Seoul, South Korea - Best Hotels & Top Attractions

Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, is a dynamic blend of rich history, cutting-edge technology, and vibrant culture. Known for its impressive skyline, traditional palaces, bustling markets, and delicious food, Seoul offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, nature lover, or tech enthusiast, this city is sure to captivate you. Here’s your ultimate travel guide to help you make the most of your trip to Seoul.

Essential Information

Location: Seoul is located in the northwest part of South Korea, close to the border with North Korea.
Currency: The official currency of South Korea is the South Korean Won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s still recommended to carry some cash for smaller establishments.
Language: The official language is Korean. While many people, especially in tourist areas, understand basic English, it’s helpful to learn a few basic Korean phrases.
Time Zone: Seoul is in the Korea Standard Time Zone (KST), which is UTC+9.
Visa: Most nationalities can visit South Korea without a visa for stays of up to 90 days, but check with your local embassy or consulate for specific visa requirements.
Weather: Seoul experiences four distinct seasons: spring (March to May), summer (June to August), autumn (September to November), and winter (December to February). Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cold with occasional snowfall.

Interesting Facts

A City of Contrasts: Seoul seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern advancements. You’ll find palaces and temples standing proudly alongside futuristic skyscrapers and high-tech shopping malls.
Digital Hub: Seoul is known for its incredible internet speed, offering some of the fastest Wi-Fi in the world. The city is also a major tech hub, home to global companies like Samsung and LG.
Palace City: Seoul is home to five grand palaces, each offering a glimpse into Korea’s royal past. These include Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Deoksugung.
Shopping Paradise: Seoul is a paradise for shoppers, offering everything from high-end international brands in Gangnam to unique vintage finds in the neighborhood of Hongdae.

How to Get There

By Air: Seoul is served by two major airports: Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP). Incheon is the main international gateway, while Gimpo is primarily for domestic flights.
From Incheon Airport: You can easily reach central Seoul via the AREX (Airport Railroad Express), buses, or taxis. The AREX takes about 45 minutes to get to the city center. Taxis will take around 60 minutes, depending on traffic.
By Train: Seoul is well-connected by high-speed trains (KTX) to other major cities in South Korea like Busan, Daegu, and Daejeon.
By Bus: Long-distance buses from other cities and towns are available, with several terminals in Seoul, such as Seoul Express Bus Terminal.

Best Things to Do in Seoul

Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace: This magnificent palace is one of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks. Explore its grand courtyards, pavilions, and the National Folk Museum located within the grounds. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony that takes place every hour.
Explore Bukchon Hanok Village: Step back in time as you wander through this charming village of traditional hanok houses. Located between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces, this area offers a unique glimpse of old Seoul amidst the modern cityscape.
Hike Up Namsan Seoul Tower: For panoramic views of the city, hike up Namsan Mountain to reach the famous Namsan Seoul Tower (also called N-Seoul Tower). The tower offers 360-degree views of the entire city, and you can also enjoy a romantic evening with the “love locks” that decorate the fences around the tower.
Shop in Myeongdong: If you love shopping, Myeongdong is a must-visit. This vibrant district is home to countless shops, ranging from international fashion brands to Korean beauty stores. Street food vendors also line the streets, offering delicious snacks like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).
Relax in a Traditional Korean Spa: Experience the unique relaxation culture of jjimjilbang, or Korean saunas. These spas offer hot and cold baths, saunas, and relaxation rooms. Dragon Hill Spa and Siloam Sauna are two popular jjimjilbangs in the city.
Explore Insadong: Known for its traditional Korean culture, Insadong is the place to visit for traditional tea houses, antiques, crafts, and art galleries. Stroll along its charming streets, shop for unique souvenirs, and enjoy tea in one of the cozy cafes.
Admire Contemporary Art at the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art: This museum combines traditional Korean art with modern and contemporary works, providing a fascinating look at Korea’s cultural evolution.

Best Accommodation Options

Luxury Hotels: For a luxurious stay, consider The Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, The Shilla Seoul, or Park Hyatt Seoul. These hotels offer world-class amenities, stunning views, and excellent service.
Budget Hotels: Itaewon and Hongdae offer a range of affordable yet comfortable accommodations for budget travelers. Myeongdong is also home to various budget hotels with easy access to shopping and transportation.
Hostels: For backpackers or those traveling solo, Kimchi Guesthouse and Seoul Backpackers offer affordable and social lodging options with a friendly atmosphere.
Airbnb: You can also find unique Airbnb options, ranging from traditional Korean houses (hanok) to modern apartments with stunning views of the city.

Cultural and Modern Attractions

Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this palace is known for its beautiful Secret Garden, a tranquil space featuring ponds, pavilions, and lush greenery.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): Designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, DDP is a futuristic, iconic building that serves as a hub for design, fashion, and culture. It’s a must-see for fans of modern architecture.
Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): Take a day trip from Seoul to the DMZ, the border between North and South Korea. Visit the Dora Observatory, Joint Security Area (JSA), and Third Infiltration Tunnel to learn more about Korea’s division.

Dining and Nightlife

Street Food: Seoul’s street food is legendary. Don’t miss tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), odeng (fish cakes), bungeoppang (fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste), and sundae (Korean blood sausage).
Fine Dining: For upscale dining, try Mingles, which offers modern interpretations of traditional Korean cuisine, or Jungsik, a Michelin-starred restaurant that combines Korean flavors with contemporary techniques.
Nightlife: Seoul has a thriving nightlife scene. Gangnam, Itaewon, and Hongdae are known for their vibrant bars, clubs, and lounges. Enjoy live music, karaoke, or dance the night away at one of the many trendy spots.
Traditional Dining: For an authentic Korean experience, visit a hanjeongsik restaurant, where you can enjoy a full-course traditional Korean meal featuring dishes like bibimbap, kimchi, and banchan (side dishes).

Day Trips from Seoul

DMZ (Demilitarized Zone): A trip to the DMZ is a must to understand the history and tensions between North and South Korea. Guided tours are available and provide an eye-opening experience.
Nami Island: Known for its stunning tree-lined paths and scenic beauty, Nami Island is a popular destination for a relaxing day trip. It’s especially popular during autumn when the leaves turn vibrant colors.
Everland: For family-friendly fun, visit Everland, South Korea’s largest theme park. Located about an hour outside of Seoul, it offers thrilling rides, a zoo, and various seasonal events.
Bukhansan National Park: For outdoor enthusiasts. Take a day trip to Bukhansan National Park, which offers fantastic hiking trails with rewarding views of Seoul and the surrounding mountains.

Getting Around

Public Transport: Seoul boasts one of the best public transport systems in the world, with a vast network of subways, buses, and taxis. The Seoul Metropolitan Subway system is user-friendly, with signs in both Korean and English. The T-money card is used to pay for all forms of transport and can be easily purchased and recharged.
Bicycles: For a more leisurely pace, rent a bicycle through the Seoul Bike “Seoul Bike” program, which offers bike rentals at stations around the city.
Walking: Seoul is a very walkable city, especially in neighborhoods like Insadong, Myeongdong, and Hongdae. Walking is a great way to explore the city at your own pace.

Practical Tips

SIM Cards: Renting a SIM card or portable Wi-Fi device at the airport is recommended for easy internet access throughout your trip.
Weather: Be prepared for the weather, especially during the hot, humid summers or the cold, dry winters. Pack accordingly, and make sure to bring sunscreen in the summer and warm clothing in the winter.
Tipping: Tipping is not common in South Korea, and service charges are usually included in the bill. However, rounding up the bill is appreciated for good service.

Conclusion

Seoul is a city that perfectly balances its deep cultural heritage with modern innovation. Whether you’re exploring ancient palaces, shopping in trendy districts, or sampling mouthwatering street food, there’s never a dull moment in this vibrant city. With efficient public transport, endless attractions, and a lively atmosphere, Seoul is a destination that offers something for every traveler. Make sure to experience the mix of old and new that makes Seoul one of the most exciting cities in the world.