City guides / Seoul
Seoul travel guide
Late-night food, mountain hikes and a 24-hour metro card.
Seoul, South Korea · Local currency KRW · Time zone Asia/Seoul
Best time to visit Seoul
Flights and hotels are cheapest in January, February. Expect to pay the most in April, July, August, October.
Post-holidays, fewer travelers in cold winter.
Still winter; low travel activity continues.
Spring emerges; tourist numbers start to increase.
Cherry blossom festivals attract many tourists.
Pleasant weather but fewer major events.
Early summer; warm temperatures lead to more visitors.
Summer vacations lead to an influx of domestic and international tourists.
Peak summer season; many festivals occur!
Gradual transition back to school; some rain.
Beautiful autumn season, very active travel period.
Fall leaves steady; cooler temperatures mean fewer crowds.
Winter festivities but traveling decreases after New Year.
Getting around Seoul
Public transport
Public transport is extremely reliable with buses and subways running frequently, usually every 5-10 minutes. Payment can be made through rechargeable T-money cards.
Driving and parking (7/10 difficulty)
Parking can be quite difficult in Seoul due to limited space and high fees, averaging around 3,000 KRW for an hour. Use public transport or park at designated lots.
How locals get around
Locals primarily use the subway for efficient travel, and it’s polite to give up your seat for the elderly. Eating and drinking on public transport is generally frowned upon.
Local customs in Seoul
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Seoul. However, round up the bill or leave small change if you feel the service was exceptional, typically around 10%.
What to wear
Dress is generally smart-casual, but for visiting temples or palaces, it's respectful to wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
Cards and cash
While cash is accepted, credit and debit cards are widely used, especially in urban areas. It’s advisable to carry some cash (KRW) for smaller purchases and public transport.
Phrases worth knowing
- 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)
- — Hello, a standard greeting used in most situations.
- 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)
- — Thank you, essential in showing appreciation after receiving a service.
- 저기요 (Jeogiyo)
- — Excuse me, used to get the attention of waitstaff or ask someone a question.
- 이거 얼마에요? (Igeo eolmaeyo?)
- — How much is this?, useful when shopping.
- 도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo)
- — Please help me, appropriate when assistance is needed.
Plan a Seoul trip in a couple of minutes
Journi builds a day-by-day Seoul itinerary around how you travel — stays, food near each day's activities, hidden gems and a packing list, with costs as you go.
Plan a trip to Seoul