Seoul is one of the top capital cities and a must-visit destination in South Korea, attracting tourists from all over the world year-round. The city offers a diverse range of attractions, including cultural landmarks, modern hotspots, shopping districts, and countless restaurants to explore. Whether you're a foodie, a shopaholic, or a photography enthusiast, Seoul has something for everyone—ensuring a trip full of excitement and endless fun!
Before heading to your dream destinations in Seoul, you can easily book your flight tickets to Seoul via the Traveloka app—your all-in-one travel companion. From flights and hotels to things to do tickets, airport transfers, and car rentals, everything you need for a seamless trip is right at your fingertips. Don't wait any longer—start planning your Seoul adventure, book your tickets, and get ready to explore!
If you're traveling to Korea, this is a must-visit! If you come to Seoul during spring or autumn and don't stop by Namsan Park, you're really missing out. This large public park, located near N Seoul Tower, offers fresh air, scenic walking paths, and stunning views. You don’t even have to leave the city to immerse yourself in nature! A special highlight of Namsan Mountain is its historic fortress walls, which hold a deep connection to Korea's past. Plus, admission is completely free—what could be better?
Location: Namsan Park
N Seoul Tower – The Ultimate Romantic Landmark in Seoul! If you're visiting Seoul, N Seoul Tower is a must-see attraction! This iconic tower, which has been standing since 1980, remains one of the hottest tourist spots in the city. Offering one of the best panoramic views in Asia, the tower sits atop Namsan Mountain at 236 meters high, giving you a breathtaking 360-degree view of Seoul. For an extra special experience, dine at the revolving restaurant, where you can enjoy a luxurious meal while taking in the ever-changing scenery. And for the romantics out there, don’t miss the "Locks of Love"—a popular spot for couples to attach love locks and make a wish for everlasting love. (But don't worry, even if you're single, it's still a fantastic photo spot!)
Location: N Seoul Tower
One of the most iconic spots in Korea that you absolutely have to visit! If you're in Korea and don't stop by Gyeongbokgung Palace, you're missing out. This grand historical landmark in Seoul is one of the five major palaces from the Joseon Dynasty and is steeped in rich history. The atmosphere here is truly majestic, and it's a popular filming location for many Korean period dramas. A must-do activity is renting traditional attire and transforming into the heroine of a K-drama (and here's a secret: entry is free!). This destination is a perfect blend of history, culture, and the true essence of Korean tradition. Make sure to take plenty of photos to share with your friends!
Location: Gyeongbokgung Palace
"Deoksugung Palace" A Classic Yet Chic Spot in Seoul If you’re looking for a destination in Korea that combines both history and style, Deoksugung Palace is the place to be. Although it's the smallest of the five royal palaces in Seoul, its charm is undeniable. The name "Deoksu" means "Palace of Virtue and Longevity," giving it a truly mystical vibe. This palace features late Joseon-era architecture with a unique blend of Western influences, making it a visually stunning and historically rich location.
Location: Deoksugung Palace
For art lovers who want to immerse themselves in Korean history and culture, the National Museum of Korea is a must-visit! As the largest museum in Seoul, it showcases a vast range of exhibits from Korea's ancient history to the present day. The museum also features national treasures and priceless works of art. Best of all, entrance is free, so you can enjoy the beauty and depth of Korean heritage without spending a dime.
Location: National Museum of Korea
For nature lovers looking for a serene escape in Seoul, the Seoul Botanic Park is the perfect destination! This 500,000-square-meter park combines both a botanical garden and a public park, offering a unique and peaceful experience. The highlight is the Greenhouse, an enormous glass structure that houses plants from 12 different cities around the world. Stepping inside feels like you've been transported to a lush, tropical rainforest. It's the ideal spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some fresh air—all for free!
Location: Seoul Botanic Park
Visit the historic Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village that's over 600 years old! Located in the heart of Seoul, this cultural landmark lets you experience the beauty and charm of traditional Korean architecture. Even today, people live in the village, which gives it an authentic atmosphere. Some areas also offer guesthouses where you can stay. Along with exploring the village, you’ll find cafés and restaurants, making it the perfect spot to relax, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy a laid-back experience.
Location: Bukchon Hanok Village
Eunpyeong Hanok Village is a newly built village that preserves the traditional architecture of ancient Korean hanok houses. Located in Seoul, this village offers a peaceful and open atmosphere, making it feel more spacious compared to other historical villages. It’s a living community, and visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences here, such as traditional and modern-style hanok cafés, perfect for relaxing. There’s also a museum where you can dive into Korea's rich history.
Location: Eunpyeong Hanok Village
After exploring Korea's historical sites, it's time to unwind and breathe in the fresh air at Seoul Forest! This popular spot is a favorite among both locals and tourists. Originally used as a hunting ground for the kings in ancient times, it has now transformed into a large, beautiful park with five distinct gardens inside. Perfect for a relaxing day out, you can take a leisurely walk, enjoy nature, and experience the calmness in the middle of the city.
Location: Seoul Forest on Google Maps
Before continuing your sightseeing in Seoul, make sure to refuel at Gwangjang Market—a must-visit spot for food lovers! This market is a food haven, offering a wide variety of Korean street food, famous local dishes, and much more. You’ll definitely have the chance to taste some delicious food and pick up a few souvenirs along the way. One of the highlights of the market is Gohyang Kalguksu, a popular stall known for its hand-made noodles, which was even featured on Netflix’s "Street Food" series!
Location: Gwangjang Market
Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in South Korea and the 6th tallest in the world. Standing at an impressive 123 stories, this iconic skyscraper is a must-visit spot in Seoul. Inside, you'll find everything from shopping malls and cinemas to luxury hotels and offices. The tower's Seoul Sky Observatory holds the record as the 3rd highest observation deck in the world, offering stunning views of the city. On clear days, you might even be able to see all the way to North Korea! Located south of the Han River, the tower is a key feature of Seoul's skyline.
Location: Lotte World Tower
For those who love amusement parks and want to capture beautiful photos, Lotte World is the perfect spot! This amusement park offers not only stunning scenery, making it a great place for photos, but also a variety of thrilling rides. Whether you’re into roller coasters, free-fall rides, or VR experiences, you’ll find plenty of excitement. Plus, there’s an indoor amusement park area, so it’s perfect for any weather. With something for everyone, Lotte World is a must-visit for visitors of all ages!
Location: Lotte World
Get ready to be amazed by the wide variety of marine life at COEX Aquarium, located inside the COEX Mall. This fantastic aquarium in Seoul is home to over 4,000 animals representing more than 600 species! The exhibit follows the theme of a "Water Journey", allowing visitors to embark on an adventure through the flow of water and learn about the diverse aquatic life. It's the perfect spot for aquarium enthusiasts and anyone looking for a relaxing solo adventure in Seoul.
Location: COEX Aquarium
For book lovers, Starfield Library is a must-see landmark in Seoul! Located inside COEX Mall, this impressive library features an eye-catching design that’s become a popular spot for photos on social media. Visitors can freely enter and enjoy the over 50,000 books available across various genres. It’s a peaceful and beautiful place to relax and immerse yourself in reading—making it a perfect stop for those who appreciate literature or just want to admire its stunning architecture.
Location: Starfield Library
For fashion enthusiasts, the Dior Concept Store in Seoul is a must-visit destination! Located in Seongsu, this iconic store is designed under the concept of "The House of Dior", with a stunning white cloud-like architecture that resembles an art gallery. Inside, you’ll find a luxurious world of Dior, including clothing, bags, perfumes, and even furniture. Don’t forget to check out Dior Café, which requires reservations in advance to enjoy a couture-style coffee experience. The store also features special collection displays and art installations that change periodically, along with exclusive workshops and events.
Location: Dior Concept Store
If you’ve ever seen a stunning futuristic building in Seoul, it’s likely to be Dongdaemun History & Culture Park! This incredible space houses conference rooms, a Korean cultural museum, and areas for various events such as exhibitions, workshops, concerts, and even major fashion events like Seoul Fashion Week. This park is a key part of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), making it a must-visit destination for those interested in art, history, culture, and fashion.
Location: Dongdaemun History & Culture Park
Another popular photo spot at DDP is the LED Rose Garden! This stunning garden comes alive at night with over 20,000 artificial white roses illuminated by bright LED lights, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. It’s one of the must-see landmarks in Seoul, perfect for capturing beautiful moments and enjoying the unique beauty of this art installation. Plus, it’s open year-round for visitors to enjoy.
Location: LED Rose Garden
Haneul Park (Sky Park) is a beautiful, wide grassy field that offers a dreamy and picturesque atmosphere, making it one of Seoul’s most popular destinations for photography. The park’s breathtaking views change with each season, so you’ll always experience something different when you visit. It’s especially famous for its golden grass fields during the autumn season, making it the perfect time for stunning photos to share on social media. Definitely a must-see spot for anyone visiting Seoul!
Location: Haneul Park
Seongsan Bridge is one of the 27 bridges crossing the Han River in Seoul. This 6-lane bridge connects Mapo and Yeongdeungpo districts, and at night, it transforms into a stunning sight illuminated by vibrant lights. It’s a popular spot for photography, and the best angle to capture the beauty of the bridge is from Mangwon Hangang Park, located on the north side of the river. If you’re exploring the city at night, make sure to stop by and snap some beautiful photos!
Location: Seongsan Bridge
Another iconic landmark in Seoul is Cheonggyecheon (청계천), also known as Cheonggye Stream. In the past, this was a stream used for draining waste water, but in 2003, it was beautifully transformed into a public space that offers a relaxing atmosphere for both locals and tourists. Today, it’s a peaceful retreat right in the heart of Seoul, perfect for strolling along the water and enjoying the refreshing ambiance. A must-visit for anyone looking to unwind in the city.
Location: Cheonggyecheon
Ewha Womans University is not only a prestigious university but also a popular spot for tourists, especially due to the Ewha Campus Complex, which is known for its striking, modern architectural design. It’s a favorite photo spot where visitors often capture stunning shots of the iconic building. Additionally, the area around the university is filled with affordable shops, making it a great place to buy souvenirs. It’s definitely a must-visit location for those who want to experience both the beauty of the campus and the local shopping scene.
Location: Ewha Womans University
Myeong-dong is a must-visit destination for both shopping enthusiasts and foodies alike. This bustling district has been a favorite for both locals and tourists for years. Whether you're looking to shop for fashion, cosmetics, or unique souvenirs, Myeong-dong has it all. You'll find everything from large department stores and luxury brand boutiques to trendy fashion shops, skincare stores, street food vendors, restaurants, and cafes. It’s the perfect place to shop till you drop while indulging in delicious treats along the way.
Location: Myeong-dong
Hongdae is the vibrant hotspot for youth culture in Seoul, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience trendy shopping, art, and entertainment. Located near Hongik University, this lively district offers a mix of chic cafes, beauty stores, art markets, and fashion boutiques with affordable prices. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon when the area truly comes alive with shops opening and outdoor busking performances, offering a unique cultural experience. It's a perfect spot for fashionistas, art lovers, and those wanting to enjoy the local vibe.
Location: Hongdae
Gwanghwamun Square is a perfect spot to experience both the historical and modern aspects of Seoul. Located in front of the Gwanghwamun Gate, the main entrance to Gyeongbokgung Palace, this square is one of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks. The highlight here is the 12.23 Fountain, a stunning symbol of victory that makes for amazing photos. It's a fantastic location to take in both the traditional architecture and the modern, bustling vibe of the city.
Location: Gwanghwamun Square
Garosu-gil is a must-visit shopping district in Seoul, perfect for fashion lovers. If you’re looking to shop for clothes, shoes, bags, or accessories, this street has it all. From luxury brands to trendy Korean designer labels, Garosu-gil is a one-stop destination for fashion enthusiasts. The modern design of the shops and buildings also adds to the chic vibe of the area, making it a great spot for photos. You’ll not only score stylish items but also take home some fantastic pictures!
Location: Garosu-gil
If you plan to visit Seoul, you need to register for K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) before entering South Korea. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare for applying for K-ETA:
It is recommended to apply in advance to allow enough time for processing!
If you want to plan a trip to Seoul more comfortably and enjoy visiting the city's attractions, it's important to understand some key information about the city. Therefore, Traveloka has gathered some essential details for you to know before visiting Seoul.
Seoul is the capital city of South Korea and is considered a special metropolitan city. It covers an area of 605.25 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 25 million people, which is about a quarter of the population of South Korea. Seoul is divided into 25 districts, with the Han River running through the city.
You can easily travel to Seoul by direct flights, with Incheon International Airport being the most popular airport for international flights. Airlines offering services include Thai Airways, Asiana Airlines, T'way Air, and Korean Air, with a flight time of approximately 5 hours and 25 minutes.
There are various ways to travel to different attractions in Seoul. The most popular mode of transportation is the subway, which is efficient and convenient. Public buses are also a great option for traveling. Additionally, taxis, private minivans, and other transportation services are available for your convenience.
In Seoul's attractions, the primary language used for communication is Korean, which is the official language. However, for tourists who do not speak Korean, don't worry! Most tourist attractions in Seoul will also have English available for easier communication.
The currency used in Seoul is the South Korean Won (KRW), and the exchange rate for 1 Korean Won varies depending on the time of exchange.
Seoul follows the standard time zone of GMT+9, with the time zone name being Korea Time (KT). The time in Seoul is 2 hours ahead of Thailand, so don’t forget to adjust your watch accordingly!
South Korea, where many of Seoul's attractions are located, experiences four distinct seasons:
Temperature: 10°C - 20°C (pleasantly cool)
Highlights: Cherry blossoms, fresh air, ideal for walking
Recommended places:
Tips:
Temperature: 25°C - 35°C (hot and humid)
Highlights: Summer festivals, shopping, cafe-hopping
Recommended places:
Tips:
Temperature: 10°C - 20°C (pleasantly cool)
Highlights: Changing leaves, romantic atmosphere
Recommended places:
Tips:
Temperature: -5°C to -15°C (cold with snowfall)
Highlights: Skiing, snow, New Year's festivals
Recommended places:
Tips:
If you want beautiful scenery, the best times to visit would be during spring or autumn!
Sat, 6 Sep 2025
T’way Air
Bangkok (BKK) to Seoul (ICN)
Start from THB 3,993.60
Fri, 12 Sep 2025
Thai Air Asia X
Bangkok (DMK) to Seoul (ICN)
Start from THB 3,202.00
Thu, 14 Aug 2025
Jin Air
Chiang Mai (CNX) to Seoul (ICN)
Start from THB 4,481.19