Planning your first trip to Seoul? This city surprises you — not just with its size or neon skyline, but with how calm it can feel, even in the middle of it all.
From palaces that whisper old stories to quiet cafés hidden in side streets, there’s more to this place than ticking off sights. You don’t need to rush — just wander, taste, notice.
This guide shares 10 things to do in Seoul that brought me joy during my stay. Some are well-known, others unexpected. Pick what fits your mood, and let Seoul do the rest.
In this post, you’ll find:
Easy ideas for first-time visitors
Local spots beyond the tourist buzz
Food, temples, animals (yes, cats!)
A TravelGlaze Moment you might recognise
Authentic tips to explore at your own pace
This article is also featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Seoul.
Travelglaze moment:
That being said… let’s not forget Seoul is also a big, busy city full of contrasts. You’ll find sleek skyscrapers and modern malls, but also streets crisscrossed with old electricity cables and broad streets with sometimes organized chaos. Sometimes it feels like city planning took a backseat, with traditional hanoks tucked between shiny high-rises or a tiny, cute museum hiding under a massive mall. It’s this mix of polished and imperfect, old and new, that makes Seoul so fascinating to explore.1. Travel Back in Time at Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong (Jongno District)
Sometimes, the best surprises are the ones that feel timeless. Bukchon Hanok Village is a beautiful maze of traditional Korean homes (hanoks) tucked between the modern skyline. Wander its peaceful alleys, where history seems to whisper from the rooftops. Then, head to nearby Insadong, where you’ll find quirky snack stalls, charming tea houses, and handmade crafts.
Travelglaze Moment: So many people in South Korea rent a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) and stroll through the streets—it’s like being in a living fairytale. Many locals will smile and wave, adding to the charm of the experience.
Fun Fact: Some of the hanok houses here are over 600 years old and still privately owned.
2. Play Dress-Up at Lotte World and Lotte Tower (Songpa District)
There’s something so childlike about putting on a costume and stepping into a fantasy world, and that’s exactly what Lotte World delivers. This indoor amusement park is a whirlwind of fun, and renting a Korean high school uniform is all part of the adventure (yes, it’s a trend!). Nearby, the Lotte Tower Observation Deck offers stunning views of Seoul, but the real thrill is walking across its glass-bottomed skywalk—a little terrifying, a lot unforgettable.
Travelglaze Moment: After soaking in the incredible views, dive into the fun at Lotte World! Explore the Lotte tower mall’s endless shops, visit the Lotte Aquarium to see marine life up close, or catch a 4D movie at the cinema for an unforgettable adventure. Fun Fact: Lotte Tower is the fifth tallest building in the world, and its elevator is one of the fastest.
3. Feel the Love at Namsan Seoul Tower (Yongsan District)
Seoul Tower is known for its panoramic city views, but it’s the little details that make this spot special. At the base of the tower, couples leave colorful locks covered in handwritten messages on the fences as a symbol of their love. And speaking of details, the quirky bathroom near the observation deck has floor-to-ceiling windows—It’s a bathroom break you’ll actually want to brag about!
Travelglaze Moment: Take a moment to soak in the 360-degree view of Seoul from the observation deck. Watch the city buzz below as you sip on a coffee or indulge in a sweet treat from the tower café—it’s the perfect way to feel connected to this incredible city. Pro Tip: Take the cable car up to the tower for a scenic ride, or hike the well-marked trail if you’re feeling adventurous.
4. Lose Yourself in Books at Starfield Library (Gangnam District)
Located inside COEX Mall, Starfield Library isn’t your average bookstore. Towering bookshelves stretch to the ceiling, creating a sense of awe as soon as you step inside. It’s a peaceful oasis in the middle of a buzzing shopping mall—and a dream for book lovers and photographers alike.
library in Seoul
Travelglaze Moment: Pair your visit with a stop at the COEX Aquarium in the same mall and see fish swim in a Phone booth. Fun Fact: Starfield Library often hosts cultural events, from book readings to art installations, so check their schedule before you go.
Travelglaze thoughts:
There’s so much more to do in Seoul than what I’ve mentioned here! These are just a few of the fun things I managed to squeeze into my few days in the city during my 3-week trip. Honestly, I’d love to keep sharing more, but let’s be real—this blog is already getting a bit long.
Keep an eye out for upcoming posts where I’ll dive into Seoul’s food, the people, the traffic (yes, it’s a whole experience), the entertainment, and more. And hey, if you’ve been to Seoul, let me know your favorite spots in the comments—I’d love to hear what made your trip special!
5. Selfie Culture and K-pop Vibes (Various Areas)
Seoul takes selfies to another level. From selfie museums to interactive photo zones, the city is designed to make you camera-ready at all times. Combine this with Korea’s obsession with K-pop, and you’ll find countless shops, cafes, and even entire districts (like Gangnam) dedicated to idols and their fandoms.
Fun Fact: The “finger heart” selfie pose originated in Korea and is now a worldwide trend. Travelglaze Tip: Walk along the illuminated sky garden of Seoul Skygarden and snap a photo with the city lights as your backdrop. The mix of greenery and urban views is unforgettable.
6. Watch History Come Alive at Gwanghwamun Gate (Jongno District)
In the heart of bustling Seoul, you’ll find a piece of history that feels like a scene from the past. The Changing of the Guards at Gwanghwamun Gate is a colorful ceremony complete with traditional uniforms, drums, and banners. The juxtaposition of this time-honored tradition with the modern city skyline makes it all the more striking.
Travelglaze Moment: The changing of the guards ceremony at Deoksugung Palace’s Daehanmun Gate is hilarious. What makes it unique is that the gate is located right in the middle of a bustling traffic square, surrounded by modern buildings and the energy of the city. The gate is leading nowhere and the ceremony is shorter than the wait at the traffic light. Fun Fact: The ceremony was reintroduced in 1996 after being discontinued during the Japanese colonial period.
7. Find Hidden Fun at the Alive Museum (Insadong, Jongno District)
The Alive Museum in Insadong is full of surprises, starting with its entrance—tucked away in the basement of a building. Once you find it, you’ll enter a playful, interactive space where art meets illusion. Unlike a typical museum, the Alive Museum specializes in trick art, where murals and exhibits come alive depending on your angle or pose. It’s a place designed to spark laughter and creativity.
Travelglaze Moment: Finding the museum feels like uncovering a hidden secret, but the real fun begins inside. Bring a friend to take photos and experiment with your angles—you’ll leave with snapshots that look straight out of a surreal dream.
Travelglaze moment
Pro Tip: The Alive Museum is located in the basement of the Ssamziegil complex, surrounded by artsy shops and street food stalls. Plan extra time to explore Insadong’s unique vibe after your visit!
8. Watch Rainbows Dance at Banpo Bridge (Seocho District)
Imagine this: you’re sitting by the Han River, the city glowing in the distance, when suddenly a symphony of water and light springs to life. The Banpo Rainbow Bridge transforms every evening into a fountain of glowing, colorful streams that sway to music. It’s like watching the city show off its playful side—and it’s a memory that will stick with you long after you leave.
Travelglaze Moment: Bring a picnic (or better yet, order fried chicken delivered straight to the park—yes, this is a thing!) and enjoy the fountain show from Banpo Hangang Park. Fun Fact: This fountain isn’t just for show—its water is drawn directly from the Han River and recycled, making it both beautiful and sustainable.
9. Laugh Out Loud at Nanta Theater (Jongno District)
Ever wondered what happens when you mix high-energy percussion, slapstick comedy, and cooking? That’s Nanta, Korea’s longest-running non-verbal show. Set in a kitchen, the performers create music out of knives, pans, and cutting boards—it’s chaotic, hilarious, and endlessly entertaining.
Travelglaze moment: Grab a bite to eat in nearby Samcheong-dong before the show; the area is filled with charming cafes and restaurants. Fun Fact: Nanta has been performed in over 50 countries, making it one of Korea’s most successful cultural exports.
10. Find Flavor at the Kimchi Museum (Insadong, Jongno District)
Hidden in the Maru Building in Insadong (on the 4th to 6th floors), the Kimchi Museum is all about Korea’s most famous dish. From how it’s made to why it’s such a big part of Korean life, you’ll discover everything you never knew about kimchi. The best part? You can try different types of kimchi and pick your favorite!
✨ Travelglaze Moment: Don’t miss the hands-on kimchi workshop! It’s a fun, interactive way to learn all about the ingredients and steps for making kimchi—perfect for anyone who loves cooking or just wants to take home a unique memory. Pro Tip: The Maru Building is easy to miss, so keep an eye out for signs. After your visit, wander around Insadong’s cute shops and street food stalls for more fun.
Conclusion
Seoul is more than just a bustling city—it’s a treasure chest of moments that surprise, delight, and inspire wonder. Whether you’re exploring traditional hanoks, marveling at interactive art, or picnicking by the Han River, these everyday experiences have the power to transform into unforgettable Travelglaze moments.
