2025 Seoul Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

#TravelChat 📅 Day 1: Korea's Capital 🏨 Stay in Myeongdong 🍙 Morning: Korean Lunchbox + Banana Milk 🏯 Lunch: Gyeongbokgung Palace 🛍️ Afternoon: Cosmetics + Clothing Shopping 🍗 Dinner: Korean Fried Chicken 🎤 Night: Karaoke & Cafe 📅 Day 2: Nature & Art 🏨 Stay in Hongdae ☕ Morning: Artistic Cafe 🎨 Lunch: Trick Eye Museum 🌳 Afternoon: Hangang Park 🍲 Dinner: Bulgogi Hot Pot 💃 Night: Live Music 📅 Day 3: Morning Market & Departure 🏨 Stay near Dongdaemun 🍜 Morning: Hot Kimchi Soup 🎁 Noon: Market Tour Gwangjang ✈️ Afternoon: Return

#TravelChat 🛫 Fly from Bangkok (BKK) ➡️ Seoul (ICN) • ✈️ Flight time: Approximately 5 hours 30 minutes ⸻ 🗓 Day 1: Hip Areas + Korean Cafes • 🏨 Stay in Hongdae or Myeongdong • 🥞 Morning: Korean-style brunch in Hongdae • 👕 Noon: Shopping in Hongdae + K-fashion clothing stores • 🧋 Afternoon: Visit beautiful rooftop cafes like Thanks, Oat • 🕯 Evening: Watch the sunset at Namsan Tower • 🍗 Late Night: Korean fried chicken + beer (Chimaek) in Myeongdong ⸻ 🗓 Day 2: History & Palaces • ⛩ Morning: Wear a hanbok + stroll around the palace Gyeongbokgung • 🧋 Lunch: Milk tea + Korean-style snacks in Bukchon Hanok Village • 🛍 Afternoon: Stroll around Insadong + buy handmade souvenirs • 🌃 Evening: Visit Ikseon-dong for chic cafes and craft shops • 🍲 Night: Enjoy Korean jimdak or hot bibimbap ⸻ 🗓 Day 3: Chill + Shop • ☕ Morning: A wooden-themed Japanese cafe in Seongsu (the Brooklyn of Seoul) • 🧴 Afternoon: Shop for skincare at Olive Young / Innisfree • 🎁 Souvenir shopping at Lotte Mart • 🛫 Return home

Discover a charming Western-style restaurant near Seoul City Hall, along the picturesque Deoksugung Stone Wall Path!✨ After a peaceful walk along the stone wall, step into this cozy spot with its warm lighting and stylish interior. The creamy pasta is rich and smooth, while the tomato pasta offers a deep, satisfying flavor🍅—perfect for a date! ✅ Conveniently located for a visit after a stroll along the stone wall ✅ Atmospheric lighting and stylish decor ✅ High satisfaction with both pasta and salad dishes ✅ Ideal for completing your City Hall date course💕

#AdventureMoment I tried Mineral Samgyeopsal as part of my Gwanghwamun date! The clean and luxurious atmosphere from the entrance heightened my anticipation. ⬆️ The meat was grilled on a special mineral salt plate, preserving its juices and removing any odors, resulting in a truly light and tender dish! It was so refreshing, I couldn't believe how clean samgyeopsal could be. 🤤 The vegetables for the wraps were fresh, and the side dishes were well-prepared, so I was very satisfied with the overall quality. ✅ Perfect for a special date ✅ Classy and quiet atmosphere ✅ Highly recommend Mineral Salt Plate Samgyeopsal! #DomesticTravel

If you're looking for a cozy traditional liquor bar in Hannam-dong, I highly recommend TLL SEOUL! You can enjoy a stunning view of Namsan Tower and lush greenery, offering a perfect blend of urban and natural vibes 🌇. Especially in the evening, when the lights come on, the atmosphere becomes incredibly romantic, making it an ideal spot for a date. The warm fish cake soup is comforting, and the Sahwa Yuzu traditional liquor has a subtle aroma and flavor that even beginners can enjoy without hesitation 🍢. ✅ Namsan view + lush greenery vibes ✅ Perfect pairing of traditional liquor and Korean side dishes ✅ Highly recommended for a special date spot!

Beton's is a homemade bakery that continues to gain popularity among Seoulites. Located in the Songsu district, surrounded by stylish cafes, the shop boasts a sleek, minimalist Korean design, yet the aroma of freshly baked pastries is mouthwatering. Signature dishes include thin, crisp, buttery croissants, dense baguettes, and cream-filled breads that rival those of major brands. A wide selection of beverages is also available, perfect for souvenirs or to enjoy on-site with a warm cup of coffee on a relaxing morning. #TravelTalk #TravelAbroad #DeliciousFoodTip #RecommendDeliciousRestaurants

Namsan Tower, or N-Seoul Tower, is one of Seoul's most famous landmarks. Located atop Namsan Mountain in the heart of the city, it can be reached by cable car, bus, or by walking up a lush forest staircase. The highlight is the 360-degree panoramic view of Seoul, especially in the evenings before sunset, which is the most romantic time. A key attraction is the "Love Locks," a symbol of love symbolized by thousands of padlocks placed by couples as a symbol of their bond. The tower offers a wide selection of restaurants and cafes, including a 360-degree rotating observation deck. This is a must-see experience for first-time visitors to Seoul. #TravelTalk #PhotoTourism #TravelAbroad

Paris Baguette may seem like your typical bakery, but in Korea, this shop is a crowd favorite, with branches on almost every corner. Their perfect blend of French-style bread and Korean flavors is a must-try. Recommended dishes include their fragrant buttery croissants, fluffy chiffon cakes, bagels with various fillings, and creamy breads—all incredibly well-made in Korea. They also offer simple breakfast sets, including sandwiches, hot coffee, and a wide selection of cute desserts. The minimalist atmosphere offers a relaxing atmosphere, making it a great place to recharge or pick up souvenirs to take home with you. #TravelTalk #DeliciousFood #RecommendDeliciousRestaurants

Sulbing Cafe is a legendary Korean bingsu, a must-try for all visitors. The cafe's signature dish is its fine, snow-like shaved ice that melts instantly. It's not overly sweet, and the toppings are generous. The popular Injeolmi Bingsu features roasted bean flour and chewy mochi, served with a separate cup of condensed milk for self-serve. Alternatively, the strawberry cheesecake and large melon bingsu are also popular during the season. The cafe has several branches across Korea, offering a clean and comfortable atmosphere, perfect for resting your legs and refreshing after a hot day of sightseeing. #TravelTalk #DeliciousFoodTip #RecommendDeliciousRestaurants

This pork backbone hot pot restaurant is well-known among locals for its rich flavor and intense Korean chili aroma. The broth is well-balanced, made from tender pork bones, and fresh vegetables like cheonggeul (wild vegetables) add depth to the flavor. Served in a large, boiling pot with steaming rice and kimchi, it's a comfort food that's delicious without being formal. The restaurant has a homey yet clean atmosphere and fast service. This dish is perfect for cold weather or when you crave something warm and full of authentic Korean flavors. #TravelTalk #TravelAbroad #DeliciousFoodTip #RecommendDeliciousRestaurants

1 in 1 Sang Cafe is located in an authentic hanok house in the heart of Bukchon Village. The atmosphere is peaceful and private, perfect for a break from the hustle and bustle. Their signature menu features hot beverages like traditional Korean tea and hot drip coffee, and their pastries are made fresh daily. This cafe truly captures the essence of traditional Korea. #TravelTalk #PhotoTourism #TravelAbroad

Bukchon Hanok Village is a neighborhood home to over 900 traditional Korean houses (hanok) nestled on a hill between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces. While many of these houses are still inhabited, some are now open as cafes and art galleries. Visitors can stroll, take photos, and admire authentic Korean architecture up close. The peaceful atmosphere is beautiful year-round, especially during the changing leaves. #TravelTalk #DeliciousFoodTip #RecommendDeliciousRestaurant

Two Two Chicken is another legendary Myeongdong restaurant that many people follow. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and topped with a sweet and spicy Korean sauce, Two Two Chicken is equally delicious. Served with a cold Korean beer or makgeolli, it's the perfect way to cool down after a long day of shopping. Korean fried chicken lovers shouldn't miss this place. #TravelTalk #DeliciousFood #RecommendDeliciousRestaurants

Musoe Kimchi BBQ is known for its delicious, homemade kimchi, along with high-quality grilled meats like pork belly, pork marinated in gochujang sauce, and grilled intestines. The restaurant's atmosphere is intimate and perfect for groups, especially when paired with ice-cold soju. It's a great way to savor the flavors. Reservations are recommended or when the restaurant opens, as it's packed with customers every day. #TravelTalk #TravelAbroad #DeliciousFoodTip #RecommendDeliciousRestaurants

Tucked away in Gwangjang Market is ILHO Cafe, a popular spot among coffee lovers thanks to its owner, a Korea Coffee Roasting Champion. The cafe's atmosphere blends the rawness of the market with the refined flavors of Third Wave coffee. They serve medium-dark roasts of specialty coffee. We recommend the Dirty and fruity filter coffees. Serious coffee lovers should definitely stop by, as the quality surpasses expectations in the local market. #TravelTalk #DeliciousTip #Cafe

Gwangjang Market is a local foodie's paradise, filled with traditional Korean dishes like bibimbap, japchae, fried seaweed, and, most notably, pickled squid and Korean pancakes (pajeon). Strolling through this market is like stepping back in time to your grandmother's time in Korea. The shop layout retains a nostalgic feel, with sections for clothing, silk, and souvenirs. Anyone visiting Seoul who wants to experience authentic Korean charm should definitely visit this market. #TravelTalk #TravelAbroad #DeliciousFoodTip #RecommendDeliciousRestaurants

Hongs Zzuggumi stands out for its "Spicy Stir-fried Squid," or Jukgumi, a truly spicy dish served piping hot with rice and a variety of side dishes. Those who prefer it extra spicy will love this, while those who prefer it less spicy should order it with a milder level. The restaurant's lively atmosphere, fast service, and constant crowds make this a popular spot for foodies who don't want to miss out on the spiciness when in Hongdae. It's so delicious you'll forget all about the spiciness. #TravelTalk #TravelAbroad #DeliciousFoodTip #RecommendDeliciousRestaurants

Hongdae Street is one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Seoul, brimming with youthful energy, street art, and live music from amateur performers. It's also home to a wealth of street fashion, affordable Korean food, and chic cafes. K-pop cover dance shows are frequent throughout the day and night, drawing crowds. Despite its touristy atmosphere, Hongdae remains a vibrant locale. For those looking for a fun and inspiring taste of Seoul, Hongdae is a must-visit. #TravelTalk #TravelAbroad

#PostAComment to Win Junglia Tickets Take a quick trip back to the heartwarming days of "Reply 1988" ☕️📼🍪 Tucked away in the quiet alleys of Mapo District, thekey coffee shop boasts a distinctly Korean retro aesthetic. Its red brick exterior and vintage window frames create a sense of time travel. The old sofas, wooden radio, and cassette player... every detail is filled with nostalgia, reminiscent of a scene from "Reply 1988." Besides the delicious coffee, their homemade cookies are a must-try. Crispy yet rich and creamy, they're a must-try for many regulars. Paired with a warm Americano or latte, sitting by the window and daydreaming is the simplest and most relaxing way to spend an afternoon. 📍Getting There: Approximately a 10-minute walk from Hapjeong or Mangwon subway stations. ☕️thekey coffee / Seoul, South Korea 📍Shanghai 5th Floor, 17 🕘Weekdays 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM 🕚Sundays 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed Saturdays) #SeoulCafe #thekeycoffee #Reply1988 #KoreanRetro #KoreaResearch #MapoGuCafe #Must-Go for Retro Lovers #KoreaTravelCafeMap #SeoulCafe

Coex Mall is Asia's largest underground shopping mall, located in the Gangnam district. It features shopping, dining, a movie theater, an aquarium, and the stunning Starfield Library. Easily accessible via subway, the mall offers a wide selection of shops, from luxury brands to local products, catering to all ages. The spacious interior offers plenty of seating and photo opportunities. Perfect for spending at least 3-4 hours, or even an entire day, especially on a rainy or hot day in Seoul. #TravelTalk #TravelAbroad

Blue Bottle Coffee at the Hyundai Department Store is stylish and open-air. High-quality coffee lovers won't want to miss this branch. Freshly roasted beans offer a rich aroma and balanced flavors, perfect for those who prefer a less acidic coffee. Recommended items include the Cold Brew Latte and Matcha Latte. The cafe features a minimalist décor with indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for a relaxing break from shopping in a luxury mall. The staff are friendly and attentive. Prices are higher than your average cafe, but the quality is worth it. Specialty coffee lovers shouldn't miss this. #TravelTalk #Cafe

153 Gupo Noodles, Jongno branch, is a home-style Korean noodle shop popular with locals. The guksu noodles are chewy and the broth is rich and flavorful, not greasy. They offer both hot and cold dishes, such as bibimbap guksu, sundae, seaweed rice rolls, and kimbap kito. The automated ordering system makes ordering easy, even if you don't speak Korean. The restaurant is clean, service is fast, and food arrives within minutes. The prices are reasonable, making it ideal for quick lunches and dinners. It's also perfect for tourists looking to try local, home-cooked meals without spending a fortune. #TravelTalk #DeliciousFoodTip #RecommendDeliciousRestaurants

The cherry blossom tunnel on Ansan Mountain is one of the hidden spots loved by Koreans for springtime strolls. The path stretches through hundreds of cherry blossom trees in full bloom on both sides. Its highlights include the serene atmosphere and the elevated view of Seoul when you reach the upper part of the mountain. It's a short walking trail, but it gives off a cozy and heartwarming vibe, just like being in a Korean drama.

Starfield Library (별마당 도서관) is a stunning open-air library located in the heart of Coex Mall in the Gangnam district. It's a must-see for book lovers, shoppers, and photographers alike. With a 13-meter-tall wall of books lining the ceiling, illuminated with warm lighting and a variety of seating options, this place has become a must-visit for visitors. 📸 📖Even though it's located in a mall, the library offers free, no-subscription required. Over 50,000 books in both Korean and English are available for reading, perfect for a quiet break or a chance to find new inspiration. The beautifully curated journals, art, and design sections are especially popular. 🛍️ Coex Mall itself is the largest shopping center in South Korea, home to renowned global brands, Korean clothing stores, chic cafes, and a food court featuring a wide variety of popular restaurants. Highlights include the SMTOWN Theatre for K-pop fans, and the COEX Aquarium, perfect for both children and adults. ☕ %Arabica, a renowned Japanese coffee brand with branches around the world, is located next to the library. You can grab a drink and relax or read a book in a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. Recommended menu items include the Iced Latte and Spanish Latte, both with a smooth and refreshing taste. ⏱️ Opening Hours: 10:30 AM–10:00 PM 🚊 Subway: Samseong Station (Line 2), Exit 5. Walk straight into the mall. 📍 Location: 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea #Bymyside #TakeAlongToPhotos #BymysidexSeoul #SeoulTravel #SeoulReview #StarfieldLibrary #CoexMall #KoreanLibrary #Korea2025 #CafeHoppingSeoul #SeoulShopping #kpoplandmark #TravelChat #TravelAbroad #BeautifulTravelPlaces

A new addition to Dongmakgol in Suraksan, Seoul, the Seoul Natural Recreation Forest Treehouse has become incredibly popular lately. Although it's so in demand that you might need to fight for a reservation, it's a perfect healing spot in the heart of Seoul. ❗️Surak Rest Area ✔️Location: 105, Deongneung-ro 145-gil, Nowon-gu, Seoul ✔️Closed: Tuesdays ✔️Facilities: 25 rooms (including 3 treehouses), Huma-dang Restaurant & Cafe (Season Seoul by Chef Hong Shin-ae) ✔️Reservation: Through the "Forest Nadeul-e" platform The treehouses, which you've probably only heard about in stories, are truly special. The best part? When you lie down, there's a skylight on the ceiling, allowing you to gaze at the stars at night. Plus, since it just opened, everything is brand new. The air is fresh, as it's located in a natural recreation forest. While reservations are tough to secure, it's worth a try! Highly recommended.

#AdventureMoment In the heart of Seoul, in an alley in Ikseon-dong, this kind of natural view! Discovering a cafe brimming with greenery in the heart of the city! 🌿 Sunlight pours in through the large windows, and the view of lush green plants is so relaxing. 🪴 The signature bagel is chewy and packed with fillings, making it a perfect match with coffee! ☕️ ✅ A natural experience in the heart of Seoul ✅ A place with a green view and sunshine ✅ Recommended for a chewy bagel 💚 If you're looking for a relaxing and sentimental cafe during your trip to Ikseon-dong, be sure to stop by! #DomesticTravel

#AdventureMoment A European-style pasta restaurant I visited during my trip to Seoul, Seongsu! The interior is full of Parisian vibes~ It was perfect for taking pictures because it was full of emotion📸 Especially, the rose pasta has a perfect combination of thick and rich sauce and chewy noodles! The rich taste that spreads in my mouth is unforgettable 😋 ✅ European-style interior ✅ Thick rose pasta ✅ Recommended as a date spot 💕 If you want to enjoy the atmosphere, taste, and even the best photos in Seongsu, make sure to visit! #DomesticTravel

I'm always unsure what souvenirs to buy when I travel to Korea, but personally, I highly recommend yakgwa! Dunkin's mini yakgwa is especially great! It's packed with flavors and only costs around ¥500! 🧡✨ I always buy this at the airport and hand it out at work. 😂😂 There are two flavors, and both have a mild sweetness. Some people don't like yakgwa because it can be quite oily or have a strong cinnamon flavor, but this is so easy to eat! Everyone, young and old, enjoyed it. 🥺🫧 It's individually wrapped and has a long shelf life, so if you're not sure what souvenirs to buy, I highly recommend it. 💞 By the way, Dunkin' coffee is also delicious and great value, so I recommend it. 🧡🤍 #AbsolutelyFreeTrip #KoreaTrip #SeoulTrip