Best Time to Visit Seoul: Perfect Season, Weather & Tips

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, lies in the northwest part of the country, nestled between mountains and the Han River. Its climate is temperate, with four distinct seasons, each bringing its own charm to the city.

From the cold winters to the hot, humid summers, the weather greatly influences how you experience Seoul throughout the year.

While summer can be sweltering, spring and autumn are the perfect times to explore the city, with pleasant weather and stunning natural beauty.

✈️Best Time to Visit Seoul by Season

🌞 Summer (June - August)

🌡️ Weather conditions: Summer in Seoul can be incredibly hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F). July and August are the wettest months, due to the monsoon season, bringing heavy rain and humidity. Expect daily showers and some extreme heat, especially in late July.

👗 What to wear: Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Pack light fabrics like cotton and linen to stay cool, along with a hat and sunglasses. A light rain jacket or umbrella will come in handy during sudden downpours.

🏖️ Best seasonal activities: This is the time to visit indoor attractions like museums and galleries, as well as shopping malls. If you can handle the heat, try visiting Namsan Tower for panoramic views of the city or the Han River for boat rides and riverside walks.

🎉 Local festivals or events: The Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival (usually in late November) is a great way to experience Korean culture, but if you’re visiting during the summer, don't miss the Seoul Lantern Festival in late summer, showcasing vibrant light displays.

🍂 Autumn (September - November)

🌡️ Weather conditions: Autumn is one of the best times to visit Seoul, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F). The weather is mild and pleasant, with little to no rain, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The fall foliage, especially in October, adds a vibrant touch to the city.

👗 What to wear: Layering is key. Pack light sweaters or jackets for the cooler mornings and evenings, while during the day, you can enjoy the crisp weather with long sleeves and comfortable pants.

🍁 Best seasonal activities: Hiking in Bukhansan National Park is breathtaking during autumn, when the leaves change colors. Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace or strolling along Cheonggyecheon Stream is perfect in the crisp weather. Seoul’s parks, like Hangang Park, are also perfect for picnics and bike rides during this season.

🎉 Local festivals or events: Chuseok (Korean harvest festival) occurs in September or October and is the country’s most significant holiday. You can experience traditional music, food, and cultural celebrations during this time. Also, the Seoul Lantern Festival happens in November, showcasing beautifully crafted lanterns.

❄️ Winter (December - February)

🌡️ Weather conditions: Winters in Seoul can be cold and dry, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). Snow is common in January, and it can get extremely chilly, especially with the wind chill. However, Seoul is well-equipped to handle the cold, and you can still enjoy a lot of outdoor activities, as long as you bundle up.

👗 What to wear: A heavy coat, scarf, gloves, and warm boots are necessary to stay comfortable in the cold. Layering is key, so bring sweaters and thermal undergarments.

🏖️ Best seasonal activities: If you’re a fan of winter sports, you can easily take a short trip to nearby ski resorts like Yongpyong or Vivaldi Park for skiing and snowboarding. Back in the city, enjoy cozy cafes or explore the Bukchon Hanok Village for a scenic winter walk. Ice skating at Seoul Plaza is also a popular winter activity.

🎉 Local festivals or events: Seollal (Lunar New Year) takes place in January or February and is a huge cultural event. You can enjoy traditional activities, food, and ceremonies during this period. Also, Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival (November) is an essential experience, as kimchi is a staple of Korean food.

🌸 Spring (March - May)

🌡️ Weather conditions: Spring is the most popular time to visit Seoul, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) in March, rising to around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) by May. The air is crisp and fresh, and the city’s parks and streets are filled with blooming cherry blossoms in April.

👗 What to wear: The weather is cool, so bring light jackets or sweaters for the daytime and scarves or sweater layers for the cooler evenings.

🌸 Best seasonal activities: Cherry blossom season is one of the best times to be in Seoul! Head to Yeouido Hangang Park or Seoul Grand Park to see the trees in full bloom. It’s also the best time for hiking, as the weather is ideal for exploring Seoul’s hiking trails, especially Namsan and Bukhansan.

🎉 Local festivals or events: The Seoul Lantern Festival takes place in April, with colorful lanterns displayed throughout the city. Also, Cherry Blossom Festivals happen in parks across Seoul during late March to early April.

🌦️ Rainy Season (June - July)

🌧️ Weather conditions: June marks the beginning of the monsoon season, with heavy rainfall that lasts until mid-July. Expect high humidity and temperatures ranging from 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F). The city sees frequent afternoon showers, which can dampen outdoor activities, but it’s still a great time for indoor exploration.

👗 What to wear: Light, breathable clothing is essential and be sure to bring an umbrella or rain jacket. Waterproof shoes will help keep you comfortable when it rains.

🏖️ Best seasonal activities: The indoor attractions like museums and shopping malls, including Myeongdong, are great to explore during this time. Also, consider visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, which are less crowded during the rainy season.

🎉 Local festivals or events: Boryeong Mud Festival (July) is a major event about 3 hours south of Seoul, offering an unforgettable mud experience. The Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival is another popular event that takes place.

🌍 Best Time to Visit Seoul – Month-by-Month Guide

Seoul’s weather offers something for everyone, whether you're looking to experience the vibrant cherry blossoms in spring, enjoy a warm summer festival, or take in the colorful fall foliage. The weather changes dramatically throughout the year, so the best time to visit depends on your preferences for activities, crowds, and budget. Let’s dive into the month-by-month guide to help you plan your perfect trip to Seoul.

🎉 Crowds, Costs & Festivals: Choosing the Right Time to Visit Seoul

1️⃣ 🌟 Peak Season (Busiest & Most Popular Months)

• 🗓️ Months: March to May, September to November
• 💸 Crowds & Costs: Expect high prices for flights and accommodations during this period. Hotels, especially in cities like Seoul, can be fully booked well in advance. Crowds flock to top attractions, so lines will be long, and availability will be limited.
• ✅ Pros:
• • Best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
  • Iconic cherry blossoms and autumn colors.
  • Major cultural events and festivals.
• ❌ Cons:
• • Expensive flights and hotels.
  • Popular tourist spots will be crowded.
• 💡 Smart Travel Hacks:
• • Book flights and hotels 3-6 months in advance to secure the best rates.
  • Visit famous attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds.
  • Consider staying in less tourist-heavy neighborhoods like Hongdae or Itaewon for better prices and fewer crowds.

2️⃣ 🌤️ Shoulder Season (Balanced Months for Weather & Crowds)

• 🗓️ Months: January, February, June, August
• 💸 Crowds & Costs: Flight and accommodation prices drop significantly during the shoulder season, making it a great time for budget-conscious travelers. However, the weather can be a bit unpredictable, with January and February being quite cold and June and August being humid.
• ✅ Pros:
• • Fewer crowds at top attractions.
  • More affordable accommodations and flights.
  • Ideal for travelers who prefer a less hectic experience.
• ❌ Cons:
• • Cold temperatures in winter and humidity in summer.
  • Limited outdoor activities, especially during rain or snow.
• 💡 Smart Travel Hacks:
• • If you're visiting in winter, enjoy indoor activities like museums, Gyeongbokgung Palace, or Namsan Seoul Tower.
  • In summer, pack light clothing but also a rain jacket or umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Look for discounts on attractions and accommodations that are less crowded in the shoulder months.

3️⃣ 🌞 Off-Peak Season (Least Crowded & Most Budget-Friendly Time)

• 🗓️ Months: December, July
• 💸 Cost & Crowd Levels: Off-peak travel offers the cheapest flights and accommodation prices. Hotels and flights are much more affordable but expect some attractions to be closed or have reduced hours, especially in July due to the rainy season.
• ✅ Advantages:
• • Lowest prices for flights and accommodations.
  • Very few tourists, especially in southern cities.
  • Ideal for visiting the Great Barrier Reef or tropical locations like Queensland.
• ❌ Downsides:
• • Some southern regions are quite cold, and winter sports are only available in specific locations.
  • Some attractions in the south may close during this time or have reduced hours.
• 💡 Smart Travel Hacks:
• • If you're flexible with your activities, this is the best time to score great deals.
  • Be sure to pack accordingly, especially if you plan to visit colder regions like Melbourne or Tasmania.
  • Visit indoor attractions like museums, shopping malls, and cafes during the rainy season.

4️⃣ 🎉 Major Festivals & Events That Impact Travel

• 🌸 Cherry Blossom Festival (April): The cherry blossoms attract many visitors, and while the weather is perfect for sightseeing, hotels and flights get expensive. I always recommend booking early if you're planning to visit during this period.
• 🎭 Seoul Lantern Festival (November): This event lights up the streets of Seoul with beautiful lanterns, drawing many visitors for a magical experience. Prices can rise during the festival, so it’s better to plan ahead.
• 🏅 Seollal (Lunar New Year, February): One of Korea's most significant holidays, with cultural celebrations throughout the country. Expect higher demand for travel during this time as locals head to their hometowns.
• 🎾 Australian Open (January): Not specific to Seoul, but the Australian Open in January often affects global travel. It's best to avoid booking flights to Seoul around this time as prices can fluctuate with high demand for international events.

🌟 Best Time to Visit Seoul Based on Your Travel Style

1️⃣ 💰 Budget Travelers

• 🗓️ Best Months: January, February, June, July
• 💸 Why: For budget-conscious travelers, visiting Seoul during the winter months (January and February) and the summer shoulder season (June and July) is ideal. Flights and accommodation prices are significantly lower than during the peak seasons, and you can find great deals if you book early. While the weather may be cold in winter and hot in summer, you can still enjoy plenty of indoor activities.
• 💡 Insider Tips:
• • Book your flights and hotels 3-4 months in advance to get the best rates.
  • Use budget accommodations like hostels or Airbnb in areas like Itaewon or Hongdae.
  • Take advantage of public transportation instead of taxis to save money.
  • Visit free attractions like the beaches in Sydney or hiking in the Blue Mountains to save even more.

2️⃣ 🌟 Luxury Travelers

• 🗓️ Best Months: September to November, March to May
• 💸 Why: If you're looking to indulge in Seoul’s luxury offerings, autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are the best times to visit. The weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring high-end attractions like Namsan Seoul Tower or shopping in Gangnam. Events like the Seoul Lantern Festival in November and the Seoul Kimchi Festival in late autumn also add cultural flair to your luxury experience.
• 💎 Luxury Stays:
• • Book a stay at The Shilla Seoul or Four Seasons Hotel Seoul for top-notch service and facilities.
  • Enjoy Michelin-starred dining at places like Mingles or Joo Ok.
  • Opt for a private tour of historical sites or a personal shopping assistant for a VIP experience.
• 💡 Tips:
• • Reserve well in advance to secure the best rooms during peak events like the Seoul New Year’s Eve or Melbourne Cup.
  • Book VIP tours for an exclusive experience and avoid crowds.

3️⃣ 🏞️ Adventure Seekers

• 🗓️ Best Months: April to June, September to October
• 🌄 Why: For adventure enthusiasts, the best months to visit Seoul are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking in Bukhansan National Park or mountain biking through the countryside.
• 🧗‍♂️ Best Outdoor Activities:
• • Hiking: Explore Bukhansan or Seoraksan National Park for challenging trails and stunning views.
  • Biking: Cycle along the Han River, with dedicated paths and scenic surroundings.
  • Water Activities: If you're looking to cool off, head to Nami Island for boating or riverside parks for kayaking.
• 💡 Tips:
• • Book hiking tours or cycling rentals in advance to skip the line.
  • Avoid the rainy season (June and July) as it may hinder outdoor activities.

4️⃣ 🎭 Cultural Enthusiasts

• 🗓️ Best Months: March to May, September to November
• 🎨 Why: For those interested in experiencing Seoul’s culture, spring and autumn are the most ideal seasons. These months offer comfortable weather, making it perfect to explore cultural spots like Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Museum of Korea, and Bukchon Hanok Village.
• 🎉 Key Cultural Events:
• • Cherry Blossom Festivals in April showcase stunning outdoor beauty.
  • Seoul Lantern Festival in November illuminates the city’s streets with beautiful lights.
  • Chuseok (Harvest Festival) in September offers a deep dive into Korean traditions with family-centered celebrations and cultural performances.
• 💡 Tips for Avoiding Crowds:
• • Visit popular cultural spots early to beat the crowds.
  • During Chuseok, many local shops may close, so plan ahead for shopping and dining.

5️⃣ 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Travelers

• 🗓️ Best Months: April to June, September to November
• 💸 Why: If you're traveling with family, the best time to visit Seoul is during the spring or fall months. With mild weather and fewer crowds than the summer, it’s a great opportunity to explore family-friendly activities, visit theme parks, and enjoy relaxing outdoor activities without the hectic pace of the high season.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best Family-Friendly Activities:
• • Take your kids to Lotte World or Everland, two of the most popular theme parks in Seoul.
  • Explore Seoul Children’s Museum or Namsan Seoul Tower for fun and educational experiences.
  • Spend a day at the Han River Parks for a family picnic or rent bikes for a fun ride by the water.
• 💡 Tips for Families:
• • If you're visiting in summer, avoid the peak heat and crowds, and focus on indoor activities.
  • Stay in family-friendly hotels that offer amenities like kid’s clubs or activities for children.

✈️ Final Tips for Planning Your Trip to Seoul

Now that you know the best times to visit Seoul, I highly recommend planning your trip between April and June or September and November for the most comfortable weather and fewer crowds. These months are perfect for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and experiencing Seoul’s cultural festivals. Whether you’re exploring historical sites, hiking through the mountains, or indulging in delicious Korean food, these seasons offer the best overall experience.

Now that you've got the timing down, why not check out our Where to Stay in Seoul guide to find the perfect neighborhood and hotel for your trip? If you’re looking for itinerary ideas, explore our Top Things to Do in Seoul for must-visit attractions and hidden gems. With your ideal travel time in mind, it’s time to book your flights and start planning for an unforgettable adventure! 🌟✈️