The Best Travel Guide to Seoul (UPDATED 2024) | ArrivalGuides.com

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Asia South Korea Seoul

Overview

Seoul The guide was updated: 2024-06-18

Seoul is a city of contrasts in which the ancient and the modern coexist in harmony. In one sense, it is a hi-tech 21st-century city awash with neon lights and the sights and sounds of a 24-hour metropolis, while at the same time, a city retaining the majesty and graceful ambience of ancient dynasties that once ruled over it. Like the river Han on which it sits, Seoul is constantly moving as it strides boldly into the future, yet simultaneously managing to keep one foot firmly entrenched in its historical past.

Facts

Population:	The City: 10 million (2024) Metropolitan Area: 26 million (2024)
Currency:	South Korean Won (KRW)
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Police: 112 Fire or Ambulance: 119 Red Cross: 1339
Newspapers:	The Seoul Times: www.theseoultimes.com The Korea Times: www.koreatimes.co.kr
Opening hours:	Convenience stores are open 24/7; departments are open 9am to 8pm while small retail shops are open 10am to 8pm. Restaurant chains are open 24/7 while independent dining rooms are open until 10pm. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.
Tourist information:	Gwanghwamun Tourist Information Center 149 Sejong-daero, Jongno District, Seoul (in front of Donghwa Duty Free) Opening hours: Sun–Fri 10am–7pm Languages: English, Chinese, Japanese, Thai +82 2 735 8688 Korea Tourism Organization 40 Cheongyecheonno, Jung-gu, Seoul 100-180 Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9am–6pm, Sat & Sun closed +82 2 729 9474 Korea Travel Hotline: +82 2 1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

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Section in Seoul

As one of the largest cities in the world, Seoul offers visitors plenty to explore. Any traveller will find an activity to fit their taste - the Korean capital has everything from historical sites to museums, art galleries, recognizable landmarks, traditional parks and palaces, casinos (only open to foreigners!), theme parks and much more. Seoul certainly is one of those cities that boasts the thrilling variety a traveller craves.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace

If you only have time for one palace visit make sure this is the one. Also referred to as the "Northern Palace", it was built in 1395 and is a stunning example of traditional Korean palatial architecture. Free guided tours are available in English, Japanese and Chinese.

National Folk Museum Of Korea

National Folk Museum Of Korea

The museum is located inside Gyeongbokgung Palace and offers an excellent collection of Korean cultural exhibits. There are over 4,000 historical artefacts on display, and it is a great place to learn more about the history and historic lifestyles of the Korean people.

Namsangol Hanok Village

Namsangol Hanok Village

A trip to Namsangol Hanok Village will grant visitors insight into the traditional ways of living during the extended period of of Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) rule. Here, one will be able to see restored housing dating back centuries, watch performances and even try a hand at activities such as archery.

Seoul Tower

Seoul Tower

For sweeping views of the city from Seoul's highest point, head to the observation deck of Seoul Tower - a local landmark and attraction that's been in operation for over three decades. The top floor features an upscale revolving restaurant; other eateries and attractions operate on-site.

Hangang River Ferry Cruise

Hangang River Ferry Cruise

Taking a cruises along the Hangang River in Seoul is a great way to enjoy the city panorama - ferries pass local attractions en route, and those in the evening often include a dining option. Cruises vary in length (some as short at 40 minutes) and have an on-board tour guide.

Bukhansan Mountain National Park

Bukhansan Mountain National Park

Escape the bustle of the city and retreat to the tranquillity of the mountains. Bukhansan National Park has several gorges, granite peaks and more than 1,300 species of flora and fauna. There are also many historical and cultural sites including Bukhansanseong Fortress, Buddhist temples and monk’s cells. Bukhansan National Park Office:

Lotte World

Lotte World

Lotte World is an amusement park located in the heart of the city. The theme park features exciting rides, an ice rink, a folk museum, a lake, both indoor and outdoor games, a fantasy forest with animals and much more. Lotte World is a very popular site - about 6,000,000 visitors are welcomed here every year.

Coex Aquarium

Coex Aquarium

Coex Aquarium is a great stop for families with children - the little ones will no doubt enjoy the massive display of live marine creatures from waters in and around Korea and all over the world. The aquarium contains an incredible 40,000 animals altogether.

Bongeunsa Temple

Bongeunsa Temple

This little gem is situated in the middle of Seoul and is an easy one to overlook. Bongeunsa Temple was founded in 794 during the Shilla King Weongseong’s reign. There is a special 2-hour program designed for visitors, which includes meditation and a tea ceremony. Do not miss the huge Buddha statue in the back.

Changdeokgung

Changdeokgung

Changdeokgung is a grand palace from the last Korean dynasty. This is a great place to learn about Korean history but be sure to have some comfortable shoes on since the place is big. Enjoy the guided tour in English that lasts for one hour and be sure not to miss the guard changing ceremony.

Trickeye Museum

Trickeye Museum

Trickeye Museum is an interactive museum with paintings which are created with 'trompe l'oeil' (eye-tricking) techniques that give each 2D art piece the impression of being in 3D. This allows you to interact with the paintings in a way that makes it look like you are part of the original work.

Seoul City Tour Bus

Seoul City Tour Bus

The City Tour Bus is a great way to see Seoul. The tour includes stops at some of Seoul’s most popular attractions and shopping venues. There are 26 stops and you can get off at any station and then take the next bus again. Buses run at 30-minute intervals. Departure location: In front of Donghwa duty-free Shops at Gwanghwamun.

The War Memorial Of Korea

The War Memorial Of Korea

This huge museum is a great place where you can learn about the history of the Korean Military. There are many things to see both inside and outside the museum. On display are military airplanes, tanks, weapons and other military equipment. Put your walking shoes on since this is a massive place. There are English-language tours available.

National Museum Of Korea

National Museum Of Korea

The National Museum of Korea contains thousands of artifacts dating back to various points throughout history, from ancient times to modernity. These include items from Korea and greater Asia, including sculpture, calligraphy, paintings, porcelain, and more.

Namsan Park

Namsan Park

Stroll around and enjoy this botanical garden with great sports facilities such as a swimming pool, tennis court, ping-pong court, baseball stadium and roller-skating area. You can also take the cable car to the top or walk up the stairway path to get a great view over the city. Here at Namsan Park you will find the Seoul Tower.

Seoul Olympic Park

Seoul Olympic Park

Once used as a site for Seoul's 1988 Olympic Games, the park now contains Korea's biggest sporting arena, and is frequented by city residents who come for nature walks amongst the park greenery or sporting events in one of the park's modern stadiums.

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