Seoul is all about a mix of tradition and modern energy.
You can explore historic cultural sights, try on traditional clothing, and then switch it up with trendy cafés, street food, and late-night eats.
There’s amazing shopping from local markets to high-end fashion, plus music, nightlife, and plenty of spots to just wander and take it all in.
Whether you’re into food, culture, or just soaking up the vibe, there’s always something going on.
Bukchon Hanok Village is a residential neighborhood in Jongno District. It has many restored traditional Korean houses, called ‘hanok’. Explore the beautiful history and architecture at your leisure, or enjoy a cultural history tour.
Located in the heart of Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and most iconic of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. Visitors can explore grand ceremonial gates, expansive courtyards, and beautifully restored royal buildings, as well as witness the changing of the guard ceremony at the main entrance.
Situated atop Namsan Mountain in central Seoul, N Seoul Tower is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Originally constructed as a communications tower, it now serves as a major observation and cultural attraction. Visitors come for sweeping 360-degree views of Seoul, especially at sunset and night when the city lights dominate the skyline.
A well-known restaurant near Gyeongbokgung Palace, Tosokchon is famous for its rich and nourishing samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup). The dish features a whole young chicken stuffed with rice, ginseng, garlic, and jujube, simmered into a deeply comforting broth popular with both locals and visitors.
Myeongdong’s night food stalls are one of Seoul’s most vibrant casual dining experiences. The streets fill with vendors selling skewers, hotteok (sweet pancakes), egg bread, Korean fried chicken, and a variety of creative snacks that change with the seasons and trends.
Hidden among the alleys of Insadong, traditional tea houses offer a calm escape from Seoul’s busy streets. Visitors can enjoy Korean herbal teas such as jujube, omija (five-flavour berry), and ginger tea, often served alongside small handmade sweets in a peaceful, wooden interior setting.
Located near the traditional streets of Bukchon and Anguk, Cafe Onion Anguk is a restored hanok-style café known for blending modern bakery culture with historic Korean architecture. Visitors come for its signature pastries, strong coffee, and atmospheric courtyard seating that contrasts old wooden structures with minimalist design.
One of Seoul’s most famous shopping districts, Myeongdong is a major destination for fashion, cosmetics, and skincare lovers. The streets are lined with global brands, Korean beauty flagship stores, and street-level boutiques, making it a high-energy area where visitors can shop, sample products, and explore the latest trends in Korean fashion and beauty.
Located in the Gangnam district, COEX Mall is one of Asia’s largest underground shopping centres. It features a mix of international brands, Korean retailers, restaurants, and entertainment facilities, including the famous Starfield Library and an aquarium, making it a popular all-day destination for tourists.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a futuristic landmark designed by Zaha Hadid and a hub for design, exhibitions, and shopping. The surrounding Dongdaemun area is famous for its 24-hour shopping culture, wholesale fashion markets, and modern retail complexes, attracting both designers and casual shoppers alike.
One of Korea’s oldest and largest traditional markets, Namdaemun Market is a sprawling maze of alleyways filled with thousands of vendors. Visitors can find everything from clothing and accessories to kitchenware, souvenirs, and street food. It’s especially known for its wholesale prices and energetic, slightly chaotic atmosphere that runs from morning until late at night.