Seoul is a city that lends itself beautifully to walking — it’s a place where ancient palaces sit just steps from buzzing street markets, and where neon-lit alleyways hide stories worth uncovering. Unlike many large cities, Seoul’s walkable neighborhoods and rich history make exploring on foot both practical and rewarding. We particularly enjoy tours like the Seoul moonlight walking tour for its night views of the city walls and the Ghost Story walking tour for its spine-tingling tales. They’re perfect for experiencing Seoul’s visual and atmospheric contrasts—modern skyscrapers against centuries-old walls and haunting legends echoing through lively streets.
Whether you’re after a peaceful stroll through historic neighborhoods or an eerie adventure after dark, Seoul offers a variety of walking tours that make the most of its diverse sights. With options that cover night vistas, cultural insights, dark tales, and even street photography, you’ll find plenty of ways to step into the city’s stories. Here’s a look at the 15 best walking tours in Seoul, each with its own twist and appeal.
1. Seoul moonlight walking tour with local historian
At number one, the Seoul moonlight walking tour with local historian takes you on an evening journey through some of Seoul’s most scenic spots. This 2-hour tour is led by guides who speak perfect English and have a knack for storytelling. It focuses on hidden corners foreigners often overlook, like the Hanyang City Wall, which offers incredible night views of Seoul. You’ll also visit Marronnier Park, Ihwa Mural Village, and Naksan Park, each with its own cultural story. The highlight is walking the city wall, where lights shimmer and the city’s history feels very alive. With a perfect 5-star rating from over 800 reviews, it’s clear this tour excels at combining cultural insights with stunning visuals.
Bottom Line: Best for night lovers and history buffs wanting an authentic, well-paced walk with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.
2. Seoul: Evening Dark History, Folklore & Ghost Story Walking Tour
For those interested in Seoul’s mysterious side, the Dark History and Ghost Story Tour offers an atmospheric 2-hour stroll. The guide Shawn, an expert storyteller, shares tales of haunted palaces, secret legends, and ghostly encounters. This tour visits Gyeonghuigung Palace, known as Korea’s most haunted spot, and Pimatgol Alley, where stories of old Seoul come alive at night. The reviews highlight Shawn’s passion and storytelling skill, making spooky stories come to life in a way that’s entertaining rather than terrifying. It’s a perfect pick for lovers of the supernatural or those wanting a different view of Korean history.
Bottom Line: A fun, spine-tingling way to explore Seoul’s darker side, suitable for those who enjoy stories and a bit of suspense.
3. Seoul: Nighttime Hidden Gems Walking Tour
The Nighttime Hidden Gems Tour is a 2-hour walk that uncovers Seoul’s lesser-known sights after dark. Led by a local historian, this tour explores Seoul National University’s campus, Naksan dragon art, and the art in Ihwa mural village. The highlight is walking the Hanyang city wall at night, where the view of Seoul’s skyline is spectacular. Guests praise the guide’s friendly personality and informative style, making each stop meaningful. It’s ideal for travelers wanting to see a mix of academic, artistic, and historic sites while enjoying the city’s night atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Great for lovers of art, history, and scenic city views, especially if you want a relaxed pace and personal insights.
4. Gangnam Walking Tour on Youth and Society in Seoul Korea
In fourth place, the Gangnam Youth and Society Tour offers a deep dive into Seoul’s most modern district. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll explore areas like the love hotel district, the famous cram schools, and plastic surgery streets. Guides discuss societal pressures faced by Korea’s youth, giving you a glimpse into the country’s social fabric beyond its glitzy surface. Guests have commented on how Jessica’s engaging storytelling and candid insights enrich the experience, especially when discussing Korea’s development, beauty standards, and urban life.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers curious about contemporary Korean society and urban trends, with a focus on social issues and local culture.
5. Seoul: Dark Side of the City and Ghost Stories Walking Tour
Another haunting option is the Dark Side of Seoul Tour. This 2-hour walk explores the city’s spooky tales, paranormal hotspots, and true crime stories. Led by charismatic guides like Joe and Shawn, it reveals Seoul’s hidden stories beneath its busy streets. The tour includes stops at sites like Jongmyo Shrine and other landmarks known for supernatural legends. It’s perfect if you enjoy ghost stories, dark history, or just want to see Seoul’s less conventional sights. The reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and storytelling ability, making it a memorable experience for night owls and thrill-seekers alike.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who enjoy a spooky, atmospheric experience with a mix of history and legend.
6. Best Walking Tour to Gyeongbok Palace and Bukchon with Expert
At number six, the Gyeongbok Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village Tour is a 3-hour walk that combines Korea’s royal history with traditional architecture. It features the changing of the guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace, visits to Bukchon Hanok Village, and insights into Joseon-era life. The guide Stella is praised for her enthusiasm and ability to answer questions, making it a perfect introduction for first-timers. The tour includes all entrance fees, making it great value. Guests often mention how much they learned about Korea’s past while enjoying stunning historic buildings.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-time visitors and history lovers wanting an in-depth, well-organized experience.
7. Seoul: Gyeongbok Palace and Bukchon Hanok Walking Tour
This 3-hour morning tour offers a comprehensive look at Seoul’s core historic sites. Starting with Gyeongbokgung Palace, it features the royal guard changing ceremony and the Bukchon Hanok Village. Guides like Jae make the visit lively with stories and local tips. The tour also visits the bustling Namdaemun Market in the afternoon, with options to explore Namsan Mountain by bus. The reviews emphasize the guide’s storytelling skills and the chance to interact with locals. If you’re short on time but want a blend of history and local life, this is a well-rounded option.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a mix of palace history and lively markets in one day.
8. Seoul: Private Walking Tour with a Local
For a truly personalized experience, the Private Walking Tour with a Local allows you to craft your own route. Whether you want to see hidden cafes, lesser-known neighborhoods, or major landmarks, your local guide will tailor the walk to your interests. It’s ideal for travelers who value flexibility and authentic local insights. Reviews note how engaging and knowledgeable the guides are, making every walk unique. This option is best suited if you prefer a custom experience and want to go beyond the standard itineraries.
Bottom Line: Most suitable for independent-minded travelers who want a tailored, flexible tour with local flavor.
9. Street photoshoot and Seoul Hidden gem History Walking Tour
Photography lovers will find this Street Photoshoot tour irresistible. Led by a historian and professional photographer, it combines cultural exploration with a chance to capture Seoul’s beauty on camera. It visits Jongmyo Shrine, Cheonggyecheon Stream, and Ikseon-dong, with plenty of opportunities for stunning shots during the golden hour. Guests rave about the quality of photos and the engaging storytelling that makes history come alive through images. It’s perfect if you want to learn about Seoul’s history and walk away with professional-quality pictures.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for travelers who want a visual keepsake of Seoul along with cultural insights.
10. Seoul Private Custom Walking Tour with A Guide
The Custom Private Tour offers maximum flexibility. Your guide works with you to create a personalized itinerary, hitting major sights like Gyeongbokgung or exploring local markets and neighborhoods. It’s perfect if you have specific interests or want to focus on certain areas of Seoul. Reviews mention guides like Hector, who teach about history and culture while making the experience fun and engaging. This tour is best for travelers who want control over their day and a deeper dive into Seoul’s lesser-known corners.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers with specific interests or those who enjoy customizing their experience on the fly.
11. Seoul Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Foodies will love the Private Food Tour, which spends about 3 hours tasting Seoul’s culinary highlights. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore bustling markets like Gwangjang and traditional villages such as Ikseon-dong. The tour includes iconic dishes like mung bean pancakes and other local favorites, giving you a taste of Korea’s long-standing food culture. It’s a feast for the senses and a great way to learn about Korea’s food traditions firsthand. Guests find it a perfect balance of sightseeing and eating, all with a private guide to answer questions and suggest hidden gems.
Bottom Line: Best for food lovers wanting an intimate, hands-on culinary experience with cultural context.
12. Hipjiro Night Walk: Photos, History & Neon Lights
The Hipjiro Night Walk is a 1 hour 40-minute exploration of Seoul’s neon-lit streets, filled with stories about local history and culture. You’ll stop at alleyways filled with neon signs, photograph the Cheonggyecheon Stream at night, and learn about the area’s transformation from a printing district to a modern hub. The tour emphasizes great photo opportunities and sharing stories behind Seoul’s modern and vintage vibes. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick, visually stimulating experience that combines history, culture, and photography.
Bottom Line: Perfect for night owls and shutterbugs interested in Seoul’s lively neon nights.
13. Buam dong Walking Tour Art, History and Parasite in Seoul
The Buam-dong Walking Tour blends art, history, and modern culture in a peaceful hillside neighborhood. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll visit literary landmarks like the Cheongun Literature Library, see the Seoul City Wall and Changuimun Gate, and explore the site of the movie Parasite. The tour’s quiet setting offers a contrast to Seoul’s busy city center, with stunning mountain views and artistic stops. It’s perfect for those seeking a calm, cultural experience with plenty of photo opportunities and unique insights into Korean art and cinema.
Bottom Line: Ideal for film buffs and culture seekers wanting a relaxed, scenic walk.
14. Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Seoul Private Walking Tour
This private tour combines major highlights like Gyeongbokgung Palace with lesser-known local spots such as Gwanjang Market and Bukchon Hanok Village. Spanning around 3 hours, it offers a personalized experience tailored by your local guide. Reviewers appreciate the friendly guides and the chance to learn about both traditional and modern Seoul in one trip. It’s a great option for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and authentic neighborhood visits.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive yet personal introduction to Seoul.
15. Seoul: Street Photoshoot and Hidden Gem History Walking Tour
Last but not least, the Street Photoshoot and Hidden Gems Tour focuses on learning about Seoul’s sights while capturing your experience through professional photography. Starting at Jongno 3-ga Station, it visits Ikseon-dong, Jongmyo Shrine, and Cheonggyecheon, with plenty of spots perfect for photos. Guides share stories about Seoul’s traditions and urban development, making this ideal for travelers wanting both a cultural walk and keepsake photos. With high praise for the photographic quality and storytelling, it’s a fun blend of sightseeing and social media-ready shots.
Bottom Line: Best for photography enthusiasts who want to combine sightseeing with a professional photoshoot.
How to Choose Your Perfect Walking Tour in Seoul
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend exploring. If history and architecture are your priorities, the Gyeongbok Palace and Bukchon tour or the Nighttime Hidden Gems are excellent options. Prefer dark tales and spooky stories? The Ghost Tour will satisfy your curiosity. For a more personalized experience, the Private Custom Walk offers flexibility, while food lovers should consider the Secret Food Tour.
Think about your energy levels: some tours involve a good deal of walking, like the Seoul moonlight walk, while others, like the Gyeongbok Palace, balance sightseeing with short stops. Booking early is encouraged, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular routes.
Seoul offers an array of walking experiences that suit almost every interest — from historical landmarks and vibrant markets to ghost stories and art-filled neighborhoods. For first-timers, a tour combining Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon can set a solid foundation. For those craving night views and romantic cityscapes, the Moonlight Tour makes a perfect choice. And if you’re into photography or storytelling, the Street Photoshoot takes your experience up a notch. Whichever you pick, early booking will ensure you don’t miss out on exploring Seoul’s streets with confidence and curiosity.