Things to do in  Seoul

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a thriving metropolis that marches to the beat of millions of busy residents. Dominated by the towering peaks of Mt. Bukhansan and Mt. Namsan, the city boasts an impressive infrastructure that makes getting around the city by public transport easy. However, sightseeing tours provide added value with insightful commentary and off-the-beaten-track attractions. Discover UNESCO World Heritage–listed treasures such as Changdeokgung Palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and the Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae); take a day trip to the DMZ, the no-man’s-land between North and South Korea; or shop until you drop in the commercial zones of Dongdaemun, Myeongdong, and Gangnam—birthplace of the global hit, “Gangnam Style.” Sample hearty Korean cuisine and local craft beers on a food tour or during a cooking class; peruse the stalls at the markets in Gwangjang, Insadong, and Namdaemun; and watch the city lights dance across the Han River on an evening cruise. Plus, Seoul serves as a convenient launch pad for outdoor adventures. Pull on your hiking boots and join throngs of South Koreans exploring Seoraksan National Park, the UNESCO Biosphere Protected Site home to Mt. Seorak. Or practice your turns at the ski resorts of Elysian Gangchon or Yongpyong. If you’ve got a flexible itinerary and wish to explore more of South Korea, use Seoul as a gateway to Gongju, Buyeo, Suncheon, Yeosu, and Busan.