Seoul, the thriving capital city of South Korea, is a hub for rich history, delicious cuisine, and captivating sights. But with its sprawling landscape, it can be challenging to explore on foot or by public transportation, especially without the knowledge of the local culture and language. Fortunately, motorized city tours have become a popular way to navigate the city’s bustling streets, experience its vibrant energy, and soak up the highlights of what Seoul has to offer. In this post, we’ll highlight the five best motorized city tours in Seoul to help you make the most of your time in this incredible city. Whether you’re looking for a romantic night drive or a guided tour, we’ve got you covered!

The 5 Best Motorized City Tours in Seoul

1. Morning 3-Hour Intro to Seoul Tour (Palace, Temple & More)
2. From Seoul: DMZ Tour with Tickets and Optional Peace Gondola
3. Seoul: Night Tour with Palace, Market, Naksan Park and more
4. Seoul: City Highlights Morning E-bike Tour
5. Past and Present in Seoul with Lunch and Pick up included

The 5 Best Motorized City Tours in Seoul

1. Morning 3-Hour Intro to Seoul Tour (Palace, Temple & More)

Experience the history and culture of Seoul in this Morning 3-Hour Intro to Seoul Tour. With pick-up from most hotels in the Seoul area, travel by comfortable coach with a knowledgeable local guide to explore some of the city’s most iconic sites. Visit Jogyesa, a serene Buddhist temple with more than 600 years of history, and marvel at the ancient Daeungjeon building. Witness the changing of the guard ceremony at Gyeongbok Palace, the oldest palace in Seoul, built in 1395. Continue to Cheongwadae, the presidential blue house, to see its beautiful blue tiles and learn about Korea’s fascinating history at the Cheongwadae Sarangchae history center. Please note, Gyeongbok Palace will be replaced with Deoksu Palace on Tuesdays, and Cheongwadae Sarangchae is closed on Mondays. Meals are not included in the tour.

2. From Seoul: DMZ Tour with Tickets and Optional Peace Gondola

This tour takes you to the Korean Demilitarized Zone, the famous border where North and South Korea meet. You’ll visit the Peace Train, Bridge of Freedom, and learn about the history of this tense region at the DMZ Theater & Exhibition Hall. From the Dora Observatory, you can see North Korean propaganda village and Kaesong. For an extra special experience, add on a Peace Gondola ride to see the DMZ from high above. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), round-trip transportation, a licensed tour guide, entry fees and tickets, and lunch. Please bring your passport or ID card with you. Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked. There is no dress code for this tour.

3. Seoul: Night Tour with Palace, Market, Naksan Park and more

Discover the beauty of Seoul at night on this motorized tour that takes you to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Start off by exploring the vibrant atmosphere of Gwangjang Market, where you can buy traditional Korean dinners or pick up some souvenirs. Afterward, take a relaxing stroll along the Cheonggyecheon stream and learn about its history. Then, enter the Changyeonggung Royal Palace to experience the grandeur of the Korean royalty. Finally, head to Naksan Park to enjoy the stunning views of the Seoul skyline as it is illuminated at night. Choose from the group tour with convenient meeting points or the private tour with flexible departure times and hotel transfers included. This tour includes admission to attractions, an English-speaking guide, roundtrip transfers from the meeting point, food and drinks, and insurance. Please note that the meeting point may vary depending on the option you choose, and the schedule is subject to change depending on traffic and weather conditions.

4. Seoul: City Highlights Morning E-bike Tour

Explore the vibrant city of Seoul on a morning E-bike tour and experience the thrill of gliding effortlessly around the streets. Discover the natural beauty and epic skyline of Seoul, visit top tourist attractions and hidden gems too. Try traditional Korean snacks and take in the beautiful mountain scenery with ease. The tour starts from the K Style tourist information hub and takes you to the royal palace, the quaint west village and up the west mountain on an E-bike to see the city wall. The tour includes entry tickets to places visited, a visit to the Tongin Traditional Market, live tour guide in English, transport by electric bike, water, portable Wi-Fi router, portable power bank, and helmet. Not suitable for children under 13 years, pregnant women, or wheelchair users. Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, and avoid high-heeled shoes or sandals/flip-flops. Meet the guide on the stone bridge in front of the café at the K Style tourist information hub. Get ready to experience the best of Seoul with this fantastic motorized tour!

5. Past and Present in Seoul with Lunch and Pick up included

Experience the rich history and vibrant present of Seoul with the ‘Past and Present in Seoul’ tour. Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel by a professional English speaking guide who will take you to Jogyesa Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Seoul. After a tour of Insa-dong, a youthful and charming street, you’ll head to Gangnam, Seoul’s wealthiest village, to visit Bongeunsa Temple, which houses the largest Buddha statue in Korea.

Next, you’ll visit Coex Mall to see the Starfield Library, which has appeared in many Korean dramas, and take photos with the world’s largest Gangnam Style horse dance statue. The tour then heads back to the historic center of Seoul to explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, the most famous tourist destination in the city, where you’ll learn about the history of Korea and experience what it was like to live 500 years ago.

After lunch, featuring delicious and healthy Korean traditional cuisine, you’ll visit Hallyu Star Street and see the agencies where global stars such as BTS and Blackpink were born. Finally, you’ll head to the Hiker Grounds to enjoy K-pop and K-Contents, and experience it with all your senses. End your day by relaxing at Cheonggyecheon, a river that runs through the center of Seoul, before returning to your hotel.

This all-inclusive tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a VIP special English guide, comfortable transportation, and all admission fees. Please note, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, people with food allergies, and those over 95 years old. Itinerary is subject to change due to local circumstances. Don’t forget to bring your passport, but leave your pets, bikes, alcohol, and drugs at home.

FAQs About Seoul

Seoul is the largest city and the capital of South Korea. It is a vibrant and modern city that attracts millions of visitors every year. If you are planning to visit Seoul, you might have some questions about the city. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Seoul.

What is the best time to visit Seoul?

The best time to visit Seoul is in the fall (September to November) or in the spring (March to May). During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the city is full of beautiful cherry blossoms (in spring) or colorful leaves (in fall). The summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, while the winter (December to February) can be bitterly cold.

What is the currency used in Seoul?

The currency used in Seoul (and in South Korea) is the South Korean won (KRW). You can exchange your currency at banks or exchange booths, which are easy to find in the city. Also, many places in Seoul accept credit cards, so you don’t necessarily need to carry cash.

What is the transportation system like in Seoul?

Seoul has an excellent public transportation system, with subway lines, buses, and taxis. The subway system is fast, reliable, and cheap, with signs and announcements in both Korean and English. The bus system is also extensive, but it might be a bit confusing for non-Korean speakers. Taxis are also plentiful and affordable, but you might face some language barriers.

What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Seoul?

Seoul has many tourist attractions that are worth a visit, depending on your interests. Some of the most popular ones are:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: the largest and most iconic palace in Seoul, with beautiful traditional Korean architecture;
• Myeong-dong: a bustling shopping district with countless retail stores and street food stalls;
• Bukchon Hanok Village: a traditional Korean village with well-preserved hanok (Korean houses) and narrow alleys;
• Namsan Tower: a tall tower on top of Namsan Mountain that offers panoramic views of Seoul;
• Hongdae: a hip and trendy neighborhood with lots of cafes, bars, shops, and street performances.

What are some cultural etiquettes to keep in mind in Seoul?

When you visit Seoul (and Korea in general), it’s important to be aware of some cultural etiquettes to avoid unintentional disrespect or offense. Some of the most important ones are:

• Bowing: Koreans bow as a sign of respect, so it’s appropriate to bow when you greet someone (especially older people) or say thank you;
• Removing shoes: it’s custom to take off your shoes when you enter a Korean person’s house, a temple, or some traditional restaurants;
• Using both hands: Koreans often use both hands when they give or receive something (like a business card or a gift), as a sign of respect and sincerity;
• Covering your mouth: it’s considered impolite to speak with your mouth full or to show your teeth when you laugh, so covering your mouth with your hand is a common gesture in Korea.

What are some popular Korean foods to try in Seoul?

Korean cuisine is rich and diverse, with many dishes that are unique and flavorful. Some of the most popular ones to try in Seoul are:

• Bibimbap: a rice bowl with various vegetables, meat, egg, and gochujang (spicy sauce);
• Korean barbecue: grilled meat (like beef or pork) served with lettuce, kimchi, and other condiments;
• Jjajangmyeon: a noodle dish with black bean sauce, vegetables, and sometimes meat;
• Tteokbokki: chewy rice cakes in a spicy red sauce, often served with fish cakes or boiled eggs;
• Bingsu: a shaved ice dessert with various toppings, like sweet red beans, fruit, or chocolate.

We hope that these answers can help you prepare better for your Seoul trip, and make the most out of your experience. Seoul is a city that offers many exciting things to see, do, and taste, and we’re sure that you’ll have a great time exploring it.

The 5 Best Motorized City Tours in Seoul: Frequently Asked Questions

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history and culture. For tourists, there’s no better way to explore the city and learn about its unique characteristics than by taking a city tour. Motorized city tours have become increasingly popular in recent years as they offer a comfortable and convenient way to see the sights. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the best motorized city tours in Seoul.

1. What are the best motorized city tours in Seoul?

There are many different motorized city tours available in Seoul, but these five are among the best:

a. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is one of the most popular motorized city tours in Seoul. The tour covers major tourist attractions including Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Museum of Korea, and Myeong-dong. You can get on and off the bus anytime and anywhere you want, and with audio guides available in various languages, you’ll never miss a thing.

b. Seoul City Tour Bus

Seoul City Tour Bus offers a comprehensive package of a full-day city tour that covers 22 different tourist attractions in Seoul. The tour also offers audio guides in multiple languages and is a great way to see the city quickly and efficiently. Including the must-see sights such as Namsan Tower and Dongdaemun market, it’s a tour that shouldn’t be missed.

c. Kim’s Travel Bus Tour

Kim’s Travel Bus Tour is a popular motorized city tour that stops at major landmarks such as Bukchon Hanok Village, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Changdeokgung Palace. Tour guides give explanations on the history of each location, providing a deep understanding of the culture and traditions of Seoul.

d. Seoul Sky bus

Seoul Skybus combines the aspects of both bus and train to provide tourists with a unique and comfortable experience. This tour covers popular areas such as Hongdae, Itaewon, and Gangnam, making it a great option for those interested in exploring city spots outside of the traditional tourist hotspots.

e. Night tour by bus

If you’re looking to see the city’s beauty come to life at night, then a night tour by bus may be the tour for you. The tour includes popular Korean traditional performance venues, including Namsan Hanok Village and a nighttime city skyline view, providing a memorable experience.

2. How long do the tours last and what is the cost?

The duration of each tour varies, though most tours last between 2 to 5 hours depending on the type of tour you choose. Each tour has its own fees, but the cost usually ranges from KRW 10,000 to KRW 50,000, roughly equivalent to $8 to $40.

3. What languages are available for the tours?

Most tours offer guides in several languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. Depending on the tour, you may need to check in advance which languages are offered. However, most tours provide detailed audio guides in English, making it easy for tourists to understand the attractions and culture of the city.

4. Can I customize or join multiple tours?

Some motorized city tours allow you the freedom to customize your tour, while others operate on a fixed schedule. If you want to customize your tour, it is best to book through a travel agent or tour company. You cannot join two tours at once, but you can take multiple tours over a few days to see more of the city.

5. What should I wear or bring for the tours?

Depending on the season, it is important to dress appropriately for the weather. During the winter, it can get very cold, so it’s important to dress warmly with a coat, hat, and gloves. During the summer, it can get hot and humid, and comfortable clothes are advised. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes as well, as there may be walking involved depending on the tour you choose.

6. What safety precautions should I take on the tours?

It is important to always listen to the tour guide for safety tips and to follow precautions while on the tour. Make sure to hold on tight to handrails while on open-top bus tours, and always wear a seatbelt while inside the vehicle. It is recommended to keep all valuables such as phones and cameras in a secure bag, as pickpocketing can be a problem in crowded areas.

7. How do I make reservations for the tours?

You can make your tour reservations online, on the individual tour’s website, or through travel agencies. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

Conclusion

Taking a motorized city tour is an exciting way to explore the city of Seoul. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. By considering the tour options and tips on this list, you can rest easy knowing you’ve picked the best motorized city tour for your time in the city. So hop on, sit down, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Seoul.