Best Walking Routes in Seoul: Palaces, Hanok Villages, Markets and River Views
Best Walking Routes in Seoul: Palaces, Hanok Villages, Markets and River Views
Seoul is one of the most rewarding cities in Asia to explore on foot, but it is not a city you should try to cross entirely by walking. The best strategy is to choose one compact neighborhood cluster, use the subway to reach the starting point and then follow a self-guided walking route through nearby palaces, hanok streets, markets, parks or riverside paths.
The best walking routes in Seoul reveal details that are easy to miss from a bus or taxi. You can hear temple bells near a royal palace, turn from a modern avenue into a narrow hanok alley, stop for tea in a renovated traditional house and finish the day beside the Han River as the skyline lights come on.
This guide focuses on routes that are practical for international visitors. Each walk includes a recommended starting point, suggested route, estimated time, difficulty, rest stops, nearby food options and places where you can shorten the itinerary. Walking times are estimates and do not include long palace visits, restaurant queues, shopping or café breaks.
Table of Contents
- Why Seoul Is a Great City for Walking
- Seoul Walking Route Comparison
- Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon and Insadong Route
- Changdeokgung, Ikseon-dong and Gwangjang Market Route
- Deoksugung Stone Wall and Cheonggyecheon Route
- Cheonggyecheon and Gwangjang Market Route
- Myeongdong and N Seoul Tower Route
- Seoul Forest and Seongsu Route
- Hongdae, Yeonnam-dong, Mangwon and Han River Route
- Yeouido Han River and The Hyundai Seoul Route
- Best Seoul Walking Routes at Night
- Easy Routes for Families and Beginners
- Walking Safety and Seasonal Tips
- Restrooms, Pharmacies and Luggage Storage
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Seoul Walking Tips
Why Seoul Is a Great City for Walking
Seoul combines dense historic neighborhoods with an extensive public transportation network. This makes it possible to take the subway to one district, walk through several connected attractions and finish near a different station without returning to the original starting point.
Walking is especially rewarding in central Seoul. Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong, Ikseon-dong, Changdeokgung Palace, Cheonggyecheon and several traditional markets are located within a relatively compact area. The experience changes from block to block, moving from palace walls and tiled roofs to cafés, office towers and busy market lanes.
Other neighborhoods offer a completely different atmosphere. Seongsu combines Seoul Forest with converted industrial buildings and trend-focused shops. Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong connect youth culture, cafés and small streets. Yeouido and Mangwon offer long riverside views with fewer historic attractions but more open space.
Seoul Is Walkable by District, Not as One Continuous Route
Seoul is a very large city. Two places that both appear central on a tourist map may still require a long subway ride. The most efficient approach is to walk within one district and use public transportation between districts.
For example, Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon and Insadong fit naturally into one route. Seongsu and Seoul Forest form another. Hongdae, Yeonnam-dong and Mangwon can be grouped together, although the full route is long and may require a short subway or bus ride.
Distance Is Not the Only Measure of Difficulty
A short route may feel difficult when it includes steep hills, stone paths, stairs or crowded alleys. Bukchon and Namsan are more physically demanding than Cheonggyecheon or Yeouido, even when the total distance is similar.
Visitors should also consider heat, humidity, rain, snow and air quality. A route that feels easy in spring may feel exhausting during a humid summer afternoon.
Seoul Walking Route Comparison
| Walking Route | Estimated Time | Difficulty | Main Scenery | Best Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gyeongbokgung–Bukchon–Insadong | 3–5 hours | Moderate | Palace, hanok streets, traditional shops | Morning |
| Changdeokgung–Ikseon-dong–Gwangjang | 4–6 hours | Moderate | Palace, cafés, market | Late morning to evening |
| Deoksugung–Cheonggyecheon | 2–3 hours | Easy | Stone wall, city center, stream | Afternoon |
| Cheonggyecheon–Gwangjang Market | 1.5–3 hours | Easy | Urban stream, market food | Afternoon to evening |
| Myeongdong–N Seoul Tower | 2–4 hours | Challenging | Shopping, hill views, skyline | Before sunset |
| Seoul Forest–Seongsu | 3–5 hours | Easy | Park, cafés, contemporary shopping | Morning to afternoon |
| Hongdae–Yeonnam–Mangwon–Han River | 4–6 hours | Moderate | Youth district, market, river | Afternoon to evening |
| Yeouido Han River–The Hyundai Seoul | 2–4 hours | Easy | River, skyline, indoor shopping | Before sunset |
The estimated times above include relaxed walking but not long attraction visits. A palace visit, café break, shopping session or market meal can add one or two hours to the route.
Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon and Insadong Walking Route
Suggested route: Gyeongbokgung Station → Gyeongbokgung Palace → National Folk Museum area → Samcheong-dong → Bukchon Hanok Village → Insadong
Best for: First-time visitors, history lovers, photographers and travelers interested in traditional Seoul
Difficulty: Moderate because of slopes and uneven streets around Bukchon
This is the most classic palace and hanok walking route in Seoul. It combines one of the city’s best-known royal palaces with traditional streets, cafés, craft shops and a historic residential neighborhood.
Start at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Begin near Gyeongbokgung Station and walk toward the palace entrance. Starting earlier in the day can reduce exposure to afternoon heat and gives you more time to explore the palace before moving into Bukchon.
The palace grounds are larger than many first-time visitors expect. A short visit may focus on the main gate, central ceremonial courtyard and principal buildings. A longer visit can include quieter garden areas and museum stops.
If you plan to rent hanbok, add time for selecting clothes, changing and returning the outfit. Wearing hanbok can make the palace visit more memorable, but it also slows the overall walking schedule.
Continue toward Samcheong-dong
Leave the palace area toward Samcheong-dong. This part of the route transitions from large palace grounds into a quieter neighborhood with galleries, cafés and small shops.
Samcheong-dong is a good place for a short break before the steeper Bukchon section. Stop for coffee, tea or an early lunch if you started the day at the palace opening time.
Walk through Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon is known for traditional hanok houses, tiled rooftops and elevated views. It is also a living residential neighborhood. Visitors should keep their voices low, avoid blocking doors and follow signs that restrict photography or access.
The streets are not uniformly flat. Some alleys include slopes, steps and uneven surfaces. Wear comfortable shoes and avoid carrying heavy shopping bags.
Do not feel obligated to visit every photo spot. A shorter route through one or two main lanes is often more enjoyable than repeatedly climbing hills in search of the same rooftop view.
Finish in Insadong
Continue toward Insadong for traditional tea, Korean food, crafts and souvenirs. Insadong is an easy place to finish because it has restaurants, cafés and convenient subway access.
If your legs are tired after Bukchon, skip additional side streets and head directly toward the main Insadong area. Travelers with more energy can add Ikseon-dong, but doing so turns this into a much longer walking day.
Where to Shorten the Route
- Finish after Gyeongbokgung and return to Gyeongbokgung Station.
- End in Samcheong-dong before climbing further into Bukchon.
- Exit near Anguk Station after Bukchon.
- Finish in Insadong near Jonggak or Anguk Station.
Changdeokgung, Ikseon-dong and Gwangjang Market Route
Suggested route: Anguk Station → Changdeokgung Palace → Ikseon-dong → Jongno 3-ga → Sewoon area → Gwangjang Market
Best for: Travelers who want a palace, hanok cafés and market food in one route
Difficulty: Moderate, mainly because of the total duration and crowded streets
This route blends royal history, renovated hanok lanes, downtown streets and one of Seoul’s most famous traditional markets. It works best when you begin before lunch and finish with an early dinner.
Begin at Changdeokgung Palace
Changdeokgung has a different atmosphere from Gyeongbokgung. Its buildings and natural landscape feel more integrated, which makes it especially appealing to visitors interested in architecture and garden design.
Some sections may require separate admission, a specific entry process or additional planning. Check current visitor information before arriving. If you spend several hours inside the palace, shorten the rest of the route.
Stop in Ikseon-dong
Walk toward Ikseon-dong for lunch or coffee. The neighborhood is known for narrow alleys, small restaurants and renovated hanok cafés.
Ikseon-dong can become crowded during weekends and peak meal times. Some cafés have limited indoor seating, and popular restaurants may use waiting systems. Keep one alternative restaurant nearby.
Because the alleys are narrow, avoid stopping in the center of a busy lane to take photos. Step to the side and allow local residents, workers and other visitors to pass.
Walk toward Gwangjang Market
From Ikseon-dong, continue through Jongno toward the Sewoon and Euljiro area. This section reveals a more ordinary side of central Seoul, with older commercial buildings, workshops and busy roads.
The route is not as visually polished as Bukchon, but it shows how historic and modern Seoul overlap. Use pedestrian crossings carefully and follow local navigation rather than choosing shortcuts through unfamiliar building complexes.
Finish with Food at Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang Market is a popular final stop for Korean pancakes, noodles, rice dishes, snacks and market-style meals. The busiest lanes can feel crowded, especially at dinner time.
Check prices before ordering, ask about ingredients when you have food allergies and do not assume every stall accepts the same payment methods. Carrying a small amount of cash can be useful even though cards are widely accepted elsewhere in Seoul.
Move away from narrow traffic areas before eating handheld food. Dispose of plates, cups and packaging according to the stall’s instructions.
Where to Shorten the Route
- Finish after Changdeokgung near Anguk Station.
- End in Ikseon-dong near Jongno 3-ga Station.
- Skip the Sewoon section and use the subway to reach Gwangjang Market.
- Finish at Jongno 5-ga Station after the market.
Deoksugung Stone Wall and Cheonggyecheon Route
Suggested route: City Hall Station → Deoksugung Stone Wall Road → Jeong-dong → Seoul City Hall → Gwanghwamun Square → Cheonggye Plaza → Cheonggyecheon
Best for: Beginners, short visits and travelers who prefer a flatter route
Difficulty: Easy
This central Seoul route combines palace walls, historic streets, civic buildings, a large public square and an urban stream. It is easy to shorten and has frequent subway access.
Walk along Deoksugung Stone Wall Road
Begin near City Hall Station and follow the stone wall beside Deoksugung. The area offers a quieter contrast to the busy roads around Seoul City Hall.
Jeong-dong contains historic buildings, cultural spaces and tree-lined streets. Some facilities may have limited opening hours, but the road itself is enjoyable even without entering every attraction.
Continue toward Gwanghwamun Square
Return toward Seoul City Hall and continue north toward Gwanghwamun Square. This section is more urban, with wide roads, government buildings and modern public spaces.
Large events, demonstrations or seasonal festivals can affect pedestrian routes. Follow local signs and be prepared to use a nearby subway entrance when access is restricted.
Finish at Cheonggyecheon
Walk from Gwanghwamun toward Cheonggye Plaza. From there, descend to the stream and follow the water east for as long as your schedule allows.
Cheonggyecheon has many access points, so you can leave the route and return to street level whenever you become tired. This makes it one of the easiest Seoul walking routes to customize.
Cheonggyecheon and Gwangjang Market Route
Suggested route: Cheonggye Plaza → Cheonggyecheon walking path → Euljiro section → Sewoon Bridge area → Gwangjang Market
Best for: Short itineraries, easy walking and travelers who want a market meal
Difficulty: Easy
This route follows the stream east through central Seoul before ending at Gwangjang Market. It is flatter than Bukchon or Namsan and can be completed without entering a paid attraction.
Start at Cheonggye Plaza
Begin near the western end of Cheonggyecheon. Use a restroom, buy water and check the weather before descending to the stream level.
The stream path offers a different view of downtown Seoul. Traffic remains visible above, but the lower walkway feels separated from the main roads.
Follow the Stream toward Euljiro
Continue east and use the numbered bridges or nearby landmarks to track your position. There are multiple stairways connecting the stream to street level.
If the route becomes tiring, leave at any convenient exit and continue by subway. This is particularly useful for families, older travelers and visitors walking during hot weather.
Exit near Gwangjang Market
Leave the stream near the market area and finish with food or shopping. Arriving before the busiest dinner period can make it easier to find seats.
During heavy rain, access to lower stream paths may be restricted. Do not enter closed areas, even when the water appears calm.
| Condition | Recommended Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Heavy rain | Skip the lower stream path and use street-level routes or the subway. |
| Summer heat | Walk in the morning or near sunset and shorten the route. |
| Winter cold | Add indoor café or market breaks. |
| Poor air quality | Choose an indoor attraction or shopping route. |
Myeongdong and N Seoul Tower Walking Route
Suggested route: Myeongdong Station → Myeongdong shopping streets → Namsan entrance → cable car area or walking trail → N Seoul Tower
Best for: Skyline views, sunset and nighttime photography
Difficulty: Challenging when completed entirely on foot
This route starts in one of Seoul’s busiest shopping districts and climbs toward one of the city’s most recognizable viewpoints. It is the best choice for travelers who want a combination of shopping, street energy and panoramic views.
Start in Myeongdong
Begin near Myeongdong Station and explore the central shopping streets. Myeongdong is known for cosmetics, fashion, street snacks, souvenir shops and currency exchange businesses.
Avoid doing heavy shopping before climbing Namsan. Carrying beauty products, clothes and souvenirs uphill can make the route uncomfortable. Store purchases at your hotel or use a nearby locker when possible.
Choose How to Reach Namsan
| Method | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Walk | Active travelers | Steep sections, stairs and weather exposure |
| Cable car | Visitors reducing uphill walking | Queues may form at popular times |
| Bus | Families and travelers conserving energy | Check the correct stop and return route |
| Taxi plus short walk | Travelers with limited time or luggage | Traffic and drop-off restrictions may apply |
Time the Route for Sunset
Starting the climb before sunset allows you to see Seoul in daylight and after dark. Sunset time changes significantly by season, so check the local time on the day of your visit.
Visibility matters as much as timing. On hazy or rainy days, a high viewpoint may be less rewarding. Consider a relaxed dinner and shopping evening in Myeongdong instead.
Seoul Forest and Seongsu Walking Route
Suggested route: Seoul Forest Station or Ttukseom Station → Seoul Forest → Seongsu café streets → shops and pop-up areas
Best for: Parks, cafés, design shops and contemporary Seoul
Difficulty: Easy, although the total time can become long when shopping
This route is a modern alternative to Seoul’s palace and hanok walks. It begins with open green space and continues into one of the city’s trendiest shopping and café districts.
Start in Seoul Forest
Begin in Seoul Forest before the day becomes too warm. The park is suitable for a relaxed walk, photography and a quiet start away from busy shopping streets.
During spring and autumn, the park is especially comfortable. In summer, morning visits are easier than midday walks. In winter, visit during the warmer middle part of the day.
Continue into Seongsu
After the park, continue toward Seongsu’s cafés, converted industrial buildings, fashion stores and lifestyle shops. The neighborhood changes quickly, and new shops may open while others close.
Choose one or two cafés rather than planning an entire list. Waiting for several famous locations can consume most of the day.
Add Pop-Up Stores Carefully
Seongsu is known for temporary pop-up stores, but entry systems differ. Some are open to walk-ins, while others require reservations, local phone verification or numbered waiting registration.
Check the event date, location and entry method shortly before visiting. Do not build your entire day around a pop-up without confirming that it is still operating.
Where to Shorten the Route
- Visit only Seoul Forest and return from Seoul Forest Station.
- Skip the park and begin directly in Seongsu.
- Choose one café street and one shopping area.
- Finish near Seongsu Station instead of walking back.
Hongdae, Yeonnam-dong, Mangwon and Han River Route
Suggested route: Hongik University Station → Hongdae → Yeonnam-dong → Gyeongui Line Forest Park → Mangwon Market → Mangwon Han River Park
Best for: Cafés, youth culture, markets, K-pop and sunset by the river
Difficulty: Moderate because the complete route is long
This route connects several of western Seoul’s most popular neighborhoods. It can become a full afternoon and evening itinerary, especially when you stop for shopping, food and photos.
Start in Hongdae
Hongdae is known for fashion, music, entertainment, cafés, photo booths and nightlife. The atmosphere changes through the day. Mornings are quieter, while evenings and weekends are much busier.
K-pop fans can add album shops, merchandise stores and idol photo frames. Check opening hours because some businesses open later than traditional tourist attractions.
Walk through Yeonnam-dong
Continue toward Yeonnam-dong and the Gyeongui Line Forest Park. This section has cafés, restaurants and a more residential atmosphere than central Hongdae.
Keep noise low on smaller streets and avoid blocking entrances when taking photos. The route is easy to shorten by returning to Hongik University Station.
Continue to Mangwon Market
The full walk toward Mangwon can feel long. Travelers who are tired can use public transportation for part of the route and begin again near Mangwon Station.
Mangwon Market is a good place for snacks and an early dinner. Market aisles can become crowded, so step aside before eating and follow stall instructions for waste disposal.
Finish at Mangwon Han River Park
Walk or use a short local ride to reach the riverside. Mangwon Han River Park is a good place to watch the sky change color and rest after a long day.
The temperature beside the river can feel cooler than the surrounding neighborhood. Bring a light layer in spring and autumn, and check wind conditions before visiting in winter.
After dark, confirm your route back to the nearest station. Keep your phone charged and save your hotel address in Korean.
Yeouido Han River and The Hyundai Seoul Route
Suggested route: Yeouinaru Station → Yeouido Han River Park → riverside path → Yeouido Park → The Hyundai Seoul
Best for: Families, couples, beginners and travelers who want an easy indoor backup
Difficulty: Easy
This route offers wide river views, relatively flat walking paths and a convenient indoor finish. It works particularly well near sunset.
Begin at Yeouido Han River Park
Exit near Yeouinaru Station and walk toward the river. The open park has wide views, lawns and several places to pause.
Weather affects this route more than palace or market walks. Strong wind, summer heat and winter cold can make the riverside uncomfortable even when the sky is clear.
Walk toward Yeouido Park
Continue along the riverside for as long as your energy allows, then move inland toward Yeouido Park. Families can shorten the river section and spend more time in the central park area.
Finish at The Hyundai Seoul
End with shopping, cafés or dinner at The Hyundai Seoul. This creates an easy transition from outdoor walking to an indoor evening.
When it rains, skip most of the riverside route and begin directly at the mall or another nearby indoor destination.
Best Seoul Walking Routes at Night
Several Seoul walking routes become more atmospheric after dark. Choose a route with easy transportation, good lighting and a clear return plan.
| Night Route | Why Choose It | Main Caution |
|---|---|---|
| Cheonggyecheon | City lights, water and a mostly flat route | Check stream access and avoid isolated sections late at night |
| Myeongdong to Namsan | Classic skyline views | Steep return route and transportation queues |
| Yeouido Han River | Open river and city skyline | Wind, cold and distance from some exits |
| Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong | Restaurants, shopping and nightlife | Weekend crowds and noise |
| Gwanghwamun to Cheonggye Plaza | Short, central and easy to combine with dinner | Events may change pedestrian access |
Night Walking Checklist
- Check the final subway or bus time before starting.
- Keep your phone charged and carry a portable battery.
- Save your hotel address in Korean.
- Reduce headphone volume near roads and bicycle paths.
- Use licensed taxis or recognized transportation services.
- Move to a busier street when a riverside or park section feels too isolated.
Easy Routes for Families and Beginners
Families, older visitors and travelers who are not used to long walking days should choose flatter routes with frequent restrooms, cafés and subway exits.
Best Easy Routes
- Deoksugung Stone Wall to Cheonggyecheon: Central, flexible and easy to shorten.
- Cheonggye Plaza to Gwangjang Market: Mostly flat with many exits.
- Seoul Forest to Seongsu: Plenty of cafés and indoor breaks.
- Yeouido Han River to The Hyundai Seoul: Flat walking with an indoor finish.
Routes That Require More Planning
- Bukchon: Slopes, steps and uneven residential streets.
- Namsan: Long uphill sections when walking.
- Hongdae to Mangwon Han River: Long total distance.
- Palace-heavy routes: Large grounds can add significant walking.
Family Walking Tips
- Plan one long route rather than two.
- Check restroom locations before entering markets or parks.
- Use taxis or buses to skip steep sections.
- Avoid crowded markets during peak meal periods.
- Add a café, department store or shopping mall as a rest point.
- Carry water and a simple snack for children.
Walking Safety and Seasonal Tips
Summer
Seoul summers can be hot and humid. Schedule palace grounds, hanok villages and riverside walks in the morning or near sunset. Carry water, wear sun protection and add air-conditioned breaks.
Do not underestimate the effect of humidity. A route that normally takes two hours may require additional rest during hot weather.
Rainy Season
Heavy rain can make stone paths, palace courtyards, Bukchon alleys and Namsan stairs slippery. Lower Cheonggyecheon paths may be restricted during severe weather.
Keep an indoor alternative near each route. COEX, Lotte World Mall, The Hyundai Seoul, museums and covered shopping areas can replace outdoor plans.
Winter
Wear shoes with reliable traction. Shaded palace paths, hills and stairs may remain icy after snow. The Han River and elevated viewpoints can feel much colder because of wind.
Alternate outdoor sections with cafés, markets or shopping malls. Avoid planning a long riverside walk after sunset during severe cold.
Spring and Autumn
Spring and autumn are usually comfortable for walking, but popular routes can become crowded during blossoms, fall foliage and public holidays. Start early and avoid depending on a single famous photo location.
Air Quality
Check local air-quality information before a long park or riverside walk. When fine dust is high, shorten outdoor time and choose an indoor attraction.
Restrooms, Pharmacies and Luggage Storage
Long walking routes are easier when you know where to find practical facilities. Check the map before starting instead of waiting until the need becomes urgent.
Public Toilets
Subway stations, shopping malls, palaces, parks and larger markets often have restrooms. Availability can vary, and some facilities may be located inside paid or controlled areas.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies can help with common travel problems such as blisters, minor pain, stomach discomfort or cold symptoms. Business hours vary, and not every location operates late at night.
Luggage Storage
Avoid carrying suitcases through palace grounds, markets, Bukchon or Namsan. Use hotel storage, station lockers or a dedicated luggage service.
Currency Exchange
Travelers using the Myeongdong route can compare nearby exchange locations. Do not exchange large amounts without checking the displayed rate and transaction conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seoul a walkable city?
Seoul is walkable within individual districts, but the city is too large to explore entirely on foot. Use the subway between districts and walk through compact areas such as Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon and Insadong.
What is the best walking route for first-time visitors?
The Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon and Insadong route is the best introduction to traditional Seoul. It combines a royal palace, hanok streets, cafés and souvenir shopping.
Can you walk from Gyeongbokgung to Bukchon?
Yes. The two areas can be connected on foot, but Bukchon has hills, stairs and narrow residential streets. Allow extra time and wear comfortable shoes.
Which Seoul walking route is the easiest?
The Deoksugung Stone Wall and Cheonggyecheon route is one of the easiest central routes. The Yeouido Han River route is also relatively flat, although weather can affect comfort.
What is the best night walk in Seoul?
Choose Cheonggyecheon for city lights and easy walking, Namsan for elevated skyline views or Yeouido for open river scenery.
Is Bukchon Hanok Village difficult to walk?
The total area is not extremely large, but slopes, steps and uneven streets can make it tiring. Visitors with limited mobility should use a shorter route or take a taxi between selected points.
Can you walk along the Han River at night?
Yes, but check wind, temperature, lighting and the route back to the subway. Some parks are large, and the nearest station may not feel close after a long walk.
What shoes should you wear for Seoul walking routes?
Wear cushioned shoes with good traction. Avoid using brand-new shoes for a full walking day, and choose water-resistant footwear during the rainy season.
Are Seoul walking routes free?
Many streets, parks, markets and riverside paths are free to explore. Palace admission, observation decks, cafés, food and shopping are separate expenses.
How many walking routes should you plan in one day?
One major route is usually enough. Two short routes can work when they are nearby, but combining Bukchon, Namsan and the Han River in one day would be unnecessarily tiring.
Is it safe to walk alone in Seoul?
Many travelers walk alone in Seoul, but normal precautions still apply. Keep your phone charged, save your accommodation address and use busy streets when returning late.
Final Seoul Walking Tips
The best walking route depends on the type of Seoul you want to experience.
- Choose Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon and Insadong for palaces and hanok streets.
- Choose Changdeokgung, Ikseon-dong and Gwangjang Market for history, cafés and food.
- Choose Deoksugung and Cheonggyecheon for a short and easy central walk.
- Choose Cheonggyecheon and Gwangjang Market for a free stream walk with a market meal.
- Choose Myeongdong and N Seoul Tower for skyline views and sunset.
- Choose Seoul Forest and Seongsu for parks, cafés and contemporary shopping.
- Choose Hongdae, Mangwon and the Han River for youth culture, markets and evening views.
- Choose Yeouido for an easy riverside route with an indoor shopping finish.
Do not judge a route only by distance. Hills, palace grounds, crowds, heat and shopping stops can make a short walk feel much longer. Begin with a flexible plan, wear comfortable shoes and leave room for cafés, meals and unexpected discoveries.
Seoul is most enjoyable on foot when you stop trying to see the entire city at once. Choose one district, walk slowly and pay attention to the streets between the famous attractions.
