Both authentic and modern, the radiant city of Seoul is a vast metropolis where high-rises, cutting-edge subways, trendy boutiques and royal palaces, Buddhist temples and historical landmarks coexist in vibrant harmony. In short, Seoul is brimming with places to explore… But to venture beyond the standard tourist circuits, what do you say to discovering Seoul off the beaten path? Here's our top 5 offbeat places to see in Seoul.

1. The Seoul City Wall:

Built in 1396 at the initiative of King Taejo to protect the capital of the new Joseon dynasty, the Seoul City Wall was originally a 18-kilometer defensive rampart. It was designed along the ridges of the mountains bordering the city: Inwangsan, Bukaksan, Naksan, and Namsan. Today, 12 kilometers remain along with six of the original eight gates, all discoverable via numerous hiking trails. Beyond reliving South Korea's history, you'll also gain elevation to enjoy stunning views of the cityscape.

2. Seoul City Hall:

Did you know that Seoul is home to the world's largest vertical green wall? Installed in the new Seoul City Hall building, this living wall spans 1,516 m² between the ground floor and the 6th floor. It contains no fewer than 70,000 plants from 14 different species. These plants are designed to eliminate pollutants and fine particulates while regulating temperature and humidity throughout the space. Meanwhile, Seoul's City Hall harnesses renewable energies including photovoltaic, solar thermal, and geothermal systems. An eco-designed building conceived by architect Yoo Kerl, following a competition organized by the city.

3. Ikseon-dong District

Ikseon-dong is THE trendy up-and-coming neighborhood in Seoul. The best part? It barely features in guidebooks and is frequented mainly by locals. This is a pedestrian district with charming alleyways where you'll find excellent cafés and restaurants, hipster shops, and artisan boutiques featuring creative pieces. The neighborhood is quite compact and easily explored, but it's absolutely worth the detour to stroll around and pause for coffee for an authentic immersion into cutting-edge Seoul culture…

4. Changdeokgung Palace and Its Secret Garden

Erected in 1405, the auxiliary palace of Changdeokgung is one of the city's most beautiful. After being burned by the Japanese in 1592, it was rebuilt and became a royal palace. Today, it is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Beyond the palace itself, it's truly the secret garden (Biwon) that deserves a visit. And for good reason—it remains unknown to the general public and holds countless treasures. Covering two-thirds of the palace grounds, the landscape alternates between lotus ponds, thickets and floating pavilions. You'll even find a tree nearly 300 years old! It's hard to imagine being in the heart of the city surrounded by such peaceful scenery. That said, it's no wonder the king and his family once came here to unwind… Note that the gardens can only be visited with a guide.

5. Ewha Womans University:

Attention all architecture enthusiasts, you'll absolutely love exploring Ewha Womans University located in the Sinchon district. Imagined by celebrated French architect Dominique Perrault between 2004 and 2008, the campus valley is a unique architectural masterpiece! Entirely sunken and built within a vast cut in the landscape, this section of the university features towering glass cliffs on either side. The rooftops were designed as intimate gardens to stroll through. Settle on the steps to observe student life and wander the campus grounds to discover every facet of this extraordinary architecture.

Florine Dergelet

Florine Dergelet

A web writer for over 10 years, Florine Dergelet is a traveler driven by an eagerness to discover the world with an open heart. Each of her articles is an invitation to slow down, to listen, to understand. Because for her, travel is not about checking countries off a map, but about forging connections—often invisible but always powerful—with places, peoples, and all manner of creatures. Her philosophy? Advise travelers with integrity, awaken their consciousness about animal welfare, respect for cultures, and the importance of humble, sustainable tourism. Because the most beautiful memories often bloom far from the spotlight, in the shadow of a trail, amid a conversation, or in the quiet presence of a world we finally take time to truly hear…