About Seoul
Considered the cultural and business hub of South Korea, Seoul is brimming with unique attractions and remarkable destinations. Some of its iconic landmarks include the “Five Grand Palaces,” the famous shopping districts of Myeongdong and Insadong, and Dongdaemun Design Plaza.
Seoul is also a shopping paradise not only for fashionistas but especially for beauty mavens or those who love cosmetics and skin care. Whether you’re a bargain hunter or looking for the top luxury items, there are many shops to choose from. Don’t forget to try authentic Korean dishes such as kimchi, tteok-bokki or stir-fried rice cakes, and fish cakes.
Getting around in Seoul
With its extensive network of public transportation, exploring Seoul is a breeze. You can reach any destination within and outside the city just by commuting.
From Incheon International Airport, there are various ways to go to Seoul. You can ride the Airport Railroad Express, Seoul Metropolitan Subway, and buses to name a few. Once downtown, you can opt to choose the trains, buses, or taxis depending on how fast you want to get to your destination or if you’re on a budget.
Using Seoul’s subway system is one of the best ways to travel around. It has 18 lines, with designated colors and name. Tourists will also be able to maximize this type of transportation since ince the subway operates from early morning (5:30AM) until midnight. For convenience, there are various apps that can be downloaded to check routes and schedules. This includes Seoul Subway and Metroid Korea Subway Info.
Tickets can be purchased at the stations. Or you can also utilize the Tmoney transportation card instead of buying single-journey passes. Meanwhile, tourist can also avail the Metropolitan Pass (MPASS) that can be used in many of the public transportation.
Top tourist attractions & activities in Seoul
From its traditional villages to its modern streets, there are endless things to do, see and eat in Seoul. Here are some of the famous tourist spots in Seoul that you shouldn’t miss.
Also called the “Northern Palace” because of its geography, a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the highlights of your Seoul trip. Tourists can take advantage of the free guided tour that lasts for one hour to 20 minutes. If you’re riding the subway, you can get off at Gyeongbokgung Station Line 3 and use Exit 5.
Holding a Guinness World Record for having the world’s largest indoor theme park, Lotte World features many tourist attractions and amusement rides that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Get your adrenaline pumping when you ride the Gyro Drop, Flume Ride, or the Gyro Swing. There is also the “Magic Island,” an outdoor amusement park.
An iconic symbol in South Korea, the N Seoul Tower is a communication and observation tower found on Mt. Namsan. Tourists are afforded with a sweeping view of the city skyline from the tower. Aside from the observatory, guests can also check out the Ssentoy Museum & Showroom and the Hello Kitty Island.
Check out this 600-year old historic destination featuring traditional Korean houses called hanok and its alleys. Tourists can avail of travel packages that can allow them to experience how it was to live in ancient Korea. Also, renting hanboks (traditional Korean dresses) is a must when exploring the village.
Immerse yourself with mind blowing optical illusion arts and let out your creativity when you visit the Trick Eye Museum. It features various rooms with different themes including Water World, Fantasy, and Horror Nights. Make sure to capture those whimsical and unique shots that will make for a perfect Instagram post.
Plan your own Seoul travel package
Want to this vibrant city on a budget? Get a Seoul tour package for a hassle-free vacation. You can find the best flight promos and hotel deals at Traveloka so you only have to think about what you want to do and places you want to visit in Seoul.
Check out this five days and four nights Seoul itinerary:
Day 1 Tour Ideas
- Arrive at Incheon International Airport
- Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Go around Bukchon Hanok Village wearing a hanbok
- Shop for souvenirs and eat scrumptious street food at Myeongdong
Day 2 Tour Ideas
- Get a package tour to Nami Island or do it yourself, if you’re on a tight budget
- Visit Petite France and enjoy a French-inspired theme park
Day 3 Tour Ideas
- Allot whole day at Lotte World or Everland
Day 4 Tour Ideas
- See local events at Gangnam
- Have lunch at Gwangjang Market
- Check out the N Seoul Tower
- Get IG-worthy shots at Seoul Trick Eye Museum
Day 5 Tour Ideas
- Walk around Ewha Women’s University
- Try traditional tea at Insadong
- Have a food trip at Hongdae
- Depart for Incheon airport and travel back home