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Seoul, South Korea’s dazzling capital, is a city that perfectly balances modern skylines with historical charm. While it offers countless luxury experiences, some of its most breathtaking moments come absolutely free. If you’re a traveler seeking panoramic sights without opening your wallet, you’re in luck. This guide highlights the top free viewing spots in Seoul that will elevate your trip! Let’s explore them.
1. Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower)
Perched atop Namsan Mountain, also known as N Seoul Tower, is one of the most popular free viewing spots in Seoul. Originally constructed in 1969 as a broadcasting tower, it opened to the public in 1980 and has since become a romantic and cultural icon.
Visitors can walk up the mountain or take the Namsan cable car (for a fee) to enjoy the scenic trails and lush forests. Just the platforms offer incredible free views of Seoul’s skyline. Still, you may also choose to enter the observation deck for a fee. At night, the tower lights up in various colors, symbolizing air quality levels, which is an eco-friendly touch that adds to its charm.
Directions: Take Subway line 4 to Myeong-dong Station (Exit 3), then walk to the cable car station or follow the signs for the walking trail up Namsan.
2. Haneul Park
Sitting high above Mapo-gu, Haneul Park, which means “Sky Park,” offers one of the most breathtaking and completely free panoramic views in Seoul. What was once a landfill has been transformed into a lush eco-park, standing as a symbol of Seoul’s incredible environmental renewal.
From the top, you’ll be treated to a 360° view of the city, with the Han River, Namsan Tower, and Bukhansan Mountain all sharing the same skyline. Come autumn, the park turns truly magical as its silver grass fields (known as eoksae) sway in the breeze, glowing gold under the afternoon sun.
It’s the highlight of the Seoul Silver Grass Festival, where visitors gather to watch the sunset paint the city in warm hues. The best time to visit is late afternoon, when you can catch both the dazzling daylight view and the romantic sunset.
To catch the best times, please check the official website for the latest updates before visiting these free viewing spots in Seoul.
Directions: Take Subway Line 6 to World Cup Stadium Station (Exit 1). From there, follow the trail uphill or take the free shuttle if you’d rather skip the climb.
3. Banpodaegyo Bridge
If you’re hunting for romantic free viewing spots in Seoul, look no further than Banpodaegyo Bridge. Known for its Moonlight Rainbow Fountain, which is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the longest bridge fountain in the world, this location becomes magical after sunset.
The bridge connects Seocho and Yongsan districts, spanning the Han River. The dancing water jets, illuminated with vibrant lights, create a fairy-tale ambiance when viewed from Banpo Hangang Park. You can also see the skyscrapers of Gangnam glittering in the background.
Don’t forget to bring snacks or grab a picnic mat as this spot is one of the most favoured free viewing spots in Seoul for evening hangouts, especially during spring and summer nights.
Directions: Take Subway Line 3, 7, or 9 to Express Bus Terminal Station (Exit 8-1). Walk for 15 minutes toward Banpo Hangang Park.
4. Bugak Palgakjeong Pavilion
For a more serene experience, head to Bugak Palgakjeong Pavilion, located in the northern hills of Seoul. This eight-sided traditional pavilion sits at the top of Bugaksan Mountain and offers sweeping views of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Han River, and the city’s northern landscape. It’s a perfect blend of nature and culture.
Once a restricted military area, this scenic lookout opened to the public in recent years and has since become a treasured addition to the list of free viewing spots in Seoul. Its peaceful ambiance makes it ideal for meditative walks and photography.
Whether during sunrise or sunset, the view from the pavilion offers a quiet, contemplative beauty not easily found in busier tourist locations.
Directions: Take Bus 7212 or 1020 from Anguk Station (Subway Line 3, Exit 2) and get off at the Bugak Palgakjeong Stop.
5. Seoul City Wall Trail
Stretching across the ridges of Seoul’s mountains, the Seoul City Wall Trail offers some of the most enriching free viewing spots in Seoul. Built during the Joseon Dynasty, the ancient wall originally protected the capital from invaders. Today, it provides a scenic, historical trek through areas like Inwangsan, Naksan, Bugaksan, and Namsan.
The trail segments are well-marked and range in difficulty. As you hike, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the modern city in contrast with relics of the past, the fortress gates, watchtowers, and stone paths.
For those seeking both fitness and stunning vistas, this is one of the most rewarding free viewing spots in Seoul you can experience.
Directions: One popular starting point is Dongdaemun Gate. Take Subway Line 1 or 4 to Dongdaemun Station (Exit 1) and follow the signs for the trail.
When planning your trip, consider visiting these incredible free viewing spots in Seoul.
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