Seoul: City Highlights and Historical Experience No Shopping

Seoul , South Korea

Seoul: City Highlights and Historical Experience No Shopping

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(69 reviews)

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

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About this experience

✨Discover Seoul's Cultural Wonders & Authentic Korean Experience with Hanbok✨

This tour enhances the experience for tourists by offering not just a typical visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, but also providing special insights into the Joseon Dynasty and Korean history. Through expertly guided walks and carefully curated exhibits, visitors gain a deeper understanding of Korea's rich heritage, adding significant value to their cultural exploration.

Please note that this tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness due to the considerable amount of walking involved.

** One day before the tour date, we will send you detailed information including the guide’s contact via WhatsApp.
Please make sure to provide a phone number that is available on WhatsApp.
If you do not use WhatsApp, the information will be sent by email, so please check your inbox carefully.
Please note that communication with the guide may be more difficult without WhatsApp.

Available options

No Hanbok

Get Notice: Even for those who did not choose Hanbok, we all meet at the Hanbok rental shop.

With Hanbok

Hanbok rental service

What's included

Premium Hanbok rental experience ( optional )

All entrance fees

bottled water.

Professional English speaking guide

Local Snacks: Refreshing Break - Enjoy local snacks suited for the day's rest

Detailed itinerary

Hanbok is a Korean word that refers to traditional Korean clothing. Hanbok is one of the most beautiful fashion styles in the world and has been beloved for over 2,000 years. You may have seen the hanbok in your favorite Korean drama, or your favorite K-Pop star wearing hanbok and wondered: what are they wearing? What kind of fashion style is hanbok? This is your chance to try it out!

Stop 2

Wearing a beautiful and luxurious hanbok, you enter Gyeongbokgung Palace as a person of the Joseon Dynasty. Become the main character of a K-drama and take photos that will be memories for a lifetime!
A historical guide will explain the history of 'Gyeongbokgung Palace' and take a tour around it. Watch Korea's magnificent Gyeongbokgung Palace Changing of the Guard Ceremony!

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is commonly referred to as the Northern Palace because its location is furthest north when compared to the neighboring palaces of Changdeokgung (Eastern Palace) and Gyeonghuigung (Western Palace). Gyeongbokgung Palace is arguably the most beautiful, and remains the largest of all five palaces.

As you head to the next stop, enjoy a light Korean-style snack that is cool in summer or warm in winter, depending on the season.

Stop 4

We will visit Hanok Street, which has been used as a filming location for many dramas and movies. A professional photo guide will take beautiful photos for you!

Baek In-je House in Gahoe-dong, located in Bukchon Hanok Village, is a hanok built during the Japanese administration period that portrays modern hanok features. The structure consists of a main room offering a good view of the whole village, spacious bedrooms, a large garden, and annex buildings. As it withholds the beauty of a traditional hanok while incorporating the modern trend of its time, Baek In-je House is considered to be highly valuable in means of both architecture and history, representing the Bukchon Hanok Village together with Yun Bo-seon House.

What's not included

Private transportation

Makeup service

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

50 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

19 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

One day before the tour date, we will send you detailed information including the guide’s contact via WhatsApp. Please make sure to provide a phone number that is available on WhatsApp. If you do not use WhatsApp, the information will be sent by email, so please check your inbox carefully. Please note that communication with the guide may be more difficult without WhatsApp.

This tour operates as scheduled even in case of rain or snow. We will only contact you separately if the weather makes it completely impossible to proceed.

Meeting point

Meet in front of the bench at exit 4 of Gyeongbokgung station. Your guide will be waiting for you, holding a TRIPPER SIGH.

Important notes

One day before the tour date, we will send you detailed information including the guide’s contact via WhatsApp.
Please make sure to provide a phone number that is available on WhatsApp.
If you do not use WhatsApp, the information will be sent by email, so please check your inbox carefully.
Please note that communication with the guide may be more difficult without WhatsApp.

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