Flights from Surabaya (SUB) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Seoul, where tradition meets cutting-edge city life

Seoul is a dynamic city where glass towers and neon sit alongside historic palaces, tranquil gardens, and winding alleyways. Each neighbourhood has a distinct feel, from the creative streets of Hongdae to the polished avenues of Gangnam, giving you many ways to discover the city at your own pace.

The Han River runs through the heart of Seoul, with green parks, cycle paths, and river cruises that showcase the skyline. By day you can explore markets, galleries, and riverside cafes. After dark, the city transforms with illuminated bridges, lively food streets, and late-night shopping districts that stay open well into the evening.

Beyond the energy and lights, Seoul is also a city of thoughtful details. Efficient public transport, clear signage, and well-maintained public spaces make it easy to move around. Whether you are visiting for food, fashion, technology, or a short city break, Seoul offers a modern urban experience that still feels welcoming and human-scale.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Walk through grand courtyards and elegant pavilions while learning about centuries of royal history in the centre of Seoul.

N Seoul Tower

Ride or hike up Namsan for panoramic views of the city from the tower observation decks, especially atmospheric at sunset.

Myeong-dong

Explore busy streets packed with beauty shops, fashion boutiques, and street food stalls serving local favourites.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll among traditional wooden houses on quiet hillsides, with viewpoints looking over modern downtown Seoul.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Discover bold contemporary architecture, design exhibitions, and late-opening markets in this creative district.

Experience Seoul your way

You can experience Seoul through its streets and neighbourhoods, each offering a different side of the city. Wander Insadong for galleries and crafts, then continue to Ikseon-dong, where narrow lanes, converted houses, and small cafes create a relaxed atmosphere. Along the restored Cheonggyecheon Stream, you will find a cooler, quieter route through downtown, with walking paths and small bridges.

Fans of pop culture will find music, fashion, and filming locations scattered across the city. In Gangnam and Apgujeong, stylish boutiques, entertainment agencies, and trendy cafes show a more polished side of Seoul. In Hongdae, buskers, street artists, and independent shops give the district a youthful, creative feel that comes alive in the evenings.

For time outdoors, visit the Han River parks, where locals cycle, jog, picnic, and enjoy views of the many bridges. Seasonal parks such as Olympic Park and Seoul Forest offer wide lawns, walking trails, and art installations. In cooler months, nearby hills like Bukhansan provide well-marked hiking routes and scenic viewpoints over the city.

A taste of Seoul

Seoul is a rewarding city for curious diners, with everything from simple street food to refined multi-course meals. In busy areas like Myeong-dong and Namdaemun Market, vendors serve snacks such as hotteok pancakes, skewers, and crispy treats you can enjoy on the go. Casual eateries across the city specialise in comforting dishes like stews, noodles, and sizzling plates.

You will also find many barbecue restaurants, where your table becomes the grill and you cook slices of meat to your liking. Shared side dishes, fresh vegetables, and a mix of textures make meals relaxed and social. In colder months, hot pots and hearty soups are popular, especially in small neighbourhood spots away from the main streets.

If you prefer a slower pace, there are tea houses and modern dessert cafes offering cakes, pastries, and seasonal drinks. Rooftop restaurants and riverfront dining spots combine city views with carefully presented menus. International options are widely available too, from bakeries and brunch spots to fine-dining restaurants featuring global flavours.

Retail discoveries in Seoul

Shopping in Seoul ranges from modern malls to narrow market lanes. In Myeong-dong and Gangnam, major brands and department stores present the latest beauty, skincare, and fashion collections, often with spacious flagships and in-store experiences. Underground shopping centres, linked to subway stations, provide weather-proof browsing with a wide choice of accessories and clothing.

For a more local atmosphere, visit Namdaemun and Gwangjang markets, where stalls are packed with textiles, clothing, crafts, and household items. These areas give you a sense of everyday life in Seoul alongside opportunities to pick up practical purchases or small souvenirs. In the evening, Dongdaemun stays open late, making it easy to shop after a day of sightseeing.

Design-focused districts such as Sinsa-dong Garosu-gil and Seongsu-dong feature concept stores, independent labels, and lifestyle shops, often in carefully designed spaces. Here you can find stationery, homeware, and fashion with a distinctive style. Whether you are browsing or buying, Seoul invites you to explore at your own pace and discover something that suits your taste.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (March to May, 5°C to 20°C / 41°F to 68°F, shoulder season) brings mild temperatures, clear days, and colourful blossoms in parks, riversides, and city streets, creating comfortable conditions for walking tours and outdoor photos.

Summer (June to August, 20°C to 30°C / 68°F to 86°F, peak season) is warm and often humid, with lively evenings along the Han River, extended opening hours at attractions, and many seasonal events and night markets.

Autumn (September to November, 10°C to 22°C / 50°F to 72°F, shoulder season) offers crisp air and vivid foliage on city hills and in urban parks, ideal for hiking, photography, and relaxed sightseeing.

Winter (December to February, -5°C to 5°C / 23°F to 41°F, low season) is cold but atmospheric, with bright skies, winter illumination displays, and opportunities to enjoy warm comfort food and indoor attractions in cosy neighbourhoods.

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