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Planning a trip to Seoul? You’re in for an unforgettable adventure. The South Korean capital is a fascinating mix of old-world charm and futuristic flair — think centuries-old palaces alongside neon-lit streets, bustling markets next to chic designer stores, and traditional hanok houses just a short walk from cutting-edge K-pop entertainment venues.
Whether you’re here for the food, the fashion, the history, or the nightlife, Seoul has something to surprise and delight every traveler. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve put together this guide packed with practical tips, insider advice, and local know-how.
Getting to Seoul
Most travelers arrive at Incheon International Airport (ICN) — one of the best and most efficient airports in the world. From Incheon, you can reach the city center by:
- AREX (Airport Railroad Express) – Fast, clean, and direct to Seoul Station in about 45 minutes.
- Airport Limousine Buses – Comfortable and drop you right in front of major hotels and neighborhoods.
- Taxis or ride-hailing apps – Convenient if you have a lot of luggage, but more expensive.
If you’re already in South Korea, KTX (Korea Train Express) high-speed trains connect Seoul with other cities like Busan and Daejeon in just a few hours.
Getting Around Seoul
Seoul’s public transport system is world-class. The subway network is clean, safe, and easy to navigate, with English signs and announcements. Get yourself a T-money card — a rechargeable travel card that works on buses, subways, and even taxis.
Walking is also a great way to explore certain neighborhoods like Insadong, Hongdae, and Ikseon-dong, but remember that Seoul is big — you’ll probably need to combine walking with public transport.
Pro tip: Download Naver Map or KakaoMap — Google Maps doesn’t work well for navigation here.
Where to Stay
Seoul has accommodation for every budget and style:
- Luxury – Areas like Gangnam and Jamsil have high-end hotels with incredible skyline views.
- Mid-range – Myeongdong and Insadong offer convenient locations near shopping and attractions.
- Budget – Hongdae and Itaewon have affordable guesthouses, hostels, and Airbnb options.
If you want an authentic cultural stay, try booking a hanok guesthouse in Bukchon Hanok Village.
Top Things to Do in Seoul
You could spend weeks in Seoul and still not see everything, but here are the must-dos:
Explore Palaces and History
- Gyeongbokgung Palace – The largest and most iconic palace in Seoul. Don’t miss the guard-changing ceremony.
- Changdeokgung Palace – Famous for its Secret Garden.
- Bukchon Hanok Village – Traditional Korean houses in a charming, hilly neighborhood.
Dive into K-pop and Modern Culture
- Visit SM Town in COEX Mall for K-pop exhibits.
- Shop for the latest fashion trends in Hongdae and Myeongdong.
Go Market Hopping
- Gwangjang Market – Street food heaven. Try bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap (addictive mini seaweed rice rolls).
- Namdaemun Market – For souvenirs, clothing, and snacks.
Enjoy the Views
- N Seoul Tower – Ride the cable car or hike up for panoramic city views.
- Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) – Especially stunning at night.
Food and Drink
Seoul is a foodie’s dream. Beyond the famous Korean barbecue, you’ll find:
- Tteokbokki – Spicy rice cakes.
- Samgyetang – Ginseng chicken soup, especially comforting in cooler months.
- Korean fried chicken – Best enjoyed with beer (“chimaek”).
- Patbingsu – Shaved ice dessert topped with sweet red beans and fruit.
Many restaurants have picture menus or displays, so ordering is easy even if you don’t speak Korean.
Health and Safety in Seoul
Seoul is one of the safest big cities in the world, with low crime rates. Still, it’s smart to follow basic travel safety tips:
- Keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas like Myeongdong.
- Watch your step in markets and street-food alleys — they can be slippery.
- Air quality can fluctuate, especially in spring — check daily levels and wear a mask if needed.
If you get sick or injured, it’s comforting to know Seoul has excellent medical facilities and English-speaking doctors.
Money and Payments
The local currency is the South Korean won (KRW). Seoul is largely cashless, but it’s still handy to have some cash for street food, taxis, and small shops.
Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs with English instructions are easy to find in convenience stores like GS25 and CU.
Language Tips
Koreans appreciate any attempt to speak their language, but you’ll find English spoken in hotels, tourist attractions, and major restaurants. Learn a few key phrases:
- Annyeonghaseyo – Hello
- Kamsahamnida – Thank you
- Eolmaeyo? – How much is it?
Best Time to Visit Seoul
- Spring (April–June) – Cherry blossoms and mild weather.
- Autumn (September–November) – Crisp air and beautiful fall foliage.
- Winter (December–February) – Cold but festive, with snowy scenes.
- Summer (July–August) – Hot and humid, with monsoon rains.
Extra Travel Tips
- Public trash bins are rare — carry a small bag for your rubbish.
- The subway can get crowded during rush hour; avoid traveling between 8–9 am and 6–7 pm if possible.
- Free Wi-Fi is everywhere, but having a portable Wi-Fi device or SIM card is a game-changer.
About The Air Doctor App
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance anywhere you travel.
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Healthcare access in 90 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including cardiologists, gynecologists, and ENT specialists
FAQs
Seoul can be as affordable or as pricey as you make it. Street food, budget hotels, and public transport are very reasonably priced. High-end restaurants and luxury hotels will quickly increase costs.
Yes — it’s one of the safest major cities in the world. That said, stick to well-lit areas and take the same precautions you would anywhere.
Yes, especially in tourist-friendly areas, hotels, and transport hubs. Outside of these, English may be limited, but apps like Papago help a lot.
