Taste of South Korea

Day 1: Arrive Seoul, Korea

Welcome to Korea, after arriving at Incheon International Airport make your way to your hotel in Seoul where you will stay for 3 nights. Seoul is the capital city of Korea and the hub of Korea’s politics, economy, finance as well as culture & education.

Originally the capital of the Chosun Dynasty, Seoul is Korea’s commercial, financial and political hub. You will be captivated by this vibrant city with its history, culture, colorful neighbourhoods, eclectic markets and diverse nightlife. Each district in Seoul has its own personality. For shopping and food visit Myeondong or Dongdaemun which is full of outdoor food stalls and shopping. If you enjoy art and history, you will love the local galleries and the Gyeongbokgung Palace located in the Insadong neighbourhood. Nightlife and vibrate evening dining can be found in the Itaewon area, or for karaoke and buskers check out the Hongdae neighbourhood.

Day 2: Seoul City Sightseeing

This morning, enjoy a city tour of Seoul including the changing of the guard ceremony, famous Gyeongbok Palace- the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty built in 1394, the National Folk Museum – replicas of historic objects to illustrate the history of traditional life of the Korean people, Jogyesa Temple – the chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. Your afternoon is at leisure after being dropped off at City Hall. Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 3: Demilitarised Zone (DMZ)

Spend the morning visiting the DMZ, a zone that separates north and south Korea. This is a great way to learn about Korean history, the Korean war and see for yourself what this interesting ‘no mans land’ and arguably the world most dangerous border looks like.  Your excursion includes Imjingak Park (Freedom Bridge), The 3rd Infiltration Tunnel (also known as the 3rd Tunnel of Aggression) a passage discovered below the border, DMZ Theater / Exhibition Hall, Dora Observatory with its scenic views, Dorasan Station. Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4: Seoul to Gyeongju

Make your own way to the train station and depart Seoul today by express train to Gyeongju, the spiritual and cultural capital of Korea. Gyeongju served as the capital of the Shilla Kingdom, which united the peninsula in 676 AD. Designated by UNESCO as one of the world’s ten most historic sites, it is known as the “Museum Without Walls”.  Your private afternoon tour will include the sights of this historic city including Bulgulske Temple with its lovely pagodas and bridges and Seokguram Grotto, a monumental Buddhist cave temple established in the 8th century on the slopes of Mount Tohamsan.  See the statue of the Buddha in a circular chamber under a stone dome looking at the sea. The grotto including surrounding portrayals of gods, Bodhisattvas and disciples are widely renowned as a masterpiece of Buddhist art and architecture. Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 5: Gyeongju to Busan

This morning transfer to Busan (approximately 1.5 hours) which is Korea’s main port and second largest city. Your private afternoon tour includes the UN Memorial Cemetary, Jagalchi Fish Market, the international market and Busan Tower. Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 6: Busan to Seoul

Early morning make your own way to Busan station to board an express train to Seoul Station and connect with the subway train to Incheon International Airport for your onward journey (flights not included in price). Meals included: Breakfast