Things to do & places to visit in Seoul, South Korea

A city looking to the future yet rooted in the past, Seoul is a vivacious and energetic place that’s shining brighter than ever. Whether you're shopping, partaking in culture, eating great food, or reliving history, Seoul’s many facets appeal to all tastes and preferences. Its wide ranging neighborhoods, from the winding alleys through ornate traditional Korean homes in Samcheongdong, to the blinding neon lights reflecting off the skyscrapers of Gangnam, showcase just how multi-layered and varied the city is. It’s easy to see why so many visitors become hooked after experiencing the charms of Seoul.

Seoul #1 destination in South Korea 2023. The average rating score is 4.32 based on 99.3k traveler reviews, of 30 attractions. Timezone: Asia/Seoul, current date and time: Sunday, May 05, 2024, 18:11.

Seoul Weather Statistics view more »

Top things to do (23)

• Monuments & Statues
• Art Museums
• Historic Walking Areas
• Lookouts
• Gardens
• Flea & Street Markets
• Neighborhoods
• Public Transportation Systems
• Parks
• Military Museums
• Speciality Museums
• Religious Sites
• Theaters
• Shopping Malls
• History Museums
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Architectural Buildings
• Amusement & Theme Parks
• Historic Sites
• Observation Decks & Towers
• National Parks
• Bodies of Water
• Churches & Cathedrals

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

1. 4.5 Seoul Metro (12.7k reviews)
   - Very well interconnected and clean subway network
   Public Transportation Systems
   
   
   Very well interconnected subway network in Seoul. Very clean. With a special application you can easily find any information about any line and stop, indicating also the exit of each stop and interconnection point. Very well organized system, people is behaving well in the subway, very good sense of security. Crowded during rush hours but people wearing masks all the time (compulsory at present). Important is to use the t-money card for all transport in Seoul. Only thing I do not like much is that you have to refill your money card with cash, not possible with credit card. Very easy though to refill it in any convenient store (open 7days and 24 hours) or directly with the machines in the subway system. See more..
   
2. 4.5 Gyeongbokgung Palace (10.7k reviews)
   - An absolute must see
   Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • History Museums
   
   
   The National Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum are located on the grounds of this palace, built six centuries ago by the founder of the Chosun dynasty. See more..
   
3. 4.5 Myeongdong Shopping Street (10.4k reviews)
   - A great night market with tons of options
   Sunday: Spent 2-3 hours Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks
   
   
   This busy shopping district is famous for its beauty and skincare products, along with many popular Korean and international fashion brands. Hit the shops early for fewer crowds and stay till late for food and entertainment. The street is lined with food vendors selling Korean street food and there are a number of popular Korean restaurants in the area. The area's central location also makes it a convenient base when visiting Seoul. And it's not just shopping. You can also catch a traditional performance at one of the many theaters and check out the Myeongdong Cathedral. – Tripadvisor See more..
   
4. 4.5 Changdeokgung Palace (4.637 reviews)
   - Stunning architecture and history!
   Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Gardens
   
   
   This 600-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site is the city's jewel. It's as famous for its outstanding architectural details as for its verdant and expansive gardens. See more..
   
5. 4.5 The War Memorial of Korea (4.292 reviews)
   - Korea's most important museum
   Sunday: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums
   
   
   Poignant exhibits, war memorabilia, art works, and military equipment make this a perfect place to learn about Korea’s history of war, most notably with North Korea. Kids will enjoy the display of actual tanks and airplanes. See more..
   
6. 4.5 Cheonggyecheon Stream (3.955 reviews)
   - Love this place. Simple and serene
   Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water • Historic Walking Areas
   
   
   Formerrly polluted and covered with an elevated road since 2005 this stream has been cleaned up and made into an Art and nature walkway through the heart of Seoul. See more..
   
7. 4.5 National Museum of Korea (2.377 reviews)
   - Who wants to see a museum...I do!
   Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours History Museums
   
   
   This is the largest museum in Korea with over 220,000 objects in its collection. It has six permanent exhibition galleries such as Historical Gallery and Fine Arts Gallery. It also has special exhibition halls, a children's museum, outdoor exhibit areas, restaurants, cafes, shops and other amenities. *Admission: Free to Permanent Exhibition & Children's Museum(changeable after 2010)*Hours: Tue/Thu/Fri: 9am-6pm, Wed/Sat: 9am-9pm, Sun/holidays: 9am-7pm, closed Mon & January 1st See more..
   
8. 4.5 Hongik University Street (2.263 reviews)
   - Seoul never sleeps here!
   Sunday: 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks
   
   
   This is the nexus of Seoul’s youth and indie culture. Funky boutiques, avant-garde galleries, and great nightclubs are this neighborhood’s mainstay. Come here for a fascinating look at the other side of traditionally conservative Korean culture. See more..
   
9. 4.5 Namsan Park (2.218 reviews)
   - Must wee
   Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Parks • Gardens
   
   
   This is a must see if you are in Seoul. You can either take the cable car to the top or walk to the top for free. We opted to take the cable car because you'll be doing lots of walking else where. There are restaurants at the top of the hill and you can talk go to the top the the Namsan tower but that will be an additional fee. Recommend bringing a lock as there is a tradition of signing locks and putting them up on the fences. I didn't quite get why people doing it but the kids seemed to enjoy it. See more..
   
10. 4.5 Hangang Park (1.568 reviews)
    - Very nice
    Spent 1-2 hours Parks
    
    
    This park is a good place to get away from the crowds and bustle of Seoul. The cycling trails (bikes are available for rent) are popular as are the swan boat rides. And the views of the Han river and city are stunning. See more..
    
11. 4.5 Bongeunsa Temple (1.314 reviews)
    - Amazing "Thursday Templelife Program!"
    Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites
    
    
    It’s hard to believe that this large, beautiful Buddhist temple is situated in the middle of a bustling metropolis. It’s impossible not to be moved by the beauty and serenity of this enchanting temple. You can even stay overnight for a fee. See more..
    
12. 4.5 KTX (Korea Train Express) (1.114 reviews)
    - Great Experience
    Public Transportation Systems
    
    
    I chose KTX from Seoul to Busan and vice versa over riding a plane. This to experience the 'Train to Busan' feel. The ride is so smooth, even though going back to Seoul, I am on standing passenger set-up due to lack of available seats for the schedule I chose. But it is still comfortable. I was happy there were chargers for the phone inside. The seats are comfortable. Buying tickets is quite difficult, the queue was quite long. I can't buy online given my plane might get delayed so I will miss my Train to Busan. The rates are OK, much cheaper I guess than the Japanese Maglev train. See more..
    
13. 4.5 Myeong-dong Cathedral (1.103 reviews)
    - Holy
    Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals
    
    
    Gorgeous cathedral built in Gothic Revival style in the heart of Seoul. As a Catholic, I’d been wanting to visit it for a while. It was a must on my week long visit to Korea. The grounds still had their Christmas nativity scene up in early January. My only regret was I didn’t have time to stay for mass and the inside was closed because of current mass. I did have a chances to ask for Mother Mary’s intercession at two of the statues behind and in front of the cathedral. I hope my next visit is much longer! See more..
    
14. 4.5 Bukhansan National Park (1.102 reviews)
    - Great hike to the peak - 5.5 hour hike from end to end
    Spent More than 3 hours National Parks
    
    
    Popular among hiking enthusiasts, Bukhansan National Park is located just outside the city of Seoul. Embark on the popular and easiest Bukhansanseong Course to Baegundae Peak, which is the park’s highest point. Seasoned hikers can take on the more challenging Uisangneungseon Course to Nahangon Peak. Otherwise, take the short but steep course to Uisanbong Peak. Plan your visit for autumn, where the park comes alive with stunning fall colors. The trails are well demarcated but, if you’re afraid of getting lost, opt for a private hiking tour, with the option to relax in a sauna after the hike. – Tripadvisor See more..
    
15. 4.5 Jogyesa Temple (1.021 reviews)
    - Busy temple
    Spent 1-2 hours Religious Sites • Monuments & Statues
    
    
    This beautiful, colorful temple is the center of Zen Buddhism in Korea. Equally lovely is the courtyard, which is filled with vibrant lanterns and trees more than 500 years old. See more..
    
16. 4.5 National Folk Museum of Korea (968 reviews)
    - A mase of Korean history and culture
    Speciality Museums • Art Museums
    
    
    The history of ordinary Koreans. See more..
    
17. 4.5 Lotte World Tower & Mall (824 reviews)
    - Stunning views, reasonably priced
    Sunday: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Observation Decks & Towers • Shopping Malls
    
    
    Lotte World Tower & Mall offers stores, cafes, restaurants, galleries, and even a concert hall. The Tower is the fifth highest in the world and has an observation deck, a skywalk, and a luxury hotel. See more..
    
18. 4.5 Leeum Art Museum (747 reviews)
    - Blend of old and modern
    Sunday: 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM Art Museums
    
    
    The museum has a free exhibition and a special one which has an entry fee of 12.000 won. We limited ourselves to the free section. It is an interesting blend of modern art and more dated objects, mainly around 13th century from Korean history. Everything nicely diplayd and arranged over 4 floors, spaceously laid out. See more..
    
19. 4.5 Yeouido Hangang Park (651 reviews)
    - Scenic river view
    Parks
    
    
    Great location to appreciate the Han River and the bridges across the river. Some students practising kpop dance under the bridge. Not many tuck shops along the promenade so make sure you have enough water and food. See more..
    
20. 4.5 Myeongdong NANTA Theater (520 reviews)
    - worth to see
    Sunday: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Theaters
    
    
    hilarious! Non verbal performance. Exaggerating gestures and comical facial expressions make the show suitable for both young kids and adults. The cast was able to respond quickly to the audience reactions to various parts of the skit. Great work! See more..
    
21. 4.5 Seoul Metro (12.7k reviews)
    - Very well interconnected and clean subway network
    Public Transportation Systems
    
    
    Very well interconnected subway network in Seoul. Very clean. With a special application you can easily find any information about any line and stop, indicating also the exit of each stop and interconnection point. Very well organized system, people is behaving well in the subway, very good sense of security. Crowded during rush hours but people wearing masks all the time (compulsory at present). Important is to use the t-money card for all transport in Seoul. Only thing I do not like much is that you have to refill your money card with cash, not possible with credit card. Very easy though to refill it in any convenient store (open 7days and 24 hours) or directly with the machines in the subway system. See more..
    
22. 4.5 Gyeongbokgung Palace (10.7k reviews)
    - An absolute must see
    Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • History Museums
    
    
    The National Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum are located on the grounds of this palace, built six centuries ago by the founder of the Chosun dynasty. See more..
    
23. 4.5 Myeongdong Shopping Street (10.4k reviews)
    - A great night market with tons of options
    Sunday: Spent 2-3 hours Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    This busy shopping district is famous for its beauty and skincare products, along with many popular Korean and international fashion brands. Hit the shops early for fewer crowds and stay till late for food and entertainment. The street is lined with food vendors selling Korean street food and there are a number of popular Korean restaurants in the area. The area's central location also makes it a convenient base when visiting Seoul. And it's not just shopping. You can also catch a traditional performance at one of the many theaters and check out the Myeongdong Cathedral. – Tripadvisor See more..
    
24. 4.5 Changdeokgung Palace (4.637 reviews)
    - Stunning architecture and history!
    Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Gardens
    
    
    This 600-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site is the city's jewel. It's as famous for its outstanding architectural details as for its verdant and expansive gardens. See more..
    
25. 4.5 The War Memorial of Korea (4.292 reviews)
    - Korea's most important museum
    Sunday: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums
    
    
    Poignant exhibits, war memorabilia, art works, and military equipment make this a perfect place to learn about Korea’s history of war, most notably with North Korea. Kids will enjoy the display of actual tanks and airplanes. See more..
    
26. 4.5 Cheonggyecheon Stream (3.955 reviews)
    - Love this place. Simple and serene
    Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water • Historic Walking Areas
    
    
    Formerrly polluted and covered with an elevated road since 2005 this stream has been cleaned up and made into an Art and nature walkway through the heart of Seoul. See more..
    
27. 4.5 National Museum of Korea (2.377 reviews)
    - Who wants to see a museum...I do!
    Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours History Museums
    
    
    This is the largest museum in Korea with over 220,000 objects in its collection. It has six permanent exhibition galleries such as Historical Gallery and Fine Arts Gallery. It also has special exhibition halls, a children's museum, outdoor exhibit areas, restaurants, cafes, shops and other amenities. *Admission: Free to Permanent Exhibition & Children's Museum(changeable after 2010)*Hours: Tue/Thu/Fri: 9am-6pm, Wed/Sat: 9am-9pm, Sun/holidays: 9am-7pm, closed Mon & January 1st See more..
    
28. 4.5 Hongik University Street (2.263 reviews)
    - Seoul never sleeps here!
    Sunday: 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    This is the nexus of Seoul’s youth and indie culture. Funky boutiques, avant-garde galleries, and great nightclubs are this neighborhood’s mainstay. Come here for a fascinating look at the other side of traditionally conservative Korean culture. See more..
    
29. 4.5 Namsan Park (2.218 reviews)
    - Must wee
    Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Parks • Gardens
    
    
    This is a must see if you are in Seoul. You can either take the cable car to the top or walk to the top for free. We opted to take the cable car because you'll be doing lots of walking else where. There are restaurants at the top of the hill and you can talk go to the top the the Namsan tower but that will be an additional fee. Recommend bringing a lock as there is a tradition of signing locks and putting them up on the fences. I didn't quite get why people doing it but the kids seemed to enjoy it. See more..
    
30. 4.5 Hangang Park (1.568 reviews)
    - Very nice
    Spent 1-2 hours Parks
    
    
    This park is a good place to get away from the crowds and bustle of Seoul. The cycling trails (bikes are available for rent) are popular as are the swan boat rides. And the views of the Han river and city are stunning. See more..