Flights from London (LON) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Discover Seoul

Why visit Seoul?
Seoul is a dynamic city where gleaming skyscrapers, creative districts, and traditional neighbourhoods sit side by side. You will find quiet historic lanes, vast green parks, and lively nightlife, all tied together by a confident, forward-looking energy.

What to expect
The city stretches along the Han River, with hubs such as Gangnam, Hongdae, and Myeong-dong each offering a distinct feel. Expect efficient public transport, late-opening cafés, and a strong design and technology culture that shapes everyday life, from shopping streets to riverside promenades.

Plan your trip
Seoul works well for both short urban breaks and longer journeys that combine nearby cities and countryside. It is also a convenient gateway to the rest of South Korea, with high-speed rail and domestic flights connecting you to coastal towns, mountain national parks, and regional cultural centres.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Explore this grand historic complex, known for its graceful gates, sweeping courtyards, and striking backdrop of low mountains.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Wander narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses and enjoy views that look out over modern central Seoul.

Namsan Seoul Tower

Ride or hike up Namsan and visit the tower for panoramic views of the city skyline, especially atmospheric after sunset.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Stroll along this landscaped stream that runs below street level, offering shaded paths, art installations, and stepping stones.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Admire the futuristic architecture, then browse design shops and rotating exhibitions in this creative landmark complex.

Hongdae District

Experience Seoul’s youthful side with live music, street performances, independent boutiques, and colourful murals.

Han River Parks

Relax on broad riverside lawns, rent a bike, or join locals for picnics with sweeping views of bridges and apartment towers.

Lotte World Tower

Head up to the sky deck of this soaring skyscraper for expansive city views and explore the surrounding entertainment and retail complex.

Experience Seoul’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seoul’s metro system is extensive, clearly signposted, and the best way to cover longer distances across the city. Buses fill in gaps above ground and give you a sense of local neighbourhoods, while short journeys are easily completed on foot in compact central districts.

Local life & culture
Creative energy defines much of Seoul’s daily rhythm, from independent galleries and pop-up events to street performances in busy squares. Neighbourhoods such as Ikseon-dong and Seongsu combine restored low-rise buildings with stylish cafés and studios, offering a relaxed way to absorb the city’s design-focused outlook.

Where to unwind
You will find green spaces throughout Seoul, including forested hillsides and riverside parks ideal for slow walks and cycling. Morning visits bring soft light and quieter paths, while evenings are perfect for city-view strolls along the Han River as bridges and towers illuminate the skyline.

A taste of Seoul

Street food & local specialties
Seoul’s streets and compact market alleys are perfect for sampling grilled skewers, savoury pancakes, and comforting stews. Areas such as Myeong-dong, Gwangjang Market, and busy university districts offer many small stalls and eateries where you can try a variety of flavours in one visit.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping districts and mixed-use complexes across Gangnam, Jamsil, and central Seoul house countless casual restaurants, cafés, and dessert shops. Menus often feature sharing plates and flexible portion sizes, so you can order several dishes to sample different tastes with friends or family.

Signature & scenic dining
For special occasions, consider restaurants with skyline views along the Han River or within high-rise towers in Jamsil and Yeouido. Rooftop terraces and upper-floor dining rooms let you watch the city lights come on as you enjoy carefully prepared dishes in a refined yet relaxed setting.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping centres in districts such as Jamsil, Yeongdeungpo, and Gangnam combine international brands, local designers, cinemas, and cultural spaces. These multi-level complexes are popular places to meet friends, explore new labels, and enjoy cafés between browsing.

Markets & local crafts
For smaller finds, head to Insadong, Hongdae, or Ikseon-dong, where you will discover boutiques selling crafts, homeware, and stationery. Traditional-style streets and creative studios make it easy to pick up distinctive items that reflect Seoul’s mix of heritage and modern design.

Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets in Myeong-dong, Gangnam, and Dongdaemun glow with bright signs and late-opening stores. It is a good time to walk, browse beauty shops, and enjoy the busy atmosphere, with the metro and buses making these areas straightforward to reach in the evening.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (Bom)
From March to May, Seoul enjoys mild, bright days with average temperatures around 10–20°C (50–68°F). Blossoming trees and clear skies make this a pleasant shoulder season, with comfortable conditions for walking tours and exploring outdoor neighbourhoods.

Summer (Yeoreum)
June to August brings warm, humid weather, with temperatures typically between 22–30°C (72–86°F). This peak season is ideal if you enjoy long daylight hours, lively riverside parks, and indoor attractions such as galleries and shopping centres for midday breaks.

Autumn and winter (Gaeul & Gyeoul)
From September to November, crisp, dry days around 10–18°C (50–64°F) and colourful foliage create a relaxed shoulder season. December to February is a low season, with colder weather around -2–5°C (28–41°F), offering clear air, atmospheric night views, and quieter queues at major sights.

Frequently Asked Questions