Full-Day Seoul Highlights Private Guided Tour

4.9
(39 reviews)

9 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Discover the vibrant heart of South Korea with our Seoul City Highlights Tour. Start at the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace, home to the Joseon Dynasty, and witness the mesmerizing Royal Guard Changing Ceremony. Wander through the traditional 'Hanok' houses of Bukchon Village, before exploring the artful alleys of Insadong Street, brimming with tea houses and galleries. Immerse in the culinary delights of Gwangjang Market, sampling local flavors. Conclude with a panoramic night view of Seoul from Namsan Tower—an unforgettable encounter with Seoul's cultural tapestry.

What's Included

Private transportation
All Fees and Taxes
Entrance Fee (Gyeongbokgung Palace)
Licensed Guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Lunch
Snacks
Insurance
Gratuities
Namsan Tower cable car (optional 16,000KRW)
Namsan Tower observatory (optional 21,000KRW)

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

It is important that you give us your pick up location as soon as possible. If we do not have your pick up location 24 hours before your tour, we will cancel the tour. We will send you a reminder message 3 days before your tour. We will give you your assigned guide's info at that time along with instructions on meeting your guide in your hotel lobby or outside your building if staying in an Airbnb. Pick up time is at 9:30am and you will depart immediately. Your 9.5 hour day starts at 9:30am whether you are ready to go or not. If you are not ready to go and we cannot get a hold of you, your guide will wait 60 minutes until 10:30am. If you don't show up or contact us before 10:00am, it will be a "no show" and no refund will be given.

Itinerary

Duration: 9 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Gyeongbokgung Palace

    Known as the "Palace of Shining Happiness," Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and most iconic of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. Visitors can marvel at its intricate architecture, colorful murals, and beautiful gardens. Don't miss the changing of the Royal Guard ceremony, which takes place multiple times a day. You can also explore the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum, both located within the palace grounds. Expect to spend around 1.5 hours here depending on how in depth of a tour you want.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Bukchon Hanok Village

    Bukchon Hanok Village is nestled between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace is a must-visit for a glimpse into traditional Korean culture. It boasts well-preserved Hanok houses (Korean traditional houses) that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. Wander through the narrow alleyways, enjoy tea and snacks in charming teahouses, and visit one of the many cultural centers or museums to learn about Hanbok (traditional clothing) and other Korean crafts. For a more immersive experience, visitors can even book a stay at a Hanok guesthouse. Plan to spend around 1 to 1.5 hours exploring Bukchon Hanok Village.

    1 hour 15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Insadong

    Insadong is a vibrant and artistic neighborhood in the heart of Seoul, famous for its traditional art galleries, antique shops, tea houses, and souvenir stores. Strolling along the main pedestrian street, visitors can discover unique Korean handicrafts, pottery, and traditional calligraphy tools. Be sure to try some delicious street food, like Hotteok (sweet Korean pancakes), and visit Ssamzigil, a shopping complex with a spiral walkway featuring more handicraft shops and eateries. Allocate about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore Insadong Street.

    1 hour 15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Established in 1905, Gwangjang Market is one of Seoul's oldest and most beloved traditional markets. With over 5,000 shops, it's a haven for foodies and shoppers alike. Sample a variety of mouthwatering Korean street food, such as Bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and Gimbap (Korean sushi rolls). Apart from food, the market is also famous for its quality fabrics, vintage clothing, and hanbok stores. Be prepared to immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere. Expect to spend about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore and savor the diverse culinary delights of Gwangjang Market.

    1 hour 15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    N Seoul Tower

    Namsan Tower: Officially known as N Seoul Tower, this iconic communication tower sits atop Namsan Mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul's skyline. Ride the cable car or hike to the top, and take in the cityscape from the observation deck, which stands 479 meters above sea level. Namsan Tower is also a popular spot for couples who attach love locks to the railings as a symbol of their everlasting love. Onsite, you'll find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops. For a truly memorable experience, visit at night to see the tower illuminated. Plan to spend around 1 to 1.5 hours enjoying the views and attractions at Namsan Tower.

    1 hour 15 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • The listed amount of time that will be spent at each site is an estimation. You can adjust as you like, as long as the touring day ends within the 9.5 hours listed.
  • During your day, you will spend about 1 hour moving from location to location. You will also have about 1 to 1.5 hours for a stop for lunch. All told, everything will add up to 9.5 hours total.
  • If there happens to be time leftover after visiting all the attractions, your guide will be happy to take you to an additional location(s) in central Seoul. Any subsequent entrance fees or parking are not included and paid by you on the spot.
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace is closed on Tuesdays. It will be replaced by Changdeokgung Palace on Tuesdays.
Supplied by Korea Tour Company

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Tags

Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
City Tours
Car Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Rating

4.9 Based on 39 39 reviews
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