Out and about in Myeong-dong

Myeong-dong is a bustling district in Seoul, South Korea, known for its vibrant atmosphere, shopping streets, street food vendors, and cultural attractions. With so much to do it can be hard to decide where to start so here are some ideas for you.

Morning

Breakfast at a local café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of the many cafes in Myeong-dong. Enjoy some Korean-style pastries or a hearty breakfast sandwich along with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Coffee is a big thing there. My favourite is Coffee Bean, Ediya and Starbucks. The Starbucks stores in South Korea are franchises and the coffee is so much better than I find in Europe. My favourite phrase, 아이스 카라멜 라떼 1잔 포장해 주세요 or aiseu caramel latte hanchan pojanghae juseyo which means, one iced caramel latte to go please!

Visit Myeong-dong Cathedral: Take a stroll to Myeong-dong Cathedral, one of the most iconic landmarks in the area. This beautiful Gothic-style cathedral is a symbol of Seoul's religious heritage and offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.

Shopping Spree: Explore the vibrant shopping streets of Myeong-dong, lined with a wide array of shops, boutiques, and department stores. From international brands to local fashion labels and skincare shops, Myeong-dong is a paradise for shopaholics. And no, you cannot leave without a visit to Olive Young or Laneige. Please do stick to the main stores though. Unfortunately, not all the skincare is authentic. If its sold from small unorganised stores the chances are that it comes from elsewhere.

Lunch at a Street Food Stall: Indulge in some delicious street food for lunch. Myeong-dong is famous for its street food vendors offering a variety of Korean snacks such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and mandu (dumplings). Try the chicken skewers or even the Marshmallow ice cream!

Afternoon

Visit Namsan Tower: You can walk up to N. Seoul tour, but having done it, it's not for the faint- hearted and will take about 3 hours out of your day, so we suggest hopping on a short bus ride to the N Seoul Tower or to the cable car station. Once there, you can enjoy panoramic views of Seoul from the observation deck, and don't forget, if you are with your loved one, to leave a love lock at the tower's terrace before descending.

Relax at a Hanok Cafe: Wind down your afternoon at a traditional Hanok café, nestled in the alleys of Myeong-dong. These cafes offer a unique blend of traditional Korean architecture and modern comforts, providing a cozy atmosphere to enjoy a cup of tea or traditional Korean dessert.

Evening

Dinner at a Korean BBQ Restaurant: Treat yourself to a traditional Korean BBQ dinner at one of the many restaurants in Myeong-dong. Grill your own meat at the table and enjoy it with an assortment of banchan (side dishes) and fresh lettuce wraps.

Explore the Night Market: As the sun sets, Myeong-dong comes alive with vibrant street performances and bustling night markets. Stroll through the market stalls selling everything from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and handmade crafts.

Dessert at a Korean Dessert Cafe: End your day with a sweet treat at a Korean dessert cafe. Try some patbingsu (shaved ice dessert) or hotteok filled with sweet fillings like red bean paste or honey.

Enjoy your day exploring the sights, sounds, and flavours of Myeong-dong!