Seoul, the vibrant capital city of South Korea, is a mesmerizing blend of modernity and tradition. With its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and bustling markets, Seoul offers a captivating experience for every traveler. From ancient palaces to cutting-edge technology hubs, this city has something for everyone. Here are 10 major tourist attractions in Seoul that you must explore during your visit to Seoul.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and most impressive of Seoul’s five palaces. It was built in the 14th century by the Joseon Dynasty, and it served as the home of the Korean royal family for over 500 years. The palace complex is beautifully landscaped, with traditional Korean gardens and pavilions. Visitors can dress in traditional Korean clothing and take a guided tour of the palace.
The palace was originally much larger than it is today. However, it was largely destroyed during the Japanese invasion of Korea in the 16th century. The palace was rebuilt in the 19th century, but it was not until the late 20th century that it was fully restored to its former glory.
Gyeongbokgung Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Seoul. Visitors can explore the palace grounds, visit the royal apartments, and learn about the history of the Joseon Dynasty. There are also a number of cultural events held at the palace throughout the year.
Here are some tips for visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace:
- The palace is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, but the ticket office closes at 5:00 pm.
- The palace is busiest on weekends and during the summer months. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit on a weekday during the spring or fall.
- There is an admission fee for the palace. The price for adults is 3,000 won, and the price for children is 1,500 won.
- You can dress in traditional Korean clothing (hanbok) for a fee of 10,000 won. Hanbok rental is available at the palace.
- There are a number of guided tours available at the palace. The tours are offered in Korean, English, Japanese, and Chinese.
- There are a number of restaurants and cafes located near the palace. You can also bring your own food and drinks into the palace.
2. Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is a traditional Korean village located in the heart of Seoul. It is home to hundreds of hanok, which are traditional Korean houses. The village is a great place to experience Korean culture and to see traditional Korean architecture. Visitors can wander through the streets of the village, visit the hanok, and shop for souvenirs.
Bukchon Hanok Village was built in the 14th century and was once home to the nobility of the Joseon Dynasty. The village was spared from destruction during the Korean War, and it has been carefully preserved over the centuries. Today, Bukchon Hanok Village is a popular tourist destination and a living reminder of Korea’s rich history.
There are many things to see and do in Bukchon Hanok Village. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets, admiring the traditional architecture. They can also visit the many hanok that have been converted into museums, restaurants, and tea houses. There are also a number of cultural events held in Bukchon Hanok Village throughout the year, such as traditional music and dance performances.
If you are interested in learning more about Korean culture, Bukchon Hanok Village is a great place to visit. It is a beautiful and historic village that is a living reminder of Korea’s past.
Here are some tips for visiting Bukchon Hanok Village:
- The best time to visit Bukchon Hanok Village is in the morning or early evening, when the crowds are smaller.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Be respectful of the residents and their property. Do not enter any hanok that are not open to the public.
- Take your time and explore the village at your own pace. There is no need to rush.
- Enjoy the atmosphere and the beauty of the village. It is a truly unique place.
3. N Seoul Tower
N Seoul Tower is a communications and observation tower located on Namsan Mountain in Seoul, South Korea. It is the tallest structure in Seoul and offers stunning views of the city. The tower was built in 1969 and was originally called the Seoul Tower. In 1980, it was renamed N Seoul Tower, which stands for “Namsan Seoul Tower.”
N Seoul Tower is a popular tourist destination and is open to the public from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Visitors can take the cable car to the top of the tower or hike up the mountain. There is a restaurant, a gift shop, and an observation deck at the top of the tower. The observation deck offers 360-degree views of Seoul and is a great place to see the city skyline.
In addition to the observation deck, N Seoul Tower also has a number of other attractions, including:
- A revolving restaurant: The N Grill restaurant offers a revolving view of Seoul as you eat.
- A digital observatory: The Digital Observatory is a multimedia experience that uses light and sound to tell the story of Seoul.
- A roof terrace: The roof terrace is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the city.
- A love padlock wall: Visitors can attach love padlocks to the wall as a symbol of their love.
N Seoul Tower is a great place to visit for a romantic date, a family outing, or a solo adventure. It is a must-see for any visitor to Seoul.
Here are some additional information about N Seoul Tower:
- Admission to the observation deck is 16,000 won for adults (13+), 13,000 won for teenagers (13-18), and 10,000 won for children (7-12). Children under 7 are free.
- The cable car to the top of the tower costs 8,500 won for adults, 7,500 won for teenagers, and 6,500 won for children.
- N Seoul Tower is open from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, 365 days a year.
- The tower is closed for maintenance on the first Monday of every month.
- Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
- The tower can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
4. Myeongdong Shopping Street
Myeongdong Shopping Street is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Seoul, South Korea. It is a pedestrian-only street that is lined with shops selling a variety of goods, including clothing, cosmetics, electronics, and souvenirs. There are also a number of restaurants and cafes in Myeongdong. The street is always crowded, especially on weekends, but it is a great place to find bargains and to experience Korean culture.
Here are some of the things you can do in Myeongdong Shopping Street:
- Shop for clothes: Myeongdong is a great place to find Korean fashion brands, such as Stylenanda, Innisfree, and Etude House. There are also a number of high-end brands in Myeongdong, such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel.
- Shop for cosmetics: Myeongdong is known for its affordable Korean cosmetics. There are a number of shops selling brands like 3CE, Laneige, and Sulwhasoo.
- Shop for electronics: Myeongdong is a great place to find electronics at discounted prices. There are a number of shops selling brands like Samsung, LG, and Apple.
- Eat street food: There are a number of street food vendors in Myeongdong selling popular Korean dishes, such as tteokbokki, kimbap, and bibimbap.
- Visit a department store: Myeongdong has a number of department stores, such as Lotte Department Store and Shinsegae Department Store. These department stores sell a variety of goods, including clothes, cosmetics, electronics, and souvenirs.
- See a street performance: There are often street performances in Myeongdong, such as traditional Korean music and dance performances.
Here are some tips for visiting Myeongdong Shopping Street:
- Be prepared for crowds: Myeongdong is always crowded, especially on weekends. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit during the week.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking in Myeongdong. Wear comfortable shoes so that you can enjoy your shopping experience.
- Bring cash: Many shops in Myeongdong do not accept credit cards. Bring cash with you so that you can make purchases.
- Bargain: Don’t be afraid to bargain when you are shopping in Myeongdong. The prices are often negotiable.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Myeongdong is a safe city, but it is always important to be aware of your surroundings. Keep your belongings close to you and do not leave them unattended.
5. Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden
Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden are two of the most popular tourist attractions in Seoul, South Korea. The palace was built in the 15th century and served as the primary residence of the Joseon Dynasty kings for over 200 years. The Secret Garden was added to the palace in the 17th century and is known for its beautiful landscaping and tranquil atmosphere.
Changdeokgung Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the best-preserved palaces in Korea. The palace complex is made up of 58 buildings, including the main hall, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, and Seonjeongjeon Hall. The buildings are beautifully decorated with traditional Korean architecture and are surrounded by lush gardens.
The Secret Garden is located behind Changdeokgung Palace and is only accessible by guided tour. The garden is made up of a variety of different landscaped areas, including ponds, streams, forests, and pavilions. The garden is a popular place for visitors to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of Seoul.
Here are some tips for visiting Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden:
- Buy your tickets in advance. Tickets for the palace and garden are sold separately and can sell out quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. You can buy tickets online or at the ticket office at the palace.
- Arrive early. The palace and garden open at 9:00 AM and it can get crowded later in the day. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to arrive early.
- Wear comfortable shoes. There is a lot of walking involved in visiting the palace and garden. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes so you can enjoy your visit.
- Take a guided tour. The Secret Garden is only accessible by guided tour. A guided tour is a great way to learn about the history and significance of the garden.
- Be respectful. Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden are important cultural sites. Be respectful of the grounds and the people who work there.
6. Insadong
Insadong is a popular shopping and dining district in Seoul, South Korea. It is located in the Jongno-gu district, just south of Gyeongbokgung Palace. The district is known for its traditional Korean handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing. There are also a number of restaurants serving Korean cuisine in Insadong.
Insadong has been a popular shopping destination for centuries. In the Joseon Dynasty, it was a center for the trade of ceramics, textiles, and other goods. Today, Insadong is home to a variety of shops selling traditional Korean handicrafts, such as hanok furniture, calligraphy supplies, and tea sets. There are also a number of shops selling souvenirs, such as magnets, t-shirts, and keychains.
In addition to shopping, Insadong is also a great place to eat. There are a number of restaurants serving Korean cuisine in the district. Visitors can find everything from traditional Korean dishes, such as bibimbap and bulgogi, to more modern Korean cuisine, such as kimchi jjigae and japchae. There are also a number of cafes and bars in Insadong, making it a great place to relax and people-watch.
If you are looking for a unique shopping and dining experience in Seoul, then Insadong is the place for you. The district is home to a variety of traditional Korean handicrafts, souvenirs, and restaurants. Visitors can spend an afternoon shopping and exploring the narrow streets of Insadong, or they can relax and people-watch in one of the many cafes or bars.
Here are some tips for visiting Insadong:
- Visit Insadong in the morning or evening. The district can get crowded in the afternoon, especially on weekends.
- Take your time and explore the narrow streets. There are a lot of hidden gems in Insadong, so it’s worth taking your time and exploring.
- Bargain with the shopkeepers. It’s customary to bargain in Insadong, so don’t be afraid to haggle with the shopkeepers.
- Try some traditional Korean food. There are a number of restaurants serving traditional Korean cuisine in Insadong. Be sure to try some bibimbap or bulgogi.
- Relax and people-watch. If you’re tired of shopping, there are a number of cafes and bars in Insadong where you can relax and people-watch.
7. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is a large cultural complex in Seoul, South Korea. It is the largest design complex in the world, and it is home to a variety of exhibition halls, theaters, and performance spaces. DDP is also a popular tourist destination, and it is known for its unique architecture.
The design of DDP was inspired by the traditional Korean folding fan. The roof of the complex is made up of a series of interlocking triangles, which are said to represent the dynamism of Korean culture. The exterior of the complex is clad in white stainless steel, which reflects the light and creates a sense of movement.
DDP is divided into three main sections: the Exhibition Hall, the Design Lab, and the DDP Square. The Exhibition Hall is home to a variety of exhibitions, including fashion shows, art exhibitions, and design competitions. The Design Lab is a space for designers to collaborate and experiment. The DDP Square is a public space that is used for events, performances, and festivals.
DDP is a great place to experience Korean culture and design. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. If you are visiting Seoul, be sure to check out DDP.
Here are some of the things you can do at Dongdaemun Design Plaza:
- Visit the Exhibition Hall to see a variety of exhibitions, including fashion shows, art exhibitions, and design competitions.
- Explore the Design Lab, a space for designers to collaborate and experiment.
- Take a walk or bike ride around DDP Square, a public space that is used for events, performances, and festivals.
- Visit the DDP Museum, which tells the story of the design of DDP.
- Have a meal at one of the many restaurants in DDP.
- Shop for clothes, accessories, and souvenirs at the DDP Flea Market.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza is open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, 7 days a week. Admission to the Exhibition Hall is 15,000 won for adults and 10,000 won for children. Admission to the Design Lab is free.
8. Hongdae
Hongdae is a neighborhood in Seoul, South Korea, that is known for its hip and trendy atmosphere. It is a popular destination for young people, artists, and musicians. Hongdae is home to a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. It is also a major center for street fashion and street art.
Here are some of the things you can do in Hongdae:
- Shop for clothes and accessories: Hongdae is a great place to find unique and trendy clothes and accessories. There are many small shops selling everything from high-end fashion to street fashion.
- Explore the art scene: Hongdae is a major center for street art. There are murals and graffiti everywhere you look. There are also a number of art galleries and studios in the neighborhood.
- Catch a live music show: Hongdae is a major center for the Korean indie music scene. There are live music shows happening all the time in small venues and bars.
- Eat street food: Hongdae is a great place to try Korean street food. There are many stalls and vendors selling everything from tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) to hotteok (sweet pancakes).
- Have a drink at a cafe: Hongdae is home to a number of cafes with unique and trendy atmospheres. There are cafes with rooftop patios, cafes with live music, and cafes with board games.
Hongdae is a great place to spend a day or a weekend exploring. It is a vibrant and exciting neighborhood with something for everyone.
Here are some additional tips for visiting Hongdae:
- Get there early: Hongdae is a popular neighborhood, so it can get crowded, especially on weekends. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to get there early in the day.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking in Hongdae, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring cash: Many shops and restaurants in Hongdae do not accept credit cards. Make sure to bring cash with you.
- Be prepared to bargain: If you are shopping in Hongdae, be prepared to bargain. The prices are often negotiable.
- Have fun: Hongdae is a great place to let loose and have fun. Soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the experience.
9. War Memorial of Korea
The War Memorial of Korea is a museum in Seoul, South Korea, that commemorates the Korean War and the Korean War Veterans. It is located in Yongsan District, near the United Nations Command (UNC) headquarters. The museum was opened in 1994 and has over 13,000 artifacts on display.
The museum is divided into three main sections: the Korean War Gallery, the Korean War Veterans Gallery, and the Permanent Exhibition Gallery. The Korean War Gallery tells the story of the Korean War, from its origins to its end. The Korean War Veterans Gallery honors the Korean War Veterans and their sacrifices. The Permanent Exhibition Gallery explores the history of warfare in Korea, from ancient times to the present day.
The War Memorial of Korea is a must-visit for anyone interested in Korean history or the Korean War. It is a sobering reminder of the cost of war and the importance of peace.
Here are some additional details about the War Memorial of Korea:
- The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, 7 days a week.
- Admission is ₩1,000 for adults and ₩500 for children.
- There is a free shuttle bus that runs from the National Assembly Station to the museum.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible.
10. Lotte World and Everland
Lotte World and Everland are the two biggest theme parks in Seoul, South Korea. They are both popular destinations for tourists and locals alike. Lotte World is located in the heart of Seoul, while Everland is located about an hour outside of the city.
Lotte World is a massive indoor and outdoor amusement park. It is home to over 40 rides, shows, and attractions. Lotte World is divided into two sections: Adventure and Magic Island. Adventure is the indoor section, and it is home to rides like Gyro Drop, Gyro Swing, and Bumper Cars. Magic Island is the outdoor section, and it is home to rides like T Express, Space Mountain, and Atlantis Adventure.
Everland is a larger theme park than Lotte World. It is home to over 40 rides, shows, and attractions, as well as a zoo, a water park, and a flower garden. Everland is divided into five themed zones:
- Zootopia: This zone is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world. Visitors can take a tram through the zoo, or they can walk through the animal enclosures.
- Magic Land: This zone is home to rides like T Express, a wooden roller coaster that is one of the steepest in the world, and The Flying Coaster, a suspended roller coaster.
- European Adventure: This zone is themed after European countries like France, Italy, and Germany. Visitors can ride a carousel, a Ferris wheel, and a log flume.
- American Adventure: This zone is themed after the Wild West. Visitors can ride a roller coaster, a water ride, and a mine train.
- Caribbean Bay: This water park is home to over 20 water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.
So, which theme park is right for you? If you are looking for a variety of rides and attractions, then Lotte World is a good choice. If you are looking for a larger theme park with more to offer, then Everland is a better choice. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to visit both parks and see which one you prefer.
Here are some additional tips for visiting Lotte World and Everland:
- Get there early: Both parks can get crowded, especially on weekends. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to get there early in the day.
- Buy tickets in advance: You can buy tickets online or at the park. If you buy tickets online, you will save time at the gate.
- Plan your day: There is a lot to see and do at both parks, so it is important to plan your day in advance. Decide which rides and attractions you want to go on, and make sure to leave enough time for everything.
- Take breaks: It is easy to get tired at theme parks. Make sure to take breaks throughout the day to rest and refuel.
- Have fun: Theme parks are meant to be fun! Soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the experience.
Seoul is a city of contrasts, seamlessly blending its ancient past with its futuristic present. From majestic palaces to bustling markets, from tranquil gardens to lively districts, there are a diverse range of tourist attractions in Seoul that cater to all interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an art enthusiast, or an adrenaline junkie, the capital of South Korea promises an unforgettable journey filled with cultural enrichment, exciting adventures, and cherished memories. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the 10 major tourist attractions that await you in this captivating city.
Cheap Hotels & Cheap Flights to Seoul
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- Incheon International Airport (ICN)
- IATA code: ICN
- ICAO code: RKSI
- Location: Incheon, South Korea
- Opened: 1998
- Runways: 4
- Terminals: 2
- Airlines: Over 100
- Destinations: Over 200
- Gimpo International Airport (GMP)
- IATA code: GMP
- ICAO code: RKPK
- Location: Seoul, South Korea
- Opened: 1939
- Runways: 2
- Terminals: 1
- Airlines: Over 30
- Destinations: Over 50
- Seoul Air Base (KLSJ)
- IATA code: none
- ICAO code: SJSN
- Location: Seoul, South Korea
- Opened: 1953
- Runways: 2
- Terminals: 1
- Airlines: None
- Destinations: None
