Seoul

·         Keep the touts at bay.

·         Do not entertain the beggars.

·         Make sure you do not travel alone in the night hours.

·         Ensure that you have had sufficient research before going to any new place.

·         Nudity is strictly prohibited.

·         If you are visiting a temple or a religious place, make sure you dress accordingly.

·         Do not flaunt your cash or valuables in the public place.

·         Always ensure that you book a room in an area that is known to you.

·         Avoid booking a hotel in any shady region.

·         Beware of thefts. Make sure you have kept all your cash and valuables safely.

·         Enquire about the room safe before booking a hotel.

·         Do not leave any of your valuables in the hotel room.

·         Do not get involved in any fight with anyone.

·         Make sure you double check the seal of the water bottle before buying.

·         Check the quality of the street food before ordering for it.

·         Do not let anyone deceive you.

·         Girls make sure you do not get over friendly with the locals here.

·         Learn some words from the local language prevalent in the region.

The legal age for drinking in Seoul is 18 years. 

Gyeongbokgung

Gyeongbokgung Palace is tagged as the most beautiful out of all the five palaces present in the city. It is also known as the “Northern Palace” due to its north placement in comparison to the neighboring palaces of Gyeongheegung (Western Palace) and Changdeokgung (Eastern Palace). Tourists regard this landmark among the most attractive places to see in Seoul. It is interesting to know that the name of the palace, when translated in English means “Palace of Shining Happiness.” The stunning architecture along with the spacious setup of this palace is adored by tourists from different part of the world. There are 7,700 rooms in the palace which were restored under the reigning period of King Gojong.

Myeongdong

If you are a shopaholic then welcome to Myeongdong, known to be the fashion hub of Seoul that has a superb variety of stylish & designer clothing. One can fulfill all their shopping desire in this district that houses some of the most valued internationally-recognized brands. Myeongdong is also popular among tourists due to the presence of a number of family restaurants and fast food joints. Above all, you can also check out different cuisine options such as Western, Korean and Japanese while touring this area. If you are in Myeongdong, do not miss out to taste kalguksu (thick noodles) and pork cutlet (donkas). Korean Cosmetic brands like Skin Food, Etude House, Laneige, Missha and The Face Shop are very popular in Myeongdong.

N Seoul Tower

N Seoul Tower is listed among the famous tourist places in the capital city of South Korea. This landmark is located at Mt. Namsan which offers a superb panoramic view of the whole city. The structure is known as the prime symbol of Seoul since it was opened to the public in 1980. This tower was recently remodeled on a major level, but along with this, the name was also modified. The locals utilize this location as a wonderful cultural space as a number of performances and exhibitions are held in the surrounding area close to the tower. Tourists can easily hit upscale restaurants as well as snack bars in the nearby region that offer marvelous delicacies.

Cheongwadae

Cheongwadae is one of the renowned tourist resorts in Seoul since it is the official residence of the President of the Republic of Korea. It is a Korean name, which in English means “pavilion of blue tiles.” As you will enter the premises, the first thing that would catch your attention will be the blue tiles which are regarded as the signature markings of the Presidential Residence. Apart from this, the architecture of the building consists of a smooth roof that is quite appealing. The presence of Mt. Bugaksan in the backdrop is indeed a pleasant view that is admired by visitors. Cheongwadae houses the Main Office, Chunchugwan (Spring & Autumn Pavilion), Yeongbingwan (Guest House), Nokjiwon (Green grass), the Seven Palaces and the Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon) Valley. Tourists also cherish the view of the weekly Military Drill Demonstration & Parade by the guards held every Saturday at 10 AM.

Bukchon Hanok Village

This classic village is situated between by two palaces, Changdeokgung to the east and Gyeongbokgung to the west. You will be amazed to know that, this village possesses the largest assembly of privately-owned traditional Korean wooden houses or Hanok, as it is called in Seoul. The Bukchon area is famous as the traditional residential region that was established around 600 years ago. Its location is quite majestic with the presence of natural elements in the surrounding. Tourists appreciate Hanok architecture which mainly focuses on the topographical detailing of land on which it is built. The layouts, as well as structural arrangements, are the main elements of this unique style of architecture. You will wish to stay here for a longer duration so as to learn about the cultural greatness that dwells in the area.

Changdeokgung

The Changdeokgung Palace was the second royal establishment after the construction of Gyeongbukgung Palace in 1405. The buildings of this palace have remained significantly unharmed over a time span of six centuries. Changdeokgung Palace also holds huge importance for the locals as Korea’s last emperor Sunjong passed away in the palace grounds in 1926. This structure poured great influence in the advancement of Korean architecture & art and hence acquires a special place in Seoul. The surrounding area near the palace is very peaceful which can be strolled if you have enough time. Guided tours can be accessed so as to gain in-depth information related to this royal structure.

Jongmyo Shrine

‘Jongmyo’ is the term used for the spot where memorial services are performed in order to honor deceased kings, whereas, Sajik is the term for a site where services are performed to preach Gods of Earth and Crops. The Jongmyo Shrine is counted as the oldest and most respected of the Confucian royal shrines which are preserved till date. This landmark is dedicated to the forefathers belonging to the Joseon dynasty (1392–1910). Tourists can examine various tablets that bear the teachings of members of the royal family. The most attractive aspects of this shrine are the ritual ceremonies featuring music, dance, and song highlighting a tradition which dates back to the 14th century. It enshrines a total of 19 memorial tablets of kings and 30 tablets of the queens conserved in 19 spirit chambers. Visitors usually prefer guided tours for accessing extra information.  

Shopping Areas

There are several markets in Seoul which can be visited for shopping a large variety of goods. Tourists can visit Dongdaemun, which is Korea’s largest wholesale and retail shopping arena with the availability of 26 shopping malls, and close to 30,000 specialty shops. More than 50,000 manufacturers are settled in this region which makes it a shopping retreat for visitors. Dongdaemun is active 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. except for Mondays. The best part is that you can tour this place at night which appears like a carnival with hundreds of customers. Do not miss to check out the classic fabric and clothing in this market which is popular all across the globe.

Traditional Beverages

When in Seoul, you cannot skip tasting the traditional drinks which are prepared using classic techniques passed on from the ancient period. Makgeolli is an exquisite Korean drink, which is made using processed rice and other grains. This drink usually consists of alcoholic content ranging between five to seven percent. The locals claim that Makgeolli possesses special medicinal properties. Make sure you shake the bottle well before opening it. Moreover, be careful as the bottle might fizz like champagne. Chin Chin is one of the best makgeolli resorts in Seoul which can be visited for savoring this traditional drink.

Huge Fish Market

If you are a seafood lover, then this destination would surely fall on your list of top tourist places while exploring Seoul. The Noryangjin fish market is a huge space of 6,000 square meters where you can spot numerous wholesalers auctioning their latest catches from the morning. The atmosphere is mind boggling as a large crowd can be seen in this market all throughout the day. You can stroll in this area and can even buy some fish or a king crab. What more? You can take your purchased seafood to any of the nearby restaurants, where it will be cooked or simply sliced to be served for your appetite.

Entertainment

Website: Official Website

Seoul is a well-connected city from the rest of the world. The mass rapid transit system of the city and its touch points are well connected with this land mass of 600 square kilometer area. You have a variety of options to first reach the transit posts and then you can continue your journey inside the city with great ease.

• By Air: The area of Seoul sports two international airports under the name of Icheon Airport and Gimpo Airport. Most of the International tourists land there.

• By Train: Seoul station and Yongsan station greets the traveler, a ride in high-speed KTX train can take you to most of the big places in Korea and inside the city.

• By Boat: Certain parts of Seoul are connected with various Chinese ports. It cannot be considered as a frequent way; still, it can be considered an economic option to touch Seoul if you are living in that part of the world.

Seoul is an all-rounder destination that offers something for all the age group. Sometimes it can become difficult for you to choose the right action from a huge list because this place has so much to offer.

• Visit Historic sites in the city: 2000 years old history of Seoul offers many historic monuments and places that are rich in architecture. Places like Geyongbokgung Palace, Deoksygung Palace and Seoul City Wall are worth a visit.
• Visit Museums: Most of the Museums of the city carries a living history of the place and connects you to the great legacy of the land. Museums like The War Memorial of Korea, National Museum of Korea and Grevin Museum are popular.

• Visit parks for Natural beauty and Solitude: Most of the parks in the city are a welcome break from the hustle bustle of the day. Some of the most popular parks include Hangang Park, Namsan Park and Yeouido Park.

• Visit temples: Buddhist temples of Seoul are the most peaceful places in the city. Jogyesa Temple and Bongeunsa Temple are well-known.

Name it and you will get it, Seoul hosts most of the international standard recreation facilities that a tourist always seeks for, most of the resorts in the city are five-star resorts.

1. Banyan Tree Club and Spa: At a distance of 55 Kilometers from the main city, this Spa enjoys proximity to many temples, museums, and other tourist attractions. Mark your stay with rest and recreation and enjoy regular stuff while staying here.

Best of your intra-city travel plans can meet with failure in Seoul anytime because it is a high traffic area. This is why it is a wise option to juggle through the various modes of transportation as per the feasibility of the mediums of the commutation.

• Seoul Sub Way: A network of 18 lines connect the length and breadth of the Seoul for you. It can serve as the best option when you are seeking for time-bound travels

• Taxi: The network of taxies is very strong, they offer a comfortable ride on most of the occasion but the hassle caused by the traffic jam cannot be avoided at times.

• Bus: Local transportation services of buses connect the city well. Here they have four types of buses, each bus covering a route. Buses can sometimes cause a delay because of the traffic problems.

Check for the right seasonal sales on the official website of Korea tourism authorities, fix a specific shopping list and start your crusade in the shopping areas of Seoul to capture the booty in the form of some amazing deals.

• Myeongdong: Browse this market for amazing skin care and beauty products. Here you can also find some products that can be considered great for your wellness regimes at home.
• Ewha Woman’s University Shopping Street: Club together these two words, women and shopping, the result will come out in the form of amazing bargains and great products, entertain the shopper in you at this street where latest fashions and out of the box products are at display.

• Samcheongdong: Collect some precious memories for your unforgettable Seoul trip; here you can purchase souvenirs and other handicraft items to capture the soul of Seoul.