Classic South Korea

Upon arrival, enjoy VIP airport services before transferring to Seoul. Upon reaching your hotel, check in and take time to refresh after your journey.Later, visit Bukchon Hanok Village, a charming neighborhood of traditional Korean houses set against the modern cityscape. Wander through its narrow lanes and experience a glimpse of Seoul’s historical past. For a deeper cultural experience, you may opt to participate in a kimchi-making class or dress in a traditional hanbok, Korea’s elegant national attire.Return to your hotel, with the evening at leisure.

Depart from your hotel and begin the day at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the grandest of Seoul’s royal palaces, where you will witness the traditional Changing of the Guard ceremony, a colorful reenactment of royal protocol.Continue to Insadong, a lively cultural district known for its traditional crafts, galleries, and tea houses, before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.In the afternoon, visit Jogyesa Temple, the center of Korean Buddhism, offering a peaceful contrast within the city. Proceed to Namdaemun Market, one of Korea’s oldest and largest markets, followed by time in Myeongdong, a bustling district known for shopping, street food, and vibrant energy.Return to your hotel in the evening.

Depart from your hotel and travel to Paju for a visit to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), offering insight into the history and ongoing division of the Korean Peninsula. Cross the Unification Bridge and proceed through security formalities before entering the restricted area.Begin at the DMZ Theater and Exhibition Hall for an overview of the region’s history, followed by a visit to the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, one of several tunnels discovered beneath the border. Continue to Dora Observatory for views across into North Korea, and stop at Dorasan Station, a symbolic railway station representing hopes for future reunification. Conclude your DMZ visit at Imjingak Park, a site of reflection and historical significance.After lunch, return to Seoul and visit the striking Dongdaemun Design Plaza, known for its futuristic architecture and creative spaces. Continue to Gwangjang Market, where you can experience a variety of traditional Korean street food in a lively local setting.Return to your hotel in the evening.

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.

Continue your exploration of ancient Korea, starting with Gyeongju National Museum which houses thousands of well-preserved relics on exhibition in reconstructed paviliions. 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.

Depart from your hotel and begin the day at Gamcheon Cultural Village, a colorful hillside community known for its vibrant murals, art installations, and winding alleyways.Continue to Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea’s largest seafood market, followed by a visit to nearby Gukje Market, where you can explore a wide range of local goods and street food. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.In the afternoon, take a ride on the Songdo Cable Car, offering scenic views over the coastline. Continue to the Oryukdo Skywalk, where a glass-floored platform provides panoramic views of the sea and rugged cliffs. Conclude the day at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a rare seaside temple set dramatically along the rocky coast. Return to your hotel, with the evening at leisure.

After check-out, transfer to the airport for your flight to Jeju Island. Upon arrival, you will be met and begin your exploration of the island.Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the Jeju Stone Museum, where exhibits highlight the island’s volcanic origins and cultural connection to stone. Continue to the nearby green tea fields, where neatly lined rows of tea plants create a serene and picturesque landscape.Afterward, transfer to your hotel and check in. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax and enjoy your surroundings.

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.

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.