Flights from Manila (MNL) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Discover Seoul

Why visit Seoul?
Seoul blends striking modern skylines with historic neighbourhoods, creating a city where glass towers stand beside centuries-old palaces. You will find bustling shopping streets, cutting-edge design, and a dynamic energy that appeals to both first-time and repeat visitors.

What to expect
The city stretches along the Han River, with districts like Gangnam, Hongdae, and Myeong-dong each offering a distinct character. Expect efficient public transport, lively street scenes late into the evening, and a strong focus on technology, fashion, and pop culture throughout everyday life.

Plan your trip
Seoul works well as both a standalone city break and a starting point for exploring wider South Korea. From here, high-speed trains link you to cultural cities and coastal escapes, making it easy to combine urban discovery with countryside or seaside adventures.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Explore this grand palace complex, known for its elegant gates, sweeping courtyards, and mountain backdrop.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Wander narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses, set between modern city districts.

N Seoul Tower

Ride or walk up Namsan Mountain for sweeping city views from the tower observation decks and surrounding park.

Myeong-dong

Immerse yourself in a compact district packed with shops, beauty brands, and snack stalls along bright streets.

Hongdae

Experience youthful energy, live performances, and creative studios in this arts-focused neighbourhood near major universities.

COEX and Starfield Library

Visit this vast complex for shopping, cultural spaces, and an eye-catching open public library with soaring bookshelves.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Stroll along this restored urban waterway, with landscaped paths and art installations cutting through downtown Seoul.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Admire futuristic architecture, design exhibitions, and nearby late-opening shopping zones in this landmark complex.

Experience Seoul's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seoul's extensive metro system is the most efficient way to move between key districts, supported by frequent buses for shorter hops. Taxis are widely available for late evenings or when travelling in a group, and walking between nearby neighbourhoods lets you discover small side streets.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Seoul revolves around convenience, with 24-hour shops, cafés, and entertainment spots in many areas. Neighbourhoods such as Gangnam, Hongdae, and Itaewon highlight different sides of the city, from stylish boutiques to creative studios and international influences.

Where to unwind
Parks along the Han River offer long riverside paths, open lawns, and seasonal flower displays that locals enjoy on weekends. Namsan and other low hills around the city provide accessible walking routes with rewarding views, especially around sunset in clear weather.

A taste of Seoul

Street food & local specialties
You can explore stalls in areas like Myeong-dong and around major markets for hot snacks and comforting local dishes. These lively streets are ideal for trying a mix of flavours in a casual setting as you move between shops and sights.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping districts and office areas are filled with cafés, barbecue spots, and modern eateries that cater to busy city life. Many venues offer set menus and shareable plates, making it easy to sample different dishes with friends or family.

Signature & scenic dining
For special meals, look for restaurants with skyline views along the Han River or in high-rise buildings in central districts. Some venues offer tasting menus and carefully presented dishes, creating memorable evenings with city lights as your backdrop.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large complexes such as COEX and major department stores combine international labels, local brands, cinemas, and cultural spaces. They are popular meeting spots, especially on weekends, and convenient places to shop, dine, and relax under one roof.

Markets & local crafts
Neighbourhoods like Insadong, Hongdae, and parts of Dongdaemun are known for smaller shops and stalls selling crafts and design items. Here you can find stationery, accessories, and homeware that showcase contemporary and traditional styles side by side.

Evening retail scene
Seoul's shopping streets often stay active late into the night, with bright signage and extended opening hours in busy districts. Night-time walks through areas such as Myeong-dong or Dongdaemun reveal a different energy, and public transport makes these quarters easy to reach.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (Bom)
From March to May, spring in Seoul brings mild days, blooming trees, and clearer skies, with temperatures around 10–20°C (50–68°F). It is a shoulder season, ideal for walking tours and riverfront strolls amid fresh greenery and flowers.

Summer (Yeoreum)
June to August is warm and humid, with average temperatures from 22–30°C (72–86°F) and occasional short rain showers. This peak season suits travellers who enjoy long daylight hours, lively festivals, and extended evenings on rooftop terraces or riverside parks.

Autumn and winter (Gaeul and Gyeoul)
From September to November, autumn offers crisp air, 10–22°C (50–72°F), and colourful foliage in city parks, making it a shoulder season. December to February is winter, a low season with colder temperatures often between -5–5°C (23–41°F), clear days, and a calm urban atmosphere that many visitors appreciate.

Frequently Asked Questions