Small-Group Seoul Morning Royal Palaces Tour

A Practical and Authentic Morning in Seoul

For those eager to get a well-rounded glimpse of Seoul’s royal and spiritual sites in just one morning, the Small-Group Seoul Morning Royal Palaces Tour offers a compelling option. At around $44 per person, this 3.5-hour adventure takes you from the vibrant streets of Jongno to historic palaces, temples, and even a ginseng museum. Guided by knowledgeable locals like Young and Sadie, you’ll visit Jogyesa Temple, Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum, and catch the iconic changing of the guard at Gwanghwamun Gate.

What we love about this tour is how it combines cultural insights with stunning visuals—from the colorful lanterns of Jogyesa to the historic grandeur of the palace. Plus, the included hotel pickup and entrance fees remove the hassle of planning logistics, making it a solid choice for travelers wanting a balanced, value-oriented experience. One possible consideration is that on Tuesdays, the palace is closed, and you’ll visit Changdeokgung instead, so plan accordingly. This tour suits those who enjoy guided touring with a small-group atmosphere and are eager to see Seoul’s highlights without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering key royal and spiritual sites in Seoul.
• All-inclusive price, including entrance fees, guide, and hotel pickup.
• Small group size (up to 15 travelers), ensuring a more personal experience.
• Flexible drop-off locations at City Hall or Insadong, ideal for further exploring or dining.
• Authentic insights into Korean history, culture, and daily life.
• Convenient logistics with hotel pickup and transportation included.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno District, at 9:00 am. From there, a climate-controlled vehicle whisks you comfortably to each site, an important detail considering Seoul’s sometimes unpredictable weather. The hotel pickup in the heart of Seoul saves you the headache of navigating public transportation early in the morning, especially if you’re staying central.

Jogyesa Temple: Korea’s Zen Heart

Your first stop is Jogyesa Temple, the center of Zen Buddhism in Korea. It’s easy to spot from the busy streets of Jongno, thanks to its vibrant lanterns and ancient trees—some over 500 years old. Here, you’ll learn about Korean Buddhism and stroll through a peaceful, colorful compound. Reviewers have fond memories of this stop, with one describing it as “beautiful even in the rain”—a testament to its enduring charm regardless of weather.

This stop is self-guided—giving you the freedom to soak in the tranquility at your own pace. It’s especially appealing for those interested in local spiritual traditions or simply looking for a photo-worthy moment amidst Seoul’s urban buzz.

Blue House Square and the Changing of the Guard

Next, you’ll pass by Blue House Square, the official residence of Korea’s president. While inside visits aren’t permitted, the area offers great photo opportunities of the Blue House with Mt Bukak in the background. Then, the highlight for many visitors: the changing of the guard ceremony at Gwanghwamun Gate.

This colorful, ceremonial event lasts about 20 minutes and is a lively spectacle of traditional costumes and precise movements. Many reviews praise watching this ceremony, describing it as a “must-see” for its visual appeal and cultural authenticity.

Gyeongbokgung Palace: The Grand Palace of the Joseon Dynasty

Afterward, your tour visits Gyeongbokgung Palace, the most iconic of Seoul’s royal palaces. Built during the Joseon Dynasty, it was the main royal residence and is arguably the most beautiful palace in Korea. Here, you’ll explore the grounds, walls, and courtyards that once hosted the kings and their court.

Note: On Tuesdays, the palace is closed, and you’ll instead visit Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden. This flexibility is reflected in reviews, with some travelers appreciating the alternative site.

As you walk through the palace, your guide offers insights into royal life, architecture, and tradition, making history come alive. Expect to see the ceremonial areas and learn about the court attendants’ lives—a fascinating glimpse into Korea’s past.

The National Folk Museum: Daily Life Through Ages

Within the palace complex is the National Folk Museum, where displays depict daily life from the Goryeo to the Joseon Dynasty. Here, you’ll find traditional farming tools, clothing, and household items that reveal how ordinary people and the aristocracy lived.

Travelers often find this part of the tour especially meaningful. One reviewer remarked, “The museum is impressive and a great way to understand what life was like during the Joseon era.”

Pass By the Presidential Blue House and Ginseng Museum

Your final stops include a drive past the Blue House—a quick photo opportunity—and a visit to the Korean Ginseng Center. You’ll have about 30 minutes to taste Korean ginseng tea, learn about its health benefits, and browse products.

Many reviewers mentioned enjoying this stop, especially for the opportunity to sample and learn about Korea’s famous health supplement. It’s also a convenient way to pick up a local gift.

End of the Tour

Your tour concludes in Insadong, a popular neighborhood known for traditional crafts, souvenirs, and local eateries. This is a great spot to continue exploring or to grab a bite before heading back to your hotel.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Seoul’s history, culture, and traditions in just a few hours. The small-group size enhances interaction with your guide, which many reviews value highly—allowing for more personalized explanations and better pacing. The all-inclusive pricing makes planning easier, with entrance fees and hotel pickup covered.

Travelers who appreciate authentic experiences will enjoy the chance to see changing of the guard, explore historic palaces, and walk through a colorful Buddhist temple. The stops at Blue House Square and the Ginseng Center add unique local flavor to the experience.

While the duration is relatively short, it’s packed with highlights, making it ideal for those with limited time or first-time visitors wanting to tick many boxes in one morning.

Considering the Drawbacks

One consideration is the pace—some reviews mention feeling rushed, especially at the palace. If you prefer more leisurely explorations or detailed visits, you might find this tour somewhat brisk. Also, the weather can influence the experience—an outdoor ceremony or temple visit may be less enjoyable in rain or heat.

On top of that, since the tour relies on group size of up to 15, it’s not a private experience, but most find the size manageable and lively without feeling crowded.

Who’s This Tour Perfect For?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a concise yet informative introduction to Seoul’s key sites, especially those on a tight schedule or first-time visitors. It also appeals to families, solo travelers, and couples looking for a guided experience that covers cultural highlights without overwhelming logistics.

People who love historical sites, traditional ceremonies, and cultural museums will find this tour offers a satisfying snapshot of Seoul’s rich heritage. Those interested in local food can explore Insadong afterward, making it a well-rounded morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup in Central Seoul, making it easy to start your day without extra transportation worries.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including stops and transportation.

What are the main sites visited?
You’ll visit Jogyesa Temple, Gwanghwamun Gate for the guard changing ceremony, Gyeongbokgung Palace (or Changdeokgung on Tuesdays), the National Folk Museum, and pass by Blue House.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the sites are included in the price.

Can I customize or extend the tour?
The tour ends at Insadong, giving you time to explore further on your own. Customizations aren’t part of this package but can be arranged privately.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Most outdoor sites are weather-dependent, but the temple and museum are indoors or sheltered. Check the forecast and dress accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This small-group Seoul morning tour offers an appealing mix of historic palaces, spiritual sites, and a taste of local life through the ginseng museum. Its value lies in the guided insights, convenient logistics, and covering multiple highlights in a short span.

If you’re eager for an authentic, well-organized introduction to Seoul’s royal and spiritual heritage, this tour is a solid choice. It suits travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy, cultural authenticity, and value for money. Keep in mind the weather and pace, and you’ll find yourself with a memorable morning learning about Korea’s history and traditions.

Whether you’re a history buff, a culture lover, or just curious about Seoul’s iconic sites, this tour offers a practical and engaging way to start your day in the South Korean capital.