40 Fun & Unique Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea

Looking for the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea? Well, you're in the right place!

Whether you're a foodie, nature lover, shopping fanatic, or trying to enjoy some luxury relaxation, there really is something for everyone in this bustling Asian city.

In this guide we're going to share 40 fun and unique thing to do in Seoul from the top tourist attractions to some wildly different activities you probably wouldn't have even though of.

Fun Things to Do in Seoul: An Intro to South Korea's Capital City

Before diving into all of the great things to do in Seoul, South Korea, let's learn a bit about the city, and how long you spend there!

What is Seoul Famous For?

Seoul is famous for its fascinating blend of tradition and technology. Travelers come for its grand palaces, colorful markets, and lively nightlife. It’s also the heart of K-pop, K-beauty, and Korean cuisine, offering everything from world-class salon treatments to cozy cafes. The city is known for being clean, efficient, and incredibly safe, making it a top choice for first-time visitors to Asia.

How Many Days in Seoul is Enough?

Seoul is one of those cities that you can hit the top sites in a day, but to really experience it, then you'll want to spend several days. 

A long weekend is a great taste to diving into some of the top things to do in Seoul, but you can also easily spend a full week if you're looking to experience a blend of shopping, cafe-culture, and beauty treatments, while having time for some fun day trips.

The Best Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea

Ready to explore all of the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea? We're sharing everything from top tourist attractions to unique activities, beauty treatments, and fun foodie experiences.

Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea: Top Tourist Attractions

When visiting anywhere for the first time, you'll want to make sure you check out the main highlights of the city. So let's start off by checking out the top tourist attractions in Seoul!

Visit the Palaces

Seoul is home to some of South Korea’s most iconic palaces, each offering beautiful architecture, manicured gardens, and tons of history. These palaces are essential stops for anyone looking to experience the history and beauty of Seoul.

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and most well-known, with stunning gates, sprawling courtyards, and traditional architecture that dates back to the Joseon Dynasty. You can watch the ceremonial changing of the guard, explore the National Palace Museum on site, and enjoy the beautiful landscaped gardens.

Changdeokgung Palace is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, mainly due to its Secret Garden. The garden is a peaceful area with ponds, pavilions, and tree-lined paths that are the perfect escape from the busy city.

Deoksugung Palace blends traditional Korean and Western architectural styles and is centrally located near Seoul City Hall. Its stone walls, elegant gates, and seasonal gardens make it ideal for strolling, photography, and learning about Korea’s royal past.

Take the Cable Car Up to the Seoul Tower

For panoramic views of Seoul, take the cable car up Namsan Seoul Tower. The ride is scenic, offering elevated views of the surrounding cityscape and mountains, and it saves time from an intense walk up the hill. While the tower itself it the highlight, make sure to give yourself time enjoying the views and different areas to relax.

Visit the Top of the Seoul Tower

Once at the top, Seoul Tower offers observation decks, a café, and a chance to participate in the popular “love lock” tradition. Couples can attach padlocks symbolizing their affection, and visitors can enjoy unobstructed 360-degree views of the city. 

The atmosphere is lively during the day and especially magical at night when the city lights sparkle. Visiting the tower is a classic activity for first-time travelers and a highlight of the city skyline.

 Don't miss out on the bathroom, which definitely has some really unique and fun views!

Go to the Top of Lotte World Tower

For a different perspective of the South Korea's capital, the Lotte World Tower offers an even higher vantage point over Seoul. Its observation deck is one of the tallest in the world and provides breathtaking views of the Han River, mountains, and urban sprawl. 

Inside, you can enjoy luxury shopping, fine dining, an aquarium, and cultural exhibitions. The combination of height and modern amenities makes it an unmissable stop for travelers seeking one of the best views in Seoul.

Explore Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is a preserved neighborhood of traditional Korean houses nestled between modern streets. Walking through its narrow, cobblestone alleys takes you back to centuries ago, and you can explore galleries, tea houses, and craft shops, or simply admire the architecture and take beautiful photos. 

It is a peaceful and picturesque area, making it one of the best things to do in Seoul for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Check Out Seoul City Hall

Seoul City Hall is surrounded by Gwanghwamun Square and Cheonggyecheon Stream, and is also an architectural marvel. It is a popular area for walks, sightseeing, and people-watching on the outside, and cultural events and exhibits on the inside. 

You can enjoy the open public spaces, fountains, and art installations, as well as a cool rooftop and even a coffee shop that serves drinks by robots! It really is an all-round great place for all types of travelers, and one of the best things to do in Seoul if you're looking for something different.

Pay a Visit to Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa Temple is a central Buddhist temple in Seoul offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city, with beautifully painted wooden structures and colorful lanterns. You can observe monks at prayer, participate in meditation sessions, or simply enjoy the peaceful gardens. 

Visiting during a holiday or special event? The temple is also particularly vibrant during festivals such as Buddha’s birthday.

Visit Starfield Library 

Located in the COEX Mall, Starfield Library is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Seoul. It's not only great for picking up a book, but its known for its striking architectural space with towering bookshelves and open reading areas. It has become a cultural landmark for both locals and travelers, and its modern design contrasts beautifully with the traditional attractions of the city.

 Have more time? There is an even more impressive Starfield Mall that is located about an hour from the city!

Explore the National Museum of Korea

The National Museum of Korea houses an extensive collection of over 300,000 artifacts, ranging from ancient ceramics to Buddhist sculptures and royal relics. The museum’s exhibitions provide a wealth of information, making it an ideal stop for anyone interested in Korean culture and history.

Enjoy Dongdaemon Design Plaza

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is a futuristic landmark known for its unique curves and LED façade. It hosts exhibitions, cultural events, and markets, making it an excellent place to visit on the weekends. 

Visitors can explore innovative designs, enjoy evening light shows, and experience one of Seoul’s most modern attractions that truly sticks out from the more traditional areas of the city.

Discover Insa Central Museum

Insa Central Museum is located in Insadong, a neighborhood known for art and culture. The museum showcases contemporary and traditional Korean art, crafts, and rotating exhibitions. It is a great way to dive deeper into Korea’s creative scene and to also get some cool photos.

Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea: Unique Activities

Now that you know the top tourist attractions in Seoul, let's dive into some of the unique activities that you find around the city.

Rent a Hanbok

Wearing a hanbok, Korea’s traditional outfit, is a super fun way to enjoy how locals used to dress, and to get some cute photos. Just outside of Gyeongbokgung Palace there are countless rental shops lined up one by one, and you can choose from hundreds of colors and designs, get your hair done, and even choose matching accessories!

Another plus? When you do a hanbok rental you can get into the Gyeongbokgung Palace for free!

Have a K-Pop Photoshoot

Seoul is the heart of K-pop culture, and fans can participate in professional photoshoots styled like music videos, complete with hair, makeup, and costumes. It is an interactive and fun way to celebrate Korea’s global music phenomenon while getting some fun content to take with you.

Do a K-Pop Dance Class

Want to truly dive into the fun of K-Pop? You can joina dance class to learn all the moves of the top hits! Some even come with a video, a fun and unique souvenir to take with you.

Play at the Samoyed Cafe

Okay, we're not a massive fan of the animal cafe culture in Japan and South Korea, but we had to make an exception for the Samoyed Cafe because they're our favorite dog breed! 

It's a 2-story play area of over a dozen Samoyed pups ready to play and show you their tricks. It's honestly so adorable, and a great way to show some love to this adorable breed.

 Experience a Nanta Show

The Nanta Show is a non-verbal performance that combines cooking, drumming, and comedy, a totally unique show to Seoul! The energetic show is engaging for all ages and allows travelers to enjoy Korean performance art in a fun and accessible way.

Attend a Jamsil Baseball Game

You may not have thought to attend a sporting event while in South Korea, but the baseball games at Jamsil Stadium are super fun! Attending a game is an authentic local experience and a chance to enjoy Korean sports culture along with stadium snacks like fried chicken and beer.

Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!

Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea: K Beauty

If you're visiting Seoul then one thing you cannot leave without is some K-beauty. South Korea is known for their prime skincare products and revolutionary beauty treatments. Korean women and men alike take great pride in their appearances, and whether you're simply buying products or visiting salons, K-beauty is a must!

Get Your Nails Done

Seoul is known for its innovative and creative nail art culture, and if you know me, you know that I absolutely love getting my nails done while I am traveling. 

Koreans go all out on their nails and have everything from innovative polishes to 3D nail art. There are hundreds of designs you can choose from, and the quality is probably the best I have ever experienced (I am typing this article 6 weeks later with them still going strong!).

Don't miss out on Muggle Duggle, which is a Harry Potter themed salon. It was so much fun, and Fede had such a good time playing with the trinkets and the bird there that he didn't even complain at all about spending his time at a salon.

 Enjoy a Korean Scalp Treatment

If you can only get one beauty treatment in Seoul, then we'd recommend the trying the viral Korean Scalp Treatment. As someone who battles scalp and hair issues, it truly was a game-changer!

The 15-step treatment combines relaxation with hair care, where skilled practitioners use massage techniques, specialized oils, and high-quality products to improve circulation and promote healthy hair. This treatment is both soothing and rejuvenating, and truly will make you sad you can't do it every month.

We went to Juno Hair in Myeongdong and absolutely LOVED it. The staff were so much fun, the views were great, and the massage chairs were a total game-changer.

 Get a Facial

Facials in Seoul are known worldwide for their innovation and effectiveness, and they're another great service that really anyone can enjoy no matter what the state of their skin is. 

Many salons and spas offer multi-step treatments using cutting-edge technology, herbal remedies, and luxurious masks, so it's not only a way to pamper yourself, but also an introduction to K-beauty skincare routines that travelers can continue at home.

Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea: Food & Drink

Now that you've seen the top tourist sites and experienced some K-beauty, let's eat and drink our way around the city! 

South Korea has such an amazing food scene, and whether you're looking to experience the cafes and markets or you want to experience unique activities with locals, this section is for the foodies and partiers out there.

Experience the Cafe Culture

Seoul’s café scene is as diverse as it is creative. From themed cafés featuring animals or immersive art to minimalist spaces focused on specialty coffee, there is something for every taste in Seoul.

Here are a few of the cafes. that we love in Seoul:

• Cafe Onion: an incredible assortment of baked good with a traditional Korean-style eating area
• Perment Bake Shop: 3 story French-style bakery (our absolute favorite)
• Dotori Garden Anguk: has unbelievable pastries and fresh Greek yogurt with a cute garden seating area
• Cheongsudang Bakery: has a lovely green garden with trendy indoor seating (coffee and dessert only)
• Cat Cafe Cat's Saarangchae: the cutest cat cafe with one coffee included

Eat Your Way Around the Street Markets 

Street markets like Gwangjang Market and Namdaemun Market are essential for anyone wanting to taste authentic Korean street food, along with places like Myeongdong that fill with vendors lining the sidewalks.

You can try dishes such as tteokbokki, hotteok, and freshly prepared seafood, along with some wildly delicious desserts like toasted marshmallows stuffed with cheesecake.

Wandering through the stalls is an incredible experience, with lively crowds, colorful foods, and local vendors eager to share their specialties.

Try Korean BBQ

Korean BBQ is one of the most iconic dining experiences in South Korea, and one of the best things to do in Seoul. At these restaurants, diners grill meats such as beef, pork, and chicken right at their tables, often wrapping bites in lettuce with condiments and unlimited side dishes. 

It can be one of the pricier meals, but it is interactive, social, and a great way to experience Korean cuisine with friends or family.

Traveling alone or want to meet other travelers? Here are a couple of Korean BBQ experiences you can sign up for!

Take a Korean Cooking Class

Cooking classes in Seoul allow travelers to learn how to prepare traditional dishes like kimchi, bibimbap, or Korean pancakes. 

These hands-on experiences give you step-by-step instruction, and the chance to enjoy the dishes you prepare them. It is a rewarding way to take a piece of Korean culinary tradition home with you, and a fun way to meet other travelers!

Go on a Guided Food & Market Tour

A guided food tour is perfect for discovering hidden culinary gems. Expert guides lead you through markets, street food stalls, and local eateries, explaining ingredients, preparation methods, and the history behind each dish. This type of tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want to explore Seoul’s food culture in depth, and will let you experience the cuisine from local experts.

 Go on a Pub Crawl

Seoul’s nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with so many great bars. A pub crawl in areas like Itaewon or Hongdae lets you sample a variety of drinks, meet other travelers, and experience the city’s energetic evening atmosphere. It's one of the best things to do in Seoul for extroverts, and a great way to enjoy Seoul after dark.

Hang at the Musical Pub

Musical pubs, such as Showflix, combine live music performances with casual drinks. These venues often feature talented local artists and provide an intimate setting for enjoying entertainment. 

Visiting a musical pub is one of the most fun ways to experience Seoul’s contemporary music scene, and a great addition to any Seoul itinerary.

Have a Picnic & Games

Seoul has beautiful green spaces, including parks along the Han River, perfect for picnics and recreational activities. Visitors can rent bicycles, bring food and drinks, and enjoy the outdoors. Many locals gather here to play games, fly kites, or simply relax, making it an ideal spot to experience everyday life in Seoul.

For this reason, you can even sign up for a picnic & games event in Seoul, designed to bring together both travelers and locals for a fun and unique experience. It's located at a green space next to the Han River including a picnic with crispy Korean fried chicken and drinks, along with fun traditional games.

For a bonus, you can even add a starlight cruise or E-Bike ride to Banpo Fountain!

Check Out the Speakeasies

Seoul is home to some really cool hidden speakeasies with creative cocktails and stylish interiors. These secret bars often require reservations or a password to enter, making them even more exciting than the traditional bars around the city. 

Our favorite Speakeasy was The Storage Room, which has been opened by a Korean who lives part time in New York. He was super friendly and fun to be around, and he even fetched us some Soju to drink with us!

Play Korean Drinking Games

Korean drinking games are a popular and interactive nightlife activity in Seoul, and whether you are a drinker or not, these are super fun and unique activities to take part in. Whether at a casual bar or a private gathering, these games involve creative rules, teamwork, and laughter, making them a fun and authentic way to connect with local culture and nightlife.

Join a Soju Tasting & Distillery

Soju is Korea’s traditional distilled spirit, and a must-try while in Seoul. Many distilleries offer guided tours, explaining production methods and the history of soju, while you can also Sampling different varieties. It's a fun way to learn more about this iconic drink and to meet other travelers!

Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea: Day Trips

There are so many fun things to do in Seoul, but there are also some really cool day trips you can take to nearby destinations, even countries (kind of).

 Nami Island

Just a short trip from Seoul, Nami Island is one of the most beloved destinations for locals and visitors alike. Famous for its tree-lined paths and charming scenery, it’s especially beautiful in autumn when the leaves turn shades of gold and red. The island is small enough to explore on foot or by bike, and you’ll find cafés, art installations, and peaceful riverside spots throughout. 

Whether you’re visiting for a relaxing day in nature or to see the filming locations of Korean dramas, Nami Island is an essential escape from the city, and is included on a lot of day trip excursions from Seoul.

BTS Gangneung Fan Tour & Ulleung Island Escape

Fans of K-pop can enjoy a day trip to Gangneung, visiting locations featured in music videos, concerts, or filming spots. Ulleung Island offers a natural escape with hiking trails, coastal views, and local seafood, so this combination tour is perfect for travelers who want a mix of cultural fandom and nature exploration outside of Seoul.

Eoibi Ice Valley

For those who are visiting Seoul in Winter, Eoibi Ice Valley is a hidden gem worth the journey for those that love unique landscapes. 

Located in Uljin County, this valley is famous for its incredible ice formations. Visitors can walk along frozen streams, admire the icicles hanging from cliffs, and enjoy the surrounding forest.

It’s a surreal spot that photographers and nature lovers will appreciate, offering a completely different side of South Korea’s scenery.

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress

Located about an hour from Seoul, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a fascinating look at Korea’s history. The fortress walls stretch for nearly six kilometers, and visitors can walk along the ramparts for panoramic views of Suwon. 

You can also explore pavilions, gates, and watchtowers that have impressive 18th-century architecture. This day trip combines culture, history, and light hiking, making it one of the best cultural excursions from Seoul, and fabulous for photographers!

Mt Seorak

Seoraksan National Park, home to Mt. Seorak, is one of South Korea’s most stunning natural areas. With dramatic rock formations, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers, it’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. 

You can take a cable car up to the Gwongeumseong Fortress for breathtaking views or tackle one of the park’s scenic trails. In autumn, the park becomes a sea of color, attracting travelers from around the country, and an absolute-must for photographers. Visiting Mt. Seorak makes for a perfect outdoor day trip or weekend getaway from Seoul.

 Yeongdong

Located in North Chungcheong Province, Yeongdong is a peaceful countryside area known for its vineyards and wine production. The region hosts the annual Yeongdong Wine Festival, where visitors can sample local wines, explore vineyards, and learn about traditional winemaking. 

Beyond wine, Yeongdong offers quiet rural charm, with rolling hills and scenic drives through the countryside. It’s a refreshing break from the bustle of Seoul and an ideal destination for travelers seeking a slower pace and authentic local experiences.

 The Demilitarization Tour

The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) offers a unique and educational day trip from Seoul to a little slice of North Korea. Guided tours take visitors to key observation points, tunnels, and museums, providing insight into the history of the Korean conflict, and *kind of* allowing you to check North Korea off your list!

As a plus, some tours also offer a visit at a nearby suspension bridge!

Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea: Final Thoughts & What's Next

Now that you know all of the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea, let's help you visit with some practical info.

 Getting There: There are two airports in Seoul, one is Gimpo (GMP) which is 21 km away from the city center, and the other is Incheon (ICN) which is 60 km away.

 Getting Around: Walking is the most ideal way to explore each neighborhood, and you can easily use the metro, buses, or taxis to move from one neighborhood to the next.

 Where to Stay: We recommend staying in the old town, as most of the best things to do in Seoul are there, and there are plenty of places to eat and drink around the area.

 Language: Korean is the language of Seoul, South Korea.

 Currency: Seoul uses the Korean Won. $1 USD = 1,400 Won.

 Safety: Seoul is a super safe city, and the locals are very welcoming!

 Weather: Seoul experiences 4 seasons, with extremely hot humid summers and cold, snowy winters.

What's Next?

Now that you've learned about all of the great things to do in Seoul, South Korea, you probably want to learn more about visiting! Currently we have a guide about the viral Korean scalp treatment and How to Get to Seoul, with plenty of other weekly guides coming up, including:

• First-Time Visitors Guide to Seoul
• South Korea Food Guide
• Fun Things to Do & See in Jeju
• How to Get Around Jeju
• A Guide for Getting to Jeju Island
• Jeju Island Complete Travel Guide
• The Best Things to Do in Busan
• Busan Travel Guide
• How to Get Around South Korea

So are you ready to experience all of the fun things to do in Seoul, South Korea? This city has so much to offer - whether you're into beauty, nature, history, or nightlife, there is something for everyone in South Korea's capital.

Want to learn more about traveling in South Korea? We a lot of other South Korea Travel Guides coming up for you. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date with our most recent articles, and to receive special discounts on our shop.

Ready to book your trip to Seoul, but don't want the hassle of dealing with the research? Well, we're here to help! Scratch Your Mapa offers travel planning packages with customized itineraries, unique accommodation options, and personalized activities for every type of traveler out there. Simply email us today to learn more!

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