What to Do in Suwon South Korea?

I’ve always felt that Suwon is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Seoul, especially because it’s only 25 minutes from Seoul Station by KTX or the high speed rail, and even the Metro or Korail train makes the ride simple. 

The city sits just a stone’s throw away, yet it offers a unique blend of old and new that feels different from anywhere else in South Korea.

You sense this contrast the moment you walk along Hwaseong Fortress or the UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress, both surrounded by historic buildings, cool cafes, and a vibrant street food scene that instantly pulls you in.

Back when I first started dating That Backpacker, now my wife, Suwon holds a special place in my heart because we met at Suwon station as our “halfway point.”

We loved spending time simply exploring the city, finding excellent markets, random foodie destinations, and even stumbling onto the famous Korean fried chicken street. Suwon always felt like a launching pad for new memories, including our first visit to the Korean Folk Village.

Even today, I’m still impressed by its modern urban center, where the huge Suwon Starfield mall and its famous, highly Instagrammable library sit right beside centuries of history.

With so many superb things to do, it’s no surprise that travelers keep coming back for the sublime mix of history, culture, and modernity that makes this dynamic city stand out.

16 Best Things to do in Suwon

1- Explore Hwaseong Fortress

When I first visited Suwon, Hwaseong Fortress also known as 수원 화성 felt even more impressive than what I saw through social media and guide books. The Korean Tourism Organization often praises it as one of South Korea’s top historic places, and being part of the 100 must visit tourist spots honestly makes sense the moment you see the fortress up close.

Built in the late 18th century and commissioned by King Jeongjo during the Joseon dynasty, it once helped shape the city’s role as a second capital. Walking the walled walk lets you enjoy the unique architecture, the central palace, the four huge gates, and the calm flow of the Suwoncheon stream. Because it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, everything from the watchtowers to the pavilions feels carefully preserved.

My favorite part was seeing Hwaseomun Gate and Janganmun Gate, also called 長安門, which stand tall over Korea and give you striking views of Suwon City.

From the walls, you get panoramic views, sweeping vistas, and peaceful moments at various points, especially as you explore Suwon slowly and take in the stone walls, bridges, and long city wall walk.

At night, the night illuminations make the fortress glow with historical grandeur. The blend of historic architecture, intricate design, illuminations, and restored gates creates a magical perspective. The whole majestic structure looks newly adorned, almost transformed, with massive walls shining under soft light.

In my own experience, visiting during evening tours gives you the most impressive gates, the clearest story, and a very different perspective and because it’s free to visit, you can take your time enjoying this truly enchanting, gently glowing place built on a strong historical basis.

2- Suwon Rodeo Street

Whenever I visit Suwon, I love starting my day with a slow walk from Hwaseong Fortress, where the historic walls make a cool contrast to the new and lively vibes waiting on Rodeo Street. I once stayed in a Suwon hotel just off the street, and it was the perfect spot to start my mini-adventures. 

By day, the area feels almost merry, with people grabbing breakfast and coffee, checking out shops, or exploring different places like Olive Young or quirky booth corners where you can snap a fun photo.

It’s a fun combo of Korean trends and casual hangouts, and honestly, it’s more suitable than trekking to Suwon Starfield Mall if you want everything close by.

When night rolls in, the whole atmosphere switches into full nightlife mode. The main stretch turns into a bright party-place, lit almost like it’s open 24 hours, and you can eat, drink, and wander between cozy eateries, a local restaurant, or even a basement spot where chicken, soju, beer, and chimaek become the stars. 

I’ve had plenty of sessions here sometimes late into the night jumping between a branch of Grandma’s Beer and smaller shops offering tasty bites. It’s the kind of spot where you return without thinking twice because every visit feels fresh, familiar, and slightly unpredictable all at once.

No matter how much I travel, this stretch of Suwon stays one of the most popular and pleasing areas to hang out. Whether you’re grabbing a casual snack, checking out a shop, revisiting old favorites, or discovering something entirely new, Rodeo Street pulls you in naturally. It’s a place that keeps you moving, keeps you curious, and makes every simple moment feel like part of the Suwon experience.

3- Haengnidan Gil Stroll

Walking through Suwon’s lively lanes around Haengnidan Gil always feels like stepping into a pocket of old-meets-new charm. The streets are famous for their mix of souvenir shops, cute little cafes, and gorgeous corners where every gift display seems hand-picked for wanderers. 

This tourist hotspot sits right in the central part of the area, and I don’t usually like heavy crowds, but here it somehow works though maybe try mornings if you want to avoid the rush.

Seriously, every time I’ve been, it reminds me why Suwon remains one of the best places to slow down in South Korea, especially when I pop into lots of hanok-inspired spots blending traditional style with modern touches.

What surprised me most is how these streets offer charming nooks plus cool coffee hideouts that feel worlds away while still overlooking the historic line of Hwaseong Fortress. 

Even on days when the energy is high, the balance of old architecture and trendy stores makes wandering here feel effortless. It’s the kind of place you drift through without a plan, letting your senses pick the rhythm.

4- Suwon’s Fried Chicken Street

After a full day of sightseeing around Suwon, especially the impressive Hwaseong Fortress and the calm Maehyanggyo bridge, I eventually ventured toward the area located near these landmarks, looking for something good to eat.

That’s how I ended up on Chicken street, also known as 수원 통닭거리, a spot I had visited once before but never fully enjoyed. Even on a regular week, the energy here buzzes with people hunting for the crisp bite of Korean fried chicken, and honestly, the scene alone is worth the trip.

What surprised me again was how famous this lane is for Suwon fried chicken and the queues prove it. On one Sunday afternoon, the biggest queue wrapped right around Jin Mi Chicken, or 진미통닯, and watching tourists line up there almost felt like a sport. 

I’m more of a “follow-your-hunger” person, so I settled at Haeng Gung Chicken Restaurant, where the vibe was quieter and I could dive straight into chicken and beer without the wait.

Their huge plate of crispy goodness came half coated in the special Suwon Wanggaalbi seasoning, and trust me, that slightly sweet, smoky kick is unforgettable.

By the time I was staring down at an empty platter something I proudly paid 24,000 Won for back in May 2025 I realized why this street remains one of Suwon’s most famous food stops.

The blend of sizzling pans, clucking energy, and homey restaurants makes this stretch a must-visit for anyone hungry after touring the city.

5- Hwaseong Haeunggung Palace Experience

Walking into Hwaseong Haeunggung (화성행궁) honestly reminded me why exploring historic sites belongs on any list of things to do in daejeon south korea, even though this palace sits proudly in Korea.

The place is nothing like a temporary hideout; it feels more like a serene world of its own, a miniature village built for a king who needed an escape during a war or battle. 

As I wandered the grounds, I could explore old hanok halls where Jeongjo once would arrive while visiting his father’s tomb a moment from the Joseon Dynasty period that felt extremely close when I stood on the same spot imagining when the royal family were here. 

What blown my mind was how small the admission fee was just a few Won per person, which makes it very easy to enjoy without stress, and the views around the courtyards felt almost unreal as I tried to picture the secondary role this place once played.

Even though it’s referred to as a secondary retreat, the feeling of standing in a place built for royalty stays with you long after you stay inside its wooden halls.

I remember thinking how just being there connected me with a chapter of history that shaped so much of the region, especially knowing how leaders once protected their legacy here during times of war. 

The layout almost guides a person naturally from hall to hall, making the experience smooth even for first-timers. Every turn reminded me why heritage is worth keeping, and why places like this deserve patience and attention something I carry into every trip, whether I’m exploring Suwon or comparing it to the quieter memories I have from traveling elsewhere in Korea.

6- Suwon Starfield

When I first wandered through the malls and shopping centers in Suwon, I thought I’d seen it all until I stepped into Suwon Starfield. This place feels like a big, packed universe of Korean and international brands, almost like LOTTE Mall Suwon but on a different vibe. 

Even though it opened early 2024, the new atmosphere makes the whole mall feel fresh, and the moment I walked through the doors I could tell why it’s best known by locals for having everything stacked across 8 storeys. What really surprised me was how accessible it is; I just hopped on the Metro, though you can take a bus if you prefer.

As someone who always mixes browsing with shopping, the eating options here pulled me in fast. I’m talking a legit dedicated food court where I ended up trying dishes I swore I didn’t need.

Still, the standout part for me was the Starfield Suwon Library, a huge, almost famous Library tucked into the middle of this mega-space. 

It’s the kind of spot where you sit down “for five minutes” and somehow lose an hour in the best way. Even with all the excitement inside, the complex sits slightly away from Haengnidan Gil and the Fortress area, which honestly gives it a more relaxed feel once you’re indoors.

But let’s be real the biggest plot twist? The rooftop. There’s an actual rooftop puppy park where dogs, pampered little pooches, happily run around the lawns and even enjoy free doggy showers.

I’m not joking I stayed longer up there than I planned because the whole place radiates joy. If you love unique city moments, Suwon Starfield hits different and adds a little softness to the usual travel hustle.

7- Starfield Suwon Library

Jumping from my trip hunting for things to do in gwangju korea, I rolled into Suwon with zero expectations and somehow ended up spending an embarrassing amount of time inside Starfield Suwon Library.

If you’ve ever been to Seoul and wandered through the famous COEX Starfield Library, this spot hits the same vibe but with its own personality. The towering bookcases, the floating planets hanging from the roof, and that massive staircase acting as a social centerpiece make the whole place ridiculously Instagrammable. 

I tried to be a serious reader, but between the constant selfie moments and playful shenanigans, I gave up and just grabbed a book to blend in.

Honestly, it’s one of the best free things to enjoy between shopping breaks because the library stretches across multiple levels and floors, each one packed with cozy corners perfect for taking aesthetic pictures.

My favorite part was drifting up toward the fifth floor, where the vibe shifts into something way more chill. Here you’ll find cute cafes, including Starbucks Korea, and my personal weakness Vinyl Starfield Suwon, where you can sip a drink while flipping through old-school records like you’re living your best retro dream. 

The Admission is 18,500 won (as of July 2025) and includes 1 drink, which felt like a sweet deal for the atmosphere alone. If you want a place in Suwon that mixes creativity, calm, and a bit of curated chaos, this library delivers it all in one surprisingly stylish package.

8- Suwon Motgol Market Experience

When people ask me what to do in incheon korea, I always joke that you should hop over to Suwon and dive straight into Motgol Market also known as 못골종합시장 because this traditional Korean market feels like stepping into a living food documentary.

The whole place is composed of a long lane packed with stalls, weaving into cozy side alleys where the atmosphere shifts from calm to bustling in a heartbeat. 

I’ve wandered through plenty of markets before, but this one instantly became my favourite. The mix of shoppers, stall holders, and the huge choice of hot food stalls made me feel like every turn offered something new to buy and honestly, everything smelt amazing.

On my first walk through, I noticed there were hardly any tourists, which made discovering the takeaways foods even more special. It felt like being let in on a local secret, the kind that costs you almost no money, yet gives you pure joy.

The market’s rhythm pulls you in slowly, the colors and chatter rising around you until the whole place just feels amazing all over again.

9- Suwon Museum of Art

The Suwon Museum of Art sits near Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, and even though it’s a sprawling, five, storey gallery, it feels surprisingly calm inside.

I first walked in after comparing it with other things to do in boryeong south korea, and the mix of permanent exhibits and temporary exhibitions instantly pulled me in. 

The library, adjoining cafe, and the thoughtful curator tours make it easy to settle in, especially with admission at 4,000 Won for adults and 1,000 for children.

What stays with you most is how you Discover both contemporary and traditional styles featuring a diverse collection of Korean and international artworks. 

The museum’s modern architecture provides a stunning backdrop for bold paintings, elegant sculptures, and layered multimedia installations. You can Participate in hands-on workshops, join educational programs, and watch your own creativity and appreciation for the arts grow.

Every visit feels fresh because the museum hosts new shows regularly, ensuring something exciting to explore. The space feels both Diverse and familiar as you Explore a wide range of pieces by talented artists. 

The Modern layout makes you slow down and simply Enjoy the sleek, inviting design. Plus, the Interactive sessions let you make your own art, try new classes, and tap into your own creative rhythm one of the best experiences offered here.

10- Yongyeon Pond

I visited Yongyeon on a quiet weekend, and it instantly felt like the kind of place Koreans and South Koreans escape to when the city becomes too much. Tucked close to Hwaseong Fortress, this little corner of Suwon is called the pond where a dragon stays, a name filled with meaning that you’ll notice as soon as you walk up to the pond. 

The water sits in the middle of a calm lake, with a small island where you can take a moment to breathe. When I first met locals here, they were spread out in swathes across the grass and benches, sharing homemade food and laughing as they unpacked homemade snacks, snacks, and things they had bought to enjoy together. It’s already a popular picnic spot, and honestly one of the best spots in the area for anyone visiting Suwon.

What makes this place even more special is how it transforms at night. The whole area gets lit up, letting you catch a shimmering reflection of the moon’s glow sitting gently on the water, which feels almost unreal. If you’re someone who loves taking photos, this is one of the best scenes you’ll find anywhere in South Korea. 

The fortress, too, lights up in the distance, lining the fortress wall walk like something straight out of a story. There are few places where you can stand at a pretty park and see history, nature, and local life blend together in such a simple, lovely way.

Every time I return, I notice how the parks here keep their charm—never too fancy, just real. We sit beneath the trees and watch families enjoy locally bought treats, travelers wandering to see where the path leads next, and friends hanging out as they slow down for a moment. 

If you’ll ever be in Suwon, don’t skip this spot. Even if you are not usually into calm places, this one has a quiet magic that stays with you without trying too hard. And the best part? You don’t need any planning to enjoy it just show up, be present, and let the place do the rest.

11- London Bagel Museum Suwon Experience

I didn’t expect a bagel spot to become one of my go-to stops in South Korea, but the London Bagel Museum (런던베이글뮤지엄) at Suwon Starfield totally surprised me.

This place is part of a popular, Korean bagel chain with several branches, and I swear every time I pass by, there are long lines of people literally wanting to get into the door. 

You’d think it’s only a bagel, and you might even cry at the hype, but when a spot has over 100,000 followers on Instagram, you kind of realize it’s not just talk. I felt luckily early enough on my first visit, so I scored their fluffy goodness without suffering too much.

What makes this particular branch fun is the energy it blends the comfort of a bakery with the buzz of a mall. It’s the kind of spot where you grab something warm before wandering out to explore various corners of the city. 

And because I’m a sucker for comparing food scenes, this Suwon stop kinda reminded me of the cool cafes you’d find in Seoul’s Seongsu-dong and Ikseondong neighborhoods, except with a little more “Suwon chill” energy.

If you’re already exploring what to do around the city, dropping by here feels like the easiest mini-treat moment simple, cozy, and honestly just fun.

12- Jidong Market & Soondae Town

Whenever I wander close to Namsumun Gate, I always drift toward Jidong because it’s home to one of Suwon’s largest traditional markets. You can feel the pulse of the city here an alley packed with stalls, sellers, and a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce to dried snacks stacked in dozens of piles. 

I remember stopping by Motgol and Nammun Market, two other famous spots close by, but this Market always pulls me back because it’s also where the energy is unmatched.

Everything feels Korean to the core, traditional, lively, and good, with a huge wet section plus a maze-like Market layout that keeps you exploring.

Walk deeper and you suddenly end up in Soondae Town, an unexpected treat for anyone curious enough to try something different. The moment I stepped into the alley, the smell of sizzling sausage hit me rich, warm, and unmistakably blood-based. 

It’s not every day you find yourself surrounded by assorted bowls of foods, each more intriguing than the last. Some travelers get nervous about the idea of bloody sausage, but honestly, it’s a comfort food here, and once you taste it, you understand exactly where its charm lies.

If you let yourself roam, you’ll see how the rhythm of sellers calling out, the shuffle of shoppers, and the sight of steaming pots all blend into an experience that sticks with you long after.

Whether you’re searching for something fresh, something dried, or something a little daring like blood sausage, this corner of Suwon wraps it all together effortlessly and that’s exactly why I keep coming back.

13- Watch a K-League Game at Suwon World Cup Stadium

Catching a K League football or soccer game is honestly one of the best ways to kick-off your trip to Suwon. Crowds here love this popular sport, right up there with baseball, and you’ll feel that energy the moment Suwon FC play in the top flight K-League at nearby Suwon Stadium. The best part? Tickets are easy to purchase and often very cheap, which makes the whole thing feel way too good to skip.

Take a bus using the simple transport links and roll into the huge World Cup Stadium, where the season runs from February to November, with matches generally on Fridays through Sundays.

The excitement of live sports hits hard inside the Suwon World Cup Stadium, better known as Big Bird, an iconic venue that hosted the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Every time I walk in, I’m reminded why this place still pulls in locals and travelers now.

You’ll see the Suwon Samsung Bluewings home team on the field, and the passion of Korean fans creates a thrilling match atmosphere. Hearing thousands cheer together during Live football matches gives you that full-body buzz. It’s the kind of moment you can’t fake.

If you’ve got time after, take one of the stadium tours perfect for visitors who want to explore the behind-the-scenes areas, from training facilities to moments of team history you’d never learn from the stands. I’ve done one of the Stadium tours, and it genuinely deepens your appreciation of the place.

And don’t miss the unique design of the stadium. People love to admire how it’s built resembling a bird in flight, and once you see it, you get why it’s become a symbol of Suwon.

14- Palescent Cafe

When I think about slow mornings in Suwon, my mind goes straight to the time I wandered into Palescent cafe or as some locals spell it, Paletscent cafe tucked between cozy streets and some of the prettiest Instagrammable cafes in the city. I remember following a tiny map, hoping for a quiet spot before a full day of sightseeing, and I definitely found it. 

The rooftop terrace opened up to the kind of views you don’t expect to stumble on, with a clear view of Janganmun Gate standing right in front of me.

I enjoyed a couple of morning coffees here, switching between warm brews and the kind of iced coffee that hits perfectly when you’re trying to relax before exploring new places.

There was something about the outdoor space that made lingering feel easy like the city wanted you to slow down for a minute. I’ve visited plenty of cafés around Korea, but this one had that calm charm that sticks with you.

Maybe it was the timing, maybe the weather, or maybe it was just Suwon being Suwon, but the whole moment felt right. If you’re looking for a spot that mixes great coffee with scenery that practically begs to be photographed, this is the kind of place you’ll want to add to your list.

15- Dohwa Tiger Cafe Suwon

When I first wandered through Suwon, I didn’t expect that A charming hanok style coffee shop would steal my attention, but that’s exactly what happened when We visited the Suwon branch of Dohwa Tiger. This Korean cafe chain draws a surprising lot of young locals, visiting tourists, and anyone who loves to hang out in places that feel very warm yet modern. 

The scene inside was absolutely buzzing seriously, it felt like the whole city was there, and it somehow made the space feel even more inviting. The vibe was effortlessly cool, the décor subtle but thoughtful, and the aroma of fresh brews made everything smell like roasted beans drifting through old streets.

What makes this spot even better is that it is also very close to Jidong Mural Village, so you can grab a latte and stroll straight into one of the most colorful corners of the city. I loved that mix traditional meets trendy, calm meets lively. 

You’ll see friends chatting, couples taking photos, and travelers sinking into the atmosphere of a place that somehow blends the old soul of Suwon with the energy of now.

If you’re plotting what to do next in the area, starting or ending your walk at this packed little gem feels like the right move and a slice of local life worth savoring.

​​16- Enjoy Traditional Korean Tea at a Local Tea House

When I first wandered into one of Suwon’s small tea houses, I didn’t expect to be pulled so deeply into the art of Korean teas. The setting felt instantly cozy, with soft colors, gentle lighting, and decor that looked thoughtfully decorated and almost museum-like in how it seemed to reflect the city’s heritage. 

The ambiance was so tranquil that it made me relax without even trying. These establishments treat tea as more than a drink it’s a full cultural experience, and each cup comes with its own story.

One thing I loved was exploring the variety and range of flavors from classic teas to more unusual blends. I decided to savor green tea first, then moved on to herbal tea, omija cha, and even ssanghwa cha and each unique taste felt like a little moment of discovery. 

If you want something truly special, try five-flavor berry tea; it somehow manages to be sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and spicy all at once. And trust me, nothing beats a hot tea served in an authentic setting when you need a break from exploring the city.

Of course, no visit is complete without something sweet to pair with your drink. Most places offer traditional Korean sweets like hangwa and yakgwa, which feel like the perfect complement to any brew. 

These small desserts are lightly flavored, beautifully crafted, and honestly just delicious. I made it a point to enjoy them slowly almost ritual-like letting the sweets elevate the entire moment.

That simple combination of warm tea and delicate treats made the whole visit feel beautifully grounded, almost like time had slowed just enough for me to really take in the city.

​​FAQ: 

Is Suwon worth visiting?

Yes, Suwon is absolutely worth a visit. It’s an easy day trip from Seoul, and there are many things to do without it feeling overwhelming. The city has cozy-town vibes, preserved charm, and historic sites all within walking distance.

From the iconic Hwaseong Fortress to the sleek and new Starfield Library, Suwon blends history and modern spots in a way that feels effortless and memorable.

Is Suwon Easy to Explore on Foot?

Whenever I’m in Suwon, I notice right away how walkable the city feels, especially around those lovely cafe streets that were designed in hanok style and make every corner feel warm and nostalgic. 

Some of my favorite strolls have led me straight to UNESCO heritage sites, where the mix of history and daily life blends into unexpectedly picturesque spots that almost seem ideal for real-life K-drama settings.

What food is famous in Suwon?

Suwon is renowned for local dishes that truly capture the essence of Korean cuisine, especially favorites like dakgalbi, the spicy stir-fried chicken, rich galbijjim with its tender braised short ribs, and classic bibimbap, the colorful mixed rice bowl made with fresh ingredients. 

Each plate delivers bold flavors, a harmonious blend of textures and spices that locals and visitors find absolutely delectable.

How Long Is the Ride From Seoul to Suwon?

Whenever I plan a little escape from Seoul to Suwon, I love how the trains make the whole travel experience feel quick and surprisingly convenient.

Since the two cities are close, the lines operate so regularly throughout the day that both day travelers and commuters get plenty of schedule flexibility, which honestly makes it a great option for anyone who likes spontaneous plans.

The trip itself feels brief, usually taking around 30 to 40 minutes, and every time I’m on board, I’m reminded of how easy it is to slip out of the city and dive straight into Suwon’s calm, historic streets.

Can You Safely Drink Water in Suwon?

Whenever I’m exploring Suwon, I don’t stress much about grabbing a sip because the tap water here meets both US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Korean Environmental Governing Standards (KEGS) for safe drinking water in CY 2024. 

I’ve filled my bottle plenty of times while wandering through the city, and knowing that the system follows strict guidelines makes it feel trustworthy, especially when you’re out all day checking out the sights.

If you prefer bottled water, that’s everywhere too, but it’s also interesting to know that the sources for Korea’s water whether tap or bottled come from rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. 

With that many natural supply points, it’s no surprise the quality stays consistent, which just makes traveling around Suwon a bit easier and way more comfortable.

Is Suwon Safe at Night?

Whenever I’m out in Suwon after sunset, I notice right away how the crime rate feels very low, and the city itself stays surprisingly clean and organized, which definitely contributes to the sense of overall safety. 

The Korean people I’ve met during late walks are generally respectful and genuinely helpful, and that alone makes getting around a lot easier, especially if you’re still figuring out the area.

On top of that, the public transportation at night is just as reliable as during the day, and most streets stay well-lit, making the night atmosphere calm rather than sketchy. 

Suwon gives off that steady, comfortable vibe where exploring after dark doesn’t feel like a risk but more like a softer extension of the city’s daytime charm.

Final Thoughts

After spending time in Suwon, I always feel like the exploration shows me a side of the vibrant city that goes far beyond a quick stopover from Seoul.

Whether I’m walking along the impressive ramparts of Hwaseong Fortress or weaving through bustling markets brimming with delicious eats, the way the place invites travelers to dive deep into its rich tapestry of history and modern culture feels genuinely special. 

Every visit reminds me why Suwon naturally deserves a spot on any South Korean itinerary, especially for those who want more than the usual tourist circuit.

Before heading out, I like giving myself a mental recap a couple of final tips to ensure I make the most of the day. 

Suwon rewards curiosity, whether you’re lingering at a fortress gate, following the smell of fresh food, or letting small moments guide your steps. It’s a city that grows on you the more intentionally you explore it.