Flights from Adelaide (ADL) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Discover Seoul

Why visit Seoul?
Seoul is a dynamic city where cutting-edge technology, fashion, and culture sit alongside historic palaces and tranquil gardens. You will find a city that is energetic yet welcoming, with late-night streets, creative districts, and calm riverside paths all within easy reach.

What to expect
The city stretches along the Han River, framed by low mountains and a skyline of glass towers and compact neighbourhood streets. Each district has its own character, from creative Hongdae and stylish Gangnam to the traditional architecture around Gyeongbokgung and Bukchon.

Plan your trip
Seoul works well for both short breaks and longer journeys that link with other parts of South Korea. Efficient transport and clear signage help you move easily between districts, and the city is a convenient starting point for exploring coastal towns, national parks, and high-speed rail routes across the country.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Explore this grand royal palace complex, known for its sweeping courtyards, traditional architecture, and views towards surrounding mountains.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Wander narrow lanes lined with traditional houses and enjoy viewpoints that overlook both old rooftops and the modern city skyline.

Namsan Seoul Tower

Ride or walk up Namsan for panoramic views of the city, then visit observation decks and terraces that light up after sunset.

Myeongdong shopping streets

Stroll through bustling pedestrian lanes filled with beauty stores, fashion boutiques, and lively snack stalls in the evening.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Admire the futuristic curves of this cultural complex, which hosts design exhibitions, events, and a landscaped rooftop park.

Han River parks

Relax along riverside paths with wide lawns, cycle routes, and picnic spots that are especially atmospheric at dusk.

Hongdae arts district

Experience a creative neighbourhood known for street performances, independent shops, and small galleries showcasing local talent.

Insadong cultural street

Browse shops and studios selling crafts, calligraphy, and artwork in a district that blends historic charm with modern cafés.

Experience Seoul's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seoul's metro system is the most efficient way to cover longer distances, with clear signage and frequent services. Buses fill in the gaps and reach many hillside neighbourhoods, while taxis are useful late at night. For short hops, walking between connected districts is often quicker than you expect.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Seoul unfolds in busy cafés, small galleries, and community parks that fill with people after work. Neighbourhoods such as Seongsu and Ikseon-dong showcase renovated warehouses and traditional houses adapted into studios and shops, reflecting the city’s mix of heritage and contemporary style.

Where to unwind
You can slow the pace in riverside parks along the Han, quiet hillside trails on Inwangsan, or landscaped city parks such as Seoul Forest. Early mornings are peaceful for gentle walks, while evenings offer soft light, skyline views, and illuminated bridges over the river.

A taste of Seoul

Street food & local specialties
Seoul's streets and markets are ideal for sampling comforting dishes, from sizzling barbecued meats to warming stews and savoury pancakes. Areas such as Myeongdong, Gwangjang Market, and Namdaemun are known for stalls and casual eateries where you can try a variety of flavours in one visit.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Across the city you will find relaxed restaurants in shopping malls, office towers, and converted warehouses, offering both local favourites and international cuisines. In districts such as Hongdae, Gangnam, and Yeouido, smaller plates and shared dishes make it easy to try several options with friends or family.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special meal, look for restaurants near the Han River, in high-rise towers, or on hotel rooftops that frame the skyline at night. Dining near Namsan, around Cheonggyecheon Stream, or in central business districts can combine city views with attentive service and carefully presented menus.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Seoul offers large shopping complexes where fashion, beauty, homeware, and entertainment sit side by side. In areas such as Gangnam and Jamsil, multi-level malls combine international brands with local designers, cinemas, and spacious food courts that make them popular meeting spots.

Markets & local crafts
For something more individual, visit Gwangjang Market, Insadong, or streets around Hongdae to find independent labels, handmade accessories, and design-focused studios. These areas let you see the work of local creators up close and often include small workshops, galleries, and pop-up spaces.

Evening retail scene
After dark, districts like Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, and Hongdae stay bright and busy, with illuminated storefronts and extended opening hours. Night markets and late-opening malls create a lively atmosphere, and frequent metro and bus services make it straightforward to reach these areas and return to your hotel.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (bom)
From March to May, temperatures range from about 7°C to 20°C (45°F to 68°F). Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery appear across parks and palace grounds, creating soft colours and comfortable sightseeing conditions. This is generally a peak season, with a pleasant balance of sunshine and cool air.

Summer (yeoreum)
June to August brings warm, sometimes humid weather, with temperatures around 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Longer days are ideal for riverside walks, outdoor events, and evening views from hilltop parks and towers. This is considered shoulder season, with lively city life and plenty of indoor options if showers pass through.

Autumn and winter (gaeul and gyeoul)
From September to November, autumn offers crisp air and colourful foliage at around 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F), a peak season for scenic walks. December to February is cooler, from about -4°C to 5°C (25°F to 41°F), a low season that rewards you with clear skies, festive lights, and quieter attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions