South Korea’s best city tours extend well beyond Seoul, offering outstanding local experiences in lesser-known urban gems. Two standout options caught our attention: The private Gwangju tour excels with its perfect mix of art and democracy history, making stops at the colorful Penguin Village and powerful museum exhibits. We love the Ulsan day trip from Busan for its exceptional value – you’ll get a great local guide, comfortable transportation, and all meals included.
Both tours showcase authentic Korean culture while keeping logistics simple. Let’s explore these and other top-rated city tours across South Korea.
Key Points
- Gwangju City Tour offers a private, high-rated, and culturally immersive experience focusing on the city’s history, art, and Korean culture beyond Seoul.
- Ulsan City Tour provides a private tour with a local guide, air-conditioned transportation, meals, and drinks, catering to travelers interested in a comprehensive cultural experience.
- Both tours allow for customization, including preferred date and group size, with pickup/drop-off options to enhance convenience for participants.
- While the Gwangju tour is stroller-friendly, neither tour is wheelchair accessible, and certain medical conditions may limit suitability.
- The Gwangju tour offers a cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, while the Ulsan tour is non-refundable.
Gwangju City Tour : History and Art (Private)
For travelers interested in delving into Gwangju’s rich history and vibrant art scene, the private “Gwangju City Tour: History and Art” offers an immersive experience. Priced from $120 per person, this private tour starts at 9:30 AM and provides transportation, all fees, and a coffee or tea break.
The highlight is learning about Korean democratization and the pivotal May 18th incident through visits to the Penguin Village, May 18th museums, and a museum showcasing daily Korean items.
With an overall rating of 5.0 stars based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, this tour is praised for the guide’s deep knowledge and the engaging experience.
Not wheelchair accessible but stroller-friendly, the tour is suitable for most travelers interested in exploring Korean culture and history beyond Seoul.
The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, and pickup is available from an address in Gwangju, with the exact time confirmed a day in advance.
Read our full review: Gwangju City Tour : History and Art (Private) Review
Book now: Check availability
Ulsan City Tour With the Local Guide From Busan
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Ulsan’s diverse attractions can embark on the “Ulsan City Tour with the Local Guide from Busan“. This private tour offers a personalized experience, with only your group participating. Priced from $260.00 per person, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, dinner, and alcoholic beverages, as well as all fees and taxes.
The tour begins with a direct meeting at the preferred location or a pickup from the station lobby, identified by a yellow and red flag. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, excluding those with back problems, pregnant women, or individuals with heart conditions or serious medical concerns.
Confirmation for the tour is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. Travelers can select their preferred date and group size, with the guarantee of the lowest price. The non-refundable nature of the tour means no refunds are available for cancellations.
Read our full review: Ulsan City Tour With the Local Guide From Busan Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Currency Used in South Korea?
The currency used in South Korea is the South Korean won (KRW). It’s the official legal tender and is divided into 100 jeon. The won is commonly used for all financial transactions within the country.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit South Korea?
Whether you need a visa to visit South Korea depends on your nationality and the purpose of your trip. Many countries have visa-free or visa-on-arrival policies for short-term visits, but it’s best to check the latest requirements before planning your trip.
What Is the Average Temperature in South Korea?
The average temperature in South Korea varies greatly depending on the season. During the summer months, temperatures can reach as high as 35°C (95°F), while in the winter, they can drop below 0°C (32°F).
Are There Any Restrictions on Taking Photos?
There are generally no restrictions on taking photos in South Korea, though visitors should be mindful of cultural norms and avoid photographing sensitive government buildings or military installations. Most attractions welcome photography for personal use.
Can I Find Vegetarian/Vegan Options in South Korea?
Yes, travelers can find a variety of vegetarian and vegan options in South Korea. Many restaurants and food stalls offer plant-based dishes, and the country’s popular cuisine includes several veggie-friendly options like bibimbap and japchae.
Recap
South Korea’s city tours offer a unique blend of history, art, and local culture. Gwangju’s private city tour delves into the region’s rich heritage, while Ulsan’s tour from Busan provides an immersive experience with a local guide. These tours allow visitors to discover the diverse attractions and fascinating stories that make South Korea’s cities truly remarkable destinations.