Seoul

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Seoul

Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, is a city that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern innovation. From exploring historic palaces and bustling markets to indulging in delicious Korean cuisine and experiencing cutting-edge technology, this guide will help you navigate the best of what Seoul has to offer.

Where to Stay:

• Myeongdong: This vibrant district offers a wide range of accommodation options from budget guesthouses to luxurious hotels. It’s known for its shopping, street food, and accessibility to other attractions in Seoul.
• Hongdae: A haven for young artists and musicians, Hongdae is a popular choice for students and budget travelers with its trendy atmosphere and youthful energy.
• Gangnam: If you’re looking for upscale accommodation and luxurious experiences, the chic Gangnam district offers a variety of hotels and guesthouses catering to a more sophisticated traveler.

Where to Eat:

Seoul is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of culinary delights. But this guide wouldn’t be complete without some recommendations:

• Myeongdong: Dive into the heart of Seoul’s street food scene with endless options for trying Korean delicacies. From traditional dishes like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and kimbap (seaweed rice rolls) to modern twists like cheese-stuffed tteokbokki or kimchi fries, this district offers something for everyone.
• Gwangjang Market: This iconic market is a must-visit for any food enthusiast.

Where to Stay (Specific Recommendations):

• Budget Travelers:
  • Hostel: Seoul has a plethora of hostels, perfect for budget-conscious adventurers. Consider:
    • Seoul Backpackers: Known for its social atmosphere and central location in the vibrant Myeongdong district.
    • The K-House: Popular for its comfortable rooms, affordable rates, and friendly staff.

Where to Stay (Location Matters):

• Hongdae: This area is known for its youthful energy and caters to a younger crowd. It’s home to numerous hostels offering budget-friendly dorm rooms and private rooms for solo travelers or small groups.
• Itaewon: A popular international hub, Itaewon boasts diverse restaurants serving various cuisines.

Getting Around Seoul:

Seoul has an incredibly efficient public transportation system. Here are some options:

• Subway: The Seoul Metro is the best way to get around the city. It’s affordable, clean, and connects all major areas of Seoul.
• Bus: Buses cover a vast network within Seoul and beyond, offering a good alternative for exploring specific neighborhoods or getting to less-accessible destinations.

Seoul Transportation Tips:

• T-Money Card: Purchase a T-Money card for easy and discounted travel on the subway and bus. You can purchase and recharge these cards at most convenience stores.
• Naver Map App: Utilize the Naver Map app (similar to Google Maps) for navigation, as it often provides more accurate and up-to-date information than other apps.

Where to Eat (Specific Recommendations):

• Gogi Guksu (Meat Noodle Soup): A hearty and flavorful Korean noodle soup dish with noodles made from sweet potato starch.

• Korean BBQ: Enjoy the classic experience of grilling your own meat at a table, a staple of Korean cuisine that is perfect for sharing.

• Dakgalbi: Spicy chicken stir-fry served with rice cakes, vegetables, and noodles, a must-try in Gwangjang Market.

• Kimbap: Try various types of kimbap (Korean seaweed rice rolls), from traditional bulgogi (marinated beef) to vegetarian options.

Things to Know:

• Language: While Korean is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.

• Currency: The South Korean currency is the Won (KRW). ATMs are readily available throughout Seoul, and most establishments accept credit cards with major providers like Visa and Mastercard.

• Safety: Seoul is generally a very safe city.

• Tipping: Tipping is not expected or customary in South Korea.

• Etiquette: Be mindful of social etiquette, such as:

  • Respect for Elders: Korean culture emphasizes respect for elders. Respecting age hierarchy is important, and customs like bowing to those older than you (instead of shaking hands) and offering them a seat first are expected.

• Bowing: Master the art of bowing in Korea. A slight bow with your head tilted down is the standard greeting and shows respect.

  • Shoes: It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering homes and traditional restaurants.

• Safety: Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, even in crowded areas.

Where to Eat (Beyond the Gistrict):

• Traditional Restaurants: Experience authentic Korean flavors by visiting a “gukbap” (Korean beef noodle soup) restaurant like Gyeongbokgung Palace’s Gukbap Alley, or try Korean street food like tteokbokki and kimbap.

• Street Food Stalls: Immerse yourself in the local culture and find delicious and affordable street food options throughout Seoul, especially in areas like Myeongdong.

• Korean Fried Chicken: A popular snack and meal in Korea, with a variety of flavors and sauces available.

Things to Do:

Seoul offers a plethora of experiences for tourists:

• Explore Historic Sites: Immerse yourself in the city’s rich past by visiting ancient palaces like Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Changdeokgung.
• Shop ‘Til You Drop: Indulge in the city’s shopping scene, from the traditional markets of Insadong to the trendy boutiques of Myeongdong and the high-end shops in Gangnam.
• Experience the Culture: Visit a traditional Korean tea house, learn about the ancient art of Korean calligraphy or painting (Hangul Day)

Other Experiences:

• Visit a museum: Seoul is home to numerous museums, showcasing everything from traditional Korean art and artifacts to modern art and technology.

• Explore the vibrant nightlife: The city boasts lively bars, clubs, and karaoke rooms in areas like Hongdae.

• Try your hand at shopping: From traditional markets to high-end boutiques, Seoul has something for every budget.

Immerse yourself in Seoul’s culture:

• Attend a traditional tea ceremony: This ancient ritual is a great way to experience Korean etiquette and hospitality.

• Enjoy the nightlife:

Experience the city’s bustling nightlife with its diverse entertainment options.

• Taste Korean Cuisine:

Discover the unique flavors of Seoul’s street food scene, from spicy tteokbokki in Myeongdong to traditional dishes like bibimbap and bulgogi.

• Try a traditional Korean tea house for an authentic cultural experience.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Transportation:

Seoul has an excellent public transportation system with convenient subway lines and bus routes.

Travel Cards: Purchase a T-Money card for easy and affordable travel on all public transport.**

• Shopping: Seoul’s street food scene is a must-try, but remember to use a T-Money card for the best deals.
• Food Prices: Be prepared for a variety of prices in traditional restaurants, ranging from budget-friendly options to more luxurious ones.

Travelers with dietary restrictions:

Seoul offers a wide range of culinary experiences to cater to different tastes and preferences.

Things to Do (Beyond the Gistrict):

• Explore the vibrant nightlife:
  Experience the bustling city after dark, with its buzzing nightlife and exciting nightlife culture.
• Visit a traditional Korean market like Namdaemun Market or Dongdaemun Market:

Immerse yourself in the local life and enjoy delicious street food and shopping.

Things to Know (Beyond the Basics):

• Food Culture:
  • Embrace the “banchan” culture.
  • Korean meals typically include multiple small side dishes called “banchan”.

Enjoy a taste of Korea’s vibrant nightlife, but be aware that prices can vary greatly.

• Food Markets:

Explore Seoul’s diverse and renowned culinary scene:

Traditional Korean Cuisine:

• Tteokbokki (떡볶이) is a staple food. Try various flavors like:

• Spicy Tteokbokki:

Enjoy this popular spicy rice cake dish in its traditional form.

• Korean street food:

Experience the vibrant variety of Korean street food, but remember to factor in transportation costs and potential crowds.

• Shopping Tips:

• Culture of Sharing: Sharing meals is a common practice in Korea. Try ordering “shared plates” (떡갈비) like:

• Gyeongdong Market: A great option for experiencing the variety and diversity of Korean cuisine, with numerous food stalls offering different types of food.

Transportation Tips:

• Consider a T-Money card: This will save you time and money when using the subway or bus.
• Travel at different times:
  Avoid peak hours (usually 7:00 - 9:00 am and 5:00 - 7:00 pm)

to get a discount on traditional Korean food.

• Public Transportation: Invest in a T-Money card for easy access to the wonders of Seoul’s public transportation system.

• Explore: Discover the bustling city life and its vibrant culture through the eyes of a local.

T-Money Card:

A T-Money card is a prepaid card that can be used on all forms of public transport in Seoul.

• Purchase a T-Money card: This will save you time and money, as they are cheaper than individual tickets.

• Getting Around: Use the subway to explore Seoul’s history and culture.

• Enjoy the Convenience:

You can use it for all public transport in Seoul, including the bus and subway.

• Public Transportation:

Consider a transportation card for a more convenient way to travel.

• T-Money Card: This is a great option for getting around:

Shopping Tips:

• Food Markets:

The Korean T-money card system is a popular choice for visitors, as they are easy and affordable.

You can use your T-Money card on the subway and bus in Seoul.

• Travel:

Seoul’s public transportation system is convenient, efficient and affordable. You can buy a T-Money card at a convenience store or online.

Consider buying a multi-ride pass for easy access to all of Seoul’s transportation.

This will allow you to easily travel on the subway and bus within Seoul.

Culture:

• Explore:
  Seoul has numerous traditional markets:

that are perfect for exploring.

• Public Transportation:

Enjoy a variety of foods, from street food like tteokbokki and kimchi jjigae to more traditional Korean dishes.

Things to Do in Seoul:

• Traditional Culture:

The “Namsan” mountain is a popular destination.

• Explore the city’s nightlife:
  Enjoy Korean BBQ with friends, but consider:

• Food Prices:
  Be aware of the price difference between traditional food stalls and more modern restaurants.

Exploring Seoul’s vibrant cultural scene:

Try a traditional dish like kimchi jjigae (Korean stew).

Eating in Seoul:

• Traditional Food:

Enjoy this opportunity to experience Korean BBQ, a popular social activity.

• Transportation: Enjoy the variety of food options available.

Entertainment and Nightlife:

• Nightlife:

A lot of people enjoy the bustling nightlife in Seoul’s Itaewon district, but consider:

• Korean Culture:

Enjoy the unique experience of a “Korean Tea Ceremony” (traditional tea ceremony). Korean Food:

• Food Delivery:

If you want to try something else, Hongdae is a good place to start.

• Koreans are known for their love of food: Explore the nightlife and entertainment options in Seoul’s diverse neighborhoods.

For your enjoyment:

• Visit Gyeongdong Market: This is a popular spot for tourists to explore and experience the vibrant nightlife.

Other:

You can also buy “T-Money Cards” at convenience stores.

Enjoy traditional Korean dishes and street food:

Explore the different options and flavors available in Seoul’s restaurants:

• Gyeongdong Card: This is a great option for travelers who want to save money on transportation.

Exploring Seoul:

• Public Transportation: You can buy a “T-Money Card” at any subway station.

Enjoy the variety of Korean street food and nightlife, it’s a great way to experience the culture.

• Korean Street Food: Enjoy traditional dishes like japchae (glass noodles with vegetables and meat) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).

Food for thought:

• Culture:

The vibrant nightlife of Seoul offers a glimpse into its unique culture. Many Korean restaurants feature a “shared plate” system, allowing you to sample various dishes.

• Eat and Drink:

Try the following options:

• Gyeongdong Market:

Enjoy the variety of food stalls and street food vendors in Seoul.

• Seoul’s Entertainment Options: Try a traditional Korean BBQ restaurant for an affordable and delicious meal.

Food Culture in Seoul:

• T-Money Card: Explore the city and its diverse culinary offerings.

Trying Traditional Food:

• Korean Street Food: Enjoying a variety of food is a great way to experience the diverse flavors of the country’s cuisine.
• Convenience:
  The “shared plate” system offers a chance to sample different dishes and enjoy the local culture.

Try the following:

• Traditional Korean dishes:

A few tips for experiencing Seoul’s nightlife:

• Embrace the Culture:

Explore traditional “Korean tea houses” and their unique ambiance, or visit a “nori bang” (karaoke room) for a fun and interactive experience.

• Food Markets are a great place to try Korean street food

You can enjoy a variety of traditional Korean dishes at different restaurants and stalls,

discovering the local culture.

• Taste the Variety: Try different types of food, such as:

• Korean BBQ: The city offers a wide range of options for travelers.

• Spicy Tteokbokki: Enjoy the energy of the nightlife scene.

• Street Food: Explore the vibrant and delicious world of Korean street food.

The “Shared Plate” Culture: The culture of sharing is important in Korea.

For example, at a “Korean BBQ” restaurant, you can try various types of Korean street food, including:

• Spicy chicken skewers: A popular choice for a quick and easy meal.
• Street Food Markets:
  A great place to experience traditional Korean food and drinks.

Remember:

• Enjoy the Experience:

The culture of sharing is evident in everything from “Korean BBQ” restaurants to the tradition of sharing food and drink with friends and family.

• Try a T-Money Card for a fun and unique dining experience:

Enjoy a variety of Korean street food, like tteokbokki, kimbap, and tteokguk, which are popular options in Seoul’s restaurants.

• Consider the Variety:

Explore the vibrant nightlife by joining your friends and family at a “shared plate” restaurant.

Tip:
Remember that the food is often served in shared plates for everyone to try.