TL;DR
Seoul is a vibrant city that perfectly blends ultramodern charm with rich tradition.
From stunning palaces and bustling markets to innovative cuisine and K-pop culture, this guide covers everything you need to know—from top sights, safety tips, budgets, and best travel times to insider advice on getting around, where to stay, and authentic experiences you won’t want to miss.
Jump directly to details and deep insights below. »
Welcome to Seoul: A City of Endless Discovery
When I first arrived in Seoul, I was struck by how seamlessly the ancient and modern coexisted—from centuries-old palaces surrounded by neon-lit streets to ultra-fast Wi-Fi and centuries-old tea houses. Whether you’re here for a week or a month, Seoul offers so much that you’ll want to dive deep beyond typical tourist spots.
This guide reflects my personal experiences combined with up-to-date local reviews and essential travel tips to make your Seoul trip unforgettable and stress-free.
Must-See Spots in Seoul: Iconic and Local Favorites
Gyeongbokgung Palace: History Immersed in Beauty
Gyeongbokgung is Seoul’s grandest palace, dating back to 1395. Visiting here illuminated Seoul’s rich dynastic history for me. The changing of the guard ceremony, held twice daily, is a must-watch, showcasing Korean traditions with colorful costumes and precise drills.
Visitor Tip: Rent a hanbok (traditional Korean garment) nearby—the palace entrance is free if you wear one. The palace is open 9AM–6PM; tickets are about ₩3,000 (~$2.50). Book tickets online to skip lines.
Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
N Seoul Tower: Revel in City Views
Perched atop Namsan Mountain, N Seoul Tower offers panoramic views forever engraved in my memory. Visit around sunset for stunning cityscape transformations. The base also hosts vibrant markets and cultural exhibitions.
Ticket: ₩12,000 (~$10); open 10AM–11PM daily. You can hike up Namsan or take a cable car from Myeongdong.
Official Site: nseoultower.co.kr
Myeongdong Shopping District: The Heartbeat of Korean Fashion & Food
Myeongdong pulse is infectious—street vendors, K-beauty shops, and global fashion brands buzz in unison. Personally, I savored street food like spicy rice cakes (tteokbokki) and freshly made hotteok pancakes as I explored trend-setting stores.
Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays for reduced crowds. Most stores open 10AM–10PM. Free Wi-Fi is widely available.
Address: Myeongdong 8-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
Bukchon Hanok Village: Step Into Tradition
Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village was like stepping into a living museum filled with traditional hanok houses from Korea’s Joseon period. Wander narrow alleys and discover charming artisan shops and cafes.
Note: The village is residential, so be respectful of privacy. No entrance fee. Best visited in the early morning for serenity.
Location: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): Futuristic Architecture Meets Culture
DDP blew me away with its fluid, space-age design by Zaha Hadid. The plaza hosts diverse exhibitions, fashion shows, and night markets and is a hub for Seoul’s design and innovation scene.
Entry: Open 24/7 to outdoor areas; exhibitions and events vary in price. Check ddp.or.kr for schedules.
Address: 281 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
Unmissable Things to Try: Korean Food & Unique Experiences
Korean BBQ (Gogigui): Feast Like a Local
Nothing beats grilling marinated meats yourself at a Korean BBQ. The flavors are bold, and the experience is interactive. I found that smaller neighborhood spots offered better prices and authenticity than tourist-heavy chains.
Expect ₩15,000–₩30,000 ($12–$24) per person for a satisfying meal. Don’t miss classic side dishes (banchan) and soju for the full experience.
Visit a Jjimjilbang: Relax the Korean Way
A jjimjilbang is a traditional Korean spa with saunas, baths, and relaxation rooms open 24 hours. After long city walks, nothing rejuvenates like a soak in warm baths and a body scrub session. Dragon Hill Spa in Yongsan is popular but arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds.
Prices generally range from ₩12,000 to ₩15,000 ($10–$13).
Explore K-Pop Culture: Museums and Live Music
If you’re a K-pop fan, visiting the SMTOWN@coexartium and checking for live performances or fan meet-ups provides an unforgettable connection to Korea’s global music wave. Nearby shopping in Gangnam is also a pop culture hotspot.
When to Visit Seoul & How to Get There
Seoul shines in spring (April–June) when cherry blossoms bloom or in autumn (September–November) with colorful foliage, both offering very mild weather and fewer tourists. Winters are cold but perfect if you enjoy winter festivals and skiing nearby.
Incheon International Airport (ICN) serves as the main gateway, with direct flights from most global hubs. The airport rail link connects to Seoul Station in 45 minutes for about ₩4,150 (~$3.40).
Getting Around Seoul: Efficient and Budget-Friendly
Seoul’s public transportation is super reliable and affordable. The subway covers almost all major spots, and the T-money card makes paying seamless. Buses complement subway lines for places less accessible by train.
Taxis are reasonably priced but can be a bit slower during rush hours. I often used bike rentals for short trips around parks and tourist areas.
Accommodation: Where to Stay for Every Budget
Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
Splurge-worthy with top-notch amenities, located near Gwanghwamun Square. Expect rates from ₩400,000 (~$320) per night.
Mid-Range: L7 Myeongdong by Lotte
Stylish, clean, and perfectly situated for shopping and food adventures. Rooms start around ₩100,000 (~$80) per night.
Budget: Hongdae Guesthouses and Hostels
Great vibe with excellent nightlife close by. Dorm beds cost about ₩20,000 (~$16) per night; private rooms are available under ₩50,000 (~$40).
Typical Costs and Money-Saving Tips
On average, a daily budget can range from ₩50,000 (~$40) for backpackers (hostel, street food, public transportation) to ₩150,000+ (~$120) for mid-range travelers, including dining out and paid attractions.
Money-saving tips I swear by include buying combined attraction tickets, eating at local markets instead of touristy restaurants, and using public transport with a T-money card for up to 30% savings.
How to Stay Safe & Emergency Contacts
Seoul is considered very safe for travelers, but like any major city, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency numbers are:
- Police: 112
- Fire/Emergency Medical: 119
- Tourist Police (English/Japanese/Chinese): +82-2-1330
For non-emergencies, the Seoul Global Center offers traveler assistance: global.seoul.go.kr or phone +82-2-2075-4180.
Recommended Tours and Experiences
Guided tours provide great insights and convenience. Some I found worthwhile include:
- Cultural Walking Tours around Insadong and Bukchon Hanok Village
- Korean Cooking Classes
- DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) Day Trip Tours
- Night Seoul City Bus Tour for skyline views and entertainment
Book through reputable platforms or your hotel concierge for verified experiences.
Suggested Length of Stay
For a first trip, I recommend at least 5–7 days to comfortably explore key highlights, enjoy local food, and even venture out on day trips. For repeat visitors, two weeks allows a deeper dive into neighborhoods and cultural experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Seoul
What is the best time to visit Seoul?
Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) are ideal due to mild temperatures and beautiful natural scenery.
Is Seoul safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Seoul is generally very safe, but it’s wise to follow typical city safety precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.
How do I get around Seoul cheaply?
The subway and buses with a rechargeable T-money card offer the cheapest, most convenient travel options.
What Korean foods should I try?
Don’t miss Korean BBQ, bibimbap (mixed rice), kimchi, tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and street snacks like hotteok (sweet pancakes).
Where should I stay for first-time visitors?
The Myeongdong and Hongdae areas are convenient, lively, and centrally located for sightseeing and transport.
Final Tips from My Seoul Adventures
One insider tip I swear by: download the Naver Map app for precise navigation—Google Maps isn’t perfect in Korea. Also, learning a few basic Korean phrases goes a long way in enriching your interactions. Lastly, be open to exploring less-touristy neighborhoods—you’ll find hidden gems in places like Ikseon-dong and Seochon.
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors such as pricing, hours, or location details.
Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
