Private Seoul Highlights – Palaces, Bukchon, Markets & K-Drama

5.0
(31 reviews)
Seoul, South Korea

2 to 8 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Enjoy a private walking tour with a licensed local guide who brings Seoul’s history and culture to life through engaging stories and conversation.

Flexible itinerary (2–7 hours), allowing more time at your favorite places.

Opportunities to experience local neighborhoods and traditional markets.

Explore K-drama filming locations and contemporary Korean culture.

Personal recommendations for nearby restaurants, cafés, and optional experiences based on your interests.

Ideal for solo travelers, couples, and small groups seeking an authentic and relaxed Seoul experience.

Entrance fees, meals, and optional activities are paid directly by guests.

What's Included

Local tips and restaurant recommendations
Hidden local spots and photo locations
English-speaking licensed guide
Transportation, entrance fees, meals, and gratuities
Travel insurance

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.
End point
Seoul

Please note that the tour’s end point may vary depending on the route.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 to 8 hours (approximately)
  • Gwanghwamun Square (Pass by)

    At Gwanghwamun Square, your local guide will introduce the history of the Joseon Dynasty and the stories of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, showing how this square connects Korea’s past with modern life. You’ll feel the city’s energy and can choose a nearby local restaurant to enjoy a meal alongside Seoul’s office workers.

    Admission ticket free
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace (Pass by)

    Discover hidden beauty with your local guide, who will lead you to the best photo spots and share fascinating stories about Korean history and culture. Watch a colorful reenactment of the royal guards’ loyalty and devotion at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Wearing a hanbok is another authentic experience — your guide can recommend a nearby rental shop (additional cost applies).

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Discover Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most beloved palace of the Joseon royal family. Explore its timeless beauty with your local guide, who will lead you to the best photo spots and help you step back into the Joseon Dynasty. Visit Nakseonjae, where the last members of the royal family lived until the 1980s, and hear heartfelt stories from Korea’s modern history. Wearing a hanbok is another authentic experience — your guide can recommend a nearby rental shop (additional cost applies). The Secret Garden of Changdeokgung was once a peaceful retreat for the Joseon royals, surrounded by beautiful nature. Visiting the Secret Garden may involve an extra fee and advance booking; your guide will advise on how to plan your visit.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Walk along the tranquil Naksan City Wall, where centuries of history meet Seoul’s vibrant skyline. From Naksan Park, enjoy sweeping panoramic views — an ideal place to slow down and connect with the spirit of old Seoul. Featured in the animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters, this area reflects the harmony of tradition and modern pop culture. With your guide, you’ll experience how Seoul’s past and present blend beautifully at every step. The tour may conclude here or continue to nearby highlights such as DDP or Cheonggyecheon Stream.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    As you walk up the hills of Bukchon Hanok Village, you’ll feel the charm of a neighborhood where people still live in traditional homes. Stroll through narrow alleys lined with beautifully preserved hanoks and experience the peaceful rhythm of everyday Korean life. You may be tempted to sit on the floor in a traditional tea house and enjoy an authentic Korean tea experience.

    Admission ticket free
  • Changgyeonggung Palace (Pass by)

    Changgyeonggung Palace, one of the five grand palaces of the Joseon Dynasty, is linked to Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking along the serene paths around Chundangji Pond, you can step into the rich history of Korea. Myeongjeongjeon Hall, the oldest ceremonial hall of the Joseon Dynasty, stands with a timeless elegance and quiet dignity.

    Admission ticket free
  • Deoksugung Palace (Pass by)

    Deoksugung Palace began as a royal residence and later served as a temporary palace and the final home of Emperor Gojong. Here, you can feel the intersection of Korea’s past and present — from the quiet sorrow of the Joseon Dynasty and the Japanese colonial era to the lasting hope of the Emperor that continues to echo through Seoul today.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Cheonggyecheon Stream is a peaceful urban oasis where you can enjoy a relaxing walk along a beautiful waterway in the center of Seoul.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Walk through peaceful forest trails or ride the charming Haechi bus or cable car as Seoul gradually opens up beneath you on the way to N Seoul Tower. From the observation area, take in sweeping panoramic views that reveal how Seoul’s ancient heritage blends seamlessly with its modern skyline. Enjoy iconic attractions such as love locks, the Han River, and breathtaking city views. Featured in many K-dramas and in the animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters, this spot perfectly reflects Seoul’s harmony of tradition and pop culture. Access options include the Haechi Bus (KRW 3,000), cable car (KRW 17,000), walking trails, and a future gondola ride (TBC). Please note that during busy seasons, waiting times may exceed two hours.

    Admission ticket free
  • Seongsu-dong (Pass by)

    Seongsu-dong is a trendy neighborhood famous for its cafes, art spaces, and creative vibe. • Visit popular pop-up stores such as AMORE Seongsu and Olive Young N • This visit can be arranged as a standalone option for a half-day tour

    Admission ticket free
  • Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) (Pass by)

    DDP showcases futuristic architecture, design exhibitions, and vibrant cultural events.

    Admission ticket free
  • Kwangjang Market (Pass by)

    Gwangjang Market is a famous traditional market where you can enjoy Korean street food and everyday local life. Your guide will help you choose dishes, explain what to try, and share insights into Korean food culture.

    Admission ticket free
  • Tongin Market (Pass by)

    Tongin Market is a charming local market famous for its traditional lunchbox café and coin-based food stalls. Your guide will explain how the system works and recommend popular dishes, so you can enjoy Korean street food with ease and confidence.

    Admission ticket free
  • Jongmyo Shrine (Pass by)

    Jongmyo Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to the royal ancestors of the Joseon Dynasty. An official on-site guide will explain the Confucian rituals and the cultural significance of this sacred place.

    Admission ticket free
  • Jogyesa Temple (Pass by)

    Jogyesa Temple is the center of Korean Zen Buddhism, located in the heart of Seoul. Your guide will explain Buddhist traditions and how this peaceful temple coexists with modern city life.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    From Hongje Waterfall, the walk continues naturally into Ansan Trail, offering a quiet escape into nature in the middle of Seoul. Or simply relax and enjoy a cup of tea and experience the everyday rhythm of Seoul.

    Admission ticket free
  • Seoul Sky (Pass by)

    Lotte World Tower - Seoul Sky is a modern landmark of Seoul, symbolizing Korea’s innovation and growth, and it also appears as one of the scenes in K-Pop Demon Hunters. Admission fee for the Seoul Sky at about KRW31,000 (USD25).

    Admission ticket free
  • Starfield COEX Mall (Pass by)

    Starfield COEX Mall is famous for the Starfield Library and its impressive bookshelves, and nearby you’ll find the “Gangnam Style” horse dance statue.

    Admission ticket free
  • Hongdae (Pass by)

    This is Hongdae, a lively neighborhood and one of Seoul’s main centers of youth culture, filled with unique cafés, shops, and creative vibes.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • After booking, please let me know the areas or places you would like to visit. I will help customize a walking route based on your interests and pace for a relaxed and personal experience.
  • You can contact me via WhatsApp, KakaoTalk, Viber, or email. Please make sure to provide the correct contact information.
Supplied by Design your travel in Korea with Stella

Tags

Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

5.0 Based on 31 31 reviews
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