Classic South Korea

Arrive in Seoul and enjoy airport assistance before your private transfer to the city. Check into your hotel and take time to relax after your journey.

Later, visit Bukchon Hanok Village, a historic neighbourhood of traditional Korean houses set among Seoul’s modern streets. Wander through its narrow lanes and discover a quieter side of the capital.

For a more hands-on introduction to Korean culture, you may choose to join a kimchi-making class or dress in a traditional hanbok.

The evening is free to enjoy at your own pace.

Overnight in Seoul.

Begin with Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most impressive of Seoul’s royal palaces. If timing allows, watch the colourful Changing of the Guard ceremony before exploring the palace grounds.

Continue to Insadong, a lively district filled with traditional crafts, galleries, tea houses and independent shops. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting Jogyesa Temple, an important centre of Korean Buddhism in the heart of the city.

In the afternoon, explore Namdaemun Market, one of Seoul’s oldest traditional markets, followed by time in Myeongdong, known for shopping, beauty stores and Korean street food.

Overnight in Seoul.

Travel north to the Demilitarized Zone, where you will learn about the history and continuing division of the Korean Peninsula.

Cross the Unification Bridge and complete the required security procedures before visiting the DMZ Theater and Exhibition Hall. Continue to the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, discovered beneath the border, and Dora Observatory, which offers views towards North Korea.

Visit Dorasan Station, a symbolic railway station representing hopes for future reunification, before stopping at Imjingak Park, a place of remembrance and reflection.

Return to Seoul after lunch and visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza, an architectural landmark known for its futuristic curves and creative spaces.

End the day at Gwangjang Market, where you can sample traditional Korean street food in a lively local atmosphere.

Overnight in Seoul.

DMZ visits are subject to government regulations, security conditions and operational availability.

Travel by high-speed train to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom and one of South Korea’s most important historic cities.

Visit Bulguksa Temple, a beautifully preserved Buddhist complex on the slopes of Mount Toham. Continue to Seokguram Grotto, home to one of Korea’s most celebrated Buddhist sculptures. Together, these sites form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Enjoy a relaxed evening in Gyeongju.

Overnight in Gyeongju.

Begin the day at Gyeongju National Museum, where a remarkable collection of Silla-era artefacts brings the region’s history to life.

Continue to the ancient royal burial mounds of Tumuli Park and Seokbinggo, a traditional semi-subterranean ice storage facility built during the Joseon period.

In the afternoon, travel to Busan, South Korea’s vibrant coastal city. Known for its beaches, mountains, hot springs and seafood, Busan offers a lively contrast to historic Gyeongju.

Visit Haeundae Beach and explore the nearby market, where you can try local snacks and enjoy the atmosphere by the sea.

Overnight in Busan.

Visit Gamcheon Culture Village, a colourful hillside neighbourhood filled with murals, art installations and winding lanes.

Continue to Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest seafood market in Korea, where you can see a wide variety of fresh seafood. Nearby, explore Gukje Market and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, take the Songdo Cable Car for sweeping views over Busan’s coastline. Continue to the Oryukdo Skywalk, a glass-floored viewing platform above the sea and rugged cliffs.

End the day at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, one of Korea’s most beautiful seaside temples, dramatically positioned beside the rocky coast.

Overnight in Busan.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Jeju Island. On arrival, begin exploring this volcanic island, known for its beaches, lava formations and distinctive local culture.

After lunch, visit the Jeju Stone Park, where you can learn about the island’s volcanic origins and the cultural importance of stone in Jeju life.

Continue to the island’s green tea fields, where neat rows of tea plants create a peaceful landscape. Later, check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Jeju.

Enjoy a relaxed day to experience Jeju at your own pace.

You may choose to unwind at the beach, enjoy a volcanic-mineral spa treatment or explore more of the island’s coastline. For an active experience, hike Seongsan Ilchulbong, a dramatic volcanic crater rising above the eastern coast. The summit offers beautiful views across the surrounding landscape.

Other experiences can be arranged according to your interests, including local food, coastal walks, waterfalls or cultural villages.

Overnight in Jeju.

After breakfast, transfer to Jeju International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your private South Korea journey.