Seoul Travel Guide: Best Attractions and Itineraries

Deciding where to go on a weekend can often feel overwhelming, especially with countless options available. To help travellers navigate Seoul easily, this guide categorises the best attractions by theme and region, focusing on places accessible by public transport regardless of the weather.

Top Categories for Every Traveller

• Traditional Spaces: Royal palaces and Hanok villages offer distinct charms across all four seasons.

• Nature and Parks: Scenic walking trails and open green spaces.

• Indoor Attractions: Museums and libraries ideal for rainy days.

• Traditional Markets: Vibrant spots for local street food and snacks.

• Indoor Activities: Aquariums and experiential entertainment centres.

Palaces and Traditional Villages

Gyeongbokgung

As the primary royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung features well-preserved main halls like Gyeonghoeru and Geunjeongjeon. Located a 5-minute walk from Exit 2 of Gyeongbokgung Station (Subway Line 3), it is open daily from 09:00 to 18:00 (hours may vary slightly by season). Admission ranges from 3,000 to 4,000 KRW, but visitors wearing traditional Korean dress receive free admission.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Tiled roofs line the narrow alleys of this traditional residential district nestled between Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Jongmyo. Visitors can explore hidden craft workshops and small cafes, though visitors should remain mindful of local residents.

Parks and Scenic Walks

Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower

Perched 265 metres above sea level, Namsan features an octagonal pavilion, fountains, a library, and N Seoul Tower. Accessible via the Namsan cable car from Myeongdong Station (Subway Line 4) or on foot from Chungmuro Station (Subway Line 3). The tower is open daily from 10:00 to 23:00. Admission tickets cost approximately 15,000 KRW for same-day entry, or 12,000 to 13,000 KRW when booked in advance.

Cheonggyecheon and Seoul Forest

Cheonggyecheon provides a popular walking path and resting area, while Seoul Forest offers large lawns and a deer enclosure, making it ideal for families. Both locations are free to enter.

Museums and Libraries

Major national facilities such as the National Museum of Korea, the War Memorial of Korea, the National Palace Museum of Korea, and the National Folk Museum of Korea offer free admission for permanent exhibitions. Operating hours vary, with extended evening hours until 21:00 on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Starfield Coex Library

Located inside Starfield Coex Mall and a 3-minute walk from Samseong Station (Subway Line 5/Line 2 exit 5 area), this open public library features towering bookshelves. It is open daily from 10:00 to 22:00 (closing at 21:00 on weekends) with free admission.

Traditional Markets

Gwangjang Market

Situated at 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, this century-old market is famous for mung bean pancakes (bindaetteok), addictive seaweed rice rolls (mayak gimbap), and raw beef (yukhoe). Located a 5-minute walk from Exit 4 of Jongno 3-ga Station (Subway Line 3), most shops operate from 10:00 to 20:00, with weekend hours extended until 21:00.

Mangwon Market

Located at 27 Poeun-ro 6-gil, Mapo-gu, Mangwon Market is popular among younger crowds for its trendy street snacks. A 10-minute walk from Exit 2 of Mangwon Station (Subway Line 2), it operates mainly from 10:00 to 20:00 and connects directly to Hangang Park.

Indoor Activities

Coex Aquarium

Home to around 40,000 marine creatures, the aquarium is a 10-minute walk from Samseong Station (Subway Line 2). Operating hours are daily from 10:00 to 20:00 (extending to 21:00 during select seasons), with adult tickets priced between 25,000 and 32,000 KRW before advance discounts.

Regional Itinerary Ideas