Seoul Hotels

Seoul, South Korea

South Korea’s capital Seoul is becoming an increasingly popular destination owing to its vibrant culture, delicious food and striking skyline made up of contemporary skyscrapers and mega malls alongside ancient palaces. From the Seoul World Cup Stadium and ultra-modern COEX complex to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the possibilities for exploration are endless.

Eating and Shopping

There are plenty of places in Seoul to sample scrumptious Korean cuisine. To try out the street food, the Gukje Market and Gwangbok-dong in the Busan neighborhood are good starting points. Alternatively, Myeong-dong, in the center of the city, is home to a large number of shopping malls as well as gourmet restaurants. There are also many excellent eateries in Bukchang-dong.

Not far from Bukchang-dong is Namdaemun Market, Seoul’s largest traditional market selling a wide selection of goods like food, fashion, souvenirs and carpets. For Korean arts and crafts, the best place to go is Insa-dong. Upscale shops, including the Galleria department store, are located in Gangnam while a myriad of fashion outlets can be found on Rodeo Drive in Apgujeong-dong.

History and Traditions

To gain some insight into Seoul’s ancient history, sightseers can pay a visit to Bukchon Hanok Village in the central district. Here they can see traditional ‘hanok’ homes, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, many of which now operate as guesthouses, restaurants, cultural centers or teahouses.

Various significant landmarks are situated in the area surrounding the Bukchon Hanok Village, such as the Jongmyo Shrine and Changdeokgung Palace. Probably the grandest building of all is the Gyeongbokgung Palace – an essential itinerary stop housing the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea in awe-inspiring ancient architecture. The royal guard-changing ceremony and the magnificent Throne Hall are not to be missed.

Entertainment

The COEX complex in Gangnam is a center for business, shopping, dining and entertainment. Aside from the COEX Convention and Exhibition Center, it incorporates three luxury hotels, a theater, an aquarium, an underground shopping mall and a casino.

A top venue for family fun is the Vivaldi Park Ocean World. Those seeking an adrenalin rush can try out activities like zip lining, white water rafting or bungee jumping, to name but a few. For those seeking a more relaxing time, there are spa facilities and a sauna on the premises.

In the evenings, a variety of cultural entertainment is on offer at the performing arts centers, which stage Broadway-style musicals, concerts and more. Otherwise, there are many bars and clubs near Hongik University.

Are you planning a trip to exciting Seoul? Take a look at our wide range of accommodation options available in this city.

Points of interest - Seoul

Seoul City Map