SouthKorea2027

Day Three: Demilitarized Zone Excursion

Today offers a rare opportunity to explore the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a place of geopolitical tension and deep historical significance. Begin at Imjingak Park, a site built to console families separated by the Korean War, and walk across the Freedom Bridge, once used by repatriated prisoners of war. Descend into the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, secretly built by North Korea and discovered in 1978, which you’ll access via a steep underground passage. Watch an educational film at the DMZ Theater and explore interactive exhibits at the Exhibition Hall. Head to the Dora Observatory, where you can peer into North Korea through binoculars on a clear day. Drive past the symbolic Unification Village on your way back to Seoul. Return to your hotel, reflecting on this unique insight into Korea’s divided past. 

• Breakfast Included

Day Four: Day at leisure in Seoul

Today's yours to spend as you please. Wander the hanok lanes of Bukchon, browse the stalls at Gwangjang Market, or ride the cable car up Namsan for a view across the city. 

• Breakfast Included

Day Five: Cultural Immersion in the Countryside

After breakfast and check-out, we head east to Hachuri Village, where we take part in a hands-on experience using a traditional Korean iron pot, known as a gamasot, for communal cooking. This interactive visit offers us a taste of rural life and insight into Korean food traditions.

We continue our scenic drive along Hangyeryeong Road, enjoying stunning views of forested valleys and mountain peaks. In Gangneung, we visit Ojukheon, the preserved home of Korea’s most respected Confucian scholar, Yulgok Yi I, and his mother Shin Saimdang—both national icons. The house, one of the oldest wooden structures in Korea, gives us a window into Joseon-era scholarly life.

Before arriving in Sokcho, we make a stop at the Money Museum, where we explore the history of currency in Korea and beyond through engaging exhibits and rare collections. This unique museum offers us insight into Korea’s economic history and the cultural significance of money.

In the late afternoon, we arrive in Sokcho, a coastal town bordering Seoraksan National Park. After checking in, the evening is ours to enjoy at leisure.

• Breakfast Included

Day Six: Natural Beauty of Mt. Seorak

Today, we explore Seoraksan National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its dramatic peaks, dense forests, and seasonal beauty. We begin with a cable car ride up to Gwongeumseong Fortress, where a short walk rewards us with sweeping mountain and coastal views.

Back at the base, we visit the tranquil Sinheungsa Temple, home to the towering Great Bronze Buddha and rich in Korean Buddhist tradition. We stroll the temple grounds, taking in the peaceful atmosphere and forested surroundings.

In the late afternoon, we return to Sokcho for some leisure time. The evening is free to relax, explore the town, or enjoy the seaside air.

• Breakfast Included

Day Seven: Timeless Beauty of Gyeongju

After breakfast, we leave the beautiful landscapes of Seoraksan behind and journey south to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom. Along the way, we enjoy the changing scenery and stop for lunch before arriving in the afternoon. Our first visit is to the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, where impressive grass-covered burial mounds mark the resting places of Silla kings and nobles. We then continue to Hwangridan-gil, a lively street lined with traditional hanok buildings, boutique cafés and local shops. There is time to explore, browse for souvenirs or simply enjoy the unique atmosphere before we transfer to our hotel. 

• Breakfast Included

Day Eight: Temples and National Treasures

Today we continue exploring the rich heritage of Gyeongju, often known as "the museum without walls." We begin at Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in Asia, before visiting the magnificent Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Korea's most important Buddhist temples. We then travel into the mountains to visit the remarkable Seokguram Grotto, home to a beautiful granite Buddha overlooking the East Sea. Later, we enjoy a stroll around the picturesque Anapji Pond, once part of a royal palace garden during the Silla Dynasty. Our day concludes at the Gyeongju National Museum, where we discover an outstanding collection of royal treasures and ancient artefacts before returning to our hotel.

• Breakfast Included

Day Nine: Monasteries & Beaches

Depart Gyeongju and travel to the secluded Haeinsa Temple, one of the Three Jewel Temples of Korea and guardian of the Tripitaka Koreana woodblock scriptures. Stroll through centuries-old halls and learn about the temple's enduring legacy of scholarship and faith. Later, transfer to Busan, Korea’s second-largest city on the southern coast. Relax at the famed Haeundae Beach, a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike. The golden sand and gentle waves make for the perfect late-afternoon stroll. Check into your hotel in Busan for the night.

• Breakfast Included

Day Ten: Vibrant Busan Adventures

Start with a visit to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a rare seaside temple dramatically perched on cliffs above the East Sea. Wander through the peaceful temple grounds and admire its striking ocean views. Head to the colourful, hillside Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its artistic flair and winding alleyways. Explore Gukje Market, once a hub for post-war refugees, and Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea’s largest seafood market where you can try sashimi or grilled octopus. End with a ride on the Sky Capsule, a scenic tram offering panoramic views along the Busan coast. Return to your hotel and unwind.

• Breakfast Included

Day Eleven: Cooking & High-Speed Rail to Seoul

Check out and head to Busan Station for a scenic KTX bullet train ride back to Seoul (approx. 2.5 hrs) Upon arrival, join a hands-on Korean cooking class, where expert chefs teach you to prepare staples like bulgogi and kimchi. Learn about the cultural roots of Korean cuisine while enjoying the fruits of your labour. The class offers a fun and social environment perfect for solo travellers. Check into your Seoul hotel and spend the evening at leisure—perhaps revisit Myeongdong or explore a local café. Overnight in Seoul.

• Breakfast Included

Day Twelve: Seoul’s Modern Icons & Farewell

Begin your final full day with a visit to the N Seoul Tower, a beloved city icon offering spectacular panoramic views from its mountaintop observatory. Next, explore the architectural marvel of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a centre for fashion, innovation, and art designed by Zaha Hadid. Spend time shopping or relaxing in Myeongdong, Seoul’s busiest district for cosmetics, fashion, and snacks. Try street food like hotteok or spicy rice cakes. Conclude the day with a memorable farewell dinner, sharing stories and laughs with your new travel companions. Overnight in Seoul.

• Breakfast & Dinner Included 

Day Thirteen: Departure from Korea

Enjoy your final breakfast in Korea and check out of your hotel. Transfer to Incheon International Airport for your flight home. Your Korean journey ends here, filled with memories of history, culture, and camaraderie. 

• Breakfast Included