Explore Top 10 Must-Visit Seoul Attractions

From the historic charm of Gyeongbokgung Palace to the thrilling rides at Lotte World, and the tantalizing street food delights of Gwangjang Market, Seoul offers an eclectic mix of experiences that will leave you enchanted.

In this comprehensive guide, we unveil the top 10 tourist attractions in Seoul that you simply cannot afford to miss.

Location: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace, also known as the "Palace of Shining Happiness," stands as a testament to Korea's royal heritage. This sprawling palace complex, dating back to the 14th century, is a captivating blend of architectural grandeur and historical significance. 

Stroll through the picturesque courtyards, admire the intricate details of the pavilions, and witness the awe-inspiring Changing of the Guard ceremony. The palace is especially enchanting during the spring cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons when it becomes a symphony of colors.

Location: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Bukchon Hanok Village is a charming hilltop village nestled amidst the bustling city of Seoul. Here, you'll find a stunning collection of traditional Korean hanok houses, some of which have stood for centuries. As you explore the village, gaze upon the intricately tiled red rooftops and follow locals dressed in traditional hanbok attire through narrow alleyways. 

Don't miss the opportunity to embark on a walking tour of the village or visit the various museums that delve into Asian art and culture, knots, and even owls.

Location: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno 4(sa)-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary culinary adventure at Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul's oldest and largest foodie havens. As you wander through the market, let your senses guide you to the stalls where vendors prepare delectable Korean dishes right before your eyes. 

Be sure to savor classic Korean fried chicken smothered in spicy gochujang sauce, indulge in sweet and spicy tteokboki rice cakes, and if you're feeling adventurous, try soondae, a unique delicacy consisting of meat, rice, vegetables, and blood stuffed into pig or cow intestines, steamed to perfection.

Location: 29, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

The War Memorial of Korea stands as a solemn tribute to the sacrifices made by soldiers during the Korean War and a powerful reminder of the consequences of conflict. Within its hallowed halls, dioramas vividly depict key battles in Korea's history, while a hall engraved with the names of thousands of fallen soldiers invites contemplation. 

Military enthusiasts will be enthralled by the extensive collection of weapons and equipment, including tanks, swords, and a rare display of a B-52 bomber. The epic sculptures of soldiers in action add to the museum's allure.

Location: Jung-gu, Seoul

Immerse yourself in Seoul's unique fashion and beauty culture at Myeongdong, a bustling shopping district that caters to all your shopping desires. Here, you can discover designer clothing and accessories from renowned global brands. 

K-pop fans will delight in the opportunity to dress like their favorite idols, with stores offering K-pop merchandise, posters, tees, CDs, and more. Don't forget to explore the Myeongdong Underground Shopping Centre for an extensive array of K-pop treasures.

❤️Pro Tip: Remember to check weather in Seoul before heading out! Maybe it’s a perfect time to take a day trip from Seoul?

Location: San 1-3, Jeongneung-dong, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul

Bukhansan National Park, a natural gem north of Seoul, entices with its breathtaking landscapes. The park boasts lush forests, awe-inspiring gorges, and rugged peaks that provide a visual feast for nature enthusiasts. 

During the fall season, the mountains are adorned in vivid shades of crimson, orange, and yellow, creating a perfect backdrop for a leisurely hike. Keep an eye out for serene Buddhist temples and the curious water deer that may cross your path. Adventurous hikers who conquer one of the three summits are rewarded with panoramic views of the Seoul skyline and beyond.

Location: 240 Olympic-ro, Jamsil 3(sam)-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul

Lotte World is a paradise for adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers. Whether you crave high-speed excitement or prefer a more leisurely pace, this entertainment complex has something for everyone.

Brace yourself for heart-pounding rides like Atlantis Adventure and the stomach-churning Gyro Drop at Magic Island. Inside the massive Adventure zone, the world's largest indoor theme park, you'll find carousels, balloon rides, and a fairytale kingdom for a gentler adventure. Lotte World promises a 'lotte' of fun, regardless of your speed preference.

Location: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Seobinggo-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

On a rainy day, immerse yourself in the rich history of Korea at the National Museum of Korea. This treasure trove houses thousands of artifacts, artworks, and documents spanning the nation's history from prehistoric times to the present day. 

Admire perfectly preserved statuettes, exquisite golden crowns, Buddhist sculptures, and centuries-old prints and paintings. The museum even features a children's zone with a toddler play area to keep young visitors engaged.

Location: Insa-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

For the finest and most authentic Korean souvenirs, Insadong is the place to be. Stroll through atmospheric alleys lined with craft shops offering traditional carved wooden masks, decorative Hanji paper fans, and exquisite glazed celadon pottery. 

After your shopping adventure, unwind at one of the charming old tea houses hidden away in the bustling back streets. Here, you can partake in the serene joy of a traditional Korean tea ceremony. Be sure to explore the beautiful hanok architecture of two of the oldest tea houses, Dawon and Shin Old Tea House.

Location: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2(i)ga-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Reaching skyward from the peak of Mount Namsan, the iconic N Seoul Tower, also known as Namsan Tower, graces Seoul's skyline with its imposing presence.

As impressive as it is from the outside, the tower offers even more breathtaking views from its observation platform, situated 777 feet above ground and more than twice that height above sea level.

Visit during the spring cherry blossom or fall foliage seasons for particularly spectacular vistas, as the city is bathed in a riot of pinks, reds, yellows, and fiery oranges.

💯 Pro Tip: While in Seoul, stay connected hassle-free in South Korea eSIMs. Enjoy convenience, cost savings, and flexibility. You can also follow our specially crafted Seoul itinerary with plenty of things to do in Seoul! 

In conclusion, Seoul beckons with a captivating tapestry of attractions that cater to every traveler's preferences. 

From the rich historical heritage of Gyeongbokgung Palace to the adrenaline-pumping rides at Lotte World, and the culinary delights of Gwangjang Market, Seoul offers a diverse and enriching experience. Ensure your visit includes these top 10 must-see tourist attractions to make the most of your Seoul adventure.

❤️Pro Tip: You can easily navigate around the city with Seoul subway map. You can also consider going to cities around like taking a train from Seoul to Busan or a flight from Seoul to Jeju.