• Gyeongbokgung Palace - Constructed in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is often called the Northern Palace due to its location being the furthest north compared to the nearby Changdeokgung (Eastern Palace) and Gyeonghuigung (Western Palace) Palaces. It is considered the most beautiful and remains the largest of the five palaces.

The palace was once destroyed by fire during the Imjin War (Japanese Invasions, 1592-1598), but all the buildings were later restored under Heungseondaewongun’s leadership during King Gojong’s reign (1852-1919).

Remarkably, the most iconic structures of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and Hyangwonjeong Pond, have remained largely intact. Woldae and the sculptures of Geunjeongjeon (The Royal Audience Chamber) showcase past sculptures of contemporary art.

The National Palace Museum of Korea is situated south of Heungnyemun Gate, and the National Folk Museum is located on the eastern side within Hyangwonjeong.

• National Folk Museum of Korea - Situated within Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum of Korea displays historical artifacts used in the daily lives of Korean people in the past. Through these exhibits, visitors can learn about domestic and agricultural lifestyles, as well as Korea’s cultural beliefs.

The museum features three permanent exhibitions, two special exhibitions, a library, a souvenir shop, and other facilities.

• Insadong - Located in the city’s heart, Insa-dong is a significant place where old, precious, and traditional goods are displayed. There is one main road in Insa-dong with alleys on each side. These alleys house galleries, traditional restaurants, teahouses, and cafes.

The galleries are the essence of Insa-dong. With about 100 galleries in the area, visitors can see every example of traditional Korean fine art, from paintings to sculptures. The most renowned galleries include Hakgojae Gallery, a center for folk art, Gana Art Gallery, which promotes promising artists, and Gana Art Center.

The teahouses and restaurants perfectly complement the galleries. Initially, they might be hard to find, but strolling through the winding alleyways and window shopping can be very entertaining. The shops in Insa-dong are popular among all age groups because each one is unique.

Every Saturday from 14:00 to 22:00 and Sunday from 10:00 to 22:00, the main street is closed to traffic, transforming into a cultural space. Stores set up booths outside, and Korean candy merchants and fortune teller stalls are easily found; traditional performances and exhibits are also present. Insa-dong is especially popular among international tourists, offering them a chance to experience and see traditional Korean culture firsthand and purchase fine art pieces. On the street, visitors can enjoy Korean taffy and traditional pajeon (green onion pancake) while immersing themselves in the street’s joyous festivities.

• Jogyesa Temple - As the main temple and district head temple of the Jogye order in Seoul, Jogyesa Temple is the center of Korean Buddhism. Built in the late 14th century during the Goryeo period, it was once destroyed by fire and rebuilt as Gackhwangsa Temple in 1910 through the efforts of respected monks like Han Yong-un and Lee Hee-gwang. It was designated as the head temple of Korea’s Buddhism and renamed Tegosa Temple in 1936. In 1954, a purification drive eliminated Japanese influence and revived traditional Buddhism, resulting in the present-day Jogyesa Temple.

Jogyesa Temple plays a vital role in Korean Buddhism as the head temple of the Jogye order. Its Dharma Hall serves as the main venue for various Buddhist events, including rituals, lectures, ceremonies, and other activities throughout the year. The annual lantern festival celebrating Buddha’s birthday also takes place at this temple.

• Bukchon Hanok Village - Surrounded by Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine, Bukchon Hanok Village is home to hundreds of traditional houses, known as hanok, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. The name Bukchon, meaning “northern village,” originates from its location north of two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno. Today, many hanoks operate as cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants, and tea houses, offering visitors a chance to experience, learn, and immerse themselves in traditional Korean culture.
• N Seoul Tower - Namsan Seoul Tower was Korea’s first tower-type tourist attraction. The tower’s top reaches nearly 480m above sea level, including Namsan Mountain (243m) and the tower’s height (236.7m), making it one of the tallest towers in the Orient. It comprises Seoul Tower Plaza, recently opened to the public after 40 years, and N Seoul Tower, operated by CJ Foodville since 2005. Initially established as a broadcast tower for TV and radio signals in 1969, it has now become a representative landmark and multi-cultural venue in Seoul.
• Namdaemun Market - Established in 1964, Namdaemun Market is Korea’s largest traditional market, offering a wide range of goods at affordable prices. The stores also function as wholesale markets.

Most products are made directly by the storeowners. Namdaemun Market operates overnight, from 11:00pm to 4:00am, attracting retailers from across the country. As day breaks, the bustling scene of shoppers creates a unique atmosphere that draws tourists worldwide. Namdaemun Market offers a variety of items, including clothes, glasses, kitchenware, toys, mountain gear, fishing equipment, stationery, fine arts, accessories, hats, carpets, flowers, ginseng, and imported goods.

• Private transportation

• Admission fees

Seoul has served as Korea’s capital for over 600 years, beginning with the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910).

During the Joseon Dynasty, it was known as “Hanyang,” but after liberation from Japan in 1945, following World War II, it became known as “Seoul.”

Seoul, the capital of the Republic of Korea, is the most popular tourist destination in the country.

With an abundance of attractions, including royal palaces, traditional markets, and upscale shopping districts, Seoul offers so much that visitors may not know where to begin.

The best tour for foreigners to experience the culture and lifestyle of Seoul and its residents is an all-inclusive, full-day city tour that explores the past, present, and future of Seoul.

In summary, this tour is highly recommended for first-time visitors as it serves as an excellent orientation.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.