South Korean Soul | with Jeju Island

South Korean Soul | with Jeju Island

tourhub | Contiki | South Korean Soul | with Jeju Island | KPJI25
tourhub | Contiki | South Korean Soul | with Jeju Island | KPJI25 tourhub | Contiki | South Korean Soul | with Jeju Island | KPJI25 tourhub | Contiki | South Korean Soul | with Jeju Island | KPJI25 | Map
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12 Days From

$3845

$3481

Tour Overview

Wanna see the best of South Korea? On this trip, you’ll go all the way from the bustling streets of Seoul to the scenic coasts of Jeju Island in just 12 days. Plus, you’ll go extra authentic in Jeonju, taste plenty of delicious food, and even explore the incredible scenery around Jeju Island.

Highlights

  • Visit the Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul and dress up in traditional Hanbok attire.

  • Explore Seongsu, one of Seoul's most exciting shopping districts, with cafes and pop-up shops.

  • Take a Peace Tour of the DMZ, including the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel and Dora Observatory.

  • Discover Busan's vibrant culture, including the international market and Gamcheon Village.

  • Experience Jeonju's traditional Hanok and enjoy a famous bibimbap meal.

  • Explore the Gangnam District in Seoul, known for its shopping and K-Wave stars.

  • Hike to Seongsan Sunrise Peak on Jeju Island for breathtaking views.

  • Relax and hike along the scenic landscapes of Jeju Island.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Start Seoul

Location: Seoul

Accommodation: Ibis Insadong Hotel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Ibis Insadong Hotel (or similar)

Well hello there, and welcome to your trip to South Korea. You’ll meet your crew in the afternoon, and in a super central location too. Following on from some free time to explore the Insadong Hanok village, we’ll regroup for some famous Korean fried chicken (and beer too if you like – you’re on vacation after all).

Day 2: Seoul

Location: Seoul

Accommodation: Ibis Insadong Hotel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Ibis Insadong Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our Seoul City tour begins bright and early today with a visit to the traditional Gyeongbokgung Palace. To cap off the experience, we’ll also have the chance to dress in traditional Hanbok dress. Afterwards we’ll head to Seongsu – one of the best up and coming districts of Seoul – to check out the shops, cafes and treat ourselves to some lunch. If the weather is kind tonight, we’ll head out to Yeouido Hangang Park for a riverside picnic. AKA vibes, tunes and convenience store ramen.

Day 3: Seoul and DMZ

Location: Seoul, The DMZ, Seoul

Accommodation: Ibis Insadong Hotel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Ibis Insadong Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we’ll head to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the strip of land which separates North and South Korea. With a local guide on hand to answer our questions, we’ll see the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, and the Dora Observatory (where, if it’s sunny, you’ll be able to see all the way into North Korea) and then the Unification Village. After a rather sobering morning outing, we’ll head back to Seoul where you'll be free to explore this evening.

Day 4: Seoul to Busan

Location: Seoul, Busan

Accommodation: Felix by STX (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Felix by STX (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we’ll step away from the historic sites and hustle and bustle of Seoul and head off to Busan on a high-speed train (travellin’ like locals, baby)! With a rich history, Busan is now known for its arty vibes, sumptuous street food and colourful buildings… so have your cameras at the ready. Tonight you’ll have a free evening to chill out with your Contiki crew. (Karaoke anyone?)

Day 5: Busan

Location: Busan

Accommodation: Felix by STX (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Felix by STX (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wakey wakey folks, we have a whole day to explore the beauty of Busan (the world’s 5th largest port). Home to Haeundae, this is one of South Korea’s best beach spots – don’t miss those coastal walks and sublime city views. Any K-drama fans in the house? Talk to your Trip Manager about filming locations nearby from your favourite shows. Then tonight we’ll get together to enjoy Busan by night on a private yacht – complete with snacks, drinks and big tunes.

Day 6: Busan to Jeonju

Location: Busan, Jeonju

Accommodation: Hanok Guest House (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Hanok Guest House (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today we’ll take a turn for the traditional with a visit to Jeonju – a UNESCO listed city recognised for its Hanok heritage. After checking out spots from BTS’ music videos and sampling candy made famous from ‘Squid Game’, we’ll enjoy a traditional bibimbap lunch (that might be delivered to you by robot). This afternoon, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the traditional village, checking out the multiple crafts and cuisines on display. We’ll have time to learn about traditional Korean crafts and culture, and then tonight we’ll bed down at a local guest house and discover Korean hospitality at its finest.

Day 7: Jeonju to Seoul - Hongdae

Location: Jeonju, Seoul - Hongdae

Accommodation: Amanti Hotel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Amanti Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we're heading back to where it started - Seoul. We’ll stay in Hongdae – one of the city’s best up and coming areas, home to some cool shops, eateries and edgy nightlife. Is it possible to visit South Korea without seeing Gangnam? Nope – that’s why we’ll make a pit-stop there. Afterwards, we’ll visit a local Buddhist temple to take part in some traditional Buddhist practices, including meditative art and tea making. Don't pass up the opportunity to catch a stray at one of Korea's famous baseball games.

Day 8: Seoul - Hongdae

Location: Seoul - Hongdae

Accommodation: Amanti Hotel (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Amanti Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

On our final full day in Seoul, we won’t waste any time hangin’ around. After learning some sick moves at our optional dance class, you’ll have the chance to unleash your inner K-Pop star when we make our very own music video at HIKR Ground. Afterwards, you’ll have the chance to shop for K-Beauty must-haves and traditional Korean cooking staples. Then, it’s time to get some rest. Because tomorrow - it’s gonna be island time!

Day 9: Seoul - Hongdae to Jeju Island

Location: Seoul - Hongdae, Jeju Island

Accommodation: Hotel RegentMarine Jeju (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Hotel RegentMarine Jeju (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Shake a leg! We'll head to the airport, where we'll hop on a flight to the very picturesque Jeju Island. Aaaand, this is what you’ve been waiting for… welcome to Jeju island! We’ll check into our conveniently-located hotel in Jeju’s vibrant cultural hotspot - Tap-dong Plaza. Then, you’ve got the entire evening to hang around with your crew and check out the markets here. (Make sure to try all the local eats!)

Day 10: Jeju Island

Location: Jeju Island

Accommodation: Hotel RegentMarine Jeju (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Hotel RegentMarine Jeju (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, we're ticking off Jeju's east side. For starters, you’ll visit the Seongsan sunrise peak. Then, we'll head to the Haenyeo Museum to learn all about the culture of Jeju's female divers & folklore. What next? Glad you asked. How about chilling on Woljeongri Beach? Maybe kayaking over the crystal-clear water is more your thing? There’s no getting bored here…

Day 11: Jeju Island

Location: Jeju Island

Accommodation: Hotel RegentMarine Jeju (or similar)

Accommodation Name: Hotel RegentMarine Jeju (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Jeju enjoy all the incredible scenery yesterday? (Soz). Today, you’ll get to do more of that as we hike up the Olle Trail (with a guide, ofc). Then, you have the option to dive down and explore the sea like the local Haenyeo AKA Women of the sea. Or even devour a delicious Black Pork Korean BBQ dinner. It’s your final full day here, so make the most of it!

Day 12: Jeju Island to Seoul

Location: Jeju Island, Seoul

Meals Included: Breakfast

Morning! Time to soak up those scenic island views one last time. Because after breakfast, we'll catch our flight back to Seoul.   And with that, our South Korea trip is complete. Culturally fulfilled? Yep. Better and more well rounded? Of course. Already planning the next one? Absolutely.

What's Included

  • Meals

    The tour includes 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner.

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace Visit

    Visit the Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul and dress up in the traditional Hanbok dress.

  • Seongsu District Exploration

    Explore Seongsu, one of Seoul's exciting shopping districts, with opportunities for lunch and souvenir shopping.

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What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as a dance class and making a music video are not included in the tour price.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as shopping, additional meals, and souvenirs are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from South Korea are not included in the tour package.

Dining Summary

  • 11 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Lunch (L)
  • 1 Dinner (D)

    • Included Experience

  • Seoul: Of all the traditional Korean experiences (and believe us, there are a lot of ’em) this might just be the coolest. Don’t miss your chance to visit the Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of 5 Royal Palaces in Seoul from the old ruling dynasty. We’ll also dress up in the Traditional Hanbok dress too.
  • Seoul: Once home to hand-made shoe craftsmen, Seongsu is now one of Seoul’s most exciting shopping districts where you’ll find small cafes, pop-up shops and beautiful green space AKA Seoul Forest. You and your crew will have the chance to get lunch here, plus pick up some souvenirs for your fave folks back home.
  • The DMZ: The DMZ remains an active Military installation, and we’ll visit for a Peace Tour which includes the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, the Dora Observatory (where you can see over into North Korea if the weather is right) and then to the Unification Village. The tour is semi-private with a local guide, and we’ll travel through the zone in a military shuttle.
  • Seoul: One end of the country to the other in just two-and-a-half hours? With superfast Wi-Fi and spectacular views? That’s right, you can’t explore South Korea without getting on a high-speed train.
  • Busan: Our local guide will show us Busan's best spots. For lunch, you’ll get to visit the international market where you’ll find a plethora of different fish dishes from across the continent. Busan is famous for being one of the only regions not to fall to the North Koreans during the war in the 50s. The Gamcheon Village was settled by refugees during the Korean War; it’s since had a refresh and is now known for it’s bright coloured buildings and awesome art school vibes.
  • Jeonju: On our way to Jeonju, we’ll stop off at a traditional Hanok and bask in the mountain views. BTS filmed a music video here too, so this is the perfect place to follow in their footsteps. You’ll also have a chance to check out the onsite café and art gallery before we make our way to Jeonju.
  • Jeonju: We’ll tuck into a traditional bibimbap that Jeonju is famous for. Served warm in a brass bowl, with chilli on the side, there’s a chance that your meal will be delivered to you by robot (but we can’t make any promises).
  • Seoul: We’ll hit the Gangnam District, made famous by Psy, for a bit of shopping, browsing and posing in front of the Gangnam hands. Don’t miss coffee served by robots, or your chance to order an ice block from one of the many vending machines. Gangnam is home to lots of K-Wave stars too so keep your eyes peeled (and have your autograph book at the ready).
  • Seoul: This afternoon, we’ll slow things down and take time to learn about the local Buddhist practices here in Seoul. We’ll partake in a few of them too, such as tea making and Sutra script writing. That’s right, culture never felt so calm. Please note: Exact temple activities could change depending on departure.
  • Seoul: One final night. One final meal together. It HAS to be the world’s most popular Korean cuisine – that’s right, it’s BBQ time. The perfect chance to reminisce with great Korean food and even greater people.
  • Seoul: We'll zip through the skies on an included flight towards Jeju Island.
  • Jeju Island: We'll hop on our coach and head to the eastern part of Jeju Island with a local guide & your Trip Manager. Get ready to see jaw-dropping views of the island after a short hike to the Seongsan Sunrise Peak
  • Jeju Island: Take a scenic hike along the rolling hills and lush landscapes of Jeju Island with a local guide. One for your bucket list!
  • Jeju Island: We'll make our way back to where it all began - Seoul with another included flight.
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    FAQs

  • Bangkok: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
  • Seoul: What are Free Time Add-Ons, and can I pay on credit card? Free Time Add-Ons are special activities Contiki organizes in addition to the trip. They aren’t mandatory (but we do highly recommend them!) and can be done during your free time. Payment for Free Time Add-Ons can only be made in cash, using the local currency - Korean Won (KRW) You can check out the prices on the trip page of the website. Payment will generally be collected on night one after kickstart.Please note: The ‘Attend a Baseball Game’ Free Time Add-On can be pre-booked with your booking agent up to 5 working days before the trip starts. It will also be available to book with your Trip Manager at Kickstart. But seating with the group cannot be guaranteed.
  • Seoul: What should I pack for a South Korea trip? Other than all the standard stuff like jeans, trousers, jumpers and t-shirts, here are some things you should consider packing:   Rainproof jacket  Comfy walking shoes & sandals  Swimwear & towels  Personal medication & motion sickness tablets  Travel adaptors  Insect repellent and sunscreen  Smart casual clothing for high-end restaurants or night clubs
  • Seoul: What is the currency in South Korea? South Korea uses the South Korean Won (?). Local currency is readily available through cash machines, which will be available in most regions we travel to on this trip.
  • Seoul: What’s the voltage in South Korea? In South Korea, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type C and F are used. The standard voltage is 220 V at a frequency of 60 Hz.
  • Seoul: What are the local customs in South Korea? South Korean culture and society is a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Ingrained within its rich culture is a deep sense of community and the utmost respect for elders. Here are some things to keep in mind:   Revealing clothing can be viewed as culturally insensitive off the beach. Shorts are generally fine (as long as they aren’t too short). In terms of behaviour, public displays of affection between men & women are considered shocking in some places.   Although cities like Seoul boast dynamic gay districts such as Jongno and Itaewon, public displays of affection, especially same sex, can attract stares and, in some situations, outright discrimination.  Smoking is common in South Korea. But it’s illegal to smoke in public places. There are specific smoking zones across the cities where smoking is permitted. English isn’t widely used in South Korea, so a translation app can be quite helpful. And your Trip Manager or Local Guide can give you some tips on words you can try.
  • Seoul: Do I need to buy a SIM card? If your local service provider doesn’t have an international pack, you can buy a SIM card &/or handset at any mobile phone shop and some convenience stores. ‘Top up’ credit vouchers are available at most phone shops, local post offices or at the airport. Most areas have 4G coverage, but major cities will have 5G.
  • Seoul: What’s the weather like in South Korea? South Korean Soul trips operate from March to November. Usually, Spring (April to June) and Autumn  (September to November) are considered the best times to visit because of the pleasant weather.
  • Seoul: What is the tipping culture in South Korea? Tipping isn’t customary in South Korea (and can sometimes be considered rude sometimes!). So, please check with your Trip Manager or Local Guide if you’re unsure whether a tip would be appropriate or not. You’re welcome to tip your Contiki Team if you love our service too!
  • Seoul: Can I use public transport to explore in my free time? Yep, public transport is excellent in South Korea. And if you’re planning to explore the city in your free time, it’s best done via metro and bus (since taxis are quite expensive!). You can purchase a T-Money travel card at the airport or convenience stores in Seoul. These cards can be used on the bus or train and can be topped up as often as needed. Your Trip Manager can assist with pointing out locations near the start hotel to purchase a T Money travel card if needed.
  • Jeju Island: What are the luggage restrictions for this trip? On our trips, you can bring one bag or suitcase with a max weight of 15kg (33lbs). Please note you’ll be responsible for getting their own luggage on and off the coach and train from Seoul to Busan.
  • Jeju Island: When should flights be booked from Seoul on the last day of the trip? The trip officially finishes at 12pm on Day 12 at Gimpo International Airport. So, you can book flights home from this airport at any time in the evening. You'll have to arrange your own transfer if you're planning on catching your flight from Incheon Airport.
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    Check out our Q&As

    • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

      The tour includes high-speed trains for travel across South Korea, flights to and from Jeju Island, and local transportation such as military shuttles for the DMZ tour.

    • What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

      You will stay in a mix of modern hotels and traditional guest houses, including the Ibis Insadong Hotel in Seoul, Felix by STX in Busan, Hanok Guest House in Jeonju, and Hotel RegentMarine Jeju on Jeju Island, or similar accommodations.

    • Are meals included in the tour package?

      Yes, the tour includes 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner.

    • What activities are included in the DMZ tour?

      The DMZ tour includes a visit to the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, the Dora Observatory, and the Unification Village, all guided by a local expert.

    • What cultural experiences are included in Seoul?

      In Seoul, you will visit the Gyeongbokgung Palace and dress in traditional Hanbok attire, explore the Seongsu shopping district, and participate in local Buddhist practices such as tea making and Sutra script writing.

    • What can I expect during the visit to Jeju Island?

      On Jeju Island, you will hike to Seongsan Sunrise Peak, visit the Haenyeo Museum, and have opportunities for beach activities like kayaking at Woljeongri Beach.

    • Is there a final group activity at the end of the tour?

      Yes, the tour concludes with a final night BBQ in Seoul, providing an opportunity to enjoy Korean cuisine and reminisce about the trip.

    • How long has the tour company been trading?

      In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

    • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

      Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

    • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

      Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

    • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

      Yes

    • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

      MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

    • What documents will I receive before I travel?

      All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

    Reviews of this operator

    Trusted Customer  

    Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

    16-Jan-2023

    The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

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    Sophie  

    Exceptional customer service

    14-Jan-2023

    Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

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    Trusted Customer  

    First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

    17-Jan-2023

    First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

    Feefo Trusted Reviews
    Trusted Customer  

    Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

    15-Jan-2023

    I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

    Feefo Trusted Reviews
    Tanner Stokes  

    My amazing trip to Africa

    13-Jan-2023

    Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future ...more ...less

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    Friday - Tuesday

    Jul 04, 2025 - Jul 15, 2025
    $3845 $3481 (USD)

    Barrhead discount: -$364 (USD)

    Book with Confidence

    • Low Deposit

      Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

    • Cancellation Policy

      We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

      Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

      At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

      At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

      At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

    South Korean Soul | with Jeju Island

    12 Days Starting and ending in Seoul

    Visiting: Seoul, The DMZ, Busan, Jeonju, Seoul - Hongdae, Jeju Island

    Tour operator:

    Contiki

    Tour code:

    KPJI25

    Specialist Group:

    18-30 Somethings

    Guide Type:

    Fully Guided

    Physical rating:

    Medium

    Age range:

    18-35

    Special diets catered:

    Vegetarians

    Tour operated in:

    English

    Trip Styles:

    Walking Hiking and Trekking

    Interests:

    Beach Tours, Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Rail Tours

    Activities:

    Sightseeing

    From: $3845 $3481 (USD) Barrhead discount: -$364

    NB: Prices correct on 17-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

    Why book with Barrhead?

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    Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.

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    We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.

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    We look after you every step of the way.

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