Seoul City Guide

Seoul seamlessly blends ancient traditions with futuristic innovation. Start at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the grandest of the Five Grand Palaces, where the changing of the guard ceremony offers a glimpse into the Joseon Dynasty. Nearby, the narrow, winding alleys of Bukchon Hanok Village provide a quiet escape among preserved traditional Korean houses, perfect for a slow afternoon stroll.

For a taste of the city’s high-energy lifestyle, head to Myeong-dong for world-class shopping and street food. As the sun sets, ascend to N Seoul Tower on Namsan Mountain for panoramic vistas of the sparkling skyline. To experience the heart of Seoul’s culinary scene, Gwangjang Market is an essential stop, serving up legendary mung bean pancakes and hand-pulled noodles in a bustling, authentic atmosphere.

Seoul hides its best secrets in plain sight, tucked away in neighborhoods where history and modern creativity collide. Beyond the neon of the main shopping districts, locals often gravitate toward the industrial-chic atmosphere of Mullae-dong. Once a cluster of steel workshops, it is now a thriving hub for independent artists and cozy cafes, where the sound of metalwork blends with the aroma of freshly roasted coffee.

For those seeking the charm of traditional architecture without the bustling crowds, Seochon Village is a beloved alternative. This labyrinth of narrow alleys at the foot of Inwangsan Mountain houses artisanal boutiques and small galleries, maintaining a quiet, lived-in feel. To experience the city's natural beauty, the Ansan Jarak-gil provides a serene escape. This elevated wooden boardwalk circles Ansan Mountain, offering an easy, scenic hike through lush forests that most visitors overlook in favor of more famous peaks.

Seoul boasts one of the world's most efficient public transportation networks, centered around a sprawling, color-coded subway system and a comprehensive bus fleet. Navigating the city is a breeze with a rechargeable T-money card, which can be purchased and topped up at any convenience store or subway station. For navigation, download Naver Maps or Kakao Maps, as Google Maps offers limited functionality in South Korea. While the city is mountainous, many popular districts like Myeongdong and Insadong are highly walkable and best explored on foot.

Taxis are plentiful and relatively affordable, with a base fare starting around 4,800 KRW. While Uber is available as "Uber Taxi," the local KakaoTaxi app is the preferred method for hailing rides digitally. From Incheon International Airport, the most efficient way to reach Seoul Station is the AREX Express Train, costing approximately 11,000 KRW for a 43-minute journey. Alternatively, the "All-Stop" train is a budget-friendly option at roughly 5,000 KRW, while Airport Limousine buses offer direct routes to various neighborhoods for about 17,000 KRW.

A typical subway journey within the city center usually costs around 1,500 KRW, making it the most cost-effective way to zip between landmarks. Whether heading from the bustling markets of Namdaemun to the neon lights of Gangnam, the integrated transit system ensures seamless transfers between buses and trains. For late-night travelers, specialized "Owl Buses" run on major routes after the subway closes at midnight, providing a safe and reliable way to return to your accommodation.

Seoul is a premier global shopping destination where high-tech modernity meets traditional street markets. For a luxury experience, head to the glittering boutiques of Apgujeong Rodeo Street or explore the expansive flagship stores in Gangnam. These districts offer the latest in high fashion and designer labels, catering to those seeking premium brands and sophisticated department store experiences.

For trend-seekers and bargain hunters, Myeongdong is an essential stop, famous for its overwhelming array of K-beauty skincare products and international retail chains. Nearby, Hongdae offers vibrant streetwear and unique accessories favored by the city’s youth. To experience the heart of Seoul's commercial energy, visit Dongdaemun Market for 24-hour wholesale fashion or Namdaemun Market for traditional crafts, textiles, and authentic local snacks.

No shopping trip is complete without stocking up on Seoul’s most famous exports: world-class skincare and cosmetics. Visitors should also look for high-quality Korean ginseng and stylish, affordable apparel that defines the K-style aesthetic. Whether browsing for high-end couture or hunting for street-style treasures, Seoul provides an unparalleled retail journey.

In Seoul, tipping is generally not expected and there is no obligation to leave extra money at restaurants, cafes, or in taxis. Service charges are typically included in the listed price of your meal or service. In fact, offering a tip might occasionally cause confusion or be politely declined, as excellent service is considered a standard part of the hospitality experience.

The local currency is the South Korean Won (KRW), with a rough exchange rate of approximately 1,350 KRW to 1 US Dollar. While you might see a 10% service charge added to the bill at high-end international hotels, small tokens of appreciation are only common for specialized services like private tour guides, though even then, they are never mandatory.

The best times to visit Seoul are during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. From April to May, the city is transformed by vibrant cherry blossoms and mild temperatures, though this peak period brings larger crowds and higher accommodation rates. Similarly, September through November offers crisp air and stunning fall foliage, providing ideal conditions for exploring historic palaces and hiking nearby mountains without the intense humidity of the summer months.

While summer offers lively festivals, it is often characterized by heavy monsoon rains and sweltering heat. Conversely, winter can be biting and dry, yet it remains the most budget-friendly season for travelers seeking fewer crowds and festive light displays. For the perfect balance of manageable prices and comfortable weather, plan a trip in late autumn or mid-spring to capture the city’s natural beauty at its height.