Travel guide · South Korea
Seoul: what to see and when to go
Seoul mixes Joseon-dynasty palaces with futuristic skyscrapers, K-pop culture and some of Asia's best street food. It is safe, efficient and open late, with markets, cafés and karaoke rooms busy well into the night.
What to see and do in Seoul
Gyeongbokgung Palace
The grand royal palace; entry is free if you wear a hanbok.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Traditional houses between the palaces, where residents ask visitors to keep quiet.
Myeongdong and Gwangjang Market
Street food, Korean cosmetics and crispy bindaetteok pancakes.
N Seoul Tower and Namsan
Views over the whole city from the mountain in its centre.
The DMZ
The border with North Korea, on an organised tour.
Best time to go
The most pleasant months: Apr – Jun.
Getting there
| From | Flight time | Return flight |
|---|---|---|
| London | 12 hr | ≈ €580 · See flights |
| New York | 14 hr, 45 min | ≈ €640 · See flights |
| Los Angeles | 12 hr, 45 min | ≈ €600 · See flights |
| Dubai | 9 hr, 15 min | ≈ €510 · See flights |
| Singapore | 6 hr, 30 min | ≈ €390 · See flights |
| Sydney | 11 hr, 15 min | ≈ €560 · See flights |
3 nights from London: ≈ €830 per person, flight and stay included.
Per person. Estimates from distance and local prices; real fares depend on your dates.
Essentials
- Country
- South Korea
- Currency
- South Korean Won
- Good for
- city · food · nightlife · culture
- How long to stay
- 3–5 days
- Where to stay
- Myeongdong or Jongno for the sights; Hongdae for nightlife; Gangnam for modern Seoul.Find a place to stay in Seoul
Plan your trip
Flights, a place to stay and what else you need for Seoul, one tap each.
- FlightsFrom London · about €580 (opens in a new tab)
- StayHotels and apartments in Seoul (opens in a new tab)
- Things to doTours, tickets and experiences (opens in a new tab)
- Travel insuranceMedical, luggage and cancellation (opens in a new tab)
- Internet on arrivalData eSIM, no roaming bills (opens in a new tab)
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Frequently asked questions
What's the weather like in Seoul and when should you go?
The most pleasant months: Apr – Jun. Average highs range from 2° in January to 29° in July.
How many days do you need in Seoul?
3 to 5 days is enough to see the essentials without rushing.
What does a few days in Seoul cost?
Accommodation runs at around €90 per person per night. 3 nights from London: ≈ €830 per person, flight and stay included. The flight from London takes about 12 hr.
Where should you stay in Seoul?
Myeongdong or Jongno for the sights; Hongdae for nightlife; Gangnam for modern Seoul.
