Flights from Zurich (ZRH) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Discover Seoul

Why visit Seoul?
Seoul combines dynamic modern energy with historic neighbourhoods, creating a city that feels both fast-paced and warmly welcoming. You will find sleek skyscrapers, riverside parks, and traditional lanes all within easy reach, making it ideal for both first-time visitors and repeat travellers.

What to expect
The city is built around the Han River, with buzzing districts such as Gangnam, Hongdae, and Myeongdong offering distinct atmospheres. Expect efficient transport, long opening hours, and a strong café culture, alongside well-preserved palaces, contemporary galleries, and bustling streets that stay lively late into the night.

Plan your trip
Seoul works well as a standalone city break or as the starting point for exploring the rest of South Korea. With high-speed trains linking the capital to coastal cities and mountain regions, you can easily combine urban experiences with countryside escapes on the same trip.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Walk through grand courtyards and ornate pavilions while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains in the heart of the city.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Explore narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses, many of which now host small galleries and tea rooms.

Namsan Seoul Tower

Take a cable car or hike up Namsan for panoramic views of the skyline, especially atmospheric at sunset and after dark.

Myeongdong shopping streets

Stroll through brightly lit streets packed with shops, beauty brands, and quick bites ideal for an evening wander.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Admire the futuristic architecture, rotating exhibitions, and nearby late-opening shops in this creative district.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Follow this restored urban stream on foot, passing art installations and quiet seating areas beneath the city streets.

Han River parks

Relax at riverside parks where locals cycle, picnic, and enjoy wide-open views of Seoul's bridges and skyline.

Hongdae district

Experience street performances, independent boutiques, and live music in one of Seoul's most youthful neighbourhoods.

Experience Seoul's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seoul's extensive metro system is the easiest way to move between major districts and attractions, with clear signage and frequent trains. Buses fill in the gaps above ground, while taxis help with late-night journeys. For short distances, walking lets you discover side streets and hidden cafés.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Seoul blends long working hours with a strong social culture centred on cafés, late dinners, and lingering in parks. Neighbourhoods like Seongsu and Ikseon-dong showcase converted warehouses and restored houses filled with design shops and small galleries, offering a glimpse into the city's creative side.

Where to unwind
For quiet moments, head to the parks and walking trails around Namsan or along the Han River in the early morning or late afternoon. City libraries and cultural centres often house peaceful reading rooms and rooftop terraces, giving you space to pause and enjoy a slower perspective on Seoul.

A taste of Seoul

Street food & local specialties
Around markets and busy streets such as Myeongdong and Gwangjang Market, you can sample favourites hot off the griddle and from steaming pots. Follow the queues to discover local snacks and comforting dishes served at counters and tiny eateries tucked into bustling alleys.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Areas like Gangnam, Hongdae, and Yeouido offer convenient clusters of restaurants in shopping centres and office towers. You will find everything from local classics to international flavours, often with smaller portions or sharing plates that make it easy to try a variety of dishes in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal with a view, seek out restaurants overlooking the Han River, rooftop spots in central Seoul, or venues near Namsan with citywide vistas. Some hotels and high-rise buildings host refined dining rooms where large windows frame the skyline, especially impressive after sunset.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
In districts such as Gangnam and Jamsil, large shopping complexes bring together international brands, local fashion, cinemas, and food courts. These multi-level malls serve as social spaces where you can shop, dine, and relax indoors in any season.

Markets & local crafts
For smaller labels and handmade pieces, head to neighbourhoods like Insadong, Hongdae, and Ikseon-dong. Here, independent boutiques, studios, and weekend markets showcase crafts, accessories, and design items that make thoughtful souvenirs and gifts.

Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets around Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, and parts of Hongdae stay lively with bright lights and late-opening stores. You can browse, snack, and people-watch well into the evening, with the metro and buses making these areas simple to reach and return from.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (Bom)
From late March to May, Seoul enjoys mild days around 10–20°C (50–68°F), with trees and flowers in full bloom. As a shoulder season, it offers comfortable walking weather, colourful parks, and clear views from the city’s hills and towers.

Summer (Yeoreum)
June to August is warm and humid, with temperatures typically between 22–30°C (72–86°F). This peak season brings long daylight hours, lively riverside parks, and plenty of indoor attractions for cooling off in between outdoor explorations.

Autumn and winter (Gaeul & Gyeoul)
From September to November, crisp air and 10–22°C (50–72°F) temperatures make autumn a shoulder season with striking foliage in city parks. December to February is low season, often between -5–5°C (23–41°F), with clear days, festive lights, and a calm atmosphere at many attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions