hanajournalsSeoul one of the most lively cities in the world. Drawings lots of similarities to popular cities like New York and Tokyo, Seoul is another city that never sleeps. The cleanliness,safety and transport system is top of the line. The food here is amazing, vibes are outstanding, and views are stunning. For these reasons, Seoul is a must go city for anybody. Here, we cover the top 8 places to visit during your stay in Seoul.
1. N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)
The N Seoul Tower, also known as Namsan Tower, is an observation tower which stands at 236 metres atop the Namsan Mountain in central Seoul. It provides a great 360 degree view of the city of Seoul.
If you do not wish to go up the observatory, it is still worth a visit. There are lots of cool cafes around the area, and you can still get great views of the city as the Plaza itself is located high up the mountain. There are lots of love padlocks locked on the trees and fences in the area, as many couples believe this symbolizes that their love will last forever. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Going up the Observatory costs 11000 won for adults and 9000 won for children ($9+ & $7.50 USD respectively).
2. Fortress Wall of Seoul
If you are a KDrama fan, this place would definitely bring back some memories. Dramas such as The King 2 Hearts, Ugly Alert, The Inheritors, My lovely girl and most recently, Itaewon Class. Originally built in 1396 during the Joseon dynasty, the architecture of the wall really brings out the classical style that it was built in.
3. Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
Probably the closest you will get to North Korea without fearing for your life. The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a border that divides the Korean Peninsula, mainly between North and South Korea. As we all know, North Korea is one of the most secretive countries in the world. This place gives you a little insight on the history and unique relationship that the two countries have while sharing the same language.
The Freedom Bridge, also known as the bridge of no return (for obvious reasons), was used for prisoner exchanges at the end of the Korean War. A truly historic sight with a lot of emotions involved.
There’s a few things to take note of when coming to this place. There are different tours that gets you to to view various things. We got you covered right here.
4. Dongdaemun and Namdaemun Market
Dongdaemun and Namdaemun Market is just amazing. From having great vibes of korean culture, to getting amazing shopping deals, to having great street food. You can get tons of things from here, especially facial products. A lot of shops sell sheet masks at 10 for 10000 won which comes up to a 1000 won ($0.85 USD) each. And if you use sheet masks, you’d know what a good deal is. Innisfree, Nature Republic, Faceshop and Etude house have lots of products with prices you can never find at your home country. So stock them up before going home!
They have lots of street food around. Our favourites are Teokpokki (Spicy Rice Cakes, Pajeon (Green Onion Pancake), Kimbap (similar to Sushi) and bungeoppang, the fish shaped bread that has red bean or custard filling in it.
5. Ihwa Mural Village
Ihwa Mural Village is a cultural heritage that has a rustic mix of old and new Korea. The streets are filled with artistic paintings and murals and has lots of great coffee shops within the area. Take lots of beautiful shots of the murals and just soak in the vibe of the entire village.
6. Gyeongbokgung Palace
The historical Gyeongbokgung Palace was built way back in 1395 and was the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Drawing lots of similarities to the Buckingham Palace, the changing of the guard takes place at 10am and 2pm every day except Tuesdays.
The parking fee for the first two hours is as follows: Small vehicles 3,000 won / Large vehicles 5,000 won
* 800 won for each additional 10 minutes
* Free for vehicles leaving within 30 minutes
Admission Fee: Adults (ages 19-64): 3,000 won / Groups: 2,400 won
Children (ages 7-18): 1,500 won / Groups: 1,200 won
7. Nami Island / Petite France
Okay, so this one is not exactly in Seoul. But it’s just an hour trip away from it, and it’s honestly too good to miss out on. Nami Island has been filmed at for many dramas, and Petit France has been featured on many shows including Running Man. And it is simply beautiful. Both these places are easily accessible and can be covered in a day trip.
Getting here requires taking a train, a ferry and moving around in a shuttle bus. We have our detailed day tour guide here which includes how to get here and what to do while you’re here.
8. Lotte Mart Seoul Station
I know what you’re thinking. Why on earth is a supermarket on this list? It’s simple. Ever been to your local Korean store to get that gochujang sauce, choco pie, or that matcha spread? And then you realize how expensive they are and just go back home. Well, now’s your chance to stock up! Lotte World is a huge supermarket which houses Korean snacks, sauces, pastes etc. And they are very much more reasonably priced! Although there are many lotte marts within Seoul, this branch is the biggest and has the best variety of products. They are also conveniently located at Seoul Station, which is regularly used as a transit station.
And there we have our top 8 places to visit while in the beautiful city of Seoul in South Korea. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at [email protected] Meanwhile, check out our top 7 places to see in Jeju Island, another beautiful island in South Korea, right here.
Thank you for nice information