Explore 29+ Things to Do in Seoul During Winter

Is Seoul worth visiting in winter? Yes, absolutely!

From November to February, Seoul comes alive with festive lights, steaming street food, and a host of seasonal activities that cater to all interests and budgets.

This guide will take you through 25+ incredible things to do in Seoul during winter, from budget-friendly adventures to luxurious indulgences, ensuring your visit to this vibrant city will be unforgettable.

Bundle up, grab a cup of hot tea, and get ready to discover why Seoul in winter is a must-visit destination!

Best Places to Visit in Korea during winter

Looking for some cool things to do in Seoul during winter? I’ve got the inside scoop on all the awesome winter activities this city has to offer. 

Trust me, Seoul in winter is magical!

1. Ice Skating at Seoul Plaza

First up on our list of things to do in Seoul during winter – ice skating at Seoul Plaza! This huge outdoor rink is right in the heart of the city. It’s so much fun gliding around with the twinkling city lights all around you. 

Don’t worry if you’re not a pro skater, they’ve got instructors to help beginners. 

• Highlights: Outdoor rink in the heart of the city, stunning city views, professional instructors available 
• Hours: Usually 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM (extended to 11:00 PM on weekends) 
• Fees: Around 1,000 KRW for 1 hour (includes skate rental) 
• Getting There: City Hall Station (Line 1 or 2), Exit 5 
• Address: Seoul Plaza, 110 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul

2. Hit the Slopes Near Seoul

Did you know you can go skiing just a short trip from Seoul? Places like Vivaldi Park and Konjiam Resort are perfect for a day trip.

The best part? You can warm up with some hot chocolate in the lodge after. Remember to book your lift tickets in advance to avoid long lines!

• Highlights: 12 slopes for all levels, night skiing, snow sledding, just 1 hour from Seoul
• Hours: 8:30 AM – 2:30 AM (peak season) 
• Fees: Lift tickets from 55,000 KRW (prices vary based on time and season) 
• Getting There: Shuttle buses available from various points in Seoul 
• Address: 262, Hanchigol-gil, Seo-myeon, Hongcheon-gun, Gangwon-do

3. Soak in a Jjimjilbang

When it’s freezing outside, there’s nothing better than soaking in a hot bath. Jjimjilbangs (Korean spas) are the perfect winter escape. 

Dragon Hill Spa is a popular spot – they’ve got hot tubs, saunas, and even places to nap. It’s a great way to relax after a long day of sightseeing. 

• Highlights: Various hot tubs, saunas, ice room, outdoor pool, jimjilbang (sleeping area) 
• Hours: Open 24/7 
• Fees: Around 12,000 KRW for adults (additional fees for some services) 
• Getting There: Yongsan Station (Line 1), Exit 1 
• Address: 40-712 Hangangno 3(sam)-ga, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

4. Warm Up with Korean BBQ in Hongdae

Nothing says winter in Korea like gathering around a hot grill for some Korean BBQ.

Hongdae and Itaewon have tons of great BBQ spots. Grill up some samgyeopsal (pork belly) and wash it down with soju. It’s the perfect way to warm up on a cold night. 

Also read: 7 Best Korean BBQ in Seoul 2025, Must Try for K-Pop & Foodies!

Don’t be shy to ask the staff for help if you’re not sure how to cook the meat!

• Highlights: Lively university area, numerous Korean BBQ restaurants, street performances 
• Hours: Most restaurants open from 11:00 AM – late night 
• Fees: Prices vary, expect to pay around 15,000-20,000 KRW per person 
• Getting There: Hongik University Station (Line 2), Exit 9 
• Address: Hongdae area, Mapo-gu, Seoul

5. Take in the Views from N Seoul Tower

For the best winter views of Seoul, head up to N Seoul Tower. On a clear day, you can see the whole city blanketed in snow. It’s seriously breathtaking. 

There’s also a cute little coffee shop at the top where you can warm up. Buy your tickets online to skip the lines at the base of the tower.

• Highlights: Panoramic views of Seoul, love locks, restaurants, gift shops 
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM (may vary by season) 
• Fees: Observatory: Adults 16,000 KRW, Children 12,000 KRW 
• Getting There: Myeongdong Station (Line 4), Exit 3, then take cable car or hike 
• Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

6. Experience a Traditional Tea Ceremony

Escape the cold and experience some Korean culture with a traditional tea ceremony. The KyungIn Art Gallery in Insadong is a great spot for this. 

Sipping on warm tea in a beautiful hanok is so relaxing. It’s one of the more unique things to do in Seoul during winter. Make a reservation in advance, especially on weekends.

• Highlights: Traditional tea ceremony, art exhibitions, beautiful hanok setting 
• Hours: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM (Closed on Mondays) 
• Fees: Tea ceremony around 30,000 KRW per person 
• Getting There: Anguk Station (Line 3), Exit 1 
• Address: 11-4 Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

7. Check Out the Ice Sculptures at Taebaeksan Mountain

If you’re up for a day trip, head to Taebaeksan Mountain for their Snow Festival. It’s one of the coolest things to do in Seoul during winter – literally! 

They’ve got massive ice sculptures and a huge snow slide. It’s like a winter wonderland come to life. The festival usually runs from late January to early February. 

Pack some hot packs for your pockets – it gets seriously chilly up there!

• Highlights: Massive ice sculptures, huge snow slide, winter wonderland atmosphere 
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (during festival period) 
• Fees: Adults 10,000-15,000 KRW (varies by year) 
• Getting There: Intercity bus from Seoul to Taebaek City, then local bus to festival site 
• Address: Taebaeksan National Park, Gangwon-do (specific festival location may vary)

8. Cozy Up in a Cat Cafe

Need a break from the cold? Pop into one of Seoul’s many cat cafes. It’s the perfect spot to warm up with a hot drink and cuddle some cute kitties. 

My favorite is Cat’s Attic in Myeongdong. They’ve got the friendliest cats and great coffee too. Just remember to sanitize your hands before and after petting the cats.

• Highlights: Friendly cats, great coffee, warm atmosphere 
• Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (may vary by cafe) 
• Fees: 8,000-12,000 KRW per hour (usually includes a drink) 
• Getting There: Accessible by subway; nearest station depends on specific cafe 
• Address: For Cat’s Attic: 37-14 Myeongdong 8-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

9. Go Ice Fishing at Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

For a uniquely Korean winter experience, check out the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival. You can try your hand at ice fishing right on the frozen river. 

And if you catch a fish, they’ll cook it up for you on the spot! It’s about a 2-hour drive from Seoul, but totally worth it. Wear thick socks and bring hand warmers – standing on ice for hours can get pretty cold!

• Highlights: Ice fishing experience, fresh fish BBQ, winter activities 
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (during festival period) 
• Fees: Adults around 15,000 KRW (includes fishing equipment rental) 
• Getting There: Intercity bus from Seoul to Hwacheon, then shuttle to festival site 
• Address: Hwacheon-eup, Hwacheon-gun, Gangwon-do (specific festival location may vary)

10. Explore Nami Island’s Winter Wonderland

Nami Island is beautiful year-round, but it’s extra magical in winter. The tree-lined paths look like something out of a fairytale when they’re covered in snow. It’s one of the most romantic things to do in Seoul during winter. You can even zip-line onto the island if you’re feeling adventurous! 

Book your ferry tickets in advance to avoid long waits, especially on weekends.

• Highlights: Snow-covered tree-lined paths, romantic atmosphere, zip-line option 
• Hours: 7:30 AM – 9:30 PM 
• Fees: Entrance 13,000 KRW for adults, zip-line extra 
• Getting There: ITX train from Seoul to Gapyeong Station, then short taxi ride 
• Address: 1 Namisum-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do

11. Warm Up with Korean Fried Chicken and Beer

When it’s freezing outside, nothing beats some hot, crispy Korean fried chicken. Paired with an ice-cold beer (yes, even in winter!), it’s a match made in heaven. 

There are chicken joints all over Seoul, but I love Kyochon in Hongdae. Their garlic soy chicken is to die for. Don’t forget to order some pickled radish on the side – it cuts through the richness perfectly.

• Highlights: Crispy fried chicken, cold beer, authentic Korean experience 
• Hours: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM (varies by restaurant) 
• Fees: 20,000-30,000 KRW per person 
• Getting There: For Kyochon in Hongdae, accessible by subway 
• Address: For Kyochon Hongdae: 159 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul

12. Take a Cooking Class

Why not learn to make some Korean winter dishes yourself? There are tons of cooking classes in Seoul where you can learn to make things like kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) or samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup). 

It’s a fun way to spend a chilly afternoon and you get to eat your creations after! Book a class with a smaller group size for more hands-on experience.

• Highlights: Hands-on experience, learn to make Korean winter dishes 
• Hours: Usually 2-3 hour classes, times vary 
• Fees: 50,000-100,000 KRW per person 
• Getting There: Varies by cooking school location 
• Address: Various locations in Seoul, often in Myeongdong or Insadong

13. Relax in a Winter-Themed Cafe

Seoul is famous for its themed cafes, and winter brings out some of the coziest ones. Check out the Thanks Nature Cafe in Hongdae – they’ve got real sheep you can pet! 

Or try the Innisfree Cafe for some green tea lattes in a forest-like setting. It’s one of the most Instagram-worthy things to do in Seoul during winter. Visit on weekdays to avoid the crowds and get the best photos.

• Highlights: Unique themes, Instagram-worthy settings, specialty drinks 
• Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (varies by cafe) 
• Fees: 5,000-15,000 KRW for a drink 
• Getting There: Accessible by subway; nearest station depends on specific cafe 
• Address: For Thanks Nature Cafe: 486 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

14. Go Sledding at Everland

Everland, Korea’s largest theme park, turns into a winter playground during the colder months. Their Snow Buster attraction is a huge hill where you can go sledding. It’s so much fun, even for adults! 

They’ve also got a cool safari ride where you can see animals in the snow. Buy your tickets online for discounts and to skip the line at the entrance.

• Highlights: Snow Buster attraction, safari ride, winter-themed events 
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (may extend on weekends and holidays) 
• Fees: Adults 50,000-60,000 KRW (cheaper if bought online) 
• Getting There: Free shuttle bus from Gangnam or Jamsil Station 
• Address: 199 Everland-ro, Pogok-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do

15. Check Out a K-pop Concert

Winter in Seoul means tons of year-end K-pop concerts and award shows. Even if you’re not a huge fan, the productions are pretty spectacular. 

It’s a great way to experience Korean pop culture firsthand. Keep an eye on ticket sale dates – popular shows can sell out in minutes!

• Highlights: Spectacular productions, experience Korean pop culture 
• Hours: Typically evening shows, times vary 
• Fees: 50,000-200,000+ KRW depending on artist and seat 
• Getting There: Varies by venue, usually accessible by subway 
• Address: Various venues in Seoul, such as Olympic Park or KSPO Dome

16. Visit a Traditional Korean Bathhouse

When it’s freezing outside, there’s nothing better than soaking in a hot bath at a traditional Korean bathhouse, or jjimjilbang. 

Siloam Sauna is a popular spot near Seoul Station. You can soak in different temperature pools, sweat it out in the sauna, and even get a body scrub. It’s super relaxing and a great way to warm up. 

Remember to bring your own toiletries – most places only provide basic soap and shampoo.

• Highlights: Various temperature pools, saunas, body scrub services 
• Hours: Many open 24/7 
• Fees: 10,000-15,000 KRW for basic entry 
• Getting There: For Siloam Sauna, walk from Seoul Station 
• Address: For Siloam Sauna: 78 Jungnim-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul

17. Go Ice Skating at Lotte World

Lotte World, Seoul’s indoor theme park, has a fantastic ice rink that’s open year-round. But it’s especially fun in winter when you can skate indoors while it’s snowing outside! They often have special winter-themed events too. 

It’s one of the most fun things to do in Seoul during winter for both kids and adults. Try to go on weekdays to avoid the crowds.

• Highlights: Indoor skating rink, winter-themed events 
• Hours: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM 
• Fees: Adults around 19,000 KRW, skate rental extra 
• Getting There: Subway to Jamsil Station, connected directly to Lotte World 
• Address: 240 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

18. Warm Up with Some Hotteok

Hotteok is a must-try Korean winter street food. It’s a sweet pancake filled with brown sugar, nuts, and cinnamon. You can find vendors selling these hot treats all over the city, but Myeongdong and Insadong have some of the best. 

The crispy outside and gooey inside will warm you right up. Be careful when you bite into it though – the filling can be super hot!

• Highlights: Sweet filled pancakes, popular street food 
• Hours: Available throughout the day and evening from street vendors 
• Fees: 1,000-2,000 KRW per hotteok 
• Getting There: Easily found in popular areas like Myeongdong and Insadong 
• Address: Various street food locations throughout Seoul

19. Check Out the Winter Illuminations at Deoksugung Palace

Deoksugung Palace is beautiful any time of year, but in winter, they light it up with stunning illuminations. Walking through the palace grounds at night, with the snow and lights, feels like stepping into a fairytale. 

It’s one of the most romantic things to do in Seoul during winter. Don’t forget to catch the changing of the guard ceremony if you go during the day.

• Highlights: Beautiful light displays, historic palace setting 
• Hours: Until 9:00 PM during illumination periods 
• Fees: Palace entry around 1,000 KRW 
• Getting There: Subway to City Hall Station, short walk to palace 
• Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul

20. Try Your Hand at Indoor Rock Climbing

If it’s too cold for outdoor activities, why not try some indoor rock climbing? There are tons of climbing gyms in Seoul, like The Ja and Sports Monster. It’s a fun way to stay active and warm during the winter months. 

Most places offer beginner classes if you’re new to climbing. Wear comfortable clothes and be prepared for a workout!

• Highlights: Various climbing walls, suitable for beginners and experts 
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (varies by gym) 
• Fees: 20,000-30,000 KRW for a day pass 
• Getting There: Varies by gym location 
• Address: Various locations throughout Seoul

21. Go Night Skiing at Bears Town Ski Resort

For a unique winter experience, try night skiing at Bears Town Ski Resort. It’s only about an hour from Seoul and they’re open until 4am! 

Skiing under the stars with the city lights in the distance is pretty magical. It’s one of the coolest things to do in Seoul during winter for adventure seekers. Rent your gear at the resort to save on luggage space.

• Highlights: Night skiing, city views, nearby to Seoul 
• Hours: Night skiing 6:30 PM – 4:00 AM 
• Fees: Night lift pass around 70,000 KRW, rentals extra 
• Getting There: Shuttle bus from Seoul (various pickup points) 
• Address: 27 Geumgangsandunji-gil, Naechon-myeon, Hongcheon-gun, Gangwon-do

22. Warm Up with Some Korean-style Hot Pot

Korean hot pot, or jeongol, is the perfect winter meal. Places like Mapo Jeong Daepo let you cook your own hot pot right at the table. Choose your broth, add your favorite ingredients, and let it simmer away. 

It’s delicious and will warm you up from the inside out. Don’t be shy to ask the staff for cooking recommendations if you’re new to Korean hot pot.

• Highlights: Cook-it-yourself experience, variety of ingredients 
• Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (varies by restaurant) 
• Fees: 15,000-25,000 KRW per person 
• Getting There: Varies by restaurant location 
• Address: Various locations throughout Seoul

Free Things to do in Seoul during Winter

Check out the list below to discover some of the best free things to do in Seoul this winter!

23. Korean Street Food

When it’s chilly out, nothing beats some hot Korean street food. Head to Gwangjang Market or Tongin Market for the best eats. You’ve gotta try tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and odeng (fish cakes in broth). 

They’ll warm you right up! My personal fave is hotteok – sweet pancakes filled with nuts and syrup. Yum! Insider tip: Bring cash, as many vendors don’t take cards.

• Highlights: Huge variety of street food, traditional market atmosphere, famous for bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) 
• Hours: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM (some stalls may close earlier) 
• Fees: Free entry, food prices vary (most dishes under 10,000 KRW) 
• Getting There: Jongno 5-ga Station (Line 1), Exit 8 
• Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

24. Check Out the Winter Festivals

Seoul goes all out with winter festivals. The European Christmas Market in Seongbuk-gu is super cute – it’s like a little slice of Europe right in Seoul. 

For a real light show, head to the Garden of Morning Calm for their Starlight Garden Festival. It’s one of the coolest things to do in Seoul during winter. Bundle up though, it gets chilly at night!

• Highlights: European-style Christmas market, handmade crafts, traditional foods from various European countries 
• Hours: Usually 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (late November to late December) 
• Fees: Free entry 
• Getting There: Seongbuk Station (Line 6), Exit 1 
• Address: Seongbukcheon Fountain Square, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul

25. Shop at COEX Mall

Seoul’s underground shopping centers are a godsend in winter. You can shop for hours without ever going outside. Check out COEX Mall or Gangnam Underground Shopping Center. 

They’ve got everything from high-end brands to local boutiques. Plus, lots of yummy food courts when you need a break. Bring a reusable shopping bag to save on plastic!

• Highlights: Largest underground shopping mall in Asia, aquarium, movie theater, library 
• Hours: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM 
• Fees: Free entry (individual store and attraction prices vary) 
• Getting There: Samseong Station (Line 2), Exit 6 
• Address: 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

26. Visit a Traditional Hanok Village

For a taste of old Korea, head to Bukchon Hanok Village. The traditional houses look so pretty dusted with snow. It’s one of the most picturesque things to do in Seoul during winter. You can even stay overnight in a hanok for the full experience. Just be respectful of the residents who still live there – it’s not just a tourist spot!

• Highlights: Traditional Korean houses, cultural centers, art galleries, tea houses 
• Hours: Always open (individual businesses have varying hours) 
• Fees: Free to walk around (some activities may have fees) 
• Getting There: Anguk Station (Line 3), Exit 2 
• Address: 37 Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

27. Enjoy the Winter Scenery at Bukhansan National Park

For some breathtaking winter views, head to Bukhansan National Park. The snow-covered peaks and frozen streams are absolutely stunning. 

There are trails for all levels, from easy walks to challenging hikes. It’s one of the most beautiful things to do in Seoul during winter. Start your hike early in the day to make the most of the short winter daylight hours.

• Highlights: Snow-covered peaks, frozen streams, hiking trails for all levels 
• Hours: Open 24/7, daylight hours recommended for safety 
• Fees: Free entry 
• Getting There: Subway to Gupabal Station, then bus 704 to park entrance 
• Address: 262 Bogukmun-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul

28. Enjoy a Winter Picnic at Yeouido Park

Yeouido Park is beautiful in winter, especially when it snows. Pack some hot tea or coffee in a thermos, grab some kimbap from a convenience store, and have a winter picnic. The Han River views are stunning. 

It’s one of the most peaceful things to do in Seoul during winter. Just make sure to dress warmly and bring a blanket to sit on.

• Highlights: Han River views, peaceful winter atmosphere 
• Hours: Open 24/7 
• Fees: Free entry 
• Getting There: Subway to Yeouinaru Station, short walk to park 
• Address: 330 Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

29. Visit a Traditional Market for Winter Goodies

Traditional markets like Namdaemun or Gwangjang are extra fun in winter. You can find all sorts of seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and fish cakes in hot broth. 

Plus, the hustle and bustle of the market will keep you warm! It’s one of the most authentic things to do in Seoul during winter. Bring cash as many vendors don’t accept cards.

• Highlights: Seasonal treats, authentic atmosphere 
• Hours: Early morning to late evening 
• Fees: Free entry, pay for purchases 
• Getting There: For Namdaemun Market, subway to Hoehyeon Station 
• Address: For Namdaemun Market: 21 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul