Ten things to do in Seoul, South Korea

Catch the guard changing ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace

Since 1469, the changing of the guard ceremony has taken place at Gyeongbokgung Palace, in order to guard the entrance to where the king ruled the country. Today, the ceremony is still performed to highlight a rare traditional and cultural experience in South Korea. With the guards' splendid costumes of brilliant red, be sure to bring your camera.

Take the cable car up Mount Namsan

Running from the base of Namsan Mountain, all the way up to N Seoul Tower, the cable cars are the best way to get a spectacular view of the city of Seoul. This is one of the more tranquil ways to view the city, and as the cars run all day, there is always time to go.

Indulge in delicious street food

Seoul is a foodie paradise. While there are mouth-watering restaurants every few steps throughout the city, it's the street food carts and tents that fill the open spaces. From steamed egg muffins to spicy rice cakes to tantalising kebabs, there is anything and everything you could possibly imagine.

Drink tea at a teahouse

Whether it's warming up during winter or chilling out under cherry blossoms in Spring, Seoul has a culture of tea that cannot be forgotten. Drinking tea in a traditional tea house is one of the best ways to relax in the hustle and bustle of Seoul. Offering teas that are used more for medicinal purposes, you can find every flavour under the sun.

Pay your respects at the Jogyesa Buddhist Temple

The centre of Zen Buddhism in Korea, the Jogyesa Temple provides a centre of calmness and tranquillity in the middle of this hectic city. The ground are a great escape from the big city for both locals and tourists, and the scenery and nature is not to be missed.

Observe the history of the War Memorial of Korea

Dedicated to the history of the Korean War, this memorial and museum gives a fascinating insight into what the war was like, with photographs, maps and artefacts housed inside. Serving as a national moral educational venue, this is a site that reminds us of the sacrifices of the Korean people.

Experience the atmosphere of the De-militarised Zone

The De-militarized Zone (DMZ) was created in 1953 when the Armistice Agreement was signed during the Korean War between North and South Korea. Capturing the scars and wounds of the war, this zone has become a 2 km-wide stretch of land where military activity is forbidden. Now an ecological haven for wildlife, there is plenty to see, but photography is highly restricted.

Play at the world's biggest theme park - Lotte World

Roller coasters, ice skating, laser shows, and shopping. Lotte World has got it all, and more. Sitting in the heart of the city, it is the perfect spot for entertainment and sightseeing. A theme park, an ice rink, as well as a folk museum and a shopping district, there is so much to see and do. Open all year round, you can never miss out!

Check out the view from Seoul Tower

The first tower-type tourism spot in Korea, Seoul Tower sits on top of Namsan Mountain, a massive 480 metres above sea level, making it one of the tallest towers in the Orient. From the top, there are a number of restaurants and eateries, as well as the observatory, giving a fantastic view over the city of Seoul.

Be delighted with the dazzling Banpo Bridge Musical Rainbow Fountain

The world's longest bridge fountain, Banpo Bridge, is certainly a sight to see. During the day, the fountain plays a hundred different configurations, inspired by the magnificent willow tree. In the evening, 200 lights highlight the fountain as it synchronizes jets of water to music. Operating from April to October, sit yourself down in one of the picnic areas and watch the magic happen!