- Ideal trip length
- 5 to 8 nights
- Best time to go
- April to May; October to early November
- Time zone
- GMT+9 (Korea Standard Time)
- Currency
- South Korean won (KRW)
Entry update31 December 2026
Travellers from 22 countries, including Singapore, the UK, the US and Australia, are exempt from K-ETA until 31 December 2026. Nothing had been announced for 2027 when I checked, so plan on applying for a K-ETA for trips from 1 January 2027 unless the exemption is extended.
About South Korea
Seoul is a city of contrasts that work well together. Joseon-era palaces sit beside glass towers, and quiet hanok lanes lead to some of Asia's most interesting restaurants. Shopping, skincare and design are serious pursuits here, and the gallery scene keeps growing. The city is clean, safe and easy to navigate, which makes it a good first taste of Korea.
Beyond the capital, Jeju offers volcanic landscapes, coastal walks and resort hotels, about an hour's flight south. Busan pairs beaches with a lively harbour food scene and is under three hours away by KTX train. I like to pair Seoul with one of these for a change of pace and scenery. The best hotels combine international polish with a distinctly Korean sense of style.
When to go
Spring blossom in April and clear, golden autumns make spring and October the best seasons. Winters are cold but dry, good for palaces, galleries and spa hotels. July and August bring monsoon rain and humid heat.
Places to go
Seoul
Palaces, hanok lanes, galleries and serious dining, with excellent hotels on both sides of the Han River.
See hotelsJeju
Volcanic island an hour's flight from Seoul, for coastal walks, tea fields and resort calm.
Ask me about hotels hereBusan
Korea's harbour city, with beaches, seafood markets and fast KTX trains from Seoul.
Ask me about hotels hereMy picks in South Korea
The hotels I'd start with, and who each one suits.
Before you go
Arriving
Getting there
Incheon International Airport is the main gateway, about an hour from central Seoul by car or airport train. Gimpo, closer in, handles domestic flights and some short regional routes.
Getting around
Seoul's subway is clean and efficient, and taxis are plentiful. KTX high-speed trains reach Busan in under three hours.
Visa and entry
Many passports, such as Singapore, UK, US and Australian, enter visa-free; until 31 December 2026 these four skip K-ETA and file an e-Arrival Card. Check the official source before you travel.
Checked November 2026
Money and culture
Money
Cards, including contactless, are accepted almost everywhere. Keep a little cash for traditional markets and street stalls.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Korea. Luxury hotels and restaurants usually include a service charge on the bill.
Local customs
Use both hands when giving or receiving something from an elder or host. Shoes come off in homes and some traditional restaurants.
On the ground
Language
Korean. English is spoken in top hotels and signposted on the subway, and translation apps such as Papago are very useful.
Plugs and power
Types C and F, the round two-pin European style.
Safety
Seoul is very safe, including at night. Take normal care with belongings in crowded nightlife districts.
South Korea: quick answers
When is the best time to visit South Korea?
April to May; October to early November. Spring blossom in April and clear, golden autumns make spring and October the best seasons. Winters are cold but dry, good for palaces, galleries and spa hotels. July and August bring monsoon rain and humid heat.
How long should I spend in South Korea?
5 to 8 nights is a good length for a first visit. Tell me what you enjoy and I'll shape the route around it.
Which luxury hotels do you recommend in South Korea?
My picks are Four Seasons Hotel Seoul and Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam. Each hotel page has my write-up, what guests say and the benefits I can add.
Do I need a visa for South Korea?
Many passports, such as Singapore, UK, US and Australian, enter visa-free; until 31 December 2026 these four skip K-ETA and file an e-Arrival Card. Check the official source before you travel.
Updated November 2026
More ways to experience South Korea
I balance Seoul's pace with quieter days, often adding Jeju or Busan, and time the trip for spring blossom or autumn colour.
- Benefits arranged before you arrive.
- One point of contact from start to finish.
- Hotels matched to how you travel.