Flights from Denpasar Bali (DPS) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Discover Seoul

Why visit Seoul?
Seoul blends modern energy with layered history, where glass towers rise beside heritage districts and green hills. You will find busy shopping streets, calm palace courtyards, and a dynamic creative scene that stays lively well into the night.

What to expect
The city is built around the Han River, with districts like Gangnam, Myeong-dong, and Hongdae each offering a distinct atmosphere. Expect efficient transport, well-signed streets, and plenty of cafes and late-opening venues that make it easy to explore from morning to night.

Plan your trip
Seoul works well for a short city break or as the starting point for exploring the rest of South Korea. High-speed trains and regional buses fan out from the capital, putting coastal cities and mountain regions within easy reach of your itinerary.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Walk through grand gates, sweeping courtyards, and elegant pavilions framed by mountain views in the heart of the city.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses and enjoy picturesque views back towards modern Seoul.

Namsan Seoul Tower

Ride or hike up Namsan and take in panoramic views of the skyline from observation decks high above the city.

Myeong-dong

Explore a central shopping district packed with fashion boutiques, beauty stores, and lively side streets.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Visit this futuristic cultural complex for design exhibitions, night-time light displays, and nearby late-opening markets.

Hongdae

Experience youthful energy with street performances, galleries, independent shops, and live music venues clustered together.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Follow a landscaped stream that cuts through downtown, offering a calm walking route beneath the city streets.

Han River Parks

Relax by the water at riverside parks where you can cycle, picnic, or take gentle evening walks with skyline views.

Experience Seoul's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seoul is easiest to explore using its extensive metro system, which is clean, punctual, and clearly signposted in English. Buses and taxis help you cover shorter hops, while walking between nearby neighbourhoods lets you discover side streets and small parks along the way.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Seoul revolves around busy workplaces, neighbourhood cafes, and late-opening entertainment streets. Creative districts such as Hongdae and Seongsu highlight art, design, and independent brands, while more traditional areas showcase historic architecture and long-established family businesses.

Where to unwind
For a quieter side of the city, head to the walking trails on Namsan, the landscaped paths along the Han River, or one of the many small urban parks. Early mornings and evenings are especially pleasant, when the air is cooler and the city lights add a gentle glow.

A taste of Seoul

Street food & local specialties
You will find many beloved local dishes along bustling streets such as Myeong-dong, Namdaemun Market, and the areas around major universities. Small eateries and food stalls offer comforting classics and snacks that are easy to share as you explore.

Casual & modern dining hubs
In districts like Gangnam, Hongdae, and around COEX, casual restaurants, cafes, and food courts sit side by side. Menus often encourage sharing, so you can sample several dishes in one meal and enjoy a mix of familiar flavours and regional favourites.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable views with your meal, look to restaurants overlooking the Han River, rooftops in central Seoul, or venues on Namsan with skyline panoramas. Many higher-floor dining rooms pair calm interiors with city-wide vistas that feel particularly special after dark.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Seoul offers spacious shopping centres such as COEX Mall, Lotte World Mall, and major department stores in central districts. These complexes combine international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining, making them convenient social hubs in any weather.

Markets & local crafts
For smaller shops and local labels, wander through Insadong, Ikseon-dong, and streets around Dongdaemun. Here you will find crafts, design shops, and boutiques where you can browse stationery, homeware, and accessories with a distinctly Korean style.

Evening retail scene
Many of Seoul's shopping areas come alive well into the evening, with brightly lit streets and extended opening hours around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun. Night-time strolls between shops and snack stands are easy to plan, supported by late-running metro and bus services.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (Bom)
From March to May, spring in Seoul brings mild days around 10–20°C (50–68°F) and blossoming trees across parks and streets. As a peak season, it is popular for outdoor walks and riverfront picnics, with fresh air and comfortable temperatures.

Summer (Yeoreum)
June to August is summer, with warm, often humid weather and temperatures typically between 22–30°C (72–86°F). This shoulder season is ideal for long evenings by the Han River, indoor attractions, and enjoying the citys many air-conditioned malls and cafes.

Autumn and winter (Gaeul & Gyeoul)
September to November offers crisp, colourful autumn days around 10–22°C (50–72°F), while December to February brings cooler winter temperatures from about -3–6°C (27–43°F). This low season rewards you with clear air, festive decorations, and cosy indoor spaces across the city.

Frequently Asked Questions