Seoul travel guide
Best Things to Do in Seoul
The number one thing to do in Seoul is Gyeongbokgung Palace — arrive for the 10am guard-changing ceremony, and rent a hanbok (₩15,000–25,000) for free entry and the city’s best photos. Pair it with neighbouring Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong’s tea houses.
What to do in Seoul
Seoul days pair one palace with one neighbourhood: history by daylight, neon after dark. Rent a hanbok (free palace entry when wearing one) and the city becomes your photoshoot.
The best things to do in Seoul
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Gyeongbokgung Palace · Palace
The grandest Joseon palace — changing of the guard and mountain backdrop
Area: Jongno · Time needed: 2–3 hours · Cost: ₩3,000 (free in hanbok)
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Bukchon Hanok Village · Historic district
600-year-old tiled-roof lanes between two palaces
Area: Jongno · Time needed: 1.5 hours · Cost: Free
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N Seoul Tower (Namsan) · Viewpoint
The city’s 236m beacon — cable car up, love-locks at the top
Area: Namsan · Time needed: 2 hours · Cost: Tower ₩21,000
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Myeongdong · Shopping & food
Cosmetics megastores by day, legendary street-food stalls by night
Area: Myeongdong · Time needed: 2–3 hours · Cost: Free (snacks ₩3,000–6,000)
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Hongdae · Nightlife
Buskers, clubs and 4am eateries around Hongik University
Area: Mapo · Time needed: Evening · Cost: Free
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Changdeokgung Secret Garden · Palace garden
UNESCO-listed palace with a hidden garden of lotus ponds
Area: Jongno · Time needed: 2.5 hours (tour) · Cost: ₩8,000 incl. garden
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best things to do in Seoul — FAQs
What is the number one thing to do in Seoul?
The number one thing to do in Seoul is Gyeongbokgung Palace — arrive for the 10am guard-changing ceremony, and rent a hanbok (₩15,000–25,000) for free entry and the city’s best photos. Pair it with neighbouring Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong’s tea houses.
How many days do you need in Seoul?
Three to four days covers Seoul well: two for the palaces and old neighbourhoods, one for Myeongdong and Namsan, one for Hongdae and the Han River. A fifth day allows a DMZ tour or a day trip to Suwon’s fortress.
Last reviewed and updated: by the AmazingAsia editorial team. See our editorial policy.