My Favorite Places in Seoul: Food, Culture & Hidden Gems

Palaces & temples

Seoul is home to five palaces from the Joseon Dynasty, and visiting at least one is essential. The oldest and most iconic, Gyeongbokgung Palace, features the Changing of the Royal Guard—a spectacular window into Korea’s royal past. Seoul’s temples offer a different kind of insight, revealing how centuries-old traditions continue to be practiced in daily life today.

Monuments at night

Exploring palaces and temples after sunset offers a completely different—and often less crowded—experience. During my visit, Changgyeonggung Palace hosted a Moonlight Garden show that was absolutely enchanting. Jogyesa Temple, open 24/7, is another must at night; while it can be busy during the day, evening visits feel peaceful and allow you to take your time without being swept along by crowds.

Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show

The Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show is really stunning, but don’t miss Some Sevit (Sebitseom), a manmade island just across the street. Its buildings glow in rainbow colors at night and I found them just as exciting as the show itself. With outdoor cafés overlooking the river, it’s a great place to relax with a snack before heading over for the show. (You can see the fountain from the island, though the view is better up close.)

Themed cafés

You’ll find many of Seoul’s most creatively themed cafés in the Hongdae neighborhood, known for its universities and indie music scene. Competition is intense, so the best cafés go all out. A few standouts include 943 King’s Cross, beloved by Harry Potter fans; Colline, a botanical-garden-inspired café; and Thanks Nature Café, famous for its waffles—and its two friendly resident sheep.

Photo studios

Photo studios are scattered all over the city, though they’re easy to miss if you’re not looking for them. Each small shop features props and multiple photo booths where you can snap a series of portraits for around $5. It’s fun, a little silly, and a perfect souvenir to take home.

Traditional crafts in Insadong

The Insadong neighborhood is known for its traditional arts, galleries, and craft shops, and it’s fun to explore on foot. I highly recommend a hands-on workshop for a more immersive experience. (I took a 90-minute stone-seal-making class—it was so fun and the teacher offered some great insight into the local culture.)

Day trip to Busan

Just about two hours from Seoul by bullet train, Busan is a vibrant coastal city with beaches, bustling markets, historic temples, and the colorful hillside Gamcheon Culture Village. It makes for an easy and rewarding day trip if you want a change of pace.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is popular for good reason. Its traditional wooden homes are cherished by locals as a living reminder of Korea’s architectural heritage and its resilience through the Japanese occupation. Wander the hilly lanes, take part in a traditional tea ceremony, or step into a small museum—Gahoe Museum, filled with folk art, is a great choice.

Korean street food

For an iconic street-food experience, head to Gwangjang Market. Adventurous eaters can sample everything from live octopus to raw beef, while those less daring can follow a guide to navigate the maze of vendors and hidden upstairs eateries. Picky eaters won’t be left out—grab a kkwabaegi, a warm, twisted Korean donut that never disappoints.

The Hanok Smith Likes

A masterclass in contrast, this cozy Italian restaurant is located inside a beautifully restored hanok in the Samcheong-dong neighborhood. Enjoy classic pizzas and pastas while overlooking a tranquil garden, blending modern Italian comfort with traditional Korean architecture.

Melting Shop & Cheese Room

This charming spot sits inside a renovated house with soft lighting and a subtle retro flair. The menu marries American and Italian comfort dishes with Korean ingredients, creating combinations that feel both surprising and deeply satisfying.

Samcheonggak

Set in a traditional hanok complex surrounded by forested hills, Samcheonggak serves refined Korean cuisine in a peaceful natural setting. Located in the Bukaksan Mountains—about a 20-minute drive from the city center—it’s a perfect escape for travelers seeking culture, nature, and tranquility all in one place.

Seokparang

Seokparang is worth visiting for its beauty alone: arrive early or linger afterward to stroll its serene garden. Inside, the restaurant offers traditional Korean fare and a well-crafted tasting menu, all served in an elegant, historic setting.

Yongsusan

Yongsusan specializes in Gaeseong cuisine, a traditional style originating from the former royal city of Gaeseong in present-day North Korea. Known for its refined preparation and mild, delicate flavors, it’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors to Korean cuisine.

Charles H. Bar

Hidden on the lower level of the Four Seasons Seoul, Charles H. is a sleek speakeasy-style bar known for its glamorous atmosphere, plush seating, and impeccable cocktails. Tucked inside is H. Bar, an intimate space offering an eight-course cocktail tasting menu—an unforgettable experience.

Akira Back

Located in the Four Seasons Seoul, Akira Back serves modern Japanese dishes with creative Korean influences. The restaurant’s dramatic, transportive interior makes the experience feel worlds away from the hotel. Don’t miss the signature Eryngii Pizza with vegan umami aioli and truffle oil—it’s a standout.

Yu Yuan

A Michelin-starred restaurant at the Four Seasons Seoul, Yu Yuan offers elevated Cantonese cuisine in a glamorous setting inspired by 1920s Shanghai. With a minimum age requirement of seven, it provides a more refined and sophisticated dining atmosphere ideal for special occasions.