As a solo traveler, there are plenty of things to keep in mind when planning your trip. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea as a solo traveler!
What to Expect When Visiting Seoul
Seoul city
There’s no one right way to experience Seoul – so take your time and soak up all the culture and energy this vibrant city has to offer. Here are five tips to help you get started:
1. Get familiar with the city’s main districts.
Seoul is made up of 23 official districts, each with its own unique flavor and attractions. Begin your exploration by learning about the capital’s three most popular districts: Jung-gu, Gangnam, and Yongsan.
2. Join a guided tour.
Even if you’re familiar with Seoul’s main districts, taking a guided tour will give you a more in-depth look at the city’s history and architecture. Several companies offer walking tours that cover everything from traditional Korean cuisine to nightlife hotspots.
3. See the city from a different perspective.
If you want to get a truly unique view of Seoul, head to one of the city’s many hills – such as Bukchon or Insa-dong – for an unbeatable 360-degree perspective of the metropolis below. Alternatively, take a taxi or ride on the subway to explore hidden corners of town.
What to Pack for a Solo Trip to South Korea
Before you go on your solo trip to South Korea, you’ll want to pack some essentials. Here are a few things that will make your experience a lot more comfortable:
-A Lonely Planet Guide to South Korea: This guidebook is a great resource for finding information about the country, its attractions, and food. It’s also helpful for understanding the Korean language.
-Earplugs: South Korea can be quite noisy at night. Bring some earplugs to help block out the noise.
-Sunscreen: The sun can be pretty relentless in South Korea, so bring sunscreen and sunglasses if you’re planning on spending any time outdoors.
-Moneybelt: A moneybelt is a great way to keep your valuables safe while traveling. It’s also a great way to avoid getting pickpocketed.
Tips for Enjoying Seoul Alone
1. Learn the language. Seoul is a very international city, but speaking the local language will help you get by easier and feel more connected to the city. There are plenty of resources available, including classes and private tutors.
2. Explore on your own. There is so much to see in Seoul alone that a full-day or two of exploration is sure to be rewarding. Start with some of the must-see attractions like Gwanghwamun Plaza or Insadong Market, then branch out from there. There’s always something new to discover in this vibrant city!
3. Take public transportation. Seoul’s public transportation is one of its most impressive features – it’s really easy to get around without having to worry about getting lost or taking long walks. Plus, it’s affordable and convenient.
4. Eat street food. One of the great things about traveling alone is that you can explore off the beaten path and try some truly unique foods – like street food! It can be a bit pricey, but it’s definitely worth it for an experience you’ll never forget.
Where to Stay in Seoul
Seoul residential area
The best way to experience Seoul is as a solo traveler, so if that describes you, here are some hotels and hostels I recommend.
Hostel Samsung is located in the heart of the city, close to major tourist attractions such as Insadong and Gwanghwamun. The dorms are comfortable and affordable, with clean bathrooms and linens. There’s also a great rooftop terrace with spectacular views of Seoul.
If you prefer more luxurious accommodations, then I recommend the Park Hyatt Seoul. This hotel is situated in the affluent Gangnam district, just a few minutes’ walk from numerous shopping districts and restaurants. The rooms here are spacious and have all the amenities you could need, including satellite TV and hairdryers. You can even enjoy a pool or spa treatment at the on-site wellness center.
If you want to stay closer to the city center, I recommend the Hotel Lotte Palace Seoul. This boutique hotel is perfect for visitors who want to be surrounded by lively streets and interesting architecture. The staff are friendly and helpful, and there’s free Wi-Fi throughout the property. You can
What to do in Seoul
If you’re looking for a city that’s full of energy and excitement, look no further than Seoul, South Korea. This dynamic and rapidly-growing metropolis has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers. Here are five things to do in Seoul if you’re visiting on your own:
1. Check out the latest fashion trends at the famous Dongdaemun Market.
2. Catch a performance by a local pop star at one of Seoul’s many theaters.
3. Discover the secrets of traditional Korean cuisine at a local restaurant.
4. Discover the abundance of art and architecture at some of Seoul’s top museums.
5. Spend a day browsing through the charming alleyways of Insadong
How to Get Around Seoul
Transportation system in Seoul
If you’re planning to explore Seoul on your own, here are a few tips on how to get around on your own.
1. Buy a Seoul City Pass. This card covers bus, subway, and taxi fare for 24 hours and is good for any mode of transport in the city. The price is KRW 28,000 (around $25).
2. Use the Hop On/Hop Off bus system. This allows you to hop on and off buses at designated stops all around the city without having to worry about getting lost. The cost is KRW 6,000 per day (about $5).
3. Use the Subway Map app. This app has a map of all of the subway lines in Seoul and it also includes information on where you can find ticket machines, escalators, and other amenities. The app costs KRW 5,000 (about $4).
4. Use Uber or Kakao Taxi whenever possible. These apps allow you to hail a car with the touch of a button, making it super easy to get around town. The cost for Uber is KRW 30,000 (~$27) and for Kakao Taxi it’s KRW 10,000 (~$
What to Eat and Drink in Seoul
If you’re looking for delicious food, Seoul has plenty to offer. In particular, try some of the local dishes such as bibimbap (a mixed rice dish with meat or vegetables), samgyetang (pork soup), and jjajangmyeon (bean paste noodles). For something refreshing, try an icy cold tteokguk (chicken and vegetable soup) or a pear juice.
And if you’re looking for a place to drink, don’t forget about the ubiquitous Korean beer and soju. Try something new by trying some of the local fruit wines, such as banyuls or sauvignon blanc.
samgyeopsal, korean grilled pork belly BBQ
If you’re thinking about traveling to Seoul, South Korea, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, the city is huge and can feel overwhelming if you’re not used to big cities. I found that it was helpful to break Seoul down into manageable chunks by neighborhood so that I could orient myself more easily. Secondly, the cost of living in Seoul is astronomical! Even though food is inexpensive by Western standards, it’s still a lot more expensive than back home. Finally, be prepared for intense humidity and temperatures that can swing from chilly in winter to sweltering during summer months. Despite these challenges, I think Seoul offers an incredibly fascinating and diverse culture that is worth exploring if you have the chance!