Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, is a mesmerizing blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Nestled between towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, you’ll find serene palaces, tranquil temples, and hanok villages that whisper tales of the city’s 2,000-year history. From the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace to the quaint charm of Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul offers a journey through time, where the past seamlessly intertwines with the present.

But Seoul isn’t just about history — it’s a city that pulses with energy and innovation. The neon-lit streets of Myeongdong and Hongdae are shopping and entertainment havens, while the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza showcases the city’s creative spirit. Food lovers will revel in Seoul’s culinary scene, from sizzling street food like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) to the refined art of Korean barbecue. And let’s not forget the city’s thriving K-pop culture, which has taken the world by storm.

What truly sets Seoul apart is its people—warm, welcoming, and proud of their heritage. Whether you’re exploring its bustling markets, hiking in the surrounding mountains, or simply sipping coffee in a trendy café, Seoul offers an unforgettable experience that leaves travelers longing to return. It’s a city where tradition meets innovation, creating a dynamic and unforgettable destination.

1. Wander around Gyeongbok Palace

This is Korea's most well-known and primer Royal Palace. Gyeongbokgung Palace, the crown jewel of Seoul’s five grand Joseon-era palaces, is a stunning symbol of Korea’s rich history and cultural heritage. Built in 1395, this majestic complex served as the main royal residence and government seat. Its name, meaning "Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven," reflects its grandeur.

Visitors are captivated by its intricate architecture, including the iconic Geunjeongjeon Hall (throne room) and the picturesque Gyeonghoeru Pavilion set atop a tranquil lotus pond. The palace grounds also house the National Palace Museum and Folk Museum, offering deeper insights into Korea’s past.

Don’t miss the ceremonial Changing of the Guard, a colorful reenactment of royal traditions. Gyeongbokgung is a must-see for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.

Give yourself at least one or two hours to adventure around. It's location at Gwanghwamun Station is conveniently located next to Seoul's other tourist attractions, such as the famous King Sejong Statue and the Cheonggyecheon Stream.

Photo Credit © liddybits | CC2.0

2. Diversify Yourself in the Streets of Itaewon

Itaewon is the foreigner district of Seoul. If you are ever craving some delicious food from all over the world, or a wild and fun atmosphere, then Itaewon is your best option. This lively district is home cafés and shops that sell everything from locally hand-made goods to tailored suits, to fancy jewelry and Korean pottery.

Once a hub for expats and U.S. military personnel, it has transformed into a trendy hotspot brimming with diverse dining, shopping, and nightlife options. From authentic global cuisines to stylish boutiques and quirky vintage stores, Itaewon caters to every taste. The area is also home to the iconic Itaewon Class street and the bustling Hamilton Hotel, a landmark for visitors.

By night, its lively bars and clubs come alive, making Itaewon a must-visit for those seeking a cosmopolitan and dynamic Seoul experience. There's huge variety of bars and clubs where you will meet people from all over the world.

You can also buy all of your Korean souvenirs for your family and friends from street vendors. Don't miss out on the happenin' scene in Itaewon! 

4. Get Lost Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village, nestled between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces, is a charming neighborhood that offers a glimpse into Seoul’s traditional past. With over 600 hanok (traditional Korean houses), this area preserves the architectural beauty of the Joseon Dynasty.

Wandering through its narrow, winding alleys, visitors are transported to a bygone era, where tiled roofs and wooden beams create a serene atmosphere. The village also houses cultural centers, tea houses, and artisan workshops, allowing travelers to experience traditional Korean crafts and customs. Bukchon is a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle, offering stunning views and a unique blend of history and culture.

Btw, I stayed in a Hanok Village in Changdeok - if you're interested to experience a stay in a traditional Korean Hanok, go check out her post! Bukchon Hanok Village is a must-visit place while you are in Seoul.

Photo Credit © Ludovic Tristan | CC2.0

5. Get Cultured in the Insadong District

Located in the heart of Seoul, Insadong is a district where you can buy traditional goods and soak up Korean culture. At one time, Insadong was the largest markets for antiques and artwork in Korea.

There is one main road with alleys down each side. You will find everything here you can imagine! 

Insadong is a cultural gem in the heart of Seoul, it is a bustling district renowned for its traditional charm and artistic vibe. This lively street is lined with quaint tea houses, souvenir shops, museums, antique shops, and art galleries showcasing Korean crafts, calligraphy, and pottery. It’s the perfect place to experience authentic Korean culture, from sampling traditional snacks like hotteok (sweet pancakes) to browsing handmade hanji (Korean paper) goods.

Insadong’s vibrant energy peaks during weekends when the main street becomes pedestrian-only, hosting street performances and festivals. Whether you’re hunting for unique souvenirs or soaking in the historic ambiance, Insadong offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern creativity.

Photo Credit © riNux | CC2.0

6. Walk along the Cheonggyecheon Stream

Cheonggyecheon Stream, an 11-kilometer-long urban oasis in downtown Seoul, is a testament to the city’s commitment to blending nature with modernity. Once covered by a highway, this revitalized stream now offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Lined with walking paths, waterfalls, and art installations, it’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to relax, stroll, or enjoy seasonal light festivals.

The stream’s gentle flow and lush greenery create a peaceful atmosphere, while its history as a symbol of urban renewal adds depth to its charm. Cheonggyecheon is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and urban innovation.

Photo Credit © Chelsea Marie Hicks | CC2.0

7. Go Bar Hopping In Hongdae

Hongdae, short for Hongik University District, is Seoul’s epicenter of youth culture, creativity, and nightlife. Known for its indie art scene, trendy cafes, and vibrant street performances, this area pulses with energy and innovation. Fashion-forward boutiques, quirky shops, and unique galleries line its streets, while its nightlife boasts everything from cozy pubs to electrifying clubs.

Hongdae is also a hub for K-pop and underground music, with live bands and buskers adding to its lively atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring its colorful murals, indulging in street food, or dancing the night away, Hongdae captures the youthful, dynamic spirit of Seoul like no other.

There are more bars and clubs than I can count, and nothing closes until the sun has risen the next morning. After the night out, be sure to get some delicious Korean food from one of the street vendors or restaurants that stay open 24 hours. If you have only one night to party in Seoul, you must go to Hongdae and experience this incredible scene. 

8. Visit the Fish Market

Noryangjin Fish Market, one of Seoul’s largest and most iconic seafood markets, offers a vibrant and immersive experience for food lovers. Open 24/7, this bustling market features rows of stalls brimming with fresh seafood, from live octopus and king crabs to exotic fish and shellfish. At this massive market, all of the fish are alive and swimming in the tanks, which makes them as fresh as can be. This place is chaotic and it's not your ordinary fish market.

Visitors can handpick their seafood and have it prepared on the spot at nearby restaurants, enjoying dishes like sashimi, grilled fish, or spicy seafood stew. The market’s lively atmosphere, coupled with the opportunity to interact with friendly vendors, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to savor the freshest flavors of Korean seafood cuisine.

9. Cuddle with some Kitties in a Cat Cafe

"What the heck is a cat café" you're asking? Let me explain: A cat café is a public space where people can come and spend a few hours with a bunch of cute kitties. People can play with them, feed the cats or just watch them sleeping (which they do a lot!).

A visit to a cat cafè is definitely only for people who aren't allergic and into cats! I have visited several cat cafés in Seoul and wrote a blog post about it. If you want to see pictures and videos from the cat café, head over to my blog post A day in a Cat Café in Seoul.

10. Try a Korean BBQ

Korean BBQ is the more traditional meal that you will find all around Korea. All of these restaurants are very similar, where you'll sit down at a table with a fire grill in the middle, and then you get to cook your marinated beef (or pork) how you like it.

During your meal, you will get an unlimited supply of side dishes (called banchan in Korean). It's very common to drink beer and soju with your meal. The best part is the cheap price- which is from $8-12USD per person!

Some of the best Korean BBQ places in Seoul are Non-gol-jip in Gangnam, and Mapo Sut-buli in Apgujeong. Enjoy!

Where TO STAY IN SEOUL?

If you haven't sorted out yet where you gonna stay in Seoul, this might come handy. Here are four great hostels and guesthouses to get a good night's sleep. Oh, and by the way... Seoul is not as expensive as one might think of. If you want to live like a local, check out Homestay for a more local experience.

Alternatively you can find a comprehensive list of guest houses and hotels in Seoul in all price ranges on Agoda.com. Here are my top budget recommendations on Agoda:

Travel Tips South Korea

Are you ready to travel to South Korea? Here are some quick booking links and resources that I use myself for travel planning. These websites will help you to get started with your South Korea itinerary!

Cheap Flights to South Korea

Skyscanner is my favorite search engine for finding cheap flights, from anywhere in the world. I always start my flight search here! 

Transport within South Korea

Bus, boat, and trains: 12Go is one of the most reliable websites in Asia when it comes to booking buses, ferries and railway. Get an instant seat confirmation and start your overland travel worry-free.

Find a Place to stay in South Korea

Hostels, hotels and resorts: Agoda is excellent if you're looking for hotels from budget to luxury! It's one of the largest hotel booking websites in the world. Plenty of options to book now and pay later, or even pay at the hotel. Risk-free booking, many with free cancellation. My other go to is Booking.com.

Homestays and Housesits: For a more authentic and local experience I recommend Homestay.com, a website where you can find places to stay with locals for such a great price. Personally, I'm obsessed with Trusted Housesitters, where you get to stay completely for free in exchange for pet care. Find out more in my article on How to Become a House Sitter and Never Pay for Accommodation.

Fun Tours and Activities in South Korea

Get your Guide has plenty of fun activities in South Korea, such as island hopping, hiking tours and city sightseeing trips. There is plenty of choices to keep yourself entertained!

Klook is similar than the one above, but offers additional options such as airport transfers, SIM cards, and food & dining experiences. It' a great way to meet other travelers while exploring a new place!

eSIM - Stay connected with Internet

Get an eSIM before you go and have Internet available from the second you arrive! I highly recommend Roamless or JetPac -  they're both highly ranked, inexpensive and reliable. 

Travel Insurance

Never go adventuring without travel insurance! I recommend Genki or SafetyWing - they're both very affordable and will cover you in an emergency. 

Do I need a Visa for South Korea?

You can check on iVisa whether you need a visa and how long you are permitted to stay.

More Blog Posts from Asia

• Best Places to Visit in Asia: 8 Vibrant Cities You Can't Miss!
• How to Stay in Tokyo on a Budget - My Homestay Experience With a Japanese Family
• The Ultimate Guide To Phuket: Things To Do, Extraordinary Adventures + Places To Stay
• Fabulous Hotels with Panoramic Rooftop Bars in Bangkok
• 10 Best Places In India You Must Visit At Least Once In A Lifetime
• Philippines From The Air - Incredible Drone Footage Reveals Nothing But Paradise
• Best places to Visit in Singapore in 3 Days

Thank you for reading. If you like this article, please share!