Suwon-si, the capital of Gyeonggi Province, is one of South Korea’s most historic and culturally rich cities. Famous for its UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress and easy access from Seoul, it’s a perfect destination for both day trips and longer stays.
Let’s answer the key questions travelers often ask about Suwon-si.
Getting to Suwon from Seoul
Subway: Take Line 1 (blue line) from Seoul Station directly to Suwon Station. The journey takes about 1 hour and costs around 1,400 KRW.
KTX/Express Train: Faster option taking 30-40 minutes from Seoul Station to Suwon Station, costing around 5,000-8,000 KRW.
Bus: Express buses run frequently from various Seoul terminals, taking 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Suwon is only about 30 km south of Seoul. By subway or train, it takes about 30–40 minutes, making it an easy day trip.
Suwon has its own subway line (Bundang Line) that connects to Seoul’s metro system, plus Seoul’s Line 1 runs directly through Suwon. Local buses also provide excellent coverage throughout the city, making it easy to get around without a car.
Here are my must-visit places in Seoul and here you can visit and see the 10 famous temples of Seoul that are very close to you.
Top Things to Do in Suwon
Hwaseong Fortress
The main attraction! This 18th-century fortress walls stretch 5.7km around the old city center. You can walk along the walls, visit the four main gates, and explore watchtowers with panoramic city views.
Entrance Fee: 1,000 KRW for adults, 700 KRW for students Getting there from Suwon Station: 15-minute walk or take local bus 11, 13, or 36
Korean Folk Village
Experience traditional Korean life with authentic houses, craftsmen demonstrations, and cultural performances. Perfect for understanding Korean history and culture.
Suwon Galbi Street
Suwon invented galbi (Korean BBQ ribs)! The area around Suwon Station has dozens of restaurants serving the city’s famous dish.
Free Things to Do in Suwon
- Walk Hwaseong Fortress walls (only 1,000 KRW entrance fee)
- Explore Suwon Traditional Market for local atmosphere
- Visit local parks like Yeongtong Park
- Stroll through old town streets near the fortress
- People-watch at Suwon Station area
Suwon Day Trip Itinerary
Morning: Arrive at Suwon Station, walk to Hwaseong Fortress, explore the fortress walls and gates
Afternoon: Visit Korean Folk Village or explore traditional markets and local neighborhoods
Evening: Dinner at famous galbi restaurants near Suwon Station before heading back to Seoul
Total time needed: 6-8 hours for a comfortable day trip
Suwon offers a mix of history, food, and local culture that you won’t find in Seoul. It’s one of the most authentic cities in Korea. Take Line 1 (dark blue line) of the Seoul Metro, or hop on a KTX or ITX train from Seoul Station to Suwon Station.
You’ll see real Korean history at Hwaseong Fortress, eat the best galbi in Korea, and experience local life in a manageable, tourist-friendly city. The easy transportation from Seoul makes it perfect for travelers who want to see more of Korea without venturing too far from their Seoul base.