Instagrammable places in Seoul range from towering observatories atop unspoiled mountains to secret gardens, botanic parks and even quirky statutes in the heart of town. Seoul, with its eclectic culture, colourful city streets filled with murals and public street art, museums, architecture and cultural sites juxtaposed next to intricately-tended gardens and unspoiled wilderness, is a city of deep culture that's a hidden gem of the world's photogenic sites.
Whether you're on a family holiday, a couples' romantic getaway or you're just looking to do some cultural exploration, this is a city that will give your Instagram feed a makeover. Check out some of the best Seoul spots for stunning photos.
Jogyesa Temple is in the heart of the Seoul city centre and is the heart of Korean Buddhism, offering colourful and serene grounds with ancient trees and quirky, amusing statuary. Buddhism is all about celebrating life and the simple things and taking joy in the smallest blade of grass, and the statues and gardens here exude that very same joy in all things.
Visit during October when the temple hosts its annual flower festival and you'll get to snap extra photos of stunning topiary in the shape of animals, Buddhas and dragons.
Another good time to visit is the Lotus Lantern Festival celebrating the Buddha's birthday. During this time the courtyard is decorated with spectacularly-coloured paper lanterns.
Namsan Seoul Tower Observatory was the very first multipurpose tower in Korea and offers the chance to capture breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. The tower has served for 4 decades as an iconic landmark and popular visitor draw, which you reach by the equally iconic Namsan Cable Car running from the foot of the mountain to the tower's base.