Heart of Seoul City Break - 5 days

Heart of Seoul City Break - 5 days

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Tour Overview

Discover the vibrant heart of South Korea with the "Heart of Seoul City Break" tour, a captivating 5-day journey through the bustling capital. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Seoul as you explore iconic landmarks like the Gyeongbokgung Palace, where you can don a traditional Hanbok, and the charming Bukchon Hanok Village. Experience the unique atmosphere of Insadong's Antique Alley and savor authentic Korean cuisine, including the famous Bulgogi and Bibimbap. A highlight of your adventure is a private excursion to the DMZ, offering a glimpse into the region's complex history. Enjoy comfortable accommodations in 3-star hotels, with options to upgrade, and travel in private air-conditioned vehicles. With guided tours and free time to explore, this cultural escape promises an unforgettable experience in one of Asia's most dynamic cities. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Seoul – Explore the nation's captivating capital

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace – Explore the ornate royal palace and wear a traditional Hanbok

  • Insadong – Discover traditional restaurants, tea houses, and goods in this 'Antique Alley'

  • Bukchon Hanok – Stroll around this enchanting village that houses over 900 traditional hanok houses

  • The DMZ - Visit one of the most heavily militarized borders in the world, visit the Dorasan Observatory and uncover military secrets in the Third Tunnel

  • The War Memorial museum – Gain an insight into Korea’s turbulent history

  • N Seoul Tower – Enjoy incredible panoramic views of the city from 236 meters high

Itinerary

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Day 1: Seoul

Location: Seoul

Accommodation Name: hotel

Welcome to Seoul! Upon arrival you will be met at Incheon or Gimpo Airport and transferred to your hotel in the centre of Seoul.





Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. This bustling city boasts a rich history reflected in its ancient palaces and shrines, while also showcasing futuristic skyscrapers and innovative architecture. Here, you can explore Korea's royal palaces and serene parks, shop at dynamic markets, enjoy diverse Korean cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant nightlife.





The remainder of the day is free for you to relax or explore Seoul at your own pace.
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Day 2: Seoul

Location: Seoul

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, take in the highlights of the nation’s capital with a full day tour. This morning there's the opportunity to try on a Hanbok - the traditional Korean dress which dates back thousands of years and is worn on special occasions. After dressing for the occasion, visit the beautifully ornate Gyeongbokgung Palace which is the largest and most famous of Seoul's Five Grand Palaces. Gyeongbokgung served as the main palace during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) - the last dynasty of Korea.





After a tour of the palace, watch the Changing of the Guard before proceeding to the lively antique alley of Insadong. Here, art galleries, antique shops, crafts shops, and pottery shops display their traditional goods.





Korea is renowned for its wonderful, healthy cuisine and for lunch today, there's the opportunity to sample ‘Bulgogi’, which is a traditional dish made from thin, marinated slices of beef and pork.





After lunch, explore the enchanting Bukchon Hanok Village, which is home to around 900 hanoks - traditional Korean houses, that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. Ending the day, you'll take in incredible panoramic views of the city from the 236-meter-high N Seoul Tower.

Day 3: Seoul

Location: Seoul

Accommodation Name: hotel

Today offers you the freedom to explore Seoul at your own pace.





We highly recommend a visit to the National Museum of Korea, where you can embark on a captivating journey through the nation's history, spanning from the prehistoric era to the Korean Empire period.





Don't miss the opportunity to explore other notable attractions such as Bongeun Temple, a Buddhist sanctuary that proudly houses one of the tallest stone statues in the entire country. Changdeokgung Palace, renowned for its architectural beauty, is another must-see destination. Be sure to explore the enchanting Secret Garden within the palace grounds, where tranquility reigns supreme. Additionally, for a leisurely break, consider a peaceful stroll along the serene Cheonggyecheon Stream.





Whether you're drawn to the chic bars and restaurants of Hongdae or the stylish boutiques of Apgujeong, Seoul welcomes you to enjoy its diverse offerings.

Day 4: Seoul

Location: Seoul

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, embark on a thrilling private tour to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a unique and historically significant area located just 45 kilometers north of Seoul. Serving as the buffer zone and border between the two nations of North and South Korea, the DMZ holds a special place in world history.





Your tour begins with a visit to the Third Tunnel of Aggression which spans over 1,635 meters. This tunnel is one of the four tunnels that were secretly dug under the border between North and South Korea, intended for moving thousands of soldiers into South Korea for potential invasion. Next, continue to the Dorasan Observatory, offering breathtaking views of the Demilitarized Zone.





Your journey then takes you to The War Memorial of Korea, a poignant museum that preserves artifacts such as weapons, uniforms, and memorabilia from the Korean War. After immersing yourself in the history and culture of the Korean Peninsula, enjoy a traditional Korean lunch featuring Bibimbap, a steamed rice dish adorned with assorted beef and vegetables. Afterwards, you'll return to your hotel, leaving the remainder of the day at your leisure.



Day 5: Seoul

Location: Seoul

Meals Included: Breakfast

We hope you enjoyed your South Korean adventure! After breakfast and hotel check out, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

What's Included

  • 3 breakfasts and 2 lunches

    Enjoy 3 breakfasts and 2 lunches during your stay.

  • 4 nights 3 star hotels

    Stay in 3-star hotels for 4 nights.

  • Services of an English speaking guide/driver for all scheduled sightseeing

    Benefit from the services of an English-speaking guide/driver for all scheduled sightseeing activities.

  • Transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles

    All transfers and transportation will be in private air-conditioned vehicles.

  • Entrance fees to all included sites

    Entrance fees to all included sites are covered.

  • Airport arrival and departure transfer on days 1 and 5

    Airport arrival and departure transfers on days 1 and 5 (Incheon or Gimpo Airport) are included.

  • Private excursion to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)

    Enjoy a private excursion to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone).

  • Full day guided tour of Seoul

    Experience a full day guided tour of Seoul.

What's Not Included

  • International flights and visa

    International flights and visa are not included.

  • Tipping

    Tipping is an entirely personal gesture and is not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in private air-conditioned vehicles with airport transfers on arrival and departure days, and enjoy a private excursion to the DMZ.

Accommodation

Enjoy 4 nights in comfortable 3-star hotels, with options to upgrade to 4 or 5-star accommodations upon request.

Age Policy

Any age

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 4 nights in comfortable 3-star hotels, with options to upgrade to 4 or 5-star accommodations upon request.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes 3 breakfasts and 2 lunches.

  • Is there a guided tour included in the itinerary?

    Yes, there is a full day guided tour of Seoul included in the itinerary.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    All transfers and transportation are in private air-conditioned vehicles, including airport transfers on arrival and departure days.

  • Is there a private excursion included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a private excursion to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone).

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour price?

    Yes, entrance fees to all included sites are covered in the tour price.

  • What is the highlight of the visit to the DMZ?

    The highlight of the DMZ visit includes exploring the Third Tunnel of Aggression and visiting the Dorasan Observatory.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola ...more ...less

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal. ...more ...less

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go. ...more ...less

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last ...more ...less

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide. ...more ...less

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away. ...more ...less

Simla Patel (Google Reviewer)  

This company doesn’t deserve even...

26-Nov-2024

This company doesn’t deserve even 1 star. I would not recommend this company. There are hidden fees which means the cost of the holiday ends up being very expensive. We recently came back from our trip to China where it is not customary to tip in restaurants & hotel staff. Yet we had to make a payment upfront in cash to to the guide for more than £100. The hotel service was appalling. Just think £100 from each person. The trip was suppose to be a Tour yet we had to pay for all entrance fees. We complained about the poor condition of the hotels but no one responded to our emails to date. The after sales service is non existent. Do not use this company. Far far too expensive for what you get. Not competitive at all. They messed up our booking; repeatedly asked for the same information. We spent so much time correcting their errors. Very difficult to get hold of anyone because they all work in S Africa or New Zealand. Absolute nightmare ...more ...less

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure ...more ...less

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying. ...more ...less

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    On The Go Tours allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform on the go tours, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Heart of Seoul City Break - 5 days

5 Days Starting and ending in Seoul, South Korea

Visiting: Seoul

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

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