Authentic South Korea
12-Day Tailor-Made Cultural Discovery
Discover the "Land of the Morning Calm" on this comprehensive 12-day journey. This tailor-made itinerary blends the hyper-modern energy of Seoul with the ancient traditions of the countryside. Unlike standard bus tours, we incorporate soft adventure elements like city wall hikes and immersive cultural stops in the spiritual capital of Andong. From the tragic history of the DMZ to the serene royal tombs of Gyeongju and the coastal vibrancy of Busan, this tour offers a complete narrative of the Korean peninsula. Ideal for first-time visitors seeking a balance of comfort, history, and authentic local interaction.
12
Days
Max 6
Group Size
easy
Difficulty
- Walking tour of Seoul City Wall (Inwangsan) and Gyeongbokgung Palace
- DMZ and the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel visit
- KTX High-speed train experience
- Andong Hahoe Folk Village and Mask Museum
- UNESCO World Heritage sites in Gyeongju (Bulguksa, Seokguram)
- Busan Jagalchi Fish Market and Gamcheon Culture Village
- Temple stay experience or traditional Hanok accommodation
- 11 nights accommodation in premium hotels and traditional Hanok
- Daily breakfast and selected highlight dinners
- Private air-conditioned transport and KTX train tickets
- Expert English-speaking local guide
- All entrance fees and activities as listed
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Lunch and dinners not specified
- Personal expenses and gratuities
Arrival in Seoul
Welcome to South Korea. Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. The remainder of the day is at leisure to recover from jet lag or start exploring the vibrant streets of Myeongdong.
L7 Myeongdong
Hotel • Seoul
Seoul: History & Heights
Start with a soft hike along the Seoul City Wall on Mt. Inwangsan for panoramic views of the skyline and the Blue House. Descend to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and witness the Changing of the Guard. Explore the narrow alleys of Bukchon Hanok Village before enjoying a welcome dinner featuring Korean BBQ.
L7 Myeongdong
Hotel • Seoul
The DMZ & War Memorial
Travel north to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Visit Imjingak Park, the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, and the Dora Observatory to look across into North Korea. Return to Seoul in the afternoon to visit the War Memorial of Korea or enjoy free time in the insadong antique district.
L7 Myeongdong
Hotel • Seoul
Seoul to Andong
Board the KTX high-speed train to Andong, the spiritual capital of Korea. Visit the UNESCO-listed Hahoe Folk Village, home to descendants of the Ryu clan. Explore the Hahoe Mask Museum and enjoy a traditional Andong Jjimdak (braised chicken) dinner.
Rakkojae Andong Hahoe
Hanok Stay • Andong
Andong to Gyeongju
Visit the Byeongsan Seowon Confucian Academy in the morning. Transfer by private vehicle to Gyeongju, the 'Museum Without Walls'. Visit Tumuli Park (Daereungwon) to see the royal grass mounds and the Cheomseongdae Observatory at sunset.
Commodore Hotel
Hotel • Gyeongju
Treasures of Silla
A full day exploring Gyeongju's UNESCO sites. Visit Bulguksa Temple and the Seokguram Grotto high on Mt. Tohamsan. In the afternoon, visit the Gyeongju National Museum to see the gold crowns of the Silla Dynasty and stroll around Anapji Pond.
Commodore Hotel
Hotel • Gyeongju
Gyeongju to Busan
Drive south to Busan. En route, stop at Tongdosa Temple. Upon arrival in Busan, visit the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple situated on the coastal cliffs. Check into your hotel overlooking Haeundae Beach.
L7 Haeundae by Lotte
Hotel • Busan
Dynamic Busan
Explore the colorful houses of Gamcheon Culture Village. Visit the Jagalchi Fish Market to see the day's catch and BIFF square. Take the Songdo Marine Cable Car for sweeping views of the harbor.
L7 Haeundae by Lotte
Hotel • Busan
Busan to Seoul
Take the KTX back to Seoul. The afternoon is free for shopping in the Gangnam district or visiting the COEX Mall and Starfield Library. Optional evening Han River Cruise.
L7 Myeongdong
Hotel • Seoul
Suwon Day Trip
A half-day excursion to Suwon to explore the Hwaseong Fortress, another UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive walls and gates. Return to Seoul for a farewell dinner.
L7 Myeongdong
Hotel • Seoul
Seoul Leisure
A full free day to explore Seoul at your own pace. Recommendations include the National Museum of Korea, shopping in Dongdaemun, or hiking Namsan Park to the N Seoul Tower.
L7 Myeongdong
Hotel • Seoul
Departure
Transfer to Incheon International Airport for your flight home.
From
$6,790
per person
Free cancellation up to 30 days
English-speaking guide included
Small group guarantee