Seoul City Tour (Full Day)

Seoul Day Tour – What to Expect

Our Seoul City Tour is a complete and effortless experience. We provide a complimentary hotel pickup so you don’t have to worry about any logistics. Just be sure to have your camera charged because you’re about to go on an unforgettable journey! You will be in the capable hands of our licensed tour guide who is available to answer any questions at any point, so feel free to ask away!

One of the first stops on our Seoul tour will be the Changing of the Guard Ceremony which is a beloved old tradition. Then, we will visit one of Seoul’s main palaces – Gyeongbok Palace which is home to thousands of years worth of history and has survived many turbulent events.

After taking a lunch break, we’ll continue with our Seoul City Tour by heading over to two local markets – Insadong Arts and Crafts Market, and Gwangjang Market. Here, you can find beautiful local treasures to bring home to your loved ones and sample quirky little snacks and Korean street food.

Once you’ve had your full of Korean treats, we’ll treat you to some magical views of downtown Seoul on the Namsan Cable Car and Seoul Tower’s observatory.

Finally, we will drop you off at either Myeongdong or City Hall after a magical full day tour in Seoul.

Seoul City Tour – Course Overview

Our Seoul Day Tour is a complete experience, guiding you through the most impressive landmarks in town, introducing you to some popular Korean tasty treats and allowing for plenty of shopping time. Here are the highlights of our experience:

Jogyesa Buddhist Temple – travel back in time

The Jogyesa Buddhist Temple is one of the most important landmarks of Korean Buddhism, first established all the way back in 1935. The temple is located in downtown Seoul and is graced by an ancient white pine tree. There are a few important steps to entering the temple.

First, you must go through “Iljum”, which is the one pillar gate. The “Iljumun” symbolizes the division between the world of the living and that of the holy Buddha world. You will have a beautiful spiritual experience and be able to admire the splendid, golden statues.

Changing of the Guard Ceremony – witness a spectacular Korean tradition

Our Seoul Day Tour would not be complete without witnessing the Changing of the Guard Ceremony. You will see the meticulously choreographed ceremony that takes place in front of Gwanghwamun Gate.

This tradition originated during the Joseon Dynasty and the city decided to bring it back for reenactment in 1996. The soldiers wear colorful blue and red uniforms and gracefully patrol the gates of the palace in protection of the king. The tradition is very elegant and simply beautiful to watch!

Gyeongbok Palace (Except Tuesdays) – live like a royal

Next up on our Seoul City Tour is Gyeongbokgung Palace. This was the main home of the Joseon Dynasty constructed in 1395. This is a stunning building with 7,700 rooms! The palace did take a few hits over the years, which makes it all the more interesting to see today!

It was first destroyed during the Imjin War between 1592 and 1598. Then, Imperial Japan destroyed a large portion of Gyeongbokgung Palace in the 20th century. The palace, however, has been restored time and again, and is now close to its former splendor!

You will be able to walk its magnificent premises and imagine what it was like to be a royal. The exact route depends on our knowledgeable tour guide. Some of the highlights here are Gangnyeongjeon, the king’s main quarters, Geunjeongjeon where the king accepted formal visits, Gyeonghoeru – the special banquet hall, and more!

Please note that Gyeongbokgung is closed on Tuesdays, so it will be substituted for pretty Changdeok Palace.

Changdeok Palace (Tuesdays Only)

Changdeok Palace, or Changdeokgung, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the “Five Grand Palaces” built during the Joseon Dynasty. Constructed in 1405, it stands out for its beautiful harmony with the surrounding landscape, adhering to traditional Korean principles of architecture and design. The palace’s elegant pavilions, majestic gates, and colorful tiled roofs are a testament to Korea’s rich royal heritage.

Known for its unique layout, Changdeok Palace showcases the artistry and grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty, with each hall and courtyard carefully positioned to blend with the natural surroundings. Visitors can wander through the grand Injeongjeon Hall, where official ceremonies took place, and admire the intricate details that define this royal complex.

Each season brings new colors and beauty to Changdeok Palace, from cherry blossoms in spring to golden leaves in autumn. A stroll through its expansive grounds reveals centuries of history and offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Seoul’s modern landscape.

Please note our Seoul day tour will only stop at Changdeok Palace when entrance to Gyeongbok Palace is unavailable.

National Folk Museum of Korea (Except Tuesdays)

The National Folk Museum of Korea was initially established as the “Korean Imperial Museum” in 1908; however, it was renamed and relocated many times throughout its history.

Today the museum holds approximately 45,000 artefacts and royal treasures from Joseon Dynasty palaces and the Korean Empire. In addition, you can find 14 of South Korea’s National Treasures located here.

With over 500 years of history on display, you can get a real sense of the past and discover what it was like to live as a Joseon King and Queen.

Bukchon Hanok Village (Tuesdays Only)

Bukchon Hanok Village is a charming neighborhood in Seoul that preserves hundreds of traditional Korean houses, known as hanoks, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Nestled between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces, Bukchon offers visitors a journey back in time with its narrow, winding alleys and beautifully crafted wooden homes that showcase traditional Korean architecture and design.

The village is a unique mix of history and everyday life, where some hanoks are now tea houses, galleries, and cultural centers, allowing visitors to experience Korean traditions up close. Each turn in Bukchon reveals postcard-worthy views of the tiled roofs, decorative walls, and intimate courtyards that define hanok architecture, with the added backdrop of Seoul’s modern skyline.

A visit to Bukchon Hanok Village offers more than a glimpse into Korea’s architectural past; it’s also a chance to see how history coexists with modern life. Walking through the village’s serene streets, visitors experience an authentic slice of Korean heritage while discovering hidden corners and scenic viewpoints that capture the charm of old Seoul.

Please note this city tour will only stop at Bukchon Village on Tuesdays.

Insadong Arts and Crafts Market – shop for Korean treasures

If you appreciate art, you will fall in love with the Insadong Arts and Crafts Market where most of the goods are hand-crafted! Here, you will be able to walk down a long street full of various stalls and shops. At the top of the street, you will see a poo-themed cafe which is quite funny! You will be able to indulge in little treats as well such as waffle bars made with matcha and plum tea.

Feel free to stray from the main street a bit and explore the alleys which have cute ceramics shops and more food vendors. You will have lots of fun talking to the lovely locals who are extremely friendly and helpful!

Namdaemun Market – A Vibrant and Unique Shopping Experience

Next up on our Seoul City tour is another traditional market, but this one is entirely different from Insadong.

Namdaemun market is one of the oldest and largest markets in South Korea. Located in the heart of Seoul, the market is known for its vibrant atmosphere and variety of goods. From traditional Korean crafts and clothing to the latest electronics and fashion, Namdaemun has something for everyone. The market is a must-visit for those looking to experience the true essence of Korean culture and shop for unique items. With its mix of history and modernity, Namdaemun is a lively and exciting place to explore.

In addition to its goods, Namdaemun is also known for its delicious street food. The market is home to many small stalls and vendors selling snacks and meals, including Korean dumplings (mandu), noodles (kalguksu), Japchae Hotteok (crispy doughnuts with a noodle and vegetable filling) and sweet treats like honeycomb candy. Visitors can enjoy trying these local delicacies while they shop and explore.

The market is also great for traditional Korean crafts and souvenirs. Visitors can browse through stalls selling handmade pottery, wood carvings, and silk fabrics. With its rich cultural heritage, Namdaemun is a treasure trove of unique and beautiful items that make great souvenirs or gifts. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, a visit to Namdaemun market is sure to be a highlight of your time in Seoul.

Namsan Cable Car – take a flight over downtown Seoul

What better way to end our Seoul City Tour than a ride up to Seoul Tower on the iconic Namsan Cable Car.

This well-known Korean landmark offers captivating views of Namsan Mountain and downtown Seoul as you ascend the 605-metre-long cable to the top.

The Namsan Cable Car was the first commercial cable car service for passengers in South Korea. It first opened on May 12th, 1962 and has been running daily for over 60 years.

Seoul Tower – be impressed by this skyline staple

With its thin base and spiky top, Seoul (Namsan) Tower is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. At 236 meters high, the tower is the second-highest point in Seoul. As you can imagine, on a clear day it therefore provides some of the most incredible views of Seoul city.

The structure is also used for communication and is responsible for keeping Seoul’s radio and TV stations going through the signal waves it transmits.

The tower has its main lobby, plaza, and observatory, which you can explore. The Love Padlocks is also a quirky highlight. Located on the second floor’s terrace is a trendy place for people to hang padlocks with their names written as a symbol of their love.

Don’t miss the chance to explore Seoul, South Korea’s vibrant capital on our Seoul City Tour! You will discover a mix of art, delicious cuisine, tradition, natural beauty, and a deeper understanding of culture. This is a wonderful opportunity to create lifetime memories with your loved ones!