More than just a colorful backdrop for the "Gangnam Style" video, Seoul's a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that's home to a bustling street food scene, a thriving artistic community, and a skyline filled with a striking blend of contemporary and historic architecture. The capital of South Korea, Seoul boasts hundreds of museums, galleries, and live music venues, as well as regular art and cultural festivals throughout the year. With a Seoul vacation rental, you'll be surrounded by the city's biggest attractions, including the 14th-century Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Museum of Korea, and the iconic N Seoul Tower.
You'll have to get up pretty early in the morning to see even a fraction of what Seoul's got to offer, but we believe in you. At the National Museum of Korea, you can peruse more than 300,000 cultural artifacts and artworks dating back to the 5th century and beyond. Then, head to Gyeongbokgung, a largely-reconstructed royal palace dating from the 14th century. For a unique perspective on Seoul, you can ride the elevator to the observation deck at N Seoul Tower. This hilltop communication tower offers a revolving restaurant and panoramic city views.
With so much to check out in the city's 25 districts, sightseeing is a major pastime in this sprawling metropolis. First things first, you'll want to check out the lively Meyong-dong district, a major shopping and entertainment hub. Here, you can find upscale boutiques and department stores, as well as the 19th-century Myeongdong Cathedral, South Korea's oldest Catholic cathedral. For a taste of the city's famous street food, head to Gwangjang Market—this massive marketplace boasts countless vendor booths offering everything from handicrafts and produce to the tasty mung bean pancakes known as "bindae-tteok."
Seoul has a humid continental climate, with hot, muggy summers, cold winters, and an annual monsoon season with plenty of rain. Average summer highs peak at 85 degrees in August, while average winter temperatures range from 28 to 35 degrees in January. The monsoon season sees more than half of the city's rainfall between June and September—umbrellas are highly encouraged! A popular destination throughout the year thanks to its wealth of world-class sights and attractions, you'll find that prices on Seoul vacation rentals tend to stay about the same from one season to the next.
A few miles inland from the Yellow Sea, Seoul's downtown is situated along the banks of the Han River. One of the most densely populated cities in Asia, Seoul is divided into 25 separate administrative districts, each with its own distinct feel and history. You can find a number of parks within a short walk or train ride from your Seoul vacation rental, including the scenic Namsan Park. Here, you'll find picnic areas and hiking trails leading to Namsan Mountain's 860-foot peak, on top of which sits the iconic N Seoul Tower.
Fly into Incheon Intl. Airport (ICN), the closest airport, located 30 mi (48.3 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you might consider flying into Gimpo Intl. Airport (GMP), which is 9.6 mi (15.4 km) away.
If you'd rather travel by train, you can make your way to Suseo Station. You can get around Seoul by jumping on the metro at City Hall Station, Euljiro 1-ga Station or Gwanghwamun Station.
Whatever your getaway needs, you'll find a rental in or around Seoul that's perfect for you. These are some of our top picks:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Seoul vacation rental for you.
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life at one of our weekend getaways in or near Seoul. Whether you want to catch up with pals or spend quality time with the fam, there'll be something to suit your style. Here are a few places we think you'll love:
You sure can. If you'd like a simple but stylish stay, you can't go wrong with a studio apartment. These compact properties exude charm and are often conveniently found in the center of town. Check out the following options in or near Seoul:
Now and then, you just need to take a well-earned breather, even if it's only for two or three days. Enjoy the ideal combination of relaxing and exploring at one of these short-term rentals in or around Seoul:
Nothing says "I love you" like planning a romantic weekend together. If you want to spend a couple of relaxing evenings away with your other half, we've got some romantic getaways in and around Seoul that will get your heart racing:
A pool is often a nonnegotiable when choosing where to stay, especially if you're traveling with kids. Check out these houses with a pool in or near Seoul and fill your days with frolicking and fun:
Curious what the weather is like in Seoul? It has a humid continental climate, with average summertime temperatures ranging from 70 ºF to 80 ºF. If you're searching for a little more inspiration on where to stay in this epic destination, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to scroll through our entire range of Seoul vacation rentals.
You'll always have more fun sharing wonderful times with the people you care about the most. Whether you're planning a family escape or getting away with close friends, Vrbo has a large vacation rental that's perfect for you. These are two of our best in and around Seoul:
When you want to get out and explore, there are loads of family-friendly attractions nearby to keep everyone happy. Hwangmaesan County Park, Hapcheon Yeongsang Thema Park and Wibong Falls should be top of your itinerary.
Romantic retreats, work trips or adventures of the solo kind — a single-bedroom vacation property suits a multitude of occasions. One of our options in or near Seoul is sure to impress:
At Vrbo, we've got rentals in or near Seoul to suit the most choosey of guests. Here are a couple of two-bedroom options to consider:
Three-bedroom rentals in or near Seoul give you both freedom and space to enjoy your vacation with family and friends. Take a look at some of the fantastic options available here: