South Korea has always been adept at mix and match – a bit of the old world and the new world. Seoul, a sprightly city in South Korea, is an example of this idea. Tradition, culture, history, and ultra-modern design all seem to hold hands together in creating a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. Not to mention the city’s natural attractions that offer a respite for nature lovers who easily tire of big city chaos. This article discusses the delightful reasons to visit Seoul.

Towering over the city at 500 metres, N Seoul Tower is a telecommunication tower with four observation decks. Standing beside Mount Namsan, this tower allows you to view the city from an extraordinary height, ensuring the experience stays etched in your mind for a long time to come. To get to the base of the tower, you have to take a cable car from the side of the mountain, and getting to the top involves an elevator ride. You can choose any of the four observation decks for your sightseeing experience. Once you’ve finished, pop into one of the restaurants for a bite and a drink.

One of the largest retail spaces in Seoul, Sebit Market, also called the Dongdaemun Night Market, is a must-visit for shopping lovers. Although it’s called a market, it’s a shopping district with over 20 shopping malls and a staggering 30,000 retail stores. Needless to say, you’ll find plenty to buy and take pictures of here. From silk fabrics, accessories, and shoes to clothes and electronics, you can stock up to your heart’s content; only, you’ll need to make sure there’s enough luggage space to carry everything home. Being popular with both local and international tourists, the area has sprouted hotels such as Travelodge Dongdaemun Seoul – if you’re set on hotels near Dongdaemun, make sure to book your spot at the first chance you get.

To know what it might have been to be a Korean living in Seoul about 600 years ago, visit the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, a delightful little neighbourhood sandwiched between the Changdeokgung Palace and the Gyeongbokgung Palace. The narrow streets lined with traditional Korean houses called hanoks are a real treat. It’s a historic area, but all the houses are occupied – some are bed and breakfasts and guesthouses, and the others are museums you can visit.

For another historical and cultural experience, head over to the National Museum of Korea found in Yongsan District. One of the biggest museums in Asia, the National Museum of Korea is the custodian of an extensive collection of artworks. Primary themes are archaeology, history, and art – some of the exhibits go back millions of years. Included in this vast collection are paintings, sculptures, and prehistoric artefacts.

Once you’re done, head to Yongsan Family Park for a relaxing stroll. If you have more time left, The War Memorial of Korea is another museum worth visiting.

With its original roots in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is sure to make a history buff giddy. Although the original look of the palace is now something left to the imagination, Gyeongbokgung Palace doesn’t lack in grandeur and architectural wonderment. It has gone through several reconstruction processes over the years, and during World War II, the palace sustained much damage. However, the palace was fully restored in the 1990s and now stands to impress you with all its glory.

For a history buff and a culture lover, this palace is a must-visit because the premises are home to more than one attraction. National Folk Museum of Korea and the National Palace Museum of Korea, for example, are both worth your time. Likewise, the palace museum is equally fascinating, with its collection of artefacts harking back to the Joseon Dynasty.