Full Day- Essential Seoul City Tour & Gourmet Tour(including Lunch and Dinner)

Discover the essence of Seoul through a captivating full-day tour that seamlessly blends the city’s iconic landmarks with an exceptional gastronomic journey. Enjoy the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the vibrant arts and culture of Insadong, and the lively street food scene at Gwangjang Market. Indulge in a Michelin-starred lunch of ginseng chicken soup and traditional Korean teas, followed by a delectable dinner of street foods and Korean rice wine. With an English-speaking guide and comfortable transportation, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Seoul’s rich history, culture, and gastronomy. Uncover the essence of this captivating city, where the past and present coexist in perfect harmony.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best City Tours In Seoul.

Key Points

• A full-day guided tour that combines city sightseeing and gourmet experiences, including visits to iconic landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Insadong.
• A Michelin-starred lunch featuring ginseng chicken soup and traditional Korean teas, as well as a dinner of street foods and Korean rice wine at Gwangjang Market.
• Insights into the rich history and culture of Seoul, with opportunities to explore traditional markets, such as Tongin Market and Gwangjang Market.
• Convenient pickup from any hotel in downtown Seoul, with an English-speaking licensed guide and air-conditioned transportation provided.
• Suitable for first-time visitors to Seoul, offering a comprehensive and immersive experience of the city’s top attractions and culinary delights.

Tour Overview

This full-day guided tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors, offering a combination of city sightseeing and gourmet experiences.

The tour will take guests to iconic landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Tongin Market, Insadong, Gwangjang Market, and the serene Cheonggyecheon stream.

Highlights include a Michelin-starred lunch of ginseng chicken soup and traditional Korean teas, as well as a dinner of street foods and Korean rice wine at the lively Gwangjang Market.

An English-speaking licensed guide will accompany the group throughout the day, providing insightful commentary.

Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable and convenient experience.

Highlights

The tour frequently highlights some of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks, including the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace, the lively Tongin Market, the charming Insadong neighborhood, the bustling Gwangjang Market, and the serene Cheonggyecheon stream.

At Gyeongbokgung Palace, visitors can marvel at the impressive architecture and learn about Korea’s rich history.

The Tongin Market offers a glimpse into traditional Korean commerce, while Insadong showcases the country’s vibrant arts and culture.

The Gwangjang Market is a foodie’s paradise, where guests can sample a variety of delectable street foods.

The tour also includes a visit to the Cheonggyecheon, a picturesque urban stream that provides a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Inclusions

The tour package includes a delectable lunch at a Michelin-rated restaurant, where guests can savor the renowned Jinseng Chicken Soup.

Plus, you will enjoy various traditional Korean snacks and teas throughout the day.

Dinner at the vibrant Gwangjang Market promises an authentic street food experience, complete with a sampling of Korean rice wine.

The tour is led by an English-speaking licensed guide who’ll provide insights into the city’s rich heritage.

Transportation is provided via a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making it a hassle-free and enjoyable adventure.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the culinary and cultural delights of Seoul.

Pickup and Start Time

Pickup for the tour is available from any hotel in downtown Seoul, with a start time of 9:00 AM. This allows participants to conveniently join the tour without the hassle of finding the meeting point.

The tour is designed to be an excellent choice for first-time visitors, providing a rundown of Seoul’s highlights.

The key details regarding the pickup and start time are:

1. Pickup is offered from any hotel in downtown Seoul.
2. The tour starts promptly at 9:00 AM.
3. The start time ensures ample time to explore the city and enjoy the included meals.
4. Confirmation of the tour is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace, the grandest of the Five Grand Palaces of Seoul, often serves as the first stop on the tour, showcasing the impressive architectural heritage of the Joseon dynasty.

Visitors will be awed by the palace’s ornate pavilions, elegant gardens, and the iconic Gwanghwamun Gate. The guided tour provides insight into the palace’s rich history and the daily life of the royal family.

Travelers can explore the National Folk Museum located within the palace grounds, learning about traditional Korean culture and customs.

The palace’s stunning backdrop of Bugaksan Mountain creates a picturesque setting, making it a must-visit attraction on any comprehensive Seoul city tour.

Tongin Market

Nestled in the heart of Seoul, Tongin Market offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s vibrant local culture and cuisine.

This historic marketplace, dating back to the 1930s, buzzes with the energy of small businesses and hawkers, each offering a unique selection of traditional Korean snacks, handicrafts, and household items.

Wandering through the stalls, visitors can find:

• Delectable street food like hotteok (sweet pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes)
• Handcrafted artisanal goods such as ceramics, woodwork, and traditional clothing
• A variety of dried fish, pickled vegetables, and other Korean pantry staples

Friendly vendors eager to share their stories and traditions with curious travelers.

Insadong and Gwangjang Market

After exploring the vibrant Tongin Market, the tour moves on to the beloved Insadong district and the bustling Gwangjang Market, offering visitors a captivating blend of Seoul’s cultural heritage and culinary delights.

In Insadong, guests can meander through the charming alleyways, browsing traditional Korean art galleries, antique shops, and quaint teahouses.

The Gwangjang Market, one of the oldest and liveliest markets in Seoul, is a food lover’s paradise. Here, the group will savor delectable street foods and sip on refreshing Korean rice wine, seeing the lively atmosphere and local flavors.

With the guidance of the knowledgeable English-speaking guide, guests will discover the unique characteristics and rich histories of these iconic Seoul destinations.

Cheonggyecheon

The tour then takes visitors to the serene Cheonggyecheon, an iconic urban stream that flows through the heart of Seoul. Guests will be captivated by the tranquil atmosphere and the striking contrast between the historic architecture and the modern skyscrapers that line the stream’s banks.

Along the 5.8-kilometer-long Cheonggyecheon, guests can:

• Stroll along the beautifully landscaped promenade and admire the public art installations.
• Observe the abundant wildlife, including fish, turtles, and birds, that have made the stream their home.
• Take in the views of the city’s skyline from the various bridges and observation decks.

The Cheonggyecheon has a rich history and cultural significance. It was once covered by an elevated highway but was later restored as part of an urban renewal project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a Michelin-starred lunch, snacks, traditional Korean teas, and a dinner of street foods and Korean rice wine at Gwangjang Market.

Is the Tour Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?

The tour can accommodate vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions. The tour provider offers alternative meal options and works to meet any dietary needs. Communicating any dietary requirements in advance is recommended to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Can I Request to Start the Tour at a Different Time?

Yes, you can request to start the tour at a different time. The tour provider is generally flexible and will accommodate requests for alternative start times, subject to availability.

Will the Guide Provide Any Historical or Cultural Information During the Tour?

Yes, the licensed English-speaking guide will provide historical and cultural information throughout the tour. Visitors can expect to learn about the significance of the various sites and local Korean customs during this comprehensive guided experience.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour typically follows a set itinerary, but the guide may be open to customizing it based on the group’s interests. Guests can discuss any preferences or modifications with the guide prior to or during the tour.

Recap

This full-day tour provides a well-rounded experience of Seoul’s iconic landmarks, vibrant arts and culture, and exceptional cuisine.

Travelers will explore the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace, enjoy the lively street food scene, and savor Michelin-starred Korean delicacies.

With an English-speaking guide and comfortable transportation, this tour offers an excellent introduction to Seoul’s rich history, culture, and gastronomy.