Seoul
Seoul
South Korea
Ready to explore?
Seoul is a high-energy metropolis where centuries-old palaces sit harmoniously alongside futuristic skyscrapers. The city experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, each offer...
About Seoul
Seoul is a high-energy metropolis where centuries-old palaces sit harmoniously alongside futuristic skyscrapers. The city experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, each offering a radically different atmosphere. From the ethereal pink canopies of spring cherry blossoms to the vibrant fiery hues of autumn and the crisp, snowy landscapes of winter, Seoul is a year-round destination. While many travelers pair their visit with coastal cities like [Busan](/best-time-to-visit/busan) to experience South Korea's diverse landscapes, Seoul remains the cultural and technological heart. Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) are widely considered the peak seasons due to mild temperatures and stunning natural scenery, while the winter months offer the best value for budget-conscious travelers.
Fly from Halifax, or anywhere in Atlantic Canada, and discover Seoul at its best. We'll show you when to go, what to see, and where to eat, so you can simply enjoy the journey.
March, April, May
Spring (March–May)
June, July, August
Summer (June–August)
September, October, November
Autumn (September–November)
December, January, February
Winter (December–February)
What's Included
Seasonal Guide
Complete 12-month breakdown with weather, crowds & pricing
Flights from Halifax
Routes: Halifax — Seoul, or via major hubs from Atlantic Canada
Neighborhoods
5 curated areas to stay, from budget to luxury
Budget Guide
South Korean Won (KRW) daily budgets: $50–$80/day to $350+/day
At a Glance: When to Visit Seoul
Best Overall
April–May and September–October
Cheapest
January–February
Busiest
April, July–August, and October
Best Weather
May and October (mild, dry, and clear skies)
For Events
May (Lotus Lantern Festival) and October (Fireworks & Foliage)
For Families
May and September (pleasant parks and outdoor activities)
For Couples
April (Cherry Blossoms) and December (Festive Lights)
Budget Travel
January and February
From Atlantic Canada
Halifax to Seoul.
Month by month.
Everything you need to know about travelling from Canada to Seoul — the best seasons, what to pack, and how to save.
Month-by-Month Guide to Seoul
January
Average temps -6°C to 1.5°C (21°F to 35°F). Dry and very cold with occasional snow. High sunshine but bitingly cold winds.
“Best for budget travelers and those who enjoy winter sports and festive light displays.”
February
Average temps -3°C to 5°C (27°F to 41°F). Slightly warmer but still freezing at night. Very dry.
“Ideal for experiencing Korea’s most important cultural holiday, Seollal.”
March
Average temps 1°C to 10°C (34°F to 50°F). Transitional weather; cold starts to fade but 'yellow dust' storms can occur.
“Good for travelers who want to beat the cherry blossom crowds while seeing the city wake up.”
April
Average temps 7°C to 18°C (45°F to 64°F). Pleasant and breezy. This is the peak bloom for cherry blossoms.
“The most beautiful month in Seoul, perfect for photographers and romance.”
May
Average temps 13°C to 23°C (55°F to 73°F). Ideal travel weather: warm days, cool nights, and low rainfall.
“Arguably the best month for overall weather and vibrant cultural festivals.”
June
Average temps 18°C to 27°C (64°F to 81°F). Start of summer; humidity begins to rise but the rain hasn't fully arrived.
“Great for music festival lovers and outdoor nightlife before the monsoon hits.”
July
Average temps 22°C to 29°C (72°F to 84°F). The wettest month due to the 'Jangma' monsoon season. High humidity.
“Best for travelers who don't mind rain and want to experience high-energy summer events.”
August
Average temps 23°C to 31°C (73°F to 88°F). The hottest and most humid month. Periodic heavy thunderstorms.
“Peak domestic vacation time; the city is hot but buzzing with energy and river activities.”
September
Average temps 17°C to 26°C (63°F to 79°F). Humidity drops significantly. Clear blue 'azure' skies are common.
“Perfect for outdoor explorers and those wanting to see Korea’s Thanksgiving traditions.”
October
Average temps 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Dry and crisp. Peak month for stunning autumn foliage (Danpung).
“The best month for scenery and climate; the autumn foliage is a must-see.”
November
Average temps 3°C to 12°C (37°F to 54°F). Temperatures drop quickly. Late foliage early in the month, transitioning to winter.
“A great 'shoulder' month for shoppers and those who enjoy crisp, late-autumn walks.”
December
Average temps -4°C to 4°C (25°F to 39°F). Cold and festive. Snow is likely toward the end of the month.
“Best for those who love holiday decorations and the cozy atmosphere of winter in a metropolis.”
Festivals & Events in Seoul
Yeouido Spring Flower Festival
The city's largest cherry blossom festival featuring over 1,800 trees along the Han River.
Extremely crowded; hotels in Yeouido sell out months in advance.Lotus Lantern Festival (Yeon Deung Hoe)
A UNESCO-recognized celebration of Buddha's birthday with a massive lantern parade through downtown.
Road closures in Jongno; high demand for hotels near Insadong.Seoul International Fireworks Festival
A world-class pyrotechnic show over the Han River at Yeouido Park.
Expect millions of people; public transport is redirected and riverfront hotels are premium-priced.Seollal (Lunar New Year)
Traditional family holiday with ancestral rites and folk games.
Many small shops close for 3 days; KTX trains out of the city are booked weeks ahead.Chuseok (Harvest Festival)
Korea's version of Thanksgiving celebrating the autumn harvest.
Major exodus from the city; Seoul is quieter but inter-city travel is nearly impossible.Seoul Lantern Festival
Magnificent illuminated sculptures along the Cheonggyecheon Stream.
Heavy evening foot traffic in the city center; great for evening strolls.Seoul Fashion Week
A global fashion event held at the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP).
DDP area is very crowded with influencers and photographers; boutique hotels nearby may see price hikes.Royal Culture Festival
Cultural performances and historical reenactments across Seoul's five grand palaces.
Increased daytime crowds at palaces; great value as many events are free with Hanbok.Budget Guide: How Much Does It Cost to Visit Seoul?
South Korean Won (KRW)
Daily Budget
Peak
$150–$300/night (Spring/Autumn)
Off-Peak
$80–$180/night (Winter)
Prices peak during Cherry Blossom season (April) and Autumn foliage (October). Mid-summer (August) also sees price hikes due to domestic school holidays. January and February offer the best deals on luxury hotels.
Where to Stay in Seoul by Season
Myeongdong
$$$ (Moderate to High)Year-round
The best base for first-timers. Central access to shopping, street food, and the subway hub. Ideal in winter for festive lights.
Hongdae
$ (Budget-friendly)Summer
The youth district. Best for nightlife, busking, and affordable eats. Very vibrant during the summer vacation months.
Insadong / Bukchon
$$ (Mid-range)Spring & Autumn
Traditional heart of the city. Perfect for seeing the foliage and blossoms against the backdrop of Hanok houses.
Gangnam
$$$$ (Premium)Winter
The upscale business and luxury district. Best for high-end shopping and elite indoor entertainment during cold months.
Yeouido
$$$ (Moderate to High)April
Financial district with massive river parks. The absolute best location for cherry blossom lovers in early April.
What to Pack for Seoul
Spring
Pro tip: Layers are vital as mornings are chilly but afternoons can get quite warm.
Summer
Pro tip: Modesty is still valued; even in the heat, many locals avoid low-cut tops or revealing clothing in public.
Autumn
Pro tip: Autumn is the most fashionable season; bring clothes that layer well for high-quality photos.
Winter
Pro tip: Don't underestimate the wind chill; a windproof outer layer is just as important as insulation.
FAQs: Visiting Seoul
What is the best month to visit Seoul?
May and October are widely considered the best months. You'll enjoy mild temperatures, clear skies, and either the tail end of spring blooms or peak autumn foliage.
When is the cheapest time to fly to Seoul?
The winter months of January and February (excluding Lunar New Year) are typically the cheapest for flights and accommodation due to the cold weather.
What is the weather like in Seoul in April?
April is pleasantly cool with average highs of 18°C (64°F). It is the month of cherry blossoms, though it can still be chilly in the evenings.
Is Seoul worth visiting in winter?
Yes! If you enjoy skiing, ice skating, and festive lights, winter is a magical and affordable time to visit, especially with the city's excellent indoor heating and 'jjimjilbangs'.
When does the monsoon season occur in Seoul?
The monsoon (Jangma) typically begins in late June and lasts through July, bringing heavy rain and high humidity.
Can I see cherry blossoms in Seoul in May?
No, cherry blossoms in Seoul usually peak in early April and are gone by the middle of the month. May is better for roses and greenery.
Is it better to visit Seoul or Busan for festivals?
Seoul has more cultural and traditional festivals (like the Lotus Lantern Festival), while Busan is famous for the Busan International Film Festival in October and the Firework Festival.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
A minimum of 5 days is recommended to see the major palaces, markets, and neighborhoods, though 7-10 days allows for day trips to places like the DMZ or Nami Island.
United Travels
Want to visit Seoul,
but still have questions?
Leave a request and our team will help you plan the perfect trip from Halifax, Atlantic Canada, or anywhere across Canada to Seoul.
UNITED TRAVELS