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Looking for the best things to do in Seoul? You’re in the right place!
From its rich history to its vibrant street life, Seoul offers an incredible blend of modern innovation and traditional culture. We’ve visited Seoul multiple times, and every visit has left us captivated. Whether it’s your first or fifth visit, there’s always something new to discover here.
Having explored the city extensively, we’ve now come up with our top 15 experiences to make your trip truly special. From wandering through ancient palaces and must-see landmarks to ghost tours and visiting the DMZ, it’s impossible to get bored here, so long as you know what to do!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

If there is one tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP, it’s this tour!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Seoul was take this day trip to visit the DMZ. This was a really unique experience, and we learned so much from our guide. It’s easily one of the most popular day trips from Seoul!
Check out the 38,000+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here.
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Seoul, South Korea
- 1. Take a day trip to the DMZ
- 2. Explore Seoul on a private customizable tour
- 3. Explore Myeong-dong
- 4. Taste your way around Seoul’s night market
- 5. See the authentic side of Seoul and tour the Gangnam district
- 6. Experience Namsan Mountain Park and N Seoul Tower
- 7. Learn how to cook Korean food
- 8. Explore the Royal Palace and Changing of the Guards
- 9. Watch the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain
- 10. Learn about Seoul’s dark history on a nighttime ghost tour
- 11. Spend a day exploring Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, and the Gangchon Railbike
- 12. Experience Seoul’s nightlife in Hongdae
- 13. See the city after dark on a moonlit walking tour
- 14. Pedal your way around the city on an e-bike tour
- 15. Visit Museums
- Where to Stay in Seoul, South Korea
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
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Things to do in Seoul, South Korea
1. Take a day trip to the DMZ


- Duration: 7.5 hours
- Time: 7 am, 9 am or 10 am
- Highlights: guided tour of the DMZ, Third tunnel, Dora Observatory, Imjingak Pyeonghwa-Nuri Park, Bridge of Freedom, Red Suspension Bridge (if selected)
- Inclusions: hotel pickup and drop-off, visit to Bridge of Freedom, crossing the Red Suspension Bridge (if selected), English-speaking guide, DMZ admission
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 40,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you only do one thing in Seoul, it should probably be visiting the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). It’s the most heavily guarded border in the world, so you can only explore it with a guided visit, and this full-day tour is one of the top-rated options.
The DMZ has seen some extremely tense moments between North and South Korea over the years. One of the most fascinating stops is the Third Tunnel, an incursion tunnel built by North Korea as part of an attempted invasion (even though they officially claimed it was for coal mining).
You’ll also get the rare chance to look over the border into North Korea from the Dora Observatory, a hilltop viewing platform equipped with telescopes that lets you see into one of the most closed-off countries in the world. Another powerful stop is the Freedom Bridge, the route 13,000 prisoners of war walked toward freedom in 1953. The tour also includes Imjingak Pyeonghwa-Nuri Park, which honors those affected by the Korean War on both sides.
If you want to make the day even more memorable, you can choose the option that includes a visit to the Red Suspension Bridge for a scenic way to take in the unexpectedly beautiful landscapes around the area.
Overall, visiting the DMZ is one of the most meaningful experiences you can have in Seoul, and with over 38,000 five-star reviews, it’s easy to see why this tour is the go-to choice for travelers who want to understand the Korean Peninsula on a deeper level.
Book your spot on this top-rated tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go.
Related Read: If the above tour is sold out, don’t worry! This blog post outlines the top 5 best DMZ tours, so you’re sure to find a great replacement.
2. Explore Seoul on a private customizable tour


- Duration: 2 – 8 hours
- Time: 8 am – 5 pm
- Highlights: customizable itinerary; chance to see top attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Insadong; private, personalized tour
- Inclusions: private guide, customizable itinerary, personalized suggestions and insights, hotel meet-up,
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 350+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
- Price: Check price here!
One of the highlights of our trip to Seoul was definitely exploring the city on this private walking tour.
We had a passionate local guide who customized the tour to our personal interests, which totally transformed our experience of the city. So whether you’re interested in history, culture, or discovering hidden gems, we’re confident that you’ll love this tour.
We opted for the full 8-hour tour, and our first stop of the day was Gyeongbokgung Palace, where we got to stroll through the grand courtyards and learn about the Joseon Dynasty.
Since it was a private tour, we were able to ask our guide, GJ, all of our burning questions, and we got to learn about the parts of the palace’s history that interested us the most. It added so much depth to the experience!
Then, we went to Bukchon Hanok Village, home to 900 traditional Korean houses. GJ shared so many stories about what life was like in the Joseon period.
He also took us to see less touristy parts of the city, such as Mangwon Market, and the charming Mullae-dong area in western Seoul, which we totally fell in love with. We asked for a balance between famous highlights and hidden gems, and GJ totally nailed it! The flexibility and personalization of this tour made it extra special.
Whether you’re short on time or just want to really get to know the soul of Seoul, this private tour is perfect for all types of travelers!
Don’t miss out on this private tour – book your spot here before dates sell out!
3. Explore Myeong-dong


Myeong-dong is one of those neighborhoods that hits you with its energy the moment you arrive. Seoul has plenty of lively areas, but this one feels like its own world—bright shop signs, music spilling onto the street, and crowds drifting from one snack stall to the next. It’s best known for Myeong-dong Shopping Street, the city’s busiest retail strip and a total haven for K-beauty fans.
Every big name is here, from Innisfree to Etude House to Olive Young, plus tons of local boutiques and quirky accessory shops. Even if you’re “just browsing,” it’s impossible not to get swept up in the nonstop buzz of it all.
And then there’s the food. The street-food scene in Myeong-dong is outrageous in the best way, with vendors grilling tteokbokki, flipping hotteok, and serving everything from tornado potatoes to whole lobster tails. I always grab custard-filled cakes from Deli Manjoo, and on hot days, I escape to Sulbing Korean Dessert Café for a big bowl of bingsu.
When you need a breather from the chaos, slip over to Myeongdong Cathedral. This Gothic-style Catholic church was the first brick church in Korea and still feels like a peaceful pocket of history in the middle of the madness.
4. Taste your way around Seoul’s night market


- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 6 pm or 7 pm
- Highlights: exploring the Gwangjang Market, trying a wide range of street food, playing Korean drinking games
- Inclusions: small group size, food samples, local beer and rice wine
- Rating: 5 stars (check 1,100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
- Price: Check price here!
This night market tour was hands down the best thing that we did in Seoul! It was the perfect mix of delicious food, cultural discovery, and a fun night out. Not only did we get to taste a ton of amazing street food, but we also got to experience Korean market culture, and we even played some fun drinking games with our guide.
Speaking of whom, Rocky was absolutely incredible! He was passionate about food and a super funny guy, so he really made sure that we had a great night.
Rocky shared the history of the Gwangjang Market and took us to his favorite stalls, where we got to try everything from crispy pancakes to kimchi cucumber, kimbap, and barbecue shrimp. It was so yummy, and we never had to wait in line, because being part of this tour meant that we got to skip the queues at the market’s top food stalls.
After walking around the market, we settled down in a cozy restaurant where we enjoyed Korean barbecue, soup, as well as makgeolli, soju, and local beer. Here, Rocky taught us some Korean drinking games, which had everyone in hysterics by the end!
This is one of the best street food tours we’ve ever done, and we can’t say enough good things about it! It was an amazing way to dive headfirst into Seoul’s street food scene and get a genuine taste of Korean culture.
Check out the 1,100+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
5. See the authentic side of Seoul and tour the Gangnam district


- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 10:30 am
- Highlights: exploring the Gangnam district on foot; learning about the darker side of Korean society; seeing love hotels, plastic surgery clinics, and cram schools
- Inclusions: small group walking tour, local guide
- Rating: 5 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
- Price: Check price here!
We all know Gangnam from the viral 2012 song, but there’s so much more to this neighborhood beneath the glossy surface—and this small-group walking tour is all about uncovering those layers. Gangnam is often described as a microcosm of modern Korean society, making it an eye-opening place to explore if you want a deeper understanding of the country beyond the usual tourist highlights.
The experience begins with a look at Seoul’s housing issues, including the city’s rental crisis and the challenges surrounding affordable living. From there, you’ll wander through the love hotel district, where you’ll learn how rent-by-the-hour motels developed from a need for privacy in multigenerational households. It’s a fascinating mix of everyday realities and cultural context that gives you a deeper appreciation for how people actually live in this part of the city.
The tour also delves into Korea’s education culture, including the rise of cram schools and the intense academic pressure placed on students. Then comes a walk through Sinsa-dong, the heart of the country’s plastic surgery industry. Here, you’ll hear about Korea’s beauty standards and how they influence the younger generation—especially young women.
This isn’t a light-hearted sightseeing tour, but that’s what makes it so compelling. It cuts through the polished image of Gangnam and offers a more nuanced, honest perspective on the realities of life in South Korea.
Dive into Korea’s authentic culture when you book this tour here.
Related Read: If you’d like to stay right in Seoul’s most famous area, check out our Gangnam hotel guide for our top picks!
6. Experience Namsan Mountain Park and N Seoul Tower

A visit to Namsan Mountain and N Seoul Tower is one of those classic Seoul experiences you just can’t miss. It’s the perfect blend of nature, city views, and a little romance—all tucked right into the center of the city. Namsan Mountain Park is a peaceful escape with well-marked trails, leafy paths, and scenic lookouts that make it easy to forget how close you are to downtown.
You can hike to the top in about 30 minutes, but if you’d rather take it slow, the Namsan Cable Car from the Myeongdong side gets you there in just three minutes. Tickets cost 12,000 KRW (around $9 USD) for a round-trip ride, and there’s also the Namsan Shuttle Bus if you prefer to stay on solid ground.
At the summit, N Seoul Tower stands tall above the skyline. It’s one of the best places in the city for panoramic views, especially at sunset when Seoul starts to glow. You can even pay extra to head up to the observation deck for an even higher viewpoint, but the open-air platforms and walkways around the tower are already perfect for soaking in those sweeping cityscapes.
Before heading back down, check out the Locks of Love fence and wander around the tower base. Come in spring for cherry blossoms or in fall for colorful foliage—both seasons make Namsan even more unforgettable.
7. Learn how to cook Korean food


- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 10 am or 6 pm
- Highlights: visiting Mangon Market to select the freshest ingredients, cooking a 3-course meal, learning about Korean food culture, easy but hands-on class
- Inclusions: all ingredients and equipment, cookbook to keep, full meal, drinks
- Rating: 5 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
- Price: Check price here!
One of the best parts of any trip to Seoul is eating as much Korean food as you can, but learning how to cook it yourself makes the experience even better. This hands-on cooking class is a popular choice for those who want to dive deeper into Korean cuisine.
The day starts with a stroll through Mangwon Market, where your instructor walks you through traditional ingredients, what they’re used for, and how to spot the freshest produce and spices. It’s a fun, relaxed way to understand the basics of Korean cooking before you even step into the kitchen.
Back at the studio, everyone gets their own workstation, so you’re never fighting for space. The instructor keeps things simple with clear, step-by-step guidance, and before long, you’re cooking three classic dishes—bibimbap, soft tofu stew, and japchae (sweet potato noodles)—with plenty of helpful tips sprinkled in.
Once everything’s ready, you’ll sit down as a group to enjoy the meal you’ve made, often paired with a taste of makgeolli, a lightly sparkling, milky rice wine that surprises a lot of people with how good it is.
You’ll even get a recipe book to bring home, making it easy to recreate your favorites later. Whether you’re a stranger to the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you won’t want to miss this class, so make sure to grab your spot before it sells out.
Reserve your spot on this tour here to access FREE cancellation options!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
8. Explore the Royal Palace and Changing of the Guards


- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 9 am or 1 pm
- Highlights: Jogyesa Temple, watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace, Cheongwadae Sarangchae, seeing the Blue House
- Inclusions: hotel pickup, professional English-speaking guide, all taxes and fees, transport
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
- Price: Check price here!
The Changing of the Guard is one of the most important cultural events in Seoul, so if you want to dive deep into Korean culture, you need to see this ceremony for yourself!
We took this 3 hour tour and loved watching the guards marching and performing synchronized moves in their colorful uniforms. We also enjoyed learning more about Korean royal history from our guide, Kelly.
We opted for the morning tour, which began with a visit to Jogyesa Temple, where we learned about Zen Buddhism in Korea. We also loved snapping photos of the colorful lanterns! Next up, we arrived at Gyeongbokgung Palace to watch the Changing of the Guard. Thanks to Kelly’s first-class planning, we snagged front-row spots to enjoy the spectacle!
Then, we visited Cheongwadae Sarangchae – aka the Blue House! This was the former seat of Presidential power in Seoul, but now houses an exhibition hall where we got a glimpse into Korea’s modern political history.
So many tours focus on the Joseon period and the Korean War, so it was great to learn about more recent decades and how things are done today.
This tour was the perfect way to dive deep into Korea’s political landscape, and we loved seeing the Changing of the Guard. We should note, though, that the Changing of the Guard doesn’t take place on Tuesdays, so we strongly recommend booking the tour on a different day of the week.
Check availability and book this tour here!
9. Watch the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain

If you’re looking for a unique nighttime experience in Seoul, make sure you catch the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain at Banpo Bridge—it’s one of those simple yet magical moments that stick with you.
This isn’t just any fountain show, either. Banpo Bridge holds the title of the world’s longest bridge fountain, with 380 water jets spraying illuminated streams of water into the Han River. As the show begins, the fountains light up in shifting rainbow colors and dance along to music, turning the whole bridge into a giant piece of public art.
The best place to watch is Banpo Hangang Park, where you can grab a seat along the riverbank and take in the full view. You’ll see families picnicking, couples sharing snacks, cyclists gliding past, and groups of friends waiting for the fountain to start. It’s a moment that feels both lively and laid-back at the same time.
The fountain operates in the evenings from April to October, with multiple shows each night, so it’s easy to fit into your itinerary. Whether you’re strolling by the river or settling in with some convenience-store snacks (a Seoul classic), watching Banpo Bridge light up over the Han River is one of the city’s most charming nighttime activities.
10. Learn about Seoul’s dark history on a nighttime ghost tour


- Duration: 1.5 – 2.5 hours
- Time: 8 pm
- Highlights: exploring hidden nooks and alleyways, visiting Gyeonghuigung Palace after dark, walking along hidden Pimatgol Alley, visiting Tapgol Park
- Inclusions: professional guide, walking tour, map to keep
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 550+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
- Price: Check price here!
Ghost tours always offer a completely different perspective on a city than guidebooks do, and this haunted history tour dives deep into the dark side of Seoul. The 2.5-hour option is especially popular with travelers who want to hear some of the most chilling tales tied to the city’s past.
The guide leading the tour is a professional folklorist who has written books and comics about Korean ghosts and supernatural legends, so you’re definitely learning from someone who knows this subject inside and out.
The first stop is Gyeonghuigung Palace, widely considered the most haunted place in Seoul. Here, you’ll hear eerie stories about its ghostly inhabitants and the tragic events connected to them.
Next, the tour heads to Pimatgol Alley, a narrow, shadowy street known for its motels, cheap restaurants, and a long history of unsettling crime lore.
From there, you’ll visit Tapgol Park, the birthplace of Korean independence and a spot believed to be home to many lingering spirits. Beyond the spine-tingling stories, the tour also explores how ghost folklore reflects societal fears and what these legends reveal about Korean culture as a whole.
It’s an entertaining, atmospheric experience that shows you a side of Seoul most tourists never get to see. If you’re looking for something a little different from the usual city tours, this one delivers a perfect mix of history, culture, and eerie fun.
Check out the HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
11. Spend a day exploring Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, and the Gangchon Railbike


- Duration: 10 hours
- Time: 9:10 am, 9:45 am, or 10 am
- Highlights: Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, the Gangchon Railbike, plenty of free time to explore independently
- Inclusions: air-conditioned transport, English-speaking guide, all entrance fees
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 350+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
- Price: Check price here!
Ready to trade the hustle and bustle of Seoul for some scenic, underrated attractions? Well, this full day tour is the perfect getaway from the city.
We started the day with a fun ride on the Gangchon Railbike, which involved pedaling along a scenic track surrounded by beautiful, tranquil landscapes. It was such a cute experience and the perfect activity for families to enjoy together.
Then, we went to Nami Island, a nature reserve with postcard-perfect scenery and plenty of tree-lined paths. We were really glad that we got some free time here since it’s famous for being the location of a famous Korean TV show, ‘Winter Sonata’, and we even got to see one of the places where a scene was filmed!
The last stop of the day was the Garden of Morning Calm, which was pretty magical. It has 22 themed sections, and we loved checking them all out. The vibrant displays and artfully landscaped gardens were a true feast for the eyes, and we loved exploring. Again, we had free time here, so we could take it at our own pace.
All in all, this tour was a fun, relaxing, and super scenic day trip from Seoul. As a couple, we had a pretty romantic day out, but we would also highly recommend this tour for families. Kids will love running around in the gardens and riding on the Gangchon Railbike!
Book this tour here to access flexible payment and cancellation options!
12. Experience Seoul’s nightlife in Hongdae

If you want to feel Seoul’s youthful energy, head to Hongdae after dark—it’s easily one of the best nightlife spots in the entire city. Centered around Hongik University, the whole neighborhood comes alive at night with neon lights, music drifting through the streets, and an atmosphere that makes you want to stay out way later than planned. It’s the kind of place where you can wander with no real plan and still stumble into something fun.
Street performers set up along the main walking streets, drawing big crowds with dance battles, busking sets, and impromptu K-pop covers. If you’re in the mood for clubs, 650 is a longtime favorite thanks to its hip-hop playlists and lively crowd. Or, for something more laid-back, Thursday Party is perfect for casual drinks, bar games, and meeting new people from all over the world.
Live indie bands, karaoke bars, themed cafés, and late-night eateries fill every corner—so whatever vibe you’re after, Hongdae has it. Even if you’re not planning a big night out, people-watching alone is worth the trip. With its creativity, chaos, and non-stop energy, Hongdae is the place to experience Seoul after sunset.
13. See the city after dark on a moonlit walking tour


- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 4:30 pm
- Highlights: Marronnier Park, Naksan Park, Ihwa Mural Village, Seoul City Wall
- Inclusions: local guide, small group walking tour
- Rating: 5 stars (check 900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re visiting Seoul in the summer, this nighttime walking tour is an amazing way to escape the heat—and seeing the city by moonlight makes the experience feel extra special.
The tour begins at the Seoul University Hospital Medical Museum, where you’ll learn about Korea’s intense university culture and the pressure students face. From there, the route winds through Marronnier Park, a lively area where you can often catch bits of street performances as you pass through.
Next up is the Ihwa Mural Village, a hillside neighborhood known for its colorful street art and more local, lived-in feel. The murals are quirky and creative, but the real highlight is the chance to explore one of Seoul’s lesser-visited hilltop areas and see a side of the city most people never venture into.
Naksan Park is where things really shine—literally. You’ll head up to a panoramic viewpoint for sweeping views of the city, which become even more spectacular as the sun begins to set. Afterward, the walk continues along the Hanyang City Wall, where Seoul glitters below while the guide shares stories about the wall’s history and its role in protecting the city. It’s atmospheric, peaceful, and surprisingly romantic.
This tour blends storytelling, scenery, and Seoul’s nighttime charm into one memorable evening. If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the city after dark, this is absolutely one to book before it fills up.
Check out the 900+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
14. Pedal your way around the city on an e-bike tour


- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 9:30 am
- Highlights: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Inwangsan Mountain, Bukchon Hanok Village, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Jogyesa Temple, the Blue House
- Inclusions: e-bike and helmet, local guide, snacks
- Rating: 5 stars (check 500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: yes
- Price: Check price here!
For those who are short on time, this morning e-bike tour of Seoul is a must! We had so much fun exploring the city’s most famous highlights while effortlessly gliding over its hills on our e-bikes. If you don’t have long to spend here, this tour is the perfect way to soak in the city’s history, culture, and charm.
One of the things that we loved about this tour is that we were in a small group, so it felt really personal and relaxed. The e-bikes were so easy to ride, too, so this tour is ideal if you struggle on a walking tour.
We began with a ride along the Cheonggyecheon Stream and then headed to the Gyeongbokgung Palace. This is arguably Seoul’s most iconic building, so you absolutely can’t miss it while you’re here! Our guide, Tae Jin, did a great job of explaining its history and cultural significance, which gave us a deeper appreciation of this imposing building.
Then, we went to Tongin Market, where Tae Jin introduced us to unique street foods and ordered some tteokbokki – Korea’s famous simmered rice cakes.
We also got to visit a traditional Korean village, visit the Blue House, and finish off relaxing at the Jogysea Temple!
If you want to see as much of Seoul as possible while you’re here, then this e-bike tour will really help you make the most of your time.
Book this tour with HUNDREDS of glowing reviews here, before it sells out!
15. Visit Museums


Exploring Seoul’s museums is easily one of the best things to do in the city, especially if you want to understand the history and culture behind everything you’re seeing. A great place to start is the National Museum of Korea, the largest museum in the country and a surprisingly engaging stop even if you’re not usually a museum lover.
The exhibits are thoughtfully laid out with English descriptions and plenty of interactive elements, so it really feels like taking a fun crash course in Korean history. Don’t miss the Ten-Story Pagoda from Gyeongcheonsa Temple or the collection of exquisite Buddhist sculptures—they’re true standouts. Admission is entirely free, and the museum’s peaceful gardens, ponds, and views of Namsan Mountain make the visit even better.
Just a short walk away, the War Memorial of Korea is another must-visit. This free museum focuses on Korea’s military history with powerful, informative exhibits that offer valuable context—especially helpful if you’re planning a DMZ tour.
For something more contemporary, the Leeum Museum of Art showcases both global icons and top Korean talent. Expect to see names like Mark Rothko, Andy Warhol, Alberto Giacometti, and Korean masters such as Kim Whan-ki and Nam June Paik. Admission is around $14 USD, and the architecture alone is worth the trip.
Related Read: Need help planning your trip to Seoul? Here is our ideal 3 to 5-day Seoul itinerary, including most of these top activities!
Where to Stay in Seoul, South Korea


Before you set off exploring the city, you need somewhere comfortable to stay! There are plenty of areas to stay in Seoul, so you really can’t go wrong in terms of location. But, to help narrow your search, I’ve picked out three excellent hotels for a range of budgets. Check them out!
Luxury – $$$
Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is a top-tier luxury stay in the heart of the city. It’s just steps from Gwanghwamun Plaza and a short walk to Gyeongbokgung Palace, so it’s ideal if you want to be close to Seoul’s historic center while still enjoying five-star comfort.
Speaking of which, the rooms here come with panoramic floor-to-ceiling views, and I love the on-site swimming pool, the luxury Korean sauna, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a 3D golf simulator – what more could you ever need?
This is a splurge-worthy stay, and king rooms typically cost between $400 and $700 USD per night, depending on the season. Check availability and book your stay here!
Mid-range – $$
If you’re looking for convenience, the Four Points by Sheraton Josun is my top choice because it’s connected to Seoul Station. You can get anywhere in the city easily, but the hotel is quiet and relaxing despite its central location. The rooms are comfortable and simple, ranging from twin to king rooms.
Prices start at $100 USD per night. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Seoul N Guesthouse Dongdaemun is a basic and comfortable guest house that is also budget-friendly! Located about a 15-minute walk from Dongdaemun Market, it’s super convenient and in a fun area. You can book a private room for about $40 USD a night or a bed in a shared room for about $15 USD a night. The rooms are basic, but clean and the staff are very helpful and friendly.
Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
For even more options, check out all the hotels in Seoul here!
Related Read: For an in-depth look at all of Seoul’s best areas and hotels, have a look at our Where to Stay in Seoul guide here!
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Seoul is often high on travelers’ bucket lists, and I can totally relate! We had so much fun running around this megacity, learning about Korean culture, and taking some relaxing day trips. There is even more to discover in Seoul, but these top 15 things to do will start you off with a bang!
If you found this blog helpful, be sure to check out our other travel guides. We’ve been all over the world and love sharing our favorite places and experiences. Here are a few more posts to check out – hopefully they inspire your travels and help you plan your next adventure!
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Jeju, South Korea: 3-Day Itinerary

