Nami Island and Petite France – Filming location

This well-loved tour takes you out of Seoul for a full day of iconic sights, cultural charm, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. It’s especially popular among fans of Korean dramas, thanks to the filming locations of hits like Winter Sonata and Secret Garden. But even if you’re not obsessed with K-Dramas, this trip still offers a refreshing escape into Korea’s scenic and artistic side.

One of the biggest perks? The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which means no fuss about transportation, plus admission fees and lunch—a real time-saver and a good value. The guide is a friendly, knowledgeable presence throughout, helping you get the most out of each spot. However, keep in mind that the day lasts about 8 hours, so it’s a long but rewarding experience. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see two top attractions with a bit of culture and nature thrown in, this tour is a solid choice, especially for first-timers to Korea or K-Drama fans.

Key Points

• All-in-One Convenience: Includes entrance fees, lunch, and transportation, making it a fuss-free experience.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Lizzie and Brian are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness.
• Stunning Locations: Nami Island’s beautiful scenery and Petite France’s colorful charm are highlights.
• Cultural & Movie Appeal: Perfect for drama buffs wanting to see filming locations like Winter Sonata and Secret Garden.
• Value for Money: At $125, the tour offers a full day packed with memorable sights and cultural insights.
• Perfect for First-Timers: Ideal for travelers wanting comprehensive, guided exposure to Korea’s scenic spots.

The Itinerary in Detail

Warm Welcome and Hotel Pickup

The day kicks off early around 8:00 am with hotel pickup, which is a big plus. This means you can relax without the hassle of navigating public transport or figuring out how to get to the bus station. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride, and with most travelers booking 34 days in advance, it’s a well-established, reliable option.

First Stop: Nami Island

Once at Gapyeong Wharf, you’ll hop onto a mini ferry—a quick 5-minute ride across the water—to Nami Island. This scenic crossing sets the tone for the day, with views of the water and the lush surroundings. According to reviews, the island’s natural beauty is truly impressive, with many visitors mentioning how it feels like stepping into a postcard.

Nami Island’s fame as a filming location makes it especially appealing for K-Drama fans. Sites from Winter Sonata are a draw, and the tree-lined streets are perfect for reenacting scenes or just soaking in the atmosphere. Reviewers like “Lizzy” (a guide praised for her knowledge) mention how she shared tips and interesting facts, enriching the visit beyond just snapping photos. Expect about an hour of exploration, with the included admission ticket easing entry lines.

Exploring Nami Island

We loved the way the island’s layout encourages strolling amid the tall, arching trees. Many visitors comment on how magical it feels—whether for the iconic Metasequoia tree road or the tranquil lakeside views. Reviewers appreciated guides like Lizzy for helping spot the best photo spots and sharing insights into the island’s filming history.

Second Stop: Petite France

Next, the tour heads to Petite France, a colorful, charming village inspired by France, often called the “Little France”. Made famous by its appearance in Secret Garden, it’s a picture-perfect spot with multi-colored buildings, quaint boutiques, and galleries that evoke European charm.

Here, you’ll spend about an hour exploring. Many reviews mention the lively performances scheduled at the main hall—something that frequently delights visitors. The included admission fee means no lines or extra hassle. From the reviews, it’s clear that the vibrant architecture and lively ambiance make it a favorite for photographers and those craving a whimsical escape.

Lunch Break

A highlight for many is the included traditional Korean spicy chicken lunch. It’s a hearty, flavorful meal that fuels the rest of your day of sightseeing. Reviewers often point out that the lunch was satisfying and well-portioned—especially appreciated after a busy morning.

Ending at the Ginseng Center

After the main attractions, the tour concludes with a visit to the Ginseng Center. While some travelers see this as a shopping stop, it offers insight into Korea’s herbal medicine culture, and many reviewers mention how it added an educational element to the trip.

Why This Tour Works for You

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Lizzie and Brian, who go beyond surface-level commentary to share interesting facts and personal tips. Their friendly approach makes the experience feel personalized, and many reviewers mention how guides made the trip fun and engaging.

The transportation is another highlight—air-conditioned, reliable, and hassle-free. With most bookings made 34 days in advance, it’s a popular choice that offers peace of mind for planning your trip.

Price-wise, at $125 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package—covering entrance fees, transportation, and lunch—making it excellent value for a full day of sightseeing. This is especially true considering the hassle it saves in organizing individual visits.

However, keep in mind the 8-hour duration, which can be a long day, especially if you’re not used to sightseeing marathons. Reviewers mention that guides like Joonie and Brian are attentive, making sure everyone stays comfortable and engaged.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Many reviews highlight the stunning scenery and the friendly, professional guides. One reviewer called Lizzy “amazing,” sharing how her knowledge and warmth made the visit memorable. Another praised Brian for his excellent explanations and helpfulness in capturing perfect photos, especially for family and couples.

Travelers also appreciated the opportunity to see popular filming locations firsthand, adding a layer of cultural connection. The beautiful landscapes, matched with the well-organized itinerary, makes this tour a hit among first-time visitors.

Practical Tips

• Book early—most travelers do so around a month in advance, which suggests high demand.
• Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking around scenic spots and filming locations.
• Bring a camera or smartphone—the photo opportunities are plentiful.
• Prepare for a full day—packing some snacks or water might help, especially if you want to maximize sightseeing time.
• Keep an open mind—the visit to the Ginseng Center is optional, but many find it interesting.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and pop culture appeal. It’s ideal for those who want to tick off some of Korea’s most iconic filming locations and scenic spots without the stress of planning each detail. The inclusion of lunch, entrance fees, and hotel pickup makes it a convenient, cost-effective way to enjoy a memorable day.

Whether you’re a K-Drama superfan eager to walk in your favorite characters’ footsteps or a traveler craving a scenic break from Seoul’s hustle, this tour hits the right notes. The highly praised guides, stunning locations, and smooth organization ensure most guests leave with a smile—and loads of great photos.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re visiting Seoul and want to see some of Korea’s most picturesque locations with the guidance of knowledgeable locals, this tour is a winner. It suits first-timers who appreciate convenience, culture, and nature all in one package. Drama fans will love visiting filming hotspots, but the beauty of Nami Island and Petite France makes this trip worthwhile for anyone craving a scenic, cultural day out.

It’s also a fantastic choice if you prefer a guided experience that takes care of all logistics, freeing you up to enjoy the scenery and learning instead of stressing over tickets and transport.

FAQ

What does the tour include?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, air-conditioned transportation, admission fees to Nami Island and Petite France, and lunch. Food and drinks outside of lunch are not included.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am with hotel pickup and ending in the late afternoon.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s especially popular among families, couples, and solo travelers. It is a full-day tour, so be prepared for a lot of walking.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 34 days before the scheduled date, indicating high demand and the importance of early planning.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is structured with a set itinerary, including visits to Nami Island, Petite France, and the Ginseng Center. Special requests might not be accommodated but the guide will answer questions along the way.

What is the quality of the guides?
Guides like Lizzie and Brian receive excellent reviews for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness, making the experience both fun and informative.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Korean spicy chicken lunch is provided as part of the package.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded, entertaining, and visually stunning day outside Seoul. Perfect for those who want to combine scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a touch of drama magic—all with the convenience of a guided experience. Its high praise and consistent reviews suggest it’s a great way to deepen your understanding of Korea’s charming spots without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.