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Complete South Korea

Duration
11 days
Price guide
From $15,630 per person
Explore South Korea's highlights in 11 days, starting in bustling Seoul with its blend of ancient palaces and modern skyscrapers. Discover historic neighbourhoods like Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong before heading south to Gyeongju, a treasure trove of ancient temples and royal tombs. Then, experience the vibrant port city of Busan, with its beaches, markets and scenic views. Finally, unwind on tranquil Jeju Island, known for its volcanic landscapes, beaches and Hallasan Mountain.

Trip highlights

  • Visit the grand royal palaces of Seoul
  • Delight in Korean street food at a local market
  • Travel to the ancient kingdom of Silla in Gyeongju
  • Explore hidden waterfalls in Jeju Island

Bespoke trips with Jacada

We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:

  • Luxury accommodation throughout
  • Privately guided tours
  • Private transfers
  • Meticulously selected experiences
  • Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge

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Itinerary in detail

Every trip is shaped around you. Below is a sample route to start from; we change any part of it to suit you.

Days 1-5

An introduction to Seoul

Seoul, South Korea’s sprawling capital, is a bustling metropolis that encapsulates the essence of East Asia, blending cutting-edge technology with deep-rooted traditions. With over half of the nation’s population residing in its metropolitan area, Seoul stands as a vibrant hub of culture and commerce. Bisected by the Han River into historic ‘Gangbuk’ in the north and modern ‘Gangnam’ in the south, Seoul comprises 25 districts, or gu, each akin to a small city in terms of size and population.

Exploring Seoul unveils a treasure trove of attractions, including five grand palaces, numerous temples and captivating museums. Food enthusiasts will relish in the abundance of street food, bustling markets and top-notch restaurants, while the city’s nightlife districts pulse with energy, making Seoul one of the liveliest urban scenes worldwide. Beyond the city limits, surrounding mountains offer breathtaking views and rewarding hiking trails.

During your four nights in Seoul, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit Changdeokgung Palace and its secret garden, as well as Bukchon Hanok Village, offering insight into Korean life six centuries ago. Additionally, you’ll embark on a poignant journey to the War Memorial of Korea, honouring the nation’s history and a visit to the DMZ, a unique glimpse into the geopolitical tension between North and South Korea.

An introduction to Seoul

Where you could stay

Step back in time at the Korean Folk Village

Step back in time at the Korean Folk Village

Experience a journey through time at the Korean Folk Village, a dynamic living museum that meticulously recreates historic and traditional houses, providing a fascinating insight into South Korea’s rich cultural heritage across different social classes and eras. Witness captivating performances including nongak farmer’s music, martial arts demonstrations, horseback displays, traditional dances and authentic wedding ceremonies, offering a vibrant immersion into the diverse tapestry of Korean traditions and customs.

Make it mine

Lotte World Tower Seoul

Visit the Lotte World Tower, South Korea’s tallest skyscraper and currently the world’s sixth tallest building. Ascend to the Seoul Sky observatory spanning floors 117 to 123, where the Sky Deck, perched at 478 meters, boasts the Guinness World Record as the highest glass-floored observatory globally.

Through towering two-story glass windows, marvel at uninterrupted panoramic views of the city, revealing its breathtaking beauty both day and night.

Day 6

One night in Gyeongju

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Gyeongju, once the capital of the illustrious Silla kingdom that reigned over much of the Korean Peninsula from 57 BC to 935 AD. At its zenith, Gyeongju stood as one of the largest cities on the planet, boasting an unparalleled cultural legacy. Dubbed as ‘the museum without walls’, the city is adorned with a myriad of historic temples, tombs, pagodas and statues. Among the remarkable remnants are the 8th-century Bulguksa Temple and the nearby Seokguram Grotto, home to some of the finest Buddhist sculptures globally. Explore the earthen mound tombs nestled in Tumuli Park, along with a multitude of meticulously preserved fortresses and palaces, all encapsulating the grandeur of Silla’s glorious past.

One night in Gyeongju

Where you could stay

Make it mine

A tour of Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto

Explore Bulguksa, an 8th-century Buddhist temple complex on Mount Toham, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing South Korea’s cherished national treasures.

The grounds, symbolising Buddha’s realm, feature three main areas – Birojeon, Daeungjeon and Geungnakjeon –surrounded by exquisite stone terraces, bridges and pagodas showcasing ancient masonry skills.

Nearby, Seokguram Grotto boasts a monumental Buddha statue and intricate depictions of gods, Bodhisattvas, and disciples, representing a pinnacle of Buddhist artistry in the Far East.

Days 7-8

Two nights exploring Busan

With two nights to explore, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Busan, South Korea’s second-most populous city and the bustling economic and cultural hub of southeastern Korea. Marvel at the juxtaposition of gleaming high-rises nestled between lush green mountains and serene beaches, with elegant bridges spanning across the sea. Experience the city’s dynamic restaurant and nightlife scene, bustling fish markets, and picturesque hiking trails, offering a fascinating glimpse into the diverse facets of modern Korean life.

During your time in Busan, you will have the opportunity to to visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a stunning seaside temple steeped in history. You will also enjoy a tour of  of Nurimaru APEC House, a symbolic venue of the 2005 APEC Summit offering breathtaking views of the coastline and serving as a testament to Busan’s significance on the global stage.

Two nights exploring Busan

A visit to the UN Memorial Cemetery

A visit to the UN Memorial Cemetery

Step into history and honor the brave soldiers who fought in the Korean War at the UN Memorial Cemetery in Korea. This serene park, spanning 135,000 square meters, pays tribute to UN soldiers from 16 countries and UN aids from five countries who made the ultimate sacrifice during the conflict from 1950 to 1953.

Explore notable sites and memorials including the Memorial Service Hall, Memorabilia Hall, Turkish Monuments, Greek Monument, Australian Monument, British Commonwealth Monument, and tranquil ponds.

Constructed in 1964 and 1968 respectively, the Memorial Service Hall and Memorabilia Hall stand as solemn reminders of the war’s impact. The Main Gate, dedicated by the citizens of Busan in 1966, welcomes visitors to this hallowed ground.

Experience poignant annual events such as the Tributary Ceremony of the Veterans of the Korean War in April, American Memorial Day in May, Korean Memorial Day in June, and UN Ceremony Day in October, commemorating the sacrifices made for peace and freedom.

Make it mine

Gukje Market tour

Established in the aftermath of the Korean War in the 1950s, Gukje Market emerged as a place of resilience and revival, initially serving as a trading center for refugees and merchants amidst the post-war chaos, eventually evolving into a vibrant hub of commerce and culture in Busan.

On this private guided tour, you will navigate through a maze of colourful stalls offering everything from handmade crafts to tantalising street food delights, engaging with local artisans along the way.

Here, you will get to experience the energetic atmosphere as you immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and aromas of this bustling marketplace, discovering hidden treasures and quaint tea houses tucked away in its labyrinthine alleys.

Days 9-11

Three nights on Jeju Island

Jeju, the largest island off the coast of the Korean Peninsula, is characterised by the imposing presence of Hallasan, the volcano that gave rise to its formation and stands as the highest peak in South Korea.

As you traverse its landscape, you’ll descend through lush forests, pass by villages crafted from dark volcanic stone and encounter the iconic dol hareubang grandfather statues hewn from basalt. Along its coastline, Jeju unveils a stunning vista of sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls and pristine beaches, adorned with vibrant wildflowers, casting a spell of natural beauty. Nestled amidst this picturesque scenery are remarkable temples and lava tubes waiting to be explored.

Adding to its allure, Jeju magnetises visitors from far and wide, with its status as the preferred honeymoon destination for newlyweds in Korea and the distinction of hosting the world’s busiest air route between Seoul and the island. Moreover, the island’s culinary offerings are a highlight, boasting an array of fresh seafood delicacies. Notably, Jeju’s seafood is renowned, much of it harvested by the skilled haenyeo women, who free-dive for clams, abalone, octopus, squid and seaweed without the aid of breathing apparatus.

While on the island, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Yumin Art Nouveau Collection, as well as the Bonte Museum – both offering a glimpse of local talent and traditional art in Korea.

Three nights on Jeju Island

Where you could stay

A glimpse of local culture at Seongeup Folk Village

A glimpse of local culture at Seongeup Folk Village

Seongeup Folk Village embodies the distinctive culture and traits of Jeju Island, featuring iconic elements like the black lava rock walls, strategically designed alleys that are both straight and curvy to shield against the wind, and the ubiquitous stone grandfather statues known as Harubang.

While it shares similarities with traditional folk villages, what sets it apart is the fact that it remains a thriving community where people continue to reside to this day.

Learn about Korea's tea culture at the O'Sulloc Tea Museum

Learn about Korea's tea culture at the O'Sulloc Tea Museum

Step inside to discover a world of fragrant aromas and delicate flavors as you learn about the history of tea in Korea, from its origins to its evolution into an integral aspect of Korean daily life and social customs.

Immerse yourself in the art of tea-making as you observe traditional tea ceremonies and gain insight into the various types of tea produced in Korea, including the renowned Jeju green tea. Explore interactive exhibits, stroll through tea gardens and even sample a variety of exquisite teas at the museum’s tea shop

Make it mine

Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak at sunrise

This guided tour invites you to delve into the natural splendor and rich history of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak.

As you ascend the rugged slopes of Seongsan Ilchulbong, your expert guide will regale you with tales of its geological formation, which dates back thousands of years to a volcanic eruption that shaped the island’s dramatic landscape.

Marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding seascape as you reach the summit, where you’ll be greeted by the sight of the sun rising majestically over the horizon, casting a warm glow upon the tranquil waters below.

★★★★★

“South Korea Trip: Carefully Planned. Beautifully Executed”

We, as a family, have been privileged to go on a number of luxury holidays to some interesting places - from Peru to Pakistan and Mongolia to Mozambique - and this trip was right up there. Thank you for making it so special. To speak candidly it was a risk to move away from the more established tour operators that…

Toby Hodgson · Trustpilot

Why book with Jacada

  • Personalised design

    We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.

  • Authentic experiences

    Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.

  • Positive impact

    We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.

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