Shopping tours in Seoul cut through the tourist confusion and zero in on the city’s best markets and stores. The most worthwhile excursions combine cultural insights with smart shopping strategies. I especially recommend the private shopping tours – savvy guides steer you to authentic goods while helping you avoid tourist traps. The food market tours through places like Gwangjang Market are also fantastic, letting you sample local specialties while learning about Korean cuisine. For convenience, look for tours offering hotel pickup and free cancellation. These are my favorite tours that showcase Seoul’s shopping scene.
Key Points
- Private shopping tours in Seoul offer customizable itineraries, private transport, and trained chauffeurs for personalized shopping experiences.
- Flexible booking and cancellation policies for private shopping tours enhance convenience and accommodate various traveler preferences.
- Combining shopping with cultural and historical elements, such as visits to traditional markets, provides a well-rounded Seoul experience.
- E-bike tours in Seoul offer an immersive way to explore the city’s shopping districts, complemented by food and cultural activities.
- Seoul’s shopping tours receive high customer satisfaction ratings, with many tours offering hotel pickup and flexible group sizes to cater to diverse needs.
Korean Cooking Class With Full-Course Meal & Local Market Tour in Seoul
Situated in the heart of Seoul, this engaging Korean cooking class offers participants a unique and immersive cultural experience.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per class, the hands-on cooking lesson focuses on local cuisine, ingredients, and techniques. Participants can expect to learn how to prepare classic dishes like dakgalbi, bibimbap, and haemul pajeon, with the option to customize vegetarian meals.
The class is complemented by a market tour where guests discover Korean produce and sample street food.
Afterwards, they’ll enjoy a full-course meal served with beverages and traditional rice wine.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this class is an excellent way to explore Seoul’s vibrant food culture.
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Seoul: Korean Cooking Class at a Local Home and Market Tour
Enjoy Seoul’s vibrant food culture with a hands-on Korean cooking class in a local home.
The “You’re Invited to Our Home in Seoul: The Only Cooking Class!” experience offers a 2-hour session where you’ll learn authentic home-style recipes from a local host.
At just Kč 984 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore Korean cuisine.
The class size is kept small, ensuring personalized attention. You’ll not only cook but also enjoy the fruits of your labor with your fellow participants.
This is an opportunity to connect with Koreans, learn their culinary traditions, and savor a delicious homemade meal.
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Seoul: Palace, Temple and Market Guided Foodie Tour at Night
The Seoul: Palace, Temple and Market Guided Foodie Tour at Night takes travelers on an enchanting evening exploration of Seoul’s cultural landmarks and culinary delights.
This highly-rated 3.5-hour walking tour showcases the city’s top sights, from majestic palaces to lively markets. Guests will enjoy an authentic Korean dinner, savouring dishes like pancakes, rice wine, and the daring delicacy of chopped live octopus.
Along the way, an expert English-speaking guide provides fascinating insights into the local culture.
While not recommended for those with physical limitations, this tour offers an immersive experience for moderately fit travellers seeking to discover Seoul’s vibrant nightlife and flavours.
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Seoul: Private Shopping Tour
For those seeking a tailored shopping experience in Seoul, the Private Shopping Tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the city’s diverse retail offerings.
Priced at $300 per group of up to 7 people, the 10-hour tour includes a private MOVV vehicle with a professional chauffeur to transport you between malls, outlets, and duty-free shops.
The customizable itinerary and safety-focused service ensure a seamless and enjoyable shopping excursion.
While the tour doesn’t include a guide, the chauffeur is trained and insured, providing a worry-free experience.
With flexible booking and cancellation policies, the Private Shopping Tour is an ideal choice for those looking to maximize their time and shopping potential in Seoul.
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Fortress Night Hike & Snack at a Local Market
A fortress night hike and local market snack experience awaits those seeking an immersive cultural adventure in Seoul.
With a 5.0 overall rating and 100% traveler recommendation, this tour offers a unique blend of hiking, traditional cuisine, and market exploration. Guests can savor local street food, including vegan options, followed by an optional dinner at a noodle and dumpling restaurant.
The hike provides magnificent views, while the friendly guide ensures a safe and informative journey, especially for first-time visitors.
While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate fitness level required makes this tour suitable for most travelers.
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Night Market Food Tour
One of the highlights of any visit to Seoul is the captivating Night Market Food Tour.
With 480 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this tour offers an immersive experience into Korean culture through its vibrant food scene. Priced at $73.00 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers and departs from the Jongno 5-ga Police Substation.
Guests can expect to sample a variety of authentic Korean dishes, including vegan options and popular staples, while engaging with knowledgeable guides who share insights into the country’s rich history and traditions.
The tour also includes opportunities to participate in interactive experiences, such as drinking games, further enhancing the social and cultural aspects of the experience.
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Seoul Mangwon Market Social Night Food Tour
Travelers looking to enjoy Seoul’s vibrant food scene can embark on the captivating Seoul Mangwon Market Social Night Food Tour.
This 2-hour guided experience takes visitors through the bustling Mangwon Market, known for its lively atmosphere and diverse array of street food.
With a local guide leading the way, participants can savor an array of Korean delicacies, from traditional tteokbokki to mouth-watering grilled meats.
The tour provides a unique opportunity to interact with vendors, discover hidden gems, and gain insight into the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Priced at $73 per person, the Seoul Mangwon Market Social Night Food Tour offers an immersive and delectable adventure for foodies.
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Noryangjin Fish Market Dinner
Noryangjin Fish Market Dinner takes visitors on a captivating culinary journey through one of Seoul’s most renowned seafood hubs.
Offering a 5.0-star experience, this tour allows travelers to explore the bustling market, select fresh seafood, and enjoy a delectable meal prepared onsite.
With a maximum group size of 7, the tour provides an intimate setting and personalized guidance from the knowledgeable tour guide, Lee.
Priced at $114.47 per person, the activity is non-refundable but offers the flexibility to purchase additional seafood independently.
Situated near public transportation, the tour is praised for its cultural insights and the opportunity to savor the flavors of Korea’s vibrant fishing industry.
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Mangwon Market Food Tour by Locals;Cheap Eats to Fancy Feast
Frequently touted as a hidden gem, the Mangwon Market Food Tour by Locals offers visitors an immersive glimpse into Seoul’s vibrant culinary scene.
This 3-hour walking tour takes participants through the bustling market, where they’ll sample a diverse range of local delicacies, from cheap street eats to high-end specialties.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the experience showcases the neighborhood’s rich food culture and allows travelers to interact with vendors.
Priced at $89.22 per person, the tour earns a 4.9-star rating from 201 reviews, making it a must-try for foodies visiting the city.
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Seoul: City Highlights and Historical Experience No Shopping
The Seoul City Highlights and Historical Experience tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s cultural and historical treasures without the distraction of shopping.
Located in Seoul, South Korea, the tour boasts a 95% recommendation rate from 58 reviews. Priced at $51 per person, it accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness. With a cancellation policy allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, the tour includes entrance fees, an English-speaking guide, Hanbok rental, bottled water, and private transportation.
Highlights include visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and experiencing traditional Korean attire.
Reviewers praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, though some feel the historical context could be explored in more depth.
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Seoul: Market Food Tour & Evening Ebike Ride
Participants embark on a captivating afternoon e-bike tour and happy hour experience in the vibrant city of Seoul. Priced at €93.02 per person, the 3-hour tour is limited to just 10 participants, ensuring a personalized adventure.
Along the way, they’ll explore Cheonggyecheon, Berlin Square, Ikseon-dong, Changdeokgung Palace, House of Baek Inje, and Insadong Culture Street, with guided tours and photo stops.
The highlight is a 70-minute visit to a premium Korean hotel for the classic chicken and beer pairing. Vegetarian options are available upon request.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the fun, informative nature of the tour, making it a must-do activity for those seeking an immersive Seoul experience.
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Market Food Tour & Evening E-bike Ride in Seoul
This evening e-bike tour and food tasting experience showcases the vibrant markets and neighborhoods of Seoul.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll explore the city by electric bike, stopping to sample delicious local snacks and Korean dishes.
The tour includes the use of a bicycle, safety gear, and bottled water, plus comprehensive insurance coverage.
Highlights include an insightful overview of Seoul’s sights, an easy biking experience, and off-the-beaten-path exploration with knowledgeable guides.
This tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, and youth under 15 may need special arrangements.
With a 100% recommendation rate, this is a fantastic way to experience Seoul.
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Seoul: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Gwangjang Market Tour
Explore Seoul’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant local markets on this guided tour.
Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace for a tour and witness the Palace Royal Guard Changing Ceremony.
Stroll through the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village, closed to travelers on Sundays starting November 1, 2024.
Enjoy a scenic drive to Bugak Palgakjeong for panoramic views of Seoul.
Shop and learn about the renowned Korean ginseng at the Ginseng Museum.
Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Gwangjang Market, famous for bindaetteok and mayak gimbap.
With hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour offers great value.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and excellent photo opportunities.
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Korean Palace and Market Tour in Seoul Including Insadong and Gyeongbokgung Palace
On this comprehensive Korean palace and market tour, travelers enjoy Seoul’s rich cultural heritage.
The full-day itinerary covers Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jogyesa Buddhist Temple, and the UNESCO-listed Changdeokgung Palace. Guests also explore Insadong and Namdaemun, two vibrant local markets known for shopping and cultural experiences.
The tour includes a Korean lunch and round-trip hotel transport. With 156 reviews and a 4.0-star rating, it’s a popular choice for first-time visitors seeking an overview of Seoul’s history and traditions.
Guides receive praise for their knowledge and engaging presentations. While some suggest skipping shopping stops for more time at cultural sites, the tour is generally well-organized and provides a great introduction to the city.
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Seoul: Namdaemun Market Street Food Tour
A 2.5-hour walking tour, the Seoul: Namdaemun Market Street Food Tour provides an immersive experience exploring the largest traditional market in South Korea.
Participants can taste four types of local street food, including noodle soup, dumplings, twisted bread sticks, and skewered fish cakes.
The tour also includes exploring the market’s food and accessory alleys while learning about Korean history and culture.
Priced from Kč 1,084 per person, the tour is limited to 10 participants and features English-speaking guides.
With a 4.8/5 rating based on 29 reviews, the tour offers a personalized experience and positive feedback on the food variety and market exploration.
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Customized Private Seoul Tour: Palace, Market Etc(Airport Option)
For travelers seeking a more personalized Seoul experience, the Customized Private Seoul Tour: Palace, Market Etc (Airport Option) offers a flexible and comprehensive solution.
With 97% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides an English-speaking private guide, private transportation, and admission fees for a range of attractions, including palaces and markets.
Pricing starts at $184 per person, with options for airport or ferry terminal pickup/drop-off.
Guests praise the tour’s customization and the guides’ expertise, though some note occasional language barriers or schedule issues.
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Korea DMZ the 3rd Tunnel Guided Tour From Seoul – No Shopping
Exploring the fascinating DMZ and the mysterious 3rd Tunnel from Seoul, this guided tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore Korea’s captivating history.
With 1,243 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, the tour provides an in-depth look into this restricted military zone, led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides.
Priced at $55 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, lunch, and all fees, making it a convenient and value-packed experience.
While the tour schedule may occasionally change due to military or weather concerns, the tour company ensures alternative activities are provided to maintain customer satisfaction.
With a focus on historical insights rather than shopping, this DMZ tour is a must-do for those seeking an immersive and educational experience in Seoul.
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Unique Authentic Food Adventure in Gwangjang Market
Diverging from the history-focused DMZ tour, travelers can embark on a unique culinary adventure at the vibrant Gwangjang Market in Seoul.
The 2-hour food tour offers a deep dive into authentic Korean dishes, with participants challenged to collect stamps for each new flavor they try. Upon completion, they’re rewarded with a traditional souvenir.
Though not suitable for vegans or vegetarians, the tour caters to dietary needs and provides a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
With a small group size and an English-speaking guide, the experience immerses guests in Korea’s rich food culture, satisfying even the most discerning palates.
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Cook 3 Authentic Korean Dishes With Local Market Tour
This cooking class offers travelers an immersive experience to learn the art of authentic Korean cuisine. Participants visit Mangwon Market, handpick fresh ingredients, and return to the cooking studio to prepare three traditional dishes.
The small-group size ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable instructors, who provide insights into Korean food culture. Participants enjoy cooking and sharing meals together, fostering a social atmosphere.
With a comprehensive cookbook to take home, travelers can recreate the delicious dishes they’ve learned. This 3.5-hour experience is a fantastic way to take in Korean culinary traditions and leave with the confidence to cook authentic Korean cuisine.
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Seoul: Gwangjang Market Netflix Food Tour
Seoul’s Gwangjang Market takes center stage in this immersive Netflix-inspired food tour. Priced at $54 per person, this 3-hour private or small group experience showcases the market’s vibrant history and local delicacies.
Participants will explore the Insa-dong cultural district, Ikseon-dong’s historic hanok buildings, and sample 3-5 varieties of Korean street food at the iconic Gwangjang Market.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5, the tour earns praise for its engaging, educational exploration of Seoul’s food culture and knowledgeable guides.
Bookings can be made with a flexible reserve-now-pay-later option, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
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Private 10 Food Tasting Tour in an Authentic Food Market in Seoul
Tucked away in Mangwon Market, this private food tour offers visitors an immersive culinary experience showcasing the vibrant flavors of Seoul.
Led by an English-speaking local guide, the 5 PM tour takes guests on a journey through 10 unique Korean food tastings, including a traditional Korean BBQ dinner and sampling of Korean beverages like soju and makgeolli.
With a maximum cost of $50 per person, the tour provides exceptional value, allowing travelers to indulge in the local cuisine without breaking the bank.
Complemented by the guide’s insights on food origins and dining etiquette, this 5-star rated experience immerses participants in Seoul’s authentic market culture.
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Namdaemun Market: the Largest Traditional Market Food Tour
Namdaemun Market, Seoul’s largest and oldest traditional marketplace, offers visitors an immersive culinary experience through its Namdaemun Market Food Tour.
For $44.20 per person, this 1.5-hour tour allows participants to taste over 7 different Korean street foods and drinks.
Exploring the market’s 10,000+ vendors, the tour also includes photo opportunities at the historic Sungnyemun Gate.
Engaging with local merchants, guests learn about the market’s culture.
With a maximum group size of 10 and an English-speaking guide, the tour provides a personalized and educational experience.
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.
Reviewers praise the tour’s authenticity and recommend skipping breakfast for maximum enjoyment.
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Seoul : Namdaemun Market Gastroventure Tour
What makes the Seoul: Namdaemun Market Gastroventure Tour a must-experience for foodies visiting the city?
For starters, the tour offers a delectable sampling of Seoul’s traditional street food. Participants can expect to indulge in savory chop noodles, juicy dumplings, and sweet twisted bread sticks, accompanied by refreshing yuja tea and fish cake bars.
Led by knowledgeable and engaging guides, the tour also provides historical insights and interactions with local vendors, allowing visitors to enjoy the vibrant culture of Namdaemun Market.
With a maximum of 10 participants, the intimate group size ensures a personalized experience.
And at just $65 per person, it’s an excellent value for the variety and quality of the culinary journey.
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Seoul: Noryangjin Fish Market Guided Tour and Food Tasting
For foodies seeking a deeper dive into Seoul’s seafood culture, the Seoul: Noryangjin Fish Market Guided Tour and Food Tasting offers an immersive experience.
The 2-hour guided walking tour takes visitors through one of Korea’s largest seafood markets, where they can taste fresh sashimi, live octopus, and fish soup. Guests will learn about the market’s history, the seafood industry, and the cultural significance of seafood in Korean cuisine.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Priced at $70.16 per person, this tour is a must-do for anyone interested in exploring Seoul’s vibrant food scene.
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Vegan & Vegetarian Korean Market Adventure Gwangjang Market
Travelers seeking a unique culinary adventure can enjoy the vibrant Gwangjang Market during the Vegan & Vegetarian Korean Market Adventure.
The 5.0-star rated tour takes participants on a journey through the bustling market, offering up to six types of delectable Korean street food tastings.
Guests can savor the flavors of dishes like BoriBab, a barley and rice mix with Korean herbs and vegetables, Kimbap, a dried seaweed roll, and Hotteok, a Korean filled pancake.
The knowledgeable guide, Chef Yie, tailors the experience to individual dietary preferences, ensuring a delightful and memorable exploration of Seoul’s vibrant vegan and vegetarian culinary scene.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Vegetarian or Vegan Options Available on the Cooking Classes?
The cooking classes often provide vegetarian and vegan options to accommodate different dietary needs. Instructors are typically knowledgeable about plant-based ingredients and can adapt recipes to suit those preferences upon request.
What Is the Average Group Size for the Market Tours?
The average group size for the market tours is typically around 10-15 participants. This allows for a more intimate and interactive experience as the guide can provide personalized attention to each guest during the tour.
Can We Customize the Itinerary of the Private Shopping Tours?
Yes, you can typically customize the itinerary of private shopping tours. Many tour providers offer flexible itineraries that can be tailored to your interests and preferences, allowing you to create a personalized shopping experience.
Are Children’s Portions Available for the Full-Course Meals?
Yes, many restaurants offer children’s portions for full-course meals. This allows families to customize their dining experience to accommodate children’s appetites and preferences. It’s best to inquire about specific menu options when making reservations.
Can We Request for English-Speaking Guides on the Historical Experience Tours?
Most tour operators offer English-speaking guides for historical experience tours. Visitors can usually request an English-speaking guide when booking the tour to ensure they can fully understand and engage with the cultural and historical aspects of the experience.
Recap
Seoul offers an array of engaging shopping tours that cater to diverse interests. From exploring traditional markets and indulging in Korean cuisine to embarking on private shopping expeditions, visitors can enjoy the city’s vibrant culture and uncover its hidden gems. These tours provide a well-rounded experience, allowing travelers to explore the local way of life and discover the best that Seoul has to offer.