Seoul: Private Flexible City Tour with Tea & Market Food

Summary

Palace strolls han river views street food laughter & quiet temple moments

You’ll wander palace courtyards with stories from your guide, sip traditional tea in Insadong, taste knife-cut noodles at Gwangjang Market, and find quiet at Bongeunsa Temple — all at your pace in a private van. Expect warmth, flexibility, and small surprises along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the hush inside Gyeongbokgung Palace, even with other visitors around — it’s like the city noise can’t get past those old stone walls. Our guide, Minji, had this way of telling stories that made the kings feel almost real (she joked about their hats being heavy enough to give you a neck ache). We wandered through painted gates and courtyards while she pointed out little details I’d never have noticed alone — a dragon carved in a corner, the faded red on a wooden beam. Honestly, I would’ve gotten lost if I tried to see it by myself.

Later in Insadong, we ducked into a tiny tea house after lunch. The owner poured us cups of something floral and earthy — Minji said it was omija tea, which is supposed to have five flavors at once. I’m not sure I tasted all five but it was warm and sweet and felt good after walking. She wouldn’t let us pay for the tea (“part of your tour!”), and we sat there listening to rain hit the paper windows for a minute longer than planned. Sometimes you just need that pause.

We crossed the Han River in her spotless van — honestly cleaner than my own car — and watched Seoul’s skyline blur by. At Bongeunsa Temple, incense drifted through the air while monks moved quietly between halls. It’s strange how peaceful it feels right next to Gangnam’s glass towers. Minji offered to swap this stop if temples aren’t your thing, but I’m glad we stayed; there was something grounding about all those lanterns swaying above our heads.

I still laugh thinking about Gwangjang Market — Minji led us straight to the “Netflix Auntie” for knife-cut noodles and insisted we try mung bean pancakes too. The market was noisy and packed but she navigated it like she’d been doing this forever (which maybe she has). Oh, and if you want photos at Namsan Tower or that famous library everyone posts online? She knows all the tricks for skipping lines or finding good light. Anyway, Seoul is big and busy but having someone local makes it feel more like visiting a friend than just ticking off sights.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full guided tour of Seoul highlights

• Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace with guide
• Walk traditional street in Insadong
• Enjoy traditional Korean tea
• Pass by Han River north and south
• Explore Bongeunsa Temple in Gangnam
• Visit stunning social media library
• Discover food at Gwangjang Market
• Climb Namsan Tower for city views

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this private Seoul tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included with your private vehicle and guide.

Can I choose which attractions to visit on this tour?

Yes, the schedule is flexible — you can pick your preferred stops or follow your guide’s recommendations.

Are entrance fees covered in the price?

All entrance fees are included in your booking.

Is lunch provided during the day trip?

No set lunch is included but your guide will recommend local food options; traditional tea is included.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible throughout the tour.

How long does the private guided tour last?

The duration is flexible based on your preferences but generally covers a full day.

Do I need to pay extra for cable car tickets at Namsan Tower?

The cable car ticket for Namsan Tower is not included; please bring cash or card for that fare.

What kind of vehicle will be used for transportation?

A clean private van or SUV will be used for comfortable travel between sites.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in a clean private van or SUV with a trained local guide who stays with you throughout; all entrance fees and parking are covered; you’ll enjoy traditional Korean tea together (on us), plus plenty of flexibility for stops and timing as you wish before returning comfortably at day’s end.