Book a trip from Sydney to Seoul with Cathay Pacific , fares from AUD1,003

Located about 49 km west of the city, taxis are the most convenient way to reach the city centre from the airport, taking approximately 70 minutes. Alternatively, you can board the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) train, which will transport you to the downtown area in around 40 to 60 minutes. Car rental services and local buses are easily accessible and will get you to numerous destinations in and around Seoul.

The vibrant cultural and political hub of South Korea, Seoul pulsates as a futuristic metropolis intertwined with a captivating ancient heritage that is harmoniously complemented with an array of unforgettable experiences that cater to diverse tastes.

Start your journey by exploring Seoul's Five Grand Palaces: Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, Gyeongbokgung, and Gyeonghuigung. Scattered across the Jongno and Jung districts, these majestic architectural marvels were erected over 700 years ago during the Joseon Dynasty and provide a window into the intriguing history of South Korea. While immersing yourself in this remarkable heritage, be sure to visit the enchanting Bukchon Hanok village. Nestled near Gyeongbokgung Palace, this charming settlement boasts a rich history spanning over 600 years, with its alluring maze-like alleyways and traditional Korean-style houses beckoning you to wander and explore.

To fully experience the city's exotic culture, pay a visit to the Yido Pottery Gallery, an exceptional ceramic wares shop that specialises in crafting exquisite porcelain pieces, all of which are meticulously handcrafted. If you venture upstairs, you will discover a top-floor gallery hosting exhibitions that showcase the very best of contemporary crafts. From there, head to Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a neo-futuristic landmark situated in the heart of downtown Seoul. Housing restored sections of the ancient Seoul Fortress, it also contains the esteemed National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and a park on the rooftop.

No visit to the South Korean capital would be complete without a visit to the Namsan Seoul Tower, which stands as the tallest observation tower in all of Asia at 236 metres. The tower can be easily reached by public transport, a picturesque hike, or a scenic cable car ride. Upon arriving there, you can admire the awe-inspiring vistas of the sprawling cityscape.

Seoul is the perfect starting point for numerous day trips, with one of the most sought-after destinations being Nami Island, which is approximately 75 minutes away by car. This crescent-shaped island emanates a tranquil ambience and is adorned with a lush blanket of ginkgo trees, along with verdant forests and meandering rivers. Famed for being the picturesque setting for the beloved Korean drama Winter Sonata, Nami Island even showcases a dedicated sculpture that pays homage to the television series. While exploring the island, be sure to take the opportunity to explore The Garden of Morning Calm, a magical botanical haven home to an impressive collection of 5,000 plant species, including rare and endangered varieties. Another must-visit destination is Petite France, a quaint enclave crafted to resemble a charming European village straight out of a storybook, adding a touch of whimsy to your day trip experience.

Cathay Pacific brings the convenience of finding the best hotels in Seoul to you. Explore an exotic range of accommodation recommendations perfect for all types of travellers, including The Grand Hyatt Seoul, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, and Rakkojae Seoul. 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.

A culinary paradise for food enthusiasts, Seoul offers an expansive selection of diverse cuisines that will take your taste buds on an incredible journey. When it comes to unique dining experiences, Jungsik is one of the standouts as the restaurant stamped its mark on the culinary map by masterfully transforming traditional classics into bold and innovative renditions. Indulge in delicately deconstructed dishes like crispy duck with kimchi or savour the exquisite flavours of green tea mousse, which is expertly paired with the perfect bottle from their acclaimed wine list. If you are craving a broader range of flavours, The Market Kitchen beckons with its impressive selection of pan-Asian and international delicacies, including mouthwatering options such as fresh oysters and delicious charcuterie cheese platters.

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