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. However, it is a massive city, so figuring out exactly what to do can be a bit of a challenge!
Lucky for you, we’ve explored Seoul extensively and figured out what’s worth doing and what’s worth skipping. We’ve come up with our top experiences, from wandering ancient palaces, to eating live octopus, and visiting the DMZ – it’s really impossible to be bored in Seoul!
Don’t miss out!
Our Top Choice

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE activity was this full-day DMZ tour from Seoul! We learned so much about Korea’s history from our guide, and it all came to light as we visited the Bridge of Freedom, the DMZ, the third tunnel, and more.
Seoul at a glance


Seoul (and the rest of Korea) can seem a little intimidating at first. But after spending time here ourselves, we quickly learned that it’s not as chaotic as it seems, with a few helpful tips!
Important tip: Download Korea-specific apps!
- Naver vs. Google Maps: Google Maps doesn’t really work in Korea. Instead, download Naver, which was a lifesaver for navigating the metro system. Not every business is on Naver (or it’s in Korean), so we used a combination of Google Maps and Naver to get around.
- K.Ride and Uber: K.Ride is the foreigner-friendly version of the local ride-hailing app, Kakao. However, we found K.Ride a bit glitchy and preferred to use Uber, which worked just fine.
- T-Money Cards: This isn’t an app, but your metro card! Seoul’s metro system was really easy to navigate. You can get a T-Money Card from any convenience store (7/11 or CU Mart) and add money to it at any of those stores. It must be in cash, and I recommend adding about 10,000 won to start.
How I would spend 3 to 5 days in Seoul


Most travelers will spend three days in Seoul, and for the most part, that’s perfect. But we were lucky enough to have five full days, which let us slow down a bit and see more of the city. So, whether you have three, four, or five days to see Seoul, here is what we recommend doing!
Day 1: Start your trip with a private, customizable walking tour to get oriented and see some of Seoul’s most famous sights. Later, explore Insadong’s shops and temples before eating your way through Seoul’s lively night markets on a food tour.
Day 2: Head out on a fascinating full-day tour to the DMZ, one of the most unique experiences you can have near Seoul. Back in the city, check out Myeongdong shopping street, grab sunset cocktails, and end the night with Korean BBQ.
Day 3: Begin the day with a Korean cooking class that includes a market visit so you can learn how to make some of your favorite dishes. In the afternoon, ride the cable car up to Namsan Park before finishing with a fun (and slightly spooky)ghost tour.
Day 4: Hop on an e-bike tour to see a huge portion of the city efficiently while learning more about Seoul’s history and neighborhoods. Later, visit the National Museum of Korea and spend the evening exploring Hongdae’s restaurants and nightlife.
Day 5: Take a full-day trip outside the city to Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, and the Gangchon Railbike. Return to Seoul for one last Korean fried chicken dinner!
For even more details, see our 3 to 5 day Seoul itinerary with our personal recommendations!
Things to do in Seoul, South Korea
1. Take a day trip to the DMZ


Tour Details
If you only do one thing in Seoul, it should probably be visiting the Korean Demilitarized War Zone (DMZ)! It’s the most heavily guarded border in the world, so you can only visit with a guided tour. We booked this one and learned a ton with the help of our guide, Hana!
The DMZ is about one hour from Seoul, and Hana spent most of the drive giving us the history of the Korean Peninsula and a local’s insight into North Korea. As someone who loves history, I found this to be very insightful.
Our first stop was the Dora Observatory in the Demilitarized Zone, where we could actually look into North Korea! We weren’t able to take photos, so you’ll just have to go and see it for yourself! We also visited the Peace Park, which is a memorial site to families who have been separated and is dedicated to the reunification of the two Koreas. Both sites were very powerful!


The DMZ has seen some very tense moments between North and South Korea over the years. We were fascinated to visit the Third Tunnel, one of the incursion tunnels built by North Korea as part of an attempted invasion, although they officially claimed they were mining for coal! Walking 73 meters (240 feet) underground to peer into North Korea’s abandoned tunnel was eerily apocalyptic, and honestly, the coolest part of the day.
Things slowed down when we visited the Red Suspension Bridge on Gamaksan Mountain. This mountain is lush and stunning, and a historical site from the Korean War. Walking along the tree-lined paths and crossing the canyon on the iconic bridge was the perfect way to finish the day.
It’s important to know that the Third Tunnel and Gamaksan Mountain were quite physical, so if mobility is an issue, you’ll want to sit these parts out.
Visiting the DMZ is a must while you’re in Seoul, and this tour is the top-rated option out there, with an incredible 45,000+ 5-star reviews!
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. We also share our honest review of our favorite DMZ tour from Seoul to help you book with confidence.
2. Discover Seoul on a private, customizable tour


Tour Details
The best way to get your bearings in Seoul is on this private walking tour! We loved that this tour was totally customizable, but that the guide knew the highlights to hit. I told her we liked history and local culture, and she came up with the “big hitters” itinerary, including four major stops (and a ton of little stops in between).
We met GJ outside the train station closest to Gyeongbokgung Palace, which was our first stop. She led us around, giving us the history of the Joseon Dynasty and the kings who lived there. She timed it perfectly so we could see the Royal Changing of the Guard – which was a cultural treat.


Stop number two was the Jogyesa Temple, which dates back to the 14th century. The temple was packed for Buddha’s birthday, with drums and singing, and special colorful lanterns overhead!
GJ then led us to Buckhon Hanok Village, home to 900 traditional houses. Apparently, this neighborhood is famous for K-Dramas, which we knew nothing about, but she was very excited to have us recreate photo shoots from the shows.
Lastly, we made our way to Insadong and Ikseon-dong, with lots of shopping and food options. She left us near the stunning Cheonggyecheon Stream, where the first settlement that became Seoul was, the perfect place to rest after clocking a few thousand steps!
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. The custard-filled cakes are a local favorite from Deli Manjoo, and on hot days, escape to The Roof for some creative rooftop cocktails and views of Namsan Mountain.
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


Tour Details
Seoul has some incredible food markets, making this night market food tour a must! Korean food can be a little intimidating, so this was a great way to try a lot of dishes and learn the proper way to eat and drink (yes, there’s a proper way to drink soju!)
The tour is a deep dive into Gwangjang Market, and what we love about it is that it’s part cultural discovery and part fun night out. In fact, we even ended up playing some drinking games with our guide!


Speaking of whom, Yoon was absolutely incredible! He was passionate about Korean food and culture and was very personable, so he made sure we had a great night. He shared the history of the Gwangjang Market and took us to his favorite stalls, where we got to try everything from common street food and sides to crispy pancakes and kimchi dumplings (my personal favorite!)
After walking around the market, we settled into a cozy restaurant, where we got a little more adventurous and tried raw beef tartare and live octopus! Don’t worry – it was all washed down with makgeolli (rice wine), soju, and local beer. Here, Yoon 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! But don’t just take our word for it – read over 1,500 5-star reviews here.
5. Learn how to cook Korean food


Tour Details
For me, the best part of a trip to Seoul is eating as much Korean food as you can! But this morning, we’re going one better than that and learning how to actually cook it. So book this cooking tour and get ready to make (and eat) some Korean staples.
The day kicks off with a visit to Mangwon Market, where our teacher Jomin led us through, explaining all about the ingredients we would use and more.
Then we headed to her cooking studio, conveniently right at the end of the market. Our group was pretty small, and this class was a great balance of hands-on cooking and hanging out to eat, drink, and be merry.


Jomin gave super clear instructions, so it was easy to follow along as we gutted prawns and made seafood kimchi stew from scratch! She had alternative ingredients for the vegetarians in our class as well. After our soup appetizer, we regrouped in the kitchen to prepare bulgogi and bibimbap – classic Korean dishes!
Once the cooking was done, we sat down together as a group to enjoy the meal, which was delicious. We also got some makgeolli, which is a lightly sparkling, thick, milky rice wine. Don’t worry, it tastes a lot better than it sounds!
We left this class with big smiles on our faces, and a recipe book so that we could recreate the dishes we made at home, which we’ve done several times since!
6. Experience Namsan Mountain Park and N Seoul Tower


If you’re looking for an activity that will give you a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the top of Namsan Mountain Park. Now, this might sound a bit ambitious, but it’s actually a very relaxed afternoon activity thanks to the cable car that takes you straight to the top.
Riding the cable car to the top is an iconic Seoul activity because it offers sweeping views of the city below. We had only a short wait before boarding, and it was a quick 3-minute ride to the top! Once you’re there, you’ll see the N Seoul Tower, standing above. You can go even higher and check out the views from the tower, but we didn’t think it was necessary, as the views from the park were pretty great.

There were lots of viewpoints, a few restaurants, and even a few shops! One of the highlights is purchasing a “love lock” and adding yours to the collection on the fence. There are thousands! After exploring for a bit, we grabbed a locally brewed beer, named after the mountain itself, to sit and enjoy the views.
You can walk back down the hill, but we were feeling a bit tired, so we took the cable car instead! Return tickets are 15,000 RKW (about $10 USD), and you can plan on spending about 1.5-2 hours here in total.
7. Spend a day exploring Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, and the Gangchon Railbike


Tour Details
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.
Start the day with a fun ride on the Gangchon Railbike, which involves pedaling along a scenic track surrounded by beautiful, tranquil landscapes. It is such a cute experience and the perfect activity for families to enjoy together.


Then, you’ll head to Nami Island, a nature reserve with postcard-perfect scenery and plenty of tree-lined paths. This is a great place to spend some free time, since it’s famous as the setting of the Korean TV show ‘Winter Sonata’, and you’ll even get to see one of the filming locations!
The last stop of the day was the Garden of Morning Calm, which is pretty magical. It has 22 themed sections – the vibrant displays and artfully landscaped gardens were a true feast for the eyes!
All in all, this tour was a fun, relaxing, and super scenic day trip from Seoul. This is 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!
8. Pedal your way around the city on an e-bike tour


Tour Details
At this point in our trip, we covered a lot of ground in Seoul on foot, so we were ready to see it from a different perspective – on this e-bike tour!
Now, I normally wouldn’t say a bike tour is easier than a walking tour, but given Seoul’s hilly terrain and the ease of electric bikes, it was honestly a much easier way to see the city.
After testing out our e-bikes, we started exploring the city, passing by the Cheonggyecheon Stream, heading to Gyeongbokgung Palace to watch the changing of the guard, and stopping at Tongin Market for snacks. After a short rest, we were back in the saddle, cruising around Bukchon Village, passing by the Blue House (where the president lives), and finishing off at the Jogyesa Temple.


We loved how relaxed and intimate our tour was. We were even “lucky” enough to catch it on a rainy day, which made it all the more laughable and a great travel memory! Even in the rain, our guide was really good about taking breaks so we could dry off for a few minutes before continuing on.
The e-bikes were so easy to ride, too, so this tour is an ideal way to get around the city – it’s a blast for anyone, and such a fun way to explore Seoul! We aren’t the only ones who think so; see the hundreds of 5-star reviews here!
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9. Discover Seoul’s cafe culture


One thing we were surprised to discover is Seoul’s thriving cafe culture. Apparently, Koreans love their coffee-and-pastry combo, with the Iced Americano reigning supreme. Before even knowing how big this cafe scene was in Seoul, I was impressed by the first sip.
From the charming and traditional hanok-style cafes in Ikseon-dong to the modern and sleek coffee shops and roasteries in Seongsu-dong, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Additionally, Seoul takes desserts and pastries very seriously, so indulge a bit and try a few classic desserts!
Jayeondo Sogeumppang in Ikseondong is one of the most famous with its traditional aesthetic. It’s definitely a draw for Instagrammers, and you can get a table inside or grab something to go. This place is famous for its salt bread, which sounds simple but was actually so delicious!
Seongsudong is a bit of a hipster neighborhood with old warehouses turned into cafes, boutiques, and art galleries. Here, you can find Seongsu-dong Café Street, which is exactly what it sounds like! Although we stopped by Scene Konkuk, I had perhaps the best flat white of my life.
Finally, for something a little more central and local, check out Sim Coffee House in Myeongdong. This place is a coffee lover’s dream, and the owner knows all about a cup of joe.
For dessert, Bingsu is the iconic shaved-ice treat, and you can try the best of the best at Subling in Myeongdong.
In all honesty, you can find about five cafes on every street, so my recommendation is to try a new one every day, and you can’t go wrong!
10. Get a skin analysis

You might already be aware of how big an industry skin care is in Korea. They produce some of the highest-quality products, and it’s a big part of Korean culture (for men and women). Many people travel here just for skin care treatments!
One unique thing travelers often do is get a skin analysis. This tells you about your skin type, your skin’s age, and what products will work best for you. You can do this for free or get a more in-depth analysis at a clinic.
The first option is to go to one of Olive Young’s flagship stores, such as this location on Myeongdong’s shopping street. Here, you can use the kiosk and get an AI analysis, which is actually very accurate, then have a brief meeting with an employee to learn what products are recommended. This is a free option and great if you’re just curious but not super invested in the activity.
Alternatively, you can book an appointment with a dermatologist at a clinic for a more thorough analysis. This is a good option if you want to do a bit more than just buy products. We’ve also heard good things about Forena Clinic in Hongdae or Mixsoon in Myeongdong!
We didn’t get the chance to do this while in Korea, but I’m definitely curious about it, and it will be on my itinerary for the next trip!
Related Read: Need help organizing your trip? See our 3 to 5 day Seoul itinerary, which includes many of these top activities, all planned out for you!
11. Learn about Seoul’s dark history on a nighttime ghost tour


Tour Details
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.
12. Discover Seoul’s spirits on a Soju and Makgeolli tasting


Tour Details
For those of you interested in sipping local spirits, this soju and makgeolli tasting is a must! Soju is a huge part of modern culture, and makgeolli has long-standing historical roots.
Soju is a distilled rice wine, and you might recognize the iconic green bottles that commercially produced soju comes in. We really liked this spirit, and it’s common to drink it with beer over BBQ (and any other meal for that matter). But this class goes beyond the mass-produced and takes a journey into the rich craft of real soju!
Your local guide is a walking encyclopedia of soju and will give 10 different tastings. It’s always fascinating to taste spirits side by side, learning about the distilling process, ingredients, and subtle notes that hit your tongue as you sip. You can really taste a difference!
This tour is unique because it takes place in a local makgeolli brewery. Makgeolli is a slightly thick, sparkly, milky rice wine, and while that description doesn’t sound very appealing, it’s actually really tasty. So, of course, tasting makgeolli brewed on-site is included!
Don’t worry, you won’t be sipping straight soju for the whole class. The instructor will help you create yummy cocktails and provide snacks to pair with them, which is great because you will be drinking a decent amount! Cheers, or shall we say in Korean, geonbae!
13. 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.
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.
If you want something a little more craft or off the beaten path, check out Turtle Taps for craft beer or Life of 20th Century, a retro store/bar with a cool vibe. We enjoyed Maja for some upscale cocktails, just out of the main area.
Live indie bands, karaoke bars, themed cafés, and late-night eateries fill every corner—so whatever vibe you’re after, Hongdae has it.
14. See the city after dark on a moonlit walking tour


Tour Details
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.
15. Get off the beaten path and spend a day in Suwon

Tour Details
Ready to get off the beaten path? We love this day trip to Suwon because it shows travelers a side of Korea that is often overlooked! Suwon is only about 40 minutes from central Seoul, but it is home to more historic and modern marvels that are worth adding to your bucket list.
First stop is the Starfield Library, Suwon edition. You might recognize the name from the branch in Gangnam, but honestly, the Suwon location is even more impressive! This library has 22-meter-high (72-foot) bookshelves and a crazy, futuristic design. You’ll have plenty of time to browse through books or hit the Vinyl Cafe, which has an impressive collection of records.
Next up is the Gwangmyeong Cave, a former mine that has now been turned into a theme park/aquarium/winery. A little weird, I know, but at least there’s something for everyone here!
Finally, you’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. The fortress is stunning, and you’ll have the chance to explore secret passageways, see historic reenactments, and get panoramic views from the fortress walls.
We love this tour because it’s a unique blend of activities, but it perfectly combines Korea’s old and new. So you’ll learn a lot and be thoroughly entertained, with an easy day trip from Seoul.
16. 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.
17. Wear a traditional Hanbok

If you’re looking for an authentic cultural experience, consider wearing a Hanbok at the palaces! A Hanbok is a traditional dress, and while it’s fun to play dress up, it actually grants you free admission to the palaces. This is a very popular thing for tourists to do – imagine walking around centuries-old grounds in period clothing, does it get more immersive than that?
There are multiple rental shops around Gyeongbokgung Palace, and you can find many in Bukchon Hanok Village. Prices will range from $10 to $20 USD and will include the jeogori (jacket), chima (skirt for women), or baji (pants for men), hair styling, and accessories.
The rules for free admission are that you must be wearing the entire outfit, so dive into the experience! You can also use traditional shoes, but they aren’t comfortable, and most people choose to wear their own.
18. Learn how to make kimchi


Tour Details
Kimchi is a huge part of Korean cuisine! In fact, there are over 200 types of kimchi, so learning how to make a few variations in this cooking class is a fantastic way to dive into local culture.
We love that this tour is led by a local chef, so you will learn the proper way of preparing the dish. Starting off with a market visit, you’ll gain insight into which ingredients are commonly used for kimchi and other side dishes, called banchan.
Once you reach the cooking studio, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking. In this class, you’ll make four different varieties of Kimchi, including cabbage (the most common), radish, cucumber, and a surprise ingredient. The instructor will take you step by step, so even if you’re not a fantastic chef yourself, she will make it easy!
After your kimchi is prepared, you can enjoy it with pork or tofu, just like a traditional Korean meal. Pair that with some makgeolli, and you’ll be stuffed and happy by the end. The instructor will even give you a cookbook to take home so you can recreate it for your friends and family.
There’s a reason this tour has hundreds of 5-star reviews – it’s a fantastic way to experience an authentic piece of Seoul!
Where to Stay in Seoul, South Korea


Seoul is a sprawling city, and where you stay really matters! We’d highly recommend staying in Myeongdong, as it’s about as central as you can be, and everything was about a 15-minute metro ride away. Here are our top recommendations for a luxury, mid-range, or budget stay in Myeongdong.
Luxury – $$$
Le Méridien Seoul Myeongdong is everything you want from a high-end city stay. This five-star gem puts you steps from Myeongdong’s buzzing streets and just a quick stroll to the closest metro station.
Inside, it’s all polished marble, floor-to-ceiling windows, and plush city-view rooms that feel equal parts cozy and refined. The hotel’s standout perks include a serene indoor pool, a fully equipped gym, and multiple restaurants with seriously impressive breakfast spreads.
Expect rates to range from around $300 to $600+ USD per night, depending on the room type and season. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Tucked right off the main street, Solaria Nishitetsu is an excellent bang-for-your-buck stay in Myeong-dong. Recently renovated, the room was surprisingly spacious for the area and had all the extras for a comfortable stay. We also really appreciated the self-serve laundry and filtered water stations, which made a longer stay way more convenient.
We stayed on one of the higher floors and loved waking up to city views. Rates typically range from $150 to $350 USD per night. Book your stay here on Booking.com!
Budget – $
If you’re looking for a comfortable stay with a fantastic location, we highly recommend Hotel Firststay Myeongdong! We stayed here, and it was convenient to access the train, great restaurants, and the staff was super helpful and friendly.
Rooms here are pretty basic, but spottlessly clean. The beds were extra comfortable, ideal to fall into after a full day out exploring! We loved the rooftop terrace, surrounded by skyscrapers but still a breath of fresh air. You are just about a 5-minute walk to the closest metro station, which is a real win in my book.
Prices sit between $100 and $140 USD per night and can be reserved 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 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!
10 Best Things to do in Busan, South Korea
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Jeju, South Korea: The Best 3-Day Itinerary
3 Best Seoul City Tours – Which One to Choose
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Evan started travelling in his 20’s when he bought a one-way ticket to Southeast Asia and hasn’t looked back. With an emphasis on authentic “go with the flow” travel, he’s backpacked and motorcycled all over North/Central America and Asia, hunting down once-in-a-lifetime experiences for like-minded travellers to enjoy.

