Tongyeong is a city that packs a punch. Known for its coastal beauty, fresh seafood, and rich maritime history, it offers a variety of tours that bring these features to life. Whether you’re into active adventures like cycling, exploring artistic murals, or soaking up local festivals, Tongyeong’s tours are crafted to give you authentic, memorable moments. We particularly love the cycling tour along the Sanyangmyeon Coastal Road, which combines stunning views with a healthy dose of local flavor, and the Tongyeong Festival overnight tour, for its lively atmosphere and culture.
What makes Tongyeong stand out is its mix of outdoor activities, historical sites, and vibrant local festivals, all within easy reach. These tours give travelers a chance to experience the city’s essence without fuss—whether it’s riding a cable car over Somaemuldo Island or tasting the region’s famous Chungmu Gimbap. For tailored advice, check out the detailed options below, each offering a unique way to explore this charming coastal city.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include active experiences like the Cycling Tour from Tongyeong to Geoje, which combines scenic routes with cultural stops. For a culinary and scenic adventure, the Tongyeong Anchovy 2-day Tour offers a mix of market visits, cable car rides, and island explorations. If you’d rather experience local festivals, the Tongyeong Festival Overnight Tour immerses you in the lively Hansan Battle Festival, complete with traditional food and city views. Finally, for a comprehensive experience, the Seoul-Guided 3-Day Tour covers outdoor adventures, historic sites, and scenic cable car rides over Mireuksan.
Now, let’s break down each tour so you can decide which fits your travel style best.
1. From Seoul: Cycling Tour from Tongyeong to Geoje
At number one on our list, this cycling tour from Seoul is perfect for active travelers who want to combine scenery, culture, and exercise. Over two days, you’ll pedal along the Sanyangmyeon Coastal Road, enjoying sweeping sea views and fresh breezes. The route is well-maintained and manageable for most fitness levels, making it a great choice for who prefer a physically engaging trip. Your guide will share insights into Tongyeong’s maritime history and local legends, enriching your ride.
Highlights include a visit to the Windmill Village Café & Bakery, a charming spot to relax with coffee after a ride, and the Yun Isang Memorial Hall, which spotlights Korea’s renowned composer. You’ll also explore the Yi Sun-sin Park, Seopirang, and Chungnyeolsa Shrine—each offering a glimpse into the city’s proud naval history. The tour is priced at $866 per person, reflecting its all-inclusive nature, including bike rentals, guides, and meals.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of active exploration and cultural discovery, all in a relaxed pace. It’s ideal for those who want to see Tongyeong from a different perspective—on two wheels.
Bottom Line: This tour is a fantastic choice if you enjoy cycling and want to combine physical activity with sightseeing in a scenic coastal setting.
2. From Seoul: Tongyeong Anchovy 2-day Tour
Next up is the Tongyeong Anchovy 2-day Tour, which offers a delicious dive into local seafood and island scenery. For around $707, you’ll explore not just Tongyeong’s vibrant markets and murals but also take a cable car ride to Mireuksan’s summit for panoramic views. The trip is perfect if you enjoy culinary delights, picturesque landscapes, and a mix of urban and island experiences.
During the tour, you’ll visit key sites like Park Kyung-ri Memorial Hall, the Dream Library, and the Pungwha-ri Oyster Farm Café, where fresh seafood is the star. Lunch options include Chungmu Gimbap and seafood soybean paste stew, providing authentic local flavors. The highlight is the cable car ride, which offers breathtaking vistas of the archipelago, and the colorful Dongpirang Mural Village, where street art lines the alleyways.
This tour’s value lies in its balanced itinerary—combining nature, food, and art—and is well suited for travelers wanting a taste of Tongyeong’s best without overextending. It’s especially recommended for those who appreciate island scenery and seafood.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for food lovers and scenery seekers who want a manageable, engaging 2-day experience.
3. From Seoul: Tongyeong Festival Overnight Tour with Meals
At number three, the Tongyeong Festival Overnight Tour immerses you in the lively Hansan Battle Festival. For just $469 per person, you’ll spend a night enjoying traditional performances, local food, and the vibrant city atmosphere. A key feature is the ascent of Mireuksan Mountain, offering sunset views of the harbor, ideal for photographers.
The tour includes a Bandaji dinner, a traditional dish served in a communal setting, and a breakfast of siraeguk, a fermented soup that’s a local staple. You’ll explore the Gangguan waterfront, wander through the traditional market, and stroll around the Seopirang coastal area, all while soaking in the festive spirit. The festival itself features reenactments and cultural shows, making it a perfect pick for those interested in local customs and lively events.
While shorter than the other options, this tour provides a deep dive into Tongyeong’s cultural scene, with plenty of opportunities for photos and interaction. Its affordability and focus on festival atmosphere make it appealing for budget-conscious travelers or those short on time.
Bottom Line: Best suited for festival enthusiasts and those wanting an authentic cultural experience layered with local dining.
4. Seoul: Guided 3-Day Tongyeong Tour
Finally, the 3-day guided tour from Seoul offers a comprehensive guided experience, ideal for travelers looking for a full immersion. Priced at $866 per person, it covers a variety of activities: from a luge ride and the “99 Steps Without Resting” challenge to exploring historic sites like the Undersea Tunnel and Yi Sun-sin Park.
Highlights include a ride on the Tongyeong cable car over Mireuksan, providing sweeping views of the city and harbor, and visits to Donghohang Breakwater for sunset photos. The tour also includes local dining experiences like Baemal Kalguksu, a seafood noodle dish, and visits to cultural spots like the Tongyeong City Museum.
What makes this tour stand out is the variety—adventure, culture, and history—all rolled into three days. It’s suitable for travelers wanting a structured, all-inclusive exploration that doesn’t miss any major sights or activities in Tongyeong.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience with a mix of outdoor fun and cultural visits.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your Tongyeong experience, consider your interest focus, budget, and time available. If you love active outdoor pursuits, the Cycling Tour offers a scenic, healthy way to see the coast. For food and scenic views, the Anchovy Tour hits the mark with island visits and local markets. If you prefer cultural festivals, the Festival Overnight Tour provides a lively local atmosphere, while the 3-Day Guided Tour is best for those wanting a well-rounded itinerary without stress.
Consider your fitness level—active tours like cycling or luge might require more energy, while cultural festivals or guided city tours are more relaxed. Booking early is wise, especially during peak festival seasons in spring and fall, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Tongyeong offers a diverse array of tours that cater to different interests and travel styles. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the cycling tour is hard to beat. For food lovers and art fans, the 2-day anchovy and mural village trip is perfect. Festival-goers will appreciate the lively overnight experience, and those seeking a complete overview should consider the 3-day guided tour.
No matter which you choose, Tongyeong’s coastal charm and local flavors promise a memorable addition to your Korean itinerary. Booking early and planning according to your interests will help you get the most out of your trip. Happy exploring!