Seoul: Gyeongbokgung / Hanok Village / N Seoul Tower

Discover the vibrant culture of Seoul through a captivating private tour that immerses you in the city’s most iconic landmarks. Wander the majestic grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace, marveling at its exquisite architecture and rich history. Stroll through the charming streets of Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional hanok houses line the quaint alleyways, offering a glimpse into Korea’s past. Then, ascend to the top of N Seoul Tower, where panoramic views of the bustling metropolis await, complemented by a delicious Samgyetang lunch. This comprehensive experience, guided by an expert, promises to ignite your senses and leave you captivated by the essence of Seoul.

Key Points

• The private tour covers major landmarks in Seoul, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and N Seoul Tower, providing a comprehensive cultural experience.
• Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest of the Five Grand Palaces from the Joseon dynasty, serving as the historical seat of the royal family and government.
• Bukchon Hanok Village features a collection of traditional Korean houses, showcasing the country’s cultural heritage and offering a serene ambiance.
• N Seoul Tower, standing at 236 meters, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Seoul skyline, accessible via a cable car ride.
• The tour includes admission fees, private transfers, a traditional Samgyetang lunch, and a knowledgeable guide, ensuring a well-rounded sightseeing adventure.

Tour Overview

This private tour of Seoul offers an immersive experience through the city’s renowned landmarks and cultural gems.

Spanning 8 hours, the tour visits Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Joseon dynasty’s Five Grand Palaces, as well as the charming Bukchon Hanok Village.

Travelers will also ride the cable car up to the iconic N Seoul Tower, admiring panoramic vistas of the sprawling metropolis.

With private hotel transfers, a knowledgeable guide fluent in English or Chinese, and a traditional Samgyetang lunch, this comprehensive experience promises an unforgettable deep dive into Seoul’s history and modernity.

Priced from ₩4,671 per person, the tour accommodates both adults and children, ensuring a memorable day for the whole family.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace stands as the largest and most impressive of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon dynasty. This architectural masterpiece served as the historical seat of dynastic kings and governments. Within its expansive grounds, visitors can marvel at the intricate details and elegant design of the palace’s structures, which seamlessly blend traditional Korean elements with Chinese influences. To better understand the palace’s significance, consider this insightful overview:

Feature	Description
Construction	Begun in 1394, extensively rebuilt in the 19th century
Purpose	Seat of the Joseon royal family and government
Highlights	Geunjeongjeon (audience hall), Gyeonghoeru (banquet pavilion), Hyangwonjeong (scenic pavilion)
Area	Covers over 1.04 million square meters
Visitors	Attracts millions annually to explore its rich history and beauty

Bukchon Hanok Village

Nestled amidst the historic heart of Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village captivates visitors with its charming collection of traditional Korean houses, or "hanoks".

These meticulously preserved structures, dating back centuries, line the quaint, winding streets, offering a glimpse into Korea’s rich cultural heritage.

Wander through the picturesque alleys, pausing to admire the intricate architectural details and lush courtyards.

Stop for a refreshing cup of tea or traditional snack at one of the cozy cafes that dot the neighborhood.

Enjoy the serene ambiance and uncover the timeless beauty of this enchanting enclave, a testament to Seoul’s enduring traditions.

N Seoul Tower

Atop the granite slopes of Namsan Mountain, the iconic N Seoul Tower rises majestically, its silhouette a signature landmark of the city.

Reaching an impressive height of 236 meters, the tower offers visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the Seoul skyline.

Ascent to the observatory is via a thrilling cable car ride, providing a seamless journey to the top.

The tower’s observation decks, restaurants, and shops cater to diverse interests, allowing visitors to:

1. Admire the sweeping vistas of Seoul’s urban tapestry.
2. Indulge in delectable cuisine while overlooking the bustling metropolis.
3. Capture unforgettable memories with loved ones amidst the tower’s romantic ambiance.

Tour Inclusions

The tour package includes a variety of thoughtful inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

Guests will enjoy admission to the stunning Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces, as well as a visit to the charming Bukchon Hanok Village.

A professional driver/guide fluent in English, Chinese, and Japanese will accompany the group, ensuring seamless transportation and engaging commentary.

The package also covers round-trip hotel transfers, toll and parking fees, a delicious Samgyetang lunch, and a cable car ride to the top of the iconic N Seoul Tower for panoramic city views.

These comprehensive inclusions create a well-rounded and enriching Seoul sightseeing adventure.

Important Information

This tour is suitable for a wide range of participants, accommodating adults aged 3-99 and children 2 and younger who travel for free without occupying separate seats.

Restrictions apply, as the tour isn’t available for Korean passport holders, and baby strollers aren’t allowed.

Dietary restrictions must be indicated at checkout. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but travelers should confirm with customer service before booking.

Timing is crucial, as travel time may double on weekends and public holidays, so the tour is recommended on weekdays to avoid delays.

1. Participants are limited to non-Korean passport holders.
2. Baby strollers are prohibited on the tour.
3. Dietary requirements must be communicated during booking.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund. This flexible policy provides travelers with peace of mind, enabling them to book with confidence and adjust their plans as needed. The table below outlines the key details:

Cancellation Period	Refund Amount
Up to 24 hours prior	100%
Less than 24 hours	No refund

This considerate approach ensures customers can seamlessly navigate changes in their itinerary, prioritizing their satisfaction and convenience. The tour operator’s commitment to customer-centric policies is a testament to their dedication in providing an exceptional Seoul experience.

Additional Notes

Tour participants should be aware of a few additional details regarding this Seoul sightseeing experience.

Firstly, the tour guide won’t actually enter the attractions, though visitors can explore them independently.

Plus, if the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace is closed on Tuesdays, the tour will instead visit the equally impressive Deoksugung Palace.

Lastly, an overtime fee of 30,000 KRW (approximately $25 USD) will apply if the tour exceeds the scheduled 8-hour duration.

These nuanced details help set accurate expectations for a seamless and enjoyable private tour of Seoul’s top cultural landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, outside food and drinks are not permitted on this tour. The package includes a delicious traditional Korean lunch, as well as cable car admission to the top of N Seoul Tower, ensuring a complete and satisfying culinary experience.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for this tour is casual and comfortable. Guests are free to wear whatever they feel most at ease in, as the tour involves a fair amount of walking. However, wearing traditional Korean hanbok garments is also an option for an authentic cultural experience.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended if needed. Guests can request an overtime fee of KRW 30,000 to continue the tour beyond the scheduled 8 hours, allowing for more time to explore the sights at a leisurely pace.

Are There Any Optional Add-Ons or Upgrades Available?

Yes, there are a few optional add-ons and upgrades available for this tour. Travelers can choose to extend the duration, enjoy a traditional Korean lunch, or upgrade to a private car for more personalized service and comfort.

How Often Does the Tour Run During the Week?

The tour operates daily, but it’s recommended to book on weekdays to avoid delays from increased traffic on weekends and public holidays. This ensures a smooth, efficient experience throughout the day’s sightseeing itinerary.

Recap

This immersive tour of Seoul’s iconic landmarks offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich cultural heritage. From the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace to the charming Bukchon Hanok Village and the breathtaking views of N Seoul Tower, this experience immerses visitors in the vibrant tapestry of Korean history and modernity. With a delectable Samgyetang lunch and expert guidance, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Seoul’s enchanting wonders.