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TripAdvisor, the world's largest travel platform, annually selects the best travel destinations based on reviews and opinions from travelers worldwide.
This year, Seoul, Korea, secured first place among the 25 destinations in the Solo Travel category.
Among the numerous countries and cities, Seoul stands out as a travel destination that appeals to many solo travelers!
Today, let’s explore Seoul and discover why it has been chosen as the top destination for solo travelers!
Let's begin😎
TripAdvisor has chosen Seoul as an exceptional travel destination for solo travelers due to its unique blend of history and modernity. In Seoul, you can find high-rise buildings behind palaces, or traditional markets next to dazzling shopping centers. As you explore Seoul, you'll experience a city that is both tranquil and energetic. It's a remarkable place where you can immerse yourself in both urban life and traditional culture simultaneously. Among the many attractions, we'd like to highlight a location where you can witness the coexistence of the past and present at a glance.
Despite its small size, Jogyesa Temple captivates visitors with its enigmatic presence and rich symbolism. Established in 1910, the temple features traditional architecture, including the prominent Daeungjeon Hall, Geungnakjeon Hall, and Gwaneumjeon Hall. What makes this historic site even more remarkable is its location in the heart of Jongno, Seoul. Amidst the surrounding high-rise buildings, stepping into Jogyesa Temple feels like a journey back in time. Even those who are not Buddhists often visit this serene place to seek rest, relaxation, or to wish for personal fulfillment. The white pine tree adjacent to Daeungjeon Hall is designated as a natural monument; it’s a unique specimen with a trunk that has shed its bark, giving it a striking white appearance. This tree is one of the few remaining white pines in Seoul, further enhancing the temple’s timeless charm and allure.
Address: 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Among the palaces located in the city center, TripAdvisor highlighted Changdeokgung Palace. They described it, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as an outstanding example of ancient architecture. Changdeokgung Palace was also recognized as one of the Best of the Best, ranking in the top 1% of the world’s facilities that received exceptional reviews from travelers globally. Changdeokgung Palace is situated nearby Gyeongbokgung Palace, making it an excellent destination for visitors to explore both sites. One unique feature of Changdeokgung Palace is its layout: unlike other palaces that are arranged in a symmetrical manner, the main gate and buildings are not aligned along a central axis. This design choice stems from the palace's adaptation to the natural terrain that extends from the mountain, in contrast to Gyeongbokgung Palace, which was constructed on flat land. As a result, the arrangement appears free-flowing rather than systematic; however, rather than feeling chaotic, visitors can appreciate the harmony created by the undulating landscape and the gentle curves of the surrounding hills.
Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul Work: Nov – Jan 9AM – 5:30PM
Feb – May, Sep, Oct 9AM – 6PM
Jun – Aug 9AM – 6:30PM
Have you ever felt uncomfortable traveling long distances alone? One reason Seoul is popular among solo travelers is its safe and convenient public transportation system. TripAdvisor has even rated Seoul’s subway system as the best in the world. With a well-organized route map and efficient operations, travelers can easily explore various destinations throughout the city. After midnight, night buses are available, allowing you to enjoy your travels late into the night. The intercity bus system is also well-developed, making day trips to nearby areas convenient. In particular, the short-term Climate Card has become a must-have for tourists, as it offers unlimited use of public transportation for a fixed price. This card is especially advantageous for traveling to Incheon Airport quickly and conveniently.
There are numerous beautiful and convenient travel destinations, but what makes Seoul particularly favored as a solo travel destination? The primary reason is that Seoul allows travelers to explore according to their own preferences. Reports indicate that 8 out of 10 foreign tourists who visit Korea enjoy independent travel without the assistance of a guide. Tourists have also evaluated the availability of detailed English guides at tourist attractions and on public transportation, as well as the city's safety, which alleviates concerns about traveling alone late at night. What other factors contribute to Seoul's appeal for solo travelers?
The trend of solo travel has been on the rise, yet accommodations often remain too large and expensive for individual travelers. However, Seoul is particularly well-suited for solo adventurers, offering urban homestays, shared accommodations, and traditional hanok stays, as evaluated by tourists. With a wide range of lodging options available, you can plan a trip that perfectly fits your needs. Select from locations with diverse infrastructure and convenient access, or opt for quieter neighborhoods frequented more by locals than tourists. Additionally, you can choose to stay in a private accommodation that reflects your personal style or in a guesthouse where you can enjoy spontaneous interactions with fellow travelers.
Traveling with a large amount of luggage can be quite challenging. Fortunately, Korea offers a variety of luggage delivery and storage services that are popular among travelers. You can safely leave your luggage for a while and explore freely, or you can have your bags delivered directly to your accommodation. This allows you to enjoy Seoul more fully without the burden of heavy luggage weighing you down! Additionally, if you need to take a taxi but are concerned about language barriers with the driver, a simple taxi-calling app can ensure that you reach your destination without any stress. Korea's convenient payment systems also alleviate the pressure on tourists, making it easier to manage unfamiliar bills and coins without panic. These various services in Seoul significantly enhance the comfort of solo travel!