As someone who is half Korean, seeing the world suddenly take an interest in holidays to Seoul has made me incredibly proud of my cultural heritage. What was once a city I'd visit to see family and stock up on skincare has now become one of the most talked-about travel destinations in the world — and for very good reason.

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I make an effort to visit Seoul every year, and as a result, I inevitably receive messages asking for "my list" containing all the cafés, restaurants, beauty spots and hidden gems that aren't just a TikTok hype. Because after years of exploring every corner (and spending way too much at Olive Young), I've perfected the recommendations I swear by, and it brings me so much joy sharing them with others. 

So, from the trendiest bars to non-tourist beauty spots and the best Korean BBQ hot spots, here's the exact list I send to every friend, family member and stranger (who slides into my DMs after reading all my K-beauty roundups on Mamamia) heading to Seoul.

The ultimate Seoul travel guide.

Best fine dining restaurants in Seoul.

Mosu: If you've watched Netflix's 'Culinary Kitchen Wars', you'd know Mosu is the restaurant to get into. Basically, it's Seoul's ultimate fine dining flex. Book early or miss out on one of the hardest tables to snag.

Mingles: This is refined Korean food with a European twist. It was officially crowned Korea's best restaurant in 2024 and has been newly awarded three Michelin Stars in 'The MICHELIN Guide Seoul & Busan 2025'.

7th Door: A multi-sensory dining experience with all the theatrics.

Onjium: Where traditional Korean craftsmanship meets Michelin-level fine dining.

Experience some of the world's best fine dining experieneces in Seoul. Images: Supplied/Juna Xu.

Best casual restaurants in Seoul.

Namdaemun Kalguksu Alley: A chaotic handmade noodle paradise where every ajumma swears hers is the best bowl.

Tosokchon Samgyetang: This ginseng chicken soup is so famous that there's always a line, no matter what time of the day you come. 

Eulmildae (Yeomri-dong branch): Naengmyeon (Korean buckwheat noodles in ice-cold broth) is my mum's favourite dish. This place specialises in Pyongyang-style and has been around for over 50 years. Expect the noodles to be slightly thicker and more chewy in texture.

Guigui: My favourite old-school fish spot, full of chatty ajummas, zero tourists and 100 per cent authentic vibes. Go in off-peak hours unless you don't mind waiting.

Gwangjang Market: Go hungry for yukhoe (Korean steak tartare), the Netflix-famous kalguksu (avoid Mondays as it's closed), and a fried doughnut for dessert.

Solsot (Seongsu branch): Korean hotpot rice with a variety of different protein options.

Gebang Sikdang: Michelin-rated raw marinated crab that every foodie dreams about.

Kal Samgyeopsal (Apgujeong-rodeo branch): Korean BBQ specialising in pork belly. Expect indulgent mouthfuls of crispy edges with a melt-in-your-mouth centre.

Han Mi Ok: A Korean BBQ restaurant famed for its beautiful and flavourful Chadol Gujeolpan beef platter.

Arirang Restaurant: A Michelin-starred BBQ that proves simplicity done perfectly always wins.

London Bagel Museum: The bagel spot everyone on Instagram lines up for — and yes, it lives up to the hype.

Mattdol: A small Mexican-inspired restaurant run by a South Korean chef who trained in Mexico. Known for high-quality, authentic Mexican-style dishes, including an incredible taco course and unique mezcal pairings.

Samyukga: Flower-cut pork belly BBQ that's both delicious and photogenic.

Gangnam Myeonok (Gangnam branch): Go for their iconic galbi-jim, a braised beef ribs dish.

Dosan Ttukbaegi Gangnam: If you're after the best beef bulgogi, look no further.

Jojo Kalguksu (Seongsu branch): The handmade noodles are one thing. Their kimchi is literally unreal.

Every food spot is a solid 10/10. Images: Supplied/Juna Xu.

Best bars in Seoul.

Zest: Ranked #9 on the World's 50 Best Bars 2024 and #16 in 2025. Enough said.

Le Chamber: Once you find this famous speakeasy behind a hidden bookshelf in Gangnam, you'll be immersed in high ceilings, leather seating, glittering chandeliers and live piano music.

Bar Cham: Set in a hanok (traditional Korean house), the bar focuses on local spirits and seasonal ingredients.

Pine & Co: Located down a dark Apgujeong-dong back alley, this speakeasy has seriously creative drinks (think kimchi, ants, yoghurt, cherry tomato and seaweed) paired with delicious food.

Alice Cheongdam: A regular on Asia's 50 Best Bars list, this speakeasy lounge has eclectic, theatrical cocktails that draw on molecular techniques.

Seoul is a very walkable city, so make sure to bring your comfiest walking shoes! Images: Supplied/Juna Xu.

Must-see attractions in Seoul.

DMZ Border: A once-in-a-lifetime, goosebump-inducing experience.

Seokchon Lake (Songpa Naru Park): A lakeside park famous for cherry blossoms, foliage and Seoul's skyline views.

Starfield Library (COEX Mall): Yes, it's touristy, but standing under those floor-to-ceiling bookshelves is a must.

Gyeongbokgung Palace: The ultimate glimpse into Korea's royal past. Bonus points if you rent a hanbok for photos.

Bukchon Hanok Village: Wander through winding alleys lined with traditional hanok houses. Go early to avoid the crowds.

N Seoul Tower (Namsan): Take the cable car up for city views that literally make your jaw drop. Sunrise or sunset is best for pictures.

Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden: One of Seoul's most beautiful palaces, with a garden that feels like stepping into another world.

Insadong: A quirky neighbourhood packed with antique shops, tea houses and handmade souvenirs.

Cheonggyecheon Stream: A serene riverside stroll in the middle of the city.

Banpo Hangang Park: You may have spotted this place in K-dramas. It's perfect for a bike ride, a picnic by the water or an evening stroll. 

Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market: Choose your seafood downstairs, then head upstairs to have it cooked fresh.

You can't go to Seoul without hitting up all the beauty spots. Images: Supplied/Juna Xu.

Best beauty clinics in Seoul.

ReOne: There are countless beauty clinics in Seoul, but my top pick is ReOne because the team are board-certified dermatologists. It's not popular among tourists, but instead is frequented by Korean celebrities and Seoul's elite. Expect to pay more, but remember, you're paying for top quality. Bookings can be made one month in advance.

Parkjun Beauty Lab (Cheongdam branch): Come for the famous 5-step scalp treatment analysis and all your other hair needs.

Cocory Color Co: A trip to Seoul isn't complete without getting your colour analysis done. Book early on in your trip so you can use your results to shop for the best makeup and clothing throughout your stay.

Massage at retreat SIGNIEL Spa: One of the best massage experiences (coming from someone who has tried a lot of massages around the world).

Feature image: Supplied.