While South Korea has long been known as the “Land of the Morning Calm,” its tumultuous modern history stands directly at odds with this serene sobriquet. Yet in spite of the adversity that South Korea has faced, from the colonial Japanese occupation to the divisive Korean War and subsequent dictatorships, the country has managed to overcome innumerable obstacles and establish itself as one of the world’s economic powerhouses. In the 1990s, South Korea, along with Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore, was named one of the Four Asian Tigers. 

Today, South Korean corporations, including electronics giant Samsung and manufacturer Hyundai, have become household names around the globe; at the same time, Korean culture, particularly pop music, has slowly risen to prominence, first across Asia, and later the world. Indeed, South Korea is an energetic, creative nation capable of great innovation, and is already a major player in the global economy and culture.

Taste the best of this fascinating country on this 9-day Classic South Korea Journey. Travel from the capital Seoul continue south to historic Gyeongju and seafood haven Busan before hopping over to volcanic island Jeju. Visit royal palaces and royal tombs, seafood markets and street food meccas, elite neighborhoods and mountainside temples, ancient refrigerators and volcanic hiking trails. Experience all the facets that contribute to the unique South Korean identity, from the ultra-modern to the traditional and ancient, on this comprehensive journey.

This itinerary is a suggestion. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All of our Journeys are 100% Bespoke. A short list of intriguing South Korea Journeys are below.

Innovative Soul: Seoul is now one of the most connected and technologically innovative cities in the world, an impressive 180-degree transformation springing from the ruins of the Korean war. As the world-leader in IT, naturally South Korea has the world’s fastest average internet connection speed.

The Freshest Seafood: In the seafood haven of Busan is the country’s largest fish market. Shoppers can choose from a wide variety of live sea creatures in bright display tanks and have their pick cooked at a restaurant on the premise. Or fresher yet, eaten raw with a touch of sesame oil right at the market.

Monastic Mountains: This peninsular nation is home to an impressive number of temples, most of which are tucked into its the mountainous landscape. Though a visit to any of these temples can be calming and offer a peaceful experience, this Journey takes you to a few of the country’s most culturally and historically significant temples.

Volcanic Paradise: The island of Jeju is known for its beaches and volcanic terrain which offers both relaxation and adventure. Pair hiking scenic trails and exploring volcano tube caves with a soak in mineral baths and pampering mineral-based spa treatments.

Day 1 Seoul. Arrive in Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea, where you will be met at the airport and whisked via private car to your hotel. Settle in and freshen up before stepping out this afternoon with your expert guide. Begin your exploration of this peninsula nation with some history at a traditional Hanok village. As an option, you can wear a hanbok, the traditional clothing of Korean people. There are a few of these preserved villages that survive in the city that have been become traditional cultural centers, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the Joseon Dynasty. Admire the olden architecture of stone buildings with curved roofs and see exhibitions at museums in the area showcasing handicrafts and arts. While here, as an option you can take a hands-on lesson in the art of kimchi making. Kimchi, spicy fermented cabbage, is the beloved quintessential food of South Korea. Our preferred hotel in Seoul is always the Four Seasons.

Reflecting the unique city it sits in the center of, the Four Seasons in Seoul is a combination of traditional Korea and modern cool. Located in the central business district and yet within walking distance of the city’s historic sites, it’s the ideal choice for those traveling for work or pleasure. Fully equipped with a range of beautiful new facilities, guests may opt to stay in the hotel, making use of the pools, sauna and spa, not to mention state-of-the-art 3D golfing range. The rooms, studios and suites are decorated with chic design features and all the modern conveniences, providing a welcome retreat after a long day of leisure, meetings or sightseeing. Fine dining is available in the selection of on-site restaurants, serving delectable cuisine from Asia and beyond. Thanks to the expert chefs and the hotel’s stylish bars, the hotel is a nightlife destination in itself and a go-to hotspot in Seoul. 

Day 2 Seoul. Uncover Seoul’s hidden gems and the rare treasures of Korea with guided heritage tours. From secret alleyways and artisan enclaves to palace gardens and local markets. Spend today exploring a mix of old and new, from a visit to a royal palace and watching the changing of the guards, to exploring a popular youth neighborhood full of cosmetics and trendy clothing. Meander the pedestrian alleyways crammed with teahouses, eateries, modern art galleries, and shops. Take a peek at the upscale neighborhood of Gangnam, home to gleaming skyscrapers, designer brands, and the best of the city’s cosmetic surgery offices.

Day 3 Seoul. This morning, set off to see the DMZ, or Korea’s Demilitarized Zone, which functions as a buffer between North Korea and South Korea. The line is drawn at the 38th parallel north and runs for 250 km. This border barrier has kept the peace since the end of the Korean War in 1953. During your visit to the site, you’ll also get the opportunity to see Korea’s Freedom Bridge, which runs next to, but not over, the Imjingak River. Explore the underground tunnels and learn how each side has developed strategies to defend their territory as well as prepare themselves in the event of the need for offensive force. If you would like to dive deeper into the complicated relationship between the two countries, opt for the exclusive Panmunjom tour which takes you to the ‘truce village’, the site where peace discussions were held and where soldiers face each other from their respective sides.

Otherwise, return to the city where you will instead take a deep dive into Korean cuisine with a food tasting tour at Gwangjang Food Market. Follow your nose down this long-covered arcade of food stalls and sample staples such as savory pancakes and rice rolls to adventurous blood sausage and wriggling octopus tentacles.

Day 4 Gyeongiu. Depart the metropolis on high-speed train to Gyeongju, the ancient capital and city of living history. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Toham, the Bulguksa Temple is a must-see and top highlight of the area. The temple complex was designed to represent the land of Buddha, an architectural representation of paradise. Nearby, wander the Seokguram grottoes and enjoy what are considered some of the best Buddhist sculptures in the entire world. Together, these two sites are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 5 Busan. Continue your exploration of ancient Korea, starting with Gyeongju National Museum which houses thousands of well-preserved relics on exhibition in reconstructed pavilions. Also see the mound tombs typical to the Silla Kingdom for nobles and royalty. Another notable site of anthropological interest is Seokbinggo, an ancient freezer made of rocks unique to Korea. Though humble in appearance, this part-subterranean structure steadily supplied ice for the upper class and still remains cold today. In the afternoon, return to the bright lights and skyscrapers of the city – this time to the coastal city of Busan in the south. South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan is known for its majestic mountains, beaches, hot springs, and plentiful seafood. Pay a visit to the popular Haeundae Beach to catch the sunset and taste some snack foods at the nearby market.

Dive into the unique and energetic nightlife of Busan and Seoul, two of Korea’s most thrilling cities. This tour focuses on an exploration of an authentic Korean night out, complete with cuisine, cocktails, and experiences. Split between the beach-laden Busan and bustling mega-city Seoul, you will get a taste a night life culture that is quintessentially Korean. Dine on kimchi and BBQ pork belly, belt out K-pop songs at a norebang (Korean karaoke), hop around the many pojangmachas (drinking tents) and discover the unique flavors of makgeolli and soju, staple Korean spirits. Top it off with access to upscale bars, electronic clubs and other hot spots on South Korea’s list of premier venues. 

Day 6 Busan. This morning, start at the fish market. Busan is known as a seafood paradise and Jagalchi Fish Market is integral to the city’s identity. This lively, chaotic fish market is sure to awaken all your senses as you inspect the weird and wonderful sea creatures on display. If you want to do as the locals do, make a purchase and have your fresh pick cooked immediately for you at one of the restaurants upstairs. Then, take a stroll down Nampo Street nearby a bustling road with branching alleys selling vintage clothes, books, knock-off goods, and street food. Another one of Busan’s main commercial veins worth visiting is Seomyeon street which offers shopping, food, and entertainment. Here you will see the pojangmacha, very tiny, tented restaurants that serve street food to the late night crowd. Round out the day with a visit to the architecturally stunning Beomeo-sa Temple. Perched on the slopes of a mountain surrounded by hiking trails and woodland, this quiet temple is a popular getaway for city folk looking for peace and quiet.

Take off with a trip to a sul-jib, which literally translates to “alcohol-house.” Don’t let the name fool you, food is served and your party will be provided a private room. Ordering is done through an electronic screen, where you can purchase a wide variety of spirits (including the famous kiwi-soju smoothies) and anju, or Korean-style pub food. After your sul-jib experience, visit a norebang, the Korean karaoke with a twist: a VIP room featuring waiter service. Stay for a half hour or the entire night singing, eating, and drinking.

Day 7 Jeju. After breakfast, you’ll be on your way to Jeju today. Jeju is an island province situated in the Korea Strait and is blessed with a temperate climate. Break out into the mountain air and stretch your legs as you climb Mount Halla. The ancient shield volcano provides incredible panoramas of the surrounding national park. Put on your hard hat as you discover the Manjanggul Lava Tube Caves. The tube is just under 25,000 feet long, one of the longest in the world. See ancient island living at its finest as you visit the traditional village before calling it a full day.

Day 8 Jeju. Enjoy today at your leisure. Have a volcanic-mineral spa treatment that Jeju is known for, relax at the beach, or explore the island on your own. For adventure, we suggest a hike up the 590-foot high Ilchulbong volcanic crater which offers rewarding views.

Day 9 Departure. After breakfast, say goodbye to South Korea as your check out of your hotel and check in for your international flight to your onwards destination.

Multiple options for Exploring South Korea: Korean Winter Sports.Experience the best winter activities South Korea has to offer on this exhilarating 7-day luxury trip. You’ll carve up the slopes at the nation’s largest ski and snowboard park, Yongpyong Ski Resort, skate on the massive rink at Lotte World, and soak in hot springs surrounded by snow and ice in Asan. 

Pursue Your Passion Celebrate the Arts in Five of Asias Most Captivating Capitals. In just 12 days, experience Asia’s most influential art capitals in resplendent style – stunning galleries, world-class collections and irresistible exhibits awash in history. Join us for a one-of-a-kind adventure to five beautiful, classic Asian capitals, where ambitious travel meets celebrated art culture, and inspiration abounds.

Revitalization: Korean Style Indulge in some of South Korea’s best health and relaxation facilities on this rejuvenating 9-day luxury Journey. You’ll savor fresh, healthy Korean dishes, hike in Bukhansan National Park, soak up the aromas of a rare green tea sauna, while staying in some of the country’s best hotels, like The Shilla in Jeju. 

Seoul: Riding the Korean Wave. Bring your friends and form your very own K-pop group on this jam-packed four day deep-dive into South Korea’s dominating pop culture. Discover the depths of the entertainment industry that delivers picture-perfect entertainment, taste your way through popular street food markets, dabble with the latest Korean skincare, and shop in Korea’s trendiest and finest neighborhoods. 

The Ultimate Korean Cultural Experience. Gain deep insight into the culture and history of the two Koreas on this fascinating 14-day luxury Journey. You’ll step inside age-old palaces and temples, visit the famous Demilitarized Zone, roam the world’s largest shopping complex in Busan, and relax on the UNESCO-listed island of Jeju in luxury. 

South Korean Summer Adventure. Frolic under the warm South Korean sun on this exciting 8-day luxury adventure. You’ll windsurf in the Han River, camp in Gangwondo, skydive in Ansan, dive at a famous site in Jeju, and visit age-old cultural relics, all while you rest your head in some of South Korea’s best hotels, like The Shilla.