About Seoul
Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, is a mesmerizing blend of ancient tradition and futuristic innovation. Nestled along the Han River and surrounded by mountains, this dynamic metropolis offers travelers an unforgettable journey through 600 years of history alongside cutting-edge technology. Explore the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace with its changing of the guard ceremony, wander through the traditional hanok houses of Bukchon Hanok Village, and experience the spiritual tranquility of Jogyesa Temple. For modern delights, ascend the N Seoul Tower for panoramic views, shop in the neon-lit streets of Myeongdong, and discover the artistic haven of Hongdae. Food lovers will revel in the culinary adventures of Gwangjang Market's street food and the upscale dining of Gangnam. Seoul's efficient subway system connects you to hidden gems like the serene Secret Garden at Changdeokgung Palace and the bustling energy of Dongdaemun Design Plaza. With its safe streets, friendly locals, and 24-hour energy, Seoul promises a captivating experience where every corner reveals a new story.
Things to do in Seoul
Flexible Private Guided Tour in Seoul (Optional Incheon Layover)
From $225
5.0 (387)
Private DMZ Tour with North Korean Defector + N Korean Lunch
From $170
5.0 (149)
Royal Seoul Cooking Class in a 100-Year-Old Hanok
From ₩140,000
5.0 (133)
Korean Cooking Class with Grocery Shopping at Seoul Local Market
From ₩130,000
5.0 (131)
Learn and Make Your Very Own Craft Makgeolli
From ₩97,000
5.0 (99)
Private Tour: Seoul or DMZ
From $230
5.0 (83)
DMZ 2nd Tunnel, Pocheon Sky Bridge & Waterfall Tour from Seoul
From $107
5.0 (77)
Seoul Vegan & Vegetarian Gwangjang Market Food Tour (11 Tastings)
From $89
5.0 (71)
Traditional Korean 6-Dish Cooking Class + Hidden Alley Tour Seoul
From $87
5.0 (71)
Goodmate Travel Multi-day Experience
From $3,800
5.0 (58)
Seoul : Essential History Walking Tour for Visitor
From ₩20,000
5.0 (51)
Korean Home Style Cooking Class in Gangnam Seoul
From $62
5.0 (51)
Seoul Gangnam Gourmet Tour
From $70
5.0 (50)
Vegan & Vegetarian Korean Market Adventure Gwangjang Market
From ₩140,000
5.0 (49)
Seoul Must-See Highlights Walking Tour - Private & Customizable
Places to visit in Seoul
코끼리 바위
Elephant Rock, 도솔봉-꼬끼리 바위 0.4Km 00:07, Sanggye 1(il)-dong, Seoul, 01633, South Korea
사랑방모텔
Sarangbang Motel, Dodang-ro 13-gil, Banghak 2(i)-dong, Seoul, 01356, South Korea
세피아호텔
Sepia Hotel, Sanggye-ro, Sanggye 6·7(yuk·chil)-dong, Seoul, 01688, South Korea
리젠트모텔
Regent Motel, Dobong-ro 83-gil, Suyu 3(sam)-dong, Seoul, 01062, South Korea
다이너스모텔
Daineoseu Motel, Nohae-ro 3-gil, Insu-dong, Seoul, 01081, South Korea
미도파모텔
Midopa Motel, Dobong-ro 78-gil, Beon 2(i)-dong, Seoul, 01131, South Korea
그린장모텔
Green Jang Motel, Opaesan-ro 79-gil, Beon 1(il)-dong, Seoul, 01062, South Korea
오리엔트리조트
Orienteu Resort Hotel, Gwangun-ro, Wolgye 1(il)-dong, Seoul, 01887, South Korea
우이산장
Ui Mountain Villa, Samyang-ro 181-gil, Ui-dong, Seoul, 01002, South Korea
2080모텔
2080 Motel, Opaesan-ro 79-gil, Beon 1(il)-dong, Seoul, 01062, South Korea
미즈모텔
Mijeu Motel, Cheyukgwan-ro, Sutaek-dong, Guri-si, 11933, South Korea
광개토태왕 동상
광개토태왕 동상, 광개토태왕 광장, Gyomun-dong, Guri-si, 11938, South Korea
셔블모텔
Syeobeul Motel, 체육관로, Sutaek-dong, Guri-si, 11927, South Korea
평화의 소녀상
평화의 소녀상, 구리광장, Sutaek-dong, Guri-si, 11922, South Korea
공룡조각
공룡조각, Dongil-ro 205-gil, Junggye 2·3(i·sam)-dong, Seoul, 01774, South Korea
Travel Tips for Seoul
Getting Around
Seoul's public transportation is world-class: use the extensive subway system (signs in English/Korean) with T-money cards for buses and trains. Taxis are affordable—choose regular (orange/silver) or deluxe (black) models; apps like Kakao T are popular. Biking along the Han River paths is scenic. Car rentals are not recommended due to traffic and parking challenges. Navigation apps like Naver Maps or KakaoMap are essential for real-time directions.
Best Time To Visit
Spring (April to June) for mild weather and cherry blossoms; Autumn (September to November) for cool temperatures and vibrant foliage. These seasons avoid the extreme heat and humidity of summer (July-August) and the cold winters (December-February), though winter offers festive lights and skiing nearby. Major festivals like the Lotus Lantern Festival (May) and Seoul International Fireworks Festival (October) enhance visits.
Local Customs
Bow when greeting; remove shoes before entering homes or traditional places. Dress modestly at temples and palaces. Tipping is not customary and can be seen as rude. Use both hands when giving/receiving items, especially with elders. Avoid loud conversations in public. Dining etiquette includes waiting for the eldest to eat first and not sticking chopsticks upright in rice. Public displays of affection are minimal.
Safety Information
Seoul is one of the world's safest major cities with low violent crime. Exercise normal precautions: beware of pickpocketing in crowded areas like Myeongdong and Hongdae, and avoid poorly lit alleys late at night. Common scams are rare but include overcharging in some taxis (use metered cabs or apps) and fake luxury goods. Areas near U.S. military bases (e.g., Itaewon) can be lively at night; remain alert in bars. Emergency services are responsive, and tourist police patrol major attractions. Natural hazards are minimal, but be cautious during heavy rain or snow.
Health Information
Seoul has excellent medical facilities, including internationally accredited hospitals like Seoul National University Hospital and Samsung Medical Center. Tap water is safe but many locals drink bottled or filtered water. No specific vaccinations are required, but routine vaccines (MMR, hepatitis A/B) are recommended. Air quality can be poor during spring (yellow dust) and winter; sensitive travelers should monitor forecasts and consider masks. Pharmacies (yakguk) are widely available, and many doctors speak English in major hospitals. Travel insurance is advised as healthcare for foreigners can be expensive.
Languages Spoken
Korean
Quick Facts
Currency
South Korean Won (KRW)
₩
₩
Timezone
Asia/Seoul +09:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+82
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
9.4 million
Area
605.25 km²
Government
Special City with a Mayor and City Council
ISO Code
KR-11