Discover Korea Palaces, DMZ, and Temples - 7 Days

Welcome to Korea! Upon your arrival in Seoul, you'll be smoothly transferred to your hotel, allowing you a bit of leisure time to settle in and perhaps explore your surroundings. Later in the afternoon, you'll receive important information regarding the commencement of your tour and what lies ahead on this exciting journey. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On our second day, we'll set off early towards the Cheorwon area to explore a part of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which signifies the separation between North and South Korea. Our first stop is the Second Tunnel, clandestinely constructed by the North Korean military and uncovered in 1975. Following this, we'll proceed to the Cheorwon Peace Observatory, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the DMZ and glimpse the first villages of North Korea. The observatory also houses a small museum dedicated to the Korean War. Our journey continues to the deserted Woljeong-ri railway station, and then to the Baek Ma Battle Memorial, which commemorates the French UN battalion's involvement during the battles. A local lunch will be provided before we visit a producer of Makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice liquor. We'll head back to Seoul in the evening.

Please ensure you carry your passport, as it's required for entry into the DMZ, a military zone that might close without notice, necessitating alternative arrangements. Later in the evening, our guide will take us to City Hall, known for its unique tsunami-like architecture. Directly across, you'll admire Deoksugung Palace, radiantly illuminated at night�a fine example of how tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously in Seoul. A short walk brings us to Myeongdong district, the vibrant hub of shopping and entertainment. We'll have dinner at a local restaurant and then use the modern, efficient metro (ticket provided) to return to our hotel for the night.

Today, we embark on a comprehensive five-hour exploration of Seoul. Our first stop is the splendid Changdeokgung Palace, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exquisite architecture and tranquil garden setting amidst a vast park. We continue by passing through Bukchon Hanok Village, renowned for its charming traditional homes that offer a glimpse into Korea's past. Our journey leads us next to the War Memorial of Korea, an impressive museum dedicated to the conflicts that have shaped the nation, with a poignant focus on the Korean War. Here, you'll learn about the international efforts during the war, when soldiers from various countries fought under the UN command. A delightful lunch at a local restaurant is included to recharge our energies.

Our afternoon takes us to the vibrant Gangnam District, famed for its bustling shopping centres and entertainment venues. Finally, we make a stop at the towering Lotte World Tower, an architectural marvel reaching up to 550 metres. You'll have free time to either ascend the tower for breathtaking views of the city (admission not included) or explore the nearby luxury shopping areas and park. Afterwards, we'll return to the hotel where the rest of the day is free for you to relax or continue your personal exploration of Seoul at your leisure.

On this day, we will begin with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, an architectural marvel that boasts over 600 years of history. If we time it right, we'll be able to witness the ceremonial changing of the guard, offering a glimpse into Korea's rich cultural traditions. Following our exploration of the palace, we'll leave bustling Seoul behind and travel southward. Our first destination is the historic city of Suwon, once the capital of Korea, renowned for its formidable UNESCO World Heritage walls. We will explore these impressive fortifications and visit Hwaseong Haenggung, the summer palace, before enjoying a delicious local lunch.

Continuing our journey, we'll arrive in Jeonju, a city celebrated for its beautifully preserved historic centre, Hanok Village. Here, you can wander among its charming houses, browse through traditional shops, and admire unique art galleries, soaking in the authentic Korean atmosphere.

Today, we set off for Sunchang Gochujang Village, nestled at the foot of Mount Amisan. Here, charming hanok houses with courtyards abound with clay pots, or hang-a-ri. These are used by skilled artisans who perfect the craft of making gochujang, the renowned Korean chili paste, through age-old methods. We will enjoy an interactive session, giving you the chance to learn how to create this much-loved sauce yourself.

Continuing our journey, we head to Damyang to wander through the Juknokwon Bamboo Forest. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along some of the nation's most picturesque paths, ideal for meditation and breathing in the fresh, invigorating air. We'll also explore a variety of bamboo products, highlighted by places such as the Bamboo Museum. Lunch is included today, featuring a unique local dish: rice cooked and served within a bamboo stalk.

Our path then takes us to Haeinsa, majestically framed by mountain landscapes and forests. This esteemed Buddhist temple, established in 802, stands as one of Korea's treasured cultural sites. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Haeinsa houses the Tripitaka, the most comprehensive collection of Buddhist scriptures, intricately carved onto 80,000 wooden tablets. Our day concludes as we continue onward to Busan, Korea�s second-largest city, celebrated for its lively energy and where we will stay overnight.

We start our day with a visit to Haedong Yonggung Temple, a striking 14th-century Buddhist temple perched by the sea, offering a serene setting and panoramic coastal views. After our exploration, we return to Busan for a poignant visit to the UN Memorial Cemetery. This location is a tribute to international soldiers of the Korean War, with beautifully maintained gardens providing a place for reflection.

Our next stop is Yi Nampo Port, home to Korea�s largest fish market. Here, the bustling atmosphere presents an authentic taste of local life, and after our market visit, we'll enjoy an included lunch. Following this, we'll make our way to Yongdusan Park, where a prominent 120-metre pagoda commands breathtaking views of the city.

This afternoon, we take you to Songdo Beach, from where�weather permitting�you can enjoy a ride on the country�s first marine cable car. This unique experience offers stunning vistas across the bay. As our journey continues, we will explore the Gamcheon Culture Village. This area is renowned for its whimsical, vibrant architecture, art galleries, pottery workshops, and charming caf�s lining its winding alleys.

Following this enriching day of sights and experiences, we'll conclude with a return to Busan for an overnight stay.

On the final day of our journey, after enjoying breakfast, we conclude our tour in Busan. As the trip comes to an end, we hope that you depart with cherished memories of your experiences and adventures.