Flights from Chengdu (TFU) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Discover Seoul

Why visit Seoul?
Seoul blends cutting-edge design with heritage neighbourhoods, creating a city where glass towers stand beside historic streets. You can explore creative districts, peaceful palaces, and lively entertainment areas in a single day.

What to expect
The city is built along the Han River, with distinct areas like Gangnam, Hongdae, and Myeongdong each offering a different atmosphere. Expect efficient transport, well-signed streets, and a welcoming café culture that invites you to slow down between sights.

Plan your trip
Seoul is an ideal base for exploring the wider region, with high-speed rail and buses linking nearby cities and coastal towns. Whether you stay in the heart of the city or use it as a gateway, you will find it easy to tailor your itinerary.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Walk through grand courtyards and wooden halls while enjoying wide views of the surrounding city and mountains.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll along narrow lanes lined with traditional houses and discover small galleries and cafés tucked between them.

N Seoul Tower

Ride or hike up Namsan for panoramic views from the tower and surrounding park, especially striking after sunset.

Myeongdong

Explore a dense network of streets filled with beauty shops, fashion boutiques, and bright signage in every direction.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Admire the futuristic architecture, browse design shops, and catch rotating exhibitions in this creative complex.

Hongdae

Experience youthful energy with street performances, independent shops, and colourful murals around the university area.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Follow this restored stream as it winds through central Seoul, offering a calm walking route below the busy streets.

Lotte World Tower

Head to the observation deck of this soaring skyscraper for far-reaching views over the river and city skyline.

Experience Seoul's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seoul Metro is the core way to move quickly between major districts, with clear signage and frequent services. Buses fill in the gaps, while taxis are useful late at night. For short distances, walking often reveals small cafés and galleries you might otherwise miss.

Local life & culture
You will notice a strong café scene, late-night dining, and a focus on design in everything from shop fronts to station interiors. University districts feel lively and creative, while riverside parks and older neighbourhoods have a slower, more relaxed pace.

Where to unwind
The banks of the Han River are popular for cycling, picnics, and evening walks, especially when the weather is mild. Urban parks and small neighbourhood squares offer quiet corners, while hillside viewpoints provide peaceful spots to watch the city lights emerge.

A taste of Seoul

Street food & local specialties
Street stalls around Myeongdong, Namdaemun, and university districts serve grilled snacks, filled pancakes, and skewers that showcase local flavours. Traditional markets are ideal if you want to try simple dishes in a lively, informal setting.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping districts and mixed-use complexes gather many casual eateries in one place, with menus that range from local comfort food to international options. Portions are often generous yet shareable, so you can sample several dishes at each meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable evenings, look for restaurants and cafés with river views or skyline outlooks near high-rise observation decks. Rooftop venues and higher floors of major towers are especially appealing at dusk, when the city gradually lights up beneath you.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large malls along the river and in central districts bring together international brands, lifestyle stores, and entertainment under one roof. They are convenient places to combine shopping, dining, and cinema visits in the same stop.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and creative streets around Insadong, Hongdae, and Itaewon showcase handmade crafts, local design labels, and art supplies. These areas are ideal for finding distinctive souvenirs and gifts with a strong sense of place.

Evening retail scene
Many of Seoul's shopping streets feel busiest after dark, when neon signs, street performers, and late-opening stores transform the atmosphere. Night markets and illuminated avenues are easy to reach by metro, making it simple to explore them safely and comfortably.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring bloom (March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Seoul is mild, with temperatures around 7–20°C (45–68°F) and blossoms brightening parks and streets. It is a pleasant time for river walks and city viewpoints, with comfortable conditions for spending full days outdoors.

Summer vitality (June to August, peak season)
Summer brings warm, humid weather, typically 20–29°C (68–84°F), and long daylight hours that suit late-night shopping and riverside picnics. Occasional showers keep the city green, and indoor attractions provide welcome breaks from the heat.

Autumn and winter charm (September to February, shoulder season)
Autumn offers crisp air and colourful foliage, usually 10–22°C (50–72°F), ideal for exploring parks and hillsides. Winter can be cold, often below 5°C (41°F), but clear days and festive lights make city walks and indoor galleries feel especially atmospheric.

Frequently Asked Questions