50+ Things To Do In Seoul (for First Time Visitors)

Shortly after moving to Korea, I realized the great abundance of things to do in Seoul. A day is not enough to thoroughly appreciate what this beautiful city has in store for you, but if that’s all you have, then there’s a lot to choose from.

There are actually so many things to do in Seoul that this post focuses only on the most unique, iconic, or underrated Seoul attractions. 

So just to get you started thinking about what to add to your Seoul itinerary, below is our ever-expanding list of interesting things you can only do in Seoul, including places you shouldn’t miss while in the Land of the Morning Calm.

6 Things to Do in Seoul for Foodies

1. Traditional Korean Rice Wine (Makgeolli) & Cooking Class in Seoul

Koreans love their liquor to the point that they made it a culturally acceptable way to bring people together, even in the afternoon. While most of you are familiar with soju, there’s another liquor that Koreans love to pair with barbequed meat: rice wine or makgeolli.

This class is taught by Seri Jeong, a Korean liquor expert, whose decade-long career has garnered multiple awards and domestic fame. Since this drink is best enjoyed with binddaedeok and pajeon, especially when it rains, this is also the perfect activity to do during the monsoon season. Check out their website for more details.

2. GREEM CAFÉ 

Ever wondered what it’s like to step into a black & white cartoon strip? This is exactly what GREEM CAFÉ looks like inside, with “pencil-drawn” outlined chairs and tables, creating a 2D illusion that teases your eyes while their coffee tickles your taste buds.

So if you have vertigo, this may not be the place for you. Still, you should give this place a shot. Their Ham and Cheese croissant sandwich (₩ 6,500) is good, and it really goes well with their Herb Garden Tea (₩5,500). If you have extra room, also try their Soft Milk Cream Cake with Honey (₩5,500).

3. Coffee Hanyakbang

Somewhere in “hip-jiro” (a name given by the young locals to Euljiro) lies a coffee shop tucked inside an alley, populated mostly by the university youth. To get there you need to squeeze through an alley next to a ginseng shop, and the moment you step inside, you’ll find a really dark room with baristas in white.

What I love about this place is that it’s very rustic in a city that’s so futuristic. Even the menu is made out of a plank of wood; and they serve tea and coffee in an antique baking pan. Although most cafes only care about aesthetics, this one puts great care into their coffee.

Some have fruity, nutty, and chocolatey notes, resulting in a thick, creamy coffee that’s worth every cent. And since they roast their beans by hand in the back corner of the café, this Seoul attraction smells really, really good.

4. Museum Kimchikan

What is Korea known for? Kimchi. This traditional Korean dish is a staple in homes & restaurants, and you can find it almost everywhere in Seoul. There’s even a National Kimchi Day every November, on which most people go back to their hometowns to make enough kimchi for the year as a family.

But the best place to learn all about it is to go to a museum dedicated to it. Here you can learn all about the kimjang process, which is an immersive activity you can do with the entire family.

There are actually multiple types of kimchi (made with things like radish or bean sprouts), and one special thing about the Kimchi Museum is that they let you try all of them in their tasting room.

5. Coffee Nap Roasters

Most foodies love three things: good food, delicious drinks, and top-tier ambiance. This secluded coffee shop in Seoul has it all. Moreover, what’s unique about this place is the peculiar choice of floor design, made out of bricks stacked together irregularly like a small hill.

Therapeutic music plays softly in the background as you relax in any spot you like. Plus, this is the only place in Seoul where you can get a smoky and savory “bacon cookie” for just ₩3,200. 

6. Noryangjin Fish Market

Dating back to 1927, this fish market remains in operation today, with tanks full of large fish, crabs, and other interesting seafood freshly caught for you to try. The advantage of coming to this particular wet market is that you can try the “wiggling octopus sashimi” or sannakji (₩5,000) fresh from the tank.

If you’re a big fan of crabs, you should definitely try the bokkeumbap, or tasty fried rice served in a crab shell.

7 Things to Do in Seoul for History Buffs

1. Bukchon Hanok Village

Curious what a Korean village used to look like? The beauty about coming to this place is that it has retained its traditional splendor, with hundreds of hanok that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. Each one has been carefully preserved and protected to remind people how the nobles used to live.

However, they were later replaced by commoners after several wars and disasters broke out. Plus, the village is in the middle of three prime locations that you can visit later (Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Jongmyo shrine).

Note: This village may be a historical site, but there are people still living in these homes. If you’re planning to come, please remember to be respectful and quiet. Also, this Hanok Village is the best place to come if you want to have a legitimate hanok experience in Korea.

2. Seodaemun Prison

History buffs might find this Seoul attraction a worthy visit. I’s a former prison that the Japanese used to humiliate and subjugate Korean patriots, and the latter’s resistance made this landmark an ultimate domestic symbol of love towards the country and perseverance.

This horrible location also features macabre areas such as the underground gallows, isolation cells, and the execution hall, where people were tortured and killed because they wouldn’t yield.  

3. War Memorial of Korea

This site is a physical love letter to all the brave souls that died during wars throughout the 20^th century. If you come here you may be surprised to see how in-depth they retell stories from the battlefield.

The museum also lets you see decommissioned war tanks, weapons, and even missiles throughout their 6 exhibition halls and outdoor gallery (which features massive military equipment that’s too big to fit in the museum.)

4. Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs

Bet you didn’t expect to see a tomb situated in the middle of Seoul’s famous Gangnam district. While it is most known for being a deluxe metropolis, most people ignore the fact that this is also the final resting place of three important individuals that ruled during the Joseon Dynasty.

Its lush green fields have turned this memorial site into a park, where most locals come for a peaceful walk along the rock wall path after visiting the shrines near the tombs.

5. Unhyeongung Royal Residence

Did you know that this Seoul attraction used to be the home of the prince regent Heungseon Daewongun of the Joseon Dynasty? This man eventually became the father of Emperor Gojong, and raised him there until he reached puberty and ascended to the throne.

It’s fun to come here and imagine what life must have been like for the royal residents and their servants. Sometimes, they even run reenactments of big events (like the last royal wedding in 1886), just to give guests a glimpse into the past.

6. Ride the DMZ Train

This might sound like the craziest suggestion you’ll ever encounter in a guide, because I seem to be telling you to visit the border in an active war zone. Most guides would suggest you join a tour for this, but there’s actually a way to do it without one.

All you have to do is catch the DMZ Peace Train from Yongsan Station. Once you have arrived in the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), they’ll direct you to a bus that lets you experience and explore this heavily restricted area (with guides, of course. We don’t want you to find yourself in North Korea!).

Here you’ll learn a lot more about the painful history of Korea’s national division firsthand, and the strong yearning for peace in the Dorasan area.

7. The Sool Gallery

The Sool Gallery is a fascinating place to visit in Seoul, because it lets you enjoy a complimentary traditional liquor with options hailing from different provinces in Korea. It’s also fun to come here with friends, since you’ll have a grand time deciphering the tastes of the 2 to 5 types of liquors on offer.

During the tasting and while walking through the displays, you’ll glean a thorough understanding of the history behind these flavors. Email Sool Gallery for a tour reservation and more information.

7 Things to Do in Seoul for Cultural Travelers

1. Hit Korean Drums at the National Gugak Center

If you’re looking for a real traditional experience (i.e. nanta drums without the modern twist), come to the National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts. There they perform songs and dances that once entertained Korea’s royalty, who actually still live in the city.

Witnessing these things in full swing will make you fall in love with Seoul even more, as you see how the country keeps traditions a part of their national image.

2. See a Cultural Performance at Jeongdong Theater

Where’s the most authentic place to see traditional Korean performances without sacrificing quality? In Seoul, Jeongdong Theater is the best place for this, as the stars take the stage for a musical demonstration of the Korean instrument gayageum, and a lyrical storytelling show (pansori).

If you have the time, you might even want to let loose and join the farmer’s dance (samul nori) held every evening in the courtyard. 

3. Namdaemun Market

One of the best ways to experience real parts of Korean culture is to visit a traditional market, most especially at night. Namdaemun Market in particular is famous for its multitude of high quality Korean crafts and wares (like things made out of hanji and ceramics) for a really low price.

Also, the Korean food here is authentic, delicious, and filling.

4. Try on a hanbok at Deoksugung Palace

Come to catch the traditional Changing of The Guards ceremony in the morning, if you can. Afterwards you can borrow their gear in the booth next to the main gate for taking pictures.

This is also the best place to borrow a hanbok for free in Seoul. Sure, it’s not as glamorous as the ones you get from rental stores, and it’s a little worn due to multiple people wearing it before you, but hey, this is one of the rare things you can do in Seoul for free.

5. Seoul Global Cultural Center

This crash course on Korea is perfect if you have a limited stay but would still like to experience some traditional classes. Just head over to the Global Cultural Center, where foreigners are encouraged to learn anything and everything about Seoul.

This center is also the best source of cultural programs, and they often invite people distinguished in theirs fields to teach the programs. It’s also fun to come here if you’re looking for Korean and international friends, because ultimately this is a hub for young people interested in Korean culture.

6. Seoul Botanical Garden

Another way to get to know Seoul is to come to this beautiful greenhouse, which is connected to the Han River Waterway. A skywalk path overlooks the greenhouse, so your photographer skills will definitely come in handy.

With paths wide enough to let you walk and enjoy the flowers in peace, this garden also educates those who are particularly interested in native Korean flora.

7. See the National Museum of Palace Culture at Gyeongbokgung

This museum holds the biggest collection of artifacts dating back to the Joseon Dynasty and the Korean Empire, counting over 40,000 in total. It also houses the former things that the famous King Gojeong held dear, such as personal letters to his friends, and the seal he used to sign royal documents.

Here you’re able to read about what sort of life they had in the past, down to the art and music they were into. I find this to be a worthwhile stop for a culture-focused Seoul itinerary, because it also gives you a semblance of how simple life in Korea was before it became the dynamic, bustling metropolis it is today.

5 Things to Do in Seoul for KPop Fans

1. HYBE Insight

If you’re a fan of any HYBE artists, you should book your reservation by installing the HYBE Insight app (Apple | Android) and selecting the day you want to come. Make sure to do that in advance, because there will be plenty of people waiting in line with you (though I managed to schedule my ticket on the same day).

The museum area is mostly BTS stuff, but it also gives visitors an overview of various aspects of the music industry, like music production, stage preparation, and the numerous awards groups have won.

You also get to see stage costumes up close and even ‘smell’ the song Euphoria. At the end there’s a shop that sells various merchandise, and there’s always a clearance section, so save some time at the end for a bit of shopping.

2. SMTOWN Hologram Musical and Museum

SM Artists are known for their dynamic and eye-catching performances, and the celebrities they represent have striking visuals that are sure to leave you breathless. Sadly, it’s difficult to get a ticket to see them up close in a concert… but perhaps this would suffice?

Like the holographic show in Everland, this is a surround-sound theater that lets you have an immersive experience of a broadway show titled “School of Oz.” However, the performers also happen to be very familiar names like EXO’s Suho and Red Velvet’s Seulgi. 

3. Visit the Hallyu K-Star Road

K-Pop enthusiasts this as the road where legends have graced us with their presence. Aside from being the former home of the big entertainment companies (you can easily go see where SM Entertainment used to be), you get to see the fascinating GangnamDols.

These are large round figures with the body of a bear dressed in the representative colors of famous K-Pop groups. See if you can spot all 17!

4. K-Pop Dance Lesson

K-Pop fans who are in Seoul for a week might want to squeeze this opportunity in. Along with your fellow K-Pop enthusiasts, experience what it’s like to learn the choreography of your favorite bands.

Ranging from BTS and Blackpink to Seventeen, you’ll learn the core moves of their popular songs, so you can recreate the dance at home afterwards. You don’t have to be an amazing dancer to be part of this class, and all ages are welcome. Make your reservation by visiting their website.

5. K-Pop X Korean Drums (BEAT TA Movement)

Don’t limit your Seoul itinerary to sightseeing and food— try your hand at hitting Korean traditional drums while listening to popular K-Pop beats. Aside from giving you a workout (it’s not as easy as you think), you’ll learn short choreography like Jungkook’s nanta drum routine.

Like the other Seoul experiences listed here, you’ll have to make a reservation first. Book by visiting their Naver Café or shoot them an email.

7 Things to Do in Seoul for Families

1. Children’s Folk Museum

The Children’s Folk Museum of Korea, a museum inside Gyeongbokgung Palace, has introduced an interactive way to engage children in learning more about Korean culture and folklore. If you’re visiting Korea with kids, this is the best place to give them an engaging experience about Korea’s illustrious past.

2. Seoulland

Your vacation in Seoul wouldn’t be complete if it didn’t have a visit to a theme park. As the first theme park ever created in Korea, Seoulland provides a range of entertainment, complete with seasonal events that you shouldn’t miss.

For instance, in the summer they throw the Summer Music Water Wars here, a festival where people can spray each other with water guns and dance along to the music. This theme park also provides discount coupons to foreigners for a day experience, if you buy through their site, so be sure to check it out before booking your ticket.

3. Everland Amusement Park and Caribbean Bay

Everland is known as the land of dreams and wonder. The park has five themed zones; at least one of which is sure to entertain you. Those who haven’t traveled to other parts of the world may want to swing by the park’s Global Fair, where cultural activities from other parts of the world are performed.

Some may also want to have a taste of what’s next on the neo-futuristic rides in the American Adventure. If you’d rather see animals than people, there’s the World Wild Tram that lets you see them up close. There are plenty of activities in store for you in Everland, whatever your interests. 

4. Lotte World Amusement Park

Perhaps the most popular amusement park in Korea, conveniently located in the heart of the city, Lotte World is a fun destination for families. Even though most of the rides are geared towards children, there are still so many things to see in other parts of the complex.

Fun fact: some people rent school uniforms to wear around the park, just for the heck of it. It’s pretty kitschy, but a fun activity if you want a flashback to your younger years.

5. VAUNCE Trampoline Park Seoul Samseong Center

Even though this trampoline park is marketed to kids, this is also the perfect activity for adults who want to do a full-body workout. There’s no shortage of obstacle courses, and children can climb and rappel with no worries, knowing they can bounce back up safely.

See if you can spring higher than your favorite basketball star in their basketball court ,with floors made out of trampolines!

6. COEX Aquarium

Ever pondered what it might be like to be underwater? Although there are bigger public aquariums available, this one nonetheless boasts a remarkable collection of over 650 aquatic species in rather spacious tanks.

The whole family will undoubtedly enjoy seeing the fish swim around and above the glass arched tunnel. There’s also an area that lets visitors assist the keepers by feeding and petting them, making it a very interactive experience.

7. Play in a Kids Café (Tayo Café)

Tayo the Little Bus is the famous cartoon character seen in every toy showroom in Korea. Every kid knows who this friendly blue bus is, likely including your child. Because Tayo is such a beloved character, Korea has put up various Tayo Cafés so that kids can come interact with Tayo and his crew.

Despite the fact that this is mainly a little jungle gym, it is also known for having better food compared to other kids cafes in Seoul. 

7 Things to Do in Seoul for Couples

1. Picnic at Yeouido Hangang Park

If you’re looking for a good time with your date but you’re still unsure what they would like, Yeouido Hangang Park has everything you need. There’s delicious street food, performers, and cafes, plus the breathtaking night view of the Han River as it reflects the glittering city lights.

Almost every night, buskers come to serenade lovers as the night cruise sails by. It’s a beautiful sight to see, and you shouldn’t miss it if you’re in Seoul with your partner.

2. Cruise the Night Away (E-Land Cruise Yeouido Dock)

Another way to make your date memorable is to ride any of the night cruises in Yeouido Hangang Park. All of these cruises offer good food (optional) and romantic live bands (included).

The only difference is the route and the experience, but every cent is worth it because these cruises take you to the beautiful landmarks next to the Han river, such as the Banpo Rainbow Bridge, the Some Sevit Islands, the Seogang Bridge, and the night view of the Bamseom Island.

3. Soar Above Seoul in a Cable Car (N-Seoul Tower)

If you and your partner aren’t afraid of heights, then I recommend riding the Namsan Cable Car together, preferably around sunset. Starting from the top of N Seoul Tower (or heading there!), you can look out over the entire city for several minutes, taking in a view that extends for many miles on clear days.

4. Lock Your Relationship In! (N-Seoul Tower)

What’s another way of telling your special someone that they mean a lot to you? Bring them to N-Seoul Tower Love Locks, Korea’s version of Paris’s Pont de l’Archevêché. It’s a sweet and thoughtful gesture, because attaching a lock with both your names on it is said to be a symbol of your love for each other.

The locks are all situated at the foot of the tower, alongside those of other couples who previously embarked upon this romantic pilgrimage. Many couples then choose to end their romantic day in one of the restaurants in the tower. 

5. Complete Obstacles Together (Dynamic Maze)

If you’re looking for a challenging thing to do, why not try to navigate this indoor adventure maze? Best for couples (because only 2 people can go in at the same time); test your teamwork as you power through obstacles full of bouncy balls, nets, and even challenges.

Your goal is to unlock the door to the next room, similar to an escape room. You shouldn’t miss this if you are in Insadong, though sadly you can’t book in advance. Remember to wear pants!

6. Gyeongbokgung in Hanboks at Dusk

Embark on a mini time travel adventure as you don traditional Korean outfits, called hanboks, and witness Gyeongbokgung at night. Here you can stroll together and watch the palace grounds beautifully light up Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, most especially when the moon is full.

The front of Geunjeongjeon Hall is a popular spot for couples to pose together, making it the perfect picture to put in your couple photo album.

7. Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park

Couples love taking their partners out to watch a scary movie, but why not up the ante? Perhaps the most unusual of the Seoul attractions listed in this post, there’s a small abandoned theme park in Yongma, well-known for its signature rusted, decommissioned carousel and bleached-out posters of 80’s pop culture icons.

Even though there seems to be nothing to do here, influencers still come to participate in its slow demise, using the lot to shoot short homemade horror films and ghost hunting content. Couples, however, love to test how strong their relationship is by taking a silent, eerie stroll around.

5 Things to Do in Seoul for Solo Travelers

1. Shop for Luxury Items at Apgujeong Rodeo Street

Apgujeong Rodeo Street, formerly the hotspot of Korea’s most rich and famous, still holds the title as Seoul’s fashion capital. It’s the location where luxury brands of all kinds have made their homes, including famous brands of shoes, clothing, and accessories.

You don’t have to shop here, but it’s a lovely place to stroll around during the evening. That’s when the sidewalk’s fancy neon lights come to life, and you might even spot some famous names doing a bit of shopping there.

2. Taekkyeon Experience

Get the chance to learn Taekkyeon (태껸), or Korean Martial Arts. This fighting style includes hand and foot techniques that throw people off balance. Learning this martial art will link you to Korea’s past, since it’ actually considered to be the oldest martial arts discipline in Korea.

If you wish to book a slot, it is recommended to secure your reservation at least a day in advance through email or their website. 

3. Enjoy Hongdae’s Bustling Youth Scene 

If you’re thinking of seeing Japan’s Harajuku District one day, Seoul also has a version of that: Hongdae. In this area, most especially in “Grafitti Street,” the strip is full of music, art, and cafés, making it the perfect hangout for local youth.

Since it’s also near Korea’s top art university, expect to see art exhibitions, song and dance competitions, and even slam poetry performances in the street. This is also the best place in Seoul to also buy manhwas, or the Korean version of the Japanese manga. 

4. Dragon Hill Spa

The best place to enjoy some alone time is to visit a legitimate jjimjilbang, or a Korean sauna. These 24-hour spas let you relax in various temperatures of tubs, steam rooms, and swimming pools.

Also, the sauna in Korea is not like your typical sauna, because these usually each have an internet café, a DVD theater, and even an arcade. If you think I’m kidding, then you should come see it for yourself.

5. Seoul Nightlife Tour: Pub Crawl

There are so many popular party destinations in Seoul that you might have a hard time choosing. Eliminate the stress by joining a pub crawl, where you get to skip the lines into four various clubs, with the latter being the most exclusive of them all.

What I love about this activity is that they also have a professional photographer take shots of you, making sure that you looked decent when the morning comes.

6 Things to Do in Seoul for Free

While it is true that Korea’s capital is one of the most expensive destinations in the world, there are still ways to enjoy Seoul for free!

1. Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain

Among the Seoul attractions listed here, this one is definitely worth seeing at night. Not only do you get to see the longest LED fountain in the world, but if you’re here in summer, there’s a high chance that you’ll come on a day that the Bamdokkaebi Night Market is in full swing.

Sometimes there’s even a fireworks show painting the sky above the Han River, livening the whole place up. If you’re curious about what else there is to do in Banpo Bridge, there’s a cruise, a club, and even a beer garden that serves beer from all over the world.

2. Oil Tank Culture Park

This cultural hub features something you probably wouldn’t expect to see in downtown Seoul: Oil Tanks. You should come see it in person if you think I’m kidding. These oil tanks are repurposed to hold free concerts, exhibitions, and even host conventions.

Even when nothing special is going on, you can pass a few hours exploring the area’s secret corners or finding the library above a café. We recommend this place if you want to see something strange, weird, and new.

3. Seoullo 7017 Nature Walkway

Head out of Seoul Station and you’ll see the Seoullo 7017 Nature Walkway. What used to be an ordinary pedestrian walkway has been transformed into a sky garden, with a variety of flora and fauna that are truly gorgeous during spring.

First-timers to Seoul’s nature focus will love taking pictures here, because the walkway has transparent glass potholes that provide a clear view of the busy Seoul streets below.

4. Dongdaemun Design Plaza

What’s beautiful about this place is how many things it’s hosting at once. People who come during the day can enjoy the outdoor facilities, museum, and library with a decent-sized reading area. But the magic happens at night, when the whole structure lights up, turning into a neo-futuristic wonder that glows beautifully from afar.

Past 10PM, the outdoor walk turns into a marketplace where people gather to buy the latest clothing styles (because Dongdaemun is also known as Seoul’s fashion hub by the youth). Expect the place to be packed, because this is also where people come to eat, rest, and play after work.

5. Take a Seoul Free Walking Tour

If you love joining free walking tours around the world, you should visit Today’s Friend’s website and click on their “Free Walking Tour.” This site pairs you with an English-speaking Korean guide, and you can choose where you want to go.

Perhaps you might want to go to a Traditional Market during the day or night, or you’d love to see Dongdaemun’s beautiful view with a special someone. All of these are options; you can even do a temple visit and have beer with your new friends after.

6. Hop on the Seoul City Tour Bus

If you don’t feel like making your own itinerary, this is the best way to hit famous tourist spots in downtown Seoul. The Seoul City Tour Bus passes by the City Palaces and the best panoramic views in Seoul. You can get on and off as much as you want, crossing off a lot of things to do in Seoul.

The routes depend on the bus tours available on their website, and there’s also other buses with almost-similar rates that have focused more on traditional spots near the Han River, Gangnam area, or the spectacular night views available in Seoul.

This is a really long list, but this is just a fraction of the fun attractions Seoul has to offer. There are plenty of things to do in Seoul, and I’m pretty sure that there’ll be something new that’s just popped up during your visit.

That’s why you gotta keep moving and exploring, and if it’s not on this list, let us know by writing a comment below!

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