Seoul, a sprawling metropolis known for its cutting-edge technology, towering skyscrapers, and centuries-old temples, is also home to a surprisingly bike-friendly culture. With the city’s ever-expanding network of cycling paths, it’s easier than ever for locals and tourists alike to explore Seoul on two wheels. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or someone looking for a leisurely ride, biking through Seoul allows you to experience the city’s unique blend of urban life and nature.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best biking trips in and around Seoul, ranging from riverside routes along the Han River to scenic rides through mountains and urban parks. Each route is designed to showcase a different facet of the city, from its tranquil natural landscapes to its bustling downtown core. With easy access to rental bikes and well-maintained paths, cycling through Seoul offers an exhilarating and eco-friendly way to see the city.
1. Han River Cycling Path: The Iconic Riverside Route
Distance: 41 kilometers
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Starting Point: Ttukseom Hangang Park
Ending Point: Yeouido Hangang Park
The Han River Cycling Path is one of the most popular biking routes in Seoul, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline along the iconic Han River. Stretching for more than 40 kilometers, the path connects various parks and landmarks along both sides of the river. Whether you want a leisurely ride or a full day of cycling, this route offers flexibility in distance and plenty of places to stop along the way.
Highlights Along the Route:
- Ttukseom Hangang Park: Start your ride at Ttukseom Park, a popular recreational area with a swimming pool, water sports rentals, and scenic picnic spots.
- Banpo Bridge: Stop by the Banpo Bridge, famous for its Moonlight Rainbow Fountain, which operates at night in the summer.
- Yeouido Hangang Park: End your ride at Yeouido, where you can relax in one of the city’s most beloved parks, home to sprawling lawns, cherry blossom trees, and numerous cafés.
The Han River route is perfect for those looking for an easy and flat ride. You’ll share the path with joggers, families, and fellow cyclists, making it a lively and social experience. Bike rental shops are conveniently located along the route, so you don’t have to bring your own gear.
2. Bukhansan National Park: A Challenging Mountain Ride
Distance: 20-30 kilometers (varied routes)
Difficulty: Challenging
Starting Point: Bukhansan Ui Station
Ending Point: Various points within the park
For those looking for a more challenging and scenic ride, Bukhansan National Park offers a variety of routes that take you through one of the most beautiful natural areas in Seoul. While many come to Bukhansan for hiking, the park’s paved roads and trails are also perfect for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Highlights Along the Route:
- Gugok Falls: One of the park’s hidden gems, this waterfall is a great spot to take a break and cool down.
- Baegundae Peak: If you’re feeling adventurous, park your bike and take a short hike up to Baegundae, the highest peak in the park, for panoramic views of Seoul.
- Temple Visits: Several temples are scattered throughout the park, including Doseonsa Temple, which dates back to the 10th century.
This route is best suited for experienced cyclists due to its steep inclines and rough terrain. However, the natural beauty of the park, combined with the sense of accomplishment after tackling its hills, makes it one of the most rewarding biking experiences in Seoul.
3. Seoul Forest to Olympic Park: Urban Oasis Ride
Distance: 15 kilometers
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Seoul Forest
Ending Point: Olympic Park
If you’re looking for a ride that combines Seoul’s green spaces with urban scenery, the route from Seoul Forest to Olympic Park is an excellent choice. This easy-to-moderate route passes through several scenic areas, including the tranquil Seoul Forest and the expansive Olympic Park, home to art installations and open fields.
Highlights Along the Route:
- Seoul Forest: Begin your ride in one of Seoul’s largest parks, where you can spot deer, explore eco-friendly gardens, and visit art exhibitions.
- Ttukseom Resort: As you ride along the Han River, make a stop at Ttukseom Resort for a snack or a quick dip in the water.
- Olympic Park: End your ride at Olympic Park, where you can explore large open spaces, sculptures, and monuments built for the 1988 Summer Olympics.
This leisurely ride is perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy Seoul’s urban greenery. The path is mostly flat and well-paved, making it accessible to cyclists of all levels.
4. Yangjaecheon Stream Cycling Path: A Peaceful Nature Ride
Distance: 10 kilometers
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Yangjae Citizen’s Forest
Ending Point: Tancheon Stream
The Yangjaecheon Stream Cycling Path is a peaceful and easy ride that follows a small stream through southern Seoul. The well-maintained path is perfect for families or those looking for a relaxing bike ride away from the busy city streets.
Highlights Along the Route:
- Yangjae Citizen’s Forest: Start your journey in this peaceful park, which offers a variety of walking paths, picnic areas, and an outdoor concert stage.
- Wildlife Sightings: The stream is home to various species of birds, fish, and even turtles, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
- Tancheon Stream: Connect to the larger Tancheon Stream, where the path becomes wider and continues toward the Han River.
This route is perfect for a lazy afternoon ride, with plenty of shaded areas and benches along the way. It’s an ideal spot for those who want to enjoy Seoul’s natural beauty at a slower pace.
5. Namsan Mountain Loop: A Short but Steep Adventure
Distance: 7 kilometers
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Starting Point: Namsan Library
Ending Point: Namsan Seoul Tower
For a short yet rewarding biking trip, the Namsan Mountain Loop offers cyclists a challenging uphill ride with a stunning payoff: breathtaking views of Seoul from Namsan Seoul Tower. This route is ideal for those looking for a quick workout without leaving the city center.
Highlights Along the Route:
- Namsan Park: As you make your way up, you’ll pass through Namsan Park, which is particularly beautiful in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
- Namsan Seoul Tower: Once at the top, enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. The area around the tower is perfect for resting after the steep climb.
While the climb is steep, the ride down is thrilling, with winding roads that offer fantastic views of the city. This route is a favorite among Seoulites for an after-work workout or a weekend adventure.
6. Gangnam Boulevard to Seorae Village: A Trendy City Ride
Distance: 8 kilometers
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Gangnam Station
Ending Point: Seorae Village
For those interested in a ride that showcases Seoul’s modern and trendy side, the route from Gangnam Station to Seorae Village offers a fun mix of urban biking and charming neighborhoods. Starting in the bustling streets of Gangnam, you’ll weave through traffic before reaching the quieter, French-inspired Seorae Village.
Highlights Along the Route:
- Gangnam Style Statue: Start your ride at the famous Gangnam Style statue near the station for a fun photo op.
- Garosu-gil: Make a quick detour to Garosu-gil, a tree-lined street known for its stylish boutiques and cafés.
- Seorae Village: End your ride in Seorae Village, home to Seoul’s French expat community, where you can enjoy French pastries and a stroll through the picturesque streets.
This route is ideal for those looking to combine biking with shopping and café hopping. It’s an easy ride with plenty of places to stop and explore.
7. Tancheon Stream to Bundang: A Scenic Suburban Escape
Distance: 21 kilometers
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Tancheon Stream
Ending Point: Bundang Central Park
The Tancheon Stream Cycling Path connects southern Seoul with the suburban city of Bundang, offering a scenic and relatively flat ride along the water. This route is perfect for cyclists who want to explore the outskirts of Seoul and experience a quieter, suburban side of the city.
Highlights Along the Route:
- Tancheon Wetlands: Pass through the wetlands along the Tancheon Stream, where you can spot a variety of bird species.
- Bundang Central Park: End your ride in Bundang Central Park, a large green space with lakes, walking paths, and plenty of spots to relax.
This route offers a peaceful escape from the city, with plenty of natural scenery and fresh air. It’s a great option for a weekend ride.
8. Ara Waterway Cycling Path: A Canal-Side Ride to Incheon
Distance: 18 kilometers
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Gimpo Hangang Park
Ending Point: Incheon Ara Waterway Park
The Ara Waterway Cycling Path is a scenic route that follows the man-made canal connecting the Han River to the Yellow Sea. This smooth and flat path is perfect for those looking to escape the city and enjoy a longer, uninterrupted ride.
Highlights Along the Route:
- Ara Waterfall: One of the highlights of this route is the Ara Waterfall, a man-made waterfall that provides a cooling spray on hot summer days.
- Incheon Bridge View: As you approach Incheon, you’ll get a glimpse of the iconic Incheon Bridge, which stretches across the sea.
- Rest Stops: The path features several rest stops with convenience stores, restrooms, and even bike repair stations, making it a well-equipped route for longer rides.
This path is particularly popular with serious cyclists looking for a longer, more scenic ride. It’s a great way to experience the outskirts of Seoul and the beginning of Incheon.
Conclusion
Seoul is a dynamic and vibrant city that offers cyclists a wide variety of biking experiences. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride along the Han River or a challenging mountain route in Bukhansan National Park, Seoul has something for every cyclist. With its well-maintained paths, bike rental services, and beautiful scenery, exploring Seoul on two wheels is a rewarding and eco-friendly way to experience the city. So, grab your bike and hit the road—there’s no better way to see Seoul than from the saddle.
