Seoul is known to be alive with bright lights, sleek style and pop music, but it also has a rich blend of history and culture that makes a weekend in this city uniquely dynamic. From century old tea houses to gargantuan underground shopping malls, Seoul maintains a careful balance of old and new with something for everyone.
EAT
Street Eats
Seoul packs some serious heat, literally and figuratively, in the street food department. Check out local favorites like spicy dukbokki, kimbap and egg omelette.
Wooraeok
No trip to Korea would be complete without the sizzling sound of barbecue on the soundtrack. The bulgogi is a must-try at Wooraeok along with the signature naengmyeon (cold noodles).
Pro Soy Crab / Pro Ganjang Gejang
Marinated in a mix of seasonings and sauces, raw soy crab is a delicacy that's been perfected at Pro Ganjang Gejang. The fermented crab is served with rice and has an uni-like (sea urchin) consistency that is sure to impress any sushi lovers out there.
Italy Budaejigae
Aptly nicknamed "Soldier's Stew", this hearty dish is made with a mix of American comfort foods like hotdogs and spam, along with Korean staples like kimchi and rice cakes. Remember to top it off with ramen, each order comes with a bottomless supply so go ahead and treat yourself.
Mr. Holme's Bakehouse
Great for both people watching and carb loading, Mr. Holme's Bakehouse is home to wonders such as the croissant-muffin lovechild better known as the "Cruffin" and the Churro croissant.
EXPERIENCE
Bukchon Hanok Village
This picturesque village is centrally located between Gyeongbok Palace and Changdeok Palace. Along the romantic winding paths are hundreds of lovely traditional hanok style houses that are still in use today as homes, cultural centers and teahouses.
Shin Old Tea House
A great place to unwind, Shin Old Tea House has been around for over 100 years. Opt for a spot in the traditional seating area to take it all in over a cup of cinnamon tea and their delicious sweet rice cakes.
Garosu-gil
With tons of cool coffee shops, galleries and boutiques, Garosu-gil is a great neighborhood to get lost in. Lined with ginkgo trees, these streets seem to be made for strolling, and maybe even the occasional celebrity sighting or two.
Itaewon
If you're looking for a night cap, Itaewon is where all the cool kids hang after hours. Full of bars and eateries, locals and visitors alike come to this trendy neighborhood to wind down or turn up, depending on your mood.
SHOP
Myeongdong
With endless rows of shops lining the streets and street food vendors everywhere in between, this buzzing neighborhood is a shopper & eater's paradise. K-Beauty brands dominate the streets so make sure to pace yourself as you make your way through this make-up mecca.
Shinsegae
As South Korea's largest retailer, Shinsegae has several prime locations in Seoul with its main branch in Myeongdong. This store hosts a slew of luxury designers along with duty free shopping on the upper levels and a vast foodcourt in the basement.
Coex Underground Mall
If shopping were a sport, Coex would be where champions are made. You could easily spend half a day wandering around the sprawling underground complex full of fashion finds and accessories shops. This 21 acre complex is also home to a movie theater, a library and even an aquarium for when your wallet, or your feet need a break.