If you haven’t visited Seoul yet, take this as your sign to do it in 2025! With its vibrant shopping districts, rich culture, and must-see tourist attractions, there’s so much to explore.
Here are 9 spots to include in your Korea itinerary.
Historical Areas
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace is a must-visit. It’s one of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty, making it an important historical landmark.
The palace spans a vast area with numerous buildings, pavilions, and gardens, showcasing traditional Korean architecture and offering insight into the country’s royal history.
Experience the Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony held twice daily at 10 AM and 2 PM in front of Gwanghwamun (the main gate), except on Tuesdays when the palace is closed.
The palace offers numerous scenic spots perfect for photos, especially if you’re dressed in a traditional hanbok. Plus, you enjoy free entry to the palace if you wear a hanbok!
For those keen on exploring all five palaces, consider a day tour that includes admission tickets, a guided experience, and even traditional Korean lunch options!
Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is another must-visit spot! Located within walking distance from Gyeongbokgung Palace, this area is home to over 900 traditional Korean houses (hanok), offering a glimpse into Korea’s rich history and culture.
Wander through the picturesque alleys and discover various restaurants, cafes, and cultural spots.
While the village itself is free to explore, you can enhance your visit by participating in unique activities such as kimchi-making classes, Korean knot-making workshops, and other traditional crafts.
Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon (Secret Garden)
If you appreciate scenic views that blend traditional architecture with nature, Changdeokgung Palace is the place to be.
Unlike other palaces, this site highlights the natural landscape, and the buildings are designed to create a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
It also hides a Secret Garden (Huwon), filled with picture spots like ponds, pavilions, and lush greenery. Making it ideal for those looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
Access to the secret garden requires joining a guided tour, which provides historical context and deeper insights into the garden’s design and purpose. A general admission ticket for the palace is also required.
Get your tickets here!
Modern Landmarks
N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)
Perched atop Namsan Mountain, N Seoul Tower is one of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks. The tower is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic city views, especially during sunset and nighttime.
You can reach the tower two ways: take a scenic cable car ride up the mountain or enjoy a leisurely hike through the serene Namsan Park.
Once at the top, don’t miss the famous “Locks of Love” area, where couples leave symbolic love locks as a memento of their visit.
With its observation decks, dining options, and romantic ambience, N Seoul Tower offers a memorable experience for travellers looking to capture Seoul’s beauty from above.
Save your energy and make the most of your visit with this convenient day tour to Seoul Palaces, Namsan Hanok Village, and N Seoul Tower. This allows you to explore all these iconic landmarks in just one day!
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
The Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is a dynamic hub for design, fashion, and cultural events in Seoul. Its iconic, futuristic design makes it a standout landmark and a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.
DDP hosts a variety of exhibitions, fashion shows, workshops, and other events throughout the year, catering to creative minds and art enthusiasts.
To stay updated on the latest happenings, be sure to check their official webpage for current and upcoming events that might pique your interest!
Super Passes offer convenient access to multiple attractions, along with an exclusive welcome gift and a series of discount vouchers for use at nearby malls!
Lotte World
Lotte World is home to one of the world’s largest indoor amusement parks. Lotte World Adventure, featuring a variety of thrilling rides, parades, and seasonal events that ensure fun for visitors all year round.
The park consists of two main sections: the indoor Lotte World Adventure and the outdoor Magic Island theme park.
Both offer a mix of adrenaline-pumping rides and unique attractions, with Magic Island also offering scenic views and water-based activities.
If you’re planning a visit, be sure to check out Klook’s year-end deals running until January 31, 2025. You can enjoy 30% off when purchasing two tickets on selected packages, making your Lotte World experience even more affordable!
Alternatively, you can visit the Lotte World Aquarium, home to the world’s largest ocean ecology tank or the Korean Folk Museum.
Shopping District
Myeongdong Shopping Street
Myeongdong Shopping Street is a popular shopping and fashion district in Seoul. It’s renowned for its wide selection of K-beauty and fashion brands. Such as Emis and Top 10, along with cosmetics stores like Olive Young and more!
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Explore a variety of stores offering the latest trends in beauty, fashion, and accessories, making it a must-visit place for those looking to shop.
It’s also a popular spot for street food, with popular treats like Tteokbokki, Grilled Lobster, and Gimbap.
Hongdae
Hongdae is a vibrant and popular neighbourhood known for its youthful energy and dynamic arts and culture scene. Located near Hongik University, this area is famous for its vibrant culture of street performances, trendy cafes, and nightlife.
It’s a perfect place for shopping, housing different Korean brands catering to all budgets and styles.
If you enjoy activities, Hongdae offers a slew of workshops and craft classes so you can create something unique to bring home! Some options include making custom perfume or designing personalised accessories like bracelets and rings.
Seongsu
Seongsu is a trendy neighborhood in Seoul, known for its chic cafes, independent boutiques, and creative art spaces. This place is ideal for a relaxed afternoon of cafe hopping and discovering unique spots around the area.
One standout is Bite-Sized Bagel Cafe, offering miniature bagels in a variety of sweet and savoury flavours, perfect for sampling different options.
Other notable cafe includes Rain Report Croissant for flaky pastries or Vinyl Seongsu, an LP cafe where you can enjoy great coffee paired with nostalgic tunes. Seongsu offers a mix of experiences that cater to every mood!
Things To Do In Seoul
Seoul is a vast city with countless attractions, and this list covers the best spots to visit. With this guide, you’re all set for a memorable trip to the heart of South Korea, where you’ll experience the beauty and vibrancy of Seoul!
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