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The 10 most unmissable experiences in South Korea

Feb 22, 2024 • 6 min read

Taking in the glorious blooms at Jinhae’s annual Cherry Blossom Festival is a highlight of a trip to South Korea © SAHACHAT / Getty Images

South Korea has an incredible range of experiences for a country of its size – an eclectic nightlife in the capital that never sleeps, trekking through the mountains followed by forest bathing, and a delicious and varied cuisine that will keep you coming back for more.

No matter what type of vacation you seek, this petite peninsula has something to delight everyone. Here are our favorite, can't-miss experiences in South Korea .

1. Watch the cherry trees blossom in Jinhae

In late March and early April, South Korea turns pink and white as millions of cherry trees billow with delicate blooms. While the blossoms can be seen all across the country, the most famous viewing spot is the small southern coastal district of Jinhae. With some 360,000 trees – some more than 100 years old – Jinhae's cherry blossom festival is the country's most extensive. 

Throughout the 10-day festival, visitors can admire the flowers at the old train station Gyeonghwa-yeok, marvel at them lit up at night at Yeojwacheon Stream, enjoy the opening ceremony and other performances, and then shop the street vendors at Jungwon Rotary. It's pure magic.

Planning tip:  The festival is  very  popular, and visitors flock from across the world to view the cherry blossoms. Be prepared for large crowds, but don't worry – people are generally very courteous, and you'll get your turn to take some incredible pictures at key sights.

2. Stroll along the Cheong-gye-cheon in Seoul

On a warm, bright day in Seoul , there's nothing better than meandering along  Cheong-gye-cheon , the almost 11km (6.8-mile) stream that flows east to west through the city's downtown. Along this Joseon-era waterway, which was once covered with a highway and later restored as part of an urban renewal project, walkers can stop at the stream's museum, enjoy art installations, watch a street performance or simply sit on the steps with a snack. Cheong-gye-cheon passes under 22 bridges before connecting with the Jungnangcheon tributary and eventually the Han River. Slow down and savor each step.

3. Do the cha cha

No, not dancing: drinking. In South Korea, cha refers to each successive round of revelry in a single night. Il cha , round one, is typically barbecue when diners enjoy  somaek (soju plus maekju , or beer) with their samgyeopsal (pork belly) and other grilled meats. From there, you might head to a pub for round two, another bar for round three then a club for round four.

For those who have managed to make it through all of that, the last round of the night is usually noraebang (private karaoke room), where you can order more alcohol and snacks while selecting your favorite tunes to sing – put your Korean skills to the test with a K-pop hit or two. If you can manage to follow the words, that is.

4. Cheer for your favorite city or company at a baseball game

South Korea's most popular professional sport is baseball, and whether you're a fan or not, you're in for a good time at a Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) game. Owned by some of the country's biggest conglomerates, the KBO league's ten teams include many brand names you might recognize, like Gwangju's Kia Tigers , Seoul's LG Twins and Daegu's Samsung Lions. 

Before cheering on your favorite city or company, learn the special fight songs and chants for each team, as well as the roster of its best-known players. But the best part of KBO games might be the concession-stand setup: fried chicken, pizza and other snacks are actually affordable, convenience stores like 7-Eleven are on site and sell beer at the standard price, and you're even allowed to bring in your own food and alcohol. Another reason to take yourself out to a ballgame.

Planning tip:  The baseball season runs between April and October, and tickets for big games get snapped up quickly. 

5. Shop until you drop at traditional markets

South Korea's sijang (traditional markets) are a cacophony of vendors hawking their wares, shoppers shouting their orders, fish splashing around water-filled basins and kitchenware clanging together. Just when you think you've gotten your bearings, an old man on a bike rings his bell to let you know he needs to get through. By venturing into the country's busiest markets, you'll immerse yourself in the chaos of everyday Korean life as you shop for clothing, accessories, housewares, produce, food and more.

In Seoul, Namdaemun Market , Gwangjang Market , Tongin Market and Dongdaemun Market are the most popular. In Busan , go to Gukje Market or Bupyeong Market. Try Dongmun Market in Jeju-do and Jungang Market in Daejeon.

6. Check out the cafe scene

An Instagrammer's dream, South Korea's cafe scene has a spot for every taste. Pet cafes feature live dogs, cats, raccoons, meerkats, kangaroos and any number of other creatures to keep you company while you sip your coffee. Other themes range from books and movies to flowers, 2D illusions, travel, vinyl and more: you name it, you'll find it here. Just be prepared for menu prices that might make your eyes water: it's not uncommon for a plain Americano to set you back a whopping ₩7000.

7. Go hiking with makgeolli and jeon

With 70% of the country covered in mountainous terrain, hiking is a beloved South Korean pastime and a culture unto itself. While on the trail, you're sure to see trekkers racing up the slopes decked out in the latest and greatest mountaineering gear. At the summit, you'll notice them sharing packed picnics of gimbap (seaweed-wrapped rice rolls) and other snacks.

After a hard day's hike, you'll spot them unwinding with a favorite mountain pairing: jeon (savory fried pancakes) and makgeolli (fermented rice wine). Join in the custom at one of South Korea's 22 national parks or, if you're in Jeju-do, along the island-encircling Olle Trail.

8. Gaze at the bamboo trees in Damyang

Bamboo patches can be found scattered all over the southern part of the country, and the largest such forest is located in Damyang in North Jeolla province. A 16-hectare (39.5 acres) stretch of verdant green, Juknokwon is known for its many scenic trails and also has an art gallery, culture village and nearby bamboo museum. While you're in the area, you can even try a scoop of bamboo ice cream.

9. Get your caffeine fix in Boseong

The green tea capital of South Korea, Boseong County in North Jeolla province is a stunning emerald expanse of terraced fields that produces more than 40% of the country's nokcha supply. Visit the 500-hectare (1235 acres) Daehan Dawon , the region's oldest and largest plantation, to meander the tea fields and surrounding cedar and juniper forests. There's also a green tea shop for buying souvenirs plus a green tea restaurant for tasting nokcha -enhanced variations of classic Korean dishes like bibimbap and naengmyeon (cold noodles). Next door is the Tea Museum of Korea , a can't-miss attraction for any tea connoisseur.

10. Dig into each city's signature dish

From Andong's jjimdak (soy-braised chicken) to Suwon's  galbi (beef short ribs), a signature dish characterizes many South Korean cities, and many of them have a single alley filled with vendors preparing their own variations on the local recipe. In Uijeongbu, go to Budaejjigae Street near Jungang Station to sample a boiling pot of budae jjigae,  a blend of Spam, canned beans, kimchi and instant noodles that was invented in the aftermath of the Korean War using leftover rations from American military bases – the name translates as "army base stew."

In Chuncheon , check out Dakgalbi Street to try the city's quintessential spicy stir-fried chicken. Carnivores in Jeju-do  can't miss its special black pork, said to be more tender than the pink variety. The iconic bibimbap in  Jeonju  is unique because the rice is cooked in beef broth, then often served tartare-style topped with raw beef and egg yolk. When you visit South Korea, you'd best arrive hungry.

This article was first published August 2022 and updated February 2024

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The Most Beautiful Places in South Korea

By Caitlin Morton

South Korea is on everyone's radar right now, as PyeongChang gears up to host the Winter Olympics beginning on February 9. But the country's appeal extends far beyond athletic facilities—with ancient temples , tea plantations, trendy neighborhoods, and more than 3,000 offshore islands to explore, South Korea should be on everyone's travel bucket list. Need more convincing? Here are the country's most beautiful sites, ready to welcome you long after the Olympians head home.

Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond

Located near the city of Gyeongju, this 7th-century palace complex contains well-preserved temples, museums filled with ancient relics, and three small islands. Its star attraction is the surrounding Wolji Pond, an artificial lake that perfectly reflects the buildings (especially at night) and becomes covered with lotus flowers in the summer.

Cheongsando Island

Southern Cheongsando Island is known for its untouched beauty—think terraced rice paddies, panoramic ocean views, and fields of yellow rapeseed flowers. The island is also famous for embracing the concept of slow living, hosting a "Slow Walking Festival" every year in which visitors and residents are encouraged to stroll the walking trails as slowly as possible to better soak in the scenery.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Seoul

Built in 2014 near Seoul's Dongdaemun Market , this Zaha Hadid-designed plaza is well worth exploring for a few hours. The building's seven levels can be explored on a guided tour or at your own leisurely pace, but the on-site history museum and clothing market are just added bonuses to the architecture itself, designed with no angles nor straight lines.

Samgwangsa Temple, Busan

Samgwangsa Temple is known for its annual lantern festival, an event honoring Buddha's birthday (usually in late May) that attracts over a million visitors every year. During the festival, countless lanterns light up in spectacular colors beneath the night sky.

Boseong County

About 40 percent of the country's green tea supply grows in the fields of Boseong, which attracts photographers and filmmakers as much as tea drinkers thanks to its dramatic green fields.

Located about 20 miles west of Busan, Jinhae is a quiet coastal town known for one thing: cherry blossoms. Each spring, the city holds the largest cherry blossom festival in South Korea, with hundreds of thousands of pink trees lining streets, railways, and streams.

Ulleungdo Island

This volcanic island boasts some seriously impressive scenery, with Hawaii-esque coastlines and Cabo San Lucas-esque rock formations. But visual similarities aside, this Sea of Japan destination is truly one of a kind—especially when you throw in the island's famous seafood dishes (like honghap bap , a seasoned rice dish served with mussels).

Jirisan National Park

Established in 1967, this is the oldest official national park in the country, drawing visitors for its 119,350 acres of rolling mountains and valleys, temple complexes, and Asiatic black bear habitats.

Haeinsa Temple

Haeinsa is one of the most famous ancient sights in the country, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Aside from its beauty, the temple is home to the Tripitaka Koreana , a collection of some 80,000 tablets engraved with Buddhist writings.

Juwangsan National Park

Juwangsan National Park may be small (about 41 square miles), but it packs quite the punch. The park is known for the vertical, rocky cliffs of Juwangsan Mountain, tucked-away waterfalls, and willow tree-filled Jusanji Pond (pictured).

Jogyesa Temple, Seoul

This 620-year-old Buddhist temple may be the most photographic spot in the Insadong district, with streams of pink, blue, and yellow lanterns on the ceiling and window shudders carved into the shape of trees.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple has one of the most scenic locations of any temple in the country—overlooking the sea on the northwest corner of Busan. Most temples are found in the mountains, so the chance to meditate while watching the sun rise over the ocean is particularly special.

Cheonjiyeon Falls

Located on Jeju Island—a wholly beautiful destination in its own right—this 72-foot-tall waterfall is surrounded by walking trails, lemon trees, and a pond filled with tropical (and totally harmless) eels. There is truly no wrong time to visit, as the cascades are lit up at night.

Located at the easternmost end of the country, Homigot is the place to watch the sun rise in South Korea. Due to its location, the area is the first in the country to catch sight of the rising sun—there is even a Sunrise Festival held here every New Year's, where visitors gather in masses to watch the solar event together. The site is made even more special with "Hand of Harmony," a sculpture featuring two hands—one on land, one in the ocean—reaching upward in a symbol of harmony.

Naganeupseong Folk Village

Time seems to stand still in this village, with houses, castles, and monuments appearing almost exactly as they did 600 years ago. Cultural significance aside, the village is a unique tourist attraction—visitors get to tour houses, watch traditional dance performances, and take lessons in Korean tea ceremony etiquette.

Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest—and arguably the most beautiful—of Seoul's five palaces. Its Gyeonghoeru pavilion remains nearly exactly as it was when it was built back in 1395, and its on-site museums feature some of the best Korean art in the country.

Oedo-Botania

You can't visit the city of Geoje without taking a ferry ride to the nearby island of Oedo, home to Oedo-Botania. The 12 square miles of this marine botanical garden contain more than 3,000 species of plants, with perfectly manicured green spaces modeled after the gardens at Versailles .

Upo Wetlands

Stretching across 526 acres, Upo is the largest swamp area in the country. Visitors can walk or bike around the wetlands, getting glimpses of the more than 1,500 species of plants and endangered animals, plus beautiful willow groves and gatherings of fireflies.

Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju National Park

Built in 774, the Temple of Bulguksa is found in the incredibly scenic Gyeongju National Park on the slopes of Mount Tohamsan. The complex's stone terraces, bridges, and pagodas look especially lovely in winter, covered by a light layer of snow.

Metasequoia Road, Damyang

Lined with giant sequoia trees planted back in the 1970s, this is one of the most popular roads in all of South Korea—both for drivers and walkers. The path is particularly gorgeous in summer, when the treetops cover the road in a lush green canopy.

Sinheungsa Temple, Seoraksan Mountain

There are many reasons to visit Sinheungsa Temple, from its towering bronze Buddha statue to its architecturally stunning buildings. But the main draw is perhaps the surrounding nature, with the Seoraksan mountain and colorful trees serving as the perfect backdrop.

Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul

In an increasingly modern city like Seoul, the Bukchon Hanok Village stands apart for its quiescence. Hundreds of the hanoks (traditional Korean houses) have been protected, with many buildings now serving as tea houses and galleries.

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30 Things to Do in South Korea: The Ultimate Bucket List

08/18/2023 by Guest Blogger 2 Comments

If you’re the type of traveler who enjoys good food, beautiful architecture, festivals and unique culture (and who doesn’t?) South Korea is incredible to explore. Rich with cultural history and merged perfectly with modern design, events and technology, the list of things to do in South Korea is practically endless.

Since you have so many choices in South Korea, I’ve narrowed it down to an ultimate bucket list. These are 30 of the best things to do in South Korea:

Table of Contents

1. Karaoke is a MUST

Korean karaoke is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Get a group of friends together, rent a karaoke room, order food, order drinks, and grab the mic! Unlike karaoke in the U.S., you don’t have to sing in front of a bunch of strangers or wait your turn. Pass around a book of songs and take full control of the evening. 

2. Play in mud at the Boryeong Mud Festival

Even the mud in Korea adds to the Korean beauty experience… well, at least in Boryeong it does.  Visit the Boryeong Mud Festival  in the summer to experience K-Pop concerts, fireworks, and lots of mud.

This mud is imported from the Boryeong mud flats and brought into playscapes on the beach of Boryeong. This mud is used in many Korean mud beauty products, which is silky smooth and has a ton of health benefits. Needless to say, locals and foreigners line up to roll and play in the mud.

3. Ride the KTX cross country

One of the easiest (and quickest) ways to explore the country of South Korea is via KTX train. The KTX is a high-speed express train that travels all over the country. The routes are still expanding, but, for the most part, you can go nearly anywhere around the country by using the KTX and/or other train services.  KTX scheduling information and tickets  can be found and purchased online or at the train station. 

4. Visit Busan in the summer 

Busan is the second largest city in South Korea. It sits on the southeast corner of the country surrounded by the Yellow Sea and the Sea of Japan. Where there’s seas, there’s beaches. One of the most popular beaches in the country of South Korea is Busan’s Haeundae Beach. Busan is great to visit any time of year, but the city really comes to life in the warmer months when festivals are plentiful and the beach season is at its prime.  

5. Connect with the Expats

Many expats gravitate towards areas in Seoul and Busan to teach English abroad. Visiting a foreign country that doesn’t speak your native language can be tough.

Connect with these seasoned foreigners via Facebook groups or by hanging around foreigner hot-spots, such as Itaewon or Hongdae. One of the best traits about expats? Most are very welcoming and open to meeting new people. 

6. Immerse yourself in the golf culture of South Korea

Locals  love  to golf in South Korea. Stop by a golf course, driving range, or head to one of the many indoor screen golf experiences – many of which offer private rooms with food and beverage services. 

7. Look and feel flawless with Korean beauty

Feel your absolute best with the abundance of  Korean beauty options  in South Korea. Get your nails done at a Korean salon (add some bling for the real Korean experience). Shop for skincare and cosmetic products at one of the many cosmetics shops in the country.

You can even give plastic surgery a try with some of the best plastic surgeons in the world. Or, you can go easy with a simple procedure such as laser hair removal, which is super cheap in South Korea!  

8. Get your fit on at an outdoor gym

The Korean culture is very active. Locals are always hiking, biking, walking around, at a workout class or at the gym. One of the cheapest and most convenient forms of exercise is at one of the many outdoor gyms that are scattered throughout cities, parks, around lakes, and in many other spots around the country. These gyms consist of simple equipment to work different parts of the body. Some of the exercises may look silly, but they really do hit the right spots if performing them properly. 

9. See an impressive firework display

Koreans love to celebrate, and what better way than firework displays? Many festivals or celebrations throughout the year in South Korea have a specific night that features a firework show, such as on New Year’s Eve or the final evening of the Boryeong Mud Festival. There are also a few festivals that are solely centered around fireworks, such as the International Fireworks Festival , which typically takes place in Busan and Seoul in the month of October each year. 

10. Try all the macarons 

If you thought France was the only country big on macarons, you thought wrong. Macarons are  everywhere  in South Korea. Many cafés sell the macarons along with cakes and other sweets, or there are stand-alone macaron shops scattered throughout the country.

Some are quite elaborate, stuffed with icing and decorated in fun, Instagrammable ways (focusing more looks than taste). Whereas others are simple, delicate, and quite tasty. 

11. Visit N Seoul Tower at Night

Take a cable car ride up to the hilltop of Namsan Park, where the infamous N Seoul Tower (use code KOREA10OFFAUG for 10% off!) is located. If you are a K-drama fan, you might recognize the area as many Korean dramas shot romantic scenes here! Speaking of romance, here you will see young couples seal their romantic promises with a padlock on trees, perhaps inspired by the love lock bridge in Paris. N Seoul Tower also offers stunning views of the city, especially at night.

12. Check out a gazillion cafés 

The best thing about South Korea is the abundance of cafés. Don’t even mention the name Starbucks when deciding on where to get your morning cup o’ joe!

Koreans take their coffee (and cafés) seriously. Watching the baristas make the coffee is an experience in itself. Want a vanilla latte? Some places will actually grind a real vanilla bean to blend into your caffeinated concoction, with, of course, a handcrafted foam design on top. Don’t forget to grab a piece of cake or macaron to accompany your drink!

13. Attend a K-pop concert

The moment one arrives to South Korea, K-pop will suddenly appear  everywhere  ­– on billboards, on apparel, in cabs, and on TV. K-pop is a genre of music that originated in South Korea. It means ‘Korean Popular Music’. Many other genres of music fall into this category: hip hop, rap, electronic, rock, R&B, etc. What makes this different than good ole’ regular pop? The experience.

K-pop groups consist of young Korean groups that perform these popular genres of music, along with perfectly-choreographed dancing, vibrant costumes, and lots of energy. 

14. Visit the DMZ 

The demilitarized zone is the border that separates North and South Korea. Tourists are allowed to visit the South Korean side of this border through an  organized tour (use code KOREA10OFFAUG for 10% off!). There are many different tours to choose from and most depart from Seoul.

The different tours will visit different parts of the DMZ. When tensions are low, choosing a tour that visits JSA (Joint Security Area – Truce Village) will allow you to actually step into North Korea. 

15. Try a hotteok 

Hotteoks, also known as Korean sweet pancakes, are a popular street food in South Korea. They look like pancakes, but have filling inside of them – most times a brown sugar syrup, honey, or crushed peanuts with cinnamon. Look for the places that cook these on a griddle, as opposed to frying them. 

16. Visit Jeju Island 

Jeju (use code KOREA10OFFAUG for 10% off!) is an island getaway on the southwest coast of South Korea and a short flight away from any domestic airport. There are also ferries that depart from different cities, but take much longer.

There are beaches, museums, hiking and more. One of the highlights of the island is the erotic Love Land museum . 

17. Attend a Korean baseball game

Baseball games in South Korea are pretty comparable to football games in America. The energy is electric and fans go wild for their teams. Locals and foreigners crowd the stadiums with inflatable noise-makers and lots of yelling. It’s a must-do experience. 

18. Drink soju 

Soju is a clear, nearly tasteless, alcoholic beverage that originated in South Korea. There are many different flavors if the ‘Fresh’ tasteless variety isn’t your jam. Soju can be found almost anywhere in South Korea ­– at convenience stores, restaurants, bars and more. A common soju mixed drink that locals love is soju mixed with either Hite or Cass beer.

19. Cure your hangover

Make sure to prepare before a night of indulging in soju (or any alcoholic beverage). Head to a convenience store for a ‘hangover drink’, called Condition. This little glass bottle is packed with vitamins to help you feel 110% the next morning.  It really works! 

Each bottle contains Hovenia fruit extract from an oriental raisin tree. Note that the dark green bottle, or pink bottle specifically for ladies, is for drinking at night before and/or after consuming alcohol. There is also a gold bottle with a smooth cap for the morning after.

20. Experience Korean nightlife

If soju is involved, there’s bound to be a party nearby. South Korea has tons of fun bars and nightlife. With or without the booze, Korean nightlife is great entertainment. Many local bars will do fire shows for your birthday or special occasion.

There are some bars that will do magic shows for you while you’re sitting at the bar sipping on a soju tower. And, of course, there are karaoke bars, where you can rent a private room with your friends to sing and dance the night away.

21. Enjoy the luxury of Korean bidets 

If you’ve been to Japan , these bidets don’t quite live up to those, but it’s a close second. These fancy toilets are heated, self-cleaning, and drying (and I’m not talking about the toilet), and some will even play music or water sounds to create a relaxing experience.  

Everyone, and I mean  everyone  – children up to elderly – love to hike. There are a ton of hiking paths everywhere you go. Unlike other hiking spots around the world that zig-zag, trails in South Korea go from point A to point B in the shortest possible distance. Therefore, many trails can be quite steep and difficult.  Find the perfect trail  near you.  

23. Eat bingsu

This delightful dessert is much yummier than it sounds. It’s flavored shaved iced (typically frozen milk), topped with a variety of ingredients and then finished with a drizzle of condensed milk. Some of the tastier topping combinations can include cocoa powder, brownies with whipped cream; cocoa powder, Oreos with mint chocolate chip ice-cream; fresh strawberries with whipped cream; and macarons with vanilla ice-cream. There are others that are a little more adventurous, such as, injeolmi (which is soybean powder), red bean, green tea, and cheese.

24. Eat kimchi

Kimchi, made from fermented cabbage, originated in Korea. Many Korean restaurants will provide all-you-can-eat kimchi throughout your meal. There are tons of amazing health benefits to eating this Korean staple, including lowering cholesterol, providing healthy bacteria, which can aid in stomach health and help prevent yeast infections, slowing the aging process (it’s a wonder why Koreans look so young), and many more.

25. Eat bibimbap from Jeonju

Head to the city of Jeonju, where bibimbap originated. Bibimbap is a bowl of white rice with either shaved or ground beef, topped with fresh julienned carrots, cucumber, bean sprouts and lettuce, finished with a fried egg on top. Many people eat this with gochujang (chili pepper paste), or doenjang (soybean paste), along with a side of kimchi. This Jeonju-original is now found in almost every Korean restaurant. 

26. Try beef on a leaf 

Beef on a leaf is a slang term for Korean BBQ because of the large pieces of lettuce you get that you can eat your beef on. Some places call it “galbi”, which refers to Korean ribs.

The Korean BBQ experience is a  must.  Choose your favorite type of meat from the menu and when you’re ready to order, press a button at your table for a server to come by. Once you place your order, the server will bring out tons of sides for the whole table to share and ignite the grill in the middle of the table to start heating up for the meat. Shortly after, the server will come back with plates of raw meat, scissors, and tongs. Sometimes they will cook the meat for you, but many places allow you to cook your own. Cut the meat into small pieces and place it on the grill, along with any sides you want roasted. 

27. Visit Seoul

Seoul is the capital and largest city of South Korea. Find a large assortment of shopping, loads of entertainment, “Seoul” much good food and more. Explore the city with a local to get a deeper understanding of life in one of the most technologically advanced cities in the world.

READ NEXT: 18 awesome things to do in Seoul

28. Splurge at Daiso

Daiso is similar to a dollar store but has an incredible selection of items for everyday necessities. It’s basically like the dollar store version of a Target – it will just tell you what you need. 

29. See the cherry blossoms in the spring

Hurry, though! They don’t last long. The cherry blossoms bloom throughout the country near the end of March or early April and only last a few weeks. There are many festivals that go on around the country dedicated to these blooming beauties, but the best places to see them are away from the crowds. Try to find a nearby lake or off-the-beaten-path colorful palace to catch a better glimpse. 

30. Check out the oldest bakery in South Korea

Lee Sung Dang Bakery is the oldest bakery in South Korea. It is located in the small town of Gunsan, about two hours south of Seoul. This isn’t a bakery where you grab a loaf of bread and head on your way. Locals  stock up  on these baked goods! Grab a tray and a pair of tongs and wander the shop, adding anything and everything to your tray.

Many locals will grab multiple trays to fill. Once paying for the baked goods, head to the bakery’s counterpart next door (where you can also purchase some of the bakery’s items), and go upstairs to their café to grab a drink and enjoy some of your irresistible pastries.  

Korea Quirks:

Sweet tooth heaven.

Korea is a sweet tooth’s heaven. Everything, and I mean  everything,  is sweet. Pepperoni pizza?  Yup.  Garlic bread?  Yup.  Looking for “actual” sweets? Head to any café and you’re bound to find a case full of cakes and macarons to compliment your sweet potato latte. 

Korean Shirts

Korean shirts are a novelty to westerners. They’re just so off-the-wall that they’ll bring a smile to your face whenever you see one. They take an ordinary word or phrase and somehow twist it to make it into a deep connotation ­(typically with grammatical errors). They’re almost there, but just not quite right. My favorite I’ve seen is a shirt with a smiley face that says, “BE SMILE”.  

Spiders are the size of birds

I wouldn’t necessarily call this a quirk as much as a nightmare. Starting in late spring and into the summer months, HUGE spiders suddenly appear. Their bodies can be the size of golf balls. Their webs will span  meters -long. Be very cautious walking between trees or even cars. Most times, you will see them up near lamp posts where many bugs are attracted. That’s where most of the “big guys” hang.   

For all of it’s adventures, novelties and oddities, I love exploring South Korea and hope you will, too.

This article was written by Kylie Loyd. Born & raised in Michigan, New Yorker at heart, adventure took ahold of her fate and brought Kylie to her [now] husband, who leads her around the world via U.S. Air Force. Kylie Loyd has lived on three and traveled to four different continents in the past two years. With moving around the world so frequently, finding work with a background in event management was a struggle while living the “drifter life”. Kylie became certified as a personal trainer to appease her passion for fitness, and also started her blog,  gocatchthedrift.com . Today, she blogs about the travel opportunities for military spouses around the world, and also enjoys including ways to stay fit and healthy while on the road.

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Lisa JoyDellaVita says

08/19/2020 at 8:37 am

Thank you! This post really makes me want to go to SK! *-*

Elena DePree says

08/09/2021 at 11:58 am

We are going to South Korea next June so this really helped me learn some super cool things. I would like know where the picture, with the 2 bridges, was made? I would love to find that and take some pictures.

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• 28 Stunning Places To Visit In South Korea In 2024

23 Mar 2023

The elusive, exotic land of South Korea beckons every traveler and backpacker to experience its many wonders. You’ll be spoilt for choice when shortlisting places to visit in South Korea , which offers such an unbelievable range of unexplored natural sites and urban delights.

There are tradition folk villages and swanky cities, gorgeous islands and breathtaking natural vistas. If you were wondering where to go in South Korea then here is a list of our top picks of places to visit in South Korea , from the popular to the unexplored, from countryside villages, grand Buddhist temples & palaces to ancient fortresses and high-tech urban cities. An interesting fact is that when it comes to South Korea most people only know about the capital city, Seoul and think that it is the only place worth visiting in the country. However, that is not the case. We have listed out some of the most amazing places in South Korea here that you can visit and explore.

Top 28 Places To Visit In South Korea 2024

So, you have come here which means you really do wanna know about the places to visit in South Korea ! Well, if you’re planning to visit South Korea soon, here is the perfectly curated list of places to visit in South Korea on your next trip. Keep scrolling down and read along the best South Korea tourist places to visit. Go on!

• Seoul : The Dazzling Capital City
• Jeju Island : A Stunning Island
• The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ):  Engage With Modern History
• Busan:  Something For Everyone
• Gyeongju:  A Treasure Trove Of Cultural Sites
• Dadohaehaesang National Park:  The Largest National Park In Korea
• Pyeongchang County:  Paradise For Hikers
• Suwon:  Home To A UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Seoraksan National Park:  A Tentative World Heritage Site
• Andong Hahoe Folk Village:  Travel Back In Time
• Upo Marsh:  The Largest Inland Wetland In Korea
• Juknokwon:  The Slow City
• Boseong Green Tea Field:  A Stunning Scenery
• Seongsan Sunrise Peak:  For Gorgeous Sunset Views
• Ggotji Beach:  Something For Beach Lovers
• Darangee Village:  A Quaint And Photogenic Village
• Jeungdo Salt Farm:  A Treasure Island
• Haeinsa Temple : World’s Oldest Intact Buddhist Canon
• Chunwang Peak:  The Second Highest Peak In South Korea
• Naganeupseong Folk Village:  An Appealing Little Village
• Gwang-An-Bridge:  The Famous Diamond Bridge
• Kyeong-Wha Station:  Capture The Essence Of Cherry Blossoms
• Gongryong Ridge:  Ideal For Taking A Hike
• Bulguksa Temple : A UNESCO Listed Heritage Site
• Uleung Island Seaside Road: The Mysterious Island
• Chuncheon : Spectacular Lakes & Mighty Mountains
• Jeonju:  With A Rich And Fascinating History
• Halla Mountain: Offers Spectacular Views

1. Seoul: The Dazzling Capital City

The dazzling capital and one of the best cities in South Korea will impress you with its dizzying mix of modern architecture, party vibes, pop culture, beautiful parks & glittering promenades making it one of the most famous places in South Korea and the best cities to visit in South Korea. Vibrant Seoul is not just a buzzing urban hub but also rich in history and culture. With gorgeous palaces, chic restaurants and stylish boutiques, Seoul is among the charming places to visit in South Korea during autumn . The National Museum and War Memorial take you through the history of the country, while the cool shopping district of Gangnam gives you a taste of the city’s ritzy side on your reasons to visit South Korea .

Ideal for: Nightlife, Shopping, Culture, Architecture Key attractions: Changdeokgung Palace (with an amazing Secret Garden), Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok village (for its pagodas and old-world charm), Lotte World amusement park, Bukhansan National Park, N Seoul Tower for panoramic views.

Must Read: 26 Places To Visit In Korea During Winter

2. Jeju Island: A Stunning Island

This stunning island just 85 Kilometers off the coast is one of the most beautiful places in South Korea and one of the most famous places in South Korea. Having been voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, the pristine beauty of Jeju-do will take your breath away. Surreal white sand beaches surrounded by pine forests, volcanic craters and lava caves, beautiful botanical gardens and a rich culture are some of the high-points of this natural paradise amongst places near Seoul that are a must-visit.

Ideal for: Nature, Photography Key attractions: Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Halassang national park, Seopjikoji promontory, Hyeopjae & Hamdeok beach, Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls

3. The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): Engage With Modern History

Amongst famous South Korea attractions, The DMZ is one of the most unique places to visit in South Korea to get a better understanding of the conflict between North and South Korea & the current state of affairs. The DMZ is full of interesting sites that make for an engaging lesson in modern history. You can take a peek into North Korea at the Observation Post and feel the rush of adventure while walking through the Infiltration Tunnel. It is advisable to take a guided tour that includes a visit to the Joint Security Area (JSA).

Ideal for: Historical Sites Key Attractions: Freedom Park, Dorasan Station & Observatory

Suggested Read: 7 South Korea Travel Tips

4. Busan: Something For Everyone

If you’re visiting places in South Korea then not adding this place to your list would be unfair. This second largest city of South Korea is known across the world for hosting Asia’s largest international film festival. Busan is an interesting amalgamation of skyscrapers, majestic mountains, beautiful beaches and magnificent Buddhist temples and amongst the best places to visit in South Korea . Amongst the popular places to visit in Korea Busan is the Haedong Yonggungsa temple along the coast and the interesting Jagalchi fish market. Foodies can relish the sea food spread at the numerous restaurants and enjoy local delicacies at the ubiquitous street food stalls.

Ideal for: Beaches, Culture, Food Key attractions: Haeundae Beach (with the Sea Life Aquarium and Folk Square), Beomeosa Temple, Gwangalli Beach with beautiful views of the Diamond bridge, Hurshimchung Hot Springs

5. Gyeongju: A Treasure Trove Of Cultural Sites

One of the places to visit in South Korea in May , the coastal city of Gyeongju, often called an open-air museum, is one of the best things to do in South Korea to discover its traditional roots and rich heritage. The erstwhile capital of the ancient Silla kingdom, Gyeongju is a treasure trove of cultural and historical places in South Korea and ruins going back to a thousand years. With the UNESCO world heritage site, Bulguksa temple and the National Museum with its unparalleled collection of artefacts, this city gives you a glimpse into South Korea’s cultural roots.

Ideal for: Culture, History, Nature Key attractions: Anapji pond, Tumuli Park (the giant burial mounds covered in grass), the majestic Seokguram Grotto

Suggested Read: Korea Tour Land Of Morning Calm

Planning Your Next Holiday In South Korea?

6. Dadohaehaesang National Park: The Largest National Park In Korea

Image Credit: Justinjfj for Wikimedia Commons

One of the most beautiful tourist destinations in South Korea, it is the largest National Park in Korea, this slice of paradise covers 1700 large and small islands and some rock structures. One of the most scenic and islands is the Cheongsando island considered one of the best places to visit in South Korea for it surreal landscapes and the slow city movement. Hongdo and Heuksando are the other popular islands where you can take a boat trip to admire the overwhelming natural sites. This is one of the top famous places to visit in South Korea for your next vacation!

Ideal for: Nature, Tranquility, Photography

7. Pyeongchang County: Paradise For Hikers

This is one of the must visit places in South Korea to experience tranquillity and awe-inspiring scenic beauty of the best places to visit in Korea . Located in the Taebaek Mountains, this picturesque county 180 Kms away from Seoul hosted the prestigious Winter Olympics in February 2018. The Odaesan National Park is a hikers’ delight with trails going up the snow-peaked mountains, while the ski resorts Alpensia and Yongpyong are popular with skiers and snowboarders. The mountains are also home to many beautiful Buddhist shrines. This place is surely one of the best places to visit in South Korea during winters !

Ideal for: Nature, Photography, Spirituality Key Attractions: Woljeongsa temple, Pyeongchang Hyanggyo

Suggested Read: 17 Epic 7 Star Hotels In The World

8. Suwon: Home To A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Capital of the Gyeonggi province bordering Seoul, Suwon is known for its unique Hwaseong Fortress with its imposing stone walls and impressive archways, and this has made it one of the best places to visit in Korea . Built by the Joseon dynasty the fortresses wall is a UNESCO world heritage site with four pagoda-style gates, artillery towers and observation decks. Another magnificent structure at the site is the Hwaseong Haenggung Palace. With all that said, don’t forget to indulge in shopping in Suwon . With many more exciting things to do, Suwon is one of the top places to visit in South Korea .

Ideal for: History, Architecture Key Attractions: Suwon Hwaseong Museum to understand the history of the majestic fortress, Gwanggyosan Mountain (for hiking trails), Samsung Innovation Museum

9. Seoraksan National Park: A Tentative World Heritage Site

The vivid strokes of nature will greet you every step of the way in the UNESCO protected Seoraksan National Park and is one of the most mesmerizing places to witness autumn in Korea . Being one of the best places to visit in South Korea , this is l iterally meaning the Snowy Crag Mountains, the Seoraksan range with its snow-covered peaks forms a majestic backdrop to the park temple. It is a great place to hike the myriad trails including the formidable Ulsan Rock or simply enjoy the gondola ride up the mountain for some spectacular views. As you stroll through the 400000 sq km biosphere protection site, prepare to be awestruck by the giant Buddha statue on your path.

Ideal for: Hiking, Adventure, Photography, Nature Key Attractions: Baekdam sa Buddhist temple, Gyejo-am hermitage, Yukdam-Pokpo waterfall

Suggested Read: Top 10 Reasons To Visit South Korea

10. Andong Hahoe Folk Village: Travel Back In Time

Literally meaning ‘the village enveloped by water’ this charming traditional Korean village located in Andong is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Entering the Hahoe village is like travelling back in time to the simple Korean village way of life displaying local traditions and culture. The beautiful setting alongside the Nakdong river is accentuated by the rural tile and thatched roof houses, sandy beaches and pine trees. The village is also a great place to try out traditional Korean delicacies and marvel at the mask dance performed by the locals, read through Korea travel tips to know more.

Ideal for: Culture, Tranquility, nature Nearby attractions: Bongjeongsa temple, Buyongdae Cliff (take a boat for breathtaking views of the village)

11. Upo Marsh: The Largest Inland Wetland In Korea

Image Credit: Travel in Korea for Wikimedia Commons

Considered to be the largest inland wetland in Korea, Upo March is a must-visit site for all tourists and one of the best free tourist attractions in South Korea. It is said that this land was formed over almost 140 million years ago and it is home to about 1500 species of plants and animals too. Some of these animals are, however, currently endangered. You can also spot a few migratory birds here which are found to be flying low as you walk or bike through the land. This surely tops the list of good places to visit in South Korea !

Ideal for: Biking, nature walks, photography, bird-watching Nearby attractions: NA

Suggested Read: Cartoon Cafe In South Korea

12. Juknokwon: The Slow City

Image Credit: UNC – CFC – USFK for Wikipedia

Explore South Kore and enjoy the slow-paced life. Also known as the ‘slow city’, Damyang offers a variety of tourist attractions, out of which, Juknokwon cannot be missed for sure. The thick bamboo land that has 8 different trails has 8 unique themes that you can walk through. If you look close enough, you can spot some green tea shoots growing from the dew that falls off the bamboo leaves, known as Jukro tea.

Ideal for: Nature walk, photography Nearby attractions: Gwanbangjerim, May 18th National Cemetery and Gangcheonsan County Park

13. Boseong Green Tea Field: A Stunning Scenery

Image Credit: ~Mers for Wikimedia Commons

With a major 40 % of the total tea produced in Korea being produced at these famous fields, this place is nothing less than a scenic beauty in itself which is also used as a backdrop of many Korean movies and drama shows. It is among the top 5 places to visit in South Korea and is perfect to plan a vacation in May, make sure you don’t miss out on the grand Green-tea festival or click a picture of the stunning scenery as this place is well lit by light bulbs during winter season which is also the best time to explore South Korea. This field is amongst the best places to visit in South Korea during summer !

Ideal for: Nature walk, photography Nearby attractions: Songjeong Station Market, Darangee Village

Suggested Read: 10 Places Near Seoul

14. Seongsan Sunrise Peak: For Gorgeous Sunset Views

Image Credit: 螺钉 for Wikimedia Commons

If you are heading to Jeju Island anyway, then you should not miss watching the sunrise at Seongsan Peak. The best of South Korea tourist attractions , this spot has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was formed by the hydrovolcanic eruptions 5000 years ago. You will even find a variety of rare species of plants. The magnificent sunrise is the most spectacular thing on this volcanic mountain.

Ideal for: Hiking, Nature Key attractions: Sunrise, Rare plant species, lush greenery,magnificent views of nature

15. Ggotji Beach: Something For Beach Lovers

For those who live for beautiful sunsets should not miss this place on Jeju Island, one of the best South Korea destinations . The white sandy beach is a delight to the beach babies. The sunset here is nothing like you have seen before. You will find two large rock formations on the beach that are known as Granny and Grandpa Rocks. There is an interesting story behind the names too. According to the legends, the wife of a commander from the Shilla Dynasty became a rock waiting faithfully for her husband. When the sun sinks between the two rocks, it looks so magnificent and the sky lights up in tangerine color.

Ideal for: Sunsets, diving Key attractions: Granny Rock, Grandpa Rock

Suggested Read: 6 Places To Visit In Seoul

16. Darangee Village: A Quaint And Photogenic Village

If you want to explore the village life of South Korea, then you should visit Darangee which is a well-preserved village. The tiny step fields look so photogenic. This is your shot of experiencing traditional Korean places while backpacking in South Korea. It is amazing to see how a country like such can have two opposite sides; one completely modern and another so bucolic.

Ideal for: Backpacking Key attractions: Countless tiny fields

17. Jeungdo Salt Farm: A Treasure Island

Image Source

You have seen nothing like the soft beach and salt farms in Jeungdo. This is a treasure island not only because of all the salt produced but also the artifacts from the Song Dynasty found at the bottom of the ocean. The marine life that you will find in the mudflat town will amaze you. It is one of the best places to see in South Korea .

Ideal for: Sightseeing Key attractions: Salt farms, Mudflat town, marine life of the mud flat

Suggested Read: Hiking In Seoul

18. Haeinsa Temple: World’s Oldest Intact Buddhist Canon

Image Credit: Lcarrion88 for Wikimedia Commons

Did you know that the world’s oldest intact Buddhist canon is restored inside Haeinsa Temple that itself is 1200 years old? The curiosity alone should make you visit this temple and if you are an avid Buddhist practitioner, then you should definitely visit this place on your vacation in South Korea and several other popular castles in Korea to get a glance into the history of Korea.

Ideal for: Sightseeing, Religious Key attractions: Janggyeong Panjeon, the oldest wooden Buddha Statue in Korea.

19. Chunwang Peak: The Second Highest Peak In South Korea

Image Credit: Eimoberg for Wikipedia

The second highest peak in the country should definitely be one of your South Korea points of interest . Standing tall at 1,915 meters, this peak is a beloved for many Korean mountain climbers. If climbing mountains give you the thrill, then we see no reason why you should sit this one out. There is even a national park on the mountain that stretches over three provinces. The clean air and freshwater from the spring will be a delight to your internal organs.

Ideal for: Nature, hiking Key attractions: Chunwang Spring, sunrise, dazzling flora and fauna

Suggested Read: Shopping In Seoul

20. Naganeupseong Folk Village: An Appealing Little Village

Image Credit: Marco Schmidt for Wikimedia Commons

To enjoy South Korea sightseeing , plan a trip to Naganeupseong Folk Village where you will observe the lifestyle from the ear of the Chosun Dynasty. The straw-roofed houses, government offices, castles, guesthouse, all look so pretty and photogenic. You would really enjoy your time here even if you are not a history buff.

Ideal for: Sightseeing Key attractions: Overnight homestay

21. Gwang-An-Bridge: The Famous Diamond Bridge

Image Credit: Doo-ho Kim for Wikimedia Commons

Famously known as the Diamond Bridge, it is a suspension bridge located in Busan, South Korea that connectes Haeundae-gu to Suyeong-gu. The road surface is about 6,500 m long and although it is not a pedestrian bridge, you can still enjoy the stunning views of bridge and the surrounding region from afar. 

Ideal for : Views, Photography Key attractions : The lighting system

Suggested Read: 6 Best Places To Visit In Suwon

22. Kyeong-Wha Station: Capture The Essence Of Cherry Blossoms

Image Credit: 날개 for Wikimedia Commons

This place is a favourite haunt for photographers who can capture the true essence of the Cherry blossoms falling down on the track and making a picture-perfect moment. The visual delight of the train is approaching the station under the cherry blossom tunnel is absolutely unmissable and surreal.

Ideal for : Photography Key attractions: Cherry blossom tunnel

23. Gongryong Ridge: Ideal For Taking A Hike

Wondering where to visit in South Korea? Well, why not give Gongryong Ridge a try? Shaped like the spine of a dinosaur, this place is ideal for trekkers and hiking enthusiasts who would love a great climb along with sublime views of the surrounding mountain range. This ricky ridge offers spectacular views of Gongryong Ridge.

Ideal for : Sighseeing, hiking, nature enthusiasts Key attractions : Seorak mountain range

Suggested Read: 8 Best Places To Visit In Incheon

24. Bulguksa Temple: A UNESCO Listed Heritage Site

This temple is a UNESCO listed heritage site that is considered to be amongst the most famous historic places to visit in South Korea and one of the most popular South Korea tourist places. It features two granite pagodas on either sides of the temple that add to the grandeur beauty of this place.

Ideal for : Historic sightseeing Key attractions : Dabotap and Seokgatap

25. Uleung Island Seaside Road: The Mysterious Island

Image Credit: Husen Mansurov for Pixabay

Also known as “Mysterious Island’, Uleung Island Seaside Road is one of the most interesting places to go in South Korea.  It is a famous weekend getaway spot for the people of Seoul and will serve as a calming site for you. With its interesting rock formations, many waterfalls, and shore cliffs, the Uleung Island Seaside Road is magical and something you shouldn’t miss! 

Ideal for : Sightseeing, weekend getaways Key attractions : Haengnam Coastal Walking Path and Dokdo Observatory

Suggested Read:  15 Seoul Cafes

26. Chuncheon: Spectacular Lakes & Mighty Mountains

Image Credit: Mark Zastrow for Wikimedia Commons

With its spectacular lakes and mighty mountains, Chuncheon happens to be one of the most well-known South Korea tourist places.  It is also the capital city of the Gangwon Province and is the location where many popular Korean soap operas are filmed. Many visit the destination for this reason too! The city is also known as a foodies’ paradise, and you can try many Korean delicacies here.

Ideal for : Sightseeing Key attractions : Namiseom Island and Cheongpyeong Lake

27. Jeonju: With A Rich And Fascinating History

If you are wondering about where to go in South Korea,  then Jeonju is the answer! During the reign of the Joseon Dynasty the place happened to be the spiritual capital. It still has many temples and museums and is one of the best places to know about the rich and exciting history of the country. If you are a history buff and wish to see traditional homes dating back to the early 20th century then make sure you stop at Jeonju and have a good time. It is recommended as one of the best places to go in Korea if you are fascinated to know the background of this pleasing landmark.

Ideal for : Historic sightseeing Key attractions : Jeonju National Museum and Jeondong Cathedral

Suggested Read:  Seoul Festivals

28. Halla Mountain: Offers Spectacular Views

If you are looking for tourist places in South Korea  then Halla Mountain is one and you can’t miss this one! The snowflakes make for a gorgeous view and the icicles that cover the tea branches inspired the Halla Snow Festival which used to be held annually in late January or early February.  Due to some reason, it does not happen anymore, but the snowflakes are still there, and the mountain makes for a great sight and must not be missed!

Ideal for : Hiking

Further Read: Top Adventure Honeymoon Destinations

Looking at the above places to visit in South Korea, it sure looks like an awesome destination for a holiday. From nature to the best of lifestyle and modern experiences – do what you love here and tell us about it in the comments section below. So, pack your bags and book your trip to South Korea right away!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In South Korea

Which are the best places to visit in South Korea?

Some of the best places to visit in South Korea are Seoul, Jeju Island, Busan, Gyeongju, Dadohaehaesang National Park, Andong Hahoe Folk Village, Boseong Green Tea Field, Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Halla Mountain, Jeonju, and Chuncheon.

Where should I go for the first time in South Korea?

Wondering where to go in South Korea for the first time? Here are some of the places you should not miss: 1. Bulguksa Temple 2. Gongryong Ridge 3. Gwang-An-Bridge 4. Ggotji Beach 5. Haeinsa Temple

Which is the most visited place in South Korea?

Seoul is the most visited place in South Korea. It is the capital city that covers the major coastal area and include famous Buddha temples, palaces, and other landmarks.

How many days are enough for South Korea?

If you want to have a balance of relaxing and adventurous vacation and explore beautiful places in South Korea to the fullest, then at least 10-14 days are required.

What are the popular outdoor activities in South Korea?

During your visit to South Korea, you may indulge in top outdoor activities such as Sky Diving, Bungee Jumping, Zip Lining, Paragliding, Scuba Diving, Para Sailing, Surfing, Rafting, and the thrilling rides in the adventure parks.

Which are some of the best places to visit in South Korea for families with kids?

Seoul, Busan, and Juju Island are some of the most popular tourist destinations in South Korea which are perfect to visit while travelling with family and kids. Being metropolitan centres, you can expect a large number of tourists during the seasonal months, making it a safe place for anyone planning a trip.

Which are some of the must-visit places in South Korea for couples?

Some of the must-visit places in South Korea for couples include N Seoul Tower, Han River, Ihwa Mural, Lotte World, Trick Eye Museum, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Boseong Green Tea Field, and Nami Island.

What is South Korea famous for?

South Korea is famous for its booming economy and entertainment industry. Moreover, the food segment does not lag behind and offers a variety of tasty foods to relish like Kimchi and Bibimbap that no one can afford to miss.

Which are the best national parks in South Korea?

South Korea is famous for its natural beauty which is an important trait that attracts so many visitors from around the world. Some of the enthralling national parks in South Korea are Dadohaehaesang, Seoraksan, Bukhansan, Hallasan, Gyeongju National Park, Jirisan, Songnisan, and Mudeungsan.

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🌸Festivals ( Seoul • Busan )

Top 100 Must-Visit Places in Korea & How to Go Guide 

Discover the  Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Korea for 2023-2024  that include famous attractions and some of the newly added places to visit across all regions of Korea from Seoul , Incheon , Busan to Gyeonggi-do and Gangwon-do .

The 6th edition of  Top 100 Must-Visits Tourist Spots in Korea (2023-2024) list was announced by Ministry Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) and Korea Tourism Organization (KTO)  on  13 December 2022 . The list is a compilation of recommended tourist attractions that are selected and promoted every 2 years  by MCST and KTO .

Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots Summary​ (2023-2024)

39 natural attractions

61 cultural attractions

14  attractions have been selected for 6 consecutive times (e.g. 5 palaces in Seoul )

33 new additions include Seoul Forest , OSIRIA Tourist Complex , etc

Drop outs include  Seoraksan National Park , etc 

24 in Seoul Capital Area (incl. Seoul, Incheon, Gyeonggi-do)

10 in Gangwon-do Province

28 in Gyeongsang-do Province (incl. Busan, Daegu, Ulsan)

6 on Jeju Island

13 in Chungcheong-do Province

17 in Jeolla-do Province

Shortlisted Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots (2023-2024) in/out Seoul or Busan

​ To assist travellers to explore these popular and recommended places of interests on your holiday in Korea , KoreaToDo has put together the shortlisted Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots that are:

easily accessed in Seoul

within 3 hours from Seoul

in/from Busan

It includes  detailed guides on how to get there by public transport or join a local tour so as to get the most out of your travel time, when combined with other nearby attractions.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

The largest of all five grand palaces built in the Joseon Dynasty, remaining in Seoul.

Changgyeonggung Palace

A simple and compact palace, surrounded by a forest with about 50,000 trees.

Seoul Forest

Known for its cherry blossoms & tulips in Spring, Ginkgo Tree Forest in Autumn & deer.

Lotte World

Include the World's largest Indoor theme park & an outdoor Magic Island.

Ikseondong Hanok Village

A hot trending place with narrow streets of hip cafes, restaurants and pubs.

Korean Folk Village

A village recreated from the Joseon era with backdrop of mountains and river.

Gwangmyeong Cave

An abandoned mine for 40 years to the best Cave Theme Park in Korea.

Anseong Farmland

The largest agro-livestock theme park in Korea with impressive seasonal flower fields.

Jarasum Island

Consists of 4 islands with the southern island transformed into a 'flower island'.

Ganhyeon Tourist Area (Sogeumsan Grand Valley)

Experience the longest suspension bridge (200m) in Korea & cliffside walk.

Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm

Korea’s first sheep farm, located at 850m above sea level in the Alps of Pyeongchang.

Wondae-ri Birch Forest

A nature sanctuary with over 700,000 birch trees, paths & lookouts.

Songjeong Beach

Well-known surf beach in Busan. Wet suits & surf boards for rent. Surfing lessons offered.

Gamcheon Culture Village

'The Santorini of Korea', known for its colourful mountainside houses.

Yongdusan & Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone: BIFF Square

Main venue of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) & a well-known food paradise.

Gwangalli Beach

Enjoy view of Gwangandaegyo Bridge & Gwangalli M Drone Light Show every Saturday.

OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Skyline Luge Busan

2nd Skyline Luge in Korea. Enjoy the scenic skyride up & ride downhill on luge carts.

Donggung Palace, Wolji Pond & Cheomseongdae

Top attractions of Gyeongju, the capital of ancient Silla Dynasty.

Jeonju Hanok Village

Referred as the 'Slow City' with over 800 traditional Korean hanok houses.

Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage and one of the most well-preserved royal palaces.

Gyeonghuigung Palace

Once a massive complex with 1,500 buildings and residence for kings for over 200 years.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Iconic landmark of Korean design industry, designed by world-renowned architect.

N Seoul Tower

Iconic landmark of Seoul with fantastic views of Seoul city.

Incheon Chinatown

Best Chinese food with nearby fairy tale inspired Songwoldong Fairy Tale Village & Jayu Park.

Everland Theme Park

Korea's largest amusement park with many fun rides, zoo & themed festivals.

Imjingak, Paju

A famous DMZ tourist spot, built with the hope of Korean unification someday.

Dumulmeori, Yangpyeong

A place of rustic nature beauty. Known for its over 400-years old Zelkova trees & filming site.

Nami Island

Well-known as the filming location of 'Winter Sonata' Korean drama.

Located on the mountain, a place where art & architecture are harmonized with nature.

Daegwallyeong: Daegwallyeong Sky Ranch

A huge ranch with over 540 cows, sheep, horses and goats in the vast grassland.

Taejongdae Park

Offer magnificent view of the sea at Yeongdo Lighthouse on the cliff.

BUSAN X the SKY

Observatory on 98-100F of Haeundae LCT The Sharp, the highest building in Busan.

Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge

Connect Amnam Park across the sea to Dongseom Island. 127.1m long and 2m wide.

Yongdusan & Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone: Jagalchi Market

Korea's largest seafood market with indoor & outdoor sections, including restaurants.

OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Ananti Cove

Large coastal town consists of Ananti Hilton Busan, hot spring, coastal walk, shops & cafes.

OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Lotte Premium Outlets

Designed with the concept of Santorini. Over 500 famous domestic & international brands.

Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Grotto

The first historical sites in Korea registered as UNESCO World Heritage.

Cheongpung Lakeside Cable Car

Panoramic view of Cheongpung Lake on the 2.3km cable car ride, connected to Mt. Bibongsan.

Deoksugung Palace

Smallest of the five palaces and the final residence of the last King of the Joseon Dynasty.

Hongdae (Hongik University Area)

A university suburb with youthful streets of shops, cafes & clubs.

Observatory located on 117F-123F of South Korea's tallest building, Lotte World Tower.

Seochon Village

The village resembles the old Seoul with hanoks (traditional Korean houses), shops & cafes.

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress

UNESCO World Heritage with impressive structure from Joseon Dynasty.

Seoul Land Amusement Park

1st large-scale theme park in Korea with over 40 rides & games for all ages.

DMZ, the border that divides the Korean Peninsula. Visit the 3rd Tunnel & Dora Observatory.

Heyri Art Valley, Paju

A lovely village formed by artists with shops, cafes, galleries and quirky sculptures.

Chuncheon Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car

The longest cable car in Korea at 3.61km, connecting Samak Mountain to Lake Uiam.

Gangneung Coffee Street

Anything related to coffee at the 'city of coffee', located on the eastern coast of Korea.

Daegwallyeong: Yongpyong Ski Resort

The largest ski resort in Korea & host of 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games.

Haeundae Beach

The most beloved & famous beach of the country. It stretches 1.5km long & 30-50m wide.

Busan Green Railway

Alongside the 9.8km walking trail is the popular Haeundae Sky Capsule & Beach Train.

Songdo Beach

1st public beach in Korea. Walking distance to Busan Air Cruise & Songdo Cloud Trails.

Yongdusan & Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone: Yongdusan Park

The most significant structure at Yongdusan Park is the Busan Diamond Tower (120m).

OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Lotte World Adventure

1st theme park in Busan. The amusement park features 6 zones with 17 rides & attractions.

Daewangam Park

A seaside park, known for its beautiful coastlines and interestingly-shaped rocks.

Naejangsan National Park

A favourite autumn foliage destination with a beautiful temple in the park.

Past Winners of Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots

Seodaemun Prison History Hall

Once a prison, now a museum. A popular K-drama location on their out of prison scenes.

Well-known shopping, dining & street food paradise.

Jebudo Island

Jebu Island, a mysterious island where sea routes open twice a day due to tides.

Pocheon Art Valley

Experience the beauty of the quarry at this famous drama filming location.

High1 Ski Resort

One of the most popular ski resorts in Korea, known for its puffy snow.

Tongyeong Skyline Luge

Ride the Skyride to get on board the Luge cart for exhilarating ride downhill.

Seoullo7017

A highway, now a beautiful sky garden walkway for pedestrians.

Wolmido Island

Cafes, seafood restaurants & theme park along the coast.

The Garden of Morning Calm

A beautiful & artistic private garden to be enjoyed in all seasons.

Seoraksan National Park

Beautiful mountain landscape, hiking courses & cable car rides to the top of the mountain.

Huinnyeoul Culture Village

Known for its beautiful coastal cliff landscape and a popular film location.

Oedo-Botania

Famous for its European atmosphere & marine botanical garden.

The global village in Seoul, known for its restaurants & night life.

Hwadam Botanic Garden

An ecological park divided into 17 themes with forest walking path & monorail courses.

Namhansanseong Provincial Park

A UNESCO World Heritage with 12.4km fortress & different hiking trails.

Wonju Suspension Bridge

Korea's longest suspension bridge across Mt. Segeum's 2 peaks.

A hill overlooking the sea & the location of many famous Korean dramas.

KoreaToDo TOP PICKS - Tours, Activities & Discount Tickets to TOP 100 MUST-VISIT TOURIST SPOTS

➥ Handpicked experiences by KoreaToDo for their uniqueness, value, popularity, price competitiveness and at times, tedious to reach by public transport.

N Seoul Tower Observatory Ticket

enjoy breathtaking views

Hanbok Experience (Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store)

incl. basic hairstyling & inner skirt

Nail Art & Hairstyling Experience at OLRANG, Hongdae

onsite English translation

Seoul Moonlight Walking Tour with Local Historian

Seoul's hidden gems with stories

Seoul City Tour Bus: Myeongdong, Seoul Tower, Palaces, Insadong, Bukchon

15 stops to hop on & hop off

Namsan Cable Car Round Trip Ticket (weekdays & min. 2 pax)

beautiful scenery of Seoul

Hanbok Rental (& Photoshoot) Experience by Hanbok That Day

3 mins walk fr. Gyeongbokgung

Seoul Personal Color & Make-up Analysis in Hongdae

with English speaking expert

Cheongwadae Blue House & Gyeongbokgung Palace Walking Tour

former presidential residence

Seoul City Tour Bus: Night View Course (Mt. Namsan, Han River Bridges...)

non-stop course with photo time

Lotte World Theme Park 1 Day Pass

easy access on Seoul Subway

Hanboknam Hanbok Rental Voucher at Changdeokgung Store

Alive Museum & Dynamic Maze in Insadong

interactive artworks!

Quaint Changgyeonggung Palace Night Tour

learn about Joseon history

Lotte World 1 Day Pass & Lotte World Aquarium

located in the heart of Seoul

Hanbok Rental near Changdeokgung Palace by Dorothy Hanbok

Kid/Male hanbok available.

Coex Aquarium in Seoul Admission Ticket

largest aquarium in Seoul

Discover Seoul Pass (Lotte World, COEX Aquarium, Han River Cruises, etc)

free access to >60 attractions

⬇ Tours departing from Seoul

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour

bird’s eye view of North Korea

Paju/Gimpo/Cheorwon DMZ Day Tour

DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)

Hwadam Botanic Garden & Korean Folk Village Day Tour

garden with 17 themes

Everland 1 Day Pass (instant QR Code for entry incl. on voucher upon booking)

a large amusement park & zoo!

DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel & Gamaksan Suspension Bridge Day Tour

150m long bridge across valley

Korean Folk Village, Suwon Hwaseong & Suwon Nammun Market Day Tour

Authentic cultural experience

Hwadam Forest, Ludencia Theme Park & Dumulmeori Day Tour

Everland Day Tour (Admission, Tour Guide & Round Trip Transfer)

Eng./Mandarin speaking guide

DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel & Majang Lake Suspension Bridge Day Tour

220m long bridge by the lake

Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park (MBC Drama Studio) Tour

BTS Suga music video & ARMY

Hwadam Forest, Ludencia Theme Park & Yeoju Outlet Day Tour

PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Alpaca World, Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm

hotel pickup & admissions

DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel & Korea Traditional Boat Voyage Day Tour

river flowing out of North Korea

Hwadam Botanic Garden & Gwangmyeong Cave Tour

Top 100 Must-Visit Spots

Hwadam Forest, Ludencia Theme Park & Gwangmyeong Cave Tour

Pocheon Art Valley, Apple Farm Experience & Herb Island Day Tour

apple pie making + monorail

Mt. Seorak & Naksansa Temple Tour

explore Korea’s natural beauty

Nami Island, Petite France & Italian Village Day Tour

Nami Island, Petite France, Italian Village & The Morning Calm Day Tour

Alpaca World & Nami Island Private Day Tour (1-5 pax/car)

comfortable & safe travel

Nami Island, Alpaca World & Chuncheon King Canoeing Day Tour

PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Nami Island & Rail Bike (& more)

Seoraksan National Park, Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

spectacular landscapes of Korea

Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

Nami Island, Petite France, Italian Village & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

Alpaca World, Nami Island, Gangchon Rail Bike Private Day Tour (1-5 pax/car)

travel in comfort

Legoland Korea & Nami Island Day Tour

World's 2nd largest Legoland!

IN THE SOOP BTS Ver. (PyeongChang) Filming Location Tour

incl. official merchandise gift!

Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

best of Gangwon province!

Alpaca World, Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

enjoy the best of Gangwon!

Alpaca World, Nami Island & Petite France Private Day Tour (1-5 pax/car)

travel with friends & family

Legoland Korea & Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car Day Tour

longest 3.61km cable car ride!

PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Alpaca World, Nami Island & Rail Bike

Nami Island Admission Ticket (incl. return ferry)

Skip the ticketing queue!

Alpaca World, Nami Island & The Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

walk with adorable alpacas

Nami, Petite France, Italian V., Morning Calm & Gangchon Rail Bike Tour

visit them all!

Nami Island, Alpaca World & Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car Day Tour

longest cable car in Korea!

PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Alpaca World & Nami Island

Incheon Day Tour (Ganghwa Luge, Rail Bike, Wolmido & Fairy Tale Village)

enjoy the best of Incheon!

over 800 traditional houses

Lotte World Adventure Busan 1 Day Pass

1st theme park in Busan!

CLUBD OASIS: Spa Ticket @LCT, Haeundae Beach

hot spring & Korean dry sauna with 5 themes (salt, cypress, red clay, elvan & ice)

Busan Day Tour: Blueline Park - Cheongsapo Station

✚Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Huinnyeoul & Gamcheon Villages

Busan City Day Tour (Haeundae Sky Capsule)

✚Oryukdo Skywalk, Huinnyeoul Culture Village & Gamcheon Culture Village

Busan Night Small Group Photo Tour

Gamcheon Culture Village, Observatory, Waterside Park & Mt. Hwangnyongsan

Skyline Luge Busan Ticket

✚panoramic view sky rides

CLUBD OASIS: Spa & Water Park All-Use Ticket

@Busan's tallest building LCT, Haeundae Beach

Busan Day Tour: Haeundae Sky Capsule

✚Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Cheongsapo, Huinnyeoul & Gamcheon Culture Villages

Busan City Day Tour (Yacht Course)

✚Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Gwangalli Beach & Gamcheon Culture Village

Gyeongju UNESCO Sites & Haeundae Sky Capsule Tour

Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju Historic Areas (Daereungwon, Hwangnidan-gil) & Wolji Pond

Busan SEA LIFE Aquarium Admission Ticket

Busan Air Cruise Cable Car Ticket

normal or crystal cabin options

Busan City Day Tour (Classic Course)

✚Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Taejongdae, Gamcheon Culture Village & Songdo Skywalk

Busan Must-Visit Day Tour (Sky Capsule & Beach Train)

✚Cheongsapo Skywalk, Jukseong Cathedral & Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

MUSEUM 1 SIGNS of LOSS Ticket (new modern art)

152.4m mega sized LED media art!

Busan Day Tour: Haeundae Beach Train

Busan City Day Tour (Haeundae Beach Train)

✚Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Gamcheon Culture Village & Songdo Skywalk

Busan Night Tour (Western Course)

Songdo Cable Car+Skywalk, Gamcheon Culture Village & Cheonmasan Road View

⬇ Tours departing from Busan

Gyeongju Old Capital Day Tour

Bulguksa Temple, Gyochon Village, Woljeong Bridge, Daereungwon, Wolji Pond++

Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage Site Day Trip

Bulguksa Temple, Yangdong Village, Daereungwon, Wolji Pond, Woljeong Bridge++

Oedo Botania Island & Geoje Cable Car Day Tour

Hill of Wind, Cruise Ship, Haegeumgang, Oedo Botania & Geoje Panorama Cable Car

Busan & Gyeongju Private Customized Tour

Chinese/English speaking driver, 8hrs, vehicle, parking, toll fee, insurance, hotel pick-up

♔  KoreaToDo recommends  Klook.com , Asia leading in-destination service provider 

🌸SPRING PICKS🌸 Handpicked Experiences from Seoul

Cherry Blossom Hunting Day Tour

29 Mar - 29 Apr 2024

2-3 most beautiful cherry blossom spots

Taean Tulip Festival & Strawberry Picking Day Tour

12 Apr - 7 May 2024

500g strawberry picking

Incheon Day Tour (1 flower spot, Songdo Central Park & Songdo Triple Street)

26 Mar - 30 Apr 2024

spring only

King Cherry Blossoms Day Tour

15-25 Apr 2024

larger & pink King cherry blossoms

Taean Tulip Festival, Kkotji Beach & Strawberry Picking Day Tour

World's top five tulip festivals!

Pink King Cherry Blossom Tour (Spring Flower Festival, Gaesimsa & Munsusa)

14-29 Apr 2024

king cherry blossoms are larger & denser

Other KoreaToDo 'Best of Collections' that you may like:

Top 10 Most Popular Attractions

Top Day Trips from Seoul under 3 hours

Best Hidden Places in Seoul

Top Favourite Shopping Heaven in Seoul

Still looking? Explore KoreaToDo handpicked collection of:

Seoul - North of Han River

Seoul - South of Han River

Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 20 Best Things To Do

Looking for the best things to do in South Korea? Enjoy our South Korea bucket list full of great ideas on how you can plan your South Korea trip! This list features things to do in Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju, Jeonju and more beautiful places around the country. Here’s our bucket list on what to do in South Korea!

South Korea is a country in East Asia known for its K-Pop, Korean food, palaces, Buddhist temples and the famous capital city Seoul. If you love unique culture, views of mountains, bright neon signs and a country with so many modern features then you should start creating your South Korea bucket list now!

There are so many amazing things to do in South Korea and this list won’t even capture it all – but it’s definitely a start and a great introduction to what to do in South Korea on a first trip! If you need any help planning out your route, head over to our 2 week South Korea itinerary to plan the most amazing trip.

This South Korea bucket list includes destinations that are easy to get to by the impressive public transport the country has to offer. We’ll share how to get to these places and a few more tips for South Korea at the bottom of this page!

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

Ultimate South Korea Bucket List

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

South Korea is an incredible country to visit with amazing cities, lovely villages, great food and some of the best hikes! In no particular order – here are the 20 best things to do in South Korea!

1. Visit Gyeongbukgung

Gyeongbukgung is one of the most beautiful palaces in Seoul . There are five palaces in Seoul and all of them deserve a visit – but if you only have time for one, make it Gyeongbukgung. It was built in 1395 and was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty.

Make your visit to the palace memorable by renting a hanbok for a few hours. Hanbok rental stores are hard to miss when visiting South Korea and there are a few rental shops right around the corner from Gyeongbukgung. Find the link on Klook here –  Hanbok Rental Klook

If you’re in Seoul for a few days – check out our  5 Day Seoul Itinerary travel guide here !

We use a  Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  to take photos of us together on our camera, it’s so useful especially when there’s no one around! There’s also a version for a phone –  Joby Phone Tripod  to get the best photos on your South Korea trip!

2. Have a traditional Korean meal

Eating Korean food is one of the best things to do in South Korea and should definitely be on your South Korea bucket list! Enjoy a traditional Korean meal at Osegye Hyang ( location ) in the gorgeous streets of Insadong.

When entering, it’s polite to take off your shoes and sit on cushions on the floor instead of chairs. Along with your meal, you’ll be served lots of little side dishes called Banchan ! The best meal to have when you first arrive in South Korea!

3. Stay in a Temple

Temple stays are a cultural programme in South Korea as a way to experience the Buddhism lifestyle and practices. It’s our favourite thing we did in South Korea and we’d 100% go back to stay in more temples around the country. We highly recommend – Golgulsa Templestay ! (Near Gyeongju & Busan)

Here’s the link to find out more information and book a stay at –  Golgulsa Templestay Reservations . The  price  is  60,000KRW  per night, per person. (30krw for a pre-schooler)

We’ve also shared a Golgulsa Templstay Review so you can find out exactly what it’s like to stay overnight in a South Korean Buddhist Temple. It’s such an amazing and unique experience!

4. Take the train to Busan

If you’ve ever seen the horror/action movie Train to Busan – then taking the train from Seoul to Busan must be on your South Korea bucket list! Remember, it’s just a movie!

You can book your ticket on the KTX  here –   Korail Train Tickets . It’s a quick 2 hour 15 minutes from Seoul to Busan and the tickets are usually around ₩45,000 – ₩65,000. If you’re on a budget, then intercity and express buses are generally cheaper but slower in South Korea.

If you’re taking multiple trains in South Korea, you may want to get a KR Pass to save you money! Find out more details on Klook !

If you’re interested in travel costs and how much to budget for South Korea, here’s our 10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024) !

5. Explore a Hanok Village

Another one of the best things to do in South Korea is to explore the many hanok villages that can be found around the country. Bukchon Hanok Village may be the most popular village to explore in South Korea as it’s located in Seoul. It’s absolutely beautiful and should be on your South Korea things to do list! Find Bukchon Observatory for an impressive view to see the tops of the preserved buildings!

• Jeonju Hanok Village (Jeonju)
• Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul)
• Andong Hahoe Folk Village (between Seoul & Busan)

6. Visit the DMZ

If you’re spending a few days in Seoul you may be interested to visit the Demilitarized Zone of Korea in between North and South Korea. It’s an important part of the country and there’s so much history to learn about the Korean War. This can only be done on a tour –  book tickets with Klook here !

7. Spend a day in Gyeongju

Wondering what to do in South Korea? Take a visit to the beautiful city of Gyeongju also known as a museum with no walls . This ancient city has preserved remains and tombs from many years ago and it was once the residence of Silla rulers for over 1000 years. You can book a Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage Tour from Busan on Klook .

Take a browse at 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju  to plan your trip!

8. Eat Korean street food

We’ve already mentioned that Korean food should be on your South Korea bucket list – and now we want to tell you to try Korean street food! There are so many markets around the country that have amazing choices when it comes to food. Gwangjang Market is our favourite food market in Seoul!

• Tteokbokki (Rice cakes in a spicy sauce)
• Gun Goguma (Roasted sweet potatoes)
• Mandu (Korean dumplings)
• Gamja-Hotdog (Korean-style corn dog covered with potato)
• Dakgangjeong (Korean fried chicken with a sweet spicy coating – There’s vegan options too!)
• Bindaetteok (Mung bean pancakes)

Check out our Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024) !

9. Hike in Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan National Park is one of the most impressive hiking spots in South Korea. Sokcho (the city nearby) is only a bus ride away from Seoul and has accommodations to stay in for anyone who wants to spend a day or more in the park.

Hiking Seoraksan ( Snow Rock Mountain ) should be on your things to do in South Korea if you love hiking! Challenge yourself to reach Ulsanbawi – a six-peak formation with gorgeous views of the mountains. It takes around four hours one way or there’s actually a cable car going a similar way.

10. Wander around Insadong

Seoul is a destination that must be on your South Korea bucket list and one of the best things to do in South Korea is to wander around the beautiful streets of Insadong.

Insadong is home to many independent restaurants, cafes and boutique shops – it’s a lovely place to spend a morning or afternoon in South Korea. It also has a few of our favourite places to eat! Plan your Seoul trip here –  5 Day Seoul Itinerary travel guide !

11. Hike to the top of Seoul Tower

Next up on your South Korea bucket list is hiking in Namsan Park (Seoul Tower). Don’t worry, it’s not as long as the hikes in Seoraksan National Park and it’s right in the heart of Seoul. It’s actually possible to get a bus up to the top and the base of the tower.

The views are incredible from the park and one of our favourite things to do in South Korea. You can also go o the top of the tower for a better view of the city. Tickets are really affordable on Klook – so make sure you  buy your ticket in advance!

12. Go to a K-Pop concert

K-pop is very popular in South Korea and people also love it around the world! For some fans, it’s the main reason they visit South Korea! K-pop is short for Korean popular music and is a big part of South Korean culture. Check tickets on InterPark or search the web! It’s such a South Korea bucket list moment to be able to watch K-pop live in the same country it originated from!

13. Try bibimbap

Bibimbap is a big part of Korean cuisine and it’s easily customizable for anyone which means it’s great for vegetarians in South Korea. Bibim means mixing rice and bap refers to the rice.

The Korean dish is usually topped with kimchi, gochujang, vegetables or protein and mixed up before being eaten. It’s one of the tastiest and most nutritious dishes in South Korea and originated in Jeonju!

Browse our guide on 25+ Best South Korea Travel Tips before your trip!

14. Explore Jeju Island

Jeju Island has to be on your South Korea bucket list, unfortunately, we didn’t get a chance to visit the island on our South Korea trip and are definitely planning a visit there next time!

The island is known for its stunning nature, waterfalls, the highest mountain in South Korea and lovely beaches. It’s a popular getaway for Koreans to escape the business of cities on the mainland. The country isn’t short on things to do in South Korea to spend your days!

15. Stay in a Hanok in Jeonju

Jeonju Hanok Village is home to over 700 Hanok homes that are still being used to this day. Some are people’s homes and others have been turned into accommodations for guests. Staying in a hanok is one of the best things to do in South Korea!

We highly recommend staying in the accommodation Jungdam ( Find here on Booking.com ) – right in the heart of the traditional Korean village! In hanoks, the sleeping set-up is Korean Style (on the floor!)

16. Try out Noraebang (Karaoke)

Noraebang is the Korean name for Karaoke (which is Japanese ). South Koreans love Noraebang and you’ll find plenty of Noraebang rooms in cities around the country. Most noraebang will rent a room by the hour to sing your heart out! It’s common to see clips from older K-dramas in the rooms too, so it’s a fun experience!

17. Shop in Hongdae

You can’t take a trip to Seoul without visiting the vibrant and trendy neighbourhood of Hongdae. Visit one of the many cafes in the area to join in with the popular cafe culture in South Korea. Hongdae is also a great place for nightlife and amazing street performers! Add this to your bucket list in South Korea!

Hongdae  is one of the hip and trendy areas of Seoul, with many shops, restaurants and themed cafes. It’s also a great spot for nightlife alongside Itaewon. Street performers

18. Take a trip to Nami Island

Nami Island is a popular day trip from Seoul and one of the best things to do in South Korea in any season but especially in the Fall. The trees and foilage come alive in peak season and it’s a cosy place to visit!

From Seoul catch a train to Gapyeong Station, then a bus and from there it’s a 10-minute ferry over to the island! You can even take a zip wire onto the island! Nami island is also known as the final resting place of General Nami who was part of the Joseon Dynasty and a filming location for K-dramas such as Secret Garden and My Love from the Star.

The best way to get to Nami Island is to book a tour with Klook , prices are usually discounted and you can choose what activities to do. A Nami Island day trip is also included in the Klook Seoul Pass !

19. Gamcheon Culture Village

Visiting Gamcheon Culture Village is another one of the most interesting things to do in South Korea and a must when visiting Busan! The village has come a long way since the Korean war when it was populated by poor residents of Busan.

The Tourism board of South Korea chose to bring the village to life with art and creativity in the hope to attract visitors. It soon became a beautiful attraction with cute cafes and trendy shops and now it’s a spot to add to your South Korea bucket list!

We also have an in-depth 3-Day Busan Itinerary if you’re planning a visit!

20. Learn about history at the National Museum of Korea

Lastly on this South Korea bucket list, is to take a visit to the National Museum of Korea in Seoul – the largest museum in South Korea ! There is a collection of more than 310,000 historic artefacts dating back thousands of years.

The museum is easy to reach by Seoul’s public transport. It’s also free to enter this museum, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for things to do in South Korea!

So that’s our 20 best things to do in South Korea bucket list – it’s definitely not all the best things to do in the country, but now you can add to this to create your perfect trip. Here are a few more suggestions for you!

Best things to do in South Korea (Weather)

December – February ( Winter ) – Go skiing or snowboarding! If you’re visiting South Korea in the winter, it’s the best time to hit the slopes or have fun in the snow! Build a snowman, create a snow angel or go on a winter hike. The winter is pretty cold in South Korea, but it’s definitely worth a visit to see the country magically covered in snow!

March – May ( Spring ) – Once the snow has melted away and nature starts brightening up again, South Korea is covered in beautiful cherry blossoms. Japan is well known for the Sakura season all over the world, but South Korea gets the same lovely blossoms. Visit in Spring to be a part of the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival!

June – August ( Summer ) – This season is pretty different to European summers. South Korea experiences typhoons and the rainy season in the summer months. It’s usually hot and humid with lots of rain, although there will be sunny days too! We visited in early June and it was getting hot but no rain.

September – November ( Fall ) – Another beautiful season to visit South Korea – the foilage in October is absolutely beautiful and should be a season on your South Korea bucket list. Spring and Fall may be the best seasons to come to Korea.

What to pack for South Korea?

Depending on the weather, you’ll want to pack the clothes you usually wear, plus a good pair of footwear! We wear trainers everywhere (even when wearing hanbok oops!) and it’s definitely needed in the cities or on short hikes. Here are a few travel essentials we always carry:

• Stainless Steel Water Bottle  – A refillable bottle is a must when tap water is free & accessible in South Korea!
• Amazon Basics Packing Cubes  – We can’t pack our bags without using packing cubes!
• Rain Mac in a Bag  – Essential for unpredictable rainfall when it’s warm in Korea!
• Anker Power Bank  – Keep your phone charged by carrying around a power bank for your trip!
• Worldwide Travel Adaptor  – The best for visiting multiple countries!
• Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  – The perfect lightweight tripod to take anywhere in South Korea! We love our  Joby GorillaPod  and use it for our  Sony A600 . There’s also a version for a phone –  Joby Phone Tripod .

Where to stay in South Korea?

• Seoul – Hostel Tommy – Find here on Booking.com !
• Busan – Dynamic Guesthouse – Find here on Booking.com !
• Gyeongju – Doobaki Guesthouse –  Find here on Booking.com !
• Jeonju – Jungdam –  Find here on Booking.com !

Festivals in South Korea

Boryeong Mud Festival – A celebration of water, coolness & covering the body in mud – summer

Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival – A festival to celebrate cherry blossoms – spring

Busan International Film Festival – A movie festival in Busan – fall

Lotus Lantern Festival – A celebration & Buddha’s birthday festival – spring

The Seoul Lantern Festival – A celebration of Korean culture – fall

Boseong Green Tea Festival – To celebrate South Korea’s biggest tea plantation – spring

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

Don’t forget Travel Insurance! SafetyWing is a totally flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip anywhere in the world. You don’t have to be in your home country to start it and you can add months to your trip whenever you need to! Find out more here!

More  South Korea  guides:

• Ultimate 2 week South Korea Itinerary: Best Places (2024)
• 5 Day Seoul Itinerary – Best Things To Do (2024)
• Staying in Golgulsa Temple: The Best Templestay in Korea (2024)
• 3 day Busan Itinerary: What to do in Busan (2024)
• 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju: Itinerary (2024)
• 25+ Best South Korea Travel Tips: What to Know
• Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024)
• 10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024) !
• All our  South Korea  posts!

That’s the end of our  Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 20 Best Things To Do!  Have an amazing time in South Korea and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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21 of the best things to do in South Korea

From picturesque temples in the mountains to the country’s most beautiful beaches – these are the best experiences in south korea as it drops the last of its covid travel restrictions.

I t couldn’t be easier to explore South Korea and its capital Seoul : especially now the country has dropped the last of its pandemic travel rules. An extensive system of buses and the nation’s high-speed train system make it possible to zip across the country in a matter of hours — and incredible national parks dotted with temples and waterfalls await. Take an hour-long flight to Jeju Island to hear haenyeo (female divers; the name translates literally as “sea women”) sing and swim in crystal-blue waters; watch traditional dance come to life in the historical Andong Hahoe Village; and see first-hand the divide that keeps North and South Korea apart.

Main photo: pavilions at Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul (Getty Images)

1. Contemplate nature and art at Museum SAN

When building this ethereal structure in the mountains of Wonju, architect Tadao Ando claimed that he wanted to “create a garden museum in the sky, a dreamlike museum like no other”. Though “san” literally means mountain, the name is an acronym for space, art, nature and the creations at the museum are intended to enhance your connection to the landscape. Buy a complete ticket, which allows you entry to everything from the paper museum to the meditation hall and James Turrell exhibition, and take time to go through the entire space one thoughtful gaze at a time.

2. Take the USO tour of the Joint Security Area in the Demilitarized Zone

After a few days in contemporary Seoul, it may be difficult to remember that North and South Korea are still technically at war. Take time to learn about this living history with a trip to the Joint Security Area (called Panmunjeom), where the Armistice Agreement was signed on July 27, 1953. Of the many tours available there, the one run by the United Service Organizations should be your top pick based on how extensive and affordable it is. The full-day option picks you up from central Seoul and takes you to all of DMZ’s must-see sights: 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Dorasan Observatory and the JSA. You’ll need to book four days in advance.

3. Cook temple food with star chef Jeong Kwan

If you’re a fan of Chef’s Table , you might remember Buddhist nun Jeong Kwan, from the show’s third season. In the episode, the mother of temple food cuisine walks through the wild mountainside and collects vegetables that she fashions into delicious meals. The striking temple from that very episode is Baekyangsa, located in Naejangsan National Park — and it’s possible to spend a night there meditating and learning how to cook with the famous chef herself on the overnight visit hosted by Templestay. The mountain is known for its vibrant foliage, so snag an autumn spot if possible.

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4. Listen to the sea songs of Jeju’s female divers

The island of Jeju, located off the southern coast of the peninsula, is home to a few hundred haenyeo. Haenyeo are typically older women who dive, without gear, to catch seafood and other edibles from the ocean, and Jeju’s haenyeo culture was inscribed into Unesco intangible cultural heritage in 2016. Head to the Haenyeo Women Diver Show at Seongsan Ilchulbong at 1.30pm or 3pm to listen to the women sing traditional songs and see them dive.

5. Roll down the windows for a slow train ride to see Mount Taebaek

Korail, South Korea’s national rail service, has a handful of sightseeing trains that tick off the country’s most scenic sights. The V-Train, which leaves from Buncheon Station in Gyeongsangbuk, whisks you through the Baekdudaegan valleys and leaves ample time to explore the stops along the way. Two highlights are the quaint Santa’s Village town near the starting point and the view of Mount Taebaek — with the windows down ­— towards the end of the journey. Taebaek is said to be best when it’s covered in snow, so aim for a trip in the winter months if you can.

6. Go for a swim off Jeju’s northeast coast

Few know that white sand and crystal-blue waters exist in South Korea, but venture to Woljeongri Beach on Jeju Island and you will see Korea’s semi-tropics in a whole new light. The name of the beach, which literally means “the moon stays”, could be a poetic interpretation of its landscape, as the jagged, black rock surrounding the waters is not unlike that of Earth’s natural satellite. Woljeongri gets busy in July and August, but is also swimmable in late May and June. If you can’t go in the summer, the area’s cafés and bars make it equally stirring in wintertime.

7. Examine an abandoned airstrip off the beaten path on Jeju Island

At first glance, Alddreu Airfield in the Seogwipo district of Jeju looks like it might not be more than unclaimed farmland, but peer a bit closer and you’ll see remnants of an unofficial airport built by the Imperial Japanese Army. Historians suspect that it could have been built in the 1920s and might eventually have been used as the training site for suicide bombers — a contrast to the peacefulness of the land today. Every so often you’ll come across aircraft-shaped structures, placed at the site to commemorate its history.

8. Visit the Andong Hahoe Folk Village

Often considered the most authentic representation of Korean life during the Joseon dynasty (1392-1897), the Andong Hahoe Folk Village is the birthplace of 16th-century prime minister Ryu Seongryong. The village, which is still inhabited by the Ryu clan, was designated a Unesco world heritage site in 2010. It has well-preserved thatched roofs and is in a picturesque location by the Nakdong River, but the main reason to go is to watch the village’s famous “mask dance” performance — a ritual that dates back to the preceding mid-Goryeo dynasty and is not only lively and entertaining but also addresses class and society in Korean society.

9. Go stargazing at Firefly Ecological Park

The Firefly Ecological Park in Yeongyang county has a silver tier ranking — meaning that artificial light is limited, which allows the Milky Way to be visible here during summer and winter. The park is divided into two sections: an exhibition space with information about the stars, planets and light pollution, and an observation deck with telescopes to peer into these other worlds yourself. The destination is quite remote, with not too much to do in the surrounding area, but it’s a unique opportunity to learn about the relevance of astrology to Korean culture and see a phenomenal night sky in East Asia.

10. See cherry blossoms en route to Gyeryongsan National Park

This national park on the outskirts of Daejeon’s peaks is best during cherry blossom season in spring and again during autumn, when the leaves begin to change colour. Although it’s almost impossible to avoid crowds during early April, there are plenty of smaller paths en route to the park for chances to take photos. Once inside, head over to one of the park’s quieter temples, Sinwonsa, which is surrounded by striking plum blossom trees.

11. Luge down hills in Tongyeong

Looking for something a little more fast-paced while travelling the southern coast? Try going luging down the hills of Tongyeong. While the combination racing and sledding sport is available at a few facilities across the country, this location in Tongyeong is one of the longest at 2.1km and the ten-minute downhill journey provides views of the emerald-green ocean. There’s a package with tickets that provide access for up to five rides in one day, as well as discounts for tickets bought in sets of four — making it an easy place to hang with the family for an afternoon.

12. Hike up Mount Seoraksan

The favourite spot of many avid Korean hikers, Seoraksan is part of a vast mountain range in the Gangwon province that reaches 1,708m at Daechongbong Peak. There are various routes, depending on your athletic abilities, but one of the most popular destinations is Ulsanbawi — a six-peak formation with overarching views. The 7.2km trail takes approximately four hours one way and allows for stops at several Buddhist monuments and temples. The less energetic can opt to take a cable car to near Gwongeumseong Peak, a shortcut that allows you to take in the beauty without the huffing and puffing.

13. Have a seafood dinner at Jagalchi Market

Located in Busan’s Nampo-dong, Jagalchi Market is the largest fish market in South Korea. While there are some vendors outdoors, most stalls are in one main indoor facility, where you can purchase dried and fresh seafood. Though the market is more about the experience than the food itself, one of the highlights is walking through the first floor, picking out a fish or mollusc for yourself, and having it served to you — raw, grilled or in a stew — at one of the restaurants on the second floor.

14. Get sweaty and get clean at Spa Land

While jjimjilbangs (traditional bathhouses) can be found across the country, there are few as clean and well-managed as Spa Land in Busan’s Centum City. The facilities here are divided into two zones: the first floor has sweat rooms and public baths segregated by sex, and the second focuses on entertainment. Jjimjilbang first-timers can check in, undress in the locker room, take a shower and bath, get sweaty in a hot room, and then pay a little extra for an all-body exfoliation before another bath. For a truly zen experience try the outdoor hot springs in the bathing section.

15. Explore the hip Seoul neighbourhood of Euljiro

Head to Seoul’s Euljiro district to find the country’s most innovative bars and stylish cafés. Euljiro was once known for its printing presses, lighting and electrical equipment but recently lower rents have attracted young entrepreneurs. Check out Tacqueria Stan for the city’s best Mexican tacos, Suldabang for cocktails mixed with traditional Korean liquor and After Jerk Off for wine and beers in an edgy, sexy backdrop. Around 8pm, bars in Nogari Alley fill up with customers eager to have chicken, beer and nogari (dried pollack).

• Best things to do in Seoul

16. Book a moonlight tour at one of Seoul’s royal palaces

The capital has five striking royal palaces that are worth your time: Gyeongbokgung, Deoksugung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung and Gyeonghuigung. Each is charming in its own way and the city often runs moonlight tours that allow you to see them in the glow of the night. The most popular takes place at Changdeokgung — often claimed to be the most beautiful of the five. Check the official royal palace website to see which is hosting a tour at the time of your visit.

17. Cycle around Modo, Sido and Sindo

Located off the coast of Incheon, these three lesser-known islands are connected by bridges. The terrain is mostly flat and not much has been developed, making it an easy place to experience the Korean countryside on two wheels. Depart from Sammok Quay and take the ferry to Sindo, where you can rent a bicycle from a small café named Anyeong Bada. Two of the places you’ll want to see while exploring the islands are Sugi Beach on Sido and Baemikkumi Sculpture Park. The former was the location for 2004 Korean TV series Full House and the latter, facing the ocean, is a series of large-scale sculptures on the theme of eroticism.

18. Brew your own traditional Korean alcohol with the Sool Company

Want to know how you can make authentic Korean liquor? The Sool Company, a school and tour company run by specialist Julia Mellor, is here to help. Options range from bar crawls around Seoul to day trips to breweries across the country; guides help you understand the difference between commercially produced makgeolli (rice wine) and homemade varieties made without additives. While learning how to brew, you’ll also absorb plenty of the country’s history — so you can pass off that second sip of soju (distilled alcohol) as a culture lesson.

19. Take the ferry out to Cheongpyeongsa Temple

A visit to Cheongpyeongsa Temple is one of the easiest day trips from Seoul and is a great option if you’re in Korea for a limited period. The ITX-Cheongchun Line from central Seoul takes you to Chuncheon (capital of Gangwon province) in just 68 minutes; from there, you’ll hop on a bus to Soyang Dam, the world’s fourth largest rock-filled dam. Take a quick look around before boarding the short ferry to Cheongpyeongsa nearby, where a relatively easy trail to the temple is situated next to a gorgeous river valley. Take a break on your way up and dip your feet into the water.

20. Time travel to the past in the historical city of Gunsan

The Japanese settled in this port city in the North Jeolla Province during the late 19th century and it is known for several colonial-era buildings that survived the Korean War. Start an exploration of Gunsan with a stamp card, available at the city’s tourist office, and cross off the locations, such as the country’s oldest bakery, Lee Sung Dang. Other must-see sights include Hirotsu House, the former home of a Japanese fabric maker, the Old Gunsan Customs House, where you can see official papers used during the era, and Donguksa Temple, the only Japanese-style temple left in the country. Before leaving, walk along Gyeongamdong Railroad Town, a stretch of railway that ran from Gunsan Station to Gunsan Post — and have a great beef radish soup for dinner at Hanilok.

21. Have soft tofu in the seaside town of Gangneung

The Chodang Dubu Village is a collection of restaurants and cafés dedicated to the art of bean curd; tofu is said to taste better here because of the saltiness of the East Sea water. While the subtle dish can be eaten after just a light steam and dip in soy sauce, try it served as a spicy, bubbling stew topped with silkened tofu — soondubu jigae. A local favourite in the village is Chodang Halmoni Soondubu, where both versions are served — though you can also try tofu gelato at Sonamu Jip Chodang Soondubu.

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Seoul

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Freddy Sherman has visited South Korea multiple times, most recently exploring Seoul and the DMZ in 2022.

Seoul, South Korea is a vibrant and exciting city, one that deftly combines ancient history with ultra-modern design and technology. This city is filled with a wide range of fun things to do and tourist attractions of all types, from outdoor adventures like exploring Mount Namsan and its surrounding park to indoor fun like visiting one of Seoul's many museums.

Seoul is also a city of palaces, with five huge palace complexes located throughout the city and now restored to their former glory. Of course, it's also known for its food, with a mouthwatering array of street food, Korean specialties like barbecue, and even fine-dining options.

Discover the best places to visit in this exciting city with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Seoul.

1. N Seoul Tower

2. explore the bukchon hanok traditional village, 3. national museum of korea, 4. lotte world tower, 5. visit the dmz, 6. gyeongbokgung palace, 7. seoul museum of art, 8. blue house, 9. bongeunsa temple, 10. gwanghwamun gate, 11. take a walk along cheonggyecheon, seoul's urban stream, 12. jingwansa temple, bukhansan national park, 13. people watch in itaewon, 14. dongdaemun design plaza, 15. gwangjang market, 16. spend a sunday in insadong, where to stay in seoul for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in seoul, seoul, south korea - climate chart.

Rising almost 500 meters above the city, this communications and observation tower provides dramatic views of the city from its perch on the side of Mount Namsan. A cable car whisks you up the side of the mountain to the base of the tower. From here, you can go up in the tower and visit any one of four observation decks, one of which is a rotating restaurant.

There are five different dining experiences at the N Seoul Tower and, of course, several gift shops. The n.GRILL, on the top level, is considered one of Seoul's best French fine-dining restaurants. Be sure to visit the new Inside Seoul immersive media art exhibition, where 40 laser projectors create a virtual display of the city via five-dimensional mapping, with the tower at the center.

The views from the tower are great, but so are the views of the tower from most parts of the city. Computer-controlled LED lighting on the exterior of the tower provides a digital, visual cultural experience of Seoul with changing themed lighting presentations.

Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2(i)ga-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

For a taste of Korean traditional culture and architecture, a visit to the Bukchon Hanok Village is a fun and educational way to spend an afternoon. This preserved district of several ancient neighborhoods gives you a feel for what it was like to live in Korea 600 years ago. It's right in central Seoul, in the area between the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Changdeokgung Palace.

The neighborhoods of narrow streets feature hanoks or traditional Korean houses. It's a unique place, as it's a historic area, very popular with tourists, but it's also a real neighborhood because the houses are all occupied.

Some of the hanoks are now guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts , and a few are museums and can be toured. Others are cultural centers showcasing traditional crafts and other historic aspects of Korean life, but most are private homes.

This must-see attraction in Seoul showcases the incredible history and artwork of Korea and the Korean people. The National Museum of Korea , one of the largest in Asia, is in the city's Yongsan District (close to Itaewon).

It focuses on archeology, history, and art and includes a vast collection of works and objects going back more than a million years. There are ancient and prehistoric artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and other artwork along with a large collection of objects and antiques.

Before or after your museum visit, head down the street to Yongsan Family Park , a nice outdoor space to relax. Another important museum worth a visit, The War Memorial of Korea is also close by.

Address: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Seobinggo-dong, Yongsan-gu

One of the newest attractions in Seoul is the Lotte World Tower skyscraper. The tallest building in South Korea, it's 500 meters above the ground and currently the fifth-tallest building in the world . The vase-like shape, with gentle curves, is designed to mimic traditional Korean ceramic pieces.

There are several indoor and outdoor observation areas (called Seoul Sky) at the top on the 117th-123 rd floors. Views are spectacular both during the day and at night, and you can see 360 degrees around the city.

On the 118 th floor, there's the Sky Deck with the world's highest glass floor. Like magic, the floor changes from opaque to clear, terrifying unsuspecting visitors. Even getting to the top is fun, and the journey is done via super fast, double-decker elevators, with windows on one side and LED screens on the other three and on the ceiling.

Inside the tower are offices, luxury residences, and the SIGNIEL SEOUL luxury hotel. There's also the Lotte World Aquarium, the Lotte Museum of Art, and an enormous shopping mall. The tower is home to the Lotte Concert Hall and the Lotte Cinema, a state-of-the-art, 21-screen MoviePlex with the world's largest movie screen. The tower is adjacent to the Lotte World amusement park, which is a great thing to do in Seoul for families.

Address: Songpa-gu, Jamsil 6(yuk)-dong, Olympic-ro, 300, Seoul

A remnant of the Korean War, the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) is the area located along the border between North and South Korea. This highly sensitive and highly fortified area can only be visited during an official tour. Aside from the visit to the DMZ, a tour gives you a chance to get out of urban Seoul and see a bit of the Korean countryside.

The Half-Day Korean DMZ Tour , which includes pickup and drop-off in central Seoul, takes you to the important sites in the DMZ area and gets you back to Seoul right after lunch (if you take the early morning tour). The guided tour includes visits to landmarks like the 3rd Tunnel, dug by the North in anticipation of an invasion, and the Dora Observatory, where you can look over into North Korea.

First built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest of Seoul's five grand palaces built during the powerful Joseon dynasty. Destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries, it was restored to its original glory after the Second World War and totally restored in the 1990s.

A visit to the Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the best things to do in Seoul because within the palace grounds, you can also find the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea , and both are worth a visit. The palace museum is especially fascinating as it presents items from the palaces of the Joseon Dynasty.

This includes priceless antiques and artwork, as well as everyday items for cooking, cleaning, and daily life. The National Folk Museum focuses on items from daily life, as well as clothing and dioramas, to tell the story of the Korean people since prehistoric times.

Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Located behind the Deoksugung Palace, the Seoul Museum of Art , or SeMa as it's known to locals, has a large collection of artwork, mainly from the modern era. The art museum focuses on Korean art and Korean artists but has a decent selection of international works and creators. Changing temporary and visiting exhibitions also showcase unique collections and artwork.

The collection is displayed over three floors in a large building that was formerly the home of the Korean Supreme Court. The museum has six additional satellite locations in other parts of Seoul, and these feature rotating exhibits from the museum's main collection, as well as special exhibitions.

Don't miss the museum's Nam June Paik Memorial House, an exhibition and workshop space inside the house of legendary Korean contemporary artist Nam June Paik. The house is located in Seoul's Changsin-Dong neighborhood.

Address: 61, Deoksugung-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

The Blue House is Korea's version of the White House. It's the official residence of the Korean president , as well as the location of his and related executive offices of state. The Blue House isn't really a single building, it's an entire campus of buildings, all built in the traditional Korean style and all featuring the distinctive blue tile roofs where it gets its name.

One of the coolest things to do in Seoul is to take a tour of the Blue House. Hour-long tours are given, but participants must apply and schedule their tour in advance, online. The tour takes you to many parts of the palace complex including meeting rooms, reception rooms, and the Korean version of the Rose Garden, where the Korean president holds press conferences.

Ask your hotel concierge to help with reservations.

Address: 1 Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Bongeunsa is one of many Buddhist temples in and around Seoul. It first opened in the year 794 and is a complex of multiple buildings and shrines. It's easy to visit, as it's centrally located in the exciting Gangnam area. If you're spending the day sightseeing and exploring the city, this is a wonderful place to take a break.

The temple is on the side of a low mountain, directly across the street from the massive COEX convention center and mall. It's a popular spot for convention-goers to take a break and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Visitors are welcome, and the temple even has a program that allows guests to experience the daily life of a monk for a few hours.

Address: 531 Bongeunsa-ro, Samseong 1(il)-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

The largest and main gate to Seoul's Gyeongbokgung Palace , Gwanghwamun Gate is home to the changing of the guards ceremony (performed since 1469), which happens daily (except Tuesdays) at 10am and 2pm.

The gate has undergone many renovations and rebuilding, most recently in 2010, when it was restored to its original location and reconstructed with native materials using traditional tools and building techniques.

There's a large plaza in front, and the gate sits in front of the vast Gwanghwamun Square , home to frequent political demonstrations, a large subway station, a giant fountain, and some huge statues of Joseon-era leaders.

This natural creek that flows through central Seoul was covered over by highways in the post-Korean War economic boom. Seven miles of the creek were uncovered as part of an urban revitalization project and turned into an outdoor recreation area, opening in 2005.

There are now seven miles of creek-side hiking, walking and biking trails. It really has changed the CBD of Seoul by bringing an artery of water and green into what was a very urbanized, crowded area.

The creek is also home to the spectacular Seoul Lantern Festival , held each November. Ornate, lighted paper lanterns are displayed in and along the creek, and each night, thousands of people line the creek to view and enjoy the floating artwork. It's a fun, nighttime activity for families, as a lot of the art installations are geared toward children.

Set within the strikingly beautiful landscape of the Bukhansan National Park , Jingwansa is an ancient temple complex offering many ways to experience and learn about Buddhism and temple life. The traditional buildings are surrounded by miles of hiking trails (you can come here just to hike) snaking through the mountains.

The temple, which grows most of its own food (and even ferments its own kimchee), has a range of public programs. There's a temple stay program, which includes an overnight visit, plus there are cultural and learning programs. They also offer foodie experiences like a traditional vegetarian temple meal, as eaten by the monks.

Jingwansa is on the far west side of the city, it's one of the four major temples of Seoul first built around 1,000 BC.

Address: 73 Jingwan-gil, Jingwan-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul

Itaewon is a bustling neighborhood of Seoul focused on a few pedestrian streets filled with shops, cafés, and other consumer businesses. If you have limited time in the city, it's one of those places that can give you a real feel for Korean retail culture in a short time period. There are food carts and street performers, and some of the side streets are filled with restaurants. It's a great place for people-watching.

This is an excellent place to wander around and just lose yourself in the energy of the city. Be sure to wander down pedestrian-only Gyeongnidan Street, as it's lined with all kinds of restaurants and is a place to buy many international foods not easily available in Korea (like pizza and American-style barbecue). It's a fun thing to do in Seoul for families, and you'll see many parents and children here.

Another street, literally called Itaewon Antique Furniture Street, is filled with antique shops, and this is always an excellent place to buy unique gifts.

Known by its initials, the DDP is a very cool design center in Seoul's Dongdaemun area. Dongdaemun, Seoul's fashion district, is also known for its shopping; there are a lot of department stores and discount clothing and houseware stores in the area. The DDP has changing art and creative exhibitions open to the public, as well as a very cool store inside.

The silver, orb-like flowing Dongdaemun Design Plaza building looks like something from outer space. It was designed by the late Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid, considered one of the great female architects of the modern era. In perhaps Seoul's ultimate contrast, there are ruins of the ancient city fortress preserved just outside the front entrance of the design center.

The complex is filled with showrooms, workspaces, offices, and design studios. There is also what has to be Seoul's coolest shop, with small craft vendors selling all kinds of interesting items showcasing contemporary design and locally made, handcrafted items. It's an excellent place to buy unique gifts.

A visit to the DDP is one of the best things to do in Seoul at night — the design center comes alive when the sun goes down, the highlight being 25,550 white LED roses that light up. The silver-colored, modern, curving building and the rows of artificial flowers make the DDP one of Seoul's best Instagram spots.

After your visit, head across the street for a burger and crinkle-cut fries at one of Seoul's most popular new dining spots, Shake Shack. It's right across from the DDP in the Doota shopping mall.

Address: 281 Eulji-ro, Euljiro 7(chil)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul

Seoul's best street food market combines a taste-bud tempting array of street food vendors under one large roof. The market features rows of food stalls, offering every kind of Korean food you can imagine.

Most stalls have small chairs or stools in front of them, creating tiny restaurants, where you can sit and have a meal. It's all about tasting things here, and a smile and request will usually get you a sample of most of the things on offer.

The market is in central Seoul, and it's open from 9am to 10pm. The most popular things sold here are bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), bibimbap (rice mixed with sauteed beef, vegetables, and gochujang red chili paste), gimbap (Korean sushi), sundae (blood sausage), tteokbokki (stir-fried spicy rice cakes), and various types of noodles.

Other parts of the market have vendors selling meat and seafood, and other sections have clothes and household items.

Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno 4(sa)-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul

This unique neighborhood in central Seoul is filled with small stores that sell Korean traditional folk and handicrafts, along with art galleries. Stores sell things like hanji (traditional, hand-made paper), hanbok (traditional clothing), teas, pottery, and unique artwork.

The galleries in Insadong feature Korean fine art of all types. There are also a lot of tea houses and small cafes, perfect for a break during your shopping adventures.

The Insadong area really comes alive on Saturday afternoons and all day Sunday, when streets are closed to traffic and it becomes a giant craft and culture fair. Aside from food stalls and vendors, there are traditional music and dance performances and other cultural exhibits.

Luxury Hotels:

• Grand Mercure Ambassador Hotel and Residences Seoul Yongsan is one of Seoul's top 5-star resorts. Located in the heart of downtown, it offers a range of poshly decorated rooms and suites, all with stunning city views, especially after dark. Amenities include multiple restaurants, an indoor golf room, a fitness center, and spa. There is also a swimming pool, hot tub, and sauna. If you're traveling with the family, there is a kids' club, and if that family includes a dog, the hotel is pet friendly.
• Designed with relaxation in mind, SIGNIEL SEOUL has luxurious and comfortable rooms with beautiful decor. It's located high up in Seoul's Lotte World Tower, so the rooms and suites have some spectacular views. There are several restaurants in the hotel and a wide variety close by in the tower and mall complex below. Other on-site amenities include an indoor swimming pool and a hot tub and a spa with a full range of treatments. There is also a fitness center on-site.
• Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is the largest hotel in the South Korean capital city and the first in South Korea. The 5-star property has 317 rooms, including 43 suites, and all feature elegant luxe decor. Expect customizable beds with high-quality linens, spa-style bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows with great city views. The hotel is family-friendly and has a kids' pool and a children's menu at its restaurants. Other amenities include a posh spa, a heated indoor swimming pool, an indoor golf driving range, and a fitness center.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• May Place Seoul Dongdaemun is a top mid-range choice. It offers a mix of rooms and suites that are spartan but comfortable, with wood floors and white linen-draped beds. They also come with air purifiers and blackout curtains. Amenities include a restaurant, a hot tub, and a rooftop terrace where you can check out the panoramic city and mountain views.
• In the middle of Seoul's cultural district, Hotel28 Myeongdong is another excellent good-value choice, especially if you like sleek and modern décor. The hotel has glass walls of windows and well-appointed rooms and suites. Amenities include a restaurant and workout room.
• GLAD Gangnam COEX Center Hotel has a convenient locale just outside Exit 1 of the Samseong Subway Station. Rooms feature contemporary décor, floor-to-ceiling windows, and giant wall-mounted flat-screen TVs. Amenities include a restaurant with a breakfast buffet, a workout room, and a 24-hour front desk.

Budget Hotels :

• Delight Hotel is a clean and comfortable budget choice with contemporary rooms featuring luxury linens, marble bathrooms with rain showers, and large windows. Amenities include a restaurant serving complimentary breakfast, 24-hour room service, a hot tub, and even rental bikes to explore the area.
• Also, try the Grid Inn Hotel for budget-friendly lodging. Centrally located in the Gwanak-Gu district, it offers tidy rooms with refrigerators, blackout curtains, and safes. There is a restaurant and coffee shop on-site. The front desk is open 24 hours, and there is self-service laundry for guests.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Beyond Seoul: While many of the country's highlights are in Seoul, have a look at our article on the top attractions in South Korea for ideas on places to visit throughout the country.

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Home » Asia » South Korea » Seoul

34 BEST Places to Visit in Seoul (Attraction Guide for 2024)

Seoul is one of the most popular destinations in Asia. It’s a bustling metropolis that combines cyber-punk sights with old-world goodness. It’s a truly unique city.

There are numerous cool places to visit in Seoul and a lot of sights to see. This city has it all, from a fascinating and unusual culture to great food, amazing shopping, and great entertainment options. It’s also very welcoming and used to travelers making it a safe and accessible place in Asia. There countless points of interest in Seoul, so you’ll have an exciting and busy trip to the city.

The idea of traveling in Seoul can seem a little intimidating. It’s a sprawling metropolis and doesn’t quite have the complete ease of its East Asian neighbor Japan. However, Seoul is actually a very safe city and is popular amongst tourists, so the tourist trails are well worn and easy to explore.

With this easy guide, you’ll find it easy to travel to Seoul and come back with stories and pictures that other people just can’t match! There are a lot of cool places to visit in Seoul, so let’s get to it!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Seoul:

The best places to visit in seoul, faqs on the best places to visit in seoul, final thoughts before visiting seoul’s best places.

Gangnam translates as ‘south of the river’ and is a district that has blown up in recent years. It was originally an area dedicated to sleepy rice fields – but you’d never believe it when visiting today!

• Check out the K-pop scene and pick up a few CDs at Evan Records.
• Shop for the latest fashion and boutique items (or just window shop) at Galleria department store.
• Eat bibimbap at Tokkijung or a famous Korean barbeque meal at Yang Good.

Where do you start with the best things to do in Seoul – in a city of 10 million? Your experience while travelling in South Korea will be dramatically different by the accommodation you choose. You want to make sure you’re closest to all the coolest things to do.

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#1 – Bukchon Hanok Village – A great place to see in Seoul for Korean architecture

• A great place to experience Seoul’s traditional culture.
• You’ll be able to take some awesome pictures in this area!
• Just be aware that people still live in these houses, so be respectful of their privacy.

Why it’s so awesome: The traditional houses in Seoul are called Hanok and they date back to the Joseon Dynasty between 1392 and 1910. These houses are designed to maintain a balance between the house and the outside world of mountains, rivers, and land contours. This makes them extremely aesthetically pleasing and one of the must-sees in Seoul! You may even be able to find an Airbnb in Seoul in this architectural style if you’re lucky!

What to do there: People actually still live in this residential area, which is located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, so be respectful of their spaces and time. If you can, join a guided tour early in the morning to get even more insights. Or take some extra time and explore the area and make sure you get some pictures too. There are some spots where you can see the traditional houses against more modern landmarks, and they make for the most striking photo-ops of all.

#2 – Myeongdong – A great place in Seoul if you love to shop!

• Literally shopper’s paradise!
• You’ll find amazing deals in this area on every kind of cosmetics you can imagine.
• Make sure you take advantage of the samples and the changing deals and offers.
• If you want to find out more,  get a guide  to show you around!

Why it’s so awesome: The women of Seoul look amazing. They’re always beautifully dressed and have impeccable make-up, and this area is why. Myeongdong is a whole shopping area dedicated to every cosmetic store and brand you could ever want. So, no matter what type of skin you have or what make-up look you want, you’ll be able to find the right products in this area.

What to do there: This is the most famous place in Seoul for shopping and there are always a lot of special deals and offers in this area so keep your eyes open and take advantage of them. A lot of shops also offer free samples, so don’t be afraid to try a brand you’ve never heard of! This is a trip mostly for the girls, so leave the guys at home and take your best friends along for the ride.

#3 – Lotte World – A must-do in Seoul for families!

• The world’s largest indoor amusement park.
• If you get tired of the rides, then visit the shopping complex also on-site!
• This is a Seoul must-do and a great place to take the kids.

Why it’s so awesome: Lotte World is huge. It includes both an indoor and outdoor amusement park and there is also a hotel, an aquarium, luxury boutiques, a water park, and a shopping center on-site! So, even if you get tired of the rides, you can always slip out and grab a meal or a bargain before returning to the Lotte fun.

What to do there: Take the kids, or friends, and just enjoy the amusement park. The rides and attractions are some of the best you’ll ever see at Lotte World and it’s well worth taking an entire day in this park to soak it all in.

Make sure you try the Desperados game, the Dragons Wild Shooting game, and the Comet Express rollercoaster for maximum fun and thrills! It’s easily a must-visit in Seoul if only to feel like a kid again. Buy your tickets before you go, so you won’t end up waiting in line.

#4 – Gyeongbokgung Palace – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Seoul

• When you travel to Seoul, you absolutely must not miss this historic building!
• The largest and most important palace in Seoul.
• If you wear a traditional hanbok dress, they’ll let you in for free.

Why it’s so awesome: The Gyeongbokgung Palace is often compared to the Forbidden City in Beijing and is a Seoul must-see. Built in 1395, it was the main royal palace of the Joseon family, who ruled Korea for hundreds of years.

The palace was mostly destroyed by Imperial Japan during the early 20th century but over the following years, it has been meticulously restored. It is now considered to be one of the most beautiful palaces in the world, which is why it’s one of the best places to visit in Seoul.

What to do there: There are lots of places in the city where you can hire a hanbok – a traditional Korean dress. If you turn up at the palace wearing it, they’ll let you in for free. Aside from that, just explore the site. I’d recommend jumping on a guided tour to get to know all of the details about this stunning palace.

Also, make sure you show up to see the changing of the guard or the Gwanghwamun Gate Guard-on-Duty Performance . Either one happens between 10 and 4 pm every hour on every day except Tuesday and it’s a really fun thing to see in Seoul.

#5 – N Seoul Tower – A place to go in Seoul to see the city from a different angle.

• The best place for panoramic views of the city.
• The building also hosts a variety of cultural and entertainment events as well as restaurants and snack bars.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re looking for the top place to visit in Seoul, they don’t get much more “top” than this. The N Seoul Tower is located on Mt. Namsan and has been Seoul’s most iconic site since its opening in 1980. It’s actually a communication and observation tower, but over the last few years, it’s become one of the most important and celebrated sites in the city.

What to do there: Go to the top and enjoy the views. Sometimes, the best way to explore a city is to see it high up and at a distance so you can get an idea of the scale, and this tower offers the best place in the city to do just that.

Afterwards, go down to see a movie or an exhibition in the cultural space, or just grab a table at the upscale restaurants there and enjoy a fantastic meal. If you are passing through Seoul, then you see this (but not climb) on a Seoul transit tour from the airport.

#6 – The Yun Dong-ju Literature Museum – A great place to visit in Seoul if you are alone.

• Reading the books and poetry from another culture is a great way to gain a deeper understanding, and this is a great entry point into South Korean Literature.
• If you love books and history, this is a Seoul must do.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a museum built in honor of the beloved South Korean poet Yun Dong-Ju. It’s a three-room museum where you can explore photos from his life as well as first editions of his poems. The space itself is beautiful as well; the indoor space perfectly captures the contemplative, inspiring mood of the poetry and is a Seoul itinerary must for the contemplative travelers.

What to do there: Spend some time exploring the photos and contemplating this poet’s work before going outside. You can take a wall on Poet’s Hill at the back of the museum and get great views of the city and the N Seoul Tower. After your visit, you might even be inspired to get writing!

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#7 – The Jeoldusan Martyr’s Shrine – An important historical site in Seoul.

• A sobering but beautiful shrine that remembers a very dark time in history.
• Don’t take the kids to this site as some of the displays may upset them.
• If you want to explore Seoul, going back to its roots is a good way to start.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a Catholic shrine on the Han River and marks the Byeonin Persecution of 1866. At this time, nine French missionaries were martyred which led to the French fleet attempting an invasion into Korea. In retaliation, the Jeoldusan government targets, punished and murdered French and Korean Catholics, leading to this site became known as the ‘beheading mountain’. This obviously isn’t a fun site, but it’s an important part of Korean history and must be seen if you want to understand the present.

What to do there: The shrine is especially beautiful at night when votive candles give it an otherworldly glow, but it’s still beautiful and sobering when you go during the day. Don’t bring your kids with you as the Shrine houses a gallery and museum display torture implements that were used on the captured Catholics.

#8 – The Seoul Museum of Art – The perfect attraction in Seoul if you are on a budget!

• One of the best points of interest in Seoul that’s also free!
• The museum is housed in a beautiful and historic building which offers great photo opportunities.

Why it’s so awesome: How about a free thing to do in Seoul! This museum plays host to a range of special exhibitions that can be expensive, but the permanent display is totally free. It highlights the career of the Korean artist Chun Kyung-Ja, who was influenced by African culture and art and is worth the trip to the museum alone.

What to do there: Before you go, check out what special exhibitions they have on during your stay. Korean art is very unique and well worth exploring, so spend some time getting to know their unique style. But make sure you check out the regular display as well because it’s beautiful and soulful.

#9 – The Cheongun Literature Library – Another place in Seoul for the bookworms!

• An amazing place to spend some time if you love books!
• One of the most beautiful museums in Korea.
• If you’re trying to work out what to do in Seoul on a quiet afternoon, this is a site where you can sit back and relax.

Why it’s so awesome: The collection of books at this library is fairly average, but it’s the space that makes it amazing. The reading rooms are located on the second floor of a traditional Korean house which is spacious, sunny, and welcoming. So, if you love to read , this is a perfect place to settle in and do it!

What to do there: Make sure you spend some time exploring this traditional Korean house. This style of Korean architecture is unique and oddly harmonious with the natural surroundings, so it’s worth taking note of it. And then, get away from the busyness of the city by choosing a book and taking it upstairs to read. There’s nothing like reading a good book in an atmospheric space, so take advantage of the opportunity.

#10 – Everland – A very cool place in Seoul for a day trip

• A great place to take the whole family while you’re visiting Seoul
• This park has the steepest wooden roller coaster in the world.

Why it’s so awesome: Seoul breaks a lot of world records and this affects how they build things and what they enjoy. Everland is the largest outdoor theme park in South Korea and has five zones of rides and attractions. This includes the world’s steepest wooden roller coaster and South Korea’s only safari, so come expecting some thrills.

What to do there: Get there early because there’s a lot to do and you’ll need the whole day to fit it all in. If you love roller coasters, make sure you ride the world’s tallest wooden coaster and be prepared to scream your lungs out along the way!

#11 – The NANTA Theater – Seoul and South Korea’s artistic scene is definitely a must-see.

• Another side of Korean culture and one you probably won’t expect!
• The most popular theater performance in the city.

Why it’s awesome: Every culture is different and sometimes it’s great to get a first-hand view of just how different another country can be. The NANTA Theater is the perfect place to get a different view on the modern culture of South Korea. It’s the most popular theatre in the city and has a non-verbal, musical base. Perhaps a little strange, but it’s a terrific window to seeing another side of the city while backpacking in Seoul .

What to do there: This theatre has shows regularly so check out what’s on before you arrive in the city. And once you’re there, just enjoy the culinary-themed comedy performance with acrobatic moves and rhythmic melodies. Chances are that you’ve never seen anything like it and never will again! The shows sell out fast – they’re incredibly popular – so book early to make sure you don’t miss out.

#12 – The Seoul Alive Illusion Museum – Quite the quirky place in Seoul to visit!

• The first museum of 4D optical illusions in South Korea.
• Includes more than 100, slightly quirky exhibits.
• The perfect place to go with friends or with your family while you’re visiting Seoul.

Why it’s awesome: Even if you’ve been to an optical illusion museum before, you probably haven’t seen one like this. A lot of the exhibits in this museum are slightly quirky and unusual, and you’ll probably spend a lot of your visit to this venue laughing your head off at the displays you can become part of. It’s just a little run-of-the-mill Korean madness.

What to do there: Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged before you spend a few hours at this museum because you’ll need it. Even if you’ve seen optical illusion museums before, this one is unique. Make sure that you check out the Disney displays and become a part of popular movies like Frozen and Cinderella in your own personal works of art. Sort your booking in advance to have an even better experience!

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#13 – Tosokchon – A must-do in Seoul to delight your tastebuds.

• Home to one of the most famous dishes in the city.
• Expect queues, but the wait is definitely worth it.
• Buy a ticket  online if you want to skip the line

Why it’s so awesome: Every city has a dish that they’re famous for and one of Seoul’s most famous dishes is known as Samgyetang. This is ginseng chicken soup, and the best place to buy it is at Tosokchon restaurant on Jahamun-ro 5-gil Road. Once you taste the dish, you’ll understand why people queue up to eat it every day.

What to do there: Arrive early if you want to be in the front of the line and just wait patiently. The dish is worth the trouble, as all the locals in line will tell you, so just accept the wait and enjoy your food once it arrives. Make sure you try it though; it’s a must-do when visiting Seoul!

#14 – The Cheonggyecheon Stream – A quiet and romantic place to see in Seoul.

• A chance to take a break from the busy city and enjoy a slice of nature.
• You can also walk the length of the stream, which will take you alongside lots of Seoul’s best tourist attractions.

Why it’s so awesome: Seoul is a busy modern city and sometimes it’s nice to get away from the crowds and pollution and enjoy a bit of nature. And that’s exactly what this stream is for. The locals often visit on hot summer days and spend time sitting in the shade and dipping their feet in the water, and you can do the same when you need a little break.

What to do there: Walk down to the stream and just spend some time relaxing. The stream is like a little oasis in the middle of the city, so take the time to slow down and rest. You can also walk the length of the stream if you’re feeling energetic and stop off at local attractions along the way.

#15 – Bukhansan National Park – The most beautiful nature in Seoul.

• A traditional market where you can find almost anything you want to buy.
• The prices are extremely good, so make sure you check it out if you want something specific.

Why it’s so awesome: While you’re in Seoul, you might find the city can be overwhelming at times. No matter, because just outside the city centre you’ll find the Bukhansan National Park, which is the best place to go hiking in Seoul. Aside from outdoor recreational activities, the national park boasts impressive mountain views and lush forestry. You might also see some ancient temples and fortresses along the way.

What to do there: The reason most people visit the Bukhansan National Park is to do some hiking. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a beginner level hiker, you’ll find a trail suitable to your ability here.

#16 – Gwangjang Market – Seoul’s street food delights!

• One of the best places to eat in Seoul.
• This market is popular with tourists and locals.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want good street food when you visit another country, then you need to go where the locals go. And the locals all know to go to Gwangjang Market. This was the first permanent market in Korea selling local delicacies and fine linen and it also contains some of the best stalls in the city if you enjoy trying street food.

What to do there: You can do some shopping while you’re at this market, but mostly you want to try the food. The market’s open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 10 pm, so bring your appetite and try as much of the street food as you can. Make sure that you try the bindaetteok or mung bean pancake and tteokbokki and noodles for a really unique eating experience.

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#17 – Hongdae – A must-see for foodies!

• Seoul’s nightlife center.
• This area is near the university, which is why it’s filled with young people and fashionable places to eat and party.

Why it’s so awesome: The areas around universities in most cities are beacons for popular eateries and wicked nightlife and Seoul is no different. Just moments from Hongik University, one of the most prestigious in the city, this area attracts students, locals, and tourists who enjoy the best and most fashionable shopping and dining in the city. Some of Seoul’s best hostels are in the area too!

What to do there: This is an area that really comes alive at night, so save it for an evening when you don’t have much to do. Find somewhere to eat, because this is one of the best places to eat in Seoul, and then go shopping. There is a range of clothing stalls and shops selling vintage goods so take your time and see what’s available. And if you enjoy clubbing, you’ll find lots of different options in this area.

#18 – Ikseon-dong Hanok Village – An unknown (but awesome) place to see in Seoul!

• The best place in the city to experience old Korea.
• There are some amazing cafes and pubs in this area too, so make sure you have a meal during your explorations.
• If you’re trying to decide what to do in Seoul off the tourist trail, this is the perfect place to visit.

Why it’s so awesome: This area isn’t usually listed as one of the best places to visit in Korea, but it’s great if you want to enjoy a mix of history, food, and creative shopping options. The area was first established in 1920 and preserves that time almost perfectly. Wandering the alleys could almost make you believe that you’ve moved back in time, and makes for a great afternoon.

What to do there: Just wander the alleys and enjoy the time away from Seoul’s tourist spots. There’s always something hidden to discover and explore in this area, and it’s well worth spending some time there to get a real feel for the past.

But don’t neglect the present either, because the shops are some of the most interesting in the city too. So, do some shopping and then stop at one of the artisan cafes or gastro pubs for a meal. It’s also worth it to join a pub crawl tour with a local guide to get to know the hidden gems of this cool district.

#19 – Insa-dong

• If you want unique souvenirs, this is one of the hotspots in Seoul for them.
• The center of Korean traditional culture and crafts.
• A great place to explore Seoul and support local craftsmen at the same time.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re interested in traditional Korean culture and crafts then this is the place where it’s all gathered together so you don’t miss anything. Insa-dong specializes in goods that can only be purchased or enjoyed in Korea, so it’s the perfect place to grab a souvenir for your loved ones back home!

What to do there: There are about a hundred galleries in Insa-dong and they display every type of Korean craft that you can imagine or have ever heard of. Make sure you check out the hanboks, which is a piece of traditional Korean clothing, traditional teas, and folk crafts. Also, try to go on a Sunday as streets are blocked off to allow for stalls and booths as well as traditional performances and exhibits.

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#20 – Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park – A haunted place to visit in Seoul… maybe…

• A slightly creepy look at the other side of entertainment.
• There are stories going around that the park shut down because of a ghost!
• If you want to find unusual things to do in Seoul, this is the perfect place to start.

Why it’s so awesome: Yongma was built in 1980 and was a small, family-run amusement park. It shut down in 2011, allegedly because of ghosts, though it’s far more likely that the owners had economic reasons for closing their doors. But since then, the park was bought by a savvy businessman who invites visitors to become part of the park’s demise.

What to do there: If you’ve ever wanted to explore an abandoned amusement park, this is your chance. You can clamber over old dodgem cars, try out the carousel, and take pictures next to a sad clown roller coaster.

There’s a small charge involved, and if you get there at night you can pay a little extra and ask the owner to turn on the lights of the merry-go-round while you’re there. Set against the declining rides, it’s a ghostly sight that should be savored.

#21 – Seodaemun Prison – Possibly one of the most important historical places to visit in Seoul.

• Not a fun place to visit, but an important one if you want to understand South Korean history.
• This was a prison built for Koreans who rebelled against Japanese forces.

Why it’s so awesome: Built in 1908, this prison held Korean rebels who fought against Japan’s invasion and occupation. Before it was created, the country had virtually no penal system, and this location came to symbolize the determination of the Korean people to win their freedom despite the costs. Many Korean patriots died in custody, were tortured or executed at this location, and it’s a sobering reminder of the darker side of humanity.

What to do there: This isn’t a fun place to visit in Seoul. It was designated as a historic site in 1988 and renovated in 1995 and is a stark and sometimes brutal slice of Seoul’s history. As you walk through the prison-turned-museum, you’ll see torture chambers with terrifyingly realistic mannequins of famous Korean patriots and get an idea what it was like for the people who lived and died within the prison’s walls.

#22 – Coffee Hanyakbang – Seoul’s Must-Visit for the Coffee Connoisseurs

• The perfect place for coffee lovers of all ages.
• A nearly hidden gem that only the locals know about.
• If you live for your morning coffee, you’ll find lots of new coffee tastes at this site.

Why it’s so awesome: Almost everyone loves coffee and this tiny shop allows you to celebrate it in style. It’s almost hidden down a narrow, unmarked alleyway but coffee connoisseurs know that it’s there and turn up in droves to get the perfect coffee experience. The shop is decorated in a mix of Korean and Chinese styles and is determinedly rustic, with lots of wood and exposed pipe. And it sells delicious, hand-drip coffee at decent prices.

What to do there: Drink your morning coffee, of course! The owners roast the beans by hand at the back of the shop and grind them on site, so the whole shop has that rich, tongue-tingling smell of fresh coffee. And the making of each coffee is a science too, with everything precisely calculated to create the perfect cup, every time. So enjoy!

#23 – The War Memorial of Korea – A different take on a war memorial.

• A strangely lighthearted look at Korean military history.
• Fun and educational, so it’s a great place to take the kids.

Why it’s so awesome: There are 6 exhibition halls and an outdoor space for war machines too big to fit inside at this site and the place is packed. In fact, there are over 13,000 pieces of military equipment and memorabilia at the Korean war memorial , placed on the grounds of the former army headquarters of Korea.

The focus is on the Korean and Vietnam war and this isn’t the type of museum where you just stand back and look. The displays are designed to be touched and felt, to give visitors a better idea of what the wars were really like.

What to do there: There’s a lot to see at this memorial so make sure you put aside a few hours. The Combat Experience Room is particularly interesting and uses audiovisual effects to surround you with the sounds, sights and smells of the battlefield. Outback, the lines of tanks and heavy artillery are laid out like a metal petting zoo, and if you’re interested in this type of machinery, you’ll have an amazing time exploring it all.

#24 – Jogyesa Korean Buddhist Temple – For some sacred sightseeing in Seoul.

• A Buddhist temple that’s an important part of the locals’ lives.
• The garden surrounding the temple has some ancient trees that are simply amazing.

Why it’s so awesome: Sometimes there’s nothing like exploring a temple that’s still in use in the modern-day if you want to understand a culture better. And this temple in the middle of Seoul’s high-rise district is one of the best places to visit in the city to learn more about its people. This Zen Buddhist temple is always full of locals and tourists, which makes it an exciting, as well as an interesting place to people, watch and spend some quality time.

What to do there: Spend some time just watching the people as they come and go on their everyday business. And when you’re done, explore the compound itself. You could also find yourself a guide that will show you around and explain each statue in detail.

The trees in this area are apparently over 500 years old and they’re strung with banners and streamers in bright colors to make them look even more spectacular! This all combines to make this temple one of the top places to visit in Seoul if only for a quick contemplative meditation.

#25 – Suwon’s Hwaseong Fortress – More of Seoul’s old landmarks!

• If you’re looking for a quick day trip from the city, then make it to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Located only an hour and a half from Seoul.
• One of Seoul’s most important historical sites.

Why it’s so awesome: Built between 1794 and 1796, this fortress was created to house the remains of the King’s father, who had been murdered by his own father. It’s an enormous complex that was meant to be the first step in moving the capital from Seoul to the city of Suwon, where the Fortress is located. This obviously never eventuated, but the fortress remains and was declared a UNESCO site in 1997 .

What to do there: It will take you a couple of hours to see the entire castle, so if you have a spare morning or afternoon while you’re in Seoul then make the trip out to see it. There are a lot of different features including the interior and exterior as well as a palace museum, so make sure you take enough time to see it all.

#26 – Seoul’s Children’s Park – A beautiful place to go outdoors in Seoul.

• A great place to take the kids.
• Even if you don’t have children, you’ll enjoy this massive green area in the central Seoul.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re tired of the skyscrapers and find yourself longing for some greenery, then you can find this park in the middle of the city. Not only does it include a lot of green, open areas, there are also some cool exhibits and attractions in the park that will interest everyone, not just the young.

What to do there: Escape from the city and spend some time in nature. This park also includes amusement rides and playgrounds as well, so if you feel like being a little more active then there are lots of things to try!

#27 – A Lotte Mart – A weird choice of things to see in Seoul but hear me out!

• Lotte Marts in Seoul aren’t like the ones back home, so make sure you stop by for a look and a snack, you’ll be surprised what you’ll find there.
• If you love snacking but want to save some money, you can eat like the locals do with some very unusual meals and snacks from this store.

Why it’s so awesome: It sounds a bit strange to suggest that you go to a supermarket, but this is one experience you really shouldn’t miss because these stores are one of the most famous places in Seoul.

Lotte Marts are iconic in the city and they’re one of the coolest grocery stores in the world. While wandering around you’ll get a much better idea of how important food is in Seoul. And you might also find some new treats to try too!

What to do there: Make sure you take part in the whole experience. Lotte Marts usually have free food samples as well as an incredibly wide range of foods that you’ve probably never seen anywhere else. Just watch your wallet, because it’s too easy to overspend in Lotte Mart, and buy something tasty.

#28 – The Jongmyo Shrine – Another cultural highlight of Seoul.

• A UNESCO-listed site and close by the popular suburb or Insadong.
• A Seoul must-see when you’re in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: This is one of the most popular landmarks in Seoul and it’s also one of the best ways to learn about its ancient traditions. This shrine is the most popular attraction in Seoul and it’s a UNESCO Heritage site;  the perfect way for you to learn more about the history of the city.

What to do there: If you go to the shrine on Saturday then you can explore on your own. Any other day except Tuesday when the shrine is closed, you will need to join a guided tour. There are tours in English every couple of hours. While you’re there, make sure that you pay attention. You’ll learn about ancient customs, music, and even about memorial services during your visit, so it’s worth paying attention.

#29 – National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art – More awesome Korean art!

• The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul is an amazing traditional style building.
• Located on what used to be Seoul’s Defense Security Command.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum is a must-visit on your Seoul itinerary. It’s an enormous museum that’s built on the principles of madang , which encourages people to socialize together by providing a large, communal courtyard just for that purpose. And it works too, which makes it a great place for people watching.

What to do there: The exhibits at this museum change regularly, so find out what’s on while you’re in the city and don’t miss out. Also, spend some time exploring the building while you’re there. Korean architecture is unique and deserves some time and attention.

#30 – Socheon – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Seoul

• If you’re looking for the best food in the city then you need to go to Socheon, which is where the locals go.
• You’ll have some of your best meals in a slightly dingy restaurant in this part of the city.

Why it’s so awesome: Socheon is one of the best places in Seoul for cheap and delicious local food and a good break from the tourist attractions. Located on the west side of Gyeongbokgung, this area caters mostly to locals, so you won’t find as many fancy restaurants and neon lights there. Instead, you’ll find mostly ordinary, slightly run-down restaurants that serve some of the best food you’ve ever tasted.

What to do there: Some restaurants serve great food in this area but they’re a little hard to find. Most of them don’t have a website or even a menu in English, so you’ll have to order your meal from pictures or by what the locals are eating. To get a great meal, walk until you find a place that contains a lot of locals. Figure out what you want and just point – whatever you get, it’ll be delicious!

#31 – Dongdaemun – An awesome neighborhood in Seoul.

• One of the best places in Seoul for bargain shopping!
• Bring cash so you can haggle down the prices.

Why it’s so awesome: Dongdaemun shopping area is a veritable labyrinth of wholesale and retail shops. You could quite literally get lost in this area looking for something, and the crowds of locals and tourists alike enjoying the bargains are evidence of how good the prices and the variety of goods are.

What to do there: If you’re looking for something specific to buy, chances are that you’ll find it in this area. Take cash with you so you can haggle and find something sweet. But if you just want to wander and people watch, this is the perfect place for it too. Many of the shops are open all night, so there’s always something going on for you to observe.

#32 – Dongdaemun Design Plaza – A famous modern landmark in Seoul.

• One of the hotspots in Seoul for shopping and entertainment options.
• The building itself is unusual, stunning, and looks great in photos.

Why it’s so awesome: This building is one of the most eccentric in the city and looks amazing in photographs for you to put on your social media feeds. The long, sinuous curves of the building seem to go on forever and as if that wasn’t enough it also contains countless stores, exhibition spaces, parts of the original Seoul fortress that used to stand on the site, and a design museum.

What to do there: Make sure you take a photo of yourself with this building to show the people back home because the curving lines back for a great background. And then just explore the building. You can shop, explore the history of the site, or just wander the floors looking for anything that looks like fun. It’s the perfect place to go for anyone who’s looking for Seoul vacation ideas.

#33 – Mapo-Gu – A quirky area in Seoul to visit.

• One of the quirkiest places to go in Seoul.
• If you’re looking for weird and wonderful experiences and cafes, this district will exceed your wildest expectations.

Why it’s so awesome: Mapo district is one of Seoul’s 25 districts and it’s also one of the most unusual. It’s home to a large number of themed cafes, so if you want your cup of coffee with a side of cats, dogs or raccoons, you’ll find all that and more in this district.

What to do there: Korea is constantly innovating and looking for new ways to explore old ideas and you can experience that first hand while you’re in Mapo-Gu. Try the poop café if you’re looking for one of the most unusual places in Seoul, or just wander from one café to another hugging cute animals!

#34 – Nami Island

• One of the most popular spots for a holiday break in Seoul.
• It’s usually thronged with tourists so show up early if you want to avoid the lines.

Why it’s so awesome: Nami Island is a lovely nature area close to the city that’s a fantastic place to visit in the winter and summer months. In summer it has rides, zip wires, hiking, and lots of large open spaces to explore. And in the winter, it’s set up for all the winter sports and activities that you’ve ever dreamed of trying.

What to do there: Nami Island is an awesome place to visit in winter as the lake freezes and gives you an amazing view across the lake. It’s also home to a lot of winter sports and activities, which is why tourists and locals alike travel there in throngs to enjoy the colder months. Also, if you like to read, make sure you visit Petite France, which is a village modeled after the famous book The Little Prince.

Get insured for your trip to Seoul!

When you’re travelling to Seoul, having good travel insurance is an absolute essential BEFORE you set off. It means if things go wrong, you’re already in a good position.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Seoul

Is 3 days in Seoul enough?

Three days should be enough to see the main highlights, but there are some gorgeous hikes around the city that are worth staying longer to see.

Is Seoul a safe place to visit?

Yes, Seoul is a safe place to visit and violent crimes are rare.

Is Seoul a cheap place to visit?

No, Seoul isn’t a cheap place to visit, though there are some cheap attractions that will help keep costs down.

What is a free place to visit in Seoul?

The Seoul Museum of Art is a free place to visit in Seoul and a great place for art lovers to explore.

Seoul is an ultra-modern city where you can experience the latest technology alongside ancient traditions and culture. This capital of South Korea is a powerhouse in the world economy at the moment, which makes it a very attractive location for visitors from all walks of life.

South Korea perhaps gets overlooked sometimes by its other East Asian neighbors, however, it is a rich country with an ancient history and vibrant people. Backpacking in South Korea is a rewarding journey, but more than likely you’ll start in Seoul.

Seoul is a city that never sleeps, with ancient palaces next to skyscrapers and night markets, and it’s the perfect location for anyone looking to experience a different side of Asia. And if you use this easy guide to Seoul’s coolest places to visit and the most sobering historical sights, you’ll walk away with memories that last a lifetime.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Thanks for the info. Suggestions like “Mapo-Gu” are a bit ridiculous, if you pull it up on google maps that region could take a week or more of 6 hour days walking. I doubt anywhere but a small part of it is of interest, but where? Who knows. Same seems to be the case for Socheon which I don’t know how to pull up. We need like a center point or at least main strip indication please.

Hi Justin. It’s 33 minutes by bus to Mapo-Gu although I suppose you can walk there if you want. We have included this area for it’s general vibe and invite our readers to explore it on their own terms.

Hmm. Sorry what I mean is Mapo-Gu (in English Mapo District) is nearly half the size of Manhattan. Do you get what I mean when I say it wouldn’t make sense to tell someone “you can walk to Manhattan if you want, but once you are there you can experience the vibe and find everything?”

I also explored these fabulous attractions during my last tour and came back with an awesome experience.

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Seoul   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Alex Barlow | Getty Images

11 Best Things To Do in Seoul

Updated February 11, 2021

In a city of more than 10 million people, it should come as no surprise that many of Seoul's top attractions involve escaping the crowds and reconvening with nature. The city is filled with pockets of serenity like the peaceful gardens of Changdeok

• All Things To Do

Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower free

Home to five warning beacons and a protective city wall during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), Mount Namsan now hosts a park and a smattering of tourism sites like an aquarium, a library and a bevy of beautiful walking trails.

But most people visit Namsan Park for its panoramic views of Seoul. To scope it out for free, visit Palgakjeong, an octagon-shaped viewing pavilion that boasts alluring vistas of the city. For an even more breathtaking sight, shell out a few won to get to the observation platform atop N Seoul Tower, Namsan Park's real showstopper. Recent visitors said that on clear days, the view from 1,574 feet up is spectacular. Out on the sky deck, you can't miss the thousands of padlocks attached to the fence; couples lock them there as symbols of everlasting love (bring your own lock if you're feeling romantic). For an extra-special experience, reserve a table for dinner in the rotating French restaurant, n.GRILL, on the tower's top floor. 

Bukchon Hanok Village Bukchon Hanok Village free

Bukchon Village occupies the hilly neighborhood between Gyeongbok Palace and Changdeok Palace in north-central Seoul. The neighborhood has the largest collection of privately owned hanoks , or traditional Korean homes with tiled roofs and stone floors, in Seoul. Not only that, but these 900  hanoks  date all the way back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). While a stroll through Bukchon Village may feel like a trip through the ages, the neighborhood is not frozen in time. Some of the hanoks are still private homes, but others have been converted into tea houses, coffee shops, cafes, art galleries, inns and museums. It is not uncommon to see a Korean couple on a date in a hanok -style restaurant or for tourists to stay in a hanok guesthouse (like the Anguk or the RakKoJae ). Even if you're not bedding down in Bukchon, recent travelers strongly recommend a visit regardless. 

Travelers found the neighborhood to be picture-perfect and a lovely stroll. Make sure to bring sturdy walking shoes though, as the site is pretty hilly and takes a couple hours to cover in its entirety. Some reviewers say that because of Bukchon Village's popularity, it's best to visit early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds. Regardless of what time you visit, keep in mind that this is still a residential area, so you'll need to heed the signs posted around the village about noise. To get the most of Bukchon Village, stop by the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center  for information on walking tour routes and attractions to see within the village.

Bukhansan National Park Bukhansan National Park free

Located in northern Seoul – but still quite accessible via public transportation – Bukhansan National Park is a mountainous oasis in a bustling metropolis. The park, which covers more than 30 square miles, is home to towering granite peaks, forest-laden valleys and miles of hiking trails in between, as well as about 100 historic Buddhist temples and monks' cells. The historical must-see, though, is Bukhansanseong Fortress, a Joseon stronghold. You also won't want to skip the 5-mile mountain wall that runs along the park's rocky terrain. The fortress was built in 1711 and served as a place of refuge for kings in times of emergency (rebuilt on the foundations of the original, which dates back to A.D. 132). Bukhansan's proximity to Seoul, its natural setting and its historical significance combine to make it the park with the most visitors per square foot, according to the Guinness World Records. That means it can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends.

If it's panoramic vistas you're after, try trekking up Baegundae peak via the Bukhansanseong trail, one of the most popular hikes in the park. From the top, you're in for a great view of Seoul and lands beyond – unless the city is shrouded in smog, which does happen occasionally. Recent visitors do warn that this hike is not for the faint-hearted; the rocky path requires strength, endurance, very sturdy hiking shoes and patience (the trek is estimated to be a 3.5-hour round-trip hike). If the Baegundae hike sounds too strenuous, you might want to consider another one of Bukhansan's trails (don't worry – there are plenty that are equally rewarding).

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Changdeokgung (Changdeok Palace) Changdeokgung (Changdeok Palace)

Changdeokgung may not be the oldest or largest of Seoul's five Joseon Dynasty palaces (that honor goes to Gyeongbokgung ), but it is the most intact. Originally constructed in 1405 as a secondary palace for the king at the time, Changdeokgung, like its sister palaces, was largely razed during the Japanese invasion of 1592. After its reconstruction in 1610, however, the palace served as Korea's principal palace about 270 years after for 13 different kings. Of all the Joseon palaces, Changdeokgung is the longest lived-in residence for the royals. It's this historical significance, in combination with its architectural style and layout (it's lauded for being built around the land's geography, instead of adjusting the land to construct the buildings), that earned Changdeokgung the designation of a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.

Visitors say that the vibrantly painted structures of the palace grounds are marvelous, but the rear garden – called "Biwon," or the Secret Garden – is nothing short of spectacular. Covering about two-thirds of the 110-acre attraction, the landscaped garden features a lotus pool, fountains and pavilions surrounded by 56,000 species of trees and plants, including a single tree that is more than 300 years old. Visit in the fall to witness the changing foliage, or in the spring to see the trees burst into bloom.

Hongdae Hongdae free

The neighborhood surrounding Hongik University in west-central Seoul is a hub for Korean youth culture. Hongdae beckons to college students and other young adults with its propensity for self-expression and all-around alternative atmosphere, not to mention its plethora of bars, clubs, shops, restaurants and cafes. And because Hongik University is especially renowned for its arts programs, Hongdae is a noticeably creative area. You don't have to stroll far to find art galleries, walls adorned with street art and students singing or selling their craft on the sidewalks. Join the throngs of college students and tourists to hunt for unique souvenirs at Hongdae's two weekend markets, both held in the playground near the university's entrance. The "Free" Market takes place on Saturdays and the "Hope" Market on Sundays, both from about 1 to 7 p.m.

Night owls should head to Hongdae on "Club Day" – the last Friday of each month. On this day, revelers can club-hop among the neighborhood's hottest spots for only 15,000 won (about $14). Also, since Hongdae sits at the epicenter of Seoul's burgeoning underground and indie music scene, make sure to stop by one of the many live music venues that participates in Club Day as well.

Insadong Insadong free

In this quaint central-Seoul neighborhood, you can find everything from hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) to herbal teas to calligraphy supplies. About 40 percent of Korean crafts are exchanged in Insadong, though ceramics are the prized goods here. Insadong's alleys, which are lined with street vendors, wooden tea houses, galleries and restaurants, stretch from the Anguk-dong Rotary to Tapgol Park. By shopping here, you'll be contributing to centuries of Korean history – Insadong was central to painters during the Joseon Dynasty and continues to be a hub for artistry today.

Recent visitors lauded Insadong as a great place to buy cultural souvenirs, but they also appreciate its fun atmosphere. Guests say there are always lots of people coming to and fro as well as street performers and artists hanging around, waiting for interaction. For a trip back in time, visit Insadong on the weekends when motor vehicles are prohibited on its winding streets, adding to its quaint, Old World vibe. While the atmosphere is undoubtedly fun, visitors suggest those wanting to experience Insadong without crowds come during the weekdays. 

Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbok Palace) Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbok Palace)

The ornate Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbokgung Palace) was originally built in A.D. 1395 and served as the focal point and governmental seat of the Joseon Dynasty (1392 to 1910). In Korean, its name translates to "Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven," but its history seems to paint it as anything but blessed. Gyeongbokgung was destroyed in the 1590s during a Japanese invasion, after which Korea's rulers abandoned the palace and set up camp about a mile east in Changdeokgung (Changdeok Palace).  That is, until King Gojong began Gyeongbok Palace's restoration during his reign from 1863 to 1907. The site once housed some 500 buildings. But the king's efforts were for naught: Another Japanese invasion resulted in the demolition of the majority of the complex. Restoration of the twice-destroyed palace began afresh in 1990, and visitors today can once again marvel at its magnificent architecture, lustrous grounds and historical significance. 

Recent visitors said the Gyeongbokgung palace is a must-see for anyone interested in Seoul's Joseon Dynasty. Travelers loved learning about the history of the palace and how it played into the larger story of both Seoul and South Korea. Visitors also admired the beautiful yet extensive grounds, saying you'll need at least a couple of hours to see everything the palace has to offer. Reviewers also recommended bringing walking shoes, and if you have flexibility with your schedule, to visit when the changing of the guard ceremony commences (the ceremony is held at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. every day the attraction is open). The only thing that put off some visitors was the touristy nature of the site, noting that crowds, especially on the weekends, can hamper a visit. Try to stop by during a weekday or plan a morning visit to avoid sharing the attraction with hordes of other sightseers. 

Dongdaemun Market Dongdaemun Market free

Dongdaemun isn't just a market – it's a shopping mecca. Encompassing 10 city blocks, Dongdaemun features 26 malls, 30,000 specialty shops and scores of wholesale stores, making it place to go if you need, well, anything. Make sure to get a map of the district. With all the options available, there's no way you're going to be able to navigate this overwhelming, multi-street shopping complex without some guidance. Though if you want to try, you'll have plenty of time: Dongdaemun Market is open 24 hours per day and many shops stay open till as early as 5 a.m.

Most of the malls in Dongdaemun feature a mix of retail and wholesale shops, though it's good to know which sell the most of what. The best way of navigating this mammoth fashion hub is to split the area up by Jangchungdan-ro, a big street that runs through Dongdaemun Market. West of Jangchungdan-ro, you'll find malls that appeal more to tourists. Doota (located in Doosan Tower), Migliore, Good Morning City and Hello apM sell a mix of retail and wholesale items but have multilingual information desks and currency exchanges. East of Jangchungdan-ro, you'll find more malls that sell more wholesale than not. These include Designer's Club, Gwanghee Fashion Mall and Nuzzon. Though if all you're after is wholesale, hit up Pyeonghwa Fashion town north of the Doosan Tower. When your stomach starts to rumble, head over to Mukja Golmok, which translates to "Let's Eat Alley." There, you can find a smorgasbord of Korean cuisine.  

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Jongmyo Shrine Jongmyo Shrine

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Jongmyo Shrine is one of the oldest and best-preserved Confucian royal shrines in the world. Built in the late 14th century, the Jongmyo Shrine served as a place of worship for kings part of the Joseon Dynasty. Here, royal family members would come to carry out ancestral rites for deceased king and queens as well as pray for the state and its people. The shrine was later destroyed during the 16th-century Japanese invasion of Korea but rebuilt during the 17th century. Little has been changed since. 

The structure is composed of multiple buildings, including the main shrine (Jeongjeon) and the Hall of Eternal Peace (Yeongnyeongjeon). To this day, people congregate around the shrine once a year for the "Jongmyo Jerye" ritual, in which they honor the ancestors of the Joseon dynasty. The ceremony, which takes place the first Sunday of May, includes songs and dances that date back 600 years, making it one of Korea's prized Important Intangible Cultural Properties, not to mention one of the world's oldest complete ceremonies in the world.

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

A mere 35 miles north of Seoul, the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a 148-mile-long, 2-mile-wide swath of land marking the division between North and South Korea. Running close to the infamous 38th Parallel (the final front in the Korean War), the DMZ was set up in 1953 as a buffer zone between the two warring countries. The Military Demarcation Line – the actual border between North and South Korea – has been heavily manned on both sides by military personnel ever since. And though there have only been a few minor military altercations in the past 60 years, tensions remain between the two sides. In fact, since the DMZ was set up through an armistice and not a peace treaty, North Korea and South Korea are technically still at war.

You may think a daytrip to the DMZ is a fool's errand, but it is actually an extraordinarily popular thing to do when visiting Seoul. A number of companies run tours to Panmunjom , an abandoned town that straddles the Military Demarcation Line where the famous Joint Security Area is located. It was here that North Korean, South Korean, Chinese, American and United Nations diplomats signed the Korean War Armistice Agreement on July 27, 1953. Visitors are invited to place their feet on either side of a line that runs along the building's floor separating the two nations – one foot in South Korea and the other in North Korea. Tourists can also peer out at the mysterious country to the north through mounted telescopes.

Lotte World Lotte World

Lotte World may not be as magical as Disney World , but it is home to the largest indoor theme park in the world. Recent travelers said that if you have children in tow and you're not averse to a little Korean kitsch, it's a good place to spend the day. With high-octane roller coasters like Atlantic Adventure and attractions catered to youngsters like Lotty's Kidstoria (a whimsical room filled with "Alice in Wonderland" characters), Lotte World entertains thrill-seekers and budding adventurists alike. If you're planning a weekend visit, keep in mind that Lotte World's lines can get very long during peak visiting hours. Fortunately, there are two solutions: Visit Lotte World on a weekday or go after 4 p.m. – lines will be shorter, and your ticket price will be reduced. Aside from Lotte World Adventure indoor theme park, Lotte World is home to department stores, a folk museum, a bowling alley, an ice rink, parades and an outdoor adventure theme park located in the middle of Seokchonhosu Lake, Magic Island. Regardless of what time you visit or what you decide to do inside Lotte World, be prepared to pay. Travelers said everything from Lotte World's version of a Disneyland fast pass to snacks were pretty pricey.

Lotte World welcomes visitors year-round from 9:30 a.m. until 10 p.m. every day. Regular admission tickets cost 36,000 won (about $32) for adults and 29,000 won (about $26) for children. However, if you plan to stay all day, you should consider purchasing admission to all of Lotte World, not just the indoor theme park. This all-inclusive ticket grants you access to all of Lotte World's facilities and costs 52,000 won (about $47) for adults and 41,000 won (about $37) for children. After 4 p.m., all-inclusive tickets cost 41,000 won (about $37) for adults and 32,000 won (about $29) for children. There are also discounts for students and seniors, while children younger than 3 can enter for free. Located south of the Han River, Lotte World can be reached via Jamsil Station on Subway Lines 2 and 8 (Exit 4). For more information, visit Lotte World's official website .

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Touropia Travel Experts

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15 Best Cities to Visit in South Korea

In less than fifty years, South Korea went from being one of the world’s poorest countries to one of its richest. Its thriving cities highlight this change as ancient palaces, and traditional temples lie next to gleaming shopping malls and futuristic buildings.

Despite bordering two larger, more powerful nations for much of its history ( Japan and China ), the country has managed to preserve its unique culture; many of its museums showcase South Korea’s fascinating history, art, and local traditions.

A beautiful country to visit, many of South Korea’s cities are located amongst scenic mountains or next to idyllic islands and beautiful beaches. Hiking and immersing yourself in nature is almost a national pastime such is its popularity. Now known just as much for its delicious food and K-pop as for its impressive historical sights, South Korea and its fun and friendly cities are sure to delight with all they have to offer.

Map of cities in South Korea

A very welcoming and friendly place, Andong is renowned for its delicious cuisine, so foodies will rejoice at all the local delicacies on offer.

Founded over 2000 years ago, Andong boasts many historical and cultural attractions and often markets itself as a spiritual center due to its many temples and local religious sites.

One of the most interesting places to visit is the Andong Hahoe Folk Village, where you can learn all about the local traditions, culture, and history.

14. Tongyeong

Surrounded by sea on three sides, Tongyeong is located right on the southern tip of a peninsula. Most visitors to the city use it as a gateway from which to explore any of the 151 nearby islands.

A sleepy, laidback place, Tongyeong’s harbor is beautiful to behold. Walking along the harbor front or eating a delicious seafood dinner while watching the sunset is a unique experience.

Although there is not much going on in town, the city more than makes up for it with the wealth of beautiful islands nearby. Nature lovers will revel in visiting the spectacular Hallyeohaesang National Park.

13. Daejeon

Having expanded rapidly over the last few decades, Daejeon is now one of the largest cities in South Korea and is a significant science and research center, thanks in part to the large Expo Park complex.

While not particularly pretty to behold due to its urban sprawl, the city is, however, home to lots of interesting museums, with the National Science Museum’s fantastic exhibits making it one of the best on offer.

No visit to Daejeon is complete without a stop at the Yuseong Hot Springs; bathing in the thermal waters is the perfect way to end a day after taking in the city’s sights.

Due to its proximity to Seoul, Suwon is a fantastic day trip option from the capital, although it often gets overlooked by travelers.

Now a major center for industry, the city is home to Samsung Electronics. Its busy streets are packed with bars, restaurants, and shops, while Ingyedong is the place to head if you’re after some fun nightlife.

The main reason that people visit Suwon is for the stunning 18th-century fortress of Hwaseong that lies at the heart of the city; its twisting walls and looming towers are lovely to explore.

Lying on a peninsula of the same name in the south of the country, Yeosu is one of the most beautiful port cities in South Korea and an increasingly popular beachside resort.

Lined by mountains, Yeosu is surrounded by islands and cliffs that look spectacular. One of the best views is from Hyangiram Hermitage – a beautiful cliffside hermitage.

While Yeosu is not big on sights, its lively waterfront is home to lots of brilliant seafood restaurants. Just relaxing on the beach and taking in the view is what most people want from a visit to the city.

More of an island than a city, Geoje has nicknamed itself the ‘Blue City.’ It is surrounded by sparkling clear waters, a gorgeous rocky coastline, and lots of beautiful beaches.

While its scenic charm is what most people come for, Geoje has lots of interesting tourist sites to offer, such as a stunning 15th-century castle and a POW Camp, which used to host North Korean prisoners.

Although the city has more than enough restaurants and bars to keep you occupied, the spectacular scenery is what really steals the show. A boat trip to the breathtaking islands of Haegeumgang and Odeo is a must.

Home to a sizeable student population, Daegu has a youthful feel to it and is surprisingly friendly and welcoming, considering that it is the fourth largest city in the country.

Wandering around its lively downtown is a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. Its fantastic art museums lie side-by-side with beautiful old churches and temples, while its food and nightlife scenes are thriving.

Many people use Daegu as a gateway to the region, and the nearby Palgong Mountain is well worth a visit. It is home to loads of scenic trails as well as numerous temples and Gatbawi – a magnificent stone statue of Buddha.

8. Gyeongju

Boasting more than 2000 years of history, Gyeongju is fittingly known as ‘the museum without walls’ thanks to its endless array of tombs, temples and archaeological sites. Many of them date back to when the city was capital of the Silla Kingdom.

A captivating place to explore, the center of town is full of old tombs, beautiful pagodas, and traditional houses. The Gyeongju National Museum houses a wonderful collection of local artifacts.

Two must-see sights are the stunning Bulguksa Temple, dating back to the eighth century, and the nearby Seokguram Grotto – both of which delightfully show off some rich Buddhist art and highlight how the religion impacted the area.

Once the spiritual capital of the country, Jeonju is full of historical sites and cultural landmarks. It is also home to one of the nation’s most popular tourist attractions in the shape of Hanok Village, which showcases traditional houses, local cultural practices, and artisanal products from around the region.

With lots of beautiful temples to marvel at, Jeonju is fascinating to walk around; its winding alleys are home to atmospheric cafes and restaurants, and no visit to Jeonju is complete without trying bibimbap – a local delicacy.

Before leaving, make sure to visit the excellent Jeonju National Museum, which protects, preserves and promotes the rich local history and culture.

The third largest city in the country, Incheon lies just under 40 kilometers from Seoul. It was at the huge port here that American soldiers landed in 1950 during the Korean War to recapture South Korea’s capital.

An important city to the nation in both historical and economic terms, Incheon is expanding rapidly and has loads for visitors to see and do. Its bustling Chinatown and maze of shops, restaurants, and bars in Bupyeong are just two of the highlights.

With the oldest temple in the country – Jeondeungsa – for you to enjoy, alongside lots of lovely old architecture and some delightful waterfront promenades, Incheon is a great option if you’re looking for a comfortable and accessible day trip from Seoul.

5. Gangneung

Lying on the East coast, Gangneung is the perfect place to head if you’re looking to step off the beaten path and get to know one of the country’s lesser-known cities.

Separated from the rest of South Korea by the Taebaek mountain range bordering it, Gangneung has its own distinctive culture and feel about it, as is evidenced by the delicious local cuisine and cultural events – such as the fascinating Danoje folk festival.

With centuries-old temples for you to visit, alongside the impressive Ojukheon Museum – home to shrines, traditional buildings and memorabilia from famous Koreans – Gangneung also has some lovely nature on offer; one of the nation’s most popular beaches can be found at Gyeongpo.

4. Jeju City

The largest city on the island of the same name, Jeju’s warm, welcoming climate makes it a popular tourist destination. Many people head here during the summer to enjoy the fancy hotels, teeming casinos, and trendy bars.

Although most of the main attractions are found out of town, Jeju City is a pleasant place to visit, with lots of fantastic restaurants, upmarket boutiques and accommodation options on offer.

Many people use it as a base from which to explore the rest of the island . A visit to the nearby Jeju Loveland – an adults-only theme park – will certainly highlight why the island is a popular honeymoon destination.

3. Seogwipo

Located on Jeju Island, Seogwipo is surrounded by some beautiful scenery, including a spectacular rocky coastline, plunging waterfalls, and beautiful beaches.

Consequently, most visitors to the city come primarily for its natural sights; it also boasts the best scuba-diving in the whole country. With lots of great paths and trails snaking their way to the waterfalls and along the coastline, it is also a popular hiking destination.

While the city itself doesn’t have that much going for it, the lovely scenery more than makes up for it. If you are at a loose end, the fun water park and immersive submarine tours are well worth checking out when in town.

The second largest city in South Korea, Busan is home to a bustling port and is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its beautiful scenery made up of forest-coated mountains and gorgeous beaches.

With many different sides to it, Busan is home to both a gritty industrial area and the hillside Gamcheon Cultural Village, full of brightly-colored houses offering delightful views over the city.

While most people come for its beaches, Busan has many interesting historical sites scattered around town: there’s the popular Beomeosa Temple with its numerous hot springs, fantastic seafood restaurants, and wealth of outdoor activities.

A sprawling metropolis that encompasses over 25 million people, South Korea’s capital has everything imaginable on offer. It is an enthralling place to explore, with centuries-old palaces and temples rubbing shoulders with gleaming shopping malls and bustling night markets.

With something for everyone to enjoy, you can be marveling at the intricate architecture of the 15th century Chandeok-gung palace one minute, be hiking in the nearby mountains and numerous parks the next, before later visiting one of the city’s fabulous museums.

Renowned for its excellent cuisine, Seoul has loads of great restaurants and street stalls dotted around. The city is continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible – whether that is in fashion and design or architecture and technology.

As such, there is always something new to see and do in Seoul.

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Spring in Korea – 15 Best Places to See Korea in Spring

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Seeing spring in Korea is absolutely magical and if you have the chance to visit South Korea in spring, then take it! The cherry blossoms start to bloom, the flowers of all colors start to cover the fields and nature slowly starts waking up from its long winter sleep. Spring and fall are the two most popular seasons to visit South Korea and you might find it a little overwhelming to choose which places to visit. In this guide, you will see 15 of the best spring places in South Korea , including a handy map with the locations so you can plan your visit accordingly.

Spring in Korea – The 15 Best places to see in Korea in Spring

Seeing all the beautiful locations with spring in Korea is nearly impossible for a tourist. There is an abundance of places all over the country and its islands, so to see all of the possible places you would have to stay in Korea for 2-3 months. In this guide, I have gathered the 15 best places to see Korea in spring!

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Map with all the destination points

1. Yeojwacheon Stream | 여좌천-벚꽃명소

Best time to visit: late March to April.

Best for: Cherry blossoms during the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival.

One of the most beautiful places in South Korea to see cherry blossoms in full bloom. Every April the city of Jinhae is blooming with king cherry blossoms, but the Yeojwa Stream area is by far the most beautiful (and most touristy). A top tip for spring in Korea!

2. Gyeonghwa Station | 경화역 벚꽃길

The first and the second place on this list are in the same town, so don’t miss a visit to this station to see the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and stretch alongside the railroad. Be prepared for crowds and find creative angles to take the pictures from, as this is also a very popular destination.

3. The Garden of Morning Calm | 아침고요수목원

Best time to visit: any time of the year. For spring come mid-April to end of May.

Best for: azaleas, cherry blossoms, and magnolias during the ‘Spring Garden Festival’.

The Garden of Morning Calm is a huge 30,000 sqm themed garden property, which is open year-round. It’s worth visiting any time of the year, but I particularly love how it looks in spring and fall. If flowers aren’t your thing entirely, then make sure to visit these privately owned gardens in winter (December to March), when they set up lots of lights in the 26 themed gardens. See more here .

4. Nami Island | 남이섬

Best time to visit: any time of the year.

Best for: blossoming trees.

This small and pretty half-moon-shaped island is nestled inside an artificial lake and is, just like The Garden of Morning Calm, the perfect destination for a day trip outside of Seoul. In Nami Island you will see beautiful rows of majestic trees, free-roaming animals, art exhibits, and more! It is truly a photographers’ paradise, so make sure you take a couple of batteries with you.

5. Oncheoncheon Stream | 온천천

Best time to visit: Late March to early April.

Best for: Cherry blossoms and yellow rapeseed flowers.

One of the prettiest places in Busan for cherry blossoms. The perfect location to spend time with your family or your loved one. If you time your visit well then you’ll manage to see both the cherry blossoms and the yellow rape flowers bloom at the same time!

6. Daejeo Ecological Park | 대저생태공원

Best for: Yellow rapeseed flowers during the Nakdong Canola Festival that takes place in April.

Located along the riverbanks of Nakdonggang River, Daejeo Ecological Park is made up of various marshes and waterways. But the park is most famous for the blooming canola fields and the Nakdong Canola Festival that takes place every April.

7. Agroland Taeshin Farm | 아그로랜드 태신목장

Best time to visit: June – early July. Fall is beautiful, too.

Best for: blooming fields and family visit at the farm.

An equally fun place to visit with a family, partner, or by yourself, Agroland Taeshin Farm is a great destination to spend the day at. Not only will you be able to see the blooming fields, you can also opt for activities for the whole family, such as making ice cream and milking. In the summer you can see a beautiful cornfield here. PS: the place is very instagrammable.

8. Yugibang Gaok, Seosan | 유기방 가옥

Best time to visit: early April.

Best for: daffodil fields.

If you’re into a sea of yellow daffodils, then this is the place to be! This place is ultra-Instagrammable and was also the shooting location of Korean drama, ‘Mr Sunshine’.

9. Camellia Hill Jeju| 카멜리아 힐

Best time to visit: all year-round.

Best for: camellia flowers. In June for pure blue hydrangeas.

As I mentioned earlier, seeing spring in Korea means a long visit to the country! And if you just so happen to be on Jeju island, there is plenty to see even there. The most noteworthy destination is, however, Camellia Hill. beautiful year-round, so if you happen to be on the island in spring, then don’t forget to visit, as it is home to 500 different species of camellia trees.

10. Gunpo Royal Azalea Festival | 군포철쭉축제

Best time to visit: late April to May.

Best for: pink and purple azalea.

Every year, Gunpo city holds the Gunpo Royal Azalea Festival at the Royal Azalea Hill. This is a true treat for the eyes, as the hill is covered in pretty purple and pink azaleas. During this festival, there are lots of performances and visitors, so be prepared for crowds!

11. Hwangmaesan Mountain Royal Azalea Festival | 합천 황매산철쭉제

Best for: purple azalea flowers covering the mountain.

Getting away from the city never looked so pretty! As late April comes along, Hwangmaesan Mountain Royal Azalea Festival happens and with it, the mountain gets covered with beautiful and luxurious purple azaleas.

12. Cheonho-dong Rose Village | 천호동 장미마을

Best time to visit: May.

Best for: small alley with roses and murals.

This rather hidden little gem in Seoul is called Cheonho-dong Rose Village. It is essentially an alley of about 100 meters where you can look at the pretty roses in full bloom and the murals of the Little Prince.

13. Seoul Forest Park | 서울숲

Best time to visit: all seasons. Early April for cherry blossoms and tulip festival in May.

Best for: many sorts of flowers, cherry blossoms, and tulips.

Seoul Forest Park is a city park boasting with five parks spread over 350,000 pyeong (approximately 1.16 million ㎡) of land. It’s the perfect nature oasis in the city and is a great place to visit year-round. If you are in Korea in Spring, you will see cherry blossoms here in early April and witness a tulip festival in May.

14. Namsan Park | 남산공원

Best for: cherry blossoms.

A must-visit for those spending the spring in Korea! This beautiful cherry blossom setting in Namsan Park is easy to visit and you’ll be able to snap plenty of pretty shots with the blossoms and the N Soul Tower.

15. Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival | 영등포 여의도 봄꽃축제

Best time to visit: April.

Best for: cherry blossoms and many other flowers.

With a beautiful backdrop of the Han River, the annual Yeongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival aims to celebrate the blossoms of spring in all its glory. This is also one of the must-visits for spring in Korea and the city of Seoul. Here you will not only see the cherry blossoms, though but also nearly 90,000 flowers including azaleas, forsythias, and spireas. The best place to see the cherry blossoms is from the southern edge of Yeouido Park to the KBS Annex Building.

When to visit Korea for spring flowers: April to June

Spring in Korea typically lasts from April to June, with average daily temperatures of 15 – 25°C. While the temperatures in early spring might still be a little chilly, late spring will bless its visitors with sunny days and temperatures even going up to 27°C.

During Korean spring you’ll be able to attend many festivals and events, as well as see cherry blossoms and blooming fields and parks all over the country.

What to pack

Clothes and shoes.

Korea in early spring is still slightly chilly, so make sure you pack accordingly. Bring a medium-thick jacket, long clothes, and make sure you layer up. Since spring in Korea can also be a little stubborn, make sure you pack an umbrella and sunglasses and carry both of them with you when you go out.

We visited Korea in May. While the temperatures in May are absolutely wonderful during the day, with up to 25°C, it did get slightly chilly in the evenings. In late spring you can dress up in your summer clothes during the day, but make sure you have a cardigan or thin coat to wear in the evenings.

Unless you plan on going out Gangnam-style (high heels), I’d suggest you bring only comfy shoes on your trip to Korea. Casual dressing is quite popular and matching a dress with trendy sneakers is totally okay and it will help you walk more comfortably all day!

Want to see more than just flowers during your trip to Seoul? Check out this article:

10 Best Things To Do in Seoul South Korea

We didn’t wear face masks during our trip to Korea (pre-pandemic), but the air quality in Seoul and other larger cities can get quite bad. Yellow dust is a big problem in spring in Korea, as well as in other seasons, so if you’re sensitive to it then make sure you wear a mask and drink plenty of water. If you forget to buy one before your trip, don’t worry, they’re being sold everywhere.

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South Korea

Monday 15th of March 2021

The photos in this article are wonderful and the places you have described as well. I consider it for next year

Sunday 14th of March 2021

South Korea has always been on my list and now I know when I'd like to visit so I can see the beauty from your photos in real life

Friday 12th of March 2021

The photos in this post are next-level - stunning! I would love to have a peaceful stroll through each of these locations, especially Nami Island.

Saturday 13th of March 2021

I'm happy you like them! Some talented people out there :) Nami looks like a dream, right?! :)

Never realized spring in Korea was so full of flowers!! Namsen Park looks amazing!

It's packed with so many different flower parks, it's so pretty!

Thursday 11th of March 2021

South Korea looks amazing and it is definitely on my bucket list. Your photos are gorgeous!

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South Korea Is A Total Bucket-List Destination – Here Are 10 Amazing Things To Get Up To

From the busy streets of Seoul to a night spent in a traditional hanok home – it's time to start planning your visit!

BuzzFeed Staff

I'm Hanifah and I love to travel. South Korea's been on my bucket list for years, but I’d never gotten around to planning the perfect trip.

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So when I got the chance to join Intrepid’s first-ever Essential South Korea trip, I jumped at the opportunity.

As someone who loves a packed schedule but gets overwhelmed when it comes to the actual organising, the trip looked perfect. This isn't just your average holiday – it's an immersive experience packed full of adventures and is the newest addition to Intrepid’s 18-35 trips. The itinerary involves nine days of soaking up a wealthh of South Korean culture, visiting Seoul, Jeonju, Busan, and more. 

From trying street food to staying in a traditional historic home, the itinerary is packed to the brim with so many different cultural experiences, and I can’t think of a better way to explore the country in all its glory. If you’re thinking about visiting South Korea and want to make sure you make the most of it, check out everything that’s included in the Essential South Korea trip here.

Top tips before you go!

– To make the inevitable language barrier a little bit easier, I suggest downloading the app Papago for on-the-go translations. Not only does it have pretty good vocal recognition, but you can also take photos of text and have it instantly translated.

– No one expects you to be fluent, but knowing some basics of the language goes a long way. “Annyeonghaseyo” (ahn-nyeong-ha-se-yo) means hello and “gamsahabnida” (kam-sa-ham-ni-da) means thank you. You’re sure to pick up more Korean along your journey, but it’s good to have those basics down.

– It’s likely that the data on your phone won’t work, but there are simple solutions at the airport. You can hire a pocket wifi egg or a data sim card at the arrivals gate.

– When it comes to navigating travel in South Korea, Google Maps has nothing on Naver . It gives you perfect walking directions, as well as the best ways to get to your destination (each subway station has multiple exits, and without Naver, I’d have been totally lost). 

– A T-money card makes travelling super convenient. You can pick one up at any 7-Eleven for 3,000 KRW (about $2), and top it up in the subway station as you need. You can use a T-money card to pay for your travel on the bus, subway, and some taxis. 

Here are some amazing things to get up to in Korea!

🇰🇷 seoul 🇰🇷, 1. take a step back in time at the historical gyeongbokgung palace.

A few stops on the subway takes you out of the bustling city and back to quiet of the the 14th century. Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung is considered to be the most beautiful palace from the Joseon Dynasty, and it’s easy to see why. As soon as we set foot on the grounds I was blown away by the ornate designs, and with families strolling around adorned in traditional hanbok clothing, it wasn’t hard to imagine just how regal the palace was back in its heyday. It’s a good idea to get there by 11 am, which is when the guard changing procession begins, a recreation of the traditional ceremony of the past.

2. Channel your inner idol at a K-Pop dance lesson at FRZM Studio

In the heart of trendy Hongdae, you’ll find FRZM dance studio , which is home to some of Seoul’s coolest dancers. If you’ve seen even one K-pop video, you’ll know these guys don’t mess around when it comes to choreography, so why not learn from the best? Our teacher Peri was a total star who came prepared with a sleek routine that she somehow managed to break down for us dance newbies. While it didn’t take me long to discover that I don’t, in fact, have what it takes to be a K-Pop star (not even close!), I had so much fun trying to follow along with Peri and her flawless choreography.

3. Eat some delicious traditional food at Gwangjang Market

South Korea is famed for its street food, and Gwangjang Market is the perfect place to find out exactly why. As you set foot into the market you’re greeted by an array of glorious flavours, and even though I wasn’t sure what I was smelling, I knew my tastebuds were in for a treat. Whether you fancy traditional fried chicken or soft-shell crab, there are endless stalls offering a plethora of delicious delights. There are so many options to choose from, and most of the stall owners are more than happy to give you a bite or two to sample. The market is also home to traditional goods, groceries, and various souvenirs, so it’s worth taking a look around after you’ve finished stuffing your face.

4. Sing your heart out at karaoke in Hongdae

If you’re looking for nightlife, Hongdae is the place to be – packed to the brim with bars and restaurants ready to welcome you with cocktails and anju (food to eat alongside your drinks), and of course karaoke. In Korean, karaoke is referred to as “noraebang”, which literally means a song room, but I don’t think that definition does it justice. They have endless collections of K pop hits (yes, we did “Gangnam Style”) as well as all the classics, and with the disco ball and lights it really feels like your own private night club.

🇰🇷 Jeonju 🇰🇷

5. spend the night in a traditional hanok village.

Hanoks are traditional Korean houses, dating all the way back to the Joseon dynasty, and to put it plainly, they’re stunning. Historically, hanoks housed entire families, but the ones you can stay in have been transformed into guest houses. As soon as I stepped into the courtyard I was greeted by some friendly village cats , and things just kept getting better from there. While they’ve been updated with modern conveniences, the heart of the homes remains authentic; the wood panelled walls are decorated with traditional Korean art and the bed folds neatly away into the cupboard. As a sleep lover, I wasn’t sure how I’d fare on the futon-like floor mattress, but with the heated floors and tranquil surroundings, I slept like a baby. 

6. Take a Kimchi-making class with the Kimchi master

Kimchi is a staple of the Korean diet, and if you’ve had it before, you’ll know why. We joined Kim Myeong Ok – a total kimchi genius – to learn all about what goes into making the traditional food. After finding out the many seasonings that go into the dish (and snacking on the pickled cabbage, of course), we jumped straight into TV chef mode, determined to be the best rookie kimchi makers we could. Myeong talked us through the marinating process, and with our aprons and long gloves, we really got into the technique. Once you’re finished, you can pack it all up to enjoy eating back home – it’s the perfect holiday souvenir.

7. Visit the ancient ruins of Webosansung

This historic mountain fortress was built in the 17th century, as a way to help evacuate and protect residents in the late Joseon Dynasty. The wall is over eight thousand years old, and it’s surrounded by miles and miles of forest hills – it really feels like taking a stroll in the past. It’s not too far from Awon Museum, which is located across three 250-year-old hanoks that overlook a mountain village; their stunning gardens have some spectacular views. 

8. Get a body scrub at The Hanok Spa

This might look like an unsuspecting tower block, but inside is a menagerie of pampering and self care. If I’m being honest, I was a bit intimidated when I first approached the spa – I knew I’d have to strip off, but not much more. This 24 hour spa is really popular with the locals, and while there was a bit of a language barrier, the staff there were super friendly. There are heated pools to rest and relax in, and it didn’t take long for me to feel at home among the older ladies chatting away and watching TV. As a dedicated exfoliator, I wasn’t expecting too much from the body scrub, but boy was I wrong – I could literally see my dead skin getting sloughed off. I left the spa feeling like a soft little peach, and I couldn’t recommend it more.

🇰🇷 Busan 🇰🇷

9. watch the waves at haedong yonggungsa temple.

Set right on the shoreline, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is a wonder of both natural and historical beauty. First built in 1376, the Buddhist temple is a place of reflection and peace, and it's truly breathtaking.  As I walked down the temple’s 108 steps, I was blown away by the picturesque views surrounding me – intricately designed architecture, ethereal statues, and gorgeous stone lanterns, to name a few delights. I loved learning about the historical Buddhist traditions and symbolism, but my favourite part was the tranquil backdrop of crashing waves. There are lots of temples to visit, but none as unique as this one.

10. Take a stroll through the stunning Gamcheon Culture Village

With its twisting alleys and colourful houses, Gamcheon Culture Village feels like a storybook come to life. Decorated by professional artists, art students, and residents, it’s easy to see why the village is one of Busan’s most popular tourist spots. While strolling through the lovingly adorned streets, we were met with tons of artisan shops selling stunning handmade trinkets and some wonderful art installations. BTS fans: keep an eye out for the Jimin and Jungkook mural, it’s really something to behold.

Have you visited South Korea? Let us know your recommendations in the comments below, and visit Intrepid's website to find out more about their 18-35s Adventures!

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6 Best places to visit when traveling in South Korea

S outh Korea's rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and rich culture are a traveler's paradise. Each destination oofers a distinct blend of attractions, activities, and culinary treats, guaranteeing the perfect adventure for all travel buffs.

Thanks to the country's myriad of travel experiences, from Seoul's dynamic city life to Jeju Island's serene natural beauty, South Korea is an enigmatic Pandora's box for most travel enthusiasts.

Whether it is scouring the bustling markets, hiking in panoramic national parks, or immersing in the classic Korean traditions and arts, with its modern cities, ancient temples, and delicious cuisine, this destination promises an unforgettable and fable-like trip.

Note: This is purely the writer's opinion. We might have missed a few destinations; let us know your opinion.

6 Best places to visit in South Korea

To make the visitors to South Korea comfortable, Korean is the predominant language, and many locals in tourism communicate in English.

Ahead, Team Sportskeeda has made a curated list of the six best places to visit in South Korea while providing detailed insights into each destination.

• Jeju Island

Seoul, South Korea 's capital, is a mesmerizing mix of modern skyscrapers and ancient palaces. The best time to visit this dynamic metropolis is during the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant.

Must-visit attractions include Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, and Bukchon Hanok Village, where travelers can enjoy traditional tea ceremonies, vibrant nightlife, and shopping in neighborhoods like Myeongdong.

There are plenty of options for lodging, from opulent hotels to comfortable homestays, in addition to savoring regional delicacies like bibimbap, kimchi, and Korean BBQ.

Nearest airport: Incheon International Airport

2) Jeju Island

Jeju Island, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes. The best time to explore this picturesque South Korean locale is from April to June, adorned with blooming wildflowers.

Once here, avid travelers can explore local attractions like Hallasan National Park, Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, and Manjanggul Cave, which offer exceptional experiences for nature lovers.

Jeju Island caters to many accommodation options, from upscale resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Further, tasting Jeju's local delicacies, like fresh seafood, black pork, and hallabong oranges , is a must for all travel buffs.

Nearest airport: Jeju International Airport

Read more: 7 Best things to do in Japan in 2024

Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, a blend of modernity and coastal beauty, is famous for its beach activities and delectable seafood. The best time to visit is during the summer for beach recreation and the Busan International Film Festival in October.

Heritage sites along the coast, such as Gamcheon Culture Village, Beomeosa Temple, and Haeundae Beach, are among the city's must-see atractions.

Further, from enjoying comfortable stays in boutique hotels to beach shacks, adventurous souls can dig into Busan's dishes like dwaeji gukbap (pork soup) and milmyeon (wheat noodles).

Nearest airport: Gimhae International Airport

4) Gyeongju

Gyeongju is a South Korean city steeped in historical sites and cultures known as the Museum without Walls.' Spring and autumn are the best times to visit. The traveler can explore the attractions surrounding the vicinity like Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and the UNESCO-listed Gyeongju Historic Areas. For rest and recoup, they can stay at traditional hanok-style stays in modern hotels and inns while indulging in Gyeongju bread and haejangguk (hangover soup) for a delightful culinary experience.

Nearest airport: Gimhae International Airport in Busan

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Andong, nestled in the middle of Gyeongsangbuk-do province and known to be a haven for cultural enthusiasts, is a must-visit place, especially during the Andong Mask Dance Festival in September and the Andong International Folk Festival in October.

Once here, they can explore the Hahoe Folk Village, Andong Confucian School, and Byeongsanseowon Confucian Academy while cooling their heels at the trendy hotels, cozy homestays, or roadside motels. They can indulge in Andong's local cuisine, including Andong jjimdak (braised chicken ) and heotjesabap (lotus leaf rice) for gastronomic delights.

Further, there is no major airport in Andong, and adventure lovers can access the city via transit from nearby areas.

Nearest airport: NA

Yet another home on the UNESCO list, South Korea's Suwon, is an amalgamation of tradition and modernity. Courtesy of the ancient Hwaseong Fortress and the thriving local markets, Suwon acts like a magnet to most adventure love. Autumn and winter are the right time to visit this place. Suwon offers various lodging preferences, from business hotels to cozy guesthouses.

Further, Suwon's local goodies, like dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) and Suwon galbi (marinated beef ribs), are the authentic gastronomic delights.

Read more: 6 Best European countries to visit in Summer 2024

Whether the reader is a travel enthusiast, a history buff, a nature lover, or a food critic, any of these six places to visit in South Korea is a platter full of surprises for all.

So, without much dilly-dallying, they can initiate their South Korean tour with their boarding passes and backpacks ready to go!