Why Go to Seoul
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Seoul is a city of remarkable resilience and energy. After the devastation of the Korean War, South Korea's capital rebuilt itself into a dazzling modern metropolis, known for striking architecture, cutting-edge technology, K-pop, fashion and incredible food. Yet it holds tightly to its centuries-old traditions, and the past and present here blend in harmony.
Tour Gyeongbokgung, the largest of the city's five grand Joseon Dynasty palaces, and watch the colorful changing of the guard. Many visitors rent a traditional hanbok to wear while exploring the palaces. Wander the narrow lanes of Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional wooden homes sit among modern high-rises, and shop for crafts in Insadong. Then dive into modern Seoul: shop and eat in Myeongdong, see the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, ride up to N Seoul Tower for views, and enjoy the nightlife of Hongdae and Gangnam. Feast on Korean barbecue and street food at Gwangjang Market.
Nonstop flights connect Seoul with many U.S. cities, and many travelers visit the DMZ on a guided day tour. As a veteran, I'm glad to arrange it. I'll plan your stay, palace and food tours and connect Seoul with Busan or Japan.
BEST FOR
Korean culture enthusiasts, street-food lovers, palace visitors and design fans
BEST MONTHS
Spring and autumn often provide comfortable sightseeing weather. Summers are humid and rainy; winters can be cold, so plan indoor alternatives.
EXPLORE
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Seoul
Asia › East Asia › South Korea › Seoul Special City
Royal heritage meets modern Korean energy
Historical & Heritage
Tech
Culinary
Nightlife
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Group Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon and Insadong in one walking-focused day, while respecting residential quiet zones in Bukchon.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Check closing days and the changing-guard schedule; some visitors rent hanbok nearby.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Grand Joseon dynasty palace with gates, courtyards and traditional architecture.
Respect resident privacy and any posted visitor-hour restrictions.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Historic residential area of traditional Korean houses on hilly lanes.
Check visibility and consider sunset for changing city views.
N Seoul Tower / Namsan
Hilltop landmark with views of Seoul’s sprawling skyline.
Secret Garden admission may have separate scheduled access.
Changdeokgung Palace
UNESCO-listed royal palace celebrated for its architecture and garden setting.
Explore small side streets as well as the main pedestrian route.
Insadong
Traditional arts and shopping district with galleries, crafts and tea houses.
A sophisticated city-center base near palaces, museums and central Seoul offices.
Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
Gwanghwamun / Jongno
Hotel Tags
A high-rise luxury hotel with sweeping city views inside Lotte World Tower.
Signiel Seoul
Jamsil / Songpa
Hotel Tags
A landmark luxury hotel combining garden surroundings with easy access to central Seoul.
The Shilla Seoul
Jangchung-dong / Jung-gu
Hotel Tags
A hilltop hotel near Namsan with expansive views over the city.
Grand Hyatt Seoul
Hannam-dong / Yongsan
Hotel Tags
A refined modern hotel suited to exploring Gangnam dining, business and shopping districts.
Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam
Yeoksam / Gangnam
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Seoul
High 53°F · Low 36°F · Rain 2.1 in
Shorter days make museums and heritage visits practical; plan around weather. For a destination-specific November plan, consider Bukchon Hanok Village.
Spring and autumn often provide comfortable sightseeing weather. Summers are humid and rainy; winters can be cold, so plan indoor alternatives.
Best Times to Visit Seoul
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
06
Day Trips
Research schedules and transport arrangements before committing to excursions outside the city.
05
Guided Tours
Local guides can combine history and logistics for a focused half-day visit.
04
Airport Transfers
Confirm airport-to-city rail, bus or licensed taxi options for your arrival terminal.
03
Taxis and Ride Services
Use licensed taxis or established app-based providers and confirm pickup points.
02
Walking
Walk central neighborhood clusters, allowing extra time at crossings and major landmarks.
01
Rapid Transit
The subway network is extensive, with buses filling gaps. Use a transit card and check the correct station exits, which may be far apart.
The subway network is extensive, with buses filling gaps. Use a transit card and check the correct station exits, which may be far apart.
Getting Around Seoul
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
You Might Also Like