Seoul Gwangjang Market Street Food Tour with Local Guide
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2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
This tour offers an immersive deep dive into Gwangjang Market, Seoul’s most iconic street food destination. Instead of hopping between locations, you explore the market stall by stall, tasting dishes locals truly love — from handmade noodle soup at a stall featured on Netflix’s Street Food: Asia to crispy pancakes, spicy rice cakes, and sweet market desserts.
You’ll visit specific, time-tested vendors, watch food being prepared right in front of you, and learn the stories behind each dish from a knowledgeable local guide. With everything taking place inside the market, the experience feels lively yet relaxed, giving you time to eat, observe, and soak in the atmosphere.
This is the perfect tour for travelers who want authentic flavors, cultural context, and a memorable market experience — all in one place.
Available options
Seoul Gwangjang Market Street Food Tour with Local Guide
What's included
Local English-speaking guide
Optional tasting of makgeolli
Food tastings at multiple market stalls
Guided street food tour inside Gwangjang Market
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your local guide at the main entrance of Gwangjang Market. After a brief introduction to the market and the tour, you’ll head inside to begin exploring Korean street food.
2
Visit one of the market’s most famous stalls, featured on Netflix’s Street Food: Asia. Enjoy a bowl of handmade kalguksu noodle soup and mandu dumplings, freshly prepared and served hot.
3
Taste several classic Korean street foods at a busy local favorite. Sample mayak kimbap, oden (fish cake soup), and tteokbokki (rice cakes in a spicy-sweet sauce).
4
Watch a traditional bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) cooked fresh on a hot griddle. This crispy pancake is one of Gwangjang Market’s signature dishes
5
Enjoy deep-fried green peppers, a popular savory snack. Guests may also try a tasting of makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine.
Alcohol is optional and can be skipped if preferred.
6
End with a sweet treat: honey hotteok, a deep-fried dough filled with warm syrup, crispy on the outside and soft inside.
7
Finish the tour with a twisted doughnut, a simple and nostalgic market snack enjoyed by locals.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Additional food or drinks not listed
Gratuities (optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet your guide at the main entrance of Gwangjang Market. After a short welcome and introduction to the market’s history and layout, the tour begins inside.
About Seoul
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a dynamic metropolis where ancient palaces stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers. Known for its vibrant street life, cutting-edge technology, and rich cultural heritage, Seoul offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity that captivates every traveler.
Top Attractions
Gyeongbokgung Palace
The largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung is a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful architecture.
Historical
2-3 hours
3,000 KRW (free for those wearing hanbok)
Bukchon Hanok Village
A traditional Korean village nestled between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, offering a glimpse into traditional Korean life.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (some cultural experiences may have fees)
Namsan Seoul Tower
Located atop Namsan Mountain, this iconic tower offers panoramic views of Seoul and is a popular spot for couples to lock love locks.
Viewpoint
2-3 hours
10,000 KRW (observatory), 1,500 KRW (cable car)
Myeongdong
A bustling shopping district known for its street food, fashion, and beauty products, offering a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.
Shopping
Half-day
Varies widely, from budget to luxury
Hongdae
A lively and youthful neighborhood near Hongik University, famous for its nightlife, street performances, and trendy cafes.
Entertainment
Evening or night
Varies widely, from budget to upscale
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kimchi
Fermented spicy cabbage, a staple in Korean cuisine, often served with every meal.
Side dish
Vegetarian (check for seafood in some varieties)
Bibimbap
A mixed rice bowl with vegetables, meat, and gochujang (spicy paste), often served with a fried egg.
Main dish
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Bulgogi
Marinated grilled beef, often served with rice and side dishes.
Main dish
Contains meat
Tteokbokki
Spicy stir-fried rice cakes, a popular street food often served with fish cakes and boiled eggs.
Snack
Vegetarian (check for seafood in some varieties)
Popular Activities
Hiking in Bukhansan National Park
Biking along the Han River
Water sports at Seokchon Lake
Visiting traditional tea houses
Enjoying a jjimjilbang (Korean spa) experience
Strolling through scenic gardens and parks
Participating in a traditional hanbok photo shoot
Attending a traditional Korean performance
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. These are the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.
10°C to 25°C
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Korean
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and by younger generations)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places
Currency
South Korean Won (KRW)
Time Zone
Korea Standard Time (KST, GMT+9)
Electricity
220VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Seoul is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable transportation services and avoid unlicensed taxis
- • Be wary of strangers offering help or assistance, as they may be trying to scam you
Getting there
By air
- Incheon International Airport • 52 km from city center
- Gimpo International Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Seoul Station, Yongsan Station
By bus
Seoul Express Bus Terminal, Central City Bus Terminal, East Seoul Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It operates from 5:30 AM to 12:00 AM, with frequent trains.
Taxis
Available • Apps: KakaoTaxi, T-money
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Jongno
Gangnam
Hongdae
Itaewon
Insadong
Day trips
DMZ (Korean Demilitarized Zone)
50 km from Seoul • Half day to full day
A unique and fascinating day trip, the DMZ offers a glimpse into the history and current status of the Korean Peninsula, with tours visiting various historical sites and observation points.
Nami Island
56 km from Seoul • Half day to full day
A picturesque island known for its beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and filming locations for popular K-dramas like 'Winter Sonata'.
Suwon
30 km from Seoul • Full day
A historic city known for its well-preserved fortress, traditional markets, and cultural attractions, offering a mix of history, culture, and local cuisine.
Festivals
Seoul International Fireworks Festival • Mid-October (annual)
Seoul Lantern Festival • Late November to early December (annual)
Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April (annual)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Korean phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
- Use a T-money card for convenient and discounted public transportation
- Try street food and local specialties for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore Seoul's diverse neighborhoods and hidden gems for a more unique and immersive experience
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
