Holiday rentals in Seoul

South Korea’s capital is often hailed as a technological superpower — its neon-striped night time appearance certainly magnifies the sci-fi feel — but there are many more sides to this ultra-modern metropolis. From a restorative trip to a jjimjilbang (sauna and spa) to your first sip of soju, Seoul is a city for all the senses. Head to Dongmyo flea market for unusual vintage finds, delve into the absorbing world of K-Pop, learn about traditional Hanbok dress, or explore one of the city’s cycle routes. Live music and dance clubs are virtually bursting out of Hongdae, the dynamic district around Hongik University, artistic Insadong is crammed with teahouses and galleries, and you can get giddy looking at the city from above through the glass floor of the Sky Terrace on the 120th floor of the Lotte Tower. There are contrasts at every turn, with urban sprawl nestled under mountains and modern life intertwined with cherished tradition.

The city experiences four distinct seasons, with temperatures creeping up — and the rainy season making itself known — over the summer, sub-zero conditions likely in December and January, and crisp spring and autumn days providing the middle ground. Warm clothes are much needed for winter, while waterproof shoes are a must for potential summer downpours outside apartments in Seoul. Yeong Deung Hoe (the city’s Lotus Lantern Festival) in May celebrates Buddha’s birthday with paper lanterns in all shapes, sizes, and eye-catching colours festooning the streets and their ornate temples for weeks around the event itself, which is marked by a visually stunning nocturnal parade. September is time for Chuseok (The Harvest Moon Festival), a celebration which spans three days and sees families convening to honour their ancestors and share crescent-shaped rice cakes.

Explore Bukhansan National Park

A 45-minute subway ride to the north of the city lies Bukhansan National Park, whose three peaks rose above the skyscrapers. Despite being within easy reach of the metropolis below, the strains of Buddhist chanting from working monasteries, the serenity of tranquil lakes and trails, and over a thousand species of flora and fauna spread over almost 80 square kilometres feel a world away from urban life.

Night markets

This city is brimming with markets, from fabric to fish, from electronics to evening wear. To experience the unique energy of Seoul’s traders, take a trip after dark. South Korea’s first permanent street market, Gwangjang Market runs into the wee hours. Founded in the early 1400s, daily Namdaemun Market operates until 4a.m. Meanwhile, Mukja Golmok is an alley within Dongdaemun Market where you can get a true taste of Korean street food.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Wind your way through this warren of alleyways dotted with hundreds of hanoks — traditional Korean houses with tiled exteriors maintained as part of a conservation effort. Bukchon Traditional Crafts Centre offers visitors an insight into time-honoured crafts with displays and classes available to try your hand at traditional Korean skills such as woodwork.