South Korea is a vibrant nation beaming with tradition, historical past, and beautiful cuisines. Seoul, its energetic capital and its largest metropolis, is a well-liked vacationer vacation spot—one that you could’t go flawed with if it’s your first go to to the gorgeous nation. From historic palaces to fashionable structure, Seoul supplies a various vary of experiences that’s an absolute pleasure for vacationers of all types.
I had the stunning alternative to go to Seoul in Could 2024, and I’ve come again with a number of must-see spots in addition to some useful ideas. Able to plan your journey to Seoul? Let’s get began.
Prime 3 Areas to Go to in Seoul
1. Starfield Library
You’ve in all probability seen it on social media or in k-dramas—the viral and much-loved Starfield Library is a must-see location should you’re into books, cool structure, and purchasing. Sure, purchasing. Starfield Library is positioned inside Starfield Coex Mall, conveniently above Bongeunsa Station. Its gorgeous format and design make it a preferred insta-worthy spot. Though most books are in Korean, there are fairly a handful of English books laid out should you’re thinking about sitting down and having a learn. In any other case, admire the gorgeous design and go on purchasing—the mall options all kinds of retailers together with a UFC merch retailer in addition to many eating places.
2. Gyongbokgung
South Korea is a rustic wealthy in historical past, and Seoul provides among the most gorgeous historical structure to marvel. Gyongbokgung is likely one of the largest palaces of the Joseon Dynasty and served because the dynasty’s predominant palace. Conveniently positioned above Gyeonbokgung station, guests ought to be aware the palace’s opening hours and ceremony instances. For many who wish to absolutely immerse themselves in historical past, think about renting a hanbok—a standard Korean apparel—and get free admission into the palace! Hanbok rental retailers are available close by the palace, so plan forward if you wish to absolutely immerse your self in Korean historical past—in any other case you may go in your ordinary apparel.
3. The Hyundai Seoul
If you happen to love purchasing, look no additional—go to the Hyundai Seoul, Korea’s latest landmark! It’s an ultra-modern shopping center that’s considered one of Seoul’s largest, and it’s crammed with scrumptious eating places, fashionable retailers like Light Monster, Le Labo, and even photobooths! It’s proper above Yeoinaru station within the coronary heart of town. Don’t overlook to maintain your receipts and submit them to the tax refund sales space! Keep in mind, vacationers store obligation free!
Suggestions for travelling in South Korea
1. Carry money and get a T-Cash card
Korea’s transit system is money solely. The simplest option to navigate it’s by shopping for a T-Cash card—Korea’s transit system card—and cargo it with money. I purchased mine at a 7-Eleven close by my lodge.
2. Keep on the correct facet of the escalator
Korea drives on the correct facet, and other people stroll upstairs and experience on escalators on the correct. So don’t overlook that—nobody likes awkward vacationers who don’t abide by native etiquette!
3. Obtain Naver or Kakao Maps
As a consequence of authorized restrictions, Google Maps isn’t very correct in Korea. If you wish to get round hassle-free, use apps that the locals use, like Naver or Kakao Maps.
4. Get an eSim
You’ll all the time need an correct location of the place you’re if you’re travelling, and the best manner to try this is by downloading an eSim for fast Web entry. eSims are cheaper than shopping for information roaming from cell suppliers and really handy—particularly when navigating. All you could do is obtain the eSim—no bodily sim card wanted! Do bear in mind to test in case your gadget is appropriate with an eSim earlier than buying one.
If you happen to’re planning on touring Asia, visiting Korea is a no brainer . I hope this weblog entices you to go to the gorgeous nation much more! I, for one, will likely be visiting once more, and may go for Busan or Jeju Island subsequent time round!
On the lookout for extra journey ideas? Take a look at our Journey Suggestions for Cherry Blossom Season or Exploring Cartagena, Colombia’s Most Instagram-Worthy Spots.
Secure travels,
Suki