Seoul’s Best Sights

Most Iconic Seoul Landmark [1]: Recently restored, radiantly arrayed, and with a stunning mountain backdrop, Gwanghwamun [1], the main gate of Gyeongbokgung [1], is the most inspiring manifestation of the city’s struggle to preserve its past glories.

Best Views of Seoul [2]: Ascend the heights of the N Seoul Tower [2] on Namsan (South Mountain) to get a sense of the true scale of this sprawling metropolis.

Best Old-Time Ambience [3]: Stroll the streets of the Bukchon Hanok Village [3], where traditional homes with graceful tiled roofs and hidden courtyards still hold sway, and you’ll swear Seoul’s headlong rush into development never happened.

Best Garden [4]: Tour groups may have cottoned on to the “hidden” rear garden of Changdeokgung [4] long ago, but its carefully placed flora and skillfully sculpted ponds and pavilions, stunning in any season, are still a powerful testament to Korea’s ability to harmonize the man-made and nature.

Best Museum [5]: The National Museum of Korea [5] is one of the region’s finest, a beautifully designed monument to the rich artistic legacy that managed to survive the country’s turbulent history.

Trendiest Street [6]: The word is out among locals and visitors alike about the artistic flair, eclectic dining, and laid-back European ambience of Garosu-gil [6], a hip street in the upmarket Apgujeong district.