Six Key Attractions In and Around Myeongdong - A Guide for Shopaholics as well as Culture Lovers!

Looking for an upscale shopping experience in a refined, polished setting? Add Lotte Department Store to your list. It’s the heart of Myeongdong’s retail scene. With multiple floors, Lotte stocks a collection of luxury items, high-end fashion, cosmetics, and homeware. You’ll find both international and local brands in equal quantities. Shopping isn’t the only thing you can enjoy here; the store also features a food court and a delicatessen level with top-notch gourmet food alongside an assortment of South Korean and international dishes. To admire the panorama of the city, head to the roof garden.

A spiritual site loved not only by devotees but also by photographers, Myeongdong Cathedral is an iconic landmark. It was the first Roman Catholic church in South Korea. Its Gothic-style architecture, spires, and stained-glass windows attract visitors all year long. The exterior of the church is remarkable, with its elegant brick façade and intricate design details making it stand out among the modern structures. There’s also a beautiful courtyard filled with plants and blooms. This courtyard is a particular favourite among artists seeking a stunning backdrop and photographers looking for the perfect shot. Step inside, and you’ll find an ambient setting with lofty arches where light and shadow create the ideal background for photography.

Looking to snag the best bargain? Head to the Myeongdong Underground Shopping Centre, a haven lying below the bustling streets. There’s a wide range of stalls to explore, all selling a variety of items, including clothes, bags, cosmetics, and handicrafts. It’s an excellent spot to visit if you want to shop but don’t have a lot of funds for it. The centre is also conveniently connected to the subway. It’s an easy, straightforward journey to this retail hub from nearby properties like Travelodge Myeongdong Euljiro.

There are five grand palaces in Seoul, and out of all five, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the grandest — a true testament to the grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty. The palace which is within easy reach of Myeongdong has a history dating back to 1395 and exudes South Korea’s cultural richness. The name of the palace, 'Gyeongbokgung', means 'Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven', which conveys royal power and prosperity in its time. The grounds feature various gates, pavilions, and tranquil gardens. In the backdrop, you’ll see Mount Bugaksan, making the scenery even more enchanting. Staying at a hotel near Seoul Train Station? Reaching such attractions will not be an issue.

Most cultural and heritage villages are generally created to celebrate a destination’s culture and history, but Bukchon Hanok Village is different — it’s real. What does that mean? It’s an actual residential area with hanoks or traditional Korean houses, where people live. Visiting this village from Myeongdong offers a rare opportunity to get a glimpse of Korean history in the most genuine manner possible. Spread across the village are narrow alleyways lined with hanoks featuring sloping roofs. There are also traditional tea houses and various craft shops worth visiting

One of the most famous landmarks in Seoul, N Seoul Tower is at the top of Namsan Mountain which can be reached from Myeongdong. It’s long been considered a must-visit for tourists searching for breathtaking views of the city. Get to the tower, and you’ll be captivated by the gorgeous landscape surrounding it, with the Han River as the cherry on top. There’s a cable car to take you up to the top. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike up to the tower as well. Visit in the evening to admire the landscape immersed in the golden glow of the setting sun. Stick around for a bit, and you can see the city come alive at night with thousands of lights. If you’re here with your partner, don’t forget to leave a lock at the Locks of Love fence.