Top 10 All-Time Best Destinations in Seoul

Dongdaemun Market is located at one of Seoul’s four gates, the Dongdaemun West, and is named after the gate. Dongdaemun Market is one of the largest traditional markets in Seoul and one of Korea’s most iconic shopping districts. There are more than 10,000 shops and stalls selling a wide range of goods, but with a focus on clothing wholesale. It is open 24/7. There you may find fashion items, footwear, accessories, homeware, fabrics, and traditional Korean handicrafts.

Dongdaemun Design Square is a modern building that houses fashion designer works and exhibitions. Fashion shows and new product launches are hosted from time to time, attracting many fashion lovers. As for the traditional market, it is a bustling place to experience the traditional atmosphere of Korea’s down-to-earth marketplace, buy cheap goods and sample a variety of local snacks. There is also a night market crowded by visitors in the evenings, where you can experience the nightlife and night market culture of Koreans. This place could be more interesting than you think.

One of Seoul’s oldest and largest traditional markets, Gwangjang Market is a representative of Korea’s unique culture and cuisine. Built in 1905, the market is renowned for its extensive food stalls and a variety of merchandise. At Gwangjang Market, you can sample authentic Korean cuisines at affordable prices, such as Jajangmyeon noodles, cold noodles, fried pancakes with green beans, kimbap, octopus sashimi, beef bibimbap, ssamjang, and more. You may eat the takeaway as you walk or try to eat at a stall hosted by a friendly “Ajumma” (“Auntie” in Korean).

The market also sells a variety of seafood, vegetables, fruits, noodles, and Hanbok, the traditional Korean costumes. If you have a moment, visit the market’s “365-Day Market” for items such as handmade accessories, textiles, and Korean traditional handicrafts, as well as seasoning packs for famous food in the market or the Gwangjang Market 1905 beers.

N Seoul Tower, one of Seoul’s iconic buildings, sits at the summit of Namsan Mountain Park in Yongsan District. The tower is 236.7 meters high and is the perfect spot to look over the Han River and Seoul, with countless visitors during both daytime and night. Visitors can choose to take a cable car or walk up Namsan Mountain and take the elevator to the top of the tower. On N Seoul Tower, you may enjoy the spectacular views of the city of Seoul, including the city’s skyscrapers, rivers, and mountains. At night, the tower lights up to create a romantic city view. The lights on the tower also vary according to seasons and themes. It is a popular venue for the shooting of Korean dramas. Therefore, many Korean drama fans from around the world come here on a pilgrimage.

In addition, N Seoul Tower has an observation deck, café, restaurant, and gift shop for resting and shopping. N Seoul Tower is a must-see for couples, families, and photo enthusiasts.

Hongdae is a district where young people and artists in Seoul gather and is a fashion, cultural, and entertainment hub. The area is famous for its vibrant street arts, music performances, and independent design shops. In Hongdae, you can take a stroll along the wide streets, admiring arts, graffiti, and street performances of all kinds. The youthfulness, cultural vibes, and street performances of the city are comparable to big cities like London and New York.

Near the subway station, there are plenty of well-known restaurants and street food, as well as small galleries and nightclubs. Hongik Park is also one of the popular venues for Korean drama shooting. During the weekend, the park becomes a free market where young Korean artists and craftsmen sell their own works. Hongdae also hosts a variety of markets and music festivals that attract young people. If you are interested in fashion, music, and arts, Hongdae is a must-visit place for you.

Gangnam is one of the richest, most modern areas in Seoul and the heart of Korean pop culture. It boasts high-rise buildings, modern shopping centers, luxury hotels, and entertainment venues. You may find Sinsadong Garosu-gi Road loved by the local Koreans, underground shopping streets, and online sensations such as Starfield Library and COEX aquarium in this district. As it is close to the Han River, visitors of Gangnam may take in views of the Han River after shopping.

There are also many fine dining restaurants, cafés, and bars in South Gangnam, serving a variety of food and beverages. In addition, Gangnam is the center of Korea’s entertainment industry, and where many entertainment companies and K-pop celebrities’ offices are located. If you crave for luxurious shopping experiences, fine dining, and entertainment, Gangnam is somewhere you must not miss.

Bukchon Hanok Village is one of the best preserved traditional Korean neighbourhoods in Seoul, located on the slopes of the city center. This is a traditional Korean residential complex with more than 600 years of history. The residences are homes of the Joseon era. Once lived by the royals and senior government officials, the Hanok Village is now home to common citizens. Some of the residential homes are now turned into museums and exhibition halls, which can be visited for a fee; as well as tea rooms and cafés, allowing visitors to experience the old Korean lifestyle.

The streets of Bukchon Hanok Village are narrow and curved, with traditional Hanok on either side and a roof covered with traditional Korean tiles. The best way to visit Bukchon Hanok Village is to wander along the cobbled road, experience the fascinating nostalgia in between the traditional architectures, visit one of the Hanoks or visit the Traditional Cultural Experience Center in the Village to learn about Korean traditional culture, handicrafts, and traditional costumes.

A man-made river in the heart of Seoul, Cheonggyecheon is a popular place for relaxation and a cultural space. The river passes through the city and has walking trails, gardens, and public art installations along the river banks. Visitors can stroll along the river to enjoy the city’s green landscape and flowing river streams. Along the river, you may find bridges, fountains, and waterfalls that create a pleasant environment. Especially during the summer, Cheonggyecheon hosts a variety of outdoor concerts and cultural events, attracting visitors and locals alike.

Cheonggyecheon is another popular location for shooting Korean dramas. It is a man-made canal that runs from north to south of Seoul, with a total length of 8km and a width of 50m. It is comprised of fountains, waterfalls, walking trails, and tourist trails, providing a resting place for Seoul citizens and visitors. After the city has completed the Cheonggye Square, vehicles are not allowed into the square during every holiday. Hence, the square, waterside spaces, and roads have become a sanctuary and cultural space for citizens.

Located in the neighborhood of Sejong Village area of Seoul and close to the west side of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Sejong Village Food Street is a place known for traditional Korean cuisine. This street is home to a variety of snack stalls and restaurants serving a variety of delicious traditional Korean dishes. The food street features not only renowned restaurants with a long history and reputation, but it also includes new restaurants with the coolest styles of the latest trend. They are busy every night. You may find the classic bibimbap, Korean barbeque with meat on brass platters, spicy Kimchi hotpot, buckwheat cold noodles, Jajangmyeon noodles, and deep-fried chicken. There is something for everyone.

There are also traditional Korean teahouses and cafés on the Sejong Village Food Street, where visitors can relax and sample local teas. The streets are narrow and busy, and the atmosphere of the traditional Korean city is full of flavor. After a satisfying meal, you can also take a walk through the ally to the right of the market.