Flights from Beijing (BJS) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Discover Seoul

Why visit Seoul?
Seoul is a dynamic city where glass towers rise beside historic palaces and tranquil hanok lanes. You can explore creative districts, sample bold flavours, and enjoy a vibrant café culture that runs from early morning to late night.

What to expect
Neighbourhoods such as Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam each offer a different side of the city, from shopping streets to artsy back alleys. Efficient transport, clear signage, and well-kept public spaces make it easy to navigate and explore at your own pace.

Plan your trip
Seoul works well for a focused city break or as the starting point for discovering the rest of South Korea. High-speed trains and regional buses link the capital with coastal towns, mountain areas, and cultural cities, so you can easily add wider adventures to your stay.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Walk through grand courtyards, ornate gates, and tranquil ponds at this landmark former royal residence in the heart of Seoul.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses and enjoy hillside views of modern Seoul beyond the rooftops.

N Seoul Tower

Ride or hike up Namsan and take in panoramic views of the city skyline from observation decks high above the streets.

Myeongdong shopping streets

Explore lively pedestrian lanes packed with fashion, beauty shops, and colourful stalls selling quick snacks on the go.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Follow this restored urban waterway past bridges, art installations, and shaded seating areas that offer a pause from city traffic.

Hongdae arts and nightlife

Discover street performances, independent boutiques, and late-night cafés in this youthful district near several universities.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Admire the futuristic architecture, design exhibitions, and surrounding fashion malls at this major cultural landmark.

Lotte World Tower

Head up one of the world’s tallest towers for far-reaching views, then explore the surrounding mall, aquarium, and parks.

Experience Seoul’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seoul’s extensive metro network is the fastest way to move between major districts such as Gangnam, Hongdae, and City Hall. Buses fill in the gaps and often provide scenic views at street level. For short hops, wide pavements and clear signage make walking straightforward.

Local life & culture
In Seoul, you will notice a strong café culture, with stylish spaces where people meet, study, or work. Creative areas like Ikseon-dong and Seongsu-dong mix renovated warehouses, galleries, and small studios, giving you an easy way to experience local design and everyday routines.

Where to unwind
When you need a break from busy streets, head to Namsan Park, the banks of the Han River, or the trails in Bukhansan National Park. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal, when temperatures are gentler and the city lights start to shimmer in the distance.

A taste of Seoul

Street food & local specialties
You can try favourites such as barbecued meats, savoury pancakes, and hearty stews in neighbourhoods like Myeongdong, Jongno, and Mapo. Many streets are lined with casual eateries where grills, bubbling pots, and sizzling pans are visible from the pavement.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Seoul’s shopping districts and lifestyle complexes offer convenient food courts and restaurants with a wide range of flavours. Portions are often ideal for sharing, so you can sample several dishes with friends while exploring areas such as COEX, IFC Mall, or Times Square in Yeongdeungpo.

Signature & scenic dining
For special occasions, consider restaurants with views over the Han River or city skyline, especially around Namsan and high-rise complexes in Jamsil and Yeouido. Many fine-dining and modern Korean venues focus on seasonal produce, providing a memorable setting to end a day of sightseeing.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large complexes such as COEX Mall, Lotte World Mall, and Starfield malls bring together international brands, cinemas, and dining under one roof. These spaces double as social hubs, giving you opportunities to shop, meet friends, and pause between sightseeing.

Markets & local crafts
For smaller labels and crafts, explore Insadong for art and stationery, Ikseon-dong for independent boutiques, and Hongdae for design-focused shops. Each neighbourhood has its own character, making it easy to pick up distinctive items and thoughtful souvenirs.

Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets in Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, and Hongdae come alive with lights, music, and late-opening stores. Many malls and markets extend their hours into the night, and reliable public transport helps you return to your hotel comfortably after an evening browse.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (bom)
From March to May, temperatures usually range between 7°C and 20°C (45°F to 68°F). Trees and parks bloom with fresh colours, and clear days are common, making this the shoulder season for comfortable walks and city exploring.

Summer (yeoreum)
June to August brings warm weather, typically around 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), with higher humidity and occasional showers. This is the peak season, ideal if you enjoy outdoor festivals, riverfront activities, and lively evening streets.

Autumn and winter (gaeul and gyeoul)
September to November offers crisp air and 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F), with vivid foliage, while December to February ranges from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). These months cover shoulder season in autumn and low season in winter, with clear skies and a calmer city feel.

Frequently Asked Questions