Explore Seoul's Palaces, Parks, and Modern Marvels

Source:

@The Seoul Scene

46 places in Seoul featured in a youtube post by The Seoul Scene, verified on Google Maps: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, N Seoul Tower, and 43 more.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Cultural landmark

4.6

Gyeongbok Palace is a grand royal palace and a central part of Seoul's royal history. Visitors can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony twice daily, explore the wide ceremonial courtyards, and admire the various pavilions on the water. Entry is free if wearing a Hanbok, offering a unique cultural experience.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Landmark

4.4

Bukchon Hanok Village is a charming neighborhood where traditional Korean houses are still inhabited today, offering stunning views of tiled rooftops against the modern city skyline. Situated between Gyeongbok Palace and Changdeok Palace, its narrow, hilly streets are perfect for photos and cultural cafes. It provides a peaceful walk through Seoul's past.

N Seoul Tower

Landmark

4.5

N Seoul Tower is an iconic landmark offering panoramic 360-degree views of Seoul's skyline. Visitors can reach the top via cable car or walking trails, and it's a popular spot for couples to leave love locks. The sunsets from the observation deck are particularly breathtaking, showcasing the vastness of the city.

Changdeokgung

Cultural landmark

4.6

Changdeok Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its harmonious integration with nature, featuring beautiful wooden halls, stone pathways, and tranquil gardens. It offers a calmer atmosphere compared to Gyeongbok Palace, with its biggest highlight being the Secret Garden. A timed ticket is required to enter this peaceful and elegant royal garden.

LOTTE WORLD TOWER

Landmark

4.4

Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in Korea, featuring the Seoul Sky observatory near its top, which offers unbeatable views of the entire city. The glass floors provide dramatic photo opportunities, and on clear days, mountains far beyond Seoul are visible. The tower complex also includes a luxury shopping mall, restaurants, an aquarium, and a cinema.

Cheonggyecheon

Park

4.5

Cheonggyecheon is a 10-kilometer-long stream running through the heart of Seoul, offering a peaceful escape from city traffic. It features calm waters, stepping stones, and shaded walkways, popular for evening strolls when lights reflect off the water. During festivals, the stream is adorned with lanterns and seasonal displays, creating a magical atmosphere.

National Museum of Korea

Museum

4.7

The National Museum of Korea is the country's largest and most important museum, covering thousands of years of Korean history. Highlights include the crown jewels of the Silla Kingdom, Buddha sculptures, and beautifully preserved pottery. The spacious and calm building makes it easy to explore, and entry is free, with pleasant grounds for walking.

DDP │ Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Cultural center

4.3

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is one of Seoul's most futuristic landmarks, known for its smooth curves, metallic panels, and walkable rooftops that resemble a sci-fi movie set. Inside, it hosts rotating exhibitions, design shops, and cultural events. Outside, the LED Rose Garden and public plazas are popular for night photography.

Gwangjang Market

Market

4.2

Gwangjang Market is one of Seoul's oldest and busiest food markets, renowned for its traditional Korean street food. Visitors can find endless rows of tteokbokki, kimbap, and knife-cut noodles, prepared fresh by vendors right in front of them. It's an exciting and crowded place to try classic Korean comfort foods at local prices.

War Memorial of Korea

Museum

4.6

The War Memorial of Korea is an impressive museum offering a deep look into Korea's military history. Outside, visitors can see real aircraft, tanks, and statues honoring fallen soldiers. Inside, large exhibits explain the Korean War with detailed displays and immersive rooms. It's a powerful, educational, and essential place to understand Korea's past and resilience.

Lotte World

Amusement center

4.3

Lotte World is Korea's most famous theme park, uniquely split between indoor and outdoor areas, making it enjoyable year-round. The indoor section offers rides, parades, and performances, while the outdoor Magic Island on a lake features bigger roller coasters and great night views. It's a fun, colorful, and convenient theme park experience right next to Lotte World Tower.

Eungbongsan (Seoul)

Natural feature

4.4

Eungbongsan is a small mountain offering big views and easy access, making it a perfect quick escape from the city. The hike is short and beginner-friendly, leading to wide views of the Han River, nearby bridges, and the Seoul skyline. In early spring, the mountain is famous for its bright yellow flowers, making it especially popular at sunrise and sunset for the best short hike views.

Banpo Bridge

Place

4.4

Banpo Bridge is one of Seoul's most iconic nighttime attractions, famous for its Rainbow Fountain show. After sunset, water streams from the bridge in colorful patterns, synchronized with music. The bridge is located at Banpo Hangang River Park, making it easy to watch the show from the riverside. It's a classic Seoul experience to see the city light up at night.

Starfield Coex Mall

Point of interest

4.2

COEX is one of Asia's largest underground shopping malls, featuring extensive shopping, dining, an aquarium, and the iconic Starfield Library. The library's 13-meter-tall bookshelves are a popular photo spot and offer a bright, open space for relaxation between shopping. It's also connected to Bongeunsa Temple, providing a unique blend of modern and traditional Seoul.

Yeouido Hangang Park

Park

4.5

The Han River is a central waterway in Seoul, offering miles of bike paths, riverside parks, and picnic spots. Visitors can rent electric bikes, order fried chicken for delivery directly to the park, or take a sunset cruise. In summer, locals bring tents and stay late into the night, making it a great place to experience local Seoul life.

Bongeunsa

Place of worship

4.5

Bongeunsa is a peaceful Buddhist temple nestled in the heart of Gangnam, directly across from COEX. Its main landmark is a giant standing Buddha statue, and the temple grounds offer a surprisingly quiet atmosphere despite the surrounding skyscrapers. Visitors can walk through the halls, observe monks chanting, or participate in a temple experience program.

Haneul Park

Park

4.5

Sky Park, also known as Haneul Park, sits atop a hill overlooking the Han River and western Seoul. It's most famous for its silver grass fields, which turn golden in autumn, creating stunning seasonal views. Wide walking paths lead to open viewpoints, sunset spots, and night city views. Its elevated position ensures a refreshing breeze, making it perfect for photos and natural beauty.

Everland

Amusement park

4.5

Everland is Korea's largest theme park, offering a wide range of attractions from thrilling roller coasters like the T-Express to themed villages and a large zoo. Seasonal festivals, such as tulip displays in spring and Halloween events in fall, add new reasons to visit throughout the year. It's a full-day adventure and a top attraction for families and thrill-seekers.

Olympic Park

Park

4.6

Olympic Park, built for the 1988 Olympics, is now one of Seoul's best walking and photo parks. It features wide trails, peaceful lakes, open fields with public art installations like the famous World Peace Gate, and beautiful flower gardens. It's a great place for cycling, jogging, or enjoying a quiet day outdoors, especially in spring and autumn.

Dream Forest

Park

4.5

Dream Forest is one of northern Seoul's largest parks, featuring wide walking paths, open lawns, and a modern observatory overlooking the entire area. The park includes a small deer enclosure, a reflective pond, and scenic bridges, making it great for photography. In autumn, the colors are especially beautiful, offering a quiet, family-friendly park that feels more local than touristy.

Yongma Waterfall Park

Park

4.4

Yongma Waterfall Park is known for its three large artificial waterfalls, created within an old quarry. During the day, it's a peaceful spot for walking and photography, but it also offers hiking trails up behind the falls. The surrounding area features several trails, open seating, and great city views from afar, providing a unique natural escape in Seoul.

Jamsil Baseball Stadium

Athletic field

4.4

Jamsil Baseball Stadium is the home of the LG Twins and Doosan Bears, offering one of the most fun ways to experience Korean sports culture. The atmosphere is loud, energetic, and filled with cheering chants that everyone joins in. Food vendors sell chicken, beer, and snacks directly to your seat, making it a memorable night out even for non-baseball fans.

Changgyeonggung Palace

Cultural landmark

4.6

Changgyeong Palace is connected to Changdeok Palace and is known for its relaxed layout, ponds, and scenic gardens. Originally a residence for queens and royal family members, it offers a quieter and more peaceful experience than the major palaces. It's a beautiful hidden gem, especially in spring and autumn when the natural views are at their best.

Deoksugung Palace

Cultural landmark

4.6

Deoksu Palace is unique in Seoul for featuring both traditional Korean buildings and Western-style stone halls. Known for its stone wall road, a popular date spot, the palace feels smaller and more intimate than others. The Changing of the Guard ceremony also takes place here, with evening openings being especially beautiful due to the soft lighting.

Ikseon-dong Hanok Village

Historical landmark

4.2

Ikseon-dong Hanok Village is a charming blend of old and new, where traditional hanok buildings house modern cafes, shops, and restaurants. Its narrow, charming alleys are filled with unique cafes, each with its own design, and boutique shops. It's an ideal spot for cafe hopping, boutique shopping, and capturing warm, atmospheric photos.

Seoul Forest Park

Park

4.6

Seoul Forest is a vast urban park that seamlessly blends nature, art, and city life. It features walking trails, open lawns, cafes, and seasonal flower fields perfect for photography. Visitors can rent bikes, visit the butterfly garden, or explore art installations. In autumn, the ginkgo tree road turns bright yellow, becoming a top photo spot and a relaxing escape.

Ttukseom Hangang Park

Park

4.6

Ttukseom Hangang Park is one of the most active and modern spots along the Han River, offering a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can rent bikes, try water sports in the summer, or relax on the wide green lawns. The music fountain, riverside cafes, and colorful photo zones make it a fun place to spend the afternoon, with incredible views at sunset.

Leeum Museum of Art

Museum

4.6

The Leeum Museum of Art showcases a blend of traditional Korean art and cutting-edge contemporary works within a beautifully designed space. Each area boasts a unique style, crafted by world-famous architects. Visitors can explore everything from ancient ceramics and calligraphy to modern installations by Korean and international artists, all within a clean and easily navigable layout.

Seosomun Shrine History Museum

Museum

4.7

The Seosomun Shrine Museum honors Korean Catholics persecuted during the Joseon Dynasty, combining a memorial park with a modern underground museum. It features artifacts, stories, and peaceful reflection areas within a minimalist and calming architectural design. It's a thoughtful stop for travelers interested in Korea's lesser-known history.

Bukhansan National Park

National park

4.6

Bukhansan is Seoul's most popular hiking destination, renowned for its huge peaks, forested trails, and beautiful city views. It offers routes for all levels, from easy walks to challenging summits, with scenery that changes beautifully with each season. At the top, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Seoul, making it the city's ultimate outdoor escape.

Seoul Botanic Park

Botanical garden

4.3

Seoul Botanic Park combines a huge greenhouse with outdoor themed gardens from around the world. Inside the dome, visitors can explore tropical, Mediterranean, and desert environments all in one place. Outside, the park features wetlands, walking trails, and seasonal flower displays. It's one of Seoul's most impressive nature attractions, perfect for photography or a calm half-day visit.

Seodaemun Prison History Hall

History museum

4.6

Seodaemun Prison is a significant historical site that served as a prison during the Japanese occupation. Today, it's a museum preserving original cells, interrogation rooms, and execution sites, offering a powerful and emotional look into Korea's struggle for independence. It's a crucial and meaningful place to learn about modern Korean history.

청운문학도서관

Library

4.7

Cheongun Literature Library is a quiet reading space nestled in the hills near Gyeongbok Palace, surrounded by trees and offering large windows with views of the forest and city. Inside, visitors will find Korean literature, peaceful study rooms, and cozy seating. It's one of Seoul's most scenic libraries, perfect for relaxing, reading, or taking a break from sightseeing.

Songpa Book Museum

Museum

4.6

The Songpa Book Museum is a modern cultural space dedicated to the history of books and storytelling in Korea. Inside, visitors will find interactive exhibits, beautifully designed reading rooms, and rotating displays about literature and illustration. The architecture is clean and minimalist, creating a calming and inspiring environment for anyone who loves books, design, or quiet cultural experiences.

Eunpyeong Hanok Village

Landmark

4.2

Eunpyeong Hanok Village is situated at the base of Bukhansan, offering a beautiful backdrop of mountains for its traditional Korean houses. It's quieter and less crowded than Bukchon, with wider streets, cafes, and small cultural museums housed in restored hanoks. The village provides a peaceful setting for walking, photography, and enjoying a slower, calmer side of Seoul.

Jogyesa Temple

Place of worship

4.5

Jogyesa is a Korean Buddhist temple located in downtown Seoul, known for its giant colorful lanterns, ancient trees, and prayer halls open to visitors. It offers a serene environment where one can quietly walk inside, observe a service, or join a short temple stay program. It's an accessible way to experience traditional Buddhism without leaving the city center.

Seoul City Hall

City or town hall

4.3

Seoul City Hall sits next to a large open plaza that serves as a gathering space for festivals, protests, and seasonal displays. In winter, it transforms into an outdoor ice-skating rink. The old City Hall building now functions as a library, while the new glass building behind it features a unique curved design, showcasing the blend of old and modern Seoul.

Oil Tank Culture Park

Cultural center

4.2

Oil Tank Culture Park has ingeniously transformed old industrial oil tanks into modern cultural spaces. Each tank has been redesigned into galleries, event halls, or open cafes, while outdoor paths offer great views of the surrounding hills. The raw, minimalist architecture gives it a unique industrial vibe, making it a great area to walk, explore exhibitions, or enjoy small concerts.

Haebangchon Sinheung Market

Market

4.0

Shinheung Art Market offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern artistic flair, feeling like a scene from a favorite indie movie. This old market has been revitalized, now featuring ceramic studios, tiny galleries, restaurants, and cafes designed for a cozy, rainy-day journaling vibe. It's a hidden gem for those who appreciate history, personality, and a touch of artistic soul.

Dongmyo Flea Market

Flea market

4.0

Dongmyo Flea Market is a vibrant and chaotic market perfect for those who love vintage fashion, old cameras, quirky antiques, or random treasures. Prices are cheap, and bargaining is common in its narrow alleys filled with clothes piled high and tables stacked with old electronics. It's one of Seoul's most authentic local markets, ideal for thrifting and people-watching.

Statue of King Sejong the Great

Sculpture

4.7

The Statue of King Sejong stands prominently in Gwanghwamun Square, honoring the creator of the Korean alphabet. Beneath the statue is a free underground museum where visitors can learn about the creation of Hangeul, see replicas of old inventions, and explore interactive exhibits on Korean history. It's a quick, educational, and central stop for exploring Seoul.

Seoul National Cemetery

Cemetery

4.8

The Seoul National Cemetery is a solemn memorial site honoring veterans and national heroes. Its wide, peaceful grounds are lined with thousands of white gravestones, and walking paths lead through quiet forests, manicured gardens, and historical monuments. It's a meaningful place to reflect on Korea's past and pay respect to those who shaped the country's history.

Suguksa Temple

Place of worship

4.4

Suguksa is a small but stunning temple distinguished by its golden exterior and peaceful atmosphere. Located in a quieter part of the city, it feels far removed from Seoul's busy streets. Its bright gold exterior and detailed decorations make it unique among Korean temples, offering a more intimate and less touristy Buddhist experience.

Inwangsan Mountain

Nature preserve

4.7

Inwangsan is a popular short hike in Seoul, known for its huge rock formations and panoramic city views, including Gyeongbok Palace, N Seoul Tower, and the skyline. The trails are manageable and lead to open viewpoints, especially beautiful at sunset. The mountain also holds deep historical connections to Korean shamanism, adding cultural significance to the scenic journey.

국녕사

Buddhist temple

4.3

Guknyeongsa is a peaceful temple nestled in quiet mountain surroundings, known for its towering golden Buddha statue. The temple grounds are small but beautifully maintained, featuring traditional halls, stone lanterns, and forested paths that feel far removed from the city. It's a calming spot to walk, take photos, and experience everyday Buddhist culture without the crowds.

Apgujeong Graffiti Tunnel

Art gallery

4.0

The Apgujeong Graffiti Tunnel is an underground passage completely covered in ever-changing street art. Local artists frequently repaint the walls, ensuring the tunnel always looks different with each visit. It's a popular spot for photoshoots, music videos, and K-pop dance covers, with its bold colors and urban style making it one of the most unique art spaces in Gangnam.

More featured places in Seoul

@_food.travel