Ultimate Guide: Nami Island and Mount Seorak Day Trip from Seoul
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Seoul and immerse yourself in South Korea’s natural beauty, a day trip to Nami Island and Mount Seorak is a must-do. Though both sites are just outside of Seoul, getting there by public transport can be challenging. But with this day trip, you’ll get to see both natural wonders in one day, plus benefit from English and Korean-speaking staff, transport by air-conditioned coach, and entrance fees included. Here’s everything you can expect from the tour:Overview
As mentioned, the Nami Island and Mount Seorak day trip is a full-day tour, with pickup and drop-off in central Seoul included. You’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned coach, making for a comfortable journey. Here are some key details of the tour:- Visit two of South Korea’s top natural attractions in one day
- See the best of the South Korean countryside
- Travel in comfort by air-conditioned coach
- Entrance fees plus round-trip travel from central Seoul
- Transport by air-conditioned coach/minivan
- English and Korean-speaking staff
- Entrance tickets
- Meals
- Traveler’s insurance
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Meeting and Pickup
The tour offers multiple meeting points, which you can select when booking. However, the tour ends in a different location, so make sure to check the details for the endpoint. Don’t worry, though, as you’ll still have the option of being dropped off at one of the original meeting points.What to Expect
Now, let’s get into the details of what you can expect from each of the tour’s destinations:Seoraksan National Park
Seoraksan National Park is one of South Korea’s most famous national parks, and for a good reason. With stunning scenery, unique rock formations, and the chance to see wildlife such as deer and black bears, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers. During the tour, you’ll have around three hours to explore Seoraksan National Park, so make sure to prioritize what you want to see. Some of the most popular sights include:- Biryong Falls, a 77-meter waterfall
- Gwongeumseong Fortress, an ancient fortress with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains
- Sinheungsa Temple, a beautiful temple surrounded by nature
- Cable car ride, that offers panoramic views of the park and its mountain ranges*
Nami Island
After Seoraksan National Park, you’ll head to Nami Island, also known as Namiseom Island. This small, crescent-shaped island gained popularity after being featured in the Korean drama “Winter Sonata,” and it’s easy to see why. With picturesque landscapes and charming cafes and restaurants, Nami Island is a unique, must-visit destination. During the tour, you’ll have around two hours to explore Nami Island, which should give you enough time to see the main attractions, such as:- Metasequoia Lane, a tree-lined path that’s particularly beautiful in the autumn and winter
- The Central Korean Pine Tree Lane, another scenic path lined with towering pine trees
- The Korean Traditional Costume Experience, where you can dress up in traditional Korean clothing and take pictures
- The Handicraft Studio, where you can try your hand at making traditional Korean crafts such as pottery and soap*
Book Your Tour Now
All in all, the Nami Island and Mount Seorak day trip is a perfect way to escape the crowds of Seoul and experience South Korea’s natural beauty. With comfortable transport, entrance fees included, and English and Korean-speaking staff, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey. If you’re interested in booking the tour, you can book the tour here.
FAQs About Seoul, South Korea
Seoul is the capital and largest city in South Korea, known for its rich history, culture, and modern developments. If you are planning a trip to Seoul, you might have many questions in mind like where to stay, how to get around or what to see. To help you, we have put together this comprehensive FAQ guide to Seoul.1. What is the best time to visit Seoul?
Seoul has four distinct seasons, with summer months from June to August, autumn from September to November, winter from December to February, and spring from March to May. The best time to visit Seoul is during the fall (September to November) when the temperature is cool and pleasant, and the autumn foliage offers breathtaking views. Spring is also an excellent time to visit as the cherry blossom trees bloom, but keep in mind that this season can be crowded with tourists.2. What is the currency used in Seoul?
The currency used in Seoul is the South Korean won (KRW). You can exchange your currency at banks, money exchange offices or use ATM machines. Credit cards are widely accepted in Seoul, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shops.3. Do I need a visa to visit Seoul?
This depends on your nationality. Visitors from many countries can enter South Korea visa-free for a certain period. You can check the visa requirements and apply for a visa online through the South Korean embassy website in your country.4. Where should I stay in Seoul?
Seoul has plenty of accommodation options for all budgets. The most popular areas to stay in Seoul are Myeongdong, Gangnam, Hongdae and Insadong. Myeongdong is a bustling shopping district, Gangnam is more upscale and trendy, Hongdae is popular among young people for its nightlife, street art, and music shows, while Insadong is a traditional neighborhood with many temples, markets, and galleries.5. How do I get around in Seoul?
Seoul has an extensive public transportation system that comprises buses, subways, and taxis. The subway is the most convenient and affordable way to get around Seoul, with signs and announcements in English. Seoul also has a bike-sharing system called “Ttareungyi”, where you can rent a bike and ride it around the city.6. What are the must-see attractions in Seoul?
Seoul has many iconic landmarks and tourist attractions to explore, some of which include:Gyeongbokgung Palace:
A stunning palace located in the heart of Seoul, considered the most beautiful and grandest of all the five palaces in Seoul.Namsan Tower:
A 237-meter-tall tower situated atop Namsan Mountain, offering spectacular views of Seoul city.Bukchon Hanok Village:
A traditional village with preserved Hanok houses, giving visitors a glimpse into Korean traditional architecture and culture.Myeongdong:
A bustling shopping district where you can shop for Korean cosmetics, clothes, and accessories and indulge in Korean street food.Changdeokgung Palace:
A UNESCO World Heritage site, considered one of the most beautiful palaces in Seoul with its beautiful gardens and architecture.Hongdae:
A vibrant neighborhood filled with cafes, galleries, street performances, and trendy shops.7. What should I eat in Seoul?
Seoul is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide variety of dishes to try, some of which include:Bibimbap:
A healthy rice bowl with various vegetables, egg, and meat, served with spicy sauce.Tteokbokki:
A popular street food made of chewy rice cakes and spicy sauce.Korean fried chicken:
A crispy fried chicken with sweet and spicy sauce.Kimchi:
A spicy and fermented cabbage that is a staple in Korean cuisine.Bulgogi:
A classic Korean dish made of marinated beef, cooked on a grill.8. Is Seoul safe for tourists?
Seoul is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rate and organized safety measures. However, as with any city, you should take precautions to keep yourself safe, such as avoiding carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, staying away from unlit and unfamiliar areas, and being aware of your surroundings.9. What is the drinking culture like in Seoul?
Drinking is a big part of Korean culture, and Seoul has many bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy a night out. Koreans usually drink in groups and often order food along with alcohol, such as fried chicken and Korean-style BBQ. However, be aware that binge drinking and drunk-driving are illegal and carry hefty fines.10. Can I use my mobile phone in Seoul?
You can use your mobile phone in Seoul if you have an international data plan, but it can be expensive. It is recommended to buy a prepaid SIM card or rent a portable Wi-Fi device at the airport when you arrive in Seoul. Many cafes and public areas in Seoul offer free Wi-Fi access as well.Book Your Tour Now
Seoul is a vibrant and exciting city with something for everyone, from traditional temples and palaces to trendy restaurants and shops. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this FAQ guide will help you plan your trip to Seoul, so you can enjoy everything this amazing city has to offer.
How to Make the Most of Your Time as a Tourist in Seoul
As South Korea’s capital city, Seoul stands out as a major tourist destination in Asia. Admire the city’s mesmerizing architectural wonders or indulge in their delectable street foods, the opportunities are endless. In this article, we will take a deep dive into Seoul’s hidden gems, allowing you to make the most of your time as a tourist.1. Visit the Royal Palaces
Seoul is home to various royal palaces that served as the residence of the Korean king and his family. These palaces offer literal glimpses into Korea’s history and culture. Below are the top palaces to visit:Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace is Seoul’s most notable palace and is commonly known as the Northern Palace because it occupied the highest and northernmost position compared to the other palaces. Constructed by the first king of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung Palace’s architecture is awe-inspiring. The palace is open daily, except Tuesdays.Changdeokgung Palace
Constructed during the Joseon Dynasty and designed with balanced aesthetics and nature, Changdeokgung Palace is one of Seoul’s avowed UNESCO World Heritage sites. It is accessible daily, except Mondays.Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is an ancient Korean era village situated between two palaces (Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace). It features various traditional Korean houses called “hanok” and is a perfect site to experience the Korean culture of old.2. Eat Korean Street Food
The Korean cuisine is among the top most sought after cuisines in the world, with street foods being popular among Seoulites. Exploring their street foods offers an opportunity to interact with locals, learn about Korea’s culture, and feast on some of Korea’s tastiest and authentic dishes. Below is a list of street foods you must try:Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is soft and chewy rice cake with a spicy sauce that compliments the soft and chewy texture, making it quite flavorful.Jjajangmyeon
Jjajangmyeon is a popular Korean noodle dish with savory black bean sauce.Bibimbap
Bibimbap, translated as “mixed rice,” is a popular and healthy Korean dish, made up of rice, vegetables, and meat (useful for vegetarians too), topped with an egg.3. Explore Myeong-dong
Myeong-dong is one of the most tourism-centric markets in South Korea with an endless stretch of shops, cafes, street food vendors, and boutiques. Some notable streets within Myeong-dong include:Myeong-dong Shopping Street
Myeong-dong shopping street offers a range of shops selling different items, including clothes, shoes, and other fashion accessories. You can also find food and drink vendors here, and some are open late into the night.Myeong-dong Cathedral
Myeong-dong Cathedral is Seoul’s most prominent cathedral, situated at the center of Myeong-dong shopping street. Construction started back in 1892 and went on until 1898. The iconic cathedral promotes Gothic architecture and is a place of worship that serves the Catholic community in Seoul.4. Visit the Namsan Seoul Tower
Also called the N Seoul Tower, the Namsan Seoul Tower is an iconic cultural landmark in Seoul that stands 236 meters high. The tower gives a panoramic and almost picturesque bird’s eye view of Seoul’s city skyline. The tower is illuminated in bright colors every night to create a show-stopping backdrop that is simply breathtaking. If possible, visit the tower at night to witness the beautiful lighting display.5. Visit the Korean Folk Village
The Korean Folk Village is where you can escape the city’s hustle and bustle and be immersed in traditional Korean life. Here, there are various workshops, shows, and activities that showcase what it’s like to live, work and play like the Koreans who lived centuries ago. Visitors can engage in activities such as making traditional crafts, horse-riding, and archery to mention a few.Book Your Tour Now
Seoul is a city filled with culture, history, and activities. There are various adventures to undertake and hidden gems to discover. The above article has highlighted some of the key attractions and activities that a tourist cannot miss on a tour of Seoul.Table of Contents
