Flights from Istanbul (IST) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Discover Seoul

Why visit Seoul?
Seoul blends cutting-edge technology, design, and fashion with historic architecture and traditional neighbourhoods. You can move from quiet old streets to neon-lit districts and riverside parks in a single day, creating a vibrant yet organised city experience.

What to expect
You will find an efficient metro network, lively shopping streets, and compact areas that are easy to explore on foot. Districts like Myeong-dong, Hongdae, and Gangnam each have their own character, from street stalls and indie culture to sleek glass towers and tranquil green spaces.

Plan your trip
Seoul works well for short city breaks or longer journeys that include the rest of South Korea. Use the city as a base to discover nearby mountains, coastal towns, and high-speed rail links to other regions, while enjoying a wide choice of accommodation and transport connections.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Stroll through grand courtyards, pavilions, and landscaped grounds at this historic royal complex in the heart of the city.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Wander narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses, set on a hillside with views across modern Seoul.

Namsan Seoul Tower

Ride or hike up Namsan and take in panoramic views of the skyline from the tower and surrounding park paths.

Myeong-dong

Explore a dense network of streets filled with cosmetics shops, fashion boutiques, and busy snack stalls.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Follow this restored stream corridor through downtown, with walking paths, bridges, and seasonal light installations.

Hongdae

Experience youthful energy with street performances, small galleries, cafés, and late-night venues clustered around the university area.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Admire striking contemporary architecture and visit rotating exhibitions, design shops, and cultural events.

Han River Parks

Relax by the river on wide lawns and cycle paths, with rental bikes and picnic spots dotting the waterfront.

Experience Seoul's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seoul is best explored using its extensive metro network, which clearly connects major districts and landmarks. Complement your journeys with buses or taxis for shorter hops, and consider renting a bicycle along the Han River for a different perspective.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Seoul moves quickly yet feels orderly, with residents filling cafés, galleries, and parks throughout the week. Neighbourhoods have distinct personalities, from creative streets near universities to business districts that transform into relaxed dining areas after work.

Where to unwind
When you need a break, seek out riverside parks, hillside viewpoints, or neighbourhood green spaces scattered across the city. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for quieter walks, cooler air, and soft light over the skyline.

A taste of Seoul

Street food & local specialties
You will find tempting snacks on busy streets and in compact food alleys, where sizzling grills and steaming pots are part of the experience. Areas like Myeong-dong and Jongno are known for casual counters serving comforting noodle dishes, barbecued meats, and savoury pancakes.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Across shopping districts and commercial centres, you can choose from food courts, cafés, and small restaurants offering both local favourites and international flavours. Generous sharing plates encourage you to try several dishes, making it easy to sample something new at every meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For special occasions, seek out restaurants with views over the city, from rooftops in central districts to venues near the Han River. Elevated menus, considered interiors, and night-time city lights combine to create memorable dining experiences.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Seoul offers modern shopping complexes where international brands, local designers, and entertainment spaces sit under one roof. These centres often include cinemas, food courts, and cultural venues, making them convenient places to spend an afternoon.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller streets and markets are ideal for discovering everyday goods, design pieces, and textiles. Neighbourhoods such as Insadong, Hongdae, and Dongdaemun are known for shops ranging from traditional craft stores to contemporary studios and stalls.

Evening retail scene
After dark, many shopping districts remain active, with illuminated façades and later closing hours. Night-time markets and streets feel especially lively, and frequent metro and bus services make it straightforward to travel back to your hotel.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (Bom)
From March to May, Seoul enjoys mild weather, with average temperatures around 10–20°C (50–68°F). Blossoming trees, clear skies, and comfortable conditions make this shoulder season ideal for outdoor walks and city sightseeing.

Summer (Yeoreum)
June to August brings warm, humid days, with temperatures typically between 22–30°C (72–86°F). This peak season offers long daylight hours, lively riverside parks, and plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy when you want a break from the heat.

Autumn and winter (Gaeul and Gyeoul)
September to November offers crisp, dry days and vivid foliage, with 10–22°C (50–72°F) making it a popular shoulder season. December to February is low season, cooler at around -2–7°C (28–45°F), but rewarding if you enjoy quieter streets, clear air, and seasonal events.

Frequently Asked Questions