Flights from Surabaya (SUB) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Discover Seoul

Why visit Seoul?
Seoul blends cutting-edge modernity with historic neighbourhoods, creating a city where neon lights, mountain backdrops, and traditional architecture sit side by side. You will find a dynamic atmosphere, from busy shopping streets to calm palace courtyards.

What to expect
The city is defined by distinct districts, including the fashion-forward streets of Myeong-dong, the creative energy of Hongdae, and the gleaming business towers of Gangnam. The Han River, efficient metro system, and late-night opening hours make it easy to explore from morning into the night.

Plan your trip
Seoul is an excellent base for discovering more of South Korea, with high-speed trains linking you to cities such as Busan and Daegu. Whether you stay within the capital or venture further, you can easily combine urban sightseeing, nature escapes, and coastal trips in a single itinerary.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Walk through grand courtyards and pavilions at this historic palace, framed by mountain views and wide ceremonial squares.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll narrow lanes lined with traditional hanok houses, and pause at viewpoints that overlook the modern city skyline.

N Seoul Tower on Namsan

Ride or hike up Namsan for a panoramic view of Seoul, especially atmospheric at sunset and after dark.

Myeong-dong

Explore busy pedestrian streets filled with beauty shops, fashion boutiques, and lively snack stalls.

Hongdae

Experience youthful energy with street performances, small galleries, cafés, and independent shops clustered around Hongik University.

COEX and Starfield Library

Visit this major complex in Gangnam for shopping, an aquarium, and a striking open library with towering bookshelves.

Han River Parks

Relax along the riverbank parks, where you can cycle, picnic, or simply watch the city lights reflect on the water.

Insadong

Browse galleries and shops specialising in crafts, ceramics, and calligraphy in this characterful central district.

Experience Seoul’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seoul’s metro network is the fastest way to cross the city, with clear signage and frequent trains. Buses complement the metro on shorter routes, while taxis are useful late at night when services thin out. For short distances, walking between neighbouring districts can be surprisingly convenient.

Local life & culture
You will notice how quickly Seoul shifts from busy main roads to calm backstreets. University areas buzz with music and small venues, while central business districts feel focused and fast-paced on weekdays. Cultural centres, galleries, and performance spaces are spread across the city, offering a wide range of exhibitions and shows.

Where to unwind
Green spaces such as Namsan and the Han River parks offer easy escapes from the city streets. In cooler months, clear days are ideal for gentle hikes with broad views of the skyline. In the evenings, riverside areas become popular spots for relaxing with friends and watching the city lights come on.

A taste of Seoul

Street food & local specialties
You can explore classic Korean flavours in areas like Myeong-dong, Gwangjang Market, and Namdaemun Market, where stalls line narrow alleys. From savoury bites to sweet treats, the variety makes it easy to sample several dishes in one visit.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Popular districts such as Hongdae, Itaewon, and Gangnam are filled with casual restaurants, cafés, and contemporary eateries. Many places stay open late, so you can fit relaxed meals around busy sightseeing days and try different flavours with friends or family.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable setting, look for restaurants and cafés with views over the Han River or across the city from hilltop neighbourhoods. In central districts, some venues feature rooftop terraces or large windows that showcase Seoul’s night-time skyline while you dine.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping complexes such as COEX Mall, Lotte World Mall, and Times Square Mall bring together international brands, cinemas, and dining. They work as social spaces where you can shop, relax, and plan the rest of your day under one roof.

Markets & local crafts
Neighbourhoods like Insadong, Ikseon-dong, and areas around Dongdaemun offer smaller shops and markets with local labels and handcrafted items. You can browse for textiles, homeware, and accessories that reflect different sides of Seoul’s design scene.

Evening retail scene
Seoul’s retail streets stay bright well into the night, especially around Myeong-dong, Dongdaemun, and Gangnam. Night-time opening hours give you more flexibility to shop after a day of sightseeing, and public transport makes these areas straightforward to reach.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (bom)
From March to May, Seoul enjoys mild weather around 10–20°C (50–68°F), with flowers blooming in parks and along riversides. This shoulder season is ideal for relaxed walks, outdoor cafés, and clear views from city viewpoints.

Summer (yeoreum)
June to August is warm and humid, with temperatures typically between 22–30°C (72–86°F). Occasional showers bring fresh, green scenery to parks and mountains, and extended daylight hours encourage long days of exploration. This is generally considered peak season.

Autumn and winter (gaeul and gyeoul)
September to November, the shoulder season, brings crisp air and bright foliage at 10–22°C (50–72°F). From December to February, the low season, cooler days around -3–5°C (27–41°F) create a calm atmosphere that suits museum visits, indoor attractions, and city views under clear winter skies.

Frequently Asked Questions