Seoul - City Guide
NEW SPOTS
HOTELS / ACCOMMONDATION
Anaati at Gangnam / Modern design hotel / Value: Expensive / Gangnam
Mondrian Seoul Itaewon / Vibrant and modern hotel / Value: Expensive / Itaewon
voco Seoul Myeongdong / CH / Located in the vibrant heart of Seoul / Value: Moderately / Myeongdong
boan stay / A cultural accommodation. This guest house has 7 guest rooms and each af them has all the facilities to ensure comfortable stay / Book via airbnb / Value: Moderately / Jongno
Rakkojoe Seoul Main Hanok / A traditional Hanok home. Great service, location and charm / Value: Affordable / Jongno
Pine Residence / A private traditional Hanok home / Value: Expensive / Jongno
Hotel POCO / This is my pick for the Seongsu area. Set right in the heart of it, this boutique hotel has minimal aesthetics with clean and spacious rooms / Value: Moderately / Seongsu
Hanok Essay Seochon / The most beautiful stay at a modernized Hanok, managed by Stay Folio. The location is very residential and easy to get around / Value: Expensive / Jongno
Gatgaji Bookstay / Since it's a small and intimate space, it's best suited for solo visitors. If you're looking for a peaceful retreat to spend time with yourself, this is the perfect place / Book via airbnb / Value: Moderately / Itaewon
Hotel Cappuccino / If you're looking for a green, ethical, and stylish place to stay in Gangnam, this is a fantastic option / Value: Moderately / Gangnam
Junibino Hotel Hongdae / Located close to Mangwon Market / Value: Moderately / Mapo
Pipe Hostel DDP / This comfortable and impeccably maintained accommodation is located in the heart of Seoul / Book via airbnb / Value: Affordable / Jung
Nabijam / SV / This contemporary hanok stay features a palette of burgundy and natural shades of white, complemented by the century-old building’s wooden structure / Value: Expensive / Seongbuk
Hanok Essay Nuha / SV / The journey begins with a beautiful garden and a flowing stream, leading guests across a stone bridge to the entrance. Highlights include a stone bathtub, a tanned leather sofa by the fireplace and a serene wooden veranda, each offering moments of quiet reflection and comfort / Value: Expensive / Jongno
Nostalgia / SV / Situated in Seoul’s historic and cultural district, Nostalgia offers a variety of accommodations that immerse guests in the experience of traditional Korean residential culture / Value: Expensive / Note this is a booking agency / Jongno
Nuwa / SV / Quietly hidden hanok, constructed for calm and peaceful isolation. Architecture firm Z_Lab designed a minimalist open- plan structure, adding different textures based on a neutral colour palette / Value: Expensive / Jongno
Hangaroum / SV / Set amid the tranquil charm of Samcheong’s tree-lined streets. The first floor features spacious floor seating for drip coffee, illuminated by a wooden-beamed ceiling. An open bedroom and jacuzzi space can be enjoyed on the second floor, illuminated by traditional hanok wooden framework / Value: Expensive / Jongno
Wolwoon / SV / The preserved beauty of the hanok’s wood is evident throughout the interior, enhanced by accents of stone, pine, and moss. Queen sized beds are complemented by a spacious dining area and an outdoor jacuzzi, offering the perfect space for rejuvenation / Value: Expensive / Jongno
AnGilSaGa / SV / Contemporary hanok stay inspired by Joseon-era scholars and their appreciation of nature and art. Guests can experience a relaxing stay while reconnecting with nature. Soak your feet in the open-air pool or relax with some freshly brewed tea after a long day exploring the nearby attractions / Value: Expensive / Jongno
The Chae-Library / A quiet sanctuary for relaxation and meditation. This hanok stay offers an immersive environment with a natural material palette and curated Korean traditional elements, seamlessly blending the functions of a modern library. Unwind and read a book in the library, at the spa, by the fireplace or in the comfort of your own bedroom / Value: Expensive / Jongno
The Shilla Seoul / The Shilla Seoul provides guests with a luxurious experience, infused with both tradition and modernity / Value: Experience / Jung
The Phase Boutique Hotel / Tiny boutique hotel with affordable price / Value: Moderately / Jung
Grand Hyatt Seoul / 5-star hotel in Seoul close to Itaewon and Myeongdong / Value: Expensive / Yongsan
BAKERIES
Vi Ses Bageri / New favorite / Yongsan
Flink / Bakery / Gangnam
Montauk / Bakery / Seocho
Lilion / Bakery / Yongsan
Taffin / Bakery / Yongsan
Hergé Bakery / A renowned for its jambon beurre sandwich, a classic French delight / Seongsu
FINZFire bread / Bakery / Seongdong
Our Bakery / Visit this chic Seoul bakery and cafe. In the city of Seoul, there are currently eleven different stores open to the public / Multiple Locations
BREAKFAST / BRUNCH
Ouvert Coffee Bar / Prepare for a BIG and absolutely delicious breakfast. They make the fluffiest bread with ice cream / Jongno
MitBord Seoul / Danish café & eatery serving plant-based dishes for breakfast and lunch / Seongdong
Lucyd / Australian brunch café / Jongno
Keem Hannam / Eat Healthy. Keep it Vibrant. Savour the Moment. / Yongsan
CAFÉS
MAA / My top recommendation for seasonal desserts, and sourdough bun sandwiches. Everything tastes as good as it looks! / Seodaemun
Baekhwa-mil Cafe / Nothing fancy but amazing location / Jongno
Huijak Cafe / Nothing fancy but amazing location / Jongno
MK2 / A neighborhood favorite / Jongno
Vonzrr / SV / It crafts the idea of inviting guests into a home, where there’s a place to drink, rest, work and catch up with friends / Seongsu
Cociety / SV / Cociety features a coffee lounge, a peaceful courtyard, and an event hall, fostering a relaxed environment for creativity and teamwork / Seongdong
Cafe Sanare / SV / Located at the foot of Bukhansan Mountain, Cafe Sanare offers a relaxing getaway that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding nature / Gangbuk
Maha Hannam / SV / Tucked in the quieter neighbourhood of Hannam lives a sophisticated, modern cafe with a personal architectural touch / Yongsan
Komvaak / SV / Brunch by day, wine bar by night. Design firm Studio PAN harnesses the beauty of natural wood to create a welcoming dining space / Jungnim
JeokDang / If you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy Korean delicacies / Myeongdong
HAUS FINZ / Dessert store / Seongdong
Cafe Wildduck / Coffee, breakfast, lunch & wine / Jung
Katahdin / Super tiny and really cosy place / Jongno
Edition Denmark / Tiny café with very elegant interior design / Jongno
ALL DAY DINING
Dekad Kafeteria / This is a cute spot to have casual brunch with friends in the traditional neighbourhood of Seochon, right next to the Gyeongbokgung Palace / Same owner as @Ryul / Seochon
LUNCH / DINNER
Horapa / A Thai restaurant that has captivated the culinary world with its vibrant flavors and dedication to mastering Thai cuisine / Reservation is needed / Jongno
Katsu by Korban / Japanese cusine / Gangnam
Samcheongdong Sujebi / A must stop when in Seoul for traditional comfort food / Jongno
New Seoul Galbitang / Delightful Korean beef short rib soup / Jung
Atta / SV / Decorated in light neutral tones, with dark wooden floorboards and steel accents, the menu at this Italian restaurant is just as considered as the interior / Hannam
MOWa / SV / This Korean cuisine and wine bar offers an impressive selection of wine / Myeongdong
Mangata / SV / Amidst century-old traditional buildings, modern art galleries and artisanal shops lies a Swedish fine dining experience / Samcheong
Soma / SV / Fine-casual restaurant showcasing Cantonese cuisine. Soma, meaning ‘South of Market’, is where Chef Moon Jong-hyun studied Cantonese cuisine in San Francisco’s Chinatown / Insadong
Danse / SV / This woodfired restaurant has transformed a dilapidated home into a warm and inviting space / Hangangno
Geumdwaeji Sikdang / Korean BBQ / Located along a main road in Sindang-dong, Geumdwaeji Sikdang can be easily spotted by its gold-on-white-tile signage and the queue outside the door long after peak dining hours / No reservations / Jung
Okdongsik Seogyo / Offering a light, clean broth reminiscent of gomtang. Made from the ham and foreleg of native Korean black pigs raised on Jirisan Mountain, the broth is subtle yet elegant in flavor / Mapo
Maison Jo / Charcuterie / Seocho
Youdark story Dakhanmari Shinchon / It's a famous local chicken stew that you'll only find in Korea! So what is it? It's one whole chicken that is slowly cooked to render a deep-tasting chicken / Seodaemun
Chang Surin / Thai / Yongsan
Kyoja / Kong-guksu / Yongsan
One Degree North / Great peaking duck / Gangnam
Tuk Tuk Noodle Thai / Thai / Mapo
Nanpo Seongsu / Nanpo is a fusion Korean restaurant that draws inspiration from the dishes a grandmother lovingly prepared for her granddaughter / Seongdong
mishmash / A contemporary Korean fusion restaurant / Jongno
DINNER ONLY
Flavor Town / Authentic Korean / Seongsu
Wildduck & Canteen / This place holds many residencies with known chefs of Europe. A cute set up with delicious and familiar food offerings when you need a break from the traditional eats / Yongsan
Restaurant Dexter / Classic French bistro / Gangnam
Shokudo Hab or 쇼쿠도 합 / Japanese restaurant / Jongno
Namyeongdon / Korean BBQ / Yongsan
Bunnoji / Japanese bistro / Seocho
Onyva / Modern French / Gangnam
Hannam Oriental Roast Chicken / Oriental-style roast chicken, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside / Yongsan
Aff Seoul / Located on the upper two floors of an unassuming building in Euljiro, AFF Seoul (standing for “Asian Funky Flavor”) draws inspiration from the head chef’s travels in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia. Dishes like halibut ceviche, Thai oyster soup and grilled sablefish are paired with natural wine / Jung
Hanchu / Fried chicken became popular in Korea in the 1970s and has since developed its own variations. Hanchu in Apgujeong serves huraideu-chikin — crispy and lightly spiced fried chicken / Gangnam
On 6.5 / A Korean dining wine bar located near Anguk Station in the vibrant area of Bukchon! It stands out by featuring a wide range of dishes / Jongno
Parc Seoul / Serving authentic and homemade Korean dishes using the freshest ingredients / Yongsan
Nanpo Hannam / Popular modern fusion Korean restaurant / Yongsan
MICHELIN / FINE DINING
MOSU / Fine dining / Three-star Michelin / Yongsan
Soseoul / SV / Embodying traditional Korean food culture, Michelin-starred chef Eom Tae-Chul explores the fundamentals of hansik, elevating Korean cuisine and inviting diners to rediscover familiar flavours / Hannam
Confier / SV / This French-Korean fine dining restaurant offers a gastronomic journey, with its menu changing with the seasons / Namdaemun
Akira Back / SV / Award-winning Japanese cuisine with a Korean twist. Located in the Four Seasons hotel, Chef Akira Back redefines Asian cuisine with a combination of classic Japanese dishes and Korean accents / Gwanghamun
GREEN SPOTS / HEALTHY
Fresh Table / Salad bar / Seongsu
Greener / Salad concept / Mapo
PIZZA
Corner Pizza Joint / Great easy option for when you have no time to sit and dine / Itaewon
Brett Pizza / Wood fired pizza / Maybe closed! / Mapo
BURGERS
PATTY / Neighborhood burger bar in very cozy area / Seodaemun
Shake Shack Seongsu / Shake Shack / Seongsu
TACOS
Oldies Taco / From the vibrant flavors to the unique dining experience, this taco joint delivers a memorable meal every time / Jong + Gangnam
FAST FOOD
Eongteoli Fried Chicken / Eongteoli Fried Chicken in Seoul is a classic mom and pop shop known for serving the crispiest and juiciest fried chicken in Korea / Yongsan
Chicken Rock / Lots of chicken / Mapo
Hyodo Chicken / A Korean fried chicken chain / Jongno + Gangnam
SWEET TREATS
Bunkasha Euljiro / These little fruit sandos are sooooo good and this place is open til late / Jung
Alice Project / Dessert & Cakes / Seocho
MAKJI Yeonhui / SV / The wide range of desserts utilise byproducts from Korean rice wine (makgeolli) and rice, replacing traditional white flour with modern flavours / Seodaemun
NUDAKE / Fancy cake place / Gangnam
KIOSQUE / Kiosque sells French toast that is crispy on the outside, soft and moist in the inside / Mapo
Asoto / Japanese-style café and bakery / Jung
Incomplete Table / The low lighting, trendy music and fresh smell of macaroons being baked in the oven almost make it seem out of place here in Mangwon-dong / Jongno
ICE CREAM
Cotati / Sooo many interesting choices of ice cream flavors! / Yongsan
Zenzero / Gelateria that specializes in artisanal, small batch gelato and sorbet / Gangnam
Baekmidang Samcheong / Well-known organic soft ice cream shop close to the Gyeongbokgung Palace / Jongno
COFFEE
Lounge Clarimento / The space is as thoughtfully designed as the coffee program, with a vintage airport lounge feel. They consistently offer some of the most interesting and rare coffees in the city. If you’re chasing a top-tier Geisha, this is the place to go / Mapo
TXT Coffee / A minimalist cafe situated in a quiet alley / Gahoe
GML / Unique interior design and coffee beans from good roasteries around the world / Yongsan
RECEPTION / A welcoming place where coffee and everyday life naturally intersect / Jongno
Poly / A quiet cafe with a cozy atmosphere like a studio, located nearby the entrance of the cafe district in Hongdae / Mapo
Coffee Nap Roasters / SV / A local coffee roastery with branches in Mapo and Seongsu, the small yet cosy, pet-friendly Yeonnam cafe reimagines traditional seating / Mapo + Seongsu
Protokoll Roasters / SV / Specialty coffee shop roasting coffee beans with unique flavour profiles. VERY cool interior design / Seodaemun + Mapo
Mesh Coffee / The cozy outdoor seating creates an inviting spot for coffee lovers. Inside, the shop offers limited seating and houses an in-house roastery / Open 8am / Seongsu
Brewing Ceremony / Single origin and Geisha / Seongsu
Dark Edition Coffee / Kids & pets crazy welcome / Seodaemun
Bohey Coffee / Specialty Coffee Shop Bohay Specializing in single origin brewing coffee and cappuccinos. Coffee comes in a ceramic cup that the owner made / Jung
Dorae Knot / is beautifully designed, featuring an airy mix of stone, light wood and glass. Their approach to coffee is both thoughtful and technically ambitious / Mapo
Die Synthese High Café / Only served coffee from Yemen / Gonna move to new location soon! / Seongsu
Gimisa / Coffee bar with own roastery in the basement / Seongsu
Pastel Coffee Works / Great coffee bar. Among the many coffee shops in Seoul, this place stand out for its early opening / Open 8.30, Weekend 10 / Mapo + Jongno
Anthracite / A cornerstone of Korea’s specialty coffee scene, known for its sharp aesthetic and careful roasting. Of their four locations, the Seogyo cafe stands out for its striking design / Multiple Locations
Utility Coffee Roasters / Clean and tiny coffee bar / Yongsan
Elak Coffee / Cosy neighborhood coffee bar with warm atmosphere / Jung
Doduk & Kyubum / Small place with the coolest character and ambience in Seoul. If they have any Ethiopian coffee on the menu, order that! / Mapo
Komfortabel Namsan / SV / Between its stunning views, luxurious ambiance, and incredible sound system, Café Komfortabel is definitely a place I'll keep coming back / Yongsan + Multiple Locations
Bean Brothers / Overall, the view from Bean Brothers Coffeehouse Seoul is truly unmatched. The interior is beautifully designed, the coffee is great, and while the prices are a bit steep, the experience is worth it / Mapo + Mapo
Daechung Park Inwangsan / If you're looking for a quiet place to unwind, soak in the scenery, and enjoy a great cup of coffee / Jongno
Coffee Hanyakbang / Despite its secluded location, this spot has many loyal customers, and I quickly understood why / Jung
Upstanding Coffee / Upstanding Coffee is a hidden gem in Seoul, located inside the Shin Heung Art Market / Yongsan
Tremor Coffee Works / Hidden within the energetic chaos of Hongdae. Offers one of the most thoughtful and finely tuned coffee experiences in Seoul / Mapo
Toch Coffee / A specialty coffee roastery and café that also imports coffee from origin / Gangnam
COEO / Coffee bar in trendy Seongsu / Seongsu
Fivebrewing / SV / Multi-award-winning barista and owner Hyungsoo Do expresses his knowledge in delivering delicious coffee by continuously researching and sourcing high quality coffee beans / Seocho
delimike / Beautiful little coffee shop / Yongsan
Oscar Coffee Booth / SV / Created by Maha Architects, the interior blends soft tones of wood, concrete, and metal to achieve a modern, calming aesthetic / Mapo
LowKey / Is an incredibly well-known roastery café, loved by coffee enthusiasts for its exceptional brews and inviting atmosphere / Seongsu + Seodaemun
Beolsae / One of my favorite cafes in town. Cozy coffeeshop with great music / Jongno
Kihei / Which started as a small café, began its roasting journey four years later / Gangnam
Malic Coffee / Malik Coffee has been introducing specialty coffee in Hongdae since 2016 / Mapo
Identity Coffeelab / Selection of single origins is stunning / Mapo
Travertine Coffee / Known for its ambiance and coffee / Yongsan
Always Au8ust / Coffee from Swedish @DropCoffeeRoasters and lots of beautiful cakes / Mapo
NU Roasting Haus / Not far from the Line Friends store at Hongdae Station, cozy little spot dedicated to showcasing beans with bright acidity / Mapo
Kitte / SV / The venue offers various tea-inspired menus including a matcha cream topped coffee, along with homemade custard pudding and Castella sponge cake / Yongsan MAYBE MOVE TO ANOTHER CATEGORY
Heuler / SV / Soft wooden tones combined with concrete form a neutral palette that’s easy on the eyes / Yeongdeungpo
Pin Coffee / SV / True to their name, the cafe is tucked between the alleys of a residential area. Renowned for their butter bars, they offer a wide range of flavours designed to delight and surprise / Gwangjin
Cafe Onion Seongsu / SV / An incredibly popular spot, particularly known for their specialty coffee and soft, buttery salt bread — a Korean favourite / Seongsu + Multiple Locations
Stereophonic Sound / SV / Run by fashion label, Have A Good Time, Stereophonic Sound allows visitors to enjoy shopping, coffee, and music in one space / Mapo
Fuglen Seoul / Norwegian lifestyle and coffee culture in Seoul / Sangsu
John Small Roastery / Tucked away in the quiet, residential neighborhood of Yonggang, just a five-minute walk from the Han River / Mapo
Fritz Coffee Company / Anyone familiar with Korea’s specialty coffee scene will know the name. Fritz is more than a cafe; it’s an institution / Mapo + Jongno
Always August Roasters / A hub for Seoul’s growing population of people who appreciate everything from perfectly executed coffee and immaculate pastries to fine art and natural wine / Mapo
Cafe Sinola / Inspired by the interior of a boat, this cafe bar is a cozy spot to enjoy vinyl music and pour-over coffees. For those who have a sweet tooth, I can also recommend their delicious french toast! / Jongno + Other Locations
Pont Cafe / Great coffee / Two Locations
Flick On Coffee / Owner Hyunwoo Jang prepares tasty light-roasted coffees from around the world like Japan’s Leaves Coffee Roasters and Denmark’s La Cabra / Seodaemun
Touski / Small record store with a coffeeshop and a surprising selection of natural wine inside / Yongsan
33 apartment / Lovely coffeeshop with cute homeware and mugs that you can buy inside. Another neighborhood favorite / Yongsan
Moscent / A cozy café offering filter coffee, espresso drinks, and a lovely variety of desserts / Yongsan
Holang-| / Famous for its delicious lattes / Jongno + Other Locations
Yeonhui Espresso Bar / Focus on espresso / Seodaemun
House of Vinyl / House of Vinyl offers a variety of filter coffees, but the signature drinks is the matcha latte / Multiple Locations
Bamaself / A small espresso bar called Bamaself, steps away from Namyeong Station / Yongsan
Nice Work Today / Work / Coffee / Mapo + Mapo (CHECK IF TWO OR ONE SPOT?)
Cappy / Coffee shop with coffee from @Prolog. It's one of those super local cafes on a quiet back alley / Mapo
Center Coffee Seoul Forest / Charming cafe located in Seoul Forest at Seongdong-gu, one of the most popular green spaces in Seoul / Seongdong
Kihara / Cute little coffee shop with great coffee from @fruktcoffee in Finland / Yongsan
Path Roasters / Coffee shop / Yongsan
Cuppacity / Selection of various international roasters / Open 8am / Mapo
Limuso Coffee Bar / Coffee from @LaCabra / A bit far from the city! / Seobuk
Yeonheun Roasters / A new coffee shop in Seoul's Seochon neighbourhood, designed by local studio, Sherpa / Jongno
H Coffee Roasters / Provides high-quality coffee that is accessible to all / Jongno
Knit Coffee / Another beautiful coffee bar / Jung
Morphe / A specialty cafe that offers a wide variety of delicious desserts, including tiramisu / Yongsan
Cafe Moho / Moho Coffee Roasters is a minimalist coffee brand that pursues simplicity, minimalism and cleanliness of the experience / Seocho
MATCHA & TEA
Arcade TOVE / This tea cafe just recently opened in the basement of the Seoul Press Centre but has quickly become a favourite / Myeongdong
TOVE / The first location of this cafe. The cafe serves a range of Chinese teas, cookies, seasonal "bingsoo" (shaved ice desserts) and lemon-flavoured jelly, which are all delicious / Jongno
Ongozisin / SV / A unique experience through ambience and flavour palettes. Ongozisin offers a range of house-made brew teas and a unique selection of specialty desserts / Gwanak
Matchacha – Tea room / SV / A modern tea experience embracing the concepts of simplicity and mindfulness / Seongdong
SanSuHwa Tea House / Sansuhwa Teahouse is a specialist tea brand that offers a wide range of tea, teaware and tea-related experiences / Yongsan
WINE
Ryul / Great spot to wind down after a long day of sight-seeing / Natural wines / Same owner as @Dekad Kafeteria / Jongno
PKY Listening Bar / Booking is necessary or at least stop by before grabbing a dinner close by to put your name on the waiting list / Jung
Komfy Bar / SV / A wine bar offering an immersive music experience with a large selection of vintage and modern LPs. Pair their delightful food menu with unique drink offerings in a cosy, informal, music-filled environment / Hapjeong
Sav Seoul / SV / Urban winery with a cave-like ambiance for an immersive wine experience / Apgujeong
TYMM / SV / A broad collection of cassette tapes provides the soundtrack at TYMM, which also hosts regular music events and DJ sets / Yongsan
A Glass Off / SV / This petite bar in Yongsan specialises in wine, coffee, and highballs, and offers a casual and approachable atmosphere / Yongsan
Le Pont Seoul wine bar shop / Charming wine shop with a friendly atmosphere / Seongbuk
Yangchul Seoul / A space that presents a new perspective on vegetables along with a variety of dishes made from seasonal ingredients served by the farm every / Gangnam
Domigseu / Korean wine bar / Seongdong
Simple Pleasure / Great little wine bar / Seodaemun
Tarsty / Natural wines have grown in popularity in Seoul, with several bars opening in recent years to cater to the trend. Tarsty is one of the latest additions to the scene and provides a chance to escape to a quieter part of the city / Jongno
COCKTAILS
Zest Seoul / A quartet of some of Seoul's best bartenders / Gangnam
Kompakt Record Bar / Kompakt Record Bar opened in 2018 and now has four locations around Seoul. At the original, and most compact, in Apgujeong, waiters double as DJs when not serving cocktails and guest DJs visit on weekends / Gangnam + Multiple Locations
Bar in House / Old school atmosphere and classic cocktails / Cover charge of KRW 10,000 / Gangnam
Bar Pomme / Where luxury meets a twist in every sip / Jongno
Philosophy Lounge / SV / Elegant lounge bar that replaces bar seating with intimate table seating — an intentional decision to help create meaningful memories without external distractions / Myeongdong
Ghiwon22 / SV / A hidden, classy local bar known for its original cocktails crafted with artisan-made traditional liquors / Myeongdong
Culsec / Modern neighbourhood cocktail bar / Yongsan
Bar Cham / This hanok, or traditional Korean house, is a celebration of local spirits and flavours, seen through a modern lens, and served in an intimate setting / Jongno
Cricket Seoul / A stylish yet laid-back bar that seamlessly merges nature-inspired aesthetics with meticulously crafted cocktails / Gangnam
SookHee / The entrance to speakeasy bar SookHee is hidden behind a secret door on the fourth floor of a nondescript building in the middle of busy Myeongdong / Jung
Cobbler / Cobbler is found in a traditional Korean house (or hanok), which Yoo renovated himself. Now a renowned bar, the space is refined and elegant / Jongno
BARS
Seoul Brewery / SV / This expansive, seven-story craft brewery offers a distinctive journey into the world of craft beer, highlighting unique styles brewed with seasonal ingredients / Seongsu
Hills & Europa / The interior features a low wooden ceiling and walls adorned with unique objects and LPs from around the world, creating a cozy and exotic atmosphere / Yongsan
Seoul Gypsy Fermenteria Seochon / Beer store / Jongno
Reserve / Record bar / Yongsan
SUPERMARKETS
Nonghyup Hanaro Mart Sajik / Supermarket / Jongno
FOOD MARKETS
Mangwon Market / One of the representative traditional markets of Seoul / Mapo *
Jongno 3-ga / Vibrant street food experience / Use exit 6 / Open from 5pm until midnight / Jongno
Namdaemun Market / The largest traditional market in Korea. Almost everything is available for sale including clothing, souvenirs, purses, and food supplies / Jung
Gwangjang Market / Various traditional food stands and quite likely all are very good even for just strolling it's worth a visit and it's located close to other markets for textiles and souvenir shopping / Jongno
FLEA MARKET
Dongmyo Flea Market / Vintage fashion, military memorabilia.. Dongmyo Flea Market has something for everyone / Dongdaemun *
SHOPPING
Kinfolk Seongsu Flagship Store / Home for Kinfolk opened in April 2024 and includes a flower shop, garden café and design store that stocks the latest issues / Seongsu
Le Labo / Beautiful store in a old Hanok building / Jongno
Dongdaemun Market / Great market for textiles and souvenir shopping / Dongdaemun
Olive Young / Korea's No. 1 Health & Beauty Store / Multiple Locations
Amomento Flagship Store / Stunning new store of Amomento / Jongno
SCULP STORE / Probably my favorite store to shop for clothing in Seoul. Mainly menswear but they have the coolest vintage tees and Needles (alapanese brand) selection / Mapo
Pyunkang Yul / SV / Pyunkang Yul’s flagship store in Bukchon draws heavily on traditional Korean aesthetics. The space features folding screens and painted fabrics inspired by those used in Gyeongbuk Palace, and materials such as wood, brass, and granite / Buckhon
Aesop / SV / The bustling neighbourhood of Hannam is home to a quiet and composed Aesop store. During the design phase, a collection of hanok-style artefacts was uncovered and thoughtfully integrated, bringing warmth and the character of traditional Korean craftsmanship to the space / Hannam
Atelier De Lumen / SV / This contemporary Korean bag brand harmonises timeless designs with comfort and practicality. Their flagship store presents a calm, subdued environment using muted tones throughout, cleverly highlighting the quality range of products / Hannam
Tamburins / SV / Perfume brand with multiple stores in Seoul. Their award-winning Seongsu flagship store, designed by EONSLD and The System Lab, occupies the basement level of a grand concrete structure / Multiple Locations
GRANHAND / SV / One of the more established and accessible fragrance brands in South Korea / Seochon + Multiple Locations
Sulwhasoo Bukchon Flagship Store / RUM /A flagship store for one of the largest K-beauty brands, in historic Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul / Jongno
LCDC Seoul / RUM / Is a space that brings together brands of all sizes, each with its own story. The space is carefully curated to balance variety and unity / Seongsu
All that wine / Wine shop / Gangdong
POTTERY Hannam / The Pottery flagship store in Hannam-dong is a must-visit destination / Yongsan
Kappy Design / Mens sport fashion brand / Mapo
Kaleg / Sport goods store / Gangnam
Coor / Korea fashion brand / Multiple Locations
COS / Woman & Men / Yongsan
Khakis Yeonhui / Men’s fashion / Seodaemun
Wonhyo General Kitchen Distributor / Kitchen store / Yongsan
nyunyu LAB+ / Specializing in affordable glasses, sunglasses, and other cute accessories / Seongdong
BOOK STORE
Still Books / Another cute bookstores with many cute souvenir offerings to bring back home / Yongsan
Storage Book & Film / Cutest independent bookstore. Mainly Korean books / Yongsan
Ofr Seoul / Ofr’s Seoul shop with almost just as many books as you find at their main store in Paris / Jongno
IRASUN / One off my favorite bookstore in Seoul with a beautiful setting windows looking over hanok roofs / Jongno
Post Poetics / Most popular bookstore in town. Holds many interesting events also but the selection is worth checking out. Also they make adorable tote bags / Yongsan
Starfield Library / Starfield Library is an open public space where anyone can freely come to sit down or take a break / Gangnam
The Phrase / Book store / Jongno
SECOND HAND
Balbal Vintage / Specializes in vintage goods, featuring an eclectic collection of antique furniture, clothing, and home decor / Jung
OPTICAL
YUN / SV / Yun’s flagship store, featuring a vast range of quality frames and state-of-the-art technology / Seongsu
Gentle Monster / RUM / A trendy sunglasses brand that has already become popular on the internet and taken the fashion world by storm / Gangnam + Multiple Locations
Blue Elephant Hongdee / Goes beyond being just a fashion eyewear brand, it shares the values it pursues / Seongsu + Multiple Locations
INTERIOR DESIGN / CRAFTMANSHIP / TABLEWARE
MOSSON Gwanghwamun / Seoul based craft shop & gallery specialzing in Korean crafts & art / NOT SAVED ON GOOGLE MAPS! / Jongno
Meego Craft / This is my favourite craft and home goods store in a traditional area of Seoul. All of their goods are extemely high-quality, and are all hand-made by Korean artists and craftsmen / Jongno
Gallery Mosoon / This is my favourite spot to discover new Korean arts and crafts. There is a new exhibition each month / Jung
MONO-HA Hannam / This store offers a beautiful range of ceramics, crafts, and homeware made by both Korean and Japanese artists, as well as their namesake clothing line that features minimalistic pieces. Upstairs they have an exhibition space that isn't always open but you can kindly ask to see if it's possible to visit / Yongsan
Nothing Written Flagship Store / Located in a quiet corner of Hannam-dong, the Nothing Written flagship store has so much to offer for not only those interested in finding wardrobe staple pieces, but also for those interested in interiors and design / Yongsan
ilsangyeoback / Craft and home goods store / Jongno
Yiyeha / SV / Unique Korean jewellery boutique known for its delicate, hand- crafted designs and quality, artisanal craftsmanship / Seochon
WOL / Craft / Jongno + Itaewon
Make Folio / Ceramic, parfume and many other items / Jongno
ONDO / Incense Stick / Jongno
Narrative Object / Seoul based craft shop / Seongdong
repertory seongsu / Interior & Ceramic / Seongdong
PARKS
Changdeokgung / A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Changdeokgung is a stunning palace known for its beautiful Secret Garden, which is visited in spring/fall. You’re a few minutes walk from here / Bukchon Hanok Village
ART GALLERIES
White Cube Seoul / Beautiful curated space with an impressive collection of art / Gangnam
Tongui-dong Boan Inn / A gallery and cultural space that boasts free exhibits as well as books and sleeping accommodations / Jongno
YOUTHQUAKE / RUM / Art gallery and exhibition spot / Jongno
HAUS NOWHERE SEOUL / Gentle Monster’s new HQ / Seongdong
MUSEUMS
Leeum Museum of Art / Art museum / Yongsan
MMCA — National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art / Art museum / Jongno
TEMPLES
Gyeongbokgung Palace / As the largest of the Five Grand Palaces in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace is a symbol of Korea’s royal history and a must-see for those interested in the country’s cultural heritage. The palace is home to the National Palace Museum and the beautiful Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, offering a peaceful reflection of the past / Jongno
Bongeunsa Temple / Traditional Buddhist temple / Gangnam
PHOTO SPOTS
Dae-o Bookstore / Seoul oldest bookstore / Jongno
Yeongdong Bridge / Great photo spot / Seongdong
PRADA Seongsu / Great photo spot / Seongsu
SIGHTSEEING
Bukchon Hanok Village / A traditional Korean village that showcases hundreds of well-preserved hanok houses, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The village’s narrow lanes and charming architecture is so stunning / Bukchon Hanok Village
Namsangol Hanok Village / Namsangol Hanok Village is a recreated village of historical Korean buildings / Jung
Seoul Tower / The highest point to glance at the most beautiful images of Seoul / Yongsan
Bulhansan National Park / The park contains forested areas, temples and granite peaks / Has several entrances and is easily accessible by public transport (ie bus/subway) / Seongbuk
Ansan Jarak-gil Trail / For those who are missing a bit of nature, I highly recommend this forest trail in Ansan Mountain. You'll see beautiful plants, flowers, mountain views, and an impressive range of metasequoia trees, all right in the middle of the city / Seodaemun
Buam-dong / If you want to experience a truly local neighbourhood, away from the crowded tourist areas and high-street shops, I recommend visiting Buam-dong. Buam-dong is one of my favourite neighbourhoods to visit when I want to enjoy a quiet and easygoing, yet fulfilling day out with friends / Jongno
Gwanghwamun Square / It is located at a three-way intersection at the northern end of Sejongno. As a landmark and symbol of Seoul's history / Jongno
Yongsan Haebangchon Village / Is a district of Yongsan District. It is one of the oldest neighborhoods in central Seoul. Lots o small cafés and cute shops / Yongsan
Euljiro Nogari Alley / The Euljiro area is known as a hip place among foreign tourists and the MZ generation for its trendy ambience that seamlessly blends the past and present / Jung
Garosu-gil Street / Nice and trendy area / Gangnam
Deoksugung Palace / Deoksugung Palace one of five royal palace Remained in Seoul / Jung
Eunpyeong Hanok Village / Eunpyeong Hanok Village was established in December 2014 as the largest neo-hanok residential complex in the capital area / Eunpyeong
SPA / WELLNESS
Spa Sage Hill / After long days of walking and shopping, this is my go-to spot for massages in the city. They offer facials, massages, and scalp treatments in a quiet, beautiful and private building that feels it could be someone's home. They also run yoga classes in a separate facility if you're in town for longer, and want to get a few stretches in / Yongsan
ShineBeam Clinic / Medical facility specializing in skincare and laser treatments, micro wave, botox and more / Gangnam
Ecojardin Mapo Aeogae Station / Korean head spa is the first of its kind / Mapo