Seoul with Kids: Palaces, Kids Cafés & Family Travel Tips

Seoul is modern, safe and full of surprises for kids: indoor theme parks, free museums, riverside parks and kids cafés on almost every block. The subway is excellent, and Koreans are warm and helpful with little ones.

Where to stay in Seoul with kids

• Myeongdong / City Hall: central, close to palaces and shopping, and great for first-timers.
• Jamsil: next to Lotte World, Lotte World Aquarium and Seokchon Lake. Ideal for families with young kids.
• Gwanghwamun: walk to Gyeongbokgung Palace and Cheonggyecheon Stream.
• Hongdae: lively and fun, but noisy at night. Better for older kids.

The best things to do in Seoul with kids

1. Lotte World. A giant indoor theme park (great in any weather), plus Lotte World Aquarium next door.
2. Gyeongbokgung Palace. Rent hanbok (traditional dress) and wander the palace grounds. Visitors wearing hanbok often get free entry.
3. National Museum of Korea Children’s Museum. Free and hands-on. Book a timed slot online.
4. Seoul Children’s Grand Park. A free park with a zoo, playgrounds and gardens.
5. Han River parks. Picnics, bike rentals and summer water play areas.
6. N Seoul Tower. Take the cable car up Namsan for views over the city.

Getting around Seoul with a stroller

• Subway: fast and clean, with lifts at most stations. Get a T-money card; young children ride free.
• Taxis: good value. Use the Kakao T app to book.
• Maps: use Naver Map or Kakao Map rather than Google Maps for walking and transit directions in Korea.

Where to eat with kids

• Kimbap: rice rolls that are perfect for little hands.
• Bibimbap: ask for no chilli paste (gochujang) for kids.
• Mandu (dumplings) and Korean fried chicken go down well with fussy eaters.
• Korean BBQ: fun, but the grills are hot. Keep toddlers on the far side of the table.
• Convenience stores (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven): great for snacks, milk and quick meals.

Parent tips for Seoul

• Nursing rooms are common in department stores, subway stations and big parks.
• Check whether you need a K-ETA before you fly. See our visa directory.
• Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–November) are the most comfortable seasons.

Read more in our South Korea with kids guide.