Seoul blends centuries-old palaces and serene Buddhist temples with neon-lit shopping streets, K-pop culture and one of the world's best subway systems. From late-night street food in Myeongdong to mountain hikes overlooking the city, South Korea's capital rewards every kind of traveller. It is an easy, direct flight from Manila, making it one of the most popular short-haul getaways for Filipinos.
Spring (April to May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September to November) for crisp weather and fall foliage are the most comfortable and scenic times to visit.
The clean, English-signed metro and buses cover the whole city; grab a rechargeable T-money card for seamless tap-and-go travel on public transport.
Carry a few thousand won in cash for street-food stalls and small shops, even though cards are widely accepted everywhere else.