Seoul City Guide

Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a vibrant and popular destination where tradition and modernity blend everywhere. The city is huge and densely populated, but it doesn't mean you can't experience it with a more relaxing and less touristy approach. There is also no shortage of amazing food, coffee, beauty stores, beautiful art galleries/museums and historic sites to discover in the entire city. From Hannam-Dong to Gangnam and more, this city guide will provide you with a mix of local and cultural spots that will make your trip to Seoul unforgettable and unique.

Four Seasons Hotel, Seoul

Where to stay:

• Four Seasons Seoul

  In the vibrant Gwanghwamun district, this luxury, high-rise hotel with a glass facade is a 2-minute walk from a metro station and a 15-minute bus ride from the Myeong-dong shopping district.

  Fora Perks:

  • $100 beverage / food credit

  • Free breakfast daily

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Grand Hyatt Seoul

  This sleek hotel is a 7-minute walk from the Hangangjin metro station and 40 minutes from Gyeongbokgung Palace by metro.

  Fora Perks:

  • $100 Food & Beverage or Spa credit

  • Breakfast daily

  • Upgrade and extended check-in/out when possible

• L'Escape Hotel

  Set in a commercial area, this polished hotel with a Parisian theme is 2 km from the iconic N Seoul Tower and 3 km from Gyeongbokgung Royal Palace. Hoehyeon metro station is a 5-minute walk away.

Arumjigi Culture Keepers Foundation, Seoul

Things to do:

• MMCA (National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art)

  Located in Jongno-Gu, near the famous Gyeongbokgung Palace, MMCA represents perfectly the spirit of Seoul: a contemporary museum and architecture novelty in the middle of an urban neighborhood, surrounded by historic landmarks.

• Arumjigi Cultural Keepers

  A foundation whose goal is to keep Korea's cultural heritage alive and bring it into the modern life. One of my favorite place in Seoul!

• Gyeongbokgung Palace

  Built in the 14th century, this palace is the most famous in Seoul. There you will be able to walk around and discover the many landmarks around it, see many tourists wearing hanboks (traditional Korean clothing) and visit museums about Korea's History and cultural heritage.

• Leeum Museum of Art

  Located in my favorite neighborhood, Hannam-Dong, Leeum exhibits traditional Korean art and craft along with contemporary artists like Maurizio Cattelan. Highly popular, I recommend booking tickets in advance.

• Shop for ceramics at Handle with care

  If you are looking for beautiful objects made by Korean designers, this is it! This store sells ceramics, decorative objects and tea.

• Post Poetics Bookstore

  A book store located in Hannam offering a wide range of art books from all around the world.

• Yeouido Hangang Park

  Famous for its scenic view of the Han river and bridge. Consider going in the evening with to-go food!

• Get skin treatments at the Sulwhasoo Spa Flagship store

  There is no better place in the world than Seoul when it comes to all things beauty. If you are in the mood to treat yourself, the Sulwhasoo spa is a must do.

• Take a day trip to Museum SAN

  Located around 2/3 hours away from Seoul and designed by famous Japanese architect Tadao Ando, Museum SAN is a unique place that sits in the middle of mountains and nature. There you will be able to admire beautiful modern art and sculpture exhibitions. Prior shuttle reservation can be made from Seoul, which I recommend over taking the train. Driving there is also possible if you are lucky enough to have a local friend to take you.

Sweetings Restaurant, London

Where to eat and drink:

• Musoe Gimchi Samgyeop (Hannam)

  Pork is the most common meat you will find in Korea. This bbq serves delicious pork belly in a very casual atmosphere. If you are looking for the typical korean bbq experience look no further!

• Oreno Ramen Insa

  This place specializes in chicken based ramen. Probably my favorite meal of the whole trip.

• Komfortable

  You will find this beautiful cafe few steps away from Oreno ramen. The coffee is delicious and a nice treat before you head over to the Gyeongbokgung Palace.

• Dosan Ttukbaegi

  This is a great option if you are looking for a beef bbq. Meat is grilled on charcoal which makes it even better.

• Tac

  Mexican-inspired food in the hip neighborhood of Hannam.

• April Coffee

  Originally from Copenhagen, the coffee at April is divine. With its Scandinavian-inspired interior design, this cafe was my favorite in Hannam and a must-go every morning.

• Hyodo Chicken

  You cannot be in Seoul without eating fried chicken and this place will satisfy all your cravings.

• Lotte Department Store Food Court

  One of the most fun thing to do in Seoul is this fancy food court in the Lotte department store in Myeongdong. You can even splurge and go grocery shopping in their supermarket.

• Gwangjang Market

  This very popular traditional market is a must do despite the crowds. There you will be able to eat korean food classics like tteokbokki, kimchi pancakes, fish cakes, soups and more.

• Bar Swallow

  Founded by famous bartender Kim Jin-Hwan, Bar Swallow is the perfect spot for late night cocktails and snacks in Hannam.

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