Seoul , South Korea

Seoul Palace Morning Tour

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(47 reviews)

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About this experience

Half Day Seoul City Tour. Only 3 hours for tour, but we will visit the most top attraction Gyeongbok Palace, National Folk Museum, Blue House, Jogyesa Buddhist Temple with the knowledgeable tour guide and comfortable transportation. Enjoy your morning in Korea with Seoul City Tour!

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Seoul Palace Morning Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Driver/guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Hotel pickup

What you'll see

After pick up at your Seoul hotel in the morning, we will visit to the Jogyesa Buddhist Temple which is the center of Zen Buddhism in Korea. The first thing you will see at the temple are the locust trees and baeksong trees in front of the Daeungjeon (main building of Jogesa Temple). Those trees are about 500 years old and the Baeksong tree is designated as a Natural Monument. And you can see the Daeungjeon Building which was built in 1938. It is particularly beautiful with all the different colors painted on it, and inside the building is the statue of Seokgamoni. In front of the Daeungjeon building, you can also see a seven-storey stone pagoda containing Jinsinsari.

After the Jogyesa Temple, we will visit the Blue House which is the president residence. Since it's the security area, we cannot stop in front Blue House. So, we will see the Blue House on the way to Gyeongbok Palace at the transportation (pass by).

After passing the Blue House, we will be at the Gyeongbok Palace which was served as main palace during Joseon Dynasty. It's the most famous and historical sights to visit when the people visit to Korea. It has so many buildings and we will look around Geunjeongjeon (main throne hall of Gyeongbok Palace), Sajeongjeon (King's office), Gangnyeongjeon (King's living quarters), Gyotaejeon (Queen's living quarters) and Gyeonghoeru where the king threw formal banquets for foreign envoys. And then, we will go to the Korean National Folk Museum which is part of Gyeongbok Palce. It represents daily lie and culture of Korea, also provides educational and cultural opportunities to better understand and experience the traditional Korean lifestyle.

Then, we will go back to the Gwanghwamun Gate which is the South gate of Gyeongbok Palace. And will see the changing of the Royal Ceremony.

And the tour will end back in Seul at City Hall after a stop at a ginseng center.

City hall is closed with many other tour attraction. So, after the tour you can have your own schedule easily.

What's not included

Lunch

Infant meals

Hotel drop-off (Drop off at City Hall, Seoul)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.0

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

36 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

1 of the shopping centers are included (Ginseng Center)

Important notes

• If you will not be arriving at your pick-up location after reconfirming with the local tour operator, please reconfirm your new pick-up location with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at the pick-up location. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

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