Full Day- Essential Seoul City Tour & Gourmet Tour(including Lunch and Dinner)
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Full Day- Essential Seoul City Tour & Gourmet Tour(including Lunch and Dinner)

Active
(72 reviews)
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour is for tourist who want to enjoy culture, heritage and life of Korean. We will visit the most popular attractions in Seoul. Furthermore, tasting of popular Korean foods provides more pleasure to you. You can enjoy city tour and Gourmet Tour for a day. We will visit Gyeongbokgung royal palace, Changing ceremony of Royal Guards, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong and etc. We will visit quality local restaurant, and taste Jinseng Chicken soup for lunch. For vegetarian, there are nice vegetarian restaurant. During the tour, we also enjoy Korean snacks or tea. For dinner, we will taste various kinds of street foods at Kwangjang market. For all above mentioned tour activities and foods are included in our tour and you don't need to reserve separate tickets for city tour and food tour. Our professional licensed English speaking guide supply hotel pick-up and drop-off service at any hotel in Seoul for customer's convenience.

Available options

Full Day- Essential Seoul City Tour & Gourmet Tour(including Lunch and Dinner)

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
During the tour, we will taste traditional Korean snacks or teas.
We will taste Jinseng Chicken Soup(Michelin Restaurant) for lunch. We will visit not a group tourist restaurants but a popular local restaurants. A nice vegetarian restaurant is also available.
English speaking guide with official tour guide license
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
We will have a dinner at Gwangjang market with various traditional street foods, and Korean rice wine( makkŏlli) will be served together.
We pick up and drop off at customer's hotel in seoul.

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Gyeongbokgung palace is the first palace built in 1395 out of five palaces in Seoul in Joseon dynasty. This palace was built by fenhshui which is a traditional geological theory, The name of Gyeongbokgung palace means new dynasty would have big blessing and prospered forever.
Geunjeongjeon Hall and Gyeonghoeru Pavilionare are national treasures in the palace, Geunjeongjeon Hall is the main building of the palace, most of major event like king’s inauguration ceremony and reception of ambassadors from foreign countries were held at this building. Gyeonghoeru Pavilion was used for the purpose of banquet and entertainment. Before tour of Gyeongbokgung palace, we will watch the Changing ceremony of Royal guards. Gyeongbokgung palace and changing ceremony of royal guard are closed on every Tuesday, so we will visit the other royal palace, Changdeokgung palace, every Tuesday. Changdeokgu palace is very beautiful palace and is listed on UNESCO cultural heritage.

2
Stop 2

You will see how the Korean lived from the birth to grave at this museum.The National Folk Museum of Korea is a museum that represents daily life and culture of Korea and is visited by more than two million people every year, and provide educational and cultural opportunities to better understand and experience the traditional Korean lifestyle.

3
Stop 3

Bukchon(buk means north, chon means village) is a traditional residential village forming with Korea’s traditional house, Hanok(Tiled roof house). As you see, because of rapid industrialization of Korea, most Korean live in apartment and modified western style house, so it is very hard to see the traditional Korean Hanok village nowadays. This Bukchon Hanok village is one of traditional villages maintaining traditional Hanok style. Because this Bukchon was near the palace, and located at a good place according to fengshui, a theory of divination based on topography, this was a good residential area for royal family and high officials for 500 years of Joseon dynasty. Nowadays, Bukchon is one of famous tourist attraction in Seoul. Tourist can enjoy and feel the history of Bukchon , various cultural experience like tea ceremony, calligraphy, handcrafts and etc. at Bukchon.

4
Stop 4

Jogyesa Temple is located in central Seoul and it is one of Korea's major Buddhist temples, also serves as headquarters for the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, the largest sect of Korea Buddhism. The temple's main hall is called Daeungjeon Hall and the famous statue of the seated Buddha is enshrined here (the statue is Tangible Cultural Heritage of Seoul No. 126). Baeksong, a white pine tree that is more than 500 years old stands next to Daeungjeon. Located in the heart of Seoul, huge numbers of tourists visit the temple to experience Buddhist culture.

5
Stop 5

Insadong is a traditional cultural place where you can see old Seoul. Originally, the government office in charge of paintings on king and royal family in Joseon Dynasty was located at Insadong. The streets of Insadong are lined with craft workshops, antique shops, galleries, and restaurants, traditional hanok style’s teahouse. Seoul city designated Insadong as street of traditional culture in 1988, and the first cultural place in 2002, This area is car free zone every weekend, so you can enjoy walking with shopping, cultural experience like making some handcrafts. And you can enjoy various events like musical performance. Samjigil is one of the place which you can feel Korea’s traditional handcrafts. During the tour at Insadong, we can taste refreshment.

6

You will visit Dawon Traditional Tea Garden in Kyung-In Museum of Fine Art in a hanok (traditional Korean house) and enjoy traditional Korean Tea, this place offers the visitors a moment to relax and find peace in the city. When seated, greenery and flowers in the private garden make for a nice view while sipping tea. There are more than 15 homemade teas available, all of which originate from Korea. Dawon's peaceful atmosphere and authentic experience make it a must visit for anyone in Seoul. The unique charm of the tea house is made up of antique furniture.

7
Stop 7

Cheonggyecheon is a 11 km-long waterway flowing center of downtown Seoul. This waterway was natural stream until Joseon dynasty. After Korean war, many refugees made their houses and lived there, so this area was a typical slum and very dirty with bad smells there. Later 1950, Cheonggyecheon was covered with cement structures and automobile overpass was built over there, and many modern buildings were built at surrounding area, so this place became a successful symbol of Korea industrialization. But, after 40 years passed, the structures and overpass became obsolete and dangerous, and so city government decided to restore the place as Eco-stream. This was changed to Eco-waterway through 2 year's restoration project. Total length of restoration is 5.8km, there are 22 bridges, and 50,000 visitors a day. Cheonggyecheon became a symbol of the rapid development of Korea and major tour attraction place nowadays.

8

Baek In-je House is a museum and cultural heritage site located in Bukchon Hanok Village. The house is a well-preserved as hanok(Hanok means traditional Korean house). The hanok was built on an elevated plot of land and there are incredible views of Bukchon Hanok Village from the house. There is also a spacious garden. The hanok is one of the few largest remaining hanok in the city, and because of its unique history and beauty, the hanok was designated a Citizens' Cultural Heritage site and converted into a museum. Closed on every Monday.

9

Gwangjang market is Korea’s first commercial market. This market opened in 1905. Originally, Namdaemun market was the biggest traditional market until early 1900s, but Japanese occupied Namdaemun market by Japanese’s invasion to Korea, so Korean merchants opened Kwangjang market for Koreans in 1905 to compete Japanese Namdaemun market. In the early of this market, major products were agricultural products, but nowadays, there are many kinds of products including fashion items, especially Gwangjang market has become famous as eating place to taste various street foods at cheap price. From about 10 years ago, many foreigners began to visit this market and became famous. This market is one of the famous tourist attractions in Seoul. The typical street foods are Kimbap, Soondae, Nokduejeon(Korean pancake made with mung beans), Yukwhe(beef sashimi)and etc.. we will taste various kinds of street foods for dinner here.

What's not included

Gratuities(optional)

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9
44 reviews
5★
41
4★
2
3★
1
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0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.9
28 reviews
5★
26
4★
1
3★
1
2★
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1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Seoul

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a dynamic metropolis where ancient palaces stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers. Known for its vibrant street life, cutting-edge technology, and rich cultural heritage, Seoul offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity that captivates every traveler.

Top Attractions

Gyeongbokgung Palace

The largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung is a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful architecture.

Historical 2-3 hours 3,000 KRW (free for those wearing hanbok)

Bukchon Hanok Village

A traditional Korean village nestled between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, offering a glimpse into traditional Korean life.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (some cultural experiences may have fees)

Namsan Seoul Tower

Located atop Namsan Mountain, this iconic tower offers panoramic views of Seoul and is a popular spot for couples to lock love locks.

Viewpoint 2-3 hours 10,000 KRW (observatory), 1,500 KRW (cable car)

Myeongdong

A bustling shopping district known for its street food, fashion, and beauty products, offering a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.

Shopping Half-day Varies widely, from budget to luxury

Hongdae

A lively and youthful neighborhood near Hongik University, famous for its nightlife, street performances, and trendy cafes.

Entertainment Evening or night Varies widely, from budget to upscale

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kimchi

Fermented spicy cabbage, a staple in Korean cuisine, often served with every meal.

Side dish Vegetarian (check for seafood in some varieties)

Bibimbap

A mixed rice bowl with vegetables, meat, and gochujang (spicy paste), often served with a fried egg.

Main dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bulgogi

Marinated grilled beef, often served with rice and side dishes.

Main dish Contains meat

Tteokbokki

Spicy stir-fried rice cakes, a popular street food often served with fish cakes and boiled eggs.

Snack Vegetarian (check for seafood in some varieties)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Bukhansan National Park Biking along the Han River Water sports at Seokchon Lake Visiting traditional tea houses Enjoying a jjimjilbang (Korean spa) experience Strolling through scenic gardens and parks Participating in a traditional hanbok photo shoot Attending a traditional Korean performance

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to November

Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. These are the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Korean
  • Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and by younger generations)
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places

Currency

South Korean Won (KRW)

Time Zone

Korea Standard Time (KST, GMT+9)

Electricity

220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Seoul is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded areas
  • • Use reputable transportation services and avoid unlicensed taxis
  • • Be wary of strangers offering help or assistance, as they may be trying to scam you

Getting there

By air
  • Incheon International Airport • 52 km from city center
  • Gimpo International Airport • 15 km from city center
By train

Seoul Station, Yongsan Station

By bus

Seoul Express Bus Terminal, Central City Bus Terminal, East Seoul Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It operates from 5:30 AM to 12:00 AM, with frequent trains.

Taxis

Available • Apps: KakaoTaxi, T-money

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jongno Gangnam Hongdae Itaewon Insadong

Day trips

DMZ (Korean Demilitarized Zone)
50 km from Seoul • Half day to full day

A unique and fascinating day trip, the DMZ offers a glimpse into the history and current status of the Korean Peninsula, with tours visiting various historical sites and observation points.

Nami Island
56 km from Seoul • Half day to full day

A picturesque island known for its beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and filming locations for popular K-dramas like 'Winter Sonata'.

Suwon
30 km from Seoul • Full day

A historic city known for its well-preserved fortress, traditional markets, and cultural attractions, offering a mix of history, culture, and local cuisine.

Festivals

Seoul International Fireworks Festival • Mid-October (annual) Seoul Lantern Festival • Late November to early December (annual) Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April (annual)

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic Korean phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
  • Use a T-money card for convenient and discounted public transportation
  • Try street food and local specialties for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
  • Explore Seoul's diverse neighborhoods and hidden gems for a more unique and immersive experience
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 6-99
1
Childs
Age 0-5
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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