Is Olympic Park (South Korea) Worth Visiting?
Olympic Park in Seoul is absolutely worth visiting! It's a sprawling green space packed with history, art, and recreational activities, making it a fantastic destination for all ages. Known for its beautiful gardens, historical sites from the Baekje Dynasty, and modern sculptures, the park offers a unique blend of culture and relaxation that appeals to tourists and locals alike.
What makes Olympic Park so popular is its sheer size and variety. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient ruins, enjoying a picnic by a lake, or simply taking a leisurely stroll through stunning landscapes, there's something for everyone. It's truly a standout feature of Seoul and a must-see for anyone wanting to experience all about the city's diverse offerings.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit Olympic Park (South Korea)
Planning your visit to Olympic Park? Knowing the best time to visit will help you make the most of this amazing space. Here’s a quick guide to the opening hours and the best time to see the park in all its glory.
- Opening Hours: The park is generally open 24 hours a day, but some specific gardens and museums within the park may have their own operating hours, typically from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check the specific attraction's hours beforehand.
- Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (April-May): This is arguably the best time to visit, with cherry blossoms and other flowers in full bloom. The weather is mild and perfect for walking around.
- Autumn (September-October): The autumn foliage is spectacular, with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows painting the landscape. The cooler temperatures also make it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more peaceful experience. If you prefer a quieter visit, aim to go on a Tuesday or Wednesday.
- Busiest Times: Avoid visiting during major holidays like Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) and Lunar New Year, as the park can get very crowded.
- Estimated Visit Duration: To fully explore Olympic Park, plan to spend at least 3-4 hours. If you want to visit the museums and enjoy a leisurely picnic, you might even consider spending a whole day there.
Location Details about Olympic Park (South Korea)
Want to know where is Olympic Park located? This expansive park is easily accessible and a key landmark in Seoul. Here’s what you need to know about its location and accessibility.
- Address: 424, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea
- Parking Availability: Yes, there are multiple parking areas available around the park. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around ₩4,000 for the first hour and additional fees for each subsequent hour.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Olympic Park is designed to be wheelchair accessible, with paved paths and ramps throughout the park. Wheelchairs are also available for rent at the visitor center.
How Much to Enter / Visit Olympic Park (South Korea)
Curious about the tickets and prices for Olympic Park? Good news! Visiting the park itself is free, allowing you to explore its vast grounds and gardens without any entry fee. However, some attractions within the park may require a separate ticket or pass.
- Park Entry: Free
- Museums and Special Exhibits:
- Seoul Olympic Museum: ₩3,000 for adults, ₩2,000 for children.
- Soma Museum of Art: Ticket prices vary depending on the exhibition. Check their website for current pricing.
- Pricing Variations: There are generally no pricing variations between weekends and weekdays for the park entry itself. However, special events or exhibitions might have different pricing structures.
- Where to Buy: Tickets for museums and special exhibits can usually be purchased on-site at the ticket booths.
How To Go to Olympic Park (South Korea)
Getting to Olympic Park is a breeze thanks to Seoul's excellent public transportation system. Here’s how to go to Olympic Park using various transport options.
- MRT:
- Olympic Park Station (Lines 2 and 9): This is the most convenient station. Exit through gates 3 or 4 to reach the park entrance.
- Airport Routes:
- From Incheon International Airport (ICN): Take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul Station, then transfer to Line 2 and get off at Olympic Park Station. Alternatively, take a direct airport bus (number 6006) to Olympic Park.
- From Gimpo International Airport (GMP): Take Line 9 directly to Olympic Park Station.
- Public Transport Tips:
- Purchase a T-money card or Cashbee card for easy and discounted travel on public transport. These cards can be used on buses and subways throughout Seoul.
- Use the KakaoMap or Naver Map apps for real-time public transport information and route planning.
Things To Do in or near the Olympic Park
Olympic Park and its surrounding area offer a plethora of activities and attractions. Whether you're looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or simply a relaxing day out, there's plenty to see and do. Here’s a list of things to do nearby and within the park.
- Activities in Olympic Park:
- Peace Gate: Marvel at this iconic structure, a symbol of peace and harmony.
- Sculpture Park: Explore the outdoor sculpture park featuring works by renowned artists.
- Rose Garden: Stroll through the beautiful rose garden, especially stunning during the blooming season.
- Olympic Museum: Learn about the history of the Olympic Games and Korea's participation.
- Mongchontoseong Fortress: Discover the ancient ruins of this Baekje Dynasty fortress.
- Activities Nearby Olympic Park:
- Lotte World: Enjoy thrilling rides and entertainment at this popular amusement park.
- Lotte World Tower: Visit the tallest building in South Korea for panoramic city views.
- COEX Aquarium: Explore diverse marine life at one of Seoul's largest aquariums.
- Garosu-gil Road: Shop at trendy boutiques and enjoy stylish cafes in this upscale district.
- Seokchon Lake Park: Relax by the scenic lake and enjoy the walking trails.
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Nearby MRT Station & Bus Stops near the Olympic Park South Korea
Navigating to and from Olympic Park is convenient thanks to the numerous public transport options available. Here’s a rundown of the nearby MRT stations and bus stops.
- Nearby MRT Station:
- Olympic Park Station (Lines 2 and 9): Located directly adjacent to the park, making it the most convenient option. The distance is negligible, as the station exits directly into the park.
- Nearby Bus Stops:
- Olympic Park Bus Stop: Many bus routes stop directly outside the park's main entrances. Check local bus route maps for specific numbers and destinations.
- East Gate Bus Stop: Located near the eastern entrance of the park, serving various local bus routes.
- Transport Card Info:
- T-money and Cashbee cards are widely accepted on both buses and subways in Seoul. These cards offer discounted fares and can be easily recharged at convenience stores and subway stations.
Tips To Go to Olympic Park (South Korea) and Safety Tips
Planning a trip to Olympic Park? Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and safe visit. From what to bring to important safety precautions, this guide has you covered.
- What to Bring:
- Comfortable Shoes: The park is vast, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
- Sunscreen and Hat: Protect yourself from the sun, as much of the park is open.
- Snacks: While there are food vendors, bringing your own snacks can save you money.
- Portable Charger: Keep your phone charged for navigation and photos.
- Tourist Safety Tips:
- Stay Aware: Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Keep Valuables Secure: Use a secure bag or money belt to protect your belongings.
- Emergency Contacts: Save local emergency numbers in your phone. The general emergency number in South Korea is 112.
- Stay on Marked Paths: Stick to designated paths to avoid getting lost, especially at night.
- Learn Basic Korean Phrases: Knowing a few basic phrases can be helpful in case of emergencies or when asking for directions.
Best Hotel Area in South Korea
Choosing the right area to stay in South Korea can greatly enhance your travel experience. Each neighbourhood offers a unique vibe and caters to different interests. Here’s a guide to some of the best areas to stay in South Korea.
- Myeongdong:
- Suitable For: Shopaholics and foodies.
- Why: Known for its bustling shopping streets, trendy boutiques, and diverse street food options.
- Hongdae:
- Suitable For: Young travellers, art enthusiasts, and nightlife lovers.
- Why: Famous for its vibrant arts scene, indie music venues, and lively clubs.
- Gangnam:
- Suitable For: Luxury travellers, business travellers, and those interested in K-beauty.
- Why: An upscale district with high-end shopping, fine dining, and luxurious hotels.
- Itaewon:
- Suitable For: Expats, international travellers, and those seeking diverse cuisine.
- Why: A multicultural district with a wide range of international restaurants, bars, and shops.
- Insadong:
- Suitable For: Culture enthusiasts, history buffs, and those looking for traditional crafts.
- Why: Known for its traditional tea houses, art galleries, and craft shops selling pottery, hanji (Korean paper), and other traditional goods.
Where to Eat Inside or near Olympic Park (South Korea)
Whether you're craving traditional Korean food or looking for a quick bite, there are plenty of options inside and near Olympic Park. Here are some great places to eat to satisfy your hunger.
- Cafes/Restaurants:
- Paris Baguette (올림픽공원점): A popular bakery chain offering a variety of pastries, breads, and coffee. Perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon snack.
- Angel-in-us Coffee (올림픽공원점): Another well-known coffee chain where you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee with a view of the park.
- Lotteria (롯데리아 올림픽공원점): A fast-food chain offering burgers, fries, and other quick bites. A convenient option for a casual meal.
- Local Street Food:
- Tteokbokki (떡볶이): Spicy rice cakes, a classic Korean street food.
- Kimbap (김밥): Seaweed rice rolls filled with various ingredients like vegetables, meat, and eggs.
- Odeng (오뎅): Fish cakes on skewers, often served in a warm broth.
Shopping Places near Olympic Park (South Korea)
If you're in the mood for some retail therapy, there are several shopping destinations near Olympic Park. From modern malls to bustling markets, here are some places to indulge in some shopping.
- Lotte Department Store (Jamsil Branch): Located near Lotte World, this department store offers a wide range of luxury brands, cosmetics, and fashion items.
- COEX Mall: One of the largest underground shopping malls in Seoul, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Hyundai Department Store (Apgujeong Main Branch): A high-end department store in the upscale Apgujeong district, offering a curated selection of designer brands and luxury goods.
Best Hotels to Stay near Olympic Park (South Korea)
Finding the perfect place to stay near Olympic Park can enhance your visit to Seoul. Here are some of the best hotels in South Korea that offer comfort, convenience, and excellent amenities.
- Lotte Hotel Seoul: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Seoul, offering stunning city views and world-class service.
- The Shilla Seoul: Known for its elegant design, exceptional dining options, and serene atmosphere.
- Grand Hyatt Seoul: Situated on Namsan Mountain, this hotel offers breathtaking views and a range of recreational facilities.
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Hotels with Swimming Pools near Olympic Park
Looking for a refreshing dip after a day of exploring? Here are some hotels in South Korea that offer fantastic swimming pool facilities for a relaxing stay.
- Lotte Hotel Seoul: Features both indoor and outdoor pools with stunning city views.
- The Shilla Seoul: Offers a luxurious outdoor pool surrounded by lush gardens.
- Grand Hyatt Seoul: Boasts a large outdoor pool and a heated indoor pool for year-round enjoyment.
Hotels with Parking near Olympic Park
Driving in Seoul and need a hotel with convenient parking? Here are some top hotels in South Korea that offer parking facilities for guests.
- Lotte Hotel Seoul: Provides ample parking space for guests, making it easy to explore the city by car.
- The Shilla Seoul: Offers both valet parking and self-parking options for added convenience.
- Grand Hyatt Seoul: Features extensive parking facilities with easy access to the hotel.
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Best Accommodations near Incheon International Airport
If you have an early flight or a long layover, staying near Incheon International Airport can be incredibly convenient. Here are some of the best accommodations to consider.
Average Room Rate hotels near Olympic Park
Planning your budget for a trip to Olympic Park? The average room rate for hotels near Olympic Park can vary depending on the season, hotel star rating, and availability. It's always a good idea to check Traveloka for the latest prices and deals to get the best rates.
Generally, you can expect to find a range of options from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels, with prices ranging from ₩50,000 to ₩200,000 per night. Keep an eye out for hotel discounts and promos, especially if you're a new user. Use promo code BOOKTRAVELOKA to get up to 8% OFF your booking!
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Conclusion
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Whether you're looking for affordable hotels nearby or planning to book cheap air tickets to South Korea, Traveloka has you covered. Take advantage of their exclusive deals and promotions to make your trip to South Korea both memorable and budget-friendly. Start planning your adventure today and experience the best of South Korea with Traveloka!
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