Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and the changing of the guards

The palace is a must-see cultural site when visiting Seoul and make sure you time it right so you can see the changing of the guards which happens daily at 10am and 2pm (except Tuesdays). 

The palace grounds are huge and you can get lost amongst the beautiful architecture and hidden gardens.

Walk around a traditional Korean village and visit a tea house

This traditional Korean village has a collection of beautiful hanoks scattered down narrow alleys which are slightly tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the modern city. Some of the hanoks are still residential, whilst some have been converted into boutique tea houses and art galleries. Explore the peaceful yet hilly and winding laneways and take in the city views once you get to the top. 

Try the local delicacies at Gwangjang Market

This was one of my highlights when visiting Seoul. It’s a real cultural experience and has the most delicious street food at ridiculously cheap prices. The market is huge and full of locals with a buzzing, lively atmosphere – a great place to people-watch whilst you sample all of the wonderful (and some slightly weird) Korean snacks. I would definitely recommend the following; 

Tteokbokki – Rice cake served in a spicy red pepper hot sauce. Slightly chewy with a sweet and spicy taste

Mandu Korean dumplings – These are some of the best dumplings i’ve ever had. There were several variations ranging from meat, vegetables or kimchi served with a rice vinegar / soy sauce dipping sauce. My favourite was the Kimchi dumpling

Bindae-tteok – A crispy, savoury pancake made from mung bean. Similar to a hashbrown texture, served hot and amazing dipped in soy sauce or vinegar.

Mayak Kimbab – This is really similar to sushi but vegetarian. It’s rolled up seaweed and rice stuffed with vegetables served with a spicy wasabi dipping sauce

If you’re feeling adventurous (and are not particularly squeamish), you can also try the local Korean delicacy of live octopus which is cut into small pieces and served immediately. I wasn’t a fan but managed to wash it down with some local Korean beer.

You can visit the market by yourself but I would recommend booking a food tour so you can experience all of the delicious snacks. I booked a tour guide via Airbnb

 

Go for dinner in Ikseon-dong

This was my favourite neighbourhood and a real hidden treasure. It’s a traditional Korean village with narrow maze-like alleys, full of beautiful hanoks which have been converted into vibrant aesthetic cafes, trendy tea shops and modern restaurants. Here are a few of my favourite places for dinner;

Cheong Su Dang – Hanok style cafe

Nakwon Station Cafe – Modern cafe with an old train track at the entrance 

Chiangmai Bangkok – Chic thai restaurant with a beautiful spa-style entrance

Zio cucina – Amazing pizza and pasta italian restaurant

Korean BBQ – There are also several Korean BBQ restaurants in this area including Ikseon Banju and Songam

 

Go shopping in Myeongdong

Myeongdong is the most popular shopping district in Seoul and is full of the latest Korean fashion and K-beauty trends, retail chains and large department stores. 

Where to stay

I stayed in the university district of Hongdae at L7. This is a really lively student-y area and great for shopping, K-pop and late night karaoke. It’s really close to the metro which makes it easy to get around and visit the main sites.