My top 15 things to do in Seoul

1. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

Plunge into the heart of Korean history as you explore the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palacethe largest of Seoul's five royal palaces. With its peaceful gardens and elegant pavilions, it's a journey back in time.

• Category History and culture
• Address 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu (district Jongno)
• Traffic Very busy, especially at weekends
• Price : About 3,000 KRW (2,30 €)
• Opening hours 9:00 am - 6:00 pm (closed Tuesdays)

2. Strolling through Bukchon Hanok Village

Lose yourself in the picturesque alleys of the Bukchon Hanok Villagewhere traditional Korean houses have been perfectly preserved. It's the ideal place to feel the authentic soul of Seoul and take some great photos.

• Category Tradition and architecture
• Address 37 Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu
• Traffic Moderately frequented
• Price : Free
• Opening hours Accessible at all times

3. Stroll through the Insadong district

Discover the artistic charm ofInsadongwith its art galleries, traditional craft stores and tea rooms. It's my favorite district for picking up unique souvenirs and immersing yourself in Korean culture.

• Category Arts and crafts
• Address Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu
• Traffic Moderately frequented
• Price Free (excluding purchases)
• Opening hours 10:00 am - 8:00 pm

4. Admire the view from the N Seoul Tower

Climb to the top of the N Seoul Tower for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. In the evening, the lights of Seoul create a magical spectacle that I never tire of admiring.

• Category Panoramic view
• Address 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu (Mt. Namsan)
• Traffic : Frequented
• Price : About 11,000 KRW (8,50 €)
• Opening hours 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.

5. Shopping in Myeongdong

Myeongdong is a shopper's paradise, especially for Korean beauty products. Between the trendy boutiques and the delicious street food, it's hard to resist the call of this lively district.

• Category Shopping and beauty
• Address Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu
• Traffic Very popular
• Price Variable according to your purchases
• Opening hours 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

6. Explore Seoul's pop-up stores

Seoul is famous for its pop-up stores that are popping up all over town. These ephemeral boutiques offer exclusive products and unique experiences, perfect for trendsetters.

• Category Shopping and trends
• Address Varie (Seongsu, Hongdae, Garosugil)
• Traffic Variable
• Price Free (excluding purchases)
• Opening hours 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

7. Discover Hongdae's art scene

Hongdae is Seoul's young and trendy district. I love strolling its lively streets, discovering the performances of street artists, and visiting the original themed cafés.

• Category Art and nightlife
• Address Near Hongik University, Mapo-gu
• Traffic Very popular
• Price Variable
• Opening hours Day and evening

8. Street food at Gwangjang Market

If you have a sweet tooth like me, the Gwangjang market is a must. Taste local specialities such as bindaetteok and the mayak gimbapa treat for the taste buds!

• Category : Gastronomy
• Address 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu
• Traffic Very popular
• Price Dishes from 3,000 KRW (2,30 €)
• Opening hours 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.

9. Relax at the spa in a jjimjilbang

After a busy day, there's nothing quite like a relaxing session in a spa. jjimjilbangKorean public baths. An authentic experience that lets you relax and immerse yourself in the local culture.

• Category : Well-being
• Address : Dragon Hill Spa40 Hangang-daero 21na-gil, Yongsan-gu
• Traffic Moderately frequented
• Price : About 12,000 KRW (9 €)
• Opening hours Open 24 hours a day

10. Attend a Nanta show

Visit Nanta show is an energetic mix of comedy, music and cuisine. I loved the festive atmosphere and the interaction with the audience. Guaranteed fun!

• Category : Show
• Address : Myeongdong Nanta TheatreJung-gu
• Traffic : Frequented
• Price From 40,000 KRW (31 €)
• Opening hours Several performances a day

11. Visit the Trick Eye Museum and the Ice Museum

For an unusual activity, visit Trick Eye Museumwhere you can take amusing photos using optical illusions. Right next door, theIce Museum transports you to an icy world, ideal for cooling off in summer.

• Category : Entertainment
• Address Address: 20 Hongik-ro 3-gil, Mapo-gu (Hongdae)
• Traffic Moderately frequented
• Price : About 15,000 KRW (11 €)
• Opening hours 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

12. Attend a Korean cooking class

Learn how to prepare your favorite Korean dishes at a cooking class. It's an enriching experience that will allow you to bring a bit of Korea home with you. I loved making kimchi and bibimbap!

• Category Gastronomy and culture
• Address Several cooking schools available (Insadong, Hongdae)
• Traffic Reservations recommended
• Price : About 50,000 KRW (38 €)
• Opening hours According to course

13. Hike Mount Bukhansan

For nature lovers and hikers, the Bukhansan National Park offers magnificent trails with breathtaking views of the city. A breath of fresh air just minutes from downtown.

• Category : Nature and sport
• Address Bukhansan National Park
• Traffic : Frequented at weekends
• Price : Free
• Opening hours Open all day

14. Explore the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza district

Visit DDP is an architectural masterpiece that houses exhibitions, designer boutiques and cultural events. I particularly enjoy going there in the evening to admire the illuminations.

• Category Architecture and design
• Address 281 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu
• Traffic Moderately frequented
• Price : Free (excluding paying exhibitions)
• Opening hours 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

15. Visit the Lotte World Tower and Aquarium

Round off your stay in style with a visit to the Lotte World Towerone of the world's tallest skyscrapers. Don't miss the observatory for a breathtaking view, then relax at theaquarium at the foot of the tower.

• Category Modern attractions
• Address 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu
• Traffic Very popular
• Price :
  • Observatory : About 27,000 KRW (21 €)
  • Aquarium : About 31,000 KRW (24 €)
• Opening hours 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.