9h 30m
3 languages
Instant confirmation
Private tour

Highlights

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.

Inclusions

What's included

Private transportation
Entrance Fee (Gyeongbokgung Palace)
All Fees and Taxes
Licensed Guide
Air-conditioned vehicle

What's not

Lunch
Snacks
Insurance
Gratuities
Namsan Tower cable car (optional 16,000KRW)
Namsan Tower observatory (optional 21,000KRW)

Itinerary

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.
1.5 hAdmission included
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.
1.3 h
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.
1.3 h
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.
1.3 h
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.
1.3 h

Cancellation

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

Reviews

4.9

Ratings come from 53 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

Pickup: Pickup is included for everyone.
Ticket type: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Operated by: Korea Tour Company

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.
The shops at Gwangjang Market is closed on Sundays. The food stalls and restaurants will be open.
The cable car and observatory are optional at Namsan Tower and not included. If not taking the cable car, you can either walk or take a bus to the base of the tower.

How it compares in Seoul

Its from-price is 41% above the median of the 201 city tours we list in Seoul.
It is longer than most of them.
By number of reviews it ranks 30 of 201.

About Seoul

Royal palaces and hanok villages sit among glass towers, buzzing markets and late-night food streets in Seoul, South Korea's capital.

Five grand palaces from the Joseon dynasty grace the city, led by Gyeongbokgung, with its colourful changing of the guard, and Changdeokgung, whose Secret Garden is a serene escape. Between them, Bukchon Hanok Village preserves traditional tiled-roof houses on sloping lanes, and Insadong is known for tea houses, galleries and crafts.

Top-ranked sights in Seoul: Third Tunnel of Aggression, DMZ, Gyeongbokgung Palace.

See all 1500 experiences in Seoul