How to Plan Your Best of Seoul Private Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems with Locals

Are you planning a trip to Seoul and looking for a unique and personalized way to explore the city? Look no further than the Best of Seoul Private Walking Tour. This off-the-beaten-path tour takes you through both the traditional and modern sides of the city, all while being guided by a friendly local. Here’s how you can plan your own tour and experience the best that Seoul has to offer.

Overview of the Tour

The Best of Seoul Private Walking Tour is an immersive experience that takes you through some of the city’s most famous landmarks and hidden gems. The tour starts with a visit to the 14th-century Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of Korea’s most iconic landmarks. Your admission ticket is included, so you don’t need to worry about purchasing it separately. You’ll explore the palace’s stunning architecture and learn about its rich history from your knowledgeable guide.

Next, you’ll head to the Bukchon Hanok Village, a preserved historic district filled with traditional Korean houses called hanoks. The narrow alleys and courtyards are a perfect example of how Seoul has managed to blend its ancient history with modern-day life. Your friendly guide will provide you with fascinating stories of the village’s past and how it has transformed over the years.

After a walk through Bukchon Hanok Village, you’ll head to Gwanjang Market, one of the city’s biggest traditional marketplaces. Here, you’ll have a chance to taste Korea’s delicious local food and drinks. Your guide will take you to some of the market’s hidden gems and introduce you to the vendors who have been running their food stalls for generations.

What’s Included in the Tour?

The Best of Seoul Private Walking Tour is a fully personalized experience that is tailored to your interests and preferences. Here’s what you can expect to be included in the tour package:

Private Tour

You’ll have a private and exclusive tour guide to take you through Seoul. This means that you’ll get personal attention, individualized recommendations, and the chance to ask as many questions as you like.

Local Guide

Your guide is a local who has lived in Seoul all their life. They have an in-depth knowledge of the city, its history, and its culture. You’ll gain valuable insights into what makes Seoul so special from someone who truly loves their home city.

1 Local Drink/Tasting

As part of the tour, you’ll get a complimentary taste of Korea’s delicious food and drink. This includes a drink or tasting at Gwanjang market.

Admission Tickets for Gyeongbokgung Palace

Your admission ticket to Gyeongbokgung Palace is included in the tour package. This saves you the hassle of having to purchase tickets separately and guarantees you’ll get the best value for your money.

Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off

The tour includes convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, so you don’t need to worry about transportation or getting lost in the city.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour starts at 159 Sejong-daero Jongno-gu Seoul South Korea in front of GODIVA Chocolate Cafe. Your guide will be waiting for you at the designated meeting point at the agreed-upon time. At the end of the tour, you’ll be dropped off at the Gwangjang Market (88 Changgyeonggu).

Booking the Tour

To book the Best of Seoul Private Walking Tour, you can visit the following link: book the tour here. The platform is easy to use, and you’ll get a confirmation email with all the necessary details once you’ve completed your booking.

Conclusion

Taking the Best of Seoul Private Walking Tour is the perfect way to explore the city with a local guide who knows all the hidden gems. By experiencing both the traditional and modern sides of the city, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Seoul’s history and culture. Plus, with the tour being fully personalized, you can cater it to your interests and preferences. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Seoul like a local.

Know Everything About Seoul: Frequently Asked Questions

If you want to experience the best of East Asia, you must visit Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, known for its stunning contemporary skyline, rich history, and cultural heritage. From palaces to temples, shopping districts to traditional markets, there is so much to explore in Seoul. Before you hit the roads of Seoul, let’s have a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about this city to make your travel stress-free.

1. What is the best time to visit Seoul?

Seoul is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit the city is during the spring (April – June) and autumn (September – November) seasons. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy various outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and sightseeing.

2. How can I get around Seoul?

Seoul has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, subway, and taxis. The subway is the most efficient and affordable mode of transportation, and you can buy a T-Money card that works for both buses and subway rides.

3. What are the must-visit attractions in Seoul?

Seoul is packed with various tourist attractions, and some of the most famous spots include:

– Gyeongbokgung Palace: a stunning palace built-in 1395, also known as the ‘Palace of Shining Happiness.’

– Namsan Tower: an iconic landmark of Seoul with scenic views of the city from the top.

– Myeong-dong: one of the busiest shopping districts with a variety of street food and entertainment options.

– Bukchon Hanok Village: a traditional Korean village with preserved hanok houses and workshops.

– Noryangjin Fish Market: the largest seafood market in Seoul offering fresh seafood dishes.

4. What is the currency used in Seoul?

The official currency of Seoul is the South Korean Won (KRW). You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs available throughout the city.

5. What are some traditional Korean dishes to try in Seoul?

Seoul is famous for its delicious and unique Korean cuisine. Some of the must-try Korean dishes in Seoul include:

– Korean BBQ: grilled meat served with rice, kimchi, and side dishes.

– Bibimbap: a mixed rice bowl with vegetables, meat, and an egg on top.

– Tteokbokki: a spicy rice cake dish made with gochujang sauce.

– Japchae: glass noodles stir-fried with vegetables and meat.

6. Are there any cultural etiquettes that I should know before visiting Seoul?

Yes, in Seoul, you should follow some cultural etiquettes to show respect towards the local culture, such as:

– Take off your shoes before entering a traditional Korean house or temple.

– Bow towards the elders or people in authority to show respect.

– Do not speak loudly or make noise in public places.

– Dress appropriately and cover your shoulders and knees while visiting religious places.

7. What are the best places to shop in Seoul?

Seoul is a shopaholic’s paradise, and you will find various shopping districts and markets to treat yourself to some Korean souvenirs. Some of the best shopping places in Seoul include:

– Myeong-dong: the busiest shopping district with luxury brands and affordable street shops.

– Dongdaemun Market: an enormous complex of shops offering clothes, accessories, and souvenirs.

– Insadong: a traditional Korean market with art galleries, handicrafts, and antique stalls.

8. Is it safe to travel to Seoul?

Yes, Seoul is a safe city, and you can travel without any worries. However, it is always advisable to take precautions and keep your belongings safe while traveling.

Conclusion

Seoul is a fascinating city full of contrasts and surprises. From the towering skyscrapers to the traditional temples, Seoul has something for everyone. During your visit, make sure to follow the cultural etiquettes and try traditional Korean dishes. Hopefully, this blog post has answered some of the most commonly asked questions about Seoul and helped you plan your trip to this beautiful city stress-free.