Spellbinding South Korea tour with excursions

Discover South Korea’s bustling cities, breathtaking landscapes and ancient history, with breakfast, flights, train transfers and excursions

Day 1: UK/Ireland - Night on board

Pack your bags and head to your chosen airport ready to fly to South Korea, one of Asia’s most enigmatic destinations where modern metropolises blend seamlessly with centuries of history and stunning natural scenery.

Days 2-3: Seoul

Take in soaring skyscrapers and majestic mountains as you touch down at Incheon International Airport and make your way to Seoul, South Korea’s sizzling capital. After settling in at your hotel, you’ll have the rest of the day to spend at your leisure, exploring your surroundings or relaxing before tomorrow’s adventures.

The following day, set off on a guided half-day tour of Seoul, starting with a photo-stop at the Blue House, once home to the Presidents of South Korea and now a beautiful public park. After that, you’ll make your way to the Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main residence of the Joseon Dynasty and the largest of the country’s famous ‘Five Grand Palaces.’ Wander through its vast 40-hectare grounds before continuing on to the nearby Jogyesa temple, and pass by a Ginseng Centre to learn more about South Korea’s most famous native herb. Your final stop will be the City Hall, and you’ll have the rest of the evening to spend as you wish, perhaps sampling Korean BBQ delights or sipping soju in a local restaurant.

Please note that if the Seoul city tour falls on a Tuesday, your stop at Gyeongbokgung Palace will be replaced by the Deoksu Palace.

Days 4-5: Busan

This morning, make your way to Seoul Station and catch your high-speed train to Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city and an international trade hub on the country’s southeastern coast. Once here, you’ll join up with your group at the train station and drop off your luggage at your hotel, before embarking on a whistlestop tour of this vibrant coastal city. Your first stop will be the Gamcheon Culture Village, a recently revitalised district carved directly into the mountainside, and known for its winding alleys and colourful homes. Next, head to the Gukje Market and Jagalchi Fish Market, whose mouthwatering snacks and fresh seafood also speak of the country’s tumultuous past. After a final stop at Busan Tower, you’ll head back to your hotel for an overnight stay.

You’ll have the next day free to discover Busan at your own pace - why not kick back on the lovely Haeundae Beach, and then check out the popular Haedong Yonggungsa Temple on the outskirts of the city?

Please note that during the Busan city tour, transfers will be via public transport for small groups, while larger groups will use a private vehicle.

Days 6-7: Gyeongju

It’s off to the station today for another high-speed train transfer to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Silla. As in Busan, you’ll meet up with the rest of the group and drop off your luggage at your hotel, then head out for your final city tour. You’ll start with a visit to the enchanting Bulguksa Temple, which is home to a number of national treasures including the Dabotap and Seokgatap stone pagodas. After that, you’ll visit the awe-inspiring Seokguram Grotto, an ancient hermitage overlooking the Sea of Japan whose incredible Buddhist sculptures have earned it the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour will end at your hotel, and the rest of the evening will be yours to spend at leisure.

Spend the following day exploring Gyeongju as you wish, perhaps ticking off local highlights like the Gyeongju National Museum, Royal Tomb Complex, Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond.

Please note that during the Gyeongju city tour, transfers will be via public transport for small groups, while larger groups will use a private vehicle.

Days 8-10: Seoul

Head to Gyeongju’s train station today, for a final high-speed train journey back to the capital. Admire South Korea’s magical landscapes on this scenic three-hour trip, before taking to Seoul’s bustling streets to while away the rest of the day as you wish. Fancy a spot of retail therapy? Seoul is a shopper’s paradise, with districts like Gangnam offering the latest in Korean fashion plus all major international brands. The next two days in Seoul will also be yours to spend at leisure, maybe sampling local flavours at Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul’s largest and oldest street-food markets, or whizzing up the Namsan Seoul Tower for fabulous views of the city.

While you’re here, you’ll have the chance to take part in two fantastic optional excursions. On day 9, opt for an exciting trip to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea, learning about the region’s turbulent history as you pass by Imjingak Park, the Freedom Bridge and more, before climbing the Dora Observatory for views across the DMZ and into North Korean territory. On day 10, you can choose to explore Petite France, a French-inspired theme park just outside the city with a quirky French-style village and attractions. You’ll also stop at the world-famous Nami Island in Chuncheon, which is famed for its beautiful trees and tranquil atmosphere.

Day 11: Seoul - Night on board

After a whirlwind tour of South Korea’s cultural and cosmopolitan highlights, it’s time to say goodbye to this fascinating country as you head to the airport for your overnight flight home.