Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a stunning mix of rich history, deep-rooted traditions, diverse cultures, mouthwatering cuisine, trendy shopping, and impeccable artistry. And let’s not forget, it’s the K-Pop hub offering filming locations and trendy hot spots. Ready to uncover the best places to visit in Seoul?
Buckle up for an exciting virtual trip to Seoul tourist attractions, where every corner holds an adventure, you won’t want to miss!
What is the Best Time to Visit Seoul?
Seoul is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own magic. However, if you’re looking for the perfect time to experience the city, Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are unbeatable. Whether it’s the cherry blossoms of spring, fall foliage of autumn, or snow wonders of winter. So, any time of the year is considered the best time to visit Seoul.
What are the Best Places to Visit in Seoul?
If you’re a first-time visitor, these top 10 tourist attractions in Seoul should be on your bucket list.
Five Grand Palaces
Step back in time at Seoul’s grand palaces showcasing the rich history of the Joseon Dynasty. Admire the stunning architecture, dive into the history, and learn about the early Korean way of life at these majestic places to go in Seoul.
- Highlights:
- Deoksugung Palace: Popular for its unique blend of medieval and modern-day architecture. The palace is also home to Korea’s first cafe.
- Gyeongbokgung Palace: The first, largest, and main palace of the Joseon Dynasty
- Gyeonghuigung Palace: A hidden gem that once served as a secondary residence for kings. It’s less crowded and perfect for photoshoots.
- Changgyeonggung Palace: Built by the ninth king to take care of the wives of the preceding kings.
- Changdeokgung Palace: A must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful landmarks of Seoul
Lotte World Tower
Korea’s architectural jewel, Lotte World Tower rises 555 meters into the sky. With 123 stories offering breathtaking views, top attractions, luxury shopping, and immersive experiences, this must visit place in Seoul is perfect to experience the city’s modern vibe.
Highlights:
- Seoul Sky: Korea’s tallest observation deck.
- For Fashionistas: Visit The Lotte World Mall, Avenuel Mall, and Korea’s largest urban duty-free store.
- Lotte Concert Hall: A spectacular classical music hall with daily performances.
- Lotte Cinema: Asia’s largest multiplex.
- Lotte World Aquarium: Korea’s best urban aquarium. Watch marine life with a scenic view.
- Lotte World Adventure: An indoor theme park situated beside the tower featuring thrilling roller coasters and outdoor Magic Island.
- Timings: Varies for every activity and attraction
Hangang Eland Cruise
Embark on a cruising journey to experience the best of Hangang River. Soak in the panoramic views, enjoy live entertainment on board, and relax in luxury as you take sight of the top 10 tourist attractions in Seoul.
Highlights:
- Hangang Tour Cruise: Runs during the day, offering cityscape views of Seoul.
- Sunset Cruise: For a magical sunset experience along the banks.
- Moonlight Music Cruise/ Starlight Cruise: Soak in the night views of Seoul tourist attractions.
- Dinner Cruise: A luxury dining experience with an exotic buffet and a complimentary bottle of champagne.
- Fireworks Music Cruise: Dazzling city displays with live entertainment, followed by a luxurious dinner on board.
- Timings: 11:30 AM – 22:00 PM (Available Monday to Sunday)
COEX Aquarium
Dive into the underwater world at one of the best places to visit in Seoul, Korea. Featuring 183 exhibition tanks, 90 breeding tanks, and over 20,000 marine creatures from 650 species, get ready for a fantastic journey of water. Witness the largest shark habitats in South Korea, housing 17 species of sharks.
Highlights:
- The Little Mermaid Underwater Show: Watch a live mermaid performing to keep kids entertained.
- Deep Blue Magic Show: Witness magic in the ocean.
- Penguin/Shark/Gaori Ecological Briefing: Feeding experience accompanied by informative talks from aquarists.
- LEGO Theme Zone: Hands-on experience as an aquarist, packed with exciting activities.
- Timings: Daily 10:00 AM – 08:00 PM (Last entry 19:00) (KST)
Bukhansan National Park
It is a rare urban nature park situated in the Seoul metropolitan area. Boasting three majestic granite peaks, crystal- clear streams, beautiful valleys, and 1300 species of animals and plants, the park offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Highlights:
- Perfect for hikes and nature trails.
- 100+ Buddhist temples and hermitages.
- Bukhansanseong Fortress is one of the best places to visit in Seoul for discovering 2,000 years of history.
- A Guinness Record holder in inviting most visitors per unit area.
Timings: March to November 04:00 AM – 17:00 PM
- December to February 04:00 AM -16:00 PM
Seoul Forest
A vast park that ranks amongst the top Seoul tourist attractions. It’s where Seoulites flock to witness cherry blossoms. Whether you’re looking for a scenic getaway, want to explore nature, or simply take some time off, this is the place to be.
Highlights:
- Perfect spot for Cherry Blossom viewing.
- Culture and Arts Park: Features gate ball court and a forest playground.
- Experience Learning Center: Boasts keeper’s forest, butterfly garden, and insect garden.
- Ecological Forest: Where wild animals and plants coexist.
- Wetland Ecology Park: Offers wellness spaces such as an environmental playground, an outdoor nature classroom, and a water purification garden.
- Additional attractions: The Garden of Excitement, the Bee Garden, and the Bench Garden.
- Cheonggyecheon Stream: A 11-km stretch that passes through 22 bridges and many top attractions of Seoul, before flowing into Hangang river. This stream adds to the beauty of Seoul. It also acts as a major hub of events, attracting huge crowds throughout the day.
Myeongdong
Welcome to the shopping mecca of Seoul. It’s one of the must visit places in Seoul for shopaholics. In a beautiful setting, the market hosts street stalls and retail outlets selling Korean attire, casual wear, and Korean cosmetics at competitive prices.
Highlights:
- Revives during the Golden Week, a week-long holiday in China & Japan
- Affordable prices
- Best of Korean goods
- Stop by some aesthetic cafes
Seongsu-dong
Hands down, this is one of the best places to go in Seoul for cafe hunting. It’s the busiest street in Seoul, filled with young crowds, entertainment, and endless dining options. Often referred to as the trendy cafe street, Seongsu-dong is an alley with cute and aesthetic shops.
Highlights:
- Affordable pricing
- Endless options
- Best galbi restaurants
- Must-Try: Grilled pork ribs
Olympic Park
Established in 1988 for the Seoul Olympic Games, the park now serves as one of the leading cultural, sporting, and leisure places to visit in Seoul. From artistic treasures and cultural wonders to thrilling sports and lush greenery, you’ll find it all here.
Highlights:
- Arts and Culture: Seoul Olympic Museum, SOMA Museum of Art, Outdoor. sculpture park (featuring over 200 sculptures by national and international artists)
- Recreation and Sport: Walking paths & fitness facilities.
- Environment: Wildflower Garden, Rose Plaza, 88 Lake, Mongchon Moat Musical Fountain.
- History: Mongchon Museum of History, Seoul Baekje Museum.
- Timings: 05:00 AM – 22:00 PM
Hallyu
Live your K-pop dream with Hallyu tourism. Comprising of the best places to visit in Seoul Korea for K-drama, K-TV Show, K-pop, K-Food, and K-Beauty lovers, dive into a bundle of activities and experiences tailored to your interests.
Highlights:
- Well-thought activities: K-beauty makeup class, K-pop dance class, K-kimchi museum tour, and more.
- Specially customized trip with activities you choose.
- Viewtiful Soul: Discover the top 10 tourist attractions in Seoul.
- What are the best places to visit in Seoul, Korea for free?
Seoul has an endless list of places to visit for free. From natural attractions and entertainment hotspots to bustling markets, here are some must-visit places in Seoul at zero costs!
- N Seoul Tower
- Bukchon Hanok Village
- National Museum of Korea
- Gwangjang Market
- Dongdaemun Design Plaza
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Concluding Thoughts
Seoul is an exceptional fusion of rich history, diverse cultures, and urban charm, offering something for every traveler. From iconic places to visit in Seoul and trendy shopping alleys to serene parks and unmatched K-pop experiences, this city never disappoints. Whether you’re a first-time explorer or a seasoned visitor, Seoul promises endless adventures. So, make your own list of top Seoul tourist attractions, pack your bags, and check an adventure off your bucket list this year.
Best Places to Visit in Seoul FAQs
What is Seoul known for?
Seoul is a dynamic city offering a rich fusion of culture, traditions, history, entertainment, trendy shopping, and, of course, K-pop locations.
What are some fun facts about Seoul?
Some fun facts about Seoul include:
• South Korea has an extensive coffee culture with one of the highest consumption rates worldwide. Seoul is home to 24/7 cafes offering coffee all day long.
• Hanbok, traditional Korean attire, is widely worn by people on festivals and occasions.
• Seoul has been the capital of South Korea since 1394, making it over 600-year-old capital.
What are the top things to do in Seoul?
The top things to do in Seoul are:
• Take in the night views from Seoul Sky.
• Dive into the rich history of the Joseon Dynasty by visiting the five grand palaces.
• Eat authentic Korean food at street stalls.
• Soak in nature at the Seoul Forest.
• Admire marine life at the COEX Aquarium.
How can I get around Seoul?
To travel around Seoul in an easy and convenient manner, you can use:
• Subway
• Buses
• Shared and app-based taxis
• Seoul Bike
What are the must-try food items in Seoul?
When in Seoul, make sure to try:
• Kimchi
• Tteokbokki
• Bibimbap
• Hoddeok (Korean Pancake)
• Bingsu
• Gimbap
• And more authentic Korean dishes
Hi! I am Tanisha Agarwal, a passionate content writer with a flair for storytelling and a zeal for creating powerful content. With a background in mass communication, I love to create engaging and informative content that captivates readers, brings ideas to life, and caters to mass audiences. Words have the ability to move rocks, and I wish to do the same.