Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is one of the most unique cities in the world. South Korean culture has been taking the world by storm as well with many K-pop stars and K-dramas integrating into popular culture in North America. Experience the culture for yourself by visiting this beautiful city. Here are 21 inspiring pictures to help you plan your trip!
Lotte World Tower
For those that love a good view and aren’t afraid of heights, visiting Lotte World Tower is a great place to start your trip in Seoul. Lotte World Tower is a fairly new addition to Seoul, as it became open to the public in 2017, but now you can see it from anywhere in the city. Probably because it is 123-storeys tall, making it the fifth tallest building in the world!
Visitors can head to the Sky Deck on the 118th floor to enjoy a stunning view of the city. Here you can also find the world’s highest indoor glass floor. Step on it if you dare! Head to the 120th floor next where you’ll find the Sky Terrace. The Sky Terrace is open air so you can get a feel of the environment. If you’re feeling hungry or want a drink, the Lounge on the 123rd floor is the perfect place to stop.
N Seoul Tower
Although Lotte World Tower is the highest building in Seoul, the number one tourist attraction is still N Seoul Tower, short for Namsan Tower. N Seoul Tower is a unique attraction because it is on top of a mountain in the center of the city, so you get a stunning view both during the day and at night. Its location also makes N Seoul Tower the highest point in Seoul.
To get to N Seoul Tower, visitors must take a cable car up Namsan Mountain, which is an experience in itself. Public busses and tour busses are also available, but they are a little less exciting.
Once there, head up to the third floor to visit the tower’s main observation deck to see 360-views of Seoul from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Above the main observation deck is a digital observatory with a high-powered telescope that visitors can peek through.
Visit one of Seoul’s Many Temples
Although Seoul is a futuristic-looking city, there are still plenty of old buildings that reflect South Korea’s culture and history, such as the country’s many Buddhist temples.
One of our favorites is Bongeunsa Temple, Seoul’s oldest temple dating back to 794. It is an interesting temple as the original temple was originally two hours outside of Seoul but was relocated to Gangnam in the 16th century. It also has a 75-foot tall statue of Buddha on the grounds to watch over the inhabitants of Seoul.
Another great temple is Bongwonsa Temple which is often referred to as Seoul’s most beautiful temple. It was originally built in 889 and was relocated to western Seoul in 1748. It was partially destroyed in the Korean War but has since been restored. The temple grounds hold a beautiful pond full of lotus flowers, making it a very calming place to visit.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
If you aren’t tired of beautiful architecture yet, Gyeongbokung Palace is a great stop. The palace was built in 1495 and was partially destroyed over the years. It has since been restored, so the palace standing today is not the original structure, but it is an exact replica!
Many visitors rent a traditional Korean dress called a hanbok to visit Gyeongbokung Palace and take pictures. There are plenty of rental stores available around the palace and you can rent a hanbok for 1.5 hours to a full day.
Witnessing the changing of the guard ceremony at 10 AM and 2 PM is another great activity at Gyeongbokung Palace.
Starfield Library
Although your first thought when planning a trip may not be which library you want to visit, you don’t want to miss a trip to Starfield Library. Starfield Library is in the middle of COEX Mall so it’s easily accessible, and even if you don’t like books, the library’s setup is a sight for sore eyes. It’s a public space so anyone can visit for free, making it a great place to sit and take a break from your day’s adventures.
Han River
Although Seoul is a bustling city, Han River flows through the heart of it. You could easily spend a day exploring Han river through various water sports like kayaking, boating, waterskiing, or windsurfing. For those looking for something tamer, you can rent a bike and ride along the river at your own pace. Bringing some snacks or lunch and stopping for a picnic along the way is one of our favorite activities.
Try the Local Food
Korean food is one of the most popular cuisines in the world, so you definitely need to stop at a local restaurant or market to taste it for yourself. For those with a sweet tooth, Hoeddeok, a sweet syrupy pancake is worth a try. If you prefer savory dishes, Bulgogi (marinated beef barbecue) or Samgyeopsal (pork strips) are equally delicious. Even if you’ve never had Korean food before, you’ve likely heard of Kimchi, a staple spicy and sour dish you can add to any dish.
Itaewon, Seoul
We can’t talk about Seoul without mentioning the city’s vibrant nightlife. One of the best neighborhoods to visit for a night out is Itaewon, the city’s most diverse and foreigner-friendly district. Here you can find great international restaurants, bars, and clubs. There’s plenty to do in Itaewon during the day as well, such as visit the Museum of Art, make your own perfume, or relax at a Korean spa.