Photo spots
Free photo spots in Seoul 125
Places worth the walk for the picture. Free to enter, and no one minds the camera.
Starfield Library
FreeLibrary · Gangnam-gu · Samseong Stn. (Line 2), Bongeunsa Stn. (Line 9)
Famous for its 13m-high shelves, this is a photo hotspot inside COEX Mall. Ideal escape from summer heat and winter cold, with plenty of seating.
Jeongdok Public Library
FreeLibrary · Jongno-gu · Anguk Stn. (Line 3)
A campus-style library on the Bukchon hillside. A healing spot where you can picnic on garden benches among spring cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
Seongdong District Library
FreeLibrary · Seongdong-gu · Haengdang Stn. (Line 5)
A quiet neighbourhood library on a hill in Haengdang-dong. A free climate-controlled rest stop between Seongsu and Seoul Forest outings.
National Museum of Korea
Partly freeMuseum · Yongsan-gu · Ichon Stn. (Line 4, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)
Korea's largest museum, with all permanent galleries free. The spacious lobby and Reflecting Pond garden are good for a rest, and Wednesday and Saturday evening openings are quieter.
Seoul Museum of History
FreeMuseum · Jongno-gu · Gwanghwamun Stn. / Seodaemun Stn. (Line 5)
A free museum on Seoul's transformation from the Joseon era to the present. The old Tram No. 381 outside is a photo favourite.
National Museum of Korean Contemporary History
FreeMuseum · Jongno-gu · Gwanghwamun Stn. (Line 5) Exit 2
A free modern history museum facing Gwanghwamun Square. Insider tip: the rooftop viewpoint takes in Gyeongbokgung and the square at a glance.
Postage Stamp Museum
FreeMuseum · Jung-gu · Euljiro 1-ga Stn. (Line 2) Exit 6, Myeongdong Stn. (Line 4) Exit 5
A compact free museum on the history of stamps. In the middle of Myeong-dong, so it's a handy escape from the heat or cold.
Seoul Forest
FreePark · Seongdong-gu · Seoul Forest Stn. (Suin-Bundang Line)
A large ecological park in the middle of the city. Lots of mature trees, shade and benches, with drinking fountains and toilets throughout, so summer walks are comfortable.
Gyeongui Line Forest Park
FreePark · Mapo-gu · Hongik Univ. Stn. (Line 2, Airport Railroad, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)
A 6.3 km linear park on a former railway. The Yeonnam-dong stretch, nicknamed Yeontral Park, strings together shade, lawns and cafes. Few drinking fountains, so bring water.
Seoullo 7017
FreePark · Jung-gu · Seoul Station Stn. (Lines 1, 4, Airport Railroad, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)
An elevated garden walkway converted from an old overpass, with planters, benches, a foot bath and drinking fountains. Lovely at night, so an evening stroll beats midday.
Naksan Park
FreePark · Jongno-gu · Hyehwa Stn. (Line 4)
A hilltop park along the Seoul City Wall trail, known for city night views and sunsets. Carry water for the climb.
Seonyudo Park
FreePark · Yeongdeungpo-gu · Seonyudo Stn. (Line 9)
An ecological park on an island in the Han, built from a former water treatment plant. Ivy-covered structures and green gardens, reached by the Rainbow Bridge, with many shaded paths.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Free if eligibleHistoric site · Jongno-gu · Gyeongbokgung Stn. (Line 3) Exit 5
Joseon's foremost royal palace. Free on the last Wednesday of the month or in hanbok. The changing of the guard ceremony (10:00 and 14:00) is always free.
Changdeokgung Palace
Free if eligibleHistoric site · Jongno-gu · Anguk Stn. (Line 3) Exit 3
A UNESCO World Heritage site famed for autumn foliage. Free entry applies to the main palace only; the Secret Garden requires a separate booking.
Changgyeonggung Palace
Free if eligibleHistoric site · Jongno-gu · Hyehwa Stn. (Line 4) Exit 4
A palace with a Grand Greenhouse and the Chundangji pond. Linked internally to Changdeokgung, and beautifully lit during night openings.
Deoksugung Palace
Free if eligibleHistoric site · Jung-gu · City Hall Stn. (Lines 1, 2) Exit 2
A downtown palace where Seokjojeon sits alongside traditional halls. Open until 9pm, it's popular for evening strolls and the stone wall road; the changing of the guard is free.
Jongmyo Shrine
Free if eligibleHistoric site · Jongno-gu · Jongno 3-ga Stn. (Lines 1, 3, 5) Exit 11
A World Heritage shrine housing the spirit tablets of Joseon kings and queens, with a meditative path through dense woods. Self-guided visits on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays are the most relaxed.
Nodeul Island
FreePark · Yongsan-gu · Nodeul Stn. (Line 9)
A music and arts complex in the middle of the Han River. Free sunset-watching on the lawn, indoor lounge, bookshelves and exhibitions, with free concerts on summer weekends.
Jogyesa Temple
FreeHistoric site · Jongno-gu · Anguk Stn. (Line 3) Exit 6, Jonggak Stn. (Line 1) Exit 2
Head temple of the Jogye Order in the heart of the city. Shade from centuries-old scholar trees, seasonal lanterns and chrysanthemum displays. A quiet place to rest, close to Insadong.
Bongeunsa Temple
FreeHistoric site · Gangnam-gu · Bongeunsa Stn. (Line 9) Exit 1
A thousand-year-old temple opposite COEX, ringed by Gangnam skyscrapers. The 23m Maitreya Buddha and pine-lined paths make it a downtown healing spot.
Jeoldusan Martyrs' Shrine
FreeHistoric site · Mapo-gu · Hapjeong Stn. (Lines 2, 6) Exit 7
A Catholic martyrdom shrine on a hill overlooking the Han River. River views from the quiet garden and sculpture walk, close to Hapjeong and Hongdae.
Buk Seoul Dream Forest
Partly freePark · Gangbuk-gu · Miasageori Stn. (Line 4)
One of Seoul's three largest parks. A free healing spot with a waterfall, a traditional garden and an art museum.
Jungnangcheon Stream Trail
FreeStream & walk · Nowon-gu · Nowon Stn. (Lines 4, 7)
A flat 14km streamside path from Gunja to Sanggye. Spring cherry blossoms and canola, with the Nowon Dumulmaru rest area a highlight.
Paris Park
FreePark · Yangcheon-gu · Omokgyo Stn. (Line 5)
A free park in Mok-dong laid out as a French garden. Seasonal flowers and the outdoor stage plaza are the walking highlights.
Dorimcheon Stream Walkway
FreeStream & walk · Guro-gu · Sindorim Stn. (Lines 1, 2)
A streamside path along the Dorimcheon, which rises on Gwanaksan and runs through Guro. The spring cherry blossom tunnel is a free attraction.
Seokchon Lake (Songpanaru Park)
FreePark · Songpa-gu · Jamsil Stn. (Lines 2, 8)
A city lake famous for spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. The 2.5 km loop walk and night views of Lotte Tower are free.
Yangjae Citizens' Forest (Maeheon Citizens' Forest)
FreePark · Seocho-gu · Yangjae Citizen's Forest Stn. (Sinbundang Line)
Dense woodland rarely found in the city centre. The autumn tunnels of ginkgo and maple are a well-known free photo spot.
Gildong Ecological Park
Free if eligiblePark · Gangdong-gu · Gildong Stn. (Line 5)
A nature-study park divided into wetland, reservoir and forest zones. Book ahead and meet wild nature in the city for free.
Bukhansan Dulle-gil Trail
FreeMountain & trail · Gangbuk-gu · Bukhansan Ui Stn. (Ui-Sinseol Line)
A 21-section loop that runs gently below the ridgeline, with no summit climb involved. The Ui-dong pine forest path is a favourite with beginners.
Cheonggye Plaza
FreePlaza · Jung-gu · Gwanghwamun Stn. (Line 5) / Jonggak Stn. (Line 1)
The entrance plaza where Cheonggyecheon begins. The Spring sculpture, fountains and night lighting are the draw, and it anchors the winter Seoul Lantern Festival.
Some Sevit (Banpo Hangang Park)
FreePark · Seocho-gu · Express Bus Terminal Stn. (Lines 3, 7, 9) + walk
Three artificial islands floating on the Han River. A night-view favourite, with island lighting set off by the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain.
Cheong Wa Dae
FreeHistoric site · Jongno-gu · Gyeongbokgung Stn. (Line 3)
The former presidential residence, opened to the public in 2022. The Main Hall, Nokjiwon garden and Bugaksan trail are free; the trail requires online booking.
Namsangol Hanok Village
Partly freeHistoric site · Jung-gu · Chungmuro Stn. (Lines 3, 4)
Five restored hanok, a traditional garden and the time capsule plaza. The garden is open 24 hours, so early morning and evening walks work well.
Seoul Book Bogo
FreeCulture space · Songpa-gu · Jamsillaru Stn. (Line 2)
Free secondhand book space where the tunnel-like arched shelves holding 130,000 books are the photo spot. Focused on curation and pop-ups.
Gaehwasan Observatory
FreeViewpoint · Gangseo-gu · Gaehwasan Stn. (Line 5)
A designated Seoul viewpoint at the 131m summit, looking out over Banghwa Bridge, the Han River, Haengju Fortress, World Cup Park and Bukhansan.
Seoul Metropolitan Archives
FreeCulture space · Eunpyeong-gu · Bulgwang Stn. (Lines 3, 6)
A free exhibition hall with a lawn garden at the foot of Bukhansan. See the indoor exhibits, then head to the back garden; rarely crowded.
Hangdong Railway Trail
FreePark · Guro-gu · Cheonwang Stn. (Line 7)
An atmospheric walking path along a disused line where trains once ran. 4.5km of track, best combined with Pureun Arboretum.
Jungmaru Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Yeongdeungpo-gu · Sinkil Stn. (Lines 1, 5)
Created under the city's five-year plan to expand parks and green space after the former Yeongdeungpo Municipal Hospital (6 buildings) was relocated, and opened on November 25, 1997. For the commercial and industrial workers and residents of Yeongdeungpo, a subcenter of Seoul
Gaeungsan Park
FreePark · Guro-gu · Oryu-dong Stn. (Line 1)
The land around Gaeung Village, near Gaebong-dong and Oryu-dong, dips inward, and bullets were said to swerve past it in every war - hence the village name and the name of the mountain. In the Oryu-dong and Gaebong areas of Seoul
Heo Jun Park
FreePark · Gangseo-gu · Gayang Stn. (Line 9)
Heogabawi Rock, Seoul Monument No. 11, stands just outside the park, while inside are the legendary Gwangjubawi Rock, a statue of Heo Jun seated and gently treating a patient, a lake, a pavilion and children's play equipment; nearby residents
Gungsan Park
FreePark · Gangseo-gu · Yangcheon Hyanggyo Stn. (Line 9)
Gungsan has gone by many names - Pasan, Seongsan, Gwansan and Jinsan. It holds the old Baekje-era Yangcheon fortress site, Soangnu Pavilion where the Joseon painter Gyeomjae Jeong Seon painted while serving as magistrate of Yangcheon, and Yangcheon Hyanggyo Confucian school. During the Imjin
Noryangjin Park
FreePark · Dongjak-gu · Seoul Regional Military Manpower Administration Stn. (Sillim Line)
Set among the apartment blocks of Daebang-dong, Noryangjin Park was designated in 1940 and offers a multipurpose sports field, tennis and badminton courts and a jogging track, along with an artificial waterfall, the Air Force memorial tower, footpaths, toilets and parking
Dapsimni Park
FreePark · Dongdaemun-gu · Samseong Stn. (Line 2)
Named after the neighbourhood, the park has been a valued local retreat since it was laid out in 1998. Several legends explain the name Dapsimni; one tells how, in the early Joseon dynasty, the monk Muhak was searching for a site for the capital
Cheonma Park
FreePark · Songpa-gu · Macheon Stn. (Line 5)
Legend says that during the Manchu invasion of 1636 General Im Gyeong-eop put on his armour at Gaerong-ri and his helmet at Tugubong, then rode a dragon horse from Masan (Cheonmasan) into battle. Cheonmasan stands at San 1-1, Macheon-dong, Songpa-gu, between Macheon-dong and Ha
Myeongil Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Gangdong-gu · Sangil-dong Stn. (Line 5)
North of Iljasan, Myeongil Park is a large-scale park of a kind rarely found in Seoul. Thick woods on a low hill make it a fine walking course much loved by local residents. Around San 26, Sangil-dong there is a wildflower
Banghwa Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Gangseo-gu · Banghwa Stn. (Line 5)
The park takes its name from Banghwa-dong, meaning the neighbourhood beside Gaehwasan where the scent of flowers spreads through all four seasons. Designated a park in December 1990, it was built along with the Banghwa housing development district. Within the park
Asia Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Songpa-gu · Sports Complex Stn. (Lines 2, 9)
Asia Park was created for the 1986 Asian Games together with the athletes' and press village apartment complexes, and sits close to the Seoul Sports Complex and other competition venues. Filled with pines, jujube trees and all kinds of flowers
Baengnyeon Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Seodaemun-gu · Saejeol Stn. (Line 6)
The ridge running from the summit of Baengnyeonsan (215.5 m) divides Seodaemun-gu from Eunpyeong-gu. The mountain is named after Baengnyeonsa temple on its southeast side, and since old times, with Cheongnyeonsa to the east and Sammaksa to the south
Ogeum Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Songpa-gu · Ogeum Stn. (Lines 3, 5)
Ogeum Park lies next to Ogeum Station on Subway Line 5, diagonally opposite Songpa Police Station in Garak-dong and across from Songpa Post Office in Ogeum-dong. Laid out in an eco-friendly way on a 200 m hill, it holds all kinds of trees and
Waryong Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Jongno-gu · Hyehwa Stn. (Line 4)
Waryong Neighborhood Park adjoins Samcheong Neighborhood Park, Changgyeong Neighborhood Park and Bugaksan Urban Nature Park. The area was called Waryong-dong because its shape resembles a dragon lying stretched out, and with the introduction of the ward system in 1914 the former Idong of Jeongseonbang in the central district
Ujangsan Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Gangseo-gu · Balsan Stn. (Line 5)
In the centre of Gangseo-gu, a park where woodland, art spaces and sports facilities come together within the city. The mountain's name comes from the rain rituals the Yangcheon magistrate once held here during droughts. The rite was performed three times...
Samcheong Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Jongno-gu · Anguk Stn. (Line 3)
Samcheong Park was designated a park on 12 March 1940, the first of the 140 city-planning parks announced at the time. Samcheong-dong owes its name to the Taoist hall Samcheongjeon, also known as Sogyeokjeon, which stood deep in the valley...
Iljasan Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Gangdong-gu · Gubeundari Stn. (Line 5)
Iljasan Neighborhood Park occupies relatively low hills that are higher in the east and lower in the west, on the boundary between Dunchon-dong in Gangdong-gu and Choi-dong in Hanam. The ridge line is almost flat, like the character for "one" (一), which gave the mountain the name Iljasan.
Songpanaru Neighborhood Park (Seokchon Lake)
FreePark · Songpa-gu · Seokchon Gobun Stn. (Line 9)
The Jamsil flats north of today's Seokchon Lake were once the Han River, with a ferry landing south of Seoho. Over time silt built up into an artificial island, splitting the river into the Songpa and Sincheon channels, which ran from below Gwangjin Bridge past present-day Seokchon Lake to Jamsil Baseball Stadium.
Seoseoul Lake Park
FreePark · Yangcheon-gu · Kkachisan Stn. (Lines 2, 5)
Opened in October 2009, Seoseoul Lake Park in Sinwol-dong, Yangcheon-gu, is an eco-friendly park themed on "water" and "regeneration", created from the former Sinwol water treatment plant. First opened in 1959 as the Gimpo water treatment plant...
Geumcheon Sports Park (Gwanaksan)
FreePark · Geumcheon-gu
Geumcheon Sports Park is well equipped for exercise and a great help to the health of local residents, with a multipurpose sports ground, basketball and badminton courts, a barefoot acupressure trail, an ocher path and outdoor fitness equipment. In 2024...
Mansucheon Park (Gwanaksan)
FreePark · Geumcheon-gu · Guro Digital Complex Stn. (Line 2)
An ecological pond (wetland) hosting nature programmes such as the "Let's Play in the Forest" eco-experience class, a mineral spring, two badminton courts, gym-style exercise facilities, and a multipurpose space running community sports programmes such as aerobics.
Wausan Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Mapo-gu · Gwangheungchang Stn. (Line 6)
Wausan, one of the Eight Views of Mapo (Usan mokjeok: the faint sound of herders' flutes drifting over Wausan), is shaped like a reclining cow. By geomantic lore, a great cow once shed its packsaddle at Muak and its bridle at Bukahyeon-dong 1
Geumho Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Seongdong-gu · Geumho Stn. (Line 3)
Built into a change in ground level, with a gymnasium on the lower level whose rooftop connects to the park area above, making three-dimensional use of a limited site. The multipurpose gymnasium below has a total floor area of 6
Dalmaji Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Seongdong-gu · Oksu Stn. (Line 3, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)
Dalmaji Park occupies the hill behind Mitasa Temple and the Hyundai Apartments in Oksu-dong, named for the residents who long climbed here on the first full moon of the year to greet the moon. A rocky peak rising by the Han River, it offers close-up views of the water.
Culture and Arts Park
FreePark · Seocho-gu · Yangjae Citizen's Forest Stn. (Sinbundang Line)
Laid out in Zone 3 of Maeheon Citizens' Forest, the Culture and Arts Park broke ground in March 1993 and was completed in October 1994. Used by some 140,000 people a year, it is a valued patch of green in the city. The lawn plaza at its center (35
Pureun Arboretum
FreePark · Guro-gu · Onsu Stn. (Lines 1, 7)
At the far southwestern tip of Guro-gu, Pureun Arboretum is Seoul's first city-run arboretum, an "Eco-Island" built around education programs and eco-friendly management. On a 103,000 sq m site in the Hang-dong area of Guro-gu
Seooreung Urban Nature Park
FreeMountain & trail · Eunpyeong-gu · Gupabal Stn. (Line 3)
Seooreung Urban Nature Park takes in Aengbongsan, named for the many orioles that live there. The mountain runs long from north to south, from Tongil-ro in Gupabal to Seooreung-ro, covering Jingwan-dong and Galhyeon 1 and 2-dong. Its area is 1,082,847 sq m and
Gaehwa Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Gangseo-gu · Banghwa Stn. (Line 5)
Gaehwasan was originally called Juryongsan. In the Silla period a hermit named Juryong lived on the mountain and each year on the ninth day of the ninth month climbed to a high spot with two or three boys to drink wine, a custom called guiryongsaneum, hence the name Juryongsan
Sinsa Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Eunpyeong-gu · Saejeol Stn. (Line 6)
Part of the outer green belt at Seoul's northwestern edge, with Bongsan Park, Maebongsan and World Cup Park to the south and Jingwan and Galhyeon parks and Bukhansan to the east. Its main ridge runs long from north to south, and the highest peak is 27
Cheongdam Neighborhood Park
FreePark · Gangnam-gu · Cheongdam Stn. (Line 7)
Cheongdam Park is a hillside park in Cheongdam-dong, an area packed with high-rise apartments, detached houses and shops, making it an important piece of nature in the city. Step inside and the sound of the brook and of mountain birds makes it feel like deep forest
Cheong Wa Dae Sarangchae
FreeCulture space · Jongno-gu · Gyeongbokgung Stn. (Line 3)
An exhibition hall in front of Cheong Wa Dae, with free permanent and special exhibitions on Korea's past presidents and Korean culture.
Cheongun Literature Library
FreeLibrary · Jongno-gu · Gyeongbokgung Stn. (Line 3)
A hanok library on the slopes of Inwangsan. Photo spots at the pavilion and artificial waterfall, easily combined with a Buam-dong and Yun Dong-ju Literary House walk.
Samcheong Park Forest Library
FreeLibrary · Jongno-gu · Anguk Stn. (Line 3)
A glass-walled library surrounded by woods where you can read for free to the sound of birds. A hidden gem for a rest after a Samcheong-dong walk.
Mapo Central Library
FreeLibrary · Mapo-gu · World Cup Stadium Stn. (Line 6)
A pleasant, large modern library with a free rooftop garden and cafe. Easy to combine with a trip to Haneul Park or Peace Park.
Lee Jin-a Memorial Library
FreeLibrary · Seodaemun-gu · Dongnimmun Stn. (Line 3)
A lovely library with glass walls looking onto park woodland. Pairs well with a free walk to Dongnimmun and Seodaemun Prison History Hall.
Donuimun Museum Village
FreeMuseum · Jongno-gu · Seodaemun Stn. / Gwanghwamun Stn. (Line 5)
A modern-era alley village recreating the old Saemunan neighbourhood. Free entry to retro tearooms, comic book rooms and a cinema, and a great spot for vintage photos.
Namsan Park
FreePark · Jung-gu · Myeongdong Stn. (Line 4)
A forested park at the heart of the city. The loop trail is well shaded, with drinking fountains and toilets along the way, and the summit offers sweeping views of Seoul.
Haneul Park
FreePark · Mapo-gu · World Cup Stadium Stn. (Line 6)
A silver-grass hill reclaimed from a landfill, spectacular for autumn reeds, sunsets and night views. Almost no shade at the top, so a hat and water are essential in summer; Maengkkongi electric shuttles run up.
Noeul Park
FreePark · Mapo-gu · World Cup Stadium Stn. (Line 6)
A hillside park made for Han River sunsets. Lawns, tree shade and a campground make it great for picnics, with drinking fountains and toilets. The Maengkkongi electric shuttle makes the summit easy to reach.
Ansan Jarak-gil Trail
FreeMountain & trail · Seodaemun-gu · Dongnimmun Stn. (Line 3)
Korea's first barrier-free loop forest trail. The boardwalk suits strollers and wheelchairs, with deep shade from pines and metasequoias and a tunnel of cherry blossoms in spring.
Hwarangdae Railroad Park
FreePark · Nowon-gu · Hwarangdae Stn. (Line 6, Gyeongchun Line)
A free railway-themed park with the old whistle-stop station, a narrow-gauge train and a tram on display. The evening light garden is the highlight.
Jungnang Camping Forest
Partly freePark · Jungnang-gu · Yangwon Stn. (Gyeongui-Jungang Line)
An ecological park where forest walks and picnics in the city are free. Popular for spreading a mat on the lawn.
Hongneung Forest
FreePark · Dongdaemun-gu · Cheongnyangni Stn. (Line 1, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)
Korea's first arboretum. A lush, free forest trail with 100 years of history, best walked in spring and autumn.
Achasan Ecological Park
FreeMountain & trail · Gwangjin-gu · Achasan Stn. (Line 5)
A gentle low mountain ideal for beginner hikers, with superb views of the Han River and Seoul. The native plant garden and butterfly garden are free.
Yangcheon Park Book Rest Stop
FreeLibrary · Yangcheon-gu · Sinjeongnegeori Stn. (Line 2)
A free reading retreat in a glass building among the trees, great for browsing books with children. Pairs well with a walk in the park.
Yeouido Park
FreePark · Yeongdeungpo-gu · Yeouido Stn. (Lines 5, 9)
A broad free park amid the office towers. Follow the walking paths and an underpass takes you through to Yeouido Han River Park.
Anyangcheon Rose Garden
FreeStream & walk · Guro-gu · Guil Stn. (Line 1)
A free rose garden along the Anyangcheon linking Guro and Geumcheon. Guro's roses by day, Geumcheon's illuminated path by night.
Mullae Art Village
FreeCulture space · Yeongdeungpo-gu · Mullae Stn. (Line 2)
A hip free lane where ironworks and art coexist. Head out Exit 7 of Mullae Station and walk around hunting for murals and sculptures.
Times Square Sky Garden
FreePark · Yeongdeungpo-gu · Yeongdeungpo Stn. (Line 1)
A free rooftop garden atop a shopping mall. With the indoor Kyobo Book Centre and heated, air-conditioned lounges, it works in any weather.
Seoul Botanic Park
Partly freePark · Gangseo-gu · Magongnaru Stn. (Line 9, Airport Railroad)
A large botanical park in Magok. The wide lawns, lake and wetland walks are free, and there's plenty to see even if you skip the paid greenhouse.
Olympic Park
FreePark · Songpa-gu · Mongchontoseong Stn. (Line 8)
A huge free park taking in Mongchontoseong Fortress and the Nine Scenic Views. The Lone Tree photo spot and wide lawns make it a picnic favourite.
Seoripul Park (Montmartre Park)
FreePark · Seocho-gu · Seocho Stn. (Line 2)
A thickly wooded free trail in the heart of Seocho. Cross Nuedari Bridge for a 3km walk through to Montmartre Park.
Eungbongsan Mountain
FreeMountain & trail · Seongdong-gu · Eungbong Stn. (Gyeongui-Jungang Line)
At 95m, the summit is a 20-minute walk. The octagonal pavilion frames superb night views of the Han River, Seongsu Bridge and Lotte Tower. Famous for spring forsythia.
Baeksasil Valley
FreeStream & walk · Jongno-gu · Gyeongbokgung Stn. / Hongje Stn. (Line 3) + bus
A hidden secret garden in the city. An ecological conservation area home to salamanders, with a clear stream and the ruins of a scholar's villa. Part of the Buam-dong and Baekseokdongcheon route.
DDP Dongdaemun Design Plaza Lawn
FreePlaza · Jung-gu · Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Stn. (Lines 2, 4, 5)
Zaha Hadid's curving architecture, an LED rose field and an open lawn. The lighting at night gives it a future-city feel, and Dongdaemun's night market is next door.
Waterworks Museum
FreeMuseum · Seongdong-gu · Seoul Forest Stn. (Suin-Bundang Line)
Free museum at Korea's first modern water purification plant, the 1908 Ttukdo pumping station. The red-brick pump house is a heritage site; near Seoul Forest.
World Cup Park Peace Plaza Floor Fountain
FreePark · Mapo-gu · World Cup Stadium Stn. (Line 6)
Free. Kids can splash in the floor fountain at Peace Plaza. Combine with a trip to Haneul Park and Noeul Park.
Jeongdong Observatory
FreeViewpoint · Jung-gu · City Hall Stn. (Lines 1, 2)
A free observatory on the 13th floor of the Seosomun Government Building. Sweeping views of Deoksugung Palace, Jeongdong-gil and the City Hall area, with Cafe Darak for a rest.
Seoul City Hall Sky Observatory
FreeViewpoint · Jung-gu · City Hall Stn. (Lines 1, 2)
A viewing space newly opened in 2026 in the new City Hall building. Downtown views stretching to Deoksugung Palace, Jeongdong and Gwanghwamun Square.
Ttukseom Jabeolle (Observatory Culture Complex)
FreeViewpoint · Gwangjin-gu · Ttukseom Resort Stn. (Line 7)
A free viewing lounge overlooking the Han River from a 240m cylindrical glass building. River and bridge night views through full-height glass.
Bugak Skyway Palgakjeong Pavilion
FreeViewpoint · Jongno-gu · Gyeongbokgung Stn. (Line 3) + bus
A classic night-view spot where the octagonal pavilion on the Bugaksan ridge takes in the whole of downtown Seoul.
Maebongsan Palgakjeong Pavilion
FreeViewpoint · Seongdong-gu · Beotigogae Stn. (Line 6)
One of Seoul's designated top viewpoints. Panoramic night views of the Han River with Seongsu and Yeongdong bridges, Lotte Tower and Gangnam.
Ansan Beacon Mound
FreeViewpoint · Seodaemun-gu · Dongnimmun Stn. (Line 3)
A beacon mound at the 296m summit. A favoured photo spot for night views across southern Seoul to the Han River, Yongsan, Yeouido and Mok-dong.
Yongmasan Skywalk
FreeViewpoint · Jungnang-gu · Yongmasan Stn. (Line 7)
A landmark viewing skywalk on the Seoul Dulle-gil trail. Panoramas of city lights with the silhouettes of Namsan Tower, Dobongsan and Bukhansan.
Baengnyeonsan Eunpyeongjeong Pavilion
FreeViewpoint · Eunpyeong-gu · Eungam Stn. (Line 6)
An octagonal pavilion at the 215m summit, designated a top viewpoint. Night views of Seonyudo, World Cup Stadium, Haneul Park and Bukhansan.
The Hyundai Seoul Sounds Forest
FreeCulture space · Yeongdeungpo-gu · Yeouido Stn. (Lines 5, 9)
An indoor garden of about 1,000 pyeong with natural grass and daylight through a glass ceiling above the trees. Perfect for rainy days or air-conditioned relief in midsummer.
Gyeongchun Line Forest Trail
FreePark · Nowon-gu · Hwarangdae Stn. (Line 6)
Gongneung-dong's best-known forest path, built on a disused railway. Old Hwarangdae Station trains and a cafe street, with the Street of Light lit up in the evening.
Bongsan Cypress Forest
FreePark · Eunpyeong-gu · Saejeol Stn. (Line 6)
An urban forest-bathing spot with more than 12,000 cypress trees. A barrier-free deck reaches the observatory in 20 minutes, strollers welcome.
Yeouido Saetgang Ecological Park
FreePark · Yeongdeungpo-gu · Yeouido Stn. (Lines 5, 9)
Korea's first ecological park. A 'secret forest' of 5.5km of waterways and woodland paths among Yeouido's towers, with a reed tunnel in summer.
Achasan Mountain Fortress Ruins
FreeMountain & trail · Gwangjin-gu · Achasan Stn. (Line 5)
A celebrated peak where Goguryeo outpost ruins line the ridge. A 1.5-hour round trip with superb Han River views.
GTX Yeonsin 849 Plaza, formerly Mulbit Park
FreePlaza · Eunpyeong-gu · Yeonsinnae Stn. (Lines 3, 6)
A new landmark plaza at Yeonsinnae Station, created by expanding and remodelling the ageing Mulbit Park in time for the opening of the GTX-A line. A mixed-use culture park with an outdoor stage, a media wall and seasonal gardens, it gives local residents a wide-open place to rest.
Hongje Yuyeon
FreeCulture space · Seodaemun-gu · Hongje Stn. (Line 3)
A public art space that revived the Hongje Stream channel beneath Yujin Shopping Center through media art. A waterside walkway following eight works of night lighting and installation art.
Bae Ryeom House
FreeHistoric site · Jongno-gu · Anguk Stn. (Line 3)
The Bukchon hanok where Korean painter Jedang Bae Ryeom lived. A registered cultural heritage site with its main and guest quarters open to visitors, easy to combine with a walk along Gyedong-gil.
Cecil Maru
FreeViewpoint · Jung-gu · City Hall Stn. (Lines 1, 2)
A free viewing and rest deck on the roof of the former Cecil Theater, now Jeongdong Theater Cecil. It faces the Romanesque roof of Seoul Anglican Cathedral at eye level, making it a favorite photo spot, and pairs well with a walk along Deoksugung and Jeongdong-gil. Just climb the stairs; open to all at no charge.
Unhyeongung Palace
FreeHistoric site · Jongno-gu · Anguk Stn. (Line 3)
The private residence of Heungseon Daewongun, where King Gojong and Empress Myeongseong held their wedding ceremony. Admission free, right outside Anguk Station Exit 4.
Gangseo Wetland Ecological Park
FreePark · Gangseo-gu · Banghwa Stn. (Line 5)
Wetlands at the mouth of the Han River and a spot for watching winter migratory birds. The quiet boardwalk through the reed beds is good for walking alone.
Kim Chong Yung Museum
FreeArt gallery · Jongno-gu
A sculpture museum on the hillside in Pyeongchang-dong. The building itself is a work of art, the permanent exhibition is free, and the galleries look out onto Bukhansan.
Mongchontoseong Fortress
FreeHistoric site · Songpa-gu · Mongchontoseong Stn. (Line 8)
An earthen fortress of Hanseong Baekje inside Olympic Park. A 2.7 km dirt path runs along the grassy ridge, and the famous Lone Tree photo spot is here.
Gwangjin Bridge 8th Avenue
FreeViewpoint · Gangdong-gu · Gwangnaru Stn. (Line 5)
A viewing and exhibition space suspended beneath Gwangjin Bridge. A glass floor looks down on the Han River, and it is at its best after dark.
Bukchon Cultural Center
FreeCulture space · Jongno-gu · Anguk Stn. (Line 3)
A hanok in the heart of Bukchon offering traditional culture classes. Free even if you just look around the courtyard, and a good starting point for a Bukchon walk.
Sungnyemun Gate (Namdaemun)
FreeHistoric site · Jung-gu · Hoehyeon Stn. (Line 4)
National Treasure No. 1 and the south gate of the Seoul City Wall. Open free of charge up onto the wall, with a changing of the guard ceremony on weekdays.
Noksapyeong Station Underground Art Garden
FreeCulture space · Yongsan-gu · Noksapyeong Stn. (Line 6)
An entire subway station turned into a garden and art space. A glass dome in the ceiling drops daylight all the way down to the fourth basement level.
Mugyewon
FreeCulture space · Jongno-gu
A traditional culture space in Buam-dong. Built using materials from the old Ojinam hanok, with the courtyard and exhibitions free to look around.
Ansan Mountain
FreeMountain & trail · Seodaemun-gu · Dongnimmun Stn. (Line 3)
A low mountain climbed from the Bongwonsa Temple side of Seodaemun. From the beacon mound at the summit, Inwangsan and Bukhansan line up in a row.
Suseongdong Valley
FreeStream & walk · Jongno-gu · Dongnimmun Stn. (Line 3)
The Inwangsan valley that appears in Jeong Seon's paintings. Open free of charge since its restoration, 10 minutes from the lanes of Seochon.
Eungbongsan Palgakjeong Pavilion
FreeViewpoint · Seongdong-gu · Eungbong Stn. (Gyeongui-Jungang Line)
A night-view landmark taking in the Han River and Seoul Forest at a glance. In spring the whole hill is covered in forsythia.
Seongsu Footbridge
FreeStream & walk · Seongdong-gu · Seoul Forest Stn. (Suin-Bundang Line)
A pedestrian-only bridge across Jungnangcheon Stream. One stretch of the walking route linking Seoul Forest and Eungbongsan.
HiKR Ground
FreeCulture space · Jung-gu · Jonggak Stn. (Line 1)
A K-content cultural complex spread over floors 1 to 5 of the Korea Tourism Organization building. The K-drama and K-pop interactive exhibits are permanent and free, and it pairs well with a walk along Cheonggyecheon.
Odong Water Light Garden
FreePark · Seongbuk-gu · Sangwolgok Stn. (Line 6)
A water garden built into the rock slopes of Odong Neighborhood Park. A wall fountain and ecological stream run at set times, and it won the top prize at the 2026 Seoul Landscape Awards.
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