Enjoy Seoul – A City of Lights, Flavors, and Surprises

Seoul is not just a city; it’s a living, breathing story. From ancient palaces standing tall next to glass skyscrapers to the smell of spicy food filling the air, every corner tells you something new. When I landed at Incheon Airport, I felt a rush of excitement. The city’s energy is contagious, and you can experience it in its busy markets, quiet temples, and colorful neighborhoods. Whether you love history, design, or food, Seoul offers a perfect mix.

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Historic Palaces and Modern Landmarks

The first place I visited was Gyeongbokgung Palace. This palace is a powerful piece of Korea’s royal past. You will see guards wearing traditional clothes, called hanbok, standing still like they came from a fairy tale. The palace grounds are big and peaceful. Walking through the wooden gates, I noticed the beautiful blue tiles on the roofs shining under the sun. Nearby, the National Folk Museum tells stories about daily life in Korea long ago. If you want to plan a visit, feel free to check its official information for hours and ticket details.

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On the other side of the city, the N Seoul Tower rises on Namsan Mountain like a giant watching over Seoul. The view from the tower’s observation deck is breathtaking – skyscrapers, Han River, and mountains all in one sight. If you come at sunset, the city lights start to twinkle, giving a magical feeling. To reach the tower, you can take a cable car or hike up the trails; both ways offer great photo chances.

Taste Seoul: Food in Every Neighborhood

Seoul’s food scene is a feast for the senses. My first stop was Myeongdong, a busy shopping district known for its street food. The air was filled with smells of grilled chicken, sweet rice cakes, and spicy tteokbokki (rice cakes in red sauce). A local vendor called out “Annyeonghaseyo!” (hello) warmly as I tried hotteok, a sweet pancake filled with brown sugar and nuts. It was soft and slightly crispy, perfect for a quick snack.

For a real meal, I headed to Hongdae, a youthful area full of cafés and restaurants. I tried bibimbap, a colorful dish with rice, vegetables, meat, and a spicy red pepper paste called gochujang. Eating bibimbap is fun because you mix everything yourself before tasting. The dish was fresh, crunchy, and very satisfying after a day of walking. Many restaurants also offer side dishes (banchan) like kimchi and pickled radishes-don’t miss them!

Getting Around Seoul Easily

One of the things I loved most was how easy it is to travel in Seoul. The subway system is clean, safe, and simple to use with signs in English. To get from Incheon Airport to the city center, I took the AREX train. It was fast and comfortable, and the seats had plenty of space for my bags. Inside the city, buses and subways connect every part of Seoul. Make sure to get a T-money card; it works like a prepaid card for transport and some shops.

Walking is also a great way to feel the city’s rhythm. Streets have wide sidewalks and many places to rest. I recommend wandering around neighborhoods like Insadong, where you can find traditional tea houses and art galleries. The contrast between modern skyscrapers and old hanok houses here is striking.

Customs and Culture: Be Respectful and Curious

Seoul is a city where tradition meets the new world, and understanding a few customs can make your visit smoother. For example, when you meet someone, a slight bow or nod shows respect. When eating, try not to start before the oldest person at the table-it’s a sign of respect for elders.

Speaking of manners, in Korea, it is polite to take off your shoes when entering someone’s home or some traditional restaurants. Also, if someone offers you food or drink, it’s good to accept it with both hands. I learned to say “Gamsahamnida” (thank you) often during my stay, which locals appreciated. Another useful word is “Juseyo” (please), handy for ordering or asking for help.

One surprising thing I noticed was how people love taking group photos, often striking creative poses and making funny faces. Don’t hesitate to ask a friendly local to join your picture; chances are they will happily agree.

Evening Lights and Night Markets

When the sun goes down, Seoul shines even more. Dongdaemun Design Plaza, with its futuristic shape and bright LED lights, looks like something from a sci-fi movie. It’s a hotspot for design lovers and often hosts art shows and events. Nearby, the night market buzzes with energy-vendors sell everything from clothes to snacks. I tried some spicy fried chicken and a cold rice drink called sikhye, perfect after spicy food.

For nightlife, Itaewon is the place to be. It is an international district where locals and foreigners meet in bars and clubs. The streets are alive with music and laughter. But if you want a quieter spot, head to a café by the Han River. Many people come here to picnic, listen to music, or just enjoy the night breeze. On weekends, sometimes small live performances happen near the riverbanks.

Where to Stay for a True Seoul Feel

Choosing where to stay depends on what you want to experience. If you love shopping and street food, Myeongdong is perfect. For creative vibes and young crowds, Hongdae never disappoints. Insadong offers a more traditional atmosphere with guesthouses and smaller hotels. No matter where you stay, the subway system makes it easy to reach all parts of the city quickly.

Unexpected Corners and City Secrets

Beyond the famous spots, I found some hidden gems. For instance, Ihwa Mural Village in a quiet hillside neighborhood surprised me with its colorful wall paintings and small cafés. Every alley felt like an open-air art gallery. Locals often visit here for peaceful walks and photos, far from the busy downtown streets.

Another delight was the Cheonggyecheon Stream. This clean, flowing waterway runs through the city center and is a great place to relax. At night, gentle lights create a calm atmosphere, and you can hear soft water sounds mixing with city noises. It’s a reminder that even in a big city like Seoul, nature finds its place.

In the end, Seoul is like a book you want to keep reading. It surprises you with new stories at every turn. Whether it’s the scent of grilled meat, the sound of street musicians, or the smile from a stranger, the city stays with you long after you leave.

Author: Lara Jensen

A digital nomad exploring cities across the globe, with a passion for local street food and hidden cafes.