Seoul 2025 Guide: Must-see attractions, local cuisine, and practical tips! | Trip.com

Explore Joseon Dynasty History

Walk through Gyeongbokgung Palace or Changdeokgung Palace, grand Joseon-era palaces, and see Gyeongbokgung's guard-changing ceremony (10 AM, 2 PM). Stroll Bukchon Hanok Village, where hanoks—traditional Korean houses with tiled roofs—line alleys; keep voices low to respect residents. Sip tea in a hanok cafe or visit Bukchon Hanok Village for Joseon artifacts and history.

View Seoul from High Above

Climb N Seoul Tower on Namsan Mountain to see Seoul's skyline; add a padlock to the Locks of Love fence. Visit Seoul Sky at Lotte World Tower (floors 117–123), the city's tallest lookout—Hike Inwangsan Mountain moderate trails to find temple ruins. Rest at a pavilion or photograph skyscrapers from rocky outcrops. Explore a hillside shrine for a historic touch.

Enjoy Han River Activities

Bike along Han River parks, passing families eating fried chicken, a local picnic favorite. Picnic or board a cruise to see Banpo Bridge's fountain glow (April–October evenings)—paddle boats at Ttukseom Hangang Park. Jog on riverside paths or grab a corn dog from a food cart while watching street musicians play Seoul's riverfront.

Watch a Modern Stage Show

Enjoy Nanta, Seoul's longest-running show, a nonverbal comedy in which performers bang kitchen tools like pots to create Korean rhythms. See Hero, a wordless show with graffiti, dance, and lights that bring paintings to life. Watch actors juggle glowing props in theaters like ones in Myeong-dong. Try a drumming workshop after the show or pose with colorful stage props, diving into Korea's blend of comedy and art.

Experience K-Pop Culture

K-Pop, born in Seoul, is a global hit. Visit Gangnam's K-Star Road to see statues of stars like BTS. Shop for posters in themed cafes or learn idol choreography in Hongdae's dance studios. Sing K-Pop hits at a noraebang karaoke room. Paint a fan sign at a craft booth or join a street dance battle, immersing in Korea's music craze.

Taste Market Street Foods

Stroll Gwangjang Market, eating tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), mayak gimbap (addictive mini rolls), or sundae (blood sausage). Order bibimbap (mixed rice with meat and veggies) at a stall or sip soju with marinated crab. Try hanjeongsik, a multi-course Korean meal, in a diner. Grab hotteok (cinnamon-sugar pancakes) from a cart, surrounded by Seoul's food stalls.

Shop in Trendy Districts

Browse Myeong-dong for K-beauty and clothes or Hongdae and Ewha for vintage street fashion. Visit Insadong's Ssamziegil mall for quirky crafts like pottery. Explore Dongdaemun's Doota Mall or APM/Hello APM complexes for affordable outfits—shop luxury in Gangnam. Try on hats in a vintage stall or pick up a hand-painted bookmark, finding souvenirs in Seoul's fashion streets.

Wear Traditional Korean Clothing

Rent hanbok, Korea's traditional clothing with long robes and bright colors, to wear at Gyeongbokgung or Bukchon Hanok Village. Hanbok, worn for centuries, is welcomed by locals as a respectful nod to culture. Walk stone paths or pose by palace gates. Try on a jeogori jacket and flowing skirt at a rental shop, snapping photos in Seoul's historic settings.

Visit Cafes and Bars

Drink coffee in Hongdae's cafes with comic book decor or Samcheong-dong's traditional houses. Explore Hongdae and Itaewon's bars for live guitar music and soju cocktails. Eat grilled skewers at a pojangmacha stall with beer. Try makgeolli, a fizzy rice drink, at a wooden table or dance to a DJ set, enjoying Seoul's cozy and lively hangouts.

Relax in Korean Bathhouses

Soak in a jjimjilbang, a Korean bathhouse with hot pools and saunas. Try pinewood, charcoal, or salt saunas, then chill in ice rooms. Eat baked eggs or drink sikhye, a sweet rice beverage, from a snack bar. Play board games in shared lounges or stretch on heated floors, joining locals in Seoul’s social spa culture.

Walk Along Cheonggyecheon Stream

Follow Cheonggyecheon, a restored downtown Seoul stream with stone paths and waterfalls, starting near Gwanghwamun Square. Once buried under roads, it now has bridges and benches. See November's Lantern Festival for iconic photos. Watch office workers share lunchboxes or kids splash in shallow pools. Grab snacks from nearby markets, enjoying a calm break in Seoul's urban core.

See Spring Cherry Blossoms

In April, cherry blossoms bloom in Seoul’s parks. Walk Yeouido's Han River Park to see pink flowers along paths. Visit Kyung Hee University's campus or Gyeongbokgung’s courtyards, framed by blooms. Eat hotteok (sweet pancakes) from a cart under trees. Join locals taking selfies by flowerbeds, surrounded by Seoul's springtime colors.

Hike Bukhansan National Park

Trek Bukhansan National Park in Seoul, with rocky trails and mountain views. Climb Baegundae Peak, a 3–4-hour hike, to see Samgaksan Doseonsa Temple in the valleys. Visit Bukhansanseong Fortress's stone walls or walk paths by streams. Watch hikers share kimbap snacks or visit a shrine with prayer flags, exploring Seoul's nature and history.

Seoul is a dynamic South Korean capital with historical and modern attractions, including the panoramic N Seoul Tower, the thrilling Everland theme park, the bustling shopping district of Myeong-dong, the culturally rich Gyeongbokgung Palace, and the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village.

N Seoul Tower, also known as Namsan Tower, is a prominent landmark and cultural symbol of Seoul, South Korea, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks. As the first general radio wave tower in the country, it has historical significance and continues to broadcast for major Korean media outlets. The tower is divided into sections including the N Lobby, N Plaza, and the N Tower, each offering various facilities and attractions. Visitors can experience the digital observatory on the third floor, which presents Korea's history through LCD screens, and participate in the "Locks of Love" tradition on the Roof Terrace. The tower's LED illumination at night enhances its beauty, making it a picturesque sight from afar. It is a year-round destination, with the observatory providing a unique vantage point to witness Seoul's changing seasons.

Everland in Seoul is a vibrant and diverse amusement park that offers a plethora of experiences for visitors of all ages. As Korea's largest theme park, Everland features five distinct zones, each with its own unique attractions and ambiance. The park is renowned for its thrilling rides, including the T-Express, which is not only Korea's first wooden roller coaster but also one of the world's top ten fastest, boasting a 77-degree drop and reaching speeds of up to 104 km/h. Animal lovers can immerse themselves in the Zootopia Zone, where they can encounter over 2,000 animals from around 200 species in environments like the Lost Valley and Safari World. Seasonal festivals throughout the year, such as the Tulip Festival and Rose Festival, ensure that each visit to Everland is a unique and memorable experience.

Myeong-dong in Seoul stands as a vibrant hub of commerce, fashion, and culture, attracting both locals and tourists alike. Known for its historical significance dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, Myeong-dong has evolved into a bustling shopping district, renowned for its array of department stores, boutiques, and beauty outlets. Shoppers can indulge in a diverse shopping experience, from luxury brands to trendy fashion items, while beauty enthusiasts will find a paradise of Korean cosmetic shops. The area is also celebrated for its street food, offering traditional Korean snacks and delicacies that provide a taste of the local cuisine amidst the shopping spree. Myeong-dong's cultural landscape is further enriched by the Myeongdong Cathedral and the Myeongdong Theater, adding a touch of historical charm to this dynamic neighborhood.

Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces from the Joseon Dynasty, is a historical gem in Seoul that offers visitors a glimpse into Korea's royal past. With its origins dating back to 1395, the palace has been the focal point of restoration efforts to revive its former glory after destructions during the Imjin War and Japanese occupation. Today, it houses the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum, showcasing artifacts spanning from prehistoric times to the end of the Joseon Dynasty. Visitors can experience the royal changing of the guard ceremony, explore the throne hall, the floating pavilion, and the royal living quarters, and even try on traditional Korean clothing for a memorable photo opportunity. The palace's architecture and the surrounding gardens offer a serene escape, reflecting the ancient Korean architectural principles and the natural beauty that once surrounded the royal family.

Bukchon Hanok Village, nestled in the heart of Seoul, is a picturesque enclave that transports visitors back to the Joseon Dynasty. This historic neighborhood, once the residential quarter for high-ranking officials and nobility, is renowned for its beautifully preserved hanoks—traditional Korean houses. These hanoks have been carefully maintained or restored, offering a glimpse into the architectural elegance of Korea's past. Visitors can immerse themselves in the cultural heritage of the area by participating in various activities such as traditional Korean workshops, donning hanbok attire, and exploring the quaint craft stores and galleries that dot the village. The village's unique blend of historical charm and living tradition makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the soul of Korean culture.

Seoul's food scene offers a rich tapestry of flavors and cultural experiences, from the communal grilling of 'samgyeopsal' at Korean BBQs and the revitalizing 'samgye-tang' soup, to the diverse tastes of 'bibimbap', the crunch of Korean fried chicken, and the historical comfort of 'budae jjigae' stew.

Korean Barbecue is a social and dining experience deeply rooted in Seoul's culture, where etiquette and cooking methods are integral to the enjoyment. Renowned dishes like 'samgyeopsal' and 'galbi' are grilled at the table, often wrapped in lettuce with 'banchan' for a blend of flavors and textures. With a plethora of restaurants like Wangbijib and Maple Tree House offering premium cuts and authentic sides, Seoul's BBQ scene caters to all, from solo diners at Baetjang to groups at WooSung Galbi, ensuring a memorable culinary adventure.

Samgye-tang is a traditional Korean ginseng chicken soup that has been a staple in Seoul since 1973, offering a revitalizing meal to those weary from the heat. This dish is not only a culinary delight but also a cultural experience, with variations including pine nuts, mung bean, and mugwort, each bringing a unique flavor to the table. At 3Daesamgyejangin, a restaurant spanning three generations, diners can enjoy this nourishing soup alongside a sous vide chicken stir-fry, embodying the essence of Korean comfort food.

Bibimbap is a beloved Korean dish that combines mixed rice with assorted vegetables, often found in Seoul's culinary scene. Originating from Jeonju, South Korea, bibimbap has made its way to the capital, where restaurants like Gogung and Jeonju Jungang Hoekwan offer their own delicious versions. While the dish is traditionally served in a hot stone bowl that crisps the rice at the bottom, variations can be found across Seoul, providing a taste of Korean culture in every bite.

Korean fried chicken is a crunchy and crispy delight that has become a symbol of Seoul's culinary scene, often enjoyed with a cold beer or soju. Originating during the Korean War and popularized in the 1990s, this dish is known for its double-frying technique that ensures a less greasy texture. With variations like "yangnyeom," "dakgangjeong," and "dakbal," each offering a unique blend of flavors from sweet and savory to spicy, it's a savory experience that reflects the evolution of Korean culture.

Budae jjigae, a spicy Korean stew from Seoul, is a beloved comfort food and a symbol of the country's history, often served as an accompaniment to drinks. Originating during the Korean War, it was created from surplus food from US army bases and includes diverse ingredients such as Spam, instant noodles, and American cheese. For an authentic taste of this dish, Budaejjigae Street in Seoul is the go-to destination, with numerous restaurants like Odeng Sikdang offering their own versions of this hearty stew.

Seoul's transportation infrastructure is robust, with Incheon International Airport, Gimpo International Airport and Seoul Station being key hubs for international and domestic travel respectively.

Incheon International Airport, acclaimed for its world-class facilities, is the primary gateway for international flights and is located on an artificial island around 30 miles west of Seoul. To reach the city center from Incheon, travelers can take the AREX express train to Seoul Station in approximately 43 minutes, or opt for buses and taxis for direct transfers to various destinations. For those arriving from Incheon Airport, the AREX train offers a direct link to Seoul Station, facilitating a seamless transition from air to rail travel.

Gimpo International Airport, located closer to the city center, primarily serves domestic flights and some international flights to nearby Asian destinations. The airport offers convenient transportation options to the city center, including subway, buses, and taxis.

Seoul Station, a major railway hub, serves as the terminus for high-speed KTX trains connecting Seoul to other major cities like Busan and Daegu. The station is well-connected to the city's subway system, with Lines 1 and 4 providing easy access to different parts of Seoul. 

Seoul's subway system is renowned for its efficiency and extensive coverage, with trains running from approximately 5:30 am until midnight. Stations have signs in multiple languages, and various apps provide real-time information, routes, and transfer details.

Taxis in Seoul offer a convenient mode of transport, with most accepting cash, credit cards, and Tmoney. Regular taxis are the most common, while deluxe and jumbo taxis provide more space at a higher rate. International taxis cater specifically to foreign tourists with multilingual drivers. Ride-hailing apps like Kakao T and TADA are popular alternatives, providing easy booking and payment options.

Seoul's public bike rental service, known as "Ttareungi" or Seoul Bike, is a popular choice for short-distance travel within the city. 

Seoul is a city with a diverse array of accommodation options, catering to the needs of every traveler. The city's hotels are spread across various districts, each offering unique experiences and amenities. From the bustling shopping districts to the trendy cultural hubs, Seoul's accommodation scene is as vibrant and dynamic as the city itself.

Myeong-dong is a premier shopping and cultural district in Seoul, teeming with luxury department stores, boutiques, and street vendors. The area is pedestrian-friendly, with main streets closed to traffic during the day, allowing easy access to shops and attractions like the Myeong-dong Market.

Visitors can indulge in a variety of cuisines at nearby restaurants, and the district is well-connected by public transport, with Myeong-dong Station on Line 4 providing easy access to other parts of the city. The proximity to cultural landmarks and the vibrant atmosphere make Myeong-dong a top choice for travelers seeking a lively urban experience.

Gangnam-gu is synonymous with luxury and modernity, offering an upscale experience with its high-end shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The district boasts excellent transportation links, including a well-developed bus system and subway connectivity, making it easy to explore.

Attractions like COEX, Bongeunsa Temple, and the trendy Garosu-gil are located here. Gangnam-gu's diverse offerings cater to those seeking a blend of contemporary culture, shopping, and nightlife in one of Seoul's most affluent areas.

Sinchon and Hongdae are the heart of Seoul's youthful energy, known for their vibrant nightlife, indie music scene, and cultural events. The area is a hub for local youths and tourists alike, with a plethora of shopping streets, cafes, and restaurants. Hongdae, in particular, is a cultural and arts special tourist zone, offering unique experiences like amateur busking performances, art markets, and street art murals.

The district is also home to Hongik University, which contributes to the area's creative and free-spirited culture. With excellent public transport options, including the subway, Sinchon and Hongdae are ideal for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Seoul's dynamic youth culture.

The best time to visit Seoul is during the spring months of March to May and the autumn months of September to November. Spring offers the chance to witness the city's cherry blossoms, with peak blooms typically occurring in April, creating a picturesque setting in parks and along streets. The weather is mild and conducive to outdoor activities, including festivals such as the Lotus Lantern Festival in May. Autumn is equally appealing, with comfortable temperatures and the opportunity to see the vibrant fall foliage. Festivals like the Seoul Lantern Festival in November add to the city's charm during this season.

1. Prepare for Seoul Entry
Starting February 24, 2025, you must submit an e-arrival card online at k-eta.go.kr within three days of arrival. Paper forms are valid until December 31, 2025. Visa-free travelers need a K-ETA. Declare cash over $10,000 at Incheon Airport to avoid fines. If you are arriving after 10 PM, the currency exchange counters may be closed. Use Uber for reliable rides, as it accepts cards, or pre-book airport taxis or hotel shuttles.

2. Pay with Cash or Cards
Carry small Korean won (KRW) bills for street markets, small cafes, or public facilities, as cash is often required—exchange currency at city banks, such as Shinhan, for better rates than at airports. Most merchants accept contactless Visa, American Express, or Mastercard; however, Apple Pay is rarely accepted.

3. Get a Prepaid SIM Card
Buy a prepaid SIM card (1–30 days, data-only) at convenience stores like CU or GS25 for navigation and bookings; note that airport SIMs are more expensive. Insert the SIM upon arrival for instant connectivity, as public WiFi is spotty outside malls or stations.

4. Use the T-money Card for Public Transport
Purchase a T-money card at metro stations or convenience stores (CU, Mini Stop, or 7-Eleven) for Seoul’s metro, buses, and some taxis. Top up with cash or cards at station machines, convenience stores, or T-money stands near bus stops and subway exits. Tap the card when boarding and exiting buses or the metro to deduct fares. Press red stop buttons on buses to signal your exit. Save receipts for transfers within 30 minutes. T-money is cheaper than single tickets, streamlining city travel.

5. Get Around Seoul with Uber, Taxis, and Kakao Taxi
In taxis, confirm the meter starts (point to it if needed); cash is preferred, though some accept T-money or cards. Short trips may frustrate drivers, so secure your rides via Uber or KakaoTaxi (needs a Korean phone number for verification).

6. Download Local Navigation Apps
Install Naver Map or KakaoMap before arrival, as Google Maps often provides inaccurate routes in Seoul, ignoring pedestrian paths or transit schedules. Search destinations in English or copy Korean names from websites. Download apps via the App Store or Google Play, and use offline maps for spotty connections. These apps pinpoint stations, restaurants, and attractions, saving time in Seoul’s bustling streets.

7. Download Local Translation Apps
Get Papago or Google Translate to navigate Seoul’s English-limited signs, menus, and conversations, especially in smaller restaurants or markets. Download Korean language packs for offline use and utilize text and photo translation for menus or signs. Practice basic phrases like “hello” (annyeonghaseyo) via app tutorials to show respect. Apps bridge communication gaps, ensuring smoother interactions with locals or staff.

8. Respect Transport and Social Etiquette
Pink seats are reserved for pregnant women, and red seats are designated for elderly passengers. These seats should never be occupied on Seoul’s metro and buses, respecting local norms that prioritize the elderly and those in need. Stand right on escalators, leaving left for walkers, and use crosswalks to avoid jaywalking fines. Accept food or drinks from elders with both hands and do a small bow to show gratitude, reflecting Korea’s cultural respect for age. Keep your voices low on public transport.

9. Follow Drinking and Dining Etiquette
At Seoul’s restaurants, share banchan (side dishes) and soju before mains; press table buttons or wave staff to order—it’s standard, not rude. Use metal chopsticks for food and spoons for rice, waiting for the eldest to start. Avoid sticking chopsticks into rice, as it is considered a disrespectful gesture, often likened to funeral rites. Accept drinks with both hands, turning slightly when drinking with elders, and keep glasses filled.

10. Understand Seoul’s No-Tipping Culture
Tipping is not expected in Seoul’s restaurants, cafes, or services, as it’s considered impolite; service charges are included in bills. Pay the exact amount shown, whether in cash or by card. Offering tips may confuse staff, so save the gesture for home to respect local norms and avoid awkwardness.

11. Sort Garbage Carefully
Sort Seoul’s garbage into designated bags (available at convenience stores): white for general waste, yellow for food waste, and blue for recyclables. Fines for improper sorting are high. Public bins are scarce, so carry a small trash bag and dispose at hotels or stations.

12. Smoke Only in Designated Areas
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is banned in Seoul’s restaurants, parks, stations, and streets. Use marked smoking zones at stations or cafes, identified by signs or ashtrays.

13. Plan Around Attraction Closures
Book tickets for Gyeongbokgung (closed on Tuesdays) or Changdeokgung’s Secret Garden (closed on Mondays) a week in advance via the official sites or Trip for peak seasons (April–October). Visit early (9 AM) on weekdays to avoid crowds. If you wear a hanbok (a traditional Korean garment that offers a cultural experience open to all and celebrated by locals), entry to Gyeongbokgung is free.

14. Save with Tax-Free Shopping
Spend between ₩15,000–₩1,000,000 per transaction at “Tax Free” shops like Olive Young or Lotte Mart for tax refunds. Show your passport for instant 6% discounts on cosmetics or snacks, or save receipts for airport refunds on clothes/electronics at Incheon’s tax counters. The total amount of your goods for the entire trip should be less than ₩5,000,000.

15. Research Korean Cosmetics Brands Beforehand
Seoul’s cosmetics stores, such as Olive Young, offer vast selections that can overwhelm even the most seasoned traveler. Research popular brands (e.g., Laneige, Dr. Jart+) online before your trip to prioritize purchases. Note best-sellers like sheet masks or sunscreens, and check prices at duty-free shops or Myeongdong outlets to save time.

16. Bring a Plug Adapter and Toiletries
Pack a Type C or F plug adapter for Korea’s 220V outlets, as hotels rarely provide them. Bring travel-sized toothpaste, a toothbrush, and slippers, as budget hotels may not provide these essentials; purchase extras at convenience stores if needed. Ensure devices are compatible with 220V to avoid issues.

17. Save Emergency Contacts
Save Korea’s emergency numbers: 112 for police, ambulance, or fire; 119 for medical emergencies. Keep your hotel’s address in Korean handy for quick assistance.

The official language in Seoul is Korean, a rich linguistic heritage with origins debated and a unique Hangul writing system created in 1443. While Korean is widely spoken, travelers can find translation apps and interpretation services to assist with communication. Seoul's multilingualism includes English in tourist areas, though basic Korean phrases are appreciated and enhance cultural respect. Effective communication may involve gestures and learning key expressions for greetings, directions, and dining.

KakaoMap: A reliable and detailed map service that is popular in Korea for navigation, with user-generated content and reviews.

Naver Map: Provides clear directions and more English names for bus and train stations, useful for navigating Seoul.

Subway Seoul: Offers the fastest route, fewest transfers, door number for transfers, and fare price for subway travel in Seoul.

KakaoBus: Gives real-time bus arrival times, locations, and routes of buses in Korea.

* South Korea offers a variety of mobile data packages for travelers, including prepaid SIM cards and portable Wi-Fi devices, which can be more cost-effective than data roaming charges. Prepaid SIM cards provide high-speed 4G LTE internet and can be collected from major airports in South Korea, while portable Wi-Fi devices offer unlimited 4G coverage and can connect multiple devices.

* Public WiFi is widely available in South Korea, with an extensive network of free WiFi locations. Seoul alone has over 23,000 free WiFi spots, and the country boasts a total of 94,547 free WiFi locations. Tourists can access free WiFi in public areas, including transportation systems, cafes, and hotels, with the option of secure connections for enhanced convenience and security.

Seoul experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with temperatures that can drop below freezing, while summers are hot and humid, with temperatures occasionally reaching as high as 35°C (95°F). The city receives significant rainfall, especially during the summer monsoon period. When packing for Seoul, it is essential to consider these temperature extremes. For winter, bring warm layers, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. During summer, opt for lightweight, breathable clothing and a raincoat or umbrella for monsoon rains. For the transitional seasons of spring and autumn, layering is key, as temperatures can vary.

Travelers should also be prepared for yellow dust in spring, which can cause respiratory issues. Carrying protective masks and eye drops may be beneficial. Additionally, be cautious of typhoons from July to September, and take necessary precautions if traveling during this period.

In Seoul, credit cards and mobile payments are the primary methods for transactions.

Credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, are widely accepted, and mobile payments like Samsung Pay, Naver Pay, and Kakao Pay are prevalent due to their convenience. For tourists, it's advisable to have a T-money card for public transportation and some retail purchases.

Be mindful of potential fees when using ATMs for cash withdrawals and currency conversion fees, which can be around 3% for credit card transactions. Mobile payments may require a passcode or fingerprint scan for authentication.