If you’re planning your first trip to Seoul and wondering what to do, where to go, and what to eat—this blog post is for you. I recently spent a week exploring South Korea’s capital city and was blown away by how vibrant, friendly, and dynamic it is. From peaceful canals and grand palaces to sizzling street food and sparkling skylines, Seoul offers something for everyone.
Here are some of my favorite moments from the trip to help you plan your own unforgettable adventure.
A Walk Along Cheonggyecheon Stream
One of the first places I fell in love with was Cheonggyecheon, a man-made stream that flows for over 11 kilometers right through the heart of downtown Seoul. Originally a concrete-covered highway, this area was transformed in 2005 into a serene, pedestrian-friendly canal.
I found myself walking along Cheonggyecheon multiple times a day. Not only is it a practical way to navigate the city center, but it’s also surprisingly peaceful. Along the banks, you’ll spot couples on dates, families having snacks, and even some urban wildlife like birds and fish. In the evening, the area glows with soft lighting, making it the perfect route back from a night out or a street food run.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a local musician performing under one of the small bridges—it’s moments like these that make Seoul feel so alive.
Experiencing Gyeongbokgung Palace in Hanbok
No visit to Seoul is complete without stepping back in time at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Built in 1395, it is the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. What makes this palace special, aside from its stunning traditional architecture and mountain backdrop, is the cultural experience it offers.
Many visitors rent a traditional Korean outfit called a “hanbok” and explore the grounds dressed like royalty. Not only does this add a whole new layer of fun and immersion to your visit, but it also gets you free entry into the palace.
Even if you feel shy dressing up, I highly recommend it. My partner insisted I try it too, and although it pushed me out of my comfort zone, it made for some fantastic photos and unforgettable memories.
Soaking in Seoul from Namsan Tower
Another must-visit landmark is Namsan Seoul Tower, which sits atop a hill in the middle of the city. You can hike up if you’re feeling energetic, but I opted for the cable car ride, which offers incredible views on the way up.
At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the entire city. On a clear day, you can see just how sprawling and diverse Seoul is. There are cafés, restaurants, and love-lock fences where couples leave small padlocks as a symbol of their affection. It’s a great spot for both sightseeing and a relaxing lunch with a view.
Tasting the Street Food at Gwangjang Market
One of the highlights of my trip was discovering the rich world of Korean street food, and there’s no better place to dive in than Gwangjang Market. Located near Jongno, this bustling indoor market is famous for its authentic local dishes.
I sampled knife-cut noodle soup (kalguksu), kimchi dumplings, and sizzling savory pancakes. But the real showstopper? A fiery chicken skewer that dripped spicy sauce onto cardboard trays placed on the ground to catch the mess. Eating standing up with locals, surrounded by the sound of sizzling grills and clinking chopsticks, was a vibe in itself.
Exploring Myeongdong’s Street Food and Shopping
If you love street snacks and beauty products, Myeongdong is your playground. This area is famous for its lively night market scene, offering everything from fried squid and tteokbokki to quirky treats like cheese-filled lobster tails.
It’s also home to some of Korea’s biggest beauty brands, with shops lining every corner. You can find great deals on K-beauty products and maybe even try free samples or skincare treatments on the spot.
Relaxing at Starfield Library and Strolling Through Gangnam
One of the more unexpected highlights of the trip was visiting the Starfield Library inside COEX Mall. It’s a public space filled with soaring bookshelves, natural light, and cozy seating areas—perfect for taking a break from sightseeing with a coffee and a book.
Right outside is the trendy Gangnam district, which is as flashy and stylish as you’d expect. There’s even a massive golden sculpture dedicated to the global hit “Gangnam Style.” The area comes alive at night, but during the day, it’s also worth walking around for its boutiques, department stores, and pop culture atmosphere.
Travel Tips and Final Thoughts
Seoul is one of the most traveler-friendly cities I’ve ever visited. Public transport is fast, clean, and easy to navigate. Most places accept credit cards, and locals are incredibly kind and helpful, even if you don’t speak much Korean.
Whether you’re into history, food, fashion, or just exploring vibrant neighborhoods, Seoul is packed with moments that will surprise and delight you.
Here are a few quick tips:
Use a T-money card for public transportation
Download apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map for easier navigation
Bring cash for smaller street food vendors
Visit palaces early in the morning to avoid crowds
Don’t miss night markets—they’re the best way to taste the city