Last reviewed: · Prices are approximate and for orientation only.
Overview
Seoul (서울) is one of the essential stops in South Korea, located in the Seoul region. Joseon royal palaces, hanok lanes, 24-hour night markets, K-culture and mountain fortress trails.
With direct connections via KORAIL KTX & SRT High-Speed Rail, Seoul rewards a stay of 4–6 days so you can balance major landmarks with neighborhood cafés, markets, and easy half-day excursions.
Neighbourhoods & areas
Seoul Historic Center & Old Town
Walkable core with historic architecture, pedestrian squares, and landmarks (Seoul Historic Center & Main Square).
Central Station & Transit Quarter
Convenient hub for KORAIL KTX & SRT High-Speed Rail arrivals, luggage lockers, and business hotels.
Market & Dining District
Evening bistros, traditional halls, and food stalls serving Traditional Seoul House Specialty and Regional Seoul Market Dish.
Top sights & experiences
Seoul Historic Center & Main Square
Signature highlight in Seoul — reserve morning entry tickets online in peak season.
Seoul National Museum & Cathedral
Signature highlight in Seoul — reserve morning entry tickets online in peak season.
Seoul Panoramic Viewpoint & Old Quarter
Signature highlight in Seoul — reserve morning entry tickets online in peak season.
What to eat
Traditional Seoul House Specialty
Iconic local specialty of Seoul and the Seoul region.
Regional Seoul Market Dish
Iconic local specialty of Seoul and the Seoul region.
Artisanal Seoul Pastry & Wine
Iconic local specialty of Seoul and the Seoul region.
Where to stay by budget
Budget
Well-connected hostels and guesthouses within a 10-minute walk of Seoul's central station or metro lines.
Mid-range
Boutique 3-to-4-star hotels near the historic center and pedestrian promenade.
Luxury
Heritage 5-star grand hotels and design properties with concierge access and views.
Rough nightly ranges: hostels and capsule hotels often run a few thousand yen per person; business hotels commonly ₩8,000–₩20,000 per room; upscale hotels and ryokan can be far higher, especially in peak seasons. See our accommodation guide.
Getting there
Seoul is served by KORAIL KTX & SRT High-Speed Rail and intercity express trains as well as regional airport transfers. Book high-speed legs 2–6 weeks ahead for early-bird fares.
Getting around
The historic core of Seoul is best explored on foot, supplemented by contactless tap-to-pay metro, tram, or bus lines.
Day trips & side trips
Scenic Regional Excursion from Seoul
30–60 minutes by regional train into the surrounding Seoul countryside and nearby historic towns.
Neighboring Heritage Town
Combine morning sightseeing with a long local lunch featuring Artisanal Seoul Pastry & Wine.
Best time to visit
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) bring mild walking weather and harvest festivals to Seoul. Summer offers long daylight hours, while winter brings festive markets and lower hotel rates.
Local tips
- Start at Seoul Historic Center & Main Square before 9:00 AM to beat day-trip tour groups.
- Use contactless credit cards or mobile transit passes on Seoul buses, trams, and metro gates.
- Order Traditional Seoul House Specialty at lunch for the best value set menus.
Official sources & further reading
Rules, prices and schedules change. Confirm details here before you travel: