Seoul Royal Palaces & Market Tour

From$75

8 hours

Seoul, South Korea

About this activity

Immerse yourself in Seoul's rich history and culture with a full-day tour of its royal palaces and bustling markets, guided by an expert.

Highlights

Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace's grandeur
Visit the serene Changdeokgung Palace
Stroll through the vibrant Namdaemun Market
Discover traditional crafts in Insadong
Experience Seoul's rich cultural heritage

Full description

Dive into Seoul's captivating history and vibrant culture on this comprehensive full-day tour. Begin with a visit to the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of Seoul's Five Grand Palaces, where you'll marvel at its stunning architecture and learn about its storied past. Next, explore the tranquil Changdeokgung Palace, renowned for its harmonious integration with nature and its beautiful Secret Garden. Afterward, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Namdaemun Market, Korea's largest traditional market, where you can shop for unique souvenirs and sample authentic Korean street food. Conclude your day in Insadong, a neighborhood famed for its antique shops, art galleries, and traditional tea houses, offering a glimpse into Korea's artistic soul. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and local life, ensuring a memorable experience in Seoul.

Included / Excluded

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional English-speaking guide
Admission fees to Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces

Meals and beverages

Important information

Know before you book

The tour operates in English; ensure you are comfortable with the language.
Confirm your hotel pickup location and time upon booking.
Be prepared for potential crowds at popular sites and markets.

Know before you go

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves significant walking.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and vibrant market scenes.
Carry some cash for personal purchases at the market and shops.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

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

Good to know

Gyeongbok Palace will be replaced by another tourist attraction when it is closed on Tuesdays.
The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony will be cancelled when it is rainy.
You might not be allowed to pass by the Presidential Blue House for the security.
Changdeok Palace will be replaced to Bukchon Hanok Village on Mondays.

Traveler reviews

4.9

72 reviews

First time in Seoul

It was a full day, very insightful. Our guide was excellent. Saw things we would have never seen on our own.

pattaitOct 20, 2026VIATOR

Best Tour Experience in Seoul woth Ms Joo

Our tour guide Ms Joo was very friendly, accommodating, and knowledgeable about the places we visited. She explained the history and culture clearly and made sure everyone was comfortable throughout the tour. We had a wonderful experience and would definitely recommend Ms Joo to guide to other tourists!

829chinrOct 19, 2026TRIPADVISOR

First time in South Korea

It was a nice and informative experience. I enjoyed in learning the history of south korea. Ms. Joo also was so accommodating in assisting us and discussing us the different information and history. Good Job! 👍👍👍👌👌

crisrN9883PJOct 19, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Joo - Good tour guide

Joo - Great tour guide. She is energetic althought today the weather is bad

653thaotOct 18, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Excellent tour

Joo was a wonderful guide! She took us to the royal palace and explained clearly the history and culture of Korea. We got to wear hanboks which was a lot of fun.

FlorenceTseOct 5, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Gyeongbok Palace will be replaced by another tourist attraction when it is closed on Tuesdays. The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony will be cancelled when it is rainy. You might not be allowed to pass by the Presidential Blue House for the security. Changdeok Palace will be replaced to Bukchon Hanok Village on Mondays.