30 HIDDEN GEMS in Seoul: Your Insider's Guide

30 HIDDEN GEMS in Seoul: Your Insider's Guide

Tired of the typical tourist traps? Dive deep into Seoul's vibrant culture and hidden treasures with this curated guide by a local expert. Discover off-the-beaten-path places, trendy cafes, and delicious restaurants that only locals know. What you'll get: Interactive Map: Easily access my recommended places. Hidden Gems: Discover off-the-beaten-path spots only locals know. Expert Advice: Benefit from my insider tips and recommendations. Regular Updates: Stay informed about the latest trends and attractions. Detailed Information: Opening Times, Directions, recommended Menu Items, NAVER Map link for easy use and if a Reservation is necessary. This guide is perfect for: First-time visitors: Discover the best of Seoul with curated recommendations away from tourist traps and crowded attractions. Independent travelers: Explore the city with confidence and uncover hidden gems. Culture enthusiasts: Immerse yourself in Korean culture and traditions. Foodies: Discover the best local restaurants and hidden culinary gems. Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Seoul?
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Hidden Gems

Changdeokgung
@melissaschwedhelm
Personally, this is my favorite of the main palaces in Seoul :) It is available to enter for free if you wear a Hanbok (Korean traditional gown) and there are free guided tours available (English: twice a day). I recommend also exploring the Secret Gardens attached to the Palace which requires an extra ticket. To visit the Gardens you have to be part of a guided tour which is available in English, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese. Opening times:  Nov-Jan 09:00-17:30 (Last admission 1 hour before closing) Feb-May/ Sep-Oct 09:00-18:00 Jun-Aug 09:00-18:30 Closed on Mondays Fee Adult ₩3,000 + 5,000 for Secret Garden Guided Tour Closest Subway Station:  Anguk Station Exit 3 (follow the main street for 10ish minutes)
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Discover a hidden gem amidst Seoul's grand palaces – Changdeokgung. This is my personal favorite :) Entrance is free when you wear a traditional Hanbok, adding a touch of elegance to your exploration. Free English guided tours twice daily offer fascinating historical insights. For a truly unforgettable experience, delve into the Secret Gardens. These secluded havens require a separate ticket and guided tour (available in English, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese) – a journey of discovery awaits!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hi, I’m Melissa! 🌏I’m an expat living in Seoul, South Korea for over four years. My journey started with a semester abroad during my Master’s Degree in International Tourism, and I never looked back. Korea’s vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and endless hidden gems have captured my heart, and now I’m here to help you explore it like a local! Why trust me with your Korean adventure? - With a Master’s in International Tourism, I’ve honed my skills in itinerary planning and destination research. - I’ve spent years exploring Korea’s cities, islands, restaurants, cafes, and festivals, uncovering insider tips you won’t find in standard guides. - My travel style is all about immersion—whether it’s trying local street food, wandering through random subway stops, or discovering hidden alleys full of surprises. What sets my guides apart? Each guide includes: - Personal notes and recommendations based on firsthand experience. - Interactive maps for seamless navigation. - Essential details like opening times, directions, fares, and even Naver Map links to make traveling in Korea a breeze (since Google Maps isn’t reliable here). Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to discover more, my guides are crafted to give you an authentic and stress-free experience. Let’s explore Korea together and create unforgettable memories! 🌍🗼️
What's included
Digital Map
Fully interactive, digital map for finding places nearby
31 places
31 hand-picked places with notes from the creator
27 links
27 links from the creator to go even deeper with more info
DESTINATION(S) COVERED
Seoul, South Korea
FOCUSES AND THEMES
Car-free
Couples
Family
Female Solo
Digital Nomads
Backpacker
50+
Budget
Coffee
Foodie
History
People & Culture
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Map
Maps are simple lists of places often grouped by themes, categories or geos.
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