Discover South Korea

Discover South Korea

70 Views
10 Days From

$4627

$4250

Discover South Korea

10 Days Starting and ending in Seoul, South Korea

Visiting: Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan, Asia

Tour operator:

Globus

Tour code:

OS-2025

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $4627 $4250 Barrhead discount: -$377

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Discover South Korea" tour, where you'll immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of this vibrant nation. Begin in Seoul, exploring iconic landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace and the bustling Insadong Arts and Craft Street. Venture to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) for a unique historical perspective, then travel by high-speed train to Gyeongju, the "Museum without Walls," to visit ancient temples and museums. Continue to Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, known for its artistic Gamcheon district and stunning coastal views. Enjoy local experiences such as a Korean cooking class, tea tasting, and a scenic cable-car ride. Conclude your adventure back in Seoul with a farewell dinner, celebrating the memories and discoveries of your South Korean odyssey.

Highlights

  • Arrive in Seoul, the nation’s capital, full of opportunities to experience traditional culture.

  • Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most impressive of Seoul’s five palaces.

  • Explore the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the world’s most fortified border.

  • Travel to Gyeongju, known as the “Museum without Walls” for its rich cultural history.

  • Visit Bulguska Temple and Gyeongju National Museum in Gyeongju.

  • Explore Yangdong Folk Village, a well-preserved historic village from the Joseon Dynasty.

  • Take a walking tour of Gamcheon in Busan, an artistic center with galleries and cafés.

  • Visit Insadong Arts and Craft Street in Seoul, a vibrant hub for traditional culture and craftsmanship.

Places You'll See

Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul

Lahan Select Gyeongju

Park Hyatt Hotel Busan

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Seoul,South Korea

Location: Seoul

Accommodation Name: Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul

Welcome to Seoul, the nation’s capital. With its ancient history and modern innovation, the city is full of opportunities to experience the traditional culture. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.

Day 2: Seoul

Location: Seoul

Accommodation Name: Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

SEOUL Palace Gates & Plentiful Plates Begin your vacation with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most impressive of Seoul’s five palaces. Continue to the National Museum of Contemporary Korean History to learn how Korea has transformed from an agricultural society to an economic powerhouse. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore Gwangjang traditional market, one of the oldest in Korea. Then, visit Bukchon Hanok Village, home to over 900 hanoks (traditional Korean houses). This historic district has been restored to evoke the country’s timeless charm. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a special welcome dinner featuring Korean BBQ! (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT COLORFUL DYNASTIES & CULTURAL DRESS Gyeongbokgung Palace is the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, originally built in 1395. The palace complex was razed by the Japanese invasion of 1592 and sat abandoned for nearly 300 years before it was rebuilt in the mid-19th century. Tour the palace and witness the ceremonial changing of the guard. If you wish, experience a taste of Korean culture and don a traditional outfit called hanbok for memorable photos of your visit.

Day 3: Seoul

Location: Seoul

Accommodation Name: Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul

Meals Included: Breakfast

SEOUL A Tale of Two Countries Journey to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) for an unforgettable tour of the world’s most fortified border. Your Local Guide will explain the various sites and exhibitions including the Freedom Bridge, 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Imjingak Park, the DMZ Museum, and the Dora Observatory. Return to Seoul and enjoy the balance of the day at your leisure. Consider an optional rickshaw ride through the city’s popular streets and alleyways. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTA LEGENDARY LAND Since 1953, the DMZ has separated North and South Korea. This stretch of land measures about 160 miles long and 2.5 miles wide. For decades, it has been steeped in history and intrigue. Please note this is a politically sensitive area, so tour with discretion.

Day 4: Seoul,Gyeongju

Location: Gyeongju

Accommodation Name: Lahan Select Gyeongju

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

SEOUL–GYEONGJU Relics & Rituals Travel by high-speed train to Gyeongju, often called the “Museum without Walls” due to its rich cultural history and natural beauty. The capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, the city today is known for its relics, temples, and palaces. Upon arrival, visit Golgulsa Temple for a unique opportunity to [LF] experience the lifestyle of Korean Buddhist monks. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITESMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Join your small group for a unique experience to learn the art of Seonmudo. This Korean meditative martial art style was a secret of Buddhist monks for many years as a practice of developing mindfulness through motion. You’ll also learn about temple etiquette and try your hand at archery before enjoying dinner at the temple.

Day 5: Gyeongju

Location: Gyeongju

Accommodation Name: Lahan Select Gyeongju

Meals Included: Breakfast

GYEONGJU Pavilions, Pagodas & Parks Your full day sightseeing tour of Gyeongju includes a visit to Bulguska Temple and Gyeongju National Museum. End your day with a walk to Woljeong Bridge and Wolji Pond. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITION Visit Bulguska Temple with its ancient wooden pavilions and pagodas built on lush, forested hills. Within the temple complex is stunning Seokguram Grotto, one of Asia’s finest shrines, with its large Buddha statue overlooking the Sea of Japan. Then, visit Gyeongju National Museum, housing artifacts reflecting the art, culture, and history of the Silla dynasty, and Tumuli Park to see several tombs from the Silla period, including King Michu.

Day 6: Gyeongju,Busan

Location: Busan

Accommodation Name: Park Hyatt Hotel Busan

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

GYEONGJU–BUSAN Historic Village & Harbor Views This morning, visit Yangdong Folk Village, one of the best-preserved historic villages dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Then, continue to Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, known for its stunning beaches and harbor views. Before dinner at local restaurant, join your Tour Director for a coastal walk on Dongbaekseom Island. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCONFUCIOUS SAYS Surrounded by forested mountains and open fields, Yangdong Folk Village features clusters of houses with mud walls and thatched roofs facing the river. Visit the village shrine and Confucius school, and stroll along the village trail to admire the traditional hanoks.

Day 7: Busan

Location: Busan

Accommodation Name: Park Hyatt Hotel Busan

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

BUSAN Beautiful Busan Sightseeing today starts with a walking tour of Gamcheon, originally founded by refugees of the Korean War and today transformed into an artistic center with galleries and cafés. Participate in a [LF] Korean cooking class for lunch, then proceed to Jagalchi fish market, Korea’s largest and most famous seafood market. This afternoon, take a cable-car ride across the ocean for panoramic views of Songdo Beach and rock cliffs. You’ll also experience stunning views from Songdo Yonggung Supension Bridge. (B,L)LOCAL FAVORITESMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Korean cuisine is unmatched! Learn authentic and local specialties with a private cooking class under the instruction of a local chef. You’ll also have the opportunity to taste local rice wine. Collect the recipes and try to recreate your masterpiece at home.

Day 8: Busan

Location: Busan

Accommodation Name: Park Hyatt Hotel Busan

Meals Included: Breakfast

BUSAN Korea to the Tea This morning, visit Un Cemetery which honors fallen soldiers from the Korean War. Later, enjoy a tea tasting. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Experience Korea’s floral tea culture with your small group as you taste different types of local floral and herbal teas to soothe the senses with aromatic flavors. Learn how to create your own blend!

Day 9: Busan,Seoul

Location: Seoul

Accommodation Name: Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Fly to Seoul, then visit Insadong Arts and Craft Street, a vibrant hub for Korean traditional culture and craftsmanship. Walk along the Seoul City Wall, built more than 600 years ago. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner to celebrate your discovery of Korea.

Day 10: Seoul

Location: Seoul

Accommodation Name: Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation in Seoul at Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul, in Gyeongju at Lahan Select Gyeongju, and in Busan at Park Hyatt Hotel Busan.

  • Meals

    Daily breakfast, selected lunches, and dinners including a special welcome dinner featuring Korean BBQ and a farewell dinner.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided tours of Gyeongbokgung Palace, National Museum of Contemporary Korean History, Gwangjang traditional market, Bukchon Hanok Village, Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), Golgulsa Temple, Bulguska Temple, Gyeongju National Museum, Yangdong Folk Village, Gamcheon, Jagalchi fish market, and Un Cemetery.

  • Local Experiences

    Unique experiences such as a Korean cooking class, tea tasting, and a high-speed train ride to Gyeongju.

  • Transportation

    Transportation including high-speed train from Seoul to Gyeongju and a flight from Busan to Seoul.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as a rickshaw ride through Seoul's popular streets and alleyways.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks not included in the itinerary.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from South Korea are not included.

UNESCO Sites

Bulguska Temple|Seokguram Grotto

Accommodation

In Seoul, stay at Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul. In Gyeongju, enjoy the comforts of Lahan Select Gyeongju. In Busan, relax at the Park Hyatt Hotel Busan.

Mode of Transport

Travel by high-speed train from Seoul to Gyeongju and fly from Busan back to Seoul, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey between destinations.

Notes

While Seoul's Bukchon Hanok Village is rich in Korea's ancient history, please be considerate of its current, local residents while touring.

Visiting the DMZ on Day 3 requires a passport.

Meals

9 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 4 Dinners

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes unique experiences such as a Korean cooking class, tea tasting, and a high-speed train ride to Gyeongju. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to experience the lifestyle of Korean Buddhist monks at Golgulsa Temple, including learning the traditional Korean form of moving meditation called Sunmodo.

  • What kind of meals are provided during the tour?

    The tour provides daily breakfast, selected lunches, and dinners. This includes a special welcome dinner featuring Korean BBQ and a farewell dinner.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    Transportation includes a high-speed train from Seoul to Gyeongju and a flight from Busan to Seoul, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey between destinations.

  • What are the accommodation options during the tour?

    In Seoul, you will stay at Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul. In Gyeongju, you will enjoy the comforts of Lahan Select Gyeongju. In Busan, you will relax at the Park Hyatt Hotel Busan.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, optional activities such as a rickshaw ride through Seoul's popular streets and alleyways are available.

  • What sites will be visited in Gyeongju?

    In Gyeongju, you will visit Bulguska Temple, Gyeongju National Museum, Golgulsa Temple, and Yangdong Folk Village. You will also have a walk to Woljeong Bridge and Wolji Pond.

  • What can I expect during the visit to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)?

    During the visit to the DMZ, your Local Guide will explain various sites and exhibitions including the Freedom Bridge, 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Imjingak Park, the DMZ Museum, and the Dora Observatory.

  • What activities are planned in Busan?

    In Busan, you will have a walking tour of Gamcheon, participate in a Korean cooking class, visit Jagalchi fish market, take a cable-car ride across the ocean for panoramic views of Songdo Beach and rock cliffs, and visit Un Cemetery. You will also enjoy a tea tasting session.

  • What is the significance of Insadong Arts and Craft Street in Seoul?

    Insadong Arts and Craft Street in Seoul is a vibrant hub for Korean traditional culture and craftsmanship. It is a great place to explore and purchase traditional Korean art and crafts.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For over 90 years.

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

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.

Reviews of this operator

Lisset  

Great Value for your Money

19-Dec-2022

This is my second time travelling with Globus, would have been my third if not for COVID. The way they plan everything is super organized, the tour managers are very caring and knowledgeable. We always enjoy all the site visits planned for each trip. They start by picking you up from the airport and from then on everything is taken care of up until the last day of your trip, even dropping you off at the airport not matter the time of day or night. The hotels at every city are always great and centrally located so you can walk around during your free time or plan your own visits to different sites.

Joan Cupp (Google Reviewer)  

My go-to escorted travel Co My...

01-Mar-2024

My go-to escorted travel Co My 4th trip with Globus and the did not disappoint. The sales deals they offer make it affordable for me to travel. All of the guides are well versed in the history of the area you travel in.

David R  

What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus

10-Jan-2023

Globus is my favorite travel agency. I tried others, but always come back to Globus. It is a 100% stress free one-stop shop. Easy booking with flight, hotel, transportation and travel insurance all in one place. Great customer service at reasonable prices. Lots of information prepared for the trip to handle travel logistics. I planned and booked my trip within 24 hours. Highly recommended to everyon

Alexander Wright  

Great guide, accommodations, and tours.

28-Dec-2022

We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.

CTRTeach 11  

Globus exceeded my expectations!

20-Dec-2022

This is my first Globus tour. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and quality. The hotels were top notch, and the cruise on the Nile exceeded my expectations. The cabins were roomy and comfortable, and the food was very good.

Nancy Arias  

The experience was amazing!!

30-Dec-2022

The trip was amazing. Our tour guide was so kind and very knowledgeable. I needed to attend a very important meeting via zoom. She was very understanding and accommodating to my needs and made it happen. I was very grateful! Our driver was by far the best driver I’ve ever encountered! I was beyond impressed with our guide, driver and trip!! I will definitely be back for another adventure!!

Irish Beth Maddock (Google Reviewer)  

Did the Globus Highlands and...

30-Sep-2023

Did the Globus Highlands and Islands Scottish Tour with Ian and Allister. What a trip!! With his sharp wit, immense knowledge and fun humour, Ian absolutely brought Scotland to vivid life with his many tales, informative quips and total, utter passion for history. Was spellbound. Am so VERY thankful I had the opportunity to be on Ian's last bus tour before retiring with Globus. In addition, to being so hard working and helpful, with Allister our driver, I cannot tell you how safe and secure I felt in his capable driving hands. He had some very awkward traffic and interesting roads to navigate with our large bus, (especially on the islands and up north) but he handled it all expertly and without a hitch. So much so, I was able to relax and enjoy the journey. All in all, with our tour, you could tell both these kind men cared very much for those of us who needed the extra help and advice. Made my bucket list trip to Scotland so memorable and wonderful. Thank you Ian and Allister! Globus is truly fortunate to have you both.

Patty Walker (Google Reviewer)  

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...

11-Aug-2024

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland and Scotland. August 2024. Let me begin with the positive , the Tour guide was knowledgable, personable and educated! He also was extremely professional and took a genuine interest in providing the highest quality of service to the client. The bus was clean and comfortable and well maintained. The driver was highly experienced and provided excellent transportation. The excursions were acceptable and enjoyable. The Variety of age groups on the trip made for wonderful traveling companions. But unfortunately, that is where the positive ends. The Leonardo hotels that are part of the chain and experience for this specific tour are below quality. We spent a night in a room with a leak in the ceiling. That was known before we checked in and continued to leak while we were there. Another Leonardo hotel, we could not get out of our room. Due to the carpet being ripped up and blocking the door. Most of these hotels I would have walked away from, had I been on my own individual trip. The customer service is missing, customer safety is also missing in these hotels. There is lack of concern to assist customers to their rooms even when it is there responsibility to change the room, there isn't assistance offered. Never have I experienced where you had to absolutely be your own advocate. Because there is no customer concern or care. Quality of food provided is also below standards. It is frowned upon if you request something and often denied. We even had a situation where another individual was placed in the same room we were in and it was considered a "oh well too bad for you." Again, we had to transport our own luggage and bags to a new room. Only after we were our own advocates. We said this stranger and ourselves are not going to stay in the same room. Finally, we received a good room, a room that would be found acceptable in every day normal travel, and we had to change again. Because there was a missing part in a Radiator and this was known to the hotel but yet they still booked us into a room. The radiator would not turn off and the room was steaming hot. So once again, we had to transfer all of our luggage and personal items and trudged down stairwell and elevators to once again change rooms. This is so sad for a bucket list, once in a lifetime, save your money and go on your anniversary trip. The rooms are old and out, dated with stains and tears in carpets and materials. Some of the missing items are a safety concern. Buyer beware! The communication for traveling in other countries is not to the level of customer service and satisfaction that we are used to, we did not expect this level of unacceptable accommodations, much like staying in a hostile. It is the Globus/Cosmos Travel companies responsibility to make sure their accommodations for housing is up to the level of expectations of their customers. The accommodations provided are a reflection of Globus/Cosmos business model and integrity in the global travel industry. This is not everything we experienced, but just a few examples. At this time, their brand appears to be old, outdated, without concern or care for the safety of their clients or their health and welfare as applied to accomodations.Customer service, is their lost art. Choose carefully for travel service. And I would not recommend Globus or Cosmos.

Suneetha Raja (Google Reviewer)  

I have done Newfoundland &...

06-Jul-2024

I have done Newfoundland & Labrador with Iceberg Festival tour with Globus in June 2024. It was absolute rubbish for the price I paid towards the tour. Terrible hotels, horrible meals, barely any sightseeing that is worth while the visit, most importantly, the Iceberg festival never happened. Globus sold this specific tour departure date as the only way to attend this supposed Iceberg Festival. I felt cheated after paying 3527£ for a 13 day tour considering the only reason I picked this departure date was because I wanted to attend this Iceberg festival. I could have used my time and money in a better way doing a different tour with another company. A Canadian company who did the exact same tour is doing it for £2400. I have been travelling with Globus and Cosmos tours since 2008. However, this company tours have been terrible after the covid shutdowns. They are charging more than the premium companies and not providing the equivalent service on par with the prices. Safe to say that I won't be recommending Globus and Cosmos tours to anyone. Try other tour companies that are on the market.

Lynda Bailey (Google Reviewer)  

I really enjoyed my Cosmos...

11-Jun-2024

I really enjoyed my Cosmos tour to Italy last September. However I was totally disappointed by two major things which completely changed the atmosphere of the holiday for me. One was the 'last minute' rearrangement of one of our hotels which then put us well outside of Florence on a trading estate for two nights instead of walking distance from the city walls. That completely blocked any plans or ideas of enjoying Florence in the evening. My biggest disappointment was the terrible travel arrangements and associated advice about travelling through Heathrow Cosmos put in place for me and for which they refused to be accountable despite the fact that they had made the ticket booking on my behalf and I had asked them for appropriate check in advice at all key points before I travelled. As a result I was put on standby when I should never have been (even the BA departure staff were shocked at this) and separated from my luggage which travelled on a later flight. I spent over 6 hrs of my first day in Rome in the airport waiting for my luggage and subsequent transfer to my hotel, without any assistance from Cosmos or BA airside staff. When I complained after my holiday, Cosmos would not take any responsibility at all for the fact that I lost the first day of my holiday and approx. 50% of the time I was due to spend in Rome, preferring to blame BA who in turn were uncontactable about my complaint. Very poor customer service indeed.

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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.

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