12-Day South Korea Adventure: From Seoul to Jeju Island
10-Day Premium South Korea Adventure: Culture, Cuisine, and Coastlines
10-Day Premium South Korea Adventure: Culture, Cuisine, and Coastlines
- Day 1 Meet your fellow dragons + Namsan MountainGet ready to start your South Korea adventure tour by meeting your guide and group at the hostel in the afternoon! Listen to a pre-departure brief as you find out everything you need to know about your trip. This is also an opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers over a Taekwondo
- Day 1 Meet your fellow dragons + Namsan MountainGet ready to start your South Korea adventure tour by meeting your guide and group at the hostel in the afternoon! Listen to a pre-departure brief as you find out everything you need to know about your trip. This is also an opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers over a Taekwondo class, and even learn some basic Korean phrases!
After time spent exploring Myeongdong, make your way to the top of Namsan Mountain, where you can admire spectacular views of Seoul lit up at night. Recognised as the most popular location in Seoul for couples, wander through the ‘padlocks of love’ locked at the base of Seoul N Tower, representing visitors’ endless love! If you want an even better view of the city, you can head to the top of the Tower.
Later, hop on public transport back to the district of Myeongdong where your accommodation is located. Enjoy some time to stroll around and explore the area or get an early night ready for your first full day tomorrow! - Day 2 Korean Demilitarized Zone + Talk to a North Korean defectorToday, you will visit the Korean Demilitarized Zone. Climb aboard a bus, taking you an hour north of Seoul to Imjingak, where you’ll have the chance to grab some breakfast.
Pay a visit to Dora Observatory where you can see the nearest North Korean villages through binoculars. If you’re lucky, you might even see some people in the streets. Next, descend into the 3rd Tunnel created by North Koreans, taking you as close as 170m to North Korea!
After, you will begin your journey back to Seoul and make the most of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to talk to a North Korean defector. Back in Seoul, try out a K-Pop Dance Class and then enjoy a night out in Hongdae, best known for its endless restaurant and bar options. - Day 3 Gyeongbokgung PalaceToday, you’ll wake up nice and early for a day exploring the ancient side of Seoul. Hop on the metro to Gyeongbokgung Palace where you’ll have the chance to watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony, before entering the palace itself. You can even do so in a hanbok (traditional Korean clothes) to get that additional historical experience! After, make your way to Bukchon Hanok Village, passing by the Blue House (South Korea’s White House) on the way. This was the official residence of South Korean Presidents until being recently opened to the public.
You’ll then be given time to explore Korea’s capital at your leisure. While your guides will have plenty of suggestions, you may wish to keep exploring the delights of Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong Art Street before escaping the hustle and bustle of the city with a walk down the Cheonggyecheon stream, an area of tranquility and relaxation restored during an urban renewal project. If you’re after something more modern, a trip to the HiKR Ground might be in store – here, you can learn all about the K-wave, and even record your own music video!
In the evening, you will have some free time to explore Seoul further, to find yourself something delicious to eat. Why not try grabbing food and drinks in the Euljiro/Itaewon area? - Day 4 Seoraksan National ParkCheck out of your accommodation and depart to Sokcho, in the north-eastern part of the country. Arrive at Seoraksan National Park in the late morning and embark on a hike to Ulsanbawi Rock for spectacular views. For those looking for a less challenging hike, you can hike the well-signed waterfall trail and board a cable car to another peak.
Refuel with some lunch back at the entrance of the park before taking the bus to Sokcho town. Here, you’ll travel on a gatbae to cross the river to Abai, a small village formed by North Korean refugees.
In the evening, enjoy a dinner with the rest of the group in and around the local fish markets. We’d recommend one of the most famous Korean fried chicken restaurants in the area, Manseok, known for its sticky sweet and sour boneless fried chicken.
Then this evening, you’re in for a treat – with a traditional liquor tasting! - Day 5 Take the train to Gyeongju + Explore Cheonmachong Ancient TombsPrepare to set off early as you take the bus along the East Coast to the former capital Gyeongju. Along the way, K-Pop enthusiasts will get to stop off and take a picture at Jumunjin Bus Stop, better known for featuring as the artwork to one of BTS’ releases.
Once you arrive in Gyeongju, prepare for an afternoon exploring by bike! First up, explore Cheonmachong Ancient Tombs, part of the Daereungwon Tomb Complex in Tumuli Park. Then, make your way to Cheomseongdae, the oldest existing astronomical observatory in East Asia.
Want to experience authentic Korean food? Have dinner at Dosol Maeul, a local restaurant serving traditional Korean set meals in an equally authentic environment! Later, why not take a stroll around to Anapji Pond for some amazing nighttime views of the palace? Be sure to pack your cameras because the lights are stunning! - Day 6 Golgulsa Temple + Community work at templeEnjoy a free morning in Gyeongju ahead of your temple stay later on.
Perhaps you could start the day early with a visit to Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Cultural Site, try out a tea house, visit Gyeongju Museum, or explore the Old Town. Otherwise, you could take the opportunity to have a lie-in! Grab a bite to eat for lunch in the city before transferring to Golgulsa Temple, where you’ll experience an overnight temple stay.
Upon arrival, check into the temple and start the afternoon’s activities with a meditation class. Afterwards, try out the traditional arts Sunmudo and take part in the evening chanting service before sitting down to enjoy a simple Buddhist dinner of vegetables, rice, and fruit with the other temple visitors. - Day 7 Talk to a Buddhist Monk + Explore Busan nightlifeWake up with the sunrise and take part in the morning chanting service and meditation, followed by starting the day right with a traditional breakfast.
After a relaxing morning, take the bus and make your way to Gyeongju station where you’ll start your journey to Busan via high-speed train. Arrive quickly at your destination and board a privately hired bus to take you around for the day, starting with the unmissable Gamcheon Culture Village.
Hop back aboard your bus and head down to Songdo where you will board the Marine Cable Car and take in the impressive coastal views.
Following this, you will make your way to BIFF Square in Nampo-dong, home to the annual Busan International Film Festival, where you can try a variety of food options from local street vendors (but why not go for a Busan hotteok seeing as you’re in town?).
Finally, head to your hostel in Haeundae where you will be given the evening to relax and unwind, or explore the town at your own leisure. - Day 8 Jagalchi Market + Virtual Reality Gaming Experience (Optional)Head out for a day exploring Busan. First up, visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a Buddhist temple nestled in the coastline’s cliffs.
Feeling in need of some more rejuvenation? You could head to Spa Land in Centum City, located in Busan’s largest shopping complex! Make the most of South Korea’s high-quality jjimjilbang while you’re here and treat yourself to saunas, cold rooms, jacuzzis and more.
Finally, enjoy the evening with your fellow travelers trying local delicacies. Once the sun sets, be sure to admire the light show on Gwangan Bridge from the shore or perhaps opt for an evening sightseeing boat cruise around the bay. Once you’re back on dry land – try your hand at karaoke! - Day 9 Korean Cooking Class (Optional)Enjoy a free morning to explore Busan – venture out on your own, or take part in some of our suggested activities. For example, you might enjoy a trip on the coastal railway, the Haeundae Blueline. Alternatively, you can visit the observatory of the second-tallest building in Korea and take in the views, or embark on the Igidae Coastal Walk and Oryukdo Skywalk. You may even just opt for a relaxing morning on the beach!
If you’d like to get one last dose of Korean culture in Busan, you could even try your hand at making the traditional staple, bibimbap, in a cooking class!
Later, you will collect your belongings from the hostel and make your way to the airport where you’ll catch a plane to Jeju Island. Once you’ve checked in at your accommodation in Seogwipo, feel free to spend your evening venturing into Olle Maeil Market or exploring the nightlife the city has to offer. - Day 10 Haenyeo Divers ExperienceWake up on the wonderful island of Jeju and head to Jjeongbang Waterfall. Start the day at the waterfall – the only one of its kind in Asia, this amazing natural wonder flows directly into the ocean. After this, you’ll embark on a trek along the beautiful Jeju Olle Trail.
Once the trek is completed, head to Seongsan Ilchulbong and enjoy a hike for some truly spectacular views across Jeju and out to sea. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a unique formation that was formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions over 5,000 years ago! Enjoy some time at the volcano, being sure to grab some photos, before you head to find something to eat.
You will then return to the hotel in the early afternoon and enjoy some well-deserved rest time! If you’d like to relax in the accommodation you can – otherwise, you can grab your sunglasses and head to relax on the beach. - Day 11 Long trek along the Jeju Olle TrailMake the most of your second morning in stunning Jeju by sailing out on a yacht to relax and enjoy the fresh sea air with your fellow Dragons. The afternoon is then free for your own exploration! Not sure what to do? Make sure to ask our Adventure Leaders for their recommendations.
In the evening, kick back with a farewell barbecue dinner! Eat delicious food, watch the sun go down and if you want, party into the night by the seashore. Make the most of your time with your fellow travellers, as you’ll be saying goodbye in the morning! - Day 12 Say your goodbyes!You’ve reached the last day of your South Korea tour and the end of your Dragon Trip adventure! You can head back to Seoul, explore the wonders of Jeju Island further, or continue with your travels elsewhere.
10-Day Premium South Korea Adventure: Culture, Cuisine, and Coastlines
10-Day Premium South Korea Adventure: Culture, Cuisine, and Coastlines
10-Day Premium South Korea Adventure: Culture, Cuisine, and Coastlines
- Day 1 SeoulWelcome to Korea! Today, you’ll start your journey of discovery with a group dinner (included in price), where you’ll sample your first tastes of the delights of the Korean cuisine.
It’s then time to enjoy a striking city-scape, with a mesmorising panorama of the metropolis below from top Seoul’s N Tower. Gaze down at the city
- Day 1 SeoulWelcome to Korea! Today, you’ll start your journey of discovery with a group dinner (included in price), where you’ll sample your first tastes of the delights of the Korean cuisine.
It’s then time to enjoy a striking city-scape, with a mesmorising panorama of the metropolis below from top Seoul’s N Tower. Gaze down at the city you will be enjoying over the next few days! - Day 2 SeoulTake a tour through Seoul’s fascinating history as you head Gyeongbokgung Palace and watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony. Step further back into time and try on a Hanbok at the Bukchon Hanok village, before indulging in a delicious local lunch and exploring the Insadong Art Street.
This evening, it’s time to step right into the beating heart of Korea’s K-Pop scene with a night of karaoke! - Day 3 SeoulToday, you have a chance to understand the tragic history of this divided peninsula, with a trip to the border with North Korea – the DMZ. Visit the Dora observatory, look into the hermit kingdom, and see the tunnels underneath built by the North to invade the South. Learn more about the social history with a chat to a defector from the North.
After taking on board a weighty morning, relax while you stroll around Hongdae, a popular area for urban art amongst the young locals with street musicians, artists, shops, unique cafes and restaurants.
This evening, get ready to visit one of Seoul’s most vibrant districts: Myeongdong. Explore the streets lined with vendors, in addition to a wealth of restaurants and stores, before heading for an evening of theatre as you marvel at the acrobatic and comedic majesty of the Nanta Show. - Day 4 GyeongjuThis morning, you’ll take the KTX from Seoul to the historic Gyeongju. Grab a spot of lunch, and then take to bikes for a cycling tour that hits all the most important spots in the town. Explore the Chunmachong Ancient Tombs, Daereungwon Tumuli Park, and Cheomseongdae – the oldest astronomical observatory in East Asia.
This evening, get ready for a dining experience like no other. You’ll have a traditional set meal in a hanok, before marvelling at the stunning night-time views at Anapji Pond. Sample some traditional liquor as the final touch to the evening, before checking into a traditional hanok to get some sleep. - Day 5 Golgulsa TempleHead out of the city towards the gorgeous Golgulsa Temple, and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains. Whilst here, experience a different side of Korean culture. We’ll immerse ourselves in the temple life as we hike around the lovely scenery in the morning.
Then, test your aim in archery class, and watch the martial art of Sunmudo – and try it out for yourself! You’ll end the day with traditional dinner, plus a chanting and meditation session. - Day 6 BusanTransfer to your next destination – the bustling culture capital of Busan. Arrive at the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and explore this temple nestled into the cliffs, before departing to explore the stunning Gamcheon Culture Village – Busan’s Macchu Picchu! Then take the Songdo Marine Cable Car for sky-high views of the city and ocean!
For dinner, we will be at the BIFF Square, where you can check out the handprints of your favourite Korean film stars. If you’d like to rest up after, you can – or enjoy drinks at Haeundae - Day 7 Busanclass and whip up some delicacies. You’ve then got some free time – relax at a jjimjilbang (a Korean spa), or enjoy the city’s beautiful beaches. Take a swim in the ocean, relax by the beach and sample some of the Busan-style hotteoks. These fried pancakes are a local speciality!
Tonight, boogie on our evening boat party before our guide takes you out in Haeundae for a fun-filled experience, complete with drinks and dinne - Day 8 Jeju IslandFly over to Jeju Island for the final stop on our Korea premium tour. Head straight for the port, where you’ll take to the seas on board a yacht to indulge in a spot of fishing.
Then, you’ll get a free afternoon to explore at your leisure. You might want to head over to the Olle Market for some seafood, swim at the Jungmun Beach, or try your hand at some local watersports. You could visit the stunning Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, or stroll along the Maritime Park and Saeyeongyo Bridge.
This evening, we’ll enjoy some drinks by a cliff, watching the sun set. - Day 9 Jeju IslandStart your day with an optional hike to the top of Seongsan Ilchubong. Also known as Sunrise Peak, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was formed over 5000 years ago! Next, embark on a hike along the Jeju Olle Trail, taking in spectacular views and waterfalls. We’ll stop for a revitalising lunch before hiking onto Oedolgae Rock, with vistas of volcanic cliffs and yellow fields of canola.
In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to chill on the beach. If you’re not a fan of sand, you can admire the tranquil scenery as you head your way to view the crater in Sangumburi, or visit the Jeju Folk Village.
Our last night is a BBQ party at a local restaurant. You’ll get sunset drinks, amazing food, and a chance to reflect on an awesome Korean experience - Day 10 Jeju to SeoulYour Korea premium tour comes to an end today. You’ll catch a flight back to Seoul which is included in the trip – or, if you want, extend your stay on the stunning island of Jeju!
South Korea Eastern Adventure 3D/2N
10-Day Premium South Korea Adventure: Culture, Cuisine, and Coastlines
South Korea Eastern Adventure 3D/2N
- Day 1 Busan, South KoreaJagalchi Market, Dongbaek Park, Haeundae Beach, and transfer to Gyeongju
Today you’ll be picked up at 1pm near Busan Station to begin your adventure with a visit to Jagalchi Market, Korea's largest seafood market. Next, head to Dongbaek Park and Haeundae Beach to take a tour and soak up the sun. Finally, travel t
- Day 1 Busan, South KoreaJagalchi Market, Dongbaek Park, Haeundae Beach, and transfer to Gyeongju
Today you’ll be picked up at 1pm near Busan Station to begin your adventure with a visit to Jagalchi Market, Korea's largest seafood market. Next, head to Dongbaek Park and Haeundae Beach to take a tour and soak up the sun. Finally, travel to Gyeongju for 1h and 30 mins, check into your hotel and overnight.
- Day 2 Wonju, South KoreaGyeongju Tour, Andong Hahoe Village, and transfer to Wonju (B)
After breakfast at your hotel, you'll embark on a Gyeongju City Tour starting at 8:00 am. See the Unesco World Heritage Seokguram Grotto (not included - $6 pp) and the Bulguksa Temple, world-famous for its stunning architecture. Next we'll drive about 2.5 hours to Andong Hahoe Folk Village, preserved since the Joseon Dynasty and continuing to thrive to this day. We'll then continue 2 hours to Wonju, surrounded by the stunning Chiaksan Mountains and the Seom River. This city was the capital of Gangwon Province for 500 years during the Joseon Dynasty, and it maintains rich traditions and fascinating cultural relics. Overnight in Wonju.
- Day 3 Seoul, South KoreaWonju - Pyeongchang - Mt. Sorak - Seoul (B)
After breakfast, we'll transfer 1.5 hours to Pyeongchang, host of the 2018 Winter Olympics. Then we’ll continue another hour to Mt. Seorak National Park, where the peaks of the Seoraksan Mountains break through the clouds while jade-like water flows through the valleys, creating breathtaking views and making this Korea’s most famous National Park. Due to the many rare species found here, UNESCO designated this National Park a Biosphere Preservation District in 1982. Here you can take an optional Cable Car to Gwongeumseong fortress. Finally, we'll transfer 4 hours to Seoul, arriving around 6pm. Happy trails!
NOTE: Seoraksan National Park tour might not be available during the peak season in October.