Frequently asked questions
Seoul: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is April-June, September-October (mild weather). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Seoul: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +30.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Seoul: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +-15.0°C, during the day — up to +0.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Seoul: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on summer (July-August), monsoon rains. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Seoul: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $130.00 (≈ 10 910 ₽ · ≈ 172 900 KRW) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the
trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Seoul: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $35.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $83.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $148.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $257.00 per night, an apartment — $120.00 per night, a villa — $200.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Seoul: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $12.00, dinner at a restaurant — $30.00, a cup of cappuccino — $4.50, a 0.5L beer — $5.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Seoul: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $50.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.50, a short taxi ride — $10.00, car rental — $60.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Seoul: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Gyeongbokgung Palace — The main Joseon-era royal palace, built in 1395. Daily guard-changing ceremonies and traditional architecture make it a must-visit.; N Seoul Tower — Famous TV tower on Namsan Mountain with panoramic city views. Especially popular at sunset and with night lighting.; Bukchon Hanok Village — Traditional Korean village with hundreds of hanok houses from the Joseon era. Preserved old Seoul atmosphere.; Myeongdong Shopping Street — Main shopping street with thousands of cosmetics, clothing and street food stalls. Seoul's busiest shopping district.; Cheonggyecheon Stream — Restored stream in the city centre with walking paths, bridges and waterfalls. A popular spot for walks.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Seoul: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Kimchi — Fermented vegetables with chilli — Korea's national dish, served with every meal.; Bibimbap — Famous rice dish with vegetables, meat and egg, mixed with spicy gochujang sauce.; Korean Fried Chicken — Crispy chicken in sweet or spicy sauce, a popular Seoul evening snack.; Samgyeopsal — Grilled pork belly, served with lettuce leaves, garlic and dipping sauce.; Tteokbokki — Rice cakes in a spicy sweet sauce — one of the most popular street snacks.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Seoul: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Myeongdong — Main shopping district with shops, cafes and street food.; Hongdae — Youthful area with clubs, bars, street performances and boutiques.; Gangnam — Trendy district with luxury boutiques, restaurants and nightclubs.; Insadong — Traditional area with tea houses, art galleries and souvenir shops.; Itaewon — International district with diverse restaurants, bars and nightlife.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Seoul: is a visa required?
Visa: visa-free for most countries (up to 90 days), K-ETA required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Seoul: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт Инчхон (code ICN). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $50.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Seoul: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — KRW. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $130.00 (≈ 10 910 ₽ · ≈ 172 900 KRW). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Seoul: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Seoul: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Seoul: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Incheon — City with the international airport and Songdo Park, ~1 hour by train.; Suwon — City with Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO site, ~30 minutes by train.; Bukhansan National Park — Mountain park with hiking trails on the outskirts of Seoul.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.