South Korea Tour Packages: 7-Day Classic Itinerary

Highlights of the Trip

South Korea offers an incredible array of sights, sounds, and tastes for travellers of all ages. Start your journey in Seoul, the dynamic capital of South Korea and the centre of Korean life. Here you can explore the National Folklore Museum, marvel at the Royal Palace where you may catch the changing of the guards and explore the famous markets for delicious local dishes.

During this South Korea trip package, you can also discover Gyeongju to explore its centuries-old temples, magnificent shrines, tombs, and ruins. From Gyeongju, head west to the ever-popular beach destination of Busan. Here you can explore Dongbaek Island and admire the Nurimaru APEC House.

Whether you’re a culture vulture or a nature lover, a classic South Korean tour will leave you with a hoard of beautiful memories from your trip to Korea.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Seoul

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: Located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea, it is the largest and most grandiose of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty.
• National Folklore Museum: A fascinating and educational landmark that showcases the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the country.
• Bongeunsa Temple: A serene Buddhist temple located in the heart of Seoul’s bustling Gangnam district, known for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and the massive statue of Maitreya.
• Seoul Sky Tower: An iconic skyscraper that dominates Seoul’s skyline, offering breath-taking views of the city from its observation desk and housing shopping, dining, and entertainment facilities.
• Starfield Library: Instead of traditional rows and rows of neatly stacked shelves, the books are organised on open-air bookshelves that line the walls and create a mesmerizing aesthetic.

Gyeongju

• Bulguksa Temple: An UNESCO World Heritage site, Bulguksa is a remarkable Buddhist temple with intricate architecture, serene gardens, and historical significance.
• Gyeongju National Museum: Showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Gyeongju, this museum features a vast collection of artifacts, including Silla Dynasty treasures and royal relics.
• Royal Tumuli Complex (Silla Kingdom): Explore a series of ancient royal tombs from the Silla Dynasty, known as tumuli, providing insight into the burial practices and royal history of Gyeongju.
• Cheonmachong Tomb: This tomb, which translates to ‘Heavenly Horse Tomb’ in English, was discovered in 1973 during an excavation project in the area.

Busan

• Nurimaru APEC House: Situated on Dongbaekseom Island, this modern conference venue offers panoramic views of Haeundae Beach and the surrounding coastline, with a unique design inspired by traditional Korean houses.
• United Nations Cemetery: Honouring those who sacrificed during the Korean War, this cemetery in Busan provides a serene and reflective space, with beautifully landscaped grounds and memorials.
• Oryukdo Skywalk: An exhilarating glass-bottomed walkway suspended over the cliffs of Oryukdo Island, offering breath-taking views of the surrounding seascape and unique perspectives of the dramatic coastline.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Bukchon Hanok Village: A traditional village that has preserved its cultural and historical significance over the years. The word ‘Bukchon’ translates to ‘North Village’ in Korean, and it is aptly named as it is situated between two royal palaces, Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung.

Gwangjang Market: Find an authentic and ethical souvenir from your travels at this vibrant market in Seoul, offering a range of traditional clothing.

Changing of the Guard at Gyeongbokgung Palace: Experience a glimpse of the past by watching the changing of the guard at this historic palace.

Gyochon Village:  A charming and picturesque neighbourhood that is often referred to as a ‘living museum.’ This village is steeped in history and culture, and walking through its narrow streets feels like taking a step back in time.

Gukje Market: One of Korea’s largest markets, Gukje Market in Busan is known for its bustling atmosphere, diverse stalls, and a wide array of goods, from traditional items to trendy merchandise.

Jagalchi Fish Market: As Korea’s largest seafood market, Jagalchi Fish Market offers a vibrant seafood experience, with fresh catches, lively auctions, and numerous seafood restaurants.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in South Korea

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. While in South Korea, be sure to try Kimchi, a staple in Korean cuisine, commonly made with napa cabbages and Korean radishes and seasoned with chilli peppers, garlic, ginger, and various spices; Bibimbap, a colourful dish featuring mixed rice topped with seasoned vegetables, gochujang (red chilli paste), a fried egg and often thinly sliced beef; Banchan, side dishes served in small portions, providing a variety of flavours and textures; Samgyeopsal, grilled pork belly, typically enjoyed with garlic, green onions, and a dipping sauce, often wrapped in lettuce leaves; Japchae, a savoury and slightly sweet dish made with stir-fried glass noodles, vegetables, and sometimes beef or other proteins; Tteokbokki, spicy rice cakes cooked in a sweet and gochujang-based sauce, often with fish cakes and boiled eggs; Jajangmyeon, a Chinese Korean noodle dish with black bean sauce, vegetables, and often, diced pork or seafood; Kimbap, similar to sushi, consisting of rice and various ingredients like vegetables, pickled radish, and sometimes meat, rolled into sheets of seaweed; Bulgogi, thinly sliced marinated beef, grilled or stir-fried, often served with a side of lettuce or perilla leaves for wrapping; and Sundubu-jjigae, a hot and spicy stew featuring uncurdled tofu, vegetables, sometimes meat, and gochujang or gochugaru (chilli powder).

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Haeundae Beach: Use your time on Haeundae Beach to relax, take a peaceful beach walk, enjoy some swimming, or participate in the many water sports on offer such as surfing, jet-skiing, and parasailing.

Oryukdo Skywalk: If weather permits, experience this exhilarating glass-bottomed walkway suspended over the cliffs of Oryukdo Island, offering awe-inspiring views of the surrounding seascape and unique perspectives of the dramatic coastline.

Accommodation of this Tour

Seoul:  Seoul 4* Hotel

Gyeongju: Gyeongju 4* Hotel

Busan: Busan 4* Hotel

To discover more of our South Korea tour packages, explore our website or contact us on +01473356000 or enquiry@asiara-holidays.com.