Even though I’m not a fan, there’s quite a lot of things to do in Seoul that can keep you busy for at least a week. If you’ve never been to Asia, or maybe never been to Japan, Seoul might be much more interesting to you.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza
If you like art, architecture and that kind of thing, definitely worth going here. We went at night and there seemed to be a lot of people there, especially lining up to get something to eat from one of the outside food trucks. If you’re into photography you’ll love this place but I’d recommend going early morning when there should be less people. You can easily spend a few hours here, a few things for the kids to do also. I’d like to go back and spend a few hours there taking some proper photos. Worth going and close (10-15 minutes) to a few other attractions in the city. One of the few things to do in Seoul I’d recommend you must do.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
If you haven’t seen much of Asia then this will be quite special but if you live in Asia and/or have travelled a lot around Asia, this won’t be anything special. You can see many places like this in China and other parts of Asia, perhaps a bit different, but same, same. If this is your first time to Asia then it’s definitely worth a visit, but if you’ve done your fair share of temples and palaces, then you might find it a little underwhelming unless you’re really into the history. Some good photo opportunities but lots of people. It’ll be on every list of things to do in Seoul with people raving about it, but those people most likely have never been anyway else in Asia.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
North Seoul Tower
As with most attractions offering city views, this was extremely crowded. Views are ok, but nothing to write home about. Myself and my 4 year son walked up from the Shilla Hotel, good work out, but don’t recommend that unless you’re fit, especially with a 4 year old on your shoulders! Took about an hour, not that far but carrying 16kg on your shoulders makes it difficult! No signage to get around and we took about 20 minutes to try and find the Cable Car to get down. Average, worth a visit if you’re in the area but I wouldn’t travel too far to get to this, which is always near the top of things to do in Seoul lists.
Lotte World Aquarium
This is a about a 5-10 minute taxi ride from the Coex Aquarium. We thought this wouldn’t be as good but were pleasantly surprised and would say this is also definitely worth visiting if you’re in Seoul with kids. Some of the ways the fish are displayed are unique and I’d rate this aquarium also one of the best we’ve seen throughout Asia. It’s immaculately kept with a decent selection of fish and animals and we’d definitely return.
Coex Aquarium
This is one of the best aquariums we’ve been to and as our son is mad about sea creatures, we’ve been to a lot (and most) of the aquariums throughout Asia. Staff are nice and friendly, the aquarium is extremely well kept and clean and the fish and sea animals on display are excellent. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Seoul with kids. Would go back again for sure. Ignore the negative reviews, they’re mostly from thrifty travellers on a budget who are complaining mostly about the price. Well worth going if you’re thinking about it and definitely one of the best things to do in Seoul with kids.
Gwacheon National Science Museum
Out of the way a bit but connected to the subway, the Gwacheon National Science Museum is a good day out for kids but petty much typifies my thoughts on Seoul – you can make it fun but it’s a bit boring if I’m being honest. Good dinosaur garden though and lots of space for the kids to go mental.
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