Top 21 Must-Do Activities in Seoul: Your Complete Guide to South Korea’s Capital

Things to do in Seoul, South Korea

1. N Seoul Tower

One of the best views in all of Seoul is from the iconic N Seoul Tower in the Myeongdong district. The city skyline of Seoul, peppered with little hills and mountains and the winding Han river, is absolutely breathtaking. At sunset, just before all the city lights come on, is the best time to head up Namsan Hill and the N Seoul Tower.

The best way to access the tower is via the cable car. It is the fastest way to get up the tower and only costs around $8 USD. If you have a little more time or are feeling up for some exercise you can choose to walk up via the road that winds up the mountain. If a cardio workout is in your future, you can take the set of stairs that lead to the top. I suggest taking the longer walk around the mountain during the Spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom. It is just magical.

• The observation tower opens at 10 am and closes at 11 pm every day, apart from Saturday when it closes at midnight.
• Entry costs just 10,000 won, which is just under $9. A return trip on the cable car is 9,500 won.
• You can find more information on the N Seoul Tower website.

2. Shop and Eat in Myeongdong

From Namsan Hill, you can wind your way through the maze-like streets of Myeongdong. The unofficial shopping district of Seoul, this area is frenetic, fun, and full to the brim with people.

This place has a little bit of everything. From people dressed in Cosplay and K-pop performances to incredible street food and some of the strangest ice creams you will see in your life! Remember to explore off of the main streets as that is where you will find the best deals and coolest areas.

If you are into shopping or street photography, you could probably spend a whole day here. Moreover, if you are looking for all the best photo spots in Seoul, make sure to check out your options.

If you are looking to change money, there are a ton of money changers in this area. Just remember, the best rates are on the outskirts. You can withdraw money from ATMs in Seoul, just make sure to look for a Global ATM.

3. Gwanghwamun Square

For your first dose of Korean history, head to Gwanghwamun Square. Here, you’ll find statues of some of Korea’s most notable figures set against the backdrop of Gyeongbukgung Palace and Bukhansan National Park.

Underneath the statues is a small museum dedicated to King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-Shin, which is well worth a look. The replica of one of Korea’s elaborate old navy vessels is really spectacular. The museum is free, and you’ll need less than an hour to look around.

4. Gyeongbukgung Palace

Of Seoul’s 5 grand palaces, Gyeongbukgung is certainly the most popular, and for good reason. This incredible complex is a living portrait of Korean history, culture, and architecture. Make sure you leave plenty of time to soak it in slowly as you wander among the many buildings, temples, and gardens.

Built in 1395, a few years after the founding of the Joseon Dynasty, it is the largest of the 5 Joseon palaces and also houses the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum.

One thing you should make sure you check out is the changing of the guards at the main Gwanghwamun entrance. This is always a cool thing to watch, and it includes the tallest soldiers that are hand-picked. Definitely among one of the most unique things to see in Seoul.

• Note that the palace is closed on Tuesdays.
• The palace opens at 9 am and closes at the earliest 5 pm. Check the current closing times for the month you are visiting here.
• Gate Guard Duty Performance at 11 am and 1 pm.
• Entry is only 3,000 won, approximately $2.70.
• There is also audio commentary and a free guided tour at 11 am, 1:30 pm, and 3:30 pm.

5. Changdeokgung Palace

If Gyeongbukgung Palace wasn’t enough, then head to Changdeokgung Palace to the east. This secondary royal palace built in 1405 is a little quieter than Gyeongbukgung but no less spectacular. Set in beautifully manicured gardens, this is a great place to come in spring or autumn when the trees put on their best show.

• Note that the palace is closed on Mondays.
• The palace opens at 9 am and closes at the earliest 5:30 pm. Check the current closing times for the month you are visiting here.
• Entry is only 3,000 won, approximately $2.70.

6. Jogyesa Temple

Located in the heart of the city, this temple offers insight into Korean Buddhism and what it means to the people of Seoul. As the head temple of the Jogye order of Buddhism, Jogyesa is the location of many important Buddhist events, including a special lantern festival held for Buddha’s birthday in May. The intricate architecture will blow you away, and the peaceful halls offer a tranquil space to step away from the crowds of downtown.

Local Tip

If you are looking for a different experience and true peace and quiet, I recommend a trip up to Gilsangsa Temple. It is located a little further north and about a 20-minute walk uphill. But once you get there, you will see why it was worth it. One other cool fact about this place is that in their meditation hall, the public is also allowed to meditate at any time of the day.

• Jogyesa is open year-round.
• Entry is free, but it is possible to make a small donation if you wish.

7. Bukchon Hanok Village

The Bukchon Hanok Village is a window into Seoul hundreds of years ago, with painstakingly preserved traditional houses, restaurants, and cafes. Positioned on a small hill, the village is a stark contrast to the rest of Seoul stretched out below.

The architecture is representative of the Joseon Dynasty that reigned for almost 5 centuries. Take a stroll here with camera in hand and find a quiet spot for a green tea or a shaved ice dessert in a traditional old building.

8. Hike the Old City Walls

Seoul used to be fortified with a long city wall that climbed up and over the many hills that surround the city. Built in 1396, it has been around for as long as the city has been the capital of Korea. Parts of the city walls still remain alongside hiking routes that offer fantastic views of Seoul. The Inwangsan Peak is one of the best viewpoints along the walls, with views over Gyeongbukgung Palace.

9. Cheonggyecheon Stream

This sunken waterway offers more than 10 km of public recreational space and feels almost like a public park with its trees and rushing water. Yet, high above you tower some of Seoul’s largest buildings! This is a fantastic place to come at night when a light show is played out over the water.

10. Gwangjang Market

If you’ve come to Korea to eat, you shouldn’t miss the Gwangjang Market. One of Seoul’s best foodie markets, there are endless Korean food specialties to try here all under one roof. Make sure to try things like kimbap, bindaetteok, and soondae (a type of blood sausage) if you are an adventurous eater.

• the Market opens at 8:30 am for trading and closes at 6 pm, with the restaurants inside staying open until 11 pm.
• Note that the market is closed on Sundays.

11. Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Dongdaemun Design Plaza is one of Korea’s most iconic modern landmarks and shows a different side of the city than the palaces and temples. The plaza is a multi-purpose space devoted to Seoul’s creative industry and is a visual joy to explore. It is also an Instagrammer’s dream.

• The Plaza opens at 10 am and closes at 7 pm, Tuesday – Sunday.

12. Hongdae Nightlife

When the sun goes down, there is one place you’ll want to be to experience Korean nightlife: Hongdae. This area has a ‘college town’ feel with lively restaurants and bars around every corner. It is also great for cafe-hopping and shopping during the day.

13. Bong Eun Sa Temple

Gangnam district may be famous for being the birthplace of K-Pop, but it also houses one of Seoul’s oldest temples. Away from the crowded shopping malls and congested streets is the peaceful complex of Bong Eun Sa Temple. It was built way back in the 8th century, and it’s incredible to imagine how the city would have looked then compared to now.

• Bong Eun Sa is open year-round.
• Entry is free.

14. Common Ground

If it’s more of modern Seoul that you are after, then make your way out of central Seoul to Gwangjin-gu, across the Han River from Gangnam. Here you’ll find one of the city’s coolest new additions, a shipping container village full of shops, cafes, and pop-up exhibitions.

• Common Ground is open from 10 am until 10 pm, with some restaurants staying open until past midnight.

15. The DMZ

To truly understand South Korea, it’s important to learn about their northerly neighbor. While a day trip to the DMZ will only be a glimpse into the long and harrowed history of divided Korea, it is the closest you can get from the capital.

• To visit Korea’s Demilitarized Zone, you’ll need to book onto a tour.

16. Ihwa Mural Village

In 2006, the Ministry for Culture, Sports, and Tourism brought artists into an impoverished area of Naksan Hill to breathe new life into the streets with art. Today, you can wander the neighborhood in search of your favorite mural and enjoy the local cafes and restaurants. Be aware that this is a residential area, so respect people’s privacy.

17. Visit an Animal Cafe

Taiwan may be the birthplace of the ‘Animal Cafe’, but Korea has definitely taken the movement to new levels. In Seoul, you can have a latte with a labrador, a cappuccino with a cat, and even a mocha with a meerkat. With a little research, I’m sure you’ll find your favorite animal to have a drink with in Seoul!

18. Korean Karaoke

This is definitely one of the best things to do in Seoul at night. Korean Karaoke is very different from its western counterpart, taking place in private rooms rather than publicly. These noraebangs, literally ‘singing rooms’, can be found in all districts and open all hours of the day!

19. Korean BBQ

No trip to Korea is complete without devouring your weight in Korean BBQ. Many specialize in a specific type and cut of meat and are recognizable by the individual extractor fans hanging over each table. Make sure to try roasting some garlic and kimchi on the grill for a true Korean BBQ experience.

20. Drink like a Korean!

Something to go hand in hand with the previous two must-dos is drinking like a Korean. If you drink, there are a number of special South Korean beverages that you must try.

A really cute little place to go in Hongdae is on Eulmadang-ro street. I’m not even sure of the name as it’s a bit of a hidden gem, but it’s on the second floor and opposite Nature Republic! You can order Makgeolli here. Makgeolli is a milky rice beer that is best served in a traditional makgeolli bar along with fried Korean snacks.

Another Korean beverage to try is Soju. You can find this rice wine in any bar or restaurant, and it goes very well with Korean BBQ.

21. Hike Bukhansan Mountain

If hiking is on your list then this is a must-do hike; a hike up Bukhansan Mountain is essential. The hike itself offers great views, and you don’t necessarily have to go all the way up to the top to enjoy the beautiful sights. Depending on where you start, you can do the hike in about 2 hours one way.

22. Seoul Grand Park

Seoul Grand Park isn’t actually inside the city boundaries, but it’s not a long way along line 4 to see this amusement park, art museum, and the 10th largest zoo in the world. Here you can also visit the largest botanical gardens in Korea.

23. Namdaemun Market

Namdaemun Market is the largest and oldest traditional Korean market in South Korea. Namdaemun Market dates back to 1414 and is located next to the Great South Gate. The Namdaemun Gate is the entrance to the old city.

#1 Money Saving Tip in Seoul

The best way that you can save money on all the things to see and do in Seoul is to get yourself a Discover Seoul Pass. This pass grants you free access to various attractions and can also be used as a transportation card for convenient travel. Enjoy highlights in just one day!

• Enjoy free access to 35 tourist attractions with just one card.
• Use the pass as a transportation card and travel with convenience.
• See the highlights of Seoul within just one day.

Plan Your Seoul Vacation

1 USD = 1116 South Korean Won. Get the XP currency Converter App for currency calculations.

Getting Around Seoul

Seoul is a big sprawling city and while it is fun to walk as much as possible, you will need to use public transport to get between different neighborhoods.

The Seoul City Pass not only saves money on many attractions, it also doubles as a T Money Card (Transit Card). You can charge it as much as needed and pay for the subway, bus, or taxi conveniently. The pass is available for 24, 48, and 72-hour cards.

When to visit Seoul

By far the best times of the year to visit Seoul are between March and May and September and November. Spring is very popular when the cherry blossoms bloom, making it a colorful time for photography.

And there you have the best things to do in Seoul. While I’ve tried to be comprehensive with this list, these activities and sights only scratch the surface of all there is to experience in the city.

Get out there and find your own must-sees!

Are there any top spots in Seoul that I missed? Share your ideas for what to do in Seoul in the comments!