First Hidden Gem: Seoul Battleship Park
Seoul Battleship Park, located near Mangwon Hangang Park, is a unique attraction where you can explore a retired submarine that once protected Korea’s waters for over 30 years. It’s now been repurposed as a cultural site featuring performances and exhibitions for the public to enjoy. Below are the address and directions to help you get there.
Address: Maponaru-gil 407, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Directions by Subway and Bus:
• Mangwon Station (Line 6), Exit 1: Take bus Mapo 09 at the Mangwon Station bus stop, get off at Hangang Park Entrance, and walk about 7 minutes.
• Hapjeong Station (Lines 2 or 6), Exit 8: Take bus Mapo 16 at the Holt bus stop, get off at Mangwon Food Reservoir, and walk about 7 minutes.
For more details and nearby recommendations, check out this link.
Second Hidden Gem: Bugak Skyway Palgakjeong Pavilion
Enjoying the Seoul skyline from the Bugak Skyway Palgakjeong Pavilion is a unique experience, especially at night when you can see views rivaling Namsan Tower. This spot is a popular drive route and offers breathtaking scenery both during the day and at night. Unfortunately, it’s not easily accessible by public transportation, so a car or taxi is recommended.
Address: 267, Bugaksan-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
You can find more information here.
Third Hidden Gem: Naksan Park
Naksan Park is open 24/7, making it ideal for nighttime city views. If your accommodation is near Dongdaemun or Hyehwa Station, consider heading here for an evening walk. It’s also close to the mural village, so you can capture some memorable photos.
Address: 41, Naksan-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Directions by Subway and Bus:
• Hyehwa Station (Line 4), Exit 2: Walk towards Naksan Park (10 minutes).
• Dongdaemun Station (Line 4), Exit 1: Walk towards Naksan Park (21 minutes).
• Changsin Station (Line 6), Exit 2: Walk towards Soongin Church (23 minutes).
By Bus:
• Hyehwa Station (Marronnier Park) Bus Stop: Green (G), Blue (B), Red (R), and Yellow (Y) lines available. Buses: 2112, 102, 104, 106, 107, 140, 143, 150, 160, 100, or 301.
• Dongdaemun Station (Lines 1 & 4), Exit 5: Take Jongno Bus 03, get off at the Naksan terminal.
• Changsin Station (Line 6), Exit 3: Take Jongno Bus 03, get off at the Naksan terminal.
For more details, visit this link.
Fourth Hidden Gem: Seodaemun Prison History Hall
The Seodaemun Prison History Hall is a solemn place that commemorates Korean patriots who were imprisoned here for advocating independence during Japanese rule. It’s a powerful reminder of Korea’s history and is worth a respectful visit.
Address: 251 Tongil-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
Directions by Subway and Bus:
• Dongnimmun Station (Line 3), Exit 5: About 50m from the exit.
• Alternate routes: Transfer to Line 3 at Jongno 3-ga Station (Lines 1 and 5), or Euljiro 3-ga Station (Line 2), or Chungmuro Station (Line 4), and get off at Dongnimmun Station.
By Bus:
• Dongnimmun Station·Hansung Science High School Stop: Buses: Blue 471, 701, 702A, 702B, 704, 720, 752; Green: 7019, 7021, 7023, 7025, 7737; Red: 9701; Airport Limousine Bus: 6005.
For more information, visit this link.
Fifth Hidden Gem: National Folk Museum of Korea
Admission is free, and if you’re visiting Gyeongbokgung or Samcheong-dong, it’s worth a stop. The recreated settings of the 1970s and 80s are especially fun for photos and experiencing Korea’s past.
Address: 37 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Directions by Subway:
• Anguk Station (Line 3), Exit 1: Walk straight up to Dongsipjagak and follow Samcheongdong-gil for about 400m to the museum entrance (about 15 minutes on foot).
• Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5), Exit 2: Walk past the US Embassy and Gwanghwamun Park, cross the underpass, and walk along Samcheongdong-gil for about 400m (about 15 minutes on foot).
For more details, check here.
Lastly, if you plan to stay in Seoul for over 48 hours, consider using a transportation pass for savings on public transport and entry fees to key attractions. Find more about passes here.