Seoul City Guide

General Information / Guide

The capital of South Korea, Seoul is a bustling metropolis that marries ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology. Famous for its skyscrapers, pop culture, and rich history, Seoul is a city that offers endless activities and cultural sights.

Climate / Weather / When to Go

Seoul features a humid continental climate with a significant temperature difference between the hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. The most favorable times to visit are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures are mild and the landscape is vibrant.

How to Get There

Incheon International Airport, one of the largest and busiest in the world, serves Seoul, along with Gimpo International Airport for regional flights. The city is renowned for its advanced public transportation network including an extensive subway system, buses, and trains linking it to other South Korean cities.

Food / Restaurants / What to Eat and Drink

Korean cuisine in Seoul is vibrant and diverse, with dishes like Kimchi, Bibimbap, and Korean BBQ being staples. Street food markets and traditional Korean Hanok houses offer a taste of both modern and historical culinary delights.

Önemli Yerler / Gezilecek Yerler

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: The largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty, offering a glimpse into Korea’s royal past.
• Bukchon Hanok Village: A traditional Korean village with a long history, featuring preserved Hanok houses.
• N Seoul Tower: Located on Namsan Mountain, this communication and observation tower provides panoramic views of Seoul.
   

What to Do

Explore the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace and watch the changing of the guard ceremony. Stroll through the vibrant streets of Insadong for traditional crafts and tea houses. Don't miss a visit to the N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape.

Nightlife / Bars / Entertainment

Seoul’s nightlife is electrifying, with options ranging from high-energy nightclubs in Gangnam to traditional tea houses and street food stalls in Insadong. The city also offers late-night shopping in markets like Dongdaemun, making it a haven for night owls.

Shopping / What to Buy

Seoul is a shopping heaven, from the trendy boutiques of Myeongdong to the extensive Dongdaemun Design Plaza. Korean cosmetics are a must-buy, along with traditional hanbok or contemporary Korean fashion.

Festivals/ Events

May: Buddha's Birthday (celebrated with lantern parades and cultural performances throughout the city)
September/October: Seoul International Fireworks Festival (a dazzling display of fireworks by international teams)
 

Holidays / Festivals / Important Days

1 January: New Year’s Day
1 March: Independence Movement Day
5 May: Children's Day
15 August: Liberation Day
Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving, varies)
Seollal (Korean New Year, varies)
Buddha's Birthday (varies)

Things to Pay Attention to / Important Information

Korean is the official language, with varying levels of English proficiency.
Casual wear is common, but modest attire should be worn in temples and formal areas.
The climate features hot humid summers and cold winters.
Markets are a great place to practice your bargaining skills, especially in areas like Namdaemun and Dongdaemun.

Transportation

Seoul offers a world-class public transportation system with its extensive subway, bus, and local train services.
Taxis are abundant, with the base fare starting at KRW 3,000. Apps like Kakao T also provide convenient booking services.
For exploring local neighborhoods or the Han River, renting a bike or using the city’s bike-share service is a great option.