'Traditional and modern' afternoon tour of Seoul

Highlights

• See unique Korean architecture at Changdeok Palace
• Get inspired by local traditions at the Insadong Arts and Crafts Market
• We visit the N Seoul Tower to explore one of Korea's modern architectural marvels
• Experience the Namdaemun Traditional Market, one of Korea's largest markets!
• Hotel collection and English-speaking tour-guide included
• Family friendly tour

All about the trip

Join us for an exciting afternoon in Seoul as we discover the best traditional and modern highlights from Korea's capital.

We begin with collection from your hotel at 13:00 and then we will make our way to Changdeok Palace. This incredible landmark was the second royal villa built after Gyeongbok Palace in 1405. Changdeok was the principal palace for many of the Joseon kings and is the best preserved among the five remaining royal Joseon palaces. Located next to the palace is the “Secret Garden”, a beautiful landscape garden used exclusively by the Korean Royal Family

The rear garden of Changdeok was used as a place of rest by the royal kings of yesteryear. It boasts a gigantic tree that is over 300 years old, a small pond and a pavilion. The palace grounds are comprised of a public palace area, a royal family residence building and the rear garden.

Depending on the day, we will either go to N Seoul Tower or to the Insadong Arts and Crafts Market next after the palace.

The Insadong Market is the most reliable place to purchase antiques in Seoul. Here you will be able to browse antique shops, art galleries and secondhand book stores. The Insadong Market itself has been at the heart of nation’s capital for over 600 years and was an important centre of culture during the Chosun Dynasty period which lasted from 1392 to 1910.

This location is also where the Ministry of Art was once situated. Insadong usually refers to the area from Anguk-dong Rotary to Tapgol Park in Jongro, past the Insadong Intersection. The notable features of Insadong are the countless alleys that branching out from the main street. Insadong has become known as ‘Merry’s Area,’ a favourite shopping spot among foreigners because of its many hidden alleys and side-streets hiding treasures.

The N Seoul Tower is a modern architectural marvel and famously dominates Korea's skyline. We will visit this landmark depending on which day the tour runs on.

After Insadong, we will next visit Namdaemun Market. This market is one of the largest traditional markets in Korea. There is literally everything you could think of for sale at this market. It also functions as a wholesale market because of its size.

Many of the goods are also manufactured from shopkeepers themselves, so this really is a great place to grab a unique bargain.

An unforgettable afternoon of Korean cultural highlights will leave you with a new outlook on this ancient capital city!

What is included in the price

• English-speaking tour-guide
• Hotel transportation
• Entrance fees

What is not included in the price

• Additional refreshments or extra snacks
• Funds for souvenirs

Instructions

Please bring ID and your booking reservation

This activity is organised by VIP Travel, Mapodaero 109, Mapo-Gu, Seoul, 04146, South Korea, +82 2 739 3501, vip@vviptravel.com.