What should you do when you land in Seoul, the capital city of and the most happening place in the whole of South Korea? Seoul has many sights and attractions to offer, but whatever you choose to do while you’re there, you must never miss these ten Seoul attractions:
Go Palace Hopping
Before Korea became a republic, it spent hundreds of years of its history as a kingdom. Five royal palaces in Seoul serve as a testament to the country’s monarchial past, with Gyeongbok Palace as the largest and most important, and Changdeok Palace as the most picturesque.
Travel Back In Time At Bukchon Village
Situated between Gyeongbok and Changdeok Palaces is Bukchon Village, a neighbourhood that seems to be standing still in time. Once home to Seoul’s aristocracy, Bukchon Village is now a lovely warren of traditional houses, and many of these houses still belong to their original owners’ families.
Take A Glimpse Into North Korea
South Korea is technically still at war with its sister to the north. Secretive North Korea is largely closed off to the rest of the world, and the only way get inside, even for just a short while, is to go on a strictly guided tour of the Demilitarized Zone, the no-man’s land between the two Koreas.
Shop Until You Drop
If you’re a shopaholic, you’ll find Seoul absolutely euphoric. Take your pick – you can shop at the three giant department stores of Seoul (Lotte World, Hyundai and Shinsegae); at the open markets of Namdaemun, Myeongdong and Edae; at the high-end boutiques in the Gangnam District; or at the night market of Dongdaemun.
Be A K-Pop Star For A Day
Korean pop culture has made its way throughout the world, not just in Asia but also in Europe and the US. If you love K-pop and K-dramas, you can buy K-pop merchandise at places like Lotte World and SMTown. You can shop for outfits similar to those worn by your favourite Korean idol and even cut a record of your favourite K-pop song.
See Seoul From The Peak Of Mount Namsan
Seoul is surrounded by mountains, the tallest of which is Mount Namsan. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the city by going up Mount Namsan via cable car. Better yet, relax and enjoy the view from the observation deck of N Seoul Tower.
Party Gangnam-style At The Gangnam District
Before the rest of the world knew about Gangnam from Psy’s ultra-popular song Gangnam Style, Seoul’s Gangnam District has already gained notoriety as the playground of the super-rich kids who like to party until dawn. Soak up the district’s heady nightlife with a bit of clubbing and bar-hopping.
Stroll Along Cheonggyecheon Stream
Once a shantytown, Cheonggyecheon Stream is now one of the prettiest and most relaxing places in Seoul. You can take a quiet stroll along its bank and enjoy the art installations and the occasional live performances. If you’re into people-watching, the Stream is a good place for it.
Gorge On Street Food
From barbecues to soups, rice cakes, pancakes and porridge, Seoul street food is really food for the soul. You may find some of the offerings a tad spicy, but they’re tasty and perfect for powering up while exploring the city.
End Your Day At A Jjimjilbang
Before you begin your activities for the evening, spend some time relaxing at one of Seoul’s many jjimjilbang. Jjimjilbang is bathhouses where you can enjoy a hot or cold soak, sit in a sauna, get a massage, and maybe watch a movie or nap on your downtime.
You won’t ever forget your holiday in Seoul, whether it’s your first time to visit the city or you’ve been there multiple times. Take the first step right now and book your Seoul holiday.
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