We have always been intrigued by the contrasting cultures of South Korea and North Korea. The openness of the former, as a society has won appreciation from the world. The culturally rich country has become one of the most popular locations for off-beat travel. The society of this place reflects traces of its ancient monarchical past and Buddhist influences, along with its swift modernization. This unique fusion is worth experiencing as a traveler. There are some really exciting things to do in Seoul that you must try on your visit to this South Korean capital.
8 Things To Do In Seoul
Here are some of the amazing things to do in Seoul to make your South Korean vacation an unforgettable one:
1. Bukchon Hanok Village – Explore
Image Credit: Herbert_Lee for Pixabay Bukchon Hanok Village is located on the summit of a hill between Gyeongbok Palace, Changdeok Palace and Jongmyo Royal Shrine. This traditional village preserves a 600-year-old urban environment. The rusticity of this place will cast a spell on you and will take you back in time. The village is composed of many alleys and hanok houses (a traditional Korean house) belonging to the Joseon Dynasty. People still live in Bukchon Hanok Village. From this village perched on the hilltop, it sits overlooking the urban settlement. Exploring this village is one of the best things to do in Seoul.
Must Read: Top 10 Reasons To Visit South Korea & Have A Blast With Your Family
Looking To Book An International Holiday?
Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.
2. Myeongdong – Buy Cosmetics
Image Credit: tragrpx for Pixabay If you are visiting South Korea, shopping is a must thing to do. And for the best experience of shopping in this city you must definitely go to Myeong-dong. This is a busy shopping area in Seoul is a heaven for cosmetic lovers. It is super packed with stores of international fashion brands and high-end department stores. Myeong-dong is popular for its food scenes too. There are local eateries selling Korean dumplings and ginseng chicken soup. You would also find many street vendors selling Japanese and Thai snacks. Post-shopping you can also head to the nearby Myeongdong Nanta Theatre to catch some stage shows that combine folk music and drama. Another option is the Myeong-dong Cathedral that features a 19th-century Gothic-style bell tower.
Suggested Read: Banpo Bridge: All You Need To Know For Your Visit To This Marvelous Attraction
3. Gyeongbokgung Palace – Cultural Experience
Image Credit: lperron for Pixabay Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. Also known as Gyeongbokgung Palace or Gyeongbok Palace, this place oozes the ancient Korean royal vibes. The beautiful palace is built in the traditional architectural style with striking roof structures. This place is popular for the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony which is also known as the Gwanghwamun Gate Guard-on-Duty Performance. Make sure you attend it on your visit. You can also dress a gatekeeper by borrowing the costume available at the Sumunjangcheong Building, located behind the Gwanghwamun Gate.
Suggested Read: 8 Hotels In South Korea That Are All About Class, Comfort, And Convenience!
4. Everland – Steepest Roller Coaster Ride
Image Source To add a tinge of thrill to your South Korean vacation, head to Everland. This theme park, located at the Everland Resort in Yongin, is the largest in the country. With an annual footfall of over 7.3 millions, it was listed on the 16th position in the world for its attendance in 2014. This massive outdoor theme park consists 5 interesting zones of rides and attractions. Test your courage by riding on the world’s steepest wooden roller coaster at Everland. The theme park also houses South Korea’s only safari.
Suggested Read: Top 10 Things To Do In South Korea To Experience The Essence Of The Vibrant Country
Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
Real travel stories. Real stays. Handy tips to help you make the right choice.
5. Mount Namsen – Cable Car Ride
Image Source Namsan Mountain is a peak located in the Jung-gu district of south-central Seoul. Originally known as Mongmyeoksan, this 262 metres high peak is a hotspot for hiking. There are also some picturesque picnic spots with spellbinding views of downtown Seoul. You can also visit the iconic N Seoul Tower which is proudly held by Mount Namsan. The observatory deck on the tower offers mind-blowing views from the height. You would also love the cable car ride that takes to the top of the mountain.
Suggested Read: 28 Stunning Places To Visit In South Korea
6. Food Steets – Food Tours
Image Source Seoul gives out some of the most mouth-watering food experiences. There are many amazing food streets in the city that attracts visitors with its aroma and popularity. Hotteok, sweet pancakes; Tteokbokki, spicy rice cakes; Kimbap, seaweed rice rolls; and the classic chicken skewers are some of the must-try street foods in Seoul. Soondae, Korean blood sausage; Mayak gimbap (narcotic rice rolls); and Bindaetteok, a mung bean pancake, are some other Korean dishes that have a huge fan following.
Suggested Read: Bukchon Hanok Village: Know The Historicity Of This Korean Village
7. NANTA Theatre – Non-verbal Show
Image Source Myeongdong NANTA Theatre is a well known performing arts theatre in the capital city of South Korea. It is popular for its humorous stage shows that are performed in a non-verbal musical style. The shows feature a culinary-themed comedy performance that involves acrobatic moves and rhythmic melodies. Watching a show at the NANTA Theatre in Seoul is a must-do, so make sure you book the tickets in advance.
Suggested Read: Korean Food Guide: 15 Tasteful Korean Dishes For An Epicurean Delight!
8. Underground Malls – Shopping
Image Source Express Terminal Underground Centre is a unique shopping mall in Seoul. This extensive underground shopping area can be reached through various subways. Seoul is known for such underground shopping malls. Gangnam Underground Shopping Centre and Yeongdeungpo Underground Mall are the other two popular names in the list. These spots allow uninterrupted shopping experience, as you do not have to worry about the sun, wind or rain. Also, you get a variety of things under one roof and it is also a great place to test your bargaining skills.
Further Read: 5 Places Worth Exploring On Korea Tour-Land Of Morning Calm
Indulge in these super amazing things to do in Seoul and make the most of your vacation in this capital city. Plan a trip to South Korea and enjoy an off-beat destination on your upcoming holiday. Also keep in mind the best time to visit from March to May and September – November. Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Seoul
How many days in Seoul is enough?
A trip of 5-6 days would be enough to witness the best of Seoul. To enjoy your vacation, you can go sightseeing and indulge in outdoor activities.
What is Seoul mostly known for?
Seoul is the capital of South Korea and is known for its famous temples and four major palaces with Gyeongbokgung being the most important one. Seoul is also famous for its cultural and artistic attractions, traditional porcelain, textile, and jewelry.
What is the best time to visit Seoul?
The months between March to May and again September to November is the best time to visit Seoul. It’s the time when you can enjoy the most pleasant weather, fewer crowds and huge discounts on hotels.
What is there to do in Seoul?
Here are a few exciting things to do in Seoul for a fun vacation:
1. Explore the Bukchon Hanok Village
2. Go cosmetics shopping at Myeongdong
3. Get some cultural experience at Gyeongbokgung Palace
4. Ride the Steepest Roller Coaster at Everland
5. Take a cable car ride to Mount Namsen.
What should I buy in Seoul?
While visiting Seoul, you can buy dried seafood, handicrafts, pottery, and traditional stationery, cosmetics, clothing, and handmade products.
Looking To Book A Holiday Package?
Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.
People Also Read
Things To Do In Philippines Things To Do In China Things To Do In Japan
A writer at TravelTriangle, Elin, enjoys putting her travel experiences into words. She is a lover of cats and coffee and believes in the idea of ‘Live and let live’.