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Best things to do in Seoul
Where in the world:
Asia
/
South Korea
/
Seoul
Things to do in Seoul allow you to discover many of the city's charms, including five World Heritage Sites. Start by taking in the sweeping panorama of Seoul from the roof terrace of N Seoul Tower. Dating back to the 14th century, Gyeongbokgung Palace is an expansive complex that provides a glimpse into the private quarters of the Joseon dynasty rulers and encompasses National Folk Museum. For some retail therapy, visit high fashion houses and department stores on Myeongdong Shopping Street. When you get tired of sightseeing, take a relaxing stroll through the capital's only natural reserve, Bukhansan National Park.
Seoul is best known for its Shopping, History Museums, and Lookouts.
Top 15 things to do in Seoul
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace

Dating back to 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace served as the residence of the Joseon dynasty rulers, their households, and governments. Though much of the original structure was destroyed by fire in the late 16th century, the palace was reconstructed during the 19th-century reign of King Gojong. The expansive complex includes a number of pavilions and halls, as well as the royal family's private quarters. Also on premises, you'll find the National Folk Museum, National Palace Museum, and a number of traditional Korean gardens.
Suggested duration:
2 hours
Tours from $7 ›
Learn more about Gyeongbokgung Palace
2. Changdeokgung Palace

Listed as a World Heritage Site, Changdeokgung Palace represents the main palace of Joseon Dynasty's kings, which shelters lotus ponds, pavilions, and some 300-year-old trees. Established in 1395, the palace compound contains a royal family residence, a public area, and a secret garden, as well as other simplistic elements dating back to the period of Three Kingdoms. Go on a tour to explore the harmonious palace and its halls, which were purposely constructed and designed by implementing feng shui principles and Confucian ideology. You'll also find snack bars, shaded rest areas, and benches here.
Suggested duration:
3 hours
Tours from $5 ›
Learn more about Changdeokgung Palace
3. N Seoul Tower

Ride the elevator to the top levels of N Seoul Tower, a broadcast and observation tower. Serving as South Korea's first general radio broadcasting tower, the 236.7 m (777 ft) structure also includes four floors of attractions interspersed with observation platforms. Visit the teddy bear museum and stop by the observation points, or take a seat at the French or Korean restaurant to dine with sweeping views of Seoul below. Check out the roof terrace and its thousands of "Locks of Love."
Suggested duration:
1h 30 min
Tours from $16 ›
Learn more about N Seoul Tower
4. Best Half Day DMZ Tour from Seoul (No Forced Shopping)
What is the DMZ – an exciting experience like no otherWhile the Cold War happened a long time ago, Korea is the only country that still remains divided as a consequence. The DMZ lies on the border between the North and the South. This is the most heavily fortified border in the whole world, so don’t miss the chance to see it! You should expect a truly immersive and unforgettable trip on all our DMZ tours!What to expect – kickstart your trip with our seamless itineraryYour experience while visiting the DMZ depends mainly on the quality of your tour guide. The only way to truly understand the impact of the DMZ is to visit with a very knowledgeable guide. Besides the historical evidence of the war, there is a whole dimension of emotion to experience. Our professional tour guides are here to help you gain that more profound insight during our DMZ Half Day tour.
Suggested duration:
6 hours
Tours from $60 ›
More about this tour at viator.com ›
5. Insadong

Once the prime district to find antiques and ancient art, Insadong remains at the heart of Seoul's cafe culture. The main street, which the municipality blocks off on weekends to allow for safe pedestrian traffic, branches off into narrow alleys, lined with art galleries, teahouses, and garden restaurants. Traditional and modern Korean art are available for viewing and purchase at over 100 local galleries. Munch on taffy and pajeon (Korean pancake) from street vendors while you explore.
Suggested duration:
3 hours
Tours from $10 ›
Learn more about Insadong
6. Bukchon Hanok Village

Explore a 600-year-old urban area composed of traditional Korean houses at Bukchon Hanok Village. Constructed during the reign of the Joseon Dynasty, the village consists of many neighborhoods which were uses as a residential quarter for nobles and high-ranking government officials. Go on a guided tour to explore the narrow streets and visit cultural and hospitality facilities, such as workshops, museums, restaurants, and cafes. With more than half a million visitors yearly, you will need to book a reservation at least three days prior to your visit.
Suggested duration:
2h 30 min
Tours from $59 ›
Learn more about Bukchon Hanok Village
7. Namsan Park

Enjoy some fresh air at the mountaintop Namsan Park, one of the city's most popular areas for strolling, picnicking, and relaxing. Make your way up to the top of the 262 m (860 ft) peak via cable car to take in sweeping views over the capital's urban sprawl. Go for a leisurely wander around the network of walking paths crisscrossing the park and meandering through the area's wooded landscape. You'll find sport facilities for badminton, tennis, swimming, baseball, and more around the park, as well as a botanical garden, library, and cultural center.
Suggested duration:
1h 30 min
Tours from $5 ›
Learn more about Namsan Park
8. Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour from Seoul- Hotel Pick Up & No Shopping
Learn about Korea’s divided history at the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on a half-day tour, led by an informative guide. In the morning or afternoon, travel from Seoul to the DMZ, where the country has been split since the Korean War, to visit fascinating sites such as Imjingak Park, the Freedom bridge, the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel and the DMZ exhibition hall. At Dora Observatory, you can even peer through binoculars to observe village life in North Korea. Upgrade to include lunch or select a full-day itinerary that includes shopping at Insadong Antique Market.
Suggested duration:
6 hours
Tours from $60 ›
More about this tour at viator.com ›
9. Myeongdong Shopping Street

Search for treasures on Myeongdong Shopping Street, a major commercial and shopping district in Seoul. Featuring local and international brands, as well as high fashion houses and department stores, the area is popular among young, trendsetting locals and travelers. You can also find many Japanese, Western, and Korean restaurants in the neighborhood-- look out for local specialties like donkas (pork cutlets) and kalguksu (thick noodles) on the menus. While you're in the area, visit the Myeongdong Cathedral, a Gothic Revival Catholic church of immense proportions.
Suggested duration:
2h 30 min
Tours from $102 ›
Learn more about Myeongdong Shopping Street
10. Lotte World

Enjoy thrill rides, shop until you drop, and learn about local culture at Lotte World, home to the planet's biggest indoor theme park. Comprised of two main areas, one indoor and one outdoor, the complex features plenty of entertainment for all seasons. Get your heart beating on a roller coaster, or kick back on a kid-friendly, hot air balloon ride. Try your hand at the shooting range, indulge in some retail therapy at the onsite department store, or catch a magic show from a number of rotating performers. You can have a go on the country's largest ice skating rink to cool yourself down, or stop by the folk museum to learn about key points in the nation's history.
Suggested duration:
8 hours
Tours from $44 ›
Learn more about Lotte World
11. DMZ Haemaru Village, Paju

Take a monorail to explore a blame-game tunnel of DMZ Haemaru Village, the only official venue for meetings between the ROK and DPRK. With the U.S. overseeing the peace process in the Cold War-divided peninsula, the zone gives you a rare opportunity to tour a military administration line amid heavy security. Official English or Japanese-speaking guides accompany your tour, showing you the venue where the 1953 armistice was signed. Observe a change of joint guards and use a telescope to see the northern part of the divided Korea. You must register at least four days prior to the tour, and for some countries a scanned color copy of your passport is required. Certain nationals may be banned from entry--check before you go.
Suggested duration:
5 hours
Tours from $57 ›
Learn more about DMZ Haemaru Village
12. Korean DMZ Tour with Expert Tour Guide from Seoul - No shopping
This half-day tour will take you to the Korean DMZ that is located about an hour away from Seoul. You will see the Third Tunnel, the DMZ Exhibition Hall, the Dora Observatory, the Dorasan Station (closed temporally by military) and pass by the Unification Village on the way back to Seoul. It will be an educational experience to learn about the Korean War and its history.
Suggested duration:
6 hours
Tours from $57 ›
More about this tour at viator.com ›
13. Cheonggyecheon Stream

See how a successful eco-friendly urban renewal project created a popular tourist spot at Cheonggyecheon Stream. Before the nation's rapid economic development after the war, the district stood as a neglected waterway secluded by an overpass. However, after the renovation and beautification project, it evolved into a modern public recreation space and a haven for natural habitats. Inspect the passing stream from one of two historic bridges--Gwangtonggyo and Supyogyo--and see how it teems with animal and plant life amid a highly urbanized city. You'll find many shops and small businesses here; feel free to pay them a visit and purchase their goods, souvenirs, or services.
Suggested duration:
1h 30 min
Tours from $12 ›
Learn more about Cheonggyecheon Stream
14. Bukhansan National Park

Hailed as the capital's only natural reserve, Bukhansan National Park shelters a rich biodiversity tucked away amid three granite mountain peaks--Baegunbong, Mangyeongbong, and Insubong. Also known as the Triangle Mountain, the national park boasts more than 1,300 species of animal and plant life, as well as an abundance of cultural and historical sites. As you explore the valleys and ridges, you'll come across many Buddhist temples and hermitages scattered all over the gentle slopes. Each season brings something visually unique to the park, so bring your camera and hiking shoes to experience those moments. Always carry extra water with you, and check the weather conditions in order to dress yourself properly for exploration.
Suggested duration:
8 hours
Tours from $78 ›
Learn more about Bukhansan National Park
15. Seoul City Private Full-Day Tour Including Lunch
The country of the morning calm is full of history, and its capital, Seoul, abounds with authentic treasures. Join this 8-hour private tour to discover some of the most renowned gems of South Korean culture. From the great palaces to the N Tower, this tour will lead you through the ages to discover the old & the brand new capital.
Suggested duration:
8 hours
Tours from $215 ›
More about this tour at viator.com ›
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