We love —
- Stepping out into the Seoul's vibrant streets and visiting the beautiful Gyeongbokgung Royal Palace.
- Sinking into the soft sand's of Busan's beaches or exploring the famous Jagalchi fish market.
- Setting into our comfortable room after days exploring and trying delicious streetfood.
Customer reviews —
This tour is ideal for a first adevnture to 'the Land of Morning Calm'. At each stage, you will be transported to a new facet of South Korea; I loved alternating between the modern cities like Seoul and Busan, and the culture and nature of the stops in Gyeongju and Jeju.
Your itinerary in brief —
Explore Korea on a captivating 7 or 9 night tour. When you choose the 7 night tour, you'll be taken from Seoul to Busan and Gyeongju, discovering cultural treasures such as the Royal Palace of Gyeongbokgung and the art village of Gamcheon.
If you opt for the 9 night tour, you'll also visit Jeju, where you can admire the island's spectacular scenery and explore remarkable natural sites such as the Cheonjeyeon waterfalls.
Choose the length of your stay
7 night tour
Day 1: Arrival in Seoul
Day 2: Seoul
Day 3: Seoul → Busan
Day 4: Busan
Day 5: Busan ⇄ Gyeongju
Day 6: Busan → Seoul
Day 7: Seoul
Day 8: Departure from Seoul
9 night tour
Days 1 to 5 are identical to the 7 night tour
Day 6: Busan → Jeju
Day 7: Jeju
Day 8: Jeju → Seoul
Day 9: Seoul
Day 10: Departure from Seoul
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
The freedom to explore:
Discover our expertly curated self-guided tours, designed to offer the perfect balance of structure and flexibility. While our travel experts suggest itineraries to help you explore each destination in depth, you have the freedom to tailor activities and pace to suit your personal preferences. Rest assured, the carefully selected hotels & transportation will remain as listed, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience throughout your journey.
Your itinerary in detail —
Day 1: Arrival
Rest and relax in your hotel on arrival before beginning your discovery of Seoul with your guide, starting with Gwanghwamun Square. The vibrant capital of South Korea, this busy city is renowned for its bustling markets, diverse culinary scene, and cutting-edge technology, as well as scenic views of the Han River to the backdrop of mountains.
- Arrive in Incheon, where you will be met by one of our local representatives
- Transfer by bus to your accommodation
- Night in Seoul
DAY 2: SEOUL
On your second day in Seoul, set off to discover the historic heart of the city. You have a free day with the following recommendations in your travel pack: Visit the Gyeongbokgung Royal Palace, which was the main residence of the Joseon dynasty for several centuries or stroll through the Bukchon district to admire its traditional houses. Explore the atypical Ikseondong district, where old houses have been saved by vintage renovation and walk along the picturesque Cheonggyecheon River.
- Breakfast included
- Night in Seoul
DAY 3: SEOUL → BUSAN
Tucked away between the mountains and sea, Busan is popular for its beautiful beaches, vibrant seafood markets, and lively festivals. On arrival, explore in complete freedom, with a travel pack provided that suggests the following activities: Explore the Jagalchi fish market, famous for its incomparable freshness, walk around the lively Nampodong district or stroll through the artistic village of Gamcheon, renowned for its colourful houses and urban art. Enjoy an evening walk along Gwangalli Beach, which offers a breathtaking view of the magnificent Gwangandaegyo Bridge.
- Breakfast included
- Leave for Busan on the KTX high-speed train (duration: 2 hours 45 minutes)
- On arrival, transfer by local transport to your accommodation
- Night in Busan
Day 4 : Busan
Once in Busan, be sure to visit the following places: Explore the Huin-yeo-ul art village, a vibrant place of creativity and culture; visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a spectacular seaside site with breathtaking views; or take a ride along the Cheongsapo waterfront to Dalmaji, using the monorail. Discover Haeundae Beach, renowned not only for its magnificent seafront but also for its charming little hidden market.
- Breakfast included
- Night in Busan
DAY 5: BUSAN ⇄ GYEONGJU
Gyeongju, often referred to as South Korea's "museum without walls," is home to numerous ancient sites, including the Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and royal tombs, and traditional hanok villages. Once you arrive, explore the city with recommendations from your travel guide, including Daereungwon Tumuli Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its impressive royal tombs, and the Cheomseongdae Astronomical Observatory, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the remains of the Wolseong fortress, a testimony to the region's ancient history, before returning to Busan at the end of the day.
- Breakfast include
- Head to Gyeongju by express bus (duration: 1 hour 15 minutes)
- Night in Busan
DAY 6: BUSAN → SEOUL
Take the KTX high-speed train to Seoul, and enjoy another day to explore the city with useful recommendations from your travel guide.
- Breakfast included
- Busan - Seoul (duration: 2 hours 45 minutes)
- Night in Seoul
DAY 7: SEOUL
Free day to explore the city at your own pace
- Breakfast included
- Night in Seoul
DAY 8: DEPARTURE FROM SEOUL
Enjoy a last day to explore the city according to the recommendations in your travel pack.
- Breakfast included
- Depending on your flight time, a transfer to the airport will be organised by shuttle bus
9 night tour
Days 1 to 5 are identical to the 7 night tour
DAY 6: BUSAN → JEJU
After dropping off your luggage, you're free to start your sightseeing. Explore the Jungmun area, famous for its impressive Cheonjeyeon and Cheonjiyeon waterfalls. Relax on Jungmun beach, or visit the temple of Yakcheonsa, a remarkable spiritual site known for its grandiose architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
- Breakfast included
- Depart from Busan's Gimhae Airport, followed by a quick 45-minute flight to Jeju with a local airline
- On arrival in Jeju, take local public transport (duration: 1 hour 15 minutes) to your accommodation
- Night in Jeju
DAY 7: JEJU
Enjoy a day of sightseeing on Jeju Island, following the recommendations in your travel guide: Take a stroll around Udo Island and find its tranquil beaches, climb to the sunrise peak, Seongsan Ilchulbong, a UNESCO-listed site famous for its spectacular sunrise views. Explore the Seopjikoji Art Zone, a place dedicated to modern art and architecture, including works by Tadao Ando.
- Breakfast included
- Night in Jeju
DAY 8: JEJU → SEOUL
Depart for the north of the island to reach the airport, then fly to Seoul, a flight lasting around an hour. On arrival, take local public transport to your accommodation. Then enjoy a free day to explore Seoul, following the sightseeing recommendations detailed in your travel pack.
- Breakfast included
- Depart from Jeju International Airport, followed by a 1-hour flight to Seoul with a local airline
- On arrival in Seoul, take local public transport to your accommodation
- Night in Seoul
DAY 9: SEOUL
Free day to explore the city at your own pace
- Breakfast included
- Night in Seoul
DAY 10: DEPARTURE FROM SEOUL
Enjoy a last day to explore the city according to the recommendations in your travel pack.
- Breakfast included
- Depending on your flight time, a transfer to the airport will be organised by shuttle bus
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in comfortable rooms in 3* or 4* hotels, depending on the offer chosen. 3* hotels offer a great opportunity for a restful stay, but if you're looking for a bit more space and added comfort, opt for 4* hotels that will provide the perfect upgrade to make your stay exceptional.
3* hotels:
Seoul: Nafore 3*
Busan: Stanford Inn Busan 3*
Jeju: The Grang Seogwipo 3*
4* hotels:
Seoul: Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae 4*
Busan: Crown Harbour Hotel 4*
Jeju: The First70 Hotel 4*
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Maximum room capacity: 2 adults Single rooms available at an extra cost.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Your optional extras —
Stay connected with an unlimited data plan
Add an unlimited mobile data plan to stay connected with complete freedom, without any risk of exceeding your allowance. Activate your eSIM and enjoy continuous connectivity wherever you go: share the internet with your loved ones, find the best places around you, use your GPS without stress and enjoy your favourite apps to the full, without worrying about your usage.
Your journey to South Korea —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destination —
South Korea
A land where ancient traditions harmonise with cutting-edge innovation, South Korea offers a captivating symphony of contrasts. Neon-lit cityscapes pulsate with energy, while serene temples rest quietly amidst mist-shrouded mountains. Whether you’re drawn to the electric energy of urban life or the tranquil beauty of rural landscapes, South Korea offers an unforgettable escape into the heart of Asia.
Must-sees:
- Seoul: Explore the vibrant capital where centuries-old palaces like Gyeongbokgung coexist with trendy neighbourhoods like Hongdae and Gangnam.
- Busan: Relax on the golden sands of Haeundae Beach or indulge in fresh seafood at the iconic Jagalchi Market, a truly relaxing setting for a seaside retreat.
- Gyeongju: Travel back in time in this "museum without walls", home to ancient temples and royal tombs.
- Jeju Island: Explore volcanic landscapes, verdant forests, and white sand beaches on this enchanting UNESCO-listed island.
Culinary culture
South Korean cuisine is a feast for the senses. If you are a fan of Asian cuisine, then you'll undoubtedly be in for a treat. Try bibimbap, a colourful rice bowl topped with vegetables, egg, and spicy gochujang. Indulge in samgyeopsal, grilled pork belly served with an array of side dishes, or savour the comforting spice of kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew). Don’t forget to pair your meal with soju, Korea’s signature distilled spirit, which comes with an array of possible flavours.
Dive deeper
For a glimpse into Korea’s artistic and spiritual soul, visit the temple stays, where you can experience monastic life through meditation and tea ceremonies.
Good to know
South Korea’s currency is the South Korean won (KRW), and public transport is exceptionally efficient and tourist-friendly. The best times to visit are spring (March-May), when cherry blossoms bloom, and autumn (September-November), with its crisp air and vivid foliage.
Seoul
Dynamic and dazzling, Seoul is a city where ancient palaces meet K-pop beats, and serene temples sit alongside sleek skyscrapers. South Korea’s capital is a thrilling blend of past and future, offering an endlessly fascinating urban adventure.
Must-sees:
- Gyeongbokgung Palace: Step back into the Joseon Dynasty as you wander this majestic 14th-century royal complex, complete with traditional changing of the guard ceremonies.
- Bukchon Hanok Village: Nestled between two palaces, this preserved neighbourhood is home to hundreds of hanoks (traditional houses), charming tea rooms, and craft ateliers.
- Myeongdon: A shopping mecca buzzing with fashion, skincare, and sizzling street food, from spicy tteokbokki to cheesy hotteok.
- N Seoul Tower: Ride the cable car or hike to this iconic tower on Namsan Mountain for panoramic city views, especially enchanting at night.
- Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): A futuristic architectural marvel and cultural hub hosting exhibitions, installations, and night markets.
Culinary culture:
Seoul’s food scene is legendary. From sizzling bulgogi and hearty bibimbap to kimchi pancakes and ginseng chicken soup, the flavours are bold and comforting. Join locals at a barbecue restaurant, sip soju under glowing signs, or sample royal cuisine in a traditional hanok. The city’s cafés are a world of their own – creative, themed, and delightfully photogenic.
Dive deeper:
Wander the peaceful trails of Bukhansan National Park, discover street art in the hip district of Hongdae, or unwind in a jjimjilbang (Korean spa). Explore the Han River by bike, or catch a live performance at a traditional mask dance theatre.
Good to know:
Seoul is well-connected by a fast, efficient metro system. The local currency is the Korean won, and many signs are in English. Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting.
