Hongdae Private Tours by Locals: 100% Personalized

Seoul , South Korea

Hongdae Private Tours by Locals: 100% Personalized

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Being so close to a university, Hongdae hums both day and night! You’ll join one of our local Seoul hosts as they show you this exciting pocket of Seoul, filled with explosive street art, quirky flea markets and street performers aplenty! Discover themed cafes as well as tiny sidewalk cafes, serving up delicious street food. From silly antics at the Trick Eye Museum to comedy shows at the NANTA Theatre, we’ll give you a thousand reasons to love Hondae!
Within 24 hours after booking you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You will also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do.

Available options

EXPLORE-HONGDAE (3 hours)

What's included

3 hours with a Host

Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)

Private and personalised itinerary

Walking experience (if required, your host can suggest public transport or taxi options)

Detailed itinerary

Join our local Seoul host and visit one of Seoul’s most expressive and trendy local neighborhoods that’s popular with students and artists- see why as you stroll past Hongik University
IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalised experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Get off the beaten path and explore an alternative side of Seoul, from optical illusion exhibitions at the Trick Eye Museum to pop up flea markets

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalised experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Visit one of the themed cafes that the area is renowned for- how about an animal cafe like Meerkat Friends where you will find meerkats, kangaroos and raccoons
IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalised experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Step back in time at the Retro Game Bar, where you can drink cocktails, plat retro table tennis and old arcades
IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalised experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Stop by the Hongdae Free Market for some extra special shopping (who doesn't like to shop?)
IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalised experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

What's not included

Food and drinks

Tickets to any attractions

Transportation costs

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

KO EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

After booking, you can adjust the meeting point to fit your preferences with the help of our Experience Planners.

Important notes

We’ll be in touch within 24 hours after booking to find out more about your personality and interests so we can assign a like-minded local who will create a bespoke experience for you.

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