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15 Famous Places To Visit In Seoul

Last Updated At: 30-Jul-2025

15 Famous Places To Visit In Seoul Must Visit In 2025

Almost all of us have heard the song Gangnam Style, right? The popular song is made in Seoul. But Gangnam Style is not the only thing about Seoul, several other things make the capital of South Korea popular, such as its super active nightlife, K-pop, and exquisite shopping experience.

Besides, there are several places to visit in Seoul that will make your journey worthwhile. From Gyeonbokgung and the N Seoul Tower to the War Memorial of Korea, you will witness everything from their exquisite culture to rich history.

Also known as Hanyang and Miracle on the Han River, the city will amaze you. Here are the top places that will keep you entertained!

List Of 15 Top Places To Visit In Seoul

From tall skyscrapers highlighting the city skyline to high-tech trains running underground, Seoul is a perfect mix of culture, technology, and rich history. So, no matter where you are from, you will surely be amazed after discovering this great city.

  • National Museum of Korea | Learn About Korean History and Culture Here
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace | First Home of the Joseon Dynasty
  • Seoul Tower | True Symbol of Seoul
  • War Memorial of Korea | Massive Museum Exhibiting Korean Military History
  • Myeong-dong | Famous Shopping Street of South Korea
  • Bukchon Hanok Village | For Well-Preserved Hanok Houses
  • Bukhansan National Park | Hikers and Rock Climbers Mecca
  • Changdeokgung Palace | A UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Insadong | Place with Historic Artsy Presence
  • Hanyangdoseong | Seoul City Wall
  • Cheonggyecheon Stream | Famous Stream of South Korea
  • Lotte World Tower | Sixth Tallest Building in The World
  • Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) | Largest Local Shopping Destination
  • Bongeunsa | Gyeonseongsa Temple
  • Jingwansa Temple | Known For Delicious Temple Food

1. National Museum of Korea | Learn About Korean History and Culture Here

If you are making a list of places to see in Seoul, please include the National Museum of Korea. The three-story building keeps the visitors engaged with programs and various exhibitions and updates them about events happening in the nation.

You can easily get English translations if you wish to know the authentic modern and contemporary Korean culture; thus, foreigners can enjoy it easily. It’s free of cost, and you can certainly spare 2-4 hours to wander around this museum.

The timings of this place are 10 AM to 6 PM except Wednesday and Saturday. It's 10 AM to 9 PM for these two days.

  • Location: 198, Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul
  • Timings: 10 am to 6 pm

Best Things to Do:

  • Inspect royal artefacts from the Silla and Goryeo dynasties in the Permanent Exhibition Hall.
  • Attend Korean calligraphy workshops and traditional musical performances.
  • Watch animated historical documentaries in the digital exhibition theatre.
  • Walk through the outdoor Reflection Garden showcasing Buddhist pagodas and stone lanterns.

2. Gyeongbokgung Palace | First Home of the Joseon Dynasty

According to history, the Gyeongbokgung Palace was the first main palace built by the Joseon Dynasty since they changed their residences several times due to wars. The Gyeongbokgung Palace is jaw-dropping, giant, and huge. No wonder it is known to be one of the best places to go in Seoul. Furthermore, this palace is the biggest among the five grand palaces and is free for adults above 64 years of age and children under 7 years of age.

Visiting charges are 3,000 won for adults (ages 19-64) and 1,500 won for children (ages 7-18). Interestingly, the entry is free if you are wearing a hanbok.

  • Location: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Timings: 9 am to 6 pm

Best Things to Do:

  • Witness the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony held at the main gate twice daily.
  • Examine architectural elements of Geunjeongjeon Hall used for royal events.
  • Wear traditional Hanbok (available for rent) for free palace entry and photo opportunities.
  • Tour the National Folk Museum of Korea located within the palace complex.

3. Seoul Tower | True Symbol of Seoul

The Seoul Tower was established at the highest point to glance at some of the most beautiful images of Seoul. There is indeed so much more than just a tall tower - a worth-visiting place. There are plenty of shops and eateries, and the view is fantastic.

Furthermore, this tower has been Korea’s first general radio wave tower since 1969. It delivered TV and radio broadcasting in the metropolitan areas. You can go via cable car and be enthralled by the beautiful views around.

  • Location: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Timings: 10 am to 11 pm

Best Things to Do:

  • Ascend to the Digital Observatory Deck for night-time skyline views.
  • Attach a padlock with your name at the “Locks of Love” terrace.
  • Dine at the rotating N Grill Restaurant with panoramic city vistas.
  • Use the Namsan cable car for scenic access to the tower.

4. War Memorial of Korea | Massive Museum Exhibiting Korean Military History

If you are looking for places to travel Seoul to gain military and strategic knowledge about Korea, visit this museum, and you won’t be disappointed. There are no entry fees, and it was built to rekindle hope and prevent war through lessons from the previous Korean wars.

This war memorial was dedicated on July 27, 1995. It also has a wall of Remembrance that includes other information about the Korean Wars and several members of the Armed Forces of the U.S.

  • Location: 29 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Timings: 9:30 am to 6 pm

Best Things to Do:

  • Study detailed dioramas and multimedia exhibits on the Korean War.
  • Walk through the outdoor military park displaying tanks, aircraft, and naval vessels.
  • Enter the Memorial Hall dedicated to fallen soldiers and UN allies.
  • View interactive battle simulations for a deeper understanding of wartime strategy.

5. Myeong-dong | Famous Shopping Street of South Korea

If you wish to try some authentic street food in South Korea, you have to visit Myeong-dong. It’s popular for shopping and having street food, thus counted as one of the most visited tourist attractions in Seoul.

The mix of traditional Korean dishes with international snacks just hits right to soothe your food cravings. The buzz here is real and crowded, giving you major tourist hotspot vibes every time.

  • Location: Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
  • Timings: 11:00 am to noon

Best Things to Do:

  • Try trending Korean skincare samples at flagship cosmetic stores.
  • Queue for authentic street food like tteokbokki, hotteok, and tornado potatoes.
  • Attend pop-up K-pop merchandise stalls featuring limited edition albums.
  • Exchange currency at favourable rates in local exchange kiosks.

6. Bukchon Hanok Village | For Well-Preserved Hanok Houses

The true traditional homes, which date back to the Joseon Dynasty, are preserved in this historic village. You can experience the classical Korean lifestyle here. Many houses have been converted into restaurants, tea houses, guest houses, etc.

Just head to Seoul Subway Line 3 and then go to Anguk Station. After proceeding to Exit 2 from there, walk around for 11 minutes, and you will reach your destination.

  • Address: Gyedong-Gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Timings: 12 am to 11:59 pm

Best Things to Do:

  • Enter cultural centres offering tea ceremonies and crafts inside preserved hanoks.
  • Photograph sloped alleyways framed by tiled rooftops and wooden structures.
  • Book a traditional guesthouse (Hanok Stay) for an immersive overnight experience.
  • Locate the designated ‘Eight Scenic Views’ marked across the village.

7. Bukhansan National Park | Hikers and Rock Climbers Mecca

Situated on the northern periphery of Seoul, South Korea, the Bukhansan National Park is one of the main places to see in Seoul and enjoy. The total hike is around 836 meters high. You will encounter tough terrain trails, travel slopes, and rocky steps.

So wear hiking boots and pack accordingly. You can also explore mountaintop vistas, rushing streams, maple leaves, and remote temples. It gets crowded, especially on weekends; hence, plan your visit during weekdays.

  • Address: 262 Bogungmun-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Timings: 4 am to 5 pm

Best Things to Do:

  • Choose from over 130 hiking routes leading to Baegundae Peak, Seoul’s highest point.
  • Observe granite ridgelines and centuries-old fortress walls en route.
  • Join early-morning mountain prayer sessions near Buddhist temples.
  • Register for guided eco-tours with National Park rangers.

8. Changdeokgung Palace | A UNESCO World Heritage Site

After the construction of Gyeongbokgung Palace in 1405, this was the second royal villa built. Do you know that this palace is one of the most well-preserved of the 5 remaining royal Joseon Palaces? Well yes.

It was burned down but built again. Not only this, it also houses several cultural treasures. Some of them are Injeongjeon Hall, Seonjeongjeon Hall, Daejojeon Hall, and Nakseonjae Hall.

Additionally, the perfect time to witness the beauty of this palace is during Autumn or Fall.

  • Address: 99, Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
  • Timings: 9 am to 5 pm

Best Things to Do:

  • Book a guided tour of Huwon (Secret Garden), accessible only by reservation.
  • Identify Confucian design principles in the Injeongjeon throne hall layout.
  • Discover the king’s library, Seonjeongjeon Hall, used for royal meetings.
  • Attend seasonal flower-viewing events held within the landscaped garden.

9. Insadong | Place with Historic Artsy Presence

This popular international tourist destination displays precious traditional goods. It is located in the heart of the city and has alleys on each side. There are galleries, teahouses, cafes, and traditional restaurants.

From paintings to sculptures, there are around 100 galleries that offer perfect examples of old Korean fine art. You can also purchase pieces of fine art that are traditional Korean culture first-hand.

Lastly, the most famous galleries here are Hakgojae Gallery, functioning as the centre of folk art, Gana Art Center, and Gana Art Gallery, which promotes many promising artists.

  • Address: 62, Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
  • Timings: 2 pm to 10 pm

Best Things to Do:

  • Buy handmade ceramics, antique calligraphy scrolls, and traditional paper at artisan shops.
  • Drink Korean herbal tea at century-old tea houses like Dawon.
  • Watch live demonstrations of brush painting and seal engraving.
  • Explore Ssamziegil, a spiral-shaped market filled with indie shops and art studios.

10. Hanyangdoseong | Seoul City Wall

This wall was made to protect the capital city of the Joseon dynasty. It is an 8.6-kilometre-long wall. To cover this wall, you need to walk six trails of Baegak, Naksan, Heunginjimun, Namsan (Mongmyeoksan), Sungnyemun, and Inwangsan Sections.

This wall was originally built in 1396, surrounding Seoul, and is recognized as one of the must-visit places to go in Seoul. It stands at an average height of around 7- 8m.

  • Address: 622-83 Changsin-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
  • Timings: 10 am to 6 pm

Best Things to Do:

  • Hike the Naksan or Bugaksan sections for preserved fortress gates and panoramic viewpoints.
  • Examine stone engravings denoting construction periods from different dynasties.
  • Walk along illuminated sections during Seoul Night Wall Walk events.
  • Access storytelling plaques that explain each gate’s historical significance.

11. Cheonggyecheon Stream | Famous Stream of South Korea

This stream starts from Cheonggye Plaza, just off Sejong-ro Avenue. After the plaza work was complete, the Seoul Metropolitan Government designated the area vehicle-free zone on holidays. This provided more leisure space to pedestrians. You can visit Candle Fountain here, which is recognized as one of the most famous tourist attractions in Seoul.

Additionally, along the two sides of the waterfall are the Palseokdam wishing wells. These are made of eight different stones and taken from each of the nation's eight provinces.

  • Address: Changsin-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul
  • Timings: 24 hours

Best Things to Do:

    • Spot 22 historical bridges recreated from the original Joseon-period design.
    • Watch cultural performances at the amphitheatre-style plazas.
    • Capture photos of the 22-metre-long digital waterfall near Cheonggye Plaza.

    12. Lotte World Tower | Sixth Tallest Building in The World

    It is a supertall skyscraper and the tallest in OECD countries. Also, this tower is the first in South Korea to be over 100 stories tall. There are world-class cafes, galleries, restaurants, and even concert halls inside this tower.

    Not only this, but there is an observation deck, a luxury resort, and a skywalk in this tower. Furthermore, there are attractions for kids as well as for the adults. But yes, admission to the observatory is limited to the date and time.

    • Address: Sincheon-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea
    • Timings: 10 am to 10 pm

    Best Things to Do:

    • Stand on the glass-floored Sky Deck at Seoul Sky Observatory, 555 metres above ground.
    • Shop at luxury boutiques and dine at Michelin-starred restaurants inside the tower.
    • Catch films at the Lotte Cinema’s super-sized Super Plex G theatre.
    • Book a room at Signiel Seoul Hotel for top-floor stays with panoramic Han River views.

    13. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) | Largest Local Shopping Destination

    This plaza is no less than a dream, design, and play, as the meaning conveys. Various forums, fashion shows, national and international events, and exhibitions are held here. The building structure is segregated into sections, which are named Sallimteo, Design Market & Eoullim Plaza, Allimteo, DDP Design Museum, Beaumteo, and Dongdaemun History & Culture Park.

    This plaza was designed by the world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid and is regarded as one of the most unmissable places in Seoul. The delicate curves, the bold shapes, and the building’s exterior attract the attention of many photographers from around the world.

    • Address: 281, Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
    • Timings: 10 am to 8 pm

    Best Things to Do:

    • Attend night-time fashion shows and exhibitions hosted in the futuristic Zaha Hadid structure.
    • Purchase unique lifestyle items from Korean indie designers.
    • Walk through the LED rose garden installation that lights up after dusk.
    • Enter the Design Lab and Museum for product showcases and creative workshops. 

    14. Bongeunsa | Gyeonseongsa Temple

    This temple was established in the 10th year of Silla King Weongseong’s reign (794). In 1498, it was refurbished by Queen Jeonghyeon and renamed to Bongeunsa Temple. Various prominent artefacts are displayed at Bongeunsa Temple.

    Some of them include calligraphy by Kim Jeong-hui, a scholar and calligrapher of the Joseon Dynasty, 300 woodblock carvings of Buddhist sutras, and a 32-meter-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha. Not only this, but the temple is home to 3,479 Buddhist scriptures of 13 types. These also include the works of Kim Jeong-hee.

    • Address: 531, Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
    • Timings: 7:00 am to 11:45 pm

    Best Things to Do:

    • Meditate with monks during a half-day or overnight temple stay programme.
    • Observe morning bell rituals performed at 4:10 AM daily.
    • Pay respect at the 23-metre-high statue of Maitreya Buddha.
    • Read English-language brochures explaining temple art and layout.

    15. Jingwansa Temple | Known For Delicious Temple Food

    Located in the heart of Bukhansan, this temple is one of the four major temples around Seoul. It was made and dedicated to Preceptor Jingwan in 1010 BC by King Hyeonjong, who was the 8th king of the Goryeo dynasty. It was burned down to ashes during the Korean War but has been restored and renewed for 30 years till the present day.

    You can visit Nagawon, Daeungjeon (Hall of Sakyamuni), Nahanjeon, Yosache, Myeongbujeon (Hall of Judgment), Chilseonggak, Hongjeru, Dongbyeoldang, Dongjeonggak, and others. Lastly, this temple contains an impressive collection of cultural and historical properties. Therefore, it becomes one of the few places to go in Seoul that you can’t miss at any cost.

    • Address: 73, Jingwan-gil, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul
    • Timings: 10:30 am to 1:30 pm

    Best Things to Do:

    • Participate in the temple’s culinary programme preparing Buddhist vegan meals.
    • Join quiet reflection walks through surrounding forest paths within Bukhansan National Park.
    • Experience the Yebul chanting ritual held in the main Dharma hall.
    • Learn about Korea’s monastic food culture through storytelling sessions with resident nuns.

    The defined places are just a sweet beginning. The actual city has a lot more to it. So, if you are seeking a vocational vibe, we recommend you Seoul. And leave the arrangements to us.

    At Adotrip, we serve you with information, Flights, Hotels, Tour Packages, VISA assistance, and travel insurance under one roof. So, just don’t worry!

    With Adotrip, nothing is far!

    Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Seoul

    Q1. Where should we visit in Seoul?
    A1.
    Seoul has many exciting places to see. For history lovers, Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village show Korea’s royal past and traditional homes. N Seoul Tower offers a great view of the whole city. Myeongdong is perfect for shopping and trying Korean street food. You can also visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza for modern art and design. For nature, the Han River and Namsan Park are peaceful spots in the middle of the city. Don’t miss a visit to Insadong for Korean crafts, and Hongdae for music, art, and youth culture.

    Q2. Is 7 days in Seoul too much?
    A2.
    No, 7 days in Seoul is not too much. It gives you enough time to enjoy both famous attractions and hidden gems. You can explore historical sites, modern areas, and also take a day trip to places like Nami Island or the DMZ (Korean Demilitarized Zone). A week allows a relaxed travel pace without rushing through places.

    Q3. What is Seoul famous for?
    A3
    . Seoul is famous for its blend of tradition and technology. It is known for K-pop, Korean dramas, fashion, and skincare products. The city is also home to beautiful palaces, high-tech shopping centres, tasty food like kimchi and Korean BBQ, and vibrant street culture. Seoul is also known for its efficient transport system and strong Wi-Fi connectivity.

    Q4. Is Seoul expensive?
    A4.
    Seoul can be both affordable and expensive depending on how you travel. Food and public transport are reasonably priced. You can find cheap street food and guesthouses. However, branded shopping, fine dining, and some tourist attractions can be costly. With good planning, Seoul can suit both budget and luxury travellers.

    --- Published By  Adotrip

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