Planning your first trip to Seoul? This complete Seoul travel guide for first-time visitors covers what to do, where to eat, cafés to visit, where to stay, day trips, and essential travel tips for 2025. 🌸
Seoul is a city of contrasts — ancient palaces tucked between glass skyscrapers, quiet hanok villages just steps away from neon-lit streets, and cafés so imaginative they feel like art installations. On our first trip to South Korea’s capital, we quickly realized that Seoul isn’t just a destination you visit — it’s a city you experience, slowly and with curiosity.
This Seoul travel guide for first-time visitors is designed to help you plan a fun, well-balanced trip, whether you’re here for food, culture, shopping, or dreamy cafés. I’m sharing exactly what we did, where we ate, our favorite neighborhoods, and practical tips to make your first visit smooth and unforgettable.
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Things to Do in Seoul for First-Time Visitors
If this is your first time in Seoul, start with a mix of historic sights and modern highlights — these are some of the most must-visit spots in Seoul.
Palaces & Hanok Villages: Seoul’s Historic Heart
Exploring Seoul’s palaces and hanok villages was one of our favorite parts of the trip — and something I truly think every first-time visitor should experience.
Walking through these spaces felt like stepping back in time. The moment we entered the palace grounds and wandered through quiet hanok streets, the city noise faded away. Everything felt slower, calmer, and deeply atmospheric — especially in the early morning. Seeing people dressed in traditional hanbok, moving gracefully through palace courtyards, made the experience feel alive rather than staged.
The palaces and hanok villages aren’t just sights to check off; they’re places where Seoul’s past and present meet, and they set the tone for understanding the city as a whole.
If you’re visiting Seoul for the first time, this is where I recommend starting — it instantly grounds your trip and gives so much context to everything you’ll experience afterward.
Eunpyeong Hanok Village — Our Favorite Hanok Village in Seoul
Eunpyeong Hanok Village was, without a doubt, our favorite hanok village in Seoul. While it’s a bit further outside the city center, it was so worth the trip — quieter, more spacious, and far less crowded than Bukchon.
Set against a backdrop of mountains, Eunpyeong felt peaceful and almost cinematic. Walking through the village, everything felt slower and more intentional, without the rush or crowds you often find at more famous spots. The hanoks here feel beautifully preserved, and the surrounding nature adds a sense of calm that made the visit really special for us.
If you’re visiting Seoul for the first time and want to experience hanok villages in a more relaxed way, I honestly can’t recommend Eunpyeong enough — it felt like a hidden gem and one of the most memorable parts of our trip.
🌿 Tip: Pair your visit with a café stop like Irin Iljan or 1in Official, both overlooking the village — sipping coffee while looking out over the hanok rooftops was such a highlight.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon is still absolutely worth visiting, especially on a first trip to Seoul. Its central location between major palaces makes it easy to combine with sightseeing, and the narrow streets lined with hanok homes are undeniably beautiful.
That said, Bukchon is much busier, so visiting early in the morning makes a significant difference. So I recommend going right when it opens at 10 am. Seeing people dressed in hanbok walking through the village is magical, but if you’re craving a quieter, more relaxed hanok experience, Eunpyeong truly stands out.
Gyeongbokgung Palace & Gwanghwamun Gate
Built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung was the main royal palace and the political heart of Korea for centuries. Its grand gates, open courtyards, and mountain backdrop reflect Korean values of balance and harmony with nature. Watching the changing of the guard here feels ceremonial and grounding — a must on any Seoul itinerary for first timers.
Visiting the Gwanghwamun area was one of our favorite experiences in Seoul and something I think every first-time visitor should see. Standing in front of the massive gate, with mountains behind it and the city stretching out in front, felt powerful — like the perfect introduction to Seoul’s history and identity.
Gwanghwamun is the main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace, and walking through it feels incredibly symbolic, especially on your first trip. We loved the wide-open spaces, the traditional architecture, and the area’s energy, especially if you time your visit to the changing-of-the-guard ceremony. Paired with exploring the palace grounds (even more special in a hanbok), this stop felt iconic without being overwhelming — an absolute must when visiting Seoul for the first time.
Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden
Changdeokgung Palace felt very different from the other palaces we visited — in the best way. While it’s just as historic and important, it feels softer and more peaceful, almost like it blends into its surroundings rather than standing apart from them. Walking through the palace grounds felt calm and intimate, and we loved how naturally everything flowed with the landscape.
The Secret Garden was easily one of the most special experiences of our trip. Originally reserved for royalty and scholars, this area was designed as a place for reflection, study, and quiet moments — and you can really feel that energy when you’re there. Surrounded by trees, ponds, and hidden pathways, it felt like a true escape from the city. If you’re visiting Seoul for the first time, Changdeokgung and its Secret Garden are absolutely worth adding to your itinerary, especially if you’re craving something serene and a little more tucked away.
🌿 Seoul Travel Tip: Renting a hanbok gives free palace entry and adds a meaningful cultural layer to your visit.
✨ Easy Option: A guided Seoul Day Tour via Klook is a great way to experience Gyeongbokgung and Bukchon without worrying about logistics.
Modern & Iconic Seoul: Things to Do Today
Besides the historic sites, Seoul also has a modern, energetic side that’s just as worth experiencing.
What I loved most was how seamlessly the city blends old and new. You can spend your morning wandering palace courtyards or quiet hanok streets, and then just a short subway ride later find yourself surrounded by futuristic architecture, design-forward spaces, and vibrant city views.
For anyone visiting Seoul for the first time, these places help round out the experience and give you a deeper sense of how dynamic the city really is.
Starfield Library
More than a library, Starfield is a symbol of Seoul’s love for beautifully designed public spaces. Towering bookshelves, natural light, and quiet energy make it feel both futuristic and grounding.
N Seoul Tower
Sitting atop Namsan Mountain, the tower offers sweeping views of the city and has become a place of connection — with couples leaving love locks as a modern ritual. We visited for sunset and enjoyed the view.
Bongeunsa Temple
Founded over 1,200 years ago, this temple sits quietly among Gangnam’s skyscrapers, reminding visitors that spirituality and modern life coexist in Seoul. I highly recommend visiting this hidden gem in Seoul.
Lotte World Tower
One of the tallest buildings in the world, it represents Korea’s rapid growth and ambitious future.
Best Neighborhoods in Seoul to Explore
One of the things we loved most about Seoul was how different each neighborhood felt. Exploring them didn’t feel like sightseeing — it felt like getting to know the city piece by piece.
Every area had its own personality: some were quiet and traditional, others buzzing with energy and creativity. Wandering through neighborhoods without a strict plan became some of our favorite moments, and it really helped us understand where to go in Seoul for first timers depending on our mood — whether we wanted calm, culture, shopping, or food.
Ikseon-dong
One of Seoul’s oldest hanok neighborhoods, Ikseon-dong feels like a step back in time — but with a modern twist. Traditional houses have been transformed into cozy cafés, bakeries, and restaurants, making it one of the most charming places to wander, snack, and soak in the atmosphere.
Hongdae
Lively, creative, and full of energy, Hongdae is known for its street performers, indie shops, and buzzing nightlife. It’s a great place to feel Seoul’s youthful spirit and experience the city’s modern pop culture scene.
Seongsu-dong
Often compared to Brooklyn, Seongsu-dong is where old factories and warehouses have been reimagined into design-forward cafés, concept stores, and creative spaces. It’s trendy but relaxed — perfect for slow wandering and café hopping.
Gangnam
Sleek and polished, Gangnam represents Seoul’s modern, high-end side. Wide boulevards, luxury shopping, and stylish cafés define the area, making it feel very different from the city’s historic neighborhoods.
Hannam-dong
Hannam-dong feels international and effortlessly cool, with quiet streets, boutique shops, and globally inspired restaurants. It’s a lovely area to slow down and explore if you’re craving a calmer, more refined side of Seoul.
Best restaurants, cafes, bakeries and food markets
Food in Seoul isn’t just about eating — it’s about connection. One of the first things we noticed was how social everything felt. Meals are shared, tables are full, and people genuinely take time to enjoy being together.
We absolutely fell in love with the bakeries and cafés — every place felt thoughtful, creative, and intentional. From cozy hanok cafés to playful dessert spots, it felt like Seoul’s café culture is designed to slow you down and bring joy. And then there’s Korean BBQ — loud, interactive, and full of laughter. Sitting around a grill, cooking together, sharing side dishes, and lingering at the table made every meal feel like a small celebration.
Our favorite restaurants
Eating our way through Seoul was pure happiness. Whether it was sizzling Korean BBQ, comforting noodle soups, or casual market food, every meal felt warm and communal.
Jeju Black Pork BBQ
Korean BBQ is about connection — cooking together, sharing side dishes, and lingering at the table. The Jeju black pork here was incredible, and the rooftop setting made it even more special.
Myeongdong Kyoja
A Seoul institution serving handmade noodle soup rooted in post-war comfort food.
Ikseon Chwihyang
Modern Korean fusion inside a hanok — tradition meeting creativity.
Yukhoe Jamaejip Head Store
Beef tartare is often shared and celebratory in Korea, and this spot does it perfectly.
Dreamy Cafés & Bakeries in Seoul
If there’s one thing Seoul does exceptionally well, it’s cafés and bakeries — and we were completely obsessed. Every single place felt like it had its own concept, mood, and story.
Some cafés felt cozy and reflective, others playful and artistic, and a few honestly felt like little worlds of their own. From perfectly flaky pastries to traditional tea houses, we loved how much care and creativity went into even the smallest details. Café hopping quickly became one of our favorite ways to explore the city — slow, intentional, and always delicious.
Ikseon-dong deserves special mention because it was hands-down one of our favorite places for cafés in Seoul. Traditional hanok houses line the streets, but inside you’ll find some of the most creative bakeries and cafés in the city. Wandering here felt cozy, nostalgic, and exciting all at once.
Ikseon-dong
These are the spots we tried (or couldn’t stop filming) in Ikseon-dong:
- Soha Salt Pound – One of our favorite bakeries in all of Seoul. The mentaiko salted bread was incredible, and this place alone is worth coming to Ikseon-dong for.
- Chong Su Dong – A small bakery with beautiful pastries that felt perfectly at home in the hanok setting.
- Rain Report – Even just passing by, this place stood out. It’s always “raining” inside, creating such a cozy, cinematic atmosphere.
- Milk Toast– We tried the milk toast, and it was incredibly tasty.
- Onjisim – Another charming stop that blends modern desserts with traditional surroundings.
- Silla Dang – A bakery that feels calm and traditional, perfect for a slower moment.
Ikseon-dong is one of the best neighborhoods in Seoul for café hopping, especially if you love atmosphere just as much as the food.
Beyond Ikseon-dong
Beyond Ikseon-dong, these cafés and bakeries were some of our favorite stops across the city — each one memorable in its own way.
- Dalim Bread – Famous for the cutest teddy bear buns. Almost too adorable to eat.
- Cafe Popko – A waterfall café that was so fun and unexpected — it really felt like stepping into another world.
- Dotori Garden – A must for Studio Ghibli fans, with multiple locations and such a whimsical vibe.
- Irin Iljan – One of the coolest cafés overlooking Eunpyeong Hanok Village. The views alone made this stop unforgettable.
- 1in Official – Another great place with panoramic views over the Eunpyeong Hanok Village.
- Nuldam Space – A quiet, reflective café where you can write a letter to your future self — such a meaningful concept.
- Nudake – Known for its massive croissant display and avant-garde dessert style.
- Cheesy Industry – We didn’t get to try it, but everything looked incredible.
- Rare Fruit – Known for melon bingsu and strawberry crepes — refreshing and unique.
- Standard Bread – Simple, classic, and done really well.
- Saesori Mulsori – A beautiful traditional tea house that opens at 11 am, perfect for a slower, more reflective break.
Markets & Street Food
Gwangjang Market
One of Seoul’s oldest markets, Gwangjang has been feeding locals for over a century. The food is comforting and communal — we tried a simple soup and kimbap that somehow tasted like home.
Myeongdong Shopping Street
By night, Myeongdong becomes a playground of flavors — sizzling skewers, sweet pancakes, and endless snacks.
Best Day Trips from Seoul
Taking day trips outside of Seoul added so much depth to our trip. Stepping away from the city gave us space to slow down, reflect, and experience a different side of Korea — and honestly, some of these days ended up being the most memorable.
If you’re visiting Seoul for the first time, I highly recommend adding at least one day trip to your itinerary. It helps balance the busy city days and gives important cultural and historical context.
Nami Island (Dreamy & Storybook-Like)
Nami Island felt straight out of a fairytale. Tree-lined paths, peaceful scenery, and a slower pace made it such a refreshing contrast to Seoul’s energy. It’s romantic, adorable, and incredibly photogenic — the kind of place where you naturally slow down and just enjoy being present.
We loved that this tour also includes Petite France, Italy Village, and the Gangchon Rail Bike, which adds variety and makes the day feel full without being rushed.
✨ Recommended Tour:
Nami Island / Petite France & Italy Village / Gangchon Rail Bike Tour via Klook
This is a perfect option if you want something scenic, light-hearted, and a little magical.
Danyang (A Hidden Gem Worth the Journey)
Danyang completely surprised us. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and nature, it felt like stepping into a quieter, more untouched part of Korea. The landscapes are stunning, and the slower rhythm made this day trip feel grounding and refreshing.
If you’re craving nature and want to see a side of Korea that feels less touristy, Danyang is absolutely worth it — especially if you have a Seoul itinerary (5 days) or more.
✨ Recommended Tour:
Danyang – The Hidden Gem of Korea One Day Tour From Seoul via Klook
Korean DMZ (Emotional & Eye-Opening)
Visiting the DMZ was one of the most powerful experiences of our entire trip. This day wasn’t just interesting — it was emotional, educational, and deeply meaningful. Learning about Korea’s modern history, division, and resilience added so much context to everything we experienced afterward in Seoul.
I personally loved this day trip and would absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting Seoul for the first time. It’s a must if you want to truly understand the country beyond its cities and aesthetics.
✨ Recommended Tour:
DMZ Tour from Seoul via Klook
Other Unique Things to Do in Seoul for First-Time Visitors
Beyond sightseeing and food, Seoul offers some truly unique experiences that make your first trip feel extra special.
Join a Seoul Highlights Day Tour
If you’re short on time or want a bit more context, a guided city tour is a great way to start your trip.
A Seoul day tour covering Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village is especially helpful for first-time visitors. It ties together history, culture, and storytelling — and helps everything make more sense early on in your trip.
✨ Recommended Experience:
Seoul Day Tour (Gyeongbokgung Palace & Bukchon Hanok Village highlights) via Klook
This is a great option if you want to ease into Seoul without feeling overwhelmed.
Rent a Hanbok (Free Palace Entry Included)
One of the best perks is that palace entry is completely free when you’re wearing a hanbok, which makes this experience even more worth it. Seeing so many locals and travelers dressed up added to the atmosphere and made the palaces feel alive.
✨ Recommended Hanbok Rental:
Hanbok Rental near Gyeongbokgung Palace via Klook
Try a Personal Color Analysis in Seoul
This is such a fun and uniquely Korean experience. We had no time to do it on our last trip but definitely want to add it next time.
Personal color analysis helps determine which colors suit you best based on your skin tone, hair, and features. It’s surprisingly insightful and a really cool souvenir to take home in a non-material way.
✨ Recommended Experience:
Seoul Myeongdong Personal Color Analysis via Klook
It’s perfect if you love beauty, fashion, or just want to try something a little different during your trip.
Traveling Beyond Seoul: Book Your Train Easily
If Seoul is just the start of your South Korea trip, getting around the country is incredibly easy — and the train system is one of the best ways to do it.
We traveled onward by train and found it to be fast, comfortable, and stress-free. Booking your KTX train from Seoul to Busan in advance makes everything smoother, especially if you’re visiting during peak travel seasons or don’t speak Korean.
✨ Recommended Booking Option:
KTX One-Way Train Ticket from Seoul to Busan via Klook
This is also a great option if you’re planning to continue on to other cities across the country — it takes the stress out of logistics and lets you focus on enjoying the journey.
Where to Stay in Seoul
Choosing where to stay in Seoul can feel overwhelming at first, but having a good home base made our trip so much smoother. We loved staying in a central area that made it easy to explore different neighborhoods without spending too much time commuting.
For first-time visitors, I really recommend prioritizing location and comfort — it makes a huge difference when you’re navigating a new city and trying to fit in as much as possible without feeling rushed. Here are 2 hotels that are great, one luxurious one and afforable one:
Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Seoul – Central, refined, and first-timer friendly.
Mid-Range: Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun – great neighborhood and easy to reach many places
Mid-Range: Lotte City Hotel – super nice neighborhood and walkable, many sights and great restaurants within walking distance
First-Time Visitor in Seoul What to Know
- Best time to visit Seoul: Spring & fall
- Getting around: Subway + walking
- Language: Papago is incredibly helpful
- Payments: Cards widely accepted, cash for markets
If you are interested in other countries in Asia, check out my Japan blogposts!