Seoul, South Korea is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of traditional culture and modern technology. From delicious food to stunning architecture, there is so much to see and do in this bustling metropolis. If you’re planning a trip to Seoul, here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.
First and foremost, make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes as Seoul is a very walkable city with plenty of things to see and do on foot. Public transportation is also very convenient and affordable, so be sure to take advantage of the subway system which connects all major tourist attractions.
When it comes to dining, don’t be afraid to try new foods! Seoul is known for its delicious street food and traditional Korean dishes like bibimbap and bulgogi. Be sure to also check out the trendy cafes and restaurants in neighborhoods like Gangnam and Hongdae.
When visiting cultural sites and monuments, be sure to show respect by dressing modestly and following local customs. Some sites may require an entrance fee, so it’s a good idea to check in advance and plan your budget accordingly.
Things to do in Seoul / Top 20 Must Visit Sites and Monuments in Seoul
- Gyeongbokgung Palace – Website: www.royalpalace.go.kr – Entrance Fee: KRW 3,000 – Nearest subway station: Gyeongbokgung Station
- Bukchon Hanok Village – Website: www.visitseoul.net – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Anguk Station
- N Seoul Tower – Website: www.nseoultower.co.kr – Observatory – Fee: KRW 10,000 – Nearest subway station: Myeongdong Station
- Changdeokgung Palace – Website: www.cdg.go.kr – Entrance Fee: KRW 3,000 – Nearest subway station: Anguk Station
- Insadong – Website: www.insadong.co.kr – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Anguk Station
- Myeongdong – No official website – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Myeongdong Station
- Dongdaemun Design Plaza – Website: www.ddp.or.kr – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station
- Cheonggyecheon Stream – Website: www.seoul.go.kr – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Gwanghwamun Station
- Jogyesa Temple – Website: www.jogyesa.kr – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Jonggak Station
- War Memorial of Korea – Website: www.warmemo.or.kr – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Samgakji Station
- Namdaemun Market – No official website – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Hoeh yeon Station
- National Museum of Korea – Website: www.museum.go.kr – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Ichon Station
- Seoul Grand Park – Website: www.seoulgrandpark.com – Admission Fee: KRW 3,000 – Nearest subway station: Seoul Grand Park Station
- Lotte World Tower – Website: www.lwt.co.kr – Observatory Fee: KRW 27,000 – Nearest subway station: Jamsil Station
- Namsan Hanok Village – No official website – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Chungmuro Station
- Bongeunsa Temple – Website: www.bongeunsa.org – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Bongeunsa Station
- Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain – Website: www.visitseoul.net – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Express Bus Terminal Station
- Hongdae Street – No official website – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Hongik University Station
- COEX Mall – Website: www.coexmall.com – Free entrance – Nearest subway station: Samseong Station
- Seodaemun Prison History Hall – Website: www.smpia.seoul.go.kr – Entrance Fee: KRW 3,000 – Nearest subway station: DongnImmuni Station
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Our Top Travel Gear and Equipment Recommendations: Best Camera, Photo and Video Equipment for Your Travels
If you’re interested in our recommended travel gear and photo/video equipment:
- Best and Most Useful Travel Gear:
- Best photo / video cameras and equipment for Travel:
- Best Action Cameras and Portable Cameras
- Best Full-Frame DSLR Cameras and DSLR Cameras for Amateur and Professional Photographers
- Best Drones and Aerial Photography Cameras
- Best Tripods, Monopods and Selfie Sticks for Photography and Videography
- Best Mobile Phones and Cell Phones, Best Laptops and Computers for Travel:
3 Days in Seoul / 3-day itinerary for Seoul Visit
Day 1:
- Morning: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and explore Bukchon Hanok Village
- Afternoon: Have lunch in Insadong and shop for souvenirs
- Evening: Watch the sunset at N Seoul Tower and have dinner in Myeongdong
Day 2:
- Morning: Explore Changdeokgung Palace and take a stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream
- Afternoon: Visit the War Memorial of Korea and have lunch at Namdaemun Market
- Evening: Experience the nightlife in Hongdae Street
Day 3:
- Morning: Explore Jogyesa Temple and have a relaxing walk in Namsan Hanok Village
- Afternoon: Visit Lotte World Tower and explore COEX Mall
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional temple stay at Bongeunsa Temple
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Where to Stay in Seoul / Top Rated Seoul Hotels
Top Rated Hotels in Seoul priced over $200 per night:
Recommended Hotels Seoul priced between $100 to $200 per night:
- Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae
- Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Seoul Dongdaemun
- L’Escape Hotel
- GLAD Mapo
- voco Seoul Gangnam, an IHG Hotel
Best Seoul Hotels priced between $50 to $100 per night:
- LOTTE City Hotel Guro
- Arirang Hill Hotel Dongdaemun
- Grid Inn Hotel
- Toyoko Inn Seoul Dongdaemun II
- Amare Hotel Jongno
Top Hotels in Seoul priced between $20 to $50 per night:
Best Budget Hotels and Hostels in Seoul priced below $20 per night:
- Hause Itaewon
- Birdsnest Hostel Hongdae Foreigner only
- G Guesthouse Itaewon In Seoul
- Four Seasons House (Female only)
- Huayuanhouse HQ in hongdae
Please note that ratings and prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Make sure to check the current rates and availability through the provided links.
Overall, Seoul is a fantastic city to explore with its rich history, cultural sites, delicious cuisine, and modern amenities. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or shopping enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to experience all that Seoul has to offer!
For more about South Korea, Seoul, Jeju and other travel destinations in South Korea, read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.
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