The capital city of South Korea, Seoul is a treat to the eyes. Whether it is skyscrapers you love, or lush green parks, or heritage buildings that offer a slice of life from the history, Seoul attractions are plenty, and you are sure to never get tired of the things to do in Seoul, South Korea. The biggest in South Korea, and the fourth largest metropolitan economy in the world, Seoul is a city with a heart. The best things to do in Seoul and Seoul tourist attractions go beyond the regular monuments and parks. The Han River offers beautiful views, and some of the best places to visit in Seoul are often its amazing cafes. Club hopping is as popular on the list of things to do in Seoul as is a walk around the Seoul Tower observation deck. And while it is impossible to fit all the places to visit in Seoul in one list, here are some that you just can’t miss out on.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Seoul
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace is the grandest of Seoul’s five royal palaces. It is evidence of the architectural elegance and historical depth of Korea’s Joseon Dynasty. If you are a history enthusiast, then you can’t skip this place. You can witness the guard changing ceremony which showcases the traditional attire, music and military drills. Here you can also explore the National Folk Museum, located within the palace grounds, exhibiting Korean culture and history. It is a perfect blend of history, culture and natural beauty which makes it one of the most popular places to visit in Seoul.
2. Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village offers you some of the best things to do in Seoul. It is famous for its restored traditional Korean houses, called Hanok, which provide visitors with a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. Here you can experience traditional tea – ceremonies, numerous galleries and workshops. All these give you a fantastic opportunity to take a piece of Korean culture. You can also try a Hanok on rent, it will be a very relaxing and spectacular moment of life. Run your hands through the home’s natural elements of earth, wood and rock, and meditate in the midst of the soft breezes. Bukchon Hanok village is like heaven to a nature lover and will leave you with an unforgettable experience.
3. N-Seoul Tower
N Seoul Tower serves as an observation and is used for communication. It is known as the Namsan Tower and is a must-visit Seoul tourist attraction. While it is essentially a communication and observation tower, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul and its surrounding areas from the tower's observation deck. It would be great if you visited during sunset or at night when the city lights up. N Seoul is a popular couple spot, owing to its own romantic ambience. At the ‘locks of love’ area, couples attach padlocks to the fence as a symbol of their everlasting love, then toss the key away, as an adorable gesture which has become quite popular these days. It is believed that you have locked yourself in love with your partner once you add the lock of love, making it one of the favourite Seoul tourist attractions. If you come here with your family, children can enjoy visiting the teddy bear museum located within the tower showcasing an extensive collection of teddy bears from around the world. N Seoul Tower offers entertainment options for people of all ages.
4. Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan National Park gives you a great opportunity to explore the best things to do in Seoul, like hiking and ice-skating. Whether you are a nature lover or a mountain lover; you should not skip this place. With its stunning landscapes and lush forest, Bukhasan is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike. This park also provides a glimpse into Korea’s rich cultural heritage, giving you a chance to explore ancient temples and Buddhist relics. You can also explore exclusive animal species like Korean goral, and water deer to birds like a mandarin duck and oriental cuckoo, making it a haven for the birdwatcher. This place lets you experience inner peace amidst nature and offers you tranquillity.
5. Changdeokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site which is famous for its beautiful architecture and gardens. It is also known as the East Palace. It is one of the five grand Palaces built by the kings of the Joseon Dynasty. Behind this Palace Huwon was built only for the use of the Royal family and palace women. This palace has a lotus pond, landscaped trees and flowers. This garden has a huge variety of different species of trees and some of them are 300 years old. This garden is for the private use of the king. In 1997, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list, and portions of the palace were used to film one of the most popular Korean dramas Dae Jang Geum, making it one of the most popular places to visit in Seoul.This Palace offers you different experiences by its architecture as well as its huge biodiversity of trees, being one of the favourite places for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
6. Hongdae
Hongdae is a neighbourhood in Seoul, South Korea which is near Hongik University. It is famous for its urban arts, local shops, clubs, cafes and indie music. This place is located in Mapo District in the western end of Seoul. This place gets its name on the name of a private university i.e. Hongik University which is known for its fine art programs. Like other multicultural metropolitan areas, the streets are full of youthful energy, nightlife and street art culture. It has become a hub for the dancers, and musicians performing their art on streets which gives a new and interesting experience while walking through the streets. You can also perform your performance which will make you feel closer to the local culture. . It is one of the most loved places by the young hip crowd of Seoul. If you are travelling with friends, this is one of the best places to visit in Seoul.
7. Lotte World
Lotte World offers you some of the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea. It is a major recreational complex. It contains a large indoor theme park, an outdoor amusement park called “Mogie Island” and an artificial island on a lake. It is one of the most visited places in South Korea, approximately 1.3 million visitors come each year. The magic island offers you breathtaking views of the park through various rides like the Gyro swing. You can also dive into indoor attractions like the Atlantis Adventure, a high-speed roller coaster that drops into the depths of a mythical underwater world. Now at the Lotte World Aquarium, you can find local fish from the Han River, some of them are piranhas, neon jellyfish, turtles, sharks and many more. If you love exploring sea- creatures, this place would not be less than a paradise for you. You can also explore vibrant shows which bring the park to life. Ice skating is one of the most loved activities for all age groups, and you can enjoy it here during the winter season. Lotte World also offers you a wide range of merchandise and cuisines to suit every taste via many shops and restaurants. This place has lots of things to see and do, making it one of the most prominent Seoul tourist Attractions.