Seoul tours

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Seoul: 1) 'Seoul in a day' Private Tour 2) Korea Provincial Experience - Full Day Tour from Seoul 3) A must-see: DMZ & Gamaksan Suspension Bridge 4) Day trip to Ganghwado Island 5) Gwangjang Market & Chenggyecheon Stream walk - Private Tour

Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions, delicious cuisine, and cultural experiences. Here are some must-do things in Seoul: Explore the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. Don't miss the changing of the guard ceremony. Wander through Bukchon Hanok Village, a historic area with well-preserved traditional Korean houses (hanoks). It offers a glimpse into Seoul's past. Discover Insadong, a neighbourhood known for its antique shops, art galleries, traditional tea houses, and street food. It's a hub for Korean culture and crafts. Visit N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the city. You can reach it by cable car or a scenic hike up Namsan Mountain. Experience the bustling Myeongdong district, famous for its shopping streets, vibrant nightlife, and a variety of restaurants serving Korean street food. Explore Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its beautiful Secret Garden. Guided tours offer insights into the palace's history. Marvel at the futuristic architecture of Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a major urban development landmark. It hosts exhibitions, fashion shows, and cultural events. Immerse yourself in the youthful energy of Hongdae, an area known for its art scene, street performances, indie music, and eclectic nightlife. Visit the Korean War Memorial to learn about the country's history. The museum and outdoor exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the Korean War. Explore Namdaemun Market, one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Seoul. It's a great place to shop for clothing, accessories, and local goods. Stroll around the Ewha Womans University campus, known for its unique modern architecture and beautiful campus grounds. Relax by the Hangang River. You can take a leisurely walk, rent a bike, or enjoy a picnic along the riverbanks. Have fun at Lotte World, an indoor amusement park, and visit Lotte World Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world, for stunning views. Experience the upscale Gangnam district, known for its luxury shopping, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. Indulge in Korean cuisine. Try dishes like bibimbap, bulgogi, kimchi, and Korean barbecue. Street food markets are perfect for sampling local treats. Seoul offers a diverse range of experiences, and these suggestions provide a starting point for exploring the city's rich culture and attractions.

The cost of a private tour in Seoul can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Seoul typically ranges from around $350 - $550. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customising a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

Here are some of the top tours in Seoul, each highly rated with over 45 reviews! 1) Seoul Full Day City Tour 2) Seoul Highlights, Seoul Must Go - Full Day Tour 3) Culture and History of 600-year-old Seoul 4) Seoul Private Tour: Walking & Public Transportation 5) The Soul of Seoul Private Day Tour

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore, there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Seoul from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative and an excellent use of your vacation time. Whilst English is spoken by some working in the touristy areas, a guided tour can help bridge the communication gap and ensure you don't miss out on important information. If you have limited time in Seoul and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritize what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably valuable: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialized tour can enhance your experience.

Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Seoul. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has over 15 local guides in Seoul who are local experts and offer a wide range of customizable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.

Seoul is surrounded by charming destinations that make for excellent day trips, offering diverse experiences ranging from historical sites to natural beauty. Here are some recommended day trip destinations from Seoul: Explore Incheon, known for its modern architecture, Chinatown, and the Incheon Grand Park. Visit Suwon, famous for its well-preserved city walls and Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Suwon is easily accessible by train from Seoul. Enjoy the picturesque countryside in Gapyeong, known for its beautiful lakes and mountains. Visit Nami Island, Petite France, and the Garden of Morning Calm. Take a tour of the DMZ, the heavily fortified border between North and South Korea. Visit the Joint Security Area (JSA), the Third Tunnel, and other historical sites. Explore Paju, home to the Paju Book City and Heyri Art Valley. Visit the Imjingak Peace Park and the Dora Observatory for views of the DMZ. Have a fun-filled day at Everland, South Korea's largest theme park, located in Yongin. It offers a variety of rides, attractions, and entertainment. Discover Gwangmyeong Cave, a former gold mine turned into a tourist attraction with themed zones, light displays, and an underground lake. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Yangpyeong, known for its picturesque landscapes, rivers, and the Dumulmeori area where the Bukhangang and Namhangang rivers meet. Visit Hwacheon, particularly in winter, to experience the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, where you can try ice fishing and other winter activities. Explore Cheonan and its landmarks, including the Independence Hall of Korea, which exhibits the country's modern history. Go hiking in Cheonggyesan Mountain, located in the southern part of Seoul. The mountain offers scenic trails and panoramic views of the city. For a more extended day trip, consider travelling to Seoraksan National Park, known for its stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and the vibrant foliage in autumn. Before planning your day trip, check transportation options, opening hours of attractions, and any specific considerations related to your chosen destination. Some locations may be best explored with guided tours, especially those near the border or in natural reserves.

The ideal duration for touring Seoul depends on your interests, the pace at which you like to explore, and the specific attractions you want to visit. Seoul offers a mix of historical sites, modern architecture, cultural experiences, and vibrant neighbourhoods. Here's a suggested itinerary for a 5-day visit: Day 1: Historical Seoul Morning: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and witness the changing of the guard ceremony. Afternoon: Explore Bukchon Hanok Village and visit the National Folk Museum of Korea. Evening: Head to Insadong for shopping, street food, and traditional tea houses. Day 2: Modern Seoul Morning: Visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza and nearby shopping districts. Afternoon: Explore the trendy neighbourhood of Hongdae, known for its art scene and street performances. Evening: Enjoy the nightlife in Hongdae or head to Gangnam for upscale entertainment. Day 3: Nature and Culture Morning: Take a cable car or hike up Namsan Mountain to reach N Seoul Tower. Afternoon: Visit the Dongdaemun History & Culture Park and nearby attractions. Evening: Relax by the Hangang River or explore the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain. Day 4: Local Markets and Cuisine Morning: Explore Namdaemun Market for shopping and street food. Afternoon: Visit Myeongdong for more shopping and beauty product discoveries. Evening: Try Korean barbecue or other local dishes for dinner. Day 5: Day Trip or Additional Exploration Option 1: Take a day trip to a nearby destination like Incheon, Suwon, or the DMZ. Option 2: Explore any remaining sites in Seoul, such as the Korean War Memorial or Lotte World. This itinerary provides a well-rounded experience of Seoul, covering historical landmarks, modern attractions, cultural neighbourhoods, and local cuisine. Keep in mind that these are general suggestions, and you can tailor the itinerary based on your preferences and the time you have available. If you have more time, you can delve deeper into specific areas, explore additional neighbourhoods, and participate in cultural activities or special events. Seoul is a dynamic city with something to offer every type of traveller, whether you're interested in history, technology, fashion, or cuisine.

The cost of a 7-day trip to Seoul from the United States can vary widely based on several factors, including your travel style, accommodation preferences, dining choices, activities, and the time of year you plan to visit. Here are some general considerations: Flights: The cost of flights from the US to Seoul can vary significantly depending on factors such as the departure city, time of booking, airline, and class of service. On average, you might expect to pay anywhere from $700 to $1,500 or more for a round-trip ticket, but prices can fluctuate. Accommodation: Seoul offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. On average, you can expect to pay around $50 to $200 or more per night, depending on your preferences. Food: Dining costs will depend on your eating habits. A meal at a mid-range restaurant may cost around 15,000 to 40,000 Korean Won (KRW), while street food or more upscale dining can be more or less expensive. Transportation: Local transportation costs, such as subway and bus fares, taxis, or rental cars, will contribute to your overall budget. Public transportation in Seoul is efficient and relatively affordable. Activities: Entrance fees to attractions, guided tours, and other activities will add to your expenses. Budgeting for around 20,000 to 50,000 KRW per day for activities is a reasonable estimate. As a rough estimate, a mid-range budget for a 7-day trip to Seoul from the United States could range from $1,500 to $3,000 or more per person. Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and prices can fluctuate based on various factors. It's advisable to research current prices, consider any promotions or discounts, and plan according to your personal preferences and financial capacity.

Seoul offers a diverse range of neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions. The best place to stay depends on your preferences, interests, and the type of experience you're seeking. Here are some popular neighbourhoods in Seoul: Myeongdong: Pros: Shopping paradise with numerous shops, boutiques, and street food. Convenient location. Cons: Can be crowded, especially during peak hours. Insadong: Pros: Rich in history and culture with traditional tea houses, antique shops, and art galleries. Cons: Limited nightlife compared to other areas. Hongdae: Pros: Youthful and energetic atmosphere with indie music, street performances, and vibrant nightlife. Cons: May be noisy at night due to the nightlife scene. Gangnam: Pros: Upscale district with luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Cons: Can be more expensive, and it may not offer as much of a traditional Korean atmosphere. Itaewon: Pros: International and multicultural area with diverse cuisine, nightlife, and shopping. Cons: Some parts can be busy and crowded. Dongdaemun: Pros: Fashion hub with modern architecture, shopping malls, and night markets. Cons: May be more focused on shopping than cultural experiences. Jongno: Pros: Historic area with palaces, museums, and government buildings. Central location. Cons: Less nightlife compared to some other districts. Yongsan: Pros: Home to Yongsan Electronics Market and the War Memorial of Korea. Centrally located. Cons: May not have as many entertainment options as other districts. Apgujeong: Pros: Fashionable and upscale area with luxury boutiques, cafes, and entertainment. Cons: Can be pricier compared to other districts. Seoul Station Area: Pros: Central transportation hub with easy access to major attractions. Good for business travellers. Cons: May not have the same vibrant atmosphere as other neighbourhoods. When choosing accommodation, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, public transportation, the ambiance you prefer, and your budget. Seoul has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Additionally, keep in mind the time of year you're visiting and any specific events or festivals that may influence the atmosphere and availability of accommodations. It's advisable to book your stay well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

The best time to visit Seoul depends on your preferences regarding weather, events, and activities. Seoul experiences distinct seasons, each offering a unique set of experiences. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons in Seoul: Spring (April to June): Pros: mild temperatures, cherry blossoms in April, and vibrant greenery. Pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Cons: May experience occasional rain. Summer (July to August): Pros: warm temperatures, lively atmosphere, and festivals. Longer days allow for extended exploration. Cons: hot and humid weather, occasional heavy rainfall (monsoon season), and crowded tourist spots. Autumn (September to November): Pros: cool and comfortable temperatures, colourful fall foliage from late October to early November. Ideal for hiking. Cons: Shorter days and cooler evenings. Winter (December to February): Pros: winter festivals, beautiful snowy landscapes, and a festive atmosphere during the holidays. Cons: Cold temperatures, especially in January and February. Winter sports enthusiasts may enjoy nearby ski resorts. Consider the following factors when planning your visit: Cherry Blossom Season: If you want to witness the cherry blossoms in full bloom, visit in early April. The exact timing can vary each year. Fall Foliage: Late October to early November is the best time for viewing autumn colours in Seoul and the surrounding areas. Festivals: Check the calendar for events and festivals that align with your interests, whether they're cultural, food, or seasonal celebrations. Ultimately, the best time to visit Seoul depends on your personal preferences. Whether you enjoy the vibrant colours of spring, the warmth of summer, the crisp air of autumn, or the festive atmosphere of winter, Seoul offers a variety of experiences throughout the year. Keep in mind that specific events and conditions may vary annually, so it's a good idea to check the current weather and event calendars when planning your trip.