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This tour offers a chance to step into Korea’s past while experiencing its modern energy.

from US $ 5970 pp

South Korea Map

Tour Highlights

Cooking Class

Changing Guard Ceremony

Ancient Temples

Cultural Villages

Cable Car Ride

Food Markets

Local Restaurant Meal

about this tour

about this tour

This South Korea tour blends culture, scenery, and city life in a way that feels both refined and personal. Begin in Seoul, where modern energy meets deep-rooted tradition. Visit royal palaces, explore neighbourhoods filled with charm, and taste local dishes that reveal the heart of Korean cuisine. Spend time by Cheonggyecheon Stream, enjoy views from Seoul Tower, and join a cooking class where you prepare dishes like Gimbap and Kimchi Pancakes, guided by local chefs who share their craft. The journey continues to Gyeongju, often called the museum without walls, where ancient temples and serene ponds create an atmosphere of calm. Learn about Korea’s dynastic past and admire craftsmanship that has lasted through centuries, reflected in peaceful gardens and graceful stonework. From there, travel south to Busan, a coastal city that balances culture and relaxation. Colourful villages, seaside views, and lively markets reveal daily life, while local dining highlights flavours that capture the region’s hospitality and creativity. Throughout the trip, private transport, English-speaking guides, and thoughtful experiences make travel seamless. There’s time to explore at your own pace while connecting with local culture in meaningful ways. This luxury private tour through South Korea offers a genuine insight into the country’s spirit where heritage and innovation meet in its temples, markets, and cuisine, with Seoul’s charm, Gyeongju’s tranquillity and Busan’s coastal beauty.

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Share a traditional Korean meal with your local guide and enjoy Korean pork BBQ, known as Samgyeopsal. Thick slices of pork belly are grilled at the table, turning crisp on the edges while staying tender and juicy. It’s commonly wrapped in lettuce with garlic, green chili, and ssamjang, a savory paste that brings it all together. This meal is enjoyed with Soju and shared among friends, creating a laid-back, sociable dining experience full of strong, satisfying flavors and simple traditions that highlight Korea’s warm and friendly food culture.

  • 1

    Arrival in Seoul

    Your first day in South Korea begins as you land in Seoul, where you will be greeted by your driver who will take you to your hotel via private transfer. Take in the beautiful surroundings of this wonderful city as you are taken to your hotel, where you will be able to check-in then make use of the day to recover from your flight, ready for an exciting week ahead.

    Your first day in South Korea begins as you land in Seoul, where you will be greeted by your driver who will take you to your hotel via private transfer.…
  • 2

    Seoul City Tour

    In the morning, you will be greeted by your guide, who will take you through the streets of Seoul to explore its vast history in this full-day tour. Start at the National Museum of Korea, where centuries-old artifacts, royal relics, and artistic masterpieces provide insight into the country's past. Next, visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the grandest of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces, and watch the meticulously choreographed changing of the guard ceremony. On Tuesdays, the tour includes Deoksu Palace instead, a unique blend of traditional Korean and European architectural styles. Continue to Insadong, a district filled with traditional tea houses, antique shops, and artisan boutiques, then explore Ikseondong alley, where old hanok houses have been transformed into cozy cafés, craft stores, and hidden eateries. Afterward, head to Namdaemun Market, the largest and oldest traditional market in Korea, where vendors sell everything from handmade crafts to street food. In the evening, enjoy a classic Korean dining experience at a local restaurant with pork BBQ, expertly grilled at the table and served with an array of side dishes. Each person will receive a bottle of soju, Korea’s famous distilled liquor. After your delicious Korean dinner, return to the hotel for an evening of unwinding and relaxing.

    In the morning, you will be greeted by your guide, who will take you through the streets of Seoul to explore its vast history in this full-day tour. Start at…
  • 3

    Seoul City Tour & Cooking Class

    Your second day in Seoul continues with a further guided tour of the city, where you can stroll down the Cheonggyecheon stream and marvel at Seoul Tower. Seoul Tower, standing 236 meters tall on Namsan Mountain, offers a panoramic view of the city from its observation decks. Originally built as a broadcasting tower in 1971, it has become a popular landmark featuring a revolving restaurant, digital art displays, and thousands of love locks left by visitors. Then at lunchtime, you will take part in a cooking class where you will learn the traditions in Korean meals and how to prepare them. Get to know popular dishes such as Gimbap and Kimchi Pancake, and savor the taste as you get to indulge in your creations at the end. In the evening, your day in Seoul will end with a night tour in Hongdae street. Hongdae Street is known for its indie music scene, street performances, and trendsetting fashion shops catering to the youthful crowd. The area is filled with cafés, clubs, and art spaces, reflecting its close connection to Hongik University and its influence on contemporary culture. Return to your hotel for the night, and relax before your travels to your next destination in the morning.

    Your second day in Seoul continues with a further guided tour of the city, where you can stroll down the Cheonggyecheon stream and marvel at Seoul Tower. Seoul Tower, standing…
  • 4

    Transfer to Gyeongju & Half Day Tour

    In the morning, you will be taken to Seoul train station via private transfer, where you will be taking an express train to Gyeongju lasting approximately 3 hours. Once you have arrive around noon, you will stop for some lunch at a local restaurant where you can enjoy more Korean-style meals. Then, discover Gyeongju with a half-day tour of the city where you will visit Tumuli park, Cheomseongdae observatory, and Donggung and Wolji pond. Tumuli Park in Gyeongju is home to large grass-covered burial mounds from the Silla Dynasty, with some tombs dating back over a thousand years. Among them, Cheonmachong Tomb is open to the public, revealing a collection of ancient artifacts, including a gold crown and decorated horse saddle. Cheomseongdae Observatory, built in the 7th century during Queen Seondeok’s reign, is one of the oldest astronomical towers in Asia. Its 362 stones are believed to represent the days of the lunar year, and its design allowed scholars to study the movement of celestial bodies. Donggung and Wolji Pond, once part of the Silla royal palace complex, served as a site for banquets and important gatherings. The pond’s carefully arranged landscape and restored pavilions reflect the architectural style of the time, creating a striking scene when lit up in the evening. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay and unwind.

    In the morning, you will be taken to Seoul train station via private transfer, where you will be taking an express train to Gyeongju lasting approximately 3 hours. Once you…
  • 5

    Gyeongju Morning Tour - Busan Transfer

    Start the day with a morning guided tour in Gyeongju where you will visit three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and Yangdong Village. Bulguksa Temple, built in the 8th century during the Silla Dynasty, is known for its detailed stone pagodas and wooden halls. The temple complex houses national treasures, including Dabotap and Seokgatap pagodas, along with intricate carvings that reflect Buddhist teachings. Seokguram Grotto, located on the slopes of Mount Toham, contains a granite Buddha statue seated in a circular chamber. The grotto was carefully designed to align with natural light, illuminating the Buddha’s face at sunrise, symbolizing enlightenment. Yangdong Village is a well-preserved traditional village showcasing Joseon-era architecture and Confucian culture. Thatched-roof and tiled-roof houses are arranged according to social status, with the homes of noble families placed higher on the hillside, offering insight into Korea’s past way of life. After the tour, you will then be transferred to the next stop of your Korea tour to Busan, where you will check in at the hotel, and have the chance to spend the afternoon at your own pace.

    Start the day with a morning guided tour in Gyeongju where you will visit three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and Yangdong Village. Bulguksa Temple, built in…
  • 6

    Busan Day Tour

    In the morning, you will be taken for a day tour around the city of Busan, where you will visit sites including: Gamcheon Cultural Village, Songdo Island, BIFF Street, Jagalchi Fishery Market, UN Memorial Park, and the Centum City Department Store. Gamcheon Cultural Village, often called the "Machu Picchu of Busan," is known for its colorful houses built along the slopes of a coastal hill. Originally a refugee settlement after the Korean War, the area has transformed into an artistic neighborhood filled with murals, sculptures, and small galleries. A cable car ride to Songdo Island provides a scenic view of the coastline and the ocean below. The ride stretches over the water, connecting Songdo Beach to the island, where visitors can enjoy walking trails and ocean-themed attractions. BIFF Street, named after the Busan International Film Festival, is lined with handprints of famous filmmakers and actors. The street is also known for its food stalls selling popular local snacks, including hotteok, a sweet-filled pancake. Jagalchi Fishery Market is Korea’s largest seafood market, where vendors display fresh fish, shellfish, and other seafood caught from nearby waters. Visitors can select seafood on the spot and have it prepared in one of the surrounding restaurants. UN Memorial Park honors soldiers from 16 countries who fought during the Korean War. The park includes graves, monuments, and a museum that shares the stories of those who served. Centum City Department Store holds the title of the world’s largest shopping complex. The multi-story building features luxury brands, an indoor spa, an ice rink, and a cinema, making it a major destination for shopping and entertainment. At the end of a full and exciting day, return to your hotel for an evening of rest.

    In the morning, you will be taken for a day tour around the city of Busan, where you will visit sites including: Gamcheon Cultural Village, Songdo Island, BIFF Street, Jagalchi…
  • 7

    Busan to Seoul Train Transfer

    Today, you will return to Seoul, starting with a private transfer from your hotel to the train station in Busan. From there, board the express train for a comfortable journey of approximately three hours. Upon arrival in Seoul, a driver will meet you for a private transfer to your hotel, where you can check in and unwind. The remainder of the day is yours to spend as you wish. You may choose to relax at the hotel, explore its amenities, or head back out to revisit favorite spots. If there are places you missed during your earlier days in the city, this is a great opportunity to see them before your trip comes to an end.

    Today, you will return to Seoul, starting with a private transfer from your hotel to the train station in Busan. From there, board the express train for a comfortable journey…
  • 8

    Departure Day

    In the morning you will meet your driver at your hotel after check out, to be taken to the airport for your final international flight home. Spend your time in the airport buying souvenirs and reflecting back on an amazing week. Safe travels!

    In the morning you will meet your driver at your hotel after check out, to be taken to the airport for your final international flight home. Spend your time in…

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FAQs

1. What do we do in Seoul?

In Seoul you visit royal palaces, see the Changing of the Guard, walk in neighbourhoods with traditional houses, and spend time by Cheonggyecheon Stream. You also ride the cable car or visit Seoul Tower for city views and eat at local restaurants.

2. What happens in the Korean cooking class?

You join a hands-on cooking class with a local chef. You learn how to make dishes like gimbap and kimchi pancakes, cook step by step, then sit down to eat what you’ve prepared.

3. What do we see in Gyeongju?

In Gyeongju you visit ancient temples, royal tombs, and calm ponds in the historic area. You walk through gardens and stonework that show Korea’s dynastic past and enjoy a quieter, more traditional side of the country.

4. What are the activities in Busan?

In Busan you explore colourful hillside villages, walk along the coast, and visit busy food markets. You try fresh local dishes in small restaurants and see how people live in this seaside city.

5. How are food markets and local meals included?

Across the trip you visit food markets to see daily shopping and snack stalls, then sit down in local restaurants for Korean BBQ, stews, or seafood. These meals show how Koreans eat in real life, not just in tourist areas.

Our in-country expert

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