Book a trip from Hanoi to Seoul with Cathay Pacific

Travellers in Seoul have several convenient options for journeying from the airport to downtown. Taxis are the most convenient, taking approximately 1 hour to reach your destination in downtown Seoul. The Airport Railroad Express (AREX) provides a fast and direct train service, taking around 45 minutes to reach Seoul Station. Another efficient transportation option is the airport, with multiple routes serving major hotels and destinations in the city.

As South Korea's largest theme park, Everland offers a wide variety of attractions for all ages, making it perfect for families looking for a start to their holiday. Begin your day with thrilling rides like the T Express, one of the world's steepest wooden roller coasters, or enjoy the spectacular views from the Sky Cruise. The park is divided into different themed zones, including Zootopia, where you can interact with exotic animals, and Fantasy Land, which features charming rides for younger visitors. Time your visit to experience the seasonal festivals that add a unique flair to your visit, such as the Tulip Festival in spring and the Halloween Celebration in autumn. The Everland Zoo is also worth exploring, showcasing a variety of animals in well-designed habitats.

Located in the upscale Hannam-dong neighbourhood, the Leeum Museum is housed in three architecturally stunning buildings designed by world-renowned architects Mario Botta, Jean Nouvel, and Rem Koolhaas. The museum’s collection spans over 15,000 works, featuring traditional Korean art such as calligraphy, ceramics, and Buddhist artefacts in Museum 1, while Museum 2 showcases modern and contemporary pieces by Korean and international artists. One of the highlights is the dramatic spiral staircase designed by Mario Botta, where natural light creates a mesmerising play of colours, making it a favourite spot for photography. The museum also features striking installations like Anish Kapoor’s giant orange sculpture “Gravity,” which adds a futuristic touch to the space.

Before you finish your holiday, take one more dive into the city’s culture at Gyeonghuigung Palace, which served as a secondary residence for kings and was known as the Western Palace due to its location within the city. Much of the original complex was destroyed by fire and later dismantled during the Japanese occupation, and today, structures like the Heunghwamun Gate and Sungjeongjeon Hall have been restored and are open to visitors. The palace grounds now include walking paths and the Seoul Museum of Art, making it a peaceful cultural spot to explore. Visitors can admire the traditional architecture, stroll through the serene gardens, and learn about the palace’s history through informative displays. The restored Heunghwamun Gate, with its stone bridge and moat, provides a picturesque entrance and photo opportunity.

Cathay Holidays brings the convenience of finding the perfect hotels for your stay. For those seeking an opulent stay, JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square offers a blend of modern elegance and premium amenities. Nestled in the vibrant Dongdaemun district, this luxury hotel is ideally located near notable attractions such as the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a hub of contemporary architecture and design. Guests can indulge in beautifully appointed rooms featuring stunning views of the iconic Heunginjimun Gate and the surrounding cityscape. The hotel boasts an array of facilities, including a heated indoor pool, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and the renowned Provence Spa by L’OCCITANE, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring. Dining options are exceptional, with venues like BLT Steak, offering exquisite cuts of meat, and the rooftop bar, The Griffin, where you can enjoy signature cocktails with panoramic views of the city. Alternatively, Toyoko Inn Incheon Bupyeong is an excellent budget-friendly hotel option for leisure travellers visiting the Incheon area near Seoul. The hotel features clean, comfortable rooms equipped with essentials such as air conditioning, refrigerators, blackout curtains, and free Wi-Fi. Guests appreciate the friendly staff and complimentary breakfast, which includes a variety of American and fusion dishes. Nearby, travellers can explore the vibrant Bupyeong shopping district, filled with local restaurants, cafes, and bakeries like Paris Baguette and Lotte Mart for convenient shopping. For cultural experiences, the Korea Manhwa Museum is just a short drive away, showcasing Korea’s rich comic art history. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities. You will also be able to earn miles when you book a holiday package or a hotel.

Seoul entices food enthusiasts with its wide selection of restaurants, where culinary traditions from across the world converge to create an exquisite gastronomic experience. If you’re looking to try traditional Korean flavours, Seokparang offers a unique dining experience that combines traditional Korean royal cuisine with a beautiful setting. Nestled in a picturesque location, this restaurant is renowned for its elegant atmosphere and exquisite dishes. One of the must-try items is the Gungjung Sirae, a refined royal banquet dish featuring seasonal ingredients, beautifully presented. The Jeongol, a savoury hot pot, showcases a variety of meats and vegetables simmered to perfection, making it a comforting choice for any meal. For the full experience, try the Banchan, an array of side dishes that accompany your main course, providing a delightful taste of Korean flavours. For dessert, the traditional rice cakes (tteok) served with honey and nuts are a perfect way to end your meal. For those seeking a quick bite, EGGDROP elevates the classic egg sandwich to new heights, making it a perfect spot for a quick yet nutritious meal. One of the standout items is the Egg Bacon Deluxe, featuring a perfectly cooked egg paired with crispy bacon and fresh ingredients. Another popular choice is the SPAM Cheese Egg Sandwich, which combines savoury SPAM with rich cheese, creating a satisfying bite. For something sweet, try the Strawberry Cream French Toast, which is a delightful treat that balances sweetness with the fluffiness of toasted brioche.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Seoul.

• Currency: South Korean Won (KRW, ₩). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 220V Types C and F
• Time zone: GMT+9
• Language: Korean