03303 412131
An Introduction to South Korea
9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
from £ 3495.00
Prices per person based on a 4-star hotel on B&B basis, direct flights with Korean Air, private return transfers from Incheon International Airport and full day private excursion by rail to Busan.
Discover the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of South Korea on an unforgettable travel adventure.
DETAILS
South Korea beckons with its harmonious blend of ancient traditions, natural breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and vibrant cities brimming with culture. From misty mountains to pristine beaches, this country promises travellers an unforgettable journey rich in history and natural beauty.
HIGHLIGHTS
Seoul will captivate you with its blend of historic palaces, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife while Busan entices with its picturesque beaches, bustling seafood markets, and modern skyline. and Suwon enchants with its UNESCO-listed fortress, traditional architecture, and lively festivals and heritage.
EXTRAS
Tour 1 - Kimchi making day
Click Here
Tour 2 - .Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm & Gangchon Railbike Tour Click Here
Tour 3 - Seoul City Walking Private Tour Click Here
Tour 4 - Temple and Market Guided Foodie Tour at Night Click Here
Included
Half-day DMZ tour on day of your choice
Full-day tour to Historical Suwon
1 Day Private tour from Seoul to Busan by KTX
01
UK to Seoul
Fly overnight from the UK to Incheon Airport
02
Seoul
On arrival transfer to Seoul and check into your hotel for your 8-night stay. We have based this itinerary on a 4-star hotel in Myeongdong with a private transfer. Your first night in Seoul can be a mix of culture, food, and traditional relaxation. After settling into your hotel, explore a few highlights or unwind in a spa for a truly Korean experience. You will likely feel the effects of the journey, so we have a few suggestions of things you can do to keep you moving until it’s time to head to bed.
-
Insadong Tea House – Enjoy traditional teas in a quiet setting.
-
Myeongdong Cathedral – A calm stop in the bustling streets.
-
Dragon Hill Spa Jjimjilbang – Soak in baths, enjoy saunas, and relax after your journey.
03
Seoul
After a long flight, it’s best to start your adventure at a gentle pace and stay local in Seoul while you settle in. The city is the perfect place to ease into South Korea’s culture and energy. Begin with a visit to Gyeongbokgung, the grandest of the royal palaces, where colourful changing-of-the-guard ceremonies and sweeping courtyards bring the past to life. Then head to Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the Secret Garden offers shaded pavilions, lotus ponds, and peaceful woodland walks.
For a more personal experience, try wearing a Hanbok – the traditional Korean dress. It’s a wonderful way to feel part of history, and we can even arrange for a photographer to capture the moment with stunning palace backdrops. Afterwards, slow things down with a stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream, a calm stretch of water winding through the city centre. With its pretty bridges, art installations, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to enjoy a quiet moment before diving deeper into Seoul’s buzz.
04
Suwon
Today we suggest stepping outside of Seoul for the day to see more of Korea, with a visit to the Korean Folk Village and Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
At the Folk Village, you’ll find yourself transported back in time. Traditional homes, artisan workshops, and live cultural performances showcase centuries of Korean life, giving you a vivid taste of the past. Afterwards, head to Suwon to explore the striking Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its impressive walls, gates, and pavilions. Stroll along the fortress paths for sweeping views over the city, or even try your hand at archery for a hands-on experience. Surrounded by gardens and history at every turn, both the Folk Village and Hwaseong Fortress offer a memorable insight into Korea’s heritage, making this day trip a real highlight for culture lovers.
05
Seoul
With some busy days ahead, we recommend taking a little time in Seoul to explore at a relaxed pace. The city is home to a fantastic mix of museums where history, art, and culture all come together. At the National Museum of Korea, you can trace thousands of years of Korean history through fascinating artefacts and archaeological finds. For something more contemporary, the Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art is a striking space that blends traditional and modern works in a beautifully designed setting.
If pop culture is more your style, you might enjoy the K-pop Museum, which celebrates the music and entertainment that has taken the world by storm. Or visit the Seoul Museum of Art, a lively hub for contemporary art lovers with ever-changing exhibitions and creative programmes. Seoul’s museums offer more than just displays – they’re a window into the city’s past, present, and future, making them the perfect way to connect with Korea’s story before heading off to your next adventure.
06
Seoul
Seoul may be famous for its fast-paced energy and striking mix of old and new, but it’s also home to a surprising number of green spaces where you can take a breather from the city buzz. Begin with Namsan Park, right in the heart of Seoul, where leafy trails wind their way up to N Seoul Tower for incredible panoramic views. For a mix of history and fresh air, Olympic Park is a must – originally built for the 1988 Games, it’s now a huge open space filled with sculptures, lakes, and sports facilities.
If you’d rather enjoy the riverside, head to Yeouido Hangang Park, a local favourite for cycling, picnics, or simply soaking up skyline views along the Han River. Families will love Seoul Forest, a wide green haven with botanical gardens, playgrounds, art installations, and even deer to spot. Wherever you wander, Seoul’s parks offer peaceful escapes where you can slow down, recharge, and enjoy a different side of the city.
07
Seoul
A visit to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) is one of the most thought-provoking and unique experiences South Korea has to offer. Just an hour from Seoul, this heavily fortified strip of land has become a powerful symbol of both division and hope. It’s a rare chance to step into one of the world’s most intriguing geopolitical landscapes, where history, politics, and human stories intertwine.
Your guided tour begins with a journey north from Seoul into the restricted zone. At the Joint Security Area (JSA) in Panmunjom, you’ll see South Korean and North Korean soldiers standing guard only metres apart, a stark reminder of the ongoing tension and fragile peace. From the Dora Observatory, take in sweeping views across the border into North Korea, while a visit to Dorasan Station tells a story of hope – once prepared for trains to connect the two Koreas, it remains a poignant symbol of possible reunification.
You’ll also visit the 3rd Tunnel, one of several secret passageways dug by the North, and learn more about the conflict at the DMZ Exhibition Hall. The tour then shifts to quieter moments of reflection at Imjingak Park and the Bridge of Freedom, both memorials to families separated by the Korean War.
This journey to the DMZ is more than just sightseeing – it’s an emotional and educational experience that deepens your understanding of Korea’s history and its ongoing quest for peace. Combining moments of tension, history, and quiet reflection, a visit here will leave you with lasting memories and a profound perspective on the country’s story.
08
Busan
Embark on an exciting private escorted day trip to Busan, South Korea’s lively port city, famed for its stunning beaches, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage. Depart Seoul early on the KTX express train and, on arrival, meet your driver ready to whisk you off on your personalised adventure. While your guide is at your disposal throughout the day, we recommend the following highlights to make the most of your time.
Begin at Haeundae Beach, where you can relax on the soft sand, enjoy a refreshing swim, or take a scenic stroll along the coastline. Just a short distance away, explore Dongbaekseom Island for panoramic views of the city, charming walking paths, and the iconic Nurimaru APEC House.
Next, dive into the local atmosphere at Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea’s largest seafood market. Witness the lively trade of fresh catches and enjoy a delicious seafood meal right on site. Continue your cultural journey at Gamcheon Culture Village, often called the “Machu Picchu of Busan,” where narrow alleys are adorned with colourful murals, quirky sculptures, and vibrant art installations.
End your day with a visit to Beomeosa Temple, a tranquil Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the mountains and founded in 678 AD. Take in the serene gardens, impressive architecture, and, if you wish, experience a traditional tea ceremony. Finally, admire the sunset at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, perched on a coastal cliff, providing a spectacular finale to your unforgettable day in Busan.
09
Seoul to UK
It’s time to say goodbye to Seoul, and we hope your holiday has been unforgettable. Midday flights are usually planned to give you a relaxed morning, breakfast, and one last chance to explore. For a more leisurely departure, we can also arrange a later flight arriving into the UK the following day.
Price includes return from the UK to Seoul Incheon Airport, return private transfers from the airport to your hotel, 8 nights accommodation on bed and breakfast basis in a 4-star centrally located hotel, and full-day tours to Busan, the DMZ and Folk Village and Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.
