Seoul
Seoul, South Korea’s vibrant capital, is a city that effortlessly blends the old and the new. Historic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village showcase traditional Korean culture, while futuristic hubs like Dongdaemun Design Plaza highlight the city’s modern edge. Food enthusiasts can indulge in Korean BBQ, kimchi, and street food from bustling markets like Myeongdong. Seoul’s trendsetting fashion, lively nightlife, and rich cultural experiences make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking something unique and exciting.
Airport
Incheon International Airport—A world-class airport, about 48 km from Seoul with high-speed train connections.
Gimpo International Airport—Primarily serves domestic and regional flights, closer to the city center.
Train Station
Seoul Station—A central hub for high-speed KTX trains, connecting Seoul to major cities like Busan and Incheon.
Weather
The best time to visit Seoul is from March to May and September to November. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers crisp air and stunning foliage, making both seasons perfect for exploring the city.
Known For
Famous for its dynamic mix of modern technology and traditional culture.
Neighbourhoods
Seoul’s neighborhoods showcase the city’s blend of modernity and tradition. Gangnam is known for its trendy, upscale shopping, dining, and nightlife, while Insadong offers a more traditional experience with antique shops, galleries, and tea houses. Itaewon is a multicultural district with international restaurants and
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Gangnam – Famous for its trendy shops, chic cafes, and vibrant nightlife, Gangnam is a bustling area known for being a hub of wealth and modern culture in Seoul.
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Insadong – Known for its traditional Korean culture, Insadong is full of antique shops, traditional tea houses, and art galleries, perfect for those seeking a cultural experience.
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Myeongdong – A popular shopping district filled with cosmetics stores, fashion outlets, and street food stalls. It’s ideal for those wanting to shop and experience the excitement of Seoul’s streets.
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Hongdae – A youthful, hip neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife, indie music scene, and artistic vibe. It’s perfect for those looking to explore Seoul’s creative and energetic side.
Hotel Guide
Seoul offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget, from budget hostels to high-end luxury hotels. Budget travelers can find affordable and clean hostels in areas like Hongdae or Itaewon, offering easy access to shopping, nightlife, and cultural attractions. Mid-range hotels are abundant throughout the city, providing comfortable rooms and modern amenities, often in central districts such as Myeongdong or Gangnam. For luxury, Seoul features upscale hotels like The Shilla Seoul and Four Seasons Hotel, offering elegant rooms, world-class service, and proximity to the city’s vibrant shopping districts, cultural landmarks, and restaurants.
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24 Guesthouse Sinchon – ★★★
A budget-friendly guesthouse offering private rooms and dorms, located in the lively Sinchon area, ideal for exploring the vibrant university district.
K-Guesthouse Seoul Station 1 – ★★★
Located near Seoul Station, this budget guesthouse offers clean and comfortable rooms with easy access to public transport and major attractions.
Myeongdong Guesthouse – ★★
A cozy, affordable guesthouse in the heart of Myeongdong, offering a convenient location close to shopping, dining, and cultural sites.
Budget Hotel Options
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Lotte Hotel Seoul – 5 stars
Located in the heart of Seoul, this luxurious hotel offers spacious rooms, a rooftop bar with panoramic views, and a variety of dining options, ideal for both business and leisure.
Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun – 4 stars
A modern hotel offering well-designed rooms and easy access to the Gwanghwamun area, near historical attractions such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village.
Four Points by Sheraton Seoul, Namsan – 4 stars
A centrally located hotel offering comfortable rooms, a rooftop bar, and easy access to Seoul’s main attractions like Myeongdong, Namsan Park, and the N Seoul Tower.
Mid-Range Hotel Options
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The Four Seasons Hotel Seoul – 5 stars
Offering a modern and luxurious experience, this hotel features spacious rooms, excellent dining, and a location near major attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village.
The Shilla Seoul – 5 stars
Known for its traditional elegance, this hotel offers luxury rooms, an excellent spa, and a stunning location with panoramic views of the city and Namsan Mountain.
Park Hyatt Seoul – 5 stars
A modern and luxurious hotel offering sleek rooms, personalized service, and excellent dining, located in the Gangnam district, perfect for business and leisure travelers.
High-End Hotel Options
Sights and Activities
Seoul is a vibrant city that combines rich history with modern amenities. Budget activities include visiting historical sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village or exploring the bustling shopping districts of Myeongdong and Insadong. Mid-range activities include visiting the N Seoul Tower or taking a boat tour along the Han River. For luxury, Seoul offers private shopping tours in trendy districts like Gangnam, stays in five-star hotels with views of the city skyline, and exclusive dining experiences. From its rich culture to cutting-edge technology, Seoul offers a diverse range of activities for all travelers.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Walk around the grounds and enjoy the majestic architecture and peaceful surroundings (entry fee for full tour, but walking around is free).
Bukchon Hanok Village
Stroll through this traditional village with preserved Hanok houses, offering a glimpse into Korea's past.
Namsan Seoul Tower
Enjoy the park surrounding the tower and take in beautiful city views from the base (entrance fee for the tower itself).
Cheonggyecheon Stream
Walk along this restored stream running through downtown Seoul for a tranquil urban experience.
Budget Friendly Activities
N Seoul Tower
Ride the cable car and visit the observatory at this iconic landmark. Entry fee: around AUD $15.
Seoul Museum of Art
Explore a variety of contemporary Korean art exhibits. Entry fee: around AUD $10.
Nami Island Day Trip
Take a scenic trip to Nami Island, known for its natural beauty and the filming location of “Winter Sonata.” Prices from AUD $40
Mid-Range Activities
Private Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village Tour
Explore the historical Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village with a private guide. Prices from AUD $200.
Private Namsan Tower Dinner and Seoul Skyline View
Enjoy a fine dining experience at Namsan Tower, offering panoramic views of the city. Prices from AUD $120.
Luxury Shopping Tour in Gangnam
Experience a high-end shopping spree in Seoul’s fashionable Gangnam district, with a personal shopper. Prices from AUD $300.
Hi-End Activities
Please Note - All prices listed above are approximate and must be checked prior to quoting clients
Resources
Visa Requirements
No visa required
*Note - VISA regulations change regularly. Always check official websites for the most up to date information.
Official Tourism Website
For more information explore this cities official tourism website
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Language
Korean
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Currency
South Korean Won (KRW)
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Population
9.7 million (city proper), 25 million (metro area)
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Time Difference from Melb (AEDT)
- -2 hours
Have a question?
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