Flights from Chongqing (CKG) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Seoul, where tradition meets modern energy

Seoul is a city of contrasts, where sleek glass towers rise beside historic palaces and bustling markets. The Han River cuts through the heart of the city, framing neighbourhoods that range from creative and bohemian to refined and business-focused. Every district offers a distinct rhythm, from early-morning markets to late-night cafés and street food stalls.

You will find a city that moves quickly yet still makes space for quiet corners, riverside walks, and green hills on the horizon. Whether you are visiting for shopping, food, culture, or business, Seoul welcomes you with efficient transport, a vibrant café scene, and a strong sense of style that you will see in everything from architecture to everyday fashion.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Explore the grand courtyards, ornamental gates, and stately halls of this historic palace set against a backdrop of low mountains.

N Seoul Tower

Ride or walk up Namsan for panoramic views of the city skyline from the tower observation decks, especially atmospheric at sunset.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll through narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses, with viewpoints that overlook central Seoul.

Myeongdong Shopping District

Browse beauty brands, fashion boutiques, and street food stalls in one of Seoul’s liveliest pedestrian neighbourhoods.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Admire this futuristic landmark, then explore nearby fashion markets and late-night shopping streets.

Experience Seoul up close

Seoul rewards those who explore on foot. Join a walking tour around the historic heart of the city to learn how the old city walls, palaces, and neighbourhoods fit together. Along Cheonggyecheon Stream, you can follow landscaped walkways that run below the main roads, offering a calm route through central districts by day and night.

For a different vantage point, head to the Han River parks where locals cycle, jog, or relax on the grass with snacks and drinks. You can rent a bicycle and ride along the waterfront paths, or simply enjoy the skyline views from a riverside bench. In the hillier neighbourhoods, such as around Namsan or the city wall trails, light hikes reward you with wide views over Seoul and a sense of how expansive the city really is.

Culture is always close by, whether you visit small galleries in Samcheong-dong, explore large museum complexes, or discover creative spaces in former industrial areas. Many districts blend cafés, independent shops, and performance venues, making it easy to combine sightseeing with relaxed time in between.

A taste of Seoul

Food is central to life in Seoul, and you will quickly notice how many options line every street. From classic barbecue restaurants to contemporary bistros and minimalist cafés, there is always somewhere to sit down for a shared meal or a quick bite. Hotpots, grilled meats, comforting stews, and rice dishes are common favourites, especially on cooler days.

Street food is another highlight. Night markets and busy corners of districts like Myeongdong offer snacks such as skewers, stuffed pancakes, and filled rice cakes. These stalls are ideal if you want to taste a variety of flavours in a single evening while soaking up the atmosphere of the city.

Café culture is strong throughout Seoul. Many cafés specialise in carefully prepared coffee and photogenic desserts, often with distinctive interiors or rooftop terraces. Whether you are taking a break from shopping or looking for a quiet moment between meetings, you will find plenty of comfortable spots to pause and recharge.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Seoul is known for its shopping, with options ranging from major department stores and high-end boutiques to independent designers and sprawling markets. In Myeongdong and Gangnam, you will find international brands, beauty labels, and flagship stores that showcase the latest trends and seasonal collections.

For a more traditional atmosphere, visit markets where vendors sell textiles, accessories, homeware, and local snacks. These areas are perfect for picking up everyday items and unique souvenirs, with many shops open late into the evening. Districts like Hongdae emphasise youth culture and creativity, with small studios and street stalls selling original designs and art.

If you are interested in design and lifestyle products, head to concept stores and lifestyle malls that bring together fashion, home decor, and stationery in curated spaces. Whether you prefer to browse leisurely or plan a focused shopping day, Seoul offers a wide variety of districts to explore.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring in Seoul (March to May, shoulder season) brings mild days of around 10–20°C (50–68°F) and blooming trees throughout the city. Streets, river parks, and palace grounds feel especially inviting for walking tours and picnics, and outdoor cafés start to fill with people enjoying the softer sunshine.

Summer (June to August, peak season) is warm and humid, with temperatures typically between 22–30°C (72–86°F). This is a lively time with outdoor events, riverside activities, and longer daylight hours, giving you more time to explore neighbourhoods and enjoy evenings on terraces, in markets, and by the Han River.

Autumn and winter (September to February, low season) offer crisp air and a wide range of temperatures, from around 5–20°C (41–68°F) in autumn down to below 0–5°C (32–41°F) in mid-winter. Autumn skies are often clear and bright, while winter highlights include city lights, cosy cafés, and the chance to experience Seoul under occasional snow.

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