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Royal palace and an extended walk to Bukchon / Insadong - small group

The tour lasts 2 hours and 45 minutes
Available in English

Description

Discover the cultural heart of Seoul on this relaxing 2 hour walking tour of the Gyeongbokgung Palace + an optional and additional 1 hour Bukchon Hanok village walk with a licensed local guide. 

(On Tuesdays - a visit to Changdeokgung palace (UNESCO) in lieu of Gyeongbokgung palace). 

(On Sundays - Inwangsan mt foothills hiking)

This tour is a small group tour (2 to 5 people) so it will feel quite personal and almost like a private tour. Perfect for travelers who want to understand Korean history and culture or explore K-drama filming locations in an easy, engaging, and meaningful way.


As we walk toward and inside the palace, your guide will share stories about royal life and traditional architecture, while also offering helpful tips for traveling in Korea and insights into Korean food and local culture.


We can extend our walk towards and through the Bukchon hanok village or to a buddhist temple + Insadong (more food options) based on your interests.

It is flexible and can be a combination of two tours depending on your interests.

Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional homes and local daily life exist side by side.


At Jogyesa Buddhist temple, you can experience Korean buddhism culture in the city centre.

Insadong is a vibrant neighborhood in Seoul known for its traditional Korean culture, art galleries, and unique shops selling handicrafts and antiques.


Hiking along the foothills of Inwangsan Mountain offers a unique blend of authentic local culture and beautiful city views.

This walking tour is ideal for first-time visitors and those who prefer a relaxed pace with time for questions and photos.

At the end of the tour, your guide can recommend local restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy authentic Korean food on your own.

Join this tour to experience Seoul’s history, culture, and stories with a friendly local guide.

Please note: This tour is offered in English only. Automatic translations are for information purposes.


Payment: This tour operates on a pay-what-you-feel basis. Most guests typically contribute USD 30 /KRW40,000 – USD60/KRW80,000  per person in cash at the end of the tour. 


Kids don’t count for the minimum number, but there is still a fee for participation.



Entrance ticket for the Gyeongbokgung /or Changdeocung palace 2£ (KRW3,000) is not included and should be paid on site.



Cancellation: If you need to cancel, please let me know at least 24 hours in advance whenever possible.


Stella
Guide: Stella
Guiding since 2026
After 31 years working at a foreign embassy in Seoul, I became a licensed tour guide to follow my lifelong passion for travel and culture. On this tour, we'll walk through the heart of Seoul and beyond. Depending on your interests, we can explore Korea's rich history, fascinating royal court stories, and connections to popular K-dramas. We can also visit local neighborhoods, stroll through apartment communities where Seoul residents live, or enjoy a relaxing hike with beautiful views. This is a flexible experience designed around what you would most like to discover and enjoy. For me, a good walk is not just about sightseeing, but about healing, connection, and meaningful stories that you can carry home with you. Let's discover off-the-beaten-path Seoul like friends.

6 stops
7.0 km walking
2 hours and 45 minutes
Meeting point:Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sinThe meeting point may change slightly depending on the season and the tour. It's usually one of the following locations, and I'll send you the exact meeting point via WhatsApp before the tour. (Gwanghwamun Square, Gwanghwamun Gate, Anguk station exit3, Changdeokgung ticketing, Gyeongbokgung station)Open in Google Maps
1
Entry not included
Gyeongbokgung Royal Palace Main Royal Palace from Jose united dynasty
2
Outside visit
Bukchon Hanok Village (optional)Beautiful Korean traditional house village located in the centre of Seoul.
3
Free entry
Jogyesa Temple (optional)Optional Prominent Buddhist temple - understanding and experiencing buddhism culture in Korea.

Royal palace and an extended walk to Bukchon / Insadong - small group


How does a free tour work?

1

Choose and book

Select a tour, date and time. Booking is free.

2

Enjoy the tour

Go to the meeting point and live the experience with your guide.

3

Pay what you want

At the end, you decide how much to pay based on your satisfaction.

Free cancellation and booking
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