Seoul might be best known for its bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, but for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s a surprisingly good city for hiking and trekking. The city’s mountains and historic walls offer a variety of trails, some easy and others demanding real effort. We love tours that combine cultural insights with stunning views, like the Fortress Night Hike & Snack at a Local Market—it offers a memorable night walk along ancient walls with local street food. For more serious mountain lovers, the Private Hiking tour to Bukhansan Peak with a mountain expert provides tailored routes and expert guidance, perfect for those wanting an authentic climb. Whether you’re after city views, cultural sites, or a full day in Korea’s natural landscape, Seoul’s hikes don’t disappoint.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include evening walks along Seoul’s historic fortress walls, private mountain ascents in Bukhansan National Park, and day trips to Mount Seorak that combine stunning scenery with cultural visits. There are sunset hikes, guided walks through UNESCO sites, and challenging climbs with personalized guides. Each offers its own flavor—some focus on city panoramas and local flavors, others on mountain sport and nature. You can explore Naksan Park’s city views, enjoy temple visits and folklore stories on Bukhan Mountain, or experience Seoraksan’s rugged peaks. No matter your fitness level or schedule, there’s a tour that fits.
1. Fortress Night Hike & Snack at a Local Market
At number one, this tour combines an evening hike along the Seoul Fortress Wall with a local market snack experience. Starting at a traditional market, you’ll sample Korean street foods—some vegan options included—before ascending along the ancient fortress wall to admire city lights twinkling below. The walk along the wall offers magnificent nighttime views of Seoul’s skyline and a chance to soak in the historic atmosphere. The tour wraps up with an optional dinner at a traditional restaurant that’s inexpensive but authentic, giving you a full culture in just four hours. Koa & Sam, passionate outdoor lovers, guide this tour, which has earned a perfect 5-star rating from over 112 reviews. People love the friendly guides, tasty snacks, and spectacular night views. If you want an easy, fun intro to Seoul’s history and scenery, this is a top choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a relaxed evening walk with city vistas and local eats—ideal for first-timers or anyone short on time.
2. Private Hiking tour to Bukhansan Peak(Baegundae: 836.5m) with Mountain Expert
For those who want to really challenge themselves, the Private Hiking tour to Bukhansan Peak is a standout. This tour offers up to seven hours of hiking in Seoul’s most famous mountain park, with a tailor-made route based on your fitness level. With a personal mountain guide, you’ll visit monk temples, enjoy panoramic views from the peaks, and receive hiking tips along the way. The private nature of this tour means you can go at your own pace, and hotel pickup simplifies logistics. Guests rave about guides like Kim, who makes the experience both informative and fun. The hike is described as steep but rewarding, with some snow in winter adding to the magic. It’s best suited for active travelers who want a full-day adventure and don’t mind a bit of a workout.
Bottom Line: Great for serious hikers or anyone eager for a customized, in-depth mountain experience with professional guidance.
3. Seoul: Guided City Wall Sunset Hike with Korean Dinner
Number three on our list is a sunset hike along Naksan Park’s Seoul Fortress Wall. This 3-hour tour combines city views and cultural insights with a walk through the hillside park as the sun dips below the horizon. The guide will take you through sections of the old fortress wall, offering panoramic views over Seoul, and you’ll sip a drink at a hilltop café. The evening ends with a traditional Korean dinner, making it a well-rounded experience. The tour has a high rating of 4.8 out of 5, with visitors praising the scenic route and friendly guide. It’s perfect for those looking for a short, scenic outing that mixes nature, history, and local cuisine.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a relaxed evening walk with great views and cultural flavor.
4. Seoul: Mt Seorak Hike with Naksansa Temple or Nami Island
At number four, this day-long trip takes you outside Seoul to Mount Seorak, one of Korea’s most iconic landscapes. The tour includes a short hike in Seoraksan National Park, with options to visit Naksansa Temple or Nami Island. The breathtaking mountain scenery includes panoramic views from the peaks and the chance to walk through Nami Island’s famous tree-lined paths. The trip is well-organized with comfortable transport, and the guide shares insights into the area’s flora, fauna, and local history. Guests note the spectacular scenery and smooth logistics. It’s suitable for nature lovers and those with a full day to spare, looking for an immersive experience outside the city.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a full day in Korea’s natural and cultural landscape, with manageable hikes and scenic stops.
5. Seoul Mountain Hike: Temples, Folklore & Traditional Meal
This small-group tour focuses on Bukhan Mountain, blending scenic hiking with storytelling about local legends. As you travel through scenic trails, your guide shares stories of mountain ghosts, shamans, and folklore, making this hike both informative and entertaining. The tour includes a visit to a secret Buddhist temple and ends with a Korean lunch at a mountain restaurant. With a 5-star review rating, guests particularly appreciate the personalized attention and unique stories. It’s suited for hikers who enjoy cultural narratives and a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers interested in Korean folklore and spiritual sites combined with moderate hiking.
6. Private Hiking to Bukhansan & Korean Style Spa (Include Lunch)
A full-day private adventure in Bukhansan National Park, this tour combines moderate hiking with a visit to a Korean-style spa. After a hassle-free pickup, you hike with a private guide, visit a Buddhist temple, and enjoy a traditional Korean lunch. Then, unwind at a local jimjilbang (spa)—a perfect way to relax those aching muscles. The reviews praise the personalized experience and knowledgeable guides. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balance of outdoor activity and cultural relaxation.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a full cultural experience with added relaxation in Korea’s famous spas.
7. Bukhansan Mountain Private Hike with Lunch
This private tour focuses on a full-day hike in Bukhansan National Park, reaching Bibong Peak for spectacular views. The guide personalizes the route, depending on your fitness, and the tour includes a traditional Korean meal afterward. Guests highlight guides like Justin for friendly, detailed explanations, and the hike is described as challenging but rewarding. It’s great for families or groups who want an individualized experience with the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups seeking a personalized, in-depth mountain adventure with a scenic peak at the end.
8. Seoul: Night Namsan Hiking with Hidden Gem Recommendations
Number eight offers an evening hike up Namsan Mountain, famous for stunning city views at sunset and night. The tour also includes local recommendations for cafes and restaurants that aren’t tourist traps. It’s perfect for those wanting a light walk with spectacular cityscapes, plus insider tips for exploring Seoul’s less-visited spots. With a 5-star rating, travelers praise the friendly guide and beautiful sunset views. It’s a good pick if you’re looking for a relaxing evening activity with a bit of local insight.
Bottom Line: Suitable for evening explorers who want easy walking and local dining tips.
9. Inwangsan Hike & Historical Sites
This 3-hour small-group tour explores Inwangsan Mountain, famous for illuminated night views of Seoul and historic sites like Sajik Altar. The hike offers a peaceful alternative to city chaos, with views of N Seoul Tower and Lotte Tower at night. Your guide shares stories about Seoul’s history and culture as you walk. The snacks provided make the experience complete. It’s ideal for history buffs or those seeking a tranquil walk after a busy day.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting an informative, scenic walk with a focus on the city’s historic landmarks.
10. Seoraksan National Park Ulsanbawi Hiking from Seoul
Number ten features a full-day private trip to Seoraksan, including a hike to the Ulsanbawi Rock formation. The tour takes you outside Seoul, with personalized guidance and visits to Shinheungsa Buddhist temple and a bronze Buddha statue. The hike is described as challenging but incredibly rewarding, with spectacular mountain views. Guests emphasize the comfortable transport and engaging guide. The trip is perfect for adventurers wanting a mix of nature, culture, and physical challenge.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a comprehensive day in Korea’s mountain landscape with a private guide.
11. Hike and Explore Bukhansan with a Hiking Professional (Including Lunch)
This 6-hour private tour offers a guided exploration of Bukhansan’s best trails, avoiding the crowds. The guide helps you discover less-visited paths, mountainside temples, and flora. After the hike, enjoy a delicious Korean meal. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and flexible itinerary, making it perfect for those who want a personalized, in-depth experience. It’s suitable for experienced hikers or curious beginners eager to explore Korea’s nature.
Bottom Line: A flexible option for those wanting a tailored, immersive hike with local insights.
12. Hiking Adventure to Bukhansan’s Highest Peak & Buddhist Temples
Number twelve combines a hike to the mountain’s highest point with visits to ancient Buddhist temples. The 6-hour tour offers easy access to beautiful vistas and cultural sites, including the 9th-century Doseonsa Temple. The guide shares stories about Korea’s flora, fauna, and spiritual traditions. The tour ends with a local Korean meal. It’s ideal for history and nature enthusiasts wanting an educational experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in cultural heritage and scenic mountain views.
13. Private Talk Show with N.K. Defector & Short Hike
This unique 8-hour private tour combines urban sightseeing with a personal story from a North Korean defector. It includes stops at Bugak Skyway, Odusan Unification Tower, and the War Memorial of Korea. The highlight is the conversation with the defector, offering rare insights into North Korean life. The tour also includes short hikes and scenic viewpoints. It’s suited for history lovers, politics followers, and those interested in Korea’s division.
Bottom Line: A compelling choice for those wanting a deeply personal and educational experience beyond typical hikes.
14. Seoul: Inwangsan Sunset Hike with Guide
This sunset hike up Inwangsan is short but packed with stunning views of Seoul’s palaces and cityscape. Your guide shares stories of the fortress walls and provides a peaceful escape from city noise. Ideal for travelers who want a relaxing yet scenic adventure at the end of the day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a quick, scenic walk with cultural storytelling.
15. Small Group Hike on Mt. Bukhansan’s Secret Paths & Local Lunch
Finally, this less-trodden trail guides you through quiet forest paths and peaceful valleys. Led by a local, the hike is beginner-friendly and ends with a home-cooked Korean meal at a cozy restaurant. It’s suitable for those preferring a relaxed pace and avoiding crowds, yet still wanting to enjoy Korea’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Great for beginners or travelers seeking a tranquil hike with authentic local food.
How to Choose the Best Hiking and Trekking Tour in Seoul
When selecting a tour, consider your fitness level and interests. If you prefer city views and cultural stories, the Fortress Night Hike & Snack or Inwangsan Sunset Hike might suit you. For more challenging outdoor adventures, the private Bukhansan mountain hikes or Seoraksan day trip are excellent. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for shorter evening walks or small-group city hikes, while those seeking a full-day immersive experience might prefer private excursions including spas or temples. Always check booking tips and best times of year—spring and fall typically offer the best weather for hiking.
If you’re after a mix of cultural insight and scenic nature, tours like the Seoul Fortress Wall Sunset Hike or Bukhan Mountain Folklore Trek deliver authentic experiences. Want a bit of adventure coupled with local cuisine and relaxing spots? The Korean mountain hikes with traditional meals or spas are your best bet. Book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred times.
Seoul offers a surprising variety of hiking and trekking options that cater to different tastes, fitness levels, and schedules. Whether you want a peaceful evening walk with city views, a full-day mountain climb, or a cultural exploration with stories and temples, there’s something here for everyone. For a memorable outdoor experience, start planning your trip now and book early—these tours fill up fast!