Full Day Private Tour Nami Island, Garden & Petite France

A firsthand look at Korea’s charm beyond Seoul

Exploring South Korea doesn’t have to be confined to the hustle of Seoul’s streets. This private full-day tour offers a well-rounded escape into Korea’s natural and cultural treasures, all in one seamless experience. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a wonderful way to see a different side of Korea—especially if you’re a fan of picturesque landscapes, charming cultural villages, and Korean dramas.

What we love about this tour

First, it’s all about comfort and convenience. Having private transportation and hotel pickup means no stressing about navigating unfamiliar roads or crowded public transit. Second, the tour hits some of Korea’s best photo spots—Nami Island’s iconic tree-lined roads, the lush Garden of Morning Calm, and colorful European-style villages. Lastly, the variety of stops ensures you experience both nature and culture, with options to see French, Italian, and Korean influences.

One thing to keep in mind: the price of $260 per person might seem steep for some, especially considering the included lunch and entrance fees. However, the value lies in the ease of a guided, all-inclusive day, which can save you time, stress, and potential misunderstandings—particularly if you’re not fluent in Korean. This tour fits best for travelers craving a curated, immersive day outside Seoul, with a flexible schedule and a desire for authentic, picturesque experiences.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience with lunch, entrance fees, and transportation
• Visit iconic filming locations from popular Korean dramas, especially “Winter Sonata”
• Experience a blend of natural beauty and European culture through themed villages
• Flexible start times provide adaptability to your schedule
• Guided commentary offers insight into the sites, adding depth to your visit
• Private group setting ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace

Exploring Korea’s Scenic and Cultural Highlights

This tour’s structure emphasizes ease of access and a well-rounded experience. It’s designed for travelers who want to enjoy Korea’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. The carefully curated itinerary balances natural scenery with culture, providing a satisfying taste of what South Korea has to offer beyond its capital.

The Garden of Morning Calm: Korea’s Botanical Oasis

The journey begins with a visit to the Garden of Morning Calm, one of Korea’s top-rated botanical attractions. Covering 300,000 square meters and hosting over 5,000 plant species—including some rare and endangered ones—it offers a peaceful and lush environment. The name refers to Korea’s nickname as the “country of the morning calm,” adding poetic resonance.

Reviewers consistently mention how this garden feels like a tranquil retreat. One noted that “enjoying the beautiful nature of Korea” here is both relaxing and healing. The garden is especially lively in winter, with light festivals that illuminate the landscape. Expect to spend about an hour wandering through themed areas, enjoying vibrant displays, and capturing photos of stunning floral arrangements.

The admission fee, included in the tour, means you won’t need to worry about extra costs—just soak in the scenery and perhaps take a few selfies with the seasonal displays.

Nami Island: Korea’s Most Famous Natural Landmark

Next, the tour heads to Nami Island, about a 30-minute drive away. It’s impossible to ignore this place’s fame—thanks largely to its feature in the beloved Korean drama “Winter Sonata,” which turned it into a pilgrimage site for K-drama fans.

You’ll love the views of the tree-lined avenues, which change with the seasons but are always picture-perfect. Many reviews highlight how magical the island looks, especially when the leaves turn in autumn or cover the landscape with snow in winter. Expect to spend about 2 hours here, enough time for a relaxed stroll, photo sessions, and maybe a snack from one of the island’s cafes.

Reviewers mention how Nami Island is “a great place to enjoy and heal,” emphasizing its natural beauty. It’s a spot for both tranquility and fun—whether you’re capturing images of the famous Metasequoia trees or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

A Taste of Europe at Petite France

After lunch, the tour continues to Petite France, a charming French cultural village about 30 minutes away. This mini France is designed like a fairy tale, complete with colorful buildings, European antiques, and outdoor performances. It’s not just a theme park; it’s a space that evokes childhood dreams and European elegance.

One reviewer described it as “a fairy tale space that reminds adults of their childhood,” which is quite apt. Visitors can explore different cultural experiences, watch marionette shows, or browse a flea market filled with European antiques. The site offers a sense of strolling through quaint streets of France, making it a fun and visually stunning stop.

You’ll stay here for about 50 minutes. Entrance is free, but the experience is definitely worth it for its charm and photo ops.

Italian Village: Experience Italy in Korea

The final major stop introduces you to the Pinocchio and Da Vinci Italian Village, the only Italian-themed park in Korea. Its streets mimic Tuscany with narrow alleys, medieval-style architecture, and stone-paved roads. As one reviewer noted, every scene looks like a small Italian town.

This part of the tour is a hit with fans of fairy tales and art, featuring exhibits inspired by Leonardo da Vinci and Pinocchio’s adventures. The site includes themed halls, galleries, and theaters, all designed to evoke Italy’s artistic and cultural heritage. With about 2 hours here, you can soak in the atmosphere, take photos, or enjoy the performances.

Entrance is free, and the detailed settings are perfect for those looking for a whimsical European experience without leaving Korea.

What’s Included, What’s Not

The tour offers private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle—crucial for comfort during long days of sightseeing. An English-speaking guide enhances the experience with commentary, local insights, and assistance, making sure you get the most out of each stop.

Lunch, entrance fees, and pickup/drop-off are all included, which simplifies the logistics and avoids hidden costs. The only thing not covered is travel insurance, so travelers should consider their coverage separately.

The tour’s flexibility with multiple morning start times adds convenience, allowing you to choose a schedule that best fits your plans.

Testimonials and reviews highlight several positive aspects

Many travelers appreciated guides like Lisa and Emily Han for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. As one reviewer shared, “Our guide Lisa made a quick decision to skip the traffic and change the order of stops,” showcasing how flexible and responsive the guides can be.

The value for money is generally seen as good, especially compared to the convenience and all-inclusive setup. However, some reviewers felt the tour was overpriced, particularly regarding the restaurant experience, describing the food as “poor in an overcrowded restaurant.” So, while the sites themselves are stunning, food options might not be the highlight.

How the day unfolds

The tour is designed to maximize your sightseeing without feeling rushed. Beginning with the Garden of Morning Calm, you get an hour to wander through beautifully curated sections, capturing photos and enjoying tranquility. Then, a short drive takes you to Nami Island, where you can explore its picturesque paths and iconic trees for around two hours—perfect for photos, a quick snack, or just soaking in the scenery.

Lunch is included, so after a satisfying meal, you’re off to Petite France. That charming village offers European flair and cultural entertainment, enough for a quick exploration before heading to Italy’s mini town. At the Italian Village, you’ll enjoy about two hours of European fantasy, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxed wandering.

The entire day is approximately 9 to 10 hours, making it a full but manageable experience. The private setup and guided structure ensure you see the highlights comfortably, with the flexibility to adapt if traffic or weather demands a change.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This trip is ideal if you’re after a well-organized, all-in-one escape from Seoul that combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and photo opportunities. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups wanting a private, stress-free day with a guide to fill in the background stories.

Travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes and European-style villages will find this especially appealing. If you’re a fan of Korean dramas, the chance to visit iconic filming locations like Nami Island adds an extra layer of excitement. However, those seeking off-the-beaten-path or niche cultural experiences might find the stops somewhat curated for tourist appeal.

The Sum Up

This private day tour offers a careful balance of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and convenience. The inclusion of well-known sites like Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm, combined with whimsical villages such as Petite France and the Italian Village, creates a diverse experience in just one day. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, you’ll enjoy insider tips, flexibility in timing, and stress-free logistics, all at a fair price point for this level of curated experience.

It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free way to explore Korea’s picturesque and storybook-like spots. Whether you’re a drama fan, a lover of beautiful gardens, or someone eager to explore European-inspired villages, this tour can help craft lasting memories.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient for travelers staying in Seoul.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs approximately 9 to 10 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each site comfortably without feeling rushed.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are covered in the price, so you won’t need extra cash for the main attractions.

Can I choose a preferred start time?
Yes, several morning start times are available, allowing flexibility to fit your schedule.

What’s the group size?
This is a private tour for your group only, so you’ll have a personalized experience without strangers.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal is included, taking away the guesswork of finding a good spot and saving time.

What if the weather is poor?
If the tour is canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who is the tour provider?
Lucky Korea Travel organizes this experience, known for their professional service and attention to detail.

Whether you’re after iconic locations from Korean dramas, stunning natural landscapes, or European fairy-tale villages, this tour packs it all into one memorable day. It’s a wonderful way to see Korea’s scenic and cultural highlights comfortably, especially if you prefer guided experiences that take care of the logistics.