What's Trending in Seoul?

Seoul fuses ancient royal palaces with towering Lotte Tower and the neon shimmer of Han River cruises. Experience Seoul's dynamic contrasts when you book DMZ tours, ride the Han River sightseeing cruise, or immerse yourself in Everland's thrills—all easily arranged in advance for a seamless trip.

Choose between lively quarters like Hongdae and Myeongdong, zip across neighborhoods with transport cards, and map day trips to Nami Island or the DMZ. Every Seoul stay promises new stories—your adventure starts with planning the right tickets, cruises, and urban journeys.


Seoul quick facts: airports, stations and maps

Plan your days with these essential travel details for Seoul, South Korea. From airport arrivals to transit tips, here's what you need to know to navigate with confidence.

  • Country/Region: South Korea, Asia

  • Airports: Incheon International Airport (ICN), Gimpo International Airport (GMP)

  • Main stations/hubs: Seoul Station (KTX, Metro), Yongsan Station, Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station

  • Public transport: Seoul Metro lines 1-9, Bundang Line, AREX (Airport Railroad Express)

  • Paying fares: T-money prepaid card—tap in/out on all metro, buses, some taxis; card fare capping not available but discount on transfers

  • Coordinates: 37.5665° N, 126.9780° E

  • Popular neighbourhoods: Myeongdong (shopping/food), Insadong (tradition/crafts), Hongdae (youth/nightlife), Gangnam (upscale/business), Itaewon (global eats/nightlife), Dongdaemun (markets/design), Bukchon (hanok village), Yeouido (Han River parks/events)

Tip: Seoul Metro operates late into the night. Use AREX for easy transfers from Incheon/Gimpo airports to central districts. Updates to Han River ferry timetables and event cruises happen seasonally—check tickadoo for current options.

Top things to do in Seoul

Start with Seoul's icons, then add river views, day tours, and edgy neighborhoods to balance your plans.

  • Han River Sightseeing Cruise – 40-minute tours past Lotte Tower, 63 Building, with sunset and jazz options

  • DMZ Day Tour – Imjingak Park, the Third Tunnel, Military Demarcation Line, Dora Observatory

  • Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour – Famous tree-lined paths and riverside cycling with included transfers

  • Everland Theme Park – 99 hectares of rides and entertainment for families and thrill seekers

  • Han River Night Cruise or Yacht – Stunning city lights, Yeouido skyline, live music on the water

  • Palace Tours – Uncover Korean history at Seoul's historic palaces with special access tickets

  • Food Tours – Sample local street food and market bites with expert guides

  • K-Culture & K-Pop Events – Exclusive access to live performances and special exhibitions

  • Hongdae – Street arts, vibrant nightlife and indie culture hotspots

  • Shopping in Myeongdong – From major fashion to skincare or quirky snacks

  • Bukchon Hanok Village – Traditional homes and photo-perfect alleys

  • Yeouido Hangang Park – River views, cycling, and cherry blossom season festivities

Tickets and passes in Seoul

Book ahead for Han River cruises, DMZ tours, and Everland to skip lines and lock in your visit.

  • Han River Cruise tickets: Day, sunset, night, premium yacht or limousine boat rides available—reserve for preferred times and live music options

  • DMZ Tour tickets: Full-day, half-day, and special variant tours include roundtrip transfers and hotel pickup—often book out a week ahead

  • Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike bundle: Includes transfers and cycling adventure—family friendly and sells fast in peak season

  • Everland Theme Park tickets: Direct entry, family packages, seasonal event deals—skip the main gate queues

  • Palace/Food/K-culture tours: Curated experiences with bundled attraction admissions and guide-led itineraries

If you plan two or more of Seoul’s paid headline attractions—like a cruise and Everland—a combo ticket or bundled tour delivers great value and saves time on the day.

Getting around Seoul by metro, rail and river

Seoul's subway and AREX rail make it simple to cross the city or get to the airport—fast, frequent trains plus handy transport cards for seamless connections.

  • Seoul Metro lines 1-9, Bundang, Sinbundang, Gyeongui-Jungang—color-coded lines connect all major districts and sights

  • T-money prepaid card: Purchase and top up at stations or convenience stores; use for metro, buses, and select taxis

  • AREX (Airport Railroad Express): Nonstop service from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station in about 45 minutes; all-stop train option for direct stops at Hongdae, Gimpo Airport and Digital Media City

  • Buses—Blue, Green, Yellow and Red routes link districts and offer late-night service after the metro closes

  • Han River ferries: Operate between Yeouido, Jamsil, and other riverfront areas with city sightseeing or special event cruises

  • Taxis and rideshares: Widely available; use the Kakao T app for local rides or late-night returns

  • Rush hours (7-9am, 6-8pm): Expect crowded trains; off-peak is faster for sightseeing trips

Late arrivals? The Airport Express and select bus routes run until after midnight, connecting Incheon and Gimpo airports directly with city hubs and hotels.

When is the best time to visit Seoul?

Spring (April-May) brings cherry blossoms and mild days, while autumn (September-October) offers crisp air with vibrant fall foliage. Summers are warm (25–33°C) and can be humid and rainy, making riverside evenings pleasant but busy. Winters are cold (down to -10°C), dry, and clear—best for lighter crowds but bundle up. Seoul hosts festivals year-round, but expect higher prices and closures around Chuseok and Lunar New Year.

How many days do you need in Seoul?

With two days, you can cover Myeongdong shopping, a palace tour, and a Han River cruise. Three to four days let you add the DMZ tour, Nami Island day trip, and explore Hongdae nightlife or Insadong’s heritage alleys. Five-plus days? Tackle Everland, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, or more K-pop and foodie adventures at a relaxed pace.

Is Seoul expensive to visit?

Seoul’s costs vary: transit, affordable dining, and city parks are budget-friendly, but theme park tickets, specialty tours, and top hotels add up quickly. Booking DMZ, Han River cruises, or Everland packages online (especially on tickadoo) gives better value and options. Splurging is easy, but a savvy mix of free sights and select tickets keeps costs moderate.

What are the must-see attractions in Seoul?

Don’t miss the Han River Sightseeing Cruise, Gyeongbokgung Palace tour, DMZ day excursion, Everland Theme Park, Nami Island, and Bukchon Hanok Village. Myeongdong shopping, Hongdae street life, and Yeouido Hangang Park are neighborhood essentials. Booking activities in advance, especially for cruises and the DMZ, guarantees access and smooth timing.

Do I need to book Han River cruise tickets in advance?

Booking Han River cruise tickets ahead is highly recommended, especially for sunset or night jazz sailings, weekends, and holidays—prime times sell out fast. Walk-up tickets are occasionally available on quieter days, but to secure preferred departure times or premium yacht options, reserve early through tickadoo’s live inventory platform.

How do I get from ICN to Seoul Station?

From Incheon International Airport (ICN), use the AREX Express for nonstop service to Seoul Station in 43 minutes. For local connections, take the AREX All-Stop train (about 56 minutes) calling at Hongdae or Digital Media City. Limousine buses serve major hotels (70–90 minutes), and taxis are convenient but pricier. Late at night? Night buses run select routes.

Where should I stay in Seoul?

Myeongdong suits first-time visitors for easy shopping and metro access. Hongdae is ideal for nightlife and indie cafés. Gangnam is upscale and business-oriented. Insadong charms culture seekers with craft shops. Itaewon is vibrant and international, while Bukchon Hanok offers heritage stays near central palaces and quiet alleys. Choose by vibe and plans.

Can I get around Seoul without a car?

Absolutely—Seoul’s extensive Metro (lines 1-9), city buses, AREX rail, and T-money card make travel fast and simple. Most attractions are directly on or near stations. Taxis and rideshares fill late-night gaps, while Han River cruises add scenic variety. Traffic is heavy during rush hour, but public transit is efficient and reliable for visitors.


Seoul quick facts: airports, stations and maps

Plan your days with these essential travel details for Seoul, South Korea. From airport arrivals to transit tips, here's what you need to know to navigate with confidence.

  • Country/Region: South Korea, Asia

  • Airports: Incheon International Airport (ICN), Gimpo International Airport (GMP)

  • Main stations/hubs: Seoul Station (KTX, Metro), Yongsan Station, Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station

  • Public transport: Seoul Metro lines 1-9, Bundang Line, AREX (Airport Railroad Express)

  • Paying fares: T-money prepaid card—tap in/out on all metro, buses, some taxis; card fare capping not available but discount on transfers

  • Coordinates: 37.5665° N, 126.9780° E

  • Popular neighbourhoods: Myeongdong (shopping/food), Insadong (tradition/crafts), Hongdae (youth/nightlife), Gangnam (upscale/business), Itaewon (global eats/nightlife), Dongdaemun (markets/design), Bukchon (hanok village), Yeouido (Han River parks/events)

Tip: Seoul Metro operates late into the night. Use AREX for easy transfers from Incheon/Gimpo airports to central districts. Updates to Han River ferry timetables and event cruises happen seasonally—check tickadoo for current options.

Top things to do in Seoul

Start with Seoul's icons, then add river views, day tours, and edgy neighborhoods to balance your plans.

  • Han River Sightseeing Cruise – 40-minute tours past Lotte Tower, 63 Building, with sunset and jazz options

  • DMZ Day Tour – Imjingak Park, the Third Tunnel, Military Demarcation Line, Dora Observatory

  • Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour – Famous tree-lined paths and riverside cycling with included transfers

  • Everland Theme Park – 99 hectares of rides and entertainment for families and thrill seekers

  • Han River Night Cruise or Yacht – Stunning city lights, Yeouido skyline, live music on the water

  • Palace Tours – Uncover Korean history at Seoul's historic palaces with special access tickets

  • Food Tours – Sample local street food and market bites with expert guides

  • K-Culture & K-Pop Events – Exclusive access to live performances and special exhibitions

  • Hongdae – Street arts, vibrant nightlife and indie culture hotspots

  • Shopping in Myeongdong – From major fashion to skincare or quirky snacks

  • Bukchon Hanok Village – Traditional homes and photo-perfect alleys

  • Yeouido Hangang Park – River views, cycling, and cherry blossom season festivities

Tickets and passes in Seoul

Book ahead for Han River cruises, DMZ tours, and Everland to skip lines and lock in your visit.

  • Han River Cruise tickets: Day, sunset, night, premium yacht or limousine boat rides available—reserve for preferred times and live music options

  • DMZ Tour tickets: Full-day, half-day, and special variant tours include roundtrip transfers and hotel pickup—often book out a week ahead

  • Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike bundle: Includes transfers and cycling adventure—family friendly and sells fast in peak season

  • Everland Theme Park tickets: Direct entry, family packages, seasonal event deals—skip the main gate queues

  • Palace/Food/K-culture tours: Curated experiences with bundled attraction admissions and guide-led itineraries

If you plan two or more of Seoul’s paid headline attractions—like a cruise and Everland—a combo ticket or bundled tour delivers great value and saves time on the day.

Getting around Seoul by metro, rail and river

Seoul's subway and AREX rail make it simple to cross the city or get to the airport—fast, frequent trains plus handy transport cards for seamless connections.

  • Seoul Metro lines 1-9, Bundang, Sinbundang, Gyeongui-Jungang—color-coded lines connect all major districts and sights

  • T-money prepaid card: Purchase and top up at stations or convenience stores; use for metro, buses, and select taxis

  • AREX (Airport Railroad Express): Nonstop service from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station in about 45 minutes; all-stop train option for direct stops at Hongdae, Gimpo Airport and Digital Media City

  • Buses—Blue, Green, Yellow and Red routes link districts and offer late-night service after the metro closes

  • Han River ferries: Operate between Yeouido, Jamsil, and other riverfront areas with city sightseeing or special event cruises

  • Taxis and rideshares: Widely available; use the Kakao T app for local rides or late-night returns

  • Rush hours (7-9am, 6-8pm): Expect crowded trains; off-peak is faster for sightseeing trips

Late arrivals? The Airport Express and select bus routes run until after midnight, connecting Incheon and Gimpo airports directly with city hubs and hotels.

When is the best time to visit Seoul?

Spring (April-May) brings cherry blossoms and mild days, while autumn (September-October) offers crisp air with vibrant fall foliage. Summers are warm (25–33°C) and can be humid and rainy, making riverside evenings pleasant but busy. Winters are cold (down to -10°C), dry, and clear—best for lighter crowds but bundle up. Seoul hosts festivals year-round, but expect higher prices and closures around Chuseok and Lunar New Year.

How many days do you need in Seoul?

With two days, you can cover Myeongdong shopping, a palace tour, and a Han River cruise. Three to four days let you add the DMZ tour, Nami Island day trip, and explore Hongdae nightlife or Insadong’s heritage alleys. Five-plus days? Tackle Everland, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, or more K-pop and foodie adventures at a relaxed pace.

Is Seoul expensive to visit?

Seoul’s costs vary: transit, affordable dining, and city parks are budget-friendly, but theme park tickets, specialty tours, and top hotels add up quickly. Booking DMZ, Han River cruises, or Everland packages online (especially on tickadoo) gives better value and options. Splurging is easy, but a savvy mix of free sights and select tickets keeps costs moderate.

What are the must-see attractions in Seoul?

Don’t miss the Han River Sightseeing Cruise, Gyeongbokgung Palace tour, DMZ day excursion, Everland Theme Park, Nami Island, and Bukchon Hanok Village. Myeongdong shopping, Hongdae street life, and Yeouido Hangang Park are neighborhood essentials. Booking activities in advance, especially for cruises and the DMZ, guarantees access and smooth timing.

Do I need to book Han River cruise tickets in advance?

Booking Han River cruise tickets ahead is highly recommended, especially for sunset or night jazz sailings, weekends, and holidays—prime times sell out fast. Walk-up tickets are occasionally available on quieter days, but to secure preferred departure times or premium yacht options, reserve early through tickadoo’s live inventory platform.

How do I get from ICN to Seoul Station?

From Incheon International Airport (ICN), use the AREX Express for nonstop service to Seoul Station in 43 minutes. For local connections, take the AREX All-Stop train (about 56 minutes) calling at Hongdae or Digital Media City. Limousine buses serve major hotels (70–90 minutes), and taxis are convenient but pricier. Late at night? Night buses run select routes.

Where should I stay in Seoul?

Myeongdong suits first-time visitors for easy shopping and metro access. Hongdae is ideal for nightlife and indie cafés. Gangnam is upscale and business-oriented. Insadong charms culture seekers with craft shops. Itaewon is vibrant and international, while Bukchon Hanok offers heritage stays near central palaces and quiet alleys. Choose by vibe and plans.

Can I get around Seoul without a car?

Absolutely—Seoul’s extensive Metro (lines 1-9), city buses, AREX rail, and T-money card make travel fast and simple. Most attractions are directly on or near stations. Taxis and rideshares fill late-night gaps, while Han River cruises add scenic variety. Traffic is heavy during rush hour, but public transit is efficient and reliable for visitors.


Seoul quick facts: airports, stations and maps

Plan your days with these essential travel details for Seoul, South Korea. From airport arrivals to transit tips, here's what you need to know to navigate with confidence.

  • Country/Region: South Korea, Asia

  • Airports: Incheon International Airport (ICN), Gimpo International Airport (GMP)

  • Main stations/hubs: Seoul Station (KTX, Metro), Yongsan Station, Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station

  • Public transport: Seoul Metro lines 1-9, Bundang Line, AREX (Airport Railroad Express)

  • Paying fares: T-money prepaid card—tap in/out on all metro, buses, some taxis; card fare capping not available but discount on transfers

  • Coordinates: 37.5665° N, 126.9780° E

  • Popular neighbourhoods: Myeongdong (shopping/food), Insadong (tradition/crafts), Hongdae (youth/nightlife), Gangnam (upscale/business), Itaewon (global eats/nightlife), Dongdaemun (markets/design), Bukchon (hanok village), Yeouido (Han River parks/events)

Tip: Seoul Metro operates late into the night. Use AREX for easy transfers from Incheon/Gimpo airports to central districts. Updates to Han River ferry timetables and event cruises happen seasonally—check tickadoo for current options.

Top things to do in Seoul

Start with Seoul's icons, then add river views, day tours, and edgy neighborhoods to balance your plans.

  • Han River Sightseeing Cruise – 40-minute tours past Lotte Tower, 63 Building, with sunset and jazz options

  • DMZ Day Tour – Imjingak Park, the Third Tunnel, Military Demarcation Line, Dora Observatory

  • Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour – Famous tree-lined paths and riverside cycling with included transfers

  • Everland Theme Park – 99 hectares of rides and entertainment for families and thrill seekers

  • Han River Night Cruise or Yacht – Stunning city lights, Yeouido skyline, live music on the water

  • Palace Tours – Uncover Korean history at Seoul's historic palaces with special access tickets

  • Food Tours – Sample local street food and market bites with expert guides

  • K-Culture & K-Pop Events – Exclusive access to live performances and special exhibitions

  • Hongdae – Street arts, vibrant nightlife and indie culture hotspots

  • Shopping in Myeongdong – From major fashion to skincare or quirky snacks

  • Bukchon Hanok Village – Traditional homes and photo-perfect alleys

  • Yeouido Hangang Park – River views, cycling, and cherry blossom season festivities

Tickets and passes in Seoul

Book ahead for Han River cruises, DMZ tours, and Everland to skip lines and lock in your visit.

  • Han River Cruise tickets: Day, sunset, night, premium yacht or limousine boat rides available—reserve for preferred times and live music options

  • DMZ Tour tickets: Full-day, half-day, and special variant tours include roundtrip transfers and hotel pickup—often book out a week ahead

  • Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike bundle: Includes transfers and cycling adventure—family friendly and sells fast in peak season

  • Everland Theme Park tickets: Direct entry, family packages, seasonal event deals—skip the main gate queues

  • Palace/Food/K-culture tours: Curated experiences with bundled attraction admissions and guide-led itineraries

If you plan two or more of Seoul’s paid headline attractions—like a cruise and Everland—a combo ticket or bundled tour delivers great value and saves time on the day.

Getting around Seoul by metro, rail and river

Seoul's subway and AREX rail make it simple to cross the city or get to the airport—fast, frequent trains plus handy transport cards for seamless connections.

  • Seoul Metro lines 1-9, Bundang, Sinbundang, Gyeongui-Jungang—color-coded lines connect all major districts and sights

  • T-money prepaid card: Purchase and top up at stations or convenience stores; use for metro, buses, and select taxis

  • AREX (Airport Railroad Express): Nonstop service from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station in about 45 minutes; all-stop train option for direct stops at Hongdae, Gimpo Airport and Digital Media City

  • Buses—Blue, Green, Yellow and Red routes link districts and offer late-night service after the metro closes

  • Han River ferries: Operate between Yeouido, Jamsil, and other riverfront areas with city sightseeing or special event cruises

  • Taxis and rideshares: Widely available; use the Kakao T app for local rides or late-night returns

  • Rush hours (7-9am, 6-8pm): Expect crowded trains; off-peak is faster for sightseeing trips

Late arrivals? The Airport Express and select bus routes run until after midnight, connecting Incheon and Gimpo airports directly with city hubs and hotels.

When is the best time to visit Seoul?

Spring (April-May) brings cherry blossoms and mild days, while autumn (September-October) offers crisp air with vibrant fall foliage. Summers are warm (25–33°C) and can be humid and rainy, making riverside evenings pleasant but busy. Winters are cold (down to -10°C), dry, and clear—best for lighter crowds but bundle up. Seoul hosts festivals year-round, but expect higher prices and closures around Chuseok and Lunar New Year.

How many days do you need in Seoul?

With two days, you can cover Myeongdong shopping, a palace tour, and a Han River cruise. Three to four days let you add the DMZ tour, Nami Island day trip, and explore Hongdae nightlife or Insadong’s heritage alleys. Five-plus days? Tackle Everland, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, or more K-pop and foodie adventures at a relaxed pace.

Is Seoul expensive to visit?

Seoul’s costs vary: transit, affordable dining, and city parks are budget-friendly, but theme park tickets, specialty tours, and top hotels add up quickly. Booking DMZ, Han River cruises, or Everland packages online (especially on tickadoo) gives better value and options. Splurging is easy, but a savvy mix of free sights and select tickets keeps costs moderate.

What are the must-see attractions in Seoul?

Don’t miss the Han River Sightseeing Cruise, Gyeongbokgung Palace tour, DMZ day excursion, Everland Theme Park, Nami Island, and Bukchon Hanok Village. Myeongdong shopping, Hongdae street life, and Yeouido Hangang Park are neighborhood essentials. Booking activities in advance, especially for cruises and the DMZ, guarantees access and smooth timing.

Do I need to book Han River cruise tickets in advance?

Booking Han River cruise tickets ahead is highly recommended, especially for sunset or night jazz sailings, weekends, and holidays—prime times sell out fast. Walk-up tickets are occasionally available on quieter days, but to secure preferred departure times or premium yacht options, reserve early through tickadoo’s live inventory platform.

How do I get from ICN to Seoul Station?

From Incheon International Airport (ICN), use the AREX Express for nonstop service to Seoul Station in 43 minutes. For local connections, take the AREX All-Stop train (about 56 minutes) calling at Hongdae or Digital Media City. Limousine buses serve major hotels (70–90 minutes), and taxis are convenient but pricier. Late at night? Night buses run select routes.

Where should I stay in Seoul?

Myeongdong suits first-time visitors for easy shopping and metro access. Hongdae is ideal for nightlife and indie cafés. Gangnam is upscale and business-oriented. Insadong charms culture seekers with craft shops. Itaewon is vibrant and international, while Bukchon Hanok offers heritage stays near central palaces and quiet alleys. Choose by vibe and plans.

Can I get around Seoul without a car?

Absolutely—Seoul’s extensive Metro (lines 1-9), city buses, AREX rail, and T-money card make travel fast and simple. Most attractions are directly on or near stations. Taxis and rideshares fill late-night gaps, while Han River cruises add scenic variety. Traffic is heavy during rush hour, but public transit is efficient and reliable for visitors.


Seoul quick facts: airports, stations and maps

Plan your days with these essential travel details for Seoul, South Korea. From airport arrivals to transit tips, here's what you need to know to navigate with confidence.

  • Country/Region: South Korea, Asia

  • Airports: Incheon International Airport (ICN), Gimpo International Airport (GMP)

  • Main stations/hubs: Seoul Station (KTX, Metro), Yongsan Station, Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station

  • Public transport: Seoul Metro lines 1-9, Bundang Line, AREX (Airport Railroad Express)

  • Paying fares: T-money prepaid card—tap in/out on all metro, buses, some taxis; card fare capping not available but discount on transfers

  • Coordinates: 37.5665° N, 126.9780° E

  • Popular neighbourhoods: Myeongdong (shopping/food), Insadong (tradition/crafts), Hongdae (youth/nightlife), Gangnam (upscale/business), Itaewon (global eats/nightlife), Dongdaemun (markets/design), Bukchon (hanok village), Yeouido (Han River parks/events)

Tip: Seoul Metro operates late into the night. Use AREX for easy transfers from Incheon/Gimpo airports to central districts. Updates to Han River ferry timetables and event cruises happen seasonally—check tickadoo for current options.

Top things to do in Seoul

Start with Seoul's icons, then add river views, day tours, and edgy neighborhoods to balance your plans.

  • Han River Sightseeing Cruise – 40-minute tours past Lotte Tower, 63 Building, with sunset and jazz options

  • DMZ Day Tour – Imjingak Park, the Third Tunnel, Military Demarcation Line, Dora Observatory

  • Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour – Famous tree-lined paths and riverside cycling with included transfers

  • Everland Theme Park – 99 hectares of rides and entertainment for families and thrill seekers

  • Han River Night Cruise or Yacht – Stunning city lights, Yeouido skyline, live music on the water

  • Palace Tours – Uncover Korean history at Seoul's historic palaces with special access tickets

  • Food Tours – Sample local street food and market bites with expert guides

  • K-Culture & K-Pop Events – Exclusive access to live performances and special exhibitions

  • Hongdae – Street arts, vibrant nightlife and indie culture hotspots

  • Shopping in Myeongdong – From major fashion to skincare or quirky snacks

  • Bukchon Hanok Village – Traditional homes and photo-perfect alleys

  • Yeouido Hangang Park – River views, cycling, and cherry blossom season festivities

Tickets and passes in Seoul

Book ahead for Han River cruises, DMZ tours, and Everland to skip lines and lock in your visit.

  • Han River Cruise tickets: Day, sunset, night, premium yacht or limousine boat rides available—reserve for preferred times and live music options

  • DMZ Tour tickets: Full-day, half-day, and special variant tours include roundtrip transfers and hotel pickup—often book out a week ahead

  • Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike bundle: Includes transfers and cycling adventure—family friendly and sells fast in peak season

  • Everland Theme Park tickets: Direct entry, family packages, seasonal event deals—skip the main gate queues

  • Palace/Food/K-culture tours: Curated experiences with bundled attraction admissions and guide-led itineraries

If you plan two or more of Seoul’s paid headline attractions—like a cruise and Everland—a combo ticket or bundled tour delivers great value and saves time on the day.

Getting around Seoul by metro, rail and river

Seoul's subway and AREX rail make it simple to cross the city or get to the airport—fast, frequent trains plus handy transport cards for seamless connections.

  • Seoul Metro lines 1-9, Bundang, Sinbundang, Gyeongui-Jungang—color-coded lines connect all major districts and sights

  • T-money prepaid card: Purchase and top up at stations or convenience stores; use for metro, buses, and select taxis

  • AREX (Airport Railroad Express): Nonstop service from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station in about 45 minutes; all-stop train option for direct stops at Hongdae, Gimpo Airport and Digital Media City

  • Buses—Blue, Green, Yellow and Red routes link districts and offer late-night service after the metro closes

  • Han River ferries: Operate between Yeouido, Jamsil, and other riverfront areas with city sightseeing or special event cruises

  • Taxis and rideshares: Widely available; use the Kakao T app for local rides or late-night returns

  • Rush hours (7-9am, 6-8pm): Expect crowded trains; off-peak is faster for sightseeing trips

Late arrivals? The Airport Express and select bus routes run until after midnight, connecting Incheon and Gimpo airports directly with city hubs and hotels.

When is the best time to visit Seoul?

Spring (April-May) brings cherry blossoms and mild days, while autumn (September-October) offers crisp air with vibrant fall foliage. Summers are warm (25–33°C) and can be humid and rainy, making riverside evenings pleasant but busy. Winters are cold (down to -10°C), dry, and clear—best for lighter crowds but bundle up. Seoul hosts festivals year-round, but expect higher prices and closures around Chuseok and Lunar New Year.

How many days do you need in Seoul?

With two days, you can cover Myeongdong shopping, a palace tour, and a Han River cruise. Three to four days let you add the DMZ tour, Nami Island day trip, and explore Hongdae nightlife or Insadong’s heritage alleys. Five-plus days? Tackle Everland, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, or more K-pop and foodie adventures at a relaxed pace.

Is Seoul expensive to visit?

Seoul’s costs vary: transit, affordable dining, and city parks are budget-friendly, but theme park tickets, specialty tours, and top hotels add up quickly. Booking DMZ, Han River cruises, or Everland packages online (especially on tickadoo) gives better value and options. Splurging is easy, but a savvy mix of free sights and select tickets keeps costs moderate.

What are the must-see attractions in Seoul?

Don’t miss the Han River Sightseeing Cruise, Gyeongbokgung Palace tour, DMZ day excursion, Everland Theme Park, Nami Island, and Bukchon Hanok Village. Myeongdong shopping, Hongdae street life, and Yeouido Hangang Park are neighborhood essentials. Booking activities in advance, especially for cruises and the DMZ, guarantees access and smooth timing.

Do I need to book Han River cruise tickets in advance?

Booking Han River cruise tickets ahead is highly recommended, especially for sunset or night jazz sailings, weekends, and holidays—prime times sell out fast. Walk-up tickets are occasionally available on quieter days, but to secure preferred departure times or premium yacht options, reserve early through tickadoo’s live inventory platform.

How do I get from ICN to Seoul Station?

From Incheon International Airport (ICN), use the AREX Express for nonstop service to Seoul Station in 43 minutes. For local connections, take the AREX All-Stop train (about 56 minutes) calling at Hongdae or Digital Media City. Limousine buses serve major hotels (70–90 minutes), and taxis are convenient but pricier. Late at night? Night buses run select routes.

Where should I stay in Seoul?

Myeongdong suits first-time visitors for easy shopping and metro access. Hongdae is ideal for nightlife and indie cafés. Gangnam is upscale and business-oriented. Insadong charms culture seekers with craft shops. Itaewon is vibrant and international, while Bukchon Hanok offers heritage stays near central palaces and quiet alleys. Choose by vibe and plans.

Can I get around Seoul without a car?

Absolutely—Seoul’s extensive Metro (lines 1-9), city buses, AREX rail, and T-money card make travel fast and simple. Most attractions are directly on or near stations. Taxis and rideshares fill late-night gaps, while Han River cruises add scenic variety. Traffic is heavy during rush hour, but public transit is efficient and reliable for visitors.