Flights from Paris (CDG) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Where tradition meets cutting-edge style

Seoul is a city where glass towers rise above historic streets, and quiet neighbourhoods sit moments away from buzzing shopping districts. The Han River cuts through the city, with leafy parks and cycling paths offering calm spaces between lively urban centres. From sunrise views over the city to late-night dining, each district has its own character.

You can spend your day exploring royal palaces and hillside villages, then move on to neon-lit streets lined with cafes and boutiques. Efficient transport, well-marked walking routes, and a strong cafe culture make it easy to explore at your own pace. Whether you are visiting for culture, food, or business, Seoul welcomes you with an energy that feels both modern and familiar.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Walk through grand courtyards, ornate gates, and elegant pavilions at this impressive royal complex in the heart of the city.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses and enjoy views that open out towards central Seoul.

Myeongdong

Explore a lively district packed with beauty shops, fashion stores, and countless places to sample Korean street snacks.

N Seoul Tower

Ride or hike up Namsan to this landmark tower for sweeping views of the skyline by day and city lights at night.

Hongdae

Experience a youthful neighbourhood known for live music, galleries, independent shops, and a creative evening atmosphere.

Experience Seoul up close

Seoul is a city best discovered on foot and by metro, with each stop revealing a new cluster of streets and stories. Join a guided walking tour around the historic core to learn about palace architecture, hidden alleys, and the evolution of the cityscape. Along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, you can enjoy a calm urban walk beneath the city streets, with art installations and small bridges along the way.

For a different perspective, try cycling or strolling along the paths beside the Han River, where you will find parks, sports facilities, and picnic spots used by locals throughout the year. In the evenings, explore culture through performance, from contemporary theatre and K-pop shows to traditional music and dance at dedicated venues. If you prefer quieter experiences, many museums and galleries offer well-curated exhibitions that trace both Korean heritage and modern design.

When you need a slower moment, head to one of the citys many cafes, where you can watch daily life unfold. Neighbourhoods like Seochon and Ikseon-dong blend small independent shops, atmospheric side streets, and friendly eateries, giving you a sense of Seouls creative side beyond the main shopping districts.

A taste of Seoul

Eating in Seoul is as much about atmosphere as it is about flavour. You can begin your day with coffee and pastries in stylish cafes, then move on to casual eateries serving comforting dishes such as savoury pancakes and warming stews. Food alleys and markets showcase sizzling grills, steaming pots, and stalls where you can sample bite-sized snacks as you go.

Barbecue restaurants are a highlight, where you can grill your own meats at the table and share a selection of side dishes. In busy districts such as Gangnam, Myeongdong, and Hongdae, you will find everything from long-standing family-run spots to sleek contemporary dining rooms. Many places stay open late, so you can enjoy a relaxed meal after exploring the city.

For something different, visit modern Korean restaurants that reinterpret familiar ingredients with new techniques, or explore global flavours in areas known for international cuisine. Dessert is a serious affair in Seoul, with soft shaved ice, delicate cakes, and seasonal treats available in dedicated dessert cafes and patisseries across the city.

Retail therapy in every district

Seoul offers a wide mix of shopping experiences, from contemporary malls to narrow streets filled with independent boutiques. In Myeongdong and Gangnam, you will find flagship beauty stores, international fashion labels, and lifestyle brands, all within easy walking distance. Modern shopping complexes often combine retail, dining, and entertainment, making them ideal places to spend a few hours.

If you enjoy finding unique pieces, head to neighbourhoods such as Hongdae and Itaewon, where small shops stock local designers, vintage clothing, and creative accessories. Traditional markets introduce you to local fabrics, homeware, and everyday items, while underground shopping arcades connect major metro stations with long corridors of stalls.

Duty-free outlets and department stores add another layer, offering curated selections of cosmetics, electronics, and premium goods in one place. Whether you are looking for the latest skincare launch, a new wardrobe staple, or a small souvenir, Seouls diverse shopping districts make it easy to find something that suits your style.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (March to May, shoulder season) brings mild weather, with average temperatures around 10–20°C (50–68°F). Blossoming trees brighten city parks and riverbanks, and the clear air is comfortable for walking tours, outdoor cafes, and exploring neighbourhoods on foot.

Summer (June to August, peak season) is warm and humid, with average temperatures of 22–30°C (72–86°F). Long days and lively evenings make it a great time for riverfront picnics, late-night shopping streets, and indoor attractions when you prefer to cool down in air-conditioned spaces.

Autumn (September to November, shoulder season) offers crisp days and cool nights, typically 10–22°C (50–72°F). Parks and surrounding hills turn colourful, creating scenic backdrops for city walks and trips to viewpoints such as Namsan and riverside parks.

Winter (December to February, low season) is cold and dry, with average temperatures from -5 to 5°C (23–41°F). Clear days, festive lights, and quieter attractions can make city sightseeing rewarding, especially if you enjoy cosy cafes, hot stews, and the possibility of light snow.

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