Seoul is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends modern skyscrapers with historic palaces, expansive parks, and tranquil riverside paths. While many choose to explore the city by subway or bus, another fantastic way to experience Seoul is by bike. The city has developed a vast network of cycling routes, offering tourists and locals alike an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to navigate its many attractions. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride, biking through Seoul is an unforgettable experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best bike routes, rental options, and must-see attractions for those looking to discover Seoul on two wheels.
1. The Han River Cycling Paths: A Riverside Escape
One of the most popular and scenic cycling routes in Seoul is along the Han River. The Han River cycling paths stretch for over 80 kilometers on both sides of the river, offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline, bridges, and parks. This route is perfect for cyclists of all levels, with its flat terrain and wide lanes making it accessible for families, beginners, and seasoned riders alike.
Along the way, you can stop at various parks such as Yeouido Hangang Park, where you can enjoy a riverside picnic, rent a paddleboat, or even try water sports like kayaking. The cycling path also passes under some of Seoul’s iconic bridges, such as Banpo Bridge, which lights up at night with its stunning rainbow fountain show.
Why Ride Here?: The Han River cycling paths provide an opportunity to escape the urban hustle and bustle while still being in the heart of the city. The calm waters of the river and the greenery of the surrounding parks make this one of the most peaceful routes in Seoul.
Tip: Make sure to ride the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain at night for an amazing light and water show, which is especially magical during summer evenings.
2. The Seoul Forest: Cycling Through Nature
For those looking to combine a love of cycling with a peaceful escape into nature, Seoul Forest is an ideal destination. This large urban park is located on the northern bank of the Han River and features a variety of cycling paths that wind through lush greenery, beautiful flower gardens, and open fields. The park is divided into five distinct zones, including the Ecological Forest, where you might spot deer or rabbits.
Cycling through Seoul Forest offers a tranquil break from the city’s bustling streets, and there are plenty of spots to rest and enjoy a picnic or a coffee at one of the park’s cafes. The park is also home to several art installations and a butterfly conservatory, making it a great destination for families.
Why Ride Here?: Seoul Forest is a great place for a leisurely bike ride amidst nature, away from the traffic of the city. The serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it an excellent spot to relax and recharge.
Tip: If you’re interested in art and photography, don’t miss the park’s interactive installations scattered throughout its grounds. It’s a perfect spot for Instagram-worthy photos.
3. Cheonggyecheon Stream: A Hidden Oasis in the City
The Cheonggyecheon Stream is a hidden gem in the heart of Seoul, offering a unique blend of nature and urban design. The stream runs for nearly 11 kilometers through the city center, starting near Gwanghwamun Square and winding through Jongno and Dongdaemun. Though the stream itself is not a dedicated cycling route, there are bike lanes running parallel to the stream, offering cyclists a unique perspective of Seoul’s downtown.
Riding alongside the stream is a great way to explore some of Seoul’s most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, and various traditional markets. The path is well-maintained and perfect for leisurely rides, with plenty of spots to stop, rest, and take in the sights.
Why Ride Here?: Cheonggyecheon Stream provides a peaceful retreat in the middle of a bustling city. The bike lanes running alongside it allow you to experience Seoul’s historic and modern sites all in one ride.
Tip: Visit the stream in the evening when the area is beautifully illuminated by lights, adding an extra layer of charm to your ride.
4. Namsan Mountain: For the Adventurous Cyclist
For cyclists looking for a challenge, Namsan Mountain offers an exhilarating ride with rewarding views. The mountain is located in the heart of Seoul, and cycling to the top provides spectacular panoramic views of the city. The Namsan Seoul Tower, one of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks, sits at the summit, making this ride a must for any adventurer.
The path up Namsan is steep and winding, so it’s best suited for experienced cyclists. However, once you reach the top, the effort is well worth it. You can take in stunning views of Seoul’s skyline and explore the Namsan Seoul Tower area, which includes observation decks, cafes, and walking paths.
Why Ride Here?: The challenging climb up Namsan Mountain is rewarded with some of the best views in Seoul. It’s a great ride for those looking for a more strenuous workout and a chance to see the city from above.
Tip: If the ride up Namsan sounds too daunting, consider taking the cable car up the mountain and riding down for an easier, scenic descent.
5. Yeouido: The Island of Cycling Delights
Located on the Han River, Yeouido is a large island that serves as Seoul’s financial district, but it’s also home to some of the city’s most popular parks and cycling routes. Yeouido Hangang Park offers smooth, well-maintained bike paths that are perfect for a leisurely ride. During the spring, the park comes alive with cherry blossoms, making it a particularly beautiful spot for a bike ride.
In addition to its picturesque cycling paths, Yeouido is also home to the National Assembly Building and several cultural attractions, making it a great place to explore both nature and history by bike. You can rent bikes near the park and enjoy a full day of cycling along the river, stopping at various points of interest along the way.
Why Ride Here?: Yeouido offers a relaxing cycling experience with plenty of scenic beauty and cultural attractions along the way. It’s especially stunning during the cherry blossom season.
Tip: If you’re visiting during the spring, make sure to time your ride to coincide with the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival, where the park is covered in a sea of pink blossoms.
6. The Ara Waterway: A Scenic Ride Along a Man-Made Wonder
For cyclists who want to venture beyond the city center, the Ara Waterway offers a stunning, scenic ride. This man-made canal stretches from the Han River to Incheon, providing a long, flat cycling path perfect for those who want to cover more distance. The path is lined with parks, bridges, and scenic viewpoints, making it a peaceful and picturesque route.
The Ara Waterway cycling path is perfect for a day-long excursion, and there are several rest areas and cafes along the route where you can take a break and enjoy the view. The canal itself is an impressive feat of engineering, and the cycling path offers a serene ride away from the noise of the city.
Why Ride Here?: The Ara Waterway offers a long, scenic cycling route that’s ideal for cyclists looking for a full-day adventure. The peaceful surroundings and impressive views make it a rewarding ride.
Tip: Pack a picnic and stop at one of the many parks along the waterway for a relaxing break during your ride.
7. Tancheon Stream: A Ride Through Suburban Seoul
The Tancheon Stream cycling path is one of the lesser-known routes in Seoul, but it offers a great way to explore the city’s suburbs. The path follows the Tancheon Stream, a tributary of the Han River, and runs through several districts, including Gangnam and Bundang. It’s a long, relatively flat route, making it perfect for a leisurely ride.
As you cycle along the Tancheon Stream, you’ll pass through parks, residential areas, and quiet suburban neighborhoods, offering a different perspective of Seoul. The well-maintained and less crowded path is a peaceful ride.
Why Ride Here?: The Tancheon Stream cycling path offers a quieter, more suburban cycling experience. It’s a great option for those looking to escape the busy city streets and enjoy a more relaxed ride.
Tip: Combine your ride along the Tancheon Stream with a visit to the COEX Mall in Gangnam, one of Seoul’s largest shopping and entertainment complexes.
8. Olympic Park: Cycling Through History
Olympic Park is not only a beautiful green space but also a site of historical significance, having hosted the 1988 Summer Olympics. The park is massive, covering over 1.4 million square meters, and features a well-maintained cycling path that winds through its expansive grounds. As you ride, you’ll pass by various sports facilities, art installations, and tranquil lakes.
Olympic Park is a great place for a family-friendly cycling outing, with its wide, flat paths and scenic surroundings. The park also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, so you might find yourself cycling past a concert or exhibition.
Why Ride Here?: Olympic Park offers a spacious and scenic environment for cycling, with the added bonus of historical significance. It’s a great place for a relaxing ride, with plenty of attractions to explore along the way.
Tip: Visit the Seoul Olympic Museum, located within the park, to learn more about the history of the 1988 Olympics and the role they played in shaping modern Seoul.
Bike Rentals in Seoul
For those without their own bike, Seoul offers plenty of bike rental options. The city’s public bike-sharing system, Ddareungi, allows you to rent bikes at various locations throughout the city, including many of the parks and cycling paths mentioned above. Renting a bike through Ddareungi is easy and affordable, with hourly and daily rental rates available.
Many parks and riverside areas also offer private bike rental services, with options ranging from single-speed bikes to tandem bikes and even electric bikes for those looking for a more relaxed ride.
Final Thoughts
Biking through Seoul offers a unique and exciting way to explore the city’s many attractions. Whether you’re cycling along the Han River, winding through historic parks, or tackling the challenging ascent up Namsan Mountain, there’s no shortage of incredible sights to see from the seat of a bike. With its extensive network of cycling paths and easy access to rental bikes, Seoul is a cyclist’s paradise waiting to be explored.
