Flights from Rome (FCO) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Discover Seoul

Why visit Seoul?
Seoul blends dynamic modern energy with historic streets, sleek towers, and creative neighbourhoods. You will find lively districts, peaceful palaces, and a river that cuts through the city, giving you many different ways to experience its character.

What to expect
The city stretches out in distinct quarters, from the shopping streets of Myeongdong to the design-focused Dongdaemun area and the creative alleys of Hongdae. Wide boulevards, fast transport, and well-signed public spaces make it straightforward to explore, even on a first visit.

Plan your trip
Seoul works well as both a standalone city break and a starting point for exploring the rest of South Korea. High-speed trains and regional buses connect you to coastal towns and mountain areas, so you can combine urban days with time in nature in a single journey.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Walk through expansive courtyards and ornate gates while taking in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and city skyline.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stroll narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses and enjoy quiet viewpoints over central Seoul.

Namsan Seoul Tower

Ride up Namsan and take in panoramic city views from observation decks, especially striking at sunset and after dark.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Follow this restored stream as it winds below street level, offering a calm walking route through the heart of downtown.

Hongdae

Experience street performances, small galleries, and independent shops in one of Seoul's most creative districts.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Explore futuristic architecture, rotating design exhibitions, and nearby shopping streets that stay active late into the night.

Hangang River Parks

Relax along the riverbanks where locals cycle, picnic, and watch the city lights reflect on the water after sunset.

Experience Seoul's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seoul's metro network is the most efficient way to cross the city, with clear signage and frequent trains. Buses fill in many gaps, while taxis and ride-hailing services work well for late-night journeys. For short distances, walking between adjacent neighbourhoods can be surprisingly pleasant.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Seoul moves at a brisk pace, yet quiet backstreets and small parks offer regular pauses. You will notice a strong café culture, with many people working or meeting friends over coffee. University areas bring a youthful energy, and cultural centres host regular exhibitions and performances.

Where to unwind
The city offers many ways to slow down, from hillside parks with viewpoints to riverside lawns where you can sit and watch cyclists and joggers pass by. Urban green spaces are especially inviting in the early morning and late afternoon, when temperatures are milder and the light is softer.

A taste of Seoul

Street food & local specialties
Food streets and casual eateries across Seoul serve comforting classics and seasonal dishes throughout the day. Lively areas near markets and university districts are good places to try local flavours, from quick snacks to shared platters.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find many modern restaurants in commercial districts and shopping areas, often grouped in the same buildings as shops and cinemas. Menus frequently balance local tastes with international influences, and smaller portions or shared dishes make it easy to sample a variety of flavours.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, head to restaurants with city views or those located along the riverfront and on gentle hillsides. Dining in these spots lets you enjoy Seoul's illuminated skyline, with wide windows and terraces providing a memorable backdrop to your meal.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping complexes around central Seoul bring together international brands, local labels, cinemas, and dining in one place. These malls often connect directly to metro stations, making it easy to combine shopping with sightseeing and indoor relaxation.

Markets & local crafts
If you prefer smaller-scale browsing, explore streets known for independent boutiques and design shops. Neighbourhoods such as Hongdae, Insadong, and Garosu-gil are good for finding local crafts, artwork, and everyday items with a distinct Seoul character.

Evening retail scene
Shopping streets and some markets stay lively well into the night, with illuminated façades and late-opening stores. It is common to wander between shops, cafés, and snack stalls after dark, and the metro and buses make reaching these areas straightforward from most parts of the city.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (bom)
From March to May, Seoul enjoys mild weather around 10–20°C (50–68°F), with clear days and blossoming trees brightening parks and streets. This is a shoulder season, ideal for walking tours and outdoor views as the city shakes off winter.

Summer (yeoreum)
June to August brings warm, humid conditions, with temperatures often between 22–30°C (72–86°F). Brief showers are common, but long daylight hours and vibrant festivals make this a peak season that suits travellers who enjoy busy, energetic city streets.

Autumn and winter (gaeul and gyeoul)
From September to November, autumn days are crisp at 10–22°C (50–72°F), with colourful foliage and clear skies, marking a shoulder season. December to February is a low season, cooler at around -3–5°C (27–41°F), but the clear air and winter atmosphere give the city a different charm.

Frequently Asked Questions