Newest 2024 Seoul Solo Travel Experience

Seoul travel never cools down as there are too many fascinating things to discover, which is hard to explore all in just a few short days. To help you navigate through the charming capital of South Korea smoothly, let's explore the latest Seoul travel experiences with Mytour.

What to prepare for a Seoul trip

Based on my South Korea travel experience, for a smooth Seoul trip, you need to prepare all necessary items meticulously, including flight tickets and hotel rooms.

Essential Documents

The most important thing when traveling abroad is documents. You need to prepare all necessary documents to enter and exit South Korea smoothly without worrying about being detained.

Passport

A passport is an essential document.

A passport is an essential document when traveling abroad. Please note that your passport must be valid for at least 6 months to travel abroad. For children under 2 years old, they must be accompanied by their parents and provide a birth certificate to verify the child's relationship with the authorities when entering and exiting the country.

South Korea Tourist Visa

Before traveling to Seoul, you need to apply for a South Korea visa to enter and exit smoothly without worrying about being detained. When traveling to South Korea, you will be issued a short-term visa with the tourism code C-3-9. Normally, the visa will have a stay duration of 15 - 30 days.

Because the visa application process can take up to 12 days, it's important to start your South Korea tourist visa application early to avoid missing your travel plans.

A South Korea tourist visa is necessary if you intend to visit Seoul.

>> Check out the experience of applying for a South Korea tourist visa here!

Airline tickets

Currently, there are numerous airlines operating direct flights from Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City to Seoul at affordable prices ranging from 6 - 10 million VND such as Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, Vietnam Airlines... Remember to book your ticket to Incheon Airport when traveling to Seoul!

Flight tickets to Seoul

Flight prices often fluctuate constantly by the hour, so I advise everyone to 'hunt for tickets' 1 - 2 months in advance and choose reputable agencies like Mytour for more reasonable prices compared to buying directly at the airport.

Hotel reservation

Before traveling to Seoul, make sure to research and choose a convenient, beautiful, and comfortable hotel for your stay. Below, I'll introduce you to 5 areas to consider staying when traveling to Seoul.

Myeongdong District

Myeongdong is a fantastic area in Seoul, perfect for those who love excitement and nighttime activities. Here, you'll find two famous department stores, Lotte and Shinsegae, along with many other small shops for your shopping pleasure.

Myeongdong District is always bustling with shoppers

• Advantages: Located centrally near many popular attractions, diverse and delicious food options at affordable prices.
• Disadvantages: Slightly pricier, crowded and noisy at night.
• Price: 25000₩ - 60000₩ per person per night.
• Some suggested hotels: Chungmuro Merlin Hotel, New Seoul Hotel, Stay7 Myeongdong, Staz Hotel…

Insadong District

Insadong is the most suitable area for first-time Seoul travelers or those traveling with family because it is centrally located but not too noisy or crowded.

The cultural district in the heart of Seoul

• Advantages: Affordable prices, close to many famous attractions, diverse food options.
• Disadvantages: Limited nightlife activities.
• Price: 15000₩ - 40000₩ per person per night.
• Some suggested hotels: Junoh Hotel, Saerim Hotel, N285 Hotel, Yehadoye Hotel, Jongro Heritage 31 Hotel,...

Hongdae District

According to Seoul travel reviews, this area is more budget-friendly as it is close to Hongik University. Additionally, Hongdae is famous for its vibrant atmosphere with numerous shopping areas and restaurants for you to choose from.

The trendiest street in Seoul

• Advantages: Affordable prices, plenty of delicious eateries.
• Disadvantages: Quite far from popular attractions and crowded both day and night.
• Price: 8000₩ - 30000₩ per person per night.
• Some suggested hotels: Bobo Hotel, Cocoa Hotel, Sophie's House, BB Hongdae Hostel,...

Gangnam District

This is where the wealthy in South Korea reside, so here you'll find many luxurious hotels, expensive restaurants, and extremely upscale shops.

The most luxurious and expensive area in Seoul

• Advantages: Luxurious, high-quality service.
• Disadvantages: Far from Seoul's tourist attractions, expensive prices.
• Price: 30000₩ - 150000₩ per person per night.
• Some suggested hotels: Le Collective Seoul Hotel, Ananti Hotel, OCloud Hotel, Riviera Hotel,...

Itaewon District

Itaewon is a cultural melting pot where cultures from Asia to Europe intersect, and it's the liveliest entertainment area in Seoul, especially at night. This place is definitely suitable for young people who love excitement.

Itaewon district is famous in Seoul

• Advantages: Affordable prices, numerous delicious eateries.
• Disadvantages: This area is relatively small and noisy at night.
• Price: 10000₩ - 40000₩ per person per night.
• Some suggested hotels: Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel, Hause Itaewon Hotel, Jiwoljang Hotel,...

Transportation in Seoul

Transportation in South Korea is highly developed. Based on my experience traveling independently in Seoul, I recommend getting a T-Money card, which will help you pay conveniently and quickly when using public transportation in Seoul.

Subway

This is the most affordable and popular mode of transportation in Seoul, not only for tourists but also for the local residents. The subway system in Seoul can take you to anywhere in the city, just get off at the right station. It's a mode of transportation you should definitely try when visiting Seoul.

The subway is the most common mode of transportation in South Korea

• Operating hours: 5:30 AM - 1:30 AM every day of the week.
• Frequency: 3 - 5 minutes per train.
• Fare: Depends on the distance you travel, 1250₩ for the first 10km, 100₩ for each subsequent 5km, after 40km it's 100₩ for each additional 10km.

Bus

Another convenient public transportation option in Seoul is the public bus. Buses operate from 4:30 AM until 1:00 AM, with a new bus arriving every 10 - 15 minutes. There are four main types of buses in Seoul, categorized by color:

• Blue buses: Connect the central Seoul with suburban areas, usually on long routes.
• Green buses: Short routes, linking subway stations and residential areas.
• Yellow buses: Circulate around central Seoul, passing through shopping districts and popular tourist spots.
• Red buses: Operate on expressways between Seoul and urban areas (often chosen for trips to Suwon, Incheon, etc.).

Seoul buses are categorized into 4 main types

Taxi

If you're not keen on waiting, you can opt for taking a taxi to get around when visiting Seoul. While the fare might be slightly higher, using a taxi is the most convenient option as you'll be taken directly to your destination without having to wait or squeeze in.

Black taxis are usually more luxurious than the traditional orange taxis

Below are the fares for different types of taxis in Seoul for your reference:

• Regular taxi: 3000₩ for the first 2km, and 100₩ for every 142m thereafter.
• International taxi: 3600₩ for the first 2km, and 120₩ for every 142m thereafter.
• Deluxe and Jumbo taxis: 5000₩ for the first 3km, and 200₩ for every 164m thereafter.

Explore the most famous tourist destinations in Seoul

When traveling to Seoul, you definitely can't miss out on the famous attractions of South Korea here. So if you're still wondering what to do and where to go in Seoul, let me suggest a few places.

Namsan Tower

• Address: 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul.
• Opening hours:

• Ticket Prices:

Almost every traveler visiting Seoul will make a stop at Namsan Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the bustling cityscape when reaching the top. This tower is also known as the 'love tower' due to the numerous love locks hung here by couples wishing for a happy and lasting love. If you're traveling to Seoul with your loved one, you might want to experience this activity together.

Namsan Tower is often likened to the symbol of Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

• Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul.
• Opening Hours: Closed on Tuesdays.

• Ticket Prices:

The grandest royal palace in Korea - Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the must-visit tourist attractions in Seoul. Here, you'll not only admire the unique architecture and explore the traditional Korean culture but also capture stunning photos like no other. Don't forget to rent a Hanbok when you visit to enjoy free admission and take some amazing Instagram-worthy shots for your trip.

Gyeongbokgung Palace exudes grandeur

Bukchon Hanok Village

• Address: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul.
• Free admission.

Located near Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village is another famous spot to visit when exploring Seoul. The winding alleyways and traditional tiled-roof houses will surely evoke a nostalgic feeling like no other place can.

Bukchon Hanok Historic Village

Lotte World Amusement Park

• Address: 240 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul.
• Opening hours:

• Ticket price:

Lotte World, the amusement park not to be missed in Seoul, is the largest entertainment park in South Korea. Renowned for its plethora of thrilling rides suitable for adrenaline junkies, Lotte World is also a favorite spot for many to capture stunning photos. If you have spare time during your trip to Seoul, don't forget to visit this amusement park.

Myeongdong Shopping Street

• Address: Jung-gu, Seoul.
• Free admission.

To truly experience the vibrancy of Seoul, you should visit Myeongdong, a bustling district known as Korea's shopping paradise. Here, you'll find an abundance of fashion stores, cosmetics shops, and a variety of street food stalls offering culinary delights for every traveler to enjoy.

Delicious street food stalls in Myeongdong

What to eat when traveling to Seoul?

Korean cuisine, both in general and specifically in Seoul, is incredibly diverse. Whether it's fine dining restaurants or street-side eateries, each offers unique specialties and delicious flavors. If you're traveling to Seoul, you must try these dishes.

• Kimchi: A side dish commonly found in any restaurant, try various types of kimchi such as radish kimchi and green onion kimchi.
• Grilled samgyeopsal: Korean grilled pork belly with the fresh flavor of thinly sliced pork belly. For delicious and affordable grilled pork, visit Migang Sikdang in Jamsil-dong.
• Spicy rice cakes (tteokbokki): A signature Korean dish, try spicy rice cakes from street vendors in Seoul.
• Kimbap: The flavor of kimbap in Korea is sure to be delicious and unique compared to the sushi rolls you've tried in Vietnam. For incredibly delicious kimbap, try Seoho Kimbap in Seocho-gu.
• Bibimbap: You don't need to go all the way to Jeonju to find the best bibimbap. You can find the most delicious bibimbap right in Seoul. I recommend trying bibimbap at Jeonju Jungang restaurant in Myeongdong.
• Various types of Korean noodles: In Seoul, you can easily find delicious noodle shops. Don't forget to try cold noodles, black bean noodles, knife-cut noodles, and mixed noodles. One excellent noodle spot I recommend in Seoul is Eulmildae in Mapo district.

Definitely try Korean grilled pork when in Seoul

Suggested 4-day 3-night self-guided Seoul itinerary

Everyone will have their own itinerary when traveling, but if you're still unsure, take a look at my 4-day 3-night South Korea travel itinerary to see what I've done.

Day 1: Travel from Hanoi to Seoul, explore Dongdaemun Market

Complete airport procedures and travel to South Korea after about a 4-hour flight. You can consider booking an early flight to have more time for fun in Seoul. From Incheon International Airport to the city center of Seoul, it takes about 40 - 50 minutes. You can choose the subway for faster transportation.

Visit Dongdaemun Market in Seoul

In the afternoon, I visited Dongdaemun Market and tried some tteokbokki at a street vendor. From what I noticed, prices at these stalls ranged from 2500₩, just pick one that looks busy, and you'll surely enjoy it.

In the evening, I was recommended to try Wangbijib BBQ restaurant in Myeongdong. The samgyeopsal here is a bit pricey, with my total bill around 300000₩, but the quality is truly excellent.

Day 2: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Changdeok Palace, Royal Shrine Jongmyo

I'll spend a day exploring beautiful palaces in Seoul such as Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung along with the famous Bukchon Hanok Village. Because these locations are quite close to each other, it's easy to move between them. You can choose to take a bus, with fares around 3000₩ for transportation.

Don't forget to rent a lovely Hanbok to take photos at these historical sites. Near Gyeongbokgung, there are 2 Hanbok rental shops that are quite spacious and crowded, but personally, I found Hanboknam Bukchon Store to have more diverse designs and beautiful accompanying accessories. I rented a simple set for 15000₩/1.5 hours.

Explore the largest royal palace in South Korea

Day 3: Discover Lotte World

I spent the whole day enjoying at the largest amusement park in South Korea. I chose to travel to Lotte World Seoul by subway, which costs around 5000₩. You can take either line 2 (green) or line 8 (pink) to Jamsil Station, exit at gate 4, and follow the signs to the amusement park. It's not difficult to find at all. Alternatively, if you prefer convenience, you can take a taxi, but in my opinion, it will be quite expensive.

Experience thrilling rides at Lotte World Seoul

In the evening, upon returning, I'll head to the bustling district of Itaewon to immerse myself in its uniquely vibrant atmosphere. Being a melting pot of diverse cultures, Itaewon allows easy communication with people in English. When in Itaewon, I recommend trying black bean noodles or spicy seafood noodles. I had jjajangmyeon at Daehangak restaurant in the heart of Itaewon for about 10000₩ per person, and it was delicious.

Day 4: Shopping at Myeongdong, returning to Hanoi

On the final day of my Seoul trip, I'll go shopping in the famous Myeongdong district, buying some Korean souvenirs for my family and friends. Based on my experience traveling solo in Seoul, here are some souvenirs you should consider, both affordable and meaningful:

• Dried persimmons: Around 35000₩ per pound.
• Personalized wooden stamp: 35000₩ per stamp.
• Korean silk fan: 6000₩ each.
• Thanh Yen tea: Approximately 10000₩ per bottle.

After indulging in some satisfying shopping, it's back to the hotel to pack up and in the afternoon, I'll head to the airport to return to Hanoi.

Buying souvenirs in Myeongdong

Some tips for traveling in Seoul

To have the most fulfilling Seoul trip, pay attention to the following:

• In South Korea, the time is two hours ahead of Vietnam. Therefore, remember to adjust the time on your phone to avoid missing your return flight.
• If you want to admire cherry blossoms, visit Seoul in April; if you prefer snow, come here in December.
• Taxis in Seoul during the night or peak hours often have high fares. It's advisable to use public transportation to save some money.
• Choose a hotel in central Seoul for convenient access to tourist spots. From my experience in self-guided Seoul travel, Insadong is an excellent choice.
• Before traveling to Korea, exchange currency to easily spend during your Seoul trip.
• You can purchase a South Korean SIM card and T-Money transportation card at the Korean airport at reasonable prices.
• Always keep the phone number of the Vietnamese Embassy handy to handle any unforeseen circumstances. The address of the Vietnamese Embassy in Korea is 123 Bukchon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul; phone: +82-2-7205124.

Above are some tips from me for those planning to travel to Seoul in the near future. If you encounter difficulties in procedures, transportation, or sightseeing, then a tour to Korea at Mytour would be an ideal choice for you. I hope you have a fun and safe trip to the Land of Kimchi!

Author: Tuntun

Image Source: Internet