Millions of international visitors travel to Seoul every year, yet many worry they won’t enjoy themselves without a companion.
While Seoul’s sheer size and language barriers seem intimidating to navigate alone at first, so many sights and experiences await discovery on your own. This solo traveler’s guide covers the top 10 attractions and activities recommended for first-timers, allowing you to maximize your time unlocking the best of Seoul!
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1. Do Cafe-Hopping
If you are traveling in Seoul solo, why not kickstart your days with a caffeine boost from one of the city’s eclectic cafes? The creativity behind Seoul’s cafes goes beyond your average beverages: Cafes are offering unique desserts shaped like shoes or furniture (yes, really!), or they have massage chairs that you can rent out for a 30-minute-“healing”-session.
Here are some examples of some other themed cafes that you can find in Seoul:
- Board Game Cafes
- Lego Cafes
- Vinyl Cafes
- Painting Cafes
- And much more!
What Are The Best Neighborhoods In Seoul For Cafe-Hopping?
Hapjeong-dong
Craving non-touristy vibes and indie cafes? Hapjeong attracts Seoul’s young creatives with probably the city’s highest concentration of aesthetic, hip hangouts. The neighborhood resonates with a chilled-out local energy, making it the perfect spot for experiencing unique café culture.
Ikseon-dong
Ikseon-dong is known for its historic streets packed with beautifully restored Korean hanoks. This neighborhood is bustling with boutique shops, cafes, ice-cream shops, restaurants, and vintage stores. Wander these charming lanes while appreciating the old architecture now home to coffee counters and cozy lounges.
Sinsa-dong
Sinsa-dong, particularly the area known as Garosu-gil, is famous for its fashion boutiques, high-end designer stores, and quaint cafes. This neighborhood is perfect if you are looking to combine a day of shopping with relaxing cafe breaks. The cafes here are known for their modern design and cozy atmospheres, making it a great place to unwind after exploring the trendy surroundings.
Samcheong-dong
Samcheong-dong offers a quieter neighborhood vibe with boutique shops and contemporary art galleries. The famous Bukchon Hanok Village is just around the corner, too. The area is filled with cafes that provide a peaceful environment to relax after a long day.
Hongdae
Behind the neighborhood’s youthful nightlife energy hides a dynamic café culture catering to students and artists. From bustling venues to more laid-back spots, Hongdae’s cafe scene is as diverse as its entertainment options.
2. Go Shopping in Trendsetting Districts
Seoul’s shopping districts are a fashion-lovers dream come true, blending high-end fashion with unique local finds across its diverse shopping districts and malls.
Whether you’re drawn to the latest Korean fashion trends or searching for unique souvenirs, Seoul’s shopping districts like Myeongdong offer a pulsating atmosphere filled with skincare stores, fashion boutiques, and tantalizing street food stalls. For those seeking an upscale shopping experience, COEX Mall in Gangnam is your go-to, combining shopping with entertainment options such as a cinema and an aquarium.
Travel Tip: Do your research ahead of time to pinpoint the areas catering to your tastes and create a shopping list. Seoul offers areas specialized in everything from electronics to crafts.
3. Marvel at the Grand Gyeongbokgung Palace
Historic palaces are a must-visit, whether you are traveling solo in Seoul or not. Gyeongbokgung is the biggest and probably most famous palace in Seoul. It provides glimpses into Korea’s Joseon dynasty with towering granite walls and stunning architecture. Watch soldiers recreate ceremonial guard changes and rent a hanbok, the traditional Korean clothing, for iconic photos amid the tranquil ponds and pagodas.
Travel Tip: Showing up to the palace in a Hanbok allows for free entry!
4. Immerse Yourself in Nature at Seoul’s Parks
Looking for an urban escape? Seoul’s parks deliver just that – plus enough attractions to fill a whole trip, from museums to zoos and cafes.
For example, Seoul Forest is home to over 400,000 trees and 100 different animal species, creating a vibrant ecosystem within the city.
Another famous park in Seoul is Hangang Park, along the Han River, which is perfect for biking, picnicking, and enjoying scenic views of the city.
5. Discover Korean Heritage at Museums
Museums are great places to visit if you are traveling solo in Seoul. And here are some good news: A lot of the museums in Seoul offer free admission, just like the National Museum of Korea.
The National Museum of Korea is showcasing over 310,000 artifacts of Korean history and art. It has relocated several times, with its current location in the Yongsan District since 2005. Across three floors you can find galleries dedicated to periods from Paleolithic to Joseon, along with Asian art, calligraphy, and Buddhist sculptures. One of the highlights of the museum is the Oegyujanggak Uigwe, a royal library collection recognized by UNESCO.
The museum opens daily from 10 am – 6 pm and 10 am – 9 pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays. For more information, check out the National Museum’s official website here.
6. Experience Temple Life for a Night
Even mega-urban Seoul offers pockets of serenity like its Buddhist temples, many of which are open for overnight stays. So-called “Temple Stays” are probably one of the most unique cultural experiences that Korea has to offer.
This program invites you to step into the daily life of Buddhist monks, engaging in meditation, rituals, and the communal living that defines their existence. It’s an opportunity to pause and reflect, finding tranquility away from the hustle of everyday life.
Travel Tip: Wondering where to book a Temple Stay? The Templestay website provides a comprehensive list of temples in Seoul that offer such experiences.
7. Join a Cultural Workshop or Class
Seoul offers countless opportunities to dive deeper into Korean culture through hands-on workshops and classes. Whether it’s learning the choreography of your favorite K-pop songs*, trying your hand at traditional Korean calligraphy, or getting a personal color analysis*, these experiences allow you to connect with local traditions on a personal level. Additionally, if you are traveling solo in Seoul this is a great opportunity to meet some new people and maybe even find travel buddies!
Travel Tip: Research available workshops that align with your interests and book in advance to secure your spot!
8. Take a Day Trip to the DMZ
If you are interested in Korean history and politics, a day trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) offers a poignant glimpse into the complexities of the Korean peninsula. Traveling to the DMZ provides a unique opportunity to learn about the ongoing tensions and hopes for peace between North and South Korea.
Keep in mind that, to travel to the DMZ, you have to book a guided tour. Tours often include visits to observatories, tunnels dug by North Korea, and the historic Panmunjom village.
9. Savor Local Flavors at Traditional Markets
Korean cuisine comes alive in Seoul’s traditional markets.
Gwangjang and Tongin Market are culinary playgrounds, offering a taste of the nation’s rich food heritage. From the savory delights of mandu to the spicy kick of tteokbokki, these markets are a testament to the diversity and depth of Korean flavors.
Embarking on a food tour through these markets is the best way to sample a wide array of dishes. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the stories and the people behind each savory bite, making it a truly immersive culinary adventure.
Travel Tip: If you are visiting a traditional market, don’t forget to bring cash! Most vendors don’t accept credit cards.
10. Join Insightful Walking Tours
Sign up for group walking tours focusing on specific cultural aspects that interest you such as Korea’s economic development, Japanese occupation history, or local spirits like makgeolli and soju. Walking tours are not only informative, but these casual small-group tours also provide a comfortable way to meet fellow travelers, especially when traveling solo in Seoul.
Travel Tip: You can book walking tours through platforms like Airbnb or GetYourGuide*.
Seoul awaits!
As this guide shows, Seoul overflows with cultural, historical, culinary, and natural activities ideal for solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in Korean experiences.
The key when solo traveling this eclectic capital is remaining open to unexpected local encounters, taking rests whenever needed, and following your unique travel passions – food or museums, temples or mountains, palaces, or street art. Create space in your plans for winding detours whenever curiosity strikes too! Stay flexible and you’re guaranteed to uncover heartwarming, awe-inspiring, belly-laughing moments strolling the “Land of Morning Calm” solo.
Want to learn more about solo traveling in Seoul and South Korea? Then check out more solo travel tips here!
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