Seoul highlights: where to go, by type of traveler

Palaces, markets, river parks and neighborhoods, sorted for first-timers, young travelers, families and slower trips.

Seoul is big, so it helps to pick places that suit you. Here are our picks, grouped by the kind of trip you are planning.

First time in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁) — the largest of Seoul’s five grand palaces. Visitors wearing hanbok get in free, and there are rental shops nearby. Closed on Tuesdays.
N Seoul Tower (남산서울타워) — views over the whole city from Namsan Mountain. Take the cable car or walk up the trail.
Myeongdong (명동) — shopping streets and evening street food, close to many hotels.

Travelers in their 20s

Hongdae (홍대) — street performers, live music, cafés and nightlife around Hongik University.
Seongsu-dong (성수동) — old factories turned into cafés, design shops and brand pop-up stores. Pop-ups change often, so check what is on before you go.

Travelers in their 30s and 40s

Ikseon-dong (익선동) — narrow lanes of small hanok buildings turned into restaurants and bars.
Gwangjang Market (광장시장) — one of the oldest markets in Seoul, known for mung bean pancakes and other classic dishes.

Families

Han River parks (한강공원) — open lawns, bike rental and picnic spots along the river. Yeouido and Banpo are good places to start.
Lotte World Tower and Seokchon Lake (롯데월드타워) — Korea’s tallest building, with the Seoul Sky observatory near the top and a lake walk below.

Travelers 50+ and slower trips

Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을) — traditional houses where people still live. Some lanes have set visiting hours, so follow the signs and keep your voice down.
Changdeokgung Palace (창덕궁) — a UNESCO World Heritage palace with a quieter feel. Its Secret Garden is visited on guided tours.
Insadong (인사동) — traditional tea houses, galleries and craft shops.

Getting there

All of these places are near subway stations. Use Naver Map or KakaoMap for directions, and see our subway basics.

We update these picks regularly. Opening days, hours and visiting rules can change, so check the official site of each place before you go.

Prices, timetables and rules in Korea change often. We check this guide regularly, but please confirm details with the official sources linked above before you travel.