Visiting Seoul: what are the best things to see and do in South Korea’s capital?
The Korean capital is a fascinating blend of history and modernity, as well as the country’s culture and values. Seoul is even more astonishing when you consider that it was reduced to rubble after the devastating Korean War just a few decades ago. Booming to this day, South Korea ‘s largest city has nothing but good things to offer. There are plenty of things to see and do, but here’s a small selection of visits and activities to consider during your stay in Seoul:
1. The freshest and best seafood
Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market is a huge seafood wholesale market and one of the largest in Korea, with origins dating back over 80 years. The stalls are lined up in rows with displays stocked with fish, seafood, some of which will amaze you … and all freshly caught! Search, haggle and get the best products, such as sashimi, octopus, sea cucumbers and much more. You can have everything cooked for you on the spot, and enjoy your meal in a friendly atmosphere.
Flickr – Paul Keller
2. Eating and shopping at Seoul’s oldest market
Built at the very beginning of the 20th century, the traditional Gwangjang market boasts some 5,000 independent stores and boutiques selling everything from high-quality hanbok (traditional Korean costumes). Get lost in the maze of stores and aisles. While you’re there, you can try some of the local specialties, such as bindaeddeok, a kind of savory pancake that’s really good. Enjoy this with makgeolli, a drink made from rice alcohol. It’s all very authentic!
3. A glimpse of traditional Korea
Seoul’s skyline is a bit mundane and mostly dotted with skyscrapers. But for a glimpse of traditional Seoul, the Bukchon Hanok Village offers visitors a glimpse of what life was like in the past. These traditional houses were at the center of family life, highly regarded in Korea’s Confucian culture. Homestays in these hanok houses attract tourists.
Flickr – hojusaram
4. Climb to the top of Seoul’s highest point
With the vast majority of South Korea’s landscape mountainous, it’s not surprising that climbing is an extremely popular sport for Koreans. While the most famous peaks and mountain ranges lie outside Seoul, the capital boasts Mount Bukhansan (or « Mount Bukhan ») which is Seoul’s highest peak, culminating at 836.5 metres above sea level, and is a challenging but rewarding climb for experienced and novice hikers alike. There are many routes up to the various peaks, but whichever one you decide to take, the breathtaking views of Seoul and the surrounding area are an experience in themselves. As well as the superb walk, it’s an opportunity to meet the friendly Koreans along the way and share a snack with them. Remember to take plenty of water and wear good shoes.
5. Tea and art at Kyung-In Museum of Fine Arts
Today’s Koreans may enjoy coffee, but tea and tea culture have been part of the local culture for centuries, and the Kyung-In Fine Arts Museum is an excellent place to enjoy tea in a very special setting. The traditional Korean house serves a variety of seasonal and unique Korean teas and also has a small art gallery with frequently changing exhibits. The pretty, tranquil open-air gardens change in appearance according to the season and time of day. The museum is located in an alleyway off the noisy Insadong thoroughfare, making it an ideal refuge for resting and clearing the head.
Credit photo – Kyung-In Museum of Fine Art Ltd
6. Relax and relieve stress
Just like the famous saunas in Scandinavia, Korea has its own improved version of the baths and relaxation centers known as jjimjilbangs. These establishments can be found all over Seoul and are very popular with everyone (old, young, families, couples, friends, etc.). You’ll have a wide choice of spas to sweat and relax in (salt room, jade room, charcoal room, etc.). As all this is inexpensive, don’t hesitate to pay a little extra for a skin scrub to leave feeling completely clean and healthy.
7. Having fun along the river
To escape the hustle and bustle of city life, the various parks along the Han River offer activities for all ages and interests. Bicycle paths are everywhere to satisfy bicycle enthusiasts and jogging tracks for those looking to exercise with a magnificent view of the river. In these parks, there are plenty of lawns where you can relax and picnic. In Korea, you can get free delivery wherever you are, so it’s a great way to enjoy the long summer days in these parks.
Flickr – MoE Korea
8. Shop like the locals
While Myeongdong on the north side of the Han River may be the popular place for tourists to shop, Garosugil is where the most fashionable locals go. This street has a number of boutiques and independent stores selling everything from the latest trends to accessories. It’s a great place to catch up on Seoul’s latest fashions. You’ll find plenty of cafés and restaurants here too.
Flickr – juanjolostium
9. Enjoy Seoul’s lively nightlife center
Long tainted by its sultry reputation, the Itaewon district has undergone a renaissance in recent years and is now one of Seoul’s most popular places to eat, drink and go out. While international cuisine makes Itaewon a pleasant place to be during the day, it’s the nightlife here that has really exploded, competing with lively districts like Hongdae and Gangnam. Lounge bars fill up as soon as the sun goes down, then long lines form in front of the most popular clubs like B1. In Itaewon, you’ll find every kind of atmosphere you could wish for.
10. Visit the Leeum Samsung Art Museum
It’s a private museum often overlooked by tourists, but well worth a visit to discover one of the finest art collections in South Korea. The museum is well organized and easy to navigate, with plenty of explanations in English and audio-guides available for purchase. Beautiful traditional and modern/contemporary Korean art is predominantly on display here, while special exhibitions are often praised by local critics. You’ll also love the architecture of the museum’s two buildings, designed by renowned architects Mario Botta and Jean Nouvel.
Find a hotel in Seoul
Seoul is a gigantic city, just like other major Asian metropolises, and it’s important to choose the right area in which to stay before you leave. To find a cheap hotel in Seoul, carry out a search on this hotel comparator.
How do I get to Seoul?
Find a cheap flight on the website of our partner Ulysses.
Seoul is a big, bustling city, but you can still find authenticity and calm. What’s your opinion of Seoul?
Map of hotels and accommodation – Seoul,kr