Gangnam, the vibrant epicenter of Seoul, beckons travelers with its captivating blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. This half-day highlight city tour provides an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the serene Bongeunsa Temple and the bustling Starfield COEX Mall. With an English-speaking guide leading the way, guests can dive into the city’s rich heritage and modern allure. Whether indulging in traditional Samgyetang or savoring the delectable street foods of Kwangjang Market, this tour promises a well-rounded exploration of Gangnam‘s essence. The stage is set for an unforgettable journey through Seoul’s dynamic landscape.
Good To Know
- This private half-day tour offers an immersive exploration of Gangnam, Seoul’s iconic district, featuring visits to Bongeunsa Temple and Starfield COEX Mall.
- The tour highlights the blend of traditional Korean culture and modern elements in Gangnam, with a focus on history, architecture, and cuisine.
- Participants can enjoy a traditional Korean lunch, choosing between Jinseng Chicken Soup (Samgyetang) or street foods from the vibrant Kwangjang Market.
- The tour includes an English-speaking guide for a personalized and enriching experience, with convenient hotel pickup for ease of access.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but stroller-friendly, making it suitable for families, though mobility concerns should be considered.
Tour Overview
The Gangnam City Tour in Seoul provides a private half-day exploration of the city’s Gangnam district, offering visitors an ideal opportunity to enjoy the area’s rich history, vibrant culture, and renowned cuisine.
Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, guests will discover the highlights of Gangnam, including the centuries-old Bongeunsa Temple and the expansive Starfield COEX Mall, one of the largest underground shopping centers in South Korea.
This personalized tour promises a comprehensive experience, catering to those seeking to explore the unique blend of traditional and modern elements that define the Gangnam neighborhood.
Want to dig deeper into Seoul? We've also reviewed these city tours
Bongeunsa Temple
Founded in 794, Bongeunsa Temple boasts over 1,000 years of history and features impressive woodblock carvings of the Avatamsaka Sutra.
This renowned Buddhist temple is a popular destination for travelers seeking to enjoy traditional Korean culture. Visitors can explore the intricate architecture, including the main hall and pagodas, and witness Buddhist rituals and programs.
The temple’s serene atmosphere and lush gardens provide a peaceful respite from the bustling city streets of Gangnam.
With its rich history and cultural significance, Bongeunsa Temple offers a unique glimpse into Korea’s spiritual heritage, making it a must-see attraction on the Gangnam city tour.
Starfield COEX Mall
One of the highlights of the Gangnam city tour is a visit to the Starfield COEX Mall, one of the largest underground shopping centers in South Korea.
This expansive complex offers a diverse array of experiences, from international brand stores to a concert hall, extensive food court, aquarium, movie theater, and arcade.
Visitors can spend time exploring the different sections of the mall, indulging in a variety of culinary delights, and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
The Starfield COEX Mall is a testament to the vibrant shopping and entertainment culture of Gangnam, providing a truly immersive experience for tour participants.
Meal Options
A traditional Korean lunch is included during the Gangnam city tour, providing participants with an authentic culinary experience. Guests can choose between two local specialties: Jinseng Chicken Soup (Samgyetang) or a selection of traditional street foods from the Kwangjang Market.
Samgyetang is a nourishing dish featuring a whole young chicken stuffed with ginseng, glutinous rice, and other herbs, reflecting Korean medicinal traditions.
The Kwangjang Market option allows visitors to sample a variety of beloved Korean street snacks, like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), and kimbap (seaweed rice rolls).
These meal choices offer a delicious introduction to the vibrant and flavorful cuisine that has made Korean food a global phenomenon.
Pickup and Timing
The Gangnam city tour offers convenient pickup from any hotel in Seoul, allowing participants to begin their exploration of the district with ease.
The tour departs at 9:00 am, ensuring ample time to visit the highlights of the neighborhood.
As the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions. However, strollers are welcome, making the experience suitable for families.
With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior, travelers can book the tour with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.
- Premium Private DMZ Tour & (Suspension Bridge or N-Tower) Include Lunch
- Trip to Nami Island With Petite France & Italian Village, Garden of Morning Calm
- DMZ Tour, Expert Tour Guide From Seoul /Option: Suspension Bridge
- Seoul: Palace, Temple and Market Guided Foodie Tour at Night
- Private DMZ the 3rd Tunnel Tour From Seoul (No Forced Shopping)
- Seoul: Fully Customizable Private Tour
Accessibility Considerations
For travelers with mobility concerns, the Gangnam city tour may pose certain accessibility challenges.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller-friendly. Visitors should be aware that the tour involves walking and navigating steps, which could be difficult for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
While the temple and shopping mall are generally accessible, the narrow streets and cobblestones of Kwangjang Market may present obstacles.
The tour guide can provide assistance, but individuals with mobility issues should consider their personal capabilities before booking.
Those with concerns are encouraged to discuss them with the tour operator to ensure the experience meets their needs.
Cancellation Policy
Flexibility in trip planning allows travelers to adjust their schedules as needed.
The Gangnam City Tour in Seoul offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This provides customers with the peace of mind to book the tour without worrying about unexpected changes in their itinerary.
Whether a last-minute work commitment or a change in travel plans, the flexible cancellation policy ensures that customers can easily make modifications to their booking without incurring any penalties.
This policy reflects the tour operator’s commitment to providing a hassle-free and customer-centric experience, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the highlights of Gangnam at their convenience.
Customer Feedback
Customers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback about their experience with the Gangnam City Tour in Seoul. The tour has an impressive overall rating of 5.0 based on 2 reviews.
Participants have highlighted the guide’s exceptional knowledge and efficiency, with one reviewer noting the unique experiences, such as visits to a tea house and local eateries.
The tour seems to offer a well-rounded exploration of Gangnam’s history, culture, and cuisine, catering to travelers’ interests. Feedback suggests the tour provides a personalized and enriching experience, leaving customers satisfied with their journey through this vibrant district of Seoul.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Available on Weekends?
The tour is available on weekends. The overview states the tour is a "private half-day tour," indicating it’s offered daily, including weekends, to provide a personalized experience exploring the history, culture, and cuisine of Gangnam district in Seoul.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. The tour operator offers a personalized experience and is willing to adjust the itinerary and activities to suit your interests and needs.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no strict dress code for the tour. Travelers should wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking and exploring. Dressing in layers is recommended to accommodate any changes in weather or temperature throughout the day.
How Long Is the Total Duration of the Tour?
The total duration of the tour is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. It includes 40 minutes at Bongeunsa Temple, 40 minutes at Starfield COEX Mall, and time for the traditional Korean lunch.
Do We Need to Bring Any Specific Items for the Tour?
Travelers don’t need to bring any specific items for the tour. The tour provides a personalized, English-speaking guide and covers all activities, including the traditional Korean lunch. Participants should dress comfortably for walking during the half-day tour.
Sum Up
This Gangnam highlight city tour in Seoul offers an immersive cultural experience. Visitors can explore the serene Bongeunsa Temple, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Starfield COEX Mall, and savor delicious traditional Korean cuisine. With an English-speaking guide, this half-day tour provides a seamless blend of history, shopping, and culinary delights, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to discover the essence of Gangnam.
More City Tours in Seoul
- The Ancient City of Brilliant Shilla Kingdom – Gyeongju in One Day( or Overnite)
- Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Gimpo Airport (1-12 Pax)
- Dongdaemun City Tour Bus
- Private Transfer Service From Seoul City Hotels to Gimpo Airport
- Afternoon Half Day Seoul City Tour, Visit Queens Dorm
- Private Airport Transfer: Gimpo Airport to Seoul City (1-12 Pax)
More Tours in Seoul
More Tour Reviews in Seoul
- Private Tour Rail Bike & Nami Island & (Petite France or Garden of Morning Calm)
- Insadong Makgeolli Taster Tour
- Day Trip to Yongin Daejanggeum and Korean Folk Village From Seoul
- Seoraksan Daecheongbong(1,708m) Peak Hiking [1-Day Tour From Seoul]
- Hwadamsup, Luge and Korean Folk Village One Day Tour/Shuttle Bus
- Summer Season Round Trip for Seorak Mountain and Surfy Beach
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Seoul we have recnetly reviewed
- 9 Best BBQ Experiences In Seoul
- 25 Best Food Tours In Seoul
- 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Seoul
- 5 Best 2 Day Tours In Seoul
- 2 Best 3 Day Tours In Seoul
- 2 Best 4 Day Tours In Seoul
- 10 Best Photography Experiences In Seoul
- 15 Best Dining Experiences In Seoul
- 11 Best Dinner Tours In Seoul
- 11 Best Lunch Experiences In Seoul
- Moonlight Stroll at Seoul Palace
- Hello Hanbok