This Small Group Discovery tour of South Korea reveals the ancient dynasties and authentic delicacies that are tempting your travel fantasies with a spectacular journey through the history, mystery, and modern discoveries. Did we mention the palaces, Hanok houses, and temples to meditate on an adventure like no other. Stroll or roll through Seoul on a rickshaw ride and glide aboard a high-speed train to the city of Gyeongju to peruse its pavilions, pagodas, and parks. Take aim and pull back with an archery lesson or lean into some sage advice at a local Confucius school. From the serenity of Buddhist monks to the savory seafood markets and stunning seascapes, this Small Group Discovery tour of South Korea will suit you to a tea!
Seoul Roundtrip; 10 days; 3 cities
Highlights:
- Insight into the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) - Your Local Guide leads you through the DMZ’s most poignant sites: Freedom Bridge, the Bridge of Liberation, Imjingak Park, the Dora Observatory, and the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel—offering a deeply moving exploration of Korea’s division and history.
- Meditative Martial Arts at Golgulsa Temple - Engage in an intimate Sunmudo class—Korean Buddhist meditative martial arts—taught by monks at Golgulsa Temple. Learn mindfulness through controlled movement, experience temple etiquette, and even try archery.
- Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan - Wander through the “Korean Burano”: colorfully painted houses, art-lined alleyways, galleries, and cafés in Gamcheon Village. A creative, uplifting highlight that blends history, artistry, and charming local life.
- Small-Group Local Culinary Experiences - Throughout Busan, immerse yourself in local cuisine—from a hands-on cooking class to sampling Korean seafood at Jagalchi Fish Market, raising a toast with rice wine, and enjoying a traditional tea tasting—designed for genuine cultural connection.
Day 1: ARRIVE IN SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA
Welcome to Seoul, the nation’s capital. With its ancient history and modern innovation, the city is full of opportunities to experience the traditional culture. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.
Day 2: SEOUL
Begin your vacation with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most impressive of Seoul’s five palaces. Continue to the National Museum of Contemporary Korean History to learn how Korea has transformed from an agricultural society to an economic powerhouse. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore Gwangjang traditional market, one of the oldest in Korea. Then, visit Bukchon Hanok Village, home to over 900 hanoks (traditional Korean houses). This historic district has been restored to evoke the country’s timeless charm. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a special welcome dinner featuring Korean BBQ!
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: SEOUL
Journey to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) for an unforgettable tour of the world’s most fortified border. Your Local Guide will explain the various sites and exhibitions including the Freedom Bridge, 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Imjingak Park, the DMZ Museum, and the Dora Observatory. Return to Seoul and enjoy the balance of the day at your leisure. Consider an optional rickshaw ride through the city’s popular streets and alleyways.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 4: SEOUL–GYEONGJU
Travel by high-speed train to Gyeongju, often called the “Museum without Walls” due to its rich cultural history and natural beauty. The capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, the city today is known for its relics, temples, and palaces. Upon arrival, visit Golgulsa Temple for a unique opportunity to Globus Local Favorite experience the lifestyle of Korean Buddhist monks.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: GYEONGJU
Your full day sightseeing tour of Gyeongju includes a visit to Bulguska Temple and Gyeongju National Museum. End your day with a walk to Woljeong Bridge and Wolji Pond.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 6: GYEONGJU–BUSAN
This morning, visit Yangdong Folk Village, one of the best-preserved historic villages dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Then, continue to Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, known for its stunning beaches and harbor views. Before dinner at local restaurant, join your Tour Director for a coastal walk on Dongbaekseom Island.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7: BUSAN
Sightseeing today starts with a walking tour of Gamcheon, originally founded by refugees of the Korean War and today transformed into an artistic center with galleries and cafés. Participate in a Globus Local Favorite Korean cooking class for lunch, then proceed to Jagalchi fish market, Korea’s largest and most famous seafood market. This afternoon, take a cable-car ride across the ocean for panoramic views of Songdo Beach and rock cliffs. You’ll also experience stunning views from Songdo Yonggung Supension Bridge.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8: BUSAN
This morning, visit Un Cemetery which honors fallen soldiers from the Korean War. Later, enjoy a tea tasting. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 9: BUSAN–SEOUL
Fly to Seoul, then visit Insadong Arts and Craft Street, a vibrant hub for Korean traditional culture and craftsmanship. Walk along the Seoul City Wall, built more than 600 years ago. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner to celebrate your discovery of Korea.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: SEOUL
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
Meal: Breakfast
Please contact our Travel Advisors for details.
Tour Code: GJ
