The Best of South Korea

Receive a warm welcome from your guide after arrival at Seoul Incheon International Airport. Private transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free at your leisure.

Today is an exciting day as we visit some of Seoul’s most captivating sights. You will have the opportunity to experience the culture by wearing Hanbok (traditional Korean costume). Our first destination is the magnificent Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the five royal palaces built during the Joseon dynasty in 1394. It’s a testament to the country’s rich history and culture, and witness the mesmerizing Changing of the Guard Ceremony, a culturally significant spectacle. Next, visit the National Folklore Museum of Korea to glimpse the traditional way of life of Koreans through a treasure trove of historical objects. Our journey continues to Insadong, a charming antique street with tea cafes and art craft shops. Immerse ourselves in the local culture as we browse through countless stalls selling unique souvenirs and quirky trinkets. For lunch, we treat ourselves to a sumptuous Korean-family-style at Hanjeongsik. After lunch, head to the Bukchon Hanok Village, a picturesque neighborhood showcasing the beauty of traditional Korean-style houses. As we walk through the quaint streets and admire the stunning architecture, we feel transported back in time to a bygone era. Finally, make your way to Seoul Tower on Mt. Namsan for a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the bustling metropolis below. With its panoramic vistas and stunning scenery, this iconic landmark is the perfect way to cap off an unforgettable day in the vibrant city of Seoul. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Seoul. Tonight enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
*Note: Regarding environmental concerns in Mt. Namsan, only environment public buses are permitted. Once you reach the bus stop, there is a distance of approximately 150m that needs to be covered on foot. It is advised to take into consideration the age of the group we suggest taking the Cable car from Myeongdong to Seoul N Tower which we included in the cost.
Gyeongbokgung Palace will be closed on Tuesday. The tour will be changed to Changdeokgung Palace.

After breakfast, drive to Jeonju. You can experience making royal cuisine in the traditional way with prior reservation (optional). You will visit Jeonju Hanok Village, the Traditional Wine Museum, Gyeonggijeon, and Jeondong Cathedral. Jeonju is also the birthplace of Korean Bibimbap. Stay at the Novel Class Residence or King Descendent Residence. If you prefer, hotel accommodation is available.

After breakfast, visit the Daegu Yangnyeongsi Museum of Oriental Medicine to learn about the traditions of oriental medicine and experience an herbal foot bath. Then visit Seomun Market, the largest traditional market in Daegu.
Drive to Gyeongju, the city known as the Museum without Walls and the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom (57BC – 935AD). Visit Cheomseongdae Astronomical Observatory, Royal Tumuli Park and enter one of the excavated tombs to see the construction process behind the royal king’s burial chambers. Check into your hotel.
Note: On Mondays, Daegu Dalseong Park will be visited instead of Yangnyeongsi Museum of Oriental Medicine.

After breakfast, we will transfer to Naju to visit the Dying Museum and experience natural dying with a master. Enjoy lunch with Naju Beef Bone Soup. End the day in Haenam, where you will join a temple stay, converse with monks, and participate in ritual ceremonies, immersing yourself in the monk’s daily life.

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. First, visit Haenam Observatory, located at the southernmost tip of Korea. Then, head to Suncheon to visit Nakanemsung Fortress Farmer Village, where 500 local residents still farm in traditional ways. Next, explore Seonunsa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The beauty of the reed fields at sunset in Suncheon Bay is breathtaking. Enjoy protein-rich mackerel dishes or indulge in a traditional Hanjeongsik restaurant offering over 30 dishes combining seafood, meat, and fermented foods. Then, transfer to Yeosu for check-in the hotel. 

After breakfast at the hotel, visit Boriam Temple, famous as one of Korea’s three major coastal temples. Admire the rice terraces and enjoy a scenic drive along the beautiful Sangju Beach. Travel through Hadong, renowned for its high-quality green tea fields, on your way to Yeosu. In Yeosu, you can savor fresh seafood dishes. Transfer to Busan for check-in.

Transfer to old town. Meet a chef to cook with local native after going to open market what they want to make. Gamcheon Culture Village is a vibrant hillside community in Busan, South Korea, known for its colorful houses, street art, and artistic atmosphere. Once a struggling neighborhood, it has been transformed into a charming destination where artists have painted murals and sculptures, turning the area into a captivating outdoor gallery. Visitors can wander through narrow alleyways adorned with unique artwork, enjoy panoramic views of the city and sea, and immerse themselves in the creative energy of this culturally rich neighborhood. It’s a must-visit spot for those seeking inspiration and a glimpse into Busan’s artistic spirit. Take you to Songdo Cable Car enjoying view. Passing by Gwangan Bridge, transfer to Haeundae beach near hotel. 

Transfer to Gyeongju, known for its many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is often referred to as an open-air museum. Don’t miss a visit to Anapji Pond, where the royal family and high-ranking officials once held parties. It’s the most beautiful spot to admire the moon. Nearby, you will find the Royal Tumuli Park, where 27 royal tombs are clustered together, containing numerous splendid relics. Walk past the pine tree fortress and take a stroll to Cheomseongdae Observatory, located near the ancient palace of the Shilla Kingdom. Along the way, you’ll encounter well-maintained beautiful alleyways. Next to visit Bulguksa Temple, a serene and magnificent temple built in 774 AD, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For an authentic dinner experience, we recommend indulging in a royal cuisine course at a traditional Hanok, which used to be a royal residence. Transfer to Busan. 

Meet your guide at hotel lobby and transfer to Busan Station. Take KTX Bullet train ride to Seoul (about 2 hour and 40minutes). Once we arrive, transfer to your hotel for check-in. Tonight enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Breakfast at the hotel and check out. 
Private transfer to Incheon Airport for departure.