Seoul is a vibrant metropolis famed for its magnificent royal palaces, K-culture, shopping paradise, and exceptional food scene. It’s the capital and largest city in South Korea. Having lived there for 2 years here’s my list of the top 10 attractions you must visit on your first trip to Seoul.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
There are a total of 5 royal palaces in South Korea and they are all located in Seoul. Gyeongbokgung is the largest palace and the most popular among visitors. You’ll find loads of tourists dressed up in hanboks having photo shoots.
2. Cheonggyecheon
Cheonggyecheon is a lovely stream which runs through the heart of the city. The busiest section is at the stream’s starting point in downtown at Cheonggye Plaza where events are often held. It’s nice just to take a leisure stroll along the stream.
3. Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is a picturesque area situated atop the hill lined with alleys of traditional Korean houses. Today many of the hanoks operate as tea houses and guesthouses.
Wander Tip: Check out Cha-teul tea house, one of my favorite spots in Seoul. It has a quaint ambience with a cute little garden and stunning views overlooking the village.
4. Ihwa Mural Village
Ihwa Mural Village is a charming area filled with beautiful murals by local artists and cute little shops. The village also offers sweeping hillside views over the city.
Wander Tip: This is a residential area and there has been issues with noise in the past so please be mindful of that when you tour around.
5. Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is an urban recreational hub well known for its unique futuristic architecture. Art exhibitions, fashion shows, conferences, and other events are frequently held here. It’s a lively area surrounded by restaurants and shops.
6. N Seoul Tower
N Seoul Tower, also known as Namsan Tower, is the city’s iconic landmark featured in many famous K-dramas. It’s a hot date spot where you’ll find thousands of colorful love locks hung by couples. There is a scenic cable car ride and an observatory offering panoramic views of the city.
7. Han River
Flowing through the center of the city, Han River is a top attraction where locals often go to unwind. Yeouido is by far the most popular among the many parks along the riverbank. Fun activities include picnics, biking, water sports, and more.
Wander Tip: Do what the locals do and chow down on some delicious Korean fried chicken paired perfectly with maekju (Korean beer) as you chill by the river.
8. Noryangjin Fish Market
There are plenty of street markets scattered throughout Seoul with vendors selling a wide variety of goods. Noryangjin is the largest fish market in the city. You can purchase fresh seafood in the lower level. Then head upstairs to one of the restaurants and enjoy a meal where your fresh catch is prepared in the way you select.
9. Goto Mall
Seoul is a haven for shopaholics seeking some retail therapy. Goto Mall is the city’s largest underground shopping outlet offering clothes, accessories, electronics, and so much more. It’s the best place to shop for deals where you’re guaranteed to get the best bang for your buck.
10. Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan is a national park conveniently located within the city limits. If you’re looking to explore the great outdoors it’s a great place to go on a hike for a quick escape from the hecticness of Seoul.
My #1 Pick
My favorite attraction from this list is Bukchon Hanok Village. Wandering the alleyways is like taking a step back in time.
So if you’re taking a trip down to Korea you won’t want to miss these 10 top attractions in Seoul! There’s a lot more to see and do but this is a great starting point.
For additional content on Korea, read about 25 local must-eat foods and 10 popular Seoul neighborhoods.
Find out how I came to the decision to drop everything in America and move halfway across the world to Korea.
If you’re interested in teaching English abroad in Korea through EPIK, be sure to check out my guide of the 14 benefits of teaching with EPIK, my breakdown of the EPIK application timeline, and an overview of my rent-free EPIK apartment.
What’s your favorite attraction from this list? Is there some place I should add? Let me know in the comments!
