A Not-So-Touristy Guide to Seoul, South Korea

Museums and Galleries

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.

Shopping

Verso: Located in a small, mostly residential part of Hannam, the Verso store sells its own clothing brand as well as linens, small objects and home goods.

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.

Dongmyo flea market: For all things vintage, whether you are looking for clothing, furniture, objects, books or even records. It gets pretty crowded, but still is a fun place to walk around.

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

Other places to visit

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

Bukchon Hanok Village: Providing beautiful views of the city, this 14th traditional hanok village will take you back in time. Be mindful that it gets busy unless you go early in the morning.

Namsan Mountain Park: It is the largest park in Seoul. There you can walk on trails and get a break from city life. Optional: Take the cable car to the tower to see a 360 degrees view of Seoul.

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.

Day trips

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.

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.

Mimiok: A shabu-shabu (and more) restaurant located in the last old neighborhood near the Yongsan Station. I highly recommend going since this neighborhood might be teared down and replaced by high rise buildings soon.

Pont Cafe: The perfect place to go after eating at Mimiok to get coffee and desert.

April: 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.