Essential South Korea

Day 1  Fly to Seoul

Day 2  Seoul  
Arrive into South Korea’s wonderful capital city, Seoul. Transfer to your hotel and collect a T-Money card for use across any South Korean public transport. Enjoy the rest of the day exploring this city which harmoniously blends the old with the new.

Day 3  Seoul  
Today, join a tour to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Established in 1953, this 160-mile-long buffer zone divides the Korean Peninsula. Learn about the fascinating history of the Korean War, which continues to shape international relations to this day. Visit key sights including the Freedom Bridge, Third Infiltration Tunnel, and the Dora Observatory before returning to the city.

Day 4  Seoul  
Discover more of Seoul’s attractions, perhaps visiting the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace or venturing up the N Seoul Tower for 360-degree city views.

Day 5  Seoul to Gyeongju  
Board a high-speed train to Gyeongju. Upon arrival, head to Golgulsa Temple for a day immersing yourself in Buddhist temple life. Experience scheduled activities including archery and meditation, then witness a Sunmudo demonstration, a form of meditative martial arts.

Day 6  Gyeongju  
See many of Gyeongju’s sights on a private tour. Admire the beautiful Buddhist carvings of the Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple. After lunch, continue to Gyeongju National Museum and visit the Daereungwon Tomb Complex to see the intriguing mounds that mark the burial sights of the Silla era’s upper class. Cross the ornate Woljeong Bridge before the final stop of the day at the beautiful Donggung Palace.

Day 7  Gyeongju to Busan  
After breakfast, transfer back to the train station to continue your journey to Busan by rail. Spend the afternoon at leisure, wandering around this picturesque port city.

Day 8  Busan  
Join a group tour to explore Busan’s highlights. Visit the tranquil Haedong Yonggungsa Temple beside the sea, take a ride along the coastline on the Blueline Park Sky Capsule and explore the colourful Huinnyeoul Culture Village.

Day 9  Busan to Jeju Island  
Transfer to the airport and fly to Jeju Island.  Spend the afternoon soaking up the relaxed island atmosphere.

Day 10  Jeju Island  
Take a tour beginning with a visit to the serene Jeolmul Natural Forest. Learn about the unique local culture at Seongeup Folk Village. Visit Gwangchigi Beach for exceptional views of Seongsan Ilchulbong volcano then trek to the peak of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Watch an impressive Haenyeo show, as female divers collect seafood without the use of modern equipment, before visiting the 500 statues of Jeju Stone Park.

Day 11  Jeju Island  
Enjoy a day at leisure to discover more of Jeju’s stunning natural scenery.

Day 12  Jeju Island to Seoul
Fly back to Seoul. Spend a final afternoon exploring at your own pace, perhaps souvenir shopping at the local markets.

Day 13  Fly home