Things To Do
in Suwon

Suwon, the capital of Gyeonggi Province in South Korea, is renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture. The city is famous for its well-preserved Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases stunning architecture and scenic views. Suwon is also known for its delicious Korean fried chicken and traditional markets, adding to its culinary reputation.

With a mix of modern amenities and historical charm, Suwon offers visitors a unique glimpse into both the past and present of South Korea.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Historical Exploration
morning
:

Start your day at Hwaseong Fortress, exploring its impressive walls and gates, and don't forget to visit the Hwaseong Haenggung Palace.

afternoon
:

Head to the Suwon Traditional Market for lunch and wander through the various stalls selling local delicacies and handicrafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local Korean BBQ restaurant, then take a leisurely stroll around the fortress walls to enjoy the night view.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the Korean Folk Village to experience traditional Korean culture, including performances and historical houses.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Suwon I Park Museum of Art to appreciate contemporary art exhibitions.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant specializing in Suwon's famous fried chicken, followed by drinks at a nearby pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a Local Restaurant$7
Café Latte$4
🚍Public Transport Ticket$1
🏨Budget Hotel Night$50
🍺Beer at a Bar$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical experiences.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially fried chicken.
  • Beautiful scenery and well-maintained parks.
  • Language barrier for non-Korean speakers.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities like Seoul.
  • Hot and humid summers may be uncomfortable for some.
  • "안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)" - Thank you
  • "화장실 어디에요? (Hwajangsil eodieyo?)" - Where is the restroom?
  • "도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo)" - Please help me
  • "이거 얼마예요? (Igeo eolmaeyo?)" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Suwon

Visit one of these nice places.

Hwaseong Fortress

Capture stunning views of the fortress and the cityscape, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Korean Folk Village

The traditional houses and cultural performances provide beautiful backdrops for photos.

Suwon City Hall

The modern architecture of the city hall contrasts beautifully with the historical sites around it.

Culinary Guide

Food in Suwon

Suwon is a food lover's paradise, offering a diverse range of local dishes that highlight the flavors of Korean cuisine. From street food to traditional dining, there’s something for everyone.

Suwon Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Suwon Fried Chicken

Renowned for its crispy skin and flavorful marinades, Suwon fried chicken is a must-try, often served with pickled radish.

Must-Try!

Galbi

This marinated beef short rib dish is grilled to perfection and is a favorite among locals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Suwon Traditional Market

A bustling market where you can find an array of street food options, including tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).

Climate Guide

Weather

Suwon experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, averaging around 30°C (86°F), while winters can be cold, dipping to -5°C (23°F) or lower. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is more common in the summer months, so carrying an umbrella is advisable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders by using polite language and gestures, such as bowing when greeting.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Personal Space

Koreans value personal space; maintain a comfortable distance during conversations and avoid too much physical contact.

Safety Guide

Safety

Suwon is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it’s wise to remain vigilant in crowded areas and keep an eye on personal belongings. Emergency services are efficient, and hospitals are well-equipped in case of any issues.

Tipping in Suwon

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Korea, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Suwon features mild weather and blooming cherry blossoms, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, with occasional rain; it's best to stay hydrated and wear light clothing.

Autumn

Autumn brings vibrant fall foliage, especially around the fortress, perfect for scenic walks and photography.

Winter

Winter can be cold with occasional snowfall; warm clothing is essential, and winter festivals can be enjoyed.

Nightlife Guide

Suwon at Night

Suwon's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of traditional pubs, modern bars, and clubs. The city offers various entertainment options, including karaoke rooms, where locals enjoy singing late into the night. Areas like the Suwon Station and Hwaseong area are bustling with nightlife, featuring a range of drinking establishments and late-night eateries that cater to all tastes.

Hiking in Suwon

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gwanggyo Lake Park Trail

This scenic trail offers beautiful views of Gwanggyo Lake and is ideal for a leisurely hike or jog.

Chilbo Mountain Trail

Located nearby, this trail offers a moderate hike with stunning panoramic views and a chance to see local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Suwon by plane.

Incheon International Airport

Located about 80 km from Suwon, Incheon International Airport is South Korea's main international airport, offering extensive flight connections and modern facilities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Suwon is quite walkable, especially around the city center and major attractions like Hwaseong Fortress. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian areas are common. However, some neighborhoods may be hilly, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues. Public transport is available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing number of young professionals are attracted to Suwon for its job opportunities and quality of life.

Students

With several universities in the area, Suwon has a vibrant student population contributing to its dynamic culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Suwon is home to the Suwon Samsung Bluewings, a professional soccer team that draws significant local support.

Baseball

Baseball is also popular, with local teams playing in the Korea Baseball Organization, attracting enthusiastic fans.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Suwon can be congested, especially during peak hours, but public transportation is efficient and widely used. The city has an extensive bus system and a subway line connecting to Seoul. Taxis are also readily available, and ride-sharing apps are in use.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Suwon.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While Korean cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian options like bibimbap or tofu dishes.

Halal Food

Seek out specific halal restaurants or inquire at larger establishments about halal options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Suwon has a robust healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and tourists. Emergency services can be reached easily, and many healthcare professionals speak English. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide