The best thing about traveling to South Korea is that you’ll never run out of adventures to try. Each city has a story to tell, whatever type of traveler you are. But if you want to be where there’s a mix of history, urban lifestyle, technology, and pop culture, the place to be is in its capital city, Seoul.
To help you prepare for your dream trip, read our travel guide to say, “annyeong, Seoul” this 2023!
Fast Facts
Language: Korean
Currency: ₩ Korean Won (KRW)
Airport: There are two airports servicing the metropolitan area of Seoul—Incheon International Airport, which caters to most international flights and selected domestic flights, and Gimpo International Airport, which mainly accommodates domestic flights and select flights to China and Japan.
Transfer Options from Incheon to Seoul
By Train
Take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) and choose either the All Stop Train or Express Train. All Stop Train departs every 5 to 10 minutes and takes 1 hour to Seoul Station, while Express Train departs every 20-40 minutes and takes only about 40 minutes to go to Seoul Station.
By Taxi
There are several types of taxis that you can take from Incheon:
- International taxis
This type of taxi is recommended if you want a driver who can understand non-Korean languages.
- Deluxe taxi
This is their premium version with more passenger space and a higher standard of service. These taxis charge higher fares compared to other taxis.
- Jumbo taxi
If you’re traveling in big groups, opt for this taxi type as it can seat around 6-10 people. They charge the same as deluxe taxis.
- Standard taxis
These are Seoul’s regular taxis, usually orange in color.
By Bus
You have two options when it comes to buses: deluxe and standard. You can get airport bus tickets at the Arrivals Hall of Terminal 1 near gates 4 and 9, and outside near gates 4, 6, 7, 8, 11, and 13. You may also purchase tickets from Terminal 2 at the Transportation Center. Make sure to check your bus boarding number, bus route, and departure time before you board.
Where to Buy WiFi and SIM cards
Eliminate the hassle by getting your essential devices such as WiFi router and SIM cards inside the airport. You can get a WiFi router that gives you an unli 4G connection in Korea, or a 4G/LTE SIM card with T-Money Card for your transportation needs via KKDay.
Where to Stay in Seoul
Lotte Hotel Seoul
via Lotte Hotel Seoul
If you’re a fan of K-dramas, you may have already heard of the popular 5-star Lotte Hotel Seoul. Conveniently located in the heart of Seoul’s business district, it’s the accommodation of choice when you want a taste of luxury for your Seoul vacation. Make it more special by dining at their all-you-can-eat buffet La Seine, and having a taste of their Eastern and Western food offerings.
Location: 30, Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, Korea
Website: Lotte Hotel Seoul
The Plaza Hotel
via The Plaza Hotel
Another hotel to add to your list is the avant-garde The Plaza Hotel which offers several types of suites with different scenic vistas to choose from. Their in-house buffet restaurant Seven Square serves its guests a feast of flavors from their signature Mediterranean, to Eastern, and Western cuisines.
Location: 119 Sogong-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Website: The Plaza Hotel Seoul
Where to eat in Seoul
Ungteori Korean BBQ
via KKDay supplier
What’s a trip to Seoul without ever trying the famous samgyeopsal? After a day of shopping in Myeongdong, end your adventure with a sumptuous all-you-can-eat meal at Ungteori Korean BBQ and have a taste of their juicy pork belly and flavorsome soybean paste stew!
Location: 23 Myeongdong 4-gil, Myeongdong 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
How to get here: Take a 4-minute walk from Exit 6 of the Myeongdong Subway Station.
Korea Hamcho Ganjang Gejang (Hamcho Soy Sauce Crab)
via KKDay Supplier
Have you ever watched crab mukbangs? Time to try it for yourself at Korea Hamcho Ganjang Gejang, located near the Myeongdong Subway Station. The menu is centered around their creamy and meaty soy-marinated crabs oozing with flavors, best paired with steaming hot rice.
Location: B1F 11-1, Chungmu-ro 2-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
How to get here: Take a 2-minute walk from Exit 9 of the Myeongdong Subway Station.
Seoul Nolboo Budae-Jjigae
via KKDay supplier
Apart from the usual KBBQ, you’ve also got to try budae jiggae, a Korean-American fusion stew incorporated with American processed foods such as spam and sausages. It’s a spicy, hearty dish best eaten during the winter season.
Location: 33-43 Changcheon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea
How to get here: Take the subway going to Sinchon and go towards Exit 2. From there, take a 4-minute walk going to the restaurant.
What to Do in Seoul
The best thing about Seoul is that you’ll never run out of experiences to try. Whether you like art, history, or extreme adventure– you’ll find all these and more in Seoul!
Dance like an idol at a dance studio class
via KKDay supplier
Unleash your inner K-Pop idol and move to the beat of your favorite K-Pop songs at the largest dance studio in Seoul! This dance class is headed by professionals who have performed with Korea’s hottest K-Pop idols too!
Rent a hanbok and visit a Korean palace
via KKDay supplier
Explore the old-time Seoul at the famous Gyeongbokgung Palace while donning a traditional Hanbok! They also offer hair styling services to complete the look. Try this amazing experience and take beautiful photos as you stroll around the palace a la Korean crown prince and princesses.
Enjoy thrilling rides at Seoul Lotte World
via KKDay Supplier
If nail-biting adventures are your thing, this one’s for you– see Asia’s largest indoor theme park and enjoy adventure rides at Lotte World Magic! Also, get a chance to see more than 600 marine species at the Lotte aquarium in this one-stop destination.
Go on a romantic river cruise
via KKDay supplier
See the majestic Han River and admire its splendid day and night view scenery of the N Seoul Tower and Seoul Olympic Stadium via a river cruise. You have three cruise options to choose from: the Han River Story Cruise for daytime sightseeing, the Firework Music Cruise where you’ll witness a spectacular fireworks show, and the Music Cruise that features a live jazz performance.
You’re in for a fun-filled experience from day till night when you finally visit Seoul this 2022! Find more activities and hotel options by booking on KKDay!
