Flights from Xiamen (XMN) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Discover Seoul

Why visit Seoul?
Seoul is a dynamic metropolis where cutting-edge design sits beside historic palaces and leafy hillsides. You can move from quiet hanok alleys to lively shopping districts in minutes, with the city offering a constant contrast of calm corners and energetic streets.

What to expect
You will find distinct neighbourhoods, from the style-focused avenues of Gangnam to the creative backstreets of Hongdae and Ikseon-dong. Wide riverside parks, efficient transport, and a clear sense of order give Seoul a welcoming, easy-to-navigate feel for first-time visitors and frequent travellers alike.

Plan your trip
Seoul works well as both a standalone city break and a gateway to the rest of South Korea. High-speed trains connect you onwards to coastal towns and mountainous interiors, while city airports and bus hubs make it simple to extend your journey beyond the capital.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Walk through grand courtyards and pavilions at this historic palace, framed by mountain views and wide ceremonial spaces.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll uphill lanes lined with traditional wooden houses and enjoy views over modern Seoul from quiet side streets.

N Seoul Tower on Namsan

Take the cable car or hike up Namsan for panoramic views of the city skyline from the observation decks.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Follow this restored stream through central Seoul, a pleasant walking route with art, greenery, and night lighting.

Myeong-dong

Explore a compact district packed with cosmetics shops, fashion stores, and lively snack stalls along pedestrian streets.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Admire futuristic architecture, design exhibitions, and an expansive public plaza that lights up after dark.

Hangang River Parks

Relax along the riverbanks with cycling paths, picnic spots, and open lawns popular with locals in the evenings.

Insadong

Browse galleries and boutiques along this long street known for crafts, artwork, and traditional teahouse courtyards.

Experience Seoul's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seoul’s extensive metro network is the most efficient way to cross the city, with clear signage and frequent services. Buses fill in the gaps for shorter hops, while riverside cycling paths and walkable neighbourhoods make the last stretch to your hotel or café straightforward.

Local life & culture
In residential streets you will see small convenience stores, community parks, and quiet cafés that show a slower side of Seoul. Creative districts feature street performances, independent galleries, and live music venues, reflecting a strong focus on design, fashion, and contemporary arts.

Where to unwind
City parks on Namsan and along the Hangang River offer shaded trails, open lawns, and gentle viewpoints. Early mornings are calm and cool, while late afternoons and evenings bring more locals outdoors to exercise, relax, and enjoy the changing light over the skyline.

A taste of Seoul

Street food & local specialties
You can sample grilled favourites, savoury pancakes, and comforting stews in busy alleys across Myeong-dong, Gwangjang Market, and lively university districts. Late-night snacks and shared dishes are a big part of the city’s food culture, with many shops open well into the evening.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping areas and office districts are filled with casual eateries, cafés, and contemporary restaurants that are easy to drop into between sightseeing stops. Menus often feature set meals, shared plates, and small portions, making it simple to try a variety of flavours in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable views, head to rooftop spaces overlooking the city centre or riverside venues along the Hangang. In several high-rise districts, you will find restaurants with window tables facing the skyline, ideal for relaxed dinners as the lights come on across Seoul.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large malls in Gangnam, Jamsil, and Yeouido bring together international brands, cinemas, and food courts under one roof. These complexes offer a comfortable way to shop in any weather, with wide walkways and plenty of places to take a break.

Markets & local crafts
For more character, explore Insadong’s side streets, the lanes around Hongdae, and smaller markets dotted across the old city centre. Here you can find handmade goods, stationery, artwork, and independent fashion labels in compact, walkable areas.

Evening retail scene
After dark, neon-lit streets in Myeong-dong, Dongdaemun, and several university districts stay busy with shoppers and browsers. Many stores and stalls remain open late into the night, and reliable public transport makes it easy to return to your hotel when you are ready to call it a day.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (Bom)
From March to May, daytime temperatures usually range between 10°C and 22°C (50°F to 72°F), creating mild, comfortable conditions. Blossoming trees, clear skies, and pleasant evenings make this shoulder season ideal for outdoor walking, riverfront picnics, and exploring neighbourhood streets.

Summer (Yeoreum)
June to August brings warm, humid weather, with temperatures often between 22°C and 30°C (72°F to 86°F). This peak season is lively, with long daylight hours, evening river activities, and plenty of indoor attractions, cafés, and malls to enjoy on hotter or rainier days.

Autumn and winter (Gaeul and Gyeoul)
From September to November, autumn is a shoulder season with 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F) days and colourful foliage in parks and mountains. December to February is low season, cooler at around -2°C to 6°C (28°F to 43°F), bringing crisp air, clear views, and a calm atmosphere in many outdoor spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions