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 |
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Seoul's Top Attractions and Tours
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🔥 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.
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Our Top Picks
5 star
Great809 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.34km from city centre
My stay at Novotel Dongdaemun was fantastic. The location is very tourist-friendly, with plenty of restaurants and convenience stores nearby, making it easy to get around without detours. The room was modern and clean, and felt more spacious than other hotels in the same price range. Check-in and check-out were efficient. It was a comfortable and reassuring choice for my Seoul trip, and I'd definitely choose it again next time.From£147
Very Good447 Reviews
Yongsan/Itaewon Seoul|3.44km from city centre
My wife and I booked this hotel for our cherry blossom viewing trip to Seoul during the Qingming Festival. After a long search on Trip.com, we finally decided on the Grand Hyatt Seoul, and it truly proved to be worth every penny of its high price!
Firstly, getting to the Grand Hyatt from Incheon Airport is incredibly convenient. You just need to buy a bus ticket at the airport, and it takes you directly to the hotel lobby entrance. The bus driver was very helpful with our luggage, and upon arrival, the bellhops were also very enthusiastic in guiding us through check-in and assisting with our bags.
However, after checking in and getting to our room, we were truly amazed. The view outside the window was absolutely breathtaking – I'd even go so far as to say it's the best room in all of Seoul for views of Namsan (perhaps even *the* best). This view alone practically makes the hotel room rate worth it. Furthermore, the hotel's facilities are up to international five-star luxury hotel standards. The restaurant in the hotel lobby requires reservations, and its backdrop is the entire Seoul city skyline, which is quite spectacular.
The hotel staff's service attitude is excellent; every team member is enthusiastic, professional, and also quite attractive (which probably has something to do with Koreans' emphasis on appearance). Additionally, getting to popular attractions like Namsan, Gyeongbokgung, and Hongdae from the Grand Hyatt is very easy and convenient by Uber. Overall, if you have the budget, I highly recommend this hotel!From£440
Amazing607 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.3km from city centre
The hotel service is excellent, especially the staff at the front desk. They are very friendly to Chinese guests, and some even speak Chinese. Check-in was super fast, and they also helped us book restaurants and arranged a taxi. They even made sure our luggage was loaded and gave instructions to the driver – truly thoughtful and attentive! Definitely a huge thumbs up! The hotel is clean and tidy, and the location is great, making it convenient to get anywhere. Highly recommend this well-established hotel! (^O^)From£272
Amazing331 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.21km from city centre
This hotel is perfectly located! It's just south of Seoul City Hall Square and west of Myeongdong. The subway station is only a few dozen meters from the lobby entrance, and Sejong-daero is right to the west. It's also not far from the major palaces and Namsan, so the location couldn't be better. The staff are very friendly, attentive, and welcoming. While the facilities might feel a bit more compact compared to newly built five-star hotels in China, they are well-maintained and perfectly adequate. Overall, it offers great value for money.From£231
Very Good401 Reviews
Yongsan/Itaewon Seoul|4.43km from city centre
Very beautiful hotel. Greeted by staffs who helped open the car door, and get your bags and luggage to the check in counter every day!
Only bummer was at check out timing is 11am, we tried asking for later check out timing during check-in and was told hotel is full. Managed to get a late check out of 12pm when we tried again the night before leaving the hotel.
Hotel has a little mall,a coffee bean, CU, some expensive restaurants. It also has a sauna (30K won per pax), 1 hot and cold tub and one sauna room.
Room amenities can be requested via the web app in your room. Rooms were very modern, however Water from the shower does flood the dry toilet area a little. Generally a great stay.From£157
Amazing1035 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.68km from city centre
From the moment I stepped out of the car until I reached my room, someone was there to assist me. When I opened the door, the turndown service was already done, and my charging cables were neatly organized and plugged in. By the bed, there was water and a sealed glass. I've stayed in many hotels, both domestically and internationally, but very few make me feel comfortable enough to use their kettle and glasses. The entire service process was seamless and unobtrusive, yet they anticipated every detail I could possibly need for my trip.From£291
Business travel
Very Good864 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.17km from city centre
The hotel location is quite good. From air port easy take the limousine airport bus 6005 to Seoul city hall. Tell the driver your hotel name and e will stop just infront of the junction of hotel. From hotel back to airport also easy. Location picture as attached. The down side of this hotel if you are Asian and afraid of warm and hot. This hotel spring and autumn does not have air conditioning. Beside on air conditioner, everything I rate 5 star for it.From£54
Very Good1507 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.61km from city centre
I chose a hotel near Myeongdong for my trip to Seoul and found this one. From Gimpo Airport, you can take Line 5 directly to the hotel, and it's just a 170-meter walk from the exit. If you're coming from Incheon Airport, there's a 6015 bus right downstairs, which is super convenient. The hotel's location is excellent, with subway lines 2 and 5 right downstairs, and many bus routes. It's just a few stops from Myeongdong and close to attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, all accessible by bus or subway. There's a supermarket and coffee shops downstairs, but not many great restaurants. The hotel rooms are well-equipped and clean. The staff proactively cleaned the room, keeping it neat and tidy. However, the hotel doesn't provide toothpaste or toothbrushes. The only downside is the poor soundproofing; I could hear people washing up in the next room past midnight and chatting after 2 AM. Overall, it's a good hotel.From£68
Very Good985 Reviews
Jongro / Insadong Seoul|1.15km from city centre
The hotel isn't far from two subway stations, and Cheonggyecheon Stream is right outside. However, you'll need to walk a few dozen meters to find a convenience store. The facilities are generally a bit old, especially the hairdryer, which is the worst I've ever encountered in a hotel – it's hot but has very weak airflow. The hotel doesn't provide disposable toiletries, so you'll need to bring your own adapter. The upside is that rooms are cleaned daily.From£45
Very Good1855 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.5km from city centre
Friendly and great service by the front desk staff.
Initially was given a room on the 8th floor according to my request, but the room size was far too small than what I anticipated for 3 senior citizens. There was no walking space and no place for us to hang our clothes. However, the staff and the manager was helpful and kind to switch us to another bigger room on the 2nd floor. He even was willing to let me view the room first before I decide to take it up without added cost. When I called them during the night to say the room was very cold and cannot adjust the temperature since it is centralized controlled, they immediately sent a portable heater up to us. The front desk staff were all very courteous and helped us with our direction to find a nearby hospital for my sister who sprained her ankle and even wrote in Korean language for us to show to the hospital and also our tour meeting place to the taxi driver. On our last day, when it rained, they also offered us umbrella to get around outside. We could also order food in.
Room was always cleaned up.
Checking in and out also a breeze.
Thumbs up for their excellent service. 👍👍👍👍From£80
Very Good1882 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.67km from city centre
Super great location! I liked that the hotel wasn’t in the same building as the shops. This meant more privacy and no elevator sharing with the public. The hotel staff were all great. They even allowed us to check in earlier which was such a pleasant surprise. I would definitely consider booking here again on my next Korea visitFrom£103
Very Good3020 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.57km from city centre
For Myeongdong, an area where every inch of land is precious in Seoul, the room at this hotel can truly be described as spacious. On the day we departed from home, my wife unfortunately twisted her back. After checking in at the hotel, I was pleasantly surprised to find grab bars and a foldable seat in the shower, clearly installed for people with mobility issues. This was incredibly helpful. Although the hotel is a bit of a distance from Myeongdong Station (about 1.2 km), it's only about 35 RMB by taxi, and not too far to walk. Plus, the hotel offers a free shuttle bus, and I've attached the timetable for reference. The mini-bar in the room provides 2 bottles of water daily, along with beer, cola, and Chilsung Cider, all free of charge. This was even better than the five-star hotel I stayed at later. Another thing worth mentioning is that I forgot my credit card on this trip, so the hotel required a deposit upon check-in (I paid 200,000 Korean won in cash). An older gentleman at the front desk was so diligent, repeatedly reminding me to keep the deposit receipt safe, fearing I might lose it. He was very responsible. The only minor issue to note is the drying cabinet in the room. It's best not to use it for light-colored clothes. After washing a white Burberry T-shirt, I put it in to dry. Perhaps it was a user error, but after drying, faint blue marks appeared on the fabric. Thankfully, the marks washed out, and I had no issues when drying darker clothes afterward.
P.S.: For those sensitive to noise when resting, staying here is better than near Myeongdong Station, which can be quite noisy late into the night.
I will definitely choose to stay here again on my next visit to Seoul.From£78
Family friendly
Great2798 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.61km from city centre
I checked in on the 14th floor using a self-service machine, which even allowed me to choose my own room. Toothbrushes and toothpaste cost 1,000 KRW per set, but the quality was terrible, so I recommend bringing your own or buying them from a convenience store. Check-out is at 12 PM, with a grace period until 12:30 PM; I suggest discussing this with the front desk if needed.
The location is super convenient for getting around; you can take the subway or bus anywhere. For Incheon Airport, there's an airport bus stop about a ten-minute walk away.
Downstairs, there are plenty of convenience stores and restaurants. For Olive Young, I recommend checking out the one on the second basement floor of Doota Mall; it's spacious and has longer operating hours.
The twin beds can be pushed together, which is a nice touch. My only complaint is the old-fashioned bathtub with a showerhead – the water pressure was so strong it actually hurt a bit! 😣From£96
Very Good315 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.04km from city centre
Great location near night market, shops, metro, airport bus and restaurants.
Loved the dinosaur themed room. So much attention to detail. Checked in by hotel staff as arrived after midnight
Staff were responsive by email before I arrived if had questions
Loved the robots and dinosaurs at reception. Even towels delivered by robots to room.
Knew about no cupboard space in advance and breakfast was only ok with little variety or menu change. Included for free and I couldn't eat breakfasr twice due to early starts.
Would highly recommend staying here for the location and uniqueness of the robots etc.From£79
Very Good912 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!From£81
Great1337 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.22km from city centre
The biggest plus of this Seoul hotel is its fantastic location. Deoksugung Palace, Gwanghwamun, and Gyeongbokgung Palace are all within walking distance, and if you're up for it, even Myeongdong and other commercial areas are reachable on foot, making sightseeing a breeze. Coming back to the hotel at night and gazing at the bustling city lights outside the window creates that classic, old-school hotel vibe straight out of a K-drama, with a touch of 'old money' sophistication. There's also a large Paris Baguette nearby, which is super convenient for grabbing breakfast or coffee.
The room size is quite spacious for a Seoul city hotel. We paid around 600-something per night for our two-night stay, and the hotel even upgraded us, which significantly enhanced our overall experience. While the facilities do show their age a bit and aren't brand new, if you appreciate that vintage charm, you'll find it quite appealing. Considering the price, space, and location, the value for money is excellent. I'd very likely consider staying here again on my next trip to Seoul.From£80
Great519 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.38km from city centre
The hotel's location is pretty good, about a 10-minute walk from Myeongdong and Lotte Duty Free. There are many restaurants downstairs, so dining is very convenient. We booked a triple room, and it had three 1-meter beds. It was a bit small, but there was still enough space to open a 24-inch suitcase. Check-in downstairs was very convenient with self-service kiosks, and there were also staff at the front desk. If you don't speak Korean, you can use a translation app. Disposable slippers were provided in the room, but there was no toothbrush or toothpaste, so it's best to bring your own. Free water was provided daily, and the room was cleaned every day, so it was very clean.From£67
Great668 Reviews
Seoul|12.73km from city centre
The first morning I woke up to a strong smell of urine in the room, but it was fine on the second day. Breakfast was normal on the first day, but on the second day (the 9:30 slot), there was a huge queue. The local guests were really over the top; people were even queuing for fruit, and green bananas were being snatched up – it was quite a sight to behold! But it's still much better than staying at Lotte Tower. At least the front desk service was excellent, and the staff were proactive when I left the hotel. Plus, the surrounding area is great for walking around and exploring, a vast improvement over Lotte.From£193
Breakfast
Great2695 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.16km from city centre
The front desk staffs are polite and helpful each time we approached them for assistance. On our arrival day, we reached hotel 5 hours earlier than the check-in time, but the front desk staff offered allowing us to have early check-in if our room is ready. Room service was attended promptly upon request. They provides choices of pillows type. The best is their shampoo and conditioner, my daughter loves its quality so much, unfortunately these are customized products by the hotel.From£88
Great1590 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.2km from city centre
We stayed in the 3 bed room. Everything was very clean. Lovely shower with great amenities, unfortunately no toothbrush and paste so remember to bring your own. Very close to the metro stations too. The public space got a scale and some free coffee and tea facilities.From£75
Great1030 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.48km from city centre
Quite great location with reasonable price range right in front of LOTTE department You can enjoy great LOTTE night light view from the restaurant Breakfast was awesome and the great selection Room was also quite Great for the tourist with heavy shopping lugguageFrom£88
Very Good1060 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.02km from city centre
The hotel offers a really good accommodation as our travel in Korea seoul, even though we are confused there’s same hotel but diff location. Front desk is very helpful and general. Bedroom is clean, and their house keeping is doing great job too to keep room clean and tidy all the time.From£126
Great720 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.58km from city centre
We had a fantastic stays for 3 nights at Aloft Myeongdong in the 1 King Savvy Room on a high floor. the experience was absolutely fantastic! From the moment we arrived, the staff were incredibly friendly and accommodating. They allowed me to check in early and even extended my check-out by 2 hours without any additional charges or fuss, which we really really appreciate. made a huge difference overall experience for staying here. The room itself was very clean , very comfortable, and very well-maintained. I’m quite particular when it comes to hotels, but Aloft truly exceeded my expectations in terms for its value and strategic location. The bed was cozy, the amenities were thoughtful , the bathroom is clean , they provide all shampoos , conditioner , shower gel ready. toilet seats are all heated and overall it’s really accommodating for us. The location is absolutely spot on — just a short walk to all the main spots in Myeongdong, all the shopping streets , night market & lotte department store which is just right opposite , making it super convenient for shopping, dining, and exploring. Overall, we had a wonderful stay and would definitely coming back to Aloft Myeongdong again for my next visit in Seoul. Highly recommended! Thanks Aloft Myeondong and trip.com for our wonderful trip in Seoul!From£188
Very Good977 Reviews
Seoul|7.39km from city centre
Value for money. Cosy. Clean. Nice local environment. Safe environment. New to the train station.From£31
Gym
Very Good648 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.15km from city centre
Extremely satisfied! The hotel is very close to Myeongdong and the subway station, making it super convenient for getting around. The facilities are great, the environment is clean, and the service attitude is excellent. It's easy to get to, the room is spacious, and the air conditioning keeps it nice and warm.From£59
Great1322 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.9km from city centre
I highly recommend the voco Seoul Myeongdong! The service was incredibly thoughtful and patient; even with language barriers, the staff were always proactive and helpful. The room was exceptionally clean and tidy, making for a very comfortable stay. The location is absolutely fantastic – ordering food delivery was super convenient, and Nandaemun Market is right downstairs where you can grab traditional snacks. It's also very close to Seoul Station and Lotte Duty-Free Myeongdong, and you can walk to the Myeongdong shopping district. The hotel even has its own GS25 convenience store, a coffee shop, and Burger King, making food and drinks incredibly easy. There's an airport bus stop right outside the hotel; you can take the 6001 bus directly from Incheon Airport (get off at Nandaemun Station, just tell the driver 'voco hotel' and they'll stop). It made getting around so hassle-free. I'll definitely choose this hotel again next time I'm in Seoul!From£132
Very Good419 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.11km from city centre
as i got a really bad hotel room, i had to change at 2am. because it has a 24/7 desk, the travelodge was one of the only possibilities i had. it wasn’t BAD. but for the price… i would have gone somewhere if i could. it was quite far from the metro (there’s a line about 3 minutes away but it’s the less used. the one you’re gonna use a lot is about 15 minutes away, which is quite a lot for the price range of the hotel). there was also not much around, you necessarily had to take a transportation or walk around 15-20 mjnutes to have things around. but if you have no other choice, it definitely wont be the worse hotel you would go toFrom£67
Great951 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.72km from city centre
I wanted to highlight some details I noticed during my trip:
1. They cleaned all the stains off the magnifying mirror, a service I haven't received at other hotels of the same star rating.
2. I visited during the ***** New Year (CNY), and the hotel diary correctly labeled it as CNY, not LNY – much appreciated! 🫶
3. The hotel was very attentive to personal belongings; even when I went downstairs to pick up takeout, they carefully verified the order number.
Additionally, the hotel breakfast was excellent. I stayed for four days and three nights, and I had a very satisfying breakfast every morning.
The room itself was a bit small, but its convenient location made up for it. It was easy to get around by taxi or on foot!
Just a heads-up: if you're heading to Incheon Airport from here, you should allow 1.5 hours for travel time, as there can be traffic. Gimpo Airport might be a more convenient option.From£188
Very Good582 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.39km from city centre
The room was great, and the location was even better. Right outside, there's a 7-Eleven, and Myeongdong Lotte Department Store is directly across the street. There are also tons of great restaurants nearby, offering everything from Korean beef to fried chicken. Just through an underpass, you'll find a lively street food market.From£102
Very Good3157 Reviews
Yeouido/Yeong-Deungpo Seoul|8.19km from city centre
I went to Seoul, and this hotel is conveniently located next to Yeongdeungpo Subway Station (Blue Line 1), with Lotte Department Store right beside it and a food street across the road. There's also Yeongdeungpo Market nearby, similar to Gwangjang Market, though prices were quite high during the May Day holiday. I'd recommend traveling during off-peak seasons in the future. Oh, and remember to bring your own toothbrush and toothpaste, as they're not provided in the room.From£53
🎼 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
3221 Reviews
Bagus view nya.. worth to see, especially when you are a 1st timer to Seoul£9
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
585 Reviews
I bought a same-day, non-refundable ticket and saved money. It was easy; you just exchange the voucher for the ticket at the machines on the 5th floor of the tower. Plus, they give you a free Seoul cookie. Don't forget to check out the restrooms with a view! 🤪£13
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
5825 Reviews
A beautiful tradition! The hanbok selection was amazing and the staff were nice, they help you dress up and do your hair. Wearing a hanbok gained you free entry to the Gyeongbukgong Palace also, which was great. Bag is included, but you have to pay extra for petticoat (~2000 won) and other additions but I would recommend!£4
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
172 Reviews
It's a great place to bring kids; it's not crowded on weekdays and you almost never have to queue.£12
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
290 Reviews
I highly recommend to have Nanta show as 1 of your must do list when you visited Korea. This is my 3rd time watching Nanta show in Seoul. I still enjoyed it very much! 😊£16
🎵 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 |
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🚄 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.
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❓ FAQ – Things to Do in Seoul
How many days do you need to explore Seoul?
It really depends on your pace. Around 3 days in Seoul is enough to see the main highlights without rushing. 5 days lets you mix neighbourhoods, palaces and a short day trip. With 7 days or more, you can slow down, enjoy cafés and explore less touristy areas.What can you see in Seoul in one day?
If you only have one day, focus on the essentials. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, walk around Bukchon or Jongno, head up to N Seoul Tower by cable car or on foot, and finish in Myeongdong for street food and shopping.What are the best things to do in Seoul for first-time visitors?
A good first visit mixes history, views and lively areas. Start with Gyeongbokgung Palace, visit another palace if time allows, go up Namsan or N Seoul Tower, explore areas like Myeongdong, Hongdae or Gangnam, try street food, and spend time in one of Seoul’s many cafés.Are there free or cheap things to do in Seoul?
Yes, plenty. Seoul has large parks, free viewpoints, temples with no entrance fee, traditional markets, riverside walks along the Han River, and many neighbourhoods that are great just for walking around.Is Seoul worth visiting in winter?
Yes, definitely. It can be cold, but winter in Seoul has its own charm. Think hot street food, quieter temples, cosy cafés, beautiful views when it snows, and lots of indoor activities to enjoy.
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