Things To Do
Gwangjang Market
Open Monday through Saturday from 9 am - 6 pm; restaurants may stay open until 11 pm Take the Jongno 5-ga (Subway) Station, Line 1, then Exit 8 or Take the Euljiro 4-ga (Subway) Station, Line 2 & 5, then Exit 4 Kwangjang Market is a popular food market and the oldest market in Seoul. It’s not only known for street food, but you can also get clothing, souvenirs, and more at this central location.
Lotte World Tower
Open everyday from 10:30 am - 10 pm (hours may vary - check website) Take the Jamsil (Subway) Station, Line 2 & 8, then Exit 2 & 11 Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in South Korea and 5th highest in the world. Visit the observation deck, aquarium, and eateries there and at multiple connected buildings. You’ll find regular and underground shops and even a Lotte Duty Free. Seokchon Lake Park (also known as Songpa Naru Park) is nearby where you can stroll and enjoy the scenery.
Lotte World Adventure
Open 10 am - 10 pm (hours may vary so check website) Take the Jamsil (Subway) Station, Line 2 & 8, then Gate 4 Lotte World Adventure is the world’s largest indoor amusement park. You could say it’s Korea's version of Disneyland except a bit cheaper and smaller. If you go around 3 pm - 4 pm or buy a ticket by showing your passport, you can get a discount. Just make sure you purchase the special pass to get through lines quicker.
Insadong Ssamjigil
Open everyday from 10:30 am - 8:30 pm except during Spring and Mid-Autumn festivals Take the Anguk (Subway) Station, Line 3, then Exit 6 Ssamjigil (romanization based on Korean hangul characters) is a cultural complex in Insadong with over 70 shops including galleries, tea houses, and restaurants. Located within the four-story complex is the Ssamjigil Experience Workshop on Level B1 where visitors can learn to make Korean arts and crafts.
Ikseon-dong Hanok Village
Generally open everyday from 10 am - 9 pm Take the Jongno 3-ga (Subway) Station, Line 1, 3, & 5 then Exit 4 Trendy district with narrow walkways and populated with cafes, a variety of stores and restaurants - a stark contrast from the more traditional neighboring Insadong.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Open Wednesday - Monday 9 am - 5:30 pm (closed Tuesdays) Take the Gyeongbokgung (Subway) Station, Line 3, then Exit 5 or Take the Gwanghwamun (Subway) Station, Line 5, then Exit 2 Gyeongbokgung Palace was the largest and main palace in the Joseon dynasty. Built in 1395, it’s located in northern Seoul where it served as the royal family’s home and the seat of government. Gyeongbokgung is in a cluster of five palaces and royal tombs that you can visit. If you rent a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) from one of the nearby boutiques, entry to Gyeongbokgung Palace is free.
Myeongdong Shopping Street/District
Opening hours vary according to stores (generally from 11:00 am - 10:00 pm) Take the Myeongdong (Subway) Station, Line 4, then Exit 5, 6, 7, & 8 or Take the Euljiro 1-ga (Subway) Station, Line 2, then Exit 5 & 6 A pedestrian-friendly shopping district that is popular with tourists. Consult the website for various store listings.
Hongdae Shopping Street
Opening hours vary according to stores and restaurants Take the Hongik Univ. (Subway) Station, Line 2, then Exit 9 Hongdae is short for Hongik University since this area surrounds the school and embodies its youthful energy in cafes, shops, performances, galleries, clubs, and more. In 2021 Hongdae was designated the 7th Special Tourist Zone and follows the footsteps of other popular destinations mentioned here - Itaewon, Myeongdong, Jongno, and Gangnam.
Itaewon Street
Opening hours vary according to shops and restaurants Take the Itaewon (Subway) Station, Line 6 Itaewon became an international hub in the ‘70s when foreigners started settling near the U.S. military base. This area is known for its cosmopolitan dining and nightlife, with Korean BBQ restaurants and upscale bistros as well as low-key kebab shops, gay pubs, hip-hop clubs and the nearby War Memorial of Korea. Take a friend if you want to explore Itaewon.
Namsan Cable Car
Open everyday from 10 am - 11 pm Take the Myeongdong (Subway) Station, Line 4, then Exit 3 & 4 Korea’s first cable car sits atop Namsan Mountain and has been a national landmark for over 60 years. The tower attracts thousands of tourists and locals annually, especially during the night when the tower lights up. You can ride the cable car or walk up the side of the mountain - either way, you’re in for a panoramic treat.