Top 12 Best Stops on a Seoul City Tour

Planning a Seoul city tour and not sure where to start? This guide covers the top 12 must-visit spots that capture the essence of Seoul’s vibrant culture, shopping, and nightlife. From bustling shopping districts to historic palaces and lively nightlife, discover the best stops for an unforgettable Seoul city tour.

Key Takeaways

• Myeong-dong offers a blend of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences, highlighted by the historic Changdeokgung Palace and popular attractions like Namsan Tower.
• Seoul’s nightlife thrives in Itaewon and Hongdae, featuring a variety of clubs and bars that cater to diverse crowds and offer vibrant experiences without a set last call.
• Gangnam epitomizes luxury and modernity, with high-end shopping, aesthetic services, and attractions like Lotte World and Coex Mall, making it a key destination for visitors.

Discover Myeong-dong: The Heart of Shopping in Seoul

Myeong-dong(click for map) is a shopper’s paradise, recognized for its eclectic mix of traditional and modern retail options. The area sees around 2 million visitors daily, creating a constant buzz of energy and activity. Pedestrian-friendly streets and numerous shops and stalls enhance the overall shopping experience. From high-end fashion and K-beauty products to delicious street food, Myeong-dong offers it all. Eating local specialties from street vendors is an integral part of the Myeong-dong experience, making it a must for visitors who want to immerse themselves in the vibrant food culture. Near Myeong-dong, there is traditional street called Insadong(click for more info).

The district’s rich history, including its transformation during the Japanese occupation, adds cultural depth to any visit. Be sure to visit Hadongkwan for its famous Beef Soup (Gomtang) and Namsan Tower for breathtaking city views.

Cultural Heritage at Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden

A visit to Myeong-dong wouldn’t be complete without exploring Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that beautifully exemplifies East Asian palace architecture. Built in the early 15th century, this secondary palace to Gyeongbokgung served as the main royal residence for 250 years after its reconstruction following fires. The palace complex spans approximately 58 hectares and is designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, following traditional Confucian principles.

The Secret Garden(click for reservation), known as Biwon, is home to over 56,000 plant species and offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Pre-booking is required to visit this cultural gem, and local visitors must be accompanied by a foreigner. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the evolution of Korean architecture and landscape design.

︎Hadongkwan

Located in the heart of Myeong-dong, Hadongkwan is a culinary institution with a history spanning over 70 years. Renowned for its Gomtang, a rich beef bone soup, and Suyuk, boiled beef or pork slices, this eatery offers a taste of traditional Korean cuisine. The soup is served in brass pots, adding a unique touch to your dining experience.

Despite its stern service, Hadongkwan stands out for its use of natural ingredients and absence of artificial additives. A bowl of special Gomtang, featuring mixed beef parts, has a cost of ₩15,000, and you can enhance the flavor by adding kimchi and its gravy. It’s a dining experience that perfectly complements your shopping spree.

Panoramic Views from Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower)

Head to Namsan Tower, also known as N Seoul Tower, for a breathtaking view of Seoul. The observation deck offers a complete 360-degree view of the city, making it the premier location for scenic vistas. Day or night, the views are spectacular. Evening visits are especially romantic, with the city’s lights creating a vibrant visual experience.

Arrive about an hour before sunset for the best views. Clear days offer unobstructed views of the Seoul skyline, making it a favorite among tourists and locals. It’s a perfect way to end your day in Myeong-dong.

Nightlife and Culture in Itaewon and Hongdae

When the sun sets, Seoul’s nightlife comes alive, particularly in Itaewon and Hongdae. Known for their vibrant atmospheres, these districts offer:

• A plethora of bars and clubs that cater to a diverse crowd
• Nightlife without a set last call, allowing you to party until you decide to leave
• A strong culture of alcohol and drinking, with soju and beer being popular choices for socializing, pre-gaming, and enjoying the night out

Public transportation, including subways and late-night buses, makes exploring these areas easy, with taxis also being a popular option. Itaewon and Hongdae offer exciting and culturally enriching nightlife experiences for people in their 20s to early 40s.

Soap Seoul

Soap Seoul is legendary in the city’s underground club scene, even though it currently operates in a pop-up format. It features diverse music genres, from hip-hop to electronic, always drawing an international crowd. Soap Seoul is an essential must-visit for an authentic taste of Seoul’s underground nightlife.

Cakeshop (technically in Itaewon, but often associated with Hongdae’s indie vibe)

Cakeshop is a hub for underground and alternative music, featuring genres like trap, techno, and hip-hop. Despite being technically located in Itaewon, it often gets associated with Hongdae’s indie vibe. A diverse and international crowd makes it one of Seoul’s most eclectic clubs.

Gangnam: Luxury, Trends, and Aesthetic Services

Gangnam, synonymous with wealth and innovation, blends luxury and modernity dynamically. It’s a hub for high-end shopping destinations like Coex Mall and flagship stores such as Nike Gangnam, catering to luxury shoppers. The area is also home to world-renowned plastic surgery clinics, known for their expertise and international reputation. The competitive environment in Gangnam drives innovation and expertise among plastic surgeons, enhancing patient trust and satisfaction. 

Noonopi Plastic Surgery Center offers various aesthetic enhancement procedures, ensuring global standards and safety for those seeking an all-inclusive beauty procedure journey. Gangnam embodies the epitome of luxury and modern trends in Seoul, making it a prime destination for Korean plastic surgery.

Coex Mall

Coex Mall(map) is a premier shopping destination with a variety of shops, restaurants, an aquarium, and the beautiful Starfield Library, which all contribute to the unique shape of the mall’s experience. It’s a one-stop destination for entertainment, dining, and shopping in Gangnam.

Nike Gangnam

Nike Gangnam, located at 446 Gangnam-daero, operates daily from 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM, offering a wide range of sports apparel and footwear. The store provides services like the Nike App Store Mode, allowing customers to check product availability via their smartphones. As Asia’s largest Nike store, it’s a must-visit for sports enthusiasts and fashion-forward shoppers alike.

Noonopi Plastic Surgery

Noonopi Plastic Surgery(click for before and after patient review), housed in the same building as Nike Gangnam, is renowned for its expertise in facial rejuvenation procedures. Founded by Doctor Nk Park, a board-certified plastic surgeon trained at Seoul National University and Mount Sinai in the U.S., the clinic specializes in procedures such as facelifts, neck lift, and eyelid surgeries with reasonable plastic surgery cost in korea.

Noonopi is praised for its natural, artistic results and personalized aesthetic consultations, ensuring the highest standard of care for each patient.

During the consult process, careful consideration is given to each patient's unique needs and preferences to tailor the procedure accordingly. Their commitment to global standards and safety is reflected in frequent presentations at aesthetic conferences in Seoul. Noonopi offers comprehensive and trusted services, making it one of Seoul’s best plastic surgery clinics.

Club Heaven

Club Heaven is a renowned nightclub located in the heart of Gangnam, known for its vibrant atmosphere and top-tier music events. The club offers a diverse range of music genres, including EDM, hip-hop, and house, and frequently hosts themed events featuring performances by both local and international DJs.

Club Heaven is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable night.

Seokchon Lake

Seokchon Lake is a picturesque spot perfect for jogging, walking, and enjoying the cherry blossoms in spring. It offers a peaceful setting for relaxation and leisure activities, serving as a serene escape within the bustling city.

Family Fun at Lotte World Theme Park

Within the Seokchon Lake, Lotte World Theme Park offers year-round entertainment with both indoor and outdoor attractions. Thrill seekers can enjoy rides like the Gyro Drop and the Comet Express, while families can explore Kidzone areas designed specifically for younger visitors.

Themed areas such as Magic Island provide immersive experiences with various rides and entertainment options. Seasonal events and performances add to the park’s dynamic appeal, making it a top destination for both locals and tourists. This theme Park is a must-visit for families, operating daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. It features:

• A wide range of attractions
• A dedicated area called Lotty’s Kidstoria for young children
• Seasonal events, parades, and special performances These elements make it an ideal destination for all ages.

The park operates a reservation system for certain attractions, helping manage visitor flow and improve the overall experience. Lotte World offers something for everyone, from thrilling rides to family-friendly attractions.

Lotte World Tower (Signiel Hotel)

After a stroll around Seokchon Lake, head to the Lotte World Tower for a sky-high view of Seoul from the 81st-floor bar. Combining luxury with breathtaking vistas, it’s a highlight of any visit to Gangnam.

Tips for a Complete Seoul Tour

Blend day trips with skin appointments to make the most of your Seoul tour. This approach allows you to experience both the cultural and aesthetic delights the city has to offer. A private Seoul tour guide offers a personalized consultation and in-depth exploration of the city’s many attractions. The City Tour Seoul Bus offers convenient access to major tourist spots. Don’t miss the vibrant nightlife in areas like Gangnam and Itaewon for a complete experience of Seoul’s dynamic culture.

These tips will ensure you take the first step toward having the best results and a well-rounded and fulfilling visit to Seoul.

Summary

Seoul is a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new, offering a wide range of experiences for every type of traveler. From the bustling shopping streets of Myeong-dong to the serene beauty of Changdeokgung Palace and the vibrant nightlife of Itaewon and Hongdae, there is something for everyone in this dynamic city. Gangnam provides a touch of luxury with its high-end shopping and top-notch aesthetic services, ensuring that visitors can indulge in both retail therapy and personal rejuvenation. 

By following this guide, you’ll be able to explore the best stops on a Seoul city tour, creating memories that will last a lifetime.