Seoul / South Korea

Incheon is the main port of South Korea, located on the western coast of the Korean Peninsula. The city is known for its hot springs and handicrafts, but apart from these, it doesn't have much to offer tourists. Most visitors disembark here to head to Seoul, about a 90-minute drive away.

Seoul, with its 12 million inhabitants, is the largest city in the country, one of the financial, commercial, and cultural centers of East Asia, and also a place with the fastest internet connection in the world.

The Han River area has been inhabited for thousands of years, and Seoul itself was founded before the Common Era. During the reign of the Joseon dynasty (from the 14th to the early 20th century), which built most of the historical monuments here, it was the capital of the country. In 1910, Korea was occupied by Japan, and after its surrender in 1945, the city received the name we know today. Seoul was occupied twice during the Korean War and was significantly rebuilt. Today, it is an interesting mix of tradition and modernity, and within its territory, you will find several UNESCO-listed sites.

Gyeongbok Palace was built in the 14th century and served as a royal residence until the end of the 16th century. A bit younger is Changdeokgung Palace, which took over its role in the 17th century. Seoul was once surrounded by walls, much of which, including the gates, is preserved today – admire the southern gate Sungnyemun or Namdaemun, which used to be the oldest wooden gate. In their vicinity, you will find traditional Korean markets and the largest shopping center. And if you still want to stay in the past, visit the royal tombs of the Joseon dynasty or the Jongmyo Confucian shrine.

If you prefer modern architecture, you will appreciate the N (Namsan) Seoul Tower or Lotte World, the largest indoor theme park in the world with the Lotte World Tower, which at 555 meters is the tallest building in Seoul. Don't miss the neofuturistic Dongdaemun Design Plaza or Moonlight Rainbow, the longest fountain in the world.

For knowledge lovers, Seoul offers more than a hundred museums, and just like in other world metropolises, shopping enthusiasts won't be disappointed here either: whether they prefer traditional markets or modern shopping centers.

But Seoul is not just a city of glass and concrete buildings; there is plenty of space here for parks, the most famous of which is Namsan Park with beautiful views of the city. If that's not enough for you, you can head to the mountains surrounding Seoul. Bukhansan National Park is – per square meter – the most visited national park in the world, and everyone will find something to enjoy here.

Places worth seeing

Changdeokgung – Admire the palace built by the rulers of the Joseon dynasty at the beginning of the 15th century, now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Jongmyo Shrine – Find peace of mind in the oldest royal Confucian shrine, where ritual ceremonies have the same form as in the 14th century.

Lotte World Tower – Take a ride to the tallest building in Seoul, opened in April 2017, and be captivated by the breathtaking views of the city.

COEX Mall – Indulge in shopping fever at the enormous shopping and entertainment center, where you can find everything you can think of.

National Folk Museum – Head to Gyeongbokgung Palace and learn about the folk history of the Korean people with the help of replicas of historical objects.

Namsan Park – Relax and recharge in the park with N Seoul Tower, stunning views, and countless opportunities for a pleasant walk.

Seodaemun Prison – Don't miss a tour of the former prison built during the Japanese occupation, which is now home to a historical museum.