Adventure Travel to Seoul: Exploring the 10 Best Places to Visit in 2024

Introduction

Seoul, the capital of South Korea is a vibrant city that blends culture, technology, music, art, and so much more. It is known as the “Design Hub” of the world! Remember all those K-pop bands that are trending right now? They originated from Seoul and took the world by storm. From historic places to busy city streets, Seoul has something for everyone. Explore the top 10 places in Seoul and surprise yourself with the Adventure Outdoor Travel (OAT) experience that this dynamic city has to offer. ToTravell makes sure that you get the best out of our travel guide which will educate you regarding everything you need to know about your tour. Let’s get started!

 

Top 10 Places You Can Find Interesting in Seoul in 2024

Seoul is packed with several locations that you can explore with friends and family. Set out on an adventurous tour of Seoul South Korea and make sure to mark all the places to go in your checklist. ToTravell takes you on a virtual tour of the city that is shaping the design landscape of the world. Ready set go!

 

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace

Discover the beautiful buildings of the Joseon Dynasty at Gyeongbukgung Palace, the most important and the largest of the Five Grand Palaces. The event of the Ceremony of Changing of Guard and explore the expansive from the palace with full loved Korean History. Find yourself thinking about ornate architectural elements that mirror the extravagance that scales the palaces of ancient Korea’s rulers. Take advantage of your presence as you come face to face with some of the most spectacular aboriginal ceremonies that tell stories about past and present in one place: in the palace.

 

• Things to do: Take a close look at Korean history as you explore the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace (the largest of the Five Grand Palaces) built during the Joseon Dynasty. Observe the changing of the guard ceremony and take a walk through the expansive palace grounds.
• Expenses: Admission fees may apply for entrance to certain areas of the palace. Approximate cost: $3-$5. Food expense: $10-$20.
• Pro-tip: We would advise you to visit in the morning to avoid crowds and take advantage of guided tours to learn more about the palace’s history.

 

2.  Bukchon Hanok Village

Through time travel, Bukchon Hanok Village is where you can immerse yourself in authentic and original Korean buildings from the Joseon dynasty. Indulge in wandering the narrow streets and lay yourself down in the beauty of the lifestyle of traditional Korean architecture. Wander among tiny lanes packed with old dwellings and try to imagine the people and ways of Ancient Korea. Interact with the artisans who try to preserve traditional handcrafts whose techniques exist in this Korean living museum.

 

• Things to do: Take a stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village with well-preserved Hanok houses dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. You can experience traditional Korean culture and architecture.
• Expenses: The plus point is that this is a free-to-explore location, but some Hanok houses may require an entrance fee. Approximate cost: $0-$5. 
• Food expense: $10-$20.
• Pro-tip: It is best to wear comfortable shoes as the village has steep and narrow streets.

 

3. N Seoul Tower

Have a glimpse of the Seoul skyline through the giant Namsan Tower at N Seoul Tower which is meant just for your enjoyment. Come and see the places in which you can observe the breathtaking views or enjoy the quiet park and get away from the hectic city life. Catch the best sights of the yet skyline while Seoul is getting dressed in leafy colors. Take some time off and have a relaxed walk on Namsan Park’s forest paths and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of nature, which is just the place to be when you want to get away from the pressures of the city.

 

• Things to do: Enjoy panoramic views of Seoul from the iconic N Seoul Tower, located on Namsan Mountain. Visit the observatory for breathtaking views and explore the surrounding Namsan Park.
• Expenses: Admission fees apply for access to the observatory. Approximate cost: $10-$15. 
• Food expense: $10-$20.
• Pro-tip: Visit in the evening to see the city lights and catch a romantic sunset.

 

4. Myeongdong

The great news for shopping junkies is Myeongdong, the world of trendy fashionable clothes shops, wholesome cosmetic stores, and delicious street food stalls in Seoul, South Korea. Explore the bustling shopping area and buy Korean skincare products. With such a large fashion and skincare market, there are countless options to explore, such as K-beauty skincare products. We will introduce Asian Street food consisting of spicy tteokbokki that will subtly satisfy your tastebuds with real Asian flavors. Drown yourself in the exciting environment when street performers are taking over the alleys and very busy shops.

 

Things to do: Shop till you drop at Myeongdong, Seoul’s shopping mecca known for its trendy fashion boutiques, cosmetics shops, and street food stalls. Experience the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in Korean skincare products.

Expenses: Budget for shopping and food purchases. Approximate cost: varies. 

Food expense: $10-$20.

Pro-tip: Visit at night for a lively atmosphere and try the local street food like Tteokbokki and Hotteok.

 

5. Changdeokgung Palace

Visit the exquisite Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage destination where both can enjoy the classical gardens and historic importance. Take the opportunity of being on a group tour to explore so much more about the Palace. Admire the sophisticated infrastructure that integrates with nature harmoniously at Jungwonji’s Secret Garden. Discover the strange paths and quiet ponds where one can momentarily retreat to a time of the past kings in a peaceful environment.

 

Things to do: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Changdeokgung Palace, renowned for its beautiful gardens and architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about the palace’s history and significance.

Expenses: Admission fees apply for access to certain areas of the palace. Approximate cost: $3-$5. 

Food expense: $10-$20.

Pro-tip: Visit during the spring or fall for stunning views of the palace gardens.

 

6. Insadong

Amidst the traditions of Korea, don’t forget to visit Insadong, the cultural hub where one can find tea houses, galleries, and antique shops. Meander through the lovely block and make a collection of different knick-knacks from there. Look at traditional tea ceremonies at teahouses put in between contemporary cafes. Take a tour of art galleries focused on both the modern and the old-school Korean arts, which helps to convey the spirit of Korean Arts.

 

Things to do: Insadong is a neighborhood known for its traditional tea houses, art galleries, and antique shops in Seoul, Korea. Stroll along the main street and browse for unique souvenirs to find what you like.

Expenses: Budget for shopping and dining. Approximate cost: varies. 

Food expense: $10-$20.

Pro-tip: Visit on weekends when the street is closed to traffic and filled with performers and street vendors.

 

7. Seoul Forest

Dive into Seoul amongst the pine trees and down the walking trails at Seoul Forest; the large park also has a place for picnics and even a deer park. Remember, you may rent a bicycle to discover this green pearl among other noisy city sounds. Go biking through densely forested areas and beautiful ponds, watching out for animals like deer, and birds, among others. Relax under trees or in the picnic area and explore nature while walking on an urban pathway that is lined with trees.

 

• Things to do: Escape the busy city streets to relax in the serene Seoul Forest, a large park that offers walking trails, picnic areas, and a deer park. You can rent a bike to explore the park’s vast grounds.
• Expenses: Free entry, but bike rentals and other activities may have fees. Approximate cost: $5-$10 for bike rental. 
• Food expense: $10-$20.
• Pro-tip: Visit during the cherry blossom season for a stunning display of pink blooms.

 

8. Hongdae

Get to know Seoul’s youthful energy in Hongdae, a vivid community famous for independent music, street performances, as well as unique cafes. Immerse yourself in the artistic surroundings and discover unique boutiques and markets. Immerse yourself in live music performances by local artists at chic cafes and underground music places. Find out hidden art markets presenting handmade crafts and original artworks expressing Hongdae’s creative atmosphere.

 

• Things to do: Experience the vibrant youth culture in Hongdae, Seoul which is known for its indie music scene, street performances, and trendy cafes. Discover places to go such as unique shops and art markets.
• Expenses: Budget for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Approximate cost: varies. 
• Food expense: $10-$20.
• Pro-tip: Visit on a weekend evening to catch live performances and join in the lively atmosphere.

 

9. Lotte World Tower

Be amazed at Lotte World Tower’s remarkable architecture with one of the tallest buildings across the globe. Visit the observation deck to catch a bird’s eye view of the bustling city and hit the shops and restaurants at this renowned site. Step onto high-speed elevators to climb to thrilling heights that you can now enjoy from Lotte World Tower’s observation deck. Experience a first-class shopping mania or taste a gourmet meal with the view over Seoul and its endless vastness.

 

• Things to do: You will be amazed by the architectural ingenuity of the Lotte World Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world. Visit the observation deck for breathtaking views of Seoul and enjoy shopping and dining at the mall.
• Expenses: Admission fees apply for access to the observation deck. Approximate cost: $20-$30. 
• Food expense: $10-$20.
• Pro-tip: Visit at night to see Seoul illuminated against the night sky.

 

10. Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Come into the future at Dongdaemun Design Plaza which is a design exhibition and cultural event place with wonderful architecture. Walk through this latest landmark to admire its fascinating lighting shows after the sunset. Invite yourself into the future while exploring the innovative design concepts displayed at the exhibitions within the futuristic spaces of Dongdaemun Design Plaza. Marvel at the stunning architecture of the plaza as it is brought to life with eye-catching lighting installations that turn it into a magical fairy tale after the sun goes down.

 

• Things to do: Explore the futuristic architecture of Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a major landmark in Seoul. Visit the design exhibitions and cultural events held at the plaza.
• Expenses: Free entry to the plaza, but fees may apply for special exhibitions. Approximate cost: $0-$5. 
• Food expense: $10-$20.
• Pro-tip: Visit in the evening to see the plaza’s unique lighting displays.

 

Conclusion

In the end, a Seoul trip presents you with a mind-blowing experience of an old culture stacked with modern conveniences and new attractions. Whether you enjoy historic places like the Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, window shopping in Myeongdong Mall for the coolest fashion and skincare products, or taking in the panoramic view of the city from the N Seoul Tower, Seoul has it all. The dynamic character of Seoul is manifested in every section of the city, and the local neighborhoods, cultural landmarks, and Seoul Forest give much more than just a mere look at the city. 

Fest with Adventure Outdoor Travel (OAT) in Seoul for maximum fun and excitement that you will reminisce all your life. ToTravell brings you a list of places to visit that you have never been to in Seoul, making your virtual trip worth it while giving you time to plan out your tour for the future. If you are interested in such a location then check out our other “Travel Guides” and if you want to get up close and personal with interesting touristic places then have a look at the “Personal Travel Diary” section too. Till next time!