Seoul Travel Guide: Top 5 Attractions You Can’t Miss
Seoul is a city where history and modern culture blend seamlessly, creating endless opportunities for exploration. From breathtaking viewpoints to vibrant neighborhoods, every corner of the capital has something unique to offer.
Many travelers often associate Seoul only with famous palaces or shopping streets. But beyond the usual highlights, the city is full of experiences that reveal its artistic side, urban beauty, and cultural depth.
If you are planning a trip to South Korea, discovering some of Seoul’s most beloved landmarks will make your journey unforgettable. These are destinations where both locals and visitors love to gather, relax, and enjoy the city’s lively spirit.
Here are the top five must-visit places in Seoul that truly capture its charm and diversity.
1. Deoksugung Palace
Deoksugung Palace is one of the five grand palaces of Seoul and is famous for its unique mix of traditional Korean and Western-style architecture. Unlike other palaces, it includes stone buildings influenced by European design alongside classic wooden halls.
One of the highlights of visiting Deoksugung is walking along the picturesque Stone Wall Road (Deoksugung Doldam-gil). This romantic pathway lined with trees has often been featured in Korean dramas and is beloved by both locals and tourists.
Inside the palace, visitors can explore historical halls, elegant gardens, and the royal throne room. Seasonal scenery adds extra beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to golden leaves in autumn.
At night, Deoksugung offers a magical atmosphere with softly lit palace grounds, making it one of Seoul’s most charming evening destinations.
🏰 Deoksugung Palace (덕수궁)
📍 Transportation: Subway Line 1 or Line 2 – **City Hall Station**, Exit 1 (or Exit 2/12) – located directly adjacent to the palace. VisitSeoul
🎟 Admission: Individual (19–64): ₩1,000; Group (10+ people): ₩800; Children (7–18): ₩500; Free for under 7 and over 65. Hanbok wearers: free. Jongno-gu Office
⏰ Hours: Daily 09:00–21:00 (last admission at 20:00). Exhibition halls (e.g., Seokjojeon, Dondeokjeon, Jungmyeongjeon): approx. 09:00–17:30. VisitKorea
🚫 Closed: **Mondays** (if Monday is a public holiday, closed the following business day). VisitKorea
📝 Reservation: Not required for general admission. Free English guided tours available (check schedule on official site). Jongno-gu Office
※ Last checked: 2025-09-11 KST
2. Noryangjin Fish Market
For a taste of Seoul’s local culture, Noryangjin Fish Market is a fascinating destination. It is one of the largest seafood markets in Korea, operating for over 90 years.
The market is alive with vendors selling fresh fish, crabs, shellfish, and seasonal specialties. Visitors can pick their seafood of choice and have it prepared at one of the nearby restaurants for a true “catch-to-table” experience.
Walking through the bustling aisles is an adventure in itself, with the sounds of auctioneers and the sights of vibrant marine life on display. It is also one of the best places to try delicacies like live octopus or spicy seafood stews.
Noryangjin offers a genuine cultural experience, letting you step into the daily life of Seoul locals while enjoying unforgettable flavors.
🐟 Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market (노량진수산시장)
📍 Transportation: Subway Line 1 (Exit 9, ~150 m) or Line 9 (Exit 7, ~145 m via overpass) Noryangjin Fish Market
🎟 Admission: Free (public market) Noryangjin Fish Market
⏰ Hours: Retail sections operate long hours (e.g., “High-class” 00:00–24:00; “General” 01:30–22:00; Frozen 03:30–22:00; Shellfish 01:00–22:00; Dried Fish 23:00–19:00; Salted Seafood 03:00–19:00) Noryangjin Fish Market
🚫 Closed: Retail open year-round; wholesale auctions closed on Sundays & major holidays (New Year’s Day, Lunar New Year 3 days, Chuseok 3 days) Noryangjin Fish Market
📝 Reservation: Not required Noryangjin Fish Market
※ Last checked: 2025-09-11 KST
3. Bongeunsa Temple
Located in the bustling district of Gangnam, Bongeunsa Temple offers a peaceful retreat in the middle of a modern city. This Buddhist temple has a history dating back over 1,200 years.
Visitors are greeted by colorful lanterns, towering statues, and traditional wooden architecture. One of the highlights is the giant stone Buddha statue, which inspires awe with its sheer size and calm expression.
The temple also offers temple stay programs, where guests can experience meditation, tea ceremonies, and Buddhist rituals. These experiences provide a chance to slow down and connect with Korean spirituality.
It is a remarkable contrast to the skyscrapers of Gangnam, making it one of Seoul’s most memorable hidden gems.
🛕 Bongeunsa Temple (봉은사)
📍 Transportation: Subway Line 9 Bongeunsa Station (Exit 1) ~135 m; also walkable from Samseong Station (Line 2) VisitSeoul
🎟 Admission: Free VisitKorea
⏰ Hours: 05:00–22:00 (open year-round) VisitKorea
🚫 Closed: N/A (open all year) VisitKorea
📝 Reservation: Temple grounds: not required. Temple programs (e.g., Temple Life/Templestay) require advance registration Bongeunsa
※ Last checked: 2025-09-11 KST
4. Olympic Park
Built for the 1988 Seoul Olympics, Olympic Park is one of the largest green spaces in the city. Today, it remains a popular destination for sports, leisure, and cultural activities.
The park is home to wide walking paths, lakes, and sculptures scattered throughout the grounds. It also features open lawns where families and friends gather for picnics and festivals.
Art lovers will enjoy the World Peace Gate and various outdoor art installations. Nature lovers can relax among seasonal flowers such as cherry blossoms in spring and golden reeds in autumn.
With its blend of history, art, and nature, Olympic Park is an ideal place to enjoy a day outdoors in Seoul.
🏞 Olympic Park (올림픽공원)
📍 Transportation: Subway Lines 5 & 9, Olympic Park Station (Exit 4) ~1.1 km to Peace Square VisitSeoul
🎟 Admission: Free (park entry) KSPO (Olympic Park)
⏰ Hours: Walking/Bicycle areas 05:00–22:00 (main squares open to 24:00); Car access 06:00–22:00 KSPO (Olympic Park)
🚫 Closed: Open year-round (park); some venues have separate schedules KSPO (Olympic Park)
📝 Reservation: Not required for park entry; events/arenas may require tickets KSPO (Olympic Park)
※ Last checked: 2025-09-11 KST
5. Ewha Womans University Street
This lively area near Ewha Womans University is known for its youthful energy and trendsetting fashion. The surrounding streets are filled with stylish boutiques, cozy cafés, and affordable restaurants.
It is especially popular among young travelers and students looking for budget-friendly shopping. The atmosphere is vibrant and constantly changing, with street performers and seasonal decorations adding to the charm.
The university campus itself is also worth visiting, with its striking modern architecture and scenic pathways. Photography lovers often stop by the Ewha Campus Complex, a unique glass-lined structure built into the hillside.
This area offers a perfect mix of culture, shopping, and local lifestyle, making it a favorite hotspot in Seoul.
🛍 Ewha Womans University Street (이대 패션거리)
📍 Transportation: Subway Line 2 Ewha Womans University Station (Exits 2 or 3), ~5 min walk to the main gate and shopping street Ewha University
🎟 Admission: Free (public shopping street) VisitKorea
📝 Reservation: Not required (individual shops/cafés may have their own booking policies) VisitKorea
※ Last checked: 2025-09-11 KST
Conclusion
Seoul is not only about its most famous landmarks but also about the variety of experiences hidden across the city. From the heights of the Lotte Tower to the quiet serenity of Bongeunsa Temple, every location brings something different.
The War Memorial of Korea tells stories of resilience and peace, while Olympic Park gives you a chance to enjoy art and nature together. Meanwhile, Ewha Womans University Street lets you feel the heartbeat of the younger generation.
These five places reflect the city’s dynamic character and its ability to offer something for everyone. Whether you are a first-time visitor or returning to explore more deeply, they will leave lasting memories of Seoul.
So pack your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready to experience a city that never stops surprising.
Key Takeaways
- Deoksugung Palace shows a rare blend of Korean tradition and Western-style architecture, plus the romantic Stone Wall Road.
- Noryangjin Fish Market gives you a lively taste of Seoul’s authentic food culture.
- Bongeunsa Temple creates a spiritual escape in the heart of Gangnam.
- Olympic Park blends nature, art, and history in one space.
- Ewha Womans University Street delivers youthful energy and budget-friendly fun.
