Seoul is a city where modern skyscrapers sit alongside ancient Buddhist temples and where grand palaces overlook bustling street markets. Whether you’re into art, culture or cuisine, there is something exciting and unexpected around every corner.

Familiarize yourself with South Korea’s vibrant capital when you book a free walking tour in Seoul, led by a local tour guide. See the city’s most iconic structures as well as a few hidden gems as you stroll around the colorful city streets!

Here's all you need to know about free walking tours, one of the most engaging sightseeing tours in Seoul.

How do free walking tours work?

Free walking tours in Seoul have become increasingly popular in recent years as they provide tourists with an affordable and authentic way of experiencing this incredible city.

These tours differ from walking tours in that they are completely free to book and participate in, but it is encouraged that you tip your tour guide at the end of the tour. The amount you decide to tip is completely up to you.

How much should you tip?

When deciding how much to tip, think about the effort that your guide put into the tour and how much you enjoyed the tour overall.

Most tour participants tend to tip between US$10 and US$15 per person, but some people tip as much as US$50 for outstanding tours.

What are the best free walking tours in Seoul?

‘Real’ Seoul walking tours with a local guide

See the beautiful and busy city of Seoul through the eyes of a local when you book this ‘real’ Seoul walking tour. Not only will you see all the famous sites, but you’ll receive tips on where to eat, drink and be entertained along the way.

Follow your local guide as you familiarize yourself with the city’s youth culture and take photos at some of the most Instagrammable spots in Seoul. Some of the places you’ll see include Seoul City Hall, Desoksu Palace, Gwanghwamoon Street and many others.

At each of the places you visit, you’ll learn about the location’s history as well as a few interesting facts. Feel free to ask your guide questions and listen out for local tips and advice during your stay in South Korea. After 2 fun-filled hours of exploring Seoul, your tour will come to an end, leaving you with a better understanding of South Korean culture as well as the layout of the city.

Authentic free walking tour in Seoul

Explore the Gwanghwamun and Jongno-gu districts, with an enthusiastic tour leading the way and ensuring that you don’t miss a thing. See how modern attractions blend seamlessly with traditional temples and culture on this tour that delves deep into contemporary Seoul.

Begin the tour at the Seoul Plaza before making your way to various monuments around the fascinating neighborhoods of Gwanghwamun and Jongno-gu, with the main attraction being the Gyeongbokgung Palace. You’ll also visit Buddhist temples, tea houses, galleries, Confucian shrines, bars, craft shops and colorful streets—giving you a comprehensive overview of the South Korean capital and its many delights.

In addition to Gwanghwamun and Jongno-gu, this tour also visits the hipster neighborhood of Sik Mool, where you’ll get plenty of inspiration of places to eat and drink during the rest of your stay in Seoul.

Historical free walking tour in Seoul

Discover the rich and surprising history of South Korea when you join this free walking tour that visits some of the most historically important landmarks in Seoul. Your local guide is a history expert and you’ll learn so much about the city’s past and present!

After you’ve met your knowledgeable guide in the city center, you’ll embark on this educational adventure that visits places like the Gyeongbokgung Palace, where you’ll get to watch the changing of the guard ceremony. Some of the other places that you’ll get to see as you learn more about South Korean history and culture include the Statue of King Sejong the Great, Jogyesa Temple, Gwanghwamun Square and Ikseondong Hanok Village.

In addition to these major landmarks and attractions, you’ll also visit a few hidden gems that you certainly wouldn’t have discovered on your own.

In which languages is it operated?

Free walking tours in Seoul are all offered in English because of the large number of English-speaking tourists that visit South Korea. There are also one or two tour operators that also offer tours in Spanish.

Where does it start?

When the time comes for your free walking tour in Seoul, you’ll need to make your way to the tour’s meeting point at least 5 minutes before the tour is meant to start. Popular meeting points include the Pushkin Monument, Seoul Plaza and City Hall Subway Station among others.

How long does it last?

The typical duration of free walking tours in Seoul is between 2 and 2.5 hours.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Unfortunately, free walking tours in Seoul are not usually suitable for wheelchair users or those with reduced mobility.

When is the best time to join a free walking tour in Seoul?

The best time to join a free walking tour in Seoul is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the city is adorned with cherry blossoms and colorful foliage. For a less crowded experience, opt for joining a tour in the morning or on weekdays.

Should you book tickets online?

Free walking tours in Seoul provide an affordable and authentic way to explore the city and for this reason, tickets can sell out quickly. If you want to secure your spot on your preferred walking tour and avoid disappointment, you should reserve your spot online in advance.

Booking your tickets online could not be easier and there are no hidden costs involved. Once you have secured your spot, you can look forward to your free walking tour and start planning the rest of your itinerary in Seoul.

Free Walking Tours in Seoul