Seoul Highlights & Hidden Gems Tours by Locals: Private + Custom

Jongno District, KR
83% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (356 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    A private and personalized walking experience with insider tips from a passionate local.
  • inclusion
    Direct communication with your host for itinerary planning and local recommendations.
  • inclusion
    Flexible start times and tour durations—choose the option that suits you best.
  • inclusion
    A pre-tour questionnaire to tailor the experience to your preferences.

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Transportation costs (as this is a walking tour, public transport may be used at an additional cost)
  • exclusion
    Gratuities (optional)
  • exclusion
    Food, drinks and tickets to any attractions

Meeting Point

If your hotel is not listed, this is a great central point to meet your host. Your host will be waiting outside the Starbucks.

Meeting point

End point

End Point

If your hotel is not listed, this is a great central point to meet your host. Your host will be waiting outside the Starbucks.

Meeting point

End point

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
30 Month Hotel
Acube Hotel
Aloft Seoul Myeongdong
AMASS Hotel
Amid Hotel Seoul
Aventree Hotel
Aventree Hotel Jongno
Avenue 162
Baiton Seoul Dongdaemun
Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul
Benikea Hotel Acacia
Boutique Hotel Young Inn
Brown Suites Residence
Central Tourist
Chisun Hotel Seoul Myeongdong
Cima Hotel
Courtyard Seoul Namdaemun
Creto Hotel Myeongdong
Crown Park Hotel Seoul
D Seven Suites
Days Hotel by Wyndham Seoul Myeongdong
Dears Myeongdong
Dongdaemun No. 25 Dongdaemun Branch
Doulos Hotel
ENA Suite Hotel Namdaemun Seoul
Euljiro CO-OP Residence
First Stay Hotel
Floral Hotel Namsancity Seoul Myeongdong
Four Points By Sheraton Josun, Seoul Myeongdong
Four Points by Sheraton Josun, Seoul Station
Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
Fraser Place Central Seoul
Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul
G2 Hotel
G3 Hotel
Gaon Golden Park
Glue Hotel
Good Morning Parktel
Grand Hyatt Seoul
Grand Hyatt Seoul Hotel
Grid Inn Hotel
Hamilton Hotel Seoul
Hanil
Hello Inn
Henn na Hotel Seoul Myeong dong
Hostel Stay Now Jongno
Hotel Amare
Hotel At Home
Hotel Atrium Jong No
Hotel Atrium Vabien II
Hotel Biz Jongro
Hotel Cozy Myeongdong
Hotel Crown
Hotel Doma
Hotel Dongdaemun
Hotel Elle Inn
Hotel Gracery Seoul
Hotel Grim Jongro
HOTEL GS
Hotel Hill House
Hotel Icon
Hotel Ilsung
Hotel Irene
Hotel Irene City
Hotel JR
Hotel Kukdo
Hotel Kuretakeso Insadong
Hotel Lemong
Hotel Manu
Hotel Midcity Myeongdong
Hotel Midcity Myeongdong
Hotel Mido
Hotel Migliore Seoul
Hotel Morning Sky
Hotel Myeongdong
Hotel Myeongdongjang
Hotel Nafore
Hotel PJ Myeongdong
Hotel President
Hotel Rawa
Hotel Rian
Hotel Sky
Hotel Skypark Central Myeongdong
Hotel Skypark Dongdaemun I
Hotel Skypark Kingstown Dongdaemun
Hotel Skypark Myeongdong 1
Hotel Skypark Myeongdong 2
Hotel Skypark Myeongdong 3
Hotel Star
Hotel Star
Hotel The Botanic Seun Myeongdong
Hotel The Botanik Sewoon Myeongdong
Hotel The Designers DDP
Hotel The Designers Dongdaemun
Hotel The Designers Jongno
Hotel The Designers Seoul Station
Hotel Thomas Myeongdong
Hotel Tong Andante Insadong
Hotel Tong Seoul Myeongdong
Hotel Tong Vivace Dongdaemun
Hotel Tree Shade
Hotel Venue G
Hotel Vert
Hotel Vert
Hotel WO
Hotel WO Yongsan
Hotel Yaja Jongno
Hotel28 Myeongdong
Hyundai Residence
ibis Ambassador Seoul Insadong
ibis Ambassador Seoul Myeongdong
ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Myeongdong
Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel
Jam Sil Tourist Hotel
Just Stay Hotel
JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul
KAYA La Tree Hotel
Keumkang Motel
Koreana Hotel
L'Escape Hotel
L7 Hotel Myeongdong
Le Meridien Seoul, Myeongdong
Line Hotel Myeongdong
Lodging House
Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong
Lotte Hotel Seoul
LOTTE HOTEL SEOUL Executive Tower
Lumia Hotel
Makers Hotel
May Place Seoul Dongdaemun
Mayplace Seoul Dongdaemun
Metro Hotel
MG Hotel
Migliore Hotel Seoul Myeongdong
Mohenic Hotel Seoul Myeongdong
Moxy Seoul Insadong
Moxy Seoul, Myeongdong
Myeongdong Merlin Hotel
N285 Hotel Insadong
Namsan Hill Hotel
New Blanc Central Myeongdong
New Chonji Hotel
New Korea Hotel
New Kukje Hotel
New Oriental Hotel
New Seoul Hotel
Nine Tree By Parnas Seoul Dongdaemun
Nine Tree Hotel Myeong-dong
Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong
Nine Tree Premier Hotel Myeongdong II
Noble Tourist Hotel
Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun
Olive Hostel R(residence)
Only For You Motel
Orakai Daehakro Hotel
Orakai Insadong Suites
Oriens Hotel & Residences
Pacific Hotel
Peanut Hotel
Prince Hotel Seoul
Ramada Hotel and Suites Seoul Namdaemun
Ramada Seoul Dongdaemun
Rex Hotel
Royal Hotel Seoul
Royal Hotel Seoul
Saerim Hotel
Savoy Hotel
Sejong Hotel
Seoul Hotel Shinshin Myeongdong
Sheel Hotel
Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun
Shilla Stay Seodaemun
Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Seoul Myeong-dong
Somerset Palace Seoul
SOTETSU FRESA INN SEOUL MYEONG-DONG
Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Seoul Dongdaemun
SOTETSU HOTELS THE SPLAISIR SEOUL MYEONG-DONG
Stanford Hotel Myeongdong
Starhills Hotel
Stay B Hotel Myeongdong
Stay Hotel Seocho
Stayrak Hotel
Staz Hotel Myeongdong 1
Staz Hotel Myeongdong II
Studio Tong
Sunbee Hotel
Sungdo Motel
The 720 Motel
The Ambassador Seoul - A Pullman Hotel
The Grand Hotel Myeongdong
THE PLAZA Seoul, Autograph Collection
The Shilla Seoul
The Stay Classic Hotel Myeongdong
The Stay Hotel
The Summit Hotel Seoul Dongdaemun
The Westin Josun Seoul
Toptel Hotel
Toyoko Inn Seoul Dongdaemun No.1
Travel Monster
Travelodge Dongdaemun Seoul
Travelodge Myeongdong City Hall
Travelodge Myeongdong Euljiro
Travelodge Myeongdong Namsan
UH Suite Seoul Deoksugung
Vabien Suite I Serviced Residence
Vatica Hotel
voco Seoul Myeongdong, an IHG Hotel
Western CO-OP Hotel & Residence
Youngbin Hotel
Zen House
When booking, please select your preferred meeting point from the list provided—either your hotel (if it's listed) or the central landmark. If your hotel isn’t on the list, simply select the central landmark option. This is a private walking experience. Once you’ve booked, our Experience Planners will get in touch to confirm the meeting point and help with any final details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to your personalized tour. NO private vehicle is included. For longer distances, your host may suggest using public transport. Any transport costs can be settled on the day.

What to expect

1

Seoul

See Seoul through the eyes of someone who calls it home—uncovering its hidden gems, rich culture, and untold stories with a passionate local by your side. This isn’t just a tour—it’s a journey designed around you, full of authentic moments and unforgettable discoveries. Before your adventure begins, your host will reach out with a short questionnaire to craft an itinerary that reflects your interests—whether it’s exploring world-famous landmarks, savoring local flavors, or stumbling upon tucked-away treasures only locals know. Here are some highlights and hidden gems to spark your curiosity.

2
Cheonggyecheon Stream

Take a peaceful stroll along this scenic urban oasis, a revitalized waterway in the heart of Seoul. Admire the blend of nature and city life while passing under picturesque bridges and alongside art installations. Your host will share the stream’s fascinating history, from its restoration to its role in modern Seoul.

3
Gwanghwamun Square

Step into Korea’s past and present at this grand plaza, framed by Gyeongbokgung Palace and Seoul’s modern skyline. See the statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun Shin—two of Korea’s most revered historical figures—and hear their inspiring stories of innovation, strategy, and resilience.

4
Gyeongbokgung Palace

Experience the grandeur of Seoul’s largest royal palace, where intricate architecture meets centuries of history. Wander through vast courtyards, admire visitors dressed in vibrant hanbok (traditional Korean attire), and witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guard.

5
Bukchon Hanok Village

Step back in time as you explore the winding alleys of this picturesque neighborhood, lined with beautifully preserved hanok (traditional Korean houses). Learn how this area evolved from a noble district to a cultural hotspot. Enjoy breathtaking city views and discover hidden courtyards and artisanal workshops.

6
Insadong

Immerse yourself in Seoul’s artistic and cultural heartbeat, where tradition meets creativity. Stroll through vibrant streets filled with charming tea houses, craft shops, and street performances. Discover unique finds, from handmade calligraphy brushes to local delicacies like hotteok (sweet pancakes).

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    - After booking, you'll receive a short questionnaire to share your interests, preferences, and must-sees. Your guide will personally reach out to craft a fully customized itinerary that suits your style—whether you love history, food, hidden gems, or cultural experiences.
  • Additional information
    - Public transportation or local taxis may be used to transfer between sites. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with your host after your reservation is finalized.
  • Additional information
    - This private tour is a walking experience. A private vehicle is not included.
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by City Unscripted

What our experts say

  • icon
    Start early to avoid crowds
  • icon
    Try street food in Myeong-dong
  • icon
    Visit Bukchon Hanok for photos
  • icon
    Ask your guide for local cafés
  • icon
    Use public transport for longer trips

More About this Experience

Introduction

Seoul Highlights & Hidden Gems Tours by Locals: Private + Custom offers a unique and personalized experience for travelers who want to explore the vibrant city of Seoul on their own terms. Led by knowledgeable local hosts, this fully customizable private tour allows visitors to uncover the best of Seoul's iconic landmarks, captivating neighborhoods, and architectural wonders that showcase the city's rich heritage. From the bustling streets of Myeong-dong to the charming corners of Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong, this tour promises to take you on a journey through both the well-known highlights and the lesser-known hidden gems of Seoul.

What to Expect?

On this tour, you can expect to visit 10 of Seoul's top highlights and hidden gems in just one day. From the external view of the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace to exploring captivating neighborhoods, this experience allows you to delve into the heart and soul of the city. The tour is fully customizable to your specific interests and preferences, ensuring that you get the most out of your time in Seoul. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or shopping, your knowledgeable local host will tailor the tour to meet your desires, making it a truly unique and personalized experience.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for anyone visiting Seoul who wants to go beyond the typical tourist attractions and delve into the city's hidden gems. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this customizable tour ensures that it suits your specific needs and preferences. The tour can be adjusted to accommodate different age groups, interests, and physical abilities, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an architecture enthusiast, this tour offers something for everyone.

Why Book This?

Seoul Highlights & Hidden Gems Tours by Locals: Private + Custom offers a unique and unforgettable experience that goes beyond the usual tourist trails. By booking this tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore Seoul with a knowledgeable local host who will provide insider insights and recommendations. The customizable nature of the tour allows you to tailor the experience to your interests and preferences, ensuring that you make the most of your time in the city. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this tour offers a comprehensive overview of Seoul's rich heritage and vibrant culture. By booking this tour, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the city and create lasting memories.

Good to Know

This tour is primarily a walking experience, but public transportation may be used if necessary. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. The tour can be booked for 2, 3, 4, 6, or 8 hours, allowing you to choose the duration that suits your schedule. Hotel meet-up is available on request for central locations, ensuring convenience for travelers. Food, drinks, tickets to attractions, and gratuities are not included in the tour price, giving you the flexibility to choose and pay for what you prefer. After booking, you can adjust the meeting point to fit your preferences with the help of Experience Planners, ensuring a personalized experience from start to finish.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced Seoul Highlights & Hidden Gems Tours by Locals rave about the personalized and knowledgeable local hosts. They appreciate the flexibility and customization options, allowing them to explore Seoul at their own pace and according to their interests. Many highlight the hidden gems that they discovered during the tour, providing a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience. Visitors also mention the insider insights and recommendations provided by the local hosts, which added value to their overall experience. Overall, reviewers express high satisfaction with the tour, praising its ability to showcase both the well-known highlights and the lesser-known treasures of Seoul.

Select Currency