Free Day Trips in Seoul 2025: The Best Spots for Families, Couples, and Friends

Seoul, a city where history, culture, and nature blend seamlessly, offers plenty of free day trip destinations that anyone can enjoy without breaking the bank. As of April 2025, from the newly opened Cheong Wa Dae to various parks, traditional markets, and cultural events, Seoul is brimming with spots to explore at no cost. Here’s a detailed guide to the best free places to visit in Seoul for families, couples, and friends—perfect for creating unforgettable memories!

1. Cheong Wa Dae: A Historic Landmark Open to the Public

Cheong Wa Dae, the former presidential residence, has been open to the public since May 10, 2022, and has become a must-visit free attraction in central Seoul. As of April 2025, it has welcomed over 7 million visitors and remains a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Location: 1 Cheongwadae-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Operating Hours:
- March to November: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM)
- December to February: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
- Closed every Tuesday (except public holidays)
Admission Fee: Free (reservation required)
How to Reserve:
- Reservations can be made via the official website (www.opencheongwadae.kr).
- Book up to 4 weeks in advance; new slots open daily at midnight.
- Seniors (65+), people with disabilities, and national conference participants can register on-site (9:00 AM and 1:30 PM, 500 people per session, first-come, first-served).
Recommended Spots:
- Main Building: The former presidential office and state guest reception area, a symbol of Cheong Wa Dae.
- Green Garden (Nokjiwon): A scenic garden with Mount Bukak as a backdrop, perfect for photos.
- Chimryugak & Sangchunjae: Traditional buildings showcasing Korean architectural beauty.
Visiting Tips:
- It’s a 15–20 minute walk from Exit 4 of Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3); a shuttle bus (Route 01A) is also available.
- Wear comfortable shoes due to stairs and slopes; baby carriers are recommended over strollers.
- From April 24 to 27, 2025, the “1st Cheong Wa Dae Children’s Art Festival: Picnic in the Forest” will take place.

Why Visit? Cheong Wa Dae offers more than just a tour—it’s a chance to experience a piece of Korea’s modern history. The stunning views with Mount Bukak in the background make it an ideal spot for family outings.

2. Han River Parks: Nature and Relaxation in the Heart of Seoul

Han River Parks are iconic free destinations in Seoul where you can enjoy nature and relaxation amidst the city. With various locations like Ttukseom, Yeouido, and Gangseo, there’s something for everyone.

Location: Multiple locations across Seoul (Key spots: Ttukseom Han River Park, Yeouido Han River Park, Gangseo Han River Park)
Operating Hours: Open 24/7, year-round
Admission Fee: Free
Things to Do:
- Stroll, bike, or have a picnic along the river.
- Enjoy the Han River Drone Light Show at Ttukseom Han River Park on April 12, 19, 27, May 5, and 11, 2025 (free entry). Hundreds of drones light up the night sky in a mesmerizing display.
- Try outdoor exercise at the newly opened “Han River Gym” in Gangseo Han River Park (2025).
How to Get There:
- Ttukseom Han River Park: 5-minute walk from Exit 2 of Ttukseom Resort Station (Line 7).
- Yeouido Han River Park: 10-minute walk from Exit 1 of Yeouinaru Station (Line 5).
Visiting Tips:
- Bring a mat and snacks for a picnic.
- The Han River Drone Light Show runs from 8:00 PM to 8:15 PM; bring warm clothes or a blanket for the evening chill.

Why Visit? Han River Parks are perfect for unwinding in nature while staying in the city. Whether with family, a partner, or friends, the 2025 spring drone light show is a unique experience you won’t want to miss.

3. Namdaemun Market & Dongdaemun Market: Where Tradition Meets Modernity

Seoul’s traditional markets are treasure troves of food and culture, offering a free day trip experience filled with sights and sounds. Namdaemun and Dongdaemun Markets each have their own unique charm.

Namdaemun Market
- Location: 21 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours: 24 hours (some stores closed Sundays)
- Admission Fee: Free
- What to See: Clothing, accessories, crafts, medicinal roots, and street food (try bindaetteok or knife-cut noodles).
- How to Get There: 5-minute walk from Exit 5 of Hoehyeon Station (Line 4).
Dongdaemun Market
- Location: 255 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours: 24 hours (some stores closed Sundays)
- Admission Fee: Free
- What to See: Established in 1905 as Korea’s first private permanent market, it’s known for fabrics and clothing but has recently gained fame for its food alleys. Try kimbap or spicy tteokbokki.
- How to Get There: 5-minute walk from Exit 8 of Dongdaemun Station (Lines 1 & 4).
Visiting Tips:
- Bring cash (many vendors don’t accept cards).
- Avoid large bags as the alleys can be narrow.

Why Visit? Namdaemun and Dongdaemun Markets let you experience Seoul’s past and present simultaneously. Exploring the stalls and enjoying affordable street food make for a fun outing.

4. Seoul Forest & Yangjaecheon: A Peaceful Escape in Nature

Seoul Forest and Yangjaecheon are ideal spots for a relaxing walk amidst nature in the city, with special events lined up for spring 2025, including cherry blossom festivals.

Seoul Forest
- Location: 273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7, year-round (some facilities excluded)
- Admission Fee: Free
- What to See:
  - From April 5 to May 5, 2025, the Seoul Garden Festa will take place across several parks, including Seoul Forest, featuring pop-up stores and free activities.
  - Feed deer, visit the butterfly garden, or enjoy nature trails.
- How to Get There: 10-minute walk from Exit 8 of Ttukseom Resort Station (Line 7).
Yangjaecheon
- Location: Yangjaecheon Stream, Seocho-gu, Seoul (Yeongdong 1 Bridge to Yeongdong 2 Bridge)
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7, year-round
- Admission Fee: Free
- What to See:
  - From April 3 to April 27, 2025, the Yangjaecheon Cherry Blossom Lantern Festival will light up the stream. One of Seoul’s top three cherry blossom spots, it features music performances alongside blooming trees—all free.
- How to Get There: 10-minute walk from Exit 5 of Yangjae Citizen’s Forest Station (Sinbundang Line).
Visiting Tips:
- The cherry blossom festival can get crowded, so visit early in the morning.
- Bring a mat and snacks for a picnic under the trees.

Why Visit? Seoul Forest and Yangjaecheon offer a serene escape in the city, perfect for enjoying nature. The 2025 spring festivals, especially the cherry blossoms, make these spots even more magical.

5. Seoul Children’s Grand Park: Perfect for Family Outings

Seoul Children’s Grand Park is a top free destination for families, featuring a zoo and botanical garden that delight visitors of all ages.

Location: 216 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul
Operating Hours: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM (open year-round, some facilities excluded)
Admission Fee: Free (additional fees for amusement rides)
What to See:
- Zoo: See elephants, giraffes, lions, and more.
- Botanical Garden: Seasonal flowers and plants on display.
- Pet Playground: Bring your pets for a fun outing.
How to Get There: 5-minute walk from Exit 6 of Children’s Grand Park Station (Lines 5 & 7).
Visiting Tips:
- The park’s cherry blossom trails are stunning in spring.
- Amusement ride tickets can be purchased on-site (around 3,000 to 5,000 KRW).

Why Visit? Seoul Children’s Grand Park offers free access to a zoo and botanical garden, making it a great spot for families. It’s also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along.

6. Dongmyo Flea Market: A Retro Treasure Hunt

Dongmyo Flea Market is a haven for those who love vintage and retro vibes, offering a treasure-hunting experience at no cost.

Location: Sungin-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Operating Hours: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Admission Fee: Free
What to See:
- Second-hand clothing, accessories, and antique items.
- Affordable street food like hotteok (sweet pancakes) and tteokbokki.
How to Get There: 3-minute walk from Exit 3 of Dongmyo Station (Lines 1 & 6).
Visiting Tips:
- Bring small amounts of cash (many vendors don’t accept cards).
- Bargaining is encouraged, so don’t hesitate to negotiate.

Why Visit? Dongmyo Flea Market is a hotspot for Millennials and Gen Z, offering a nostalgic vibe and the thrill of finding unique items at low prices. It feels like a step back in time.

7. Cultural Events: Free Festivals in Seoul 2025

Seoul hosts numerous free cultural events in 2025, perfect for adding excitement to your day trip with family, friends, or a partner.

Seoul Spring Festa
- Dates: April 30 to May 6, 2025
- Location: Downtown Seoul (Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul Plaza, etc.)
- Highlights: K-POP concerts, media art exhibitions, Seoul Wonder Show (April 30).
- Admission Fee: Free
Art Walk in Seongbuk
- Dates: April 15 to June 14, 2025
- Location: Jeongneung, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul & Online (via Zoom)
- Highlights: Art walking programs and workshops.
- How to Join: Register on the official website (deadline: April 13, 24:00).
- Admission Fee: Free
Unhyeongung Palace Event: Unhyeon Yuramgi
- Date: April 18, 2025
- Location: Unhyeongung Palace, Seoul (Irodang, Norakdang, Noandang)
- Highlights: Historical experience related to Heungseon Daewongun.
- Admission Fee: Free

Why Visit? Seoul’s free cultural events offer a chance to experience art and culture in the heart of the city. The Seoul Spring Festa, with its concerts and exhibitions, is a highlight for a memorable outing.

8. Seoul City Parks: Urban Oases for Relaxation

Seoul’s city-managed parks are free to enter and provide a peaceful retreat amidst nature.

Pureun Arboretum
- Location: 240 Yeondong-ro, Guro-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM (open year-round)
- What to See: Wetland deck paths, metasequoia trails, rose garden.
- How to Get There: Take Bus Guro 14 from Exit 3 of Guro Digital Complex Station (Line 2), 10 minutes.
North Seoul Dream Forest
- Location: 173 Wolgye-ro, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7, year-round
- What to See: Observatory, walking trails, and some programs of the Seoul Garden Festa (April 5 to May 5, 2025).
- How to Get There: 15-minute walk from Exit 1 of Miasageori Station (Line 4).

Why Visit? Pureun Arboretum and North Seoul Dream Forest are great for relaxing in nature, especially for families. The paths are stroller-friendly, making them ideal for visits with kids.

Conclusion: Enjoy a Free Day Trip in Seoul in 2025

Seoul offers a wealth of free day trip destinations, from Cheong Wa Dae and Han River Parks to traditional markets, city parks, and vibrant cultural events. In spring 2025, don’t miss the Han River Drone Light Show, Seoul Spring Festa, and Yangjaecheon Cherry Blossom Festival. Plan your outing with family, friends, or a loved one, and experience Seoul’s charm without spending a dime—create memories that will last a lifetime!