SEOUL
Seoul is a city of striking contrasts: ancient palaces and traditional hanok villages stand just a few subway stops away from neon-lit nightlife, bustling markets, and minimalist coffee roasteries. It’s a city that feels both deeply rooted in tradition and relentlessly modern.
I was lucky enough to spend three months living in Seoul, and in that time I dove deep into the city’s neighbourhoods, food, and café culture. What struck me most was the contrast: centuries-old palaces standing next to neon-lit skyscrapers, late-night markets alongside sleek coffee roasters.
Seoul is vast, fast, and endlessly fascinating — a place where you can spend weeks exploring and still feel like you’re just getting started.
WHERE TO STAY
Itaewon
A lively, international district known for its nightlife, global dining, and eclectic energy. Perfect if you want to party late, meet people from around the world, or enjoy Seoul’s more multicultural side.
Hannam-dong
Just next to Itaewon, Hannam is chic and upscale. Think design boutiques, galleries, and stylish cafés. It’s quieter than Itaewon, but still trendy and central. Ideal for travellers who like creative, fashionable neighbourhoods.
Hongdae
Youthful, artistic, and buzzing. Hongdae is home to students, indie music venues, street art, and countless cafés. It’s a great area if you like energy, nightlife, and being surrounded by creativity.
Seongsu
Often called the “Brooklyn of Seoul,” Seongsu is packed with renovated warehouses, design studios, and coffee shops. If you like hidden gems, industrial-chic interiors, and a slower pace than the city center, this is the spot.
where to find
the best coffee
1
Anthracite
Industrial-chic space with carefully sourced beans and some of the best drip coffee in town. Perfect for serious coffee lovers.
2
UPND
A calming escape from busy shopping streets, with single-origin pour-overs and their sweet “UPND Special” latte.
3
Champ Coffee Roasters
A legend in Seoul, known for smooth espresso and chewy cookies. It’s small, cozy, and much-loved by locals.
More cafés to visit in Seoul
Seoul’s café culture has exploded in recent years — from hidden roasteries in old warehouses to sleek, design-forward spaces that double as community hubs. After months of exploring, I’ve pulled together the spots that left the biggest impression on me, whether for their coffee, their atmosphere, or both.
getting some
work done
Seoul is a digital nomad’s dream — Wi-Fi everywhere, plenty of outlets, and a café culture that encourages lingering. My favourites for working were:
1.
Maxim Plant, Itaewon
A multi-floor coffee complex with varied seating and a buzzing atmosphere — ideal for long study or work sessions.
2.
Hit Coffee Roasters, Mapo-gu
A relaxed spot near Hongdae with clean design, strong filter coffee, and even a terrace — perfect for a few focused hours of work.
3.
Crate Coffee, Hannam
Spacious, minimalist, and full of natural light, making it one of the calmest places in Hannam to settle in with your laptop.
4.
Leegit Coffee, Itaewon
Smaller and more low-key, this cozy neighborhood café is great for a quieter work break or short writing session.
