Accommodation
You’ll find whichever style of accommodation suits you, your travel companions and your budget in the big city of Seoul. Big hotel chains have found their place here, so if you want the familiarity of a known hotel brand, you’ll find it here. Korean hotels have a somewhat confusing rating system which includes super deluxe, deluxe, first-class, second-class and third class categories, marked with plaques showing 1-5 flowers.
Motels in Korea are slightly different than the western iteration, sometimes called “love motels” as they have a slightly shady reputation as havens for young couples seeking privacy. However, nowadays there are some very nice ones which eschew the hourly rates and offer relatively high-end rooms. One step cheaper are the yeogwan motels, and also guesthouses which offer dormitory-style or private room accommodation for a good price. Stay in these - or a hostel - in the outer suburbs for a very affordable Seoul visit. Jongno and Hongdae are the unofficial backpacker districts.
Dining
Seoul is at the forefront of exciting dining, and with your car rental you can get around and try it all. Fermented food is well-known as a Korean staple, but there are plenty more flavours where that came from. Just venture out on the streets in any part of the city and you’ll be confronted with a huge range of restaurants and eateries, from gourmet to takeaways.
The traditional Korean meal includes a variety of side dishes, best shared - so gather a group and find a nearby eatery to dine with the locals. Gimbap is also a Korean specialty, basically their own version of sushi for a quick meal fix. Bibimbap, a mixed rice dish, is another Korean favourite, so keep it in mind if you’re staring in confusion at a menu.
Alongside Korean food, Seoul offers a very multicultural cuisine scene. Japanese food is popular here, along with Western eats, Chinese dishes and some chain bakeries, cafes and family restaurants from many different nations.
There’s plenty of street food in Seoul, as well as high-end restaurants, so pick your price point. For the ultimate in dining, try one of the city’s two triple-Michelin-starred establishments, both offering Korean cuisine: La Yeon at the Shilla hotel, and Gaon in Gangnam.
Geography, culture and people
Seoul lies inland from Korea’s coast, straddling the Han River on a site which has been occupied by humans for thousands of years. It is the political, cultural and economic centre of South Korea, and a very cosmopolitan and multicultural city.
Korean is the official language and the major nationality in Seoul. The culture values family, and has quite specific roles for fathers, mothers, eldest sons and the like. Respect is shown to elders and ancestors, and Koreans will go to great lengths to avoid embarrassment to themselves or others. You will get by fine with a polite and respectful demeanour, and a quick, small bow to people you meet. If travelling on business, note that the exchange of business cards is quite the ceremony, so accept it with thanks and do not stuff it into a pocket.
Attractions
A Seoul car rental opens up all of the city’s many and varied attractions. These are a few of the most popular things to see and do in Seoul:
● Gyeongbokgung Palace was the first royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, and is simply spectacular. It houses the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea.
● The Namdaemun Market is a large, traditional market where you can go to buy and barter for food, clothing, and just about anything else you might wish to purchase. Wholesale prices mean it’s a very affordable way to shop in Seoul.
● The 18.6 kilometres of the Seoul City Wall which stretch along the ridges and peaks of some of the mountains around the city. It’s a great place for a walk, and also gives an insight into Seoul’s history - there are great views, too!
● N Seoul Tower also boasts panoramic views over the city, making it a great spot to go to get your bearings.
● For more shopping, try Insa-dong. This neighbourhood and particularly its main street are a mecca for those seeking traditional Korean culture and crafts including pottery, clothing, teas and more.
● Anyone travelling with kids might like to check out Lotte World. Located downtown, it is a theme park and more: as well as parades, there’s an ice rink, a folk museum and a lake. There is something for everyone!
Weather
Officially, the climate in Seoul is humid continental/subtropical, and the city experiences four distinct seasons. Summer and winter are miles apart in temperature, and visitors can expect cold and sometimes snowfall in December, January and February and hot weather in June, July and August. Spring and autumn are often considered the most pleasant times to visit.
