Seoul Travel Guide

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace: The most iconic palace of the Joseon Dynasty, blending traditional architecture with historical charm. Stroll through Geunjeongjeon Hall and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion to admire the elegant wooden structures and royal ambiance. Daily changing-of-the-guard ceremonies recreate ancient military rituals, captivating visitors.

2. Myeongdong: Seoul’s liveliest shopping and food hub, packed with fashion boutiques, cosmetic stores, and street food stalls. At night, it glows with lights, offering fried chicken, fish cakes, and hotteok (sweet pancakes). Korean beauty brands abound, making it ideal for souvenir shopping.

3. N Seoul Tower: Perched atop Namsan Mountain, this tower offers panoramic views of Seoul, a must-visit for couples and tourists. Take the cable car up, enjoying lush Namsan Park scenery en route. The tower’s observatory sparkles with city lights at night, creating a romantic atmosphere. The love lock wall below is perfect for photos.

4. Bukchon Hanok Village: Preserving traditional Joseon-era architecture, this village features charming hanoks (Korean houses) along narrow alleys, exuding rustic beauty. Wander cobblestone paths to experience traditional Korean life, with many hanoks now housing cafés and galleries, blending old and new. Autumn’s maple leaves create a picturesque scene.

5. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): Designed by Zaha Hadid, this futuristic, flowing structure houses exhibition halls, design shops, and a night market, attracting fashion enthusiasts. Its dazzling nighttime light show complements nearby markets offering affordable clothing and food.

6. Ewha Womans University: Renowned for its stunning campus, especially during March and April’s cherry blossom season, drawing crowds. European-style buildings and tree-lined paths create a literary vibe. The nearby Ewha shopping area is trendy, with cafes and boutiques, perfect for young visitors.

7. Hangang Park: Stretching along the Han River, this park is a local favorite for relaxation. Spring cherry blossoms and summer greenery invite picnics, while nighttime riverside lights and Seoul’s skyline create a magical scene. Yeouido Park’s night cherry blossoms are particularly enchanting.

8. Hongdae Street: Known for its vibrant youth culture, Hongdae features Hongdae’s street art and performances brim with creativity. Cafes, bars, cafes, bars, and indie shops abound, with live music and DJ parties after dark. Weekend markets sell handmade goods, ideal for unique souvenirs.

9. Samcheongdong: Nestled near Bukchon, this area blends tradition and modernity, with alleys lined by artsy cafés and design shops. Hanok-style galleries attract hipsters, and autumn’s ginkgo trees turn streets golden. Stroll leisurely, savoring traditional tea and desserts.

10. Namsangol Hanok Village: Showcasing Joseon-era folk homes, this village recreates traditional life with wooden houses and courtyards. Visitors can try tea ceremonies, wear hanbok, or play traditional games, immersing in Korean culture. Its tranquil setting is perfect for history lovers.

1. Korean BBQ: Seoul’s most iconic cuisine, featuring fresh beef or pork grilled to golden, juicy perfection with garlic sauce and kimchi. Self-service tableside grilling adds fun, paired with diverse side dishes for a satisfying meal. (Recommended: “Wangbi House” in Myeongdong or “Tosokchon BBQ” in Hongdae)

2. Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup): A nourishing dish with a whole chicken stewed with ginseng, jujubes, and sticky rice, yielding a rich, restorative broth. Refreshing in summer, it warms body and soul. (Recommended: “Tosokchon Samgyetang” in Jongno District)

3. Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes): A classic Seoul street food, chewy rice cakes coated in sweet-spicy sauce with fish cakes and vegetables, offering bold flavors. Night market stalls’ aromas are irresistible, perfect for young foodies. (Recommended: “Sinchon Tteokbokki” in Sinchon)

4. Ganjang Gejang (Soy-Marinated Crab): Fresh raw crab marinated in soy sauce, with tender meat and rich, savory flavor, perfect with rice. A must for seafood lovers seeking authentic Korean taste.(Recommended: “Pro Ganjang Gejang” in Sinsa-dong)

5. Korean Fried Chicken: Crispy, juicy chicken coated in sweet-spicy or garlic sauce, a finger-licking favorite. Paired with beer, it’s a Seoul nightlife staple for the young. (Recommended: “BHC Chicken” in Hongdae)

6. Budae Jjigae (Army Stew): A hearty stew blending ham, sausage, and kimchi in a spicy broth, with ramen and cheese for unique flavor. Ideal for sharing, it’s warm and lively. (Recommended: “Nolboo Budae Jjigae” in Dongdaemun)

7. Kimchi Pancake: Fermented kimchi mixed with batter, fried to crispy, slightly spicy perfection with tangy aroma. A simple yet delicious Korean classic, great as a snack or with drinks. (Recommended: “Gwangjang Pancake” at Gwangjang Market)

8. Jokbal (Braised Pig’s Feet): Slow-cooked pig’s feet, meltingly tender, served with garlic and sauce, rich but not greasy. A popular gathering dish reflecting Korea’s bold food culture. (Recommended: “Mansu Jokbal” in Gangnam)

9. Bibimbap (Mixed Rice Bowl): A colorful mix of vegetables, beef, and gochujang in a sizzling stone pot, with crispy rice at the bottom for layered textures. A feast for both eyes and palate.(Recommended: “Jeonju Jungang Hwegwan” in Myeongdong)

10. Naengmyeon (Cold Buckwheat Noodles): Chewy buckwheat noodles in icy broth with beef slices and sweet-tangy sauce, refreshing and appetizing, a summer must-eat. (Recommended: “Pyongyang Myeonok” in Euljiro)

1. Korean Kimchi

Korea’s national dish, made from fermented cabbage or radish, offering a tangy, spicy, and refreshing flavor rich in probiotics. Vacuum-packed for easy transport, ideal for gifting or personal use to add Korean flair.

• Address: “Market Ajumma Kimchi Shop” in Myeongdong

2. Shin Ramyun

Korea’s iconic instant noodles, with a rich, mildly spicy broth and chewy noodles, easy to prepare and delicious. Mini packs are perfect for gifting, loved by international travelers, and widely available in supermarkets.

• Address: Lotte Mart Myeongdong Branch

3. Seaweed Snacks

Crispy baked seaweed snacks with a rich oceanic flavor, light and low-calorie, ideal for health-conscious snackers. Beautifully packaged, affordable, and great for gifting.

• Address: “Olive Young” in Hongdae

4. Korean Yakgwa (Honey Cookies)

Traditional honey cookies made from sticky rice, honey, and nuts, crispy outside and soft inside, with a balanced sweetness reflecting old Korean flavors. Retro packaging makes it suitable for gifting to elders.

• Address: “Traditional Hangwa Shop” in Insadong

5. KANU Mini Coffee Sticks

KANU coffee sticks are renowned for their rich coffee aroma, convenient for carrying and brewing, perfect for coffee lovers. Stylish packaging makes them a practical and elegant gift.

• Address: “Lotte Duty Free” in Myeongdong

6. Flat Croissant Cookies

A trendy Korean snack, these flat croissant cookies combine a crispy texture with buttery flavor and cute designs, popular among young people. Colorful packaging makes them a perfect trendy souvenir.

• Address: “CU Convenience Store” in Sinchon

7. Mochi Taiyaki Cake

Chewy mochi taiyaki cakes with a soft, creamy filling and moderate sweetness, shaped adorably. Great for gifting to friends, adding the fun of Korean desserts.

• Address: “Lotte Fitin” in Dongdaemun

8. Dr. You Protein Snacks

A top choice for healthy snacks, these protein bars are crispy, low-sugar, and high-protein, ideal for fitness enthusiasts. Lightweight packaging makes them a thoughtful, health-conscious gift.

• Address: “Olive Young” in Gangnam

9. Handmade Caramel Gift Box

Handmade caramels with a smooth, rich, buttery flavor, sweet but not overpowering. Elegant gift box packaging, perfect for friends who appreciate refined tastes, showcasing Korean confectionery craftsmanship.

• Address: “Caramel Workshop” in Samcheongdong

10. Korean Face Masks

Renowned for their high cost-performance ratio, Korean face masks offer moisturizing, whitening, and other options for various skin types. Stylish packaging makes them a practical and popular gift.

• Address: “Innisfree Flagship Store” in Myeongdong

Spring (March to May):

Temperatures range from about 5-20°C, cooler in March (2-13°C) and warmer in May (12-23°C). The weather is mild, with cherry blossoms blooming from late March to early April, fresh air, and occasional showers (monthly rainfall around 70-130mm).

• Suggestions: Visit Yeouido or Namsan Park for cherry blossoms, wearing a light jacket, sweater, and carrying a foldable umbrella. Attend the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival, avoiding the Qingming Festival crowds, and enjoy a Korean-style spring picnic.

Summer (June to August):

Temperatures range from about 20-32°C, with August being the hottest (up to 35°C). June’s rainy season brings frequent showers (monthly rainfall around 150-250mm), while July and August are humid and hot, with occasional typhoons.

• Suggestions: Explore indoor attractions like Dongdaemun Design Plaza or the National Museum, and visit Myeongdong Night Market at night. Wear short sleeves, bring sunscreen, and rain gear. Join the Han River Music Festival to embrace summer vibes.

Autumn (September to November):

Temperatures range from about 10-25°C, warmer in September (18-28°C) and cooler in November (5-15°C). The weather is cool, dry (monthly rainfall around 50-100mm), and vibrant with red foliage, making it the best season for travel.

• Suggestions: Visit Bukchon Hanok Village or Deoksugung Palace for maple leaves, wearing long-sleeve shirts and a light jacket. Attend the Seoul Lantern Festival, explore Hongdae at night, and experience autumn cultural markets.

Winter (December to February):

Temperatures range from about -5 to 8°C, with January being the coldest (-8 to 5°C). The weather is cold and dry with minimal rain (monthly rainfall around 20-50mm) and occasional light snow. Christmas and New Year festivities create a lively atmosphere.

• Suggestions: Soak in Ganghwa Island hot springs or visit Myeongdong’s Christmas market, wearing a down jacket and scarf. Participate in Gyeongbokgung’s New Year prayers, savor steaming budae jjigae (army stew), and feel winter warmth.