South Korea
Overview
South Korea boasts abundant attractions and incredible sights. If you want to experience fascinating cultural heritage while getting a taste of modern, tech-driven city life, this country is the right destination for you!
On this trip, local cultures, natural environments, and unique food await you to explore them. You will experience Seoul’s glittering nightlife and rich cultural heritage. In addition, you’ll feel like you went back in time with a visit to Jeonju’s cultural Hanok village and discover the stunning seaside temples and bustling markets of Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city.
Annyeong! Arrive at Incheon International Airport and hop on the included transportation to our hotel in the heart of Seoul, South Korea's capital city.
This city is where the old meets the new in the most clever ways. You'll see ancient shrines and medieval fortresses next to futuristic architecture and extravagant shopping malls.
Wondering about your food experiences? You'll discover the rich flavors of South Korean cuisine and indulge in its culinary delicacies on your journey through the country.
Your Trip Leader will guide you through an orientation walk and get you acclimated to the lively energy of Seoul. And when it's time for dinner, you can try some Korean fried chicken restaurants, just as locals enjoy it, with a cold beer on the side. End your day by tasting some desserts at the night market.
Time to step into some history with a visit to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) from South Korea, where you can learn about the war between North and South Korea. The Bridge of Freedom was used to exchange prisoners during the Korean War and today stands as a reminder of past tensions.
Explore the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, an incomplete passage built by North Korea under the Demilitarized Zone. Don't miss the Dora Observatory, where you can see North Korea in the distance.
The day continues with a visit to Gangnam, one of Seoul's most modern, affluent, and trend-setting districts. Explore Starfield COEX, a huge shopping, dining, and entertainment complex including the Starfield Library!
Enjoy a free evening to discover more of Seoul as you please. Check out a Korean baseball game or Banpo's rainbow bridge.
Experience Gyeongbukgung Palace which dates back to the 14th century. Renting a hanbok and touring the palace in a traditional Korean dress will add an authentic touch to your experience.
Walk through the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village, home to traditional wooden Hanok houses that show the essence of Korean culture. Afterwarrds, learn how to make the Korean Dalgona candy at the thriving Gwangjang market.
Enjoy incredible city views as you walk along parts of the Seoul Fortress Wall, a historic site from 1396. The mostly paved trail leads up to Naksan Mountain and the mural village of Ihwa-dong, showcasing local artists' work. It's the perfect spot to snap some Instagram-worthy pics!
Afterward, head out with your friends to discover more of Seoul's lively nightlife—there's always something happening after dark!
Leaving Seoul behind, travel to the city of Jeonju, known for its tradition, nature, and preservation of Korean history and culture.
On a guided tour of Jeonju Hanok village, you'll experience the charm of Korean architecture. The beautifully preserved Hanok houses, narrow alleyways, quaint shops, and cozy cafes will enchant you, and you'll feel like you're stepping back in time.
Learn about the art of Hanji in a Korean traditional paper-making class. You'll even get to make your own sheet that you can take home as a souvenir!
Enjoy some free time exploring the city of Jeonju, its craft shops, and Korean food stalls as you please—there's plenty to discover!
Stroll through the Seohakdong Artists Village and learn how locals have transformed one of the poorer neighborhoods in Jeonju into a creative studio for artists.
Foodie's delight! You can't leave Jeonju without trying its legendary bibimbap, its most renowned and loved dish. Served as a bowl of warm white rice topped with sauteed and seasoned vegetables, sliced meat, and mixed with chili pepper paste and egg. It's a must-try and one that you will experience with an included dinner!
In the evening, visit a traditional market with your Trip Leader and continue to embrace the art culture of Jeonju.
Begin your day like a local with a bowl of Jeonju's famous bean sprout soup. Koreans claim their bean sprout soup is a hangover cure if you have too much soju, Korea's most famous spirit.
Discover a unique experience on a visit to Haedong Yonggungsa, an oceanside Buddhist temple whose name translates to "Korean Dragon Palace Temple." This place offers stunning coastline views, blending spiritual beauty with a picturesque setting.
You will also visit Gamcheon village, where colorful roofs seem to touch the sky while murals cover the alleyways, giving this mountain village an animated vibe. Here, you can try bubble (boba) tea and shop for souvenirs while admiring the various street art and sculptures that showcase the talent of local artists.
Your final stop is Busan, South Korea's lively coastal city, home to stunning beaches, bustling nightlife, and rich cultural experiences.
Join a private Taekwondo class and learn lessons with a local master who will introduce you to this martial art, which originated from indigenous Korean fighting styles.
Experience Millac the Market, a lively multi-purpose cultural space built on the site of an old fish market. Serving as one of Busan's hottest hangouts, Millac the Market blends waterfront vibes with shopping, dining, and a variety of activities.
The evening is yours to enjoy Busan's nightlife. The district of Seomyeon is home to bars, restaurants, and arcades. Or head over to Haeundae Traditional Market for some delicious street food.
Travel back to Seoul aboard South Korea's high-speed rail system, the KTX train.
Once in the capital, you can explore this modern metropolis for the rest of the day. Consider visiting the National Museum of Korea or heading over to the hip area of Seongsudong, known for its cafes, shops, pop-up stores, trendy boutiques, and eateries.
Enjoy the Korean hotpot as your last dinner in South Korea with your friends and experience the nightlife of Seoul.
Depart from Seoul at any time.