How much you can see in Seoul depends on your trip length, where you're staying, and how quickly you want to travel. Group nearby attractions together rather than crossing the city repeatedly.

If you're traveling with a baby or seniors, leave room for rest stops and unexpected delays. A shorter itinerary can be more enjoyable than trying to visit every major attraction in one day.

South Korea has distinct seasons, so your packing list and itinerary will depend on your travel dates. Spring and autumn can be appealing for milder weather, while winter requires preparation for cold temperatures.

We visited Seoul during winter, when temperatures were around 4°C to -5°C during our trip. Check the forecast closer to departure, as conditions vary by date and location.

Most travelers from the Philippines arriving in Seoul will use Incheon International Airport. From there, you can compare airport buses, rail services, private transfers, and other transportation options based on your hotel location, luggage, and travel party.

Check current routes, fares, and operating schedules before your trip.

Here are a few things worth preparing before your trip to Seoul and other destinations in South Korea, based on our own experiences.

·        Prepare for the weather, especially during winter. Bring warm clothes, a good jacket, and comfortable shoes or boots. Winter can leave your skin feeling dry, so moisturize regularly. A foldable umbrella is also useful to have in your bag.

·        Download your travel apps and arrange mobile internet before your flight. We recommend having Google Translate, Naver Map, and Kakao T or Uber ready on your phone. You can also arrange a pocket Wi-Fi or eSIM in advance so you have internet access as soon as you arrive. We used pocket Wi-Fi during our Seoul trip and had no issues with the connection.

·        Wear comfortable shoes and expect plenty of walking. Exploring Seoul's attractions often involves walking between stations, streets, and landmarks. At places like Gyeongbokgung Palace and N Seoul Tower, you'll also spend time exploring the grounds, so comfortable, well-cushioned footwear makes a difference.

·        Visit popular attractions early and book ahead when possible. We recommend arriving early to avoid long queues, especially at popular sights. For Gyeongbokgung Palace, consider visiting on a weekday before lunch for a less crowded experience. Reserve train seats and tour slots in advance when available, and check the latest schedules and ticket prices before your visit.

·        Bring a reusable tumbler and keep your essentials secure. We prefer bringing a tumbler instead of buying bottled water throughout the trip. Keep your passport safe, and carry a credit card for emergencies. A power bank is also useful when you're relying on your phone for maps, translations, and travel bookings.

·        Traveling with a baby? Plan around feeding times, naps, and the cold. During winter, we follow the general guideline of dressing our baby in one extra layer compared with adults, while checking for signs of overheating. We also recommend bringing a basic medicine kit approved by your pediatrician. A baby carrier can be more practical than a stroller because not every subway station has an elevator or escalator, and some palace paths have uneven surfaces. We tried a guided tour for convenience, but its fixed schedule made feeding and nap times harder to manage. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider a DIY itinerary with fewer stops.