Things To Do
in Suwon
Suwon, located just south of Seoul, blends a rich Joseon-era heritage with a modern Korean city vibe. The centerpiece is Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site that encircles the old city with impressive walls and gates. The city is also famous for Suwon galbi, a regional specialty of marinated short ribs, and its lively traditional markets.
With easy rail connections to Seoul and pleasant parks along the Suwoncheon River, Suwon makes a convenient, characterful base for exploring the wider Gyeonggi Province.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Hwaseong Fortress, where you can walk along the ancient walls and take in panoramic views of Suwon. After exploring the fortress, stop by the nearby Hwaseong Haenggung Palace to learn about its historical significance and enjoy the tranquil gardens. Don’t miss the chance to capture some stunning photographs in this picturesque setting.
For lunch, head to the bustling Suwon Yeongdong Market, where you can sample local delicacies such as Suwon galbi (grilled beef ribs). After lunch, visit the Korean Folk Village, which is a short drive away and offers a glimpse into traditional Korean life with its folk performances and craft demonstrations. Spend your afternoon wandering through the village, where you can interact with artisans and learn about ancient customs.
As the sun sets, return to the city center and explore the vibrant atmosphere of Suwon's nightlife. Try a traditional Korean barbecue at one of the popular local restaurants, indulging in the rich flavors of marinated meats. End your evening with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of Suwon, taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
Begin your day early by heading to the Korean Folk Village to witness the morning performances of traditional music and dance. Explore the various sections of the village, including the marketplace and craft workshops, where you can see artisans at work. Don't forget to try your hand at some of the traditional games that are often set up for visitors.
After a morning filled with culture, enjoy a picnic lunch in the beautiful surroundings of the Folk Village. Spend your afternoon learning about the unique customs and daily life of Korean ancestors through interactive exhibits and guided tours. Take part in a pottery or calligraphy workshop to create your own souvenir.
As night falls, return to Suwon and enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant specializing in traditional Korean dishes. Consider trying bibimbap or bulgogi, two staples of Korean cuisine. After dinner, take a walk around the village to see the beautifully lit structures and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🥗Groceries (weekly) | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transport ride (single) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $50-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history with accessible UNESCO heritage at Hwaseong Fortress
- Delicious regional cuisine, especially Suwon galbi
- Strong transit links to Seoul and the broader region
- People-friendly markets, parks, and photogenic streets
- Can be crowded around fortress and markets on weekends
- Limited nightlife compared to central Seoul
- Some areas outside the fortress district require transit to reach
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "실례합니다" - Excuse me
- "영어를 하실 수 있나요?" - Do you speak English?
- "화장실이 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "저는 채식주의자예요" - I am a vegetarian
- "메뉴를 추천해 주세요" - Please recommend a dish
- "계산서 주세요" - The check, please
- "도와주세요" - Please help me
- "이 지역의 명소는 어디에 있나요?" - Where are the local attractions?
Places to Visit in Suwon
Visit one of these nice places.
The expansive fortress walls provide dramatic lines, gates, and sunset silhouettes with the city as a backdrop.
The southern gate offers a quintessential mix of traditional architecture and city views, ideal for wide-angle shots.
Historic gate near a bustling market street; great for street photography and candid market scenes.
Riverside walk with reflections, bridges, and seasonal scenery perfect for tranquil urban photography.
Food in Suwon
Suwon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Marinated short ribs grilled at the table, typically served with lettuce wraps, ssamjang, and an array of banchan.
Must-Try!
Spicy kimchi stew with pork and tofu, a comforting staple often enjoyed with rice.
A mixed rice bowl with assorted vegetables, gochujang, and a choice of toppings; a versatile option at many local eateries.
Korean savory pancake made with scallions and other ingredients; popular as a shareable snack or entree.
Potato stew common in many homes and casual eateries; fragrant and warming in cooler weather.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market near the fortress offering fresh produce, seafood, and countless street bites—great for casual lunch or snacks.
Historic market area with dried goods, prepared foods, and bite-sized Korean snacks ideal for grazing.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light bow is common; address strangers politely and use formal language in initial interactions.
Use both hands when handing over items to show respect; similarly receive items with both hands.
Remove shoes in traditional hanok spaces or certain indoor cultural experiences; in most shops, shoes stay on.
Safety
Tipping in Suwon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Korea and not expected in most restaurants or services; some high-end hotels may add a service charge.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; mobile payments like Kakao Pay, Naver Pay, and card NFC payments are common in shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with blooming trees, especially around fortress grounds. Great for outdoor walks and terrace cafes.
Hot and humid with occasional monsoon rain. Stay hydrated and seek shade; enjoy evening strolls along the river.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage around hills and fortress pathways; ideal for photography and scenic hikes.
Cold with possible light snowfall. Warm meals, denser crowds around festival sites, and cozy hanok cafés.
Suwon at Night
Hiking in Suwon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking route with forest paths and panoramic city views from higher elevations.
Scenic trails around the fortress area offering viewpoints of the city and traditional architecture.
Airports
How to reach Suwon by plane.
Major international gateway about 1-1.5 hours by train or car; frequent connections to domestic flights and city centers.
Closer to Seoul with domestic and some international flights; convenient for quick trips and internal connections to Suwon via rail or bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, students, and professionals; strong local culture around markets and historic sites.
Close proximity to Seoul fosters a younger demographic, with cafés and affordable eateries along busy streets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Korean K League 1 soccer club based in Suwon; matches offer lively atmosphere and city pride.
Professional baseball team playing at KT Wiz Park in Suwon; games provide a family-friendly sporting experience.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Suwon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Korea, vegetarian options are growing in more modern restaurants. Look for tofu dishes, vegetable bibimbap, and jjigae/soup without meat; learn basic phrases to indicate no meat, such as avoiding fish sauce or anchovy broth.