Seoul, South Korea

A visit to Seoul would be incomplete without seeing one of its grand palaces. The most popular is Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. Its vast grounds and impressive architecture offer a deep dive into Korea's royal history.

Adjacent to the palace is the Bukchon Hanok Village. This charming residential area preserves hundreds of traditional Korean houses, called hanok, providing a picturesque glimpse into old Seoul. Strolling through its narrow, hilly alleys is a favorite activity for visitors.

For a taste of traditional Korean culture, crafts, and tea houses, the neighborhood of Insadong is a must-visit. Its main street and side alleys are filled with art galleries, traditional stationery shops, and souvenir stores. All these sights are located relatively close to each other in central Seoul, making them manageable for a day trip from the port.

For passengers who prefer to stay closer to the port, the city of Incheon offers its own unique attractions. Visitors can explore Incheon's vibrant Chinatown, one of the oldest and largest in the country, or enjoy the seaside amusement park and seafood restaurants on Wolmido Island.

A popular, though time-intensive, day trip is to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the border buffer zone between North and South Korea. Due to the travel time and strict security, this is typically only feasible as a pre-booked shore excursion organized by the cruise line, which can manage the complex logistics.

Another excellent option is the city of Suwon, located south of Seoul. It is home to the impressive Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site with massive stone walls, gates, and artillery towers that encircle the city center. A trip here from Incheon would take over an hour each way.

Cruise ships visiting Seoul dock at the Port of Incheon's International Passenger Terminal. This terminal is located a significant distance from Seoul's city center, approximately 30-40 kilometers (18-25 miles) away.

A transfer is required to reach the main attractions in Seoul, which typically takes 60 to 90 minutes by road, depending heavily on traffic. Due to the distance, cruise lines almost always offer shuttle buses or organized tours. Independent travel requires taking a taxi to a nearby subway station to connect to Seoul's public transit system. The terminal area itself has limited amenities, so most passengers head directly to Seoul for the day.

The official currency is the South Korean Won (KRW). US Dollars and other foreign currencies are generally not accepted for purchases in shops or restaurants. Major credit cards, such as Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in almost all establishments in Seoul, from department stores to small cafes.

ATMs are ubiquitous and can be found in subway stations, convenience stores, and banks. They are the easiest way to withdraw local currency. It is advisable to inform your bank of your travel plans to ensure your cards work smoothly. Money exchange services are available at the airport, port, and banks in the city.

South Korea is an extremely safe country with a very low crime rate, and Seoul is considered one of the safest large cities in the world. Tourists can feel very comfortable exploring independently, day or night. The public transportation system is clean, reliable, and safe.

As in any major city, it is wise to take standard precautions. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas like markets and on public transit to prevent pickpocketing, although this is rare. There are no specific areas that tourists need to avoid. The political situation with North Korea is stable from a tourist's perspective, with no direct impact on daily safety in Seoul.

The primary cruise season for Seoul aligns with its most pleasant seasons: spring and autumn. Spring (April-May) offers mild to warm temperatures, typically ranging from 10°C to 23°C (50°F to 73°F), and is famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms.

Autumn (September-November) is also ideal, with clear skies, comfortable temperatures similar to spring, and stunning fall foliage. Summer (June-August) can be very hot and humid, with a significant monsoon season bringing heavy rainfall, especially in July. Packing layers is recommended for spring and autumn, while light clothing and rain gear are essential for summer.

Since the cruise port is in Incheon, transportation to Seoul is essential. The most efficient way to navigate Seoul itself is by using the Seoul Metropolitan Subway. It's extensive, clean, affordable, and has signs and announcements in English, making it very user-friendly for tourists.

To get from the Incheon port to the subway system, you will need to take a taxi or a local bus. Taxis are plentiful and metered. While ride-sharing apps exist, the dominant local service is Kakao T, which may require a local phone number to set up. For simplicity, organized shore excursions or a taxi to the nearest major transit hub are the most common choices for cruise passengers.

Seoul is a shopper's paradise with districts catering to every taste. The Myeong-dong district is the epicenter of Korean beauty and skincare products, with countless shops offering popular brands, often with free samples and promotions. It is also a great place for street food and trendy fashion.

For traditional souvenirs, head to Insadong, where you can find ceramics, calligraphy brushes, hanji (traditional paper), and unique crafts. For a more traditional and bustling market experience, Namdaemun Market is one of the oldest and largest in Korea, offering everything from clothing to housewares. Prices in markets can sometimes be negotiated, but this is not the practice in modern department stores or brand shops.