Seoul, the dynamic capital of South Korea, is a city where tradition and innovation exist side by side. This Seoul travel guide covers everything you need to know: how to get from the airport to the city, the best places to visit in Seoul, cultural highlights, shopping hotspots, and hidden gems. Whether you’re planning 3 days in Seoul or a longer trip, this guide will help you make the most of your time.
How to Get to Seoul City from the Airport
Seoul is served by two airports: Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo Airport (GMP).
Incheon International Airport (ICN)
Located about 50–70 km from central Seoul, Incheon is South Korea’s main international hub.
- AREX Express Train: Non-stop, 50 minutes, around ₩5,000 (€4).
- Airport Bus (Limousine Bus): Comfortable, drops you at major districts. ₩15,000–₩16,000, about 60–80 minutes.
- Taxi: Fast but pricey. ₩45,000–₩80,000 (€30–60), depending on traffic.
💡 Tip: Download the Kakao T app to book taxis easily.
Gimpo Airport (GMP)
Closer to Seoul, just 16 km away. Commonly used for domestic flights and short-haul international routes.
- AREX Train: 20 minutes.
- Subway Lines 5 & 9: Convenient, especially if your hotel is near a metro stop.
- Taxi: Around ₩20,000–₩30,000 (€14–21).
Best Things to Do in Seoul
Here’s a list of must-see Seoul attractions to include in your itinerary.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace – Korea’s Most Iconic Palace
Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest of the Five Grand Palaces from the Joseon Dynasty.
- Opening Hours: 09:00–18:00 (closed on Tuesdays).
- Entry Fee: ₩3,000 (€2.20) – Free if you wear a hanbok!
- Don’t miss: The Changing of the Guard ceremony (daily at 10:00 & 14:00).
- Nearby: The National Palace Museum and National Folk Museum for deeper cultural insights.
💡 Tip: Rent a hanbok from one of the shops nearby – not only do you get free entry, but it also makes for stunning photos!
2. The Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae)
Once the presidential residence, it opened to the public in 2022. Free entry, but reservations are required. It’s a fascinating place to explore Korean politics and modern history. Update September 2025: The Blue is temporarily closed.
3. N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)
Located on Namsan Mountain, the N Seoul Tower offers panoramic views of the city.
- Getting there: Bus, cable car, or hiking trail.
- Best time to visit: Sunset or nighttime for sparkling city views.
- Highlight: The Locks of Love fence where couples leave padlocks.
4. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) & Market
- DDP: A futuristic architectural masterpiece by Zaha Hadid. Visit both day and night to see its LED rose garden and exhibitions.
- Dongdaemun Market: Seoul’s 24/7 shopping mecca for fashion, textiles, and accessories.
5. Han River Parks
Seoul locals love to picnic, bike, or jog along the Han River.
- Activities: Rent bikes, order fried chicken & beer for delivery, or take a river cruise.
- Best views: At night when bridges and skyscrapers light up.
6. Lotte World Tower & Mall
At 555 meters, the Lotte World Tower is the 5th tallest building in the world.
- Observation Deck (117th floor): Transparent glass floor and breathtaking views.
- Other attractions: Lotte World Aquarium, theme park, and luxury shopping mall.
7. Cheonggyecheon Stream
An 11 km-long urban oasis in the middle of downtown Seoul. Perfect for evening walks, cultural installations, and photo stops.
8. Gangnam District
Home of Gangnam Style, this upscale district is known for luxury shopping and nightlife.
- Starfield Library: A must-see Instagram spot with towering bookshelves.
- COEX Mall & Aquarium: One of Asia’s largest underground shopping centers.
- Bongeunsa Temple: A peaceful Buddhist temple right across the street.
9. Bukchon Hanok Village
A charming neighborhood of 900 traditional hanok houses, some dating back 600 years.
- Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Note: Restricted hours – closed from 5pm–10am and all day on Sundays.
10. Jogyesa Temple
A vibrant Buddhist temple in the city center, filled with lanterns and flowers.
11. Shopping Hotspots
- Myeongdong: Street food, K-beauty, and neon nightlife.
- Hongdae: Street art, indie music, and youth culture.
- Itaewon: International food, trendy bars, and a lively expat scene.
12. More Must-See Attractions
- Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden – UNESCO World Heritage Site, accessible only by guided tour.
- Gwangjang Market – Korea’s first permanent market, famous for mung bean pancakes (bindaetteok) and raw beef (yukhoe).
- Seoul Forest – Nature trails, deer enclosure, butterfly garden.
- War Memorial of Korea – Powerful exhibits on the Korean War.
- National Museum of Korea – The country’s largest museum with ancient artifacts and Buddhist art.
Best Time to Visit Seoul
- Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms and mild weather.
- Summer (June–August): Hot, humid, and rainy—pack light clothes.
- Autumn (September–November): Crisp air and gorgeous fall foliage.
- Winter (December–February): Cold but festive, and perfect for combining Seoul with a ski trip.
👉 For ideal weather, April, May, October, and November are the best months to visit.
Seoul Travel Tips
- T-Money Card: Buy a rechargeable transport card for subway, buses, and even convenience stores.
- Apps to Download: Naver Map or Kakao Map (Google Maps doesn’t work well in Korea).
- Language: English is limited, but signs in tourist areas are usually bilingual.
- Currency: Korean Won (₩). Credit cards are widely accepted.
- Etiquette: Be respectful in temples and residential neighborhoods like Bukchon.