The South Korean capital, Seoul, counted among the world’s most sophisticated cities, will also present many enjoyable attractions for tourists. In this destination, you would encounter engrossing sightseeing attractions, amazing shopping opportunities, delectable foods and exciting nightlife. Even if you have just one weekend to explore this cosmopolitan metropolis, you can still experience many of its noteworthy attractions for an unforgettable visit.

Gyeongbokgung Palace - Image via Flickr

A great way to commence your tour of Seoul is to experience the attractions of the shopping district known as Myeongdong. In this vibrant neighbourhood, you will encounter lively shopping markets as well as stalls offering tasty street foods. Whilst this locality also features a selection of outstanding bars, it is best to wait till evening or night to visit them.

After taking a quick lunch, your afternoon destination is the renowned Gyeongbokgung Palace which may be regarded as one of the South Korean capital’s iconic sights. You should undoubtedly take the opportunity to observe the ceremony of the Changing of the Guard here which will be an impressive sight.

Your next destination would be the charming locality of Insadong which is well-known for its lovely hanoks (typical Korean residences) and the picturesque curved dancheong (exquisitely adorned roofs). You may take the opportunity to visit the engrossing Gyeongin Museum of Fine Art, a popular attraction in the city. Next, you may take a break at Dawon Teahouse, which is counted amongst the finest of Insadong’s many traditional teahouses. You will find this establishment in the compound of the abovementioned museum.

Now, you may visit the well-known Cheonggyecheon Stream which happens to be an extensive artificial waterway that is ideal for a relaxed stroll in the evening or late afternoon. Interestingly, Cheonggyecheon Stream formerly happened to be a natural waterway which flowed across Seoul. Paved over during the 1960s, it was in more recent times excavated and transformed into a tranquil city park.

Your visit to Seoul wouldn’t be complete without visiting the famed Nam Mountain which happens to be a popular experience for tourists. First, you would have to ride the Namsan Cable Car up to N Seoul Tower located near the mountain’s summit. You may then ride the elevator to the observation deck of this tower and enjoy the panoramic views over the city.

At night, you could visit one of the city’s noraebangs, which are private Korean-style karaoke rooms. During your visit, you will be provided with your own TV and microphones, along with plenty of drinks and food to replenish your energies as you join friends or family to sing all your favourite K-pop hits!

On the morning of your second day in the South Korean capital, you may visit Itaewon, a neighbourhood known for its cosmopolitan nature and remarkable food scene. Here, you will have the opportunity to savour Korean, Indian, Italian, German, Mexican, French and many other kinds of cuisine.

Your next experience is to visit a jimjilbang, or Korean traditional bathhouse at which you could steam in saunas, soak in hot pools and bathe in waterfalls. Some of the bigger jimjilbangs would feature cafes, karaoke rooms, fitness centres, salons and libraries.

Your final destination on your tour of Seoul can be Gangnam, a locality that is known for its upscale nature, lavish condos and designer boutiques. You could also enjoy the area’s nightlife, restaurants, cafes and street food stalls. Of course, to truly experience Seoul, you would have to undertake a longer stay; in this regard, consider staying at pleasingly located holiday apartments in Seoul like those offered by Oakwood Premier Coex Center Seoul from which you could easily visit Gangnam and other key areas and attractions in the city.