N Seoul Tower

N Seoul Tower, atop Namsan mountain in the heart of the city, is the landmark that crowns Seoul, a communications and observation tower rising above the mountain's forested park. Reached by a cable car up the slope, its observation deck offers sweeping 360-degree panoramas over the vast, mountain-ringed metropolis, spectacular by day and dazzling after dark, while its terraces are famously festooned with thousands of padlocks left by couples.

What you actually see

• The city panorama - the 360-degree views over Seoul.
• The cable car - the ride up Namsan mountain to the tower.
• The locks of love - the terraces festooned with couples' padlocks.
• The night view - the glittering city after dark.

When to go

Spring and autumn for the clearest views and pleasant weather; sunset and after dark, when the city lights blaze, are especially popular. The surrounding Namsan park is lovely for a walk up or down, with blossom in spring and colour in autumn.

Honest expectations

It is a classic city-tower experience, worth it mainly on a clear day, as haze and pollution can spoil the view. It is very popular, especially with couples at sunset, so the cable car and deck can queue. The tower itself is a modern landmark rather than a historic sight; the draw is the view and the setting.

Nearby

The Myeongdong shopping district and the palaces are below in central Seoul.