The Miracle on the Han River
Welcome to Seoul , Hallyu 's cosmopolitan epicenter where ancient palaces are overshadowed by glass towers and vast markets and flickering shopping streets alternate with food halls and themed cafes. Live like a local and try Korean BBQ, drink Soju, take part in a noraebang session and visit a public sauna. Experience the wonder of the Han River , w here the world can't find you…
Our top 10 highlights:
1. Hongdae
Discover the young hip neighborhood named after Hongik University, that buzzes with creativity with a street artist on every corner and is characterized by many art studios, street art, vintage shops, pubs and clubs.
2. Insadong
Explore the neighborhood that surrounds the walking strip filled with galleries, traditional teahouses and street food scene, and is bursting with museums and royal residences. Recommended are Hakgojae Gallery for lovers of folk art and the multifunctional Gana Art Center where the modern work of promising artists is displayed.
3. Bukhansan National Park
Make your way among the beautiful gorges, granite peaks and streams of Bukhansan National Park , a wildlife-rich escape that stretches around Bukhansan Mountain across Seoul and Gyeonggi-do . In addition to a diverse flora and fauna, you will find numerous Buddhist temples and the walled Bukhansanseong mountain fortress that connects the peaks of the Bukhan.
4. Gyeongbokgung
Gyeongbokgung, 'the palace greatly blessed by heaven', is the most important and largest palace from the Joseon dynasty where you can watch the changing of the guards three times a day. Also visit the neighboring Bukchon Hanok , an authentic 14th century village where cobbled alleys, stone houses and craft workshops take you back in time, where you can imagine yourself on a movie set among the visitors clad in traditional hanoks.
5. Noryangjin Fish Market
Noryangjin is not a well-organized farmers' market. Expect a lively, chaotic and very wet fish market. Are you an adventurous eater? Then you order sannakji, a freshly chopped but still wriggling squid.
6. Ihwa Mural Village
Stroll through the steep streets and take in the mostly cheerful subsidized murals. More graffiti? Head to the popular Mullae Art Village .
7. Gangnam
Known for PSY's music video with quirky dance moves, the chic Gangnam with its exclusive boutiques and wide boulevards is Seoul's Beverly Hills. For bliss, walk through the Gate of Truth and retreat to the verdant surroundings of the historic Buddhist Bongeunsa Temple.
8. Myeong-dong
Shopaholics find their mecca in Myeong-dong , where flashy neon lights illuminate shops selling international designer brands and local cosmetics and steamy food stalls alternate with luxury department stores.
9. Sailing the Han
Escape the incessant bustle of the city, embark and see the city from a different perspective. Feel the wind in your hair sailing the Han River, the tireless lifeline that cuts through the city.
10. The National Museum of Korea
Visit the National Museum and learn all about Korea's history and culture through a wonderful collection of artifacts, exhibits, and educational (VR) programs.
