Come to Seoul for a glimpse of landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, and to experience fun attractions like Lotte World. The city is also known for its rich culture and shops. Travelers seeking the perfect souvenir may want to head to Myeongdong Street and Namdaemun Market. While here, you may want to make time for other popular sights such as Bukchon Hanok Village and COEX Convention and Exhibition Center.
Hostels in Seoul
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Top neighborhoods in Seoul
Hongdae
Urban arts and indie music thrive near Hongik University, with graffiti murals adorning Hongdae Mural Street and live music venues aplenty. Shop at independent clothing stalls, vintage shops, and visit quirky theme cafes.
Insa-dong
Insa-dong's narrow alleys buzz with cultural treasures around every corner. Browse artisan workshops where craftspeople create traditional pottery, hanji paper goods, and calligraphy scrolls. Jogyesa Temple's golden Buddha statues and colorful lanterns provide a peaceful escape, while Ssamziegil's spiral shopping complex houses quirky boutiques and art galleries. Street vendors tempt you with hotteok pancakes and other Korean treats. Tea houses serve omija tea and rice cakes in traditional hanok buildings with wooden facades and curved tile roofs. Most shops open from 10 AM to 8 PM, with the main street becoming wonderfully pedestrian-only on weekends. Nearby Anguk Station connects you to Seoul's excellent subway system when your shopping bags get too heavy to carry.
Gangnam-gu
Heavily concentrated wealth and high-end shopping areas like Apgujeong, COEX Mall, and Garosugil define this district. Explore Bongeun Temple and savor modern Korean cuisine at upscale restaurants near Park Hyatt Hotel.
Itaewon 2-dong
Seoul's Itaewon district serves up a global buffet for your senses with international restaurants, bars, and shops around every corner. Hunt for treasures on Antique Furniture Street or escape the urban buzz with a hike in nearby Namsan Mountain Park. The iconic Seoul Fortress Walls offer perfect photo ops while the botanical garden provides a peaceful green retreat. Getting around couldn't be easier with excellent subway connections and walkable streets, though prepare for some steep hills. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly guesthouses to stylish boutique hotels catering to international travelers. The neighborhood truly comes alive after dark when its famous nightlife scene kicks into high gear.
Photo by Wilson Tang
Samcheong-dong
Samcheong-dong blends Seoul's past and present through stone-paved alleys and hanok houses with curved tile roofs. Art lovers can hop between traditional buildings that now house galleries and boutique shops. The National Folk Museum offers a deep dive into Korean heritage, while nearby Bukchon Hanok Village creates the perfect backdrop for culture seekers. Traditional tea houses serve omija tea alongside modern fusion cafés, creating a diverse dining scene in historic settings. The neighborhood is best explored on foot, with Anguk Station just five minutes away for easy access to other Seoul attractions. Boutique hotels and authentic hanok guesthouses provide unique accommodation experiences that connect visitors to Korean culture.
Top landmarks in Seoul
Myeongdong Street
8.6/10 (5,537 reviews)
If you want to give your credit card some exercise, head out to Myeongdong Street, a popular place for shoppers in Myeong-dong. Splash some more cash at Namdaemun Market, Lotte Department Store, and Shinsegae Shopping Center.
Namdaemun Market
8.4/10 (6,810 reviews)
If you like haggling for the best price, you might want to head out to Namdaemun Market in Jung-gu for some quality bargains. There are also lots of shops and restaurants in the area if you fancy a wander. Splash some more cash at Myeongdong Street, Shinsegae Shopping Center, and Lotte Department Store.
Lotte World
8.6/10 (4,639 reviews)
Kids and adults alike can have a thrilling day at Lotte World, one of the top theme parks located 7.6 mi (12.3 km) from central Seoul. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here? It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander. If you have fun at Lotte World, you'll love KidZania, just a short walk away.
COEX Convention and Exhibition Center
8.4/10 (1,800 reviews)
If you want to give your credit card some exercise, head out to COEX Convention and Exhibition Center, a popular place for shoppers in Gangnam-gu. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here? It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander. Splash some more cash at Starfield COEX Mall, Teheran-ro, and Hyundai Department Store Trade Center.
Dongdaemun History and Culture Park
8.4/10 (6,176 reviews)
Dongdaemun History and Culture Park is worth a pic or two when discovering Jung-gu. It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander.
Bukchon Hanok Village
8.8/10 (3,330 reviews)
If you're planning a bit of sightseeing head to Bukchon Hanok Village— just one of the monuments in Jongno-gu. You could also start your cultural experience by heading over to the museums in the area. It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander. Seoul has other landmarks you might want to visit such as Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Starfield COEX Mall
8.8/10 (2,820 reviews)
If you want to give your credit card some exercise, head out to Starfield COEX Mall in Gangnam-gu. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here? It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander. Splash some more cash at COEX Convention and Exhibition Center, Teheran-ro, and Hyundai Department Store Trade Center.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
9.0/10 (7,299 reviews)
Jongno-gu is home to Gyeongbokgung Palace and is a popular place to see in Seoul. It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander. Seoul has other landmarks you might want to visit such as Bukchon Hanok Village.
Seoul and related destinations
Wander through Myeongdong Street's neon wonderland, where cosmetic shops offer free samples with such enthusiasm you'll need an extra suitcase. Namdaemun Market's labyrinthine alleys hide food stalls where ajummas serve dumplings with no-nonsense efficiency. The ancient gates of palaces stand in defiant contrast to Gangnam's gleaming towers, a juxtaposition that somehow makes perfect sense. At Lotte World, families scream on roller coasters while businessmen in suits eat ice cream with surprising dignity. COEX Mall houses an Instagram-famous library where books create waves across the ceiling. Don't miss street food vendors who transform simple ingredients into culinary magic with the casual brilliance of people who've perfected one dish for decades.
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