How to Reach Seoul
Incheon International Airport (ICN) — consistently rated among the world's best — is about 60km from central Seoul. The AREX express train reaches Seoul Station in 43 minutes.
Get a T-money card immediately on arrival — it works on every subway, bus, and even some convenience stores throughout South Korea.
Top Things to See & Do
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
The largest of Seoul's five grand Joseon dynasty palaces with the dramatic changing of the guard ceremony three times daily. Rent a hanbok (traditional dress) to enter free and photograph yourself against the palace backdrop.
2. Bukchon Hanok Village
600-year-old traditional Korean houses preserved between the palaces — narrow lanes of curved tile roofs that transport you entirely out of the surrounding modern city. Visit early morning for near-solitude.
3. Myeongdong & Hongdae
Myeongdong is Seoul's most intense K-beauty district. Hongdae is the university district of independent music venues, vintage shops, and the creative energy that drives Korean pop culture.
4. N Seoul Tower
The communications tower atop Namsan Mountain reached by cable car offers the finest panoramic views over the vast Seoul basin.
5. Korean DMZ
The surreal border between North and South Korea — one of the world's most heavily militarized frontiers — is just an hour from Seoul by tour bus.
What to Eat in Seoul
- Korean BBQ — tabletop grilling of pork belly and short rib with banchan side dishes
- Bibimbap — rice with mixed vegetables, egg, and gochujang paste in a sizzling stone bowl
- Tteokbokki — chewy rice cakes in sweet-spicy red sauce, the essential Seoul street snack
- Soju — the clear Korean spirit drunk in every restaurant and street stall
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September–November) for foliage are Korea's most spectacular seasons. Winter is cold but excellent for skiing day trips.
