Seoul isn’t just skyscrapers and street food—it’s a city where nature thrives amid urban chaos. For travelers craving greenery, these curated park walks blend culture, scenery, and relaxation. All courses are foreigner-friendly with English signage and easy transit access!
🌳 1. Seoul Forest (서울숲) – The “Central Park of Seoul”
Why You’ll Love It: A former royal hunting ground turned eco-hub with deer, art installations, and waterfront views. Flat paths perfect for families.
Course Route (2.5km / 1 hour):
Start at Ttukseom Station (Exit 8) → Enter via Deer Sanctuary → Stroll past Butterfly Garden → Cross Hangang Riverside Boardwalk → End at Cultural Art Park for Instagram-worthy sculptures.
Highlights: Feed sika deer (10am-5pm), rent bikes, seasonal tulip festivals.
Getting Here: Subway Line 2/Bundang Line to Ttukseom Station.
🌸 2. Yeouido Hangang Park (여의도 한강공원) – Riverside Bliss
Why You’ll Love It: Epic Han River vistas, picnic culture, and cherry blossoms (April). Great for cyclists and sunset chasers.
Course Route (4km / 1.5 hours):
Start at Yeouinaru Station (Exit 2) → Walk toward Yeouido Spring Flower Path → Pass I·SEOUL·U sign → Loop around Riverside Food Trucks → End at Floating Stage for live performances.
Highlights: Rent picnic mats (₩3,000), try chimaek (fried chicken + beer) at food trucks, electric scooter rentals.
Getting Here: Subway Line 5/9 to Yeouinaru Station.
🏯 3. Namsan Park (남산공원) – Historic Hilltop Hike
Why You’ll Love It: Panoramic city views, N Seoul Tower, and cultural gems. Moderate incline with shuttle options.
Course Route (3km / 2 hours with stops):
Start at Myeongdong Station (Exit 3) → Hike Olive Trail → Pass Namsan Library → Eight-Province Stone Garden → N Seoul Tower (lock your love padlock!) → Descend via cable car.
Highlights: Free traditional performances at Paljakgwan (weekends), night views from the tower.
Tip: Take the Namsan Oreumi Elevator for a shortcut.
Getting Here: Subway Line 4 to Myeongdong Station.
🎭 4. Olympic Park (올림픽공원) – Art & Athletics Fusion
Why You’ll Love It: 1988 Olympics legacy meets open-air sculpture museum. Vast, crowd-free spaces.
Course Route (5km / 2 hours):
Start at Mongchontoseong Fortress Gate → Circle Peace Plaza → Explore Sculpture Park (90+ artworks) → Wildflower Garden → End at Sky Road with kinetic installations.
Highlights: Rent tandem bikes, ancient earthen fort ruins, rose garden (May-June).
Getting Here: Subway Line 5/9 to Olympic Park Station (Exit 3).
✨ Pro Tips for Foreign Visitors
- Transport Apps: Use Naver Maps (English) for real-time transit.
- Facilities: Parks have clean restrooms, convenience stores, and free Wi-Fi.
- Seasons: Spring (Apr-May) and autumn (Oct-Nov) offer mild temps and foliage.
- Etiquette: Avoid loud music; smoking only in designated zones.
Seoul’s parks are love letters to urban harmony. Whether you’re picnicking by the Han or hiking historic trails, these green oases promise respite and wonder. Lace up, breathe deep, and let Seoul’s nature surprise you! 🌿🗺️