Seoul offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions for travellers. Gyeongbokgung Palace and the nearby Bukchon Hanok Village showcase historic Korean architecture, while Namsangol Hanok Village presents a recreated traditional village in the city centre. For contemporary experiences, the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, hosts global design exhibitions, and the streets of Garosu-gil in Gangnam are popular for cafes, boutiques and observing passersby. Local markets such as Namdaemun, Gwangjang and Dongdaemun provide a bustling shopping environment, and the galleries around Samcheong-dong and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art highlight Seoul’s contemporary art scene.
For short trips outside the city, Sokcho is a three-hour bus ride from Seoul and serves as a gateway to Seoraksan National Park, known for its hiking trails, mountain views and waterfalls. Jeonju, accessible in two hours by KTX express train, is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy with a traditional hanok village, tea houses and famous local dishes such as bibimbap.
Visitors can stay in mid-range hotels in convenient locations, including Hotel the BOTANIK Sewoon Myeongdong, Nine Tree by Parnas Seoul Insadong and Hotel Peyto Gangnam, which offer easy access to the city’s main attractions.