Busan is a popular vacation spot even for Korean locals, so there are plenty of hotels around the city center. Notte La Mia was my hotel of choice, and I'd say it was the nicest place I stayed during the whole trip. It's a bit unfair to compare it to my other accommodations since Notte is a proper hotel while the rest were guesthouses and hostels, but regardless, it was a lovely stay with all the comforts you'd expect.

Located just a 5-minute walk from Busan Station, it was incredibly easy to plan day trips and navigate the city from Notte. The location is great, close enough to the lively main street, yet tucked away enough to stay fairly quiet at night.

As mentioned, Notte offers plenty of nice facilities, including a rooftop view, a bidet toilet (the only toilet on my trip where I could actually flush toilet paper), a 24-hour reception desk, daily room cleaning, and a buffet breakfast—though the breakfast was pretty lackluster in my opinion.

One small inconvenience is that Notte doesn't offer laundry service, but I was able to find coin-operated laundromats within a 10-minute walk.

Overall, Notte was a much needed relaxing stay in a room far bigger than I needed as a solo traveler. Aside from the buffet, I have no complaints and would happily stay there if I get the chance to visit Busan again.

This restaurant had a large variety of dishes and was only a short walk from my hotel. The soup I ordered was delicious and quite spicy. I had a cold at the time, and this dish definitely helped clear it up.

The only downside, as with many Korean restaurants, is that it's more suited for groups. The portion size of the dish I chose was far too much for one person, and I struggled to finish it. Other than that, it was a great place to eat, and the touchpad at my table made ordering super easy.

Tucked away among other restaurants and food stalls across from Busan Station is New Little India. I definitely came to Korea for Korean food, but that doesn't mean I don't miss a little Indian comfort food from time to time.

The restaurant had a nice atmosphere with Indian décor and a TV quietly playing an Indian show in the background. It was pretty empty when I walked in, and the waiter seemed a bit tired, but the food tasted good and I had no complaints.

If you're craving something different during your trip, I can recommend New Little India. The prices are a little on the higher side, but nothing extreme and still more affordable than most Indian restaurants I've tried in Australia.

The Somang Monorail is one of Busan's lesser-known tourist attractions but a rather unique one. The monorail was originally built for the residents of the houses along its path, so you need to give priority to locals if they're waiting. There are two separate monorails (one for the lower flight of stairs and one for the upper flight), each holding two people at a time and moving very slowly.

There's a legend about the Somang Stairs: a special rock once existed there that could grant wishes. Although the rock is gone, locals believe its powers still linger in the area. It's a charming and unique attraction, though the location doesn't offer much else besides the nearby Dakbatgol Culture Park.

Dakbatgol Culture Park is very close to the Somang Monorail, but exploring it involves a lot of stairs. The area felt a bit unkempt and deserted, but there are some cute artworks scattered around. The park also has an interesting story about the village well. According to legend, there was a time when water was scarce, and the well provided comfort and protection. After the well dried up, residents demolished it and built houses over it. Soon, misfortunes began, and a mountain god appeared at night, insisting the well be rebuilt. The villagers followed the decree and have lived in peace ever since.

Overall, both the Somang Monorail and Dakbatgol Park are charming to visit, but it's easy to see why they're not very popular. There aren't shops or food stalls nearby, and the monorail ride is very short. If you're looking for something unique, it's worth a visit, but if your time is limited, it's skippable.

Probably one of the most iconic attractions in Busan, the Gamcheon Culture Village is a colourful and artistic area filled with paintings, artworks, and unique buildings. It's a spot almost every tourist visits, and for good reason. The views are stunning, and discovering hidden artworks throughout the village can be a fun personal game. There's plenty to see, including cafés, souvenir shops, and more.

I wish I'd spent a bit more time strolling around to really take it all in, but the crowds at Gamcheon can get quite intense for such a popular destination. There are so many photo spots you'll be spoilt for choice! From posing with statues and large signs to romantic locations, make sure to bring your best camera. There's even a mural dedicated to KPop stars Jungkook and Jimin, who grew up in Gamcheon.

While it's not as steep as some other places in Korea, stairs are still numerous in the village, especially the “Stairs to See Stars,” named for the exhaustion from climbing them. You'll find lots of quirky attractions like this throughout Gamcheon, and you could easily spend a few hours exploring and enjoying the beautiful views.

Songdo Sky Park is a lovely attraction along Busan's coastline, offering great views of the city. There are several things to do here, including the sky park itself, which features a long-distance cable car gliding over Busan Bay.

Nearby parklands are available to explore, though I didn't have the chance to,I'm sure they'd be a pleasant experience. At the sky park, there are food stalls, a rooftop area with art installations, and wide coastal views, including the cable cars in motion.

There's also a suspension bridge you can walk across for even better views, though it was closed during my visit due to windy weather.

There's plenty to see and do in this area, and you could easily spend a few hours taking it all in at a relaxed pace. I also walked along the Amnam Park cliff walk, just five minutes from Songdo Park, which leads to Songdo Beach that is perfect for relaxing by the seaside.

I may have a slight obsession with towers, considering how many I visited on this trip. Busan Tower stands tall on the city skyline and can be seen from many viewpoints around the city. The tower itself is fairly simple, with just one observation floor that only takes a few minutes to walk through.

However, the parklands surrounding the tower are worth exploring, featuring traditional buildings, statues, and occasionally a local market or event. While the tower was one of the less exciting ones I visited, the area offers a peaceful stroll and is within walking distance of the popular BFF Street and Jagalchi Markets.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is a coastal temple about an hour by bus from central Busan. It's a popular tourist spot, so if you want to avoid crowds, I recommend arriving as early as possible. The temple grounds don't take long to explore. You can probably see everything in 30-60 minutes.

At the entrance, you'll find a few souvenir and food stalls. Walking further in, you'll come across statues of the Korean zodiac animals which are a great photo opportunity where you can pose next to your own sign!

Beyond the zodiac statues, you'll reach the main temple, which offers a stunning view. Unlike most temples tucked away in the mountains, Haedong Yonggungsa sits right by the ocean. You can feel the sea breeze and watch waves crash against the rocky shore.

Because it's a bit far from central Busan, I wouldn't necessarily recommend it if you're not into temples or photography. But if you have the time, it's a relaxing experience. Nearby, Lotte World Busan and the Skyline Luge are just a 10-minute walk away for a more adventurous outing.

Easily one of the highlights of my trip to Korea was the Haeundae Blueline Sky Capsules. It's a well-known attraction that can sell out quickly. While it may seem overhyped, I found it genuinely impressive, with stunning views of the ocean and Haeundae as you slowly glide along the cliffside.

There are two types of trains in Blueline Park: the main sky capsules and a more traditional train that travels along the ground next to the capsules. Both offer a nice experience, but the sky capsules make it feel truly special. For the sky capsule, you get your own private capsule to enjoy the Haeundae coastline. The ride is slow and takes about 20 minutes, making it especially romantic for couples, particularly during the popular sunset time slots.

I chose to ride the sky capsules from Cheongsapo Station to Mipo Station, which I'd recommend as the better direction. Approaching Haeundae provides a fantastic view and a great introduction to the area, where you can explore many other attractions.

As mentioned, this is a very popular attraction, so tickets sell out fast. It's also worth noting that even if you ride alone, you must purchase tickets for a minimum of two people. I bought my tickets online through Get Your Guide, and redeeming them at the station was straightforward.

Busan X The SKY is another tall skyscraper you can visit, reaching up to the 100th floor. I'd say this is one of the better tower experiences I had in Korea, with plenty of large windows for viewing, a few art exhibits, a café, and live music to enjoy while taking in the scenery.

From Busan X The SKY, you can overlook the popular Haeundae Beach and surrounding areas. While it's not huge, you could easily spend 20-30 minutes exploring, or longer if you stop for a coffee at the café.

The Haeundae River Cruise, located in APEC Naru Park, offers a roughly one-hour ride near Gwangan Bridge before returning to the park. This cruise wasn't part of my original plans, but after a busy morning in Haeundae, I wanted a relaxing evening activity. It was a great choice and I enjoyed the cruise near sunset, with beautiful orange-hued skies and calm waters.

Haeundae River Cruise offers different types of trips depending on the time of day. I was lucky that my cruise included small fireworks, set off by our boat and others in the bay, creating an electrifying atmosphere. If I hadn't been traveling alone, I think this cruise would have been a very romantic experience. Tickets were also reasonably priced.

While not as popular or iconic as Gamcheon Culture Village, Huinnyeoul Culture Village has its own charm and a different vibe. The village sits right along the coastline, featuring a narrow pathway lined with little shops and cafés that stretch the entire path.

It was a very hot day when I visited, so I didn't spend as much time as I'd have liked, but it was still a pleasant place with plenty of photo opportunities and cute murals.

Among the many cafés and ice cream shops, I visited The Lazy Cat Café, run by a friendly elderly lady. The ice cream was delicious, and the café had surprisingly ample space, with stairs that allow you to enjoy the calm breeze and ocean view while relaxing.

Huinnyeoul Village is much quieter than Gamcheon but still offers great views and charming shops for gifts. While it may not surpass Gamcheon, it's worth a visit, especially with other attractions nearby on the island.

Taejongdae Park is a large forested area with several landmarks to explore. While you can walk through the entire park, I opted for the shuttle bus available for a small fee since it was a hot day and I wasn't keen on walking more hills.

The park is a great spot for coastal views and visiting Taejongsa Temple. The highlight, however, is the Yeongdo Lighthouse at the southernmost point, offering a serene view of the ocean with boats and jet skis passing by.

Taejongsa Temple itself wasn't particularly impressive from what I could see, so it's skippable if you're short on time. Honestly, the lighthouse is the main landmark worth visiting, though there are other walking trails and sights to explore if you choose to walk through the park instead of taking the shuttle.

I seemed to get lucky on my trip and witnessed a few rare events. Yeongdo Bridge was one of these moments that I hadn't planned on seeing it but happened to stumble across. On my way to Lotte Department Store, I noticed a large crowd gathering near the bridge. With some time to spare, I decided to wait and see what was happening. To my surprise, Yeongdo Bridge is actually a drawbridge, with a large lifting section decorated with a bird mural.

Crowds filled the street to watch it slowly rise, taking photos and selfies with the bridge. It was an interesting experience, and I'm glad I got to see it. The bridge rises very slowly, taking about 5-10 minutes to fully lift and it's truly a sight to behold. Don't worry if you miss it, though; apparently, it only raises once a day or once a week around 2 PM.

Lotte is a popular brand found all over Korea. Their department stores are massive complexes featuring many shops and food stalls, usually on the higher-end side. You'll find stores like UNIQLO, Ralph Lauren, Levi's, and more. It's easy to spend hours exploring everything Lotte Department Store has to offer.

It's worth a visit if you want to do some clothes shopping or browse home décor stores. The Lotte store in Busan also has a nice rooftop area with great views of the city.

Originally a district known for electronic repairs and parts, Jeonpo reinvented itself when younger generations started opening trendy and unique cafes in the area. Unfortunately, I visited the area too early, so most shops and cafes were closed. But from my short walk through the area, it seems like a place worth checking out if you want to explore some cafes and restaurants in a place where the youth of Busan enjoy hanging out.

At AHA Stay, I initially booked a Single Room with Shower, but it seems I was actually given a Double Room with Private Bathroom. I'm not sure if this was intentional, but compared to the single room, it was a significant upgrade, so I was happy with it either way.

AHA Stay is centrally located in Gyeongju, making it easy to visit major attractions like the famous tombs, Cheomseongdae Observatory, and the lively Hwangnidan-gil Street.

The facilities were nice, including daily room cleaning, a well-kept bathroom (though the shower isn't enclosed), and friendly staff who appeared to be a family running the hostel together.

The only minor inconvenience is that there's no elevator, which can be tricky with heavy luggage. A large flight of stairs greets you right at the entrance before you even reach reception. On the plus side, the staff will hold your luggage before and after check-in so you can explore the city hands-free.

Another small quirk was the language barrier. I initially asked about laundry service, and while the receptionist seemed to understand, my laundry wasn't done when I checked later. Thankfully, another staff member understood and showed me how to use the onsite machine. There's only one machine, so you may need to wait if it's in use.

A simple breakfast is provided. I didn't try it, but it appeared to include toast, boiled eggs, fruit, and possibly cereal. Guests are expected to wash their own dishes in the adjacent kitchen.

Overall, it was a pleasant stay with minimal issues. The main improvement I'd suggest is installing an elevator for easier luggage handling.

This was a very interesting restaurant where you can customize your own bowl of noodles. It was a bit challenging for me as a foreigner since the staff didn't speak English, but I managed to make it work.

The restaurant offers a good selection of vegetables, meats, and noodles to choose from. Once you've picked your ingredients, you hand the bowl to a staff member, let them know how spicy you want it, and they prepare your meal. When it's ready, you get a hot bowl of noodles and soup to enjoy.

I really enjoyed the soup, though my limited Korean meant I didn't choose the ingredients I personally prefer. That said, it wasn't the restaurant's fault and it was still a great experience.

Along the bustling Hwangnidan-gil Street, I found a lovely restaurant where you can enjoy traditional meals cooked right in front of you. The staff were friendly, especially the chef near me, who kept an eye out in case I needed any help.

You can choose from a variety of well presented dishes, particularly the sushi and sashimi, which are prepared right in front of you if you sit at the bar seating area, as I did.

One thing to note is that, being on Hwangnidan-gil Street, the restaurant can get quite busy. When it's crowded, you need to write your name on a list inside and wait outside. If your name isn't on the list, you could end up waiting a long time, or not get in at all. Take my advice: make sure to write your name down; I would have missed it if I hadn't noticed a local doing so.

My only minor complaint was that the rice bowl I ordered had more spring beans than rice and meat, but it was still delicious, so it wasn't a big issue.

Also located on Hwangnidan-gil Street is a cute little ice cream shop called Frozen Bride. While the name might sound dark and mysterious, the shop itself is charming, with ice cream scoops decorated into cute animal faces using various toppings. It's a fun little stop along the busy street and would surely be a hit with kids, who can choose from a list of animals to feature in their ice cream.

Hwangnidan-gil Street is a popular area in Gyeongju, lined with street food vendors, charming variety stores, and hidden traditional restaurants.

This street is a favorite hangout for many young locals and comes alive in the afternoon and evening. While there aren't major sights, there are plenty of small shops to explore, offering cute trinkets and unique items. You'll also find clothing stores, photobooths, and the popular Acorn Caricature shop, where you can get your portrait drawn in just minutes.

The Silla Dynasty Tombs Information Center is a small but informative building that provides details about the tombs in the surrounding area of Gyeongju. You may notice the large mounds of earth around the city. They're not just dirt piles, but carefully constructed and maintained tombs dating back to the Silla Dynasty, a period when Korea was divided into kingdoms.

Exploring the exhibits doesn't take long, but they provide excellent insights into that ancient era. Admission is very affordable, and if you're visiting Gyeongju with an interest in Korean culture and history, this is a great starting point. You can also visit the nearby tombs and Hwangnidan-gil Street afterwards.

The Daereungwon Tomb Complex is a fascinating site where you can actually go inside one of Gyeongju's real burial tombs. It includes a cross-section of the tomb, allowing you to see the different layers used in its construction. The tomb also displays a few historical artifacts. Although it is a small exhibit, you'll likely spend around 10–15 minutes exploring it.

The Cheomseongdae Observatory is an iconic landmark of Gyeongju, often featured in the city's marketing and branding. Personally, I didn't find it particularly interesting. It was raining when I visited, which made the experience even less enjoyable. While the history of the observatory is fascinating, the structure itself is small and doesn't offer much to see, aside from the chance to take a photo as proof of your visit.

Although the observatory may be underwhelming, the surrounding gardens and scenery are peaceful and pleasant to walk through. You'll also be within walking distance of Woljeonggyo Bridge and Donggung Palace, two other popular landmarks.

The Woljeonggyo Bridge is a popular tourist spot, reconstructed to replicate designs from the Silla Dynasty era. It's also a great photo opportunity, with its tunnel of wooden pillars creating striking scenes.

When I visited, it was raining, and the bridge provided one of the few sheltered spots. It was a calming experience to hear the rain patter while looking out from the bridge.

There isn't much else to see, but if you're visiting Cheomseongdae Observatory, it's worth a stop since it's just a short walk away.

Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond are major attractions in Gyeongju. It's a peaceful area with a beautiful pond and scenic surroundings. Like many spots in Gyeongju, there isn't much to do at the palace itself, but it's a great photo opportunity and looks stunning when lit up at night.

Unfortunately, I only visited during the daytime, and it was rainy, so my experience was a bit limited. Still, it was a pleasant visit, and I managed to take some nice photos.

I visited Bulguksa Temple as part of a small group tour from Gyeongju. My tour guide was a lovely retiree who had lived in Gyeongju most of his life. While he didn't speak much English, he shared plenty of information using a translation app. If you'd like to book the same tour, you can find it on Viator: Guided Car Tour in Gyeongju with a Local Guide. Unfortunately, the weather was extremely bad on my tour day, which was disappointing for both me and the guide. Despite that, he was friendly and helpful throughout, and I would 100% recommend his tour—just avoid visiting during Chuseok holidays like I did.

As for Bulguksa Temple itself, my thoughts are similar to most other temples and palaces in Korea. They're beautiful to walk through and admire, but as a tourist, there isn't much to actively do. The Chuseok holidays and rain made it quite crowded, as people sought shelter. There were, however, a few local food stalls outside the temple, which were great for a quick snack.

The Gyeongju National Museum was also part of my day tour. Although the weather wasn't ideal, the museum was a fascinating place to explore. It houses hundreds of artifacts spanning thousands of years, with several large rooms dedicated to different themes and eras. There's plenty to learn here.

Unfortunately, time and weather limited my visit, and I didn't get to see the other buildings around the main museum. There's enough to explore for at least an hour, and possibly two if you take your time.

Finding a good, affordable hotel on Jeju Island was challenging, as many had negative reviews about outdated buildings and other issues. In the end, I chose The Jade Hotel, and I'm glad I did. While some areas of the building look a bit outdated, it was a lovely place to stay, conveniently close to attractions like Dongmun Traditional Market, Black Port Street, and just a 15-minute drive from the airport.

The Jade Hotel also has a bar on the ground floor, offering a cool atmosphere for a drink. I didn't have time to visit, but it seemed like a great addition, keeping the hotel lively late into the night, unlike some accommodations that feel deserted after hours.

As with most of my solo stays in Korea, the room was small but manageable since I traveled light. It was still larger than my room at Look Home Guesthouse.

One downside was a faulty air conditioning unit that made loud noises at random times. I turned it off while sleeping to avoid being disturbed. I didn't check with reception, but I hope other rooms don't have this issue. The mini fridge also emitted a subtle hum, which I unplugged to sleep more comfortably.

Overall, The Jade Hotel was a fine place to stay, and I'd gladly return if the noise issues were fixed.

As a solo traveler, getting a table at Korean BBQ can be tricky since it's usually geared toward groups. Luckily, I made some friends on a day tour around Jeju Island. After the tour, we visited Black Pork Street, recommended by our guide, which is a popular spot for KBBQ.

This quirky street features black pig statues and is lined with KBBQ restaurants. We ended up at 흑돼지거리 탑돈 for our meal.

It was a fun experience, with each table having a staff member to help cook the meat. You also get a generous array of complimentary side dishes, including radish, kimchi, cabbage, and more. If you're visiting Jeju and not traveling alone, Black Pork Street is a great spot for an authentic KBBQ experience.

While Baskin Robbins isn't a traditional Korean dessert shop, the 27 Cubes Party ice cream is definitely worth mentioning as a unique Korean treat.

Admittedly, I was pretty foolish for wanting to try it. As the name suggests, it's meant for parties. Luckily, my new friend from Jeju Island helped me tackle it, but even together, we couldn't finish it! Still, it was worth the icecream overload and the probable curious looks from staff as we attempted to eat a party-sized dessert by ourselves.

It was a fun, unique, and memorable experience. The ice cream was delicious, though overwhelming. The 27 Cubes consist of 27 icecream cubes featuring nine different flavors spread across layers, separated by chocolate slabs to keep them in place. It's an indulgence I rarely experience, but I highly recommend trying it if you get the chance. Ideally with a few friends so you can actually finish it.

If you prefer fewer flavors, there's also a chocolate-only version, but the colorful cube is far more interesting and flavorful.

Dongmun Market is a lively and bustling night market on Jeju Island, filled with shops and food stalls offering local cuisine. You'll also find plenty of tangerine-themed treats and products, as Jeju is famous for its tangerine produce.

There isn't much seating available, so keep that in mind if you plan to buy lots of snacks. The market also sells fresh produce, including fish and other seafood, which locals frequently come to purchase.

Since I was only visiting Jeju for a couple of days, I opted for day trips to fit in as much as possible. My first stop was Mt. Halla, one of the highest mountains on the island. Unfortunately, our tour didn't capture the height or majesty of the mountain, as we only walked through some wetlands before moving on. I believe hiking up the mountain would provide a much better experience with amazing views.

If I get the chance to revisit Jeju, hiking Mt. Halla will definitely be on my list.

Jusangjeolli Cliff was the next stop on my day tour of southwest Jeju. While it wasn't particularly spectacular, it offered nice cliffside views and unique hexagonal rock formations along the shore, created by molten lava as it cooled.

If this stop weren't included in my tour, I might have skipped it. There isn't much else to do in the area, and while the views are pleasant, similar sights can be found elsewhere on this beautiful island.

There is an entrance fee to the park, but it was covered by my tour guide.

Cheongjeyeon Waterfalls was the third stop on my southwest tour. It's a large area with three waterfalls and a few other structures, including a decorated bridge and nearby temples.

On my tour, we only visited two of the waterfalls. You can't get very close to the falls, and swimming isn't allowed like it often is in Australia. Be aware that there are quite a few stairs to reach each waterfall. While the waterfalls are lovely, I wouldn't recommend visiting this stop unless you have other plans nearby.

The fourth stop on my day tour was O'Sulloc Green Tea Fields, where you can enjoy green tea or desserts like green tea icecream. You can sample different teas and explore the tea fields for some cute photo opportunities. The Innisfree House is also on-site, showcasing unique cosmetics in a clean, modern space.

It was one of the nicer stops on my southwest tour and a welcome break from lots of walking. You can stroll around the grounds, which feature sculptures and other landmarks. There's even an observation floor to overlook the fields, though I didn't get a chance to visit it.

The fifth stop on my tour was Songaksan Mountain, which offered breathtaking scenery to walk along. Our tour guide explained how the mountains were used during the Japanese invasion, with remnants in the form of man-made caves scattered around the area.

Although I couldn't spend as much time there as I'd have liked, Songaksan Mountain was very pleasant and memorable. With more time, you can explore a longer trail or simply relax by the shore taking in the views. There are also shops and cafes nearby if you want to grab something.

My final stop on the southwest tour was Bomunsa Temple, a beautiful temple near a towering mountain with stunning ocean views. The area has several temples and shrines to explore, offering plenty of photo opportunities with statues, the mountain, and the coastline. There are quite a few stairs, and we didn't even get to see the entire area. It was a great way to end the tour, seeing amazing sights, making new friends, and experiencing the best of Jeju Island.

A big shoutout to my tour guide, Zin from Yeha Tours, who made the tour much more engaging and helped everyone feel comfortable while fostering friendships.

The next day on Jeju Island, I joined the same company for a tour of the east side of the island. Our first stop was Micheon Cave, formed by volcanic activity and lava. While not as famous as Manjanggul Cave, the largest and most impressive lava cave on Jeju, currently closed for maintenance. Micheon Cave was still worth a visit.

Stepping inside Micheon Cave was both cool figuratively and literally, as the temperature dropped significantly compared to the hot day outside. The cave isn't very large and can be walked through in 5-10 minutes, but it's an interesting spot to explore.

Outside the cave, there are gardens and minor attractions, though I didn't have time to see them all due to tour constraints. Micheon Cave is a neat stop, but I wouldn't rank it highly as there isn't much to do beyond walking through and enjoying the sights.

Seongeup Folk Village was the second stop on my east tour. The village recreates traditional Jeju life, showing how locals have lived—and in some cases, still live. It's quite interesting, with lovely garden grounds to stroll through. During our tour, we also enjoyed a Korean BBQ at the village, which was delicious and more than enough food for our entire group.

One of the main attractions on Jeju Island is the Women Divers, a group of women who have preserved the tradition of free diving to harvest sea creatures. It's an impressive and demanding job that requires intense training and endurance to dive deep underwater for several minutes at a time. Though it's not highly paid, they continue this practice to honor the history and culture of their tradition.

The Women Diver Show I attended was delightful, with the divers dressed in traditional suits, dancing and singing a song (likely only for tourists) but still fun to watch. They then donned their diving masks and swam out to search for sea creatures. While visibility was limited after that point, it was still a fascinating experience.

The show attracts large crowds, with people lining the cliffside and stairs leading down to the shore where the divers perform. If you're doing a day tour, this is a great choice, especially as it's right next to Mount Songaksan.

Jeju Island, shaped by volcanic activity, is home to many unique natural features, and Seongsan Ilchulbong is one of the most striking. A 20-30 minute climb up the stairs leads to its distinctive crater-like peak, filled with lush greenery.

There is a small fee to enter the trail, which was covered by my tour. The climb is mostly stairs, with a few rest points, so your legs will definitely feel the effort by the time you reach the top.

The views are spectacular, offering a panorama of the surrounding landscape and the town below. While challenging, reaching the summit in 20 minutes feels like a real accomplishment.

After your climb, make sure to stop by the food stalls at the base for some tangerine or peanut ice cream as a perfect way to cool down and enjoy the local flavours.

The final stop of my east tour of Jeju Island was Hamdeok Beach. If you're looking for a relaxing spot to unwind, this is one of the best on the island. The atmosphere is calm, there are plenty of nearby restaurants, and it's especially beautiful near sunset. You can enjoy a pleasant walk along the coastline, with a longer trail extending into the cliffside.

You might even spot a few brides and grooms taking wedding photos at this picturesque location. While the sand isn't as soft as what I've experienced in Australia, the beach is spacious, and many people enjoy spending time in the sun.

This made for a perfect final stop on the day tour, and I decided to linger a bit longer instead of heading straight back on the tour bus.

Look Home Guesthouse was my first stay in Korea, located on the edge of Myeongdong. It's just a short walk to the N Seoul Tower and cable car, as well as the bustling center of Myeongdong with its lively nightlife, street markets, and entertainment.

The guesthouse is clean but fairly compact—perfectly fine for solo travelers but might feel cramped for others. Complimentary items include bottled water, a mini fridge, a hairdryer, and small towels.

As with many Korean accommodations, you can't flush toilet paper; a small bin is provided instead. Ventilation is limited, so I kept the air conditioning on to stay comfortable.

Rooms aren't cleaned daily unless requested, which wasn't an issue for my short stay. Despite being near the toilet, there were no unpleasant smells or issues.

Staff were friendly and responsive via WhatsApp, even after hours. The room had all the essentials, and I'm confident the staff could assist with trip planning if needed.

Honesty Station was a slightly odd stay. It's fully self-serve with no on-site staff, located next to a car repair shop and far from major attractions or restaurants. The lack of an elevator made carrying luggage inconvenient, though it was quiet for sleeping.

On a positive note, my room was clean, secure with keypad entry, and had a nice street view. However, the price felt only slightly lower than other hotels that offered more customer service, making it hard to justify.

Overall, it wasn't terrible, but I'd likely avoid returning due to the lack of staff and limited conveniences.

Sechawan was one of the few cafes open early in Seoul, making it a perfect stop for breakfast. The cafe has a small kiosk for ordering and a limited menu, but it's ideal for a proper morning meal before starting the day.

Early in the morning, the staff seemed to be having breakfast themselves, giving the cafe a cozy, homey vibe. It felt casual and welcoming, with staff chatting like close friends.

This quaint cafe near Heunginjimun Park had a charming upstairs seating area and friendly staff. I had a sandwich that was tasty but served cold—I would have preferred it warm or toasted.

Despite that, the cafe was delightful, offering a variety of baked goods and a cozy European-style atmosphere.

In the busy streets of Myeongdong, there's a charming little restaurant serving some spicy Korean noodles. Wokaholix is an Asian fusion spot featuring a variety of fried meats and noodles.

The place has a fun neon vibe, and the food was delicious as well. It was quiet, though, which I think is because most people head to the street food stalls at night in Myeongdong.

A large shopping center opposite the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza features numerous shops and restaurants. On the lower floor, you'll find a spacious food court offering a wide variety of foods and drinks.

Two Two Chicken was my chance to try Korean Fried Chicken, and it didn't disappoint! I got a full plate of both regular and spicy fried chicken to enjoy. Unfortunately, as a solo traveler, the restaurant seemed more geared toward groups, as the seating and atmosphere felt like an after-work spot to grab beers and chicken. The portion size was quite large for just me, but I enjoyed it nonetheless and left feeling stuffed.

The staff were friendly, and with a call button at my table, I could easily summon someone to take my order or answer questions. There seemed to be plenty of staff, so there was always someone ready to help if needed.

Right outside Changdeokgung Palace, a charming small pizza restaurant offers a peaceful view of the palace grounds along with some tasty handmade pizzas. While the menu was fairly small, the restaurant was especially nice during my visit, as it gave me a chance to escape the rainy day I was having.

Easily one of my best dining experiences in Korea; Hongojib is a dream come true for solo travelers. Korean BBQ where you can eat alone!

Once you're seated, you're greeted with a small grill and a tablet to order whatever you like. For your first order, you must get at least 150g of meat. I'd suggest starting with a set meal, as they all include the minimum amount. From there, you can add as much meat and as many side dishes as you like.

It's a great experience to enjoy KBBQ on your own, at your own pace, with as much food as you want. You may be seated close to others, but that wasn't an issue for me and you might even make some new friends that way.

The meats all tasted fantastic so I didn't even need extra soy sauce. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience that I wish were more widely available in Korea or even back home in Australia.

N Seoul Tower is one of Seoul's most iconic landmarks. It rises above the city and can be seen from many viewpoints around Seoul. You can either walk or take the Namsan Cable Car to the base of the tower for a reasonable ticket price.

The tower area features some nice restaurants, and you'll notice many "love locks" left by couples wanting to commemorate their relationships at N Seoul Tower.

The tower is also surrounded by lush greenery and historical structures, including parts of the Seoul City Wall. After visiting N Seoul Tower, you can stroll down to the botanical gardens at the south end of the Namsan area. The path isn't well defined and can be a bit of a hike for those less fit, but it's manageable.

N Seoul Tower is a must-see in Seoul. It offers a peaceful experience with stunning views of the city.

Leerum Museum is an art and culture museum run by the Samsung Foundation. It features various sections, each with its own theme, including modern art, historical artifacts, and abstract works.

While it might not appeal to everyone, it was a cool experience for me. With the help of headphones and an interactive app, I could receive information about different artworks simply by standing near them. You can spend as long as you like at each exhibit, but I'd say a typical visit takes around 30–60 minutes.

There aren't any interactive exhibits, to my disappointment, but the highlight of the museum is definitely the opportunity to view many historical artifacts preserved in excellent condition.

Heunginjimun Park is a great spot to relax and escape the bustling streets for a moment while still in Seoul. It's also where you can walk along the Seoul City Wall and visit the accompanying museum (free entry), which explains how the wall was built, its history, and how it has changed over time.

If you decide to walk the wall trail, it can be a bit steep at times, but the views are worth it. There are a few benches and rest areas along the trail, so it's manageable.

If you go far enough, you'll reach Naksan Park, which features several areas and observation squares. It's a lovely nature walk along well-maintained trails.

For the really adventurous, this trail can be extended to span the entire outskirts of central Seoul, as the wall originally served as the city's defensive barrier. Along the way, you'll pass many gates of the Seoul City Wall, with Heunginjimun Gate being the closest, just across the road from Heunginjimun Park.

Starting from Dongdaemun Design Plaza, you can get a ticket for the Seoul City Tour Bus. This allows you to see some of Seoul's sights from the comfort of a bus. You can even hop off and return to the bus later at various stops, making it an easy way to travel between major landmarks.

Disappointingly, there didn't seem to be an audio guide for the tour, at least not in English, which I felt was a missed opportunity to fully enjoy the sights.

I'd say this is a good option for those who want to see some sights quickly, rest their legs, or escape rainy weather while still experiencing Seoul. While it isn't a must-do attraction, its proximity to DDP makes it an easy choice if you have some time to spare.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a popular attraction for tourists. With its futuristic architecture, it's really cool to walk through the giant structure and explore the various art exhibits and events happening in the plaza.

There's no entry fee if you just want to walk around the building, and some areas inside are free as well. However, certain exhibits do require a ticket. I didn't worry about that and still enjoyed my time at DDP. There was so much to see that I'm not sure I explored everything.

While I visited during the daytime, the DDP transforms into a mesmerizing light show at night, with the entire building illuminated. If I had more time, I would have loved to see it.

It's also worth noting that many shopping malls surround DDP, so if you have time to spare, you can easily spend hours walking around, shopping, and enjoying some tasty food.

Gyeongbokgung Palace is probably one of the top three attractions for tourists visiting Seoul. The palace grounds are massive, featuring many historical buildings and beautiful architecture that reflect Korea's ancient cities. Instagrammers and photographers will love the sights as stunning backdrops for portraits and the perfect setting for those wearing traditional Hanbok clothing.

There's more to see than the palace itself, with expansive royal grounds including the National Folk Museum, Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, and other structures scattered throughout the area. Even outside the palace, there are interesting spots like Gwanghwamun Square and several museums and galleries.

Entrance to the palace costs a small fee, but if you arrive dressed in Hanbok, you can enter for free! It's worth noting that Hanbok rentals are usually on the pricey side if you want good quality. Another opportunity for free entry is during special holidays like Chuseok, which is when I visited.

One event I was glad to witness was the changing of the guard, where the traditional ceremony unfolds before you. It usually happens only twice a day, so crowds can be large. You'll know it's starting when you hear loud horns and drums from the main entrance. The ceremony lasts roughly 10-20 minutes and is a highlight of visiting the palace. You can also pose with the guards at the main gate, though the queue can get long.

While it's an impressive palace with plenty of space to explore, it's fairly similar to other palaces in Korea (which tend to be less crowded) and even to palaces in other Asian countries. I would still recommend visiting if you have the time, especially to catch the changing of the guard, but don't feel bad if you skip Gyeongbokgung Palace on your trip. It may also be more enlightening to visit with a tour guide; I explored on my own, which might have limited my experience.

Right near the popular Bukchon Hanok Village, you can find Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden. As with Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung is quite similar, though smaller in size. It does, however, feature the "Secret Garden," which requires a ticket to enter. These tickets can sell out quickly, so if you plan to buy one on the day, the sooner you get it, the better.

If you visit the Secret Garden, a tour guide will show you around and explain the history of certain buildings. After the tour, you can explore the garden at your own pace until it closes, usually around 5 p.m.

While both the palace and Secret Garden were beautiful, I felt the Secret Garden was a bit overhyped. It's more forest and ponds than a traditional garden. If you're interested in seeing more palaces, you can also visit Changgyeonggung Palace, which is directly connected to Changdeokgung, though the gate between the palaces closes in the late afternoon.

The Demilitarized Zone is the infamous area that separates North Korea from South Korea. There's a lot of history, sadness, and hope woven into this place as you learn about it. There are many tours available to the DMZ, and you'll need to get up early if you want to join one, as the DMZ is roughly an hour drive from Seoul. Depending on your tour, it can be a full-day visit with various stops, including Imjingak Peace Park, the Third Tunnel, Dora Observatory, and usually another stop like the Majang Lake Suspension Bridge.

What you're allowed and not allowed to do can change at any moment at the DMZ, so make sure to check the latest information before booking a tour. For example, I wasn't allowed to take photos of the North Korean side of the border due to an order from North Korea. I also wasn't able to visit the exact border crossing tourists previously had access to because of an incident where a visitor attempted to cross the border during a tour.

Overall, the DMZ was a fascinating, eerie, and somber place to visit. It showed the reality of a divided Korea, but also the hope that one day they'll reunite. A join-in tour to the DMZ is quite affordable considering it lasts the whole day. Lunch, however, isn't included in the price, but we did get a stop at a local buffet, and there are plenty of food stalls at Imjingak Peace Park.

Another unplanned place I visited was the Seoul Children's Grand Park. I had some time to kill one morning and decided to check it out since I was already in the area. I was surprised by how big it was with multiple large sections that had different themes. It's a lovely spot to wander through or just sit and watch the birds flying or strolling around.

I arrived quite early, so there weren't many people, and most attractions were still closed. From my walk, it looked like the park includes a small children's theme park, a zoo, and botanical gardens. It seems like a great place for a family outing, with plenty of areas to explore and everything tailored to kids.

For me, as an adult, the park obviously wasn't designed with me in mind, so I just enjoyed a peaceful stroll and snapped a few photos of the interesting sculptures scattered around. I'd say it was a nice way to pass some time.

Lotte World is one of the big attractions in Korea. It's a huge indoor entertainment complex filled with rides, food stalls, gift shops, and even an ice rink. You could easily spend half a day or more exploring and trying out everything. While the park is mostly geared toward kids and teenagers, anyone young at heart will still have fun and you can lean into the experience by renting a school uniform at Lotte World to relive your teenage years.

The theme park also changes its events depending on the season. Since my visit was close to Halloween, they had zombie-themed setups, creepy dolls, and, thanks to a partnership with Pokémon, a Pokémon Ghost Party. As with most theme parks, the crowds can get wild. The Pokémon Air Balloon Ride I went on had about a 50-minute wait and that was before the crowds really started pouring in.

While the indoor area mostly has gentler rides, there's an outdoor section with attractions better suited for thrill seekers. Of course, the lines for those were even longer than the Pokémon ones.

I'd say Lotte World is best enjoyed as a couple or with a group. Visiting alone definitely felt like missing out on some of the fun, and I found myself wishing I had someone to share it with since there's so much to explore and plenty of tasty treats to try. Like any theme park, you'll deal with big crowds, higher prices, and long queues, but if you have friends with you, this is one of the better attractions in Seoul. Plus, it's perfect for a rainy day since so much of it is indoors.

Towering over the Seoul skyline, Seoul Sky Tower sits right across the street from Lotte World and gives you a perspective of the city that you won't find anywhere else. With multiple floors to explore, there's plenty to see inside Seoul Sky.

Out of all the towers I've visited in Korea, Seoul Sky is probably the best if you only want to choose one. There are several glass-floor spots where you can lie down and snap some trippy photos of the ground far below, or step into an outdoor area to feel the breeze and enjoy the view. On top of that, there's a milk bar, a gift shop, and a few small exhibits to check out.

If you're truly adventurous, you can even do the Sky Bridge tour, which lets you walk between the tower peaks and really experience the height. As for me; I value my life, so I didn't sign up for that one, though I imagine the views from up there are incredible.

While in Seoul, I visited the Hongdae area to see what it had to offer. Unfortunately, my timing wasn't ideal as I went during the day, even though Hongdae really comes alive at night. Still, with tired legs and a rainy morning, I stumbled across the Mapo Tour Train Bus, a small shuttle that takes you to various landmarks around the Hongdae area.

The ticket is quite cheap, and you can hop on and off at any stop. The full loop takes about two hours, giving you plenty of time to rest while still enjoying the sights. There's a staff member on board who gives little bits of information as you go. They mostly speak Korean, but they were still very friendly and helpful.

Just keep in mind that the buses are small and only arrive once every hour. I visited during a quiet time, but I was told they can get pretty crowded when Hongdae is busier.

If I had planned my day better, I definitely would've used this tour bus to properly explore more of Hongdae. Instead, it mostly became a chance to rest my legs. But if you use it as intended, the Mapo Tour Train Bus is a great way to get around Hongdae and easily see more of its landmarks.

Another one of my top experiences in Korea has to be the NANTA Show. Sadly, they didn't allow any photos inside the venue, but trust me when I say it was funny, musical, and absolutely thrilling to watch. NANTA is an almost completely non-verbal comedy show, so anyone can enjoy it. The performance is packed with slapstick, goofy expressions, daring stunts, and a simple storyline that ties everything together.

The plot follows three professional chefs who are ordered to prepare a huge list of dishes for a wedding banquet in a short amount of time. As if that wasn't enough, their boss insists on adding his clumsy nephew to the team, which only leads to more chaos and mischief. Stir-fries, noodles, and wedding cake are thrown together at lightning speed as vegetables, pots, pans, and more fly around the stage.

It's not just comedy, though. The show is filled with musical elements created using kitchen utensils, vegetables, and all sorts of props. It's genuinely impressive to watch them chop and slice real lettuce, carrots, and other ingredients right on stage to make the dishes and music.

The whole show runs for about an hour, and every moment is packed with something fun or surprising. There's also quite a bit of audience participation, which really brings everyone together. I bought a VIP ticket for a front-row seat, and I'm so glad I did. The stage and theater (in Hongdae) aren't very large, so sitting close gives you an amazing view of everything.

I honestly can't recommend this show enough. If you have even the slightest interest in comedy, music, or stage performances, you just have to experience it for yourself.

The Starfield Library is one of those crazy-looking places you'll see on Instagram or TikTok reels when searching for spots in Korea. It really is an impressive sight to see those huge bookshelves towering around you in person; however, I wouldn't say it's a must-visit either. Since it's literally just a library, there isn't much to do once you've taken your Instagram photos.

If you plan on visiting, make sure to go early! I arrived very early and had almost no crowds, which made it easy to take great photos. When I returned later in the day, it was packed with people all trying to get their next Instagram shot. For reference, I visited the library in Suwon, though there is another Starfield Library in Seoul. From what I've heard, the Suwon one is the better choice if you're willing to make the hour-plus trip from Seoul.

The only reason I gave this 2 stars is because the library is located inside the Starfield shopping centre, which is a massive complex filled with high-end stores and attractions similar to those in Lotte Department Stores. You can easily spend hours wandering, shopping, and even catching special events as I happened to see a few during my visit.

Hwaseong Fortress is a large historical site in the Suwon region. Its walls stretch across a wide area, including two major gates and several other defensive structures. While I didn't have time to explore everything thoroughly, I was lucky enough to catch a traditional event taking place, which was an amazing sight.

The fortress spans a huge area and includes parklands, mural villages, and traditional houses. It really feels like there's so much to see, and I wish I'd had more time to explore. There are plenty of great spots for photos, too. Since Suwon is a bit farther from Seoul, the crowds were much smaller, making it easier to take in the history without feeling like you're in another tourist hotspot. The views from the walls were lovely, giving you a great look over the Suwon area.

As this was the last major landmark I visited on my trip, the experience felt bittersweet. But seeing locals dressed in traditional clothing and wandering through the fortress made it a perfect way to end my journey.