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Travel Recommendations for a Winter Trip to Seoul
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items Visiting Seoul during winter is truly beautiful, especially when it snows, as seen in many K-dramas. If you’re planning a trip to South Korea in this season, here are some recommendations. Keep in mind that although Christmas in Korea is more of a co...
Sections
5
Accommodation
Food
Things to Do
Shopping
Other
Accommodation
Finding the perfect accommodation in Seoul can be tricky with so many areas to choose from. I’ve stayed in several neighborhoods: Dongdaemun, Insadong, Sinsa and Apgujeong, and the Gangnam area near Sinnonhyeon (though that hotel no longer exists). E...
This hotel offers all the amenities and services you might need. Some rooms even have lovely views of Jogyesa Temple, depending on which one you book. There are two subway stations close to the hotel, and the palaces are also nearby.
Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong
This apartment is perfect for longer stays as it comes with a private bathroom and kitchen. If you have dietary restrictions or just want to save money, it’s a great option. Plus, the apartment has a small terrace. The location is convenient, being c...
Seoul COMOCASA Premium Terrace Residence
A lovely hotel with a great location, close to Sinsa Station. I’ve stayed in this area several times during my trips to Korea, and it’s one of my favorites.
voco Seoul Gangnam, an IHG Hotel
The location is very convenient for accessing many other points of interest around the city. This hotel offers great value for money, and it’s close to the Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station as well as the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP).
Nine Tree Hotel Dongdaemun
This guesthouse is located in Mapo, just a 15-minute walk from the Hongdae area and about 5 minutes from Mangwon Station. It offers both private rooms with ensuite bathrooms and shared rooms. On the first floor, there’s a K-pop café that hosts idol f...
OkiDoki House
This hanok-style hotel is perfect if you want to be close to the palaces and experience a more traditional accommodation. While the rooms are modern inside, they maintain that hanok style. Changdeokgung Palace is just a 2-minute walk away, and it’s a...
Hanok Hotel DAAM Seoul
Food
There’s a ton of delicious food in Korea, and during winter, you can enjoy some traditional dishes. I’ve picked a few, but there are so many amazing foods in Korea that you should definitely try!
Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food made from chewy rice cakes in a spicy gochujang sauce, known for its comforting and warming qualities, which is why it’s especially loved during the winter months. If you spot a street vendor, definitely gra...
Tteokbokki (떡볶이)
Hotteok is a fried pancake usually filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts. It’s a popular winter street food in Korea because it's high in calories, making it a warm and filling snack when it’s cold. Nowadays, you can also find other variations ...
Hotteok (호떡) Korean Traditional Sweet Pancake
Kimchi-Jjigae is a stew made with kimchi, tofu, and various meats and vegetables. It's warm and spicy, so it's a must-have dish during cold days.
Kimchi-Jjigae (김치찌개)
Gungoguma is another popular street food in Korea, especially during the winter. These roasted sweet potatoes make for a warm and healthy snack, perfect for chilly days. Plus, they’re a fantastic vegetarian and vegan option for those who don’t eat me...
Gungoguma (군고구마)
Eomuk, or fish cakes, are another popular street food in Korea, especially during winter. With their warm and savory flavor, they are often served on skewers in broth, which makes them a comfort food during cold days.
Fishcakes - Eomuk (어묵)
A popular winter snack that consists of walnut-shaped cookies filled with sweet red bean paste and crushed walnuts. They’re often enjoyed warm, making them a comforting snack during winter months.
Hodu-Gwaja (호두과자)
Choco Pie is a classic Korean snack that's a must-try for any fan of Korean culture. While it's not specifically a winter treat, it’s definitely a must eat when visiting Korea. I first tasted them when I studied Korean and loved them! Every time I vi...
Choco Pie (초코파이)
A stew made with sausage, kimchi, noodles, baked beans, cheese, vegetables, and other ingredients, making it a filling and warming option for winter.
Budae jjigae (부대찌개)
Juk is a warm Korean porridge made from boiled rice, often cooked with ingredients like chicken, pumpkin, or seafood. Because it's soothing and easy on the stomach, it's commonly eaten by Koreans when they're feeling unwell.
Juk (죽)
Things to Do
In winter, visiting iconic sites like Namsan Tower, temples, and palaces is a must, especially when they’re covered in snow—it's a beautiful contrast against the classic buildings. You'll also find plenty of activities like ice skating rinks and wint...
Namsan Tower is definitely a must-visit when you're in Seoul. In winter, especially when it's snowy, the views are breathtaking as you can see the entire city from the observation deck.
N Seoul Tower
Myeongdong Cathedral in Seoul is beautifully illuminated during Christmas. It’s a popular spot where people write wishes for the new year.
Myeongdong Cathedral Christmas Lights
Lotte World is beautifully decorated for Christmas, particularly the castle, and features an indoor ice skating rink. Just keep in mind that it can get quite crowded during this season, as there can be long lines for the attractions.
Lotte World Seoul
The Seoul Lantern Festival is an annual winter festival celebrated from December to January. It takes place in several locations, including Gwanghwamun Square, Cheonggye Square, and Seoul Square.
Seoul Lantern Festival (https://stolantern.com/en)
Deoksugung Palace looks stunning in winter, with its ancient architecture beautifully contrasting against the snow. Honestly, any historical palace or landmark in Seoul is great to visit, especially when covered in snow. It really makes for a charmin...
Deoksugung Palace
In winter, Seoul Plaza turns into a lively ice rink right in front of City Hall. Run by the Seoul Metropolitan Government, it has an entrance fee of around 1000 KRW.
Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink (서울광장 스케이트장) - https://seoulskate.com/
The famous Starfield Library in COEX Mall also gets into the holiday spirit each year with Christmas decorations and a beautiful tree.
Coex Mall Starfield Library
Eobi Ice Valley isn’t in Seoul, but it's an awesome winter day trip from the city. It’s a great spot to explore if you’re visiting in winter, and some tours even include stops at Nami Island or the Garden of Morning Calm.
Eobi Ice Valley
Shopping
Shopping in Seoul's most popular malls during winter is a good idea, as you'll find lots of festive decorations, lights, and Christmas markets. Just keep in mind that it can get pretty crowded!
Shinsegae Department Store is decorated with Christmas lights and festive decorations both inside and outside, making it an ideal spot to enjoy the holiday ambiance while shopping for gifts.
Shinsegae Department Store Myeongdong
Similar to Shinsegae Department Store, Lotte Department Store is beautifully adorned with Christmas lights and festive decorations both inside and outside. Since they are close to each other, it’s easy to visit both
Lotte Department Store Main Branch
The Hyundai Seoul is a large shopping mall that features an indoor Christmas village. However, due to its popularity, reservations may be required to enter the village.
The Hyundai Seoul Mall
Another Hyundai Department Store, located in Gangnam, beautifully decorated for Christmas. Featuring festive workshops, animatronics, and more. The theme changes each year.
Hyundai Department Store Trade Center
Underground shopping centers are quite popular in Seoul, and the Jamsil Underground Shopping Center is one of the most famous. It's known for its variety of shops, including fashion, cosmetics, and accessories, all at affordable prices, making it a g...
Jamsil Underground Shopping Center (잠실지하상가)
Another underground shopping center is GotoMall, located at the Express Bus Terminal Station. It's one of the largest underground malls in Korea, featuring a wide variety of stores that offer fashion, beauty products, accessories, and more.
GOTOMALL - Express Bus Terminal Station
Insadong is a traditional Korean neighborhood, making it a great place to buy souvenirs and more traditional gifts. From handmade pottery to calligraphy supplies.
Shopping in Insadong
Other
Important things to consider before and during your trip. This applies not just to winter, but to all seasons.
When traveling to Korea, it’s important to check the entry requirements beforehand, as some countries now require a visa or K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization). Make sure to review all the necessary information so you can be well-prepared a...
Korea Visa and Requirements for Travelers
When traveling to South Korea, especially in winter, it’s important to wear multiple layers and choose non-slip shoes in case of snow. Here’s a list of clothing and accessories to pack for your trip!
What to wear in Korea during Winter: A Guide For Tropical People
When it comes to money, bring a credit card with a low commission rate. On my earlier trips, I used a debit card without issues, but on my last trip, my debit card caused several problems, so it's important to have a credit card instead. Avoid exchan...
Currency
The Discover Seoul Pass is a great tourist pass that gives you free entry to over 70 attractions in Seoul, like N Seoul Tower, Lotte World, and COEX Aquarium. On top of that, it offers discounts at various shops and experiences, plus free transportat...
Discover Seoul Pass 24, 48 or 72 Hours
A hot pack is a small, portable warmer that stays heated for hours. They come in various sizes—small ones for pockets or shoes and larger ones with adhesive for clothing. I used to buy them at convenience stores, and they’re very affordable.
Hot Pack (핫팩)
While it’s pretty easy to find free Wi-Fi in Seoul, many people prefer having internet and data access at all times. A pocket Wi-Fi can be really handy for this, and you can pick one up upon arrival at airports like Incheon. It's especially cost-effe...
4G WiFi (KR Airport Pick Up) for South Korea from KT Olleh