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
Very Good795 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.34km from city centre
Location: Very close to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (lines 2/3/4/5).
Shopping: Hyundai Outlet, DDP Market (closed during Chinese New Year), Doosan Tower, Gwangjang Market, Lotte FITIN.
Food: Dozens of restaurants in the alley across the street.
Cosmetics: Olive Young is diagonally opposite.
Myeongdong: Three stops on Line 2.
Gangnam: A few stops from Dongguk University Station on Line 5.
Hongdae: Reachable within half an hour!FromBRL 1,129
Very Good420 Reviews
Yongsan/Itaewon Seoul|3.44km from city centre
My stay at the Grand Hyatt Seoul was genuinely impressive.
What made the biggest difference for me was the location — it’s truly excellent. There are so many great breakfast spots, restaurants, and shops nearby, and it’s easy to explore the area on foot. Having the metro close by is also a huge plus.
It was my first time in Korea, and I honestly felt a bit anxious about where I would stay. But the moment I arrived, those worries disappeared — the area feels lively, safe, and very comfortable to navigate.
The hotel itself isn’t brand new, but it’s well maintained. The service is solid, housekeeping is reliable, and overall everything works as it should. Nothing flashy — just consistently good.
But really, the location makes this place stand out. It’s one of those rare hotels you actually want to come back to. And I definitely would.FromBRL 1,278
Amazing601 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^)FromBRL 2,005
Amazing323 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.FromBRL 1,283
Great262 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.SOLD OUT
Very Good394 Reviews
Yongsan/Itaewon Seoul|4.43km from city centre
This is my second time staying at this hotel, and I've had to complain twice about noise issues, plus I even changed rooms once. On the first day, the construction site next to the hotel started making banging noises with steel pipes and other construction sounds at 7 AM, which almost gave me a nervous breakdown. Maybe I'm just sensitive to noise. On the last night, the room next door was still blasting music and partying at 4 AM, with the bass shaking the walls. While it's not entirely the hotel's fault, there are definitely significant management loopholes. The environment and location are still good, but I'd advise against staying here for now. Wait until the construction next door is finished.FromBRL 1,224
Business travel
Very Good830 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.17km from city centre
The location and surroundings are excellent. It's only a 15-minute walk to Lotte. We took a private car from the airport to the hotel, but the hotel also has a bus stop with service to the airport. Subway Line 2 is nearby, making it incredibly convenient for getting around.FromBRL 350
Very Good1469 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.FromBRL 518
Very Good954 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.FromBRL 296
Very Good1870 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. 👍👍👍👍FromBRL 539
Very Good1841 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.67km from city centre
I had a wonderful stay at Skypark Hotel Central Myeongdong. The location is excellent right in the heart of everything, making it super convenient for shopping and exploring the area.
Although our first room didn’t have a view, the staff were incredibly accommodating and allowed us to change rooms without any hassle, which we really appreciated. The service overall was outstanding.
A special thank you to Haneuo Lee, who was extremely helpful and made our stay even more pleasant with their kindness and professionalism.
Highly recommend this hotel for anyone visiting Seoul. Great service, great location, and a very comfortable stay!FromBRL 496
Very Good2975 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.FromBRL 531
Family friendly
Great2740 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.61km from city centre
Overall, our stay was great. The location is perfect, 4 metro stations, plenty of buses, a lot of cafes are near by. The room is pretty spacious, there was everything that you might need. The TV is smart, it’s possible to watch Netflix or YouTube. The room was clean, well-prepared. The check-in process is super fast, the staff is friendly. The WiFi was great as well, I joined zoom-call easily
There were two minor things that we were a bit dissatisfied about: 1) the AC doesn’t have a night mode so it’s hard to adjust it, it’s either cold or hot.. we struggled. 2) we wanted to dinner at BBQ restaurant at the hotel, which works till 10pm as was stated at Ad. However, we came at 9, it was already closed, they said that the last order is at 8:30.. which is rare.. usually last order is 30 min before closing. So we left hangry.
Anyway, the hotel is great, we would definitely come back and recommend all friends.FromBRL 442
Very Good313 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.FromBRL 594
Very Good909 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!FromBRL 416
Great1311 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.22km from city centre
The location is fantastic – it's quiet despite being in a lively area, and super convenient for getting to Myeongdong, Lotte, and Shinsegae. There's a bus stop right outside the hotel for airport transfers; the 6701 airport limousine bus takes you directly to the airport in about an hour. Plus, there's a 24-hour convenience store downstairs. Overall, I'd definitely recommend this place to family and friends.FromBRL 402
Great713 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.FromBRL 1,153
Amazing499 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.6km from city centre
The hotel is located near City Hall Station, just one stop away from Myeongdong (Euljiro 1-ga Station, Line 2). Exit 9 of City Hall Station has an elevator, which is very convenient for managing luggage. There's a slight slope leading up to the hotel entrance, but it's not a big deal.
I arrived at the hotel around 1 PM, and my room was already ready, so I was able to check in early. The front desk staff, especially the ladies, were incredibly friendly and helpful with check-in, check-out, and luggage storage. The hotel also has a gym and a pool available, which I unfortunately didn't get to use this time.
The room itself is very spacious. The king-sized bed is huge, easily big enough for two people. The bathroom is also quite large and comes with a bathtub. They provide shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, soap, body lotion, a comb, and a shower cap. Disposable slippers are also included, so you don't need to bring your own. The only thing you'll need to bring is a toothbrush, though you can purchase one at the hotel for 1000 Korean Won.
The soundproofing at night was good; I didn't hear any loud noises. In the morning, you might hear a faint sound of doors opening outside.
Downstairs, there's a popular clam noodle restaurant and an upcoming Mega Coffee shop.
The only downside is that the CU convenience store downstairs isn't open 24 hours, and there are no other convenience stores nearby. You'll need to buy anything you need before returning to the hotel.FromBRL 774
Breakfast
Great2624 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.16km from city centre
Location: Superb! It's close to Myeongdong, though it's still about a 10-15 minute walk. I loved that there are GS25 and CU convenience stores everywhere nearby, making it incredibly easy to grab local milk.
Room Size: I specifically chose a hotel with relatively larger rooms because there were three of us, and luckily they had a triple room with three beds – perfect!
Soundproofing: The soundproofing was decent; it was pretty quiet at night.
WiFi: It was relatively fast.
Value for Money: It was a bit pricey, so not the best value.
Bed: The mattress and pillows were quite comfortable, and the bed was large enough.
Room Amenities: You need to bring your own toothbrush and toothpaste, as well as shower slippers. Remember to bring a universal adapter, though there are USB ports available for charging.
Surroundings: There are many coffee shops around, and the subway is very convenient from here. The alley behind the hotel also has lots of restaurants, but they tend to be closed for a break in the afternoon.FromBRL 1,000
Great1565 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.2km from city centre
This hotel is near Dongdaemun subway station, about a 10-minute walk away. However, it's right by a subway entrance, which is great because rain or wind won't be an issue. The room was also very clean. Highly recommend! Plus, there's a ramen shop nearby and the 6001 airport bus stops right in front, making it super convenient to get to and from the airport.FromBRL 731
Great1012 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.48km from city centre
The hotel's location is excellent, right behind the Myeongdong Apple Store. You can take the elevator on the right side of the Apple Store up to the 9th floor for check-in. Olive Young and Lululemon are next door, and there are tons of restaurants right behind the hotel, which is super convenient. It's also very close to Euljiro Station on Subway Line 2. The bathroom in this room type is quite spacious. I'll definitely choose to stay here again in the future.FromBRL 629
Very Good1043 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|1.02km from city centre
The hotel is located in Myeongdong. The airport bus 6015 drops you off about 20 meters from the hotel, and it's right next to subway line 2. Myeongdong Walking Street is about a 15-minute walk away, making its location excellent and very convenient for getting around by subway.
The hotel is very quiet. Even though my room was across from the elevator, I only occasionally heard the elevator going up and down at night; otherwise, there was no other noise. The room is relatively small, but the bed and pillows are quite comfortable. The twin beds are 1.1 meters wide, which is a bit small, but compared to other hotels in Seoul, a 1.1-meter twin room is actually considered spacious.
The hotel provides towels, disposable slippers, shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel, but no toothpaste or toothbrushes.
The front desk staff are all very polite. There's a wonderful lady with glasses who speaks Chinese; she was very helpful and patiently answered all our questions. Since the airport bus only operates until 7:45 PM and we had a late-night flight, she helped us call a taxi. If I come back to Korea, I would definitely consider staying at this hotel again.FromBRL 903
Very Good970 Reviews
Seoul|7.39km from city centre
The hotel is conveniently located just a few minutes' walk from Exit 1 of Changhanpyeong Subway Station. If you have luggage, you can take the escalator up instead of climbing stairs. There's a CU convenience store right next to the hotel, and a 7-Eleven across the street, which is very handy.
The downside is that the hot water for showering only lasts about 30 minutes. If a second person showers, it starts getting cold towards the end. Also, the hotel's cleaning staff leave after 4 PM, so when I checked in, I noticed one of the beds was a bit dirty, and I had to wait for the front desk staff to be available to help change it.FromBRL 205
Good921 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.08km from city centre
Booking platform: Trip.com.
Pros: The facilities are complete, and it's very clean. The location is what I liked most; bus stops and MRT stations are all nearby (100m-600m). There are three hawker centers nearby with plenty of food options. Ya Kun Kaya Toast and Nanyang Coffee for breakfast are also very close, as well as 7-Eleven, and you can even buy pandan cake nearby. There are also many attractions, and it's convenient to travel to other sights. Merlion Park, Gardens by the Bay, and Clarke Quay are all very close, just a few bus stops away.
Cons: Using the apartment's own app to open the door makes check-in a bit cumbersome for first-time users.
Additional comments:
1. During my stay, the fire alarm in the hallway went off twice. After informing the staff, an employee named Marry immediately came to resolve it. She looks a lot like Lisa!!!
2. I had read in the apartment description that there were bars nearby and it might be noisy at night. I stayed in room 101, right by the entrance, but it was surprisingly quiet at night. I even brought earplugs, but it seems I didn't need them. Perhaps it only gets lively with drinkers on weekend nights, but it didn't disturb my rest.
3. This chain has many branches. There's another one on the next street, and I saw their branches near other attractions when taking the bus. It seems all their locations are pretty good.FromBRL 200
Gym
Very Good637 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.FromBRL 385
Very Good2545 Reviews
Seoul|3.88km from city centre
The Seoul Garden Hotel is a convenient and hassle-free choice overall. Getting here from the airport is smooth and the travel time is quite reasonable, making it ideal for first-time visitors to Seoul or those with tight schedules. The hotel's surroundings offer excellent amenities; there are plenty of dining options, and both subway and bus stops are nearby. You'll also find numerous convenience stores and cafes, and an Olive Young right across the street, which is super handy for restocking essentials. I highly recommend checking out the Ttwa-dong area nearby for food – it seems to be a local favorite for gatherings, with few tourists and a lively atmosphere. We had a fantastic potato pork rib soup there. Also, the Jangsoo Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) restaurant on B1 of the office building across from the hotel is worth recommending; the service was excellent. The hotel itself is decent and standard. There are quite a few guests, so you might have to wait a bit for the elevators during peak hours. The rooms aren't huge, but they are fully equipped, especially with convenient charging ports, so you likely won't need to bring your own adapter. Overall, it's a practical hotel that excels in its location and convenience.FromBRL 496
Great1287 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.9km from city centre
The location is superb! It's a 5-minute walk to Shinsegae Department Store, and Myeongdong, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Bukchon Hanok Village are all accessible by subway. Yeouido and Hannam-dong are about a 20-minute taxi ride, costing around 10,000 KRW. A one-way taxi to the airport is about 50,000-60,000 KRW.
The breakfast selection was quite good. However, the air conditioning in the room seemed to have an inaccurate temperature display.
One disappointment was that during my three-night stay, my room was never cleaned. On both days, I turned on the 'make up room' light when I left, but no one attended to it.FromBRL 1,087
Very Good413 Reviews
Dongdaemun Market Seoul|2.11km from city centre
The only highlight of this hotel is the location as it is in the central of Seoul . Subway exit is just merely 2 minutes of walking distance with various restaurants and shopping malls too. Suitable for solo travelers who want a small private space to rest and at the same time keeping their stuff at the most affordable way .FromBRL 357
Great935 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.FromBRL 943
Very Good557 Reviews
City Hall/Myeong-Dong Seoul|0.39km from city centre
Right next to Lotte Department Store, and you can reach Myeongdong's main street via an underground passage. Cheonggyecheon Stream is within walking distance, and Gyeongbokgung Palace is just a bit further. It's super convenient for getting around. Upon check-in, we received an exclusive OLIVE YOUNG coupon. We didn't bother with breakfast since there are so many food options nearby. We booked connecting rooms; they weren't huge, but having two bathrooms was a plus, and there was enough space to spread out our belongings.FromBRL 869
🎼 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
3225 Reviews
With my friendBRL 62
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
589 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! 🤪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
5834 Reviews
It was a great experienceBRL 29
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
This is a great amusement park for children. There are many rides and attractions for toddlers that are not too thrilling. The park is quite large and not too crowded. Most rides do not require queuing, making it a perfect destination for families with young children.BRL 101
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
Very entertaining and upbeatBRL 109
🎵 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.
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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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