Flights from Paris (CDG) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Seoul, where tradition meets high-tech energy

Seoul is a city of contrasts, where sleek glass towers rise beside historic palaces, and tranquil parks sit moments away from neon-lit shopping streets. You will find a fast-paced capital that still offers many quiet corners, from hillside villages to riverside paths along the Han River.

The city is made up of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own character. Explore modern districts filled with design studios and galleries, or wander older streets lined with low-rise houses and intimate eateries. Whether you are visiting for culture, food, shopping, or business, Seoul welcomes you with a blend of efficiency and warmth.

As day turns into night, Seoul shifts seamlessly into a city of lights. Markets stay open late, streets fill with people enjoying casual dining, and the skyline glows over the river. It is a destination that rewards both first-time visitors and those returning to discover something new.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Walk through grand courtyards and elegant pavilions at this landmark palace, framed by mountain views and landscaped grounds.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses and admire views across the modern city below.

Namsan Seoul Tower

Ride or hike up Namsan Mountain for panoramic views of Seoul from the observation decks and surrounding walking trails.

Myeongdong Shopping District

Browse busy streets filled with fashion boutiques, beauty shops, and street food stalls in one of Seoul's most famous areas.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Explore a striking modern complex that hosts design exhibitions, events, and a vibrant night market nearby.

Experience the spirit of Seoul

Seoul offers many ways to get to know its creative and urban character. Join a walking tour through historic neighbourhoods to learn how the city has grown around its palaces and fortified gates, or follow the restored Cheonggyecheon Stream as it winds through the centre, offering a peaceful path amid the cityscape.

For a more local experience, spend time exploring Seoul's varied markets and cultural streets. Visit areas known for crafts, design, and independent shops, where you can see contemporary makers at work. Outdoors, the city is surrounded by low mountains with well-marked hiking trails, giving you accessible viewpoints and fresh air within easy reach of the metro.

In the evening, you can experience Seoul's modern side through performances, live music, or contemporary art spaces. From large theatres to smaller venues, the city offers a wide range of shows and exhibitions, making it easy to add culture to your itinerary.

A taste of Seoul

Dining in Seoul is a highlight of any visit, with everything from casual eateries to refined restaurants. You can enjoy steaming stews, grilled meats, and rice dishes, often served with a generous selection of side dishes that add flavour and variety to every meal.

Street food is another essential part of the city’s food culture. Many neighbourhoods have stalls and small kiosks offering savoury snacks, warm pancakes, and comforting bowls of noodles. It is easy to sample different tastes as you move between districts, whether you are near busy shopping streets or riverside parks.

Coffee culture is strong in Seoul, and you will find a wide choice of cafés, from quiet spaces ideal for a break to concept cafés with inventive interiors. Dessert shops and bakeries are also popular, giving you many options for a relaxed pause between sightseeing and shopping.

Retail therapy in a 24-hour city

Seoul is known for its diverse shopping, from flagship stores to underground arcades. Major areas offer global fashion brands, lifestyle stores, and large malls where you can find clothing, accessories, homeware, and electronics all in one place.

If you are searching for unique items, explore neighbourhoods with independent designers and smaller boutiques. Here you can discover locally designed fashion, stationery, and lifestyle goods in compact, well-curated spaces. Many of these areas also have galleries, cafés, and studios that add to the creative atmosphere.

For a lively experience, visit the city’s markets and late-opening districts, where shops stay open into the night. You can move easily between modern malls and surrounding streets, making shopping a flexible part of your day or evening plans.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring in Seoul (March to May, 5°C–20°C / 41°F–68°F, shoulder season) brings mild temperatures, clear days, and blossoming trees across parks and riverside paths. It is a pleasant time for walking tours, outdoor cafés, and exploring historic palaces in comfortable weather.

Summer (June to August, 20°C–30°C / 68°F–86°F, peak season) is warm and lively, with long daylight hours and a vibrant atmosphere in shopping streets and night markets. Parks and riverside areas are popular for picnics and evening walks, and indoor attractions offer welcome breaks from the heat.

Autumn and winter (September to February, -5°C–22°C / 23°F–72°F, low season) offer crisp air, colourful foliage in early autumn, and the possibility of snow in mid-winter. It is a rewarding time to enjoy clear city views, warm seasonal dishes, and quieter visits to major attractions.

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