Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea, is a city where tradition and futuristic innovation coexist in harmony. For first-time visitors, the city's efficient public transportation system makes getting around extremely convenient. With a T-money card (available at convenience stores or subway stations), you can use the subway, buses, and even taxis just like a local.
To help you make the most of your trip, we've carefully selected 12 must-visit spots in Seoul that perfectly blend history, culture, shopping, food, and modern landmarks. Each location includes clear directions using public transportation, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.
- Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Bukchon Hanok Village
- Hongdae (Hongik University Area)
- Namsan Seoul Tower
- Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
- Insadong
- Han River Parks
- Seongsu-dong
- Bongeunsa Temple
- COEX Mall & Starfield Library
- Tongin Market (통인시장)
- Mangwon Market (망원시장)
- Final Travel Tips
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the most magnificent of Seoul's five palaces and a must-see for anyone interested in Korean history. The palace grounds are filled with ornate pavilions and peaceful gardens. Don't miss the guard changing ceremony at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays).
- Subway: Line 3 → Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 5, 5-minute walk). Or Line 5 → Gwanghwamun Station (Exit 2, 7-minute walk).
- Bus: 109, 171, 272, 606 → Gyeongbokgung Bus Stop.
- Cost: Subway/bus fare approx. ₩1,250 (US$1). Admission fee ₩3,000 (free if wearing hanbok).
2. Bukchon Hanok Village
Located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, this area is filled with beautifully preserved hanok houses. It is a great place to take a stroll, take photos, and enjoy cultural workshops.
- Subway: Line 3 → Anguk Station (Exit 2, walk up the hill for 5-7 minutes).
- Bus: 109, 151, 162 → Anguk Station bus stop.
- Cost: Free admission. Cultural experience ₩5,000+.
3. Hongdae (Hongik University Area)
Hongdae is the heart of Seoul’s youth culture and indie scene. The streets are filled with trendy shops, quirky cafes, art murals, live music, and street performances. By night, the area comes alive with bustling nightlife, bars, and late-night food stalls. It’s the perfect spot to experience the creative and energetic side of Seoul.
- Subway: Line 2, Line 6, Gyeongui–Jungang Line, or Airport Railroad → Hongik Univ. Station (Exit 9 is the most popular).
- Bus: Nos. 273, 602, 761 → Hongik Univ. stop.
- Cost: Street food from ₩3,000–8,000; bars/clubs ₩10,000–20,000 entry.
4. Namsan Seoul Tower
Located at the top of Namsan Mountain, Seoul Tower offers a panoramic view of the city. Couples love the “love locks” hanging on the fence, and the sunset view from here is unforgettable.
- Subway + Cable Car**: Line 4 → Myeongdong Station (Exit 3) → 10-minute walk → Cable Car (one-way ₩12,000).
- Bus: 02, 03, 05 → Namsan Tower Bus Stop (approx. ₩1,400).
- Cost: Tower admission fee ₩15,000.
5. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Zaha Hadid's futuristic masterpiece, DDP is the center of design, art, and fashion in Seoul. At night, the LED rose garden creates a magical atmosphere.
- Subway: Lines 2, 4, and 5 → Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Exit 1).
- Bus: Routes 105, 144, and 420.
- Cost: Free admission; exhibitions ~$8.
6. Insadong
If you want to shop for traditional crafts, souvenirs, or artworks, this is the place. Its alleys are also full of tea houses and cozy cafes.
- Subway: Line 3 → Anguk Station (Exit 6).
- Bus: Nos. 109, 151, 601.
- Cost: Souvenirs ₩5,000–20,000.
7. Han River Parks
The Han River is where locals go to relax, picnic, and cycle. At night, the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show lights up the water.
- Subway: Line 7 → Yeouido Station (Exit 3).
- Bus: Nos. 162, 262, 461.
- Cost: Bike rental \~₩3,000/hr.
8. Seongsu-dong
Often called the “Brooklyn of Seoul,” Seongsu-dong has transformed from an old industrial area into one of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city. Former warehouses and shoe factories have been converted into stylish cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries.
It’s the perfect place to experience Seoul’s creative side, enjoy a relaxing coffee, or explore unique local brands you won’t find in bigger shopping districts.
- Subway: Take Line 2 to Seongsu Station (Exit 3 or 4). The main streets and cafes are within a 5–10 minute walk.
- Bus: Take bus numbers 121, 2014, or 2224 to Seongsu Station stop.
- Cost: Subway/bus fare ~₩1,250. Cafe drinks ~₩5,000–8,000.
9. Bongeunsa Temple
Located in the heart of Gangnam’s bustling Samseong-dong, Bongeunsa Temple is a serene Buddhist temple offering a peaceful contrast to the nearby COEX Mall. Founded in 794, it features beautiful architecture, lantern festivals, and temple stay programs for a deeper cultural experience.
- Subway: Take Line 2 to Samseong Station (Exit 6), then walk 5 minutes toward COEX Mall; the temple is directly across the street.
- Bus: Take bus numbers 143, 146, or 740 to Bongeunsa Temple Stop.
- Cost: Subway/bus fare: ~1,250 KRW. Temple entry is free; temple stay programs vary (~50,000 KRW).
10. COEX Mall & Starfield Library
Asia’s largest underground shopping mall with endless shops and restaurants. Inside, the Starfield Library with its towering bookshelves is an Instagram favorite.
- Subway: Line 2 → Samseong Station (Exit 5 or 6, directly connected).
- Bus: Nos. 143, 146, 740.
- Cost: Free library entry; shopping/food varies.
11. Tongin Market (통인시장)
Unlike most traditional markets, Tongin Market is famous for its unique “Dosirak (lunchbox) Café” experience. Visitors can exchange cash for traditional brass coins (called yeopjeon) and use them to buy a variety of small dishes from different stalls to fill up a lunch tray.
It’s a fun and interactive way to try multiple Korean foods in one meal. The market is small, friendly, and easy to navigate, making it perfect for first-time visitors.
- Subway: Take Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 2), then walk about 10 minutes to Tongin Market.
- Bus: Take bus numbers 7016 or 7022 to Tongin Market stop.
- Cost: Subway/bus fare ~₩1,250. Dosirak set with yeopjeon ~₩5,000–10,000.
12. Mangwon Market (망원시장)
Mangwon Market has recently become a local favorite, especially among younger Seoulites. It’s less touristy compared to other markets, offering a genuine neighborhood feel. The market is known for its clean, welcoming atmosphere and budget-friendly street food like Korean corn dogs, spicy tteokbokki, crispy fried chicken, and fresh fruits.
After grabbing a few snacks, you can head to the nearby Hangang Park (Mangwon section) for a picnic with a riverside view — a very local Seoul experience.
- Subway: Take Line 6 to Mangwon Station (Exit 2), then walk about 5 minutes to the market.
- Bus: Take bus numbers 7013A, 7013B, or 7733 to Mangwon Market stop.
- Cost: Subway/bus fare ~₩1,250. Street food dishes ~₩2,000–8,000.
Why I Don’t Recommend Gwangjang Market
(and Namdaemun Market)
Gwangjang Market is one of the most famous traditional markets in Seoul, often featured in travel shows and food documentaries. However, as a local, I find it hard to recommend for first-time visitors. The market has unfortunately developed a reputation for overcharging tourists (what Koreans call “bargaji,” or inflated prices), and some stalls don’t maintain the best hygiene standards.
Similarly, Namdaemun Market — while historically significant and very popular among tourists — also struggles with overpricing issues and can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors. Many travelers end up feeling pressured to buy rather than enjoy exploring.
If you still want to experience the atmosphere, a quick walk-through might be interesting, but for actually eating and enjoying local food, I personally recommend Tongin Market or Mangwon Market instead. Both are much more foreigner-friendly, reasonably priced, and still give you that authentic Korean market vibe without the stress.
Why Myeongdong Isn’t on My List
While Myeongdong is one of the most famous areas in Seoul and worth a quick visit for its lively atmosphere, as a local I wouldn’t personally recommend it for shopping or dining.
Prices there can sometimes be higher than usual, and it has a reputation for “tourist pricing.” Instead, I suggest visiting Hongdae, which offers a more authentic and youthful vibe with trendy shops, unique cafes, and vibrant street performances.
Final Travel Tips
- T-money card: Load ₩10,000–20,000 for a full day of rides.
- Navigation: Download the Subway Korea app for easy route planning in English.
- Best time to visit: Spring (Mar–May) or autumn (Sep–Nov).
- Language tip: Most signs are in English, but saying “Annyeonghaseyo” (hello) and “Kamsahamnida” (thank you) will make locals smile.
With its seamless mix of history, culture, food, and modern attractions, Seoul has something for everyone. Hop on the subway, grab your T-money card, and start exploring!
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