Visit Seoul: what are the best things to do and see in the capital of South Korea?
The Korean capital is a fascinating mix of history and modernity, combining the country’s culture and values. Seoul We are surprised even more when we know that it was reduced to nothing after the devastating Korean War only a few decades ago. In the midst of a boom until today, the largest city in the South Korea has nothing to offer. There is a multitude Things to do and see but here is a small selection of visits and activities that you can consider during your stay in Seoul :
1. Freshest and best seafood
Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market is a huge wholesale market of seafood and one of the largest in Korea, and its origins are more than 80 years old. The stands are lined in rows with displays filled with fish, seafood, some of which will surprise you ... and everything is freshly fished ! Look, market, and get the best products, such as sashimi, octopus, sea cucumbers and many more. You can cook everything on site and enjoy your dish in a good atmosphere
Flickr – Paul Keller
2. Eating and buying at the oldest market in Seoul
Built at the beginning of the 20th century, the traditional market Gwangjang has about 5,000 independent shops and shops that sell everything, including hanbok high quality (traditional Korean costs). You can lose yourself in the maze of shops and aisles. On site you can taste some local specialties like the bindaeddeok , some kind of salty crepe really good. Enjoy this with makgeolli a drink based on rice alcohol. Everything is very authentic!
3. Have an overview of traditional Korea
The horizon of Seoul is a bit trivial and above all dotted with skyscraper. But to get a glimpse of the traditional Seoul, the Bukchon Hanok Village offers visitors an overview of what life was in the past. These traditional houses were at the centre of family life highly regarded in the Confucian culture of Korea. Sleeping at home in these hanoks houses attract tourists.
Flickr – hojusaram
4. Grimper at the top of the highest point in Seoul
A large majority of the Korean South landscape being mountainous, it is not surprising that climbing is an extremely popular sport for Koreans. While the most famous peaks and mountain ranges are located outside Seoul, the capital has the Mont Bukhansan (or Mont Bukhan) which is the highest summit in Seoul, culminating at 836.5 meters above sea level and which is a difficult but rewarding climb for seasoned and beginner hikers. There are many routes to the different peaks but no matter what you decide to take, the breathtaking views of Seoul and the surrounding area are an experience in itself. Beyond the superb walk, it is the opportunity to meet the very friendly Koreans on the paths and share a snack with them along the paths. Think about taking a lot of water and sock well.
5. Tea and art at Kyung-In Museum of Fine Arts
Today Koreans may enjoy coffee, but tea and tea culture have been part of the local culture for centuries and Museum of Fine Arts Kyung-In is an excellent place to enjoy a tea in a very special setting. The traditional Korean house serves a variety of seasonal and unique Korean teas and it also has a small art gallery whose exhibitions frequently change. The beautiful and quiet outdoor gardens change in appearance depending on the season and the time of the day. The museum is located in a alley of the noisy artery Insadong , which makes it an ideal refuge to rest and enlighten ideas.
Photo credit – Kyung-In Museum of Fine Art Ltd
6. Relax and get rid of your stress
Like the famous Scandinavian saunas, Korea has its own improved version of the baths and relaxation centers called jjimjilbangs . These establishments are everywhere in Seoul and are very popular among all (old, young, families, couples, friends, etc...). You will have a wide choice of spas to sweat and relax (salt room, jade room, charcoal room, etc.). All this being cheap, don’t hesitate to pay a little more for a skin scrub in order to come out completely clean and healthy.
7. Take pleasure along the river
To escape the agitation of urban life, the different Han River parks offer activities for all ages and interests. The bike paths are everywhere to satisfy bike enthusiasts and jogging trails for those looking to exercise with a magnificent view of the river. In these parks there is a lot of lawn where you can rest and nest. In Korea, you can get delivered free wherever you are, so it’s a good way to enjoy the long days of summer in these parks.
Flickr – MoE Korea
8. Shopping like locals do
While Myeongdong on the north side of the Han River can be the popular place for tourists to make shopping, it’s at Garosugil the most popular inhabitants. This street has a number of independent shops and shops that sell everything in the latest trends and accessories. It’s a great place to keep up to date with the latest fashion in Seoul. Here you will find many cafes and restaurants as well.
Flickr – juanjolostium
9. Enjoy the lively centre of the nightlife of Seoul
Long time surrounded by its sulphurous reputation, the neighborhood Itaewon has experienced a renaissance in recent years and is now one of the most popular places in Seoul to eat, drink a drink and go out. While the international cuisine makes Itaewon a pleasant place in the day, it is the nightlife here that really exploded, concurring lively neighborhoods like Hongdae and Gangnam. Bars lounge fills as soon as sunset, then the long queues create in front of the most popular clubs like B1 . In Itaewon you will find all the types of atmospheres you want.
10. Visit the Leeum Samsung Art Museum
It is a private museum often forgotten by tourists, but it is worth a visit to discover one of the best art collections in South Korea. The museum is well organized and it is easy to go with a lot of explanations in English and audio-guides available for purchase. Beautiful traditional and modern/contemporary Korean art is mainly exhibited here, while special exhibitions are often praised by local criticism. The architecture of the two buildings of the museum will also please you, having been designed by renowned architects Mario Botta and Jean Nouvel.
Find a hotel in Seoul
Seoul is a gigantic city, like other major Asian metropolises, and it is important to choose its own right area where to stay before leaving. To find a cheap hotel in Seoul, search this Compare hotels .
How to get to Seoul?
Find cheap flights on our partner's website Ulysses .
Seoul is therefore a great effervescent city but we can still find authenticity and calm. What is your opinion on Seoul ?
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