Flights from New York (NYC) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Seoul, where tradition meets cutting-edge city life

Seoul is a city of vivid contrasts, where glass towers rise above historic palaces and bustling markets. From the moment you arrive, you feel the city’s fast pace, balanced by tranquil parks, riverside paths, and hillside viewpoints that give you space to take it all in.

Neighbourhoods each have a distinct personality, from the shopping streets of Myeong-dong and the creative alleys of Hongdae to the elegant avenues of Gangnam. Food, fashion, and technology shape everyday life here, and you can experience all three in a single stroll. Whether you are visiting for business, culture, or a city break, Seoul offers a rewarding mix of energy and ease.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Explore Seoul’s grandest former royal residence, known for its spacious courtyards, decorative gates, and surrounding mountain views.

N Seoul Tower on Namsan

Ride or walk up Namsan to enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline from the iconic tower’s observation decks.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Wander narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses and discover small galleries, teahouses, and viewpoints over the city.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Visit this striking, futuristic complex for design exhibitions, architecture, and late-night shopping in the surrounding district.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Stroll along this restored urban stream, a peaceful walkway that winds through central Seoul beneath the busy streets above.

Experience the culture and energy of Seoul

Spend time exploring Seoul on foot to appreciate how modern life blends with historic streets. Join a walking tour through Bukchon and Insadong to learn about traditional crafts, teahouses, and local design, or take a guided visit of one of the major palaces to better understand the city’s past and architecture.

For a different perspective, follow the Han River by bicycle on the extensive riverside paths, stopping at parks where locals picnic and relax. In the evening, experience the live music and performance scene in Hongdae or a contemporary gallery in Itaewon, where exhibitions often highlight emerging Korean and international artists.

If you enjoy views, hike one of Seoul’s accessible peaks, such as Bukhansan’s lower trails or the city walls near Naksan Park. These routes reward you with sweeping vistas, making it easy to see how the city stretches between rivers, hills, and distant mountains.

A taste of Seoul

Seoul’s dining scene is rich, varied, and deeply social. Many meals are shared, with a table filled with small side dishes and grilled or simmered main dishes at the centre. In neighbourhoods like Jongno and Mapo you find long-standing eateries serving beloved local classics in a lively setting.

Street food is a highlight, especially around Myeong-dong, Gwangjang Market, and night markets across the city. You can sample skewers, savoury pancakes, rice cakes, and seasonal favourites made to order. These areas are ideal if you want to try a wide range of dishes in one evening.

Seoul also excels at contemporary dining and cafés. In districts such as Seongsu and Hannam, restaurants and coffee shops occupy converted warehouses and low-rise buildings, offering creative menus in stylish spaces. Dessert cafés and late-opening bakeries make it easy to end your day with something sweet.

Retail therapy in a trend-setting city

Seoul is a major destination for fashion, skincare, and lifestyle design. In Myeong-dong you find a high concentration of beauty brands and fashion stores, ideal if you want to explore the latest trends in one central area. Nearby department stores offer curated selections of local and global labels.

For independent brands and unique finds, head to Hongdae, Seongsu, or the side streets of Garosu-gil in Sinsa-dong. These districts are known for studios, concept shops, and pop-up spaces that showcase emerging designers, homeware, and accessories. They are also pleasant areas for browsing and people-watching.

If you enjoy markets, visit Namdaemun or Gwangjang, where vendors sell textiles, clothing, kitchenware, and food under one roof. Large shopping centres and underground arcades, often linked to metro stations, provide convenient options in all weather, so you can shop comfortably at any time of year.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (March to May, peak season) brings mild, comfortable weather to Seoul, with average temperatures around 10–20°C (50–68°F). Blossoms and fresh greenery line streets and parks, creating ideal conditions for walking tours, outdoor cafés, and riverside cycling.

Summer (June to August, shoulder season) is warm and humid, with average temperatures of 23–30°C (73–86°F). This is a great time to enjoy the Han River parks in the evening, indoor attractions such as museums and malls during the day, and seasonal food and drink across the city.

Autumn (September to November, peak season) offers clear skies, cool air, and average temperatures of 10–22°C (50–72°F). Tree-lined streets, palace gardens, and surrounding hills are covered in colourful foliage, making it a wonderful season for photography and outdoor walks.

Winter (December to February, low season) is cold and crisp, with average temperatures ranging from -5 to 5°C (23–41°F). You can enjoy clear views from city viewpoints, cosy cafés, and winter snacks from street stalls, and you may experience occasional snow that adds a different atmosphere to Seoul’s landmarks.

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