Destination inspiration: Seoul, South Korea

Reasons we’re sold on Seoul

There’s an undercurrent buzzing beneath South Korea’s capital city – and not just because it’s the world’s most wired city. Apart from its infinite cable connections and public WiFi, this neon metropolis is famous for its 24-hour lifestyle that entices both daytime explorers and nocturnal travelers.

Seoul is a sensory overload in all the best ways – from its mouthwatering food and K-pop-blasting nightlife to its ancient palaces and temples. Few cities can say they have something for everyone, but Seoul truly delivers a wealth of must-see attractions. Shoppers can explore the overflowing markets of Namdaemun while art-lovers can pick up unique finds in the creative Insa-dong neighborhood. If you need to unwind, you can soak all day thanks to South Korea’s famous spa culture. In between the cuisine, culture, and contemporary charm of the city, you may find yourself never wanting to leave.

Eat your way through Seoul

Every meal in South Korea is an explosion of flavors – and not just because of the kimchi. From fine cuisine to fiery treats, every palate is catered to, with plenty of culinary tours available throughout the city. For the ever-peckish, food vendors line the streets, selling sugary Hotteok pancakes and savory snacks. In the winter, vendors will always offer you a free cup of soup to keep warm while exploring Seoul.

Itaewon is known as the Western District, famous for having every type of restaurant imaginable. Make sure to try bibimbap, the Korean equivalent of soul food. Authentic bibimbap features rice topped with various side dishes called banchan. These are usually sauteed vegetables known as namul, marinated beef, gochujang chilli paste, and of course kimchi, a fermented cabbage garnish. It’s all crowned by a runny egg that you break with your chopsticks before mixing all the ingredients together and devouring. The result is an explosion of flavor that’s crunchy, succulent, spicy, and sweet all at once.

As you wander Seoul’s back streets, you’ll be lured nose-first into the nearest Korean barbecue (KBBQ) joint. KBBQ is an experience best shared with friends, as is a Dakgalbi sizzle-up. Many eateries are centered around the Myeong-dong district, which is also popular for shopping and staying in. Check in to the boutique Hotel28 Myeongdong for an upscale experience that won’t break your wallet.

A city that never sleeps

As dusk settles, the party glow of Itaewon, Hongdae, and Gangnam are irresistible. Seoul’s nightclubs infamously stay open till 6:00 am, and during the weekend, the revelry continues through lunchtime happy hour at “after clubs.” In these neighborhoods, you’ll sometimes find hungover tourists slumped over a drink and meal, with Seoul’s nighttime aura still thick in the morning air.

If you miss the last train home, check in to one of Seoul’s many 24-hour spas to nurse yourself back to health. Known as jjimjilbangs, these traditional bath houses sometimes serve as hotels for the night. A fresh change of clothes is included in the affordable single-entry fee, and you can stretch out on the heated floor with a mat and pillow.

If you manage to make it back for bedtime, find some peace at a traditional hanok to get some rest before the fun starts all over again. Bukchon Hanok Village is a 14th-century town located just 30-minutes from the center of Seoul. This living museum is dotted with charming hanok homes you can get cozy in. We recommend Gongsimga Hanok Guesthouse, which is easy on the wallet and comes with breakfast included.

When to go

Springtime in Seoul means sunshine and streets laced with cherry blossom trees, while the balmy autumns bring festivals and amber leaves. Both are lovely times to visit. Temperatures plunge below freezing between December and February, turning the city into a winter wonderland full of ice rinks and Christmas lights. Summer brings both international and domestic crowds to Seoul, which can make the subways crowded, but the conditions are ideal for exploring the nearby national parks.

It’s not all concrete and neon

The mountains of Bukhansan National Park frame the city, and are home to forested hiking trails, secluded shrines, and picturesque picnic spots. The views are so striking that legend says the mountain spirit, Baekdu-San, returns again and again just to admire the area’s stunning landscape.

If you’d rather not venture too far out, check out Mount Inwangsan, located just behind Gyeongbokgung Palace. After an easy hike to the top, you’ll be rewarded with soaring views of the palace, Seoul Tower, and the Han River flowing out to sea. You’ll also catch a glimpse of Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in South Korea.

More places to stay

Pacific Hotel, Seoul

The Pacific is a timeless hotel, clad in mirror-polished marble and deep brown wood. Great for families, the hotel is just a five-minute walk from Dongdaemun Market, and close to the Myeong-dong subway station, practically putting the city on your doorstep.

Han River Residence & Guest House, Seoul

At the budget-friendly Han River Residence & Guesthouse, each room, studio, and dorm is decorated in a different color scheme, from bubblegum-pink to sunshine-yellow. And if that doesn’t get your day off to a bright start, their famously delicious breakfast will do the trick. Plus, the staff can shuttle you between Gongdeok and Mapo subway stations for free.