12 Day Highlights of South Korea & Jeju Island Extension

Welcome to South Korea! Upon arrival in the vibrant capital city of Seoul, make your way independently to the hotel. This bustling metropolis perfectly blends high-tech skyscrapers and pop culture with ancient temples and traditional markets. Take the rest of your first day to settle in and begin exploring the local neighborhood at your own pace before the tour activities commence tomorrow. Special Information Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal may offer the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed. Hotel check-in time is at 3pm. If arriving prior to this, you will be able to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel's discretion.

After breakfast, we begin our South Korea adventure with a guided city tour of Seoul. Our day starts with a walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream, a beautifully restored urban waterway in the heart of the city, before continuing to the impressive Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most iconic of Seoul's royal palaces. We then visit Bukchon Hanok Village, where hundreds of traditional Korean houses offer a glimpse into the city's past, followed by time to explore Insadong Street, known for its galleries, antiques and local crafts. The day concludes with sweeping panoramic views over Seoul from N Seoul Tower. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and the chance to get to know your fellow travellers. Inspiring Highlights Cheonggyecheon Stream Gyeongbokgung Palace Bukchon Hanok Village Insadong Street N Seoul Tower

After breakfast, we depart Seoul and journey south to the lively coastal city of Busan. On arrival, we experience the city's vibrant atmosphere with a visit to Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea's largest seafood market, where the day's catch is traded straight from the harbour. We then explore the nearby Gukje Market, one of Korea's largest traditional markets, known for its local street food, textiles and souvenirs. We also visit the UN Memorial Cemetery, the only United Nations cemetery in the world, offering a peaceful and poignant reflection on Korea's modern history. The evening is at leisure, with time to relax or discover Busan's dining and waterfront precincts at your own pace. Inspiring Highlights Jagalchi Market Gukje Market UN Memorial Cemetery Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours

Today is dedicated to discovering the unique character of Busan. After breakfast, we visit the colourful Gamcheon Cultural Village, famous for its maze-like streets, hillside setting and vividly painted houses, often referred to as the “Machu Picchu of Busan.” In the afternoon, we travel to Haeundae Beach, Busan's most famous stretch of coastline, followed by a leisurely walk around Dongbaek Island, where scenic paths offer beautiful coastal views and city skylines. This evening is free to enjoy Busan at your leisure — whether exploring the city's lively nightlife or sampling fresh local seafood. Inspiring Highlights Gamcheon Cultural Village Haeundae Beach Dongbaek Island

After breakfast, we begin the day at the breathtaking Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a rare seaside temple perched dramatically on the cliffs above the ocean. From here, we journey inland to Gyeongju, often called “the museum without walls” for its wealth of historic treasures. In the afternoon, we explore the city's rich heritage with visits to the UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple, the ancient Cheomseongdae Observatory, and the Royal Tombs, each offering a fascinating glimpse into Korea's past. We then conclude our sightseeing at the elegant Donggung Palace and the serene Wolji Pond, a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere of this historic city. The evening is free to relax and enjoy Gyeongju at your own pace. Inspiring Highlights Haedong Yonggungsa Temple Bulguksa Temple Cheomseongdae Royal Tombs Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours

After breakfast, we journey to Andong, a city celebrated for its deep-rooted traditions and cultural heritage. We begin at the serene Byeongsan Seowon, a historic Confucian academy set amidst peaceful landscapes, before exploring the world-renowned Hahoe Folk Village, where time-honored customs and beautifully preserved hanok houses offer a fascinating glimpse into Korea's past. From Buyongdae Cliff, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the village and surrounding countryside, a truly memorable vantage point. We then savor a special farm-to-table meal, crafted from the region's freshest ingredients, offering a taste of Andong's authentic culinary traditions. Inspiring Highlights Byeongsan Seowon Hahoe Folk Village Buyongdae Cliff Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours

After breakfast, we make our way back to the capital. Upon arriving in Seoul, we explore the stylish Gangnam district, strolling along the famous Gangnam Street and visiting the impressive Coex Mall. This is the perfect opportunity to shop, soak up the modern city vibes, or simply enjoy the energy of one of Seoul's most dynamic neighborhoods. Your final evening in Seoul is free to spend as you wish, whether indulging in local cuisine, revisiting a favourite spot, or simply relaxing. Inspiring Highlights Gangnam Street Coex Mall Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours

Today provides a deeply moving glimpse into Korea's modern history with a visit to the iconic Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). We will have the rare and unforgettable opportunity to meet a North Korean defector and hear their personal story, offering a powerful and human perspective on the country's past and present. This evening, we gather one last time for a farewell dinner to celebrate the memories made throughout our journey. Inspiring Highlights DMZ Visit Meeting with North Korean Survivor Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours

After breakfast, make your way independently to the airport for your flight to Jeju Island. On arrival, a transfer will take you directly to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, with time to unwind or begin discovering the island's charm. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

After breakfast at your hotel, it's time to discover the natural beauty of Jeju's west coast with your private tour guide. First stop will be the picturesque Hyupjae Beach, where turquoise waters meet soft white sand and views stretch across to Biyangdo Island. Continue to Hallim Park, a lush botanical haven featuring Palm Tree Road, the Jeju Stone and Bonsai Garden, the tranquil Water Garden, and the vibrant Subtropical Botanic Garden. From here, immerse yourself in Korea's rich tea heritage at the O'sulloc Tea Museum, opened by Amorepacific to celebrate traditional Korean tea culture. Then set sail on the scenic Sanbang Mountain Cruise, offering dramatic coastal views, before concluding at the enchanting Cheonjeyeon Falls, famously known as the “Pond of God.” You will be taken back to your hotel for an evening of leisure. Inspiring Highlights Hyupjae Beach Hallim Park Osulloc Tea Museum Sanbang Mountain Cruise Cheonjeyeon Falls

After breakfast at your hotel, you'll start your second day of private touring around this magical island. You'll journey to Jeolmul Natural Forest, nestled beneath a parasitic volcanic crater and celebrated for its expansive 300-hectare cedar forest. Wander peaceful walking trails surrounded by towering trees and crisp mountain air, a refreshing immersion into Jeju's pristine natural landscape. Continue to Seongeup Folk Village, where time seems to stand still. This preserved village offers a glimpse into Jeju Island's traditional way of life, with thatched-roof homes, ancient stone walls, and local customs still proudly maintained. Next, visit the Haenyeo Museum, dedicated to the island's legendary female free divers. Through fascinating exhibits and cultural performances, learn about the remarkable haenyeo tradition, recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Your day continues at the iconic Seongsan Ilchulbong, a dramatic volcanic cone rising 180 metres above sea level, formed by underwater eruptions more than 5,000 years ago. Take in sweeping coastal views from this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site before concluding at Jeju Stone Park, an open-air ecological museum celebrating the island's distinctive stone culture, myths, and natural heritage. Back at your hotel, enjoy an evening of leisure. Inspiring Highlights Jeolmul Natural Forest Seongeup Folk VIllage Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak Jeju Stone Park

Your South Korean adventure comes to an end today. Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. We hope you take home many wonderful memories of this beautiful country. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. Special Information If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.