Seoul travel guide: what to know before you go
Spring and autumn are the best seasons for Seoul, and 4 days covers the palaces, markets and neighbourhoods. The AREX train links Incheon Airport to the city in about 45 to 60 minutes.
Photo: Bgag, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Best time to visit
April to early June and September to October are mild and clear. Cherry blossoms usually come in early April. Autumn colour comes in late October. July and August are hot, humid and rainy. Winter is cold and dry, with temperatures below freezing.
Lunar New Year (Seollal) and Chuseok bring long holidays, when many shops close and trains and roads are crowded. Book transport well ahead.
How many days you need
Four days is a good length: two for palaces, Bukchon, Insadong and markets, one for Hongdae, Itaewon or Seongsu, and one for a day trip such as the DMZ or Suwon Fortress. Three days work for a fast trip.
The city is large, and the subway is crowded at peak hours. Group sights by area.
Getting from the airport to the centre
Incheon International Airport (ICN) is far from the city. The AREX Express goes non-stop to Seoul Station in about 45 minutes, but trains are only every 30 to 40 minutes. The all-stop AREX line takes about 60 minutes, runs more often and stops at more stations, including Hongdae. Airport limousine buses reach many hotels. Taxis are an option for groups.
Gimpo Airport (GMP) is closer. It is linked by subway lines 5 and 9 and by AREX, and takes about 20 to 40 minutes to central areas.
Getting around
The subway is the main way to move. It is clean and clear and has English signs. A T-money card works on subway, buses and in some taxis and shops. Buy and charge one at a convenience store or station.
Google Maps has limited walking and driving directions in Korea. Many visitors use Naver Map or Kakao Map. Walking works well within each district. Taxis are common. Last trains run around midnight.
Where to stay
Myeongdong and Jung-gu are central, with shops and easy transport. Hongdae suits nightlife and young travellers. Jongno and Insadong suit palaces and traditional areas.
Gangnam suits modern hotels and shopping. Seongsu and Itaewon have cafes and restaurants. Pick a hotel within a short walk of a subway station.
What to book in advance
The DMZ tours need advance booking and a passport, and cannot be booked on the same day. Some areas close on military notice. Check official or licensed tour sites.
Closing days differ by palace. Gyeongbokgung is closed on Tuesdays. Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung and Deoksugung are closed on Mondays. The Secret Garden at Changdeokgung can only be visited on a guided tour, so book ahead. Concerts, K-pop shows and popular restaurants need booking ahead.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not rely only on Google Maps. Install Naver Map or Kakao Map. Do not forget to check closing days of palaces. Do not use your phone data without a SIM or eSIM plan.
Do not tip. It is not expected, and it can confuse staff. Do not stick chopsticks upright in rice. Do not talk loudly on the subway.
Do not assume your foreign card works in every ATM. Use ATMs marked Global in convenience stores.
Money, tipping and practical notes
The currency is the Korean won. Cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases. Some foreign cards fail at small shops, so bring a backup. Tipping is not customary.
Plug types C and F are used, at 220 volts. Tap water is considered safe by many locals, but many visitors prefer bottled or filtered water. Many nationalities need an electronic travel authorisation (K-ETA), but many are temporarily exempt until 31 December 2026. Travellers without a K-ETA must fill in the free e-Arrival Card online within 3 days before arrival. Check the official government sources for visa and arrival rules.
Facts on this page were last checked in November 2026. Routes, rules and opening days change, so confirm important details with the official source before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Seoul?
Four days covers the main palaces, markets and neighbourhoods. Three days works for a fast visit.
How do I get from Incheon Airport to Seoul?
Take the AREX Express to Seoul Station in about 45 minutes. The all-stop AREX takes about 60 minutes and runs more often.
Which map app should I use in Seoul?
Use Naver Map or Kakao Map. Google Maps has limited directions in Korea.
When is the best time to visit Seoul?
April to early June and September to October. Summer is humid and rainy.
Do I need to tip in Seoul?
No. Tipping is not customary.
Do I need a T-money card?
It is very useful. It works on the subway, buses and in some shops and taxis.