10 Days | Cultural Treasures of South Korea
- Explore Gyeongbokgung, Seoul’s grandest palace and a window into Korea’s royal past.
- Visit traditional villages preserving Joseon-era hanok homes and Korea’s cultural heritage.
- Dine at Donggung Palace, then marvel at the moonlit reflections on Wolji Pond in Gyeongju.
- Enjoy Korean BBQ, then sail Busan by night, topped with views from the tallest observatory.
- Get the best bites at Busan’s seafood market with insider tips from your Destination Expert.
A Travel Experience Like No Other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and depart whenever you choose.
DAY 1: SEOUL
Get Settled
For your added comfort, your guide will be waiting for you outside the customs area with a sign with your name on it and accompany you to your accommodation.
Meet your English speaking guide and driver for an airport transfer with a private vehicle.
Where you’ll be staying: Lotte Hotel Seoul
DAY 2: SEOUL
Get a Lay of the Land
On this full day excursion, visit the top highlights of Seoul, beginning with a trip to Gyeongbokgung Palace. Built in 1395, it is also commonly referred to as the Northern Palace as it is the furthest north when compared against neighboring palaces of Changdeokgung (the Eastern Palace) and Gyeongheegung (the Western Palace). Gyeongbokgung Palace is arguably the most beautiful and remains the grandest of the five grand palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. After touring the palace, visit the nearby folklore museum to catch a glimpse of the rich past of this dynamic region. Later, set out to the Bukchon Hanok Village to learn about and enjoy the beauty of Hanok; traditional Korean-style homes. Bukchon is not an official municipal name, rather, it means that it lies to the north of Cheonggyecheon (Stream) and Jongno, the downtown area of Seoul. Formerly the high-end residential district for royal family members and high-ranking government officials, Insa-dong Street is one of the most memorable attractions in Seoul and represents the focal point of Korean traditional culture and crafts. Stores in Insa-dong carry a wide variety of specialty goods that can only be purchased or in Korea: hanbok (traditional clothing), hanji (traditional paper), traditional teas, pottery, and folk crafts are among the most popular. At the end of the tour, stop at Namdaemun Market, one of the most famous and oldest markets in Korea before being returned to your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying: Lotte Hotel Seoul
DAY 3: SEOUL
A Journey Back in Time
Today, set out to discover Namsangol Hanok Village on the north side of Namsan Mountain in the center of the capital. This village has five restored traditional Korean houses, a pavilion, traditional garden, a performance arts stage and a time capsule plaza, making it the perfect place for both locals and visitors to take a leisurely walk while soaking up the history. Upon entering the front gate, you will get a taste of the traditional life, a stark contrast from the bustling city. The traditional garden with its pavilion and the traditional houses creates a peaceful ambiance before reaching the forested Namsan Mountain. A time capsule commemorating Seoul’s 600 Year Anniversary was buried at the highest point of the village in 1994 and is scheduled to be reopened four hundred years later in 2394. Afterward, visit Seoul's first landmark, N Seoul Tower. N Seoul Tower was the first iconic tower open to visitors in Korea. A complex culture space designed to showcase harmony between 21st century construction practices and nature, it is a must-see while visiting Seoul.
This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying: Lotte Hotel Seoul
DAY 4: SEOUL
Explore a City of Contrasts
Enjoy a special part of Korean Culture today as you partake in an experience that marries the rich tradition of Korean tea with some Western delights. Under the guidance of seasoned tea sommeliers, you will delve into the art of making and drinking authentic green tea. Experience the delicate nuances of various traditional Korean teas, each carefully crafted and steeped to perfection.
As you explore the world of Korean tea, indulge in nine exquisite traditional desserts, each offering a unique taste of Korea's rich culinary heritage. From sweet rice cakes to honey pastries, these treats complement the teas beautifully, enhancing your tasting experience.
The experience doesn't have to end with tea. The owner, a certified French sommelier, will introduce you to the world of wine. Should you choose, enjoy 2 to 3 glasses of expertly selected wines, paired thoughtfully to harmonize with the flavors of the teas and desserts. This cross-cultural tasting journey offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western traditions.
As a special highlight, savor a traditional seasonal snack that reflects the flavors and ingredients of the current season. This experience is a perfect blend of education and indulgence, offering a sensory experience that celebrates both Korean and French traditions.
Meet your driver at your hotel and discover the enchanting beauty of Seoul with a memorable Han River cruise, a journey that has delighted visitors since its launch in 1986. Should you be embarking during the daytime, the cruise provides a serene daytime tour, showcasing the picturesque scenery of the Han River. Enjoy the vibrant cityscape and serene natural beauty that frames this iconic waterway.
Conversely, those boarding in the evening will watch the sun set over the city, casting a warm and golden glow across the river. This cruise captures the serene and reflective ambiance of Seoul at twilight.
Today you'll experience the scenic beauty with the charm of the Han River that divides the city physically while acting as a meeting point for those looking for a serene break from the mass-urbanization. At the end of the tour, your driver will return you to your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying: Lotte Hotel Seoul
DAY 5: SEOUL TO GYEONGIU
A Change of Scenery
Meet your driver for a train station transfer with a private vehicle.
Transfer by train from Seoul to Gyeongju. The train ride is approximately 4 hours.
Meet your driver for a train station transfer with a private vehicle.
This evening, depart your hotel with private guide and driver for a dinner that showcases foods typical of the Gyeongju region as well as favorites from the Korean peninsula. After the sun sets, Gyeongju really comes to life with many of its historical sites colorfully lit up for guests to enjoy. After dinner, your first stop is Donggung Palace and the beautiful Wolji Pond. This palace was the secondary palace of the crown prince of the famous Silla Kingdom. The pond was added in 674 AD. The site makes for a particularly beautiful stop at night with the pond's name literally translating to 'pond that reflects the moon.' On to Gyeonju Gyochon Village, see the House of the Gyeongju 'Choi' Clan and try some Gyeongju Gyodong 'beopju' (spirits). The village centers around a family known to have maintained their wealth for over 12 generations, producing many
important relatives who live on to this day. Lastly, find a beautiful scene at the Woljeonggyo Bridge. The bridge was built in 760AD but was burned down after Joseon Dynasty crusades. It was rebuilt as recently as 2013 based on extensive historical research that was conducted for 25 years prior to build an exact replica of the original.
Where you’ll be staying: Lahan Select
DAY 6: GYEONGIU
Explore a City of Contrasts
Begin with a visit to Yangdong village, the largest traditional village in South Korea, which showcases the traditional culture of the Joseon dynasty (1392-1897). There are approximately 150 houses, some more than 500 years old, with traditional features of the architecture of the era, including tile and thatched roofs and stone walls. Continue to the Pulkuksa (or Bulguksa) temple in the foothills of the mountains. This is an extremely elaborate and colourful temple. It represents the apex of the artistry of the Silla kingdom: the stonework is particularly impressive. End the day with a scenic coastal drive to Guryongpo port. Continue to the Gyeongju National Museum, which displays the artifacts from the Silla culture, with 2,500 exhibits including Silla crowns and Buddhist artifacts on display, and a further 80,000 in storage.
Where you’ll be staying: Lahan Select
DAY 7: GYEONGIU TO BUSAN
On the Road Again
Enjoy a private vehicle transfer from Gyeongju to Busan. The approximate travel time is 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Today you will visit the Gamcheon Culture Village, a series of houses built in staircase-fashion on the foothills of a coastal mountain, earning this village the moniker of "Machu Picchu of Busan." Continuing onward, you’ll visit the impressive Oryukdo Skywalk. This horseshoe-shaped bridge is set up against a 115 foot (35 meter) coastal cliff. As the entire bridge is made of glass, here you can watch powerful waves rail against the cliffs directly beneath you; it’s an experience you’re sure to remember. After a few hours exploring Gamcheon and crossing the Skywalk, you will be returned to your hotel.
Where you'll be staying: Paradise Hotel Busan
DAY 8: BUSAN
A Healthy Dose of History
Today you’ll enjoy a full-day sightseeing tour of Busan, a city known for its beaches, mountains and temples. After meeting your private driver-guide at your hotel lobby, you'll head to the Haedong Yonggung Temple, an oceanside Buddhist temple built in 1376 and one of the few in the country built along a shoreline. Continue to the Cinema Center, the official and exclusive venue of the Busan International Film Festival, one of the most significant film festivals in Asia. Later in the afternoon you’ll visit the lively Jagalchi Market, a world-famous market known for its fresh fish and seafood options. Visit the Gukje Market, a popular shopping district packed with hundreds of stores selling clothing, homeware and souvenirs that has been established by Korean War refugees during the Korean War. Guests will also visit Nampodong Street, the city’s central commercial and shopping area. End the day by a splendid view of the port from the Yongdusan Park, which translates to “Dragon Head Mountain Peak Park” because the peak resembles a dragon’s head. The park is home to a variety of monuments, including Busan Tower. Your tour concludes with a private transfer back to your hotel.
Where you'll be staying: Paradise Hotel Busan
DAY 9: BUSAN
Lace up for Some Fresh Air
Start your special evening with a delicious Korean barbeque dinner and try your hand at grilling various meats and vegetables right in the center of your table (please let your Destination Expert know if you have any dietary restrictions) with the help of your private guide. Korean barbeque is often accompanied by copious amounts of lettuce, steamed rice, various soups and stews, savoury pancakes, and endless banchan (side dishes) so come hungry! Next, embark on your luxury yacht for the evening and enjoy Busan's beautiful nightscape with its prominent LED-lit sky scrapers, luxury department stores and the iconic Gwangan bridge. After your harbor yacht cruise, head to 'Busan X the Sky' - Korea's largest, and second-highest observatory atop the Haeundae LCT Landmark Tower at 1350 ft. Enjoy panoramic views of Busan's landmarks lit up at night as well as the Lounge, 'X The Photo' photo booth, and gift shop.
Where you'll be staying: Paradise Hotel Busan
DAY 10: BUSAN
Bon Voyage
Meet your English speaking guide and driver for an airport transfer with a private vehicle.
Contact your FROSCH Travel Advisor for more info and to request a custom quote today.
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