How to Experience the Best of Seoul's City Life

While it may be known as the home base of K-pop culture, the South Korean capital is a vibrant city with a rich history and heritage that dates back centuries. While there are a great many things to see and do in this dynamic metropolis, there are certain experiences all visitors must have during a holiday in Seoul. From touring its iconic palace to digging into local street food, here's how to enjoy the best of what the city has to offer. 

Marvel at the Gyeongbokgung Palace

Often described as one of the top things to do in Seoul, touring the resplendent confines of the sprawling Gyeongbokgung Palace is a must for all visitors. Built-in the period when the Joseon Dynasty reigned supreme, this is the largest among Seoul's five ancient palace compounds. In addition to being an architectural marvel, the Gyeongbokgung Palace is also connected with many red letter days in the country's history. The palace grounds are also ideal for a morning or evening stroll while those who stop by the palace can also visit the nearby National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea.

Lose Yourself in Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village

With its towering skyscrapers and futuristic buildings, it may be difficult to conceive of an era when Seoul was a small South Korean village. The only location where the humble past of this economic epicentre is on full display is at the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village. Taking visitors on a trip back in time, this charming hamlet nestled between the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Changdeokgung Palace is lined with narrow streets and conventional homes or hanoks. Several museums are also found in the village while some private hanoks also welcome tourists.

Sample Classic Korean Street Food

Whether you are based at Travelodge Myeongdong City Hall, a similar popular Myeongdong hotel or even a hostel in the heart of the CBD, there's no substitute for a trip to the Gwangjang Market when it comes to savouring street food.  Dubbed the finest street food hotspot in all of Seoul, the hundreds of food stalls and kiosks lining the bazaar retail everything from classic tteokbokki and bibimbap to gimpang and bindaetteok. Budget travellers and foodies will love the affordable price points of this market where one can grab a plastic stool and dine al-fresco. Those on the lookout for cheap clothes and homeware will also find vendors retailing items other than food at this busy thoroughfare.

Pay Homage to Jingwansa Temple

Occupying pride of place inside Bukhansan National Park, Jingwansa Temple is perhaps the most scenically located religious highlight in Seoul.  Surrounded by lush greenery, this centuries-old Buddhist temple compound is a mystical attraction that's bound to attract both nature lovers and the spiritually inclined. Encircled by hiking trails, the temple also allows visitors to spend a night inside its confines.

Unwind at Itaewon

While it may seem impossible to get away from the break-neck speed of life in the city, paying a visit to a neighbourhood such as Itaewon can be a lifesaver for introverted travellers. This idyllic area may be home to restaurants, shops and cafes but the decidedly tranquil atmosphere and the slow pace of life make it the perfect venue to unwind. Tourists can also go antiquing down the Itaewon Antique Furniture Street or sample international delicacies by venturing into eateries old along Gyeongnidan Street.

Don't Miss the Changdeokgung Palace

Although it may not be as large as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace is no less impressive, especially in terms of its beauty. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning complex with its lotus pond and elaborate pavilions has truly survived the test of time since it was first constructed back in the Joseon era.