Gyeongbokgung Palace, also known as the Palace of Shining Happiness, is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Seoul. The palace was built in 1395 and is one of the oldest and most beautiful palaces in Korea. Visitors can witness the changing of the guard ceremony and explore the many pavilions, gardens, and museums throughout the property.
Namsan Tower, also known as Seoul Tower, is a landmark tower that provides visitors with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. The tower is located on top of Namsan Mountain and visitors can take a cable car or hike to the top. The tower also features a number of restaurants, gift shops, and even a 3D theater for visitors to enjoy.
Changdeokgung Palace is another beautiful palace in Seoul that is a must-visit for anyone interested in Korean history and culture. The palace was built in 1405 and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the many structures and gardens throughout the palace grounds and witness the beauty of traditional Korean architecture.
Bukchon Hanok Village is a traditional Korean village located in the heart of Seoul. The village dates back 600 years and features many well-preserved hanok, traditional Korean houses. Visitors can explore the many alleys and streets of the village and learn about traditional Korean culture and way of life.
Myeong-dong is a popular shopping and entertainment district located in the heart of Seoul. Visitors can shop for Korean fashion and beauty products, enjoy street food and cafes, and even catch a K-Pop concert or visit a Korean skincare spa. Visitors can also explore the many historic sites and cultural landmarks in the area.
Seoul has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, subway trains, and taxis. The Seoul Metro system is an efficient and affordable way to get around the city, and visitors can purchase T-money cards to make the process even easier. Taxis are also readily available in Seoul, but they tend to be more expensive than public transportation. A single journey on the Seoul Metro costs KRW 1,350.
If you have more time, consider visiting other historical sites such as the Seoul National Museum, Jongmyo Shrine or the historical fortress of Suwon. If you have less time, consider shortening your stay at any of the listed locations or removing a destination altogether. Visiting Seoul during spring is highly recommended because of the cherry blossoms. If you’re visiting during summer, be sure to wear sunscreen and dress in light, breathable clothing as temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F).
Seoul has two main airports: Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP). Incheon International Airport is the larger of the two and is located approximately 52km (32 miles) west of Seoul’s city center. It is served by many major airlines and offers a variety of transportation options to the city, including train shuttle service, express buses, and taxis. Gimpo International Airport is located approximately 16km (10 miles) west of the city center and mostly serves domestic flights.