Solo traveling can seem intimidating at first. You might be worried about feeling lonely, getting lost, or being scared of an unfamiliar environment. However, you will discover that there are things you can only experience when you’re by yourself. You’ll have more freedom to go on your desired routes, more time for self-reflection, and higher chances to interact with locals or fellow tourists.
So, if you’re ready to go on a solo trip, Korea is a highly recommended country for you to travel to. Known for being one of the safest countries, Korea will make you feel at ease and let you explore freely without constant fear. The public transport in the country is also ideal for solo travelers on a budget! With bus and subway systems that are both easily accessible and affordable, wandering around places won’t be much hassle.
Now, what better place to start a tour around Korea than its capital, Seoul? From bustling shopping streets and trendy neighborhoods to cultural places and hiking trails, Seoul is a diverse city where it’s possible to do everything you can think of. You’ll be sure to make the most out of your trip as most people and places remain busy even in the middle of the night.
With this, here are the top spots you should visit in Seoul as a solo traveler:
Gangnam
Ever heard of the popular Korean song “Gangnam Style”? It is actually inspired by the Gangnam District in Seoul. This neighborhood is home to the Starfield COEX Mall, one of the world’s largest underground shopping malls. There, you can also find the Starfield Library, a highly Instagrammable spot.
In addition, you can check out the historical Bongeunsa Temple in Samseong-dong, where you can enjoy tranquility and sightsee the skyscrapers surrounding it. Another laid-back area you can go to is Nonhyeon-dong with its quiet, back-street bars.
Myeongdong
When traveling, one of the things you’d probably want to do is shop for local items exclusive to Korean stores or buy duty-free goods from quality brands. The best place you can do this is in Myeongdong, a popular high-end shopping district. With its nearly endless array of shops, it is home to Korea’s largest department stores like Lotte and Hyundai. Apart from that, you can enjoy the nighttime here where you can get a taste of Korean food in various local restaurants and markets. From grilled cheese lobster to fried ice cream, their street food is definitely a must-try! You can also stroll around its beauty district, where many stores offer freebies to invite you in.
Hongdae
Up for quirky food, budget-friendly shopping, and an exciting youthful nightlife? Hongdae is the perfect place for you. Home to four big universities in Korea, this neighborhood is where trendy college students hang out. Along the streets, you can find numerous Korean BBQ places, famous themed cafes, and fashionable boutiques where you can experience the vibrant hipster energy of Korea.
Itaewon
If you’ve watched the hit K-drama “Itaewon Class,” then you’d certainly want to visit this district. Being the multicultural district of Seoul, Itaewon is a place where you can feel at home as a traveler since it houses a thriving expat community. Here, you can find superb foreign restaurants if you want to try something else aside from Korean food. You can experience what it’s like to be an insider when you try the fun nightlife offered by various bars and pubs that open until dawn.
Insadong
For art enthusiasts, Insadong is a place you definitely shouldn’t miss. From local artist exhibits and contemporary galleries to teahouses and boutique shops, this neighborhood presents different things that can pique your interest to make sure you never get bored. On top of spots where you can shop for souvenirs to bring back home, Insadong is also home to historically significant buildings like the Korean temple Jogyesa and the Unhyeongung Royal Residence. The traditional Korean teahouse, Shin Old Tea House, is worth a mention, where you can indulge in a peaceful ambiance while enjoying tea and delicious rice cakes.
With the limitless opportunities that Seoul offers for solo travelers, the trip you’ll have will be worth your time and resources. Whether you’re looking for thrilling adventures, peaceful relaxation, or cultural experiences, Seoul is the best place for you to embark on your solo journey.
