U STAY MyeongDong

Visit in April, May, September, or October. These months have mild temperatures and fewer rain days. July and August are the rainiest and hottest, with frequent downpours and humidity. Winter is dry and cold. Cherry blossoms in April and crisp autumn foliage in October are major draws, but the weather itself is the real reason.

Stay in Myeongdong for easy access to shopping and dining, with hotels like The Westin Josun and The Ambassador nearby. Gangnam suits those wanting modern nightlife and upscale areas, where Andaz Seoul and InterContinental COEX are located. Yeouido offers riverside parks and a quieter business vibe, with Conrad Seoul as an option. Gwanghwamun places you near palaces and cultural sights, with Four Seasons Hotel there.

Start with N Seoul Tower for panoramic city views, then Gyeongbokgung Palace for its grand royal architecture and changing of the guard ceremony. Bukchon Hanok Village gives you a look at traditional hanok houses on quiet alleys. Lotte World and its tower offer indoor rides and a high observation deck. Cheonggyecheon is a peaceful stream walk through downtown with art installations.

Day trips from Seoul include the DMZ, where you can see the border and tunnels, and a combined trip to Mt. Seorak, Nami Island, and the Garden of Morning Calm, offering mountain views, lakes, and gardens. City sightseeing tours are also an option but focus on Seoul itself.

Three days cover the main sights: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, N Seoul Tower, and a walk along Cheonggyecheon or Insa-dong. Four days let you add Changdeokgung or Lotte World (including the Lotte World Tower). If you plan a day trip, such as the DMZ, add one extra day on top of that.