The Ultimate Solo Female Travel Guide for Your First Time in Seoul

Seoul has a special place in my heart, and I just had to create this epic solo female travel guide to Seoul for my fellow solo female travellers! This is your ultimate solo female travel guide! As a flight attendant, I’ve had the chance to visit Seoul many times, but in September 2022, I finally planned a two-week solo adventure through South Korea.

Seoul is a city that has it all—bustling streets, serene nature spots, and stunning hiking trails. Its vibrant blend of modern and traditional makes it perfect for solo exploration. But before you pack your bags, you should know a few things to ensure your trip is as smooth and carefree as possible.

In this solo female travel guide to Seoul, I’ll share everything you need to know for your solo journey so you can explore this fantastic city with confidence and ease. When writing this post, I’d probably been to Seoul over 15 times.

Is Seoul good for Solo travel

Seoul is great for solo travel! The best part about travelling solo to Seoul is the incredible sense of safety. South Korea is one of the safest countries for solo female travellers, similar to Singapore, Japan or Chiang Mai. From the moment I arrived, I never once felt uneasy.

I remember my first time in Seoul (2020), going out for drinks with co-workers; I was shocked to see people casually leaving their belongings—purses, iPhones—on tables without a second thought. Koreans truly respect each other’s belongings!

Seoul is a vibrant city, reminding me a bit of a low-key New York with its endless energy. Whether it’s the middle of the night or early morning, there’s always something to do—grab a bite to eat, explore cultural spots, visit museums, or check out trendy neighbourhoods.

The city offers so much for solo travellers, from cool coffee shops and outdoor gyms to hiking trails. Even something as simple as enjoying an iced coffee by the Han River while people-watching or reading a book is pure bliss.

Is Korea safe for a solo female traveller?

I believe Seoul and South Korea are great for solo female travel. South Korea is incredibly safe for women travelling alone! I’ve never felt uneasy walking the streets of Seoul, even late at night. In other countries, you might need to keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded places or on public transport, but that’s not something I’ve worried about in Seoul.

However, just because a country feels safe doesn’t mean you should let your guard down. There are bad people everywhere, including South Korea.

Generally, it’s wise to dress modestly and be mindful of local values. Consider your plans—revealing clothing is more acceptable if you’re going clubbing, while something more reserved might be appropriate for a family restaurant.

Ultimately, wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident while respecting local customs!

Public transport in Seoul

Public transport in Seoul is top-notch, making it perfect for solo travellers on a budget! The city’s bus and subway systems are efficient and incredibly affordable, so getting around is a breeze. You only need a transportation card and a handy app—don’t worry, I’ll cover the details later!

The train system is just as impressive, connecting the airport to Seoul and linking the city with other destinations. I hopped on the KTX bullet train from Seoul to Busan, a journey that took just 2.5 hours.

While the bullet train is not the cheapest option, if you plan ahead, the experience is totally worth it. Sitting back, gazing out the window, and taking in the beautiful South Korean landscape was relaxing. Whether you’re commuting within the city or taking a longer trip, Seoul’s public transport makes solo travel a breeze!

Where to stay in Seoul for solo female travel?

Myeondong 명동

Are you wondering where the best place to stay in Seoul is as a solo female traveller? You’ll want a central location, but maybe not right on a bustling street—we need our beauty sleep, after all!

Staying somewhere well-connected to a bus or subway station is convenient when using public transport. Trust me, you don’t want to drag your luggage around for half an hour to reach your hotel.

After researching various neighbourhoods, I chose to stay in Myeongdong. It’s smack in the middle of Seoul and has excellent public transport links. Myeongdong is a shopping hub with many shops, restaurants, street food stalls, and coffee spots.

It’s a fantastic area with lots to do, but remember that Myeongdong Street can get pretty busy in the evenings, especially on weekends.

One of my favourite things is the evening street food stalls! You can easily skip dinner one night and try out all kinds of delicious street food treats.

Hotel Thomas

If you’re looking for a simple, clean, and well-located hotel in Myeongdong, I highly recommend Hotel Thomas. I stayed there in September 2022 and would gladly stay there again!

Everything you need is just around the corner. The subway station is just a 5-minute walk away, and it’s just 10 minutes from Myeongdong Street. Plus, this area is much quieter than the bustling Myeongdong Street itself (located on the other side), so you can enjoy peaceful nights.

The hotel has its own coffee bar, but I suggest heading across the street to Koffee Sniffer for your morning caffeine fix!

Gangnam

Another great area with a prime location, excellent public transport connections, and plenty to do is Gangnam. Remember the famous viral Gangnam Style song? My personal favourite spot is near the Han River, close to Sinsa Station or Apgujeong.

This area feels more open and spacious compared to the narrow streets of Myeongdong. You’ll find tons of options for dining, shopping, and enjoying a night out. Apgujeong, in particular, is home to some of the city’s trendiest bars, restaurants, and shops!

While it might be a bit pricier, it’s definitely worth it.

Patio 7 Hotel

Patio 7 Hotel is a small, trendy design hotel in Gangnam. The rooms are on the smaller side but clean, with a private bathroom. I loved the set-up of the bed area!

The hotel has a wine shop and a wine bar where you can buy a bottle of wine or have a glass. It’s the perfect location for a wine lover, while staying in the convenience of everything Gangnam has to offer.

Bukchon

Bukchonae

Check out this place if you want to stay in a traditional Korean home! Unfortunately, it was already booked during my time there. But maybe you’ll be luckier! I hope to stay in a traditional hanok the next time I’m there!

Bukchonae has a fantastic location! Close to Buckchon Hanok Village, Insadong, Myeondong, and Gyeongbokgung Palace! You’ll be within a decent distance of many sights and plenty of coffee bars and restaurants!

This place looks so beautiful and has awesome reviews from other travellers! It’s worth paying a bit more for the unique Korean experience.

Things you need To travel in Seoul

T-Money Card

A T-Money Card is an absolute must-have when staying in Seoul—it will make your life so much easier! This handy card can be used for public transportation, taxis, and even in convenience stores—just look for the T-Money sign.

You can easily top it up with cash at any subway station ticket machine or convenience store. Just remember to have cash on hand for this, don’t ask me why. You an use your card to purchase the T-Money card, but you’ll need cash to top it up.

You can purchase a T-Money card at most convenience stores in Seoul, and it works in Busan too. While you can use it for small payments in stores or some taxis, I recommend saving your T-Money card primarily for public transport since credit cards are widely accepted for other purchases.

Naver app/ Kakao Maps

Be sure to download Naver Maps or Kakao Maps to navigate your way around Seoul—Google Maps just doesn’t cut it here. Naver Maps is especially great when it comes to navigating public transport and finding restaurants or attractions.

It even provides detailed subway info, like which exit to use or which car to board for the quickest line transfers. It’s a game-changer for getting around the city!

While Google Maps has worked a lot better since mid-2023, I find Naver app more useful!

Kakao Taxi

There was a time when Uber didn’t work in Seoul. But the last time I was there (September 2023), Uber did work to my surprise! I guess the influx of more tourists opened doors for Uber. However, I found getting a taxi sometimes took a long time.

As a backup, I would download the Kakao Taxi app. At first, it will look like you need a local credit card to order a taxi. But look for the payment option that says ‘pay to driver’. Then, you can order a taxi just like the Uber app and still use a credit card to pay when you get in the taxi.

Google Translate

Many places will have an English menu for travellers, but I found that the smaller places or places outside the main areas don’t. It can be a little intimidating to walk into a place where you don’t understand anything🥲

But Google Translate and specifically Google Lens will be your saviour! Especially the feature where you can scan a sign or a restaurant menu, which will then translate automatically! This feature is a lifesaver for every traveller!

The Google Translate app is essential because Korea still has a language barrier!

Discover Seoul Pass

The Discover Seoul Pass is exclusively for tourists! You can buy the pass for certain days, which lets you visit any sights that are included. This will save you money compared to buying all tickets separately.

The passes can be easily downloaded to your phone. A 48-hour pass costs about $60 and includes 65 free attractions. It’s a must if you want to save some money as a solo female traveller in Seoul.

things to do in Seoul

Bukchon Hanok Village

No visit to Seoul is complete without exploring Bukchon Hanok Village. Have you ever seen those stunning photos of Seoul with charming traditional houses and people dressed in beautiful hanboks? That’s Bukchon Hanok Village.

This historic village is a glimpse into South Korea’s past, showcasing traditional Korean houses, or hanoks, from 600 years ago. Wandering through its many alleys feels like stepping back in time. One day, I hope to return to Seoul and stay in a traditional hanok myself!

It’s easy to get lost in the maze of alleys, but if you’re looking for the perfect photo spot, head to the Bukchon Village Photo Spot (type that into Google). You can even rent a hanbok to wear while visiting Bukchon Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace.

There’s no entrance fee because it’s a residential area, so be mindful of noise. After exploring, treat yourself to an iced coffee or tea at E.Chae Coffee Pub, just down the main road. The place is charming, with a lovely courtyard, and they served the best iced lattes I had during my entire trip to Seoul!

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of Seoul’s largest and most iconic palaces—definitely worth a visit! It’s conveniently located near Myeongdong and Insadong, making walking from either area easy.

If you rent a traditional hanbok (Korean clothing from the Joseon dynasty) to wear while exploring the palace, you’ll even get free entrance. This way, you can turn your visit into an amazing photo shoot and have something epic to look back on.

Renting a hanbok and having a professional photo shoot at Gyeongbokgung Palace is a wonderful way to create lasting memories of your trip and take home some stunning photos!

It’s fantastic to see that you can wear traditional clothing without being accused of cultural appropriation. When walking around Bukchon Hanok Village, I overheard Koreans complimenting foreigners in hanboks on how beautiful they looked.

Even if you’re not wearing a hanbok, the palace is impressive. The entrance fee is only a few dollars, and exploring the palace yourself is easy.

Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market shot to fame after being featured on the Netflix series “Street Food: Asia,” and it’s worth a visit in Seoul. However, don’t expect a local, authentic street food market. Gwangjang Market is extremely touristy, but it still has an incredible variety of food to explore.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to try the fresh octopus—yes, it’s still wriggling on your plate! I decided to pass on that one, but there are plenty of other delicious options to try, like gimbap (Korean type of sushi), sundae (blood sausage), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), ramyeon, dumpling soup, hotteok and so much more.

The market can get extremely crowded during lunch hour, so plan accordingly. Many stalls offer set menus, allowing you to taste various dishes in one go.

Lately Gwangjang Market has gotten a bit of a negative image. Vendors are charging tourists higher prices and seem to think that tourists are meant to be exploited. It’s up to you how you feel about that.

While I did eat some good kimbap and sundae there (September 2022), I didn’t go back there again, as I feel that there are other places to get real and better food in Seoul! But for the first time a solo female travels to Seoul, it’s definitely fun to have at least a look.

Korean National War Museum

When visiting a new destination, I want to visit a good museum, preferably one with art and one with history. The Korean National War Museum is one of those museums you must see!

The museum tells all about the Korean War, a subject that I found very interesting to learn more about! The best thing is that the museum is free to visit (it is closed on Monday).

You can visit the museum in the morning and make a combination with Namsan Seoul Tower.

Han River

The Han River is the vibrant heart of Seoul, especially during the summer months. It’s where locals go to walk, run, bike, eat, and unwind. The riverbanks are dotted with outdoor gyms, open spaces perfect for picnics and BBQs, and plenty of benches to sit back and relax.

You’ll also find cafés and restaurants offering stunning views of the river. For an unforgettable sunset view, head to the Starbucks near Banpo Bridge. If you’re up for some exercise, rent a bike and ride along the Han River.

Biking to Banpo Bridge is a popular activity, and once there, grab some Korean Fried Chicken from one of the famous chicken places and ramyeon and beer from any convenience store —just like the locals do! They even sell picnic mats, so you’re all set for a riverside feast!

Don’t miss the evening light show at Banpo Bridge, a summer highlight that draws crowds to a perfect picnic spot by the river. Chicken and beer, or’ chimaek’ as Koreans like to call it, at Banpo Bridge is a must for a solo female traveller to experience the local Seoul vibe!

Korean cooking class

No solo female travel trip to Seoul is complete without a cooking class! There’s nothing better than indulging in the local cuisine and then learning how to recreate those dishes at home so you can relive your trip again. Korean food is incredible—we all love Korean Fried Chicken and BBQ, but why not take it a step further and learn how to cook authentic Korean dishes that will wow your friends back home?

In this highly-rated Korean Cooking Class and Market Tour, you’ll start by visiting a local market to pick up fresh ingredients and try some Korean street food. Then, you’ll learn how to cook four traditional dishes, and afterwards, you’ll enjoy them with various banchan (side dishes).

Or check out this cooking class, where you learn how to make kimchi with a traditional Kimchi chef. Did you know that kimchi has many health benefits, as it is full of probiotics?

Plus, cooking classes are a fantastic way to meet other travelers, making them perfect for exploring Seoul solo!

Hiking Inwangsan Peak

With Seoul’s many parks, hiking trails, and mountains, fitting in at least one hike is a must. It’s a fantastic way to burn some calories, and the views from the mountain trails are breathtaking.

Weekends can be hectic in the city, making them the perfect time to escape to the peace and quiet of the mountains, which is exactly what I did. I hiked up to Inwangsan Peak on a Saturday afternoon and was pleasantly surprised by how few people were around. Just be sure to pack some mosquito repellent and plenty of water!

Myeondong Skincare Shopping

If skincare and beauty shopping are your things, Myeongdong is your paradise. The streets are lined with beauty stores, one after another, offering so many products. Most shops run special promotions, so it’s worth taking a stroll before making any purchases.

You’ll often find great deals like 2-for-1 promotions or freebies with certain purchases. But beware—it’s easy to walk out with way more than you planned!

The sales staff can be a bit pushy, even after you’ve said no multiple times. Stand your ground and don’t feel pressured to buy more than you want. Some stores try to convince you to spend up to KRW 100,000 to get an immediate tax refund—it’s a bit of a scam. If you’re planning to spend that much, go for it! But if not, don’t let them push you into it.

If you don’t want to deal with pushy sales women, a visit to Olive Young’s flagship store is a must! Pay attention to the top-selling products, which will tell you what brands and products are popular among Korean women.

Starfield Library

Gangnam is another fantastic shopping destination, especially if you’re into luxury designer brands—this area is a dream come true! You’ll also find some of the trendiest bars, coffee spots, and restaurants, perfect for a more hip day out.

Gangnam is also home to the famous COEX Mall, where you’ll find the stunning Starfield Library. It’s impossible not to have seen that on social media! While the mall didn’t particularly stand out to me, the Starfield Library is incredible and a must-visit for those Instagram-worthy shots.

Recently, another Starfield Library opened in Suwon, located outside of Seoul. It’s bigger and people who have visited are extremely excited about it. If you’re into libraries, definitely look to visit since it’s easy to reach via public transport.

Photo Booths

One thing that’s sure to catch your eye in South Korea is the amount of photo booth studios. They’re not just limited to Seoul—I spotted plenty in Busan too!

These unmanned studios feature several photo booths, complete with fun props like bunny ears and quirky glasses to add a playful touch to your photos. Some booths are simple, while others offer a more professional setup.

Are you looking for a fun memory from your Seoul trip? Snap some hilarious shots in a photo booth! Hongdae is the perfect spot to do it, you’ll find the photo booths lining up every where. I feel it’s a typical thing to do in a solo female travel trip to Seoul.

Lotte World

Seoul has two must-visit theme parks, and Lotte World is the easiest to access since it’s right in Jamsil, Seoul. You can even hop on a direct subway line to get there, making it super convenient. If you’re a theme park enthusiast, Lotte World is a must-see.

A quirky tradition at Lotte World is renting a school uniform, no matter your age! Even if your school days are long behind you, dressing up in a uniform adds an extra layer of fun, especially if you’re into cosplay. It’s a playful way to make your day at Lotte World even more memorable!

Day trips from Seoul

Demilitarized Zone Border

South Korea is steeped in fascinating history, and while visiting the War Memorial Museum is a must, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the border between South Korea and North Korea.

This tour picks you up from your hotel and takes you to the DMZ, where you’ll delve into the history between the two countries and learn what led to the creation of this tense, iconic zone.

It’s one of the most intriguing tours you can take as a tourist. You’ll see landmarks like the Bridge of Freedom and explore the tunnels beneath the demilitarized zone.

If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of North Korea from the Dorasan Observatory! The tour starts early and lasts about half a day, with options to add a shooting range experience or a city tour.

This tour is an absolute must for anyone interested in South Korea’s culture and history!

Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm

Nami Island is a half-moon-shaped island with beautiful scenery, where many movies and K-dramas were filmed. The Garden of Morning Calm is a 300,000-meter garden with beautifully sculpted flowers, trees, and pathways. It’s a great day trip if you’re looking to escape the busy city!

What to visit after Seoul

So what can you do after visiting Seoul? I highly recommend taking a trip to Busan or Jeju Island! Check the weather for both destinations beforehand!

Busan

Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is a vibrant coastal destination. I took the bullet train from Seoul Station to Busan, though you can also choose to fly. I spent three days in Busan, and it quickly became one of my favourite spots! The city boasts three must-visit beaches: Songdo Beach, Gwanggalli Beach, and Haeundae Beach, each offering its own unique charm.

Jeju Island

Jeju Island is the ultimate weekend escape for Koreans! If you’re skipping Busan but still want some beach time, Jeju Island is the perfect alternative. With numerous flights available daily, getting there is a breeze. Once you arrive, renting a car is the best way to explore the island at your own pace.

Is Seoul budget-friendly?

Like any major city, Seoul can be as budget-friendly or as pricey as you make it. However, don’t expect the same low prices you’d find in countries like Thailand or Vietnam. That said, Seoul can be quite affordable if you know where to look.

While there are plenty of upscale bars, restaurants, and high-end BBQ spots that can quickly eat into your budget, sticking to street food, smaller eateries, local drinks (you’ve got to try makgeolli, a delicious Korean rice wine!), and the occasional convenience store breakfast or lunch can keep costs down.

Speaking of convenience stores, South Korea’s are on another level! You can find tasty food and drinks at budget-friendly prices, and if you’re a Seoul fan, you’ve probably seen all those viral reels showcasing Korean convenience store delights.

Your biggest expense will likely be accommodation, which, outside of the high season, averages around €80 per night for a simple double room with a private bathroom and air conditioning in Myeongdong.

Things to avoid in Seoul as a solo traveller

Weekends

Seoul can get incredibly busy, especially on weekends. Restaurants fill up quickly, and you might find yourself waiting in long queues since most places don’t take reservations. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the weekend is the perfect time to explore nearby destinations or enjoy a peaceful hike in the mountains.

Rush hour

Try to steer clear of public transport during rush hour in Seoul. While rush hour can be hectic in any big city, the subway in Seoul takes it to another level. It gets so crowded that if you have the option, it’s definitely worth travelling before or after peak times to avoid the crush.

Lunch break

Speaking of rush hour, it’s also smart to avoid going out for lunch during the typical lunch break. Everywhere gets crowded, from restaurants to even the tiniest coffee shops. Many people use their lunch hour to grab a bite or run errands, so you’ll immediately notice how busy it gets. Planning your meals outside of this time will save you from the lines.

The best time to visit Seoul

Be sure to choose your season carefully when planning a trip to Seoul! Winters are long and freezing, and summer in August is scorching hot and humid. I’ve travelled to Seoul in both December and August and I can confirm that the weather is no joke!

December was so cold that you could barely walk around, let alone be out sightseeing all day. Even a short visit to Myeongdong for some shopping left me freezing, even though I was dressed well for the cold winter weather.

August is the hottest month. It’s hot and extremely humid, which you really don’t want when sightseeing all day. I found it hard to breathe because of the heat.

July often brings heavy rainfall, with the city even experiencing floods in July 2022 due to intense downpours. An umbrella won’t save you here.

The ideal times to visit Seoul are spring and fall when you’ll most likely enjoy pleasant weather. If you’re lucky and plan well, you can see the cherry blossoms in spring or the fall foliage in October. These months offer the perfect balance for exploring the city comfortably.