SeoulTravel Guide

The grandest of Seoul's five royal palaces, built in 1395. Arrive at 10am for the guard-changing ceremony in full Joseon-era costume.

A hillside neighbourhood of 900+ traditional hanok houses with views over the city. Go early morning (before 9am) to experience it without crowds.

The city's most recognisable landmark, accessible by cable car. The best night view in Seoul — love locks and couples at sunset.

The global birthplace of K-beauty — sheet masks, serums, and skincare you can't find elsewhere at prices 30–50% cheaper than abroad.

A day trip to the Demilitarised Zone between North and South Korea — one of the most sobering and fascinating experiences in Asia.

Mapo-gu (near Hapjeong) is the local favourite for KBBQ — cook pork belly at your table with soju and banchan, the Korean way.

A UNESCO World Heritage palace where the rear garden (Huwon) was the private retreat of Joseon kings — pavilions, ponds, and forest paths far less crowded than Gyeongbokgung.

Rent a bike along the Han River, picnic with chicken and beer from a convenience store, and catch the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain lighting up the water after dark.

Seoul's traditional arts and antiques district — browse calligraphy shops and hanji paper stores, then sip omija tea in a centuries-old teahouse tucked down a side alley.

Seoul's youthful university district comes alive after dark with live busking shows, indie clubs, and themed cafes — a different energy from the palaces and markets by day.