South Korea is a lively country rich in culture, history, and delicious cuisine. Its bustling capital, Seoul, is a favored tourist destination, making it an excellent choice for your first visit to this beautiful nation. From historic palaces to cutting-edge architecture, Seoul offers a wide array of experiences that cater to every type of traveler.
I had the wonderful opportunity to visit Seoul in May 2024, and I returned with a list of must-see attractions and helpful travel tips. Are you ready to plan your trip to Seoul? Let’s dive in!
Top 3 Locations to Visit in Seoul
1. Starfield Library
You may have seen it on social media or in K-dramas—the iconic Starfield Library is a must-visit for anyone who loves books, stunning architecture, and shopping. Located within the Starfield Coex Mall, conveniently above Bongeunsa Station, this library features a breathtaking design that is perfect for Instagram photos. While most of the books are in Korean, you’ll find a selection of English titles if you wish to relax and read. Alternatively, you can simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings and explore the numerous shops and restaurants within the mall, including a UFC merchandise store.
2. Gyeongbokgung Palace
South Korea is steeped in history, and Seoul is home to some of its most breathtaking ancient architecture. Gyeongbokgung is the largest of the Joseon Dynasty’s palaces and served as its main residence. Conveniently located near Gyeongbokgung Station, be sure to check the palace’s operating hours and ceremony schedule. To enhance your experience, consider renting a hanbok—a traditional Korean dress—which allows you free entry to the palace! Rental shops can be found nearby, so plan ahead if you’d like to immerse yourself in Korean history. Otherwise, you’re welcome to enter in your regular clothes.
3. The Hyundai Seoul
If you love shopping, The Hyundai Seoul is a must-visit—it is Korea’s latest landmark! This ultra-modern shopping mall is one of the largest in Seoul, hosting a variety of trendy shops and delicious restaurants, including popular brands like Gentle Monster and Le Labo, along with fun photo booths! Located right above Yeoinaru Station, remember to save your receipts to claim a tax refund; tourists can shop duty-free!
Tips for Traveling in South Korea
1. Carry Cash and Get a T-Money Card
In Korea, the public transportation system mainly operates on cash. The easiest way to navigate it is by purchasing a T-Money card—Korea’s equivalent to a transit card—which you can load with cash. I found mine at a 7-Eleven close to my hotel.
2. Stand on the Right Side of Escalators
As Korea drives on the right, it’s customary for people to stand on the right side of escalators. Keep this in mind—nobody enjoys dealing with confused tourists who don’t follow local etiquette!
3. Download Naver or Kakao Maps
Google Maps isn’t very precise in Korea due to legal restrictions. To get around effortlessly, use local apps like Naver or Kakao Maps.
4. Get an eSim
To always know your location while traveling, consider downloading an eSim for instant internet access. eSims are often more cost-effective than data roaming options provided by phone carriers and are very convenient for navigation. Just download the eSim—there’s no physical SIM card required! Make sure to check your device’s compatibility with eSim technology before you purchase.
If you’re considering a trip to Asia, South Korea is an excellent choice. I hope this blog inspires you to explore this enchanting country! I’m already planning my next visit, possibly to Busan or Jeju Island!
Looking for more travel guides? Check out our tips for Cherry Blossom Season or explore the most Instagram-worthy spots in Cartagena, Colombia.
Happy travels,
Suki
