Flights from Busan (PUS) to Seoul (ICN)

About Seoul

Discover Seoul

Why visit Seoul?
Seoul blends cutting-edge design, lively neighbourhoods, and historic architecture into a city that feels energetic at every hour. You will find quiet backstreets, scenic views from low mountains, and dynamic riverside parks within easy reach of the city centre.

What to expect
The city is defined by districts such as Gangnam, Hongdae, and Myeongdong, each with a distinct character, from fashion and nightlife to arts and beauty. Wide avenues, compact alleyways, and green spaces create a mix of modern towers and low-rise streets that invite you to keep exploring.

Plan your trip
Seoul works well for short breaks as well as longer stays that include nearby cities such as Suwon and Incheon. It is also a convenient base for exploring wider regions of South Korea, thanks to efficient intercity trains and buses that radiate from the capital.

Top sights in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Stroll through grand courtyards and graceful pavilions framed by mountain views at one of Seoul’s most iconic historic sites.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Wander hillside lanes lined with traditional wooden houses, and enjoy views that link historic rooftops with the modern skyline.

N Seoul Tower on Namsan

Ride or walk up Namsan for panoramic city views from the tower, especially atmospheric in the evening when Seoul lights up.

Myeongdong

Explore a compact district packed with beauty shops, cafés, and street snacks, ideal for an afternoon of shopping and people-watching.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Follow the landscaped stream as it winds through central Seoul, offering a calm walkway below the busy streets above.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Admire the futuristic curves of this design complex, which hosts exhibitions, installations, and a landscaped rooftop park.

Hangang River Parks

Relax by the river on wide lawns and cycling paths, with city views that feel especially vivid at sunset and after dark.

Hongdae

Experience a youthful neighbourhood known for live performances, small galleries, and independent shops clustered around quiet side streets.

Experience Seoul’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Seoul’s subway network is the fastest way to cross the city, with clear signage and frequent trains. Buses fill in many gaps and often give you better street-level views. For shorter distances, walking and short taxi rides link stations to quieter backstreets and hillsides.

Local life & culture
Neighbourhoods each have their own pace, from office districts that quieten in the evening to university areas that stay lively late into the night. You will notice a strong café culture, small galleries, and a busy calendar of performances and exhibitions, especially around central and riverside areas.

Where to unwind
You can take gentle hillside walks on Namsan, follow riverside paths along the Hangang, or explore small neighbourhood parks that feel tucked away from traffic. Early mornings are calm and cool, while evenings offer softer light and illuminated skylines that make outdoor spaces feel inviting.

A taste of Seoul

Street food & local specialties
Food alleys and markets across Seoul serve comforting dishes, from sizzling barbecue to warming stews and snacks. Districts such as Myeongdong, Gwangjang Market, and Ikseon-dong are known for compact streets where you can try different flavours within a short walk.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping districts and major stations cluster together cafés, fast-casual eateries, and modern restaurants, making it easy to find something at any time of day. Portions often encourage sharing, so you can sample several dishes with friends or family in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For special occasions, many hotels and high-rise buildings offer dining rooms with skyline views, while riverside areas feature restaurants facing the water. These settings combine thoughtful interiors with vistas of bridges, city lights, or distant hills for a memorable evening.

Retail therapy in Seoul

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large malls and mixed-use complexes gather international brands, Korean labels, cinemas, and cafés under one roof. They are popular meeting points, with indoor plazas, seasonal events, and extended opening hours that make them convenient in all weather.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and creative streets are ideal for smaller finds and local products. Neighbourhoods such as Insadong, Hongdae, and Seochon showcase crafts, design items, and independent boutiques where you can browse at a gentler pace.

Evening retail scene
After dark, many shopping streets stay bright and active, with illuminated façades and a steady flow of late visitors. Some markets and districts are particularly lively in the evening, and public transport makes it straightforward to get back to your accommodation when you are finished.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (bom)
From March to May, Seoul’s spring brings mild days around 10–20°C (50–68°F) and increasingly clear skies, making it ideal for walking and riverside picnics. This is peak season, with parks and popular viewpoints feeling pleasantly busy.

Summer (yeoreum)
June to August is warm and humid, with temperatures usually between 22–30°C (72–86°F). Occasional showers keep the city green, and longer daylight hours are great for evening strolls along the Hangang. This is shoulder season, especially appealing if you enjoy vibrant outdoor activity.

Autumn and winter (gaeul and gyeoul)
September to November offers crisp, bright days around 10–22°C (50–72°F), with colourful foliage in parks and hills, while December to February is colder, often between -5–5°C (23–41°F), with clear air and a calm atmosphere. These months are low season, ideal if you prefer quieter streets and indoor attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions