Korea Through Art Palace to Modern Seoul Walking Tour

Seoul , South Korea

Korea Through Art Palace to Modern Seoul Walking Tour

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About this experience

Uncover Korea's rich heritage and vibrant contemporary scene on this engaging walking tour. Start at the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, delve into royal history at the National Palace Museum, and conclude at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (Seoul), where tradition seamlessly blends with modernity. Tailored for first-time visitors, this 3.5-hour journey offers a comfortable walking experience while using simple English to enhance understanding and enjoyment. Capture memorable moments with ample photo opportunities along the route.

- Explore iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace and its historical significance
- Visit the National Palace Museum for insights into royal life
- Experience contemporary art at MMCA Seoul, showcasing Korea's modern culture
- Ideal for first-time visitors, with a focus on engaging storytelling and photography opportunities

Available options

Korea Through Art Palace to Modern Seoul Walking Tour

What's included

Entrance fee

Gratuities

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Discover the beauty of Korea’s main palace through its architecture, colors, and designs.

Admire the stunning traditional buildings with elegant roof curves and wooden brackets that balance strength and beauty.

See the colorful dancheong paintings on beams and roofs, each color representing meaning and harmony.

Explore intricate patterns of dragons, lotus flowers, and clouds, telling stories of protection, purity, and good luck.

Notice the symmetrical layouts and wooden structures that show order, stability, and royal power.

Stop 2

Step inside the museum to see how Korea’s kings and queens lived through art and fashion.

Explore paintings that show royal life, ceremonies, and palace scenes.

Discover traditional royal clothing and accessories, showing elegance, craftsmanship, and status.

Learn how colors, patterns, and designs in clothes and paintings tell stories about Korea’s culture and history.

Stop 3

At MMCA, we will explore a special exhibition featuring modern Korean paintings.

See how contemporary Korean artists interpret traditional themes using new styles and techniques.

Discover the beauty of Korean painting through colors, brushwork, and patterns that reflect both history and modern life.

Learn to appreciate how these artworks connect Korea’s past with its present, showing culture, identity, and creativity.

What's not included

Coffee and/or Tea

Bottled water

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Gwanghwamun Gate, the main entrance of the palace. Look for a guide holding a banner or sign that says our company name.

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