Nami Island and Petite France – Filming location

Experience a Day of Korean Charm: Visiting Nami Island and Petite France

If you’re looking for a full-day escape from Seoul’s urban buzz, this private tour of Nami Island and Petite France offers a perfect mix of film-famous scenery, cultural charm, and fun. At just $125 per person, with about 8 hours of exploring, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, admission tickets, and a delicious Korean spicy chicken lunch—all designed to maximize your time and enjoyment.

What we love about this experience is how seamlessly it combines nature, culture, and little-known filming locales in one trip. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey more personal and insightful. Plus, with skip-the-line admissions, you won’t waste precious time queuing.

A small note to consider: this tour requires minimum of three participants, so it’s best suited for groups or travelers comfortable with sharing a guide. If you’re keen on learning about Korean drama settings or simply want a picturesque day outdoors, this is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, admission, and lunch included provide outstanding value.
• Film & Culture: Visit iconic filming locations from popular K-dramas like Winter Sonata and Secret Garden.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Lizzy and Brian are frequently praised for their friendliness and insight.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect lush landscapes, charming villages, and photo-worthy spots at every turn.
• Comfort & Ease: Hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport keep things comfortable and hassle-free.
• Ideal For: K-drama fans, nature lovers, and those wanting a mix of culture and scenic beauty.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Itinerary: From City Hustle to Scenic Serenity

Start early with hotel pickup around 8:00 am, ensuring you beat the crowds and maximize your day. The journey to Gapyeong Wharf involves a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which in itself is a perk—no need to navigate public transport or worry about parking.

Nami Island is the first stop, where a quick 5-minute ferry ride whisks you onto this famous island. As you step onto Nami, you’ll immediately notice the tree-lined streets—a favorite backdrop for countless K-dramas. With a one-hour visit, expect to stroll through scenic pathways, enjoy the views of lakes and mountains, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Multiple reviews highlight how this island feels like stepping into a postcard, especially if you’re a fan of Korean TV series like Winter Sonata. Many mention how guides like Lizzy make the experience lively and educational, pointing out filming spots and sharing stories.

Next, you’ll visit Petite France, a French-style village made to resemble a quaint European town. This colorful spot features multicolored buildings, boutiques, galleries, and a main hall with regular performances. It’s also a filming location for Secret Garden, adding to its allure. One reviewer shared that “the place was made by the motive of ‘Small Village of France,’” which is easy to see as you wander through lively streets. Expect about an hour here, enough time for photos, browsing, and maybe catching a street performance.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The guides are frequently praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Lizzy, for instance, is described as “amazing, very knowledgeable about Korean culture and history,” making the experience both fun and educational. Brian, another guide, gets rave reviews for his warmth, professionalism, and attention to detail, including helping guests take perfect pictures.

Skip-the-line admission tickets are a smart touch, saving you from queuing at popular spots. You’ll also enjoy a traditional Korean spicy chicken lunch, often cited as a highlight—something that elevates the tour beyond just sightseeing to a full cultural experience.

Convenience is a key perk—hotel pickup and drop-off mean you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort even if the weather turns hot or rainy, which is common in Korea’s seasons.

The Experience at Each Location: What Travelers Say

Many reviewers mention how Nami Island feels like a magical place, perfect for photos and relaxing walks. “The Nami Island tour was not only magical but a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” one says, highlighting how the scenery evokes a sense of wonder. Several note how guides like Lizzy or Brian enhance the trip, sharing extra information, tips on photo spots, and cultural insights.

Petite France receives equally warm praise. Visitors appreciate its vibrant, colorful architecture, and many enjoyed watching live performances or browsing charming boutiques. One reviewer admired the French-inspired snacks, adding a taste of Europe to their Korean adventure.

Transportation and Timing: Making Every Minute Count

The 8-hour duration is well-paced. Beginning early, you arrive at each site with ample time to explore without feeling rushed. The round-trip transportation ensures a stress-free experience, especially useful if you’re unfamiliar with local transit. The small group size (max 40 travelers) fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the hotel pickup means you can relax instead of navigating unfamiliar streets.

Cost and Value: What’s the Real Deal?

At $125 per person, this tour ticks many boxes: all-inclusive price, guided commentary, skip-the-line tickets, and lunch. It’s especially good value considering how much it covers and the convenience it offers. Travelers frequently mention how guides like Lizzy and Brian go above and beyond—sharing cultural stories, helping with photos, and ensuring everyone’s needs are met.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience appeals most to K-drama fans eager to see iconic filming locations firsthand, as well as to nature lovers who enjoy scenic walks and tranquil landscapes. The personalized guidance makes it suitable for first-time visitors who want a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and fun facts. If you prefer independent exploration, you might find this tour’s guided approach more structured than you like, but for most, it enhances the visit rather than detracts.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a well-rounded, engaging, and value-packed way to see some of Korea’s most photogenic and culturally significant sites. The expert guides make the experience memorable, and the inclusion of admission fees and lunch simplifies planning. Expect to walk away with beautiful photos, new insights, and a deeper appreciation for Korea’s film and scenic landscapes.

Ideal for fans of Korean dramas, photography enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a scenic day trip outside Seoul, this tour delivers a genuine, enjoyable experience. Just remember, it’s best suited for groups of at least three and travelers who appreciate organized, guided adventures with a personal touch.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
Approximately 8 hours from hotel pickup to drop-off, covering transportation, sightseeing, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
Round-trip transportation, the professional guide, admission tickets to Nami Island and Petite France, and a traditional Korean spicy chicken lunch.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour starts.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the comfortable transportation and manageable itinerary make it suitable for most ages, but consider walking distances and mobility needs.

Are the guides knowledgeable about Korean culture and filming sites?
Absolutely. Reviewers like Lizzy and Brian are praised for their expertise and friendly approach, sharing interesting stories and helping with photos.

Is lunch vegetarian or vegan?
The tour mentions a traditional Korean spicy chicken lunch. Special dietary requests aren’t specified, so check with the provider if needed.

How crowded are the sites?
Skip-the-line tickets help, but expect some crowds during peak seasons. Starting early helps avoid the busiest times.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and maybe some cash for souvenirs or additional snacks.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is mostly outdoors, so check the forecast. The vehicle is air-conditioned, but outdoor sightseeing might be affected by rain or extreme heat.

Can I join the tour if I’m traveling solo?
Yes, most solo travelers are welcome, but the minimum group size is three, so confirm availability when booking.

In all, this tour provides a convenient, engaging, and scenic way to experience some of Korea’s film-famous locations. Whether you’re a K-drama aficionado or simply seeking a picturesque day outdoors, it’s a solid choice that balances value, ease, and memorable sights.