When most people think of Seoul, they picture palaces, shopping streets like Myeongdong, and world-famous neighborhoods like Insadong, or Gangnam. But behind the touristy scenes lies a quieter, more intimate version of the city. Full of cozy cafés, chill neighborhoods, and culinary secrets that locals adore.

If you’re ready to escape the crowds and want to experience Seoul in lesser known neighbourhoods for tourists, here are some hidden gems worth exploring:

Neighborhoods & Non-Touristy Spots

🌳 Seochon Village (서촌)

Tucked behind Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seochon is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Seoul. It has a slow, charming vibe filled with hanok homes, local boutiques, and art galleries.

Stroll along Tongin Market and try “dosirak café”. Grab a tray and fill it with small bites using traditional coins.

creatrip made an article about Tongin Market. Check it out here

Stop by tiny galleries or vintage shops hidden in narrow alleys.

🛶 Seoul Forest (서울숲)

Often overlooked in favor of the Han River or Hangang Park, Seoul Forest is a peaceful area with modern art sculptures, and quiet pathways.

Great for a morning jog or a coffee break.
Nearby cafés in Seongsu-dong offer a creative and hipster vibe. Seongsu is very famous and popular these days for its popup stores.

🧵 Euljiro (을지로)

This industrial-looking neighborhood, which is full of printing shops and lighting stores, is one of my favourite places to hang out. Not only because my school was in this area but it has a chill vibe. The Cheonggyecheon stream is there and the location is close to Jongno and Anguk as well. Jongno/Anguk are more traditional places.

🧘‍♀️ Buam-dong (부암동)

Nestled in the foothills of Inwangsan, Buam-dong is quiet, artsy, and filled with charm.

Visit Changuimun Gate, one of the Seoul Fortress Wall gates.
Stop by Sanmotoonge Café, known for its mountain views and appearance in K-dramas.
Explore tiny bookstores and art galleries tucked away in side streets.

🌸 Yeonnam-dong (연남동)

Right next to the bustling Hongdae area lies Yeonnam-dong, a calmer neighborhood with a youthful, artsy vibe.

Stroll along Gyeongui Line Forest Park, a linear park built on an old railway.
Discover indie bakeries, craft shops, and small cafés tucked into alleys.
It’s especially lovely in spring and autumn.

🏮 Ikseon-dong (익선동)

This area combines traditional architecture with trendy cafés and boutique restaurants.

Explore narrow alleyways filled with hanok-style dessert shops, cocktail bars, and hidden eateries.
Many stores here are beautifully renovated, making it a favorite spot for young Seoulites.
Go in the late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.

🎨 Ihwa Mural Village (이화벽화마을)

Located near Naksan Park, this hillside neighborhood has been revitalized with colorful street art and murals.

Walk through stairways painted with whimsical scenes and discover small art studios.
The area offers some of the best sunset views over Seoul.
Pair your visit with a hike up Naksan Fortress Wall for a mix of art and history.

🛍 Mangwon-dong (망원동)

A hip, community-driven neighborhood just west of Mapo. It’s like a quieter cousin of Hongdae.

Browse Mangwon Market, a beloved local market with affordable street food.
Chill at small dessert cafés or quirky lifestyle shops.
The Han River is only a short walk away, making it great for an evening stroll.

⛩ Seongsu-dong (성수동)

Seongsu has transformed from a shoe-making district into a hub of creativity.

Explore cafés and concept stores in renovated warehouses.
Check out art exhibitions at Seoul Forest galleries or pop-up cultural spaces.
A hotspot for locals who love design, sneakers, and coffee culture.
Tip: Seongsu is becoming more and more popular. If you want to avoid crowds it’s better to go during a week day.

🌄 Hyehwa & Daehangno (혜화/대학로)

Credits: walkintokorea.com | Seoulinspired

This university district is lively yet less touristy than Hongdae. It’s known as Seoul’s theater hub.

Catch a small play or musical in one of the many indie theaters.
Enjoy street food stalls lined along the roads near Hyehwa Station.
Visit Marronnier Park, a popular meeting point for young locals.

🍜 Local Food Spots

Gaemi Jip (개미집) Spicy Octopus (Yeongdeungpo)

This tiny joint is famous for its fiery nakji-bokkeum (spicy stir-fried octopus).

Mapo Jinjja Wonjo Choedaepo (마포진짜원조최대포)

A hidden gem for samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) with an old-school feel. The atmosphere is smoky, loud, and 100% authentic.

Cheong Jin Ok (청진옥) – Hangover Soup

This spot has been serving haejangguk (hangover soup) since 1937. It is the six oldest active restaurant in Seoul.

Yunssi Milbang (연씨밀방) – Handmade Noodles (Hongdae)

Cozy and quiet, this spot serves kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) and homemade rice dishes that taste like grandma’s cooking.

🎯 Final Tips for Exploring Hidden Seoul

🚇 If you use subway Line 3 to north Seoul, it tends to pass through more local and traditional areas.
❌ Try to avoid taking line 2 in rush hour (between 7-9 AM and 6-8 PM)
📱 Use Naver Map or Kakao Map and search in Korean for better results (or use Papago to translate).
🧍‍♂️ Walk, Seoul’s alleys often hide gems you’d never find on a map.

Hidden Gems in Seoul: Discover the City Like a Local