Things to do in Seoul, South Korea: The Best Tours

December 4, 2021 Alida England

Seoul is the business and cultural hub of South Korea, where skyscrapers tower over Buddhist temples. Take it all in from the N Seoul Tower, built atop a peak in Namsan Park. The teahouses and shops of Insadong give you a taste of Korean flavor, which you can further experience with a visit to the grounds and museums of Gyeongbokgung. UNESCO World Heritage Site Changdeokgung Palace is a fine example of authentic ancient architecture.
Restaurants in Seoul

1. Private Tour Nami Island with Petite France or The Garden of Morning Calm

Outdoors Korea
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5.0 based on 19 reviews

We bring you to Nami Island and Petite France or The Garden of Morning Calm, Which is very famous for the K-drama making and its own scenery • Hotel Pick up and Sending, Entrance Fee(Nami Island and Petite France) & Lunch is Included • Fluent English speaking Driving Guide will lead you to Nami Island and Petite France or The Garden of Morning Calm • Pick up from Tourist hotel & Sending to Tourist hotel • Can listen to all the useful information such as politics, religions, society, culture and nature of Korea while traveling from full of knowledgeable driving guide

Inclusions: Lunch, Fluent English Speaking Driving Guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private transportation, Air-conditioned vehicle, All Fees and Taxes

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Reviewed By chrisparker91

Chance was a very knowledgeable and enthusiastic tour guide. My fiancé and I enjoyed the trip and we feel that it was worth the money spent. Chance gave us a private skiing lesson and his visible passion for the job made the trip one to remember.

2. Private Nami Island Photo Shoot and Tour with a Photographer

WuTang Photographer
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5.0 based on 12 reviews

Nami Island is Korea’s most globally recognized tourist destination and cultural brand welcoming over 3.3 million guests annually. Combining a refreshingly beautiful natural setting only 63 kilometers from Korea’s capital of Seoul, Nami Island is a peaceful place promoting culture and leisure in harmony with humanity and nature. Also known for the shooting location of famous K-Dramas such as Winter Sonata, Nami Island was designated a UNICEF Child-Friendly Park in December 2010. You get all 300+ original photos and 20~30 edited photos via photo share. - Pick up and drop off in a luxury SUV - Awesome photo souvenirs from Nami Island - No hassle, no shopping stops, and laid back schedule - There are other photo shoot locations. Just ask!

Inclusions: Private transportation, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Lunch, Insurance, Entrance Ticket to Nami Island 13,000 KRW per person

Reviewed By QueenTW01

I actually visited Korea in September of 2019 but the system would only allow me to select as far back as Dec. Justin was practically perfect. The weather was touch and go during the week (thanks Typhoon LingLing), but he was extremely flexible the entire way through. He let me dictate the locations, the poses, the time, and everything in between. This was a solo trip and a birthday photoshoot I was planning. Justin made absolutely sure that I looked amazing for my big day. The edits had a surprisingly fast turnaround with stunning work as well. I’m African American and sometimes photographers don’t consider my complexion when taking photos in the bright light. Justin didn’t have that problem at all and didn’t try to “brighten” my skin when taking or editing the photos. I would highly recommend him and would have him take my photos again without a second thought. He was also a pleasure to be with and a positive companion for the last days of my trip.

3. Hiking in Ansan with old Temple Visit, starting from Independence Park

Dongnimmun Station Exit 3, Gyobuk-dong, Seoul, South Korea Honey Trail
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

There are so many beautiful mountains in Korea! Why don't you enjoy this lovely nature while you travel in Seoul? It will give you a completely different view. During the hike, you can also enjoy the beautiful temple, Bongwon-sa. Ansan offers a very easy and enjoyable hike. Children can also participate! Bring some snacks and wear comfortable shoes for the hike. Then you're ready to have fun!

Inclusions: Certified tour guide leading

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Reviewed By nicholasmL4814RD

You get to learn a bunch of fun facts about Korea while walking through the market, eating local cuisine, and walking along the wall. The guide Lee was very nice and knows the area well. The view and sunset over Seoul from Naksan was beautiful. We lucked out as the sky was very clear.

4. Gwnagjang Market Food, Seoul Fortress, Mural Village Walking Tour

Jongno 5-ga Station, Jongno 1(il).2(i).3(sam).4(sa), Seoul, South Korea Honey Trail
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

With this tour, you'll see all of these, modern and historical sites all together! In Gwangjang market you can try the most popular Korean foods. Bindaeddeok OR Gimbab is inclusive. The market is also famous for Korean traditional clothes. You will many stores with all different kinds of hanbok. After the market, we will walk along Cheonggyecheon stream. Koreans love to hang out and relax there to escape from the city life. We will see Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun East gate), treasure N1, one of the 4 main gates into the city in the Joseon dynasty. After the gate, we will walk next to Hanyangdoseong (Seoul city wall fortress), also from the dynasty protecting the city from foreign enemies. The city view from the fortress is amazing. We will also visit Ihwa mural village with lots of street art and wall paintings! The tour will end in Daehakro, near Hyehwa station (line 4), a major arts and culture street with hundreds of theaters. Don't miss out this fantastic experience! :)

Inclusions: You can choose Gimbab (Rice roll) or Bindaeddeok (Mungbean pancake), Certified tour guide leading

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Reviewed By C4120OOjohns

Had an amazing day out on the mountains! We met mid morning at Bukhansan UI station. A handful of shops in case you need last minute snacks, lunch, or even hiking gear. We headed up the mountain, it wasn't too busy as I prefer to hike during the midweek. The pace was great, not rushed at all, really based on your ability I would say. It was great to get have someone who knows the mountain, and can give some insight into the history of Korea and the mountains! There were also Buddhist temples in the mountains which you pass by, and we made sure to stop, and take time to admire them and snap some photos! Super friendly, good conversation, and just a really amazing day. Would highly recommend any of her tours as she is super nice and fun! She even brought a nice print out she made of some simple Korean phrases and the alphabet if you are a foreigner, which will help guide you once you get off the mountain! We hiked up the and down off the hill which I prefer, instead of hiking in and out ( up and back down the way you came). We hopped on a bus at the end of the hike and she took me to the nearest Subway station, so it was easy and quick to get back! Highly recommend, Was super fun and I hope do more tours again! Thank you again for a great day!

5. Exciting Hiking Adventure Bukhansan National Park Highest Peak

Bukhansan, Ui-dong, Seoul, South Korea Honey Trail
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

During the hike, we will walk along Bukhansanseong fortress. The fortress was built in 1711 in order to protect the Joseon dynasty. It was 8.4km when it was completed. You can enjoy not only nature but also historical sites in Korea during the hike. This route is the shortest way to reach the summit. About 30,000 people hike in Bukhansan mountain to escape from the city. If you want to experience what locals love, this is a must visit place. You wouldn't believe this huge city has such a beautiful nature! I hiked in Kilimanjaro, Himalayas, Fuji, Alps and many other mountains in the world. I think Bukhansan is as beautiful as, or even more beautiful than these mountains I hiked.The scenery is just amazing.I believe you will have the most memorable travel in Korea through this hike.

Inclusions: Certified tour guide leading

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Reviewed By nicholasmL4814RD

You get to learn a bunch of fun facts about Korea while walking through the market, eating local cuisine, and walking along the wall. The guide Lee was very nice and knows the area well. The view and sunset over Seoul from Naksan was beautiful. We lucked out as the sky was very clear.

6. Central Seoul Tour

Top Korea Tour - Private Day Tours
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5.0 based on 68 reviews

Book this private full day tour of Seoul, to enjoy at your own pace with comfort. On this 8-hour journey, in an air-conditioned minivan, you will be accompanied by an expert driver cum guide on an itinerary that was designed to give you great understanding of Seoul. Lunch is not included, you can pay separately.

Inclusions: Bottled water, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, Driver guide (Driver and Guide for the larger group, more than 8), Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks, snacks, non-alcoholic beverages and coffee/tea (available to purchase), Gratuities, Lunch

Reviewed By edlevis

This was my second trip with Miae at Top Korea Tour. Three years ago she took me on a city tour of Seoul. I had so much fun and learned so much that I reached out again on my next visit to the area. This time we traveled 1-1/2 hours outside of Seoul to historic Gangwha Island. We visited Gwangseongbo Fortress, built in the 17th century to protect Korea from foreign invasion, and Jeondeungsa Buddhist Temple dating back to the 4th century. Our lunch was a delicious traditional Korean barbeque. After lunch we visited the Gangwha Peace Observatory where we could look across the Han River through telescopes to the farms and mountains of North Korea. From the observatory we proceeded to the popular Joyang Bangjik Coffee shop built on a former factory site and retaining much of the original decor. We visited the Ganghwa Anglican Cathedral combining traditional Korean architecture with Anglican Christian interior. We walked through the Pungmul Traditional Market offering locally grown foods such as turnips, sweet potatoes, and fish along with handcrafts. Then we returned to Seoul. Pickup and dropoff service was provided to my hotel. Miae is an excellent tour guide. She is very knowledgeable, upbeat, friendly, and fun. Top Korea Tour is highly recommended.

7. Traditional Cooking Experience in Korean Style House in Seoul

892-56 Jegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea OME Cooking Lab
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5.0 based on 234 reviews

Exploring local area and learn how to cook an authentic home-cooked Korean meal. This 3-hour cooking class starts with a quick walking tour of the city as we purchase local ingredients from the local market. Then we will cook together and dine together in a traditional Korean-style house. • Learning various Korean foods with professional Korean instructor. • Experiencing local traditional market and Cooking Korean foods with fresh ingredients. • Special 5 more kinds of fantastic Korean home cooking class. (One class included 5~7 dishes. Recipe is included).  Timeline 17:00-17:40 : Food ingredients market tour 17:40-19:15 : Korean cooking class 19:15-20:00 : Dinner   This timeline will be changed up to weather. #Korean cooking class #cookingkoreanfood #Koreanfood

Inclusions: Lunch(Dinner) or Dessert (depending on selection and time), Local guide, Group tour

Exclusions: Subway station pickup and drop-off

Reviewed By Shanounou

OME was a wonderful experience. It was great being a part of the prep with Jihee and cooking dishes I love. I would encourage everyone to take part in this at least once. We broke bread and ate the foods prepared and I couldn’t have asked for a better end to my day.

8. Immersive Korean BBQ, Market, and Secret Pub Experience in Seoul

Gongdeok Station, Ahyeon-dong, Seoul, South Korea ZenKimchi Korean Food Tours
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5.0 based on 43 reviews

Go to the same Korean pork BBQ restaurant featured on "Anthony Bourdain Parts Unknown" on this classic Korean night out of BBQ and drinks. Spend a lively evening with a Korean food expert to learn about Korean BBQ and drinking etiquette, and then experience traditional and trendy alcoholic drinks in an energetic classic pub filled with Koreans from all walks of life. You will also explore a market famous for its pigs feet and a colorful market selling savory pancakes and tempura made from most anything under the sun. Make sure to bring your camera, but don't lose it, or they may fry it. This is the most intense way to immerse yourself in Korean food culture. STARTING POINT Gongdeok Station, exit 7, bottom of escalators

Inclusions: Dinner, Unlimited drinks (within reason), Local guide

Exclusions: Gratuities, Extracurricular activities (karaoke, fried chicken pub) are optional after the main part of the tour

Reviewed By lilmzkimbo

After hearing so many good things about the Dark Side of Seoul Tours I decided to finally get up to Seoul and take one with Shawn. The tour was wonderful. Jam packed with lots of really interesting information and of course tons of creepy stories along the way. Shawn is very knowledgeable and is a great storyteller so it made for an extra fun experience. Luckily no ghosts on our tour (at least that I could see). I would highly recommend the tour to anyone either visiting Korea or living in Korea who want to learn more about Korean history and of course folklore. Also the podcast is really great so after hearing so many different ones it was nice to take a walk in some of the places mentioned.

9. Korean Cooking Class with Full-Course Meal & Local Market Tour

377-3 Mangwon 1(il)-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea Hello K Cooking Class
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5.0 based on 160 reviews

Do you take a deep interest in authentic Korean culinary adventure at exotic place? I can help you to take the passion of Korean traditional cuisine into your kitchen. 1. Local market tour and taste of street food - Let's get fresh ingredients for the class and try street food in the Mangwon market that is one of the most popular in Seoul. 2. Learn Korean language briefly with welcome drink 3. Cook 3 main dishes and 1 stew - main 1 : Bibimbap (Mixed rice with Meat & Vegetables) - main 2 : Dakgalbi (Stir-fried Chicken) - main 3 : Haemul-pajeon or Sanjeok (Seafood & Green onion Pancake or Skewered Pancakes with Beef & Vegetables) - stew : Doenjang-jjigae (Fermented Soybean paste stew) 4. Enjoy Hanjeongsik - Hanjeongsik means 'A Korean traditional course meal with more than 10 side dishes in total'. We're offering the side dishes, dessert and drinks without any extra charge. 5. Try on 'Tal' - You can try on Tal which is Korean traditional mask at stunning photo spot.

Inclusions: [Morning Class] Meals ( all ingredients for the class ) & more than 10 side dishes / Dessert and bevereges / Makgeolli (Korean traditonal rice wine), [Afternoon Class] Meals ( all ingredients for the class ) & more than 10 side dishes / Dessert and bevereges / Makgeolli (Korean traditonal rice wine), All Equipment for a class, Local market tour with street food, Korean traditional mask experience/ Useful Korean words and table etiquette

Exclusions: All prepared. Just come and enjoy my class :-)

Reviewed By redandpinkmatch

I thoroughly enjoyed her class today! We went to the market, and she explained many of the things we saw. She purchased a few snacks for us, then we went to her place (4th floor, no elevator) for the cooking class. We made bibimbap, seafood pancakes, and a chicken dish. The instructions were clear and simple. The food was good!

10. Hiking to Bukhansan Peak(Baegundae: 836.5m) with Mountain Expert

Outdoors Korea
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4.9 based on 28 reviews

National parks are very rarely within a city, and yet Bukhansan Mountain was designated as the 15th national park of Korea in 1983. Bukhansan National Park boasts of many gorges and granite peaks with crystal clear streams flowing between them. Hiking to the summit can be challenging and can take between 4-6 hours subject to individual pace.  Highlights • Whole day trekking in Bukhansan National Park with an experienced mountain expert. Extended or shortened trekking possible • Visit Doseonsa Buddhist Temple and pass through beautiful valleys and ridges to Bukhansan summit of Baegundae • Beautiful view and Seoul scenery from Baegundae peak • Delicious Korean lunch-box

Inclusions: Lunch box on the mountain, Bottled water, Driving guide and mountain expert, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Personal snacks and drinks

Reviewed By chrisparker91

Chance was a very knowledgeable and enthusiastic tour guide. My fiancé and I enjoyed the trip and we feel that it was worth the money spent. Chance gave us a private skiing lesson and his visible passion for the job made the trip one to remember.

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