Seoul can be explored through a wide range of themes: from the royal palaces of the Joseon era and traditional Hanok houses to a modern stream running through the city. Which of these aspects interests you most can help shape your trip.
Royal Palaces and Hanok History
Changdeokgung Palace is considered the best-preserved royal residence from the Joseon era. King Taejong had it built in 1405. It is Seoul’s second UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its palace architecture and its harmonious integration into the surrounding natural landscape. Visitors can enjoy the flower terraces of Nakseonjae and the rear gardens at their most impressive in March or April; the exact conditions vary from year to year.
The general tour of Changdeokgung includes Injeongjeon, the main hall, and Nakseonjae. A special tour of Howon goes from Buyongji, the entrance to Howon, to Okryucheon. Reservations for visits to the Secret Garden and pavilions can be made through the integrated reservation service. As reservation procedures may change, check the current process before your trip.
Gyeonghuigung Palace is the westernmost of the five palaces in central Seoul and was also called Seogweol, meaning “western palace.” This Joseon-era palace offers peaceful walking paths that attract many visitors because of its historical significance. Visitors enter the spacious historic park through the main gate, Heunghwamun.
Gyeongbokgung Palace was the first and largest of the royal palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. It stood at the center of the newly established capital, Seoul, then known as Hanyang, and embodied the sovereignty of the dynasty. The palace grounds are home to both the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea. At Deoksugung Palace, medieval and modern architecture meet; its grounds include a garden and a Western-style fountain.
Bukchon Hanok Village reflects 600 years of Seoul’s history. It is a residential neighborhood densely built up with traditional Hanok houses, where Seoul residents live. Its residential character is as much a part of what defines the neighborhood as its traditional architecture.
Cityscapes and Different Perspectives
Cheonggyecheon is a modern, 11-kilometer-long stream running through central Seoul. It begins at Cheonggye Plaza, passes under a total of 22 bridges and flows into the Hangang. Its length, course and many bridges give this place a different urban dimension from the individual palace complexes.
Seoul Forest comprises five themed parks: the Cultural and Arts Park, the Eco Forest, the Experiential Learning Park, the Wetland Eco Center and the Hangang Riverside Park Project. Namsan Seoul Tower also offers useful reference points: the tower is 236.7 meters high and stands on 262-meter-high Namsan. Its facilities include observation decks, restaurants, cafés and media art installations. As facilities may change, check the latest information before your visit.
Market Dishes and More Activities
Gwangjang Market is a traditional market in central Seoul with clothing and food stalls offering traditional Korean cuisine. Popular dishes include Bindae-tteok, Modum-jeon, Mayak Gimbap, Sundae, head meat, Yukhoe and Korean meatballs. Offerings may vary from stall to stall.
At Namsangol Hanok Village, international visitors can take part in traditional Korean activities such as archery; the program may change. If you would also like to add a hiking trail to your itinerary, the Chodae-gil Trail is near the foot of Bukhansan.
Find Hotels Based on Your Travel Priorities
With these priorities in mind, you can search for hotels for your trip and decide which aspects of the city will shape your plans.
Discover more destinations: Ulsan, Incheon, Kwangju, Busan
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