, visit this shopping district to find dozens of department stores, shopping malls, and street-side shops. Myeongdong is your one-stop for everything you need to find for your shopping. Did you know there are over 1,000 outlets selling Korean cosmetics and skincare? Popular items you can find include inexpensive clothes, shoes, accessories, jewelry, and handbags from local and international brands.

If you’re more of a foodie don’t worry there are lots of street food to try. The main shopping street is lined with local food street vendors selling both sweet and savory local Korean snacks.

👀 Looking for local tours and activities in Seoul?

If you want discounts on admission tickets to local attractions or an insider guide around Seoul check out the link below!

Lotte World Tower (롯데월드타워)

Address: 300, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 송파구 올림픽로 300)

Admission: If you’re a foreign tourist you can get discounted tickets by reserving your tickets in advance online.

Lotte World Tower is a 555m tall skyscraper that offers 360-degree views of Seoul from the observation desk. You can also visit the concert hall, Aquarium concert hall, and cinema or indulge yourself in dining and shopping. I recommend visiting around sunset or at night for the best views of the cityscape.

Lotte World (롯데월드)

Opening Hours: Open all year round

Address: 240, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 송파구 올림픽로 240)

Admission: (Lotte World Ticket or Lotte Tower & Lotte World Pass)

Visit Korea’s indoor and outdoor theme park located in the heart of Seoul. Located in central Seoul It’s one of the world’s largest indoor theme parks. It has thrilling rides, films, an ice‑skating rink, lively parades, and laser shows for visitors of all ages. I recommend avoiding visiting on weekends and booking admission tickets in advance to avoid the crowds and long queues.

It’s essential to book your tickets well in advance for your trip. Not only can you save money by reserving your tickets in advance but you’ll get to skip the queues at the entrance. If you’re a foreign tourist you can get a discount on your ticket by reserving your tickets online. You also have the option of ordering a ticket with fast pass options that allow you to skip the long lines for a certain amount of rides. This is worth the money as you can save HOURS of waiting in line.

Seoul Namsan Park (서울 남산공원)

Admission: Free entry

Address: 231, Samil-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 중구 삼일대로 231)

Namsan Park is a recreational spot on Mount Namsan. You can either travel the stone staircase or by cable car to the Palgakjeong Pavillion which provides views of the city. The Park has lots of sightseeing spots including Namsan Library and Namsan Seoul Tower.

Namsan Seoul Tower (남산서울타워)

Address: 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 용산구 남산공원길 105)

Admission: ￦10,000 Adults for the observatory.

Namsan Seoul Tower is a modern structure on Namsan Mountain in central Seoul. Standing at 237m above ground you’ll get to enjoy panoramic views of Seoul from its observatory. Inside you’ll also find souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes. The terrace on the first floor of the tower is also a popular spot for attaching padlocks and notes.

If you’re a Korean Drama fan you’ll also be delighted to know that numerous movies and TV dramas have been filmed on this site including True Beauty (2020), Boys Over Flowers (2009), and My Love from the Star (2013). A fun activity to try can include taking photos at the same filming sites from these shows and movies.

Looking for an underrated place to explore in South Korea?

Take a day trip from Seoul to Ganghwa Island to explore Korea without the crowds. Find the best things to do in Ganghwa Island from temples to unique cafes and picturesque landscapes. Read everything about Ganghwado in this guide.

National Museum of Korea (국립중앙박물관)

Address: 137, Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 용산구 서빙고로 137)

Admission: Free entry to the Main Exhibition Hall & Children’s Museum.

Looking for a place where you can enjoy both indoors and outdoors? Look no further than the National Museum of Korea, located in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. The National Museum of Korea, which opened in 2005, holds various exhibitions such as displaying national cultural assets overseas, to promote Korean culture and exhibition of international civilization, to introduce foreign culture.

The National Museum of Korea is a place full of attractions with six halls with a permanent exhibition, a children’s museum, a theatre, a library, as well as outdoor spaces like pavilions, ponds, and botanical gardens. In the museum, you can experience exhibitions, commentary programs, educational programs, and realistic content using high-tech, and cultural events. With over 15,000 pieces in its art collection from sculptures, paintings, ceramics, and metalwork. You can also enjoy Yongsan Damily Park, a grassy field with a pond and a natural education centre.

📌 Ultimate Seoul Travel Guide

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, shop & things to do in Seoul
• … and more!

Gwangjang Market (광장시장)

Opening hours: Sundays (Food Street open all year round)

Address: 88, Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 창경궁로 88)

Local Tour: If you’re a foodie and want a local guided tour of the best eats of Seoul consider Gwangjang is Korea’s first permanent market. The first floor is full of little restaurants and stalls selling food, while the upstairs sells silk, satin, and linens. The ceiling is decorated with flags from various countries, a move by the government to attract more visitors to the once-deteriorating market.

This market was made famous by popular Korean shows including ‘Running Man.’ If you’re looking to find Korean food all in one place this is your go-to spot. If you’re a bit overwhelmed by the food choices try. I recommend the following street foods for first-timers:

• Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes)
• Kalguksu (Korean knife-cut noodle soup)
• Gimbap (seaweed rice roll that looks like sushi)
• Eomukguk (fish cake soup)
• Soondae (blood sausage)
• Boribap (rice and barley with vegetables)

Conclusion

I hope you found this post helpful and that it helps you with planning your trip to South Korea. Traveling to Korea doesn’t have to be expensive. If you are considering doing these activities let me know your thoughts below. Also don’t forget to check out my full travel guides for South Korea.

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Want to travel to South Korea without planning anything? Join me on a group trip to Korea in Spring 2024!

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