Top Things to Do in Seoul: Best Activities & Must-Sees
Seoul quickly pulls you in. You might arrive thinking of K-pop and neon lights, but soon you’re planning your days to make the most of the city.
From royal palaces and the N Seoul Tower to lively areas like Gangnam, Seoul mixes history, shopping, cafés and street life.
Read on for simple itineraries, key neighbourhoods and ideas to suit every taste.
🎫 Popular Things to Do in Seoul at Great Prices
- 🏙️ N Seoul Tower – Seoul 🏞️ From £9.11 – Stunning panoramic city views, perfect at sunset.
- 🌳 Namsan Mountain Park – Seoul 🌿 Free entry – A peaceful walk in nature with great views.
- 🏯 Gyeongbokgung Palace – Seoul 🏰 From £4.20 – Discover Korean history and royal gardens.
- 🎢 LEGOLAND Korea Resort – Chuncheon 🎠 From £12.47 – Fun for all ages with themed rides.
- 🛍️ Myeongdong – Seoul 🏙️ Free entry – A lively area for shopping and street food.
- 🌴 Nami Island – Chuncheon 🚤 From £8.78 – Walks through beautiful natural scenery.
🗓️ What to Do in Seoul Based on Your Stay
The number of days you need to explore Seoul really depends on your travel style. Some opt for a whistle-stop visit with 1 day in Seoul, others prefer a 3-day Seoul itinerary to see the essentials without rushing, and then there are those who savour a 5- or 7-day Seoul itinerary to mix temples, cafés and modern neighbourhoods.
Here’s a table to guide you based on the type of trip you’re looking for:
Duration | Couple | Family | Friends | Solo |
1 day | Historic centre (Gyeongbokgung Palace) + stroll through Bukchon + sunset at N Seoul Tower | Gyeongbokgung Palace + Namsan Mountain Park | Jung-gu + Myeongdong + Nanta at night | Myeongdong + N Seoul Tower + night-time street wandering |
3 days | Romantic itinerary: palaces, Namsan, cafés in Ikseon-dong | Palaces + N Seoul Tower + Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods in Mapo | Hongdae (K-pop neighbourhood) + Myeongdong + nightlife area | Jung-gu + Hongdae + Gangnam (fashion district) |
5 days | Add Han River cruise + cafés and viewpoints | Parks and museums + fun activities | Night in Hongdae + Shopping in Myeongdong/Gangnam | Cultural routes + hidden markets and cafés |
7 days | Combine Gangnam with traditional neighbourhoods + a day trip | Family excursions (LEGOLAND® Korea Resort, theme parks) | Nightlife, geeky experiences (K-pop shops, arcades) + the DMZ | A full week with the DMZ + museums + hiking in Namsan/Bukhansan |
10 days | More time for cafés, markets and romantic outings | City + nature + a free day in children’s play areas | Alternative neighbourhoods (Seongsu, Ikseon-dong) + cultural activities | Explore less touristy neighbourhoods, temples and local routes |
🎁 Get 5% off & save up to £2 on your first Seoul Attractions & Tours booking! 👇
Seoul's Top Attractions and Tours
See all attractions
6083 booked
![Hanbok Photoshoot Experience at Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea[Hanbok Photoshoot Experience x Hanbok Rental ]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0355212000pewv7e56BAE_C_568_320.png)
🔥 Must-Visit Districts in Seoul
Seoul is a city of distinct neighbourhoods, almost like little versions of the city within the city. Each area has its own character: shop-till-you-drop, K-pop on every corner, nightlife, traditional temples, or that alternative vibe that hooks you from the first step.
The best part is that, whatever you’re looking for, there’s always a neighbourhood that suits you. Below, you’ll find a selection of the best neighbourhoods in Seoul and the areas to visit in Seoul to enjoy.
Myeongdong: Seoul’s best shopping district for shopping and street food
Myeongdong is Korea’s ultimate shopping mecca. Perfumeries, Korean cosmetics, clothing, gadgets, and an atmosphere that becomes even more lively when evening falls. The charm lies in wandering among the street-food stalls: spicy skewers, honey-filled hotteok, or spiral potatoes you see everywhere.
Heads up: this neighbourhood was, for decades, the epicentre of youth fashion in the city, and it’s still one of the most visited spots for Asian travellers.
If you love mixing a bit of shopping with tasty bites, you’ll have a brilliant time here.
Hongdae (Mapo-gu): Seoul’s arts district and K-pop neighbourhood
Hongdae is pure creative energy. Murals, geeky shops, themed cafés and live music everywhere.
It's Seoul's K-pop neighbourhood, where young artists put on their own mini street concerts and where you'll always stumble upon something quirky without even trying.
Plus, it’s Seoul’s party district for many university students, so after dark it completely changes its vibe. Did you know several Korean stars started performing here before they became famous?
Gangnam: Seoul’s fashion and business district
Gangnam is the city's most polished side. Enormous shopping centres, luxury boutiques, corporate tech, and an upmarket lifestyle that's evident even in the cafés.
Here, everything seems designed to stay one step ahead, from futuristic canopies to the medical and beauty clinics that fill the district. If you’re interested in Seoul’s fashion district, this is the place for you.
Did you know that PSY’s famous song Gangnam Style was inspired by this region?
Jung-gu and Insadong: the historic heart and cultural things to do in Seoul
Jung-gu and Insadong capture the most traditional essence of Seoul. Narrow streets brimming with craft shops, temples that appear almost by surprise, beautiful hanok houses, and museums that help you understand how the city has changed.
It’s a neighbourhood to wander through without rushing, taking in the details: a hand-carved stamp, a traditional tea stall, a corner hung with lanterns.
It’s also one of the city’s most important cultural hubs.
Itaewon and the surrounding area: Seoul’s gay neighbourhood and international nightlife
Itaewon is probably Seoul’s most diverse neighbourhood. International restaurants, bars that are very different from one another, small galleries, and a social scene that never sleeps—even on weekdays.
By the way, Seoul’s gay neighbourhood is also located here, with lively venues and a safe, welcoming atmosphere. Did you know that, thanks to its cultural mix, many expatriates choose to live in this area?
If you fancy a lively night out with people from all over the world, Itaewon is a safe bet.
Hotels: Save up to 10% (Book online or on Mobile)
Homes & Apts: Save up to £39 (App-only deal)
Our Top Picks
5 star
Very Good881 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.34km from city centre
The room was really tiny. Whatever you do, don't buy any package deals, like the one for Petite France – it's incredibly far, like an hour and a half to two hours away, and you can't even get a refund. It doesn't really feel like a five-star hotel; more like a four-star. You can walk to Myeongdong in about 20 minutes from the hotel by taking the underground passage straight from Dongdaemun. But I found Korea to be quite run down, with power lines everywhere. Unless you're a big K-pop fan or love concerts, a trip to Korea can be pretty disappointing.
The photo is of a cafe in a shopping area near Dongdaemun. This hotel isn't far from Dongdaemun.FromSGD 316
Great673 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.73km from city centre
This is a decent hotel, right next to Shinsegae Department Store, and directly outside Exit 7 of Hoehyeon Subway Station. There's a large ramp leading up to the lobby on the first floor, but you have to go to the seventh floor to check in. It seems like there's a police station building nearby with an escalator that takes you right to the lobby entrance.
The hotel gave me a room on a higher floor, the 25th floor, which I believe is the top floor for guest rooms, but it was a corner room. The room layout was a bit odd; the room itself wasn't very big, with not much space beyond the bed, but the bathroom was exceptionally large, almost the same size as the room. There was a connecting door to the adjacent room, which was a suite. From the layout, this room seemed designed as a maid's room for the adjoining suite. When I complained about the corner room to the front desk, I was told that all rooms of this type are corner rooms, likely due to the design. Those who dislike corner rooms should consider this carefully.
The mattress in the room was exceptionally high. Before arriving, I had requested a baby crib, but the hotel didn't reserve one for me that day and instead provided a rail. This rail was hard to describe – it made little difference from having nothing at all. There's a tablet by the bed that controls the mattress and air conditioning. You can directly order bath towels, water, ice, etc., and even send text requests to the front desk.
The hotel appears to be a recommended hotel by LV. Upon check-in, I received an invitation to the LV exhibition, where you could get an LV canvas bag at the Shinsegae LV exhibition across the street. Overall, the hotel is quite good, with medium value for money.FromSGD 296
Great505 Reviews
Yongsan/Itaewon Seoul|3.44km from city centre
I highly recommend the Grand Hyatt Seoul. It feels like the heart of the city and is rumored to be a very auspicious location. The hotel's ambiance and design are excellent, especially the city views. I tried the hotel bar and the lobby lounge, and both had a great atmosphere. It was a very enjoyable experience, and I'll definitely be back.FromSGD 418
Amazing612 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.3km from city centre
The room was very clean, and they even offered a complimentary drink. The bedding was spotless, and the bed was very comfortable, a bit on the softer side. The service was excellent; the front desk offered Chinese-speaking staff, making communication seamless. The hotel breakfast tasted good, though the variety wasn't as extensive as a five-star hotel, but everything I tried was delicious. It was also very quiet, and the staff were very polite. Just be mindful of the dining hours; it ends at 10 AM. Even as it approached 10 AM, the staff tidied up very orderly, showing great punctuality. The only downside was staying on the 5th floor, right next to the hotel's outdoor air conditioning units, which made a bit of noise at night. Also, the duvet was down-filled, and moving it or turning over made a rustling sound that slightly affected my sleep.FromSGD 383
Amazing346 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.21km from city centre
Pros: Close to Myeongdong, quiet, and dozens of restaurants within a five-minute walk.
Cons: Housekeeping is a joke (they only change the sheets and trash bags). The gym is in a building across the street, which is the most inconvenient part – you have to change clothes if you're already in your workout gear.
This hotel definitely has its ups and downs! But the service and English proficiency were top-notch! I was even assigned a high-floor room. I'd stay here again next time.FromSGD 331
Great263 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.51km from city centre
The view is great, and as a suite, it's generally very good with no major drawbacks. The suite includes breakfast, afternoon tea, and happy hour. I didn't take photos of the breakfast, but it was extremely rich and delicious. Afternoon tea is shown in the pictures; there were no alcoholic beverages. The lighting and curtains are all smart-controlled, and there's an iPad by the bed to contact the hotel for requests. The space is also ample. The shower water pressure is excellent; both the overhead and handheld showers can be used simultaneously, and there's a seat. Various types of pillows are provided, such as memory foam pillows. Seoul's air quality is often poor, so the room is equipped with an air purifier, and you can call to have a humidifier delivered.
The location is convenient, with the subway station just a 5-minute walk away.
If I had to point out a drawback, the hotel has indeed been open for a number of years, and some basic features are a bit old. For example, the air conditioning lacks any advanced functions like scheduled shut-off; it only has a single temperature and fan speed setting.FromSGD 875
Business travel
Very Good936 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.17km from city centre
The hotel's location is super convenient, just a few minutes' walk to the subway station, Lotte Duty Free, and Cheonggyecheon Stream, with plenty of cafes and bakeries nearby. The staff were very helpful and communication was quick. The main entrance has stairs, and there's a small slope leading to the back entrance, but the signs aren't very clear, which can be a bit inconvenient if you're lugging suitcases. There was a used cotton swab on the carpet that hadn't been cleaned, but otherwise, the cleanliness was quite good.FromSGD 107
Very Good1625 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.61km from city centre
The biggest advantage is the convenient transportation. Airport bus 6015 goes directly to the hotel entrance. For the return trip, you can wait at the same spot where you got off. This bus is a loop service back to the airport and runs every 10 minutes, saving you the hassle of lugging your luggage and transferring subways. You can pay with cash on the bus, but they don't give change. It's also right next to Line 2 subway station. You can walk to the Myeongdong area in about 10 minutes, or take the subway two stops to the upper part of Myeongdong.FromSGD 165
Very Good1054 Reviews
Jongro / Insadong Seoul|1.15km from city centre
This hotel is very close to Myeongdong, within walking distance. It's also conveniently located near Lotte Duty Free and Shinsegae, and there are convenience stores nearby, so the location is quite good. However, for the triple room I booked, the pillowcases and sheets hadn't been changed, and they felt incredibly dirty. After arriving late at night, I spoke to the front desk, and they brought three new sheets that were noticeably cleaner. We spread them out and slept for the night. The staff's attitude was decent, especially the person who brought the new sheets, who was very polite.FromSGD 96
Very Good1847 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.5km from city centre
The hotel was exceptionally clean and well-maintained throughout my entire stay. What impressed me the most was the cleanliness of the bathroom and toilet area. Everything was spotless, fresh, and clearly cared for with great attention to detail, which made me feel very comfortable and relaxed.
The location was also excellent, with convenient and easy access to Myeongdong and other popular areas. Getting around the city was simple, making the hotel a perfect base for exploring Seoul.
The lobby was modern, welcoming, and beautifully presented. Most importantly, every member of the staff was incredibly kind, professional, and helpful. They always greeted guests with a smile and were happy to assist whenever needed, which made the overall experience even more enjoyable.
After staying here, I have set a very high standard for future trips to Korea. I would be delighted if I could find hotels as clean and comfortable as this one. If I return to Seoul and there is availability, I would not hesitate to book this hotel again.
Overall, I had a wonderful stay and would highly recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a clean, comfortable, and conveniently located place to stay. It truly exceeded my expectations, and I look forward to visiting again in the future.FromSGD 153
Very Good2040 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.67km from city centre
The room had two queen-sized beds and was quite spacious, located at the end of the hallway, with plenty of room for two suitcases.
The bathroom sink was tiny; there was hardly any space once a few tooth-brushing cups were placed on it.
I have to complain about the shower gel—it had a strange smell on the first day, so I never used it again. There wasn't a separate shower, just a shower-bathtub combo with a simple curtain, so if you weren't careful, water would splash all over the floor, which was annoying!
They provided four bottles of water daily, which was great. The location was super convenient: there's a 7-Eleven downstairs, and the airport shuttle, subway, and buses are all easily accessible right outside. However, being in Myeongdong, the restaurant prices are definitely inflated, so I'd advise walking a bit further to eat. It'll be much cheaper and the food will be better.FromSGD 121
Very Good3149 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.57km from city centre
I booked a triple room, and it was really good. The hotel is very clean, and the front desk staff speaks Chinese. It's a five-minute walk from the hotel to the subway. There are breakfast places in the alleys on both sides of the hotel. The earliest ones to open are in the alley directly opposite the hotel's main entrance; two of them open quite early, with customers already finishing up and leaving by 7:30 AM. They mainly serve soup dishes. If you walk straight out of the hotel's main entrance, cross the main road, and turn right, you'll find BHC fried chicken. On the left side, facing the hotel's main entrance, if you walk into the alley, there's Twotwo fried chicken, but it's closed on Sundays. Both of these fried chicken places are good. Take the hotel elevator to the first floor, exit, and turn left for a CU convenience store. Across the road, there's a GS25 convenience store.FromSGD 153
Family friendly
Great2931 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.61km from city centre
First off, the location is super convenient! It's right opposite Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) and in the same building as Hyundai City Outlets. There's a subway station, bus stops, and express bus stops nearby, so getting around is a breeze. The room itself was pretty spacious and very clean, and the staff were all very welcoming. And remember, kids' breakfast is FREE! Kids' breakfast is FREE! Kids' breakfast is FREE! On our first day, there was a ********* staff member at the front desk who insisted we pay for our child's breakfast. She seemed unfamiliar with the policy; kids' breakfast should have been half price (5,000 KRW per day), but she didn't know and was too hesitant to ask, so she tried to charge us 10,000 KRW. We thought that was too much and didn't pay. Interestingly, the next day, the breakfast staff just waved us in, and for the entire four days we stayed, no one ever asked us for a breakfast voucher for our child. Everything else was great though. Lots of Japanese guests stay here, probably because of the bathtubs in the rooms.FromSGD 134
Very Good347 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.04km from city centre
Very convenient, clean and hygienic hotel, impressive quick self check in service. I booked a 5 nights twin bedroom. The room was clean and tidy, the air in the room smell nice, the bedsheets were neat and clean. However, the shower room ventilation needs to be improved. Other than that, this hotel provides excellent complimentary breakfast, everything was perfect to me. Will definitely stay again next time.FromSGD 177
Very Good911 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1km from city centre
My husband and I had an amazing experience staying at Skypark Hotel 3 in Myeongdong! We stayed here for 12 days, and it was the best decision ever. The rooms are clean, and the service and staff were fantastic - friendly, helpful, and super polite. They also offer amenities like drinking water, weighing scale for your luggages, and coin laundry.
But my favorite part is its location! It's near everything - the airport limousine bus station, train station, Myeongdong shopping street, namsan tower, malls and shopping centers, convenience stores, coffee shops, and restaurants. This is now our go-to hotel in Seoul!FromSGD 126
Great1468 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.22km from city centre
Facilities: It's an older hotel with somewhat outdated facilities. However, the location is very convenient, with multiple subway lines nearby and the airport shuttle right at the doorstep. The rooms are spacious, with two 1.5-meter double beds, making it a top choice for families with children. Gwanghwamun, Gyeongbokgung, and Cheonggyecheon are all within walking distance, and Myeongdong is also accessible on foot.
Service: The service is what you'd expect from an established hotel. We even stored our luggage there for two days while we made a trip to Gangneung.FromSGD 123
Great588 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.6km from city centre
Stayed here for 2 nights from May 28th. The location is great, close to City Hall Station, with many famous restaurants nearby! The front desk staff were also lovely and always smiling. The room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, allowing for a relaxing stay. Having the WowPass available in the lobby was incredibly convenient and helpful. I'm definitely coming back again! It was so good that I've already booked another 2-night stay for December 3rd, 4th, and 5th! Looking forward to it again!FromSGD 203
Very Good568 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.38km from city centre
The hotel's location is absolutely fantastic – super close to the subway station and Myeongdong shopping area. There are tons of BBQ restaurants, convenience stores, and Olive Young nearby, plus a Global ATM where you can withdraw cash. The front desk staff are English-speaking and very friendly. The rooms are cleaned thoroughly every day, and breakfast is available. I had a really comfortable stay for all three nights. The soundproofing is excellent, so I slept very well. There's also a self-service laundry room upstairs that takes coins; you can get change from the front desk.FromSGD 45
Breakfast
Great2934 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.16km from city centre
The rooms are clean and tidy, the service is warm and attentive, and the location is convenient with excellent value for money. The bedding is comfortable and soundproof, and the staff are friendly. The location is superb, within walking distance to the subway station and shopping areas, with plenty of food options nearby. Some rooms offer views of N Seoul Tower, and it's close to Euljiro 3-ga subway station. It's relatively quiet, about an 8-minute walk to Myeongdong. The hotel is in the city center, making travel incredibly convenient. Highly recommended!FromSGD 179
Great1679 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.2km from city centre
The room was very clean and tidy, and the price was just right. It was also very conveniently located, with four subway lines nearby and a convenience store just a short walk away. David at the front desk was very accommodating; even though it wasn't yet 3 PM for check-in, he told us we could check in early because a room was already cleaned. All the staff were very friendly and helpful. It was excellent, and I'll definitely come back again.FromSGD 140
Great1121 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.48km from city centre
The location is fantastic, right next to Lotte Duty Free, and the airport shuttle stop is conveniently downstairs. The room size was decent, but I felt the value for money wasn't great, possibly because the prices were a bit higher due to it being a weekend.FromSGD 196
Very Good1093 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.02km from city centre
I would give 10 stars if that option is available. We were a bit worried when we read reviews about the cleanliness of the rooms and did a thorough check upon check in (bed bugs? Dust? Suspicious stains?) and found none. Also, I booked the rooms to be near Myeongdong Station but it was a bit of a walk with our luggages and I thought “that was it… how is this near any station?” And then we found Euljiro (3) station at our doorstep! The rest of the day and the rest of our journey became a breeze!
It is actually a short walk to Myeongdong station once we figured out the location, hotel is opposite plenty of restaurants.
We left our luggages at the counter before and after check in and both times our luggages were well taken care of.
If I have to nitpick, the lift took a longer time than usual to arrive at our level esp during check in check out because lobby is at level 4. People are pressing to go up and down level 4 and 1 so waiting time increased.
That’s actually ok though, just leave the room earlier. We’re travelling, just leave earlier and everything is good anywhere.
To summarise, if we travel back to Seoul, we will come back to Four Points by Sheraton Josun Myeongdong Seoul. Get every word right because there is another Four Points by Sheraton Josun and we have no experience with that one.FromSGD 216
Great717 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.58km from city centre
This is the ideal hotel to stay-in in Seoul because it is literally located right at the heart of Myeong-dong everywhere happening. There is a large 7-11 conveniently located just 10 metres away, the start of a night market just another 20 metres away. Cross over to the other side and there's all the luxury shopping (Lotte Deparment Stall) which in my opinion is better than Gangnam. another direction and you will hit Myeongdong shopping main street. Go underneath and there will be a huge underground shopping mall that leads all the way to City Hall main station.
Rooms are very spacious, the gym was excellent and last but not least, the staffs were all very friendly and kind to allow us to check-in early due to available vacant rooms. My family and I will definitely be back here when we comes back to Seoul again.FromSGD 307
Very Good997 Reviews
Seoul|7.39km from city centre
Upon entering to check-in, there was no proactive greeting. The attitude during check-in was also just so-so. I chose this hotel specifically because it was advertised as a 'Chinese selection,' but I felt their attitude towards Chinese guests was indifferent. Other explanations were general, mainly emphasizing the 11 AM check-out time, warning of a penalty otherwise. Personally, I think the hot water issue, which I'll mention next, is more important than that.
Aside from these points, the hygiene was acceptable. The facilities are a bit old. There's a convenience store nearby, and the bus stop downstairs is also very convenient.FromSGD 88
Gym
Very Good673 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.15km from city centre
Facilities: Everything you'd expect was there.
Cleanliness: It was kept pretty clean, didn't see any dirt.
Ambiance: The place is very small, not much different from what you'd find in Japan or Hong Kong, similar to a budget hotel in China.
Service: Apart from the housekeeping staff who were quite proactive and friendly, the front desk and restaurant staff were just average.
Overall, you really can't judge a hotel by its pictures when booking. I was looking for a hotel near Myeongdong and after searching around, I didn't expect this location to be a bit out of the way. It's quite a distance from Lotte. The only good thing nearby is a snack street.FromSGD 122
Very Good2586 Reviews
Seoul|3.88km from city centre
Recommended place: The location is excellent, with two subway lines nearby. However, Gaode Maps doesn't show the exits clearly, and it's particularly tricky to find the right exit when coming from the airport line. It's actually more convenient and closer to take the subway one more stop to Mapo Station on Line 5. It's very easy to get to places like Hongdae and Gwangjang Market by subway. Walking to the nearby Gongdeok market takes about ten minutes. Most restaurants open quite late.
The area is bustling, with many restaurants and 24-hour convenience stores nearby, including quite a few trendy spots.
There's a front desk staff member who speaks Chinese. I noticed many Chinese guests staying here. The service is average; perhaps they don't encourage eating in the rooms as they don't provide cutlery. If you buy food, remember to ask the store for disposable utensils.
The bed is quite large. The cleanliness and quality of the bedding are average. Nowadays, all Korean hotels don't provide toothbrushes and toothpaste, so remember to bring your own or buy them at a convenience store.
If you're out exploring all day and just need a place to sleep and eat at night, it's a decent option.FromSGD 149
Very Good1493 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.9km from city centre
The front desk staff were incredibly welcoming. When we arrived at noon, they proactively helped us check in early and even assisted with our luggage. The service was excellent.
The hotel environment is pleasant, and the location is convenient. With six elevators, it's rarely busy or crowded, so you never have to wait long. The room isn't huge, but it's perfectly sufficient, with space for luggage and good amenities, including a bathtub and a smart toilet that works great. The minibar offers complimentary cold drinks and mineral water. The bed in the room is enormous, measuring 2m x 2m. There are plenty of charging outlets that directly accommodate Chinese plugs, as well as numerous USB and Type-C ports, making charging very convenient without needing an adapter. The room was quiet and comfortable, and I slept wonderfully.FromSGD 233
Very Good426 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.12km from city centre
We knew it was a budget hotel when we booked but didn’t know housekeeping could be this sub-standard. Out of the 4 nights here, there were 2 mornings which wake up calls never arrived. For basic cleaning, soiled towels were not collected & trash went unnoticed! Coffee mugs were never cleaned as well. Except for a good location, we are pretty disappointed!FromSGD 134
Great1022 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.72km from city centre
Location: The hotel is perfectly situated right in Myeongdong's shopping district, making it incredibly convenient for dining and shopping. There's even an Olive Young right next door.
Cleanliness: The cleanliness was also excellent. The room was tidy, spotless, and odorless. Housekeeping was quite frequent.
The room wasn't too small; it was perfectly adequate for two people, and the air conditioning worked really well.
Breakfast is on the 21st floor. While the variety isn't extensive, the food isn't amazing, but it's not bad either – just average.
The front desk staff were also quite friendly, and there was even a receptionist who spoke Chinese.FromSGD 259
Very Good652 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.39km from city centre
My business trip to Korea was made much more pleasant by my stay at this hotel. The front desk staff spoke both Chinese and English, were incredibly polite and helpful, and made the check-in and check-out process smooth and efficient, with no communication issues whatsoever. My room was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped – perfect for my stay. Just a heads-up: make sure to book in advance as rooms tend to fill up quickly, and you might have trouble finding a suitable room if you just walk in. As a solo business traveler, my overall experience was excellent in every aspect. This hotel is ideal for both business and leisure travel, offers great value for money, and comes highly recommended. If you're planning a trip, I suggest booking early.FromSGD 170
🎼 Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Seoul
There are countless ways to explore Seoul, but these five capture the spirit of the city beautifully. They’re a mix of urban icons, green spaces and family-friendly experiences that are ideal whether you’re taking it slow or looking for fun things to do in Seoul.
Below, we’re sharing some of the best places to visit in Seoul and a handful of interesting things to do in Seoul—without overthinking it.
N Seoul Tower
N Seoul Tower is one of those places that surprises you even when you arrive with high expectations. You go up and, suddenly, the city unfurls in every direction: skyscrapers, neighbourhoods, mountains… all in a single glance.
A handy tip is to head there at sunset, when the sky changes colour and the lights begin to switch on little by little.
N Seoul Tower
4.6/5
3392 Reviews
We bought tickets through trip.com and saw Seoul from this ICONIC observation deck. The drive up to the tower and the descent were very scenic.Namsan Mountain Park
Namsan Park is the tranquil counterpoint to the tower. Here, the ideal thing to do is to wander the trails at a relaxed pace and let the surroundings work their magic. You’ll find gentle climbs, hidden viewpoints, and spots where you can breathe plenty of peace, despite being right in the middle of the city.
By the way, when the weather’s fine, the path that loops around the mountain fills with locals heading out for an after-work walk.
Namsan Mountain Park
4.7/5
578 Reviews
Beautiful views, worth seeing. But we've already made it a tradition to climb higher in new countries/cities.Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung is the quintessential palace: majestic, elegant, and filled with nooks that feel like they’re from another era.
Watching the changing of the guard is one of those subtle details that offer plenty of photo opportunities, especially if you’ve got your camera handy. And if you fancy getting into the spirit even more, you can rent a hanbok and get in for free, which always has its charm.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
4.6/5
5806 Reviews
It's great value for money, and the price isn't expensive. However, the scenery is just average, making it seem a bit shabby. But it's definitely a must-see destination in Korea. I suggest not going in the summer, it's too hot.LEGOLAND® Korea Resort
If you’re travelling with kids (or fancy bringing out your inner child), LEGOLAND® Korea is one of those days out that never fails.
The park is well-organised and features attractions for different ages, so you don't have to improvise all the time.
What's more, the curious thing is that many areas are built from thousands of LEGO bricks and, sometimes, you find yourself gazing at the details for a while without meaning to.
LEGOLAND® Korea Resort
4.6/5
176 Reviews
LEGOLAND Chuncheon is actually very easy to get to on your own. Take the ITX train (usually platform 4) from Cheongnyangni Station to Chuncheon, then take the free LEGOLAND shuttle bus from Exit 1. The park is quite large. I went on Saturday, August 8th, 2026, and played from 10 AM to 7 PM. The best part was that it wasn't crowded; there were almost no queues! My wife and kids even said they wanted to go again.Myeongdong Nanta
Nanta is one of Seoul’s most fun shows. You don’t need to understand Korean, because it’s all about rhythm, physical humour and a staging that blends cooking, percussion and a few eccentric touches that work surprisingly well.
Before you head in, have a look at the schedule because there are several shows and they sell out quickly.
Myeongdong Nanta
4.7/5
285 Reviews
This time I went to see the random show with my children. It took an hour and a half. There was no boredom throughout the process. Adults and children were very happy. I highly recommend you to go and see it🎵 Seoul, the Capital of K-pop and Korean Pop Culture
Seoul has been setting trends for years without trying too hard. From music and TV series to fashion and themed cafés that look like film sets, the city has become a magnet for fans from all over the world.
And the interesting thing is that, beyond the touristy stuff, there are loads of geeky things to do in Seoul, unique nooks and cafés to visit in Seoul that reveal a more creative side of the city. Now, if you fancy something more alternative, there are also non-touristy things to do in Seoul that fit perfectly with this pop vibe.
⭐ K-pop routes in Seoul: shops, studios and iconic areas
K-pop routes are pretty much a must-do if you’re even slightly interested in Korean culture. Every neighbourhood has its own “ecosystem”, and if you venture out a bit, you’ll end up discovering studios, idol cafés and shops hiding real treasures.
- Hongdae: street performances, photocard shops, and venues where rookie groups put on mini shows. Sometimes you’ll bump into fans waiting for a trainee to come out.
- Gangnam: recording studios, famous agencies such as SM or JYP in the neighbourhood, and cafés frequented by idols. Everything here has a more 'pro' vibe.
- Myeongdong: album shops, collectables and official merchandise. It’s easy to lose track of time browsing shelves with albums by BTS, BLACKPINK, Stray Kids or NewJeans.
By the way, if you're into photos, there are several murals dedicated to well-known bands that are perfect for Instagram.
☕ Themed cafés and geeky things to do in Seoul
Themed cafés are a world of their own. Stepping into many of them feels like walking into a scene from a drama or a manga panel. Some are elegant, others are pure fantasy, and others, quite frankly, leave you wondering whether you’re in a café or a museum of Korean aesthetics.
- Beautifully designed cafés: minimalist, light-filled, serving smooth coffee and perfect pastries (Seongsu and Ikseon-dong are brimming with them).
- Animal cafés: cats, dogs and even fennec foxes in some. Ideal if you fancy a quiet, different experience.
- Cafés inspired by dramas or manga: themed décor, photo sets and character-inspired drinks.
- Amusement arcades and gaming centres: perfect for a rainy afternoon. Rhythm games, dance machines, and classics that never go out of fashion.
If you have time, try combining some café-hopping with a stroll around Hongdae.
It’s one of those neighbourhoods where, without looking for anything in particular, you end up finding something that puts a smile on your face.
🌡️ Best Time to Visit Seoul
Seoul is a city that changes dramatically with the seasons, almost as if it had four distinct personalities. Some people prefer the colourful charm of spring, others revel in the vibrant summer atmosphere, and many visit in autumn because everything comes together.
That said, even in the depths of winter, you’ll find things to do in Seoul in winter that are worth your while.
Here’s a quick guide to help you get your bearings:
Season | Climate and temperatures | Notes | Activities and Festivals |
🌸 Spring (March–May) | Mild, sometimes rainy, 8–20 °C | A very popular season for cherry blossom | Hanami in parks, strolls through palaces, terrace cafés |
☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug) | Hot and humid, 22–30 °C | Buzzing atmosphere, but occasional monsoon downpours | Festivals, night-time activities, air-conditioned shopping centres |
🍁 Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Cool and stable, 10–22 °C | For many, the best time | Autumn foliage, hiking in Namsan/Bukhansan, cultural visits |
❄️ Winter (Dec–Feb) | Cold and dry, –5 to 5 °C | Fewer tourists and lower prices | Christmas markets, ice skating, hot street food, spas and jjimjilbang |
Book activities and experiences in Seoul all year round with Trip.com.
Flights to Seoul
Hotels in Seoul
South Korea eSIM
See all flights
🚄 Day Trips from Seoul
One of Seoul’s perks is that, as soon as you venture a little beyond the centre, the atmosphere changes in an instant. Suddenly you go from skyscrapers and neon to peaceful mountains, traditional villages and coastal areas where life moves at a much slower pace.
And the great thing is that all these getaways work just as well for trips of every kind: on your own, as a couple, with the family, or with friends who want to see a little more of the country.
Paju and the DMZ: recent history and wide-open landscapes
It’s an intriguing day out, as it blends nature with one of the most delicate episodes in Korean history. The journey isn’t long—about an hour or so depending on the route—and the visit leaves very different impressions depending on what interests you.
- Average travel time: 60–90 minutes
- Transport: official bus tour or Gyeongui–Jungang Line to Imjingang Station + shuttle
Unmissable:
- Dora Observatory, with views that will amaze you at how close everything appears.
- The Third Infiltration Tunnel, probably the most striking part of the tour.
- The Freedom Bridge, filled with messages and ribbons bearing wishes for reunification.
- Heyri Art Valley, a very tranquil artists' village; pop into any gallery and you'll notice everything has an experimental feel that's quite different from what you find in Seoul.
Suwon: temples, fortresses and tradition
Suwon is one of those places where you can easily while away half a day without glancing at the time. It’s steeped in history, dotted with temples, and has that irresistible blend of a modern city and a historic heart that always draws travellers in.
- Average journey time: 40–60 minutes
- Transport: Metro Line 1 or ITX Saemaeul train
Unmissable:
- Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for an unhurried stroll along its walls.
- Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, with spacious courtyards and halls where the courtly life of the era still lingers in the air.
- The traditional streets of the historic centre, perfect for sampling Korean sweets that don’t usually feature in the guidebooks.
Incheon and Wolmido: sea, seafront promenade and a relaxed atmosphere
When you fancy seeing the sea without going too far, Incheon is the simplest option. What’s more, Wolmido has that slightly retro beach vibe that pleasantly surprises many people.
- Average journey time: about 60 minutes
- Transport: Metro Line 1 or Airport Railroad Express (AREX)
Unmissable:
- Wolmido’s seaside promenade is a very pleasant place for a walk, with boats entering and leaving the harbour.
- Wolmi Theme Park, small but spot-on if you’re travelling with kids or want to hop on a couple of rides without any fuss.
- Seafront cafés where you can while away half an hour watching people go by.
- Incheon’s Chinatown, boasting a culinary scene that’s a complete departure from what you usually find in Seoul.
Plan your transfers and book your train journey from Seoul with Trip.com.
📱 Get your instant South Korea eSIM with 5% off
👇Book South Korea Trains on Trip.com👇
Official Korail Partner · Live Fares · E-tickets
❓ FAQ – Things to Do in Seoul
-
How many days do you need to explore Seoul?
-
What can you see in Seoul in one day?
-
What are the best things to do in Seoul for first-time visitors?
-
Are there free or cheap things to do in Seoul?
-
Is Seoul worth visiting in winter?
🧩 Explore Seoul & beyond
Where to Stay in Seoul: Best Areas, Hotels & Attractions
Discover the best areas to stay in Seoul: Myeongdong, Jongno, Hongdae, Gangnam & Itaewon. Book affordable hotels for sightseeing and nightlife.
August 16, 2026
Best eSIM for South Korea from £0.45
Find the Best eSIM for South Korea from £0.19! Compare fastest & cheapest plans. Includes Japan South Korea eSIM. Stay connected.
August 16, 2026
Top Things to Do in Seoul: Best Activities & Must-Sees
Discover the best things to do in Seoul: top activities, vibrant neighbourhoods, local culture, and must-see attractions to make the most of your stay.
August 16, 2026
Top Things to Do in Busan: Best Activities & Must-Sees
Discover the best things to do in Busan: top activities, vibrant neighbourhoods, local culture, and must-see attractions to make the most of your stay.
August 16, 2026
Top Things to Do in Jeju: Best Activities & Must-Sees
Discover the best things to do in Jeju: top activities, vibrant neighbourhoods, local culture, and must-see attractions to make the most of your stay.
August 16, 2026
Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
Trending Searches
-
Travel guides