Discover South Korea
Discover South Korea
Discover South Korea
10 Days Starting and ending in Seoul, South Korea
Visiting: Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan, Asia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
OS-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
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
Itinerary
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
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Accommodation
Accommodation in Seoul at Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul, in Gyeongju at Lahan Select Gyeongju, and in Busan at Park Hyatt Hotel Busan.
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Meals
Daily breakfast, selected lunches, and dinners including a special welcome dinner featuring Korean BBQ and a farewell dinner.
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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.
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Local Experiences
Unique experiences such as a Korean cooking class, tea tasting, and a high-speed train ride to Gyeongju.
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Transportation
Transportation including high-speed train from Seoul to Gyeongju and a flight from Busan to Seoul.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as a rickshaw ride through Seoul's popular streets and alleyways.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks not included in the itinerary.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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