Let’s dip into the vibrant soul of Seoul and discover the best ways to make the most of your summer adventure.

May 2024: Lotus Lantern Festival

The Lotus Lantern Festival, Yeon Deung Hoe, is an annual traditional Buddhist celebration in South Korea. It takes place on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, typically falling in April or May. The festival is highly significant and draws both locals and international visitors.

Major cities, particularly Seoul, are decorated with colorful lanterns during the festival. These lanterns are meticulously crafted and feature Buddhist symbols, mythical creatures, and elements of Korean culture. The lantern parade is a major highlight, where participants carry lanterns through the streets, starting from Dongguk University in Seoul. With participants frequently dressed in traditional Korean attire, the parade creates a stunning display of light and color.

Major cities, particularly Seoul, are decorated with colorful lanterns during the festival. These lanterns are meticulously crafted and feature Buddhist symbols, mythical creatures, and elements of Korean culture. The lantern parade is a major highlight, where participants carry lanterns through the streets, starting from Dongguk University in Seoul. With participants frequently dressed in traditional Korean attire, the parade creates a stunning display of light and color.

In addition to the lantern parade, the Lotus Lantern Festival offers various cultural performances, art exhibitions, traditional music, dance, and martial arts demonstrations. Visitors can also engage in Buddhist ceremonies, and temple tours, and participate in activities like making lotus lanterns and meditation sessions.

Event Date: 10 -12 May 2024
Location: 288 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

June 2024: Busan One Asia Festival

The Busan One Asia Festival (BOF) is an annual cultural event that aims to bring together young people from Busan and around the world to enjoy Korean cultural content, particularly K-pop performances. This year, Busan One Asia Festival is celebrating its 8 years representing Korea’s cultural event in Asia.

One of the highlights of BOF is the lineup of hottest K-Pop idols like ZEROBASEONE, BOYNEXTDOOR, and n.SSign dazzled the audience with their energetic choreography and powerful vocals, while legendary acts like Super Junior D&E and God brought nostalgia and excitement to the stage.

You can join the BOF Big CONCERT with a tour from Klook

Event Date: 8 Jun 2024
Location: Busan Asiad Main Stadium

June 2024: Pohang International Fireworks Festival

The Pohang International Fireworks Festival is an annual event held in Pohang, South Korea, featuring a spectacular display of fireworks. In addition to the fireworks, the festival offers a host of other activities and entertainment, such as busking, parades, street performances, street art, food stalls, and international cultural exchange programs.

You can join this festival with a tour from Trazy or Klook.

Event Date: June 1, 2024
Location: Yeongildae Beach in Pohang, South Korea

July 2024: Buyeo Seodong Lotus Flower Festival

The Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival has gained increased recognition and popularity over the years, becoming Korea’s representative summer flower festival. It has been selected as an ‘Excellent Festival’ multiple times, highlighting its growing importance in the cultural landscape of South Korea. The festival takes place every July during the peak summer season when lotus flowers are in bloom.

Over the years, the Buyeo Seodong Lotus Flower Festival has expanded its lineup of activities. Now, you have the chance to engage in various activities including crafting paper lotus flowers, making lotus flower soap, enjoying a night parade starring Prince Seodong and Princess Seonhwa, traditional music and dance performances featuring the rich heritage of Baekje culture, participating in a photo contest, food tasting and amazed by LED lights and lanterns.

Festival Date: July 5 -7,2024
Location: Gungnamji Pond in Buyeo Seodong Park, Buyeo County, South Chungcheong Province, South Korea

July to August 2024: Boryeong Mud Festival

The Boryeong Mud Festival is an annual event held in Boryeong, South Korea, which uses mud from the Boryeong mud flats. This festival, first staged in 1998, attracts millions of visitors yearly. It is known for its mud-based activities, including mud baths, mud slides, mud prisons, mud skiing competitions, and body painting using colored mud.

The mud from the Boryeong mud flats is believed to be rich in minerals and is associated with various health benefits. Initially created as a marketing strategy for Boryeong Mud Cosmetics, the festival has grown into a major cultural event, featuring live music, dance competitions, and entertainment activities. 

Visitors of all ages can participate in the festival, which offers a lively and joyful atmosphere filled with laughter and excitement. The Boryeong Mud Festival is a unique celebration that combines fun, health benefits, and cultural experiences centered around the therapeutic properties of mud.

You can join this festival with a tour from Klook

Festival Dates: 19 Jul – 04 Aug 2024
Location:  Boryeong, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea

July to August 2024: Waterbomb Festival

The Waterbomb Festival is one of South Korea’s most anticipated summer music festival featuring a blend of K-pop, K-hip-hop, and EDM performances. Participate in water gun battles, water canons, and other water activities while enjoying live music. It’s a fun-filled event dancing to the beats in a refreshing setting.

Festival Dates: 5 Jul – 31 Aug 2024
Location: vary by dates

July 2024: Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival

The 17th Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival is a celebration of the region’s freshwater resources, including the Tamjingang River, Jangheung Dam Lake, and Deukryang Bay seawater. It aims to boost tourism and the local economy by showcasing the area’s cleanliness and greenery, attracting visitors to enjoy organic agricultural products.

Unlike typical festivals, it offers unique water-themed activities suitable for the hot summer season. Recognized as a designated cultural and tourism festival, it has become a signature event alongside other local attractions. It’s not just a festival but a place to immerse in clean nature and relaxation to beat the summer heat.

Event Date: TBA
Location: TBA

August 2024: Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival

Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival is the biggest live music event in South Korea, attracting both aspiring and prominent musicians from Korea and around the world. The 2024 edition of the festival is scheduled to take place from August 2-4, 2024 at the Songdo Moonlight Festival Park in Incheon. However, the full lineup for the 2024 edition of the festival has not been revealed yet. The official website will post more details about the 2024 lineup will be announced closer to the event dates.

Festival Date: 2 – 4 Aug 2024
Location: Songdo Moonlight Festival Park, Incheon

Here are some of the best summer music festivals you won’t want to miss

K-Pop Music Festivals In Korea:
Dream Concert – Seoul
Spectrum Dance & Music Festival – Seoul

Rock Music Festivals In Korea:
IT’S A FEST – Incheon

Indie Music Festivals In Korea:
GreenPlugged – Seoul
Grand Mint Festival – Seoul
Rainbow Island – Gapyeong

EDM Music Festivals In Korea:
Seoul World DJ Festival – Seoul
Ultra Music Festival Korea – Seoul
5tardium – Seoul
EDC Korea – Seoul

Other Music Festivals In Korea:
Seoul Jazz Festival – Seoul
DMZ Peace Train Music Festival – Seoul
NBA Buzzer Beat Festival – Seoul
Rapbeat Festival – Seoul
SKA Superswag Festival – Incheon
Big Day South – Busan

August to September 2024: Daegu Chimac Festival

The Daegu Chicken and Beer Festival, also known as the “Daegu Chimac Festival”, is an annual event held in Daegu, South Korea, celebrating the popular combination of chicken and beer (referred to as “chimac” in Korean). The festival features a variety of chicken dishes such as fried, grilled, and spicy chicken, showcasing the culinary creativity of local chefs and vendors.

You can also enjoy a wide selection of local and international beers to complement the chicken. This festival includes various activities and entertainment, such as surprising performances, in addition to the food and drink offerings.

Food Festivals in Korea during the Summer

Summer 2024: Bonghwa Eun-uh (Sweetfish) Festival

Held annually during the summer months which is typically the end of July, this festival celebrates the local specialty product of sweetfish, a cherished delicacy in Korean cuisine. The festival presents a variety of engaging programs that allow visitors to actively participate.
These include fishing, water play, a water fight, and agricultural experiences.

August to September 2024: Chuncheon Makguksu & Dakgalbi Festival

Every year between August and September, Makguksu, a traditional Korean buckwheat noodle dish, takes center stage at the Chuncheon Makguksu & Dakgalbi Festival. Made from freshly ground buckwheat flour and served in a chilled broth, this refreshing dish is the perfect antidote to the summer heat. Sample a variety of makguksu preparations, from classic versions to creative twists created by local chefs.

There’s a variety of fun-filled activities designed to entertain and delight festival-goers of all ages. From cooking competitions and food-eating contests to interactive games and cultural exhibits, there’s never a boring moment at the Chuncheon Makguksu & Dakgalbi Festival.

A new attraction in Seoul this June 2024: Moon of Seoul

June 2024: The “Moon of Seoul” will rise to 150 meters above Yeouido

Set to fly in June, the Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) has announced an exciting new addition to the city skyline – the Moon of Seoul! This moon-shaped hot air balloon will soar 150 meters above Yeouido Park, offering a remarkable night experience.

While it may look like a regular hot air balloon, the Moon of Seoul is filled with helium gas and tethered to the ground by sturdy cables. The buoyancy of helium and an electric mechanism power its vertical trips.

The making of the Moon of Seoul began in January, with careful planning and construction, and started its installation at Yeouido Park’s Grassy Field on April 29. Thorough test flights will be conducted to guarantee safety before the official launch in late June, the actual launch date will depend on weather conditions to ensure the best viewing experience possible.

Each trip lasts about 15 minutes and can accommodate up to 30 passengers. Imagine wandering above Seoul’s busy streets, seeing the iconic landmarks and Hangang River. Visitors can enjoy the Moon of Seoul from Tuesday to Sunday, between 12 PM and 10 PM. Adult tickets start at KRW 25,000, with discounts available for certain groups. Maintenance work is scheduled for Mondays to keep the attraction in top condition.

The Moon of Seoul is set to become a landmark in the city’s skyline. It’s sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of locals and tourists. Remember to capture your experience and share it on Instagram for all to see!

Please note that the booking link for the Moon of Seoul will be available soon. Keep an eye out for updates on how to reserve your spot!

How to get there: Take the subway to Yeouido Hangang Park. Travelers can alight at Yeouinaru Station Line 5, exits 2 or 3.

Address: 서울특별시 영등포구 여의동로 330 (여의도동) | 330, Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

Other activities at Yeouido Hangang Park can be booked at Klook

Top 10 Events in Seoul featured in Fever

Bluespring Summer Night 2024 Music Festival (Pre-Sale)

Bringing all music lovers to the vibrant city of Seoul – Blue Spring Summer Night, the annual music festival will feature a stellar lineup of Korea’s top vocalists Jeong Eun Ji, Kim Feel, John Park, Lee Byeong Chan, and many more!

The excitement doesn’t stop with music. Indulge your taste buds at various food zones, explore side events, and immerse yourself in the cool summer atmosphere of the festival.

Event Date: July 6-7, 2024
Time: 03:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Location: TBA 

Join the waitlist and get a presale link on 5/7 with a Fever-exclusive discount price before the tickets are released.

Waitlist link here

Discover the Wonders of Miniature Life with Tatsuya Tanaka’s “MINIATURE LIFE · MITATE MIND” Exhibit in Seoul

On-going from March 2 – June 10

The MINIATURE LIFE · MITATE MIND exhibition showcases over 200 artworks, including 52 original miniatures, photographs, and videos, each crafted with meticulous detail and infused with Tanaka’s signature charm. Themes such as HOME, FORM, COLOR, SCALE, MOTION, LIFE, and WORLD serve as a gateway into Tanaka’s imaginative universe, where objects are transformed and narratives unfold in miniature form.

Event Date: On-going from March 2 – June 10 (open every day)
Time: Weekdays: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm (last admission: 8:00 pm)
Weekends (Sat-Sun): 10: 00 am – 10:00 pm (last admission: 9:00 pm)
Location: MPX Gallery, Level 3, IFC Mall (10, International Finance Street, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul)

Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the magic of.

More information and Booking

Get Ready to Dance: The 2024 World DJ Festival is Here!

15 & 16 June 2024

The 2024 World DJ Festival brings together top DJs from around the globe for an unforgettable experience of music and energy. As Asia’s premier EDM festival and the first Korean festival to be ranked in DJ MAG’s Top 100, festivals promise to deliver a unique atmosphere filled with pulsating beats.
Renowned artists Eric Prydz, KSHMR, The Chainsmokers, and more will take the stage at SeoulLand, Gwacheon. From the high-energy sets on the World Stage to the dreamy vibes of the Dream Stage invite music lovers from ages 19 and above.

Secure your spot with 1-Day or 2-Day passes, giving you access to a lineup of global top DJ headliners and electrifying performances that will keep you dancing all night long. 

Event Date: 15 & 16 June 2024
Time: 02:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Location: Seoul Land, 181 Gwangmyeong-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

Click here for more information and Booking

Spain Club, Seoul’s Ultimate Destination for Authentic Spanish Dining

04 May – 30 Dec 2024

Exclusive Set Menus Available Only on Fever!
Experience the flavors of Spain right here in Seoul at Spain Club, the largest Spanish restaurant in Korea. Delighting diners with an exquisite menu of traditional Spanish dishes for over a decade.

Taste the authentic sirloin steak, and flavorful seafood paella crafted with the finest ingredients sourced from directly from Spain!
Enjoy your sangria with friends in the vibrant atmosphere of Spanish hospitality.

Click here for more information and Booking

Neon Brush Painting Workshop

23 – 25 May 2024

Come solo or bring your friends, sure you’ll enjoy this! A unique and immersive experience happening at Neon Brush Painting Workshop that invites you to unleash your creativity in a vibrant retro-futuristic atmosphere. A combination of art, ambiance, and entertainment is waiting for you to create classic and fluorescent paint under the glow of neon lights memorable and guided by expert artists.

After the session, you can take home your wonderful creation as a reminder of your proud experience at the workshop.

Event Date: 23 – 25 May 2024
Location: The Room Taktinn (Samcheong-ro 4, 4th Floor, Jongro-gu, Seoul)

Click here for more information and Booking

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

03 – 31 May 2024

Transport yourself to the 19th century and explore some of Van Gogh’s most iconic masterpieces like never before. It’s a multi-sensorial experience that will leave you wanting more! Step into Van Gogh’s World, and immerse yourself in the life and art of the genius artist through cutting-edge 360-degree projection mapping. The exhibition offers a one-of-a-kind virtual reality (VR) experience titled “A Day in the Life of the Artist in Arles, France,” allowing you to dive deeper into the inspiration behind eight of Van Gogh’s works.

Join us in celebrating Van Gogh’s 171st anniversary with a special 20% discount—secure your tickets now and don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!

Click here for more information and Booking

Location: GIDC Gwangmyeong G floor (B2 floor)

S2O Korea Songkran Music Festival 2024

13 – 14 Jul 2024

Songkran Music Festival 2024 is a spectacular water EDM festival that lets you experience music, energy, and water effects. Hosted at SeoulLand, this festival features live performances from the world’s top DJs, and will surely beat the heat with 1 million liters of water that will create an aquatic party atmosphere.

Prepare to be blown away by performances from acclaimed artists including VINI VICI, NICKY ROMERO, TJR, BEN NICKY, NERVO, KAAZE, SUB ZERO PROJECT, MIKE WILLIAMS, RAY VOLPE, TRITONAL, just_____us, and SALVATORE GANACCI. More to come!

Dates: July 13 & 14, 2024
Time: 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Location: SeoulLand

Click here for more information and Booking

Have a Nice Trip 2024 Music Festival

27 – 28 Jul 2024

Look forward to an array of exciting activities and amenities to enjoy. Take a break from the summer heat with indoor performances, explore various tasty food zones, and engage in fun-filled activities that promise to keep the excitement going all day long.

Ready to be captivated by the soulful melodies of Alec Benjamin, Peach Pit, and the dynamic performances of Henry Moodie, Hong Isaac, Kenya Grace, KISS OF LIFE, and Will Hyde. Then, on Sunday, July 28th, get ready to groove to the indie vibes of Alvvays, the mesmerizing sounds of King Krule, and the enchanting performances of KWON JIN AH, Nerd Connection, Remi Wolf, Sampha, and Surl.

Dates: July 27 – 28, 2024
Time: 12:00 – 22:00 (ticket booths open at 11:30 a.m.)
Location: KINTEX 2nd Exhibition Center, Ilsan

Click here for more information and Ticket Booking

Create Your Signature Scent at Lumiere Parfum Seongsu

4 May – 30 Dec 2024

Participate in a one-day class led by professional perfumery experts where you’ll have the opportunity to create and customize your signature scent. Explore a wide selection of fragrances and learn the art of blending to craft a personalized perfume that reflects your unique personality. The sensory space at Lumiere Parfum is designed to engage your senses and awaken your creativity.

As a special token, you can bring home a mini perfume gift to cherish your experience in this perfume-making class and enjoy your custom fragrance wherever you go.

Dates: 03 May – 30 Dec 2024
Location: Lumiere Parfum Seongsu (#301, Wonchangsilup Nadong, 49 Yeonmujang-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul)

Click here for more information and Ticket Booking

Candlelight Spring: Tribute to Taylor Swift

14 Jun 2024

Experience the magic of live music at Candlelight concert where talented musicians play in a magical setting that captures your heart. The candlelight and beautiful floral displays create a peaceful and romantic atmosphere that awakens your overall sensory experience. Celebrate the arrival of spring with a string quartet that interprets Taylor Swift’s iconic songs such as “Love Story,” “Blank Space,” “Shake It Off” and more.

Location: Platform L Contemporary Art Center,  11 Eonju-ro 133-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Click here for more information and Ticket Booking

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So, if you’re ready for a South Korean road trip adventure, here’s what you should know before you hit the road!

For those who wants to watch a quick video version, watch it here:

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Driving in Korea for Tourists: the checklist

1. To rent a car in South Korea, you have to be at least 21 years old. Young driver surcharges may apply from rental car companies if you are under 25.
2. A valid driver’s license from your home country.
3. Valid International Driving Permit (IDP) following the Geneva convention or the Vienna convention.
4. You will need to present your passport for identification.
5. A credit card in the driver’s name.

Choosing a Car Rental Company in korea and Booking Online

Both local and international car rental businesses operate in major cities, including major airports like Incheon and Gimpo. Whether you prefer manual or automatic transmission vehicles, you’ll discover rental options that meet your needs. To ensure availability and avoid scams, book reservations with reputable vehicle rental businesses ahead of time.

Popular cart rental companies in Korea include LOTTE Rent-a-Vehicle, SK Rent-a-Car, Hertz, Avis, and Budget. These companies offer a wide range of cars, from compact cars to luxury sedans, so you have plenty of options. Furthermore, many car rental companies in South Korea offer navigation systems with GPS and English-speaking staff to help foreign visitors.

If you plan to book a rental car online, here are some of the sites I recommend. You can book six months in advance and collect the vehicles at airports and major transportation hubs:

• EconomyBookings
• Rentcars.com
• Klook

Selecting the Right Car

Choosing the right car depends on your planned itinerary, personal preference, and budget. For example, if you’re exploring urban areas, a compact car is perfect due to its easy navigation in traffic jams and smaller parking lots.

Typically, economy and compact cars are the most affordable to rent. They are usually more fuel-efficient, so you can save money on gas. Smaller cars are easy to navigate through narrow city streets and crowded parking lots. The Hyundai i10 and Kia Morning are popular models.

For those seeking more space and comfort, midsize and full-size cars offer advantages, especially for longer journeys or traveling with a group or family. Despite the higher rental costs and fuel consumption, midsize and full-size cars offer better safety and seating comfort. Commonly available options are the Hyundai Sonata and Kia K7.

If you need more luggage space or are planning to shop (who isn’t?!), SUVs and vans are for you. Although it is more expensive, it will provide the extra space you need. For countryside travel or a trip to Jeju Island, consider a larger vehicle for a more comfortable ride. Available options are Hyundai Staria and Kia Carnival.

Electric vehicles (EVs) offer an environmentally friendly way to explore Korea. Renting an EV provides tourists with a modern and high-tech driving experience that includes advanced features and technology, enhancing the overall driving experience. Some rental companies, like SK Rent-a-Car and LOTTE Ren-a-Car, offer promotions or free charging for EV rentals, providing cost savings for travelers. Please note that due to limitations in EV charging infrastructure in Korea, some extra planning is required, especially for driving in remote areas like the backcountry.

Other Add-ons

When renting a car in South Korea, there are additional add-ons to consider to enhance your rental experience and ensure a smooth journey. 

Child Seat: The availability and cost of child seats vary by rental company. In South Korea, it is legally required for children under the age of 6 to be seated in a child safety seat when traveling in a car.

Car insurance for a car rental in South Korea is mandatory. The cost of a rental car typically includes insurance for personal and third-party injuries and the property of third parties. 

Additional Drivers option can be added upon picking up the car from the rental location but this will incur extra charges. Each additional driver must present the same requirements as the main driver, including a driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Tips for renting car for driving in Korea as a tourist

Travellers with young child(ren)

Though not strictly enforced, I recommend getting a child safety seat when travelling with children. The good news is that some rental companies on Economy bookings offer child toddler seat as a free add-on in Korea. Look for this message when browsing the rentals.

Insurance

Whenever you rent a car in Korea, the rental company has some insurance on the car in case something happens to the car during the rental period. The rental company will then sell you an insurance product that reduces the amount of excess you need to pay if something goes wrong. The excess amount typically goes between USD1,500 to USD2,500. The options are there, drive like a safety freak and be paranoid about any moving object near your rental vehicle, or fork out an extra ~USD15 per day for the peace of mind.

If you booked your trip with a reputable credit card that comes with complimentary travel insurance, this excess amount might be covered! Please check the terms of your travel insurance to make sure you are covered.

Lastly if you purchased travel insurance for your trip, this excess amount might be covered as well. Having travel insurance has many benefits, and I always recommend getting one when travelling. Once again please check the terms before making the decision of forgoing insurance for your rental vehicle.

When picking up the vehicle

Ask any questions you may have. Check all terms and conditions, including insurance, mileage, fuel, and any fees. Before leaving, do a visual inspection to see if there is any damage that has already occurred. Make a note of any visible damage by taking a photo or video and documenting it as evidence, so you don’t have to pay any extra when existing damages are found.

Useful Navigation Apps for driving in Korea

Naver Map (neibeo jido) is one of the most popular mapping and navigation apps in South Korea, providing accurate directions, real-time traffic information, and a variety of features like SmartAround for detailed information on locations, reviews, and menus of famous restaurants or shops.

KakaoMap (kakaomaeb) is another widely used map app in Korea, known for its high accuracy and convenience. It offers features like linking to KakaoTalk and KakaoTaxi, providing directions for various modes of transport, and voice reports for congestion and speed cameras.

Google Map is one that I keep trying to use (with disappointment), as I have had great experience using it in countries like Japan and Australia. But I don’t recommend it at all for driving in Korea, as the navigation is often inaccurate and the above 2 are just better in every way in Korea.

Most car rental companies also offer GPS devices with the rental, but I personally prefer navigating with a phone when driving in Korea, as the data is more updated and the touchscreen just feels better than most GPS devices.

To navigate with phone apps, make sure you have enough mobile data on your phone. Getting a Korean sim or esim plan will be essential. I suggest allocating at least 300MB of data per day for navigation on a typical day of driving. If you are using Naver Map, I also recommend downloading offline-ready maps specifically for the areas you plan to visit; this will save you precious mobile data and help navigate through cellular dead zones. Additionally, remember to bring a charging cable or power bank to ensure your phone stays charged for navigation.

Fueling up

Fueling up can be daunting if you’re not sure what to expect. I remember my first time fueling up at a self-service fuel station, and knowing little Korean at that time, it was tricky.

It is crucial to always return a rental car with a full tank; failing to do so can result in additional charges. In South Korea, car rental fuel policies usually follow the ‘full-full’ principle, requiring you to return the rental car with the same amount of fuel it had when you received it. As the driver, you are accountable for the fuel consumed throughout the rental period. The rental company determines the fuel usage by comparing the initial and final fuel levels of the vehicle.

Step-by-step guide for fueling up at a korean self-service station

1. Identify the Fuel Type
   • Gasoline stations are marked with the Korean word “주유소” (pronounced “joo-you-so”), while LPG stations are marked as “LPG충전소” (pronounced “LPG choong-juhn-so”) 
   • Gasoline pumps are typically yellow, while diesel pumps are green.
2. Activate the Pump 
   • Locate the anti-static pad on the pump and touch it to reduce the risk of static electricity buildup. 
   • Press the “시작하기” (“Start”) button to begin the fueling process.
3. Select the Fuel Type
   • Choose the appropriate fuel type, either gasoline (“휘발유”) or diesel (“경유”), based on your vehicle’s requirements
   • Pump the Fuel
4. Payment
   • You can pay for the fuel using cash, credit/debit cards, or the Hi-Pass electronic toll payment system. If using a card, insert it into the card reader on the pump and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the transaction.
5. Refueling Completion
   • Once the tank is full, the pump will automatically stop, and you can replace the fuel nozzle. Ensure you have properly replaced the fuel nozzle and close your vehicle’s fuel tank cover before driving away.

Cost of petrol

The cost of petrol in South Korea fluctuates according to the international oil price, with prices reported at around ₩1,673 per liter, or approximately USD 1.27 per liter, as of April 2024. Check here for recent prices.

Road and Traffic Rules in South Korea

In South Korea, traffic operates on the right-hand side of the road, so drivers should keep to this lane. Wear your seat belt at all times while driving, as safety is a top priority. Additionally, using mobile phones while driving is strictly prohibited unless they are operated in a hands-free manner to minimize distractions. Do not drink and drive in Korea! The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.03% and refrain from drinking and driving to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.

Speed Limits

Like many other countries, South Korea imposes the maximum allowed speed limit on all roads.

• Highways: Speed limits vary between 100-120 km/hr.
• Open roads: The speed limit is normally 80 km/hr.
• City roads: Speed limits not more than 60 km/hr, depending on the specific area and road conditions.

Some common road signs and symbols, along with parking regulations in South Korea:

• Stop Sign (정지/): A red octagonal sign with “정지” written in white. Drivers must come to a complete stop and yield the right-of-way to vehicles and pedestrians.
• Yield Sign (양보): A downward-pointing triangle with a red border and “양보” written in white. Drivers must yield the right-of-way to vehicles on the intersecting road.
• Speed Limit Signs (속도 제한): Circular signs with the maximum speed limit displayed in kilometers per hour (km/h). Common speed limits are 60 km/h in urban areas and 80-100 km/h on highways, but they may vary.
• No Entry Sign (진입 금지): A red circle with a white horizontal bar across it and “진입 금지” written underneath. Indicates that entry into a certain area or road is prohibited.
• One-Way Sign (일방 통행): A rectangular sign with an arrow indicating the direction of traffic flow and “일방 통행” written underneath. Indicates that traffic is allowed to flow in only one direction on the specified road.
• Parking Sign (주차 허용/금지): Signs indicating whether parking is allowed or prohibited. “주차 허용” means parking is allowed, while “주차 금지” means parking is prohibited.
• Disabled Parking Sign (장애인 주차구역): Indicates designated parking spots for disabled individuals. Parking here without proper authorization can result in fines.
• Loading/Unloading Zone Sign (화물 로딩/로딩 구역): Indicates areas where loading and unloading of goods are permitted. Typically found near commercial areas.
• No Parking Sign (주차 금지): A red circle with a white horizontal bar across it and “주차 금지” written underneath. Parking is prohibited in the specified area.
• Tow Away Zone Sign (무인 단속 주차금지): Indicates areas where vehicles parked illegally may be towed away by authorities

Turning Left on a Green Light in South Korea

In South Korea, the general rule is that drivers are not allowed to turn left on green lights at intersections unless there is a specific green arrow signal indicating that left turns are permitted.

When there are four signal lights at an intersection, drivers will typically need to wait for a green arrow to appear before making a left turn, as the green light alone does not authorize left turns in most cases.

However, there is an exception to this rule when drivers see a blue sign that says “비보호” with a left arrow on it. In this case, drivers can turn left on the green signal without waiting for a green arrow.

Turning Right

Similar to the US, you are allowed to turn right on red.

Use of Hazard Lights

The use of hazard lights (or emergency lights) in South Korea has several distinct meanings beyond standard emergency signaling.

1. Indicating a search for a parking spot
2. Expressing gratitude or apology, “thank you or “sorry”
3. They are alerting others to a hazard or obstruction
4. Indicating a stopped or parked vehicle

Tolls in South Korea

Tolls in South Korea are calculated based on several criteria, including the distance traveled, the type of roads used, and the type of vehicle. Tourists can pay tolls in cash, credit card, or T-Money Card and hi-pass cards at toll booths on the expressways.

Here are the guidelines for toll payments. Here’s what you need to know:

• Ticket Collection: Upon entering a toll booth at your departure location, make sure to collect a ticket from the toll booth attendant. This ticket will indicate the entry to the highway.
• Payment at Destination: When you reach your destination and encounter another toll booth, present the ticket you received at the departure toll booth to the attendant and pay the toll fee accordingly.
• No Hi-Pass System: Rental cars in South Korea normally are not equipped with the Hi-Pass automated toll payment system.
• Avoid Blue-Marked Lanes: Do not drive through lanes marked with blue symbols, as these are designated for vehicles equipped with the Hi-Pass system. Using these lanes without the system may cause complications and delays.

Tips: Avoid the left-most lanes marked in blue unless you have a hi-pass. Instead, use the cash lane (현금 means cash), commonly located to the right, which also accepts T-money cards. Note that credit cards may not be accepted unless they are Korean credit cards, so it’s safer to carry some cash.

Parking in South Korea

Parking costs in Seoul can vary depending on location and time of day. On average, parking costs range from 1,000 to 4,000 KRW per hour.

Public parking lots typically offer more affordable rates compared to private parking lots. They often provide a 50% discount for “light cars,” which are small and eco-friendly vehicles. Some parking zones implement a “first two hours free” policy, making them convenient for quick stops or visits to nearby stores.

If you park at public or private parking lots, you’ll encounter signs near the entrance or at the worker’s booth displaying the applicable rates. Some lots utilize automated systems that scan your license plate and calculate the parking fee automatically upon exit. 

Street parking is not allowed unless the parking spot is marked with a white line. If the parking spot has numbers or signs on it, then it is a residential parking spot.

Double Parking

Don’t be surprised! Parking in residential areas is quite challenging. Double parking in residential areas is normal due to the lack of space. Most Korean cars display their phone number on their windshields so they can be reached if their car is blocking someone in parking lots.

Advanced Parking System

Shopping centers, hotels, and multiplex cinemas in city areas often offer automated car parks that incorporate conveyor-type systems to prioritize user safety and convenience. Drivers can drive into a platform within a garage of single-car size, exit the vehicle, and have it automatically parked like a car vending machine.

Tips:  When booking accommodation, look for ones that explicitly mention parking availability in their descriptions or amenities list. Having parking available at your hotel can save you time and hassle.

The alternative: Public transport and taxis in Korea

If your itinerary consists mainly of the main cities like Seoul and Busan, I recommend taking public transport instead. Public transport is generally the more convenient and comfortable option for tourists in South Korea. After factoring expenses like fuel, tolls, parking fees, and insurance, or if a short budget is a constraint, still taking a bus, subway or taxi is often more cost-effective and practical than renting a car.

Subway: Seoul

The Seoul subway system is one of the most efficient ways to travel around the city. Trains run non-stop from approximately 5:30 am until midnight. All subway lines are color-coded and stations display signs in Korean, English, and Chinese. To ride the subway, you must use a single or multiple journey pass. Single-journey passes can be purchased in the subway stations and require exact fare to your destination plus a 500-won refundable deposit.

Multiple journey passes called T-money can be purchased at most convenience stores. Transfers between subway lines are free, and T-Money Card users can transfer for free between bus and subway lines. Smartphone and tablet users can download a variety of apps that give routes, times, and transfer information in English, including Seoul Subway, Metroid Korea Subway Info, and Subway Navigation by Kakao.

Bus

Riding a bus as a tourist is another convenient way to explore the cities of South Korea. Bus routes reach places that may not be accessible by other modes of transport, like subways.

Tourists can easily check bus routes or map apps, and digital bus stops in city centers provide real-time information on bus locations for travel convenience. Tap the T-Money Card to the card reader when you enter the bus to start your journey, then tap it again when you exit the bus. In most city buses in Korea, you enter at the front of the bus and get off in the middle. There will be a T-Money Card reader in both locations.

Taxi

In South Korea, taxis offer wide options based on your needs including regular and deluxe standard taxis, as well as international taxis with multi-lingual drivers for travelers’ convenience. Fares vary by city and taxi type, usually a base fare and additional charges based on distance traveled, with late-night surcharges applicable during specific hours.

The best way to get a taxi in Korea is with a taxi booking app, such as Kakao Taxi. This will allow you to call a taxi directly to your location and to set the final destination. This allows you to book taxis without speaking Korean and also shows you the expected cost of the journey. If you’re arriving at a train or bus terminal, there are usually taxi ranks outside where you can get a taxi any time of the day.

Driving in Korea as a tourist FAQs

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Two days in Seoul might seem like a short time for one of the world’s busiest metropolises, but still enough to have an amazing time. Wander through royal palaces dressed in traditional Korean hanbok, see the sights from up high in N Seoul Tower, cruise along the Han River at night to see the glittering skyscrapers, and fill your heart and soul (and stomach) at Myeongdong’s Street Food Alley and markets.

For those who want to do all the best activities in Seoul in a short time, and aren’t sure where to start, then this article is perfect for you. If you plant to spend longer than a weekend in Seoul, then you can spread these activities out over a few days and have extra time to spend visiting ancient tea rooms, cool cafes, a wide variety of interesting museums, and lots more that you can’t miss out on in Seoul.

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Tips For Planning A Weekend In Seoul

This two day itinerary for Seoul covers some of the best sights and experiences in Seoul that I think most travellers to Korea’s capital will enjoy. The good thing about this city is that there are a few key areas where many of the attractions are located, which makes it easier to get around and see lots on foot or with a few short bus or subway rides.

This section offers some really useful insights and tips that I think you need to know before you start planning your weekend in Seoul, including where to stay, what to bring, and how to get around. There’s also a quick rundown of Seoul’s seasons and when’s the best time to visit for your weekend stay.

Where To Stay In Seoul

To maximise your time seeing Seoul’s sights in a tight schedule of just two days, I recommend basing yourself in one of the main tourist areas. These areas all have lots of attractions, shops, and restaurants, as well as convenient transport links to other parts of Seoul. I think staying in Myeongdong would be the best option as it is close to many of the historic and cultural attractions mentioned in this article.

For more information about Seoul’s major districts, including details about what you can find in each area and a few hotel recommendations for each budget, check out my guide about where to stay in Seoul. It’s packed full of useful tips for finding the right place to stay in Seoul for the right price.

Best Time To Visit Seoul

Without a doubt the best time to spend a weekend in Seoul is in spring or autumn. In spring you’ll see colourful cherry blossoms, the weather is mild, and nature is starting to show itself, there are also lots of fun spring festivals. In autumn, the heat disappears and the cool weather is perfect for seeing another natural wonder – autumn leaves, which can be seen in the royal palaces and parks.

Don’t let the weather put you off visiting Seoul at other times, though. Seoul is a modern city and most places will be heated or air-conditioned depending on the season. If you’re travelling during summer or winter, try to plan to do more indoor activities in Seoul. This is especially important for summer as that’s also rainy season. Fortunately, there are lots of museums, galleries, malls, and cafes to visit.

What To Pack For A Weekend In Seoul

Seoul is a modern city and convenience stores like 7/11 will stock most things you can imagine that you might need in an emergency. Some things that you might want to bring to make life more comfortable for 48 hours in Seoul, especially if this is your first time in Korea or Asia, are as follows:

For more information about what to pack and how to prepare for a trip to Korea, be sure to read my South Korea Travel Guide, which is packed with my best tips about coming to Korea.

How To Get Around In Seoul

It’s easy to get around in Seoul thanks to the efficient public transport system, taxis, and your two feet. Seoul’s subway system is in English. There are plenty of lines that will get you from each area in a short time. Pick up a Korean transportation card when you arrive from the airport or at a convenience store in Seoul. You can use this to pay for public transportation in Seoul and beyond.

For a weekend in Seoul, you shouldn’t need to charge a transportation card with more than ₩20,000. This will cover more than 10 bus or subway rides and many of the places included in this article are within walking distance of each other anyway. If you plan to use a taxi, then perhaps add more to the transportation card as you can use this to pay for taxis, too.

If you’re flying into Incheon Airport to spend two days in Seoul, I recommend taking the high speed train (AREX) to Seoul Station and then a taxi to your hotel in Myeongdong. For those staying in Hongdae, take the all-stop subway from Incheon Airport to Hongik University (Hongdae) subway station. If you’re in a group with lots of luggage, then maybe a private airport transfer is more convenient.

First Day Of Your Weekend In Seoul

This first day of your weekend in Seoul will introduce you to Korean history and culture before visiting Seoul’s famous markets. Sample authentic street food, see the night view from atop a mountain, and then head down the other side to check out the cool bars and restaurants of Itaewon.

Please note: You don’t have to do everything in this two day Seoul itinerary, and you might not have time to do them all depending on how long you spend at each place. I’ve included them to show you what’s available in each area and you’re free to pick and choose what you want and skip the rest.

1: Wear Traditional Korean Hanbok

So you’ve come to Korea for a weekend in Seoul and you want to embrace the culture and see the sights. The best way to do this is to dress like a true Korean would – by wearing hanbok. Hanbok (Korean traditional clothes) can be worn by anyone and consists of a colourful skirt with a loose shirt over the top for women, or loose trousers and shirt for men.

Wearing hanbok will help local people warm to you and certainly show that you appreciate their culture. This might open doorways to conversations and photo ops you might not normally have. You can rent hanbok from many locations, such as near Gyeongbokgung Palace. Coincidentally, this is the next stop on your weekend in Seoul.

2: See Seoul’s Magnificent Palaces

If you’ve rented hanbok, then I have some great news for you. Those wearing hanbok can gain free access to Gyeongbokgung, Changgyeonggung, Changdeokgung, and Deoksugung Palaces, as well as jump the queues! That’s definitely a good enough reason to wear Korea’s traditional clothes, as well as the gorgeous pictures you can take.

Take a picture outside Gyeongbokgung Palace’s gigantic front gate (Gwanghwamun Gate) before strolling around the imperial residence and gardens. Afterwards, head into the National Folk Museum and Culture Centre, where you can try some traditional Korean games.

Whilst Gyeongbokgung might be older and larger, my personal favourites are Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung Palaces. These are both a short walk east of Gyeongbokgung. These two palaces are actually part of a larger complex that includes The Secret Garden (access limited, book ahead).

3: Step Back In Time In Bukchon Hanok Village

After visiting one of these palaces, head north to the area between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace. Here you’ll find a wonderful area full of authentic Korean charm, hanok (traditional Korean houses), cafes, murals, and lots, lots more. This area is the Bukchon Hanok Village and is where wearing hanbok certainly pays off.

You can take great snaps in the narrow, traditional streets and there are lots of peaceful, historic streets with traditional tea rooms, and even more photo opportunities. No weekend in Seoul would be complete without a stroll through this area. For more information, check out my detailed guide about all the best places in Bukchon Hanok Village.

4: Rest And Shop In Insadong

After you’ve snapped your heart out in Bukchon, a great place to recover is in Insadong. Famous for its art stores, souvenirs, culture, and cafes, Insadong is sure to please. The main street (Insadong-gil) has dozens of galleries to explore, showcasing some of the finest Korean art. Not just paintings, you can find ceramics, woodwork, stonework, calligraphy, and much more in this area.

This is a good place to stop and get lunch in one of the traditional Korean restaurants. There are also lots of traditional tea houses and food stalls selling yeot (Korean taffy), ice cream, and spicy tteokbokki. Be sure not to miss out on Ssamziegil – a large collection of art shops, cafes, and amusing things. There’s also Anyoung Insadong, a modern shopping mall with a retro-style approach to Korean history and modern culture.

5; Get Back To Nature At The Cheonggyecheon Stream

Walk south from Insadong and you’ll be near the start of the Cheonggyecheon Stream. The start area, Cheonggye Plaza, usually has events for tourists, including hands-on activities to learn about Korean culture and history. This area is also one of the best to take photos with the river and fountains. There’s even a giant multi-coloured shell statue towering over the start of the stream.

The stream was created as a place for gathering, harmony, peace, and unity. It gives Seoulites a place to come and cool off in summer, and to be together away from the concrete jungle. For tourists, this is a wonderful chance to experience the light and lantern festivals that often occur along the stream, as well as take a break to hop over the stepping stones and get some colourful photos.

6: Shop Till You Drop In Seoul’s Market

Shopaholics with a weekend in Seoul have to visit one of Seoul’s famous markets. These markets have street food, fashion, cosmetics, souvenirs, and bargains all around. Continuing south from the Cheonggye Plaza, you’ll soon run into two of the best markets in Seoul – Namdaemun Market and Myeongdong Market.

The best place for branded goods can be found in these markets. Stalls in the street, which are open until late at night, will often have the cheapest goods (but likely to be fake), while the stores will offer huge discounts for tourists and lots of special offers. Find out more about traditional markets in Korea.

7: Sample Myeongdong’s Famous Street Food

Hungry after shopping? You’re in the perfect place to sample another can’t-miss experience in Seoul – Myeongdong’s street food, including delicious Korean winter foods. The range of food has exploded in recent years as people flock to Myeondong’s street food stalls. You can find the best examples of traditional Korean street food, as well as some of the new insta-worthy fusion snacks.

For those who want to sample the more traditional Korean street food, make sure you try out tteokbokki, odeng, hotteok, or gyeranppang. For those seeking something new, try out tornado potatoes, lobster tail with cheese, or foot-long ice creams. Head to Myeongdong-gil to find the best treats. You could probably spend your whole weekend in Seoul here and not run out of things to try!

8: Ride The Cable Car Up Namsan Mountain

Feeling refreshed by some awesome street food? Why not head to the top of Namsan Mountain to get some fantastic night views of Seoul? There are several options to get to the top of the Namsan Mountain, including hiking to the top. My favourite way is getting there by cable car. The Namsan Cable Car is found a short walk south of Myeongdong Station. Head up the hill and you can’t miss it.

You can buy single or return tickets to the peak and back. It’s probably best to buy a return ticket as transport from the bottom is much easier than at the top. Time it right and you can watch the sunset on your way up Namsan Mountain. Whatever time you ride, you’re sure to have great views with the northern part of Seoul slowly spreading out above the skyscrapers and around the mountains.

9: See All Of Seoul From N Seoul Tower

When you get to the top of Namsan Mountain, head on over to the ticket booth and purchase a ticket for the N Seoul Tower observatory. Alternatively, you can book discount tickets for the observatory and a range of other attractions online and save on your entry fee.

There are several restaurants that you can dine in, as well as cafes and gift shops. Take as many pictures as you can, there is a lot to see from every side – cityscape, mountains, rivers, fortress walls, and Seoul as far as the eye can see. Romantic couples can also leave a ‘love lock‘ to symbolise their eternal commitment to each other.

10: Eat, Drink, Interact In Itaewon

What better way to end the first night of your weekend in Seoul than with a bite to eat or a drink or two in one of the liveliest parts of Seoul – Itaewon. Known as the ‘foreigner district’, this location is a melting pot of Korean and foreign culture that offers up some of the best restaurants, with food from every corner of the world.

Take a taxi from the cable car station, ride the subway from Myeongdong Station, or take a bus (03/143 nearby) to get to Itaewon, south of Namsan Mountain. You can’t miss the plethora of restaurants, bars, and cafes around Itaewon Station. The best place to check out is the street directly north of Itaewon Station (Itaewon-ro 27ga gil), which is a narrow, busy street lined with English pubs, Spanish tapas restaurants, Italian pizzerias, nightclubs, and lots, lots more.

For those who want something a bit quieter and don’t mind paying for it, walk west towards Noksapyeong Station until you see a small road heading up the hill on your right (Noksapyeong-daero 40 gil). Meat lovers can find Manimal Smokehouse here – a delicious American smokehouse. You can also find lots of good bars and clubs in Itaewon in case you don’t want to sleep this weekend.

Second Day Of Your Weekend In Seoul

On the second day of your weekend in Seoul, start off with some exercise with a gentle walk, see the future in Dongdaemun, then shoot up to the observation deck of the world’s 6th largest building – Lotte Tower. If you still have time and energy, head to Gangnam for a K-Pop experience and then head over to the south west of Seoul for a night cruise and to check out the coolest part of Seoul – Hongdae.

1: Follow The Fortress Wall Trail

Seoul is an amazing city for many reasons, one of those is the number of historic monuments still in place around the city, including fortress walls. Seoul’s fortress walls were built over 600 years ago and are still protecting the city today – from over-development. These beautifully preserved walkways are perfect for a morning stroll through the city without the hassle of cars and street lights.

You can join from many places, but I’d recommend a short walk starting at Naksan Park – easily accessed from Hyehwa Station by walking up the hill to the east. You’ll see some beautiful views from the walk from the station to the park. There are lots of cafes nearby if you need a bit more energy. Head south from the park and you’ll walk towards Dongdaemun, the next stop on the tour.

Of course, this can be skipped if you were out a bit late the night before.

2: Experience Dongdaemun Design Plaza

A weekend in Seoul will usually find me visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) at least once. This place not only looks incredible – like a futuristic space ship – but also has so much to offer. Come for the interesting exhibitions and galleries, stay for the shopping, museums, cafes, and night markets.

There is a big slope from one side that acts as a giant lawn above the city. Here you can relax in the sun and see more of the surrounding areas. The DDP is good at any time of day. I’d recommend checking out the shops inside the main area for some unique, quirky gifts. Head to the Dongdaemun Culture and History Park Station to find the DDP or walk south from Dongdaemun Station.

3: Shop More In Dongdaemun’s Fashion Markets

In case shopping in Myeongdong’s markets weren’t enough for you, one of the other hot spots for bargain hunters is right outside the DDP – Dongdaemun Market. Made up of several large department stores and indoor markets, you could probably spend a whole weekend in Seoul here and not finish checking out everything.

For the lowest prices, head to Good Morning City or HelloAPM department stores. For other brands and shops, check out Lotte Fitin or Migliore. They are all right next to each other and you can’t miss them once you’ve left the DDP. Check out the back streets behind these shopping behemoths for some cheap eats and local treats.

4: Brave The Heights Of The Seoul Sky Observatory

Lotte World Tower stands like a finger pointing up into the heavens in the centre of Seoul. It’s hard to miss the world’s 6th tallest building which stands at 555 metres above Seokchon Lake. Getting here from Dongdaemun is really easy. Simply take the green subway line (Line 2) from Dongdaemun Culture and History Park Station to Jamsil Station and you’ll appear right at Lotte World Tower.

If you’ve ever wanted to know what it would feel like to soar above the streets of Seoul, then the Seoul Sky Observatory on the 120th floor of the Lotte World Tower is for you. Spread over 7 floors, from the 117th to 123rd floor, there are lots of things to do here. Take a selfie on the glass floor, looking down nearly 500 metres to the streets below if you have the courage to. Not for the faint hearted!

Once you’ve had your fill of the soaring heights, head outside to Seokchon Lake.

5; Walk Around The Beautiful Seokchon Lake

Seokchon Lake is a small lake that spreads out like butterfly wings below the towering Lotte World Tower. On the left wing is Lotte World Magic Island – a small theme park, squashed together like a magical kingdom. Taking a stroll around the lake is very pleasant and will help you feel grounded after soaring above the clouds in the Seoul Sky Observatory.

If you’re lucky enough to spend a weekend in Seoul during April, then you’ll get get to see the incredible cherry blossoms. The Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the best festivals in Seoul and needs to be seen to be believed. Cherry trees line the entire pathway around the lake and there are hundreds of selfie spots to capture the cherry blossoms.

You can find loads of great cherry blossom festivals in Seoul if you’re visiting at in early April.

6: Get Your K-Pop Fix In Gangnam

Whether K-Pop is your thing, or you just want to learn more about Korean culture, then head to Gangnam. Just 3 stops away from Jamsil Station (Lotte Tower) is Samseong Station, home to the gigantic COEX Mall. Outside the COEX Mall you’ll find a giant statue dedicated to ‘Gangnam Style‘, created by Korea’s first big K-Pop star – PSY.

The other hot place in Gangnam for K-Pop fans is the K Star Road. Starting from Apgujeong Rodeo Station to the Cheongdam intersection, you will see cute GangnamDols in the image of famous K-Pop stars, including BTS, EXO, Girl’s Generation, and more.

Once you’ve finished taking pictures with your favourite idols’ statues, you can check out some of their favourite locations in the area and maybe even bump into someone famous!

7: Find Fashion And Fun In Hongdae

Hongdae is arguably the coolest place in Seoul and for many good reasons. Home to big name fashion stores, discount stores, award winning restaurants, nightclubs, cute cafes, escape rooms, activity cafes, and so, so, so much more. You can visit Hongdae many times over and never get bored.

If you’re around COEX Mall, then take the green subway line (Line 2) from Samseong Station all the way across town to Hapjeong Station or Hongik University Station. This will put you at one of the two ends of Hongdae. You could spend all day exploring Hongdae.

The best way is to explore Hongdae is to start at Hongik University Station and then wander down towards Hapjeong Station. Generally, shops are in the north, cafes, bars and nightclubs are in the south.

8: Rest Among Some Cute Animals In Hongdae

There are many cute cafes in Hongdae. One of my favourite cafes is the Thanks Nature Sheep Cafe. Here you can get in touch with nature whilst sipping on a latte and dining on a waffle. It’s a great place to experience real sheep up close, but in a safe environment for you and them. The sheep have their own little stable and you can stroke their soft, woolly backs while they walk around peacefully.

9: Take A Cruise On The Han River

After a busy weekend in Seoul, it’s time to wind down and put your feet up. Head over to Yeouinaru Station and take a cruise along the broad Han River. You’ll see a magical sight as the sun sinks and the lights of the city start to shine. You’ll pass under many bridges along the way, including the magical Banpo Moonlight Rainbow Bridge, which shoots jets of water in rainbow-like colours.

Tours depart from Yeouido Dock near Yeouinaru Station and start from 11:30 am. I recommend trying to book an evening tour as the sights are so much better and you’ll get to experience the rainbow bridge in all its glory. They’re also sold out quite early in the day and if you turn up in the evening, there might not be any tours available. You can also save money by booking in advance.

Enjoy some live music and fireworks (evening shows) while you peacefully meander along the Han River and see other sights from the boat, including the N Seoul Tower, Olympic Stadium, and Yanghwa Bridge.

10: End Your Weekend In Seoul In A Sauna

The last stop during your weekend in Seoul would probably be back to your hotel. But, before you go there, why not head to a jjimjjilbang (sauna) and let the stress wash off your body. You can find jjimjjilbangs throughout the city.

I recommend visiting Sea La La – a big sauna that has lots of places to relax, soak, get a massage, eat, drink, and recover from a busy day of exploring Seoul. These indoor hot springs have something for everyone, from steaming saunas to freezing cold pools and everything in between. There’s also a rest area where you can don the free pyjamas, relax with your friends or family, and even sleep overnight.

One thing that might frighten some people away is the need to be naked in the sauna section. Koreans have no qualms about nudity when bathing, but don’t be shocked. Now is your chance to embrace the culture and see how Koreans let it all go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about spending a weekend in Seoul. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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Korea’s traditional markets have become must-see destinations thanks to the spread of Korean culture, food, and products across the world. You can buy cheap treats, stock up on Korean ginseng, bulk buy quality cosmetics, and relax with a bowl of something yummy in the surrounds of a bustling, active market. For a glimpse into the real life of a Korean city, you should definitely visit one of these markets.

The best thing about visiting a traditional market in Seoul or other cities is that you can find a wide variety of traditional and modern goods at lower prices than you’ll find in shops and department stores. If you’re a foodie, you can save a lot by eating out in places like Seoul’s Gwangjang Market and try incredible Korean dishes you’ve probably never even heard of but will fall in love with instantly.

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Top 10 Traditional Markets In Korea

Korea is a modern and forward-looking country with high-tech products and transport improving every year. However, it’s also a country that values its connections to the past and maintains traditional areas where people can experience a way of life that has been around for generations. One such place which highlights Korea’s past mixing with its present is at a Korean traditional market.

Korea’s traditional markets are great if you live in Korea as you can find cheap fruit and veg as well as cheap eats for when you’re hungry. For tourists, they’re a window into Korea’s past and an opportunity to go bargain hunting, try traditional Korean foods, and stock up on souvenirs, Korean goods, cosmetics, and lots more. They’re also interesting places to walk through to experience real Korean culture.

Here are the top 10 traditional markets in Korea I think you should visit:

1: Namdaemun Market In Seoul

Why visit this market: Namdaemun Market (남대문시장) is the largest traditional market in Korea, with thousands of stores selling everything from fresh produce and Korean street food to handicrafts and traditional medicines. With over 600-years of history, this is the perfect place to experience real Korean market life and to buy authentic Korean goods or souvenirs to take home.

What to buy: This traditional market in Seoul has it all, from fashion to foods, fabrics, face masks, and more. There are many zones in the market catering to different needs. If you want to pick up some healthy Korean ginseng, Namdaemun Market is the best place to find it at a good price. Worried about taking your purchases home? There’s even a suitcase section in case you need extra luggage.

As this is a traditional market for Seoulites, not just tourists, you’ll find plenty of common household goods and traditional foods and medicines, but these tend to be in the downstairs areas in the market. Tourist-friendly goods are on the street level, including Korean clothes and accessories, souvenirs, and tasty treats. I recommend heading into the downstairs markets as you’ll see interesting sights.

What to eat: Although nearby Myeongdong has some of Seoul’s best street food, you should definitely try the dishes available in Namdaemun Market. There’s all the street food favourites on offer, such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), eomuk (fish cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and kkochi (skewers).

Make sure you try traditional Korean dishes such as kalguksu (칼국수), a hearty bowl of knife-cut noodles and one of my favourite traditional Korean dishes. You can also find galchi jorim (갈치조림) for sale in Namdaemun Market, which is a spicy braised cutlassfish stew.

Tip for this market: Haggling is accepted but expect the market vendors to drive a hard bargain. Take your time to shop around for the best prices and try not to accept the first price offered.

2: Gwangjang Market In Seoul

Why visit this market: Gwangjang Market (광장시장) is one of the most famous traditional markets in Seoul thanks to the Netflix show, ‘Street Food Asia‘, although it was popular long before then. This is the oldest permanent market in Korea, established in 1905, and one of the largest with over 5,000 stalls above and below ground. The best part about this market is definitely the food.

What to buy: Gwangjang Market is the place to go in Seoul if you want to buy your own hanbok, Korea’s traditional clothing that you’ll see people wearing around the royal palaces in Seoul. There’s a wide selection of hanbok shops where you can get your own custom-made hanbok prepared for you to take home or sent to you by post. There are many traditional Korean clothes and crafts here.

What to eat: Without a doubt, Gwangjang Market is the number one place to go in Seoul if you want to experience eating Korean food at a traditional market. You’ll find dozens of vendors selling all sorts of foods, including sundae (blood sausage), bibimbap (mixed rice with veg), gimbap (rice roll), and mandu (dumplings). Just grab a seat and point to whatever you want to eat.

If you want a cosy dining experience, I recommend squeezing into one of the narrow restaurants opposite the main food stalls and ordering a plate of bindaetteok 빈대떡 (mung bean pancake) with a bowl of makgeolli 막걸리 (rice wine). The tables are squashed together and usually packed, you might be sharing a table with others, but the food and wine is so good you won’t even notice.

Tips for visiting this market: Sit down and get a meal of bindaetteok and makgeolli in the small restaurants around the centre of the market. Order the mixed pancake set to try the various flavours and get a bottle of makgeolli to wash it down. It’s a great combo.

3: Seoul Folk Flea Market In Seoul

Why visit this market: The Seoul Folk Flea Market (서울 풍물시장) is not your average Korean traditional market. This unique space is dedicated to folk items from across Korea and retro items you won’t find elsewhere. Modernised in 2008, this market was originally a collection of stalls by the Cheonggyecheon Stream, but is now housed in a new building with restaurants, goods, and more inside.

What to buy: The Seoul Folk Flea Market is like a labyrinth, with long aisles packed full of interesting and unique goods to pick up and wonder at. You’ll find retro and vintage goods (1F) along with more modern market goods (2F), souvenirs, traditional goods, and traditional foods.

Unlike other traditional markets in Korea, you can find real history inside that you can take home and show your friends. There’s also a load of junk, but one person’s junk is another person’s treasure. The Seoul Folk Flea Market has 7 different coloured zones to help you find what you’re looking for. They are:

What to eat: There are plenty of traditional Korean dishes available at all traditional markets in Korea, and the Seoul Folk Flea Market is no exception. Try a big bowl of mandu guk (dumpling soup), kalguksu, or juk (porridge) to warm you up on a cold day. They’re good any time of year though, so don’t pass up the chance to have a cheap and delicious traditional meal here.

Tips for visiting this market: There really is something for everyone, even those who are just looking to take a snapshot of Korean history. Go for the retro and vintage items, sample some delicious traditional foods, and maybe find a rare treasure to take home with you.

4: Noryangjin Fish Market In Seoul

Why visit this market: Noryangjin Fish Market (노량진수산물도매시장) is a working fish market and a great place to sample some of Korea’s best seafood, freshly caught and sold that day. Operating since 1927 near Seoul Station, but later moved to more modern facilities next to Noryangjin Station, this market provides 50% of Seoul’s seafood.

What to see: Opening from 1:30am, early birds can discover the hidden world of Seoul’s fish markets, including the early morning deliveries and sorting. The best time to visit is from 3:00am when the live fish auctions happen each day. These are a spectacle in themselves and you might be able to pick out what you want to eat for breakfast.

Wander down long aisles alive (literally) with fresh squid, octopus, shellfish, urchins, and all other kinds of seafood. You’ll be astounded by all the weird and wonderful sights that you probably didn’t know existed under the sea. I was certainly shocked the first time I visited a traditional Korean fish market.

What to eat: The seafood sold at the fish auctions at Noryangjin will find their way into various dishes, such as jjukkumi 쭈꾸미 (baby octopus), maeuntang 매운탕 (spicy fish broth), and haemul pajeon 해물 파전 (seafood and green onion pancake). There’s also crab, lobster, and hoe 회 (fresh raw fish) prepared in the market for your breakfast. A great start to the day and very healthy.

Tips for visiting this market: This bustling, stinky, wet, fresh market will provide a wonderfully unique experience during a stay in Seoul but getting there for the fish auctions can be hard. I recommend staying somewhere close, such as Hongdae, and then taking a taxi to the market in the morning.

5: Tongin Market In Seoul

Why visit this market: Seoul’s traditional markets have great food and Tongin Market (통인시장) is no exception, but the food here is served in a different way from the other markets. At Tongin Market you can buy a lunch box, or doshirak in Korean, to fill up with your favourite snacks from select vendors throughout the market. A lunch box costs ₩5,000 and is a great way to sample Seoul’s street food.

Tongin Market, which started in 1941, is famous for these lunch boxes as the area was previously home to Japanese residents who were used to buying bento boxes (Japanese lunch boxes). Decades later, the market is home to many restaurants and shops, dozens of them participating in the unique lunch box program. There are also market goods available to buy between the stalls.

What to buy: One of the main draws of this market is the lunch box program, which runs every day except Monday. Pay the cost of the lunch box and you’ll receive a plastic lunch box and a collection of gold coins to use to pay for foods throughout the market. Each item costs a number of coins and you can buy foods from participating stalls with signs saying “gamaengjom” (가맹점).

What to eat: With over 70 stalls to choose from, each selling a wide range of delicious Korean street food snacks or meals, there’s something for everyone. I recommend trying some mandu 만두 (dumplings), tteokbokki 떡볶이 (spicy stir-fried rice cakes), and flame cooked dakkochi 닭꼬치 (chicken skewers). After you’ve made your purchases, take a seat on the benches in the market.

Tips for visiting this market: This market is west of Gyeongbokgung Palace, but often overlooked as people head to Bukchon Hanok Village and other sights east of the palace. It’s not the first traditional market in Seoul you should see, but if you have enough time, add Tongin Market to your itinerary as well as the nearby Cheong Wa Dae (President’s Blue House).

6: Nambu Traditional Market In Jeonju

Why visit this market: There’s more to Jeonju than the historic Jeonju Hanok Village, which you can see on a day trip from Seoul, including Jeonju’s lively traditional market – Nambu Market (전주 남부시장). Nambu Market has existed for over 100 years, however, it wasn’t until 2011, and the addition of the Youth Mall, that Nambu Market really became a hot spot in the centre of Jeonju.

Other special features of this market are the weekly night markets, held on Friday and Saturday nights from 7:00pm to 11:00pm in winter (12:00am in summer). You’ll find many street food stalls and vendors catering to people who want to enjoy a night out in the town. It’s similar to Myeongdong’s night markets, but you can also see live performances and cultural shows around the market.

What to buy: You can find a range of typical goods for sale that you’d find in Seoul’s traditional markets, such as snacks, local produce, food, accessories, home goods, and lots more. However, for tourists, the Youth Mall section might offer more interesting shops and sights, including locally made handicrafts, souvenirs, and interesting knick-knacks that Koreans love to collect and display.

The Youth Mall is run by local young entrepreneurs and is housed in the previously abandoned second floor of the market. It adds youthful charm, design, and culture to this historic area and is now often compared with the likes of Hongdae in Seoul. You can find some great food, clothes, and creative goods in the Youth Market, as well as artistic displays on the walls and in shops.

What to eat: Jeonju is known as the food capital of Korea, just like Osaka is in Japan There are many wonderful foods you can try at this traditional market, such as sundae gukbap 순대국밥 (blood sausage soup with rice), kongnamul gukbap 콩나물 국밥 (bean sprout soup with rice) and pat kalguksu 팥칼국수 (red bean noodle soup). Check out the Youth Mall for more modern dining options and bars.

Tips for visiting this market: As Jeonju is home to Jeonju bibimbap 비빔밥 (mixed rice with vegetables), you certainly shouldn’t waste the chance to try one of Korea’s most famous traditional foods in the city that does it best.

7: Jagalchi Market In Busan

Why visit this market: Jagalchi Market (자갈치시장) is one of several traditional markets in the downtown Nampo area of Busan and one that will make you feel like the sea has come to you. This is Busan’s main fish market (and Korea’s biggest) and the best place to try fresh Korean seafood. Like Noryangjin Market in Seoul, you’ll find a wide selection of the sea’s harvest for sale here.

What to buy: The main thing for sale at this traditional market is of course seafood in all shapes and sizes. There’s everything from shrimp to squid, octopus to oysters, and all else that hangs around under the sea. You’ll find Korea’s seafood delicacies for sale in the market, as well as outside the market in the many seafood restaurants selling Busan’s best local dishes, such as octopus tentacles.

You can buy freshly sliced fish, usually served as thin slices to be dipped in soy sauce like Japanese sashimi, or you can buy seafood to take home and prepare there. If you don’t want to take it home, then you can get it prepared and served in one of the market’s restaurant instead. Or you could just visit one of the many seafood restaurants nearby and see what they have to offer.

What to eat: If you have the courage, why not try some nakji 낙지 (octopus tentacles) or even sannakji 산낙지 (raw / live octopus tentacles)? For those who are less brave, consider some maeuntang 매운탕 (spicy fish soup). You won’t find a shortage of places selling these nearby. Popular seafood offerings are mackerels, sea squirt, and lobster. There’s a seafood buffet if you’re really hungry, too.

Tips for visiting this market: For those who don’t much enjoy the taste of seafood (I understand you!), there are plenty of other markets and restaurants nearby. However, I’d still recommend checking out this sprawling market just for the unique sights, sounds, and, most overwhelmingly, the smells.

8: Gukje Market In Busan

Why visit this market: Situated in the same part of Busan as Jagalchi Market, Gukje Market (국제시장) offers visitors a more traditional Korean market experience with an international twist. This market is located close to many other popular sights in Busan, such as Bosu-dong Book Alley, BIFF Square, Busan Tower, and Gwangbok-ro Fashion Street, so you can see lots from here.

This is Busan’s largest traditional market and despite the typical sights like stalls full of Korean herbs and spices, clothes, and Korean dishes, you can also find a lot of international goods here. Gukje Market was established in the 1950s by Korean war refugees and has benefited from Busan’s status as a port city, which see many international sailors, travellers, and expats visiting the market.

What to buy: This market has a wide range of traditional Korean goods, such as foods, snacks, handicrafts, medicines, and everyday stuff Korean people need. There are many small boutique stalls squeezed in among the traditional goods where you can find interesting souvenirs, books, stationery, gifts, accessories, and sweet treats, Be sure to pick some up to take home with you.

What to eat: You can’t shop in Gukje Market without sampling some unique market foods! Gukje Market has some of Busan’s finest local dishes, such as bibim dangmyeon 비빔당면 (spicy glass noodles), yubu jeongol 유부 전골 (fried tofu stew), and ssiat hotteok 씨앗호떡 (seed-stuffed sweet pancake). This area is famous for eomuk (fish cakes), be sure to try those from the street food stalls, too.

Tips for visiting this market: Mix up a day exploring this historic area of Busan with a trip to the nearby Huinnyeoul Culture Village, Jeoryeong Coastal Walk, and an afternoon staring out at the sea from the Taejongdae Resort Park. Or visit those places first to avoid walking with shopping bags.

9: Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market On Jeju Island

Why visit this market: If you make your way down to Jeju, then you really should check out Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market (서귀포매일 올레시장) in Jeju’s second largest city, Seogwipo. This market caters to Korean tourists more than international tourists, as well as locals, and you can find some of Jeju Island’s incredible delicacies here, including the large hallabong orange (and other citrus) during winter.

This market feels less touristy and isn’t as crowded as the markets in Seoul and Busan. If you want to take your time to stroll through the shops, buy some cute Jeju souvenirs, taste fresh seafood, citrus, and other local delights, then Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market is the place for you. I love to stock up on foods from the market before travelling out of Seogwipo to hike or see the beaches of Jeju.

What to buy: Jeju Island is easily Korea’s most beautiful destination for nature lovers and thanks to the volcanic eruptions from Hallasan Mountain, it’s a place that’s very fertile and grows many delicious crops. Therefore, you should definitely pick up some fresh fruit while you’re at the market, such as hallabong orange, kiwis, avocados, passion fruit and even tropical dragon fruit.

Besides the fruits of the land, you’ll find many fruits of the sea for sale at Seogwipo Market, including freshly sliced raw fish, juicy shrimp, sea squirts, and octopus. For tourists, you’ll find the traditional markets are the best place to get great souvenirs of Jeju Island, such as chocolates with unique Jeju flavours (cactus, tangerine, green tea), local cosmetics, and the best green tea in Korea.

What to eat: If you want to try authentic Jeju Island street food, then buy a bag of dol hareubang manju 돌 하르방 만쥬 (small pastries shaped like the Jeju stone statues). Also known as Jeju Grandpas, these little cakes are delicious snacks filled with Jeju Island’s own hallabong 한라봉 (sweet tangerine). You’ll find stalls selling fresh hallabong juice with the bottle shaped like the iconic stone statues, too.

If you want something more filling, you can buy freshly caught fish and seafood that’s ready to eat. This is perfect if you want to have a quiet meal in your hotel or sitting down by the harbour watching the boats. There are other Jeju Island snacks here, too, such as black pork (흑돼지) buns and egg-wrapped gimbap, and the usual market foods like fried chicken, tteokbokki, and skewers.

Tips for visiting this market: There’s a really nice bar near the market called Jeju Beer Fountain (제주약수터) which sells locally brewed beers, including some very interesting tastes made with local products like a Jeju tangerine raddler. These beers are only available as takeout, which makes them perfect for drinking in your hotel room with some freshly sliced fish from the market.

10: Seomun Market In Daegu

Why visit this market: Last, but not least on this list of traditional markets in Korea is Seomun Market (서문시장) in Daegu. Steeped in history, this market has its roots as one of the three main markets during the Joseon Dynasty that ruled Korea for more than 500 years. These days, the market is as popular as ever and draws big crowds on the weekends for the Seomun Night Market.

Thanks to Seomun Market’s central location, you can explore the other sights of Daegu. such as to the Daegu Gyesan Catholic Church and the Missionary Houses to learn about Daegu’s tragic past. There’s also a tourist street through the city to the Hyangchong Cultural Centre, all about Korea’s recent history. This place is great for dressing up in classic Korean clothes of the early 20th Century.

What to buy: Seomun Market specialises in fabrics, including silk, satin, knitted goods, accessories, and clothes. However, you’ll also find a lot more to buy, such as fresh foods, jewellery, watches, and dried seafood. At Seomun Night Market, which opens until 11:30pm, you’ll find start-up shops for young designers, fusion food with unique takes on Korean food, and live music on certain nights.

What to eat: If you want a traditional food experience, you’ll love the sujebi 수제비 (hand-pulled dough soup) that is made right in front of you. There are also freshly cut bowls of kalguksu, mandu 만두 (dumplings) and a popular dish across Korea, the ubiquitous eomug guk 어묵국 (fish cake soup).

Tips for visiting this market: You can see many of Daegu’s central sights in one day and Seomun Market is the perfect place to start your adventure. Take a bus (#425 / #651) from Dong Daegu Station directly to the market and then walk back through the city’s historic areas on the way back to the station. There are several walking paths through the city and they’re well signposted.

Why Myeongdong Market Isn’t On This List

When people talk about traditional markets in Seoul they might think of Myeongdong Market, which is famous for its delicious street food, cheap accessory and fashion stalls, and shops selling Korean cosmetics like face masks. However, this isn’t really what a Korean traditional market is about and Myeongdong is really more of an outdoor market to cater to the tourists flocking to this area.

Even though Myeongdong Market doesn’t make it on my list of the best traditional markets in Seoul, it’s still a must-see place in Seoul for the hustle and bustle of the night markets, the food vendors, and the busy streets. If you want to stay in Seoul, booking a hotel in Myeongdong is a great option as it’s close to all the action of Myeongdong, as well as traditional markets like Namdaemun Market.

What’s The Best Traditional Market In Seoul?

If I had to choose just one traditional market in Seoul to recommend to travellers, I would probably choose Gwangjang Market for the simple fact that it has an incredible selection of street food and small restaurants to dine in. Seoul has many traditional markets besides the ones previously mentioned in this article, and they all offer an interesting look into local culture and products.

Namdaemun Market is slightly bigger and perhaps has a wider selection of goods available, but it’s also quite spread out with many small streets to explore and feels like you’re in a maze at times. In comparison, Gwangjang Market feels more compact, with a central area selling lots of different dishes and small streets leading off from there. It’s easier to explore and see everything without getting lost.

The best traditional market in Seoul changes for each person. If you’re a vintage lover, you’re sure to love Seoul Folk Flea Market’s retro goods. If you want fashion bargains and accessories, Namdaemun Market and Dongdaemun’s markets and malls will leave you broke and with full bags of fashionable goods. There are also loads of smaller traditional markets throughout the city to discover.

Tours To Korea’s Traditional Markets

Not sure what to do at one of Korea’s traditional markets, what you should try, or need help finding the best things to eat and buy? Then why not book a tour to one of Korea’s traditional markets in Seoul or Busan and enjoy the experience without the worries. Here are a few market tours you might enjoy:

Seoul: Gwangjang Market Unique Food Tour: Experience Korean cuisine at Gwangjang Market, a historic and lively traditional market in Seoul. As one of Seoul’s top traditional markets, this tour offers a chance to try unique Korean dishes while surrounded by the market’s vibrant atmosphere.

Seoul: Traditional Market Walking Tour & Korean Cooking Class: Join a hands-on cooking class to create a delicious Korean home meal using ingredients from Gyeongdong & Yangnyeong Markets and gain insights into Korean food culture as you shop for fresh food and learn traditional recipes.

Seoul: Korean Cooking Class at Local Home with Local Market Experience: Visit Mangwon Market to select fresh ingredients and sample street food before learning to prepare a traditional Hanjeongsik, a full-course meal featuring over 10 dishes. You’ll even learn some useful Korean phrases on this tour.

Busan: Jagalchi Fish Market & Korean Food Market Tour with Local Chef: Explore the world of Korean cuisine through a walking tour of Busan’s iconic traditional markets, including Jagalchi Market & Gukje Market and try representative Busan delicacies, such as live octopus, dried seafood, and fish cakes.

Korean Market Food You Must Try

Whichever traditional market you choose in Seoul or Korea, be sure to try some of the delicious traditional Korean foods available – both street food snacks and full meals. These foods are usually cheaper in the markets than places like Myeongdong and even cheaper than most restaurants.

Here are 10 awesome Korean street foods to try at traditional markets in Korea. If you want to know more about each one, check out my article about Korean street foods.

For a more filling meal at a traditional market, check out these 10 mouth watering and stomach filling traditional Korean dishes. Again, to find out more about these dishes, be sure to read my article about the best Korean traditional dishes you must try in Korea:

My tip – don’t be put off by the appearance of Korean food. It might look strange to you, but hiding underneath an unusual exterior, there’s a whole world of new tastes waiting for you to discover. And if something is red, watch out as it’s probably spicy!

How To Pay In Korea’s Traditional Markets

Korea strongly favours credit and debit cards to make payments, as well as mobile payments and bank transfers. Cash isn’t as commonly used these days, but one place you will most likely spend cash in Korea is in a traditional market or street market in Seoul. However, there are recent changes that encourage market vendors to accept cards in Seoul’s market, including 300 stalls in Myeongdong.

The easiest way to pay for goods in Korea’s markets is with cash. Korean money (Korean won) can be confusing as the numbers are very large compared to currencies such as the USD, SGD, or EUR. A street food snack might cost around 3,000 to 5,000 Korean won and a meal anywhere from 10,000 won and up. If in doubt, search for the exchange rate on Google to see how much things cost.

Learn more about how to pay for goods and services while you’re travelling in Korea with my essential guide to paying in Korea, which covers what cards are accepted and where, if you need cash, how to pay for public transport, and lots more. You’ll also find lots of money saving tips for visiting Korea.

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The good news for travellers to Korea is that taxis are affordable and reliable and they offer a convenient way to travel around Seoul and other cities when you’re in a rush. With busy subway systems often packed to the brim during rush hours, and confusing bus routes, hailing a cab can be a lifesaver when you need to get somewhere fast. If you’re travelling in a group, it can be cheaper, too!

This quick guide to taxis in Korea explains everything you need to know about catching taxis in cities across Korea like Seoul, Busan, Daejeon and Daegu. It covers how to hail a taxi on the streets or book one through an app, provides tips on communicating with drivers, and outlines the pricing structure and payment process so you never get ripped off. Read on to master the art of riding taxis like a local!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

How To Get A Taxi In Korea: Summary

Taxis in Seoul are relatively cheap compared to countries like Japan, the US and the UK, with prices starting at ₩4,800 ($4 USD) for a short journey. You can hail a cab from the street or use taxi booking apps like Kakao Taxi to call a taxi to your location. Taxis are a convenient way to get around big cities like Seoul and to get from Incheon Airport to your hotel, possibly saving you time and money.

To check if a taxi is available, look at the sign in the windscreen. Here’s what each sign means:

Taxis are broken down into four main types – regular, deluxe, international, and jumbo. These taxis each charge different fares based on the services they provide. More details about costs and types of taxis are covered later in this guide to how to get a taxi in Korea. First, here’s how to hail a cab in Seoul.

How To Hail A Cab In Seoul & Other Cities

To hail a cab in Seoul, simply find a main street and look for taxis displaying the “빈차” (empty car) sign, which will be displayed with a red light. This indicates availability and the taxi will stop to pick you up if you hail it by sticking out your arm and waving to the taxi. Alternatively, you can book a taxi using an app, which will be covered in the next section.

There are several types of taxi in Seoul that you can hail from the street:

Regular Taxis (일반 택시): These taxis are usually grey or white saloon cars that can accommodate up to 4 passengers with limited space in the boot for 1 or 2 suitcases at most.

International Taxis (인터내셔널 택시): These taxis look similar to regular taxis, but they are bright orange and can only be found in Seoul. These taxis cater to tourists and the drivers can speak other languages, including English, Chinese, or Japanese. The price for these taxis is 20% higher than regular taxis.

Deluxe Taxis (모범 택시): Taxi drivers in deluxe taxis are known for their experience and service, so you can expect a very pleasant ride with this type of taxi in Seoul in a more luxurious car. However, the prices are also higher for the same journey length and time, so be careful.

Jumbo Taxis (대형 택시): These large taxis can accommodate larger groups and people travelling with luggage, which makes them ideal for airport transfers between Seoul and Incheon Airport. Not so common outside of transportation centres like major stations and airports.

You can find taxi stands outside busy areas like bus and train stations, department stores, and central shopping and entertainment areas. If you can’t hail a taxi from the street, it might be because there’s a taxi stand nearby and taxis will only pick up customers from there. Look around and see if you can see a taxi stand, which usually has a signpost with the word ‘taxi’ or ‘택시’ on it.

How To State Your Destination

Once you’ve hailed a taxi, you need to tell the driver your destination. Try saying the location in English or Korean, or show the driver the location on a map app, such as Naver Map or Kakao Map. However, I’ve found some older taxi drivers have trouble looking at maps on phone screens, so this may not work. You can use those map apps to check your journey so you arrive at the right place.

Tip: Pick up a business card from your hotel as they usually have the address in Korean on them. You can show this to the taxi driver to get back to your hotel easily.

Tip: Make sure the driver starts the meter after you’ve stated your destination. It’s a legal requirement to use the meter and if they don’t, they’re likely trying to rip you off.

How To Pay For A Taxi Ride In Korea

If you hail a taxi from the street in Korea, you can pay for the ride at your destination in cash, by card, or with a transportation card such as the T-Money card. Card payments are the easiest method to pay as you don’t have to worry about carrying cash with you as you travel. You can use international credit cards (Visa / Mastercard), or a local debit card like a WOWPASS to pay for the taxi.

For travel money in Korea, I recommend getting either a Wise travel card (Visa / Mastercard debit card accepted in Korea) or the aforementioned WOWPASS. I use both to pay for taxis and other services in Korea. You can find out more about both of those in my article about how to pay in Korea.

Tip: Taxi drivers never ask for tips and it is not expected that you will tip them. I’ve lived in Korea since 2015 and never once paid or been asked for a tip by a Korean taxi driver.

Taxi Prices In Seoul & Other Cities

Taxi fares in Seoul start at ₩4,800 for the first 1.6km of your journey and rise by ₩100 for every 131 metres or 30 seconds in the taxi. This is the price for regular taxis in Seoul. Deluxe, jumbo and international taxis start with higher base charges and there are additional costs for taking a taxi at night. Outside of Seoul, the base charge is typically lower and the additional costs may be different.

Tip: You can work out the expected cost of taking a taxi in Seoul and other cities with Kakao Taxi. More details on how to use Kakao Taxi in the next section.

Here are the base charges for taxis in Seoul during the day and at night, as well as additional charges.

Late Night Taxi Surcharges

There is a late night surcharge applied to taxi fares in Korea between 10pm and 4am to cover the unsociable working hours. The amount you pay for the base taxi fare at night increases, with higher costs between 11pm and 2am. Due to the increased fee during these hours, it’s often difficult to find taxis right before the increase as drivers wait a while for a higher fee, even on taxi booking apps.

Problems Finding A Taxi In Seoul

Finding a taxi in Seoul at night has become increasingly difficult since the pandemic, with taxi drivers leaving the industry to become delivery drivers for Korea’s growing home delivery services instead. Some taxi drivers also refuse to accept low-value fares, although they are legally obliged to do so. This is a growing issue due to taxi booking apps allowing drivers to screen out low-value routes.

How To Book A Taxi With Kakao Taxi App

The best way to book taxis in Korea, especially for foreigners, is with a taxi booking app. The main taxi booking app in Korea is called Kakao Taxi and is useful for travellers as it’s available in English and other languages. Kakao Taxi allows you to enter your start and end destinations and search for nearby taxis. You can request different types of taxi and the fare you see is usually close to the final charge.

Here is how to book a taxi with Kakao Taxi:

Step 1: Open the app and select the ‘Taxi’ feature. There are lots of other services available in Kakao Taxi, but the taxi feature is the main one and can be found in the top left corner of the screen.

Step 2: Select your pickup destination. The app will ask permission for your current location. Move the ‘From’ marker to the correct location to choose where to start your ride.

Step 3: Select your final destination. Click on the ‘Where are you going?’ button at the bottom of the screen. You can either search by typing in the name or use the map symbol to move the marker manually to where you want to go to. If you can’t find your destination, search in a different map app and then copy and paste address. Once you select your destination, click ‘set as destination’.

Step 4: Choose your taxi type. Depending on your location, you will see a range of available taxis to choose from. The best option is ‘General Request’ as this will be a regular taxi that can accommodate up to 4 people. If you need a larger taxi, choose the jumbo taxi option (if it’s available).

Step 5: Confirm payment payment method. The price of the taxi will appear at the bottom of the screen along with a ‘Request’ button. Before ordering the taxi, you’ll need to confirm the payment method. Fortunately, the default option is to pay to the driver. Click ‘Apply’ and then ‘Request’ again.

Step 6: Wait for your taxi. Check the progress of the taxi in the app. It will show you how far away the driver is and you can also track the journey from start to finish. Pay when you exit the taxi.

Kakao Taxi is available on Android and Apple. To learn more about how to use the app to book taxis in Korea, including how to set up a Kakao account, check out my useful guide to using Kakao Taxi in Korea, which includes screenshots of each step and more tips about how to book taxis with Kakao Taxi.

Tip: Apps like Kakao Taxi need an internet connection. Save money on SIM cards by booking them online from Klook before you travel. These are cheaper than the SIM cards at Incheon Airport.

Alternatives To Kakao Taxi

Travellers from other countries may be familiar with Grab, Uber, and other taxi hailing services where people can freelance and provide their own taxi services. Due to Korea’s strict taxi laws, these aren’t really possible and only registered taxi drivers can operate taxi services. Uber does exist in Korea, but it’s not widely used and offers the same services that Kakao Taxi does (booking registered taxis).

How To Get A Taxi From Incheon Airport To Seoul

There are many ways to get from Incheon Airport to Seoul, including high speed train, subway, and limo buses. Perhaps the most convenient for travellers to Korea for the first time, especially those with luggage or in a group, is to get a taxi from Incheon Airport directly to their hotel. There are all types of taxis available at Incheon Airport, including jumbo taxis that can take large groups with suitcases.

Taking a taxi from the airport direct to your hotel can save you time vs. public transport and may be cheaper than booking individual tickets for a limo bus if you’re travelling as a group. Travel time from Incheon Airport to central Seoul is around 40 minutes, but may be longer depending on the time of day and which part of Seoul you’re going to. Hongdae is closer than Myeongdong and Gangnam.

Tip: Order an airport pickup service before you arrive to ensure a taxi is waiting to take you to your hotel. Ordering online lets you pay in your home currency and avoids trying to get a taxi when you arrive.

Where To Get A Taxi At Incheon Airport

To get a taxi at Incheon Airport after you arrive, you should exit the Arrival Hall on the 1st floor through gates 4, 5, or 6 and cross the road, past the airport buses. As you can see in the map below, there are sections for regular taxis (outside gate 6) and international taxis (outside gate 4). These taxis will both take you to Seoul but the price is different, as explained later.

How Much Does A Taxi From Incheon Airport Cost?

The cost to travel to various parts of Seoul by taxi from Incheon Airport is displayed on the wall in the taxi boarding area to allow you to check the price before you get a taxi. The price of a taxi from Incheon Airport to Seoul depends on which district of Seoul you’re travelling to and can also include tolls. Expect to pay around ₩60,000 to ₩75,000 to get to central areas of Seoul by regular taxi.

Tip: Don’t let the drivers offer you a set price to get to your hotel, as this is likely to be much more expensive and there have been numerous reports of tourists getting ripped off in this way. Always use the meter and check the expected fare before you travel.

International Taxi Service From Incheon Airport

If you want to use an international taxi to get from Incheon Airport to your hotel in Seoul, you can book them online using the International Taxi website. This is a taxi service designed to help foreign tourists in Korea and provides taxi drivers who can speak English, Chinese, Japanese, or other languages. The service is focused on providing safe and convenient taxi booking from Incheon Airport.

The main benefits of the international taxi service is that you can book it online (at least 24 hours in advance), the drivers can speak other languages, and the prices to each district in Seoul are set. The cost of booking an international taxi service from Incheon Airport starts from ₩70,000 (about $55 USD). The price for a taxi to the Myeongdong area is ₩85,000 (about $65 USD).

Please note: The international taxi service is more expensive than regular taxis at Incheon Airport. There is also an international taxi service that offers services within Seoul, but this has a 20% surcharge on the regular taxi price. Due to these extra costs, I would recommend using Kakao Taxi or hailing a cab from the street instead of this service if you’re moving around the city.

Useful Phrases When Using A Taxi In Korea

Here are some useful phrases that show you how to get a taxi in Korea and how to give directions during the ride. Learning a few basic Korean phrases is a great way to understand more of your trip to Korea and makes a good impression when interacting with Korean people. You can also use translation apps like Papago to help you translate English into Korean and vice-versa.

How To Avoid Taxi Problems In Korea

Despite the Korean government regularly cracking down on the minority of bad taxi drivers, there are a few issues with taking taxis in Korea that it’s useful to be aware of. These problems are probably worst in Seoul and other touristy areas, but I’ve experienced them in less-touristy places, too. Here’s some of the common problems you might have taking a taxi in Korea and ways to hopefully avoid them.

Offering a fixed price: Taxi drivers at Incheon Airport might offer a set price to customers arriving to Korea instead of using the meter (as they are legally obliged to). This is likely to cost you a lot more, with some taxi rip-offs being as much as ten times the actual cost. Always use the meter unless you’ve pre-booked the taxi and paid in advance.

Saying the meter is broken: Another way taxi drivers may try to charge you a higher price is by not turning on the meter or telling you it’s broken and quoting a (higher) price instead. Be sure to check the meter is running when you start your journey and don’t accept a ride if it’s ‘broken’,

Taking a longer route than necessary: This is an issue I’ve had several times in Korea where taxi drivers take an indirect route to increase the fare. The best way to avoid this is to use Kakao Taxi and check the route as you go. If the driver goes off course, you can ask them why.

Driving at dangerous speeds: Time is literally money for taxi drivers in Korea and so some drive excessively fast and dangerously, including running red lights. I’ve seen a handful of crashed taxis who have done this. If you’re worried that your taxi driver is going to fast, tell them ‘chon-chon-hee‘, which means ‘slowly’ in Korean.

Fortunately, the number of taxi scams seems to be declining in Korea and with taxi booking apps like Kakao Taxi, it’s easier than ever to book a taxi in Korea and travel safely. Apply the same caution and common sense you’d use when taking a taxi in your own country and you should be fine.

If you’re think taking taxi is too much and prefer to drive by yourself, make sure to check out our comprehensive guide on driving in South Korea for foreigners, it includes detail from renting a car, all the way to driving nuances in South Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about how to get a taxi in Korea. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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Ranging from tranquil islands to preserved historic villages that transport you back in time, these easy excursions provide a compelling taste of Korean history, culture and natural beauty. This list of the 25 best day tours from Seoul will ignite your exploration outside the capital and show you many of the wonderful sights Korea has to offer. There’s definitely a day trip that will suit you here.

All of the day trips from Seoul covered in this article are accessible within a day, meaning you can travel out for an action packed day of exploration and return to your hotel in Seoul. Several of these locations can be combined into one day trip, such as Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, and Alpaca World. I’ll include tour links to combined tours when they are as they’re a convenient way to see more.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why Book A Day Tour From Seoul?

Embarking on a day tour from Seoul is a must when you visit Korea as it offers you a unique opportunity to explore the country’s rich heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant local culture beyond the bustling capital. I think these Seoul day trips will provide deeper insights into Korea than you’ll find in the capital and leave you with a better understanding of what Korea’s really like.

These day trips give you a way to discover historical sites like the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, natural wonders such as Nami Island, and unique attractions like the DMZ, showcasing the poignant history and beauty of Korea. These destinations, which are all accessible in a day, give you the chance to contrast Seoul to other parts of Korea and I’m sure you’ll notice some big differences.

Whether it’s indulging in traditional Korean experiences at the Jeonju Hanok Village or exploring the enchanting Gwangmyeong Cave, these day tours from Seoul cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring memorable experiences from your journey. Moreover, they offer insights into Korea’s diverse regions, making them essential for those looking to experience the country’s cultural charms.

Quick links: Looking for a certain type of day tour from Seoul? Use the links below to jump straight to the section that interests you, or keep on reading to discover all of these tours.

How To Book Day Tours From Seoul

The most convenient way to book a day trip from Seoul is through user-friendly online platforms like Klook, Viator, Trazy, and Get Your Guide. These sites make exploring beyond Seoul simple by aggregating reliable tours complete with reviews, easy online booking in your chosen currency, e-tickets, and even transportation coordination from central pick-up points. I use them to book tours myself.

I recommend booking day tours in advance when visiting Korea (especially if you’re travelling in spring or autumn) for these reasons:

Learn more: Paying in your home currency is often easier and cheaper than converting money into Korean won. Booking ahead is one of the tips included in my guide to paying in Korea, which covers ways to save on travel money in Korea and alternatives to relying on exchanging cash to travel.

Where To Stay For Seoul Day Trips

Tour companies offering day trips out from Seoul might collect you directly from your hotel, but more often they prefer to arrange pickups in these three popular districts:

• Myeongdong
• Hongdae
• Gangnam

If you’re planning to take some day trips while you’re staying in Seoul, then I recommend staying in one of these locations as you’ll find it easier to arrange tour pickups. There are some excellent hotels in Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam and these are the most popular areas to stay. To learn more about Seoul’s districts, check out my guide about where to stay in Seoul.

Using Public Transport In Korea

Public transport in Seoul and Korea in general is amazing and services run frequently, actually turn up on time, and cost little. You can travel between cities for less than $10 and tickets cost the same regardless of when you use them. Transportation in Seoul is provided in multiple languages and is easy to use. While it’s great in Seoul, relying on public transport beyond the city can prove challenging.

Destinations outside Seoul may not be well connected, especially in the Korean countryside. Infrequent services, complex transfers and language barriers leave DIY day trips prone to confusion and wasted time, even for experienced travellers. Booking a guided tour ensures stress-free travel to and from Seoul on comfortable buses or vans, direct to each location with expert commentary, too.

It’s certainly possible to use public transport for some destinations, such as Nami Island, but for a hassle-free day trip from Seoul, tours are much simpler than using public transport, which requires research and planning. If you want to use public transport for your day trips, I recommend Naver Map or Kakao Map for directions, along with Papago to help translate Korean to English as you travel.

Top 10 Seoul Day Trips For Sightseeing

With endless fascinating sights and experiences to discover beyond the capital, narrowing down the most celebrated Seoul day tours offers a great starting point to explore more of the country. These ten destinations repeatedly rate as top favourites amongst both Korean and international visitors seeking to unlock the cultural, historical and natural highlights waiting beyond Seoul’s borders.

1: Nami Island

Nami Island, located in Chuncheon, is a half-moon shaped isle known for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural attractions. Established as a tourist destination in 1965, the island covers an area of 430,000 square metres and is renowned for its tree-lined walking paths, making it a picturesque escape from the urban hustle of Seoul and one of Korea’s best day trips.

What to see and do: The island offers a variety of attractions, from its beautiful tree lanes, such as Ginkgo Tree Lane and Metasequoia Lane, to cultural sites like the UNICEF Charity Train. You can enjoy cycling, zip-lining to the island, traditional Korean foods, and seasonal events. The island also features art galleries, performance stages, and water sports during the summer.

Suitable for: families, couples, and nature enthusiasts.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

How to get there: If you want to make your own way to Nami Island, check out my guide about how to get to Nami Island from Seoul by car, tours, and public transportation.

2: Garden Of Morning Calm

The Garden of Morning Calm is a serene botanical garden located in Gapyeong County. Established in 1996, it spans 30,000 square meters and features Korean traditional garden concepts. The garden is a tranquil retreat showcasing Korea’s natural beauty through its diverse plant species and landscaped gardens. One of the most beautiful of these Seoul day trips, especially in spring and summer.

What to see & do: You can explore themed gardens, scenic walking paths, and seasonal festivals, including the Spring Garden Festival and the Winter Illumination Festival. Highlights include the Wild Flower Garden, Pine Garden, and the picturesque Pond Garden. The garden also offers cultural experiences and workshops, making it a place of learning and relaxation.

Suitable for: nature lovers, families, and photographers.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

3: Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) Area

The DMZ, or Demilitarised Zone, separates North and South Korea, extending 250 kilometres across the peninsula. This buffer zone, established in 1953, is a significant symbol of the Korean War’s cessation (but not end). It offers a unique insight into the geopolitical tensions and history of the region, making it a compelling destination for Seoul day trips.

What to see and do: Tours from Seoul to the DMZ allow you to explore observation posts, tunnels dug by North Korea, and the Joint Security Area (currently unavailable). The area also hosts exhibitions and historical sites, providing educational insights into the Korean conflict. These tours often include visits to key landmarks, such as the Freedom Bridge and the Third Infiltration Tunnel.

Suitable for: history buffs, political enthusiasts, and modern history lovers.

Current DMZ tour issues: Due to the recently increased tensions with North Korea, as well as a swine flu outbreak in the area, the Joint Security Area is currently closed to tourists.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

4: Suwon Hwaseong Fortress

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a late 18th-century fortification in Suwon, South Korea. It represents the pinnacle of 18th-century military architecture, combining Eastern and Western design principles. The fortress encompasses a wall stretching nearly 6 kilometres, featuring four gates and numerous defensive structures, making it a standout destination for Seoul day trips.

What to see & do: You can explore the fortress walls, offering panoramic views of Suwon city. The site includes impressive gates, watchtowers, and pavilions. The Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, within the fortress, showcases royal residences and administrative buildings. Cultural events, martial arts performances, and traditional archery experiences are also available, enriching tours from Seoul.

Suitable for: history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and families.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

5: Yongin Korean Folk Village

The Yongin Korean Folk Village is a living museum located in Yongin that recreates traditional Korean life from the Joseon Dynasty. Spanning over 243 acres, it features over 260 traditional houses, offering a deep dive into Korea’s cultural heritage, making it a popular choice for day trips. This tour from Seoul is often combined with the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and other attractions nearby.

What to see & do: Witness traditional Korean crafts, such as pottery and weaving, watch folk music and dance performances, and explore a traditional marketplace. The village also offers hands-on experiences like traditional games and seasonal activities, including farming. Attractions include martial arts demonstrations and traditional wedding ceremonies, providing a look into historical Korean culture.

Suitable for: cultural enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in Korea’s traditional lifestyle.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

6: Jeonju Hanok Village

Jeonju Hanok Village, located in the heart of Jeonju, is a vibrant cultural district renowned for its 800 beautifully preserved traditional Korean hanok houses. This picturesque village serves as a living museum, encapsulating the essence of the Joseon Dynasty’s architectural and cultural heritage.

You are transported back in time, as you wander through narrow alleys lined with tile-roofed houses, artisanal workshops, and quaint tea houses. The village’s commitment to maintaining traditional Korean crafts, cuisine, and culture makes it perfect for those seeking an authentic tour from Seoul.

What to see & do: You can explore traditional tea houses, artisan workshops, and cultural museums. The Jeonju Hanji Museum, dedicated to traditional Korean paper, and the Jeonju Korean Traditional Wine Museum are highlights. Traditional Korean dress (hanbok) rental is popular, along with sampling authentic Jeonju bibimbap, making it a vibrant mix of cultural exploration and culinary delight.

Suitable for: cultural enthusiasts, photographers, and foodies.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

7: Alpaca World

Alpaca World is a scenic area within easy reach from Seoul and one of the best places to see cuddly critters in leafy surroundings. This expansive park is not just about alpacas; it’s an animal haven set against the backdrop of Korea’s beautiful natural landscape. You have the chance to interact closely with alpacas, deer, and other animals in an environment that prioritises their wellbeing and freedom.

What to see & do: Beyond feeding and walking with alpacas, you can try activities such as horse riding, exploring the ecological forest, and crafting. The park also features thematic gardens, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it an ideal spot for leisure and learning about animal care and nature conservation. The hands-on interactions with the animals provide a memorable experience for all ages.

Suitable for: families, animal lovers, and nature enthusiasts.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

8: Gangchon Rail Park

Gangchon Rail Park offers you an outdoor adventure combining scenic beauty with physical activity. The repurposed old railway tracks allow you to pedal rail bikes through tunnels, over bridges, and along rivers. Covering a distance that showcases the stunning rural landscapes of Korea, it’s an innovative way to explore the countryside, making it a popular choice for day trips from Seoul.

What to see & do: The main attraction is the rail biking experience, where you can pedal along old railroad tracks while enjoying the surrounding nature. The course includes features like tunnels, adorned with lights and music, and panoramic views of the river and countryside. Additionally, the park offers rest areas with scenic photo spots to witness the beauty of the Korean landscape.

Suitable for: active travellers, families, and groups seeking a unique experience in nature.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

9: Petite France

Petite France is a French-themed village that stands as a beacon of European charm within Korea. This cultural village is designed to emulate the atmosphere of a quaint French town, featuring brightly coloured buildings, cobblestone streets, and a collection of European dolls, antique musical instruments, and French literature. It’s a eccentric enclave that offers a uniquely European escape.

What to see & do: Within its boundaries, you can explore a variety of attractions including the Saint-Exupéry Memorial Hall dedicated to the author of “The Little Prince,” puppet shows, and street performances that capture the essence of French culture. The village also offers workshops on French crafts and cooking, making it a place of both entertainment and learning with lots of photo opportunities.

Suitable for: families, couples, and Francophiles.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

10: Gwangmyeong Cave

Gwangmyeong Cave is a former gold mine transformed into a cultural and recreational space. This subterranean complex is a fusion of historical, cultural, and entertainment elements, offering a unique experience beneath the earth’s surface. It boasts illuminated caverns, underground lakes, and themed exhibitions, making it a great destination for those seeking an adventurous day trip from Seoul.

What to see & do: In Gwangmyeong Cave you can explore a variety of interesting attractions including the Wine Cave, where Korean wines are showcased and available for tasting, and the Golden Road, which tells the history of the mine’s gold extraction era. The cave also hosts art installations, a concert hall, and an aquarium, providing diverse entertainment options.

Suitable for: adventurers, families, and those interested in geologic phenomena.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Korean Culture Lovers Day Trips From Seoul

These day trips from Seoul are for the K-culture lovers, both modern and traditional, who want to spend a day away from Seoul to see unmissable destinations from TV, movies, art, and nature. If you’re a fan of BTS or modern K-culture, then you’ll love the BTS tour and a visit to Dae Jang Geum Park. Families and couples will be pleasantly surprised with day tours in Pocheon and Gangneung, too.

BTS ARMY Fan Tours From Seoul

BTS-themed tours from Seoul offer fans of the global K-pop sensation a unique journey through the places associated with BTS’s rise to fame. These tours cover iconic sites outside Seoul that hold significance to the band’s history, such as music video locations, favourite hangouts, and significant locations in their career. It’s an immersive experience that brings fans closer to the footsteps of BTS.

What to see & do: Participants can visit sites inside and outside of Seoul, like the BTS bus stop at Hyangho Beach from the “Spring Day” music video, Yongin Daejanggeum Park where Suga recorded “Daechwita”, and Seoul sights such as Hakdong Park, Yoojung Sikdang, and the old Big Hit headquarters. Some tours offer exclusive merchandise and photo shoots at famous BTS-related spots.

Suitable for: ARMYs, K-pop enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the cultural phenomenon of BTS.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park Tour

Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park, previously known as MBC Dramia, is an expansive outdoor film set. This site is famous for being the filming location of numerous popular Korean historical dramas, including “Dae Jang Geum.” Tours from Seoul offer fans of K-dramas and K-movies a behind-the-scenes look at the settings of their favourite productions, showcasing traditional Korean architecture and culture.

What to see & do: You can explore the meticulously constructed sets that replicate historical palaces, villages, and landscapes from various periods of Korean history. Tours provide insights into the filming processes and stories behind the scenes. There’s the opportunity to dress in traditional Korean costumes, and occasional reenactments and performances really bring the drama to life.

Suitable for: fans of Korean dramas, history buffs, and those interested in traditional Korean culture.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Pocheon Art Village And Herb Island

Day tours from Seoul to Pocheon Art Valley and Herb Island offer a blend of natural beauty, art, and aromatic experiences. Pocheon Art Valley, a transformed granite quarry, now serves as a cultural space featuring sculptures, an art museum, and a picturesque lake. Herb Island, focusing on Mediterranean herbs, lights up with fairy-tale illuminations at night, creating a magical atmosphere.

What to see & do: In Pocheon Art Valley, you can enjoy scenic landscapes, explore art installations, and take part in craft workshops. The monorail provides easy access to stunning views. Herb Island gives you a chance to wander through lavender fields, participate in soap-making classes, and explore themed gardens and greenhouses. Visit at night to see the entire island aglow with decorative lights.

Suitable for: art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and families looking for a creative day of delights.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Gangneung K-Culture Day Trip

Gangneung is a beautiful beach city on the east coast of Korea accessible from Seoul in under 2 hours by KTX high speed train. Known as a city of coffee, nature, and culture, the city boasts festivals dedicated to coffee (Gangneung Coffee Festival), cherry blossoms (Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival), and beach life (Gyeongpo Beach Beer Festival & Gangneung Gyeongpo Summer Festival).

What to see & do: Day trips will take you to some top cultural destinations in the area, including Jumunjin to see the filming location of the popular Korean drama “Goblin”. Nearby, K-pop fans can visit the bus stop featured in BTS’s “Spring Day” music video – a must-see for diehard A.R.M.Y fans! The area also offers new attractions like the immersive light and shadow art experience – ARTE Museum.

Suitable for: art lovers, culture vultures, and those interested in modern K-culture.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Family Friendly One Day Trips From Seoul

If you’re looking for a family-friendly break from Seoul, then these theme parks and attractions will provide a whole day of outdoor fun for all. While Seoul offers great theme parks like Lotte World Adventure, the destinations outside Seoul are bigger and have more to see and do – making them worth a visit. Here are some fun day trips from Seoul to enjoy during summer and other seasons.

Caribbean Bay Water Park

Caribbean Bay Water Park, part of the Everland Resort in Yongin, is one of the largest water parks in the world. Offering a tropical Caribbean theme, it features a wide range of water-based attractions, including wave pools, water slides, and a lazy river. Tours from Seoul to Caribbean Bay provide a refreshing escape from the city, allowing visitors to enjoy thrilling rides and relaxation in a picturesque setting.

What to see & do: You can experience exhilarating water slides of varying heights and speeds, the expansive wave pool capable of generating artificial waves, and the relaxing lazy river that meanders through the park. The Aqua Loop, a high-speed slide with a 360-degree loop, is a must-try for thrill-seekers. If you’re just looking to relax, the spa and sauna facilities offer a serene retreat.

Suitable for: families, groups of friends, and anyone seeking fun and adventure in a water park setting.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Everland Theme Park

Everland theme park, also in Yongin, is Korea’s largest theme park and offers a diverse range of attractions across its zones – Global Fair, American Adventure, Magic Land, European Adventure, and Zootopia. Combining thrilling rides, themed areas, and a zoo, tours from Seoul to Everland provide a day of adventure and fun, making it a top choice for those seeking excitement outside the city.

What to see & do: Visitors can enjoy high-speed roller coasters, such as the T-Express, family-friendly rides, and seasonal festivals. Zootopia offers close encounters with animals, including a panda habitat and a safari ride. The park’s beautifully landscaped gardens and parades add to the festive atmosphere. For those looking to cool down, check out the aforementioned water park, Caribbean Bay.

Suitable for: families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking for a fun-filled day out.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Legoland Korea

Legoland Korea is a newly opened theme park that brings the iconic Lego brand to life. This family-oriented park features over 40 rides, shows, and attractions across various themed zones, each dedicated to the creativity and fun of Lego building blocks. Day tours from Seoul to Legoland Korea offer an immersive experience into a world of imagination and innovation for Lego fans of all ages.

What to see & do: The park is divided into themed areas, including Miniland, where iconic landmarks from around the world are recreated in Lego form. Visitors can enjoy interactive rides, build and test their own Lego creations, and watch 4D cinema presentations. For younger guests, Duplo playgrounds provide a safe and exciting environment. The park also hosts seasonal events.

Suitable for: families with children, Lego enthusiasts, and those looking for a creative day out.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Day Trips From Seoul To See Nature

Some of the most-loved day trips from Seoul introduce you to the abundant green sights you’ll find outside Korea’s capital, including the aforementioned Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, and Pocheon Art Valley. There are plenty more natural wonders awaiting you in the Korean countryside, with massive mountains, serene rivers, picturesque forests and gardens, and more, to discover.

Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan National Park is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, including rugged mountains, narrow valleys, and dense forests. It’s a UNESCO Biosphere Protection site, offering an escape into nature’s tranquility. Day tours from Seoul to Seoraksan allow you to explore Korea’s natural beauty, with the park’s changing seasons offering many wonderful sights, especially during autumn.

What to see & do: The park features a range of hiking trails for all abilities, from easy walks to challenging climbs, leading to stunning vistas and natural landmarks like the Ulsanbawi Rock. Don’t want to hike? Take the cable car to Gwongeumseong and see panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You can explore Buddhist temples in the park, including picturesque Sinheungsa Temple.

Suitable for: nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat into natural beauty.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Hwadam Botanical Gardens And Forest

Hwadam Botanical Garden is a meticulously designed ecological space that combines traditional Korean and modern landscaping techniques. This self-sustaining garden is known for its extensive collection of native and exotic plants, making it a haven for botany enthusiasts. Day tours from Seoul to Hwadam Botanical Garden offer a serene escape into nature and a literal breath of fresh air.

What to see & do: Meander through themed sections, including a conifer garden, medicinal herb garden, and a wetland ecosystem, each offering unique plants and educational insights. The garden’s walking paths and scenic bridges over ponds create a peaceful environment for your to relax and take photos. Visit for seasonal events, such as the spring cherry blossom festival and autumn foliage viewing.

Suitable for: nature enthusiasts, families, and photographers looking for a tranquil day out.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Namhansanseong Fortress

Namhansanseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to Korea’s historical military architecture and strategic significance. Located on a mountainous terrain south-east of Seoul, this fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Tours from Seoul provide insight into Korea’s rich history, with well-preserved fortifications that date back to the 17th century.

What to see & do: The fortress encompasses several walking trails leading to historical sites, including ancient gates, command posts, and Buddhist temples like the Sudoksa Temple. You can explore the Emergency Palace, which served as a refuge for kings during invasions. The combination of natural beauty and historical discovery waiting to be found here makes for a fulfilling experience.

Suitable for: history enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone interested in exploring Korea’s cultural heritage.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Yangpyeong Dumulmeori

Yangpyeong Dumulmeori is famed for its picturesque natural landscapes that have inspired countless photographers and filmmakers. This tranquil spot, easily accessible via day tours from Seoul, is named ‘Dumulmeori’ for its water’s resemblance to a ‘head of two waters’. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat into nature, with its stunning vistas and serene atmosphere.

What to see & do: You can enjoy leisurely walks along the riverbank, take memorable photographs of the traditional Korean boats and the iconic willow trees lining the water’s edge, or explore the nearby Semiwon Garden. Seasonal changes bring a dynamic beauty to the area, with lush greens in summer, vibrant blooms in spring, and fiery colours showcasing gorgeous autumn foliage.

Suitable for: photographers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a day of scenic beauty.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

One-Day Tours From Seoul With A Difference

This final set of Seoul day trips offer a chance to see more offbeat sights, join in exciting outdoor activities, and visit other notable cities in Korea. There are lots of extreme sports and cities you could visit on a day trip, which will be covered in other articles. These four destinations will give you a chance to get away from the main tourist areas, see some unusual sights, and try fun activities.

Danyang Paragliding & Sightseeing Tours

Danyang paragliding tours offer an exhilarating escape into the skies, showcasing some of Korea’s most breathtaking landscapes from a bird’s-eye view. Danyang is renowned for its scenic beauty, including lush mountains and clear rivers. This tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of flight, making it a popular choice for adventure seekers looking to get away from the urban jungle.

What to see & do: You can soar above the picturesque landscapes of Danyang, taking in views of the winding rivers, rugged cliffs, and verdant forests. The experience is made safe and enjoyable under the guidance of experienced instructors, ensuring a memorable adventure. Besides paragliding, you can explore the local attractions, such as the Gosu Cave and Dodamsambong Peaks.

Suitable for: thrill-seekers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience an adrenaline rush.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Jebu Island Marine Cable Car

Jebu Island (Seohaerang) Marine Cable Car offers a unique vantage point to explore the natural beauty and coastal landscapes of Jebu Island. This is a great opportunity to experience this island’s scenic views from above, including its famous tidal flats, surrounding waters, and the impressive Siwha Sea Barrier. The cable car ride presents panoramic vistas that will surely captivate you.

What to see & do: The cable car journey allows you to witness the dramatic changes of the tide at Jebu Island’s mudflats, a phenomenon that reveals the seabed at low tide and hides it beneath the waves at high tide. Additionally, you can explore the island’s attractions, such as the Jebu Island Lighthouse and various coastal trails, offering leisurely walks with stunning seaside views.

Suitable for: families, couples, and photography enthusiasts interested in Korea’s coastal landscapes.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Day Trip To Busan By KTX Train

As the country’s second-largest city, Busan offers a diverse array of attractions, from ancient Buddhist temples to modern skyscrapers that line the waterfront. Day tours from Seoul to Busan are an excellent way to experience the unique blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty that this city has to offer. However, as this is a large city, I would recommend staying at least 1 night to see the sights.

Although there aren’t really any guided tours to Busan from Seoul, it’s easy enough to get to Korea’s second biggest city and back in a day thanks to the KTX high speed train network that links the two cities. This is a good way to use the unlimited Korean rail pass. Once you’re in Busan, the main sights can be accessed by public transport or a city tour that starts once you arrive.

What to see & do: Highlights of a Busan tour include Haeundae Beach, renowned for its scenic beauty and festive atmosphere; Gamcheon Culture Village, with its brightly painted houses and artistic vibe; and Jagalchi Fish Market, where you can taste fresh seafood. The Haedong Yonggungsa Temple offers spiritual serenity by the sea, and Taejongdae Park presents panoramic ocean views,

Suitable for: beach lovers, cultural explorers, and food enthusiasts keen to try culinary delights.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Day Trip To Incheon City

Incheon City is Korea’s third-largest city and known for its historical significance, modern landmarks, and cultural diversity. Incheon blends history with modernity, featuring attractions from its time as a major port during the late 19th century to its current status as a global city. A day trip to Incheon offers an insightful journey into the city’s rich heritage, vibrant markets, and scenic coastal areas.

What to see & do: Explore Korea’s first Chinatown with its colourful streets, traditional architecture, and authentic cuisine. The Songdo district showcases futuristic urban planning and green spaces. Historical sites like the Incheon Landing Operation Memorial Hall offer a glimpse into Korea’s modern history. For a relaxing end to the day, Wolmido Island provides seaside attractions and amusement parks.

Suitable for: history enthusiasts, foodies, and urban explorers looking for a mix of cultural experiences.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Seasonal Day Tours From Seoul

There are various day tours from Seoul that only run during certain seasons and will whisk you away to gorgeous destinations that only dazzle for a short time. These day tour destinations shine bright and bold during their respective seasons, but often don’t offer much during the rest of the year, or at least not as much. Below are some of the best tours from Seoul that you can take in each season.

Spring Day Tours From Seoul

Spring is all about nature and beautiful blossoms, which you can see across the country with tours to cherry blossom festivals, flower festivals, and areas of natural beauty. Spring is a wonderful time to travel in Korea thanks to the warm weather and clear skies, as well as the many spring festivals that are on. April is one of the best times to visit Korea, and May is also really good.

Here are some of the best spring destinations with tours from Seoul:

Summer Day Tours From Seoul

Summer in Korea is hot and wet, but there are loads of fun festivals and events happening across the country, including a giant mud festival that embraces the rainy weather. It’s also a time when nature is in full flow and there are many lush forests and parks to walk through, as well as rose gardens and tea plantations. Trips to the beach are popular and Seoulites will flock to the east coast for summer sun.

Here are some of the best summer destinations with tours from Seoul:

Autumn Day Tours From Seoul

Autumn in Korea starts from September and runs until early November and is arguably the best time to visit Korea, thanks to the many Korean autumn foliage spots that begin showing their colours from early October, and the weather is great. Besides autumn leaves, there are also harvest and culture festivals going on and tours to farms and countryside towns to try local produce are popular.

Here are some of the best autumn destinations with tours from Seoul:

Winter Day Tours From Seoul

Winter in Korea is not the easiest time to visit, but it’s a season packed with fun winter activities and snowy sights. You will find dozens of winter festivals in Korea to enjoy on day trips from Seoul, including ice fishing festivals, snow and ice festivals, and winter illuminations. Winter sports lovers and families looking for snowy sights in Korea will love the many ski resorts accessible from Seoul.

Here are some of the best winter events with tours from Seoul:

Best Time To Take Seoul Day Trips

While remarkable sights encircle Seoul in every season, temperate spring and autumn offer ideal weather for day trips. Summer is hot, so being outside can be difficult for long periods of time, the same can be said of winter as it’s so cold. However, you shouldn’t let the weather put you off as the right clothes and frequent indoor breaks can solve most problems from the adverse weather conditions.

Not only are spring and autumn warm and sunny, they’re not too wet. It mostly rains in Korea from June to August. Winter in Korea is very dry, making it a good time to take day trips out to the aforementioned winter destinations, as long as you’re wrapped up warm. Summer rains aren’t that bad though as the weather is a bit cooler when it rains, although it’s not good for the beach.

I recommend booking day tours on weekdays as these are less busy and you’ll encounter fewer local tourists. Koreans make the most of their free time and weekends and public holidays are a time to get out and enjoy popular sights outside the city (and in). If there’s a festival on then definitely visit during the week as some of the big festivals can see over 100,000 people per day on weekends!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about day tours from Seoul. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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This river boat service in Seoul will allow easier access to riverside destinations for locals and tourists alike, helping them get between some of the most popular destinations in Seoul, such as Yeouido and Jamsil (home of the Lotte World Tower). Seoul’s river bus service will allow people to cross the city’s mighty Han River, which is currently a hassle to do, with ease and speed.

The Seoul river bus service hasn’t started yet, and some of the details in this article may change by the time it launches in October 2024. I will continue to update this article before and after the river boat in Seoul begins operation so you have the most up to date information available. Read on to discover more about Seoul’s latest innovation, which prioritises accessibility, sustainability, and tourism needs.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What Is The Seoul River Bus Service?

The Seoul river bus service is an innovative new river-based transportation service being launched by the Seoul government to promote sustainability as well as tourism and accessibility around the Han River area. It will allow people to travel between various destinations on the Han River for a small fee and save time and effort vs. current methods of travelling between Han River locations.

There will be a total of 8 eco-friendly vehicles to carry up to 199 passengers, bicycles, and wheelchairs at a time along the length of the Han River in central Seoul. The boats will move at 17 knots (31 km/h), which will make them faster than rush-hour traffic. It will run from Magok in the west of the city (close to Gimpo Airport) to Jamsil in the east – home of the Lotte World Tower and Seokchon Lake.

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-Hoon stated the electric vessels will offer a climate-friendly transit option for 2.5 million citizens and visitors alike by 2030. He envisions the service as both a practical mobility solution and tourism draw, showcasing the innovative attractions of Seoul while addressing environmental issues through green transportation infrastructure enhancements along the iconic river.

When Will The Seoul River Bus Service Begin?

The metropolitan government has stated that the Seoul river bus service will begin in October 2024, as long as the construction of river bus terminals meets the expected schedule. The service will connect seven terminals along the Han River at first, but could be expanded to other parts of the city at later dates. I will add updates about extensions to this article when announced.

What Hours Does The Seoul River Bus Run?

The river bus service will run during the following hours:

The earlier hours during the week are to allow commuters to travel along the river instead of using congested road and public transportation routes. This should make travelling in Seoul during rush hour less stressful (it’s really busy now) and save commuters a lot of time in some situations.

How Often Will The River Boat In Seoul Operate?

The river boat in Seoul will run at different frequencies depending on the time of day and week:

The Seoul river bus service takes up to 75 minutes to travel the full route between Magok and Jamsil, or 54 minutes between these two destinations if you use the express service that only stops at Magok, Yeouido, and Jamsil.

What Are The Seoul River Bus Stops?

The Seoul river bus service will stop at the following locations (as shown from left to right in the map image above) along the Han River:

You can see these destinations with this Seoul River Bus Locations Map from Google Maps. These destinations were chosen based on a number of factors and provide services to residential, commercial and tourist areas. The most popular areas for tourists on the Han River are Mangwon, Yeouido, and Ttukseom, but each area has attractions and services that travellers are likely to travel to.

What Can You See Near These Stops?

As mentioned, the most popular stops on the river bus in Seoul for tourists are Mangwon, Yeouido, and Ttukseom, as these stops are home to popular Han River parks and other tourist attractions. If you’re planning to ride the Seoul river bus service when you visit Seoul, this table shows you some of the key attractions and areas you’ll find near each stop. This will help you plan your Seoul itinerary.

Future Terminals On The Han River Boat Service

Besides the original 7 stops on the Seoul river bus service, the city government has announced plans to add more destinations to help increase convenience for commuters and to make Seoul more attractive for tourists. The line might extend past Magok to the Gimpo Ara Han River dock, which is close to Gimpo Airport hotels and duty free shops. There may also be more stops between terminals.

As well as the river bus, the Seoul government has a number of other future attractions in the works, such as the world’s first twin ferris wheel and an aerial gondola connecting various cultural and tourist hotspots along the river. These are part of Seoul mayor Oh Se-Hoon’s “Great Han River Project Plan” that will transform the capital’s riverside area in the next few years.

How Much Does The Seoul River Boat Cost?

The Seoul river boat service will cost ₩3,000 (about $2.25) per ride, which is more expensive than the current price of subway rides and bus rides in the capital, but offers a convenient method of crossing the river which will certainly save a lot of time. You should be able to use transportation cards such as the T-Money Card to pay for the rides, although this is still to be confirmed.

Seoul’s public transportation network currently allows free transfers between buses and subways within 30 minutes, as long as you touch out with your transportation card when leaving the bus or subway. It hasn’t been confirmed whether the Seoul river bus service will also feature free or discounted transfers between journeys with other methods of public transportation.

How To Get Discounted River Boat Rides In Seoul

As part of the Seoul government’s push to reduce commuting costs and encourage people to use more public transportation, people with a Seoul Climate Card will also be able to ride on the Han River boat service for free. The Climate Card, which launched in January 2024, offers unlimited public transportation within the city for a monthly fee starting at ₩62,000.

What To See And Do On The Han River

The Han River offers an abundance of attractions for visitors to Seoul to enjoy. Travellers can explore lengthy riverside parks perfect for cycling, jogging or leisurely strolls, with scenic stretches like Yeouido Hangang Park and Ttukseom Hangang Park. There are also swimming pools, sports facilities and performance venues situated along the shores, and various festivals throughout the year.

Here are 15 top sights along the Han River in Seoul:

With so much recreation, entertainment and sightseeing available along the banks of the river, the Han River area promises appealing destinations for any visitor to Seoul, which will only be enhanced with the forthcoming water bus service. The natural scenery, historic landmarks, and wealth of activities offer compelling reasons for travellers to explore this iconic river and its parks.

Han River Night Cruises In Seoul

When the sun goes down, the Han River comes alive with illuminated cruise boats that provide a magical way to see Seoul’s skyline. The Seoul Hangang River Cruise is a popular way to see the sights of Seoul along the river at night. Lasting about an hour, the river cruise brings passengers past the glittering Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain, city landmarks, and picturesque parks after dark.

Gliding gently down the river, the evening cruise allows visitors to view Seoul’s vibrant energy from a unique vantage point amid the glistening reflections of a capital that truly never sleeps. As well as night cruises that show you Seoul’s vibrant city lights under moonlit skies, you can also take a Han River cruise during the day with regular departures daily. Book online or buy tickets on the day.

Other Ways To Get Around The Han River

The Han River encompasses some of the most beautiful parts of Seoul, with 12 riverside parks, attractions, and areas of natural beauty to enjoy throughout the city. Besides taking a river bus in Seoul to see the Han River, here are some other ways you can explore the waterway.

By Bicycle: The Seoul Public Bike rental service provides people the chance to rent bikes and cycle along the long stretches of the river’s edge. Popular areas for cycling are around Yeouido and in Seongsu-dong between Seoul Forest Park and Ttukseom Park and beyond. This is one of the best places to ride a bike in Korea, with 240km of cycle routes along the Han River.

By Foot: Along with cycle paths that run along the Han River’s shore, there are also walking paths in similar areas. The walking path around Yeouido is especially beautiful and home to several spring flower festivals, including one of Seoul’s largest cherry blossom festivals. Walking between the two banks of the river has been hard until the introduction of the river bus in Seoul, which will making exploring easier.

River Cruise: As mentioned, a river cruise is a great way to see the sights of Seoul, both during the day and at night. Even though the new Seoul river bus service might reduce people’s desire to pay for a cruise, the fact that you can travel in peace and pass under the many beautiful bridges at a slow pace will keep the cruise popular.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Seoul river bus service. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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This article covers the benefits of a Wise account, including how you can send money internationally, spend in Korea by card, and how to receive payments from abroad. There’s also information about who can get a Wise account, what currencies you can use, and how to spend and send money.

I’ll also share the best ways to send money from abroad to Korea (including the US and UK) and how to send money out from Korea to other countries, too. These include Korea-based banks and banking apps that you can use as an expat in Korea to send and receive money with lower fees than banks charge.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What Is Wise And How To Use It In Korea

In the words of Wise, their service is “an international money transfer service designed to make cross-border transactions more affordable, transparent, and efficient.” Wise utilises peer-to-peer technology to offer the mid-market rate for international transfers and currency exchanges, which helps to reduce currency conversion costs for you. Revolut offers a similar service.

Basically, you can send, receive, and spend money internationally at rates that are better than what you’d find at airport money exchanges and offered by banks for international transfers. You can use the app or website to send and receive money internationally and also get a physical or digital card to spend in shops, restaurants, hotels, attractions, and elsewhere.

Here are some of the benefits I’ve discovered of having a Wise account and getting a Wise card:

How To Use Wise In Korea

If you want to get a Wise account to spend money in Korea or make international transfers, you’ll need to make sure you sign up for a Wise account before you travel to Korea. Unfortunately, you can’t create a Wise account from inside Korea. You’ll need to confirm your identity by phone when you create an account, therefore, do it in your home country before going to Korea.

Once you have a Wise account though, you’ll discover a world of international banking that is much easier than using local banks in each country and, in my experience, much cheaper, too. If you travel internationally a lot, or visit other countries on holiday from time to time, you’re sure to find that a Wise account can make spending your money more convenient and less risky.

There are several ways you can use Wise in Korea as an expat or traveller. I use Wise to do all of these things and more, as I’ll show you in the following sections.

Learn more: For full details about how to use Wise and the many benefits of using a Wise card to pay for things in Korea, check out my article all about how to use Wise in Korea. For details about how to plan your travel money and what methods of payment are accepted in Korea, check out my article about ways to pay in Korea and you’ll discover the best travel money mix for you.

If you’re interested in getting a Wise account, you can use these links below to find your local Wise site:

How To Use Wise To Send Money To Korea

This section will show you how to use Wise to send money to Korea in two different situations, based on who is sending the money and who is receiving the money. The first situation deals with how to transfer money to Korea from your own account using Wise, while the second details how someone else can send money to Korea from other countries into your Wise account.

1 – How To Transfer Your Own Money Using Wise

This situation is for expats living in Korea or people travelling to Korea. It assumes you already have a Wise account that you created before going to Korea to live or travel. You need to open a currency account in Wise for whatever currency you want to transfer into Korean won – this is really easy and you just have to select the currency in the app and choose ‘open’. It takes ten seconds.

Step 1 – Add money to your Wise account in your own currency: I have a UK bank account, so I add money from my UK bank account to Wise. You can add funds by credit card, debit card, bank transfer, or Swift transfer. To add money, select the currency you want to add in the app and click on the big green button that says ‘Add‘ and follow the instructions. The money usually transfers instantly.

Step 2 – Convert your currency into Korean won: You can convert money into Korean won in the Wise app in two ways. Firstly, click on the button that says ‘Convert‘ in the currency you just added (GBP in this case) and choose to convert to Korean won. Secondly, go to your Korean won account in the app and select ‘Add‘. There’s a small fee to convert money, as shown in the image above.

Step 3 – Spend the money in Korea using your Wise card or withdraw cash from an ATM: Once you’ve converted your money into Korean won, you can use your Wise card to spend in Korea at most shops, restaurants, hotels, etc., or withdraw cash from a ‘Global ATM’. I recommend using the card as there’s no fee to pay by card but the Korean ATMs will charge a fee to withdraw cash.

2 – How To Send Money To Wise For Someone Else

This situation is for people outside of Korea who want to send money to people in Korea who have a Wise account. You (the person sending the money) don’t need to have a Wise account yourself, but the person receiving the money should have a Wise account. You will be sending money in your own currency and shouldn’t have to pay any fees to transfer the money.

Step 1 – Ask for the Wise account details of the person you want to send to in Korea: When you create a currency account in Wise (e.g. GBP or USD), you will receive a bank account number, along with details including your Sort Code, IBAN, SWIFT, or BIC numbers. You can find these account details by going to that currency in your Wise app and clicking on the account number (as shown below).

Step 2 – Send money to the Wise account from your own account: For this example, I will assume that my mum wants to send me £100. I provide her with my Wise account details for my GBP currency account that is shown in the Wise app. She can make a bank transfer from her bank to Wise in the same way she’d transfer money to anyone else in the UK. I receive the money in my Wise account.

Step 3 – Convert the money you received into Korean won: After my mum has kindly sent me £100 to my Wise GBP currency account, I can now convert that money into Korean won and use my Wise card to spend it in Korea to buy myself a new pair of shoes or a fancy meal out. Thanks, Mum! The transfer didn’t cost my mum anything and I now get to spend the money in Korea as I like.

Can You Transfer Directly To Korean Won With Wise?

Unfortunately, as Wise doesn’t allow people in Korea to sign up for a Wise account (I suspect this is due to strict Korean banking regulations), you won’t be assigned a Korean bank account when you create a Korean won currency account. That means you can’t transfer money directly from one country into Korean won and will need to choose one of the methods shown above.

Simply put, to transfer money to Korea with Wise, you need to transfer money to another currency account in Wise and then convert that into Korean won. Even though there’s no Korean won bank account, you can still spend money in Korea with your Wise card without any extra fees or hidden conversion costs after you’ve converted money into Korean won in your Wise app.

Transfer Money From Wise To A Korean Bank Account

You can transfer money from your Wise account directly to a Korean bank account in the Wise app. Select the Korean won currency account in the app and click on ‘Send‘. Enter the details of the recipient (bank account, name, etc.) and select the amount of Korean won you want to send. Alternatively, you can share a payment link and send that. There’s a fee of ₩1,450 to make a bank transfer.

Currencies That Offer Bank Accounts With Wise

Although it’s not possible to get a Korean bank account with Wise, you can open bank accounts in the following currencies and make transfers or receive deposits in those currencies:

AUD / CAD / EUR / GBP / HUE / MYR / NZD / PLN / RON / SGD / TRY / USD

You can also add money to your Wise account in the following currencies:

AUD / BGN / BRL / CAD / CNY / CHF / CZK / DKK / EUR / GBP / HUF / IDR / JPY / MYR / NOK / NZD / PLN / RON / SEK / SGD / TRY / USD

Please note: There are some exceptions and conditions for certain currencies based on the country you’re in. Check the Wise website for more details about money transfers in your desired currency.

Why I Use Wise For International Banking

As an expat who works online, I receive and spend money in various currencies (USD / GBP / AUD / EUR / KRW) and use my Wise account to manage and convert them as I need. I can receive money into my USD account on Wise and use the app to convert that into Korean won to spend in Korea, as detailed previously. Wise allows me to manage my international banking needs in one app.

Not only do I use Wise to spend my USD / GBP money in Korea in Korean won, I also use my Wise card when I travel internationally. I recently travelled to Thailand and used my Wise card as my main payment method when cards were accepted. I converted USD and other currency balances to THB in $200 batches and then spent with card or withdrew cash from Thai ATMs as needed.

Another reason I use Wise for international banking as an expat in Korea is that it allows my family to send money to my Wise account (or UK bank account which I then transfer to Wise) that I can spend in Korea. The alternative to using Wise for this would be to receive money into my UK bank account and then withdraw cash in Korea or pay by card – both are expensive options due to bank charges.

Sometimes I need to receive money in currencies that aren’t KRW or GBP and, thanks to Wise, I can do that without having to do a complicated or expensive international transfer between another country and the UK. It’s free to add extra currency accounts in Wise and you don’t need to go through the long, complicated process of setting up a foreign bank account. It’s so simple and quick.

How I Send Money From Korea To My Wise Card

As mentioned, Wise doesn’t allow you to create a Korean bank account, so you can’t send money directly from a Korean bank account to Wise. Fortunately, there are other ways to send money from Korea to other countries. My favourite way is with SentBe, a Korean FinTech company providing international money transfers for a low fee (₩2,500). You need a Korean phone number to use SentBe.

To transfer money from your Korean bank to your Wise account using SentBe, you will need to enter your international (Global) account numbers provided in the Wise currency account of your choice. For example, I would enter my Wise GBP currency account details into SentBe and send money from my Korean bank account to my Wise account. The money is converted into GBP, not KRW.

Alternatively, you can send money from Korea with SentBe directly to your home bank account if you don’t plan to use that money with your Wise card. If you need to send large amounts of money from Korea to other countries, please note that there is a limit of 50,000 USD per year that you can send. I believe this is being increased to 100,000 USD in the future. There are daily limits, too.

There are other apps and websites that provide international transfers from Korea, such as WireBarley, Western Union, and MoneyGram. I haven’t tried any of these options, but from my own experience and feedback from other expats living in Korea, SentBe seems to be the cheapest and most used method.

Other Ways To Transfer Money To Korea

Apart from using Wise to transfer money to Korea, there are some other methods you can use.

Bank Transfer (Remittance): Send money to Korea by entering in the Korean bank details of the person you’re sending money to in Korea. This is how I used to transfer money, but the fees for doing this can be high and the exchange rates can be bad.

International Remittance Provider: You can use companies like Western Union, Currency Fair, or Remitly to send money to a Korean bank account or (in some situations) to be collected in cash at an approved location. Be careful with this method as some frauds are conducted through international remittance providers. Only send money to accounts you trust.

Based on my experience as an expat for more than 13 years in Korea, Hong Kong, Japan, and Australia, I can say that using Wise in combination with my home bank account, Korean bank account, and SentBe has been the best option for sending money to Korea and transferring money out of Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about how to use Wise to send money to Korea. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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More than sightseeing, an authentic Korean temple stay lets you embrace monastic living, gaining profound yet accessible insights into the Buddhist philosophy permeating this ancient culture. Abandon modern anxieties as you awake to drummed morning prayers, meditate amid stunning nature, craft lotus lanterns by hand, and savour the monk’s contemplative cuisine.

In this article, you’ll discover the best places to do a temple stay in Seoul or in other parts of Korea, as well as my recommendations for the best temples to try a Korean templestay experience in. I’ll introduce you to the most common cultural activities that you might encounter at a temple stay and offer insights into what a temple stay is like by sharing my own experience of a temple stay.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why You Should Do A Temple Stay In Korea

More than mere accommodation, an authentic Korean temple stay offers visitors the rare opportunity to briefly yet meaningfully embrace the lifestyle of the Buddhist monks living in accordance with ancient traditions amidst the nation’s rapid modernisation. It’s a serene change of pace from bustling city streets, a chance to reset both body and mind through simple mindfulness practices.

On an overnight temple stay experience, you get to stay in a traditional hanok room inside the temple’s main grounds and join in ceremonies and practices not normally seen by outsiders. Awaken before dawn to attend morning prayer ceremony, join in meditation sessions surrounded by stunning natural beauty, craft lotus lanterns, and sample the monks’ flavourful vegetarian fare.

While creature comforts are few, the rewards prove plentiful – visitors often depart with refreshed perspective, having gained insight into the spiritual fulfilment framing many Korean lives. So take a pause from sightseeing to unwind the Korean Buddhist way – through cultural and personal enrichment centred on serenity, compassion and contemplation direct from a temple stay.

Some of the main reasons I think you’ll love doing a temple stay in Korea are that you can…

But most of all, it’s a truly unique Korean experience that you can only have in Korea, usually in a stunning setting like a national park or area of natural beauty. While a temple stay experience in Korea might not be for everyone, if you’re open to trying new things, I think you’ll really enjoy it.

What Is The Korean Temple Stay Program?

The temple stay program was set up by the Culture Corps of Korean Buddhism with the aim to promote Korean Buddhism to the world. This scheme lets you experience a temple stay in one of Korea’s beautiful Buddhist temples in Seoul and across the country. It’s a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. In the words of the Korean temple stay program:

“A temple stay is a unique cultural program which lets you experience the life of Buddhist practitioners at traditional temples which preserve the 1700 year old history of Korean Buddhism.”.

– Korean Templestay Program

I’ve joined a temple stay in Korea several times now and for me the best part is the chance to learn more about Buddhist philosophy. I’ve written more about my experience doing a temple stay later in this article. Even if you have no interest in Buddhism, you shouldn’t miss the chance to check out the historic temple buildings, witness centuries of Korean culture, and consider a new perspective on life.

Different Temple Stay Experiences In Korea

There are 3 types of temple stay experiences that are available to try in Korea, ranging from a 1-day program where you can engage in various cultural activities with the monks to longer overnight stays with a range of unique and interesting programs. These overnight programs are where I think you’ll find the most value from your temple stay as you get to see the inner workings of the temple.

1-Day Temple Stays

The one-day temple stay option is best for those with a limited time in Korea. Lasting a few hours, you can experience a temple tour, learn about mediation, or join in a traditional tea ceremony. Perfect for those on a tight schedule or who want a quick introduction to Korean Buddhism.

Experience-Oriented Temple Stays

This is definitely the best option for a temple stay in Korea, this option allows you to stay overnight at the temple and join in activities not open to regular visitors. Be part of Korean Buddhist ceremonies, join morning chanting with the monks, try the 108 prostrations, eat Buddhist meals, and practice Buddhist meditation. Other activities can include lotus lantern walks and prayer bead making.

Rest-Oriented Temple Stay

For those who want the tranquility and peace that comes from a temple stay in Korea, this is for you! The temple offers you a place to escape the busy modern world and learn to recharge through meditation and Buddhist ceremonies. In addition, you can reduce your stress, recharge, and unwind.

Where To Do A Temple Stay In Seoul

From serene mountain monasteries to urban temples tucked amid the bustling city streets, Seoul offers numerous easily accessible yet wholly immersive temple stays for foreigners. Experience an afternoon learning about Korean Buddhism at a heritage temple like Jogyesa or Bongeunsa, or escape the crowds completely for an overnight mountain retreat at Hwagyesa’s peaceful forest grounds.

There are many Buddhist temples scattered across Korea’s capital, with seven locations offering temple experience services in English, as you can see in the picture below. Jogyesa and Bongeunsa are the most touristy temples in Seoul, so if you want an experience that’s away from the main crowds, try one of the other temples such as Hwagyesa or Geumsunsa.

You can search for temple stays in Seoul on the Templestay website and filtering by temples in Seoul. Here’s a list of the temple stays in Seoul and what they currently offer:

• Bongeunsa Temple – one-day temple stay experiences
• Myogaksa Temple – one-day temple stay experiences
• Hwagyesa Temple – overnight temple stay experiences
• Geumsunsa Temple – one-day & overnight temple stay experiences
• Jogyesa Temple – no current temple stay programs
• Jinkwansa Temple – no current temple stay programs
• International Seon Center – no current temple stay programs

Please note: The temple stay schedule is usually set for the upcoming year or just the next season. If there are no temple stays when you check, they might be available later on. The programs available above are based on what was listed at the most recent time I checked.

Where To Try Korean Temple Food In Seoul

More than just sustenance, Korean temple cuisine thoughtfully encapsulates the contemplative Buddhist philosophy of compassion and interdependence. Each dish spotlights organically grown soybean products, wild mountain greens, vegetables and medicinal herbs, providing flavourful plant-based nourishment for both body and soul through simplicity, balance and care.

If you want to try Korean temple food in Seoul, then you can join a temple stay in Seoul, visit the Korean Temple Food Culture Experience Centre near Anguk Station, or visit the Balwoo Gongyang temple food restaurant on the 5th floor of the Templestay Information Centre near Jogyesa Temple. The Korean Temple Food Culture Experience Centre let’s you make your own temple food dishes.

Dining at a temple is a moving experience, allowing guests to approach their plates with newfound mindfulness and insight into the Korean maxim – “We eat to live.” So be sure to sample this meaningful cuisine during an overnight temple stay, allowing Korean Buddhist philosophy to touch your lips and permeate your perspective. The serenely healthy dishes will provide food for thought.

Where To Do A Temple Stay In Korea

There are many different temples across Korea that you can stay in. They are usually located in national parks or similar beautiful surroundings. You can find temples in every major region of Korea, including on Jeju Island. Venturing beyond the capital into Korea’s serene rural pockets unveils ancient monasteries and hermitages perfect for deeply immersive temple stays.

Each of these Korean temple stays offers something special; whether it’s unique Korean culture like Tripitaka Koreana or the Korean Buddhist martial art, Sunmudo; awe-inspiring views of mountains, coastlines, and waterfalls; or simply a new outlook on life through the meditative programmes on offer. Whichever one of these temple stay experiences you choose, you’ll discover something amazing.

Here are 7 of the best places to do a temple stay in Korea outside of the capital. These temples are currently all offering temple stay experiences, but availability changes each season.

1: Lotus Lantern International Meditation Centre (Incheon): The Lotus Lantern Centre welcomes overseas visitors to experience a blend of modern relaxation and ancient Buddhist traditions in Incheon, near Seoul. The temple stays include a free-style program where you can choose what to do, as well as regular overnight temple stays with chanting ceremony, temple cuisine, and accommodation.

2: Bulguksa Temple (Gyeongju): This is arguably one of the most impressive places to do a temple stay in Korea as this historic temple has UNESCO World Heritage status. Bulguksa Temple offers overnight stays which include morning meditation as the sun rises over the grand courtyard, joining the monks in daily rituals, and a chance to explore the ornate 15th century Buddhist sanctuaries.

3: Haeinsa Temple (Gayasan National Park): Remote yet easily accessible Haeinsa Temple, nestled within Hapcheon County’s verdant mountain valleys, unveils Korea’s Tripitaka Koreana wooden block anthology alongside meditation sessions, monastic cuisine, lotus lantern making, and sunrise ceremonial drumming through their memorable one-night temple stay.

4: Golgulsa Temple (Near Gyeongju): Golgulsa Temple has a large selection of temple stay experiences and provides the unique opportunity to witness and try ‘Sunmudo‘ – a Korean Buddhist martial art. There’s also the chance to try meditation on the beach, archery, horseback riding, and many of the other interesting activities that you’d expect during a temple stay in Korea.

5: Beopjusa Temple (Songnisan National Park): Home to Korea’s tallest wooden pagoda and a mammoth bronze bell, majestic Beopjusa Temple treats overnight visitors to personally crafted experiences like lotus lantern making, chanting ceremonies, temple cuisine, and taekwondo alongside scenic mountain trekking through Songnisan National Park’s lush foliage.

6: Naksansa Temple (Near Sokcho): Naksansa Temple treats overnight visitors to personally tailored stays combined morning prayer ceremonies amid stunning East Sea sunrises, a guided trek to a cliffside hermitage overlooking the sea, meditation, and deliciously simple monastic vegetarian fare. This is a great temple to stay in if you’re planning to visit Korea’s east coast.

7: Hwaeomsa Temple (Jirisan National Park): Nestled within Jirisan National Park’s trees, ancient Hwaeomsa Temple invites visitors into the daily life of their monks through immersive overnight stays – rising with the sun for morning prayer chanting, joining meditation sessions and Buddhist lectures, crafting lotus lanterns, dining on traditional temple cuisine, and resting amid mountain-framed serenity.

These next 3 temples currently don’t have any temple stay experiences available, but I’ve included them because they’re really beautiful temples that are definitely worth visiting just to explore. They might have temple stay programs again later in the future.

Yakchunsa Temple (Jeju Island): This is a very unique temple in Korea that looks like it would be more at home in South East Asia than in Korea. The entrance to the temple is lined with palm trees and it looks out over the rugged coast and sea. There are tangerines growing in the temple grounds and many unique and interesting sights to see. One of my favourite temples I’ve visited in Korea.

Magoksa Temple (South Chungcheon Province): Enveloped within the lush peaks of Mount Taehwasan, Magoksa Temple invites visitors to immerse in temple life through their overnight stay – greeting the mountain sunrise with Buddhist chanting, meditating stream-side in the pine-scented forest, crafting paper lanterns, dining on homemade temple cuisine, and retiring to their tranquil, natural haven.

Woljeongsa Temple (Odaesan National Park): With grounds enveloped by Odaeasan’s panoramic national park, historic Woljeongsa Temple treats visitors to personally tailored temple stays. It combines morning prayer ceremonies, meditation under waterfalls, monastic vegetarian meals made with organically grown ingredients, and Korean culture classes like lotus lantern crafting.

The Temple Stay Experience: What To Expect

Now that you know where you can do a temple stay in Seoul or Korea, let’s see what will happen during your temple stay experience. There are many different activities you can take part in during a temple stay in Korea. Most temples will offer these wonderful experiences. In addition, some temples offer more, including walks, treks, traditional crafts, and even music performances.

Guided Temple Tour: Ever explored a Buddhist temple and wondered what all the interesting statues, patterns, and symbols meant? Now you can find out with an English guided tour around the temple. The temple staff will kindly explain the history, culture, and meaning behind all you see at the temple. Great for increasing your knowledge about Korean Buddhism.

108 Prostrations: A mainstay of Korean temple stays is performing the bowing ritual ‘108 prostrations’, involving fully lowering one’s body to the floor 108 times as a symbolic shedding of greed and ego. While challenging physically, finishing evokes a profound sense of humility and purification amongst temple stay participants. This may involve threading 108 prayer beads at the same time.

Yebool (Buddhist Chanting): Yebool is the opening chant to start the day and offers the chance for self-reflection and purification for the day ahead. During a temple stay in Korea you’ll be able to join the monks inside the temple, somewhere most tourists will only see from the outside. Yebool chanting starts before sunrise, so make sure you get an early night the night before.

Da-Seon (Tea Ceremony): The Korean Buddhist tea ceremony is a form of meditation in itself. Firstly, practice mental discipline and concentration through the processes involved in creating the perfect cup of tea. Secondly, harness all your senses whilst you prepare and drink the tea in quiet contemplation. During the tea ceremony you have the chance to ask a monk questions.

Balwoogongyang (Monastic Meal): Balwoogongyang is the traditional method of eating a meal at Buddhist temples. Containing a mixture of rice, vegetables, and side dishes, certainly this healthy vegan-friendly meal will help you appreciate the simplicity and honesty of food. Eat together in silence, waste nothing, and give thanks for all of the hard work involved in your humble meal.

Walking Meditation (Pohaeng): A core element of Korean Buddhist practice is ‘pohaeng’ walking meditation – slowly circumnavigating temple grounds in silent contemplation, focusing on the sensation of each step to calm the mind. Most temple stays offer this meditative activity, allowing you to mindfully traverse flower-lined courtyards and soak up the tranquil beauty in these sacred refuges.

Cham-Seon (Seon Meditation): Seon meditation focuses on clearing your mind of thoughts, allowing you to learn mindfulness and concentration. This is one of the main practices of Korean Buddhists. By practising Seon meditation you will be able to learn your true nature and discover inner peace. If you just want to focus on meditation, I recommend visiting the The International Seon Center in Seoul.

Korean Traditional Culture Experience: This includes a range of cultural experiences offered by each individual temple. For example, you might make lotus flower lanterns or wood block prints, prepare temple food, or even see musical performances. Each temple stay offers their own unique cultural experiences, which you can see on their Templestay website page.

What To Bring To A Temple Stay

As most temple stays involve basic accommodation and an early morning start, be sure to come prepared with an open mind plus:

As temple stays allow only small bags within sleeping quarters, best leave luggage locked at temples and pack light necessities in a daypack instead. With humble lodging and vegetarian monk’s fare the norm, indulge in life’s luxuries beforehand or after. This program’s rewards lie not in lavish comforts but in the rare chance to personally immerse in the temple culture still thriving in modern Korea.

Do You Need To Know Korean To Do A Temple Stay?

You shouldn’t need to speak any Korean to join a temple stay experience as the program is designed to welcome foreigners and therefore there are guides who can speak English, as well as translate anything the monks might say. During the temple stay experiences I have been on, there are often people from around the world, with a variety of different backgrounds and native languages.

How To Book A Temple Stay In Korea

There are two main ways you can book a temple stay in Korea and both are really easy to do in English. You won’t need to know any Korean to book these, don’t worry.

Book online: Firstly, you can book a temple from the Templestay website. This website is helpful and shows you where you can do various temple stay experiences across Korea. It’s all in English and provides lots of essential information. You can book a temple stay before you arrive in Korea, which is recommended to help you plan your schedule and guarantee your place.

Book in Seoul: You can also book a temple stay by visiting the Templestay Information Centre in Insadong, Seoul. This is close to Jogyesa Temple, which is an excellent Buddhist temple that’s certainly worth visiting while you’re in Seoul, even if you don’t end up doing a temple stay. The information centre staff should be able to speak English and can answer your questions about the experience.

How Much Is A Korean Temple Stay?

I checked the prices of various Korean temple stay programs in Seoul and across Korea and the prices in 2024 range from ₩30,000 – ₩50,000 for a one-day program and from ₩60,000 to ₩100,000 for an overnight stay at a temple. The cost of a temple stay is different for each temple, depending on what they offer, the length of the stay, and other factors like that.

Considering that hotel rooms in Korea can be around ₩60,000 to ₩100,000 for a night, you’re essentially getting a night in a hanok house with lots of extra free cultural experiences, as well as a healthy dinner and breakfast. It’s certainly great value for money. If you’re just visiting the temple and not doing a temple stay, it’s free to visit, but donations to the temple are of course appreciated.

Etiquette Rules For Korean Temple Stays

It’s good to be respectful and follow the rules of any place you visit. Taking part in a temple stay in Korea is no exception, and the temples will ask you to follow a few basic rules. If you’re worried about being rude in Korea, then be sure to read my guide to Korean etiquette.

Dress code: Try to dress conservatively during your temple stay. Dark colours and long sleeves are best. Try to avoid bright and over the top clothing, heavy makeup, or strong perfume. If in doubt, cover up and keep it simple. Furthermore, you should keep your feet covered in the temple. Bring socks as you’ll need to take your shoes off inside, which is normal in Korea.

What not to do: Remember, this is a sacred place for the monks and nuns, therefore, try to avoid loud noises, smoking, or drinking alcohol in the temple grounds. There are many sacred religious objects and locations in the temple grounds, certainly avoid damaging or disrespecting them. In addition, sitting or writing on any sculptures is strongly prohibited.

In the Buddha’s Hall: When entering the Buddha’s Hall (the main temple), make sure to enter using the doors on the left and right. This is because the main door is reserved for the monks and nuns. If you enter the hall, first, do a half-bow with palms together toward the Buddha and then greet the statue with three prostrations. Temple staff will teach you how to do this.

Using your phone: In my experience, it’s been perfectly fine to bring a mobile phone with you when you take part in the temple activities, but please make sure it’s turned to silent mode so it doesn’t interrupt the monks or others. Also, try to avoid taking pictures when asked not to (in the Buddha’s Hall) and go away from others to talk on the phone. Otherwise, you’re fine to take pics of your stay.

Do You Have To Be Religious?

You don’t have to be religious to take part in a Korean temple stay experience. People of any faith can participate in a temple stay and you can certainly learn a lot and broaden your mind by joining in this program. Furthermore, the Buddhist monks and staff understand people have different views on the world and, in my personal experience, welcome discussion and alternative views.

Do You Have To Follow The Schedule?

You are free to choose whether or not you want to join the various temple stay programs. If you feel uncomfortable joining in any part, or you don’t think you can wake up before the sun rises, you can choose to miss that activity. The monks and staff at the temple stay were accommodating in my temple stay experiences. You won’t feel uncomfortable during this wonderful experience.

However, I would recommend trying to take part in everything if you can. When are you likely to be able to experience something like a temple stay again? Take note that meals are served during certain hours and won’t be available outside of those hours.

My Korean Temple Stay Experience

I’ve done a temple stay in Korea several times and absolutely loved every one. I’ve always gone for the weekend experience as there’s something special about staying overnight in the temple and getting up in the early hours to join in the morning worshipping and chanting ceremonies.

My most recent temple stay experience was at Beopjusa Temple in the beautiful Songnisan National Park in central Korea, a place I often visit for hiking. I arrived in the early afternoon and went through a VR welcome tour of the temple. Yes, even Buddhist temples have embraced new technologies in Korea! It was fun being able to see the temple from above through drone footage.

After an introduction to the program by the English guide, I got changed into the required clothing – a very simple outfit of loose trousers and top that you can wear over your normal clothes. It was still cold at that time of year, so I was happy for extra layers. There was a welcome ceremony that explained what we could expect, the rules we had to follow, and a chance to ask some questions.

I was with about 20 other people from Korea and around the world who all joined this temple stay program. We were given a guided tour of the temple grounds and told more about the traditions and meanings behind the various paintings, statues, and buildings. It was really interesting to learn about the rich history of this temple and how Buddhism has evolved in Korea.

In the evening, we ate dinner with the monks (yummy vegan home-cooked food), took a night time walk with lanterns through the temple after dark, then got an early night. The accommodation at the temple was basic, but that’s part of life in a Korean Buddhist temple. It’s also comfortable and I had no complaints. I went to sleep straight away because there was an early start the next day.

Our schedule started at 4 a.m. with a music performance by the monks. You rarely get to see this ceremony, so it was a real treat. After that was another exclusive – the morning yebool, or chanting ceremony. I didn’t understand what was being said, but I could still join in, practice bowing, learn about the importance of the ceremony and see the dedication and spirituality in the monks.

Breakfast was served around 6 a.m. and then it was time for an early morning sunrise hike to a nearby peak (only 30 minutes away) to watch the sun rise. It was a beautiful scene, watching the sun crawl over the horizon and light up the mountain peaks and forests in the national park. Fortunately, we were allowed a short nap after this before the next main activity, which was one of the toughest!

A popular activity during a temple stay in Korea is the 108 prostrations. This is also one of the hardest! There are 108 ideals that Korean Buddhists are thankful for. In order to show their appreciation, they will bow 108 times. Participants at this temple stay experience got to do this whilst also threading 108 beads to make a prayer bead bracelet. This is really hard, but I guess it’s a good test of devotion.

It was tough, yes, but also worth it. I’d recommend giving it a try. If you’re not comfortable doing it, you can grab a mat and watch from the side instead. By this time we were all hungry and went for lunch with the monks again. More delicious vegan food and my body was feeling really good by this point with all the food, sleep, and lack of technological distractions.

The final activity of the program was also one of the best – a tea ceremony and question and answer session with one of the monks. I found this was the most interesting part of the temple stay and I learned a lot from the monk. I feel sorry in a way as I asked a lot of difficult questions, but he answered them honestly and, sometimes, with shocking answers. It turns out monks can have iPhones!

Overall, I had a fascinating, relaxing, insightful time during my temple stay experience and I would highly recommend it to others. There are different temple stay experiences across the country and I want to try visiting other temples to see what they have to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about doing a temple stay in Korea. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article.

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By the time you finish reading this article, you’ll have an extensive list of free Seoul attractions and activities to fill your schedule from morning to night. Whether you want to explore Seoul’s history and culture, sights, nature, or entertainment options, there are plenty of free places in Seoul for you to discover, such as the Bukchon Hanok Village, Namsangol Park, and Jogyesa Temple.

In this article, you’ll discover thirty of the very best free things to do in Seoul that I want to share from my experience exploring Seoul without spending any money. There are also many of my personal tips about ways to save money in Seoul, where to get cheap food and souvenirs, and how to get more for less. To make life easier, there’s also a handy interactive map of Seoul with all these free places.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

The Best Way To See Free Things In Seoul

Seoul is a city blessed with many free sights and activities for travellers and locals to enjoy. Whether you’re in central Seoul or staying on the outskirts of the city, you’ll be able to find parks, gardens, mountains, historic temples, palaces, and lots more to explore, all for free. However, the most convenient way to see all of these is free sights is with a tour. Of course, a free tour is the best kind!

There are two main ways to get free tours of Seoul’s sights, both are open to travellers to Korea:

1: Free Transit Tours From Incheon Airport

If you have a layover of less than 24 hours in Seoul, you should definitely take advantage of the free transit tours offered from Incheon Airport to better acquaint yourself with the capital upon landing. These complimentary shuttles takes travellers into Seoul for guided tours of top sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace or insider neighbourhood walking tours full of history and culture appreciation.

With experienced multilingual volunteers leading the way across language or mobility barriers, these 3 to 4 hour excursions introduce the best free things to do in Seoul in a quick and easy tour. Sadly, these free tours are only available to transit passengers, so if you’re staying in Seoul for longer, then you should check out the second free tour type – walking tours of Seoul.

2: Free Walking Tours of Seoul

No trip to Seoul is complete without understanding the storied history and dynamic culture found on every street corner. Bring the city alive through your eyes and ears by joining a free Seoul walking tour. Knowledgeable volunteer guides versed in Korea’s complex past weave intriguing narratives while leading you to top attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and more.

With tantalising insights of Seoul from locals, the free walking tours of Seoul allow visitors an insiders’ perspective of Seoul through thoughtful talks and unforgettable experiences without any fees.

Please note: While these tours are free, you may be required to pay entry fees to some attractions.

Free Sightseeing Activities In Seoul

With palaces that transport you back in time, parks emanating tranquility, and lively cultural districts fuelling the future, Seoul overflows with exceptional sights to take in absolutely free of charge. This first section covers some of the best free things to do in Seoul that should be on any visitors’ bucket list. From historic hanok villages and fortress walls to modern design, there’s plenty to see in Seoul for free.

1: Bukchon Hanok Village

Nestled between two royal palaces, Bukchon Hanok Village allows visitors a glimpse into historic Korea. This beautifully preserved neighbourhood contains over 900 Korean hanok houses that date back 600 years. As you explore the winding alleys, you’ll feel transported back in time to the Joseon Dynasty while witnessing Korean cultural heritage continuing into modern everyday life.

Visitors can pick up a free walking map and tour the narrow cobblestone streets lined with tiled-roof houses, peaceful temples, tiny museums, craft workshops, galleries, and cafés at their leisure without tickets or tours. With its old-world charm and residents wearing traditional dress, Bukchon Hanok Village offers a free, living history lesson you can’t find anywhere else in Seoul.

2: Seoul’s Royal Palaces

Slip into the silhouette of Korea’s past by wearing Korean hanbok, the flowing traditional attire, for free entry into Seoul’s most storied sites – the sprawling royal palaces. Built during the imposing Joseon Dynasty, elaborate complexes like Changdeokgung, Gyeongbokgung, Changgyeonggung, and Deoksugung transport you centuries back in time once adorned in vividly-hued hanbok.

Stroll through ornate gates guarded by stoic royal guards and traverse serene lotus garden ponds and ornate pavilions, which look beautiful in any season. These royal palaces are great places to photograph yourself alongside colourfully costumed palace actors and feel like Korean nobility yourself. Visiting Seoul with kids? These palaces are great places to see in Seoul with children.

Please note: Free entry to Seoul’s palaces is only available when wearing hanbok, as well as special dates such as Seollal, Chuseok, and the last Wednesday of each month, which is Culture Day.

3: Cheonggyecheon Stream

After strolling the bustling streets of downtown Seoul, find your inner peace again while wandering the Cheonggyecheon Stream. This oasis of gurgling water winds through the concrete jungle, with paved embankments, public art installations, and stone block bridges crossing its path. It’s one of the best ways to explore downtown Seoul without crossing roads and dodging cars.

Locals and travellers alike come to this urban waterway to rest their feet, have a picnic, and soak in Korean history from the informative plaques along the way. As a free refuge from the city’s chaos, Cheonggyecheon Stream lets you relax and recharge without spending a cent. If you visit during Christmas, you’ll be treated to lantern displays, while night markets are held here in summer.

4: Insadong Art Street

For creative spirits and art aficionados, a must-do free activity in Seoul is wandering Insadong Art Street. This quaint area explodes with inspiration down every alley from galleries showcasing traditional paintings and calligraphy to indie craft shops brimming with pottery and handmade knickknacks. Street culture dazzles with impromptu dances, music, chalk art, and graffiti murals colouring the walls.

Let Insadong ignite your imagination with its eye-popping art that spills onto the streets and inspires at every turn – all free for visitors to glimpse. My favourite spot in this area is the Ssamzigil art mall, which has loads of creative shops and the strangely delicious Poop Cafe on the top floor.

5: Gwanghwamun Square

At the heart of Seoul lies Gwanghwamun Square, a public space with free access offering glimpses into Korea’s dynastic history through art and artefacts. Visitors can explore the plaza’s statues of Admiral Yi Sun-sin and King Sejong the Great while learning about their leadership legacies. Wander through the on-site exhibit displaying parts of a former royal palace.

With cultural shows, temporary art installations, and city views surrounding this downtown square, Gwanghwamun provides free entertainment and education for travellers of all ages to better understand Seoul’s storied past. In winter, this area is home to the Seoul Winter Festa, a dazzling display of lanterns and light installations, while in other seasons you can find free markets to explore.

6: Banpo Rainbow Fountain Bridge

As the sun sets over Seoul, head to the Banpo Rainbow Fountain Bridge to witness its nightly rainbow fountain show lighting up the river, absolutely free. This 10-minute spectacle projects arcing jets of water in sync with a captivating LED light display. The colourful, dancing fountain against the city skyline creates an almost magical illusion not to miss.

From late April through mid-October, the dazzling rainbow fountain performances occur multiple times per night. With different themed multimedia shows featuring music, images, and lasers, visitors never see the same program twice. An iconic Seoul attraction, the Banpo Rainbow Fountain Bridge is a free, family-friendly evening activity perfect for making vacation memories along the Han River.

7: Deoksugung Stone Wall Road

Explore the exterior of one of Seoul’s four grand royal palaces, Deoksugung, on an intimate scale by taking a peaceful walk along the complex’s Stone Wall Road. As a lesser-known alternative to the main gate entrances, this tree-lined pathway hugs the palace perimeter wall giving unique angles gazing into traditional buildings more closely.

Built during King Seonjo’s era when Deoksugung became a primary royal residence in the late 1500s, these historic stone barriers now offer poetic scenery for peaceful palace strolls utterly free of charge, unveiling new beauty found only with adventures off the beaten track when discovering Seoul. It’s a popular location in K-drama’s and you might recognise it if you’re a fan of Korean shows.

8: Myeongdong Cathedral

Rising distinctly above the gleaming high-rises and congested alleyways of Myeongdong’s busy shopping district, the late 19th century Myeongdong Cathedral stands as an elegant heritage landmark open freely to visitors. Marvel at its vaulted Gothic spires, intricate stained glass, and historic pipe organ inside this Anglican church serving Seoul’s community since 1898.

Attend English language masses or benefit concerts within this cultural icon. For a brief reprieve from the consumer chaos of Myeongdong outside, find sublime solace appreciating this architectural beauty as one of the city’s most photographed sites and Korea’s oldest Anglican place of worship, with no admission tickets required. Please be careful not to disturb ceremonies when you enter.

9: Seoul’s Fortress Walls

One of my personal favourite free things to do in Seoul is walking along the many miles of ancient fortress walls that still exist in many parts of the city’s centre and surrounding mountains. The freely accessible fortress walls and towering gatehouses, which date back through the centuries and once protected Korea’s capital from foreign invaders, stretch over 18 kilometres around the city.

Much of these monumental battlements still stand today with scenic hiking trails following their path. Wander past ancient mountain gates, watchtowers, beacon mounds, and signposts guiding wayward travellers. For unparalleled views into the fortress and the city it shields, the Seoul City Wall Museum also provides a free observatory deck overlooking iconic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace.

10: Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Rising in dramatic curves from Seoul’s central district, the contemporary Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) serves as an iconic exhibition centre and architectural work of art with 24/7 free access to its outdoor spaces, including the plaza’s lawns, rooftop park, and lotus pond. Designed by Zaha Hadid, DDP’s flowing metallic facades encapsulate a creative complex of galleries and event halls.

From experimental art displays wrapped around the structure to dynamic light shows like Seoul Light illuminating DDP in technicolour, this urban design destination dazzles the senses with visionary design open to the public day and night. Explore the free night markets held here during the summer and use some of your saved money to buy yourself some artistic souvenirs.

11: Namsan Mountain Park (N Seoul Tower)

While the observation decks of N Seoul Tower come with admission fees, exploring the surrounding Namsan Mountain Park area is completely free. Ride the cable car up to the tower and then set off walking along the many scenic trails crisscrossing the mountain. Leafy paths snake up to panorama viewpoints, traditional pavilions, and even quirky attractions like the “Locks of Love.”

After exploring all the free things to do in Seoul’s Namsan Mountain Park, work your way down nearly 100 staircases back to downtown. Under spring’s cherry blossoms or fall’s fiery foliage, a trek around Namsan Mountain lets you enjoy the sights of N Seoul Tower’s perch amid nature without opening your wallet. I recommend walking up in the afternoon to enjoy sunset views of Seoul at night.

12: Namsangol Park And Hanok Village

Escape Seoul’s bustling metropolis back in time with a stroll through Namsangol Hanok Village’s tranquil grounds. Within this historic enclave beside Namsan Mountain rest five traditional Korean houses from the Joseon era for visitors to explore the preserved architecture. Surrounding the hanoks, the sprawling Namsangol Park bursts with lovely ponds, gardens, and walking paths underneath tree canopies.

From classic concerts at its outdoor stage to glimpsing folk arts like kite-making demonstrations, you can enjoy free cultural experiences in this area. An oasis in the city, Namsangol Hanok Village and scenic Namsangol Park offers peaceful, educational escapes into old Korea completely gratis. There are some lovely teahouses here which, although not free, offer great views, teas, and tranquility.

Cultural Activities In Seoul That Are Free

Immerse yourself in Seoul’s dynamic culture with an array of superb free experiences across this cosmopolitan capital. From centuries-old traditions to trendsetting pop culture, Seoul overflows with opportunities to tap into its cultural heartbeat. These free things to do in Seoul are perfect for those who want to learn more about Korea’s rich and varied culture, both traditional and modern.

13: Cheong Wa Dae (The Blue House)

Understand Korea’s complex democracy by joining a free tour of Cheong Wa Dae, the presidential palace with abundant history as both a royal and colonial site now open to the public. Walk among lotus ponds, through regal meeting halls, over stone bridges previously reserved for private walks by the president, and inside dozens of unique buildings that were previously hidden from public view.

With limited tickets available each day, this opportunity unveils the behind-the-scenes inner workings steering modern Korea from this historically significant landmark free-of-charge to those eager to learn. The Blue House opens at 9am each day and, as this is one of the most popular free places in Seoul since opening in 2023, I recommend being there just before to make sure you get a ticket.

14: K-Star Road For K-Pop Fans

Along Apgujeong’s stylish Rodeo Street lies K-Star Road, letting Hallyu fans glimpse their favourite actors, K-pop idols, and Korean celebrities along a stretch of sidewalk absolutely free. Hundreds of stars’ handprints are immortalised in stone next to bronze name plaques that comprise this unofficial walk of fame. There are also life-sized bear statues of the most popular K-culture icons.

Spy on Korea’s biggest record labels like JYP, SM, and YG in towering company buildings looming nearby as you meander past luxury designer boutiques. For spotting Korea’s rich and famous, this free attraction in Seoul offers the best chances of a celebrity sighting while learning about viral Korean entertainment sensation’s impact nationwide. Don’t expect the rest of this area to be cheap, however.

15: Jogyesa And Bongeunsa Temples

Transport back through the centuries by visiting Jogyesa and Bongeunsa, two of Seoul’s most prominent Buddhist temples open freely to visitors. Built in the 14th century, these serene complexes house preserved relics and serve as urban sanctuaries where monks perform daily rituals. Tour ornamented main halls, join in chanting ceremonies, sample vegetarian Temple cuisine or try meditation with monks.

For authentic cultural experiences, you can learn about traditional tea ceremonies, make lotus lanterns or try on traditional hanbok during workshops on certain days. These free activities in Seoul give you a wonderful insight into Korea’s Buddhist traditions. An oasis amid skyscrapers, these historic temples offer charming glimpses into Korea’s ancient past and Buddhist traditions.

16: Ihwa Mural Village & Naksan Park

Discover quaint cafés, boutique galleries, and explosively colourful street art woven along the sloping hillside neighbourhood of Ihwa Mural Village, open freely for aimless wandering without tickets. Winding pedestrian pathways full of trendy shops and cafes covered top-to-bottom in vibrant murals lead up to the equally stunning Naksan Park perched high above.

Follow the park trail to panorama viewpoints gazing across Seoul’s vast skyline or relax under blossoming fruit orchards blanketing the mountainside from spring through fall. With artistic flair painted everywhere you look, Ihwa and Nakasan beckon the curious to explore their beauty hiding just above the city streets. I recommend following the fortress walls from Naksan Park to Dongdaemun Gate.

17: Seoul’s Traditional Markets

Venture beyond Seoul’s glitzy malls to wander its traditional markets for an authentic look into Korean shopping culture. Browse curb side food stalls serving beloved street eats like tteokbokki smothered in fiery sauce. Snake through vibrant Korean traditional markets like Gwangjang’s alleys teeming with tempting snacks or Dongdaemun’s endless urban maze packed with fashion bargains.

Haggle with ajummas peddling ginseng, handmade hanji paper, and other unique souvenirs as you immerse in the colourful chaos. For unraveling Seoul’s shopping DNA through loud bartering, intoxicating sights, and tantalising smells, traditional markets promise a sensory experience. These markets offer lots of cheap things to do in Seoul, such as trying street food and buying souvenirs.

18: Royal Palace Changing Of The Guard

Witness Korean military pageantry at the changing of the guard ceremony held at two of Seoul’s royal palaces multiple times daily, the first at 10:00am and the last at 2:00pm. Both Gyeongbokgung and Deoksugung open their gates for crowds to watch guards in traditional costumes marching with military bands playing as symbolic sentinels switch shifts protecting Korea’s cultural treasures.

Hear commands echo as rows bow synchronised on cue to entertain visitors of all ages while learning about dynastic defence tactics and regal rituals. For traditional Korean fanfare infused with modern discipline that makes history come alive through sights and sounds, catching the changing of the guard ignites patriotic pride and is a great free thing to do in Seoul any time of year.

19: Oil Tank Culture Park

Once an oil depot from the 1960s, the Oil Tank Culture Park is now an elevated grassy recreation space open for Seoul residents and tourists alike to enjoy modern art installations and city views absolutely free of charge. Stroll between 15 repurposed fuel tanks decorated vibrantly by local artists then climb outdoor staircases to rooftop lookout plazas guiding eyes across Seoul’s sea of buildings.

Kids will love the Children’s Gallery building offering hands-on learning fun from robots to workshops. Atop four iconic oil tanks, this cultural playground brings together art, technology, and breathtaking vistas. There are cafes, art shops, and occasional markets here, offering plenty of cheap things to do in Seoul besides the aforementioned free activities. Soon to be accessible by the Seoul river bus service.

Seoul’s Best Free Natural Sights

Beyond dynamic cityscapes, Seoul overflows with natural splendour from windswept parks to guardian mountains shielding the capital that visitors can walk through free of charge. These green getaways will take you across the rivers and peaks enveloping central Seoul for serene escapes back into nature and sweeping metropolitan panoramas, as well as offer gentle strolls through beautiful downtown areas.

20: Bukhansan National Park

Escape Seoul’s concrete landscape for pristine wilderness less than an hour away at the stunning Bukhansan National Park. Only a metro and quick bus ride north, its granite peaks offer challenging yet accessible hikes with breathtaking rewards of towering mountain temples and panoramic views across the entire city. The hike to Baegundae Peak offers incredible views over Seoul all for free.

With diverse wildlife, autumn’s scarlet foliage, and one of Korea’s most sacred sites, this easily accessible natural wonderland promises exhilarating treks tailored for all difficulty levels. It’s absolutely free to enter Bukhansan and you can explore at your own pace. There are valley paths to wander along slowly, or various hiking routes that will take you up into the lofty peaks.

21: Seoul Forest

Escape Seoul’s concrete jungle into nature’s tranquility at Seoul Forest Park, an enormous green space featuring flowerbeds, forests trails, a cultural art park, children’s playgrounds, an insect botanical garden and more – all freely open to the public. See native wildlife like storks and herons landing in a lake dotted with blossoms, and cute critters like deer, rabbits, and sheep in the petting zoo.

Renting a bike and riding through the park and along the Han River is one of the best cheap things to do in Seoul during summer and is very popular with locals and tourists alike. If you prefer to walk, it will take a few hours to explore this large green area, more if you have children and they discover the many play areas with slides, swings, etc., that they can enjoy endlessly.

22: Seokchon Lake (Near Lotte World Tower)

Nestled at the foot of Jamsil’s Lotte World Tower lies the tranquil Seokchon Lake, a serene urban oasis offering free lakeside walks and downtown views across this artificial reservoir. Stroll around the long lakeside walkways and marvel at the lazy ducks floating through the pond, the abundant nature, and the cute swan-shaped paddle boats you can rent nearby. At night there are neon-moon boats, too.

Just steps from the bustle of Jamsil, this hidden eco-park promises Instagram-worthy moments beside its undisturbed waters at no cost, with the stunning Lotte World Tower in the background. Seokchon Lake is one of Korea’s most popular places to visit during cherry blossom season and is home to the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival, a must see free festival in Seoul!

23: Han River Parks

Escape the hustle of Seoul by visiting the Han River Parks, an interconnected 12-mile riverside greenway open 24/7 for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy absolutely free. This urban waterfront oasis features landscaped lawns, wooded areas, and cycling paths dotted with unique attractions like public swimming pools, performance venues, and museums. Perfect for a cheap day out in Seoul.

From rollerblading under blooming cherry trees in Yeouido Park to catching golden hour along the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain, visitors of all ages can bask beside the gentle Han River year-round, making it one of the best free options in the city. Definitely visit during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage season, although expect millions of other people to do the same!

24: Seollo 7017 Nature Walkway

Soar across Seoul for stunning skyline panoramas along Seollo 7017, an overpass reinvented into a 983-meter long elevated park trailing through central Seoul. The name comes from the year this section of the highway became pedestrianised (1970) and the year it became an innovative green walkway between Seoul Station and Namdaemun Market near Myeongdong (2017).

The free footpath now connects people walking to and from Seoul Station, allowing them to pass through charming greenery, elegant footbridges, and contemporary pathways instead of busy city streets. Seollo 7017 is best visited during spring and summer when the trees and plants on the bridge are in full bloom and people come to play the pianos dotted along the pathway at night.

25: Gyeongui Line Forest Park

One of my favourite green areas in central Seoul, the Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a set of public parks that were created from an abandoned railway line that used to cut through central Seoul all the way to Seoul Station. Stroll through contemporary art installations, discover Seoul’s passion for reading in green spaces, and find respite in the 17 unique parts of this urban oasis near Hongdae.

Each section comprises colourful murals, whimsical sculptures, and rotating public exhibits by Korean artists and designers. Kids can play in interactive fountains while adults peruse the outdoor galleries during a walk between buzzing Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong neighbourhoods. Showcasing rising talents and revitalising forgotten urban spaces, these avant-garde parks offer freely accessible art to all.

26: Seoul Grand Park

Reconnect with nature and spend a day seeing the sights at Seoul Grand Park, an enormous green space filled with botanical gardens, forests trails, a zoo, and a children’s theme park. While the zoo and theme park have entrance fees, you can see most of the park for free, including the cherry blossom trees that line wide walkways, making this park an incredible free place to visit in spring.

Have a picnic under flower arbors in the themed gardens blooming seasonally then hike through ginkgo tree forests as your faces brush against golden leaves in fall. For families and nature lovers alike, roomy Seoul Grand Park provides free outdoor adventures found few other places in the city. There are discounted entry tickets for Seoul Zoo online which you can use to save money on your visit.

Free Museums And Galleries In Seoul

Beyond royal palaces, Seoul overflows with exceptional museums and galleries that open their world-class collections to the public completely free-of-charge. Enrich your mind through history, art, science, and creativity without spending a single won with these fascinating cultural repositories. These free things to do in Seoul are just a sample of the free cultural wonders awaiting you in Seoul.

27: Seoul Museum Of Art

For fine art free of charge, visit the elegant Seoul Museum of Art showcasing 7000 years of Korean aesthetic heritage across seven floors of galleries tucked behind Deoksugung Palace. Explore one of the most comprehensive Asian art collections in the world spanning ancient religious works through modern multimedia pieces.

Don’t miss the museum’s highlight – a complete handwritten book of Buddhist scriptures dating back to the 700s considered a national treasure of Korea. Special exhibits also focus on aspects of Asian art history, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s creative roots.

28: War Memorial Of Korea

Pay homage to Korean veterans and fallen soldiers with a free self-guided tour of the mammoth War Memorial of Korea, the country’s only state-run national museum overlooking sprawling Yongsan Park. Hundreds of aircrafts, tanks, and artillery greet visitors outside while expansive exhibit halls detail intense battles fought across oceans through extensive dioramas and documentaries.

29: National Museum Of Korea

Journey through Korea’s expansive history spanning ancient kingdoms to thriving modern society free-of-charge at The National Museum of Korea, the nation’s largest repository safeguarding over 150,000 artifacts. Wander massive exhibition halls displaying age-old pottery, calligraphy scrolls, and Buddhist sculptures while exploring chronicles of cultural milestones and ancient dynasties.

Don’t miss King Sejong’s original Joseon canon inscribed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register for its global significance. Offering indoor and outdoor venues with rotating traditional performances on weekends, this world-class museum unveils Korea’s storied past completely gratis.

30: National Folk Museum Of Korea

Delve into Korea’s cultural roots spanning dynasties and generations with a free trip to the National Folk Museum of Korea, perfectly placed within the Gyeongbokgung Palace grounds. Three exhibition halls brim with over 4,000 artefacts from ancient to modern times depicting lifestyles in both rural villages and royal courts through authentic clothing, housing models, spiritual symbols and hands-on activities.

Map Of Free Things To Do In Seoul

To help make it easier for you to check out all of these free things to do in Seoul, I’ve placed markers on Google Maps which you can use to navigate to each destination. Use the map below or open and save the details to Google Maps on your phone or browser to check later on. I’ve also added in some extra free or cheap things to do in Seoul that are close by the other attractions.

Money Saving Tips For Seoul

From public transportation to sightseeing, Seoul overflows with money-saving opportunities for budget-conscious travellers able to uncover the city’s generous free offerings. Here are some of my top tips about how to see Seoul for less and save money on your travels.

Buy a transportation card: Seoul’s public transport system is amazing, cheap, and user-friendly. Take advantage of discounted fares by picking up a transportation card when you arrive at Incheon Airport or at convenience stores across Korea.

Eat Korean street food: Seoul is blessed with lots of incredible cheap street eats that you should try regardless of your budget as they’re absolutely mouth-wateringly tasty. If you want to save money, snack outdoors instead of lunch or dinner and you’ll save lots.

Explore Seoul’s traditional markets: Not only do Seoul’s traditional markets offer the chance to try cheap street food snacks and some of the best traditional dishes in Korea, they’re also full of bargain souvenirs.

Try hanbok for free: Although hanbok rental in Seoul isn’t that expensive (and certainly worth it), you can save some money by trying hanbok for free at cultural and tourists centres in Seoul, including the Seoul Global Culture Centre and the Myeongdong Tourist Information Centre.

Rent a bike to see more sights: Seoul has a great bike rental system that’s cheap and conveniently located throughout the city. This is one of the best ways to explore the long stretches of Han River parks and get some exercise while you move from sight to sight.

Pick up a Seoul city pass: City passes for Seoul allow you to visit some of the most expensive and exciting attractions for one set price and can save you a lot of money vs. paying for each attraction separately. The Discover Seoul Pass and Go City Seoul Pass are two of the best.

Book hotels in advance: Seoul has a wealth of cheap places to stay, but prices always increase the closer you get to your stay. Book ahead and you’ll get the best prices. Not sure where to stay in Seoul? Check out my guide to Seoul’s best districts for travellers.

Claim your tax back: A great way to save money in Seoul, especially if you plan to do a lot of shopping, is with tax refunds on eligible purchases. You can claim up to ₩5,000,000 tax back.

Visit the Jeong-dong Observatory by City Hall: I didn’t include it in this list, but there’s a place in Seoul to get free sights of Deoksugung Palace, as shown in the cover image of this article. On the 13th floor of the Seosomun Building near City Hall is the Jeong-dong Observatory, which offers views of central Seoul from the cafe. However, you kind of have to buy a coffee to enjoy them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about free things to do in Seoul. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article.

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Seoul is a really diverse city with lots of distinctive districts, each offering up the chance to embrace their charms and offer you a home during your stay. From the busy streets of metropolitan Myeongdong, to hip Hongdae, glamorous Gangnam, and beyond. Discover the best areas to stay in Seoul for traditional or modern culture, authentic experiences, entertainment, shopping, sightseeing, and more.

This guide will cover the best areas in Seoul that shouldn’t be missed so you can best experience this fascinating capital based on what speaks to you. There’s a Seoul neighbourhood that will suit your travel style, whether you’re a first-time traveller, travelling as a solo traveller or family, travelling to experience the best of Seoul’s iconic street food, or you want to immerse yourself in Korea’s culture.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Summary: Where To Stay In Seoul 2024

The purpose of this Seoul district guide is to help you figure out where you want to stay in Seoul and show you some hotels in Seoul that will fit your budget. I’ve got dedicated articles about these districts with more information about what to see and do in each neighbourhood, as well as a more complete list of the best hotels in each of those areas. You’ll find links to those articles within this guide.

To help you make your decision about where to stay in Seoul, I’ve narrowed this article down to just 9 neighbourhoods in Seoul that cover the most popular, tourist friendly, and convenient parts of Seoul to stay in. The table below shows you those 9 districts and a brief summary about each area. You can click the district names to jump straight to the section about that area in this article.

There’s also a (poorly made) visual guide to these Seoul neighbourhoods so you can see where they are in relation to each other and some of the famous attractions nearby.

Which Area Of Seoul Is Best For Me?

Foodies find nirvana wandering the night markets of buzzing Myeongdong or Dongdaemun, while traditional culture insights unfold in Insadong. The indie art galleries, live music venues, and hidden cocktail bars of Hongdae cater to night owls and hipsters. Itaewon reflects Seoul’s diversity through its globetrotting cuisine and fashion. And the luxurious high-rises of Gangnam evoke ultra-modern sheen.

I don’t think there is a ‘wrong’ area of Seoul to stay in as Seoul is very safe, ranking as the 8th safest city in the world in 2019. There are certainly areas that are inconvenient for tourists to stay in though, usually because these are far from sightseeing locations, don’t cater to foreign tourists, are mostly residential areas without hotels, or might not have a lot going on to keep you entertained at night.

Everyone has different requirements and expectations when they visit this mega city of 10 million people. Whether you seek historic sights or designer shops, flashing neon lights or quiet hanok houses, stay where your passions lie. Of course, there are usually options for all of these travellers in each of Seoul’s neighbourhoods, but these districts excel at catering to these types of travellers.

Not sure which district is right for you? Here’s a handy breakdown of the best neighbourhoods in Seoul for different types of travellers and a hotel recommendation for each. Check out the section later on about the best district in Seoul by traveller type for more detailed insights.

Why You Should Stay In Seoul

Seoul is Korea’s capital, home to a large portion of it’s population, the heart of the economy, the birthplace of K-pop and the setting for many famous K-dramas and movies. It’s also one of the must-see places to visit when you travel to Korea. If you’re a first-time traveller to Korea, then you definitely don’t want to miss out on Seoul as it’s a really useful place to get used to Korea’s unique charms.

What makes Seoul such a great area to stay in, besides the abundant traditional and modern sights, amazing food options, cool culture, numerous attractions and fantastic shopping, is that it’s a great place to base yourself to see more of Korea. There are lots of day tours from Seoul, such as Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, and Suwon, that depart from Myeongdong, Hongdae, or Gangnam.

With a distinctive written language, called hangul, that’s nothing like English or other languages, Korea might seem a daunting place for travellers to visit. Fortunately, Seoul is an international city that caters to foreign tourists really well, much more so than other cities in Korea. You can find translations across Seoul in English, as well as Chinese, Japanese, and various other languages.

For these reasons, and many more, Seoul is the ideal place to stay in Korea for tourists. Areas like Myeongdong, Hongdae, Insadong, and Gangnam are especially accommodating for tourists, which is why they’re the first 4 places I recommend in this Seoul district guide. Wherever you decide to stay in Seoul, I’m sure you’ll have an eye-opening experience if you stay in one of these neighbourhoods.

My Favourite Place To Stay In Seoul

I don’t live in Seoul, but I travel there many times each year to see Korean festivals, cherry blossoms, autumn foliage, Christmas sights, or just to enjoy the atmosphere and sights of a big city. I’ve stayed in many different districts in Seoul, but I find myself coming back to Myeongdong the most due to the wide selection of hotels, the convenient location, and a good selection of shops and street food.

Regular visitors to Seoul might scoff at this choice, saying that Myeongdong is too touristy and not ‘authentic’, which is certainly true, but it’s a great place to base yourself in the capital and all the ‘authentic’ places are just a short subway ride away. There are hotels in Myeongdong for all budgets and you can find everything from cheap guesthouses for quick trips to luxury hotels for special occasions.

I like to stay at the L7 Myeongdong by Lotte, which offers the views you can see in the pictures below. There’s a rooftop bar and foot spa where you can have a drink or dip your toes while looking out over the city and taking in the sights of the N Seoul Tower and beyond. It’s located right next to Myeongdong Station, which means you can zoom across the city to other places really easily, too.

Where To Stay In Myeongdong (Shops And Convenience)

When friends ask me where to stay in Seoul, I usually direct them to Myeongdong. Conveniently located a couple of stops from Seoul Station, this is a great location for those arriving from Incheon Airport or from other cities in South Korea. Sample the delicious street food that is on sale in the markets – you’ll find all sorts here, from traditional Korean foods, to weird and wonderful modern treats.

Tourist support staff wander the streets, English is widely used, it’s the start point for tours, and you can find street food and souvenirs in the night markets throughout this area. Myeongdong is the perfect base for travellers of all kinds and all budgets, with accommodation options that range from cosy guesthouses and hostels to luxurious high-rise hotels that offer stunning views across the city.

Myeongdong, like Seoul in general, is a melting pot of foreigners, hard working Koreans, shopping addicts, cafe lovers, and all in between. It’s a real microcosm of Korean life – which is fast paced and on the go 24 hours a day. That’s what makes it one of the best neighbourhoods in Seoul. There are markets you can wander through until late at night and practice haggling for bargains.

Location Overview: Located in central Seoul, Myeongdong is perfect for tourists seeking convenience and well connected for transport. Nearby neighbourhoods like Chungmuro offer plenty to explore on foot.

What’s Myeongdong Like: Vibrant retail and commercial district catering heavily to tourists. Bustling atmosphere with bright signs, street vendors, and crowds visiting cosmetics shops and food stalls.

Key Attractions & Sights: Myeongdong Shopping Street, Lotte Department Store, Korean cosmetics stores, street food stalls, Myeongdong Cathedral, Nanta performance arts theatre.

Dining & Nightlife Options: Quick-service restaurants and casual eateries focused on to-go shoppers. Known for street food skewers and dumplings. Limited nightlife, more cafes and dessert shops.

Budget Estimate: Anything from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. You can find mid-range hotels for great prices in this area, especially in off-peak season.

Foreigner Friendliness: Very foreigner-friendly area. Shops and restaurants cater to tourists with English menus readily available. Easy district for non-Korean speakers to stay in.

Main Subway Station: Myeongdong Station

Best Hotels In Myeongdong

Myeongdong has one of the widest selections of hotels in all of Seoul’s districts and there is a hotel to suit any budget. Here are three of the best hotels in Myeongdong to suit different budgets.

$$$ The Westin Josun Seoul (★★★★★):
The Westin Josun Seoul is a luxurious 5-star hotel situated in the popular Myeongdong shopping district, offering well-appointed rooms with views of the city or mountains, exceptional service, multiple dining options, a swimming pool, and convenient access to top attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace.

$$ Four Points by Sheraton Josun (★★★★):
The Four Points by Sheraton Josun is a comfortable hotel located right in the heart of vibrant Myeongdong, placing you steps from the area’s world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment. Contemporary rooms, an indoor pool, and 24-hour fitness centre ensure an enjoyable Seoul stay.

$$ Henn-na Hotel Seoul Myeongdong (★★★★) (BONUS):
This Henn-na Hotel is one of the weird and wonderful hotels you can find in Seoul. Featuring Robots for receptionists and T-Rex for bellboys, this is truly one of the more unique lobbies of a hotel you’ll experience. Fortunately, things resume to normality beyond the lobby.

$ Philstay Myeongdong Station (★★):
Philstay Myeongdong Station is a modern budget hotel situated right next to the Myeongdong subway station, providing easy accessibility around Seoul. Its clean, compact rooms coupled with friendly service offer great value in the prime location of Myeongdong – the famous fashion and foodie district.

Learn more: For a full breakdown of where to stay in Myeongdong, including the best budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodation options, check out my guide to the best hotels in Myeongdong. It also includes a more detailed guide about visiting Myeongdong and what to see and do in the area.

Where To Stay In Hongdae (Culture And Entertainment)

When I travel to Seoul for a day trip or weekend stay, I usually come to Hongdae to eat, drink, shop, or party. There are so many great places to dine, including foreign-food restaurants, traditional Korean dishes like BBQ, and funky bistros located in the side streets. Hongdae is the best neighbourhood in Seoul for those who want to experience Korea’s youth culture, eat well, and buy modern Korean fashion.

Hongdae is Seoul’s answer to Harajuku in Tokyo, with lots of unique fashion styles, cafes and stores. The streets are packed with clothes shops (boutique or mainstream), artsy goods, souvenirs, and, best of all, lots of Korean snacks to sample! There’s a strong art influence here from nearby Hongik University (Hong-ik Dae-hakkyo), which gives the area its name and culture (it’s an art uni).

The energetic college district packs an explosion of experiences into a few blocks, perfect for the traveller craving the excitement and modern vibe Korea has become famous for. Accommodation is reasonably priced with homely guesthouses and hostels, as well as artistic hotels and smart business hotels for travellers. This is another great place to base yourself to see other parts of Seoul.

Location Overview: Hongdae is just west of central Seoul and close to the Han River. It’s a lively college neighbourhood that’s directly connected to the Airport Expressway.

What’s Hongdae Like: Artsy ambience catering to university students. Young creative vibe with street art, indie galleries, quirky boutiques, and music halls hosting underground performers.

Key Attractions & Sights: Hongdae Playground for street performances, concert venues, Korean crafts and fashion at Free Market, quirky cafes. Popular nightlife clubs.

Dining & Nightlife Options: Casual dining, foreign foods, quirky cafes, and lots of quick bites and street food. Iconic for its club scene – DJs, dance clubs, lively late night entertainment.

Budget Estimate: As this is a student area, there are plenty of lower-budget places to stay in, as well as mid-range hotels and shops. Foreign food and clubs can be expensive.

Foreigner Friendliness: Very open neighbourhood for foreigners. Lots of Western comforts. The high number of younger Koreans means more chance people can speak English.

Main Subway Station: Hongik University Station

Best Hotels In Hongdae

Hongdae’s hotel options aren’t as wide as other tourist areas like Myeongdong or Gangnam, but this district has some of the coolest, most unique hotels in Seoul. Here are some of the best hotels in Hongdae for different budgets.

$$$ RYSE, Autograph Collection (★★★★):
RYSEm Autograph Collection is a stylishly designed hotel in the heart of Hongdae, Seoul’s youth culture and nightlife hub. Its chic rooms with city views, rooftop lounge, and easy access to the area’s countless cafes, galleries, shops, and clubs make it the perfect base to experience this vibrant neighbourhood.

$$ Amanti Hotel Seoul (★★★★):
Nestled in the popular Hongdae area, Amanti Hotel Seoul is a cozy boutique property which affords easy access to all of Hongdae’s attractions while still maintaining tranquility and privacy. With a free-style open lobby, restaurants, a fitness centre, and warm, natural room decor to welcome you.

$ DW Design Residence (★★★):
DW Design Residence is a stylish boutique hotel located in Hongdae. Its chic, modern rooms with city views provide a quiet escape while still being walking distance to Hongdae’s famous shops, clubs, cafes, and street art, making it the perfect base to explore this youthful, artistic neighbourhood.

Learn more: For a full breakdown of where to stay in Hongdae, including the best budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodation options, check out my guide to the best hotels in Hongdae. It also includes a more detailed guide about visiting Hongdae and what to see and do in the area.

Where To Stay In Gangnam (Shopping And Nightlife)

Under the glitzy high-rises lies the opulent heart of Seoul in Gangnam. If you envision the Korean high life of fashion boutiques, Michelin star dining, and pulsing nightclub exclusivity — this is your ideal base. Its reputation as Korea’s Beverly Hills spans well beyond the viral pop song to the district’s extravagant reality. Shop flagship stores carrying luxury labels and ultra-modern Korean goods.

Taste creative fine dining fusing Korean cuisine with other global flavours. Then sip expertly-crafted cocktails at a rooftop bar with city views before you finish off the night at Korea’s most prestigious dance clubs. While the usual Gangnam bucket list caters to those seeking indulgence, there are plenty of wallet-friendly experiences like people-watching in style, riverside walks, and grabbing a Korean dessert.

There’s more to Gangnam than shopping and fancy hotels, though. There’s the historic Bongeunsa Temple, Royal Tombs, and a load of cool art galleries and museums to check out. Fans of K-pop will definitely love the K-Star Road where you can see statues dedicated to Korea’s biggest music stars. You might even bump into your favourite idols in this area if you’re really lucky!

Location Overview: Gangnam is south of the Han River, known as a modern wealthy business district. Well-connected to transit. Nearby Apgujeong is a popular high-end shopping area.

What’s Gangnam Like: Fashionable, elite ambience as Korea’s Beverly Hills. Luxury brand flagships, high-rise corporate offices, refined cafes, glitzy nightlife attract sophisticated crowds.

Key Attractions & Sights: COEX Mall, Starfield Library, Bongeunsa Temple, Gangnam Style K-pop Statue, Gaon Art Centre, K-Star Road, K-pop themed exhibitions.

Dining & Nightlife Options: Michelin-starred restaurants from Japan and Korea. Exceptional fine dining. Trendsetting cocktail bars and exclusive nightclubs with A-list clientele.

Budget Estimate: Most hotels, shops, and restaurants cater to Seoul’s elites, selling designer goods at high prices. However, there are also plenty of budget options in quieter side streets.

Foreigner Friendliness: This area attracts lots of expats who work and live in the area, as well as foreign tourists, making it quite foreigner friendly with some foreign food options.

Main Subway Station: Gangnam Station

Best Hotels In Gangnam

Gangnam boasts the largest collection of upmarket hotels in Seoul and is perfect for travellers who are looking for the finer things when they travel. There are also plenty of mid-range and budget options, too. Here are some hotel recommendations in Gangnam for each budget type.

$$$ Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas (★★★★★):
Overlooking the COEX Mall, the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas is a luxurious 5-star hotel in the heart of Gangnam. With well-appointed rooms boasting panoramic city views, exceptional service, Michelin-starred dining, an indoor pool, and a prime location near top shopping and attractions.

$$ Dormy Inn Seoul Gangnam (★★★):
Dormy Inn Seoul Gangnam is a comfortable hotel situated minutes from Gangnam’s central station, providing easy access to the fashionable district. Clean Japanese-style rooms, therapeutic onsen hot spring baths, saunas, a 24-hour gym, and breakfast buffet offer great value in an ideal location.

$ Toyoko Inn Gangnam Seoul (★★★):
The Toyoko Inn Gangnam Seoul is an affordable hotel in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul’s most stylish district. Its compact rooms offer essential amenities and free Wi-Fi while its prime location places you steps from mega malls, nightlife, K-Pop labels, and easy transportation for exploring Seoul.

Where To Stay In Insadong (Sights And Culture)

For an authentic taste of historic Korean aesthetics, make the charming district of Insadong your Seoul neighbourhood base. Just steps from modern buildings lies this preserved world of hanok houses, tea rooms, and winding alleys that represent Korea of yesterday and still today. Stop into a gallery to admire works by local artisans preserving longtime crafts like handmade hanji paper.

Pop into a tea shop to sip traditional tea while sampling delicate Korean desserts. Wander Insadong’s roads lined with shops offering antiques, traditional attire like hanbok, and quirky souvenirs you won’t find in mass retailers. Yet it’s the ability to take a peaceful break from the hurry of the modern city a few blocks away that makes this a great area to stay in Seoul.

Insadong continues on quietly with locals visiting decades-old restaurants and partaking in cultural experiences unique to Korea. Immerse yourself here in the historic heart of Seoul as a contrast to the gleaming towers surrounding this protected view into the past. There are lots of traditional sights nearby, including Jogyesa Temple, royal palaces, and the charming Bukchon Hanok Village.

Location Overview: Insadong is in central Seoul, known for traditional teahouses, galleries, and antique shops between Anguk Station and Jongno.

What’s Insadong Like: Historic charm with preserved Korean architecture alongside street food stands and peaceful teahouses frequented by locals. Known for traditional ambience.

Key Attractions & Sights: Ssamziegil arts complex housing traditional handicrafts shops, paintings and galleries, Tapgol Park, Jogyesa Buddhist temple, folk museum, and the Dynamic Maze.

Dining & Nightlife Options: Casual local eateries specializing in rice cakes, dumplings and sweet pancakes. Evening entertainment limited but nearby Jongno has plenty of options.

Budget Estimate: Despite the central location to historic sights, this area has many budget options for accommodation, dining, entertainment, and shopping.

Foreigner Friendliness: Historic area has information readily available in other languages. Known for an authentic Korean experience that caters to tourists.

Main Subway Station: Anguk Station

Best Hotels In Insadong

As this is a historic area of Seoul, there aren’t many high-rises. Instead hotels are typically smaller and more dated. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t lots of good accommodation options in Insadong. Here are some hotel recommendations in Insadong for each budget type.

$$$ Orakai Insadong Suites (★★★★):
Orakai Insadong Suites is a charming boutique hotel situated in central Insadong. Spacious suites with traditional décor, an Italian restaurant, and roof terrace provide comfort and style, while its unbeatable location grants easy access to Insadong’s cafés, galleries, shops, and historic sights.

$$ Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong (★★★★):
Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong is a modern, design-centric hotel nestled in the heart of Insadong. Contemporary rooms, exceptional service, a lounge bar, and rooftop garden integrate style and comfort, while its coveted location connects you to Insadong’s galleries, teahouses, shopping, and historic charm.

$ Yehadoye Guesthouse (★):
Yehadoye Guesthouse is a charming budget guesthouse located in the heart of Insadong, Seoul’s culture and arts district. It offers comfortable rooms with traditional Korean décor and friendly staff who can recommend the best galleries, teahouses, and restaurants in the lively neighbourhood.

Where To Stay In Dongdaemun (Shopping And Culture)

For shoppers seeking the ultimate retail therapy, make vibrant Dongdaemun your Seoul base. This is a prime spot to indulge in the city’s famous shopping culture. The district thrums with immense wholesale and retail complexes like Doota and Migliore catering to Korean fashion wholesalers and trendy shoppers alike. Storefronts crammed with glittering goods and clothing stay open all day and night.

Outside the shops, food stalls pump out snacks and coffee to fuel indulgent shopping sprees. You’ll certainly need it with so many places to shop in Dongdaemun, both in traditional markets and modern department stores. Dongdaemun satisfies more than retail desires though with its futuristic architecture like the sleek curve of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza and lively Dongdaemun History and Culture Park.

From browsing chic boutiques under the bright lights at 3am to strolling the park amid historic sights from the daytime, Dongdaemun’s around-the-clock energy delivers an intoxicating urban vibe unique to Seoul that visitors won’t soon forget. This is definitely one of the best areas in Seoul for those who want to bring home a lot of souvenirs and be well connected with access to other parts of Seoul.

Location Overview: Dongdaemun is northeast Seoul, known for enormous wholesale and retail shopping complexes open 24/7. Adjacent to the historic area of Jongno.

What’s Dongdaemun Like: Vibrant commercial district with futuristic and eclectic architecture. Caters heavily to fashion trade and retail with camera-ready styling displays attracting youth.

Key Attractions & Sights: Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Dongdaemun History Culture Park, Shopping complexes like Migliore mall and Hello APM. Best area in Seoul for shopping.

Dining & Nightlife Options: Street food snacks late into the evening outside major malls. More casual local eateries than fine dining. Nightlife not a main draw.

Budget Estimate: Very wide range in terms of fashion and market pricing as well as food stall options. Easy to find low budget to moderate accommodations as well as 5-star hotels.

Foreigner Friendliness: Not as much English used but still an accessible location in Seoul that’s used to tourists. Known more for Korean fashion than traditional culture.

Main Subway Station: Dongdaemun Station

Best Hotels In Dongdaemun

Dongdaemun is a shopping district that has a lot of tall department stores with smaller hotels squeezed in between them, as well as small guesthouses in the quieter side streets. You can find hotels with nice views of Seoul. Here are some hotel recommendations in Dongdaemun for each budget type.

$$$ JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul (★★★★★):
The JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square is a luxurious, 5-star hotel centrally located in Dongdaemun, steps from high-end malls and markets that stay open until the wee hours. Conveniently placed with spacious, well-appointed rooms, it serves as an ideal base to explore all that Seoul has to offer.

$$ Hotel Skypark Kingstown Dongdaemun (★★★★):
Hotel Skypark Kingstown is a modern hotel situated next to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, providing easy access to Dongdaemun’s famous markets and shopping centres. Its comfortable, contemporary rooms, free breakfast, and prime location offer convenience and value in dynamic Seoul.

$ Mangrove Dongdaemun (★★★):
Mangrove Dongdaemun is a cozy boutique hotel nestled near the buzzing Dongdaemun shopping district. Its chic, nature-inspired rooms with city views, friendly service, lounge bar, and walking distance to late-night markets, malls, and attractions make it a unique Seoul stay with style and convenience.

Learn more: Check out my review of the JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square and learn about the Korean trend called ‘hocance‘, which is a combination of ‘hotel’ and ‘vacance’, meaning to vacation inside a hotel. It’s a lovely hotel and I really enjoyed my stay and exploring the sights of Dongdaemun.

Where To Stay In Jamsil (Nature And Shopping)

For travellers seeking to experience Seoul’s sporting spirit and family-friendly recreation, the athletic district of Jamsil has lots of Seoul accommodation options for you. As a hub of huge stadium event energy and Olympic legacy by the picturesque Han River, visitors can access major concerts and events one day then partake in thrills at the massive Lotte World amusement park the next.

Cheer on Korea’s beloved baseball team at Jamsil Baseball Stadium or visit music festivals and more at Olympic Park while staying steps from the fan action. The surrounding Jamsil and Songpa districts also offer scenic riverside parks such as Seokchon Lake, the landmark Jamsilsa Temple, and access to Lotte World Tower’s soaring views—all balancing culture with modern conveniences.

Jamsil offers a slower-paced stay in Seoul than the fast-paced touristy districts like Myeongdong and Hongdae, along with scenic views, extensive shopping, fine dining, and the best views of Seoul from the Seoul Sky Observatory. This Seoul neighbourhood allows immersion in events and culture only Seoul can offer while still catering to family travellers seeking flexible fun east of the city centre.

Location Overview: Jamsil is a district in southeastern Seoul, known for sports venues and the Olympic Park. There are also many Lotte attractions, including the Lotte World Tower.

What’s Jamsil Like: A family-friendly neighbourhood with athletic ambience. Home to the Olympic Stadium and Arena where concerts / matches are held. More nature than central Seoul.

Key Attractions & Sights: Olympic Park, Lotte World theme park, Seoul Sports Complex (baseball / football), Jamsilsa Buddhist temple, Jamsil Naru Park along the Han River.

Dining & Nightlife Options: Casual restaurants and cafes near Lotte World. Street food stands clustered around the stadium. Nightlife not a main draw but some quiet bars around.

Budget Estimate: Jamsil is a rich neighbourhood in Seoul and attracts wealthy tourists and Seoulites alike to its shopping and attractions. Expect slightly higher prices here, but still bargains around.

Foreigner Friendliness: English less common than other central Seoul districts as popular with locals, but major attractions and shopping centres will be foreigner friendly.

Main Subway Station: Jamsil Station

Best Hotels In Jamsil

Jamsil has the charm and opulence of Gangnam, but in a more peaceful, greener district of Seoul that has a more laid back pace of life. This is a great area in Seoul to have fun, shop, eat well, and spend the evening enjoying the sights. Here are some hotel recommendations in Jamsil for each budget type.

$$$ Signiel Seoul (★★★★★):
Overlooking the Han River, the landmark Signiel Seoul occupies the top floors of the Lotte World Tower in Jamsil. Luxury rooms with panoramic views, exceptional dining, an urban forest, infinity pools, and proximity to attractions like Lotte World make it one of Seoul’s premier hotels.

$$ Rosana Tourist Hotel (★★★★):
The Rosana Tourist Hotel is a comfortable budget hotel located in Jamsil, convenient for those visiting Seoul’s famous amusement park, Lotte World, and the 1988 Olympic sites. With cozy, modern rooms, friendly service, buffet breakfast and easy transportation access, it makes an affordable Seoul stay.

$ Pharos Hotel (★★★):
Pharos Hotel is an affordable guesthouse conveniently situated in the bustling Jamsil district. Its cozy, boutique-style rooms, shared lounges and rooftop garden offer a quiet, budget-friendly respite while still being walking distance to Jamsil’s major attractions.

Where To Stay In Itaewon (Food And Entertainment)

Known as the foreigner district due to its history as a home to American soldiers, Itaewon is the most multicultural place in Seoul and home to many expats. English is more widely spoken here and shops cater to foreigner sizes. Brimming with global flair and nonstop excitement, the lively Itaewon district offers visitors an ideal launchpad for exploring Seoul’s vibrant culture and nightlife.

With lanes packed with diverse cuisines from across the globe, travellers can dine their way around the world without leaving the neighbourhood. After dark, Itaewon’s neon-lit cocktail bars and thumping dance clubs keep the party going into the early morning hours. And thanks to Itaewon’s central location near the Han River, tourists can easily immerse themselves in Seoul’s tradition and modernity.

For guests eager to experience one of Asia’s most dynamic cities, Itaewon’s cosmopolitan vibe and energetic entertainment make it the perfect home base for a Seoul adventure. If you’re worried about getting lost in translation, Itaewon’s international charms can make visiting Korea easier. Muslim travellers to Korea will appreciate the wide selection of Halal food and the Itaewon mosque.

Location Overview: Itaewon is centrally located, close to the Han River and N Seoul Tower and adjacent to the Yongsan district. Known for expat culture and international diversity.

What’s Itaewon Like: Multicultural district with global cuisine, nightlife and shopping. Caters to an international mix from US Army ties. Blend of modern amenities with street food stands.

Key Attractions & Sights: Itaewon Global Village Centre showcases cultural diversity. Also popular for energetic nightclubs, casual lounges with foreign comfort food, and theatres.

Dining & Nightlife Options: Halal, Kosher and vegetarian restaurants indicative of Itaewon’s worldwide options. Find foreign foods from tacos to curries. Bars open late with DJs and themes.

Budget Estimate: Prices typically range from lower budget to mid-range for food, shopping and hotel rates. Itaewon draws all types of traveller, from digital nomads to budget backpackers.

Foreigner Friendliness: Extremely open and welcoming neighbourhood to foreigners with English-language menus and services readily available.

Main Subway Station: Itaewon Station

Best Hotels In Itaewon

The Itaewon district spreads across the slopes of Namsan Mountain with views of the N Seoul Tower possible from many places. That also means that some hotels can be uphill, so be careful when choosing your place. Here are some hotel recommendations in Itaewon for each budget type.

$$$ Grand Hyatt Seoul (★★★★★):
The Grand Hyatt Seoul is an iconic luxury hotel situated on Namsan Mountain in the Itaewon district, featuring well-appointed rooms with city views, exceptional dining options, a spa, fitness centre, outdoor pool, and convenient proximity to top attractions like N Seoul Tower and the War Memorial of Korea.

$$ Mondrian Seoul Itaewon (★★★★★):
Nestled at the foot of Namsan Mountain, the stylish Mondrian Seoul Itaewon offers chic, contemporary accommodations steps from the vibrant Itaewon neighbourhood. Its sleek rooms with city views, eclectic dining, and a rooftop lounge put guests in the heart of this multicultural hub.

$ Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel Itaewon (★★★):
Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel Itaewon is an affordable, design-centric hotel in the lively Itaewon district. Contemporary rooms, exemplary service, rooftop lounge with city views, and walking distance to global cuisine, nightlife, N Seoul Tower, and subway, make it a stylish, convenient base to explore Seoul.

Where To Stay In Yongsan (Convenience And Culture)

This is where to stay in Seoul if your priority is good value and getting around easily. You’ll find plenty of the city’s traditional charm in this mostly residential area, as well as some of the best prices and peace & quiet. Located close to Hongdae, Myeongdong, Itaewon, and even Gangnam, this is certainly a convenient location for those who plan to move around a lot and see all the sights.

Situated near the centre of Seoul, the Yongsan district gives visitors prime access to the historic and ultra-modern attractions of this fast-paced capital. With cultural sites like the National Museum of Korea and the War Memorial of Korea within its borders, travellers have centuries of Korean history and artwork at their fingertips. The Itaewon shopping and nightlife district is also just a short ride away.

For relaxation amid the bustling metropolis, Yongsan boasts expansive green spaces including the sprawling Hangang Park along the riverfront. With its museums, monuments, restaurants, and natural escapes, Yongsan lets tourists dive into Seoul’s unique layers of tradition and innovation while enjoying comfortable accommodations. Expect great views of the N Seoul Tower from hotels in this area, too.

Location Overview: Yongsan stretches south of the Han River near central Seoul. Home to the enormous Yongsan Electronics Market and War Memorial of Korea.

What’s Yongsan Like: Lively commercial district centred around the dense electronics shopping complex. Also residential in some areas with older architecture and a mix of income levels.

Key Attractions & Sights: Yongsan Electronics Market for tech and gadgets. War Memorial and Museum spans vast grounds honouring military history. Smaller museums in the area too.

Dining & Nightlife Options: More casual everyday eateries and takeout catering to electronics market shoppers and residents. Limited nightlife but good rooftops towards Namsan Mountain.

Budget Estimate: Room rates and dining very inexpensive around the market and residential sections compared to higher-end options around the War Memorial and Yongsan Station.

Foreigner Friendliness: Tourists won’t have any problems in the large malls, hotels, and stations, but the smaller back streets of Yongsan cater more to locals.

Main Subway Station: Yongsan Station

Best Hotels In Yongsan

The Yongsan area stretches out around the Yongsan area up to Seoul Station and down to the Han River and is set to be the future hot place to visit in Seoul with the area set to become Seoul’s tech hub from 2025. Here are some hotel recommendations in Yongsan for each budget type.

$$$ Grand Mercure Ambassador Seoul Yongsan (★★★★):
Luxurious apartments and hotel rooms blend seamlessly at Grand Mercure Ambassador in central Yongsan. Minutes from the river and public transportation, facilities include an executive lounge, a swimming pool, multiple restaurants, and guests enjoy easy access to Yongsan parks.

$$ Nine Tree Premier ROKAUS Hotel Seoul Yongsan (★★★★):
The Nine Tree Premier Hotel is a stylish, design-oriented hotel near Yongsan Station, providing easy transit access around Seoul. Contemporary rooms, exceptional service, lounge bar, and walking distance to the riverside parks, War Memorial, and Itaewon’s global dining make it an ideal base.

$ Hotel WO Yongsan Station (★★★):
Hotel WO Yongsan Station is a sleek, modern hotel located next to Yongsan Station, offering quick access around Seoul and beyond. Its vibrant, artsy rooms feature contemporary decor, while onsite dining, a fitness centre and convenient transport links cater to both leisure and business travellers.

Where To Stay In Yeouido (Nature And Culture)

Sitting on an island in the Han River, Yeouido offers visitors a refreshing oasis in the middle of bustling Seoul. Travellers will enjoy strolling the lush public parks and gardens dotting this “Island of Yeoui” while skyscrapers glitter in the background. During April, the area is home to one of the biggest cherry blossom festivals in all of South Korea, with thousands of cherry trees to walk under.

The National Assembly, Seoul’s stock exchange, and major media outlets call Yeouido home – making it a fascinating destination for witnessing South Korea’s economic and political engines up close. Expect to find upmarket attractions and eateries in this area. Hopping over to the mainland via subway or footbridge leads straight to key sites like Gwanghwamun Plaza and Gangnam.

With its balancing act of nature, commerce and city attractions, Yeouido’s prime location enables tourists to move between serene escapes and urban energy. And sampling Seoul’s celebrated food scene is effortless with local eateries and traditional markets abounding nearby. Stay in Yeouido and enjoy a peaceful stay with bike rides by the river, picnics, and strolls through a quieter part of Seoul.

Location Overview: Yeouido is an island district southwest of central Seoul, connected by bridges and home to the National Assembly Building. Plenty of nearby natural attractions.

What’s Yeouido Like: Mix of financial high-rises and cultural spots like Yeouido Park. Draws business professionals but also outdoorsy families with green spaces, festivals along the Han River.

Key Attractions & Sights: 63 City skyscraper has an observation deck. Yeouido Park local favourite to bike, picnic or see spring cherry blossoms. National Assembly offers free tours.

Dining & Nightlife Options: Casual business area dining like noodles stands popular with lunch crowds. Limited evening entertainment options compared to Hongdae and Gangnam.

Budget Estimate: Mid-range for hotels, meals and attractions. Higher-end lodging also available for executive business clients if needed. Easy to utilise low budget transportation.

Foreigner Friendliness: English less common away from hotel business centres but access to and from Yeouido conveniently English-friendly overall via transit options.

Main Subway Station: Yeouido Station

Best Hotels In Yeouido

As Yeouido is a commerce and political centre, there are more hotels catering to business and luxury travellers than budget travellers. High costs, but expect beautiful views of Seoul and the Han River. Here are some hotel recommendations in Yeouido for each budget type.

$$$ Conrad Seoul (★★★★★):
Overlooking the Han River, the luxurious Conrad Seoul on Yeouido Island is a stylish oasis in Seoul’s financial district, offering well-appointed rooms with stunning views, multiple dining options including Michelin-starred dining, an outdoor pool, spa, and close access to the National Assembly Building.

$$ Glad Yeouido (★★★★):
Glad Yeouido is a sleek, contemporary hotel situated on Yeouido Island in Seoul’s business district. Chic rooms with panoramic city views, an international buffet, fitness centre, and walking distance to the National Assembly and riverside parks make it an ideal base for business and leisure travellers.

$ The Connoisseur Residence Hotel (★★★):
The Connoisseur Residence Hotel is a cozy boutique hotel located in Yeouido. Its stylish, apartment-style rooms with river views, shared kitchen and convenient location provide a quiet escape, while remaining close to corporate offices, cultural sights and the Han River greenway.

Best Districts In Seoul By Traveller Type

There are so many options for places to stay in Seoul that it can be overwhelming trying to figure out which is right for your particular travel needs. A family is likely to want a different area than a backpacker out to party or a couple after a romantic weekend. Everyone has their own needs and this section will help recommend some neighbourhoods that I think will be most suitable for you.

Where To Stay In Seoul For First-Timers

For your first visit to Seoul, the most convenient and tourist-friendly districts to stay in are Myeongdong, Insadong, Dongdaemun, Hongdae or Itaewon. Myeongdong’s mix of traditional sights, mega shopping malls and street food provides easy access to top attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace and the charming alleyways of Insadong.

The vibrant, creative youth culture of Hongdae, along with Itaewon’s international dining scene should also be on your list. Dongdaemun’s famous market and shopping centres that stay open all night offers a more local experience. Each area has accommodation options fitting any budget.

Where To Stay In Seoul For Solo Travellers

For those visiting Seoul alone, the most engaging districts to stay in are trendy Hongdae, multicultural Itaewon, or the central downtown (Myeongdong / Insadong / Dongdaemun). Hongdae’s indie arts scene and clubs make it easy to mingle with locals and fellow travellers. Itaewon’s international cuisine and bars fosters social interaction.

Central Seoul’s downtown districts like Myeongdong, Insadong and Dongdaemun place you amidst the action with boutique shops, teahouses and night markets to explore. Hostels here also organise activities. Getting around via transit is seamless, though walking these areas alone is also perfectly safe given Seoul’s low crime rate.

Where To Stay In Seoul For Families

When traveling to Seoul with kids, consider staying in family-friendly districts like Hongdae, Jamsil or near City Hall. Hongdae has playgrounds and cafes, while Jamsil is home to major amusement parks like Lotte World. Areas around City Hall and Euljiro are close to child-friendly museums, Namsan Park, and the expansive Seoul Children’s Grand Park.

Myeongdong also has plenty of malls and food options for picky eaters. Multi-room accommodation is easy to find, though advance booking is recommended as family rooms fill fast. Most districts are very safe for families day or night.

Where To Stay In Seoul For Budget Travellers

For an affordable visit to Seoul, consider staying in Hongdae, Dongdaemun or areas near universities, which cater well to the backpacking crowd. Hostels here can cost under $10/night, or opt for guesthouses for cheap private rooms. Hongdae offers both budget digs and lively nightlife.

Dongdaemun has 24/7 shopping bargains while being metro-close to major sights. Other lower-cost neighbourhoods like Mapo and Seongsu are on the artsy side with cafes and clubs. With public transit connectivity, most places are still conveniently accessible to top attractions on a budget.

Where To Stay In Seoul For Luxury Travellers

For an ultra-indulgent trip to Seoul, consider staying in the opulent Gangnam district, including the stylish Apgujeong / Cheongdam area, or conveniently located Jongno between Myeongdong and Insadong. Gangnam is renowned for its glittering high-rise hotels with Michelin-starred restaurants, chic cocktail bars, luxury shopping at COEX, and Bongeunsa Temple.

The Apgujeong and Cheongdam neighbourhoods of northern Gangnam also offer exclusive boutiques alongside five-star hospitality. For history buffs, Jongno’s heritage hotels situate you among Gyeongbokgung Palace and the traditional hanok village of Bukchon while providing first-class amenities and service.

Where To Stay In Seoul For Business Travellers

For those visiting Seoul on business, the most convenient areas to stay in are Gangnam, Yeouido, or Yongsan districts. Gangnam houses the COEX business hub along with corporate offices and Trade Tower’s exhibition centres, pairing modern accommodations with dining and nightlife options.

Yeouido’s high-rise hotels neighbour Seoul’s key financial institutions and the National Assembly. Yongsan’s proximity to Yongsan Station and Seoul Station provides speedy airport connections and travel to other parts of Seoul. All offer work-friendly amenities from conference rooms to copying services, located only a short cab ride from destinations like Namsan and Myeongdong.

Best Areas In Seoul For Korean Culture

For an authentic taste of Korean culture, opt to stay in areas like Insadong, Bukchon Hanok Village or Jongno. Insadong’s streets are lined with galleries exhibiting works by local artists, traditional teahouses and shops selling handicrafts, allowing you to immerse in old Seoul.

The Bukchon Hanok neighbourhood places you right among preserved hanok houses while Jongno juxtaposes historic palaces, temples and the new Seoul City Hall. Trying the Korean cuisine, soju, noraebang karaoke and catching a K-pop show can happen in most districts however. Booking a hanok guesthouse also lets you experience traditional accommodation.

Best Areas In Seoul For Shopping

For shopaholics, the best home bases in Seoul are Myeongdong, Dongdaemun or the Apgujeong / Cheongdam areas in Gangnam. Myeongdong offers over 400 local boutiques alongside retail giants like Shinsegae along brightly-lit pedestrian lanes. Dongdaemun’s expansive 24-hour malls and markets offer everything from designer knock-offs to craft supplies at incredibly low rates.

Known as Korea’s Champs-Élysées, Cheongdam and Apgujeong in Gangnam flaunt posh department stores like Galleria alongside luxury flagship boutiques from brands like Chanel and Louis Vuitton. Whichever retail wonderland suits your tastes, staying central allows you to conveniently drop your bags after long shopping adventures.

Best Areas In Seoul For Entertainment

For easy access to Seoul’s buzzing nightlife scene, Hongdae, Itaewon and Gangnam are ideal areas to stay. Hongdae is the city’s epicentre for indie music clubs, hidden bars and late night street food alongside art markets and cafes. Itaewon caters to party-goers with its vast array of lounges and nightclubs spinning hip hop and EDM among burger joints and craft beer pubs.

Upscale Gangnam is renowned for posh clubs playing K-pop and electronic while mega-clubs like Octagon fuel Seoul’s after-dark energy. Myeongdong also stays lively late with its brightly-lit shopping streets and food stalls. If you want somewhere to stay in Seoul that doesn’t sleep, Myeongdong is a great answer.

Best Districts In Seoul For Short Stays

With just a few days to spare, you’ll want to base yourself in Seoul’s most popular central districts like Myeongdong, Hongdae or Dongdaemun. Myeongdong will place you right in the thick of the action with traditional and modern shopping options and street food, along with cultural sights like Deoksugung Palace in walkable distance.

Also centrally located, Hongdae offers a youthful vibe with endless cafes, clubs and entertainment. Dongdaemun gives you 24/7 access to sprawling markets and malls in an inherently local scene. With so much packed into one area, these dynamic locales let you maximise a quick trip.

Best Districts In Seoul For 1-Week Stays

With a full week to explore Seoul, basing yourself in neighbourhoods like Hongdae, Myeongdong and Insadong will enable you to fully experience both historical sights and local colour. Hongdae provides quick access to trendy yet traditional sites along the Han River as well as boutique shops and galleries.

Myeongdong and Insadong places you among top attractions including Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Bukchon Hanok Village while also having restaurants, cafes and nightlife within close proximity. With an extensive transit system, all corners of Seoul will still remain at your fingertips from these centrally located districts.

Best Districts In Seoul For Month-long Stays

With 30 days to unpack Seoul, slower-paced residential districts like Euljiro, Seongdong or Mapo allow you to live like a local. Home to universities and hanoks, Euljiro offers budget eats with cultural sights nearby. Seongdong’s parks, family-run shops and library cafés exude neighbourhood charm.

Bordering the Han River, Mapo blends nature trails with an indie arts scene. Staying outside the usual tourist centres grants a richer, community-centric experience. Yet with Seoul’s efficient subway system, iconic attractions are only ever a short ride away at your desire.

Seoul Accommodation Searching Tips

Figuring out where to stay in Seoul is a serious concern and finding the right place at the right time of year for the right price can certainly impact the overall experience of your holiday. As well as providing a Seoul district guide that has covered what I consider the best neighbourhoods to stay in, I want to offer some of my personal tips from decades of travelling in Seoul, Korea, and beyond.

Location is key: Pick a neighbourhood that aligns with your interests, whether that be shopping in Myeongdong, culture in Insadong, or nightlife in Hongdae. This way top attractions will be walkable and you won’t find yourself travelling a long way each day. A central location that’s well connected is better than staying next to one particular attraction you want to visit.

Compare rates: Hotel prices can fluctuate dramatically. Each of the major hotel booking sites have their own deals with hotels and you might find cheaper prices for the same hotel and the same dates from different sites. I always find the hotel I want to stay in and then compare sites like agoda.com, hotels.com, and booking.com to see which has the best price for my stay.

Book early: Reserve at least 2 or 3 months out, especially for peak times like cherry blossom season (April), summer holidays (August), and autumn leaves (October), to avoid disappointment and higher prices. Rooms fill fast in Seoul and you can save a lot of money if you book in advance, so plan ahead.

Seek out guesthouses: For an authentic Korean stay, hanok guesthouses offer traditional charm at budget prices. In Seoul, you can find hanok houses in Bukchon Hanok Village where you can experience life in Joseon-era Korea, but with modern comforts.

Splurge on views: If your budget allows, rooms facing landmarks like N Seoul Tower or Bukchon Hanok Village enhance your stay exponentially. Large hotels generally have better views as they’re taller and places in Myeongdong and Insadong have rooftop bars where you can take in the views at night.

Airport connections: If you’re visiting Seoul for a short time and need to get to and from Incheon Airport conveniently, then staying in Hongdae is a great option as it’s connected to the airport by subway. It’s also connected to Gimpo Airport, which is Seoul’s main airport that flies to Jeju Island. There are also limo buses that travel from Incheon Airport to most major neighbourhoods in Seoul.

I hope these tips help you figure out where to stay in Seoul and start planning your ideal trip to Korea. Remember to check out my South Korea Travel Guide for more tips about travelling to Korea, including details about staying connected, travel money, seasons, attractions, and lots more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about where to stay in Seoul. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article.

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Nestled in the remote Chilgapsan Mountain a couple of hours outside of Seoul, the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival transforms this rural valley retreat into a glittering icy world that looks straight out of a fairy tale. This frozen festival of winter delights includes a giant wall of bubbling ice, snowy sculptures, igloos, ice caves, snow statues, ice carvings, and all round winter fun for the whole family.

In this article you can find out what there is to see and do at the Chilgapsan Festival, including the various ice-based activities and attractions, how to get there by tour or public transport, and information about whether this festival is worth visiting or not. If you’re thinking of visiting this Korean ice fountain festival, and want to know why I think it’s definitely worth it, then keep on reading.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why Visit The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival 2024?

The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival (칠갑산 얼음분수축제) offers visitors the chance to see a truly unique sight – massive structures crafted entirely from long icicles that appear to sprout up from the ground and have earned this winter festival the nickname of ‘Ice Castle’. The icicles, sparkling to create the illusion of frozen ice fountains, are man-made but that makes them no less magical.

With its stunning mix of dramatic natural scenery and dream-like illuminations, the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival promises a fairy tale experience found nowhere else in Korea. This festival runs from December 23rd, 2023 to February 28th, 2024, which makes it one of Korea’s longest winter festivals and gives you plenty of opportunities to see it if you visit Korea during winter.

By day, you can explore illuminated ice caves and sculptures that get more fantastical each year. But it’s at night when the full effect comes alive, with rainbow-hued lights reflecting off the icy landscape synchronized to festive music. Visitors wander through this winter wonderland with hot chocolate in hand, snapping selfies and admiring over 50,000 tons of magical ice art crafted just for the festival.

Who Will Enjoy This Korean Winter Festival?

I think the Chilgapsan festival will appeal to couples and families, as well as anyone who enjoys playing in the snow. There are many rides and activities aimed at children, so this is a great way to keep them entertained during winter and gives them a fun, snowy playground to play in. Couples will enjoy strolling around the snow-covered landscape, posing for pictures in the many photo zones.

Warning about Korea’s winter weather: Winter in Korea can be very cold, especially during January and February, with temperatures dropping below zero degrees Celsius even during the day. If you are travelling with children, make sure they’re wrapped up well so they don’t suffer from the cold. There are lots of markets in Seoul that sell winter clothes and you can get heat packs and hand warmers, too.

What To Do At The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival

The Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival provides a whole day of fun for people of all ages with lots of activities available for everyone, especially children. The main draw during the day is the ice fountain, sculptures and ice caves, with winter illuminations bringing the festival site to life once the sun sets. There’s also Korean festival food to try, snow and ice-based sports, and children’s rides.

Here are some of the best things you can see and do at this festival:

Ice Fountain, Ice Wall And Ice Sculptures

The towering ice fountains, which give this festival its name, and giant ice wall really have to be seen to be believed. Created by shooting jets of water which then freeze in place, they look truly unique. They look impressive during the day, but look even more extraordinary once the sun goes down and the lights are turned on, illuminating them in an ever changing rainbow of colours.

As well as the ice fountains, there are carefully created sculptures (inspired by Korean cartoons, Disney, and Pokemon), cute animals, and lots more. There are also ice sculptures shaped like the famous Korean turtle boat, a frozen Gwanghwamun Gate, wild animals, and a life-sized train made from ice.

Ice Caves, Igloos And Illuminations

Head into the ice caves and igloos to escape the cold and see gleaming blocks of ice lit up with vivid lights bouncing from frozen surfaces. There are several icy buildings to wander around and, as with the ice fountains, these look best when it’s dark so you can appreciate the illuminations at their fullest. Speaking of illuminations, there are lots of displays with pretty lights to see at night.

Snow And Ice Sports

There are plenty of winter sports to keep you busy and this festival is a great place to see snow in Korea as there are many snow machines working just in case it doesn’t snow. Slide down the snow sledding slope on a rubber ring or the ice sledding slope on a small sleigh. If you prefer flat surfaces, try the traditional Korean wooden sleighs and push yourself along the ice with short sticks.

Besides sledding, you can also try your hand at other winter sports and activities such as ice fishing, bare hand fishing in frozen tanks of water, a zip line past the frozen fountains, and a cow-drawn sleigh ride through the snow. If you want to try ice fishing, the experience here isn’t as impressive as dedicated ice fishing festivals like the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, but it’s still fun.

Children’s Activities At The Chilgapsan Winter Festival

I saw lots of families at the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival and there were plenty of activities for kids to enjoy, including a tractor-pulled ‘can sled’. These ‘cans’ looked like big cut out barrels with chairs inside, but were quite safe and let the kids feel like they were in their own personal car. The activities aren’t exactly on par with Disneyland, but they’re a good way to play in the snow.

As well as the sled and skis, children can try horse riding while being led around a course by a handler. There are also cultural activities and arts and crafts in small tents, but you might need to know a bit of Korean to understand what’s going on there. Activities will probably vary each year and may only be open during the busier weekend day, but I’m not sure so they could be available.

Food At The Chilgapsan Festival

Fans of Korean food won’t be disappointed with the range of Korean winter snacks at the Chilgapsan winter festival. Inside the festival grounds you can try various winter street foods on skewers, including chicken, rice cakes, and fish cakes, as well as deep fried fish. There’s also a cafe to get coffee, but don’t expect a chain store cafe, this is a temporary hut with a coffee machine inside.

The best part about the food at this festival has to be the roasted chestnuts, sweetcorn, and sweet potatoes. You can roast your own chestnuts on a log fire and cook the sweetcorn over hot coals. The sweet potatoes are roasted inside big metal drum ovens and served piping hot and steaming. These provide not only hot and delicious snacks, but also a fun experience to try at the festival.

For proper meals, there are some restaurants serving traditional Korean dishes such as tteok-guk (rice cake soup), haemul pajeon (Korean seafood pancakes), guk-bap (soupy stew with rice inside), and my favourite, donkasu (pork cutlet). There are simple meals like Korean curry and soybean sauce rice, too.

Sights Near Cheongyang Alps Village

Chilgapsan is the name of the mountain that the Cheongyang Alps Village, home to the ice fountain festival, is located by, which is why this festival is sometimes called the Cheongyang Ice Fountain Festival. If you want to explore more of this area during winter, there’s a really nice suspension bridge, the Chilgapsan Suspension Bridge (천장호 출렁다리), and reservoir near the entrance to the festival.

The reservoir looks really pretty when it’s frozen over and covered in snow, as you can see in the picture above. You can walk around the reservoir by following the wooden pathways, which are decorated with cute Korean messages along the way. You might be wondering why the suspension bridge has two giant chili peppers at each end. That’s because this area is famous for growing chilies.

Ticket Prices And Essential Festival Information

The entry fee for the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival is ₩8,000 per person (children under 36 months are free). This gives you access to the festival grounds and access to the sculptures, ice fountains, ice caves, igloos, and other sights and facilities at the festival.

The sledding pass, which includes access to the sledding hill for ice sledding, snow sledding, and bob sledding, costs about ₩20,000 per person. There are also additional costs for the zip line, ice fishing and children’s activities, such as horse riding and the can sled. The prices for these activities aren’t available on the festival’s official website yet, but I’ll update prices here when they are.

For more information about this festival (in Korean), you can visit the official Alps Village website.

Tours To Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival 2024

Despite the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival becoming more popular each year, there aren’t many tours. If you don’t have a car, taking a tour to the festival is the best option and gives you the benefit of a guaranteed direct journey there and back, as well as a guide who can tell you more about the festival.

Here are two tours that I recommend for the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival:

Cheongyang (Chilgapsan) Ice Festival & Other Winter Sights from Seoul: This all day guided tour from various locations in Seoul will take you to some of the hottest winter destinations in Korea, including the Chilgapsan festival. There are various options to add on extra destinations, such as Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, Eobi Ice Valley, and a strawberry picking farm

Price: From ₩62,200 (about $47 USD)

Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival at Cheongyang Alps Village from Seoul: This all day tour from Seoul will take you to the Cheongyang Alps Village to see the Chilgapsan winter festival. You can add on extras, such as ice sledding, snow sledding, and bobsleigh, as well as extra destinations, to give you a full winter experience in Korea. You get over 4 hours to enjoy at the festival.

Price: From ₩69,100 (about $53 USD)

I always recommend booking tours in advance when visiting Korea for these reasons:

Learn more: Paying in your home currency is usually easier and cheaper than converting money into Korean won. Booking ahead is one of the tips included in my guide to paying in Korea, which covers ways to save on travel money in Korea and alternatives to relying on exchanging cash to travel.

How To Get To The Chilgapsan Winter Festival

Cheongyang Alps Village is a resort located in North Chungcheong Province, which is south of Seoul and about an hour west of Daejeon. It’s about 3.5 hours away from Seoul by car and can be reached by car or guided tour. Here are details about how to get to this Korean ice fountain festival by each of those means. There are instructions in Korean on the festival website, too.

From Seoul To Chilgapsan Festival By Car: If you plan to rent a car in Korea, or you live in Korea and have your own car, then you can drive to the festival in just over three hours from Seoul. You can find the main festival location by searching for “칠갑산얼음분수축제” or “알프스마을영농조합법인” in Naver or Kakao map apps. Use the address shown below to get directions with a sat-nav.

Address in Korean: 충남 청양군 정산면 천장호길 223-35 없음

From Seoul To Chilgapsan Festival By Tour: There are various tours to the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival from Seoul, as detailed in the previous section. Taking a tour is a convenient way to see the festival and to save time vs. organising your own way there on public transportation.

Please note: You can get to the Chilgapsan festival by taking a train from Seoul to Gongju and then transferring to a local bus, but the options for buses are very limited and don’t run late. I strongly recommend either renting a car or taking a tour rather than trying to get there by public transport. If you do want to try, there are directions (in Korean) on the festival website.

Best time to visit the Chilgapsan Festival: The best time to visit this festival is in the afternoon so you can enjoy snowy sights during the day, but don’t have to wait so long for the sun to set and to see the night lights and illuminations. Avoid visiting during the weekends if you can as it will be very busy.

Is The Chilgapsan Festival Worth Visiting?

Should you visit the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival? In the words of my friend Tim, who kindly contributed a lot of the pictures for this article, this festival is, “Totally worth it!“. This festival has plenty to see and do and will keep people amused in the afternoon and evening. If you take a tour that also visits another winter destination, such as a strawberry farm, then it’s a great day trip from Seoul.

Families will find plenty to do with lots of the activities aimed at children, such as the sledding slope, horse rides, and the can sleigh. Even if you’re not travelling with children, the beautiful winter displays at the Chilgapsan festival offer couples and solo travellers the chance to take unique pictures with snowy backgrounds and icy buildings, sample traditional Korean snacks, and experience a Korean festival.

This festival is worth visiting, but please consider the weather during winter in Korea. It’s cold and dry, which can be tough for people not used to such conditions. Be sure to wrap up warm and bring skin cream to protect against the dryness. Gloves are a must and heat packs that go in your pockets can save your fingers. Be aware of the cold weather and you should be fine here.

A Special Thanks To Photos Of Korea

I want to give a big shout out and thanks to Tim from Photos of Korea for letting me use his incredible photos from this festival and for sharing his thoughts about the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival, which he visited in 2023. You can see loads of incredible pictures of Korea’s lesser-known locations and festivals from his Facebook page, Instagram page, and his uploads on Unsplash.

2024 Winter Festivals In Korea To See Snowy Sights

Besides this Korean ice fountain festival, there are many other winter festivals that you should check out for exciting activities, incredible views, and cultural immersion. These festivals introduce you to traditional Korean culture in beautiful surroundings and with lots of delicious Korean festival food. Here are some of the other major winter festivals you can see in Korea:

Garden of Morning Calm Winter Illuminations: Exploring sculpted gardens and electric forests when the sun has set is like entering into a magical world, a true winter fantasia with lots of photo opportunities. Every year the garden has a range of themed areas that focus on animals, plants, and even love for the sweethearts.

Seoul Lantern Festival: This dazzling festival is held in Gwanghwamun Square outside Gyeongbokgung Palace, which gives over it’s large pedestrianised areas to massive themed lantern installations. These installations feature different concepts each year like aquarium scenes, starry nights, nature landscapes, and Korean folktales.

Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Fishing Festival: This is one of Korea’s best winter festivals and made it into CNN’s top 7 ‘Wonder’s of Winter’ for a good reason. The Hwacheon Sancneoneo Ice Festival attracts over a million people each year to try ice fishing (with a rod or bare handed). There are winter activities, ice sculptures, and a Korean Winter Village with cultural games and Korean festival food.

Learn more: Discover all the best festivals to visit in Korea this winter with this guide to Korea’s winter festivals, which includes ice fishing festivals, illumination festivals, New Year festivals, and lots more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article.

Support In My Korea

Thanks for reading. If you want to help me to create more great content in the future, why not buy me a coffee? A strong coffee helps me write more and is a simple way to show gratitude for this free content.

Liked This? Pin It For Others

If you enjoyed reading this article, then please share this with your friends on Pinterest.

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