Seoul Tours

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The 10 Best Seoul Tours

One of the most popular Seoul tours gives you the chance to explore two of South Korea’s top attractions — the magnificent Gyeongbokgung Palace and the serene Jogyesa Temple. Journey through the heart of the city in an air-conditioned vehicle while your expert local guide provides insights into the history of the Joseon era. 

As you walk through the Gyeongbokgung Palace grounds and absorb its grandeur, you’ll discover how the royal family and average Koreans lived prior to the country’s rapid modernization. Afterward, you can visit the Jogyesa Temple for an authentic look at the Buddhist way of life amid the hustle and bustle of Seoul.

On this Seoul tour, you’ll also pass by the Blue House, or Cheongwadae, which is the official residence of the South Korean president. Inside the Gyeongbokgung Palace compound, the National Folk Museum will unveil traditional Korean ways of life, from farming techniques to housekeeping chores.

Begin your journey into the heart of Korea's history and culture on a Seoul tour of Changdeokgung Palace — a testament to Korea's architectural prowess and recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site. Its name, "to brighten virtue," reflects its significance in the country's history. 

After soaking in the palace's splendor, your local guide will accompany you to the Insadong antique shop alley. Here, the heart of Seoul comes alive with art galleries, traditional craft stores, antique dealers, and authentic tea houses and eateries for a truly immersive cultural experience.

Your Seoul tour continues at Namsangol Hanok village, a serene oasis surrounded by urban skyscrapers. Wander through five meticulously-restored traditional Korean houses, a pavilion, and a pond. Try your hand at traditional games such as neolttwigi, tuhonori, and yutnori before ending your tour at Namdaemun market. This bustling open-air marketplace traces its roots back to the Joseon Dynasty.

Get to know the city by foot on a Seoul sightseeing walking tour. There are a wide variety of options to choose from, including night tours to appreciate the city lights or hear ghost stories, street food tours to sample local delicacies as you wander around, or more historical tours to visit areas like the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village.

On a walking night tour around Seoul, you can see for yourself why Gyeonghuigung Palace is considered to be the most haunted place in South Korea. You’ll also hear dark stories from Korea’s ancient past while exploring Pimatgol Alley and Tapgol Park. For a lighter side of Seoul, there are night tours without any spookiness that’ll take you to places like the Ehwa Mural Village and the Hanyan City Wall for spectacular views.

If you prefer to let your tongue lead the way, a Seoul food tour is a popular option on the menu. To fuel your steps through the city, you can try some of the finest local Korean cuisine from dumplings to gimbap and mung bean pancakes to Ttteokkbokki (a slightly spicy potato-based pasta comparable to gnocchi).

As darkness descends, prepare to be enchanted by the breathtaking views of Seoul's illuminated skyline during a Han River evening cruise. Marvel at the stunning bridges and edifices lighting up the night sky as your float on the calm waters away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. 

The cruise features the commentary of a local guide detailing the wonders of the Han River. Delve into South Korea's remarkable transformation story: from the ashes of the Korean War's aftermath to its meteoric rise as an economic powerhouse. Through poignant storytelling, you can immerse yourself in the echoes of history and pay tribute to the indomitable spirit of this vibrant nation.

Two popular options are the Sunset Cruise and the Moonlight Cruise. The 40-minute Sunset Cruise travels between Yeouido and either the Seogang or Dongjak bridge, offering views of Yeouido, Bamseom Island, and the National Assembly while the 70-minute Moonlight Cruise sails from Yeouido to Banpo Bridge and back for views of Sebit Doongdoong Island, Dalbit Nodeul, and the Banpo Bridge.

Embark on a profound journey to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a significant tourist destination situated on the border separating North and South Korea. Start your day trip at Imjingak Park, where you can witness the iconic Bridge of Freedom, once utilized by repatriated prisoners of war from North Korea.

Later, explore the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, an underground channel constructed by North Korea, discovered in 1978. Walk through this passage that delves 73 meters (240 feet) beneath the surface. Upon emerging, ascend the slopes of Mount Dora to the Dora Observatory for unobstructed views stretching into North Korea.

Conclude your DMZ tour at the Unification Village where you can shop for souvenirs and trinkets symbolizing peace and reconciliation. For adrenaline junkies, you can upgrade your day trip with an added shooting range experience and visit an indoor range in Seoul to hone your marksmanship skills.

Experience this vibrant city with a local expert on an e-bike Seoul city tour. You’ll have the chance to immerse in authentic Korean culture, pausing to savor local delicacies, interact with residents, and truly understand the essence of Korea. The journey begins with a scenic ride starting from the Cheongycheon River to the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace

Along the way, you’ll explore landmarks such as Gwanghwamun Square, the royal palace, the picturesque West Village, the presidential Blue House, and Bukcheon Hanok Village, concluding with a serene bike path ride along the Cheonggyecheon River.

To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, you’ll have safety helmets and an initial riding test. Additional conveniences such as mineral water, Wi-Fi, power banks, and raincoats (if required) are also available to enhance the overall experience. With these amenities in place, the e-bikes ensure that every rider can navigate the city's landscapes effortlessly and stylishly.

Experience a unique and captivating performance at the Myeongdong Nanta Theater in Seoul, where traditional Korean Samulnori meets contemporary comedy and drama in a non-verbal show suitable for all. The production is designed with international audiences in mind, offering multi-language services in English, Japanese, and Chinese for everyone's convenience.

The engaging narrative revolves around three dynamic chefs showcasing their culinary prowess in the face of unexpected challenges. The plot thickens when a demanding manager tasks them to prepare ten wedding ceremony menus in a mere hour, turning the kitchen into a whirlwind of activity. 

As the chefs scramble, they expertly blend humor and rhythm, making use of kitchen implements as musical instruments. The show, Nanta, has gained international acclaim and holds the record for drawing the highest number of international visitors to Korea, receiving widespread appreciation from critics and audiences alike.

Nami Island is renowned for its picturesque tree-lined roads and its prominence in popular South Korean TV shows, most notably "Winter Sonata." The beauty and charm of the island make it a favorite among Koreans and international visitors alike. Wander through its serene pathways and see the island on a rail bike tour, where you pedal along defunct train tracks.

Besides the rail bike tour, you can also stop by Petite France for a taste of French village charm right in Korea as you wander among its brightly colored buildings. This quaint location has been featured in various dramas and shows like "Beethoven Virus," "Secret Garden," and "You Who Came From The Stars." 

Lastly, you can stroll through the Garden of Morning Calm, the oldest private garden in Korea, which is a haven of tranquility in nature. Throughout the year, the garden hosts an array of festivals, drawing families, couples, and photography enthusiasts. From December 1st to March 10th, you have the chance to revel in the enchanting winter light festival.

N Seoul Tower, perched atop Namsan Mountain, stands as an iconic emblem in the heart of Seoul. Towering at 480 meters (777 feet), you’ll have a captivating 360-degree view of the city's skyline from its observation deck. As the second tallest structure in Seoul, the tower also boasts a powerful telescope for a close-up look at specific landmarks. 

Besides the panoramic views, the N Seoul Tower has an assortment of dining options, from casual spots to upscale restaurants. A unique feature of the tower is the Sky Restrooms, luxury bathrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring even a visit there is accompanied by breathtaking vistas.

During the daytime, you can absorb the natural beauty of Seoul and its encompassing hills, while after sunset you can witness a mesmerizing display of the city illuminated at night. For younger guests, the Ssentoy Museum and Showroom within the tower delve into the enchanting realm of movies and animation.

Lotte World Theme Park stands as Seoul's premier recreational hub, boasting an array of attractions including an ice-skating rink, an outdoor amusement park, and a comprehensive Korean folk museum. As one of Korea's most cherished destinations, you can experience thrilling rides like the Comet Express, Atlantis, Gyro Drop, and Bungee at Magic Island. 

The Folk Museum offers a deep dive into Korea's rich 5,000-year history. Those looking for an added touch of excitement can opt to upgrade their ticket to explore the wonders of the Lotte World Aquarium. An interesting tidbit for fans of Korean dramas: Lotte World has been featured in popular K-Dramas such as "True Beauty" and "Business Proposal."

Meanwhile, the Lotte World Tower offers an unparalleled experience at Seoul Sky, providing you with a bird's-eye view of the sprawling city. You’ll be whisked away by the Sky Shuttle, the tower's ultra-fast elevator. For those seeking an exhilarating experience, the Sky Deck's glass-floored observatory and the Sky Terrace offer a chance to walk amidst the clouds, offering breathtaking panoramas of Seoul.

Tourists enjoying a guided tour

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Planning your visit to Seoul

Discover our complete guide to visiting Seoul.

About Seoul

South Korea has grabbed more and more of the spotlight over the past decade and has become a cultural powerhouse with the whole world singing along to the latest K-Pop song and binge-watching K-Dramas. Seoul, its largest and capital city, serves as the engine driving the economic and cultural growth that South Korea has experienced.

Good to know before arriving

Navigating Seoul can be an exhilarating experience, but it doesn’t hurt to hear some essential tips beforehand. Public transportation is highly efficient, with the Seoul Metropolitan Subway being the primary mode of transit for locals and tourists alike. It connects most parts of the city and is both timely and clean.

Places and experiences that cannot be missed

If you happen to be in Seoul from late March to late April, you’re in luck because this is cherry blossom season — one of the most beautiful times of the year. Some cherry blossom tours even offer a train ride to Busan to attend the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival.

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