South Korea

Seoul

Seoul, South Korea
Seoul, South Korea
Seoul, South Korea
Seoul, South Korea

Why visit Seoul

South Korea’s buzzing capital is a fast paced city full of character and a  real paradise for food lovers. Explore the grand halls of Gyeongbokgung Palace, wander among the traditional hanok houses of Bukchon Hanok Village and browse the food stalls and market halls of Gwangjang Market.

Seoul is also at the heart of South Korea’s contemporary culture, with fashionable districts such as Myeongdong and Gangnam offering shopping, dining and entertainment.

 

Seoul, South Korea

Highlights of Seoul

  • Royal Palaces: Seoul’s royal heritage is showcased in palaces such as Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung and Deoksugung. Explore grand courtyards, ornate architecture and historic gardens, or rent a hanbok for a more immersive experience.
  • Bukchon Hanok Village: Bukchon Hanok Village offers a glimpse of traditional Seoul, with narrow streets lined by preserved hanok houses, cultural spaces and small cafés.
  • Gwangjang Market: Gwangjang Market is one of Seoul’s oldest markets, known for its lively atmosphere and classic Korean street food, including bindaetteok and gimbap.
  • Gangnam: Gangnam District is a stylish district of designer shopping, modern skyscrapers, vibrant nightlife and contemporary Korean culture.
  • Korean Demilitarised Zone (DMZ): The Korean Demilitarized Zone offers an insight into the division of the Korean Peninsula through guided visits, observation points and historic sites.
  • N Seoul Tower: Standing atop Namsan Mountain, N Seoul Tower offers panoramic views across the city, particularly striking after dark.
Did you Know?
It’s often said that Seoul is a ‘city that never sleeps’, thanks to its 24-hour culture. Districts such as Gangnam District and Hongdae stay lively late into the night, with restaurants, cafés, shops and street food stalls open well past midnight.

 

Five Ancient Royal Palaces

Seoul’s five royal palaces, built during the Joseon dynasty, once formed the centre of political and royal life in the capital. Each palace served a different purpose, from ceremonial events to royal residences, and together they reflect centuries of Korean history and architecture. Admission to any of the palaces is free if you arrive wearing a traditional Hanbok.

Good to know

Getting to Seoul

If you are travelling from the UK, there are daily direct flights from London Heathrow Airport to Seoul Incheon International Airport, taking around 12 to 13 hours.

If you are travelling from the US, direct flights operate from several major hubs to Seoul Incheon International Airport, with flight times varying depending on departure city.

When to go

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OUR FAVOURITE TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit Seoul is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and the city is at its most comfortable for exploring.

Spring brings cherry blossoms across parks and palaces such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, while autumn offers crisp air and colourful foliage in places like Bukhansan National Park.

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