2026 Seoul Visit Checklist : 8 Places You Can't Miss
- LingoClass
- 6 days ago
- 5 min read
Seoul is a city where ancient palaces, neon skylines, and creative culture blend into one unforgettable adventure.
Explore the top 8 places to visit in Seoul in 2026, from historic palaces to modern landmarks, cultural villages, design plazas, and riverside parks. This travel guide provides detailed descriptions, local insights, and two-paragraph explanations for each destination to help you plan a meaningful and enjoyable Seoul trip.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
Ticket fee: £1.57
Gyeongbokgung Palace is the most historically significant palace from the Joseon Dynasty and remains one of Seoul’s grandest cultural landmarks. Its wide courtyards, elegant pavilions, and traditional architecture allow visitors to step back into Korea’s royal past. Exploring the palace grounds gives you a sense of how deeply history and artistry are embedded in Korean identity.
The peaceful layout makes it easy to spend a few hours wandering through gates, gardens, and corridors that reveal different parts of royal life. Surrounding neighbourhoods such as Samcheong-dong and Seochon complement the visit, offering cafés, galleries, and quiet streets that maintain the cultural atmosphere. Together, the palace and its neighbouring districts create one of the most enriching cultural areas in Seoul.
You can make your visit to Seoul even more memorable by renting a hanbok, the traditional Korean dress, before exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace. Several rental shops located just outside the palace gates offer a wide variety of beautifully designed hanboks for both men and women, as well as accessories to complete the look.
2. Bukchon Hanok Village
Ticket fee: Free
Bukchon Hanok Village offers an immersive look into Korea’s traditional architecture and community life. With lanes lined by restored hanok homes, the area preserves the charm and craftsmanship of the Joseon era. Walking through Bukchon gives you a peaceful escape from the busier parts of Seoul, while still keeping you connected to the city’s heritage.
The village is unique because it remains a functioning residential area, blending everyday life with centuries-old design. Small cultural centers, tea houses, and artisan workshops make the experience even more engaging. Visitors often find themselves slowing down here, enjoying the quiet elegance of the architecture and the gentle rhythm of the narrow streets.
3. N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)
Ticket fee: £13.64
N Seoul Tower sits atop Namsan Mountain and serves as one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Reaching the top can be part of the adventure, whether you choose to hike through the forest trails or take the cable car. The surrounding park areas offer resting spots, tree-lined paths, and open spaces that contribute to a refreshing atmosphere.
At the tower itself, visitors can enjoy restaurants, cafés, an observation deck, and various exhibits that highlight the tower’s cultural role. The views of the city’s skyline and mountain ranges create a sense of scale and connection to Seoul’s geography. Many people enjoy spending time on the terraces and outdoor areas, especially during the cooler parts of the day.
4. Starfield Library
Ticket fee: Free
Starfield Library is a striking cultural space located inside COEX Mall. Its high ceilings, open layout, and tall book walls create a peaceful and inspiring environment for reading, relaxing, or simply taking in the atmosphere. Despite being inside a busy mall, the library maintains a calm and inviting feel.
Because it’s situated within COEX, visitors can easily combine a library visit with shopping, dining, or exploring the COEX Aquarium. Comfortable seating, quiet corners, and the warm design make it a pleasant place to pause during your day. It’s an ideal stop for travelers who want a moment of calm in the middle of Seoul’s energetic Gangnam district.
5. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Ticket fee: £10.49
DDP is one of Seoul’s most innovative architectural landmarks, designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid. The structure’s flowing curves and futuristic aesthetic make it a standout feature in the city’s landscape. Inside, you’ll find design exhibitions, art installations, markets, and creative events that highlight the modern side of Korean culture.
The plaza’s outdoor spaces are equally lively, with wide walkways, gardens, and open areas that host seasonal events and nighttime activities. DDP has become a hub for design, fashion, and culture, drawing both locals and international visitors. It’s also surrounded by shopping malls and cultural sites, making the area a vibrant destination at any time of day.
6. Lotte World Tower & Seoul Sky
Ticket fee: £16.26
Lotte World Tower is South Korea’s tallest skyscraper and a major attraction for those who enjoy modern city experiences. Inside, you’ll find high-end shops, restaurants, cafés, a luxury hotel, and the Seoul Sky observation deck. The tower’s sleek design and spacious interiors make it a pleasant place to explore, whether you’re shopping or simply enjoying the atmosphere.
You can also join the Sky Bridge Tour, where you’ll stand 541 meters above the ground and experience the Seoul skyline up close. The tour lasts about one hour.
Outside the tower, Seokchon Lake offers scenic walking paths and seasonal events, creating a beautiful balance between modern architecture and natural surroundings. The entire Jamsil area is lively and well-developed, offering plenty of activities for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. It’s a destination where you can easily spend an entire afternoon or evening.
7. Myeongdong Shopping Street
Ticket fee: Free
Myeongdong is one of Seoul’s most famous shopping districts, known for its energetic atmosphere and wide selection of fashion, accessories, skincare, and street food. The streets are lined with international brands, local shops, and countless vendors offering snacks and seasonal treats. The area is always lively, making it ideal for those who enjoy bustling city environments.
Besides shopping, Myeongdong offers many cafés, restaurants, and entertainment options that appeal to visitors of all ages. It’s easy to get lost in the energy of the district, exploring side streets and discovering unique items and flavors along the way. Whether you're searching for Korean beauty products or simply enjoying the ambiance, Myeongdong is a must-experience part of Seoul.
8. Han River (Hangang) Parks
Ticket fee: Free
The Han River runs through the center of Seoul, offering spacious parks along both sides of the river. These parks are popular among locals for picnics, jogging, cycling, or relaxing by the water. The wide open areas and calm breeze create a refreshing environment where visitors can unwind and enjoy nature within the city.
Different parks along the river, such as Yeouido, Banpo, and Ttukseom, offer unique features like playgrounds, rental bikes, outdoor stages, and seasonal festivals. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll or a casual gathering with friends, Hangang parks offer the perfect escape from the fast pace of urban life. The riverbank especially comes alive during evenings and weekends.
Final Tips for Your Seoul Trip
Best IG Places: Bukchon, DDP, Starfield Library, Han River
Best Time for Photos: Early morning or sunset
Transport: Seoul’s subway is extremely efficient, Google Maps or KakaoMap works flawlessly
