Palaces, Hanok Lanes and a River City
Seoul is the capital of South Korea, a river city of royal palaces, mountain trails, design-led districts and a food scene admired across Asia and beyond. It has been the capital for more than six centuries, since the Joseon dynasty chose it in 1394, and the Han River divides the historic north from the modern south. The skyline moves from palace roofs to glass towers within a few metro stops, and the mountains of Bukhansan and Namsan rise within the city, so a hike with a skyline view is never far from a coffee shop or a spa.
Gyeongbokgung, the grand palace dating from 1395, is the symbol of the city, with a changing-of-the-guard ceremony at the main gate. Nearby, Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden were inscribed by UNESCO in 1997, and Jongmyo Shrine in 1995. The Bukchon Hanok Village, with its traditional tiled-roof houses, rewards a morning walk. Travellers who love Asian capitals often continue to Japan and Osaka, or to Shanghai, for a compelling multi-city route.
Kimchi, Korean Barbecue and Midnight Markets
Food is a highlight. Korean barbecue, grilled at the table with lettuce wraps and banchan side dishes, is a social ritual, while bibimbap, kimchi stew, tteokbokki in fiery red sauce and fried chicken round out the menu. Gwangjang Market, one of the oldest markets in the city, is loved for mung bean pancakes and knife-cut noodles, and Myeongdong's evening street stalls offer snacks and skincare in one stroll. Traditional teahouses in Insadong serve herbal teas with sweets, and coffee culture has made the city's cafes a pleasure in their own right.
Culture ranges from the ancient to the cutting-edge. Dongdaemun Design Plaza, shaped by the architect Zaha Hadid, is a sweeping landmark for exhibitions and fashion, while Hongdae and Gangnam capture the creative energy of K-pop, K-drama and youth culture. Visitors can try a jjimjilbang, a traditional Korean spa, stay in a hanok guesthouse or join a templestay near the city. A hotel group has plenty to show here, from design hotels to palace-view suites, and Bangkok and Singapore link easily by direct flights.
Read the full Seoul guide on Visit Travel Group, or see VisitSeoul.co.uk on Visit Travel Group.