Explore Seoul
Discover the best of Korea's capital
Palaces & Traditional Culture
Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁)
The largest of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces, built in 1395. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Free entry if you wear hanbok (traditional Korean dress — rental shops nearby, ~₩15,000-20,000). Subway: Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station.
Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을)
A 600-year-old traditional village with beautiful hanok houses. Still a residential area — please be respectful and keep quiet. Located between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces.
Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden
UNESCO World Heritage Site with a stunning rear garden. Guided tours required for the Secret Garden.
Iconic Seoul Spots
| Place | Highlight | How to Get There |
|---|---|---|
| N Seoul Tower (남산타워) | 236m tower, 360° city views, love lock fence | Hike up (~40 min) or take the cable car |
| Myeongdong (명동) | K-beauty paradise, street food heaven | Line 4, Myeongdong Station |
| Itaewon (이태원) | International neighborhood, diverse food & nightlife | Line 6, Itaewon Station |
| Gangnam (강남) | Modern luxury, COEX Mall, Garosu-gil | Line 2, Gangnam Station |
| Gwangjang Market (광장시장) | Bindaetteok, mayak kimbap, yukhoe — legendary street food | Line 1, Jongno 5-ga Station |
Han River Parks
Picnicking by the Han River is a quintessential Seoul experience. Bring fried chicken, beer, and a blanket!
| Park | Highlight | Nearest Subway |
|---|---|---|
| Mangwon Hangang Park | Closest to Hongdae/SBDF. Sunset views. | Mangwon Station (Line 6) |
| Yeouido Hangang Park | Most popular picnic spot. Street vendors. | Yeouinaru Station (Line 5) |
| Banpo Hangang Park | Rainbow Fountain — Guinness World Record, 1,140m | Express Bus Terminal (Line 3/7/9) |
Han River Picnic Pro Tips
- Buy food at Mangwon Market, then walk 16 min to Mangwon Hangang Park
- Order delivery food via Baemin app directly to the park
- Rent picnic mats and supplies from vendors near subway exits
- Arrive before 4 PM on weekends for a good spot
Day Trips from Seoul
| Destination | Time from Seoul | Cost | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| DMZ | 5-7 hours (half-day tour) | ₩50,000-80,000 | Must book a tour. Bring passport. Third Tunnel, Dora Observatory. |
| Nami Island (남이섬) | ~90 min | ₩19,000 entry (incl. ferry) | Beautiful tree-lined paths. Take ITX train from Yongsan to Gapyeong. |
| Suwon Hwaseong (수원화성) | 30 min by KTX | ~₩9,000 KTX fare | UNESCO fortress. 5.7km wall walk. Stunning architecture. |