Have a trip planned to Seoul during the upcoming spring season? You’re in for a treat as the spring and autumn seasons are generally considered the best seasons to visit. As the weather warms and nature bursts into life again, here are some great places to enjoy the upcoming spring time in Seoul.

In the neighborhood of Beongdong (번동) in Gangbuk-gu, the Dream Forest is worth checking out for its many beautiful sites housed within the sprawling park which happens to be Seoul’s fourth largest park. In addition to a pond, waterfall, and a viewpoint, the park also holds a number of paths that are filled with flowers and other flora in the spring season.

Another popular park for spring is the World Cup Park in Sangam-dong. In spring various wild flowers come to bloom making it a very picturesque area to visit. Be sure to check out Haneul Park within which will offer spectacular views of the city. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes to climb the 291 stairs to Haneul Park but as the popular saying goes- no pain, no gain!

Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is always beautiful to visit year-round, but in springtime the palace complex is especially popular for its remarkable setting. As the palace was built around the surrounding nature, the palace’s lakes, giant trees, and various structures work in tandem to provide a natural yet truly Korean setting. Springtime is especially worth visiting for the beautiful flowers and wildlife in bloom and for the best experience, reserve a spot to explore the palaces’ Huwon, or rear gardens, which can only be enjoyed with a spot on a tour through the palace’s official homepage.

If you have access to a car or want to take a taxi on one of Seoul’s most scenic drives, head for the Bugak Skyway in northern Seoul. The scenic route will take you on a picture-perfect drive of Mt. Bugak which explodes with floral beauty such as azaleas in spring. Stop at Palgakjeong, the octagonal historic pavilion for a great view of the city whether in daytime or night.

Across the Han River in the south, Bongeunsa, or Bongeunsa Temple, as well as the royal burial grounds of Seonjeongneung (선정릉) are already well known as a bit of a restful oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle that is Gangnam. They are both especially beautiful to visit in spring though when flowers such as azaleas grow in the beautiful setting. And remember that if you have some time, you can also apply to participate in a temple stay program at Bongeunsa and other temples for an unforgettable experience in the lovely spring season.

If you’re up for a bit of physical challenge, the city’s various mountains and hills are fantastic to explore in spring. Not only are temperatures friendlier for a climb but the surrounding wildlife will provide plenty of great photo opportunities. Bukhansan, or Mt. Bukhan in northern Seoul is one of the most popular hikes for its breathtaking views at the top, as is Gwanaksan in southern Seoul. Note though that hikes to the summit should be well prepared and are quite physically challenging. Easier hikes can be made at smaller mountains such as Namsan, home to the famed N Seoul Tower or at Achasan in eastern Seoul.