Seoul: Private Walking Tour with Custom Local Itinerary

Summary

Palace courtyards, hanok lanes and Seoul’s hidden corners

You’ll walk Seoul’s palace courtyards and winding hanok alleys with a local host who shapes every step around your curiosity. Taste street snacks in Insadong, pause by Cheonggyecheon Stream, and hear stories that don’t make it into guidebooks. This tour feels like seeing the city through an old friend’s eyes—unexpected details included.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the soft tap of rain on stone as we ducked under the gate at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Our guide, Minji, handed me a tiny umbrella — bright yellow, which made her laugh when she saw my shoes were already soaked. She started telling us about King Sejong right there in the courtyard, her voice mixing with the sound of distant drums from the changing of the guard. I kept glancing up at the palace rooftops; even in gray light they looked almost painted.

We wandered through Bukchon Hanok Village next, following Minji down narrow lanes that twisted between old wooden houses. She pointed out a tiny workshop where someone was carving calligraphy brushes — honestly, I’d have missed it if she hadn’t stopped. The air smelled like pine and something sweet (maybe hotteok from a nearby stall?). At one point I tried to say “thank you” in Korean and got it completely wrong; Minji just grinned and said it better for me. That part still makes me smile.

Insadong was louder, all chatter and bright signs and people ducking into tea shops. We tried these pancakes filled with brown sugar — sticky and warm — while Minji explained how this street used to be full of antique dealers. There was a moment by Cheonggyecheon Stream where we just stood quietly watching the water slip past under a bridge covered in murals. It felt like Seoul slowed down for a second, you know? Not something I expected on a day trip in such a big city.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Seoul's culture and hidden gems

• Receive host questionnaire
• Walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream
• Visit grand plaza with statues
• Tour Gyeongbokgung Palace and watch guard ceremony
• Explore Bukchon Hanok Village alleys
• Stroll through Insadong arts and crafts streets

Top questions

Is this Seoul walking tour private or group-based?

This is a private walking tour—just you and your chosen companions with your local host.

How is the itinerary for this Seoul tour decided?

Your host will send you a questionnaire after booking to tailor the day to your interests.

Are pickup or transfers included?

No hotel pickup or private vehicle is included; public transport or taxis may be used between sites as needed.

What are some places visited on this custom Seoul tour?

You might visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong, and Cheonggyecheon Stream—plus hidden spots based on your interests.

Is lunch included in this Seoul day trip?

No set lunch is included but your host can recommend local food stops based on what you like.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.

Can infants or small children join?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes a pre-tour questionnaire so your host can plan stops that match your style—history walks, food tastings or artisan visits—all led by a passionate local who’ll reach out before you arrive. Flexible start times mean you set the pace; public transport or taxis are used between sites if needed (costs discussed after booking).