Flights from Paris (CDG) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Discover Seoul

Why visit Seoul?
Seoul combines cutting-edge technology, fashion, and design with historic palaces, tranquil gardens, and traditional streets. You can explore lively districts, scenic riverside parks, and hilltop viewpoints all within one compact, engaging city.

What to expect
Expect a fast-paced yet welcoming city, where efficient transport, late-opening shops, and a strong café culture shape daily life. Neighbourhoods like Myeong-dong, Hongdae, and Gangnam each offer a distinct atmosphere, from street-style buzz to polished business centres.

Plan your trip
Seoul works well for a short city break or as the starting point for exploring wider South Korea. With high-speed rail and regional buses, it is an easy gateway to coastal cities, mountain hikes, and traditional towns across the country.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Walk through grand gates, elegant courtyards, and serene ponds at this landmark royal complex in the heart of the city.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses and enjoy views towards Seoul's modern skyline.

Namsan Seoul Tower

Ride or hike up Namsan for panoramic city views from the observation decks and surrounding park trails.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Follow this restored urban stream for a calm, scenic walk past art installations and city landmarks.

Myeong-dong

Browse beauty shops and fashion boutiques, and sample local snacks along one of Seoul's busiest shopping streets.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Explore striking contemporary architecture, design exhibitions, and nearby late-night shopping complexes.

Han River Parks

Relax along wide riverside paths ideal for cycling, picnics, and sunset views over Seoul's bridges.

Insadong

Discover galleries, tea houses, and shops specialising in crafts, calligraphy, and traditional gifts.

Experience Seoul's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seoul's extensive metro network is the fastest way to travel between major districts and attractions. Buses fill in the gaps, while taxis help for late-night journeys. For a different view, cycle or walk along the Han River paths, then use the metro for your final few stops.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Seoul blends busy office districts with relaxed café streets and lively student neighbourhoods. You will notice a strong appreciation for design, from stylish interiors to seasonal displays along main streets. Cultural venues, galleries, and performance spaces are woven into many central areas.

Where to unwind
To slow the pace, head to riverside parks, smaller neighbourhood parks, or hillside walking trails that circle the city. City-centre green spaces offer quiet corners to rest between sights. Evenings are ideal for a relaxed walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream or a peaceful lookout from Namsan.

A taste of Seoul

Street food & local specialties
You can find beloved local dishes at markets and casual eateries across the city, including bustling areas like Myeong-dong and Gwangjang Market. From sizzling grills to warming stews and savoury pancakes, there is always something fresh and flavourful to try.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Contemporary restaurants, food courts, and cafés cluster in districts such as Hongdae, Gangnam, and around major shopping centres. Menus often feature both local favourites and international flavours, with smaller portions and shared plates making it easy to sample several dishes in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, look for restaurants with views over the Han River, Namsan, or the city skyline from high floors. Many hotels and rooftop venues offer refined dining settings where you can enjoy carefully presented dishes alongside sweeping city views.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large malls and lifestyle complexes are spread across central Seoul, offering international brands, local designers, cinemas, and entertainment under one roof. These air-conditioned spaces are convenient meeting points and make it easy to combine shopping with dining and leisure.

Markets & local crafts
If you are looking for smaller boutiques and characterful streets, head to Insadong, Hongdae, and select lanes around Myeong-dong. Here you will find crafts, fashion, accessories, and creative studios showcasing local labels and handmade items.

Evening retail scene
Shopping in Seoul often continues late into the evening, with illuminated streets and busy indoor complexes. Certain areas feel particularly atmospheric after dark, when food, music, and store displays overlap. Extensive metro and bus links keep these districts accessible throughout the day and into the night.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (Bom)
From March to May, Seoul enjoys mild weather with temperatures around 10–20°C (50–68°F). Blossoms and fresh greenery brighten parks and palaces, making this shoulder season ideal for city walks, outdoor cafés, and sightseeing in comfortable conditions.

Summer (Yeoreum)
June to August brings warm, humid days, with temperatures typically between 22–30°C (72–86°F). This is peak season, with long daylight hours, lively riverside parks, and many indoor attractions if you prefer to stay cool in air-conditioned malls and museums.

Autumn and winter (Gaeul and Gyeoul)
September to November offers crisp, clear days, 10–22°C (50–72°F), and colourful foliage in city parks, a favourite shoulder season for many visitors. From December to February, low season sees colder days, often between -5–5°C (23–41°F), with bright skies that suit city exploring, galleries, and warm cafés.

Frequently Asked Questions