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The Ultimate Seoul Travel Guide
Table of Contents
Welcome to our Ultimate Seoul South Korea Travel Guide! This in-depth guide provides information for everyone traveling to Seoul for the first time or returning after a previous journey.
Seoul is full of amazing things to do amongst its busy streets, and we provide helpful advice on how to get around, detailed Seoul travel itineraries, where to stay, and the must-see attractions. In order to make the most of your visit, we’ll also share the best restaurants we discovered. Our insider recommendations will ensure that you make the most out of your trip, and build memories one trip at a time!
Best Time to Visit Seoul
The best time to visit South Korea depends on your weather preferences and preferred activities. Spring (April to June) offers mild weather and cherry blossoms, summer (July to August) is good for beach and outdoor activities but it tends to get hot and humid, autumn (September to November) is cool with stunning foliage, and winter (December to February) is ideal for winter sports and festivals but can be very cold.
We have personally experienced Seoul’s spring, summer and winter months.
Pre-Arrival Checklist
What do I need to bring to Seoul? Before you set foot in Seoul, we’ve put together a pre-checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared for your upcoming journey.
SIM Card
Getting a local SIM card is highly recommended for data access if you don’t have a roam-like-home option.
Choose a prepaid package that meets your data and call requirements to make sure you’re always connected when traveling. You can pre-order a SIM Card in advance at the airport. Alternatively, we recommend packaging the SIM Card with the T-money card which you will need for public transportation.
Entry Requirements
Visitors to South Korea can stay for up to 5 months (180 days) with a visa-free exemption for citizens of 100 countries. K-ETA is typically not required for visa-free countries if an arrival card is completed upon landing, but a 10,000 KRW fee (about $7.50 USD) applies if applying for K-ETA online in advance.
Travel Vaccines
No specific required vaccinations came to our attention for our trip to South Korea. However, ensure all routine vaccines are up-to-date. We always recommend seeking advice for vaccinations for South Korea on the CDC website, and/or visiting a travel medical clinic before decisions are made.
Disclaimer: The information shared regarding travel vaccines is based on our experiences and research and should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. For personalized vaccine information and guidance, please consult with a medical expert.
Outlet Plugs & Adapters
The power plug used in South Korea is typically a Type C or Type F plug with two round pins. However, Type C plugs are more common for standard household appliances. Alternatively, you can opt for a universal adapter with many different plug-type variations efficient for international travel.
Travel Insurance
Before traveling, it’s crucial to have travel & medical insurance coverage whenever you’re traveling abroad to another country. We always recommend checking your credit card’s insurance policies to understand the coverage and duration of your insurance. Most travel credit cards have coverage between 14-30 days on the high-end. Therefore, depending on the coverage type and duration of your trip, purchasing travel insurance that supplements these policies, is recommended to provide you with peace of mind and financial security, to ensure your trip is worry-free.
What to Bring
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first adventure, we’ve handpicked a selection of must-have travel items that will make your journeys smoother and more enjoyable. From packing hacks to smart gadgets, these essential travel items have helped us organize better and maintain a stress-free travel experience while saving us time!
Where to Stay in Seoul
Are you considering a vacation to Seoul but unsure of where to stay? With insights into the city’s best neighborhoods and a variety of hotel options to suit every budget and preference, this thorough guide has you covered. Join us as we explore the best areas to stay in Seoul and find your ideal accommodation, from the lively streets of Myeongdong to the posh hotels in Gangnam.
Centrally located in the centre of Seoul. It’s well-known for its shopping avenues, street food stalls, and lively ambiance. Many tourists favor it because of its convenient position and quick access to cultural attractions.
- Budget: Step Inn Myeongdong 2
A cozy and budget friendly option directly in walking distance of the Myeongdong Walking Street and core of the neighbourhood. - Mid-Tier: Tmark Grand Hotel Myeongdong
This hotel is known for its stylish design, fantastic amenities, and offers stunning views of the city. Tmark Grand Hotel is a top pick for those looking for great value accommodation in Myeongdong less than 1km from Myeongdong Walking street and near other popular attractions. - Luxury: Lotte Hotel Seoul
Pure luxury, offers classy rooms, top-class dining options, a beauty spa, and location right near the popular Myeongdong Walking Street, making it a top pick among luxury travelers.
Known for its youthful vitality, artistic scene, live music, and vibrant nightlife, Hongdae is located next to Hongik University. Younger travelers and those looking for a vibrant, creative atmosphere particularly gravitate towards this district.
- Budget: Zzzip Guesthouse in Hongdae
A budget-friendly guesthouse known for its comfortable and clean rooms. Hostel great for solo travelers or those looking to meet new people. - Mid-tier: L7 Hongdae by LOTTE
A high quality, stylish hotel with a modern design, well-appointed rooms, and a rooftop terrace. It’s conveniently located in the heart of Hongdae, which is great for exploring the nightlife and artistic scene. - Luxury: RYSE, Autograph Collection
A boutique hotel that offers artistic and luxurious experience in the heart of Hongdae. The design in unique, premium amenities. The central location makes it perfect for travelers seeking a high-end stay.
An upscale district, made famous by the song “Gangnam Style,” provides luxury shopping experiences, top quality fine dining restaurants, and a hip urban experience. It interests both business travelers and tourists seeking a chic, fancy hotel.
- Budget: Aiden by Best Western Cheongdam
Well-maintained hotel, includes access to gym, basic necessities, comfortable rooms, and convenient location. Close by where BTS used to eat regularly at Yoojung Sikdang. - Mid-tier: Hilton Garden Inn Seoul Gangnam
This hotel offers modern amenities and spacious room, located in the heart of Gangnam and close to public transporation. - Luxury: The InterContinental Seoul COEX
A top pick in Gangnam. It features classy rooms, top quality dining, a spa, and direct access to COEX Mall and Convention Center, providing superior convenience for many attractions.
Getting Around Seoul
Travelers arriving at Incheon International Airport in Seoul have multiple transportation options to reach the city center:
- AREX Train: Our favorite, and most popular choice with both express and all-stop services connecting the airport to Seoul Station and Gimpo Airport. We recommend the express train which only takes ~40-45 minutes to arrive at Seoul Station.
- Private Airport Transfer: For convenience, if you’re traveling in groups of 3-6 people you can schedule a private car charter for door-to-door service.
- Taxi: Available for door-to-door service but is relatively more expensive, especially for those traveling with one or two people.
- Airport Limousine Bus: A network of comfortable buses with fixed routes to various parts of Seoul.
Choose the option that aligns with your preferences and destination within Seoul.
Here are the best ways to get around Seoul:
- Seoul Metro (Subway): Seoul has an extensive subway system that spans the city efficiently, connecting major attractions and popular districts.
- Buses: The bus routes complement the subway very well; they are often located near subway stops and allow you to reach the subway system you cannot get to.
T-money Card: The T-money card is required for riding public transportation. It’s a reloadable smart card that allows you to load Korean won and make payments for subways and buses by tapping on and off the card reader. If you’re arriving at Incheon Airport, you can order a card in advance with 5,000 KRW loaded and a data SIM card and schedule pickup at either terminal pickup point when you land.
Here is everything you need to know about getting around Seoul in a Taxi.
- Seoul is very busy, you will have to wave down a taxi with a lit rooftop sign.
- Choose from different types: regular (grey or silver, less expensive) deluxe (black with a yellow sign, more expensive), or international (orange, may be able to speak multiple languages).
- Provide your destination address in Korean or on your smartphone.
- Fares are metered and can be paid in cash or with a T-money card.
- Wear a seatbelt and tipping is not a common practice.
- In emergencies, call 112.
Taxis are a convenient and safe way to get around Seoul. We recommend having google translate app on your phone as communicating with the local taxi drivers can be challenging especially as we found they speak slim to no english.
There is an Uber like app called Kaokao T you do require a Korean phone number to sign up. Most SIM Cards are data only, so make sure you get a SIM Card with a phone number if you’d like to use this app. They use the same meter system as Taxis and note that the pre-determined price on the app will likely be more than selecting the metered option.
Travel Itineraries for South Korea
We had no idea how much there was to do in Seoul, we nearly spent 3 months there because we loved the city so much! We created detailed guides featuring the city’s best attractions, hidden gems, and mouthwatering dining experiences.
Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a Seoul enthusiast, our travel guides will uncover all the various things to do in Seoul to make sure your trip is one to remember.
Top Attractions in South Korea
Explore the magnificent wonders of Seoul, South Korea, where history, culture, beauty, and modernity come together. There are so many things to do in Seoul, Discover iconic landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, the lively Myeongdong shopping district, and, the historic and beautiful Bukchon Hanok Village. We have spent extensive time in Seoul carefully creating this comprehensive travel guide to uncover the top attractions that travelers worldwide are searching for and traveling to Seoul to experience to make it a trip to remember!
Best Restaurant & Eats in Seoul
Seoul is the ultimate destination to savor authentic Korean cuisine and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of traditional dishes that South Korea is renowned for. Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure like no other in Seoul! From sizzling street food stalls cooking treats like tteokbokki and hotteok, to cozy local restaurants serving up Korean classics like bibimbap and bulgogi, Seoul is a food lover’s paradise.
We will share our favorite spots from trying street food at the Gwangjang Market to our favorite Korean BBQ restaurants! There are so many wonderful places to eat in Seoul! You can’t leave Seoul without eating in a Korean convenience store, I will break down everything you need to know in my How to Eat in A Korean Convenience Store Guide.
Our Thoughts on Seoul, South Korea
We loved our time in Seoul, we came back twice in a single year for more! The vibrant culture, incredibly unique cafes, mouthwatering Korean BBQ, and street. Eating in 24-hour convenience stores was so unexpected, fun, and unique.
The Korean’s warm hospitality was unforgettable despite speaking limited English. Navigating the city’s fast pace and bustling crowds can be overwhelming when you first arrive but we got used to it quickly. Knowing some basic Korean phrases and mastering the efficient public transportation system is invaluable. Embrace the adventure, and Seoul will reward you with so many experiences you will remember for the rest of your life!
South Korea Blog Posts
Andrew & Melissa
@HungryPursuit
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