Seoul Sights and Landmarks Guide, South Korea

Set your Sites on Sparkling Seoul

The soul of South Korea is more than just about taekwondo and spicy kimchi.  With 600 years worth of history, Seoul is fast becoming the next best tourist destination worthy of being part of your list of must-see-places.  

Traveling to Seoul

To get to the capital of South Korea means going through the Seoul Incheon International Airport, which is 52 kilometers from Seoul.  From there you can take a taxi or a bus that will transport you to the capital through the airport’s expressway.  But while you’re at the airport, don’t forget to convert your cash to South Korean Won, which is the country’s form of currency.

Going Around Seoul

With a tourist map handy, getting around Seoul is easy.  There are many available modes of transportation like subways and buses.  But the easiest and recommended way for tourists are by AAFES (Army Air Force Exchange Service) taxis where drivers not only speak English, they also take US dollar payments.

The Sites of Seoul

Soak in the history and culture of Seoul by checking out places like the Insa-Dong, which is South Korea’s center of culture.  It’s a marketplace of traditional Korean arts and crafts where you can find authentic tea houses and restaurants and breathe in the culture.

Stop by the Gyeongbokgung palace to take in some history.  This palace is home to the ruling family of Korea when Seoul was named the country’s capital.  It’s considered the most beautiful and grandest palace out of the five in the country.  Check out and experience more culture by visiting the National Palace Museum and the National Folk museum located here.

Get ready to have loads of fun at Lotte World, a theme parked filled with exciting rides, an ice skating rink, wonderful parades, a beautiful lake and even a folk museum. This tourist destination is guaranteed to amuse the young at heart.

The Sounds of Seoul

Seoul comes alive at night especially if you happen to be in Hongdae or in Sinchon.  The nightlife in Hongdae is filled to the brim with entertainment centers guaranteed to mesmerize the partygoer.  If hip hop is your kind of vibe, check out the Catchlight Club but if you’re tripping for House music, check out Jokerred.  But if you want the party to be all about you, then it’s time to head for Luxury, the ultimate karaoke club.

For a more mellow party vibe, head for Sinchon, which is a subway away from Hongdae.  Sinchon is Seoul’s shopping district which transforms into a great hangout and dining spot at night.  The elite of Seoul are said to party in this district and can usually be spotted at JJ Mahoney, a basement club located at Seoul’s Grand Hyatt hotel.

Seoul is the place to see and be seen.  It’s truly a sparkling tribute to its rich culture and history and its continuous modernization.  Be there and truly experience what Seoul has in store for you.