PRIVATE TOUR: Explore Seoul, the cosmopolitan and vibrant capital of South Korea. See the changing of the guard at the ornate Gyeongbokgung Palace and wander through bustling Insadong, take in the traditional architecture of Bukchon Hanok village and travel to the fascinating Demilitarized Zone on this 5 day city break.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Seoul Sightseeing
Seoul is a gleaming metropolis with over 500 years of history, where you'll discover Buddhist temples, exquisite palaces and traditional markets, among soaring skyscrapers, chic bars and stylish shops. Take in the highlights of the nation’s capital on a full day tour. This morning there's the opportunity to try on a Hanbok - the traditional Korean dress which dates back thousands of years and is worn on special occasions. After dressing for the occasion visit the beautifully ornate Gyeongbokgung Palace which is the largest and most famous of Seoul's Five Grand Palaces. Gyeongbokgung served as the main palace of Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), the last dynasty of Korea. After a tour of the palace and watching the Changing of the Guard proceed to the lively antique alley of Insadong, where art galleries, antique shops, crafts shops, pottery shops display their traditional goods.
Korea is renowned for its wonderful, healthy cuisine and for lunch today there's the opportunity to sample ‘Bulgogi’, which is a traditional dish made from thin, marinated slices of beef and pork. This afternoon explore the enchanting Bukchon Hanok Village, which is home to around 900 hanoks - traditional Korean houses, that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. Then take in incredible panoramic views of the city from the 236-meter N Seoul Tower.
Overnight: Seoul | Breakfast, Lunch
Free day to explore Seoul
Today is free for you to continue to explore Seoul at leisure. We recommend a visit to the National Museum of Korea for a journey through the country’s history all the way from the prehistoric period to the Korean Empire period. Other highlights include Bongeun Temple, a Buddhist temple which houses one of the tallest stone statues in the country, Changdeokgung Palace with its beautiful Secret Garden and the serene Cheonggyecheon Stream, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll. You’ll find a host of exciting places to eat, drink, shop and relax, whether you’re in Hongdae’s chic bars and restaurants or the stylish boutiques of Apgujeong.
Overnight: Seoul
Excursion to the DMZ
Take an exciting private tour to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) today, which is located 45km north of Seoul and acts as the buffer zone and border between the two nations of North and South Korea. Start with a visit the Third Tunnel of Aggression, which spans over 1,635m and is one of the 4 tunnels under the border of North and South Korea which were used to move thousands of soldiers into South Korea for invasion. It is said that approximately 30,000 could move through the tunnel per hour. Then continue to the Dorasan Observatory which overlooks the Demilitarized Zone and the Dorasan station, a station which connects Northern and Southern Korean rail roads. Next stop is The War Memorial of Korea, a museum which houses and preserves artifacts such as weapons and uniforms from the Korean War. After gaining a great insight into the country’s past, you can enjoy a traditional Korean lunch of Bibimbap, a steamed rice dish with assorted beef and vegetables before returning to your hotel for the remainder of the day at leisure.
Overnight: Seoul | Breakfast, Lunch
Seoul
After breakfast and hotel check out, transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Prices shown are per person when there are 2 persons sharing a room. The 'Single Room' price is applicable when a single room is required, based on a travelling party of at least 2 adults.
Read MoreHotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Chisun Hotel Seoul Myeongdong , Seoul
Ideally located in the centre of Seoul, this modern hotel is just a ten-minute walk from key shopping and sightseeing areas including Myeongdong and Dongdaemun Market. Its guestrooms offer modest décor, with wooden floors and neutral furnishings, and benefit from free WiFi access and a flat-screen TV. Guests can also take advantage of the onsite fitness centre or head to Café Biz, which serves a tasty breakfast buffet and dinner menu. However, a must-see is the Sky Garden, where you can relax and enjoy panoramic views over the city.
Ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Yongsan, Seoul
Situated in the central wing of the Seoul Dragon City complex, this vibrant hotel offers a fabulous location right in the centre of South Korea’s capital city. Its guestrooms offer stunning views over Seoul and the Han River, whilst also providing modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and ensuite bathrooms with rainfall showerheads. On the seventh floor, guests will find the lively In Style restaurant, which serves various Korean and Asian dishes. Or, if you’re after just a drink, head to the Chess Bar near the main lobby, where you relax with a coffee or enjoy an alcoholic beverage or two.
Novotel Ambassador Seoul Yongsan , Seoul
Located in the Dragon City complex, Novotel Ambassador Seoul Yongsan brings world-class service and facilities to the heart of Seoul. Its guestrooms feature modern décor and views of the Han River. Each one is fitted with a sofa and desk, as well as a satellite TV, fridge and kettle. Guests can also make use of the fantastic onsite fitness centre and the indoor heated pool, with use of the sauna available for an extra charge. When it comes to dining, you can enjoy delicious international cuisine in the hotel’s all-day buffet restaurant or head to Mega Bites, the best place to unwind with a drink at the end of the day.
At a Glance
