Most Iconic Seoul Landmark: Recently restored, radiantly arrayed, and with a stunning mountain backdrop, Gwanghwamun, the main gate of Gyeongbokgung, is the most inspiring manifestation of the city’s struggle to preserve its past glories.

Best Views of Seoul: Ascend the heights of the N Seoul Tower on Namsan (South Mountain) to get a sense of the true scale of this sprawling metropolis.

Best Old-Time Ambience: Stroll the streets of the Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional homes with graceful tiled roofs and hidden courtyards still hold sway, and you’ll swear Seoul’s headlong rush into development never happened.

Best Garden: Tour groups may have cottoned on to the “hidden” rear garden of Changdeokgung long ago, but its carefully placed flora and skillfully sculpted ponds and pavilions, stunning in any season, are still a powerful testament to Korea’s ability to harmonize the man-made and nature.

Best Museum: The National Museum of Korea is one of the region’s finest, a beautifully designed monument to the rich artistic legacy that managed to survive the country’s turbulent history.

Trendiest Street: The word is out among locals and visitors alike about the artistic flair, eclectic dining, and laid-back European ambience of Garosu-gil, a hip street in the upmarket Apgujeong district.