Traveling around Seoul is easy. The subway is readily available and subway stops are usually within a few minutes’ walk of each other. A local map is a good idea to have while traveling in Seoul. The city isn’t too large, so a pedestrian approach can be very rewarding. If you get lost, local maps are available at subway stations.
Getting around in Seoul
The public transportation system in Seoul is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city. Seoul is served by 22 subway lines with 302 stations. Most subway stations are located within a 10-minute walk of a location. The subway runs daily from 5:30am until midnight. Fares start at W1350 for a ride of up to 6.2 kilometers, and you can make as many transfers as you wish within 30 minutes.
The Seoul subway system is well maintained, and it is rare to find a subway station without a bus stop. It’s helpful to have a printed address for each destination you wish to visit so you can show it to your driver and ask them to put it into the GPS system.
Best time of year to visit
Mid-March marks the slow thaw in Seoul, with daily highs of 10oC (50oF). March is also the time for the Seoul Marathon, which is the world’s second-oldest marathon after the Boston marathon. March brings a 5% price cut on flights. Despite the crowds, March is an excellent time to visit Seoul. This month also features the first blooming of the cherry blossoms.
Mid-October is a popular time to visit Seoul, although it can be overcrowded. You can find plenty of events to do, including shopping, dining out, and sightseeing. The city anticipates its peak foliage between October 19 and 30.
Best way to rent a hanbok
If you’re planning to travel to Korea, one of the best ways to rent a hanbok is to visit a hanbok rental shop. Most rental shops offer lockers, so you can leave your things in them. It is best to return your hanbok on time, though. Otherwise, you won’t be refunded and you may be charged for cleaning and repairs.
Rent a hanbok in Seoul. The Seohwa Hanbok rental store is located outside the Gyeongbokgung palace. This store is convenient because it has a two-day rental period, something that few other hanbok rental stores in Seoul offer. The prices are reasonable, too.
Best places to eat in Seoul
Seoul’s diverse culinary scene has something to offer every food lover, from high-end chefs to neighborhood markets. Whether you want to enjoy a classic Korean dish or try something new, you will find something in Seoul that fits your preferences and budget. You can even try a bit of the local cuisine and drink a beer at a pojangmacha.
If you’re not interested in a fancy restaurant, you can enjoy grilled meat and banchan in a small Korean restaurant near Seoul Station. This restaurant serves beef and pork, and is known for its authentic, no-frills menu. Another good place for grilled meat in Seoul is the New Village Restaurant.
Best place to rent a hanbok in Seoul
If you’re looking for a traditional Korean outfit, you’ve come to the right place. There’s a huge chain store with over 300 hanbok for rent. Whether you’re a beginner or a fashionista, you’re sure to find the perfect outfit.
Most hanbok rental stores offer a 24-hour rental period, although you can also rent a hanbok for four hours. Rental services require a deposit and a voucher to be presented upon arrival. Rules vary from store to store, so be sure to read their policies. Some of them don’t allow returns before the end of their rental period, so make sure you’re aware of this before renting.
Best place to find Korean cinema in Seoul
The best place to find Korean cinema in Seoul is Cinema Seoul, which is known for its comfortable seats and large selection of English-language movies. It is the perfect place to see new releases or old favorites. There are also multiplexes and independent theaters located throughout the city, so no matter what your budget is, you can find a show to enjoy.
If you’re a film buff, you’ll find that there are many different cinemas in Seoul. The three largest chains are Megabox, CGV, and Lotte. Tickets are usually between 7.000 KRW for adults and 6.500 KRW for students. Early bird tickets, however, can cost as low as 4.000 KRW for all ages. Most theaters have English subtitles, and some have bars attached to them.